Yavadeth

Dominant Race: Breather Dwarf
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Primary Biome: Coastal

HISTORY

When the demons poured forth from the Gates of Hell, many hearts felt the burden of loss and suffering. That pressure began to eat away at the solid resolve of a people that have always been as immovable as the mountains that they inhabited. It wasn't long after the gates were closed that some of the bloodlines began to openly yearn for the great blue above.

While these clans had always been those that lived closest to the surface, never had the other clans ever given any thought to a Dwarf with the desire to live in the "Upper Empty". The mere thought of leaving the familiarity of the earthen depths, to be assailed by the harsh light of the surface or to live among the fickle races that existed there was simply an absurdity.  But there had always been those that were drawn out of the depths with a hunger for exploration and adventure.

Whether it was the events that opened the gates, the swarms of underlings that now occupy much of their ancestorial halls or the experiences of being involved in the great wars, there was a change in the hearts of many dwarvenkind. Many became bitter, resentful and self serving. But not all. There were some that owned the mistakes of their people and they sought a brighter future.

Setting their sites upward and forward these dwarves voyaged into the bright. They left everything they had ever known behind them, determined to forge a safer, more fulfilling life for their people. The nation of Yavadeth was going to provide that safety. Yet, for all of their hope and well intentions they still had much to atone for. The surface dwellers did not welcome these dwarves warmly.

The Centaur harassed their clans with all of the bloodshed that one could expect from the warrior race. For years they attacked smaller settlements, raided farms and pillaged trade caravans. But the dwarves learned; creating large moats and crafting long pikes. The constant bloodshed hardened their resolve and pressed them to adapt their battle style to an open battlefield.

The Elves met the new settlements with cautious respect. While happy to have a buffer from the Centaur they were wary of the dwarves intentions. Nonetheless, the two races had always been amicable and so trade was swift and abundant. Over time that relationship has only grown stronger. 

Humankind is far more fickle and diverse than the other races. From swindlers to saints, perverse to pietious the dwarven settlers experienced the true extent of humankind's variety. With the treachery uncovered during the great wars the Stenocian leadership were uncertain what to make of the outpouring of Dwarves. Therefore no national decree was issued for the first seventy legras after their appearance on the surface.

With no laws to dictate interactions with the surface dwarves humans were free to do as they saw fit. Some began trade while others stole from them, some murdered and kidnapped whilst others chose to settle with them. It wasn't until the Coalition of Men was signed that peace was officially declared between the Breather Dwarves of Yavadeth and the Humans of Stenocia. As a result there are some western villages in Yavadeth that have a mixed population.

Unlike their mountain brethren Breather Dwarves are ruled by a republic. Their Czar is elected by the Senators and Rules from the capital city of Carsonia: Barigheth. While traditionally a member of one of the original bloodlines, a Czar can be selected from any family.

GOVERNMENT 

• Republic

    There are nine Senators who represent factions within the settlements and they are appointed by their respective factions. In turn, the elected Senators choose the Czar. While the original six bloodlines still make up the largest portion of the political party, that tradition has slowly lost its support. Traditionally every Czar has been a member of one of the original bloodlines but that has had more to do with exposure than heritage. 

    The nine seats of the senate are as follows :

I. the seat of the Noble Shield who represents the warrior classes

II. the Flint Braid who represents foreign interests and much of Yavadeth's diplomacy

III. the Wealth Guard who represents the merchants and traders

IV. the Chaos Basher who represents the national military

V. the Treasure Guard who represents the tax collectors and handles the national treasury

VI. the Marble Breaker who represents the original bloodlines and visiting royalty 

VII. the Long Shadow who represents the impoverished and downtrodden

VIII. the Brew Meister who represents many of the trades

IX. the Pebble Belly who represents resource trades

   Each faction is permitted to choose their representative in the manner that suits them, but once chosen they are a representative elect until they are deposed or die. 

    Each territory is ruled by a Governor. While the Governors rule with relative autonomy, they still answer to the Czar. The territories trade among each other and abroad. Each territory must also present trained soldiers to the Czar to bolster the national ranks. This fashion of nationalism has created considerable competition among the territories to provide the finest soldiers in all of Yavadeth. Only the most seasoned soldiers can wear the crimson cloaks sported by the royal militia. 

• Alliances 

   Agreement of Might : An ongoing treaty with the races: Draconian, Nephilim, Breather Dwarf, and Giants. 

