Aiudara (Elf Gates)

Elf gates, or aiudara as the elves call them, are magical local transportation devices located in Kyonin, across Golarion,[1] and on Castrovel.[2] Some elves only use the term aiudara, as they consider the term "elf gate" to be vulgar.[3] Elf gates appear as sculpted stone arches, and when activated instantly transport anyone to another specific elf gate.
Travel via elf gate Elf gates are activated using a key, which can be a physical token but might also be a password, piece of music, spell, or stellar conjunction. Some gates have multiple keys, each linked to another specific elf gate. Most elf gate keys have been forgotten over the millennia, and therefore some elf gates have been abandoned.[1][4]
Only the first traveller in a group needs a key; the rest can follow to the same destination. Travel through an elf gate is instantaneous,[5] and because of this elf gates represent a significant part of the elves' historic power, as it allows them to move people and goods with incredible speeds across vast distances.[1]
A gate can lead to another specific elf gate, or to a hub that connects several possible locations. The system of elf gates is sometimes referred to as the aiudara network.[5]
Elf gates do not allow travel between planets or planes, unlike the incredibly ancient or naturally occurring portals that they resemble. These interplanetary portals predate the elves, and perhaps even all life in the solar system.
Creation & power Elf gates are believed to have been created by the legendary elven hero Candlaron the Sculptor. The secret of their creation was lost when Candlaron vanished through a mysterious archway.[7] He also created the Sovyrian Stone, and used the artifact to power all of the elf gates.[1]
Religious significance The elves consider Alseta, goddess of doorways, to be the unofficial patron deity of elf gates.
Known elf gates Galtgate, a hub in Galt's Boarwood forest[9] Icegate, near the Crown of the World[9] Lichgate, in Ustalav[9] Lotusgate, in Iadara[9] Tanglegate, in Tanglebriar[9] Near the village of Avennara, in Kyonin; used frequently by the Lantern Bearers[10] Near the drow city of Blackstrand, in the Darklands[11] A gate links Mordant Spire with Kyonin, but it is not known whether it functions; the elves on both sides do not seem interested in using it A Hub lies within Celwynvian. Fanggate, within the Fangwood of Nirmathas