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THE POWERS
Long did the Islands Deities protect the lost archipelago they had designed as the last refuge of the Elves. But despite their efforts, the history of the Elvin realms in the Lost Islands was fraught with blood and sorrow. The Elves and the other races, such as the Giants, the Gnomes and Men, have made war upon each other until a number of different powers emerged from this whirlpool of violence and change.
This page includes a description of the realms, temples, knights orders, colleges and guilds of the Lost Islands.
MAP OF THE LOST ISLANDS REALMS
2709 LC
The Powers of the Lost Islands
Great changes have overcome the Lost Islands during the latest centuries, most dramatically observed in the shifting communities of the Archipelgo's inhabitants. For a long time, the Lost Islands had been the vast homeland of the Green Elves, some of whom proudly traced their lineage back to the Deities of the Islands themselves. After their conquest of the Archipelago, the High Elves played a crucial role in the centuries-long struggles between the kingdom of Gwarystan and the threat of the Human tribes who lived on the Mainland near the sea of Isyl and further west. Their defenses held the barbarians back from attack and discouraged incursions from the West. Since the Century of War, all that has changed. The Lost Islands are filled with new dangers. Such harsh conditions encourage their various people to seek places of safety. For most powers, this safety is often in isolation.
This page includes a presentation of the powers of the Lost Islands as of 2,710 LC, with information about their history, government, purpose and activities. Click on the link to access directly the power of your chosing.
The Realms
The Temples
The Knights Orders
The Colleges
The Guilds
. Dyoreni
. Guard of the Golden Arch
. Knights of the Golden Hand
. Knights of the Rose
. Knights of the Two-Winged Lions
. Crystal College
. Alchimists Guild of Yslla
. Ruby College
. Smith Guild of Tios Lluin
THE REALMS
From the Century of War and the resulting 'Pact' agreed between Elves and Men with the blessing of the druids, emerged a new map of the Lost Islands. The lands of the Archipelago were shared between the native Green Elves of clan Myortilys, clan Llyandy and Llymar Forest; the kingdom of Gwarystan and the principality of Cumberae, surviving realms of the High Elves sovereigns, and the Human newcomers who seized the two western islands.
This page includes a description of the realms of the Lost Islands in 2,708 LC at the time Feïwal's ship reached the shores of the Archipelago.
Gwarystan
Gwarystan Kingdom
Presentation
The kingdom of Gwarystan is the principal realm in the Lost Islands. It comprises the northern parts of Gwa Nyn, the southern region of Nyn Llyvary, south of the Arob Nisty range, and the island of Nyn Llorely. Gwarystan is called 'The commanding city' in lingua Llewenti for a good reason. It is the only town that claimed dominion over the entire Archipelago and no civilization in the Lost Islands more completely recalls the Elder Days when the Gods walked Oron. In 2,708 LC, the kingdom of Gwarystan is a racial and geographical microcosm of the Lost Islands. Here live Elves of all origins, Men but also creatures that many consider merely legendary: Giants, Gnomes, Giant Eagles, Hippogriffs and Griffons among others. From the depths of the ancient forest Tios Llyurca to the heights of the Arob Far Mountains, from the verdant steppes of Ystanoalin to the steaming fens of Llevya, the terrain is immensely varied. Other than a few little streams and patches of rolling hills interupt fertile valleys and grassy steppelands .
History
The oldest of all civilizations, the High Elves were once the greatest race in the Lost Islands. Their actions shaped history and resulted in the creation of the kingdom of Gwarystan. After the six Wars of Ruby and Birds, most Green Elves decided to leave the ancient matriarchs’ rule and serve the king of Gwarystan. There eventually were twice as many Elves living under the protection of the king’s banners than there were living among the six ancient Llewenti clans. Abandoning the old faith, the defeated Green Elves decided to lay their share of the magic Flow at the feet of the High Elf sovereign, and in so doing, weakened the matriarchs’ power and the influence of the Archipelago’s Deities. Triumphant after having conquered a realm worthy of his royal lineage, Lormelin the Conqueror became overly proud after erecting the great city of Gwarystan to the glory of his forefathers. The king became intoxicated with his power. He plunged into all manner of abuse to the point of profaning the old temples of the Llewenti Deities, even persecuting their followers. The kingdom of Gwarystan has now reached its age of twilight; long and bitter wars have ravaged its provinces, and the once-great High Elves have begun to dwindle. The beautiful Elvin cities of the kingdom are becoming quieter each year, no longer bustling with life and wonder; shells of their former glory. The human multitude’s time is upon Gwarystan. Dragon Warriors have come out of the shadows to restore the cult of Three Dragons among barbarian tribes, challenging the influence of the druids. Two of them, Ka-Bloozayar and the dreaded Ka-Blowna openly broke the Pact that guaranteed peace for almost a century. They waged war against the Elves both in the South in Cumberae and in the North at Mentollà. The weak response of King Norelin to the aggression caused both Llymar and Cumberae to break their vows to the Gwarystan Kingdom. The clans of Llymar and the House of Dol Nos-Loscin in Cumberae denied the leadership of the king, and the factions of Elves divided. As a result, a great alliance between the Westerners and Gwarystan, between Men and High Elves, emerged. The current reign of Norelin marks the twilight of the High Elves. Only Gwarystan has not lost its former glory; the capital city still bustles with life, attracting many other Elves and a great number of Men.
Cults
The matriarchs saw their powers diminish as the high towers of Gwarystan rose, where the high mages of the Ruby College were harvesting the Islands’ Flow for the new king’s benefit. Today, sixteen High Elf lords rule the Lost Islands from the top of their towers in Gwarystan. Sixteen Lords receive the homage of tens of thousands of Elves. Their influence is so great, that even the Islands Deities fear them. In Gwarystan and across the kingdom, the young sovereign is abhorred by most of his Llewenti subjects. He has closed their temples and outlawed their ancient faiths. Only the pilgrims of Eïwele Llyi are tolerated within the kingdom of Gwarystan. They are subjects of Norelin and travel under his royal protection. The king might despise the old faiths of the Lost Islands and hinder their worship, but he cannot afford to openly attack their followers. Nevertheless, most of them suffered persecution in Gwarystan. King Norelin and his Human allies, the Westerners, are responsible for widespread injustice. So many Elves are persecuted for their faith or livelihoods. Most fear what the future holds and have abandoned the old cults of the Islands Deities. For centuries, the college of the Ruby has exerted its considerable power to undermine the influence of the ancient creeds. The Ruby College has undoubtedly eroded the power of the matriarchs. The high mages of the Crimson Tower have concentrated the power of the Flow in their hands, and with that power they built the city of Gwarystan up to its current state of magnificence. Not content with depriving the Gwarystan Elves of the benefits of Oron’s forces, the high mages found a way to distort and imprison those forces, to greatly limit its circulation, to the extent that the very source is now threatening to run dry.
Government
The acknowledged sovereign of Gwarystan Kingdom is the High Elf King Norelin, the heir to the crown of Lormelin the Conqueror. However, his involvement in the governing of the realm is limited. King Norelin is kept informed of events by his advisors, the high mages of the Ruby College. Its twelve members are the most powerful sorcerers of that college of eunuch-scholars and their assembly acts as the governing body of the Gwarystan Kingdom. It is the council of the high mages that decides affairs of state, trade and diplomacy with the other realms and fixes general policy. The Gwarystan Kingdom's dominions are ruled by aristocracies, High Elves belonging to a noble or princely house, whose title are respectively 'Dol' or 'Dor'.
