Collinwood
Overview
Collinwood is a small village nestled in the shadow of an ancient manor house, home to a mixed population of halflings, humans, and half-elves. Many of its residents were displaced from neighbouring settlements when goblins and orcs marched through the King’s Forest during the Goblin War. Despite its modest size, Collinwood enjoys a thriving local economy built on woodcrafting, weaving, and cheese-making. While largely unremarkable, the village is known for its safety, thanks to the presence of its reclusive yet formidable lord and his private army. Though Collinwood lies a few hours’ ride south of the High Road, making it an infrequent stop for travellers between High Horn and Eveningstar, those who do visit find a peaceful, self-sufficient community tucked away from the larger concerns of the realm.Population
Approximately 500 inhabitants.Government and Leadership
Collinwood is ruled by Earl Bryton Taysith, a noble whose claim to the lands predates the very founding of Cormyr. His family’s title was granted by Faerithann Obarskyr himself, making him one of the few true earls in the kingdom. However, the reality of this noble lineage is far more complex, for there is no Taysith family—only Bryton himself, an immortal who fled the destruction of Thaeravel over a millennium ago.Earl Bryton Taysith
Personality: Reclusive, honourable, taciturn. Bryton has ruled over Collinwood for centuries, maintaining his claim through careful deception and the strategic use of his considerable longevity. When Faerithann Obarskyr first encountered him, the two agreed that conflict between them would be pointless. Bryton pledged his fealty in exchange for peace, and thus, his presence in Cormyr became a well-guarded state secret.Economy and Daily Life
Despite its small size, Collinwood boasts a strong local economy supported by: The village is largely self-sustaining, with little need for external trade beyond occasional visitors who bring additional wares and news of the outside world.Defences and Safety
Though Collinwood lacks a formal city wall, its reputation for safety is unmatched. The private army of Earl Taysith—his force of fifty helmed horrors—ensures that no outside threat lingers long in the area. The village’s residents live in quiet confidence, knowing that their lord, though distant, remains ever watchful.Notable Locations
Taysith Manor: The alabaster hall of the Earl, looming over the village. His gardens are famed for the giant crypt, as large as the manor itself in the grounds. The Village Square: The heart of Collinwood, where artisans sell their goods and locals gather. The Weavers’ Guild: A small but productive hub for textile production. The Cheesemonger’s Cottage: Home to some of the finest dairy products in the region.Demographics
Collinwood is home to a diverse yet close-knit population of approximately 500 residents. The majority are halflings, humans, and half-elves, many of whom trace their ancestry to those displaced during the Goblin War. The village has a strong artisan and agricultural presence, with skilled woodcrafters, weavers, and cheesemakers forming the backbone of its economy. While largely self-sufficient, Collinwood occasionally welcomes travelers and merchants passing through, though its secluded nature keeps its population stable and relatively insular.
Government
Collinwood is governed by Earl Bryton Taysith, a reclusive yet steadfast ruler whose claim to the land predates the founding of Cormyr. Though officially recognised as one of the kingdom’s few true earls, Bryton’s rule is unique—he has held his position for centuries.
Day-to-day governance is largely left to trusted stewards and village elders, ensuring that Collinwood remains peaceful and self-sufficient under the Earl’s watchful eye.
Day-to-day governance is largely left to trusted stewards and village elders, ensuring that Collinwood remains peaceful and self-sufficient under the Earl’s watchful eye.
Defences
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Despite lacking a city wall, Collinwood is considered one of the safest villages in the region due to the formidable presence of Earl Bryton Taysith’s private army. Hidden beneath Taysith Manor, fifty ancient helmed horrors lie dormant in the family crypts, ready to march at the Earl’s command in times of great peril. Though rarely seen, their existence serves as a powerful deterrent against external threats. Additionally, the villagers are well-trained in self-defence, and a small militia of local hunters and craftsmen stands ready to respond to minor disturbances, ensuring Collinwood’s continued security.
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