Astolat - Revision history

Hailmur: /* Laroc */

2026-08-30T13:25:54Z

Laroc

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:25, 30 August 2026
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	=== Laroc ===		=== Laroc ===
	Famous for its tournament ground, which sets a standard for pageantry that other nations can only envy. Many Dawnish who care for the [[glory]] of the duel hold Laroc in their hearts as they fight elsewhere. Here, [[questing knight\|questing knights]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches\|war witches]], nobles and [[yeofolk of Dawn\|yeofolk]], clash in glorious bouts, ever eager to prove themselves in the eyes of their peers. Four grand tourneys are held each year, sponsored by noble houses. In between the tourneys are innumerable smaller events - duelling contests, melees, even the occasional yeofolk-only archery competition. It isn't just the mortals of Dawn who are drawn here to watch knights and war-witches clash, or to cheer the archery competitions of the yeofolk~~. It's an open secret that heralds of several eternals - especially the Kings and Queens of Summer, but also the rulers of the Night realm - are regular visitors, albeit usually incognito~~.		Famous for its tournament ground, which sets a standard for pageantry that other nations can only envy. Many Dawnish who care for the [[glory]] of the duel hold Laroc in their hearts as they fight elsewhere. Here, [[questing knight\|questing knights]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches\|war witches]], nobles and [[yeofolk of Dawn\|yeofolk]], clash in glorious bouts, ever eager to prove themselves in the eyes of their peers. Four grand tourneys are held each year, sponsored by noble houses. In between the tourneys are innumerable smaller events - duelling contests, melees, even the occasional yeofolk-only archery competition. It isn't just the mortals of Dawn who are drawn here to watch knights and war-witches clash, or to cheer the archery competitions of the yeofolk.

	The fluted pillars and arches of [[white granite]] were once some of the largest non-military constructions in the nation, but over the years they ~~have begun~~ to look small in comparison to some of the impressive and Ambitious works other nations have built. In 384YE ~~Senator~~ Cecilia De Gauvain [[Construct_Laroc_Tournament_Grounds\|commissioned refurbishments]] ~~intended~~ to restore the faded glory of what were once the largest tourney grounds in the nation. Work was completed shortly before the start of the Summer Solstice 385YE - just in time for the [[Dog days are over\|Grand Tour]] to celebrate the conquest of [[the Barrens]].		The fluted pillars and arches of [[white granite]] were once some of the largest non-military constructions in the nation, but over the years they began to look small in comparison to some of the impressive and Ambitious works other nations have built. In 384YE, '''Cecilia De Gauvain''', then Senator for Astolat, [[Construct_Laroc_Tournament_Grounds\|commissioned refurbishments]] to restore the faded glory of what were once the largest tourney grounds in the nation. Work was completed shortly before the start of the Summer Solstice 385YE - just in time for the [[Dog days are over\|Grand Tour]] to celebrate the conquest of [[the Barrens]].

	Several miles to the southeast of Laroc lie the ''Rosered Woods'', a stretch of forest with a mysterious reputation said to be aligned in some fashion with one of the ~~night~~ eternals. It is said that anyone who spends a night in the forest will dream of their one true love - whether that be a person or a cause. A short distance from the tourney grounds of Laroc stands the so-called [[Dean of Laroc Cathedral#The Cathedral at Laroc\|Laroc Cathedral]]. The grandiose name is a bit of a misnomer as it is closer to a large chapel in size and import, but it is beautifully decorated and dedicated to the virtue of [[Courage]]. Laroc is also the site of the [[Healer_of_Dawn#Garden_of_Tiberius.27_Bequest\|Garden of Tiberius' Bequest]], built on the crest of a low hill overlooking the town, and overseen by the [[Healer of Dawn]] who is charged with using the [[herbs]] it produces to support the healers who in turn give succour to those in pursuit of glory.		Shortly before the Summer Solstice 388YE, the ''[[Rhianos\|Auspicious Mariner]]'' made a [[The_keys_of_blood#The_Greatest_Prize_(Rhianos)\|request]] to have the tournament grounds ceded to them. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''', then Senator for Astolat, raised the [[388YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Cede_Laroc_Tourney_Grounds_to_Rhianos\|motion]] after '''Dame Aurum De Castellan''', as General of the [[Eastern Sky]], led a force through the Sentinel Gate to [[The_keys_of_blood#Oddities_(Sarangrave)\|reclaim the treasure]] at the Stone of Thonkilch. Over the course of the season, the ''King of the Nine Tides'' began sending his heralds through to help those daring knights and knights-errant who travel to the tourney grounds to ready themselves before embarking on a [[Venture#Questing_Ventures\|quest]] or [[Venture#Raiding_Ventures\|raid]]. Several heralds have firmly established themselves in the grounds: ''Swoopingfeather'' and the ''Prince of the Morning Tide'' have both set up their own camps and attempt to recruit nobles and yeofolk alike to fight on their behalf in mock battles. It's an open secret that the grounds are still visited by heralds of several other eternals - especially the Regents of Summer, but also the rulers of the Night realm - though they remain incognito.