Region of Gwarystan
Forest of Llymar
Llymar Forest
Presentation
The Elves of Llymar Forest inhabit the woods on the northern slopes of the mountain range known as the Arob Nisty. They have extended eastward to the strait of Nyn Llorely and westward to the hills of Arob Tiude beyond the peninsula of Gloren. They are an independent people, prompt to anger, who built their homes among the tree tops deep in the forest. Their dwellings are surrounded with a magical glamour so that their ennemies would be unable to see them. The population is made essentially of Green Elves from three different clans (Llyvary, Ernaly and Avrony) but also includes High Elves from House Dol Etrond and House Dol Lewin. A community of Blue Elves from across the Austral Ocean settled in the tower of Mentollà, in the western confines of Llymar Forest after 2,709 LC. The inhabitants of Llymar Forest are closely attuned to nature, living among the trees and taking only what they need from their surroundings. They have mastered the art of producing rare silks and are praised as spinners and weavers. Also, the Llymar archers and bowyer developped special bows whose firing power is feared across the Lost Islands.
History
The forest of northern Nyn Llyvary has been home to the independent Elves of Llymar since the coming of Llyoriane to the shores of the Lost Islands. Reclusive, with little interest in the outside world, the majority of the Forest Elves made their home in the four historical cities of Llafal, Tios Halabron, Tios Lluin and Penlla which offered them a safe refuge in times of trouble. The native Green Elves are comprised of noble 'dyl', who compose the aristocracy as they can claim descent from the divine Eïwal Vars, and the common Wenti.
Government
The political structure of Llymar Forest is complex and varied over time but can be qualified as semi-democratic with remnants of clan organization still viable among the Green Elves. The Council of the Forest is comprised of members reflecting their three separate cultures: clan Llyvary, clan Ernaly and clan Avrony for the Green Elves; House Dol Etrond and House Dol Lewin for the High Elves and the clan of Filweni for the Blue Elves. The Council of the Forest attempts to resolve internal disputes, decide on trade and diplomatic matters and enforces judicial decisions taken by the Council of Matriarchs, the highest authority in the Forest. Going to war is his decision but his primary objective is to avoid internal conflicts and maintain communication between the different factions of the Forest. Between sessions of the Council of Matriarchs, the Council of the Forest handles external relations with other realms based on the policy of the matriarchs. This governing structure is accepted by all Elves of Llymar. Besides, each community, guild or city is governed by a council made up from members of the group and presided by an Elf of noble blood. In theory the wisest and most learned Elves are selected to be members of these councils but in practise, Elves who can claim to belong to the bloodline of Eïwal Vars (the matriarchs and the noble 'dyn') trust the most influencial positions. Especially in the Council of the Forest, members are selected according to their bloodline, power and abilities. Justice is adminstered by the Council of the Matriarchs where high priestesses, wise in the ways of the Islands Deities and direct descendants of Queen Llyoriane sit. The matriarchs of Llymar have the reverance for growing things which makes them the stubborn ennemies of Men who abuse woods, chopping down trees, trampling the undergrowth and stripping the land for their plantations and farms.
Cults
All Elves of Llymar, regardless of their kin or origin, worship the Islands Deities with the exception of Eïwal Myos, the Deity of illusions, who was replaced in their pantheon by the Demigod of wisdom, Eïwal Lon. Most Green Elves favour Eïwele Llya, who they call the 'Mother of the Islands', as she is the patron of all plants and animals. They pray her to protect their trees and crops. However all cities and settlements within the forest have important shrines to the other Deities, the most commonly worshiped being Eïwal Vars, Deity of hunting and war, and consort of Queen Llyoriane. The High Elves of Llymar have faith in Eïwal Lon and his main temple is located in Tios Lluin in the ruins of the ancient site. But all Elves of Llymar are closely attuned to the forest. Their feasts celebrate the cycle of the seasons, nature, music and arts. In the spring, they plant trees and celebrate Eïwele Llyi, beauty and love. In the summer, they worship Eïwele Llya and thank the Mother of the Islands for the new life she brings to the Forest. In the fall and during winter, they honour Eïwele Llyo to mark the passing of the season of life. The matriarchs and the priests of Llymar Forest can commune with the elemental forces of their woods. They do not leave traces behind them, move silently amid the trees, almost invisible, clad in their cloaks of rare silk. Morever, they can communicate over great distances using the spirits of the trees. Some can speak with wild animals, others summon birds of prey and most can look at the plants and immediately know all that has transpired in that area of the forest.
Forest of Llymar
Production and Trade
The Elves of Llymar are largely self-sufficent, producing almost all that they need for food, clothing and shelter but also forged metals, the realm of expertise of the Smith Guild of Tios Lluin headed by Almit Dol Etrond. Among the Green Elves' communities, there are farmers and hunter-gatherers producing the food for the entire population. Penlla and the settlements on the sea's shores have boats who spread nets to catch the seasonal migration of shad, salmon and other fishes. There are also fishing communities on the northern isles of the bay of Penlla. The inhabitants of the Eïwaloni trees are closely attuned to nature and have mastered the art of producing and working successfully with the rare silks made from the cocoons of certain caterpillars dwelling in the giant trees. Most of the Elves living in the four cities of Llymar (Llafal, Tios Halabron, Tios Lluin and Penlla) are involved in various crafts, each city beeing specialised in the production of a particualr item: woodworkers and thread makers in Llafal; cloth, spinners and weavers in Tios Halabron; smiths, masons, alchemists in Tios Lluin and shipwrights and carpenters in Penlla. Elves of Llymar are expert archers and developped special techniques for making their bow.
Cumberae
The Principality of Cumberae
Presentation
Dominating the souther parts of Nyn Llyandy is the forest of Cumberae. Once called 'Cumberae the Great', it is all that remains east of the mountain range, of a vast coniferous forest that covered much of eastern Nyn Llyandy in the ancient times. Now it is also dense with oak and beech as well as innumerable varieties of evergreens. The forest of Cumberae is 150 leagues long and 100 leagues across at its widest point. The trees provide shelter from Elves and beasts and stand as a natural barrier to sweeping Human invasions from the West. In the heart of Cumberae Forest, the hollows and wide valleys are lined with tall pines standing almost trunck to trunck. Bald, rugged hills covered by various grasses, scrub trees and bushes create a natural border in the west. These mountains dominate much of Nyn Llyandy and command access to the Cumberae Forest.
The golden rose is Cumberae's symbol. It can be seen on the principality's coat of arms. The rose-striped flag of Cumberae is a symbol of purity and of beauty, uniting House Dol Nos-Loscin and the native Elves of the great southern forest.
The capital of the realm is Ystanloscin. It is Cumberae’s largest city.
History
House Dol Nos-Loscin declared its vast domains to be an independent principality because its territories in the forest of Cumberae were constantly under threat from barbarian attacks. The weak response of King Norelin to the aggression caused Cumberae to break their vows to Gwarystan. House Dol Nos-Loscin accused its former royal liege of not fulfilling his own obligations as sovereign and protector of the Elves. House Dol Nos-Loscin withdrew its support for the king after a final failed attempt to marry their heir, Terela, to King Norelin.
Cumberae is currently facing innumerable deadly enemies. The barbarian tribes under the command of Ka-Blowna are ruthless. The barbarian chieftain's deeds are so demonic that his fanatical troops have come to believe that the Dragon God Ancalyngyanar is marching at his side. The barbarian tribes are waging war against the Elves of Cumberae. Nevertheless, House Dol Nos-Loscin and its allies are holding out. It has renewed the alliance between Llymar and Cumberae. The principality is willing to back the forest of Llymar and the two rebellious realms now form a defensive alliance.
Principality of Cumberae
Government
The principality of Cumberae is the dominion of House Dol Nos-Loscin since the second War of Ruby and Birds. It is ruled by a prince, the acknowledged lord of House Dol Nos-Loscin. Cumberae's dominions are ruled by aristocracies, High Elves belonging to the various knight orders of the principality.
