Faction Lore Places

Message Rating: Topic Search Topic Options Post Reply Create New Topic Printable Version Translate Topic

The Barracks is the trade hub for Bayne's Irregulars -- if you want to do business with Bayne, that's where you go. It is a rough and rowdy town, filled with warriors, mercenaries, desperados,  psychopaths, and other characters that comprise Bayne's motley crew of warriors. Only he can pull them all together into the unparalleled fighting force that they are known to be.

Just about 10 leagues away on the southern peninsula of Bayne's island in the south portion of Lake Windlost is his sharecropping estate and village of Dragon's Roost. "The Roost" as it is referred to by the irregulars, is the opposite of The Barracks -- a place of refuge and respite for the elves, dwarves, humans, and orcs who work for Bayne, where their families can live and grow crops when not at war for the highest bidder. 

The estate thrives with fertile lands under the protection of ancient wyrm effigies. A stone dragon carved long ago stands as both a protector and symbol of the harmonious coexistence achieved here.

Author	Message Rating: Topic Search Topic Options Post Reply Create New Topic Printable Version Translate Topic
GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Topic: Faction Lore Places Posted: 18 Jan 2025 at 15:33
	The Barracks is the trade hub for Bayne's Irregulars -- if you want to do business with Bayne, that's where you go. It is a rough and rowdy town, filled with warriors, mercenaries, desperados, psychopaths, and other characters that comprise Bayne's motley crew of warriors. Only he can pull them all together into the unparalleled fighting force that they are known to be. Just about 10 leagues away on the southern peninsula of Bayne's island in the south portion of Lake Windlost is his sharecropping estate and village of Dragon's Roost. "The Roost" as it is referred to by the irregulars, is the opposite of The Barracks -- a place of refuge and respite for the elves, dwarves, humans, and orcs who work for Bayne, where their families can live and grow crops when not at war for the highest bidder. The estate thrives with fertile lands under the protection of ancient wyrm effigies. A stone dragon carved long ago stands as both a protector and symbol of the harmonious coexistence achieved here.


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 18 Jan 2025 at 15:41
	Nestled amidst the verdant plains, Agrivilla stands as a fortified enclave where practicality meets arcane study. Located on a small island in Lake Archipelagus, this outpost thrives under the rational doctrines of the Empirium. Here, scholars and farmers work side by side, yielding bountiful harvests and pioneering theoretical breakthroughs. Agrivilla is a testament to the pursuit of observable knowledge, shunning celestial conjecture in favor of rendering the unknown known. Join us in celebrating this unique blend of agriculture and academia! Agrivilla is a walled co-op associated with Empirium's Potentia trade hub. It is located on a small island to the northwest of Potentia on the same vast lake that forms the delta that its trade hub uses to conduct trade to the south.


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 18 Jan 2025 at 15:50
	The Æthelscir is a great watchtower belonging to the Duchy of Keppen -- one of 3 outposts that the Æthelscir is the Duchy of Keppen's ancient watchtower, placed strategically upon rugged cliffs overseeing the Grey Mountains, which open into the eastern wing of Meilla. Built with stout stone hewn from the heart of the mountains, Æthelscir stands as a formidable structure. Its immediate neighbor to the east is the fun-loving Keppers of Golden Fields, with whom the Duchy has maintained a friendly relationship for nearly an age. Nevertheless, the tower's lanterns burn bright through the night, remaining vigilant for any interloping invaders and serving as a beacon of solidarity for the peaceful inhabitants on the other side of the mountains. Under the vigilance of Captain Eadric the Valiant and his guards, Æthelscir ensures the safety of the surrounding villages and towns, standing as a steadfast beacon of hope and vigilance. The Æthelscir is associated with the Duchy's trade hub of Shurthorn and is about 14 leagues away, making it easy to change the guard at the great tower.


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 18 Jan 2025 at 16:00
	Known as the Flets of Eternal Mourning, Ailindale is enveloped in a continual aura of sadness. The beauty of the Elves residing here is paired with a profound sense of sorrow due to the Sundering, a catastrophic event that continues to haunt them. In this place of towering, silver-barked trees, laughter is seldom heard. Instead, Ailindale is characterized by a community bonded through shared lamentation. The atmosphere is one of solitude, with the gentle breezes carrying the sounds of sadness. You won't find gaiety here, but rather a permanent vigil of quiet grieving. The great Flet of Ailindale is associated with the Tears Eternal's trade hub of Dolunhill, which is about 15 leagues away.


