XP: 2705/3300
Map of Daedros Valley
A History:
The Daedros Valley, nestled between the warring nations of Kharas and Nyth Gwenyn, is an independent region, supported by its commerce. During the last war between Kharas and Nyth Gwenyn, a young farmer rallied the inhabitants of the valley in a bid for their freedom. An alliance with the dwarves to the north and the Merchant's Guild of the south turned the tide of battle. The young farmer, Haxson Lewell, guided the valley's growth as its governor. Supplied by the dwarves and supported by the Merchant's Guild, craftsmen of the valley became world-renowned. The Daedros River facilitated its growth by creating trade from the north to the south, while the Merchant's Cross, the main roads of the valley, brought goods to both Kharas and Nyth Gwenyn.
Elven refugees from Nyth Gwenyn made their home in the northern forests, along with a group of druids rumored to protect a bronze dragon who lives in the mountains. Orcs, who had pledged their aid to Lewell, settled in the hilly region to the south. More than a few dwarves call the stronghold of Vorota home.
In Lewell's waning years, Kharas imposed trade sanctions and Nyth Gwenyn succumbed to decadence, draining the valley's treasury. The soldiers who secured the towns and cities of the valley went unpaid and fled to other nations. This left zealous patriots in charge of the valley's defenses and brewed discontent among residents and visitors. Monsters, long not seen in the region, have reappeared.
Men like Lewell were rare and his death exacerbated the troubles brewing. Kharas, an Asmodean theocracy, made no secret their plans to annex the valley and make it a stage for further conquests. Nyth Gwenyn, the elven nation under Calistria, sought to plunder the valley to rebuild their wealth. Bandits became more bold and the Merchant's Cross was no longer safe. Nationalists sought to overthrow Lewell's son, Jerell, and expel any foreigners.
Places of Note:
Daedran: The "capital" of Daedros Valley, many diplomats of note have come from its venerable walls. Most who live here are merchants and various tradesmen. In the fall, to commemorate the valley's independence, the governor holds an annual festival.
Stelton: The stronghold that protects the valley from Kharas. Most craftsmen here are renowned blacksmiths, though many have departed in recent years. A blade from Stelton can command a high price.
Wodrick: A village of lumberjacks. The wood cut from the forests supply the whole valley.
Ardin's Tower: Valley-born magic users study here. Ardin, a wizard of quite some years, only trains a handful of students. His tower is hidden in the woods above Wodrick.
Vorota: Some consider this a dwarven embassy, though many who live here would claim the valley as their home. Vorota also serves as a watch post for the dwarven kingdoms to the north.
Cooperton: Fine barrel makers live in this hamlet. Prosperous fishermen usually hail from here as well.
Ogsden: A quiet farming hamlet that supplies the city of Daedran with food.
Stedham: Another farming hamlet that contends with the brash orcs of the west. They supply the stronghold of Ocean's Gate with food and other sundries.
Ocean's Gate: The stronghold at the southern end of the valley. Sailors and merchants frequent this town as supplies are moved along the river. News from the south can be heard in its taverns.
Hjerte: An orcish town. This was the first settlement once founded by the orcs after the valley's battle for independence.
Markjord: An orcish village. Most raids carried out against Stedham originate from here. As a result, a small community of half-orcs live outside its territory.
Steinvegg: Another orcish village. Not much is known about the inhabitants except that they keep to themselves.
Ruins of Pel-Nor: Some claim that it used to be a kingdom of the south, others say a cult established it. All that can be confirmed are occasional sightings of the undead.
Nym's Light: A lighthouse tended by Nym, a mysterious woman. The prevailing rumor is that she is a witch.
Foxham, Eldidge and Nell: Farming villages under the watchful eye of the Constable of Camden. Eldidge ships out the produce of the three villages on boats that stop in Daedros Lake.
Camden: A town run by the Constable, Norris Carthite. A few disquieting tales about Norris have been circulating lately.
Brisinger: The stronghold that protects the valley from Nyth Gwenyn. Many fighters and rangers train here and in the woods to the west.
Cyfrinach: A city of elves founded by refugees. Non-elves are not allowed within its walls.
Goddefgarwch: An elven village more accepting of other races. They still value their privacy and tend to remain removed from the business of the valley.
Dragon's Ring: A commune of druids dwell here. Some say they serve the bronze dragon that is rumored to live in the cave to north, but no one who has ventured to the cave has ever returned.
