Valley of the Mage

The Valley of the Mage is a mysterious and secluded realm hidden within the Barrier Peaks, ruled by the enigmatic wizard known as the Exalted One. Home to valley elves, gnomes, and humans, the valley remains fiercely independent, shrouded in secrecy, and protected by both natural dangers and the might of its ruler.

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History

For many centuries, this secluded land was simply called The Vale, known to trappers and hunters from Dim Forest, Geoff, and Bissel for the fine furs that could be obtained there. In CY 549, the exiled wizard Krimeah, fleeing the Great Kingdom after a failed attempt to seize the Malachite Throne from his cousin the Overking, claimed the valley. Demonstrating immense magical prowess, he quickly won the loyalty of the valley’s inhabitants—gnomes, valley elves, and men—who crowned him the Exalted One. Since then, they have zealously guarded the valley’s borders in exchange for his protection.

Politics and Society

The communities within the valley—elves, gnomes, and humans—enjoy a degree of autonomy, provided they recognize the Exalted One’s rule. His hands-off approach has fostered trust and loyalty among his subjects, which he is careful never to abuse. The Mage has little interest in the politics of the Flanaess, save for his enduring paranoia about potential assassins sent by the Overking. The Grand Duke of Geoff remains indifferent to the valley’s affairs, while an expedition from Gran March vanished without a trace years ago.

Religion

There is no official religion in the valley, and each community worships its own gods, including Olven, Noniz, and Dwur deities.

Military

The valley’s defense is provided by patrols of elves, humans, gnomes, and dwarves, though these groups function more as a border guard than a true military force. However, should a full-scale invasion occur, the Black One would undoubtedly unleash his formidable magical might to repel intruders.

Isolation and Mystery

No army has ever marched from the valley, and the dangers of the Dim Forest prevent outsiders from easily entering. The forest is so perilous that few adventurers return from its depths. Those who do speak of tall elves, secretive gnomes, and a wizard of unfathomable power who rules from the shadows. The outside world remains largely unconcerned with the valley, content to leave its mysteries undisturbed.

Legends and Rumors

Long ago, a powerful wizard secluded himself in this lush valley at the headwaters of the Javan River, deep within the Barrier Peaks. His minions posted warnings at the valley’s approaches, declaring that entry was forbidden without his express invitation. What has occurred within since then is a matter of speculation, as no one who enters returns to tell the tale. Even bold adventurers, rumored to have returned laden with platinum and gems said to litter streambeds like common pebbles, cannot entice would-be fortune-seekers, for the valley is infested with terrifying creatures.

Mysterious groups are sometimes spotted traveling toward the valley, and troop movements have been observed near the verges of Dim Forest, but what their purpose may be remains unknown.

Notable Locales

The Valley of the Mage is extensively detailed in module WG12: Vale of the Mage.

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Proper Name: Valley of the Mage

Ruler: The Mage of the Valley (identity unknown)

Government: Independent freeholds acknowledging an unknown ruler

Major Settlements: None

Resources: Unknown

Population: Human, Elf, Gnome, Halfling, Half-elf

Law: N

Allies: None

Enemies: Most elves of the Flanaess

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