Cults
The native Elves of Cumberae, whose origin is with the clan Llyandy, worship the six ancestral Islands Deities and they later added to their pantheon the Demigod of wisdom, Eïwal Lon. The High Elves of the principality have faith in Eïwal Lon and his main temple is located in Ystanloscin behind the high walls of the city of house Dol Nos-Loscin. Cumberae acknowledges the Secret Vale as their liege and is required to support the Secret Vale with tributes, limited to its share of the Islands’ Flow.
Production and Trade
The Prince of Cumberae rules the southern regions of the archipelago on his own and do not bow anymore before the king. The Principality of Cumberae suffers from King Norelin’s blockade, as royal ports are no longer safe for his ships. Cumberae now relies on smuggling to continue trading. Cumberae's large cogs are built of oak, an abundant timber in the southern regions of the Archipelago. The Principality of Cumberae use these heavy boats for trading across the Sea of Isyl, mostly along the shores of Nyn Llyandy but also with teh clans of Llymar Forest. It is a dangerous route through the seas, more than a thousand leagues long, that separates Cumberae from Llymar, but maritime expeditions are already becoming more frequent and trade is growing fast.
Food and beverages from Nyn Llyandy come mostly in the form of cakes and biscuits made of cereals baked in salty cream. The liquors are dry and strong, lacking the sweet complexities of the other islands’ nectars.
clan Llyandy
The clan Llyandy
Presentation
The clan Llyandy is a group of Green Elves who descends from the servants of Matriarch Llyandy, the third daughter of Queen Llyoriane. This group is also known as the 'Ice Elves', the fierce warriors of the southern confines of the Lost Islands. The Ice Elves claim most of the land south and west of the Ontonisty Mountains, from the impassible hills in the east to the sea of Isyl in the west. They are rugged people well adapted to the severe conditions in which they live. Clan Llyandy Elves are usually shorter than the common Green Elves and are usually heavy-set. Skin tones are very pale, with hair colours likewise. Most Ice Elves of the clan Llyandy are semi-nomadic hunters/gatherers and herders. During the days of spring and summer they follow the herds of reinders to and from their feeding grounds and fish the open waters. During this time, they move to semi permanent campsite to which they return season after season, erecting tents or building new ice houses as the season requires. In fall, the Ice Elves set up their winter camps on the great ice floes which seal the open water. There, they hunt white furred northern animals such as seals and walrus for these Elves can walk in the most frigid winds.
History
The clan Llyandy are the offsprings of bands of Green Elves who fled south during the second 'War of Ruby and Birds', against the High Elves army of King Lormelin the Conqueror. After discussions around trade agreements and peace treaties failed the Conqueror launched his armies against clan Llyandy who were repelled to the extreme south of the Lost Islands, beyond the mountain's reach in the desert of snow. The second War of Ruby and Birds ended with a peace treaty between the High Elf King and the clan Llyandy.
Many bands of clan Llyandy Elves, not wishing to contest the High Elves' supremacy, moved far south, all the way to the edge of the polar terrain. There many died. But some survived by use of magic and adapted to life in the snowy land. These were the progenitors of those who were thereafter called the 'Ice Elves' in reference to the extreme conditions of their new dwellings. Llacrag then became the main city for the clan Llyandy. This was the beginning of a long period when all records of clan Llyandy are lost for several generations of Green Elves. During this time, the lifespan of the Ice Elves diminished, as they lost the connection with many aspects the Flow of the Islands. Their number continues to decline as their isolation prevents them to breed with other Elvin clans and the dangers encountered in their icy steppes take their toll on their population.
Government
The Ice Elves are ruled by an aristocracy whose bloodline can be traced back to Queen Llyoriane. The clan Llyandy are headed by heriditary matriarchs who trace their descent from Matriarch Llyandy, the third daughter of Queen Llyoriane and the Deity Eïwal Vars. They are aided by a group of priests-advisors whose powers are granted by the six original Deities of the Lost Islands. Membership to that group is the privilege of nobility.
Cults
The Ice Elves of clan Llyandy worship the original pantheon of the Islands Deities, including Eïwal Myos, the Patron Deity of the Dark Elves of clan Myortilys. Clan Llyandy does not venerate the Demigod of wisdom, Eïwal Lon, who is seen as a representant of the High Elves' ethics. The most commonly worshiped of their Deity is Eïwal Vars, Divinity of hunting and war.
Production and Trade
The Ice Elves of clan Llyandy have adapted themselves to living in the colder climate of the Archipelago Southern regions. They have discovered the secrets of building houses with ice and constructing green houses to grow food during the brief summer. In addition, the clan Llyandy have domesticated several species of animals, including owls, wolves and white lions, which they use as hunting companions or even steeds.
Clan Llorely
The clan Llorely
Presentation
The Elves of clan Llorely descend from Queen Llyoriane’s fifth daughter. They dwell in the northern parts of the island of Nyn Llorely, in a tree city called Tios Aelie along the Irawenti Coast. Their home in north-west Nyn Llorely is a land where all Elves live together under the same basic conditions and rights. Their liege, Lord Felrian Dol Urmil, and his family are themselves characters of note, given their mixed origins. The blood of the Dol Urmil has comingled with that of the first Irawenti navigators, the earliest example of the High and Blue Elf races mixing together. This land is called the 'Irawenti Coast' owing to its history. The clan Llorely live under the protection of the Dol Urmil, a noble house that has always served the High Elf Kings faithfully. After centuries of co-existnce, the blood of the native clan Llorely Elves mingled with that of the Blue Elves migrants from the clan of Filweni. The clan Llorely are known as the most reclusive inhabitants of the Lost Island.
History
The fleet of the clan of Filweni, that transported the High Elves reached the Archipelago on the shingle beaches of northern Nyn Llorely. Soon afterwards, the first war between the High Elves and the Green Elves was triggered. The armies of Lormelin the Conqueror defeated clan Llorely at 'the battle of Seagulls and Ruby'. Ever since its defeat a the clan Llorely has always bowed before the High Elves. They sworn allegiance to the lord of House Dol Urmil and withdrawn into their woods to continue their traditions.
Government
The political structure of clan Llorely is semi-democratic. The Council of Matriarchs is the highest authority. His primary objective is to avoid internal conflicts and maintain communication between the different families of the clan. This governing structure is accepted by all Elves of clan Llorely. The wisest and most learned high priestresses are selected to be members of that council. All can claim to belong to the bloodline of Eïwal Vars.
Cults
The matriarchs of clan Llorely dwell in their tree city of Tios Aelie. They are renown seers. Elves from across the Lost Islands come to visit them for they can foretell great disasters.
Clan Llorely guard
clan Myortilys
The clan Myortilys
The stairs of Mentodarcyl keep
Presentation
The clan Myortilys is a group of Green Elves who descend from the servants of Myortilys, the first daughter of Queen Llyoriane and the Deity Eïwal Myos. This clan is also known as the 'Dark Elves' since their Patron Deity was imprisoned in the bowels of Mount Darcyl in Nyn Avrony. The clan Myortilys are the spawn of servants of Eïwal Myos and it was he who adapted them to an underground life into extinct volcanoes and volcanic lands. Originating from Gwa Nyn where their capital Llamyos was built, the clan Myortilys moved, after the Wars of Ruby and Birds to Nyn Avrony. In the mountains of that island, they constructed the cavern city of Mentodarcyl in the depths of an extinct volcano. The clan Myortilys never accepted to be dispossessed of its inheritance. They consider they have a god-given right to rule the Lost Islands. From their impregnable stronghold of Mentodarcyl, they coordinate raids, piracy and smuggling across the Archipelago. To serve them as slaves or lowly servants, the clan Myortilys rely on a large population of Half Elves, offspring of generations of cross-breeding between the original Green Elves of the clan and their Human slaves, captured in the lands of the barbarian tribes.
