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Evereska
Last
Bastion of
the Elves
Compiled, Edited & in some parts written by “Snowblood”
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Contents Page
Map of the Shaeradim...page 2 Location...page 4 History...page 4 Geography & Places within the Shaeradim Mountains...page 11 The City of Evereska...page 19 The Culture and Society of Evereska... page 26 The Defences & Mythal of Evereska...page 31 The City Locality Guide...page 34 Detailed map of the City of Evereska...page 38 Map of Halfway Inn Trade Precinct...page 40 Sources Used...page 41
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LocationThe Vale of Evereska is located high amidst the Shaeradim, a small mountain range on the western edge of Anauroch, due north of the Battle of Bones. Humans sometimes employ the nomenclature Graycloak Hills for the mountains surrounding Evereska, but that is more properly applied to the next set of hills to the north, also known as the Tomb Hills. This verdant valley and walled city of the elves is the greatest known
concentration of moon elven Fair Folk remaining in Faerun, beautiful, cultured place of beauty where few are welcome.
Excerpt from freely available image at
[http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/wd_maps/FRposterLarge_150.jpg
History:The history of Evereska is a secret shared with few non-elves, and even most elven residents are uncertain of its origins. Most accounts place its' founding at -8600 DR, making it the most ancient city known in all Faer0n. Why such a remote site was chosen is unknown, but many sages believe Corellon Larethian himself chose the vale as a "last stand" stronghold for the elves during the Sundering of the Drow, if the unthinkable happened and Lloth somehow defeated the Seldarine. It certainly has served as a refuge for the elven people on numerous occasions, including the fall of the Netherese Empire and the Fall of Myth Drannor. Timeline:
-8600 DR: Evereska founded in secret by surviving clans of the former Shamel Othreier, Miyeritar, Orishaar and Eiellor as an elven safe haven in the woods east of Aryvandaar.
–8500 DR: Moon and Green Elven Selu’taar from Evereska help with the raising of Aelinthaldaar, which becomes the capital city of Illefarn.
–8400 DR: Concerned Moon and Green Elf elders meet to discuss the return of a few sun elves to found Siluvanede in the northwestern reaches of the High Forest. Fears of another Vyshaan empire and the
rediscovery of the secrets of Aryvandaar lead to discussions on the setting up of a realm to watch over the Sun elves of Siluvanede.
–8130 DR Several clans of Moon and Green elves move to Rystall Wood with the founding of Yrlaancel, the City of Peace.
–8000 DR Green Elf Selu’taar and priests from Evereska and Rystall Wood help in the establishment of Semberholme as a safe haven in times of war and crisis for the females, children, and elders of the elves of Cormanthyr.
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-7600 DR Sharrven is founded in the southern reaches of the High Forest, due to overcrowding in Evereska and elitism of Siluvanedenn elves.
–7400 DR Survivors from realm of Ilodhar as it falls under an orc horde, make their way to Evereska and Cormanthyr.
–6950 DR The ruling Lords of Evereska try to convince the Star elves to stay as they begin to gather in the Yuirwood, leaving the other elf nations behind.
–6600 DR Yuireshanyaar is founded by Star elves and Green elf descendents from the refugees of Miyeritarwho had up until now been living within the hidden forests and vales of the Shaeradim.
–6000 DR Elves from Evereska stumble across the tomb of Hssthak, a sarrukh mummy. Recognizing the threat it posed, a half-dozen elves volunteer to become mummies so that they can guard the tomb for all eternity. –5660 DR Intevar’s Librarium *–5700] and some strongholds in Uvaeren are attacked by greedy elf wizards seeking knowledge of High Magic, to no avail. However, Intevar dies of a poisoned wound, ending the Fifth Rysar. The assassins are tracked back to Lothen by agents from the Knaves of the Missing page from Evereska, and eliminated with extreme prejudice. The servants of a previously unknown demon Lord named Malkizid are thought to be involved.
–5300 DR The elves of Siluvanede erect a mythal in the city of Adofhaeranede causing much concern amongst the Moon and Green Elf clans of Evereska who caution the Gold elves of Myth Adofhaer about the abuses of the past. The Cor’selutaar of the city signs a binding compact to not repeat the mistakes of the past.
–5000 DR Survivors of House Dlardrageth, a clan of demon-blooded sun elves, flee from Arcorar to Siluvanede. While the elves of Evereska go into mourning over the sudden destruction of Uvaeren. Priests and other concerned citizens use hidden gates to rush aid and support to the few survivors and to help put out the fires devastating the forests of Cormanthyr.
–4700 DR Nobles of Sharrven (with aid from Moon and Green Elf clans from Evereska) who seek to restrict the ambitious Siluvanedenn found the kingdom of Eaerlann among the ruins of Aryvandaar.
–4500 DR to –4300 DR Seven Citadels’ War: These skirmishes between the elite forces of Siluvanede and the fledgling forces of Eaerlann are sometimes collectively referred to as the Sixth Crown War. There is much unrest in Evereska as some Sun, Moon and Green elf families leave the city to support their kin in other realms.
–4440 DR Eaerlann presses Siluvanede. The Siluvanedenn open several of Aryvandaar’s ancient citadels and equip their warriors with Vyshaantar weapons. This tactic draws Sharrven into the war. The elders of Evereska now realise that unless the Sun Elves of Siluvanede are stopped then another Aryvandaar could emerge. They provide troops and logistic support to the realms of Sharrven and Eaerlann.
–4300 DR The Seven Citadels’ War ends, and Eaerlann forcibly annexes Siluvanede. Upon discovering the deceit of the fey’ri, untainted Siluvanedenn High Mages following the terms of the oath with Evereska, place the city of Myth Adofhaer in magical stasis, effectively fleeing to the far future to escape association with the fey’ri houses.
–4000 DR The Coronal Oacenth of Jhyrennstar falls ill, leading to the forging of the three elfblades (by smiths and priests of Tethrin Veralde – Master of Blades from Evereska )and the Ruling Trials. Coronal Kahvoerm Irithyl becomes the ruler of Semberholme, Jhyrennstar, and Elven Court, all of which are now Cormanthyr.
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–3983 DR Elders and Selu’taar from Evereska arrive to witness the beginnings of the city of Cormanthor, with the Summoning of the Rule Tower. They offer their help and expertise as geomancers and druids move into help with the construction of the city.
–3859 DR The elves of Evereska begin the construction of several watch towers on their western border as the Citizens of the Narrow Sea fishing villages of Fenwick, Gers, Gilan, Gustaf, Moran, Nauseef, and Janick combine for mutual protection, form the Alliance of Seventon.
–3830 DR At the prompting of selu’taar from Evereska and Sharrven the Eaerlanni elves initiate a formal dialogue with humans of Netheril and begin instructing promising Netherese students in the Art. Netheril’s first arcanist is Therion of Gers.
–3655 DR Orcs pour forth from the Spine of the World, but the elves of Illefarn, Evereska and Eaerlann turn them back with help from the fledgling Netherese Empire and the Rengarth barbarians. The tribal lands of the Rengarth are absorbed into Netheril, although the barbarians remain largely autonomous.
–3654 DR Escaping his Evereskan captors a sarrukh lich of tremendous power disguises himself as a human archwizard and appears to the Netherese who have begun to learn magic from the Earlanni elves. Although he calls himself Arthindol, the Netherese dub him “Terraseer” for his power to see events all over the world. The Terraseer teaches secrets of the Art to humans and reappears to help them over the comingcenturies, never seeming to age. The Lich seeks to dominate the humans for his own purposes and undermines the efforts of the elves.
–3605 DR Orcs pour from the Spine of the World but elves turn them back in a great slaughter with help from fledgling Netheril. This orc incursion lasts nineteen years.
–3373 DR King Azkuldar of Ammarindar initiates trade relations with the magic-wielding humans of Netheril, and Moon elf traders from Evereska. This trade leads to the founding of a trading post on the present site of the Halfway Inn.
