About

Attria is a volcanic archipelago two hundred miles off the Gold Coast. It consists of ten large, habitable islands, including the main capitol island of Attria, and more than two dozen uninhabited or smaller islands.It stands as an independent, free state from Cyrodiil, despite its Imperial population and influence. Its political views and state of affairs have always, and continue to remain, neutral in the political upset of Tamriel. It has not staked itself into the conflict of the Alliance War, preferring to keep to its trade interests rather than involve itself with the petty power plays happening on the mainland.Attria is known for its wealth, opulence, trading companies, naval power, magnificent beaches, bathhouses, native wines, volcanic activity, magical anomalies, and unusual, unique customs surrounding life, death, and rebirth.It has varying climates, from alpine mountains and temperate forests in the south, to arid climes in the far north, and lush rainforests in between.

People

Imperials

The main population on Attria consists of Imperials, with many bloodlines tracing back to Colovia.

Mer

Mer have always lived on Attria. The original population of Mer was that of the Ayleids, and rumors abound that Ayleid blood can actually be found in many of the oldest Attrian families and Houses.Even long after the disappearance of Ayleids from their shores, Mer in the archipelago have remained a staple of Attrian life and culture. The most recent arrivals have been Maormer under the command of the pirate, Zedvius. The Maormer have settled on Pleasure Point to the north of the main island for now, but plans are in place to develop land for their use on the shore.In addition to Maormer, a sizable population of outcast Altmer have been living on Shattered Isle within the archipelago for several hundred years. They were gifted the island when the former Attrian lord took pity on the Mer that had been cast out of their society and home. He granted them land to settle upon and Shattered Isle has become a haven for any Altmer seeking a place to call their own.

Other Races

Attria has become a melting pot of various races over the past several hundred years. It has a diverse populous, including Bosmer, Redguards, Bretons, and Khajiit. It has a smaller population of the remaining Tamriellic races.

Immigration

Historically, immigration to Attria has been a difficult affair. With its general isolation and distrust of outside people and cultures, Attria had closed borders for much of its early history. It is still difficult to attain citizenship, as space is limited on the islands, and the danger posed by the violent volcanic eruptions adds to concerns about overpopulation. Still, in recent years, the tight borders have slowly been being pried open, and for the past few centuries, more outsiders have been calling Attria home.

Military

Naval Force

Attria is known for its impressive navy, which is headed by Lyre Ascentros, the lord of Attria. The navy has successfully defended Attria for centuries, staving off numerous invasion attempts over the years. When not being used to ensure the safety of the archipelago from outside threats, the navy becomes a vital rescue force, aiding Attrians in evacuating the main island whenever Mount Ilkron erupts.

The White Tide Invasion

DURATION | 2E 585 - 2E 586

CONSPIRACY & BETRAYAL

In the late spring of 2E 585, Lyre uncovered a conspiracy that threatened the very existence of his family's legacy when he intercepted communications between his brother, Octavius, two years his junior, and the captain of the White Tide band of Maormer pirates. In the missive, Lyre discovered that his brother had made arrangements for the Maormer pirates to lay siege to Attria, at which point he would assist them in gaining access to the palace so that they might murder the Ascentros family and allow Octavius to ascend to power and rule over Attria.Lyre confronted his brother, only to be ambushed by Maormer pirates and detained. Lyre managed to free himself from his bonds as the Maormer attempted to row him out to sea to drown him. He killed his abductors and quickly returned to Attria. Once there, he confronted his brother while his father held court, outing Octavius as a traitor to all. Octavius resisted arrest and turned on Lyre, but he was no match for his eldest brother. After a brief duel, Lyre defeated and slayed Octavius before the entire Attrian court.With Octavius dead, it was believed the invasion would never take place, but all were mistaken as the Maormer pirate fleet came into view that evening, and war was at Attria's doorstep.

