Evela

The foothills of Evela are a sparsely populated area north of the central mountains. Considered by some the southern borders of the lands of ar’Turas, and by others part of the Lawless Lands north of the Midlands. The area consists mostly of small farming villages spread throughout the fertile ground of the fringe. Farther into the hills, the land becomes less suited for farming, so the population eventually drops off to nothing.

Normally, minor nobles live in this area, keeping a small garrison of trained soldiers, and protecting villages in exchange for a small percentage of the crops grown in the area. Their manor houses are also the centers of education and culture. They normally hire schoolmasters as well as priests to educate their own children, and many times the peasant children also. Also, they are the sites of many of the feasts and festivals that happen throughout the year. Instead of being the strained serf to master relationship like in some areas, the relationship between the nobility and peasants in the foothills is much more relaxed. The lord is normally looked at as the first among equals, and, although treated with respect by the townspeople, is rarely paid obeisance to, or addressed with formal titles. The lord functions as more of a mayor than a true noble.

The foothills are often the destination of many sorts of adventurers: hunters, trappers, bards, historians and even treasure hunters frequent the hills. Many of the locals are able to make their living as guides for these types through the difficult-to-navigate terrain.

The namesake of these hills is the ancient city of Evela. Around campfires late at night it is said that Evela was the first and greatest stronghold of men in these lands. Great in might and culture, it is said that the deeds of golden Evela were sung throughout the lands. Nestled at the base of the great mountains, it was said to glitter in the sunlight, and shine brightly in darkness, able to be seen for miles. The minstrels of Evela composed some of the greatest songs among men and elves, and their Magi were among the best ever trained. Evela was home to one of the binding stones.

However, Evela could not last forever. Their pride overcame them, and their downfall was utter. It is said that the gods rained fire on the streets of Evela, and reared mountains to surround its gates. The walls were broken down, and The Pride of Evela was written in stone on its gates. So it sits in the mountains of the midlands, a broken reminder of the pride of men.

For generations fortune seekers and treasure hunters have sought there fame among the ruins of the once great city. A destination for only the most hardy of adventurers, its streets are the graves of countless misfortunates. Said to be the habitation of dark beast and deadly enchantments many fear to enter the shadow of the ancient Sun Tower, however not a few of the brave had made their fortunes in the chatacombs of Evela.

Although it has been ravaged for generations, the ruins of Evela are still said to hold limitless treasure in their deep holds, and caverns in the mountains, and the the fabled golden binding stone of Evela, the fate of which was never determined, has been the quest of many an adventurous young caster.


*I honestly have only a vague idea where this is going, so if anyone wants to jump on with some good ideas feel free.