History
The history of the clan Myortilys started with a doomed love affair tarnished by deceipt. Eïwal Myos, Deity of illusions, shadows and pleasure, seduced Queen Llyoriane of the Green Elves and took her to his palace. A daughter, named Myortilys, was born of the rape and became the first Matriarch of clan Myortilys. But eventually, Eïwal Vars rescued Queen Llyoriane from the evil hold of Eïwal Myos after he sentenced his consort to prison. Eïwal Vars and Eïwal Ffeyn united to defeat the Deity of shadows, casting him into the depths of one of Nyn Avrony's volcanoes. After the War of the Islands' Deities, some of the Green Elves united behind Queen Llyoriane's Elder daughter, Myortilys, to become the clan Myortilys. At first, the clan Myortilys was considered part of the six Llewenti clans which ruled the Lost Islands and they participated in the meetings organized by Queen Llyoriane's five other daughters. But clan Myortilys considered Matriarch Myortilys as the new queen: Being the Elder daughter of Queen Llyoriane, she should have inherited the crown of the Lost Islands. Their disdainful behaviour led the other clans of the Gren Elves to impose sanctions and other nuisance laws designed to force the clan Myortilys into compliance. The clan Myortilys were bemused by these weak attempts and responded with raids and piracy against their cousins. The tighter the other clans tried to bind the clan Myortilys, the more vicious the fighting and the raiding became. During these ancient days, the main city of the clan Myortilys was located upon the south-western shores of Gwa Nyn at the mouth of the Sian Dal River. It was called Llamyos. From the day their Patron Deity was chained in the depths of Mount Darcyl, the clan Myortilys followed the will of Eïwal Myos. The Myortilys were thereafter subdued by the pervading charm of Eïwal Myos' voice. The spoken word of their Deity in chains was transcribed and made law by the matriarchs. These writings were set in a book of dark ebony binding, called the 'Book of Pleasures', a collection of teachings to enhance the pleasures life can procure before death. Since those days the Myortilys have changed much. Once a people of great beauty and nobility, they adopted excessive behaviours and indulge themselves into spectacular debauchery. The lust of Eïwal Myos can be seen in their eyes. The clan Myortilys became the offsprings of bands of Green Elves who fled into the mountains after the second and third 'Wars of Ruby and Birds' against the High Elves army of King Lormelin the Conqueror. The clan Myotrtilys were repelled to the mountainous confines of Gwa Nyn and Nyn Avrony. In truth, the third War of Ruby and Birds never ended for no peace treaty was ever signed between the High Elf King and the clan Myortilys. The Dark Elves always wished to contest the High Elves' supremacy over the Lost Islands. Mentotodarcyl then became the main city for the clan Myortilys. Generations have passed and ever since the clan Myortilys have worked their way into the dark recesses and secrets of the Lost Islands volcanoes and they have prospered. They hunted down the Gnomes and the Giants who lived in these hostile parts and the clan Myortilys brought with them creatures bred to dig for them their new realm and slaves to do their bidding. For many years, nothing was heard from the clan Myortilys and the king in Gwarystan almost forgot they existed. But during this period, they raised their great city of Mentodarcyl in the depths of the volcano where their Patron-Deity was chained. It became their capital, their seat of government but most of all, their place of worship.
Government
The Dark Elves are ruled by an aristocracy whose bloodline can be traced back to Queen Llyoriane. Clan Myortilys is headed by a sovereign whose title becomes 'Matriarch Myortilys' upon seating on the throne of Mentodarcyl. This tradition ensures the first daughter of Queen Llyoriane and the Deity Eïwal Myos remains immortal. Matriarch Myortilys is the interpret of the words of Eïwal Myos for the clerics of the Deity of illusions. She prefers to remain in the background and is aided by a group of eight matriarchs who all trace their descent from Eïwal Myos and whose powers are granted by the Deity of illusions. Though the title is not used, Matriarch Myortilys is the queen of the Dark Elves in effect. The current sovereign has ruled in might and glory for well over two centuries. Matriarch Myortilys rules through divine might, her power being conferred by the Deity Eïwal Myos. Her command is undisputed as long as she can satisfy her Patron Deity's wishes and fantasies. For this, this powerful witch priestress dedicates her life to remaining beautiful and of apparent endless youth.
The 'Council of Buzzards' meets every fortnight and is responsible for the internal government of Mentodarcyl and its foreign outposts across the Lost Islands. The principles of government are directlty derived from the 'Book of Pleasures'. However strong guidelines are enforced by officials in relation to children, the priority of clan Myortilys being to grow its population. While females are not allowed to intermarry with outsiders (Green Elves of other clans), they are never allowed to go unbred. Females are directed to become pregnant as soon as possible and to have as many children with as many lovers as they want, including slaves. Potions made by the famed alchemists of clan Myortilys ensure a much higher birth rate than with other Elvin nations. The progeniture born from these intercourses is separated at birth between nobles, common Elves and future slaves. The clan Myortilys males are first and foremost encouraged to develop their skills at hunting and killing. It serves their ultimate purpose which is to wage war across the Lost Islands and reclaim their supremacy. A majority of the male population serve as fighters in the clan Myortilys army, watching over the slaves or performing raids and skirmishes in the outside world.
Cults
All Elves of clan Myortilys worship exclusively Eïwal Myos, the Deity of illusions and pleasures, who is imprisoned in the bowels of an extinct volcano in the island of Nyn Avrony, where the main city of clan Myortilys was built. His influence is still felt in Mentodarcyl and is evidenced by his capacity to send manifestations of himself to his temples for brief periods. Due to his confinement since the struggle between the Islands Deities, Eïwal Myos developped a special hatred for fresh air and light, therefore the few favoured servants allowed in his presence, only appear in darkness. Matriarchs and high priests of his cult conduct services to Eïwal Myos in the inner sanctum of his shrine where the Deity is chained. They are accustomed to offer him slaves and other vile sacrifices in exchange for secret informations Eïwal Myos extracted from his victims. It is said the spirits of the Elves used as sacrifices are gone into the void forever and thus they cannot be reincarnated by Eïwele Llyo. Eïwal Myos' worshippers are reputed to hold celebrations on the top of Mount Darcyl on nights with no moon. They gather in their thousands in this barren summit, surrounded by stone pillars. Here, its is rumoured, they sing praises to their Deity and give their own version of the Songs of the Lost Islands. Their great purpose is to free their Patron Deity from his chains and their matriarchs devout their energy to bringing Eïwal Myos back to the Lost Islands. They built their city and temples around his prison and developed the means to speak with him. The followers of Eïwal Myos are totally free to pursue all the enjoyments that the world can offer. They can rely on recomendations derived from the 'Book of Pleasures'. Nothing is proscribed nor advocated in Eïwal Myos' work, each individual is free to choose his own course through life.
Production and Trade
The clan Myortilys are largely self-sufficent, producing almost all that they need for food, clothing and shelter but also forged metals. They do hunting at night and also grow several types of plants and fungus below ground. Only the Ice Elves of clan Llyandy and Gnomes trade with them for the Dark Elves are accustomed to raid anyone they find. Though clan Myortilys are members of the 'Pact', the agreement between Men and Elves which ended the Century of War, they seldom attend its gatherings and therefore have heaped scorn on outsiders. Many times, the clan Man Myortilys were ejected after their repeated mockeries and insults.
