Ash and Fire

Ash and Fire is a saga told by Ethvald, a Valdic elder and storyteller, to the younger generation of the Valdic Union during the Great Valdic Voyage. Written down by Samnir, it recounts the rise and fall of four key Valdic nations in Rathnir and Eldham: Frostmarch, Skjöldirbróðir, Roðinnbrók, and Solycia, and the trials that shaped the Valdic people's enduring spirit. Ethvald’s tale serves as both a reminder of the hardships endured and a source of inspiration, instilling pride in their heritage and inspiring the determination to forge ahead into the unknown during the Great Valdic Voyage.
The story also the first written account of the legend of Bølga, the ancient sea guardian who emerges in times of destruction and rebirth, guiding the Valdic people to new lands and fresh beginnings. Through Ethvald’s perspective, Ash and Fire captures the true essence of Valdic identity: the fire within that drives the Valds to rebuild from the ashes and pursue their destiny, no matter the cost. It is both a history and a call to action, ensuring the legacy of the Valds thrives in every new generation.
== Rathnir ==
=== Frostmarch ===
Frostmarch was the first homeland of the Valdic people, located in the harsh tundras of Sørligste. It was the cradle of the Valdic culture and their ancient traditions. Frostmarch was a thriving stronghold until it was destroyed by betrayal and warfare, leading to its fiery downfall. This marked the first major loss for the Valds, as they watched their homeland reduced to ashes. The destruction of Frostmarch symbolized the end of the first Valdic era, leaving the people scattered and searching for refuge.
=== Skjöldirbróðir ===
After the fall of Frostmarch, the Valdic people sought refuge in Skjöldirbróðir, a Valdic stronghold within Rathnir. Skjöldirbróðir became a sanctuary where the Valds regrouped, rebuilt, and began to regain their strength. Stories and prophecies of new lands and a greater destiny began to circulate among the people during this period, planting the seeds for the Great Valdic Voyage. Eventually, Skjöldirbróðir also fell, this time in a great war, marking another chapter of loss for the Valdic people.
== Eldham ==
=== Skjöldirbróðir in Phoros ===
Skjöldirbróðir in continent of Phoros within Eldham, was one of the first colonies established by the Valdic people during their settlement. It served as a cultural and military stronghold, symbolizing the Valds’ resilience and ability to rebuild after the hardships of Rathnir. Skjöldirbróðir ultimately fell during a great war, marking the beginning of a series of challenges faced by the Valdic realms in Eldham.
=== Bálistarr in Astios ===
Bálistarr grew into a powerful political and cultural entity within Eldham, representing a golden age for the Valdic people. Cultural Influence: The colony played a crucial role in unifying the Valdic tribes through shared traditions and governance, laying the groundwork for Solycia. Transition to Solycia: Over time, Bálistarr’s legacy was inherited by Solycia, its cultural successor, which rose to unite the scattered Valdic tribes.
=== Roðinnbrók in Leifmyrr ===
Roðinnbrók was another prominent colony in Eldham located on the continent of Leifmyrr, thriving as a hub of commerce and culture. This colony faced a catastrophic end when the mighty sea serpent Jörmundr submerged it beneath the waves, symbolizing the uncontrollable forces of nature. Despite its destruction, Roðinnbrók’s contributions to Valdic culture and history remain a significant part of their collective identity.
=== Solycia successor to Bálistarr ===
Solycia rose as the successor to Bálistarr, becoming a unifying force for the Valdic tribes in Eldham. It played a critical role in consolidating Valdic culture, governance, and spirituality. The emergence of Solycia is marked by the adoption of Essentism as a prominent belief system. Solycia’s rise is seen as a fulfillment of ancient prophecies, solidifying the Valds’ position as a united and resilient people.
== Voyagers ==
The Ice Comet of Doom brought devastating winters, forcing the Valdic people to abandon Eldham and view the calamity as a divine trial. Bølga, the legendary sea guardian, emerged to guide the Valds through the treacherous seas, embodying hope and renewal in their darkest hour. The journey to Abelheim was marked by hardships, but Ethvald’s tales and the Valds’ unity sustained their determination to overcome.
The Valdic people reached Abelheim, a prophesied land of rebirth, where they began a new chapter of unity and strength. This chapter highlights divine trials, cycles of rebirth, and the unyielding spirit of the Valdic Union.
== Rebirth ==
Rebirth is a sequel to Ash and Fire that explores the events following the Valdic people’s settlement in Abelheim, focusing on the rebuilding of their society, culture, and governance. It captures the challenges and triumphs of forging a new identity while preserving the legacy of their ancestors in a land of promise and renewal.
Category:Literature
Category:Valdic