Arin'silath
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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 and a somewhat lesser population of dwarves.
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.
The Enlightenment Inquisition
Arin'silath became occupied by the Enlightenment Inquisition around a decade into its spread across Thalindor. Instead of being directly occupied by King Azak's forces or by the Templars, a brigand named Reneir Corwyn wrested control of the derelict city by force, and then pledged himself to the Inquisition in exchange for maintaining control over the city.
The Arcane Emancipation
Culture
Kinisi
A festive celebration of Belmea’s passing through the Annulus, which can only be predicted by a divine seer in communion with Lunar Forces. This event happens so infrequently, it is unlikely that any of the human residents will witness it a second time. It is a celebration of massive cultural significance, but many historical ties to arcane practices.
The Asteri
The Asteri are a circle of druids and scholars who are deeply connected to the enigmatic wonders of the night sky. These druids have dedicated their lives to understanding Arcis’ place within the cosmos, finding profound meaning and prophecy in the points of light that shine from the darkness.
Beliefs
The Asteri believe that the night sky is a vault of secrets and portents, and they see themselves as its humble custodians. They draw a connection between the mysteries of the stars and the fabric of existence itself.
The Asteri believe that the stars and moons comprise one cosmic entity known as The Weaver--an inherently magical being formed of primal arcane magic. The stars function as the mind and soul of the entity, and the moons function as its hands. Before Arcis was created, The Weaver floated alone in a vast emptiness. The stars dreamed of the world, and the moons shaped these dreams into reality--as if threads of possibility were pulled from the stars and Arcis was woven by the moons on a cosmic loom (Solstea forming its shape and its frame, Belmea wrapping it with life and defining its features).
This “weaving” is an eternal process; both creative and destructive, but never inherently good or evil. The Asteri attempt to read the inscrutable thoughts of the weaver in the stars--if they can understand what The Weaver is thinking, then they may be able to gain foreknowledge of major events. As such, they spend hours in contemplation, deciphering the shifting patterns of the stars to glean insights into the future and the threads of destiny that weave through the lives of mortals.
History and Perception
Asteri beliefs and theories are heavily influenced by Runegazers--the historical figures who have a special ability to see strange runes in the stars. As such, they amass large collections of literature, journals, tablets and second-hand accounts of Runegazers. Many in the circle believe the first Asteri was a Runegazer, but there is currently no evidence of this.
In times past, the elves of Arin’silath turned to the Asteri for guidance and wisdom, believing these druids possessed a unique connection to the cosmic forces that shaped Arcis. When the Arcane Spire was sundered, a shard of the monolith destroyed the Asteri sanctum in Arin’silath and drove them into the countryside.
Some elves and followers of the old ways still hold a deep respect for the Asteri, but most people now view them as eccentric hermits. It is not uncommon to find an Asteri druid wandering the forests and hilltops of the Aerinstone Valley at night, their steps guided by the ethereal glow of the stars, as they seek to understand the weave of the world through the celestial language written in the heavens.
The Starshroud Bower
On the north end of the city, near the pass through the Greenmantle Peaks and gate of the city, this site was once one of revered significance, but has now fallen mostly into disrepair. During the sundering a large chunk of monolith landed in the center of the site, destroying the most prominent architecture. A few smaller structures remain. There is a passage leading to some underground chambers that are filled with tomes, but the passage is collapsed not far in.
Religion
Cultural Influence
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 (/ˈnɑɹoʊs/) - 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 (/ˈveɪɹɑn/) - 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 - A gifted human sorcerer who led a cultural revolution to free the arcanists during the Magical Inquisition. Described as charismatic, handsome and talented--but quite dim.
Ael’yeth Naialine - A talented druid and close ally of Tassarion Elaric. Played a key role in freeing Tassarion from the Arcane Gladiatorial arena, and conscripted the Ents to attack Arin’silath. Considered by many to be the brains of the Arcanist Revolution.
Reneir Corwyn -
