Valendross

Geography & Location

Valendross is a diverse and temperate region nestled between the towering Titanforge Mountains to the east and the Grimwater Marsh to the west. The land features rolling hills, fertile plains, and dense forests, including the infamous Boarswood, which sprawls across the western part of the region. The river coasline is marked by craggy cliffs that give way to rushing rapids. The capital city, Valorinth, lies in the southern tip along the river, acting as a hub of trade and politics, while smaller towns like Roemora and Gilhain offer unique local charms and resources. The Tasapaino Monastery, sitting on the northern banks of Blackwater Lake, serves as both a sanctuary for orphans and a spiritual center.

Economy

Valendross boasts a robust and diverse economy, driven by its natural resources and strategic location. The Titanforge Mountains provide rich veins of precious metals and gemstones, particularly in the dwarven-controlled Thaig Darom, known for its superior blacksmithing and metalwork. The fertile plains around Valorinth are ideal for agriculture, producing grains, fruits, and the region's famous Blackwater Wine made from grapes grown near the lake's nutrient-rich shores. Trade flows freely along the Serpent’s Way River, and Valorinth's marketplaces are bustling with merchants selling everything from rare dwarven crafts to exotic spices from surrounding regions. Gilhain is a key agricultural hub, while Roemora specializes in hunting and lumber.

History

The history of Valendoross is marked by periods of conflict and unity. Once a fractured collection of feuding fiefdoms, it was unified under one banner three centuries ago. The dwarves of Thaig Darom have maintained a long-standing alliance with the human families of Valendross, trading their metals and expertise for grain and other necessities. However, tensions have occasionally flared up due to disputes over mining rights and territory.

Culture & Society

The people of Valendross are known for their resilience and pride. The region’s motto, "Strength in Unity, Honor in Tradition," is reflected in the values of its citizens. The noble families uphold traditions of chivalry and governance, while the common folk take great pride in their craftsmanship and hard work. The Tasapaino Monastery plays a unique role in society, caring for orphans and training them in various skills, from combat to scholarly pursuits. It is said that many great warriors, priests, and scholars have emerged from its halls. Festivals are an important part of life in Valendross, with the Festival of the Wilds being the most celebrated, held in Roemora every autumn to honor the spirit of the wild and the bounty of the nearby forests.

Points of Interest

• Valorinth: The capital city, known for its grand architecture, bustling markets.
• Tasapaino Monastery: A serene and mysterious place known for its unique role as an orphanage and training ground, overlooking the serene waters of Blackwater Lake.
• Blackwater Lake: Named for its deep, almost black waters, this lake is believed to have mystical properties and is rumored to hide ancient ruins beneath its depths.
• Boarswood Forest: A dense and dangerous forest filled with wild game, ancient trees, and local legends of a great, white boar that appears as an omen of change.
• Thaig Darom: The dwarven stronghold in the Titanforge Mountains, famed for its deep mines and exquisite metalwork. It is both a fortress and a city, with intricate tunnels running beneath the mountains.

Threats & Dangers

• The Order of the Sanguine Chalice: A mysterious cult believed to be operating in the shadows of Valendross, rumored to have a dark interest in the power hidden in the blood of nobility.
• Mine Collapse in Thaig Darom: The dwarves of Thaig Darom have reported a series of mine collapses, possibly due to an unknown creature burrowing deeper underground. Whispers of a Rock Wyrm have spread through the local towns.
• Bandit Lords of the Serpent's Way: As trade has increased, so too has the activity of well-organized bandit groups that prey on caravans traveling along the Serpent's Way River.

Notable NPCs

• Count Alaric Veremont:
• Duke Godric Valcoran:

Brother Elias of Tasapaino: The head of the Tasapaino Monastery, a wise and enigmatic man who has cared for countless orphans. He is said to have visions of the future. Thrain Stonearm: The dwarven leader of Thaig Darom, a grizzled warrior and master blacksmith. He is fiercely protective of his people and has a tense relationship with the human nobility.

Rumors & Hooks

• The Lost Treasure of Blackwater: An old sailor in Valorinth claims to have a map showing the location of a sunken city at the bottom of Blackwater Lake, full of treasure that once belonged to a forgotten king.
• Whispers in the Monastery: Some of the older orphans at the Tasapaino Monastery speak of strange rituals being conducted in the dead of night. They say Brother Elias is hiding something.
• The Boar King's Wrath: Hunters have returned from the Boarswood with tales of a colossal, white boar that seems almost intelligent. Some believe it to be the spirit of a long-dead druid.
• Dwarven Collapse: Thrain Stonearm has put out a call for brave souls to investigate the recent mine collapses. The dwarves suspect a creature far more dangerous than a simple rockslide.
• Succession Crisis: With Count Alaric Veremont ill and without an heir, rival factions are beginning to form in Valorinth. The Treyvaynes seem particularly interested in securing power, but not all of their methods appear honorable.

Government

Valendross is a feudal monarchy led by Duke Godric Valcoran, supported by a council of noble houses, including the influential Treyvaynes and Veremonts. The current duke has ruled for decades but is now facing declining health, leading to uncertainty about the future of the region's leadership. The noble families vie for influence, while the dwarves of Thaig Darom are recognized as an independent entity with their own governance but remain allied with the duke.