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 22 Jan 2025 at 22:31
	Ailinor, the Mythical Portal of the Eaglesbrood, is a mysterious location in the world of Illyriad. Situated near the border of Arran and Turalia, it is guarded by the Giant Eagles of Illyria. It is believed that the portal was established by Taolin Vu, the God of the Heights and Eagles. It serves as a gateway connecting the mortal realm to the celestial abodes of the Upper Circle Gods. The portal appears as a grand archway sculpted from the very elements of the mountain itself, its stonework shimmering with a silvery sheen as if kissed by moonlight. Around its base, the turbulent winds of the high altitudes play a perpetual symphony, creating an almost sacred hum that resonates through the crisp air. Giant Eagles, guardians of the portal, glide in graceful arcs overhead, their silhouettes stark against the cerulean sky. Nestled atop weathered crags, nests composed of ancient branches and adorned with precious skyborne relics speak of the eagles' mythic ancestry and connection to Taolin Vu, God of the Heights and Eagles. The portal itself is alive, a tapestry of swirling mists and ethereal light, shifting in unending patterns. Looking through it, another supernatural realm can sometimes be seen in a fleeting glimpse. While it has not been confirmed, Ailinor may also offer a magical passageway through to Madrin Aur -- the other known Eaglesbrood portal -- which is located in Strendur.


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 23 Jan 2025 at 17:05
	Al-Qamarin is a meticulously designed watchtower outpost specifically positioned to keep watch over the Silk Road and safeguard the Sultanate of Kazim against marauding forces and the encroaching desert sands. It is primarily associated with defense and navigation, providing a strategic stronghold in the region. Situated on the brink of expansive desert plains that transition seamlessly into an expansive lake, Al-Qamarin serves as a sentinel in the harsh landscape. Its unique position marks it as a critical navigation point for seafarers traversing the river south to the Bitter Sea, and a strategic defensive outpost near Khafkar in the Sultanate of Kazim's realm. The outpost's most distinguishing characteristic is its smooth, imposing sandstone walls, which reflect both the utilitarian and aesthetic design philosophies of its creators. These robust walls encompass the structure, capable of withstanding both military threats and the relentless progression of the windswept sands. At its zenith, a soaring spire extends into the sky, creating a landmark visible for numerous leagues and symbolizing vigilance and supremacy. Under the command of the indomitable Captain Idris Al-Zahir, Al-Qamarin functions as a bastion of readiness and authority. The facility is continuously monitored by a team of vigilant guards, maintaining a steadfast watch over influential trade routes such as the Silk Road. This watchful presence ensures the safety of merchants and travelers alike and defends against potential incursions.


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 25 Jan 2025 at 17:31
	Nestled on the craggy edges of Alderton Island in the Bay of Tal, Alderton watch tower rises as a formidable sentinel. Its towering structure looms against the sky, crafted from rough-hewn stone that carries an air of ancient resilience. This outpost functions both as a lighthouse for ships navigating the Bitter Sea and a defense bastion against enemies. The tower’s walls, weathered by time and the salty embrace of the sea, stand as a testament to its primary function — both a guide and a guardian. The base is broad and solid, anchoring it steadfastly to the rocky ground. Towards the top, the tower tapers slightly, crowned by a beacon that casts its reassuring light far across the restless waters of the Bitter Sea. Narrow slits for windows punctuate its ascent, allowing vigilant sentinels to keep watch over the surrounding horizon, day and night. Surrounding Alderton, the island itself is a tapestry of stark beauty, dotted with jagged rocks and lush patches of hardy sea grass, all battered constantly by the fierce winds. The tower melds almost seamlessly with the landscape — a natural extension of the island’s ancient stones. Yet, amidst this ruggedness, it stands proud and unyielding, a beacon of hope to wayward sailors and a steadfast bulwark against any who dare approach the kingdom unbidden. Inside its austere stone corridors, the air is cool and still, echoing with a history of whispered warnings and determined watchfulness. This enduring structure is more than mere bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of steadfast vigilance, an unwavering eye trained on the distant waves, ready to defend the kingdom it faithfully serves. Edited by GM Jejune - 25 Jan 2025 at 17:37