   The Coalition of Men : An ongoing treaty with the races of men: Human, Elf, Breather Dwarf, Giant, and Troll. 

   High and Low : An ongoing, secret treaty between Breather Dwarf and Seraphim

WONDERS

Emerald Arch 

    Spanning the entire width of the Dwoznean cove, this adamantium Arch is infused with rune magic. What it does is a mystery to the inhabitants of Brulgouton, but it is rumored to ward off evil spirits. 

Statue of Promise/The Great Fulfillment 

    Fashioned in the image of Yatreda Stormheart this seventy two hands high statue stands at the foot of Mount Havami overlooking all of Yavadeth. Not only does it symbolize the promise of a better life for the dwarves but also as a reminder of where they came from. It is visible from nearly all of the country. 

The Forbidden Wall

    Built as a deterrent for the swarms that plagued the southern continent every summer, this massive structure spans from the coast of the Cadriel Sea to the Erebos Sea. It is imbued with both rune magic as well arcane magix. It was constructed in a joint effort between the Humans and the Dwarves of Yavadeth. The safety and peace that it brought to southern Stenocia went a long way in creating a bond between the two peoples. 

Castle Dhuvaes

    A formidable castle of incredible grandeur. It was designed by the Fortin bloodline, built by the Hill Shields with the aide of the Mighty Clan of Cyclops. The foundations are built using solid stone 12 hands wide by 48 hands long and 30 hands tall. There are titanium bound iron oak doors, an adamantium gate, a 140 hands long drawbridge, anti-seige parapaces, built-in porcupines, as well as dozens of mechanical defenses that dwarves are so well fond of. 

    However, Castle Dhavaes is more than just a military building. Originally owned by the Dhavaes family it was sold to the Silverbeard clan, the origin of the famous stone sculptor Gronhom Silverbeard. His work was carved right into the very structure of the fortress. Later his father honored his son by adding a lavish garden, a library and hundreds of tapestries. Later fine elven furniture and elegant dinnerware was imported, adding a sofistication that is unusual for a military structure. 

    Today the castle draws many curious eyes with it's well known aesthetics. Royalty and delegates all talk enviously of its ornate craftsmanship and opulence. An immense staff is required to keep it pristine and many Governors frequent its halls. Gone are the days where it can be referred to as just a castle. 

Red Bluff of Formig

    The cliffs are made up of a hardened red clay that has drawn the eye of many historical voyagers over time. The color stands in such contrast to its surrounding that it is used as a navigational beacon by sea vessels. While the heavy layers of dust have created a treacherous area at its base, it is otherwise unremarkable. The surrounding woodlands are known to sport some red dust early autumn. 

    These cliffs are made infamous, however, by the rare black gryphon eggs that can be found within its clefts. For generations the Centaur hunted these majestic animals for sport. In fact, any gryphon hunting north of the Onergy River is likely to lose their life there. 

O'Cara Coliseum

    Known for the great blood tournaments of O'Cara, this Coliseum is large and ornate. Within the Coliseum there are three different colors of marble,  five different woods, thousands of imported rugs, running water, and exotic animals from around the planet. Tapestries, representing the nations of its three champions, as well as those champions' factions hang above every entrance. 

    It also boasts the famous Blue Knights of The Guard or as the audience refers to them: Blue Gladiators. A title that draws smirks from the Knights but frowns from the gladiators themselves. Foreigners refer to them as the Blue Scythe and the ruling gentry call them the Blue Guard. What they are is a small privately sponsored squad of Valour Knights tasked with securing the grounds and enforcing authority in the arenas as the Overseer sees fit. 

Yulibella Falls

    An infamously haunted location. Countless lives have been lost here but not from war nor foul play, no. These lives were lost from suicide. While there are many who whisper of the reasons why, no one truly knows for sure. Inexplicably, the spooky things seems to frequent this location, with sightings of apparitions, reports of the waterfall turning into blood, moaning, screaming and cries for help echoing through the night, people never leaving the same as when they arrived, disappearances, you name it and it has been told to happen here. Locals will tell you it is not a tale and caution people to avoid the place at night, but with little show of concern as to whether you intend to heed their warning. Yeah, it's that kind of place. 

TERRITORIES 

ARLENT

    Named after the dwarven bloodline that perished in the first wave released from the nine gates, Arlent shares the largest border with the Centaur nation Evates. In fact, it shares a border with more territories than nearly all other territories in Aborlon. As a result it boasts one of the finest infrastructures in the lands. 