Hidden deep into the mountains ranges, the Myortilys built the fungus farms and developped their food to grow in a wide varierty of quality and tastes. From their main cities, the dark Elves heird their humans and cattle, trade in slaves, work their farm and fishing slaves. No Myortilys, even among the commoners, actually perform any work, relying on slaves workforce for all they need. It allows them to indulge themselves in a number of iddle pastimes. The clan Myortilys also participate in sculpting, pottery and other notable artistic achievements but their fame comes from marble statues, which are renowned as the most beautiful and prized ones of the Lost islands. Also, the entertainements of the clan Myortilys are beautiful and inspiring to them. Musicians are prized highy as many believe they inherited a gift from Eïwal Myos. So eloquent is their music that outsiders have often been captured after hearing their melodies and chants. A festival of music of surpassing beauty and elegance is organized in Mentodarcyl to entertain the chained Deity. The word has spread among the Lost Islands of this venture, and the greatest musicians and singers of the Archipelago come to the city of clan Myortilys to compete and be judged. The clan Myorilys make magic just for the sheer enjoyment of the craft. They are master practitioners of the arts of summoning and binding. The rituals of the matriarchs are designed to praise the name and legend of Eïwal Myos. Alchimists of the clan Myortilys can enchant weapons and bind to their blades small spirits known as imps, the weavers of the Islands Flow.
Nellos
The Sea Hierarchs of Nellos
Presentation
Nellos is a faraway maritime realm whose main island lay beyond the Sunset Ocean. The sea hierarchs of Tar-Andevar are lords from Nellos and the rulers of vast expanses of Nyn Ernaly and Nyn Avrony. The insignia of Nellos is a wide sun setting over the horizon of the sea. The Westerners from Nellos are infinitely superior to any other race of Men. Their number grows slowly but steadily, for their life is long though few children are born to them. The Men of the West are mortal. This mortality is their obsession and their fundamental weakness. This intrinsic fear drives their whole existence. It explains their Lore masters’ obsession for knowledge and why they strive for excellence in both mind and body. The Westerners have already surpassed the Elves in certain fields. Shipbuilding and seafaring such as theirs has never been witnessed in this world. It is the cornerstone of their dominion over their vast maritime realm. They bring to the people of these newly conquered coastal lands many valuable gifts and they teach them incomparable virtues. They have already explored the immense stretches of coast to the west and the south of the Mainland. No waters are so perilous or so wide to dissuade their great galleys. Their captains, the Sea Hierarchs, have overcome all dangers that have thus far been presented them. But such achievements have not quenched their thirst for discovery. They reached the Lost Islands by circumventing the Sea of Isyl.
History
The Westerners from Nellos originally settled in the Lost Islands with almost nothing save for the depraved ambition they brought with them wherever they roam. Less than a century later, they tamed most of the fertile land, squeezing everything they could out of its soil. Furthermore, the Men from Nellos defend their new territories in Nyn Ernaly and Nyn Avrony with the same ferocity of their barbarous appetite. The broken corpses of Giants strewn across the fields and the mutilated bodies of Elvin rebels hanging along the roads bear witness to the violence of their regime.
Government
The castle of Tar-Andevar is a centre of power and trade where the sea hierarchs of Nellos dwell. It is also the centre for justice and the source of all laws and regulations that govern the Men of the West in the Lost Islands.
Cults
While lesser Men blindly worship imaginary Gods to subdue their fear of death, the Westerners from Nellos refuse such obedience; they may not be coerced to any one creed. However, they do believe in the existence of an almighty creator, a maker of elements and of all things visible and invisible, who they believe has abandoned them to their fate and, ultimately, to their doom.
Production and Trade
The lands of the Lost Islands controlled by the sea hierarchs are populated by many thousands of Men, most of them young and strong. They are tireless workers, unafraid of toil and sweat. Nevertheless, as with all territories the sea hierarchs from Nellos colonized in the Mainland, slavery has become common practise across the Archipelago. The sea hierarchs managed to enslave Giants in great number and bend them to their wills. One of the main towns of the Westerners in the Lost Islands is Tar-Andevar. Its harbour is often busy with great ships from the Sea of Isyl and beyond. It consequently possesses a very diverse population. In the bustling streets around the harbour, it is not uncommon to encounter merchants, mercenaries or shipbuilders from the many other ports of the vast maritime realm of Nellos. Their galleys are mainly propelled by rowing, and their design is characterized by its long, slender hull, shallow draught and low freeboard. Their great size allow them to carry and unload various types of heavy weapons, including catapults and ballistae. From their highly efficient platforms, the Westerner’s heavy seaborne artillery can strike coastal Elvin fortresses as well as enemy warships, as they demonstrated during the Century of War. The great galleys of Nellos remain the supreme symbol of the Westerners’ power, of their authority across the seas, and of their ceaseless ambitions.
THE TEMPLES
temples
The Cult of Three Dragons
Three Dragons
Presentation
The Cult of the Three Dragons is an evil sect of Human barbarians which has caused much chaos in the history of the Lost Islands. For centuries, its terror has inspired the fury of the barbarian tribes.
Only the barbarian tribes who worship the cult of Three Dragons are excluded from the Pact. Their worshippers are slaves of the Three Dragons; they are defilers who have come to destroy the holy sanctuary of Eïwele Llya.
History
Barbarian tribes from the vast Mainland, blinded by the obscurantism of the Three Dragons Cult, did not hesitate to cross the dangerous straits and the perilous seas to confront the great Elvin kingdom of Gwarystan. They considered the slopes of Mount Oryusk as the lair of their accursed Three Dragons.
The Cult of the Three Dragons is not dead; it is merely in hiding. The druids did not eliminate the faith of Men in the cult of Three Dragons; they barely weakened its evil influence for its strength will only wane when the lives of Men are severed from the Three Dragons’ power. The barbarians are threatening the lands of the Elves once again; they are unafraid to unite and launch massive raids, plundering anything they can from us.
Dragon Warriors have come out of the shadows to restore the cult of Three Dragons among barbarian tribes, challenging the influence of the druids. Two of them, Ka-Bloozayar and the dreaded Ka-Blowna, have openly broken the Pact that had guaranteed peace for almost a century. They waged war against the Elves both in the South, where Cumberae is still under attack, and in the North.
Backed by the fell priests of the Cult, Dragon Warriors have been leading barbarian armies to become leader of all the Human tribes across the Lost Islands and to break the Pact. The strongest Dragon Warrior ambitions to claim his rights over the Risen Throne and put an end to the continual disputes over succession. Their purpose is to rid his people of the Druids’ influence and pervert their hearts towards their ancient religion: The Cult of the Three Dragons. Dragon Warriors have been witnessed on the Archipelago in recent years. One such barbarian chieftain, named Ka-Blowna, has already gained legendary status among the tribes of the southern island.
Government
A Dragon Warrior is barbarian chieftain from the Mainland who has survived the ritual of fire, ice and darkness. They are entrusted with a sacred authority to reawaken the forbidden Cult of the Three Dragons by accruing influence among the tribes of Human barbarians. Their unique aim is to start wars against the Elves. The Dragon Warriors are not priests. They are not kings. They have no interest in bolstering their number of followers, or in gaining new territories. They are fanatics who have nothing but scorn for the concept of diplomacy. They are weapons that have been created by the Cult of the Three Dragons for one purpose: mass carnage.
Cults
The Cult of the Three Dragons is not some obscure religion embraced only by lowly men. The Cult ruled the lives and beliefs of the barbarians for centuries. Its forbidance during four generations of men did not erase its pernicious influence from the barbarians’ minds.