			Several miles to the southeast of Laroc lie the ''Rosered Woods'', a stretch of forest with a mysterious reputation said to be aligned in some fashion with one of the Night eternals. It is said that anyone who spends a night in the forest will dream of their one true love - whether that be a person or a cause. A short distance from the tourney grounds of Laroc stands the so-called [[Dean of Laroc Cathedral#The Cathedral at Laroc\|Laroc Cathedral]]. The grandiose name is a bit of a misnomer, as it is closer to a large chapel in size and import, but it is beautifully decorated and dedicated to the virtue of [[Courage]]. Laroc is also the site of the [[Healer_of_Dawn#Garden_of_Tiberius.27_Bequest\|Garden of Tiberius' Bequest]], built on the crest of a low hill overlooking the town, and overseen by the [[Healer of Dawn]] who is charged with using the [[herbs]] it produces to support the healers who in turn give succour to those in pursuit of glory.

	===Flame of the Phoenix===		===Flame of the Phoenix===

Hailmur: /* OOC Notes */

2026-08-29T14:40:56Z

OOC Notes

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:40, 29 August 2026
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	* Each region of Astolat is under the control of the Dawnish (and by extension, the Empire), making this a staunchly Imperial territory.		* Each region of Astolat is under the control of the Dawnish (and by extension, the Empire), making this a staunchly Imperial territory.
	* The [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]] is a rank three [[Fortifications\|fortification]].		* The [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]] is a rank three [[Fortifications\|fortification]].
	* [[business\|Businesses]] in the territory benefit from the [[#Laroc\|Tournament Grounds of Laroc]] and produce an extra 36 rings each season.
	* [[Mana site\|Mana sites]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The_Harps_of_Astolat\|Harps of Astolat]] and produce an extra mana crystal each season.		* [[Mana site\|Mana sites]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The_Harps_of_Astolat\|Harps of Astolat]] and produce an extra mana crystal each season.
			* [[military unit\|Military units]] in the territory benefit from the [[#Laroc\|Tournament Grounds of Laroc]] and produce an extra 36 rings if taking a questing or raiding [[venture]].
	[[Category:Dawn]]		[[Category:Dawn]]
	[[Category:Gazetteer]]		[[Category:Gazetteer]]

Matt: /* The Castle of Thorns */

2026-06-08T08:43:34Z

The Castle of Thorns

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:43, 8 June 2026
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	== Major Features ==		== Major Features ==
	=== The Castle of Thorns ===		=== The Castle of Thorns ===
	Seat of the old [[Dawn monarchy\|Dawnish monarchs]], [[troubadour\|troubadours]] claim ~~[[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns\|~~the Castle of Thorns]] is the most beautiful [[fortification]] anywhere in the world. A bold claim but it cannot be denied that its white walls gleam in the sun, picturesque turrets stir the blood of even the most cold-hearted lovers who walk the battlements in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle serves as an academy for the training of [[civil service\|civil servants]], and is where much of the day-to-day business of running the Empire takes place. Each Dawnish [[Senator]] has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.		Seat of the old [[Dawn monarchy\|Dawnish monarchs]], [[troubadour\|troubadours]] claim the Castle of Thorns is the most beautiful [[fortification]] anywhere in the world. A bold claim but it cannot be denied that its white walls gleam in the sun, picturesque turrets stir the blood of even the most cold-hearted lovers who walk the battlements in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle serves as an academy for the training of [[civil service\|civil servants]], and is where much of the day-to-day business of running the Empire takes place. Each Dawnish [[Senator]] has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.

	According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.		According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.

