Tyrluk
Tyrluk is a small and insular village located near the western border of Cormyr (Etymology: Derived from older forms of Common for Tear's Lookout). Its people are wary of outsiders, welcoming only the farmers who visit the village market once a tenday. Visitors are advised to tread carefully, as the villagers are often cold or outright hostile to strangers. The history of Tyrluk includes suffering at the hands of brigands and corrupt merchants, which has shaped the locals' mistrustful attitude.
Key Features
Local Lord:
Tyrluk is ruled by Lord Barlam Duskfall, a descendant of the village’s infamous historical ruler, Suldag the Boar. Unlike his famed ancestor, Barlam is a reserved and practical leader, known for his sharp mind and steady hand in governance. While his hospitality lacks the legendary boisterousness of Suldag, Barlam is still a fair and just ruler. His priority lies in preserving Tyrluk’s autonomy and protecting its people from external threats. Visitors will find him approachable if respectful, though his patience for outsiders is limited, reflecting the insular attitude of the villagers.
Businesses of Note:
Though small, Tyrluk is known for its practical services, making it useful for caravans and travelers.
- Charn the Smith: A skilled blacksmith specializing in horseshoes, chains, and repairs.
- Oglul's Cartworks: The go-to for wagons and wheel repairs.
- Silturr Shadowshield’s Pony Ranch: Renowned for breeding top-quality mountain ponies. His mounts are prized by the Purple Dragons of High Horn and fetch a premium price of 36–40 gp each.
The Campground:
Visitors are directed to camp on a moribund farm at the north end of town. The site is well-equipped with firepits, ample firewood, and privies, but visitors are firmly expected to stay within its bounds. The locals prefer minimal interaction with outsiders and are unlikely to offer any hospitality beyond business transactions.
Landmarks
The Bowshot Run:
To the west of the campground lies the Bowshot Run, a mysterious, arrow-straight grassy clearing that cuts through the forest. Its origin is unknown, though some speculate it was a ritual approach to a now-vanished temple. Today, it serves as an archery range, with trees marked for distances. The locals are expert archers and use the Bowshot Run to hunt game for their meals.
The Legend of the Blue Blade:
Tyrluk is said to be the home of the Blue Blade, a legendary brigand who once robbed the rich to aid the poor (or to woo fair maidens). Though tales of the Blue Blade persist, there have been no confirmed sightings for over 25 years, and it is likely the figure is now part of local folklore. The legend of the Blue Blade led to the assignment of war wizards to patrol Cormyr’s roads, making such lone brigandry nearly impossible today.
Culture and Attitude
Tyrluk's villagers view the outside world with deep suspicion. They believe it to be a source of evil and ill fortune and prefer to turn their backs on anything beyond their immediate needs. Even so, they are practical and will provide goods and services to travelers in exchange for "good coin of the realm." However, visitors are wise to leave quickly, as overstaying their welcome is not advised.
Despite their cold demeanor, the villagers’ skills in blacksmithing, cart-making, and pony breeding make Tyrluk an invaluable stop for those in need of repairs, mounts, or supplies. Just don’t expect warm smiles or open arms.
Maps
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Tyrluk
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