The shamans of the Three Dragons’ Cult back the Dragon Warriors. These clerics are noble among their people. They wear a copper mask with red dragon features, a privilege reserved for higher-ranking officials of the cult.
It’s no coincidence that Mankind has produced an evil such as the Three Dragons Cult for Men hate each other deeply.
Followers of the Three Dragons believe their deads' soul haunts the Three Dragons’ Lair. On accasion a barbarian chieftain set himself on fire after he interpreted a sign that the Three Dragons will return. During his ghastly suicide, they claim to see the Fire Drakes flying around them.
druidic circles
Grey temple
The Druidic Circles
Presentation
The Druids are servants and disciples of the Mother of the Islands, Eïwele Llya. Druids are wise in the ways of the Mother of the Island. They can foresee threats to their goddess' creations. Druids control unnatural forces within the forest. The Druids have the authority to gather all the factions of the Lost Islands, be they Elves or Men. They gained their undisputed power of conciliation after they convinced the belligerents of the Century of War to agree to ‘The Pact’, a pledge made by all factions to cease the destruction of the Mother’s creations. The priests of the woods dress with their poor clothes and have long filthy hair. Druids of the higher circles have the capaccity to turn themselves into birds.
History
The Druids, servants of the Mother of the Islands, designed the Pact and convinced all parties to respect it. They undoubtedly possess the potential to control the barbarians. They proved it by eliminating the threat of the Cult of the Three Dragons.
The Druids’ circles thereafter ruled the barbarian tribes which they freed from the grip of the Cult of the Three Dragons. They gave them their freedom, along with a chance to build a peaceful future for their people. The Druids became ever more influential among Men. They would never allow the barbarian tribes to fall into darkness again. Nevertheless, in recent history, a few dreaded Dragon Warriors have rid some barbarian tribes of the Druids’ influence, and perverted their hearts towards that evil, ancient religion: The Cult of the Three Dragons. The Druids did not totally eliminate the faith of Men in the cult of Three Dragons; they barely weakened its evil influence.
Government
The Daughter of the Islands, also know as the Arkylla of the Secret Vale, is the chief of the Druids. They are organized into communities they call Circles which recruit their members, whatever their kin, from among the priests of the Mother of the Islands. There are both Men and Elves in their assembly.
Cults
The Druids teach human life is resolutely not more important than any other creatures’ existence. Plants, animals and above all else trees make crucial contributions to the harmony of the world, to the preservation of the Gods’ creations.
The Grey Temple
Presentation
The Grey Temple is the home of the clergy of Eïwele Llyo. Its main shrine is in Llafal in the southern half of Temple Square, at a distance from the trees so that, when the moon is full, it is bathed in a blue light, its open ceilings revealing the night sky above. It is adorned with silver moonstones and surrounded by a garden of night-blooming flowers. The divinity of dreams, fate, death and reincarnation, Eïwele Llyo is said to reside in the heart of Nyn Llyvary Island, in a great, underground hall. From inside this vast cave, she relies upon her evocative power to spread out dreams across the archipelago, as she watchs over the destinies of all Green Elves. She is represented as an ancient, withered Elvin creature, personifying the keeper of the souls and the weaver of prophecies. Eïwele Llyo alone can read the patterns of time from stones carved with lava markings which she finds deep in the underground. Ravens are her messengers and when they soar across the Lost Islands, the wise among the Green Elves are eager to interpret these signs, for it is believed that Eïwele Llyo know the fate of all who dwell in the Lost Islands.
Priestesses are dressed in silvery-grey, diaphanous gowns. With these, they wear silver diadems on their heads, simple sandals, and silver lace sashes around their waists.
Government
As shrouded in mystery as their Deity herself, little is known of the clergy’s secretive hierarchy. The rest of the clan see them as mystics and seers, spiritual counsellors to the Elves before their souls begin that mystical journey to the undying forest, in search of transcendence
Cults
The cult views life as a series of mysteries, shrouded by the deity herself, which the spirits of the Elves could only discover through dreams and visions after they have transcended their mortal existences. Worshippers of Eïwele Llyo revere the moon; it governs their souls just as it controls the ocean’s tides. The temple’s priestesses also celebrate funerals and guard the material remains of the dead. Their power to weave illusions and practise divination is deeply respected by all. The clergy of Eïwele Llyo worship their Deity at the time of the full moon. They prepare themselves to devote several days to playing the harp, immersing themselves in vivid waking dreams, and communing with their Deity across the two worlds. They perform the joyous, freeform dance that precedes their communal trance and meditation. The High Priestesses can call upon the Oracle of Llafal and use the Islands’ Flow, to look into the unknown, and to extract some hint of things to come.
temple of Light
The Temple of Light
Presentation
Lon the Wise's revelations
The Secret Vale
The Secret Vale
Presentation
White temple
The White Temple
Presentation
THE KNIGHTS ORDERS
Knight orders
The Dyoreni
Dyoreni
Presentation
“Now begin the days of the ‘Seeker’ and may the blade Rymsing give you courage and hope in your quest. You will be known as ‘Dyoren’ in the Green Elf tongue. I hereby name you the first knight of the Dyoreni order.”
“I swear to you, Lord Rimwë, with the Deities of the Lost Islands as my witnesses,” he began, looking straight into the ancient Elf’s eyes, “that I will seek the swords of Nargrond. And I will pursue this quest until I take my final breath.”
Eneos, the first Seeker
Elriölneans
The Elriölneans
Presentation
They were the Bladesmith Elriöl’s faithful fighters who proved their unshakable fealty to the master of the Sana Guild on many occasions during the course of the early Second Age. The Elriölneans dwelled in the cities of Yslla and Ystanargrond. They were also in charge of defending the Sana Guild master’s stronghold at O Wiony. Only Night Elves could be found within their ranks. They dressed in dark green war clothes. Their faces were masked by helmets, shaped in triangles, and wrapped in black cloth. They were armed with scimitars and javelins of a curved design. Their hooded heads, their long shields emblazoned with the rune of Sana and their shadowy armours gave them a fearsome appearance. The organization of the Elriölneans was based upon small, extremely mobile units able to act independently. Battle formations essentially comprised light infantry and light archers. Long swords, and spears were the favoured weapons for close combat, and their silver chain mail had great protective properties in melees. Light crossbows and short bows were favoured for combat at a distance. The Elriölneans were known to poison their arrows and bolts. Harassing the enemies’ ranks with harsh attacks followed by quick withdrawals was their favourite tactic, as only few foes could rival the speed of the Elriölneans units.
Bladesmith Elriöl in Yslla
History
The order was founded in 606 LC after Elriöl joined Lord Rowë in the Valley to create the Alchemists Guild. The Elriölneans were positioned on the right wing of the Valley army, up the slope of Mount Oryusk at the battle of the Mines (1000 LC). They did not resist long the Dark Elves attack and Cambragöl, the Bladesmith Elriöl’s squire who commanded them, ordered the retreat soon enough to save the majority of them. The day after the Elriölneans could not defend themselves in O Wiony and headed for the safety of Yslla walls. After Elriöl’s death, they acknowledged Saeröl as their new prince. All of them died in the defence of Yslla during the siege (1029 LC) and their last fighters were drowned in the city dungeons.
Falmareans
The Falmareans
Presentation
These expatriate knights from other islands of the Lost Archipelago formed a sort of loose brotherhood. They were Elves of different origins (mainly half-breed Elves but also High and Blue Elves who wore their hair in a tuft at the top of their heads. Their purpose had originally been the defence of the mines of Oryusk. They considered the great cave beneath the volcano as a holy shrine due to the presence of the meteorite’s remains. The warriors of that knight order forsake involvement with the mundane world and dedicated themselves to seeking knowledge and pursuit of wisdom. They devoted themselves to questions of philosophy and truth. Their sign is great volcano on a field of grey. The Falmareans had sworn an oath of obedience to the Bladesmith Falmaril and they depended on his patronage for their livelihood. They clustered at their lord’s palace, the House of Wisdom. The Falmareans were not spiritual mentors but rather mystic warriors who had made a significant decision to live a studious life dedicated to wisdom. Sometimes considered to be underused by some, their presence in Ystanargrond was nevertheless strategic.