Matt: /* Major Features */

2026-06-08T08:43:08Z

Major Features

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:43, 8 June 2026
Line 16:		Line 16:
	== Major Features ==		== Major Features ==
	=== The Castle of Thorns ===		=== The Castle of Thorns ===
	Seat of the old [[Dawn monarchy\|Dawnish monarchs]], [[troubadour\|troubadours]] claim the Castle of Thorns is the most beautiful [[fortification]] anywhere in the world. A bold claim but it cannot be denied that its white walls gleam in the sun, picturesque turrets stir the blood of even the most cold-hearted lovers who walk the battlements in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle ~~of Thorns~~ serves as an academy for the training of civil servants, and is where much of the day-to-day business of running the Empire takes place. Each Dawnish [[Senator]] has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.		Seat of the old [[Dawn monarchy\|Dawnish monarchs]], [[troubadour\|troubadours]] claim [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns\|the Castle of Thorns]] is the most beautiful [[fortification]] anywhere in the world. A bold claim but it cannot be denied that its white walls gleam in the sun, picturesque turrets stir the blood of even the most cold-hearted lovers who walk the battlements in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle serves as an academy for the training of [[civil service\|civil servants]], and is where much of the day-to-day business of running the Empire takes place. Each Dawnish [[Senator]] has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.

	According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.		According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.

Rafferty: /* The Castle of Thorns */

2026-05-07T10:31:59Z

The Castle of Thorns

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:31, 7 May 2026
Line 16:		Line 16:
	== Major Features ==		== Major Features ==
	=== The Castle of Thorns ===		=== The Castle of Thorns ===
	Seat of the old [[Dawn monarchy\|Dawnish monarchs]], [[~~troubadpur~~\|troubadours]] claim the Castle of Thorns is the most beautiful [[fortification]] anywhere in the world. A bold claim but it cannot be denied that its white walls gleam in the sun, picturesque turrets stir the blood of even the most cold-hearted lovers who walk the battlements in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle of Thorns serves as an academy for the training of civil servants, and is where much of the day-to-day business of running the Empire takes place. Each Dawnish [[Senator]] has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.		Seat of the old [[Dawn monarchy\|Dawnish monarchs]], [[troubadour\|troubadours]] claim the Castle of Thorns is the most beautiful [[fortification]] anywhere in the world. A bold claim but it cannot be denied that its white walls gleam in the sun, picturesque turrets stir the blood of even the most cold-hearted lovers who walk the battlements in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle of Thorns serves as an academy for the training of civil servants, and is where much of the day-to-day business of running the Empire takes place. Each Dawnish [[Senator]] has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.

	According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.		According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.

Rafferty: /* The Castle of Thorns */

2026-05-07T10:31:44Z

The Castle of Thorns

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:31, 7 May 2026
Line 16:		Line 16:
	== Major Features ==		== Major Features ==
	=== The Castle of Thorns ===		=== The Castle of Thorns ===
	Seat of the old Dawnish ~~Kings and Queens~~, in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle of Thorns serves as an academy for the training of civil servants, and is where ~~most~~ of the day-to-day business of running the ~~Nation~~ takes place. Each Dawnish Senator has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.		Seat of the old [[Dawn monarchy\|Dawnish monarchs]], [[troubadpur\|troubadours]] claim the Castle of Thorns is the most beautiful [[fortification]] anywhere in the world. A bold claim but it cannot be denied that its white walls gleam in the sun, picturesque turrets stir the blood of even the most cold-hearted lovers who walk the battlements in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. Given over now to a great park and almost completely engulfed in rose bushes, the Castle of Thorns serves as an academy for the training of civil servants, and is where much of the day-to-day business of running the Empire takes place. Each Dawnish [[Senator]] has apartments within this beautiful edifice, decorated with the produce and images of the territory they represent.

	According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.		According to legends, the roses that enshroud the Castle of Thorns are the remnants of a magical defence created in pre-Imperial times by the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanter]] Queen Jessamy. When the castle was besieged, she wove a great thicket of magically strengthened roses that surrounded the castle and tore the attacking forces to pieces when they tried to press the siege. The thicket lasted for only a season, but it bought time for Jessamy's husband and allies to rally and come to her defence. The roses of the castle of Thorns are highly prized to this day as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty.

			The Castle reverberates with Dawnish history and while many of the rooms are now occupied by civil servants, the chambers of state remain untouched. Towards the end of 387YE, [[Restore_the_Throne_Room\|renovations]] on the old Throne Room were completed. The gilded throne of Tristane the Golden, which was brought here by Queen Igraine when the Castle was raised, now sits in a grand chamber buttressed with [[white granite]] and hung with banners celebrating the history of the nation. The ''Rod of the Sun'' - a historic relic that dates back to the earliest days of the Dawnish - may have been missing since the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], but the throne still surmounts the dais in the royal audience chamber, inspiring awe in any that gaze upon it.

