Dalry

Only half a day’s journey away from Coniston, Dalry is often considered an extension village of the sprawling capital. Dalry is populated by those who wish for the quiet peacefulness of farm life while keeping a close proximity to the amenities and conveniences of Coniston. As one of the largest towns in Epektasi, Dalry’s current population is upward of 2500, especially when accounting for all of the small farms that dot the countryside, from the west end of the main road right up to the Cliffs of Kaane to the east.

Infrastructure and Society

Due to its proximity to Coniston, Dalry pays the highest taxes to its capital city, but is also afforded the greatest protections and conveniences. Well-off farmers are able to travel to the city and bring back the freshest and most valuable seeds and roots, and are therefore able to grow the arguably best produce in the region. Dalry farmers also benefit from the highest prices for their livestock, since they do not have to herd them long distances, thus cutting back on illness, fatigue, or loss from creature attacks.
The boundaries of Dalry span days of travel in all directions (about 2 ½-3 days from far end to far end), but the main village is accessed via a road only ~3 hours off of the main road. Despite its proximity to a variety of shops, Dalry still boasts its own vibrant economic center, with the services of blacksmiths, general good stores, carpenters, alchemists, bakers, and more. Though most travelers opt to continue on to Coniston when possible, Dalry does also have a small inn with only 3 basic rooms. While technically all of Epektasi falls under Coniston’s alcohol rulings, Dalry’s proximity to the capital means those rules are actually enforced, especially in the town proper; therefore, the inn is not your best bet for a stiff drink.

Politics

The Council of Coniston appoints a Baron - typically a shopkeeper or farmer from one of the closest farms - to be the direct ambassador for Dalry. This Baron is expected to listen to the concerns or requests from the citizens of Dalry and report them to the Council every season. Because the Baron is often an already very busy man, these “Town Halls” are rarely held; this sometimes leads to the Baron making up requests to suit their own desires, or forgoing requests altogether, causing Dalry citizens to fend for themselves on behalf of the council.

Commerce

Dalry’s main exports are wheat, livestock, fruits, and wool/linen. There is also a niche market for stone figurines, carved out of the stones that organically fall from the Cliffs of Kaane.