The Elden Council is the ruling authority of the Vanir of Aerenal , entrusted with safeguarding their magical heritage and political interests. The council operates under the divine guidance of Mystera, the goddess of magic, whose will is often communicated through the Avatar of Air. The council members are responsible for maintaining the Vanir's sovereignty, preserving their arcane traditions, and upholding the balance of their society.
Membership and Elections
Membership on the Elden Council is traditionally reserved for mages of exceptional skill from the Noble House Gwaithor, Noble House Aefir, and Noble House Farric. Council members are elected by popular vote within their respective houses, serving terms of 100 years to ensure stability and continuity in governance.
However, recent events have disrupted this tradition. Following the unexpected death of Alana Aefir, a powerful mage and former council member, due to the insidious influence of the demon Balthazar, a precedent was set. Ares Farric, the first non-magic user in the history of the council, was elected to fill the vacant seat. His election marked a turning point in Vanir politics, demonstrating that exceptional leadership and wisdom could hold equal weight to arcane mastery.
The Council Hall
The Council Hall, seated at the highest foothill of Aerenal, overlooks a breathtaking landscape of mist-covered lakes and cascading streams. These lakes flow eternally from the mountain spring, a sacred site believed to be the final gift of Unknown, the Vanir’s divine progenitor.
The mountain spring is also home to the Etherstone, a mystical anchor that roots the arcane flow of Aerenal throughout the world. The Etherstone’s energies resonate strongly within the Council Hall, symbolizing the unbreakable bond between the Vanir and their magical heritage.
History and Influence
Though deeply rooted in tradition, the Elden Council has seen notable shifts in recent years:
- Elana Aefir’s Death: Once a beloved figure among the Vanir, Elana’s death shocked the nation. Investigations revealed that the demon known as Balthazar the Blighted, a long-forsaken force, had orchestrated her demise, attempting to destabilize the council and infiltrate Aerenal’s magical defenses.
- The Election of Ares Farric: In the wake of tragedy, Ares Farric—a military strategist with no magical aptitude—was elected to the council. His unprecedented appointment brought fresh perspectives and a focus on pragmatic governance, though it sparked heated debate among the noble houses.
Notable Members
- Vodney Ularen: Wise and influential headmaster of the Aefir Academy of the Arcane, Vodney is well trusted by all in Aerenal for his immense arcane expertise.
- Ellavanya Farric: Widely respected and cherished head of the Noble House Farric, Ellavanya has served five consecutive terms on the council before her comatose affliction (caused by the demon Balthazar) required her to absentee for a number of years until she awoke.
- Ares Farric: Considered a pragmatic and unyielding leader, Ares represents Noble House Fasrric. His election marked the first break from the tradition of mage-councilors, earning both criticism and admiration.
- Alana Aefir (deceased): Once a revered mage and councilor, Alana’s tragic death remains a pivotal moment in the history of the Elden Council.
The Matron of Magic
The Elden Council serves as stewards of the Vanir’s magical legacy, and their authority is second only to Mystera. The council consults her Avatar during moments of great significance, particularly when issues threaten the balance of the Etherstone or the arcane flows of Aerenal.
Mystera’s divine influence is reflected in the Council Hall, where the winds of her domain seem to flow unbidden, carrying whispers of her will. Her guidance is seen as the ultimate arbiter in disputes, solidifying her role as the protector of Aerenal’s people and traditions.
Legacy
The Elden Council embodies the duality of tradition and adaptability. While deeply tied to the arcane heritage of the Vanir, its recent openness to non-mages like Ares Farric signals a willingness to evolve in the face of new challenges. Through triumphs and tribulations, the Elden Council continues to serve as a pillar of governance, safeguarding the Vanir’s future while honoring their storied past.