The Mysteries of Rúne - The Ice Spire Peak of Caer Anadl
Artist Credit: RAINMAN PAGE
One must watch one's head for the many wings flying overhead. The Wyrm Post carries parcels throughout the city on the wings of these pseudodragons, who are revered in Anadl as emotional protectors of the city. These small, wigged creatures outfitted with coats and goggles to brave the neverending storms of the castle walls.
As the self-proclaimed capital of the Onyx Territories, they are home to the annual Sardonyx Conclave summit. The Onyx Keep, located at the mountain's peak, is where Edling Yorath III and his council reside.
- Perpetual Winter -
Ever since the last Tempest was spotted over the waters of Locchan Gulf during the 500-year war, the walls of Caer Anadl have been caught in a never-ending blizzard. The torrential winds have caused the ancient walls to be covered in ice, and this ice has since been carved into sprawling tunnels to keep the denizens virtually indoors. Traversing the Caer is like being in a labyrinth, as the ice tunnels are constantly collapsing and being reconstructed as the storm persists. The elves of Caer Anadl have felt abandoned by Seasu as their memories of the changing seasons fade with time.
As a result of this, the city has become a centralized hub, and there are few ways in or out beyond sanctioned teleportation circles to the base of the mountain. These are heavily guarded and are seldom owned by individuals. This bottleneck has caused great tensions between the Caer citizens and the farming villages around the mountain they so desperately depend on for resources. The greater kingdom of Anadl spans a large portion of northwestern Sardonyx.
Artist Credit: Charles Robinson
- Locations -
Located at the edge of the Onyx Keep in the mountains is the natural cavern known simply as the Wyrm Den, a sanctuary for the winged messengers. Here, you can witness the pseudodragons in their natural habitat, watching them rest and play.
The Icefall of Enchantment is a stunning natural landmark located on the city’s outskirts. The icefalls cascade glasslike shards down the cliff face, and the water is said to have the magical ability to heal and rejuvenate those who drink from it. The shards never melt and form the best blades imaginable. The attempted retrieval of both have resulted in frequent peril.
Anadl is built at the heart of The Peaks of Serenity, forming a protective barrier around the city. These mountains are the dwelling place of powerful magical spirits, and many meditate upon their summits, seeking spiritual guidance in their cold winds.
- The Court -
The Court of Nadu consists of seven appointed principality seats beyond that of the Edling. There is the Septain, held by Oswallt Lloyd, who is the chief advisor to the Edling. The Offrain, held by Arvel Esau, The Archcleric and speaker of Nadu’s will. The Distain, held by Guto Edris, who holds authority over the guard and defence of the Castle. The Gwalain, held by Twedwr Wynne, oversees transportation in and out of the city, along with oversight of the postal system. The Llysain, held by Pryce Seff, judges city and petty matters that do not pertain to the Edling’s purview. The Celfain, held by Tomos Buell, the Archbard and keeper of histories and architectural practices of the city. They also oversee the mapping and maintenance of the ice tunnels. And lastly the Thrysain, held by Bran Seff, the grand treasurer of the Caer.
- The Summit -
The Summit is held in the Court of Seven Stones. These seven stone tables are the seats of the principalities, but upon the gathering of the Great Cities, they are the seats of the Sardonyx Conclave. Each City holds one seat and one vote but may bring however many representatives to decide upon their contribution. There are also fourteen rotating minor seats for the various Onyx Territories provinces. Only the Seven hold veto power, given their divine sanctions. This veto power can only be enacted if each member of a given seat agrees.
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