The Falmareans lightened the load on the Rowëneans for the defence of the Valley and the protection of the mines of Oryusk. Their lighter units were used to fan out on the Valley’s army sides. Renowned fighters of the Falmareans included High Elves clad in shining armours, the vassals of the Bladesmith Falmaril. The knights of the ash tree, known for their dexterity with the bow, commanded the archers who bore silver feathers on their helmets; the knights of the iron spear, who were protected by heavy armours of the best steal; the knights of the round shield who were arrayed in dark grey cloak, and many others.
History
The order was founded in 614 LC after Falmaril became a Bladesmith of the Alchemists Guild in Yslla. The first knights were followers of House Dol Urmil coming from Nyn Llorely. At the battle of the Mines in 1000 LC, the Falmareans occupied the Sian Dorg vale’s bottom on the left of the army. Outnumbered, their forces were routed after the Bladesmith Falmaril’s son, Eneos, fell. Few of the Falmareans survived and managed to head back to Yslla but most died on the roadside, harassed by the Dark Elves’ incursions. The Falmareans suffered great losses and but did not give up their promises.
Odroneans
The Odroneans
Presentation
A knight order within the Valley in the early Second Age which avowed purposes were to protect their lord Odro and uncover Dark Elves’ plots. This warrior society was based in Yslla. Their colour was white, and their sign was a blood-red long sword adorned with rubies against an ivory field. The Odroneans, knights and guards of the Flamboyant Bladesmith were not fighters to turn their back at the opportunity to show their value. The Odroneans were descendants of clan Myortilys warriors who had fled the Dark Elves realm with their lord Odro. All of them had been banished and condemned to death by Matriarch Myortilys after breaking their vows. They had picked white, Odro’s colour, for their flag to mark their irrevocable enmity with the black buzzard, the Dark Elves’ sigil. The fierce Odroneans had become renegade Dark Elves organized as a war band, a fraternity of unmarried and unsettled foot loose fighters who followed their leader wherever he took them. They lived on the margins of society since their coming to the Valley, though no one could question their loyalty. The Odroneans were ravenous. They fought in a pack like savage beasts. The Odroneans carefully nurtured strategy was based on always maintaining thick lines.
History
Their order was founded by Odro, the Flamboyant Bladesmith after he joined Lord Rowë to create the Alchemists Guild of Yslla (616 LC). The squire of the Bladesmith Odro, the High Elf Endolin, commanded the Odroneans at the battle of the Mines (1000 LC). The fierce Odroneans would take the front line, holding the centre of the Valley’s army. But the Odroneans, blinded by their hatred, broke their ranks, falling upon the Dark Elves. They hurtled towards the clan Myortilys forces, the heavier white knights smashing into the black clad foot soldiers. But the Odroneans were under enemy attack as the Dark Elves were using oil fire to bombard them. The Dark Elves managed to surround them, and they were utterly destroyed.
Rowëneans
The Rowëneans
Presentation
These High Elves warriors are members of the most numerous and the most prestigious knight order of the Valley. It was founded by Lord Rowë in 598 LC after House Dol Nargrond settled in the Yslla. Rowëneans often vowed not to retreat once battle has been joined, and died to the last Elf if necessary, to fulfil this vow to their lord. The Rowëneans could not marry and remain in the knight order. Their brown cloaks, emblazoned with an olive tree, symbolized their commitment to defend harmony. The Rowëneans had broad popular appeal. They were not seen as distant elites but considered as heroes although they dwelled in the rich Halls of Rowë in Ystanargrond. The Rowëneans captains were positioned in the centre of the semi-circle of the Valley Assembly, in the preeminent position as befitted to the main body of Valley’s army. The knights and guards of that order had sacrificed themselves on many occasions to carry out their purpose: the defense of the Valley. The Rowëneans had embraced fanaticism for their lord as swiftly as the Dark Elves had done for their matriarch.
History
The founders of the Rowëneans Order were the first warriors who had formed a permanent bodyguard for the settlers of the Valley in the turbulent aftermath of the Dark Elves’ defeat around 600 LC. After the time of the twenty knights who had founded the order had been gone, the Rowëneans transformed themselves into an elite army at the forefront of the wars against the Dark Elves. The Rowëneans fought at the battle of the Oryusk Mines in 1000 LC, holding the centre, just behind the Odroneans and having the Falmareans the Elriölneans occupying the wings. From the upper slopes of Mount Oryusk the Rowëneans cavalry was in the perfect position to charge the Dark Elves, with their units of heavy cavalry and armoured foot soldiers. But outnumbered by the clan Myortilys troops, they were defeated. The Rowëneans fought before the Mines entrance until the last of their knights fell.
Colleges
THE COLLEGES
Guilds
THE GUILDS
Alcalinquë
Presentation
Alcalinquë, ‘The Swan that Flies’ in lingua Hawenti, is an emerging maritime guild in the Lost Islands, based at Mentollà in northern Nyn Llyvary. It owns a unique ship capable of sailing the high seas and trades the exclusive goods the guild produces. 'The Alcalinquë', a swanship named after the guild, is an invaluable asset to the commerce the company is establishing from Mentollà. It controls the production of rare goods and has brave sailors to travel the seas and the valiant captain Nelwiri dyn Filweni to command them.
Government
Alcalinquë, the new merchant company promoted by the community of Mentollà, is protected by the council of Llymar Forest. But the lord of Mentollà, Feïwal dyn Filweni is the true inspirer of Alcalinquë. He authorized his brother, Nelwiri, to sail the seas of the Lost Islands to expand their trade routes so that his companions, the captains of Alcalinquë, Curwë and Aewöl, could accumulate riches.
Alcalinque
Illustration by Kristal
Feïwal on board the Alcalinquë
Cults
Sailors of Alcalinquë are Blue Elves from the clan of Filweni and the clan of Feli. As a result they worship Gweïwal Uleydon, the protector of the seafarers and the Patron God of the Irawenti nation. However, Eïwal Ffeyn is the divinity most adored by the followers of Feïwal dyn Filweni, the lord of Mentollà and teh High Priest of the Storm Deity.
Production and Trade
Alcalinquë's principal activity is the trading of exclusive Irawenti merchandises from Llymar Forest into Cumberae. The bulk of its productions are made up of fruits, spices and exotic plants. There is an enormous demand for their exotic goods. All over the Islands are Elves who want to barter their best products against unusual drinks, coloured fruits and fine crafts. Thus, the trade competition with the Breymounarty is fierce as the Guildmaster Aertelyr has lost the monopoly of trade between Llymar and Cumberae. Alqualinquë proved very successful in a relatively short period of time. It was very quick to establish contacts in many different locations across the Lost Islands. Despite the dangers, dozens of Elves eager to collaborate with Alcalinquë seemed to appear out of nowhere. There are reasons behind this good fortune. Alqualinquë is only the visible part of an edifice which is supported by many other Elves across the Lost Islands and secretly sponsored by the Guild of Sana.