–2770 DR The Slaughter of Sharrven: The elf realm of Sharrven fragments and falls due to an explosion in the monstrous populations within the southern High Forest engineered by the fey’ri of Siluvanede. Survivors flee to Eaerlann and Evereska.
–2135 DR Fighting a Yuan-ti and Lizard-kin incursion into the Blackwoods, the Everdusk Knights ride forth and destroy the massive horde of serpent and lizard folk.
–1644 DR Moon Elf nobles from the Ammath clan set about rescuing slaves taken for experiments in the mines of Dekanter.
–1535 DR Green and Moon elves from Evereska, Eaerlann, Illefarn and Cormanthyr establish Yrlaphon in the eastern woods across the River Lis.
–1400 DR Followers of Shevarash discover an attempt by Drow from Ched Nassad to invade Evereska from beneath. The invading army of orcs, goblins and Drow is crushed by the combined forces of Evereska and Ammarindar long before it can reach the upper levels of the underdark beneath the Shaeradim Vale.
–1250 DR Unther battles Yuireshanyaar for control of the southern Aglarondan coast. The star elves are driven back into the woods. Green elves from Eaerlann, Illefarn and Evereska use hidden gates to travel to Aglarond to assist their distant kin.
–1100 DR Illefarn’s last coronal, Syglaeth Audark, commands a Retreat to Evermeet. The remnants of the elf empire fragment into the independent realms of Ardeep, Iliyanbruen (in Neverwinter Wood), and Rilithar (in Westwood and Kryptgarden Forest). Many Moon and Sun elf families migrate to Evereska and Eaerlann rather than heed the call to retreat. Selu’taar from Illefarn, Eaerlann and Evereska raze Aelinthaldaar, the capital city
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of Illefarn, using High magic, on the order of Illefarn’s coronal. Virtually nothing is left to indicate that an elf city had stood on the site for seven millennia.
–897 DR King Olaurin, greatest hero-king of Ammarindar, is slain by the deep dragon Erthungaron who in turn is slain by the visiting envoys from Evereska, Duskblade Nemilyth Mistwing and Selu’taar Karlah Durothil. –699 DR Year of Moon Blades Clashing The star elves abandon Yuireshanyaar for Sildëyuir. Many green elves choose to remain in the Yuirwood, whilst others return to their homes within the Vales of the Shaeradim. –461 DR Year of Bold Pioneers The phaerimm begin casting the spells that eventually lead to the creation of the Great Desert of Anauroch and the abandonment of Low Netheril. The few remaining Green Elf Selu’taar of Evereska and Eaerlann secretly meet with their lost kin, the Sharn, and entreat them to help contain the growing threats of both the Netherese and the Phaerimm.
–354 DR Year of Many Maws The first recorded clash between the Sharn, Green elf wizards and the Phaerimm occurs in Anauroch.
–345 DR Year of Good Courage Arthindol the Terraseer [–2375] appears for the final time. Upon arriving in the enclave of Karsus, he warns that the goddess Mystryl is about to face her greatest challenge. Pursued by Evereskan Selu’taar, Priests and Spell Blades, Arthindol disappears in a flurry of magic and steel, never to be seen again.
–339 DR Year of Sundered Webs Fall of Netheril: Nearly all of the Netherese enclaves fall to the earth and are destroyed due to disruptions in the Weave brought about by the casting of the spell Karsus’s avatar and the subsequent death of the goddess Mystryl. The body of the momentary god Karsus [–408, –298] falls to earth in the eastern region of the High Forest. In the wake of the cataclysm, Evereska seals its borders, its troops turning away many refugees who come looking for sanctuary from the wreckage of their former realm. –111 DR Year of Terrible Anger The Orc Marches: The entire North erupts as great orc hordes stream south from the Spine of the World and the Ice Mountains to lay waste to all in their path. Illusk and Gauntlgrym fall to this onslaught, and Delzoun is devastated by countless orc assaults. Most of Illusk’s population manages to escape by sea or by magic and is spared. The elves of Evereska, Iliyanbruen, Rilithar, Siluvanede, and Eaerlann unite to shatter the strength of the orcs and halt their rampage south into the High Forest and Dessarin Valley. 177 DR Year of the Troublesome Vixen With help from troops from Evereska,the elves of Iliyanbruen destroy the orcs of the Severed Hand and Argrock, though the effort costs much of their strength. Within three years, Iliyanbruen is no more. Many of its Moon elf inhabitants travel to Evereska and Evermeet or south to Ardeep, leaving only scattered Green elf settlements and the abandoned capital of Sharandar.
220 DR Year of the Sword Violets Coronal Eltargrim opens the forest of Cormanthor to non-elves, N’Tel’Q
uess, primarily druids, great wizards, and crafters who can add to the glory of Cormanthyr. Several xenophobic
Sun and Moon elf families migrate west to their holdings in Evereska.
244DRYear of the Elfsands: Evereska's existence is uncovered by N'Tel'Quess for the first time, though the secret is kept for centuries by the human tribes of the Graycloak Hills.
261 DR Year of Soaring Stars The elf city at the heart of Cormanthyr becomes the unified city of Myth Drannor. Coronal Eltargrim, in an edict called the Opening [462], declared that Cormanthyr was to be an open realm, accessible to all non-elves (N’Tel’Q uess), following the laying of the mythal and the renaming of the city. Many Sun elf houses remove themselves to Evereska, and from there to Evermeet. Some of the more conservative Moon elf houses join them in Evereska, at least for a time.
290 DR Year of Full Cribs This year marks the greatest number of births in Evereska’s history.
329 DR Year of the Closed Scroll The Anauroch Desert ceases to spread when the sharn and Green elf selu’taar from Evereska and Eaerlann finally defeat the phaerimm, using High magic they erect the Sharn Wall, thus sealing the phaerimm within the Anaurochs borders.
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342 DR Year of Cantobele Stalking Athalantar falls to an orc horde driven from the High Moor by troops from Evereska exploring the lost ruins of Miyeritar. The orcs are in turn destroyed by an unlikely alliance of moon elves from Ardeep and dwarves from Dardath. The last Council of Illefarn is called, and the long-fragmented elf realm of Illefarn is officially dissolved with the remaining wood elves of Iliyanbruen and many wood elves from Rilithar departing for Evereska and Evermeet. Ardeep and Dardath formally ally and look to create further alliances with the humans of the region.
464 DR Year of the True Names: While wandering across Anauroch, Arun's Son saves a trio of Evereska n elves from a phaerimm ambush nearly at the cost of his life. Retrieved from death by Mystra, he becomes her Chosen, as he whom magic, duty, and honour defines". As the Nameless Chosen, he becomes the first human ever to stay among Evereska’s glades.
523 DR Year of Trials Arcane Driven from Evereska for their suspected dealings with dark powers (i.e. Malkizid & Moander), Moon elves of Clan Starym return to Myth Drannor, restoring that house as a social power and taking over the house lordship with the absence of Josidiah Starym.
557 DR Year of the Melding Nejizar sends yuan-ti infiltrators south to the Reaching Woods to incite the hobgoblin tribes to march against Phalorm. Ultimately the hobgoblins are repelled and the serpentine provocateurs assassinated. This defeat forces the serpentfolk of Najara to retreat into the Serpent Hills where many of their remaining forces are destroyed by troops from Evereska seeking to end the Serpent thtreat once and for all. They fail.
590 DR Year of the Turning Leaf Elf and human wizards from Ascalhorn, Eaerlann, Evereska, Silverymoon, and Myth Drannor raise a mythal over the Eaerlanni city of Glaurachyndaar, thereby establishing Myth Glaurach.
604 DR Year of the Immured Imp The armies of Phalorm drive off an orc horde that besieges Secomber. Ellatharion, Phalorm’s elf king, leads an army of elves and halflings into the High Forest in pursuit of the orcs, and neither king nor army returns. Later a few of the survivors are found by an Evereskan merchant caravan as they stumle from the swamps of the Chelimbyr Marsh, all quite mad.
