Kethraelm
Kethraelm
The realm of Kethraelm, known as the “Land of the Ice Queen,” is a frozen kingdom that dominates the northern reaches of Myrth. This harsh, beautiful land is ruled by the Elven monarchy from their capital at Tel’Shinon, where Queen Alvaerelle Kythaela holds court. The realm is characterized by its tundra, boreal, and arctic climates, creating a challenging but majestic environment for its inhabitants.
Some say that the frigid cold of Kethraelm is a reflection of Vonryl Kethalon’s influence. Regardless of myth, Kethraelm is a wilderness of ice and snow. A fitting home for the Elves and their chosen patron deity.
Culture
Section titled “Culture”The Elves that reside in Kethrael are very protective of their lands and are not eager to allow free travel to non-natives. Though dominated by traditional Elven culture, there are pockets of Kashite natives that live isolated in the forests and mountains.
Traditional Elves are ritually cannibalistic, consuming their enemies in order to absorb their power and spiritual energy. Though this happens less often these days, since the last of the great wars is a few hundred years past.
Martial prowess remains the most important virtue to the people of Kethraelm, a historically Elven tradition, though embraced by all who call the frozen north their home. It is an important discipline that conditions the body for survival and many non-natives seek out the elusive monasteries of the Winter Touched to train with the Elven monks who practice the ancient ways.
Ecology
Section titled “Ecology”Kethraelm is characterized by its extreme northern climate, with vast expanses of tundra, boreal forests, and arctic conditions, broken only by the steep inclines of the snow-capped mountains that rise from it’s heart. The realm experiences long, harsh winters with short, cool summers.
The realm’s ecology has adapted to the extreme conditions, with hardy evergreen and coniferous trees, cold-resistant plants, and arctic wildlife. Typical arctic fauna can be found here, including giant moose, boars and bears. In the forested areas can be found many birds of prey, including giant Snow Owls. A few lakes and rivers flow in it’s south, though they are mostly covered with ice all year round. Boreal forests of conifer trees cover most of the inland region,
History
Section titled “History”Kethraelm is the homeland of all Elves, though it unknown if they originate from there. According to the Elven creation myth, the first Elves were born from the Seed of the Moons, and scattered across the world as falling stars. Historically though, there has always been a large population of Elves residing in Kethraelm.
Its history is deeply rooted in Elven tradition and the ancient heritage of the northern peoples. The realm has maintained its independence and cultural identity through centuries of isolation and careful governance. The monarchy has been a constant presence, providing stability and continuity in the harsh environment.
With the founding of Tel’Shinon in 950 NOR, the realm has always been a holy place to Elvenkind, with the construction of first monasteries of the Winter Touched not far off and driven from this cultural heart. No force has ever been able to penetrate the realm for conquest, with the Dver navy of ancient times not able to cross the Sea of Crystal Rain effectively.
Settlements
Section titled “Settlements”Settlement | Description | Size | Authority |
---|---|---|---|
Tel'Shinon | Tha capital of Kethraelm and throne of the Elven Monarchy. | Metropolis | Queen Alvaerelle Kythaela |
Roketh'tel | A mountain fortress guarding the southern lakes, and regulating passage of non-natives | Medium Fort | Commander Gorlag Irontooth |
Mathen Thalor | A trade hub with a river port for trade with Halharent and Kalbaek. | Large City | Aerith Loralen |
Ilslenor | A port city open to to trade with most of the Central Continent. | Large City | Belanor Qinlar |
A'ren Alari | A grove sanctuary and library, dedicated to scientific advancement and the analysis of myth. | Large Grove | Lixiss Kelfiel |
Rokiiravae'en | A fort just below the peak of the Mountain of Ancients, and last stop en route to a well known monastary of the Winter Touched. | Small Fort | Elion Omasys |
Afvetheas | A grove sanctuary dedicated to the moons and their cycles. A refuge for Elven lycanthropes. | Small Grove | Alwin Urilana |
Thilendorei | A grove dedicated to the study of magic and the Myst Aether. | Medium Grove | Alyndra Zyldi |
roniffelvon | Historically a fort aligned to Tel'Shinon, now an independent town that has opened their borders to all species. | Small Town | Dasyra Dorneiros |
Rovaeteil | A breakaway group of Elven elitists who believe that Tel'Shinon is too open to the rest of the world. | Large Town | Glanduil Craven |
Ishe Aethel | The only non-Elven town of Kethraelm. Rumoured to be a pirate haven. | Large Town | Uloth Bloodhand |