BATTLE OF PLEASURE POINT

The first official battle of the White Tide Invasion occurred on a small island north of the main island of Attria, known as Pleasure Point. The island is home to a lighthouse that ensures the safe passage of ships attempting to access Attria by way of the Coral Rift, a great reef that acts as a natural barrier to the greater island's northern shores.The Attrians knew that if the Maormer were able to gain control of the norther corridor, it would leave their main port vulnerable to attack, and cut off ships attempting to flee to the mainland of Tamriel.Lyre and the Attrian navy set out to intercept the pirates shortly before dawn. By first-light, blood was shed as Lyre met his foes in battle. Fires were seen dotting the horizon of the sea for hours, and by nightfall, the Maormer were in retreat when two of their vessels became ensnared in the reef and were unable to free themselves. The two ships were boarded and subdued by Attrian forces.

AMBUSH AT THE DRAIN

Eight months in to the conflict, Attria was neither gaining ground, nor suffering heavy losses. Things appeared stalemated. The Maormer staged their attacks at night, and from numerous angles, leaving the Attrian navy scrambling to keep the mer at bay.Lyre's men were stationed at the eastern side of the island in a delta known as The Drain, which was an easy-access point that the Maormer had attempted to use in the early days of the war to invade Attria by way of the river.In the middle of the night, giant serpents attacked Lyre's vessel and a great storm shook the delta. Storm mages swarmed the deck, overwhelming the Attrian crew. Lightning shattered the deck, and one bolt struck Lyre, burning down his body and through his right leg. He was thrown from the ship as the lightning ignited pitch below the deck and erupted into a surge of flames and black smoke.Lyre was rescued from the water and rushed back to his family palace, drifting between life and death. He was seen to by the best physicians on the island, and miraculously survived.When he came to some weeks later, he learned that nearly his entire crew had died in the ambush -- including his lover of eight years, Ronius.To make matters worse, the ambush had turned the tide of the war in the favor of the Maormer, and he was in no condition to get back out onto the battlefield. He could only watch helplessly as the war raged on without him as he recovered.Hatred seethed in his heart at the loss of his beloved and his crew, and he spent the next several weeks planning his vengeance.

VICTORY & CAPTURE OF THE BLACK WIDOW

Four months after the ambush at The Drain, Lyre was back on his feet and had a new ship assigned to him as he returned to the war and the sea.He had spent his time reading over reports as they poured in, serving at his father's side in war council meetings, and had learned that the flagship of the White Tide Pirates was a handsome, red-sailed vessel as dark as ebony, known as The Black Widow. The ship had last been spotted less than a mile from the entrance to Attria's main bay, and several enemy ships were reported to be moored nearby, likely awaiting orders to attack the capitol port.Lyre played the Maormer's own game and organized his crew to attack at night -- not by ship, but by sneaking up on the flagship in small boats under the darkness of a fortuitous moonless night. Their attack was swift and sudden, with the mages immediately targeted, and, soon, the Attrians had taken control of the vessel, with Lyre slaying the proverbial head of the pirate snake.So engulfed in his rage was he, that Lyre slayed most of the crew, determined to see every last Maormer dead at his feet. It was rumored among his men that the sight of the ship's young cabin boy cowering in the ship's bilge stopped Lyre's vengeful slaughter. Lyre was said to have taken pity on the lad, and offered him a stay of execution, and even allowed the boy to identify the bodies of his crewmates so that their names might be properly recorded. Lyre's final act was to ensure that the slain Maormer were given a proper sea burial.With the capture of The Black Widow, Lyre turned the ship on the Maormer fleet, fooling them into believing it was their captain returning to order them into action. He used the ship to get close, and then his men boarded the enemy vessels they came upon, capturing them as well.Within three days, and with their lead captain dead, the rest of the Maormer pirates fled Attria, and, at last, the island was left to mourn its dead, and recover from the gruesome and terrifying event.

AFTERMATH AND REGIONAL HOLIDAY

Following his final victory over the Maormer invaders, Lyre was recognized by his father by several titles, including, "The Flame of Attria," "Defender of the Mountain," and, "Sea-elf Slayer." He and his men were awarded the highest honors for their bravery and sacrifices.Attria now recognizes the final day of the war -- the 30th of Rain's Hand -- as New Tide Day, a regional holiday, and it is celebrated with parades, feasts, and a memorial evening for the fallen.

The Ashheart Vanguard

The Ashheart Vanguard are a common sight about Attria and are best known as royal guards who protect the Attrian nobility and act as a secret service of sorts to the ruling lord.