659 DR Year of the Hunting Ghosts Thirty wizards from Myth Drannor, ten Moon and Green elf wizards from Evereska and ten wizards from elsewhere in the Realms migrate to Silverymoon and begin establishing its role as a sister city to Myth Drannor and a center of magical and mundane learning.
664 DR Year of the Falling Petals The Heir’s Passing: Aravae Irithyl and all her personal guards are murdered in Myth Drannor by Starym, who flee to Evereska and, who use magic to hide their foul deed. The Srinshee and the High Court mages insist on maintaining the Mourning Days and add the funeral of Aravae to the solemn times while staving off a succession war among the nobles of Cormanthyr. The assassins, minor nobles from the house are subsequently slain to hide their involvement in the assassination.
690 DR Year of the Clashing Blades Sakaala of the Seven Rings disbands and dismantles the Incanistaeum, the school of wizardry formerly run by the Seven Wizards of Myth Drannor. She and her three remaining
apprentice-students (two elves, one half-elf) leave for parts unknown after growing wings from their backs and taking flight.
At last sighting, they are headed to the northwest. Crossing the Anaurach they are attacked by an ancient blue wyrm named Cassagrimwald. Fleeing west they are eventually rescued by Eagle riders from Evereska who take them to the city for rest and to heal. Sakaala and her apprentices decide to stay for a time and become well known residence and inhabitants of the Unicorn & Crescent Inn.
694 DR Year of the Ominous Oracle The Circle of Flames and the wizards of Windsong Tower begin spiriting magic items and tomes (including the Scrolls Ardentym and the Keryfaertel) to safety. Many end up in Evereska, Ascalhorn and Silverymoon in the trusted hands of colleagues there (in the cases of wizards not moving there themselves), though some wizards take off with their secrets to Evereska and parts unknown over the next twelve years.
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712 DR Year of the Lost Lance The Hill Lord of Evereska learns of the invasion of Cormanthor. Enlisting as many volunteers as possible (about 1500 troops), they head through gates to Semberholme where they assist refugees flleing the war and protect the elves southern holdings from the Army of Darkness.
713 DR Year of the Firedrake Reinforcments are sent from Evereska to help the elves of Cormanthor reclaim and re-establish the Elven Court. Moon and Green elf individuals from Evereska join their kin in defending Myth Drannor from the attacking hordes. In a secret meeting by the elders of several Elven realms it is agreed that Myth Drannor is indefensible but it can be used as a trap to destroy the Army of Darkness with minimal loss of life. Much like the way the elves of Ardeep used the Stonehouse to destroy various hordes of orcs in the past.
714 DR Year of Doom Fall of Myth Drannor: The final campaigns of the elves and allies against the Army of Darkness see the re-establishment of the Elven Court as a seat of elf power in Cormanthyr while Myth Drannor falls under siege by the Army of Darkness. With the slaughter of the army and cavalry, little can be done against the Siege of Shadow, which descends on Myth Drannor on the 21st day of Kythorn. Evereska receives many refugees from the city in its final days.
864 DR Year of the Broken Branch Orcs of the Nethertusk horde overrun Myth Glaurach only to slaughtered in turn by the combines armies of Eaerlann, Evereska, Ascalhorn and Ammarindar.
882 DR Year of the Curse Demons and devils battle in the elf citadel of Ascalhorn. Triumphant demons stream forth, bringing about the fall of Eaerlann Many refugees flee to Evereska and other realms. Dwarves allow human refugees to settle in the surface strongholds of Citadel Sundbarr. Moon elf refugees from Eaerlann resettle Ardeep and rebuild the realm. A brief alliance with the humans dwelling along the Delimbiyr and the dwarves of the Forlorn Hills founders because of lingering suspicions about the role of humans in the fall of Ascalhorn, later to be known as Hellgate Keep. This alliance is dubbed the Fallen Kingdom (the same name already given to Phalorm), much to the confusion of later historians.
The dwarf realm of Ammarindar is overrun by lingering horrors unleashed by the Netherese of Ascalhorn. In the end the Ascal Horde’s progress is only checked when the combined forces of Evereska and the surviving dwarves of Ammarindar drive the demons back at the Battle of Bleached Bones Pass.
890 DR Year of the Burning Tree The demons beneath Hellgate Keep begin tunneling to bypass
the Harpers’ wards. Theur efforts are frustrated however by the combined efforts of surviving Ammarindan Rune Casters, a few sympathetic Sharn and several Moon and Green elf wizards from Evereska, driving the demons north towards the Nether Mountains.
1018 DR Year of the Dracorage All of the Dragons in the Shaeradim go into enforced hibernation just before the arrival of the King Killer Star, thus avoiding the worst effects of the coming Dracorage. Their lairs are carefully hidden and guarded by the magic and troops of Evereska.
1090 DR Year of Slaughter Battle of the Bones: A horde of 200,000 goblins and orcs arises from the High Moors due to extreme drought and attempts an invasion of the North. Forces from across the north, including Evereska fight and eventually destroy the horde, but at great cost. The Battle of the Bones marks the spot of the great battle that destroys the horde.
1100 DR Year of the Bloodrose The moon elves of Loudwater and the surrounding environs withdraw to Evereska to escape the increasing human presence.
1306 DR Year of Thunder Troops from Evereska destroy several Zhentarim outposts along their western border. They discover several attempts by the Zhents to tunnel into the vale and collapse these tunnels in turn as they are discovered.
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1344 DR Year of Moonfall The Retreat: After years of thought and meditation, the leaders of the elf nations agree to withdrawal from the increasingly human controlled lands of mainland Faerûn. Most, though not all, elf communities begin a Retreat to the Green Isle of Evermeet. Many Evereskan Moon and Green elf families refuse to leave, believing it wrong to simply abandon the lands they have held for so long. Co-operation, not retreat is the answer they seek.
1371 DR Year of the Unstrung Harp: League of the Silver Marches: To counter the rise of Obould’s Kingdom of Dark Arrows and thwart future evils of the North, High Lady Alustriel of Silverymoon gathers the leaders of the region to council. From Old Delzoun, the Moonlands, and the Rauvin Vale come elf, human, and dwarf lords to seek answers to their common troubles. Evereskan representatives agree to an alliance with the newly formed realm, but elect to remain outside its system of government. Out of that oft-stormy meeting comes the High Lady’s Alliance, a confederation of city-states known as the League of the Silver Marches. The Sharn Wall is breached. The phaerimm and their thralls begin the siege of Evereska. Khelben Arunsun leads an elf relief army from Waterdeep that becomes trapped in Evereska after failing to raise the siege there. An army drawn from the members of the Lords’ Alliance and led by Laeral Silverhand- Arunsun also marches for Evereska in the last days of this year to aid Khelben’s troops, but does not arrive for several months.
1372 DR Year of Wild Magic Hammer 1: Thultanthar, the City of Shade, returns to the skies of Faerûn, marking the return of the archwizards of Netheril.
Tarsakh 26: The Shadovars trap the phaerimms surrounding Evereska with a shadowshell.
Mirtul 20: After five months of battling phaerimms and armies of bugbears and lizardfolk thralls led by beholder and illithid generals, the relief army led by Laeral Silverhand-Arunsun and her sister Storm arrives in Evereska.
Flamerule 10: The shadowshell surrounding Evereska fails.
Eleasias 2: Elves and their allies drive the phaerimms out of Evereska in a tenday, and the city’s mythal is restored by month’s end.
Marpenoth 30: Daemonfey occupy Myth Glaurach.
1374 DR Year of Lightning Storms Ches 1: The daemonfey lead an army of orcs and ogres from Myth Glaurach to attack elf villages of the High Forest.
Ches 8: A branch of the fey`ri army marches southeast to assault Evereska.
Ches 10: Seiveril Miritar resigns from the ruling council of Evermeet and declares his intention to lead a volunteer army to assist Evereska.
Tarsakh 19: The elven Crusade arrives in Myth Glaurach.
