Village of Hommlet
The Village of Hommlet, commonly referred to simply as Hommlet, is situated in the central part of the Flanaess, in the western Oerik Continent. This hamlet-sized village lies about thirty leagues southeast of Verbobonc, on the edge of the territory controlled by the noble Viscount Wilfrick Verdanhart of Verbobonc. A crucial crossroads for travelers, Hommlet sees traffic from the north to Verbobonc and south to Celene, as well as east through the Gnarley Forest to Dyvers and west into the Greenway Valley.
History
Hommlet has a long and storied history, particularly marked by its connection to the infamous Temple of Elemental Evil. Initially a quiet farming community, the village grew as travelers and merchants passed through. The rise of the Temple brought significant turmoil, culminating in its fall in 569 CY. The village prospered thereafter, but new threats have emerged, particularly with the resurgence of bandit activities in recent years.Key Historical Events
- Rise and Fall of the Temple of Elemental Evil: The village witnessed the rise of one of the greatest centers of corruption and its subsequent defeat.
- Adventurer Influence: Post the temple's fall after The Battle of Emridy Meadows, adventurers played a significant role in defending and enriching the village.
- Bandit Resurgence: In 576 CY, bandit activities have increased, posing new challenges to Hommlet.
Geography
Hommlet's strategic location at a crossroads makes it a vital hub for trade and travel. The village is surrounded by fertile farmlands, dense forests, and rolling hills. The High Road leads north to Verbobonc and south to Celene, while the Forest High Road runs east to Dyvers. The Greenway Road heads west into the Greenway Valley, continuing to Veluna, with smaller trails leading southeast to the Wild Coast. The Farmstead benefits from the rich soil and ample water supply. The farm is surrounded by well-tended fields of wheat, corn, and various vegetables, alongside pastures for cattle and sheep. A small grove of fruit trees adds to the farm's bounty, providing apples, pears, and cherries.Society and Culture
The people of Hommlet are predominantly human, with a mix of Oeridian Oerid and Flannae Flan ancestry. The village is governed by Elder Kenter Sr., who follows The Old Faith. He is advised by retired adventurers Burne and Rufus, and religious leaders from the Church of St Cuthbert and the local druidic order. The community is close-knit and cautious of outsiders, shaped by past conflicts and the need for vigilance.Government and Laws
Hommlet is governed by Elder Kenter Sr., who acts as the Justice of the Peace. Major decisions are made with input from Burne, Rufus, and religious representatives. Taxation is minimal, and a portion of taxes goes to Burne and Rufus for their protection services. The village maintains a strict but fair legal system, ensuring peace and order within the community.Key Government Figures
- Elder Kenter Sr.: Village leader and Justice of the Peace 27. Elder Manor: Walled Manor House.
- Lord Burne: Retired adventurer and key defender.
- Lord Rufus Burne's companion and formidable warrior.
- Canon Terjon of St. Cuthbert: Religious leader of the Church of St. Cuthbert.
- Druid Jaroo Ashstaff of the Grove: Local druidic leader.
- Militia Captain Zeb Fletcher: father of Elmo
- Elmo: Nosy drunkard.
Politics
Political tensions have escalated between the human inhabitants of Verbobonc and the Gnomes communities, disrupting trade and cooperation. The withdrawal of Mounted Borderers patrols and Verbobonc, Viscounty troops has exacerbated these tensions, with accusations flying from both sides regarding deceit, theft, and aggression.Political Issues
- Gnome-Human Tensions: Strained relationships affecting trade and cooperation.
- Military Withdrawals: Reduction in protective forces leading to increased vulnerability.
- Bandit Threats: Rising bandit activities impacting both human and gnome merchants.
Religion
Hommlet's religious life is dominated by the Church of St Cuthbert and the local druidic tradition. The Church emphasizes law and order, while the druids focus on balance and harmony with nature. Both play vital roles in the village, providing spiritual guidance and support.Key Religious Figures
- Canon Terjon of St. Cuthbert: Leader of the Church of St. Cuthbert.
- Druid Jaroo Ashstaff of the Grove: Head of the local druidic order of The Old Faith.
Military
Hommlet's defense is primarily managed by a local militia with Captain Zeb Fletcher, supported by Burne and Rufus. The militia consists of 30-40 members, equipped to handle bandits, monsters, and other threats. The recent increase in bandit raids has tested the militia's capabilities, necessitating enhanced vigilance and preparedness.Key Military Figures
- Burne: Key defender and strategist.
- Rufus: Military leader and warrior.
- Zeb and Elmo: Leaders within the local militia.