	The River of Sighs runs past the Castle of Thorns. This wide, deep, fast-flowing river was the site of the First Empress' legendary leap that won her entry to the house of Cevise. Traditionally set as a challenge for yeofolk who were considered to be seeking to rise above their station, there are still knights-errant today who try to duplicate the Empress' jump, and the majority of those who fail are swept away and drowned.		The River of Sighs runs past the Castle of Thorns. This wide, deep, fast-flowing river was the site of the First Empress' legendary leap that won her entry to the house of Cevise. Traditionally set as a challenge for yeofolk who were considered to be seeking to rise above their station, there are still knights-errant today who try to duplicate the Empress' jump, and the majority of those who fail are swept away and drowned.

Kirkbride at 14:02, 31 January 2026

2026-01-31T14:02:24Z

Show changes

Twiggy at 18:33, 15 January 2026

2026-01-15T18:33:41Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:33, 15 January 2026
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	=== Laroc ===		=== Laroc ===
	Famous for its tournament ground, which sets a standard for pageantry that other nations can only envy. Many Dawnish who care for the [[glory]] of the duel hold Laroc in their hearts as they fight elsewhere. Here, [[questing knight\|questing knights]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches\|war witches]], nobles and [[yeofolk of Dawn\|yeofolk]], clash in glorious bouts, ever eager to prove themselves in the eyes of their peers. Four grand tourneys are held each year, sponsored by noble houses. In between the tourneys are innumerable smaller events - duelling contests, melees, even the occasional yeofolk-only archery competition. It isn't just the mortals of Dawn who are drawn here to watch knights and war-witches clash, or to cheer the archery competitions of the yeofolk. It's an open secret that heralds of several eternals - especially the Kings and Queens of Summer, but also the rulers of the Night ~~Realm~~ - are regular visitors, albeit usually incognito.		Famous for its tournament ground, which sets a standard for pageantry that other nations can only envy. Many Dawnish who care for the [[glory]] of the duel hold Laroc in their hearts as they fight elsewhere. Here, [[questing knight\|questing knights]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches\|war witches]], nobles and [[yeofolk of Dawn\|yeofolk]], clash in glorious bouts, ever eager to prove themselves in the eyes of their peers. Four grand tourneys are held each year, sponsored by noble houses. In between the tourneys are innumerable smaller events - duelling contests, melees, even the occasional yeofolk-only archery competition. It isn't just the mortals of Dawn who are drawn here to watch knights and war-witches clash, or to cheer the archery competitions of the yeofolk. It's an open secret that heralds of several eternals - especially the Kings and Queens of Summer, but also the rulers of the Night realm - are regular visitors, albeit usually incognito.

	The fluted pillars and arches of [[white granite]] were once some of the largest non-military constructions in the nation, but over the years they have began to look small in comparison to some of the impressive and Ambitious works other nations have built. In 384YE Senator Cecilia De Gauvain [[Construct_Laroc_Tournament_Grounds\|commissioned refurbishments]] intended to restore the faded glory of what were once the largest tourney grounds in the nation. Work was completed shortly before the start of the Summer Solstice 385YE - just in time for the [[Dog days are over\|Grand Tour]] to celebrate the conquest of [[the Barrens]].		The fluted pillars and arches of [[white granite]] were once some of the largest non-military constructions in the nation, but over the years they have began to look small in comparison to some of the impressive and Ambitious works other nations have built. In 384YE Senator Cecilia De Gauvain [[Construct_Laroc_Tournament_Grounds\|commissioned refurbishments]] intended to restore the faded glory of what were once the largest tourney grounds in the nation. Work was completed shortly before the start of the Summer Solstice 385YE - just in time for the [[Dog days are over\|Grand Tour]] to celebrate the conquest of [[the Barrens]].
Line 72:		Line 72:
	Site of the [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]], Withy is mostly farmland, dotted with carefully cultivated [[forest]] preserves and orchards. It is also known for having many streams, many of which feed into the River of Sighs, and beautiful pools and lakes.		Site of the [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]], Withy is mostly farmland, dotted with carefully cultivated [[forest]] preserves and orchards. It is also known for having many streams, many of which feed into the River of Sighs, and beautiful pools and lakes.

