Arin'silath

This page is still under construction

Arin'silath is a major city in the Aerinstone Valley region of the continent Thalindor.

Name and Etymology

The current name of the city is an elision of its original name Arinael Osilath, which when translated from an ancient elven dialect means "ancient tower". This is assumed to refer to the Arcane Monolith around which the original settlement was constructed.

Geography and Climate

Arin'silath is the largest settlement in the largely rural Aerinstone Valley region of southern Thalindor. The city sits in the foothills under the southern face of the Greenmantle Peaks, a large mountain range running southeast to northwest in southern Thalindor. Due to the coastal cliffs to the south and the mountains in the north the climate of the Aerinstone Valley is colder and wetter than much of the rest of the continent, as the cold winds from Startheim make their way north on the Torus.

Demographics

Arin'silath's history dates back thousands of years, to before the elven peoples ventured beyond the shores of their ancestral home, and to before the dwarven peoples made their way to the continent of Thalindor. As such, when founded, the city was homogenously populated by the Elven peoples. After the Sundering of the Monolith and the devastation of the Fey War the elven populations had dispersed, leaving way for the largely Human forces of the Enlightenment Inquisition to reoccupy the city. Since that time the city became one of the earliest examples of a blended and fully integrated population in a large urban area, with a roughly equal population of elven and human peoples.

History

Early History

The city was founded very early within the scope of recorded history, with the oldest areas of the city dating back to before the awakening of the Giants. The earliest record of the settlement describe the prophet Tiferion visiting the Starshroud Bower, an ancient observatory near the Northern Gate that now holds special cultural significance for the city. It is speculated that early nomads settled near the Arcane Monolith and assigned it religious significance, building the Starshroud Bower shortly thereafter. Once the Giants were awakened by the expedition of Halpeccia Goldraven and the magical nature of the Arcane Monoliths was imparted to the elves the city became a hub of mystical study focusing on the Monolith at its center.

Sundering of the Monolith

Historical accounts reference a contingent of powerful elven magi who studied and lived in the shadow of the Arcane Monolith for many years, furthering the elves knowledge of the Monoliths and unlocking their potential. It is assumed that these magi caused the event that became known as the Sundering, although detailed accounts were lost to the event itself. What is known is that the Monolith was effectively destroyed in a cataclysmic blast that also caused significant damage to the city. In the wake of this blast the first portal to the Fey Realm was opened and first contact established between the Fey peoples and the residents of Arcis.

The Fey War

Diplomatic relations between the Fey and Elves did not go well and almost immediately escalated into a war fought with Arin'silath at its center. While the war was short it caused even more damage to the historical architechture and records of the city and had long-lasting metaphysical effects on Arcis, which shaped its history for centuries following the war's end.

Religion

Notable Local Deities

Aeressa, the Veiled Sentinel - Born from the fervent prayers of those seeking solace in the midst of persecution, Aeressa embodies resilience and clandestine resistance. Veiled in shadows and whispers, Aeressa represents the silent guardianship of those opposing the Inquisition's draconian rule. Followers revere Aeressa in secret, seeking guidance for survival and fostering hope for a future free from oppression.

Elduin, the Forsaken Scholar - A deity born from the hidden yearning for knowledge and magical enlightenment, Elduin embodies the suppressed thirst for arcane wisdom. Represented as a figure shrouded in forbidden tomes and glyphs, Elduin is venerated by clandestine scholars and rebels who seek to preserve arcane lore and challenge the Inquisition's oppressive ban on magic.

Riara, the Whispering Forest - Revered by elves and nature-centric communities, Riara personifies the enduring spirit of the untamed wilderness. Depicted as a serene figure intertwined with flora and fauna, Riara represents the resilience of nature amidst adversity. Worshipers seek Riara's guidance in safeguarding the dwindling natural sanctuaries and nurturing hope for a resurgence of harmony between mortals and the environment.

Vorroz, the Ember Forge - Pronounced with a rolled “r” and two long “o” sounds. Embraced by the dwarven craftsmen and artisans, Vorroz embodies the fervor for resilience and craftsmanship. Portrayed as a figure ablaze with molten metal and stone, Vorroz symbolizes the unwavering dedication to preserving craftsmanship and the dwarven legacy in the face of the Inquisition's cultural suppression. Followers invoke Vorroz for strength and inspiration in their endeavors to safeguard traditional crafts.

Chiath, the Shadowed Judge - Pronounced Key-ath with a broad “a” sound like “father”. Revered primarily by the Inquisition and its fervent adherents, Chiath embodies unwavering authority and judgment. Portrayed as an austere figure wielding scales and a gavel, Chiath symbolizes the absolute enforcement of the Law. Devotees from the Inquisition invoke Chiath for guidance in upholding the strict codes and for rooting out perceived heresies and arcane practitioners.

Gnaros, the Beacon of Hope - Pronounced with a silent “G” and a broad “a” sound like “father”. Emerging from the collective yearning for a brighter future, Valoria embodies the optimism and resilience of the oppressed masses. Depicted as a radiant figure amidst darkened skies, Valoria inspires hope, unity, and resistance against the Inquisition's tyranny. Followers invoke Valoria's name as a rallying cry for solidarity and the pursuit of freedom.

Veyron, the Silent Watcher - Born from the whispers of ancient ruins and forgotten knowledge, Veyron embodies the enigmatic mysteries and secrets hidden within the valley's depths. Depicted as a veiled figure with outstretched hands holding a celestial orb, Veyron represents the keeper of forgotten lore and arcane remnants. A few seers and rebels seek Veyron’s guidance in deciphering cryptic messages and planning against the oppressive regime.

Serasin, the Healing Breeze (/ˈsɛɹəsɪn/) - Revered by healers and caregivers among the oppressed communities, Serasin embodies compassion and resilience. Portrayed as a figure adorned with soothing elements of nature, Serasin symbolizes the healing arts and the nurturing spirit amidst strife and suffering. Followers invoke Serasin for guidance in tending to the wounded and afflicted and preserving hope amid despair.

Aquilae, the Torrential Muse (/ɑˈkiːlə/) - Born from the enduring rains and the collective resilience of a society constantly drenched in downpours, Aquilia embodies creativity, adaptability, and perseverance. Depicted as a figure draped in flowing robes of raindrops and mist, Aquilia symbolizes the artistic inspiration and vitality drawn from the relentless deluge. Followers revere Aquilia as a source of inspiration, seeking her blessing for artistic endeavors, innovation, and adaptability in the face of unceasing adversity. Aquilia's presence is invoked in celebrations that embrace the beauty of rain, where art, music, and storytelling thrive as a testament to the culture's ability to flourish even in perpetual moisture.

Notable Figures

Tessarion Elaric -

Ael’yeth Naialine -

Reneir Corwyn -