House Drasten
Founding and Early History
House Drasten, one of the more enigmatic noble houses of Ertha, is renowned for its scholarly pursuits and deep involvement in the arcane arts. The house was officially founded in 180 BCE by Mathias au Drasten, a sage and mystic known for his extensive knowledge of ancient texts and magical practices. Mathias established the family seat in the secluded valleys of western Ravenmoor, choosing the location for its isolation and proximity to natural sources of magical power. From its inception, House Drasten dedicated itself to the preservation and advancement of knowledge. Unlike other noble houses focused on territorial expansion or military might, House Drasten built its legacy on wisdom and understanding. Over the centuries, they amassed a vast collection of texts, scrolls, and artifacts, becoming the foremost repository of knowledge in the Celestine Peninsula. The house also became known for its magical expertise, training generations of mages, scholars, and seers.A House of Scholars and Mystics
House Drasten’s influence grew as their reputation as scholars and arcane experts spread across Ertha. By 50 BCE, they had established several schools and libraries within their domain, attracting students and seekers of knowledge from far and wide. The house maintained a strict code of neutrality, avoiding direct involvement in the political or military conflicts that frequently plagued the region. This stance allowed them to form alliances with various noble houses, who sought their wisdom and arcane abilities. However, House Drasten's dedication to the arcane arts often led to suspicion and mistrust from more orthodox factions, particularly those aligned with the Celestine Pantheon. Despite this, their skills in diplomacy and their contributions to magical research ensured that they remained a respected, if somewhat mysterious, presence in Ravenmoor.Notable Members of House Drasten
House Drasten has produced several notable figures, each known for their contributions to magic, scholarship, and diplomacy:- Mathias au Drasten (180 BCE - 110 BCE): Founder of House Drasten and a renowned sage. Mathias laid the foundation for the house's focus on knowledge and the arcane arts, establishing the first libraries and schools under the house's patronage.
- Lady Morgana au Drasten (25 BCE - 35 CE): A powerful sorceress and diplomat, Morgana brokered key alliances with neighboring houses and established House Drasten's reputation as a neutral power. Her arcane prowess was said to be unmatched in her time, and she authored several important treatises on magical theory.
- Lord Alaric au Drasten (310 CE - 380 CE): A master scholar and seer, Alaric expanded the house's libraries and research facilities. He was known for his prophetic abilities, and his visions guided House Drasten through several crises, preserving their independence and influence.
- Lady Anastasia au Drasten (590 CE - 653 CE): A mage of extraordinary skill and vision, Anastasia was instrumental in fostering alliances with other houses. Her deep knowledge of the arcane arts and political acumen made her a key figure in maintaining House Drasten's influence.
Current Active Members of House Drasten
The current generation of House Drasten continues to uphold their tradition of knowledge and arcane mastery:- Lord Eamon au Drasten: The current head of the house, known for his extensive knowledge of magical lore and his diplomatic acumen. He has maintained the house's neutrality while fostering alliances with key houses, including House Votum.
- Lady Helena au Drasten: Eamon’s sister, a skilled mage and alchemist. She oversees the house’s arcane research and is responsible for the training of young mages within their domain. Her expertise in potion-making is highly sought after across Ertha.
- Sir Leoric au Drasten: The youngest son, known for his adventurous spirit and keen intellect. Leoric travels frequently, seeking out rare texts and arcane artifacts to add to House Drasten's vast collection.
Alliances and Marriages
House Drasten has strategically aligned itself with several powerful houses over the centuries, ensuring its survival and influence:- House Votum: Despite their differing beliefs, House Drasten has maintained a cautious alliance with House Votum, largely due to their mutual interest in arcane matters and House Drasten’s neutrality. This alliance has allowed House Drasten to continue their research without interference from the theocratic rulers of Carthal.
- House Carthas: In their early years, House Drasten formed a strong bond with House Carthas. Though the relationship became strained after House Carthas's exile, the two houses have recently rekindled their alliance, united by a shared history and mutual respect.
- House Gillcrest: Known for their military strength, House Gillcrest has maintained a long-standing relationship with House Drasten, providing protection in exchange for arcane support and magical advisement. This alliance has been mutually beneficial, blending martial and magical might.
Achievements and Legacy
House Drasten has carved out a unique legacy on the Celestine Peninsula:- Established the largest collection of arcane texts and artifacts in Ravenmoor, making them the premier authority on magical lore in the region.
- Maintained neutrality in major conflicts, allowing them to form alliances with various houses and factions, preserving their independence and influence.
Current Goals and Ambitions
House Drasten remains focused on their scholarly pursuits and the advancement of magical knowledge. They seek to expand their collection of arcane texts and artifacts, continue their research into new magical practices, and maintain their network of alliances to ensure their continued influence. While they remain wary of the more militant and theocratic houses like House Votum, they are committed to using their knowledge and arcane abilities to navigate the complex political landscape of Ertha.
Type
Political, Family
Controlled Territories