	The small town of '''Oldheart''' is found in southern Withy, on the banks of one of the larger lakes. An ancient town, Oldheart is famed for its juniper bushes and the fine fruit brandies distilled from the red berries. Several of the [[weaver cabal\|weaver cabals]] here weave with willow withies, rather than cloth and are known both for their beautiful mage armour and their fine woven rods, wands, and staves. Mundane craftsfolk are known for their fine wicker baskets - and it is a common belief that the willow trees near Oldheart have a particular provenance that makes them especially flexible when they are being worked and almost indestructible once they have been shaped. A popular tale about the Dawnish folk hero ''Ragonde o'the Rushes'' tells how she once fought a murderous beast from the Winter ~~Realm~~ armed only with a willow switch and a wicker shield, sending the creature howling back to its malignant master the Queen of the Snows (believed in most versions of the tale to be either the unpopular Penni the White, or the [[eternal]] [[Skathe]]).		The small town of '''Oldheart''' is found in southern Withy, on the banks of one of the larger lakes. An ancient town, Oldheart is famed for its juniper bushes and the fine fruit brandies distilled from the red berries. Several of the [[weaver cabal\|weaver cabals]] here weave with willow withies, rather than cloth and are known both for their beautiful mage armour and their fine woven rods, wands, and staves. Mundane craftsfolk are known for their fine wicker baskets - and it is a common belief that the willow trees near Oldheart have a particular provenance that makes them especially flexible when they are being worked and almost indestructible once they have been shaped. A popular tale about the Dawnish folk hero ''Ragonde o'the Rushes'' tells how she once fought a murderous beast from the Winter realm armed only with a willow switch and a wicker shield, sending the creature howling back to its malignant master the Queen of the Snows (believed in most versions of the tale to be either the unpopular Penni the White, or the [[eternal]] [[Skathe]]).
	<!--{{CaptionedImage\|file=SenatorAstolat.jpg\|\|caption='''Cerys de Rosier''', Senator for Astolat\|align=left\|width=400}}-->		<!--{{CaptionedImage\|file=SenatorAstolat.jpg\|\|caption='''Cerys de Rosier''', Senator for Astolat\|align=left\|width=400}}-->
	{{Senate Elections\|Senator_for_Astolat\|Territory=Astolat\|Season=Winter}}		{{Senate Elections\|Senator_for_Astolat\|Territory=Astolat\|Season=Winter}}

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

2026-01-15T12:30:04Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:30, 15 January 2026
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	===The Harps of Astolat===		===The Harps of Astolat===
	The glorious tales of the great victories of 381YE in [[Weirwater]] and [[Semmerholm]] inspired the people of Astolat no less than they inspired their neighbours. An impromptu summit of enchanters and representatives of Astolat weaver cabals came together at [[Astolat#Weaving\|Weaving]] shortly after the Autumn Equinox to discuss how they could express their pride and aid their nation. In the end they recognised that the witches already supporting the armies were more than a match for the Druj sorcerers - but they needed a ready source of power to wield their magic on the battlefield, or to weave the [[enchantment\|enchantments]] that will help the knights achieve victory. Lord Joshua of House Cadence devised an ambitious plan to construct a series of grand [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aeolian_harp aeolian harps] at key locations throughout the territory. [[Construct_Harps_of_Astolat\|Commissioned]] by the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]] during the Winter Solstice, work was swiftly begun and swiftly completed. Aeolian harps now stand in key locations throughout Astolat.		The glorious tales of the great victories of 381YE in [[Weirwater]] and [[Semmerholm]] inspired the people of Astolat no less than they inspired their neighbours. An impromptu summit of enchanters and representatives of Astolat weaver cabals came together at [[Astolat#Weaving\|Weaving]] shortly after the Autumn Equinox to discuss how they could express their pride and aid their nation. In the end they recognised that the witches already supporting the armies were more than a match for the Druj sorcerers - but they needed a ready source of power to wield their magic on the battlefield, or to weave the [[enchantment\|enchantments]] that will help the knights achieve victory. Lord Joshua of House Cadence devised an ambitious plan to construct a series of grand [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aeolian_harp aeolian harps] at key locations throughout the territory. [[Construct_Harps_of_Astolat\|Commissioned]] by the [[Senate]] during the Winter Solstice, work was swiftly begun and swiftly completed. Aeolian harps now stand in key locations throughout Astolat.

