Aethelham
This fortified town is located at the southern end of the old defensive earthwork known as the Wealdyke near a spur of the Cumorian Mountains. Now one of the larger towns of the Heldring, Aethelham is of comparatively recent construction. None of the ancient clans called this locale home. Instead, the town was likely built to hold the southern flank of the Wealdyke. But its location was fortuitous, with a commanding position over wide fields and access to mines in the nearby mountains.
In the fields nearby, farmers grow wheat, barley, and corn, and in the mountain foothills shepherds tend flocks of sheep. The wool-spinners in Aethelham are some of the best of their craft and produce well-made garments for their own use and for sale in the markets of Kingsgardt. Several dirt roads lead off to the Cumorians to several active mines (and some abandoned).
The family of the current ealdorman has held Aethelham in fiefdom for generations. It is said that one of his ancestors was responsible for building the Wealdyke, and tales of his battles with the Daanites are legendary.
The worship of the sibling gods Eostre and Tyr dominates in Aethelham, though many of the farmers and shepherds continue to venerate the old gods. Unknown to most, a few older families have connections to Thunderhelde in the mountains and continue to worship Hel in secret.
Settlement
Aethelham, Town of
Type
Town
Owning Organization
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