Dragon Slayers

The Vanguard are well-known dragon slayers, with each of their members having served time aiding in the Elsweyr dragon crisis and learning from the recently reformed Dragonguard. The commander of the Vanguard is Lord Reikos Taverra, with their headquarters located on Whispering Isle in the snow-capped Spearspine Mountains.

Wardens of Mount Ilkron

While most Attrians know that the Ashheart Vanguard are often stationed at Mount Ilkron, few know the true reason why. The most common belief, and that fostered by the noble family, is that they are simply monitoring the mountain and the spells upon it. The true reason, however, is far more vital. The Ashheart Vanguard are the last bastion of defense against the escape of the mountain's draconic prisoner, Yolsilkron. They ensure that none enter or depart from Mount Ilkron who are not permitted. Their solemn duty, and the oaths they take, pertain to the sacrifice of their very lives for when the volcano's spells fade enough that Yolsilkron is capable of breaking his restraints. Their ultimate mission is to buy the Foci and their mages time to reset the Flames after they have dimmed, resetting the clock on the mountain's prison spells.

Geography
&
Environment

The Islands

The Attrian Archipelago's main ten islands run north to south, with the largest islands being the most northern. From north to south, the islands are Attria, Ajaxea, Uryles, Jade Isle, North Sahe, South Sahe, Nettle Isle, Espyria Island, Shattered Isle, and Whispering Isle.The main ten islands hold the largest populations, with the main island of Attria boasting around 100,000 residents. The main island itself spans 5,000 square miles. Its widest point is 150 miles. The longest road across the width is the Obsidian Road at 270 miles long, taking into account the safe travel distance around Mount Ilkron (ill-kron), the most dangerous volcano in Attria. Due to difficult and harsh terrain, it takes 14 days to traverse by foot, and 9 by horse on average.

Attria Main Island
Click link above for larger image.

The smallest island in the archipelago is Whispering Isle at 1500 square miles on the most southern tip of the chain. It has a resident count of 10,000.Shattered Isle is home to a population of Apraxic Altmer who have come to Attria for sanctuary. The island, along with Sunken Isles, was once a larger island that was home to a flourishing port and stable trade ports. Five centuries ago, the island was met with a mysterious fate when it broke apart and sank into the sea. Rumors speculate that there was a powerful artifact responsible, while others suspect the island was perhaps fraught with traps from the numerous Ayleid ruins that once dotted the island. Research has been occuring on the island ever since, and tourists can still dive to the sunken cities and towns today, as they sit mere meters below the water's surface.There are two dozen individual smaller islands in the archipelago that are either uninhabited, or are private islands for Attrian nobility.

Mount Ilkron
&
The Fire Crown

Mount Ilkron is the highest peak in the Attrian mountains on the main island, and is the largest of the deadly volcanoes. It covers 100 square miles and has an elevation of 14,000 feet. It is surrounded by five other volcanoes known as the Jewels of Attria. They are Mount Diamond, Mount Ruby, Mount Sapphire, Mount Emerald, and Mount Opal. The entire region of volcanoes, known as the Fire Crown, spans 700 square miles in the heart of Attria. This region is nearly inhospitable and has few safe routes on which to travel due to its high volcanic activity.

Mount Ilkron has minor activity compared to the Jewels, sitting silent and still, but when it awakes, it becomes a violent herald of doom, a looming threat that has led to the destruction of Attria for millennia. Every 100-200 years, like clockwork, the volcano erupts with such fury that it triggers the Jewels, creating a devastating force of destruction that nearly annihilates the main island of Attria. Early warning signs consist of earthquakes, gas plumes, and surging temperatures both above and below ground. The most reliable warning signs come in the form of Attria's Fires, five blue flames that correspond with each of the Jewel volcanoes. The Fires reside in shrines around Attria, with one located within Palatium Attria itself. Each Flame is an anchor for a spell placed upon Mount Ilkron that forces it to "sleep" for as long as possible. Strictly monitored, the Fires begin to dim and then extinguish as Mount Ilkron nears its cataclysmic awakening and the spells upon it are broken.The citizens are evacuated at the first sign of three or more of the five Fires weakening at any given time. The only residents who remain behind are the Death Tenders, who, in a solemn duty of bravery and heroism, sacrifice their lives in order to relight the Fires and contain the destruction.When the eruption has been safely contained and the Flames have been re-lit, the local Priests of Arkay, along with the strongest Attrian mages, return to the island and begin weaving spells of restoration to reverse the damage caused and heal the land. Within twenty years of an eruption, the entire population of Attria often returns to the island, and life continues. It is for this reason that mainlanders often call Attrians stubborn and foolish, and have given them the nickname Fire Children.Unbeknownst to the general population, however, is Mount Ilkron's true reason for being and its purpose: a prison for what was once called "The Great Evil."

