The Aethan Temple

The Aethar Prism, the massive crystalline structure at the heart of the Avia Cyclone and the source of the magic keeping the isles afloat, is one of the few peaceful sites on Avia. Controlled by the draconic empire, it is considered a holy site to all races of Avia, and despite the massive quantities of Athearite contained within, it is a taboo to harvest anything from it, lest it lose its magic and plunge the entire cyclone into the Stormsea. Built around the Prism is a massive temple to Coriolis that all races are welcome to worship in. Many races make it a point to make a pilgrimage to the Aethar Prism at least once in their lives. The islands surrounding the temple have thus become a massive marketplace, where members of all races flock to sell their wares to those they are otherwise at war with. The dragons allow this marketplace to flourish in exchange for fairly hefty taxes on all transactions.

Architecture

The temple is composed of twelve floating island temples, each revolving around the central massive structure that houses the Aethar Prism. The temples are each elaborately carved Skystone structures, predating the death of Coriolis, decorated extensively with religious art and statues depicting the ancient Windborn. Each temple appears to be dedicated to one of the twelve Skyblessed races.

History

Throughout history, the Aethar Prism and its surrounding isles have been a hotly contested warzone, as all of the Skyblessed races fought to claim control of the holy site. For the most part, the area has been claimed by dragonkind, however, as they suffered massive casualties from the constant onslaught, they eventually agreed to allow pilgrimage to the area, and as traders flocked to the site and they realized the trade opportunities, they allowed races to settle there provided they swore fealty to the Draconic Throne.

Type

Cathedral / Great temple