The New Vale

Geography

Darkwater Valley stretches along the banks of the Darkwash (or Darkwater) River and its many tributaries, occupying lands that once fell under the control of Norvos, Lorath, and, most notably, Qohor. Throughout history, even the distant powers of Lys and Volantis extended their influence into this region, leaving behind traces of their former dominance.   The valley spans from the frigid waters of the Shivering Sea in the north to the vast expanse of Dagger Lake in the south. To the southwest, its borders reach as far as a portion of the great Rhoynar River, further tying its lands to the history and legacy of the Rhoyne.   Among its most significant settlements are the once-mighty cities of Ny Sar and Ar Noy, remnants of a grander past. Today, the heart of the Principate is Darkbridge, the capital and political center of the valley. The bustling trade city of Lorash serves as the only harbor with direct access to the sea, making it a crucial hub for commerce and maritime activity. Meanwhile, the settlement known as the Gateway marks the valley’s border with Norvos, standing as a strategic outpost that separates the lands of Darkwater Valley from its westernmost neighbor.  

History

Context

To fully understand the foundation of New Vale, it is essential to consider the broader context in which it emerged. The Dothraki launched devastating assaults on the Free Cities of Essos, advancing with terrifying speed and overwhelming force. In the face of this unstoppable horde, House Baelish of the Kingdom of the Vale saw an opportunity. Through an alliance with the Free City of Lorath, they negotiated a deal to secure one front of their defenses while also aiding Norvos, a city struggling to withstand the relentless invasion.   Meanwhile, on the other side of the Narrow Sea, the Kingdom of the Andals, and the Kingdom of the North, launched 2 invasions (one each kingdom) of the formerly independent Kingdom of the Vale. This conflict led to a massive exodus of Valemen to Essos, orchestrated under the orders of King Jamie Corbray of the Vale.   As the invasion unfolded, tragedy struck—the king and the royal family were either killed or mysteriously disappeared in the chaos of the Bracken assault. In the aftermath, House Redfort and House Baelish took up the mantle of leadership, guiding the displaced people of the Vale toward their new home and laying the foundation for what would become New Vale.  

Foundation of Darkwater Valley

As the exiled people of the Vale pressed forward, thanks to the support of they allies of Lorath, facing both hardship and resistance. Their campaign to reclaim territory was swift and relentless, pushing ever deeper into foreign lands—until they reached Darkbridge. There, their expansion came to a turning point.   At Darkbridge, House Redfort and House Baelish encountered Laeya zo Lezehrq, a wealthy exile from the island-city of Elyria. She convinced the Westerosi leaders to allow her to rule the emerging nation, offering them something invaluable in return—peace. She brokered an alliance with House Rogare, the powerful family that had driven the Dothraki from the shores of Lys to the very outskirts of Qohor, ensuring that the new nation would not face immediate threats.   Keeping her promises, Laeya not only secured peace but also used her wealth to purchase Lorash and other key territories, providing the exiled Valemen with the land they desperately needed to survive and rebuild. Through her leadership and strategic foresight, the foundation of a new home was laid.  

Government

The government of Darkwater Valley is a Principate, ruled by three Princes or Princesses, each overseeing a key aspect of governance. The Princess of Darkwater serves as the sovereign ruler, holding ultimate authority over law and administration. The Prince of War commands the Valley’s armies, ensuring its defense and overseeing military strategy. Meanwhile, the Prince of Coin manages the economy, regulating trade, taxation, and financial affairs to maintain the realm’s prosperity. Together, these three leaders form a balanced system of power, guiding the Valley through governance, warfare, and economic stability.  

Languages

The most spoken languages are Low Valyrian and the Common Tongue.  

Cultures

Darkwater Valley is a land of diverse cultures, shaped by the convergence of various peoples and traditions. At its core, the descendants of the Vale, often referred to by the locals as the New Andals, form a strong and unified community, preserving the customs of their ancestral homeland. Alongside them, influences from the Free Cities have woven themselves into the Valley’s identity, with distinct cultural groups from Lorath, Qohor, and Norvos adding their own traditions to the region. To the south, there are traces of Lysene influence, while the presence of mercenaries—drawn to the Valley through war and conquest—has further contributed to its cultural tapestry.  

Currency

Darkwash has no official currency, yet trade and commerce thrive through a diverse system of exchange. The most commonly used currencies are those of Lorath, Qohor, and Lys, each circulating widely among merchants, traders, and common folk. With such a mix of monetary systems, transactions in Darkwash operate within a complex and fluid marketplace, where the value of coinage fluctuates based on availability, trade routes, and regional influence.  

Religion

At the Valley, many gods are prayed; the most common are the Seven; but the Red Lord has a high presence too, same as the Black Goat of Death of Qohor and sects, of Bearded Priests of Norvos, among several others