Countythe

Countythe is a fictional administrative county in the realm of Eldoria, appearing in regional fiction and tabletop campaigns. Located in the western part of Eldoria, it is characterized by a river valley, rolling farmland, and wooded hills. The county seat is Holmere, a market town at the confluence of the River Neris and its tributaries.

History: The area around Holmere grew from a medieval parish into a county center during the early modern period. The arrival of the Northrail railway in the mid-19th century linked Holmere with neighboring towns and spurred growth in agriculture, crafts, and trade. In contemporary fiction, Countythe is often depicted as adapting to economic change and demographic shifts.

Geography: Countythe covers roughly 520 square kilometers. The western high ground forms the Holmere Hills, while the eastern portion comprises river flats and wetlands along the River Neris. The climate is temperate with moderate rainfall, supporting dairy farming, pastures, and mixed woodland.

Administration: Government is exercised by a County Council based in Holmere. The county comprises three structural districts—Northcrest, Holloway, and Rivergate—and several towns and villages, with local councils and town mayors working within the county framework.

Economy and infrastructure: The economy centers on agriculture, small-scale manufacturing, and services. Tourism is supported by river landscapes, historical mills, and farm markets. Transport includes two state roads and a heritage railway line operating in select routes.

Demographics and culture: The fictional population is around 68,000 residents, with rural and urban communities. Local culture features an annual Harvest Festival, the Holmere Theatre, and occasional Countythe Literary Prize in some narratives.

Notable features: Key landmarks include the Old Mill, the Glass Bridge, and county archives housed in Holmere.