Aerdale
Aerdale is an ancient dwarven citadel located deep in The Skyward Peaks. It is famous for its gemstone mines and the art of runecarving. Due to its recluse location, it has remained independent from the Eight States of Chronan and The Order that rules them, but it is connected to the Netherspan via mine shafts and natural tunnels.
The history of Aerdale goes back to the Gilded Age before The Fellstar Cataclysm, when giants of Teutanos still ruled the northern mountains. The first dwarves emerged from underground and made a pact with the giants to procure gems for them in exchange for knowledge about the runic magic of the giants. Due to this magical proficiency, some historians count Aerdale as one of the Magocracies of the Ashen Age.
After a few centuries into the Steaming Age, the Reignstonian army tried to conquer Aerdale during what is now known as the "Gem War", but the citadel's defenses were too strong. The two settlements have had an uneasy alliance ever since, helped in the modern days somewhat by the fact that the current Metropolite of Reignstone, Griamel, hails from Aerdale. However, the oldest dwarves still remember the war and resent the citizens of Reignstone for it.
Due to old traditions, Aerdale is ruled over by the Council of Thanes, elders of each six mountain dwarf clans that reside within the citadel. Each clan has their own duties; Clan Arundel focuses on runecarving, for example. Metropolite Griamel herself was a foundling and declared clanless, so she devoted her life to the goddess of death and wealth, Golden Elethrain.
Type
Citadel
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