Climate

Attria has many climates across its expansive island chain. The main island is considered to have a temperate climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The average temperature on the main island in the summer is upwards of 90-100 degrees in summer, with the highest temperatures reaching 110 degrees at the height of the dry season. Winters are wet and mild, with temperatures around 60 degrees on average, and with heavy rainfall. Snow is exceedingly rare on the main island, and is usually seen only on the slopes of Mount Ilkron in the winter months.The islands range in climate the further south they go, with many islands having lush forests, and cooler temperatures. The island with the most seasonal changes is Whispering Isle, with an average summer temperature of 90 degrees, and a winter temperature averaging 40 degrees and sometimes seeing snow.

Flora & Fauna

Attria is home to numerous native plants and animals common to the western coasts of Tamriel, High Isle, and the Summerset Isles, but it also has its own unique collection of beasts and plant life.

The Great Evil

Yolsilkron

Fifty years before the Alessian Slave Rebellion began in Cyrodiil, the Attrian Archipelago was ruled over by the Ayleids, and had an extensive slave population. It was a thriving kingdom, and was a hub of wealth and trade, boasting a strategic position near the mainland where ships full of goods and slaves found business in its bustling harbors. It was considered a jewel by its neighboring kingdoms. It was the envy of all.But paradise still has its demons.During this time, the tallest and most majestic of all of Attria's mountains, named Al Adabal, "High Diamond," a symbol of beauty and steadfastness, erupted. No one on Attria suspected that their beautiful mountain was, in fact, a volcano. A crucible of smoke and fire roared out of its gaping maw, and then the true horror emerged.

A black dragon burst forth out of the earth, bringing down a rain of flames and ash. As he flew overhead, he began to devour the souls of the living, ripping them from their bodies. The corpses of the fallen then rose from the dead, ravaging the islands in the archipelago and bringing the souls of more dead to their new, dark master.Yolsilkron had claimed Attria as his own, and both men and mer became his slaves. Year after year, the living were led by the dead to face their fate. None were spared the dragon's insatiable hunger.

The Adabal Order

While the dragon's reign over Attria strangled the life out of its people, a rebellion was forming. The former Ayleid king of Attria, Thaeliennar, formed a tentative alliance with one with whom the men showed allegiance and trust, a man called Quintus Ascentros.The two leaders met in secret on several occasions, planning a way in which they could defeat Yolsilkron. From these meetings, trust formed between them, and the Adabal Order was formed to take down their oppressive dragon overlord. The order conspired and plotted for nearly a year before coming up

with a plan that seemed to be their only option. Intelligence gatherers gleaned knowledge that Yolsilkron was no ordinary dragon with simple necromantic abilities. He had risen above such trivial magic and achieved lichdom, and without a guarantee of his demise, the order fashioned a trap for him, instead.

