Auckney

Auckney was a small fiefdom associated with the Spine of the World. It is ruled by the noble Auck family. Because of its cold location somewhat removed from busy trade routes, it was not often visited.

Geography
Auckney was located on the Sea of Swords near the western edge of the Spine of the World. The village hugged a small, round harbor that is dominated by an island topped by Castle Auck. Sea cliffs lined the southern edge of the harbor and beyond the village's farms are the steep Maerlon Mountains.

Description
The village was constantly beset by fog and strong, cold wind. An abandoned lighhouse sits on a cliff to the north of the harbor. Villagers say they can sometimes hear a woman screaming from inside the tower.

In part because of its location in the harbor, Castle Auck was removed from the village. The castle, which has two 15-foot-tall towers and a 12-room house, itself was built more than 600 years ago by the Dorigast family. However, the Auck family had reigned there for more than 400 years. In addition to the Auck family themselves and their steward, half a dozen servants and ten guards lived or worked in the castle.

The Lord of Auckney ran a number of towers surrounding the fiefdom. When a flag flew above the tower, it was manned by a handful of soldiers.

Demographics
In about 1369 DR, Auckney had a population of around 200, most living in the village around the farmer or in surrounding farms. Auckney was mostly inhabited by humans, but a population of gnomes settled there, having to work extra hard to be accepted by its human inhabitants. For that reason, the gnomes of Auckney are known for their work ethic.

Notable inhabitants

 * Colson, the girl rescued by Wulfgar while still a baby.
 * Feringal Auck, Lord of Auckney ca. 1369 DR.
 * Tristan Auck, former Lord of Auckney.
 * Priscilla Auck, Feringal's older sister.
 * Temigast, steward to Lord Feringal.
 * Liam Woodgate, a gnomish carriage driver
 * Meralda Ganderlay, Colson's true mother who married Feringal.
 * Jaka Sculi, Colson's true father.

Appearances

 * Spine of the World
 * The Orc King
 * The Companions