    There are dozens of hand-made rivers, moats, bridges, countless garrisons, dozens of fortresses and thousands of highway patrols. With the high level of security it is considered one of the safest places in all of Yavadeth if not Aborlon itself. With so little crime the patrols themselves can be a bit of a nuisance as they frequently search caravans for contraband. 

    Duznuk Boulderguard is a serious and effective Governor. She commands the respect of her people as easily as she does that of her enemies. She is rumored to have killed three Centaur with a single thrust of her pike and her heroism is sung about in many a ballad. While her discipline paints her as aloof her fair handling of local affairs has earned her the love of the people. 

CARBBON

    Kamrumli Runemantle governs this territory of rare dwarven magic. He is a descendant of the famous Ralami Runemantle, who discovered the magic that lied within the Ortostone. His family has long kept the knowledge of rune crafting secret empowering their house with great influence. It is the runestones that power the Great Wall, a fortification that protects Aborlon from the swarms that live within the Forbidden. 

    Carbbon possesses some of the most diverse populations found on the continent. This diversity is manifested in everything from the culture to the architecture. Some of the markets found there are known across the lands for rare herbs, unique talismans and of course the magix of the runestone. 

    Brulgouton is the capital settlement of Carbbon located on the shores of the Carsonian Bay.  It is widely known for it's Emerald Arch, a structure of pure adamantium infused with rune magix. This port city sees more trade ships than any other Dwarven port and thus has a reputation as a rough and tumble location. 

CARSONIA

    Capital of Yavadeth with the ruling seat found within Barigheth. Carsonia is a densely populated territory with more forms of entertainment than any other territory in Aborlon. From Gladiator Coliseums to great Circus tents, Olympic stadiums to racing stands, from theaters to weekly competitions Carsonia boasts the greatest distractions gold can buy. The festive atmosphere has ingrained a level of merth and joy in its inhabitants that are unmatched. 

    The level of art that originates from Carsonia is also renowned. Paintings, statues, carvings, dance, fashion trends and remarkable ballads all pour from this territory as honey from a hive. It is said that nothing influences as broadly as the culture of Carsonia and no single household exists in all of Aborlon that has not been influenced in some way by their civilization. Even the gruff Centaur have been known to seek out the distractions found there. 

   The Governor, Drumora Rubyhide, rules from the settlement Bersuda. She is known as a benevolent leader and is rumored to be a descendant of Yatreda Stormheart, the dwarven leader of the great exodus. Her personality exudes mirth but is tempered by her no nonsense approach to trade and politics. She works closely with the Czar and has great influence within the republic. 

DOORSIN

    There is little to be said of Doorsin far as anyone can recall. It is comprised of mainly fishing villages and farms. Some would say it is an odd place but idyllic. However,  the value that this territory provides in food cannot be underestimated.  Thirty five percent of the nation's total food supply crosses the borders of Doorsin. 

    Many great quality pets, livestock and mounts originate here as well. However, the bulk of these domesticated animals are shipped to Arlent and Bhardross for trade. While there are a few trade hubs in the northern parts of Doorsin, the locals prefer their privacy and thus do very little trade with foreigners. Perhaps the greatest contributor to their stand-offish demeanor is the secrecy surrounding their highly coveted breeding lore. 

    It is said that a person would have more luck reading the expression of a plank of wood than they would the face of Yanmeath Beastforge. He is not known to be particularly talkative or personable. He does carry himself with dignity and honor, of that one can tell within only a few moments of being in his presence. But those attributes do little to make anyone feel at ease in his presence. 

    Colate Oaks, or "Road's End" as it is commonly referred to, is the capital of Doorsin. It is a quaint village with nothing much of note aside from the immaculate town square and  townhall. As the name might suggest there are quite a few oak trees making lumber one of their largest exports. Many dwarves of the Rubyhide and Beastforge bloodlines settled in this territory. However, unlike the majority of Yavadeth, they are not fond of outsiders. 

ORBANNA HEIGHTS

    Dwarves have had a taste for trade since they first broke through to the surface. The varieties of produces and livestock that came from the upper empty was to them unimaginable. When the six families settled on the surface their desire to shed the dishonored reputation of the past motivated them to establish themselves as reasonable, fair traders. Orbanna Heights is the pinnacle of those efforts. 