It was decided that the dragon's own fire and blood would be used against him to create a powerful prison that could restrain him until a way could be found in which he could be properly and truly destroyed. The agreed upon prison location would be the very mountain the dragon had originally appeared from, and a trap was set.Five braziers were laid out across the foot of the volcano, but Thaeliennar knew that their enemy may yet be too powerful to contain. And so it was that the idea of bonding mages together to cast a more powerful binding spell came into existence. Three great mages would sacrifice their power so that three more mages could draw from their magicka. A focus of magicka. A Focus of Attria.On the eve of their assault on Yolsilkron's palace in the mountain, the three Foci surrendered their magicka to their three chosen companions, binding themselves together to capture Yolsilkron's fire during the battle. The fire was then channeled into the braziers, springing the trap, and ensnaring the dragon with his own magic. In a final display of power, Thaeliennar reversed time on the mountain, which came up around the dragon to imprison him in its bowels.Unfortunately, this victory had come at a great cost. The three Foci were forever unable to access their magicka, and one of which was Thaeliennar's own son.The victory also came with little room for celebration. The time spell, Thaeliennar argued, while powerful, would not last forever. Time would continue to tick forward, and the spell would weaken with each passing day. It would only be a matter of time before the enchantment on the mountain shattered completely and Yolsilkron would be free to rampage across Attria again. He warned that the five fires holding the spell in place would dim and then snuff out over time, but there was something they could do to reignite them.A steady supply of souls fed to the fires was necessary for the flames to last as long as possible, and so a darker undertaking became the order's next task. Thaeliennar presented the order with a mystical flower that he said could bind souls to the flames and feed them. The only downside was that it only worked on the souls of the freshly departed, and not that of the living.The first Death Tenders were raised using a potion created with the magical flowers, their souls tied to the fires that held the dragon prisoner. They took up the grim task of sacrificing more and more of themselves in order to keep the flames burning, but they also were assigned another grisly task. Although imprisoned, Yolsilkron was still affecting Attria, his necromantic magic raising the dead in an effort to amass an army to free him. It was the burden of the Death Tenders to ensure that the dead were consecrated, rendering their corpses free from Yolsilkron's corruption. Their final sacrifice would come when the inevitable finally came to pass one hundred years later.Yolsikron began to break free as the spells upon his prison continued to weaken, until, at last, the volcano stirred once more. His shackles began to break as the mighty dragon stormed out of his earthy prison. It was then that the last cog in Thaeliennar's master plan came into play -- the Death Tenders sacrificed all that remained of their souls to keep one brazier alive while all the others grew dim. The Foci and their mages then used the last brazier to light the other four, resetting the time spell and once again imprisoning Yolsilkron in the mountain.

The Aftermath

In the 2nd Era, the events of the Adabal Order have been mostly forgotten. The general population of Attria does not recall the truth of the "Great Evil" that lives in their mountain. Many believe it to simply be a violent volcano, and nothing more, something that explodes, like clockwork, every hundred to two-hundred years.Like the mountain and its evil, the Adabal Order fell into obscurity after Thaeliennar ultimately fell prey to the dragon's dark magic in his desperate attempt to find a way to reverse his son's sacrifice and restore his magicka to him. It left him vulnerable to the dragon's whispers, eventually corrupting his mind with false, yet sublime promises should Thaeliennar assist Yolsilkron in escaping the volcano. Swayed by the oaths given, Thaeliennar studied Yolsilkron's magic and turned himself into a lich in order to achieve the magical power required to undo his own spells on the dragon's prison.Quintus caught wind of Thaeliennar's betrayal and led their brotherhood against him. They slayed Thaeliennar and the humans continued their revolt against the Ayleids, deeming them no longer trustworthy. They chased the Ayleids out of Attria, claiming the archipelago for themselves and freeing any remaining human slaves.With Thaelinnar's betrayal and death, the order collapsed, and concerns arose in regards to what should be done with the body of the Ayleid lich-king, especially when they were unable to locate his phylactery and destroy it. Octavius and the remaining order members decided that the only thing they could do was ensure Thaeliennar would never be able to resurrect himself. His body was severed and scattered to all the corners of Tamriel.

Today, the Adabal Order has become something new. They call themselves the Order of the Amaranthine Ring, and while the rest of Attria and Tamriel has forgotten the horrors of the past, they have not. They, along with other surviving branches of the Adabal Order, are desperate to finally, and completely, slay Yolsilkron while keeping his existence a secret from the rest of the world in hopes that he never, truly, breaks free.The new Order has old branches within it, however. The Ashheart Vanguard, the secret service and personal bodyguards of the Attrian nobility, are what remain of the original Order, and keep watch over Yolsilkron's prison, now named Mount Ilkron after their insidious prisoner.