	Six feet tall or more, these harps respond not to the wind but to the currents of mana, producing not only eerie ethereal music - the [[Music of the spheres]] - but harnessing, directing, and focusing the flow of magic itself. Each is built of blue-stained weirwood, with strings of polished moonsilver. As long as the central harp at Weaving remains unmolested, their beautiful, haunting music echoes across forest and field alike, weaving the magical currents to channel their power into the [[mana site\|mana sites]] of Astolat.		Six feet tall or more, these harps respond not to the wind but to the currents of mana, producing not only eerie ethereal music - the [[Music of the spheres]] - but harnessing, directing, and focusing the flow of magic itself. Each is built of blue-stained weirwood, with strings of polished moonsilver. As long as the central harp at Weaving remains unmolested, their beautiful, haunting music echoes across forest and field alike, weaving the magical currents to channel their power into the [[mana site\|mana sites]] of Astolat.

Hailmur at 00:56, 18 July 2025

2025-07-18T00:56:33Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:56, 18 July 2025
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	{{CaptionedImage\|file=RegionsofAstolat.png\|caption=Heartland of the nation.\|title=Regions of Astolat\|align=left\|width=500}}[[Category:Imperial Territory]]		{{CaptionedImage\|file=RegionsofAstolat.png\|caption=Heartland of the nation.\|title=Regions of Astolat\|align=left\|width=500}}[[Category:Imperial Territory]]
	== Overview ==		==Overview==
	Before the nation [[Dawn_history#Before_the_Empire\|joined the Empire]], the [[Dawn monarchy\|monarchs of Dawn]] ruled from Astolat. Igraine, Queen of Roses, cemented the territory as the spiritual heart of Dawn when she raised the [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]] in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. One of the most famous events in a history full of glorious deeds took place here - this is where the [[First Empress]] performed her test of Mettle, [[Dawn_history#Joining_the_Empire\|became Queen of Dawn]], and brought the nation into the Empire.		Before the nation [[Dawn_history#Before_the_Empire\|joined the Empire]], the [[Dawn monarchy\|monarchs of Dawn]] ruled from Astolat. Igraine, Queen of Roses, cemented the territory as the spiritual heart of Dawn when she raised the [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]] in [[#Withy\|Withy]]. One of the most famous events in a history full of glorious deeds took place here - this is where the [[First Empress]] performed her test of Mettle, [[Dawn_history#Joining_the_Empire\|became Queen of Dawn]], and brought the nation into the Empire.

	Central, well defended, ~~civilized~~ and beautiful, Astolat is the heartland of the nation. It is famous for its rose gardens, and the offering of a single Astolat rose is considered the perfect gift of true love (as in the Dawnish song [[The Rose Garden]]). In the north of Astolat, the majestic granite mountains are rich in ore, but occasionally threatened by their proximity to the wild forests which shelter beasts, barbarians, bandits, and twisted vallornspawn. It is easy to fall in love with Astolat. A famous troubadour once described Astolat as "''The warmth of amber, the puissance of white ginger and the clarity of verbena, with fresh green grass, lush sage and cleansing droplets of summer rain,''" and this phrase conjures up the beauty of the territory for many who have visited it. Those born there are sometimes gently mocked for regaling their companions with stories of its splendour at the slightest provocation.		Central, well-defended, civilised and beautiful, Astolat is the heartland of the nation. It is famous for its rose gardens, and the offering of a single Astolat rose is considered the perfect gift of true love (as in the Dawnish song [[The Rose Garden]]). In the north of Astolat, the majestic granite mountains are rich in ore, but occasionally threatened by their proximity to the wild forests which shelter beasts, barbarians, bandits, and twisted vallornspawn. It is easy to fall in love with Astolat. A famous troubadour once described Astolat as "''The warmth of amber, the puissance of white ginger and the clarity of verbena, with fresh green grass, lush sage and cleansing droplets of summer rain,''" and this phrase conjures up the beauty of the territory for many who have visited it. Those born there are sometimes gently mocked for regaling their companions with stories of its splendour at the slightest provocation.

