Ailian-Elen

There are not many moon elf cities, certainly not many on any map. One city that is known throughout Yandelar and throughout the elven population is Ailian-Elen. It's the unofficial capitol of the Moon Elves and their largest city, famous for producing the mythical Moon Elf Longbows.

Demographics

The Moon Elves are notoriously isolationists and it is incredibly rare for a foreigner to find themselves past their walls and into any of their Gatherings. If there is anyone that isn't a Moon Elf, the second largest Gathering Unitru-Mair is likely the safest place for them. Absolutely no foreigner of any race is allowed within shouting distance of Ailian-Elen. The Moon Elf Longbow is not only a highly proficient and valuable weapon, but it is sacred to them. It is a racial insult for another to touch them, let alone be anywhere near where they are made.

Industry & Trade

Given the careful nature of the Moon Elves, all trade that flows in and out of Ailien-Elen is done strictly through Moon Elf merchants. This is commonplace for the Territory as a whole, with only minor shipments of herbs and tea leaving the Territory proper to be dispersed amongst the rest of Yandelar. The Gathering itself, and the Moon Elf Territory in general, do not import many things outside their borders. When a trade is made, it is usually for exotic trinkets and artefacts.
It is both unlawful and heretical to trade the Moon Elf Longbows to any foreign race. Given the reverent nature the Moon Elves treat these bows, it's already uncommon they will trade them amongst themselves, so it is a social disgrace amongst other high crimes to trade, barter, or sell the Bows to any outsider.

Assets

Moon Elf Longbow

As a favored weapon of their chief diety Gaenon, it's become more than just a weapon, but a religious symbol. Most Moon Elves will train with a bow made specifically for them from the time they can pull the string back, even if they never enter into the specialized ranks around the bow. They might received upgraded bows or customized ones depending on rank, but no bow is ever destroyed haphazardly. Most old bows are retired as relics on family walls and put on display.
While not all Moon Elf Longbows are created equal, it is widely accepted that even the basic moon elf longbow is superior to anything crafted outside their territory. It's not their claim, either, but the widely held belief of all those on Yandelar. No one out-shoots a Moon Elf and no bow lasts as long, or is as well made, as a Moon Elf Longbow. As though divinely enchanted, the bows are capable of being used in melee combat, do not break under stress, and do not age. Whether it's a result of the crafting process, what they're made or, or they are divinely blessed, no one knows.

Ruler

Moon Elves are ruled by a small council that support a High Priest or Priestess and a Bow Lord/Lady. The Bow Lord/Lady is the best of the Moon Elves, and must prove themselves against challengers every two decades. The Bow Lord/Lady frequently make Ailian-Elen their home.

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Type

Large city

Population

2000+

Avatar Ceremonial Bow by Fredrik Appelholm