Ches 16: Troops from Seiveril’s Crusade begin to arrive in Evereska.
27 Ches: The Battle of the Cwmtook place between the daemonfey army and an elven coalition from Evereska and Evermeet, on the West Cwm on the outskirts of Evereska. The battle was won by the elves, but at great cost. The elves were led by Seiveril Miritar and consisted of 2000 Evereskan combatants, and 6000 elves from Evermeet, although 1000 Evereskans and 2000 of the less experienced of the Evermeet elves remained behind in Evereska as a precaution against a surprise attack directly on the city.
Tarsakh 12: In the wake of a failed assault on Evereska, the half-fiend gold elves of House Dlardrageth returns to Myth Drannor, accompanied by a legion of fey’ri liberated from the Nameless Dungeon
1379 DR Year of the Lost Keep Despite suffering greviously from its own setbacks, geomancers from Evereska arrive to help with the rebuilding going on in Myth Drannor. A formal alliance is signed between the two realms.
1385 DR Year of Blue Fire Mystra dies and the Spell Plague is unleashed, the city of Evereska escapes largely unscathed, but many of its outlying settlements are destroyed in the ensuing magical conflagrations. When the Spellplague pushed the two planes closer together, Evereska drifted into the fringes of the Arvandor and now exists equally in both places. Elves are taught at the youngest age to wander freely between the worlds, and all the defenses that protect Evereska from the dangers of Faerûn protect it as well from the greater dangers of the Arvandor.
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Geography & Places Within the Shaeradim Mountains
Flora/Fauna; Birds, cats, and small forest creatures of all sorts are numerous, even in the city itself. There are an incredibly diverse number of rare trees in the Vale. The most common are the oak, boxwood, walnut, shadowtop, duskwood, bluetop, and blueleaf trees, The blueleaf trees are sculpted by Evereska n magics, wreathing much of the valley in royal blue foliage.
The Graycloak Hills
Once known as the Tomb Hills, these high, grass-girt hills were settled by the elves of Evereska a few decades ago, ostensibly to deal with the many banshees there. Now they.re always cloaked in mist. Part of a powerful ward that warns the elves of intruders and negates certain magics. The name Graycloak Hills comes from these mists and the gray cloaks worn by the elves dwelling there, who call their land Grayhome.
There’s little for a traveller to visit Grayhome for, now that strong elven patrols block all access to the magic rich tombs of the Fallen Kingdom. These patrols are sometimes bolstered by the Walker in the Mists, a golem formed, those who.ve fought it swear, from solid mist! In the Fallen Kingdom, adventurers in earlier years found tomb after tomb of long-dead warrior-kings, both human and elven. Most folk in Amn, Baldur.s Gate, and Waterdeep, where many such forays were sponsored, believe the elves wanted to seize the riches and magic for themselves.
Maskar Wands, head of the noble Wands family of Waterdeep that is famous for its mastery of magic, has said publicly he believes powerful Netherese magic was found in the Graycloaks, perhaps an entire fortress or city and the elves felt they must possess it to strengthen Evereska, prevent a stampede of greedy and well armed humans into the hills, and keep the magic out of the hands of the Zhentarim, whose forces and caravans probe ever more often at the defences of both Evereska and the Graycloaks. Rumours in the Halfway Inn speak of elven warriors training extensively in the high meadows of Grayhome and of magically aided digging going on there. The digging is rumoured to be the construction of cavern homes for the elves to retreat to should they be driven out of Evereska, since Zhentarim and orc attempts to tunnel into the rich vale grow more numerous every year. The elves could also be excavating Netherese treasures, of course. Travellers and adventurers beware: The elves aid visitors they favour by offering an empty barrow tomb as a camping place, but deal harshly that is, fatally, with those they deem tomb robbers.
The Blazevale
The broad, sand-scoured valley that separates the Shaeradim from the Graycloak Hills to the north. A place of scrubby pines and thornbush, of cacti and wolfroot, where only the hardiest of rabbits, moonfoxes, mice. lizards. and meadow quail survive. At the head of the Blazevale lies fortress of Roc’s Nest.
Roc’s Nest
A high, rocky outcrop and natural citadel that has housed elf garrisons for nearly a thousand years since the Crown Wars. Though the fortress had been abandoned since after the fall of Aryvandaar, its location between Evereska and the Graycloak Hills means that the Elves of Evereska still maintain it as a watch post.
The Shaeradim Vale
The Vale is a verdant alpine valley about 18 miles long by 4 miles wide. It is encircled by twelve
virtually impassable mountains save for the narrow cleft to the west leading to the Halfway Inn and two well hidden footpaths leading out to the northeast and southeast. The elves sculpted the entire valley into a terraced garden wreathed in tall trees of green and blue foliage. This is only broken by The Singing Waters, the only river of note, which flows through the middle of the vale into the city itself. The most common structures dotting the vale are elegant arched bridges. The entire vale is warded against
teleportation of all sorts, though many of the mages and clerics of proven loyalty possess the ward tokens to bypass them.
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lays far below the city walls, flecked with gray boulders, brown ponies, and emerald stands of fir. Beyond the pasture, the rolling patchwork of black-and gold winter fields rise toward the mist-shrouded
vineyards. Visible on the highest terraces, are the switchback trails that lead into the forests of the High Vale. There are always a handful of Spellguards posted at the livery station and the other entrances to the city.
Halfway Inn
Despite its name, this establishment is far more than an inn. It is more a community to which the name of the inn is applied. Why it’s called Halfway. I’m not sure, but the general consensus is that it’s halfway to
anywhere..except Evereska.5 Halfway Inn functions as a tavern, stables, and storehouse, and as the center of a caravan camping area and trading compound used by all who want to trade with the elves of Evereska Most humans are never allowed to even see that fabled valley and city. This prohibition accounts for the popularity of the latest in Evereskan exports: exquisitely painted views of gardens, mansions, and temples of the city of Evereska. These paintings are truly beautiful, with vibrant colours, charming scenes, and magics that preserve them and make them glow so that they can seen even in darkrooms. Small cantrips on the most expensive of these pictures make small birds, squirrels, and the like appear and wander through the scene augmented, very rarely by an armoured elf or gowned lady gliding along in the background shadows or appearing from time to time in the windows of a castle turret or on a balcony Such pictures sell for 400 to 6,000 gp, depending on size, subject, and enchantments.
Trade at the Halfway Inn is a two-way process. For their part, the elves of Evereska, preoccupied with defending their vale and the nearby Graycloak Hills against an increasing Zhentarim presence, have begun buying the finest horses they can get.
This sort of trade keeps the Halfway Inn busy. Adventurers use it as a base to explore the lands around (though they.re no longer welcome in the elven-held Graycloak Hills), merchants and mercenaries gather here, and the few elven-led caravans assemble here for trips to Secomber, Waterdeep, Berdusk, Neverwinter, Silverymoon, or Baldur’s Gate (rarely elsewhere). Humans, elves, half-elves, dwarves, and halflings are all seen here often. The presence of the compound has encouraged halflings to settle in the woods around, and the smell of rumoured gold finds on the Lonely Moor has drawn the dwarves.
The Halfway Inn stands in a small forest, just west of a narrow, heavily guarded cleft that offers the only way into Evereska for those who can’t fly. (Other paths lead out of Evereska to the north and south.) The visitor will find a wide wagon trail leads from the west into a large open area divided into camping areas, each with two paddocks and a spring-fed horse pond, by a radial array of warehouses. An open assembly ground spreads out to the south; a trash dump and a wagon repair works lie beside it The easternmost building, at the back of this bustle, is the Halfway Inn.
The Halfway Inn
Stoutly built of wood and stone, the inn has a dark appearance from the front. It almost seems to blend into the trees around it. Long candle lamps light the entrance brilliantly The visitor can readily see the attached stables on the north end of the building. They.re .self-service.-style stables, but warded to chime a tiny hostler’s bell if entered from outside. The bell doesn’t sound if they.re entered from the inn.
