The Mountain Clans spent earlier ages apart from other cultures, in high places or cities beneath the ground. They are makers of beautiful things, far-ranging traders, and curious explorers. However, they are reluctant to receive visitors from other cultures. The bitter wars between the clans were invisible to the dwellers on the plains and islands; the struggles against monsters in the dark were unknown to other cultures. Now the underground cities of old are no more, and the Mountain Clans are very much a part of the world. Will they make a difference?
There are three surviving Clans — the Feuerstein, Eisen,
and Smaragd Clans. The war between the Smaragd and the other two clans continues, for the Smaragd
Clan served the Nameless Emperor and continues to serve his cause even now, after his defeat.