	Flowers are everywhere in Astolat. Even beyond the beautifully tended gardens and parks that surround many of the noble estates, every village and farm sets aside a little land for blossoming plants. Roses are common - with rose hips used for everything from soothing tea to wines and liqueurs - but by no means the only plant grown. Wildflowers are everywhere - in some parts of Astolat it is considered bad luck or bad manners to clear them - and they are said to grow in greatest profusion over the graves those who died for love, or glory.		Flowers are everywhere in Astolat. Even beyond the beautifully tended gardens and parks that surround many of the noble estates, every village and farm sets aside a little land for blossoming plants. Roses are common - with rose hips used for everything from soothing tea to wines and liqueurs - but by no means the only plant grown. Wildflowers are everywhere - in some parts of Astolat, it is considered bad luck or bad manners to clear them - and they are said to grow in greatest profusion over the graves those who died for love, or glory.

	Even more so that in Semmerholm and Weirwater, Astolat enjoys a flourishing culture of [[troubadour\|troubadours]] and other performers who move from castle, to manor house, to fayre and village. They trade, sing, perform and pass on news, ensuring that all save the most out-of-the-way settlements are kept abreast of the affairs of the nation and the Empire.		Even more so that in Semmerholm and Weirwater, Astolat enjoys a flourishing culture of [[troubadour\|troubadours]] and other performers who move from castle, to manor house, to fayre and village. They trade, sing, perform and pass on news, ensuring that all save the most out-of-the-way settlements are kept abreast of the affairs of the nation and the Empire.
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	In 379YE, the [[vallorn]] of [[Brocéliande]] stirred, and the [[vallorn#Vallorn Miasma\|miasma]] spilled out across eastern Astolat. This led to a [[strange harvest]] - [[farm\|farms]] imbued with [[vis]] attuned to the Spring realm. Some of the farms still bear the mark of that extrusion today.		In 379YE, the [[vallorn]] of [[Brocéliande]] stirred, and the [[vallorn#Vallorn Miasma\|miasma]] spilled out across eastern Astolat. This led to a [[strange harvest]] - [[farm\|farms]] imbued with [[vis]] attuned to the Spring realm. Some of the farms still bear the mark of that extrusion today.

	Shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE, the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads\|Blood Red Roads]] were completed, providing merchants and traders easy access to Dawnish luxuries and allowing the yeofolk of Astolat to travel much more easily to some of the wealthiest cities across the Empire. For more than half a decade the roads provided a major boon to the [[farm\|farms]] and [[business\|businesses]] of Astolat. In the Winter of 386YE, however, the Imperial Senate determined to [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Levy_Tolls_on_Blood_Red_Roads\|levy tolls]] on traffic using the road, meaning they no longer increase the income of individual citizens but provide a significant boost to the Imperial Treasury, in part to pay for the war against the [[vallorn]].		Shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE, the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads\|Blood Red Roads]] were completed, providing merchants and traders easy access to Dawnish luxuries and allowing the yeofolk of Astolat to travel much more easily to some of the wealthiest cities across the Empire. For more than half a decade, the roads provided a major boon to the [[farm\|farms]] and [[business\|businesses]] of Astolat. In the Winter of 386YE, however, the Imperial Senate determined to [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Levy_Tolls_on_Blood_Red_Roads\|levy tolls]] on traffic using the road, meaning they no longer increase the income of individual citizens but provide a significant boost to the Imperial Treasury, in part to pay for the war against the [[vallorn]].

	== Major Features ==		== Major Features ==

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:33, 15 January 2026
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	=== Laroc ===		=== Laroc ===
	Famous for its tournament ground, which sets a standard for pageantry that other nations can only envy. Many Dawnish who care for the [[glory]] of the duel hold Laroc in their hearts as they fight elsewhere. Here, [[questing knight\|questing knights]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches\|war witches]], nobles and [[yeofolk of Dawn\|yeofolk]], clash in glorious bouts, ever eager to prove themselves in the eyes of their peers. Four grand tourneys are held each year, sponsored by noble houses. In between the tourneys are innumerable smaller events - duelling contests, melees, even the occasional yeofolk-only archery competition. It isn't just the mortals of Dawn who are drawn here to watch knights and war-witches clash, or to cheer the archery competitions of the yeofolk. It's an open secret that heralds of several eternals - especially the Kings and Queens of Summer, but also the rulers of the Night ~~Realm~~ - are regular visitors, albeit usually incognito.		Famous for its tournament ground, which sets a standard for pageantry that other nations can only envy. Many Dawnish who care for the [[glory]] of the duel hold Laroc in their hearts as they fight elsewhere. Here, [[questing knight\|questing knights]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches\|war witches]], nobles and [[yeofolk of Dawn\|yeofolk]], clash in glorious bouts, ever eager to prove themselves in the eyes of their peers. Four grand tourneys are held each year, sponsored by noble houses. In between the tourneys are innumerable smaller events - duelling contests, melees, even the occasional yeofolk-only archery competition. It isn't just the mortals of Dawn who are drawn here to watch knights and war-witches clash, or to cheer the archery competitions of the yeofolk. It's an open secret that heralds of several eternals - especially the Kings and Queens of Summer, but also the rulers of the Night realm - are regular visitors, albeit usually incognito.