Stepping inside the inn, the visitor finds a dark lobby with a door watcher and a cloak room. The door watcher is usually one of the pretty elven barmaids, glad to be off her feet for a time. Behind the raised front of her desk she has a foot gong to summon armed aid, and a hand cross bow that fires sleep-envenomed darts. Beyond the desk, a broad archway opens into the tavern room, the heart of activity in the Halfway Inn. This dimly lit, many-pillared room fills the entire ground floor of the inn except for the stables to the north and the kitchens to the south. The ground floor room has over a dozen round tables by the bar, but most patrons prefer the heavily curtained booths that open off the main room all along the north wall, the east (or back) wall except at the exit, and the south wall once one is passed the bar. At least one booth is known to have a secret passage connecting it to the cellars below, the back hall, and a linen closet on the floor above.
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The booths have tables, built-in seating, and curtains that completely conceal those inside when drawn together. The back or east end of the room is deliberately kept dark for privacy, and the rest of the room is cosily lit for reasons of discretion, . as one of the staff put it All this is because most elves don’t like strong light and the other patrons are busy not being seen. The inn is always abuzz with deal making covert meetings, and whispered intrigues. A broad wooden stair with several shield-hung landings rises up from the main tavern room to the two floors of sleeping rooms above. The inn’s third floor consists of a single suite of rooms right up among the trees, and the suite is almost always occupied by visiting elves.
The rear exit to the tavern room opens into a back hall with a stair to the sleeping floors, the entrance to the stables, and a back door. All three are much used by guests who don’t want to be seen leaving or going to their rooms and by local professional escorts. The Halfway Ladies (not part of the inn staff, but known to them and allowed free run of the place) are notorious for their high-class dress and manners. They.re mostly moon elves who pretend to high rank, though a doppleganger once slipped into the roster for a tenday.
The inn serves good food, has a surprisingly wide selection of cheeses from all over Faerûn, and offers a broad, well stocked cellar of good wines. The beer is robust, even nutty in flavour, and the zzar will catch most Waterdhavians by surprise. It’s been strengthened to elven tastes, ending up as an almond-flavoured strong sherry. The inn is run by the discreet and trustworthy Myrin Silverspear, though I suspect it’s owned and run by the rulers of Evereska, not Silverspear himself The inn staff consists of old veterans, who see to the stables, furniture, and brawls, and a selection of pert, pretty fast-moving elven barmaids. The moody, haughty or brooding sorts of elves don’t apply for this position.
The Halfway specializes in getting the cheery, bouncy sort, all tinkling laughter and deft dancing around patrons while carrying flagons balanced to the ceiling. They keep the drinkers well supplied downstairs and keep the rooms upstairs clean and comfortable, if unspectacular. The inn’s decor and appointments are definitely rustic, with chamber pots instead of garderobes. An ewer of water, some fruit, and a jar of biscuits are placed in every room. Cats pad everywhere within and about the inn, keeping the mice down. The Halfway Inn is a welcome haven to many travellers. Long may it remain so.
(Extract taken from Volo’s Guide to the Sword Coast Pg 133-135, By Ed Greenwood) Wind Lords Eyrie
The Wind Lords Eyrie is home to the great Eagles of Evereska. The Wind Lords Eyrie forms a part of the southern Sha, the Encircling Mountains of the Shaeradim. It is here that Lord of the Eagles lives and from here he watches for spies in and around the vale. Set high atop Mount Mythrallis, this community of giant Eagles uses the sheer cliffs of the mountain as its main nesting and roosting site within the Shaeradim Vale. Citadel of Winters Twilight
The imposing black granite walls and watch towers of this cylindrical citadel have been constructed to watch over the approaches through the Western Cwm (or the Valley of Silence). From here patrols of elves on giant eagles, on foot and horseback guard the ground and skies of the western Shaeradim. These patrols are typically 5-8 elves of 3rd-5th level; usually fighters, mages, or fighter-mages. The citadel is staffed at all times with a Vale Guard Captain; this is usually a 10/10 level fighter-mage who commands potent magical
items and an enchantment that allows instant communication with other captains or the Lord of Evereska at will as long as they remain within the vale. The Citadel hold2-3lieutenants as well as a Feywarden (Sp priest of Corellon Larethian (lvl 6-10)). Winter’s Citadel holds 400 elves, 200 horses and 60 eagles, as well as
occasional visitors from Evereska proper, Sha-Quessir, and Harpers. Mount Kukri
One of the 12 Shaeradim that towers over the Northern Cwm. From its perpetually snow capped heights observers in the White Raven watch tower can see more than one hundred miles into the Anaurach. Cedar Vale
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A glacial valley that now forms the head waters of the Silkmoon Stream. This cedar and giant granite boulder filled valley leads to towering cliffs at the base of the Gul’anthaarFalls. The vale is patrolled by troops from Gol’antha Citadel, and has been a well known grave yard for many an orc horde seeking a back way into Evereska.
Northern Cwm
A glacial fir and pine filled valley that skirts around the base of Mount Kukri, the Northern Cwm is home to many green and moon elf villages and farms. There are several horse ranches here along with orchards and market gardens. The valley is regularly patrolled by troops out of Carlaeron, but the hardy folk of the Vale prefer to take care of their own affairs rather than involve the local authorities. There are rumoured to be many bolt holes and caverns amongst the slopes of Mount Kukri and the Kukri hills to the north and east. Carlaeron
The imposing rose pink sand stone walls and watch towers of this multi towered fortress have been constructed to house the soldiers of the Desert Watch. From here patrols of elves on giant eagles, Copper Dragons, on foot and horseback guard the ground and skies of the western Anauroch. These patrols are typically 5-8 elves of 3rd-5th level; usually fighters, mages, or fighter-mages. The citadel is staffed at all times with a Vale Guard Captain; this is usually a 10/10 level fighter-mage who commands potent magical
items and an enchantment that allows instant communication with other captains or the Lord of Evereska at will as long as they remain within the vale. The Citadel hold2-3lieutenants as well as a Feywarden (Sp priest of Corellon Larethian (lvl 6-10)). Winter’s Citadel holds 500 elves, 250 horses and 4 Copper Dragons, 60 eagles. Halls of the Crimson King
A crumbling elven citadel whose antiquity predates the fall of Netheril. Its crumbling walls and dungeons are said to be haunted by the spirits of elven defenders who died under the coruscating breath of a great red wyrm. A wyrm unleashed upon the elves by the negligent practices of a Netherese Arcanist, one Karsus the Mad.
Silkmoon Stream
A fast flowing, salmon filled, glacial stream, the Silkmoon holds special reverence for the followers of the goddess, Kirith Sotheril – The Magess. It was here in ages past that her avatar defended a group of moon and wood elf refugees from Eaerlann from a horde of demons from Ascalhorn. The ensuing battle saw Kirith Sotheril sacrifice herself, alongside several priests of Sehanine and a Selu’taar from Elvenport, thus allowing the refugees to find safety behind the walls of Gol’antha.
Everdusk Glade
Hidden within this small forest of Shadow Top and Desert Oak trees is a shrine dedicated to Tethrin Veralde – Master of Blades. This place of hidden worship is where the Everdusk Knights swear their sacred oaths, and where they bury their fallen dead. Within the glade is a large clearing devoid of growing things but covered in the ash of many funeral pyres. Here the knights burn their fallen comrades before casting their armour and blades into the cold depths of Evenstar Loch.
Everdusk Tower
In the ancient Vyshaanti fighting academies, a martial style developed among young elves who were
gifted in fighting and magic. This was a divergent path of bladesinging -- a more brutal style that
incorporated heavier armor and more deadly spells. Originally known as Nael'kerym, these warriors
greatly complemented bladesingers. They were meant to be heavy combat spellblades, while the
bladesingers acted as precision skirmishers. Everdusk Tower houses one of the most ancient
Spellblade Martial Orders in all of Faerun. Dating from the very founding of Evereska, the Everdusk
Knights are an order dedicated to the honour and ideals shown by their forbears the H'ei'Yal
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Drathinmaleé, who fought only orcs at the fall of Shantel Othreier 11000 years ago. Their greatest
enemies are those spellblades who seek to emulate the Vyshann, the Uluuth Phlarenn.
