Hillhomes of Eskir
Set within the Barony of Ayl, the Hillhomes of Eskir are the seasonal dwellings of Clan Eskir. Traditionally, this Untamed Clan has remained rooted in its ways, tending to their herds and giving a respectfully wide berth to House Antyre, who respect their traditions and leave them well enough alone.
However, change has come about quickly during the last few years. In the absence of their chieftain Ulfvyr Eskir, his half-brother Jhorhald Eskir has seized power, defeating five other challengers for leadership in the Circle. He has also wed Ulfvyr's wife Estil and assumed guardianship of Ulfvyr's son Froda, and now acts as steward until Froda comes of age. In that time, however, Jhorhald has made drastic changes to their dealings with House Antyre, increasing trade between their two peoples and welcoming Antyrian soldiers within clan lands. The clanfolk have reduced their seasonal migrations, confining themselves to a smaller route between the highlands and the valleys, and every season they pay an appropriate tribute of tax and levy to Arran Tan Echen. In exchange, the soldiers of House Antyre have built a watchtower in clan lands, and keep a wary eye out for raiders from other Untamed Clans in the region.
Demographics
90% Antari Highlander, with 10% representing the detachment of troops from House Antyre sent to secure the lands around the village.
Government
Chieftain Jhorhald adjudicates disputes and metes out justice as befits him, in accordance with the old laws. While he would normally be counselled by a Druid of the Old Gods, the current one is infirm and able to contribute little to the governance of the settlement.
Industry & Trade
The Clan primarily trades in livestock and their byproducts; goat's milk and cheese, sheep's wool, and meat from slaughtered cows. A smokehouse has recently been built at Jhorhald's request.
Infrastructure
Worn dirt paths and shepherds trails line the hills and glades surrounding the settlement. A well has been dug near what became the village's marketplace.
History
Traditionally, the Hillhomes of Eskir were only a stop along the clan's migratory route throughout the Highlands. However, Jhorhald has steered the clan towards a more settled approach since he took control.
Points of interest
Just a short distance from the settlement lies the burial cairn of Paldyr, Ulfvyr's father, who died in a border skirmish with Ostamber. Ulfvyr's gravesite is also found close to his father's, where any keepsakes of his were interred in the place of his body. Both graves bear the carved statues of Carrion, watching over their final resting places in accordance with tradition.
Geography
The rolling hills of The Antar Highlands surround the settlement, ranging on as far as the eye can see. Patchwork forests line many of the hills, and the thinnest network of worn goat paths connect the steadings that dot the landscape.
Type
Village
Population
Approximately 400 souls dwell here consistently
Location under
Owner/Ruler
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