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 30 Jan 2025 at 21:51
	Altan Uul is a notable town situated in a populated region of Keshalia. Associated closely with the Ordu Kush trade hub of the Tipu Khan, it serves as a support outpost and acts as a critical nexus for trade routes with other friendly factions, including the Kanchalka, Wen Kun Dynasty, Forbidden Empire, and Tien Zao. The town is characterized by its robust stone battlements, known as the Echo Towers -- special tower structures within the city walls that are designed to amplify sound from long distances, allowing warnings to echo across the region at the first sign of trouble. Altan Uul features a bustling market square that represents a vibrant regional fusion point where multiple cultures of the Tipu Khan and their Faction allies intersect. Visitors can experience an array of exotic wares, along with the enticing aroma of spiced meats, fresh produce, fine wines, aged cheeses, and more. Two notable groups you'll find in the marketplace are The Guild of Silk and Spices and the Escaped Remnants Market. The Guild of Silk and Spices is a unique merchants' guild based in Altan Uul, known for trading the finest silks and rare spices. This guild plays a crucial role in forming alliances with the nomadic clans of Tipu Khan, transforming Altan Uul into a bustling trade hub. Additionally, they work closely with artisans and vendors from the Kanchalka, Wen Kun Dynasty, Forbidden Empire, and Tien Zao to ensure that the spices from these rich cultures are widely available throughout the region to all. The far more elusive Escaped Remnants Market is a clandestine market underneath the town, rumored to trade in artifacts from times long past. It draws adventurous souls from across Illyriad seeking fortunes and ancient relics. Some of Illyria's most coveted rare items can be bought and sold here at hard-bargain prices that could cost you your life if you're not careful. Despite its lively atmosphere, the presence of vigilant Altan Uul Rangers ensures that the town remains watchful of the untamed expanses beyond its reach. Among these Rangers are the Watchers of Altan Uul, an elite group of scouts and marksmen that maintain constant vigilance over the surrounding landscape. Skilled in both diplomacy and warfare, they function as peacekeepers and defenders against potential threats. Altan Uul is integral to the cultural and economic interactions within Keshalia and adjacent territories. Occupying this Faction Outpost would yield significant sway over the Tiup Khan as well as its regional neighbors.


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 09 Feb 2025 at 17:12
	Aquilea: The Sanctuary of Archmage Stendas Aquilea is a vibrant, walled village in Perrigor, nestled by the serene River Tenebris, serving as a resource and refuge for the Circle of Five and those dedicated to supporting their work. The village's diverse inhabitants hail from various races of Illyria, coexisting harmoniously under the leadership of Archmage Stendas, one of the illustrious Circle of Five mages who represents the race of humans among the magical guild. Rejecting the political games of the realm, the villagers focus on harnessing magical forces available within their sanctuary, subtly influencing the threads of fate. Abundant crops flourish outside the village's walls, which are planted and harvested with ease, thanks to brilliant planning and a touch of help from Stendas' magic spells. The town marketplace brims with fresh produce and baked goods, as well as high-quality meats and cheeses. More than enough food and supplies are produced in Aquilea for the support of the mages and their support staff at the 5 spires throughout Elgea; nearby communities benefit from the community's bounty and trade their own specialties, further enhancing the village's marketplace offerings. The heart of Aquilea is the awe-inspiring structure of Pelagium Thalassos, a tower strategically placed to catch the last rays of dusk, painting the skies with its brilliance. Known widely for its impregnable nature, formidable walls and protective magics that heavily shield it, the Tower is constructed of bluish-grey stones that resemble the serene hues of the nearby River Tenebris when caressed by sunlight. Legend has it that the Pelagium Thalassos was constructed centuries ago by an enigmatic order of architects and magicians dedicated to ensuring that the magical wisdom and arts of the Circle of Five would endure through the ages. These creators, whose names have since faded into myth, infused the tower with powerful enchantments designed to protect and enhance the abilities of those who dwell within. It is said they chose the location strategically, recognizing the confluence of mystical currents at Aquilea, which would amplify the arcane tasks undertaken by Archmage Stendas and other practitioners. Many believe that the standing stones and ruined tower to the northwest of the village are vestiges of the tower's magical construction. Today, the tower serves as both the residence and mystical laboratory of Archmage Stendas, whose magical might commands respect throughout the kingdoms. His role as a master of water magic is apparent in the ebb and flow of energies throughout Pelagium Thalassos, where the nearby creek -- a tributary to the Tenebris -- channel arcane forces for study and manipulation. The tower's purpose extends beyond mere habitation; it is a bastion of knowledge, a place where scholars and magicians convene seasonally to unearth secrets, forge alliances, and safeguard the delicate balance of magic within Illyria. For the villagers and allies of Aquilea, Pelagium Thalassos is revered not only as a wonder of architectural and magical brilliance but also as a symbol of the enduring legacy and guardianship of the Circle of Five. Edited by GM Jejune - 09 Feb 2025 at 17:18