Aurcara
The imposing black granite walls and watch towers of this cylindrical citadel have been constructed to watch over the approaches through the Northern Cwm. From here patrols of elves on giant eagles, on foot and horseback guard the ground and skies of the northern Shaeradim. These patrols are typically 5-8 elves of 3rd-5th level; usually fighters, mages, or fighter-mages. The citadel is staffed at all times with a Vale Guard Captain; this is usually a 10/10 level fighter-mage who commands potent magical items and an enchantment that allows instant communication with other captains or the Lord of Evereska at will as long as they remain within the vale. Aurcara Citadel hold2-3lieutenants as well as a Feywarden (Sp priest of Corellon Larethian (lvl 6-10)). The Citadel holds 300 elves, 150 horses and 60 eagles.
Mount Alidacaer
One of the 12 Shaeradim that towers over the Blaze vale. From its perpetually snow capped heights observers in the Blazing Eye watch tower can see any invaders entering the Blaze Vale. Atop the tower is a signal beacon that is lit at the first sign of trouble within the Vale and the hills around it. The beacons flame can be seen from the Rocs Nest, Aurcara Citadel, and the watch tower atop Mount Kukri.
Celdar’larion
Set against the ever glowing Tower of Dreams, the imposing rose pink sand stone walls and watch towers of this multi towered fortress have been constructed to house the soldiers of the Desert Watch. From here patrols of elves on giant eagles, on foot and horseback guard the ground and skies of the western Anauroch. These patrols are typically 5-8 elves of 3rd-5th level; usually fighters, mages, or fighter-mages. The citadel is staffed at all times with a Vale Guard Captain; this is usually a 10/10 level fighter-mage who commands potent magical items and an enchantment that allows instant communication with other captains or the Lord of Evereska at will as long as they remain within the vale. The Citadel hold2-3lieutenants as well as a Feywarden (Sp priest of Corellon Larethian (lvl 6-10)). Winter’s Citadel holds 500 elves, 250 horses and 60 eagles.
Hidden amongst the scrub covered hills are several halfling and green elf communities. They raise crops and livestock to feed the city and trade with the Bedine who come to water their stock in the rock pools and wadis found at the feet of the Celdaraan Hills.
Frosthearts Stream
This icy cold glacial stream gets its name from the attitude that the elves have towards invaders as they attempt to follow it upwards through the Copper Canyon. The waters of the Frostheart have flowed red with the blood of invading armies on more than one occaision. Despite this, the canyon is considered one of the best places to catch brown trout, but only the brave or fool hardy fish here after sundown.
Ivory Horn
One of the 12 Shaeradim that towers over the Western Cwm. From its perpetually snow capped heights observers in the Ravens Eye watch tower can see any invaders entering the valley of Silence. Atop the tower is a signal beacon that is lit at the first sign of trouble within the cwm and the hills around it. The Horn holds a deeper secret. Set 3500’ up the southern side of the mountain is a network of crystal filled caves that is home to a nesting pair of adult silver dragons. Their names and heritage have yet to be revealed, but the
approaches to their caves are closely watched by the duskblades of Everdusk Tower. So far all intruders have been swiftly and lethally dealt with.
Weeping Maids Tor
One of the 12 Shaeradim that towers over the Northern Cwm. From its perpetually snow capped heights observers in the Copper Keep maintain a close watch on the Copper Canyon . Many an invading army has met
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its doom here at the base of the Heartsblood cliffs, trapped and annihilated whilst looking for a back way into Evereska. The Moutain takes its name from the story of a young moon elf maiden who fell in love with a soldier from a rival house. Despite the best efforts of the priests of Hanali, the two lovers had to flee the outraged members of their families. Eventually cornered half way up the mountain, the lovers prayers were answered when Sehanine took pity on then and transformed both elves into silver dragons.
Blackwood
A cedar, yew, and blackwood filled forest upon the southern slopes of the Shaeradim that is home to several halfling and green elf villages. The Blackwood tree grows fast and tall, up to 45 m height. It has a wide
ecological tolerance, occurring over an extensive range of soils and climatic conditions, but develops
better in colder climates. The timber taken from these woods is valued for its highly decorative
quality which may be used as a cabinet timber, for musical instruments or in boatbuilding.
Gol’antha
The imposing black granite walls and watch towers of this cylindrical citadel have been constructed to watch over the approaches through the Cedar Vale. From here patrols of elves on giant eagles, on foot and horseback guard the ground and skies of the western Shaeradim. These patrols are typically 5-8 elves of 3rd-5th level; usually fighters, mages, or fighter-mages. The citadel is staffed at all times with a Vale Guard Captain; this is usually a 10/10 level fighter-mage who commands potent magical items and an enchantment that allows instant communication with other captains or the Lord of Evereska at will as long as they remain within the vale. Citadels hold2-3lieutenants (F8/M8), as well as a Feywarden (Sp priest of Corellon Larethian (lvl 6-10)). Gol’antha holds 300 elves, 150 horses and 60 eagles, as well as occasional visitors from Evereska proper, Sha-Quessir, and Harpers.
Willowdale
Willowdale is the name given to the wood by its gnomish and halfling inhabitants. This quiet group of rural farms and hamlets is set upon the banks of the Singing Waters as it wends its way south towards the upper Winding Water. Willowdale is situated south of the Gate Woods that shroud the entrance to Evereska in trees. Star Sapphire Tor
One of the 12 Shaeradim that towers over the Cedar Vale. From its perpetually snow capped heights observers in the Silkmoon watch tower can see any invaders entering the plains between the Shaeradim and the Battle of Bones. Atop the tower is a signal beacon that is lit at the first sign of trouble within the Vale and the hills around it. The beacons flame can be seen from Everdusk Tower, Gol’antha, and the watch tower atop Mount Mythrallis.
Mountain of the Risen Moon
One of the 12 Shaeradim that towers over the Shaeradim Vale. From its perpetually snow capped heights observers in the Risen Moon watch tower can see any invaders entering the valley. Atop the tower is a signal beacon that is lit at the first sign of trouble within the Vale and the hills around it. The beacons flame can be seen from Evereska, The Wind Lords Eyrie Gol’antha, and the watch towers atop most of the Shaeradim Peaks. Mount Mythrallis
One of the 12 Shaeradim that towers over the Shaeradim Vale. From its perpetually snow capped heights observers in the Mythrallis watch tower can see any invaders entering either the Shaeradim or Cedar Vales. Atop the tower is a signal beacon that is lit at the first sign of trouble within the Vale and the hills around it. The beacons flame can be seen from Evereska, The Wind Lords Eyrie, Gol’antha, and the watch towers atop most of the Shaeradim Peaks.
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The only way through the mountains inside. It is also the route by which the Swords of Evereska
leave the Vale.
The Hidden Path:
The scent of spruce resin fills the darkness at the opening of this cavernous path, a hundred elf archers watching from hidden galleries high above, guard the door Any sign of trouble brings a bring a flurry of spells and arrows down, a precaution contrived to keep secret the defences of the Secret Gate.
The path rounds a curve then arches over a smoky-bottomed abyss on a marble bridge. On the far side of the bridge is a cramped vestibule sealed by a thin sheet of muscovite mica. A stem-faced moon elf in the silver-gilded plate mail of a Vale Guard holds this position at all times. The path then winds down a hanging gorge into the forests of the Upper Vale. The trees are ancient and enormous; mostly spear spruce tall enough to scratch the sky. The trail descends sharply, winding through ravines and around craggy outcroppings where the treetops glow thin enough to show streaks of distant cliffs, until the trail leaves the steep slopes of the Upper Vale and descends into the terraces of the Vine Vale.
