20. Farley Homestead

Nestled to the west of the main merchant road known as the Long Road in Ostverk lies Farley Farm, a vibrant vegetable farm renowned for its lush produce and steadfast family values. Owned by the venerable Farley family, this farm is not only a provider of sustenance but also a bastion of community spirit in the face of adversity.

Family and Ownership

• Owner: Eldon Farley, a middle-aged human farmer, robust and tan from his labors under the sun.
• Family: He is supported by his wife, Mara Farley, a devout worshiper of Beory and a pillar in the local community. Together, they have three children: two sons, Joren and Bael, and a daughter, Lysa, who all assist with the farm operations.
• Background: The Farley family has tilled the soil of Greenfields Farm for generations, known for their dedication to The Old Faith and their reverence for the natural world.

Farm Description and Produce

• Location and Layout: The farm spans several acres of fertile land, bordered by the natural beauty of Ostverk’s outskirts. The fields are a patchwork of vibrant greens, yellows, and reds, with rows of vegetables meticulously cared for.
• Crops: Specializing in a variety of vegetables, including carrots, onions, potatoes, and leafy greens, the Farley family takes pride in using sustainable farming methods to maintain soil health and crop quality.
• Market Presence: The family regularly sets up a stall in Ostverk’s market square, where they sell their produce to the townsfolk and travelers. Their stall is a popular fixture, known for its fresh and hearty vegetables.

Worship and Community Role

• Religious Devotion: The Farleys are devout followers of Beory, the Earth Mother, reflecting their deep connection to the land and its bounty. Their home features a small shrine where family and neighbors often gather to give thanks for the harvests.
• Support for Shandril: Strong supporters of Shandril, they embody the community's ideals of unity and resilience, often participating in village gatherings and leading efforts to aid those in need.

Challenges and Threats

• Goblin Raids: Recently, the tranquility of Farley Farm was shattered by a raiding party of goblins. In a brazen attack, the goblins made off with one of the farm’s valued draft horses, which has significantly hindered their farming operations.
• Security Measures: In response, Eldon has begun coordinating with local authorities and other farmers to increase night watches and improve the defenses around the farmstead.

The Farmer’s Market Stall

• Stall Setup: Located centrally in the market square, the Farley’s stall is adorned with baskets overflowing with fresh produce, drawing in customers with its array of colors and earthy scents.
• Community Interaction: Mara often mans the stall, offering recipes and preparation tips to customers, enhancing their market experience with her warm, engaging personality.

Future Aspirations

• Recovery and Resilience: Despite the recent setbacks, the Farleys are determined to recover and continue their contributions to Ostverk’s community. They plan to expand their crop variety and explore more efficient farming techniques to prevent future losses.
• Supporting Shandril: The family remains committed to supporting Shandril and her initiatives, seeing her leadership as vital to the prosperity of Ostverk and the preservation of their way of life.

Farley Farm stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Ostverk’s farming community, its roots deeply embedded in tradition, family, and an unyielding resolve to overcome adversities.

Farley Homestead by 3orcs

"A day in the fields can cure more ills than a pot full o' potions."

Eldon Farley - Patriarch and Farmer

Eldon is a robust man in his late forties, with weathered skin and strong hands molded by years of physical labor. His hair, once dark, is streaked with gray, and his eyes, a deep brown, reflect a life of honest toil.

• Background: Born and raised in Ostverk, Eldon inherited the land from his father and has expanded it with careful, sustainable practices. He is well-respected in the community for his expertise in farming and his dedication to The Old Faith.
• Personality: A man of few words, Eldon communicates through his actions, which are always measured and purposeful. He is known for his steadfast nature and a calm demeanor that reassures those around him in times of stress.
• Motivation: Eldon is driven by a profound respect for the land and a commitment to provide for his community and family. He is deeply invested in passing on his knowledge to his children, ensuring the farm's legacy continues through generations.

Mara Farley - Matriarch and Devout Worshiper

Mara is in her mid-forties, with gentle features and hair often braided back to keep it from her face while she works. Her hands are as calloused as her husband's, bearing testament to her active role on the farm.

• Background: Mara came from a neighboring farm and brought her deep faith in Beory to Farley Farm. Her knowledge of herbal remedies and seasonal cycles has greatly contributed to the farm's success.
• Personality: Warm and nurturing, Mara is the emotional cornerstone of the Farley family. She balances her numerous responsibilities with a grace that endears her to both her family and neighbors.
• Motivation: Mara is motivated by her faith and her love for her family. She seeks to foster a sense of community and kinship not only within her home but also within Ostverk. Her devotion to Beory is expressed through her care for the land and the people around her.

Joren Farley - Eldest Son and Farmhand

At twenty, Joren is tall and muscular, mirroring his father’s robust build. His hair is sandy blond, and he moves with the confident strength of youth.

• Background: Joren has been his father’s right hand on the farm since he was a boy. He knows every inch of the land and has a natural aptitude for animal husbandry.
• Personality: Joren is earnest and hardworking, with a quiet confidence and a ready smile for everyone he meets. He is less reserved than his father but shares his practical approach to problem-solving.
• Motivation: Proud of his heritage, Joren is determined to uphold the family’s reputation for quality produce. He is keen to adopt more modern farming techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Lysa Farley by 3orcs

Lysa Farley - Eldest Daughter and Market Seller

Lysa, at eighteen, combines her mother’s warm eyes with her father’s determination. Her hair, a light brown, is often pulled back in a practical ponytail as she manages the market stall.

• Background: Lysa grew up helping her mother around the farm but found her niche in the bustling environment of the market. She has a knack for sales and a charm that makes the family’s stall one of the most popular.
• Personality: Charismatic and articulate, Lysa possesses a persuasive charm and a keen sense of business. She enjoys interacting with customers and takes pride in her ability to boost sales through engaging conversation.
• Motivation: Lysa is motivated by a desire to ensure the financial stability of Farley Farm. She sees her role at the market as crucial and is dedicated to learning as much as she can about business management to potentially expand the farm’s operations in the future.

Type

Farm

Parent Location

Ostverk

Eldon Farley by 3orcs