GM Jejune Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Moderator Group GM Joined: 24 Feb 2022 Location: Illyriad Status: Offline Points: 567	Posted: 15 Feb 2025 at 15:13
	The great Windseeker watchtower of Aurelia is located on the western side of the Rill Archipelago, due east of the city and trade hub of Hanlif. The road from Hanlif to Aurelia is a treacherous one that winds through a relentless maze of low mountains, with few respites from climbing and descending exhausting and perilous elevations. Due to its remote location, Aurelia is not supported by Hanlif, and is instead manned, provisioned, and visited by guards and citizens of the nearby village of Windwyrm (pictured across the Bay in the image above). Windwyrm is a vibrant village nestled on the shores of the Bay of Rill, renowned for its deep ties to the sea and its storied past. This village marks the very first landing of the Windseekers upon their arrival in the Rill Archipelago. Here, they famously parlayed with the dragon as immortalized in the Windseekers' lore, which represents one of the only shreds of detail we have about the mystical creatures. Aurelia was likely constructed in the late First Age after the meeting of and blessing from the great dragon. Its creators doubtless created it as a sentinel over the Bay of Rill to watch for invading Harpies or Melders, which the dragon warned them about and reportedly gave them magical secrets to repel the evil creatures. The tower features an imposing carved stone dragon sculpture placed on the tower's rampart, which connects to a serpentine dragon body and tail that spirals down the tower's walls -- giving the impression of a great dragon perched on top of the tower and standing watch over the island. The tower's imposing sculpture was commissioned to scare off Harpies and Melders from ransacking the village of Windwyrm, since Hanlif did not develop into a major city until the Second Age. To reach Aurelia, people must use a ferry that brings them across a small stretch of peaceful water in the bay. The islet that Aurelia is located on is little more than a jagged rock with some patches of flora -- there is no room for building even one outbuilding for the tower, let alone a small hamlet to support its watch. Rakkos Mello, the half-elven minstrel and chronicler of Windseeker lore, visited the Rill Archipelago and the Windseekers sometime during the first half of the Second Age, which is where he picked up the backstory of the Windseekers' arrival in Rill and their early meeting of the dragon. Mello's arrival was clearly after the construction of Aurelia, as a scroll in his collection features a poem about the tower and dragon -- likely the lyrics to one of his own songs: Upon the jagged isle, beyond the bay's gentle roll, Stands Aurelia, a guardian carved from lore of old. Its towering stone echoes tales of those who once did dare To grant a kindred dragon their bounty rare. O mighty sculpture, whose scales wind serpentine, Upon your lofty rampart, watchers of both man and time, Imbued by dragon’s laughter and their gift of song, Your presence wards our Windwyrm from threats prolonged. For Harpies shriek and Melders skulk in our hearts' distrust, Yet under your gaze, they find naught but dust. Through the ferry’s gentle sway, our songs serenely guide, To the sacred rock where we brave the tide. O dragon bold, honored guardian, in stone you dwell, From your watchful perch, peace upon this island fell. In wind’s whispered lilts and foamy choral strains, We sing of the dragon's might and the tower's enduring reign. Over the past decades, Aurelia has become a pilgrimage for members of the Ordo Draconis, who visit the Tower in homage to the apparition of the dragon. The priests of the Order, which is referred to in today's common tongue as the "Dragonkin," have offered little information about the possible presence of dragons in Illyria today, though some of their acolytes, who often accompany their masters on pilgrimages to Aurelia, have mentioned in passing to the villagers in Windwyrm that many of them come from a place they call the "Spire of Drakenthyr" -- a place that remains uncharted on the map of Illyria. The people of Windwyrm are good stewards of the Windseekers' reputation for peace and civility, and allow free passage of all visitors to Aurelia, acknowledging that it represents a rare and crucial piece of history for both the Windseekers and dragons.