Dwinmir

Dwinmir is a country located in southeastern Karolessia in a region called Dwinvale. The country is ruled by dark elves of Dwin heritage.

Dwinmir is one of the oldest continuous states in Cintias, only surpassed in age by other elven states like Vindalaeris and Kelestia. Although modest in size, Dwinmir once exerted control over much of Karolessia, subjugating the neighboring Karolessian Elves. Dwinmir society now mostly keeps to itself to maintain stability and guard itself from the influence of neighbors who they view with suspicion and apathy.

## History

### The Dwin Empire (31-170)

Following the beginning of the The Age of Division, the Dwin managed to rise to power in their region following a prolonged period of chaos, establishing the Dwin Empire. The Empire covered the eastern Karolessia region, stretching to the Kalina Sea in the east to Invaris in the west. This period represented the most powerful the Dwin had ever been since the ancient times. This period would however be shortlived by elven standards. The empire was ruled by a minority Dwin elite class who had enslaved a majority consisting of Karolessian Elves and Chernavians. The empire eventually fractured in 170 following a multitude of rebellions.

### Decline and stabilization (200s-800s)

The Dwin would for many centuries clash with their neighbors, losing small bits of land over many centuries. At certain points in this period the Dwin were at risk of being completely taken over and driven from their land by their rivals. They would spend centuries perfecting a style of guerilla warfare which would cause any invader immense attrition, making the prospect of eliminating the Dwin too costly. In the 800s, scores would be settled and the Dwin managed to make agreements with other neighboring states and respect each others domains.

### Era of Silence (900s-1300s)

The Era of Silence, in spite of its gloomy name, refers to what has perhaps bee the most peaceful and stable period of modern Dwin history. In this period, no major wars were fought and thee relations with their neighbors remained cool, even if the mutual distrust was great.

### Modern times (1300s-present)

The Era of Silence came to an end thanks to several developments. Most importantly was the encroachment by the Damagor hordes to the north which conquered much of the Karolessia region, subjecting the Dwin's old northern rivals to their servitude. This period of change caused the Dwin elite to rethink their current position. In the chaos, the Dwin retook the mountain of Fallenstar, which had been in the hands of the Karolessian Elves for many centuries. This was seen by the Dwin as a major resurgence of their former glory as it used to be the location of ther old capital Sheoth which was destroyed three millennia ago. The Dwin began a project to rebuilt a new city in Fallenstar named New Sheoth in 1375, a successor to the old capital.

Dwin's expansionism quickly drew the ire of the Damagor horde. Earliest clashes with the horde began in 1381. The Dwin were able to defend themselves and sign a truce with the horde, although this shaky pact has not been able to prevent skirmishes from breaking out from time to time.

## Society

### Governance

Dwinmir follows a matriarchal societal hierarchy in tradition with Dwin customs. Its ruler is called the High Matron. High Matrons are females chosen based on merit, being expected to excel in many areas including physical prowess, mental brilliance and magic. A counsel known as the Shadow Council, containing a body of 90 females of elite status, make the decision to elect a High Matron every 20 years. These elections are tough and only attracts the most sublime of candidates. It is not unheard of for some candidates having to fight to the death in order to prove their worth to the Shadow Council.

The current High Matron is Laiénnè Na'calath, who has been the High Matron since 1350. Her rule has been so strong and absolute that no one has dared challenge her rule for at least half a century.

### Factions

A secretive society known as the Shadow Sentinels exist within Dwinmir, which operates in the dark to help protect Dwin society from malicious forces and maintain stability.

#### **Guilds**

Various Dwin guilds exist.

Guilds of Dwinmir
 Order of the Blade | A guild of professional warriors and sellswords, hired by armies and nobles alike.

## Noble Houses

Noble houses of Akarros