The Elden Court is a breathtaking architectural marvel and the political epicenter of the Vanir people, located in the misty heights of Aerenal. Founded by Avatar Aegis alongside the celestial Aether Drake, the Elden Court was built to embody their shared purpose: preserving balance, arcane wisdom, and the sanctity of the Etherstone, the source of the Vanir's magical heritage.
Situated atop a great plateau, the Elden Court is surrounded by an eternal spring that flows from the Etherstone's roots, creating a natural moat and feeding the mist-covered lakes below. Its grandeur is matched by its spiritual significance, serving as the home of The Elden Council, who rule under the guidance of Mystera, the goddess of magic.
Architecture
The Elden Court’s design reflects the harmony between nature awnd elven craftsmanship:
- Vaulted Green Roofs - The emerald-green rooftops evoke the verdant forests of the Vanir homeland, symbolizing growth and vitality.
- White Marble Walls: Smooth and resplendent, the walls are hewn from sacred stone, adorned with intricate runes and carvings depicting the Vanir’s history and connection to Mystera.
- Silver Bridges - Two elegant, silver bridges arch gracefully over the spring, leading to the court’s entrance. These bridges shimmer in the sunlight, symbolizing the unity of the noble houses.
- Central Spire - A towering spire rises above the structure, inscribed with celestial glyphs and crowned by a magical beacon that radiates faint arcs of arcane light, visible for miles.
- Waterfall and Surrounding Mountains - Behind the court, a majestic waterfall cascades from the heights, blending with the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. Mist from the falls creates a mystical ambiance, further emphasizing the court's ethereal presence.
The court’s interior is equally stunning, featuring:
- The Council Chamber - A circular hall where the Elden Council convenes, its dome painted with celestial constellations and illuminated by enchanted crystals.
- The Hall of Helios- A long corridor lined with statues of past councilors and adorned with glowing runes representing the Vanir's connection to the Etherstone.
- The Reflection Pools - Sacred pools within the inner sanctum, where council members meditate and commune with Mystera’s Avatar.
Locational Significance
The Elden Court’s location was chosen for its connection to the Etherstone, an ancient and mystical artifact that anchors the arcane flow of the multiverse. The spring surrounding the court flows directly from the Etherstone, imbuing the area with immense magical energy.
This sacred site is also believed to have been a gift from Unknown, given to the Vanir to protect and nurture their civilization. As the center of their spiritual and political life, the Elden Court symbolizes the unity and purpose of the Vanir people.
Founding
The Elden Court was established during the Third Age, a time when the Aether Drake, the Vanir, and Avatar Aegis united to create a lasting sanctuary for the Vanir's burgeoning civilization.
Goldbrand (aka Zirael), the Golden Dragon, served as the guardian of the Etherstone, guiding the Vanir to this sacred site and infusing the land with protective magic.
Avatar Aegis, Mystera’s mortal envoy, shaped the foundation of the Elden Court and established the guiding principles of the Elden Council. Aegis’s leadership ensured that the court would remain a beacon of balance and justice.
Role and Governance
The Elden Council presides over the Elden Court, wielding both political authority and spiritual stewardship. The court also serves as the cultural and intellectual hub of the Vanir, housing extensive libraries, enchanted archives, and sacred meditation chambers.
The Avatar of Mystera periodically visits the Elden Court, offering divine insight and ensuring that the council’s decisions align with Mystera’s will.
Legacy
The Elden Court stands as a testament to the unity of the Vanir and their unwavering connection to the arcane and divine. Its beauty, history, and spiritual significance make it one of the most revered locations in the multiverse, a place where the mortal and celestial meet to preserve the balance of the realms.