    Bordering Stenocia, Quiyarus as well as Donmolim and water access to  several more nations, this territory is a major trade apex. It sports some of the best roadways, has formidable patrols and is home to the famous trade city Bhardross, commonly called the "Crossroads". Orbanna Heights is considered the crown jewel of Yavadeth. 

    The immense amount of trade taking place within its borders has elevated some families to immense amounts of wealth while it leaves still others destitute and transient. Bhardross while being home to some of the wealthiest dwarves in Yavadeth also possesses one of the largest slums in the lands. There is tremendous tension and considerable crime as a result. 

    Skonwela Heavyheart is Governor of Orbanna Heights and rules from Bhardross. She is dedicated to her people and is always struggling to abolish the poverty in her territory. While a master at commerce she lacks political acumen. In fact much of the upper-class looks down upon her, calling her "Bleedingheart" because of her passion for the downtrodden. A fact that does not sit well with her. 

TARBAN

    Tarban is the oldest territory in all of Yavadeth. With its rugged terrain and thick forests it rests at the foot of the great mountains of Donmolim. It possesses the bulk of dwarven mines and quarries, with large exports of lumber, ore and stone. It is considered the backbone of Yavadeth as well as the gateway into Donmolim. 

    Some say it was curiosity to see the never-ending waters that drew the dwarves to this area. From the heights of Mount Havami the ocean, or "never-ending waters" according to the dwarves, can be seen on a clear day. Never had such a vast body of water been seen. True, there were some subterranean lakes of immense size within Donmolim, but nothing that comes close to the size of the sea. 

    Governor Gaghonlim Strongmaul  is referred to as the 'Gate's Guardian' as he protects the pass into the heart of Donmolim. Though whether he guards Donmolim from intrusion or Aborlon from conquest is a matter of debate. His bloodline is a sturdy foundation upon which the leadership of Yavadeth look to for guidance.

    

VOCKOLO VAR

   The flatlands of Vockolo Var have seen countless battles. The Centaur once ran wild and free in this grassy landscape. To this day they still claim rights to its fertile lands. But only the "Unspoken" shed blood for it as there is an on-going diplomatic agreement between Yavadeth and Evates. 

    With the fires from raids and blood shedding from endless war there is very little in the way of settlements in Vockolo Var. However, there are many fortresses and garrisons scattered throughout its borders. Some of the finest armor and weaponsmiths can be found here as the need for smithies is both constant and vital. 

    Foruk Mithrilarm rules over this territory with a gruff and somewhat unforgiven persona. He has little patience for politics and less for the slippery tongues of the nobles. He is both direct and measured. So unique is his approach to matters that many consider him somewhat of an oddity, unpredictable even. One thing is certain, he loves battle as his resonating laugh inspires the troops of Yavadeth. 

    Vockolo Var is ruled from the imposing Castle Dhuvaes in Dhuvaes. It is located in Central Vockolo Var and is at an apex of roadways within its borders. All roads lead to Castle Dhuvaes which gives it an immense strategical advantage. With walls a hundred hands in height, nearly twenty hands thick at the base and a treacherous trench at its foundations it is considered one of the most formidable fortifications in all of Aborlon. 

VOCKOLO VEN

    The rocky coasts of Vockolo Ven are home to some of the finest fishing villages in all of Yavadeth. Unlike other fishing villages these coastal settlements seek and harvest leviathans, great sea creatures of immense proportions. The scales are used to make clothing and jewelery, the meat is sold in the markets for food, the blood is sold to Gnomes for potions, the bones are used for tools and the innards are used as bait for other leviathan. 

    Between the fishing villages and farmland Vockolo Ven, or 'the Ven', is the primary supplier of provisions for Vockolo Var. We're it not for this arrangement it's northern neighbor would be hard-pressed to stave off the militants of Evates. In severe engagements the Ven will reinforce Vockolo Var's forces, uniting to prevent calamity. 

    Vockolo Ven is governed by Elkod Mithrilarm, the sister of Foruk. Where he is stern and rigid she is flexible and conforming. While neither can be in the other's presence for any extended amount of time their bond is still unbreakable. Elkod considers her commitment to Foruk as natural as her commitment to her people. 

    Elkod rules from the northern settlement Dozzoun. It is well situated on the shores of Glaread. This huge lake borders both Arlent and Vockolo Var as well as the Ven, providing swift trade access. With the red cliffs of Formig sheltering its Northeastern boundaries, the swift River Nassuline along the southern walls and the lake to its west Dozzoun is naturally fortified.