Iolrath Vale
Iolrath Vale is basically Old Eglarest, the northern half of the kingdom that was "annexed" during the last Howling, when Caighreadhug's children (Fey, Goblinoids, Dark Elves) swept across Edras. It's been built back up over the centuries by free folk and migrants into a loose confederation of cities and villages "beyond the wall". The Vale is very closely allied with Eglarest, who provide all the assistance and aid that they can afford. Bridging the gap between the Kingdom of Eglarest and the Gobble Dominions, Iolrath Vale serves as a buffer between the two ancient enemies.
Iolrath Vale is known through the Four Kingdoms as one of the top spots for exploration, archaeology, and dungeon-delving. The ruins of Old Eglarest call to innumerable adventurers, scholars, and thrill seekers; rumors spread across all of Edras telling of the long lost treasures of Ancient En Thalas. Troves of relics are said to have been hidden all throughout the region by the wily hands of those who were forced to flee during the Fourth Howling.
The people of the Vale, as they are called, are survivors. They hail mostly from the various surrounding kingdoms, though some come from as far away as Horhiskali, seeking a simple life of freedom and self-sufficiency. The Vale folk hardly ever complain, though their hardships are many and their comforts few. They are frequently reminded that should the Labyrinth of Thorns be opened again that they would likely be overrun by the hordes of the fey, but they see little reason to worry over things they cannot change. Resourceful and wise, they have reclaimed the fallen lands of Old Eglarest and built for themselves a home - a home that they fiercely defend from outsiders.
The Landsmeet
The Landsmeet is the governing body of Iolrath Vale, a loose confederation of margraves from the various settlements in the region. The Landsmeet serves as an advisory council to the local mayors and elders who handle the day-to-day running of their communities. The Margraves, or Margresses, are typically the oldest and most respected members of their communities. They are chosen for their wisdom, experience, and leadership skills. While not elected in the traditional sense, their positions are not hereditary either, and the Margraves must prove their worthiness to continue to serve in their roles. The Landsmeet meets periodically to discuss issues of importance to the Vale as a whole, such as defense against outside threats, trade agreements, and resource management. The decisions made by the Landsmeet are not binding, and each community retains its own autonomy. However, the Margraves' opinions carry great weight, and their recommendations are often followed. The Landsmeet also serves as a means of communication between the various communities of Iolrath Vale, allowing for the sharing of ideas, resources, and assistance in times of need. They are a symbol of the unity and resilience of the Vale folk, who have banded together to rebuild their homes and protect themselves against the dangers that lurk beyond their borders.The Laws of Magic
- Arcane, Divine, and Natural Magic are all generally legal, though can vary slightly between settlements.
- Necromancy is frowned upon in the Vale, so it requires special licensure from the Circle of 12 Seals and is restricted in use.
- Aberrant magic that comes from pledging oneself to Outsiders or agents of the Primordials is strictly illegal and can result in a quick lynching or stake burning.
- Sorcerers are viewed with distrust and fear by some, though like most cullic nations licensure can be obtained for such unnatural abilities through the Church of the Brisingelion or the Circle of 12 Seals.
Settlements
- Ancient En Thalas: The ancient capital of Old Eglarest. It was built upon the remains of an elven kingdom that dated back to the First Age of the Gods. Now lies in ruins, haunted by the horrors of the Fourth Howling.
- Dennovar: A trade-city located in the delta between the Iolrath River and the Cauman Tributary, Dennovar is the largest community in southern Iolrath Vale.
Structure
Secular Hierarchy
- Margrave/Margress
- Mayor/Mayoress
- Elder
Demography and Population
Population: Unknown (< 700,000)
Demographics
- Elves 22%
- Firbolgs 20%
- Kenku 16%
- Myconids 11%
- Goblinoids 9%
- Misc. 7%
- Halflings 6%
- Drosera 5%
- Dark Elves 4%
Religion
Much like their parent kingdom, Iolrath Vale maintains a special devotion to Arhah.
Foreign Relations
Closely allied with Eglarest, though with no central government, Iolrath Vale doesn’t bring much to the table other than being a buffer between Eglarest and the Gobble Dominions.
Priesthood
Religious Hierarchy
- Priest/Priestess/Abbot/Abbess
- Nun/Prioress/Monk/Friar
Founding Date
3315
Type
Political, Confederation
Alternative Names
Old Eglarest
Predecessor Organization
Demonym
People of the Vale
Ruling Organization
Government System
Gerontocracy
Power Structure
Confederation
Economic System
Barter system
Currency
Eglaressian Crowns
Official State Religion
Location
Official Languages
Neighboring Nations
Comments