Outer Defences
Numerous watchtowers and small citadels have been constructed in the mountains around the vale; these form the bases for the patrols of moon elves on giant eagles that guard the skies. These patrols are typically 5-8 elves of 3rd-5th level; usually fighters, mages, or fighter-mages. Each watchtower is staffed at all times with a guard lieutenant; this is usually a 8/8 level fighter-mage who commands potent magical items and an enchantment that allows instant communication with other captains or the Lord of Evereska (see below) at will as long as they remain within the vale. Citadels hold2-3lieutenants as well as a
Feywarden (Sp priest of Corellon Larethian (lvl 6-10)). The full complement of a watchtower is 40 elven warriors and 20 eagles, a Citadel holds 100 elves and 60 eagles, as well as occasional visitors from Evereska proper, Sha-Quessir, and Harpers.
Tower of Dreams
One of the most interesting and least talked about features of the vale is the Tower of Dreams. This impossibly slender crystal spire, is wreathed in mist and clouds, and rises in the mountains at the
northernmost end of the vale. It overlooks the Shinning Falls, a waterfall that plummets down a sheer cliff rising at least 1,400 feet. The waters plunge into a large lake that narrows into the Singing Waters river (This river later flows through the city of Evereska itself, along the western wall between the common district and temple district). No entrance or windows are visible in the structure, though at night strange lights glow within, and occasional music of indescribable beauty often carry for miles through the
mountains around it. Who built the tower is a matter much speculation, but persistent rumours suggest that it is the abode of Corellon Larethian himself built not long after the Sundering of the Drow, when
Evereska was but a remote outpost. Certainly some force or power protects the vale when humanoid armies threaten (the "hurled bolts from the sky" are most definitely not mortal or even High Magic) but Larathien's clerics are remarkably quiet about the whole business
Those few elves that have journeyed to Arvandor on the outer plane of Arborea say it bears more than a passing resemblance to Corellon's abode there. Whatever the case, all Evereskan elves consider the waterfall and the tower sacrosanct and never attempt to climb or enter it. The waters of the pool, however, are highly valued for their legendary healing qualities. Any who merely bathes in the water during full moon will be healed of ailments, wounds, and even have lost limbs regenerated. Needless to say, the elves never speak of this to outsiders, as such a prize would be beyond price to the elves enemies if they were ever to learn how to harness its power.
The Copper Canyon
A high wall ravine leading into the shadows of the High Shaeradim. A dead end and killing for invading armies as the Canyon winds its way to high cliff walls in the shadows of the highest mountain peaks.
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The ShaeradimAre the twelve mountains surrounding the elven settlement of Evereska. They are almost six
thousand feet high and are surrounded for fifteen miles by lesser hills and narrow vales. There is a large valley west of Evereska and inside the hills called the West Cwm. The mountain Ilaerothil (the Sentinel) is fifteen miles northwest of this site, and Eastpeak is fifteen miles southeast.
East Peak
The highest mountain in the Shaeradim, site of a tall granite watch tower and signal fire. Home of the Desert Border Garrison that patrols the outer edges of the Anauroch.
The Vyshaan Barrows
West of East Peak dating back to the time of the Vyshaan Empire lay the
barrows and burial crypts of the hated Vyshaan elves. Tome Guards regularly patrol this region said to be plagued by baelnorns, banshees and other elven spirits that refuse to travel to Arvandor.
Other sites
Throughout the wooded vale are small villages or isolated towers; the former are the home of a few scattered bands of Sylvan elves, the latter are mage towers. While both groups value their isolation, they are fiercely protective of the vale and loyal to Erlan Duirsar and will fight in the Vale's defence as need be.
The Vine Vale
A vast staircase of lush vineyards and black soiled winter fields, descending toward Evereska's walls in a series of smokethorn tree and spiny soapleaf covered terraces.
The Sunset Gate
A gate separating the West Cwm and the Vine Vale on the outskirts of Evereska. There is a stone guardhouse nearby that used to serve as a watch post for a dozen Evereskan soldiers.
The West Cwm
A large high valley in the Shaeradim, the hills surrounding Evereska. In the south there is a large deep lake of very cold water, and to the east lies the Vine Vale, through the Sunset Gate. It was the site of the Battle of the Cwm between the daemonfey army and the defending elves of Evereska and Evermeet.
The Meadow Wall & Gilded Gate
Down the Vine Vale terraces via a series of gentle switchbacks lies a path from the Secret Gate that connects to a narrow lane that skirts the edge of the walled pasturelands that surround Evereska. As parties approach the boundary, they must speak a word of passing. A large gilded gate will swing open, admitting the visitors into a rolling meadow dotted with boulders and bigcone furs. Like many of Evereska's defences, the gate's purpose is not obvious. While it was not magical, it marks the perimeter of the city's most priceless treasure and best-kept secret, the mythal.
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Map excerpt taken from “Return of the Archwizards” by Troy Denning The City of Evereska
Evereska, with a vast staircase of vineyards descending toward the city in a series of mist-shrouded terraces. In the bottom of the valley lay a rolling patchwork of fields both gold and black, these farmlands form a deep crescent in the bottom of the valley, with the thousand foot cliffs of the High Shaeradim ringing it on the exterior and Evereska looming up in the center. Though the city is often described as walled-usually by bombastic humans who based their "eyewitness" accounts on tales bribed from elves half-drunk on the Halfway Inn's potent elquesstria, the walls are in fact the smooth-polished thousand-foot cliffs of the Three Sisters, the largest of the dozen hills upon which Evereska rests. Behind the cliff tops rise hundreds of towers, soaring up out of a thick bluetop forest to make the city look like a many-spired crown. Most spires rise to twice the height of the surrounding trees, some even higher than the peaks of the High Shaeradim. Their exteriors swarm with lines of antlike figures, residents of the city going about their daily business with no thought as to how strange it looks from below. Such is the magic of Evereska, jewel of the mountains.
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The Towers Soaring
Set outside the city on the banks of the Singing Waters River, Sehanine's temple is soaring monument open only to elves and a few pious half-elves. The temple is constructed of white marble and shaped so as to suggest imminent flight. Symmetry and circles are highly prized by the faith, and are reflected in the architecture of Sehanine's house of worship. The central chapel is perfectly circular and is open to the night sky. A great garden and hedgerow mazes encircle the main structure, their formations imitating the paths of the heavenly bodies in the night sky above. Near the temple on the opposite banks of the river, megaliths form a great stone circle for use in tracking the position of the moon, fixed stars, and wandering stars by elven astrologers.
Surrounded by the Meadow Wall, the center of the valley has an inner ring of knolls. The three highest hills, known as the Sisters, form a fairly even triangle around the city of Evereska. The knolls are broken by the Singing Waters, which flows through the western edge of the city. The city itself is a wonder to behold. The city is comprised of a garden-like series of lawns and wooded terraces interlaced with crystal-clear streams that link spill pools and fountains. There are no streets, but sweeping, winding paths, some of which have been overgrown by the local flora. Evereska is divided into three tiers, much in the manner of the "Grey Elven" cities described in the Complete Book of Elves- the outer tier of artisans, craftsmen and traders and all other commoners, the middle tier of the well-to-do and some minor nobles, as well as the inns and taverns for adventuring elves and visitors to the city. This tier also holds most of the holy sites and temples to the Seldarine deities, such as Solonor Thendora's Moondark Hill, Hanali Celanil's Garden, and the Moonspire, an incredibly beautiful spire of magically conjured marble to Sehahine Moonbow and Corellon Larethian. There are also shrines/groves to Lurue the Unicom, Meilikki, and Silvanus. The innermost section holds the Evereska Colleges of Magic and Arms, most of the noble estates, and the Lord's palace. While the innermost tier is the most opulent, all areas of the city are beautiful, clean, and serene, with sounds of music, singing, and woodland creatures filling the air without being obtrusive. The diversity of plants and animals can make a visitor forget that they walk within a walled city and not deep in the wilderness.
