Branuk family

The Branuk are a noble family from Ferraria. They were one of the first families brought into the government of king Ferran the Miner. They administrate the coasts and marshes of Lake Yekar for the king, and owe fealty to him.

The Branuks were once a tribal people who built their keep at a headland on the lake. The surrounding land was marshy with few safe points of crossing, making it highly defensible from land. They initially fought against Ferran the Miner, but a turncloak within the family led his mercenary army across the lake and through the postern gates of Swatholm. They were then incorporated into Ferran's new realm, and given control of his lakeside conquests.

Branuks have been very influential in Ferrarian, with many of serving as the chief advisors of kings. Their family is one of the richest as well, as they control much of the freshwater used in mining, as well as the largest source of fish in-land. They also operate a few mines themselves, including one that goes beneath Lake Yekar itself.

Part of the Ferrarian fleet is based at Swatholm, and the Branuks operate their own navy to protect their territorial waters from bandits and other threats. Many wars have been fought and lost over ownership of Lake Yekar, and so the fate of Ferraria has often been tied to the Branuks.

Notable Branuks include Tror Branuk, Mlor Branuk, and Sror Branuk.