Current Events
Rising Banditry
The merchant roads around Hommlet have seen a surge in bandit attacks, disrupting trade and instilling fear among travelers. This increase in criminal activity coincides with the withdrawal of Mounted Borderers patrols and Viscounty troops, leaving the village more vulnerable.Gnome-Human Tensions
Political tensions between Verbobonc's human nobles and the gnome communities have worsened, impacting trade and cooperation. Accusations of deceit and theft fly from both sides, creating an atmosphere of distrust and uncertainty.Economic Strain
Local businesses, particularly vineyards and ranches, have suffered due to bandit raids. Merchants are considering arming themselves, and some are calling for increased military intervention to restore order and security.Community Response
The villagers, led by Burne and Rufus, are taking steps to address these challenges. Efforts to bolster the militia, secure trade routes, and mediate between conflicting factions are underway, demonstrating the resilience and unity of Hommlet's inhabitants.Conclusion
The Village of Hommlet, with its rich history and strategic location, remains a vital and vibrant community despite recent challenges. Its people, guided by strong leadership and a spirit of resilience, continue to navigate the complexities of their world, striving to maintain peace and prosperity in the face of adversity.Demographics
99% Oeridian Oerid and Flannae Flan mix
Defences
Hommlet militia under the command of Captain Zeb Fletcher
Maps
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Hommlet
The Village of Hommlet Artwork done by Jared Blando, Copyright of Wizards of the Coast
https://jaredblando.com/dnd5eencountermaps/the-village-of-hommlet-1
Notable Figures
- Lord Burne: A retired adventurer and skilled magic-user, Burne is a key defender of the village.
- Lord Rufus: Burne's companion, a formidable warrior who also played a significant role in defeating the Temple of Elemental Evil.
- Elder Kenter Sr.: The village's elected leader, responsible for governance and decision-making located at 27. Elder Manor: Walled Manor House .
- Canon Terjon of St. Cuthbert: The religious leader of the Church of St. Cuthbert in Hommlet.
- Druid Jaroo Ashstaff of the Grove: The local druidic leader, overseeing the spiritual well-being of the villagers.
- Captain Zeb Fletcher: militia captain and Elmo located at 2. Fletcher Farmstead
Adventures and Points of Interest
- The Moathouse: Once a bastion of the Temple of Elemental Evil, it remains a site of interest and concern for the villagers.
- Temple of Elemental Evil: Although in ruins, the temple's legacy continues to cast a shadow over Hommlet.
- Bandit Hideouts: Recent intelligence points to various bandit camps along the trade routes, posing a threat to travelers and merchants.
- 31. Two Story Tower - Rufus and Burne: A fortified residence that serves as a center for the village's defense and a repository of magical knowledge.
Quests and Rumors
Hommlet - Local Side Quests
Founding Date
433
Type
Village
Population
98
Included Locations
- 1. Greenway Farmstead
- 10. Draper’s Textiles
- 11. Tomlyn Tailor’s shop
- 12. Tcheuh Farmstead
- 13. D&G Dry Goods & General Mercantile
- 14. Wolog’s Teamsters
- 15. Terrik’s Treasures and Coin
- 16. Pilar’s Cabinetmaker
- 17: Maizy’s Pots
- 18: Tamen Brewery
- 19. Shepherd’s Cottage
- 2. Fletcher Farmstead
- 20. Church of St. Cuthbert
- 21. Menger Ranch
- 22. Miller and Baker
- 23. Medden Farmstead
- 24. The Druid’s Grove
- 25. Wenga’s Dairy
- 26. Valden’s Wagons
- 27. Elder Manor: Walled Manor House
- 28. Bilby carpenter
- 29. Stonemason's House
- 3. Woodcutter’s Cottage
- 30. Doomwatch Keep Construction Site
- 31. Two Story Tower - Rufus and Burne
- 32. Tent Town
- 33. Overgrown track
- 4. Grandle Farmstead
- 5. Yakub's Pipeweed Farm
- 6. Tanner’s Leatherworking
- 7. The Inn of the Welcome Wench
- 8. Smyth Smithy
- 9. Village hall
Owner/Ruler
Additional Rulers/Owners
Owning Organization
Related Plots
- 1. Clearing Out the Darkwood Grove - Hommlet
- 10. Helping Spugnois find the Cache - Hommlet
- 11. Running Out Rannos and Gremag - Hommlet
- 2. Helping the Tailor - Hommlet
- 3. Tamen’s Hijacked Ale - Hommlet
- 4. Cultists on the Road - Hommlet
- 5. Catching Zert in the Act - Hommlet
- 6. Finding the Saboteur - Hommlet
- 7. Catching Furnok in the Act - Hommlet
- 8. The Goblin Spies
- 9. Forbidden Romance
- Hommlet - Local Side Quests
- Journey to Hommlet from Narwell
- Prelude Encounter: On the Road to Hommlet
Hommlet Bannor by 3orcs
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