Ranchfeld
Ranchfeld was arguably the first place within the Kingdom to maintain a population, though it wasn't granted the rank of settlement until centuries later. Initially just a large span of farmsteads, Ranchfeld eventually found themselves to be in need of a governing body - though not one quite as heavy-handed as the cities of Acaron or Orivos . The result was a small hamlet built in the southwest corner of the Windswept Plain , just north of The Steppes . The idea behind the hamlet was simply to provide a sort of "hub" where citizens could purchase or commission tools for their farming needs, as well as relax and hold gatherings to discuss problems in the land.
One of the most unique features of Ranchfeld in modern times is the sudden surge of firearms - weapons capable of firing projectiles at un-trackable speeds, impacting with enough force to pierce clean through a building or man. These weapons, much like the majority of technological leaps found in Acarius, were traded in courtesy of the Tajir Mutaji to the south. The Tajir felt that these weapons were too loud and dishonorable for their people, choosing instead to maintain a primarily melee-focused combat system. Ranchfeld coincidentally was looking for something that would not only harm the coyotes and crop-ruining pests of the plain, but something that even if it didn't kill would scare these creatures away. A unique solution to an industry-specific problem, firearms became prevalent enough that it's quite common to see more than one in a farmstead.
One of the most unique features of Ranchfeld in modern times is the sudden surge of firearms - weapons capable of firing projectiles at un-trackable speeds, impacting with enough force to pierce clean through a building or man. These weapons, much like the majority of technological leaps found in Acarius, were traded in courtesy of the Tajir Mutaji to the south. The Tajir felt that these weapons were too loud and dishonorable for their people, choosing instead to maintain a primarily melee-focused combat system. Ranchfeld coincidentally was looking for something that would not only harm the coyotes and crop-ruining pests of the plain, but something that even if it didn't kill would scare these creatures away. A unique solution to an industry-specific problem, firearms became prevalent enough that it's quite common to see more than one in a farmstead.
Demographics
The primary demographics in Ranchfeld are "standard" races, primarily human (or part thereof) with sprinklings of halfling, gnome, and even several dwarves. The economic structure of Ranchfeld is interesting, with farming families having worked their lands for generations; never expanding, never wanting for anything more. Compared to some other areas, Ranchfeld is almost uniquely "rich". None of the citizens are required to pay tax, as they are the primary source of food throughout the entire kingdom. Most farms are more than capable of meeting their government supply contracts, allowing them to sell off the excess at a free-market price.
Government
Ranchfeld's government is interchangeable with it's policing system. The "Governor" is an official chosen by the town sheriff specifically, who is an elected official themselves. The Governor's primary directive is to represent both Ranchfeld and Glacier Bay on the council. As the sheriff is elected not only to lead but to enforce, the Governor effectively performs an overly complicated messenger's duty, and has been known to simply read off of a list written by the sheriff.
Defences
Ranchfeld's defenses are a mix of sheriff, deputy, and six officers as well as a town militia. Defensive structures are non-existent, as the land is generally flat enough that your average person can see threats coming long before they may arrive.
Industry & Trade
The primary industry in Ranchfeld is farming and ranching, and apart from their government quota, it's also the main source of extra/disposable income for the citizens.
Infrastructure
Windmills, irrigation systems, massive barns and pastures - Ranchfeld's "infrastructure" is a self-sufficient and self-maintaining system of only necessities.
Maps
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Ranchfeld
Founding Date
7a 914
Type
Hamlet
Population
285
Owning Organization
Characters in Location
Comments