Bannes

Bannes is a settlement on the shore of Woodwound Lake on the southern edge of Larkwood. Surrounded by deciduous forest and flowering meadows, the town has become well known for the honey it produces; a delicacy sought after all over Vanelle and beyond for its particular sweetness and clear, golden colour. This honey is used as a sweetener by many a fine baker as well as by home cooks all over Vanelle, especially for feasts, celebrations and other special occasions. The Bannes Honey Bees are unique in that they have been bred and developed for generations to produce the excellent honey the people of Vanelle love and enjoy today. While the honey it producers draws many visitors to the town, especially during the annual Festival of the Bees during which both the honey and the creatures that produce it are celebrated by visitors and residents alike, Bannes is relatively isolated and has quite a few cultural quirks, such as the legend of The Whelklings of Woodwound River as well as their intricately decorated houses and somewhat old fashioned way of dressing. Many merchants visit Bannes for its honey, its wood, furs and various other produce. In addition, ordinary travellers often stay on Bannes for longer than planned due to its warm hospitality and unusual beauty. Most of the buildings in the town are made of wood from the nearby forest, which isn't unusual in itself. However, each house has been painted a vibrant colour upon which intricate patterns of leaves, flowers and animals have been painted, especially around the doors and windows. This makes each and every house unique and interesting to look at - something many visitors find themselves doing with great joy. Bannes is also home to the largest temple to the goddess Vandra in Vanelle and is the closest settlement to the side of the annual The Festival of Cirra, making it a worthwhile journey for those wishing to pay their respects to the goddess and explore traditional spiritual practices linked to her. In addition, the Temple of Vandra is a marvellous building in its own right, constructed in such a way that it very closely resembles a great old oak, living branches and all.

Type

Town

Owner/Ruler

Lord Protector Reginald III

Ruling/Owning Rank

Lord Protector

Owning Organization

The Protectorate of Vanelle

Related Tradition (Primary)