> [!infobox] > # The Meadow’s Refuge > ![[Murlayfield.jpg]]<span style="display:block;text-align:center;">[[Murlayfield.jpg|Show to Players]]</span> > ###### Information > | | | > |---|---| > |**Region**| [[Zalfaria]] | > |**Mayor**| [[Elara Thorne]] | #### Overview Nestled in an open field surrounded by dense forests and flanked by the towering Stormspine Mountains to the east and the rugged coastline to the west, Murlayfield is an isolated yet self-sufficient town. The town thrives on its remoteness, acting as a peaceful retreat from the bustling trade cities of Zalfaria and the structured order of Azmarinia. Despite its seclusion, Murlayfield is known for its fertile farmlands, expert woodworkers, and a deep-rooted connection to nature and the sea. #### Geography & Layout - **The Fields** – Expansive meadows rich with wildflowers, grains, and grazing livestock. - **The Greenveil Forest** – A lush woodland enclosing the town, providing timber, herbs, and natural protection from outsiders. - **Murlay Coast** – A rugged coastline offering fresh seafood and a hidden network of caves rumored to hold ancient secrets. - **Stormspine’s Edge** – The foothills of the Stormspine Mountains, where hunters, herbalists, and hermits dwell. #### Industry & Economy Murlayfield is a self-sustaining town, with little reliance on outside trade. It primarily produces: - **Agriculture:** Grains, root vegetables, and livestock products. - **Woodworking:** Expertly crafted furniture, bows, and ship components made from Greenveil timber. - **Fishing:** A modest fishing industry sustains the town with fresh seafood, traded sparsely with passing ships. - **Herbalism:** The town is known for its unique tonics and remedies made from rare mountain and forest herbs. While Murlayfield rarely seeks trade, merchants from Lockinge and wandering Zalfarian traders occasionally brave the journey to acquire its high-quality goods. #### Culture & Traditions - **The Hearth Gathering** – A seasonal festival where townsfolk and visitors alike share food, stories, and performances by a grand bonfire in the town square. - **Stormwatch Vigil** – Before every major storm, elders and sailors gather at the cliffs, reading the winds and sea patterns to predict the weather. - **The Wanderer’s Rest** – A longstanding tradition where travelers seeking shelter are offered a warm meal and a place to sleep, as long as they share a tale or a song. #### Government & Leadership Murlayfield is governed by The Circle of Keepers, a small council of respected community leaders: - **Elara Thorne** – The town’s matron and de facto mayor, known for her wisdom and deep knowledge of the land. - **Varlen Ashwood** – A master woodworker and the town’s primary liaison for trade with outsiders. - **Captain Orlan Murlay** – A retired sailor and descendant of the town’s founder, overseeing the coast and maritime affairs. - **Ilya Briarbrook** – A skilled herbalist and healer, responsible for the town’s remedies and spiritual well-being. #### Notable Locations - **The Warden’s Perch** – A lighthouse and lookout station built atop the western cliffs, warning of incoming storms and ships. - **The Hollow Oak** – A massive ancient tree in the Greenveil Forest, believed to be a sacred site of nature’s power. - **The Tidepool Caves** – A series of sea caves along the coast, some rumored to hold old pirate treasures or remnants of ancient civilizations. - **The Stormspine Path** – A treacherous but well-kept trail leading through the mountains, connecting Murlayfield to the greater Zalfarian territory.