Breymounarty
The Breymounarty
Presentation
The Breymounarty, ‘The fellowship of the white lion’ in lingua Llewenti, is a merchant guild based in the principality of Cumberae. It is deeply involved in smuggling activities across the Lost Islands. Its purpose is to consolidate its interests in all the maritime trade routes outside of the Gwarystan Kingdom's influence zone. Sailors of that merchant guild are famed for their ability to navigate the cold waters of the Archipelago. Their navigation skills earned them an almost exclusive dominance of all sea trade outside of the kingdom of Gwarystan’s routes. For decades, the Breymounarty has defied the dangers that the royal warships of Gwarystan could pose to its illegal trading activities.
History
For decades, King Norelin and the Ruby College have vowed to stop the smuggling, but so far, even the efforts of the knights of the Golden Hand, the most dreaded servants of the king, have met with little success.
Government
The master of the Breymounarty Guild is an Ice Elf outcast named Aertelyr, whose origins are with the clan Llyandy. He uses his network of guild branches to spy on the different trade companies and governments of the Lost Islands in order to get a competitive advantage in his business. King Norelin’s blockade made harbours no longer safe for the Breymounarty and Aertelyr found alternatives, smuggling goods to and from those realms suffering from the tyrany of the Gwarystan Kingdom. Thus, the Breymounarty has allies across the Lost Islands, which freely aid one another. Master Aertelyr and the Breymounarty are making the most of their profitable arrangements with clan Llyandy, clan Myortilys and Llymar Forest. It is their large vessels that transport the goods produced in those realms across the Lost Islands. Master Aertelyr benefits greatly from the resources and know-how of his suppliers and customers.
Cults
Sailors of the Breymounarty are mostly Green Elves, natives of Nyn Llyandy whose roots are similar to those of the Ice Elves of the clan Llyandy. As a result they primarly worship the six ancestral Islands Deities but Gweïwal Uleydon, the protector of the seafarers, is deeply repected.
Production and Trade
Thanks to its numerous ships, the Breymounarty Guild principal activity is the trading of merchandises between different realms, which happen to share a common enemy in the Gwarystan Kingdom. It is also generating considerable wealth from illegal exporting/importing of goods to and from the Gwarystan Kingdom into Cumberae Principality and the clan Llyandy trackless wastes. The Breymounarty does not respect the trade blockade that King Norelin imposed upon the clans of Llymar. It brings goods to Llymar from the distant Cumberae; steel, raw materials and furs are exchanged for wine, fruits and cloth.
Guild of Sana
The Guild of Sana
Presentation
The Guild of Sana is a secret organisation in the Lost Islands. Its destiny is closely associated with that of the Night Elves. Respected and lavished with gold in times of peace and prosperity, it was then persecuted and robbed.
History
The Nigh Elves were once numerous and influential within the kingdom of Gwarystan.
The second master of the guild of Sana was Elriöl, the Bladesmith. He was one of Rowë’s closest companions and an important character in the valley of Nargrond during the centuries that preceded its fall. After Elriöl disappeared in the mines of Oryusk, the valley of Nargrond was about to fall.
The third master of the guild of Sana, Saeröl, lived in the valley of Nargrond. After his father was slaughtered by the Dark Elves, as the master, Saeröl became the natural leader of all Night Elves on the Lost Islands. He commanded his people to swear the Oath of Shadows, a deadly promise that they would exact cruel revenge against his most-hated enemies, the clan Myortilys. The Night Elves waged a full scale war against the first clan of the Green Elves, who they judged responsible for the genocide of their people. The atrocities and war crimes perpetrated by both sides were too numerous to count, and the upheavals their conflict caused throughout the centuries would become the darkest pages of the Lost Islands history. Only a long time after the War of Shadows started did the clan Myortilys eventually prevail. The Night Elves who had survived it were scarce, and they preferred to hide under the protection of the Hawenti houses. Saeröl was consumed by a cold fury against his sovereign, Lormelin the Conqueror, the king who had done very little to protect his Morawenti subjects against the Dark Elves. It is said that none can escape the vengeance of a Night Elf. Saeröl eventually had his revenge. Lormelin, son of Ilorm, grandson of Melindro, conqueror of the Lost Islands and king of Gwarystan, was found one morning dead in his chambers, his throat cut savagely. The mages of the Ruby College soon accused Saeröl of the murder. A formidable hunt was launched across the Lost Islands until Saeröl was captured and taken to Gwarystan. But the Guild of Sana master did not utter a single word in his own defence. His sword, Moramsing, was never found. He was sentenced to death ignominiously but remained stoical throughout. The new king, Norelin, only son of Lormelin the Conqueror, had him tortured in vain. His cheek was branded with red-hot iron and, as the Night Elf prince still would not confess, he was thrown from the top of Gwarystan Rock. It is said his corpse was burnt to ashes with magic fire by the mages of the Ruby College, so that his soul could never find its way to the Halls of the Dead. The official existence of the Guild of Sana ended abruptly with the murder of King Lormelin by Saeröl. The Guild of Sana faced utter ruin after his condemnation. Members of the guild prentended, he was sentenced wrongfully, to pay for the murderous crimes of others. The Night Elves became leaderless. There were very few of them left, and those who survived mingled with other Elvin communities and forged new loyalties. But after this condemnation, the Guild of Sana survived in secret, concealing its existence. It still lives, despite the harshest repression and discrimination ever seen. And its work is coordinated by Drismile, an influential lady on the Lost Islands.
Government
Government among the Night Elves has always been dynastic and based upon absolutism. Its principles have been founded long before the guild of Sana was created, at the time of Sindöl, their first prince when the Night Elves dwelled in the dark forest of Nel Anmöl.
Just beneath the Master of the Guild of Sana are several Morawenti Alchemists who call themselves the 'Ol' . They are famed blacksmiths who dwelled in Yslla long ago, the depositories of principles that every guild member must respect. After undergoing the initiation rites, important powers have been delegated to them. Their unique heritage gives them the right to grant life or death upon any of the lower members. Then come the N’ol . They are also all Night Elves. They are initiated into the Guild, but their knowledge is limited. The N’ol were offered a chance to know the truth, and by doing so the master of the Guild of Sana established their loyalty. They coordinate operations and serve as envoys across the Archipelago. They organize and develop trade. Finally come the numerous S’in , who are the lowest members in the organisation. They were recruited from Elves of all origins, and they can be found everywhere: inside the Llewenti clans, among the circles of the druids, in the entourage of the Dol households and even at the royal court in Gwarystan. Most of them are manipulated and unaware of their role in the Guild.
Cults
The Book of Sana contains the old records written by the masters of the secret guild (Sana, Elriöl and Saeröl). The master of the Guild of Sana could summon the 'Ol', the Morawenti blacksmiths, to meet in a secret underground place below O Wiony, the personal estate of Elriöl. The best-kept secrets of the Guild are lying in other vaults, beneath the very council chamber of the Ol in which they sat. Those secrets remain, lost to living memory after O Wiony was plundered by the clan Myortilys. Only Saeröl knew about the Guild of Sana’s inner sanctum. That is where he found Moramsing, which had been safely hidden by the farsighted Elriöl. It proves that the first master of the Guild of Sana was fully awake to the danger he was facing before joining Lon and the bladesmiths of Yslla into the mines of Oryusk.
Production and Trade
The Night Elves of the Guild of Sana are masters to the elemental forces of stone and earth. They have an affinity for working fine metals and the smelted minerals and ores that come from the earth. They can forge prized weaponry, tools, armor and ornaments that can be found all across the Lost Islands. They work in any metal from iron to gold and also trade gems and potions.
The produce that the Irawenti community of Mentollà sells to the Guild of Sana is unique, owing to its tropical origin. The bulk of their exports are made up of fruits, spices and exotic plants: high-value goods for the Guild of Sana which enjoys a distribution monopoly.
O Wiony’ is the estate in the Nargrond Valley which produced the guild of Sana’s vintage.
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