	The fluted pillars and arches of [[white granite]] were once some of the largest non-military constructions in the nation, but over the years they have began to look small in comparison to some of the impressive and Ambitious works other nations have built. In 384YE Senator Cecilia De Gauvain [[Construct_Laroc_Tournament_Grounds\|commissioned refurbishments]] intended to restore the faded glory of what were once the largest tourney grounds in the nation. Work was completed shortly before the start of the Summer Solstice 385YE - just in time for the [[Dog days are over\|Grand Tour]] to celebrate the conquest of [[the Barrens]].		The fluted pillars and arches of [[white granite]] were once some of the largest non-military constructions in the nation, but over the years they have began to look small in comparison to some of the impressive and Ambitious works other nations have built. In 384YE Senator Cecilia De Gauvain [[Construct_Laroc_Tournament_Grounds\|commissioned refurbishments]] intended to restore the faded glory of what were once the largest tourney grounds in the nation. Work was completed shortly before the start of the Summer Solstice 385YE - just in time for the [[Dog days are over\|Grand Tour]] to celebrate the conquest of [[the Barrens]].
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	Site of the [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]], Withy is mostly farmland, dotted with carefully cultivated [[forest]] preserves and orchards. It is also known for having many streams, many of which feed into the River of Sighs, and beautiful pools and lakes.		Site of the [[#The Castle of Thorns\|Castle of Thorns]], Withy is mostly farmland, dotted with carefully cultivated [[forest]] preserves and orchards. It is also known for having many streams, many of which feed into the River of Sighs, and beautiful pools and lakes.

	The small town of '''Oldheart''' is found in southern Withy, on the banks of one of the larger lakes. An ancient town, Oldheart is famed for its juniper bushes and the fine fruit brandies distilled from the red berries. Several of the [[weaver cabal\|weaver cabals]] here weave with willow withies, rather than cloth and are known both for their beautiful mage armour and their fine woven rods, wands, and staves. Mundane craftsfolk are known for their fine wicker baskets - and it is a common belief that the willow trees near Oldheart have a particular provenance that makes them especially flexible when they are being worked and almost indestructible once they have been shaped. A popular tale about the Dawnish folk hero ''Ragonde o'the Rushes'' tells how she once fought a murderous beast from the Winter ~~Realm~~ armed only with a willow switch and a wicker shield, sending the creature howling back to its malignant master the Queen of the Snows (believed in most versions of the tale to be either the unpopular Penni the White, or the [[eternal]] [[Skathe]]).		The small town of '''Oldheart''' is found in southern Withy, on the banks of one of the larger lakes. An ancient town, Oldheart is famed for its juniper bushes and the fine fruit brandies distilled from the red berries. Several of the [[weaver cabal\|weaver cabals]] here weave with willow withies, rather than cloth and are known both for their beautiful mage armour and their fine woven rods, wands, and staves. Mundane craftsfolk are known for their fine wicker baskets - and it is a common belief that the willow trees near Oldheart have a particular provenance that makes them especially flexible when they are being worked and almost indestructible once they have been shaped. A popular tale about the Dawnish folk hero ''Ragonde o'the Rushes'' tells how she once fought a murderous beast from the Winter realm armed only with a willow switch and a wicker shield, sending the creature howling back to its malignant master the Queen of the Snows (believed in most versions of the tale to be either the unpopular Penni the White, or the [[eternal]] [[Skathe]]).
	<!--{{CaptionedImage\|file=SenatorAstolat.jpg\|\|caption='''Cerys de Rosier''', Senator for Astolat\|align=left\|width=400}}-->		<!--{{CaptionedImage\|file=SenatorAstolat.jpg\|\|caption='''Cerys de Rosier''', Senator for Astolat\|align=left\|width=400}}-->
	{{Senate Elections\|Senator_for_Astolat\|Territory=Astolat\|Season=Winter}}		{{Senate Elections\|Senator_for_Astolat\|Territory=Astolat\|Season=Winter}}