There are rumours of gate linkages with Waterdeep, the island elven realm of Evermeet, and ruined Spellgard. Three Elven archers patrol the skies on giant eagles to prevent unwanted intrusions, and wards of the strongest sort prevent teleportation into or out of the vale. If there are any pass tokens to these wards, they are kept very secret.
Some sages believe the vale is defended by the magics of the elven deity Corellon Larethian himself. Its defences certainly do include bolts of hurled magic that strike from the sky to smash hostile armies. Few beings venture within 10 miles of the foothills of the Evereskan mountains without being seen by the elves of one of the many ever vigilant watch posts and mobile patrols. Don't expect to get into Evereska unless you have legitimate business and are an elf - or can persuade an elf to escort you in. Harper pins are usually known to grant passage unless there's evidence they're carried by a non-Harper. Dwarves, half-orcs, and the like are usually not admitted, whatever their aims.
Most trade between Evereska and the non-elven world is carried on at the trading compound of the Halfway Inn, constructed for that very purpose. Elves do not welcome strangers into their city or their homes, and won’t grant a tourist or merchant passage into the vale just because she or he wants to see its glories. And those glories are considerable. I've seen them briefly and can report a gardenlike series of lawns and wooded terraces interlaced with crystal-clear streams that link spill pools and fountains. Birds, cats, and small forest creatures are numerous, and music is heard here and there. Splendid tall houses with many spires and balconies rise up through the many huge, old trees. These trees are mainly duskwood and bluetop, but almost all varieties can be seen in the vale.
Many Evereskan elves never leave the valley, or desire to, since they love to dedicate their time to creating beautiful paintings and sculptures or mastering the music of voice and instruments. A very few craft new spells in deep caverns, where they work in careful concert with the ruling Hill Elders so as to create no unforeseen danger to the city or weakness in its defences by their work. (By common
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agreement, existing portals were either destroyed or girt about with protective magic to prevent their use by invaders.)
Entering the City
The city is entered via a small, irregular chamber hewn into the cliff base. Stepping into the chamber and triggering the command word teleports occupants with a golden flash into a marble-paved lane filled with the zesty scent of dusktop blossoms. This route is well guarded and warded and can be shut down or redirected at a moment’s notice
Homes of the City
White-paved paths curve off in every direction, twisting through an eye-boggling tangle of towers and trunks. The trees are uniformly as large around as castle towers, with cross-striped bark ranging from white to gray, and branches so high overhead it is not unusual for mist to form beneath the leaf canopy. The towers are sometimes smaller than the tree boles and sometimes larger, but most are almost indistinguishable from the mighty bluetops that dominated the outer rim of the city.
Many homes are worked into the landscape so as to blend in with the growing plants and form a series of beautiful bowers, dells, and vistas. Others are splendid tall houses with many spires and balconies rise up through the huge trees. Spells that do strange things to intruders protect some areas and menacing mansion guardians such as helmed honours and shield guardians rise up to strike at intruders that invade their walls. All towers and trees can be climbed using the Spider Climb ability provided by the m1'thal. "Always use bare skin. Never wear gloves or shoes." the safest way to enter and leave a door hole, is to approach it from the side rather than clamber over the bottom. Elves everywhere, glide along the ground paths, popping out of high doorways to clamber headfirst down tower exteriors, sometimes
even soaring from one building to another like flying squirrels. Features and Buildings of the City
Three Sisters
The three major peaks upon which the city of Evereska is built. Their walls have been carved and polished into 1000' cliffs atop which the city rests.
Evereskan Colleges of Magic and Arms
The Evereskan Colleges are a training academy of the highest standards. The training they provide is one of the reasons that Evereska is so well defended. Harpers are the only N'Tel'Quess who can normally get training at arms or magic in Evereska , although the occasional half-elf, if of sufficiently exalted parentage on the elven side, may be taught.
Fountain heart of Shimmering Gold
Built on the Bellcrest, the highest of the Sisters, is Hanali's temple. It is an enormous structure of white marble and moonstone, surrounded by gardens that bloom year-round with rare flowers and exotic fruit. Bright and beautiful, with fountains and springs throughout and great gardens encircling the central chapel. Lady Goldheart's house of worship is designed with young lovers in mind, providing endless mazes of shady paths, babbling brooks, quiet pools, leafy bowers, and flowering hedgerows, so as to facilitate amorous trysts and romantic rendezvous. Interior chambers are designed so as to permit the entrance of the sun, moon, and gentle breezes.
Many chambers display beautiful works of art, serving the local community as a museum, as well as a great concert hall from which strains of music spill out into the surrounding gardens. The Fountain heart of Shimmering Gold is led by the stunningly beautiful moon elf, Hamalitia Everlove, whose beauty has continued to increase over the centuries. The temple has housed countless Evereskan weddings, revels, and dances, and in addition to displaying works of Evereska's greatest artisans, holds many greatest
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artistic treasures from Ascalhom, Eaerlann, Illefarn, Myth Drannor, and Sharrven. On a low pedestal at the center of the gardens, accessed through a maze of rose-entwined boxwood, stands a statue of the goddess carved from rare white stone.
Novices of Hanali are known as the Beauteous. Full priests of the Heart of Gold are known as Paramours. In ascending order of rank, the titles used by Hanalian priests are Dove, Suitor, Lover, Libertine, Soft Caress, Heart's Desire, and Fiery Ardor. High-ranking priests have unique individual titles. Specialty
priests are known as goldhearts. The clergy of Hanali includes gold elves (30%), moon elves (28%), and half-gold
elves (17%), half-moon elves (15%), wild elves (7o/o), half-wild elves (3Yo), sea elves, winged elves, and half-elves of those ancestries (1%). Hanali's clergy includes specialty priests (38%), mystics (32%), and clerics (including multi-classed half-elven clerics) (30%) and is nearly evenly split between females (54%) and males (46%).
The Statue of Hanali Celanil
The sculpture depicts Lady Goldheart (Hanali) with angular, delicate features, exquisite lips curved in a knowing smile, and almond-shaped lips. One long-fingered hand rests over her heart and the other touches a pointed ear, a traditional portrayal of the goddess showing that she is ever receptive to the prayers of lovers. As old as Evereska itself, it is one of the few surviving examples of high elven religious art from the Pre-Netheril period. The great statue stands upon the surface of a dark courtyard of granite cobble-stones.
This is the place where the mythal was cast. This is a secret so closely guarded that, aside from Lord Duirsar and the city's high mages, only Evereska's most loyal friends amongst the Chosen are privy to it. The statue of Hanali Celanil is the very heart and soul of the Mythal.
Cloudcrown Hill
The place where the palaces of Lord Duirsar and the great nobles sit scattered amongst the trees that continue to the base of this high peak.
Cloudtop Tower
The second highest spire within the city grown from white marble and made to resemble a stand of Blueleaf trees it is home to the High Magi of the Cloudtop Circle, advisers to the Council of Hill Elders and commanders of the Spell Guard.
Cloud Crown Palace
Cloud-crown Palace is the finest example of Evereska's naturist architecture. The palace resembles a stand of bluetops packed so closely together that the huge boles have grown into each other. The scaling on the bark is so expertly done that even a practiced sculptor's eye would not known it is stone, it is a place of mighty defensive magics and ancient towers. It is also the home of the Vale Lord and where the Hill Elders meet. The majority of the Vale Guard is stationed here along with members of the Spell Guard and elements of the Swords of Evereska where Noble Blades and Lordly Wands perform their stints in the Noble Militia. The Tower Higher than East Peak
This often cloud shrouded tower gives the best view of the city and the surrounding vale. It rises 1500' from the ground. Used as a watch tower, from it can be seen the edges of the Anauroch and the Vyshaan Cairn. The tallest spire in all of Evereska and home to the Arch- Wizard of the city and the circle of High-Magi living there. All take turns teaching at the academy as well as seeing to the needs and maintenance of the mythal and the various gates that surround the city. Members of the Vale Guard and the Kingfishers Aerial cavalry use it as a lookout and base from which to operate.