Maps of Attria

Attria in Relation to The Gold Coast

The Attrian Archipelago

Great Island of Attria

Whispering Isle

Unique Flora

Crystal Wisteria

Crystal wisteria is unique to Attria's southernmost island, Whispering Isle, and is found nowhere else on Tamriel. The flowers of these trees are made of crystals, which give the trees their name. The petals of these crystalline flowers contain healing properties when crushed, and are sacred to the archipelago. Their primary application comes when a body is consecrated for rebirth as a Death Tender. It is illegal for crystal wisteria to be transported from the Attrian Archipelago or removed from The Glade, where they grow, by anyone other than Attrian nobility or the priesthoods. Flowers are given as gifts by Attrian nobility, and The Glade is protected by the lord of Whispering Isle, Reikos Taverra.

The wisteria flowers are known to be immortal, never dying, even when cut from the tree on which they grew. The origin of crystal wisteria is a mystery. Some believe the first trees were planted by the Ayleids, while others theorize they came from another land. Some have speculated they come from Oblivion or are Aedric in origin. They remain one of Attria's greatest, mysteries.

Dragonlings

About

Attria is home to several variations of dragonlings. Dragonlings are not true dragons despite having magical abilities, such as breathing fire or spitting ice -- they are simply winged reptiles that resemble dragons.Dragonlings are highly prized by Attrian nobility and are the property of House Ascentros. They are considered quite rare and have only one known breeding ground, which has been turned into a professional hatchery. The attendants selected to assist at the hatchery are handpicked by the nobility and given the prestigious title of Scale Keeper.

Adult dragonling; White

Dragonling incubation chambers

Dragonlings lay eggs in vast clutches on the basalt cliffs of the protected breeding grounds, however, only a small handful -- ten on average -- are considered viable every year. These eggs are carefully harvested by the Scale Keepers and brought into the hatchery where they are placed in special incubation alcoves. Of these ten eggs, only a handful will ever hatch. It is not uncommon for only three eggs to hatch each year. It is rare that all ten eggs survive. Cooler temperatures produce female dragonlings, and warmer temperatures produce males.Hatched dragonlings take ten years to reach maturity and become capable of breeding. Their mating rituals consist of wing displays, endurance flights, and talon-clasping, which is observed in some eagle species across Tamriel.

The final mate-bonding is a magical one, and is believed by some Attrian scholars to be the original inspiration for the spells that bound the first Focuses to their mages in the early years of the island's history. This same bonding magic is used when bonding a dragonling with Attrian nobility.When a dragonling pair is mated, it is for life. Dragonlings mate in late spring and lay their eggs in early autumn. Incubation takes three months. Before Scale Keepers and protected incubation were established on Attria, the wild saw both dragonling parents taking turns between brooding the eggs and hunting. This still happens in rare instances, when nests are built away from the safety of the traditional breeding cliffs.

Dragonling Hatchery

Dragonling bonding altar

Dragonlings live between 80-100 years in the wild, but bonded dragonlings will live only as long as their Attrian partner. If the partner dies, so does the dragonling.While bonding with a dragonling is reserved for Attrian nobility, it is not unheard of for friends of the elite to be allowed to bond with a dragonling as well. It is otherwise illegal for dragonlings to be kept as pets or companions, and the penalty for smuggling dragonlings or their eggs out of Attria is a steep fine and several years of imprisonment.When one is bonded with a dragonling, their thoughts and feelings are shared, making it an extremely intimate connection, not unlike an Attrian Focus and their mage, which gives credence to the Focus bonding theory.

Size & Weight

MALES
Average Weight: 8-10 lbs
Average Length (Nose to tail tip): 2 ft
Average Wing Span: 4 ft

FEMALES
Average Weight: 7 lbs
Average Length (Nose to tail tip): 1.75 ft
Average Wing Span: 3 ft

DIET

Dragonlings are primarily omnivorous and opportunistic. They will eat anything smaller than themselves that move, including insects, small rodents, fish, frogs, and snakes. They also have been known to raid bird nests and chicken coops, and will eat fruit as well, including Attrian grapes. Some consider wild dragonlings to be a nuisance, but harming them is illegal, so farmers go to great lengths to protect their stock and fields with humane methods.

Dragonling mother guarding nest and eggs

Attrian Umbrezia

About

The Umbrezia is Attria's finest breed of horse and also its most treasured. Bred to be powerful, long-distance runners and stamina powerhouses, the Umbrezia is the champion horse of Attrian nobility. Because of its elite status, the Umbrezia is only permitted to be owned, bred, and sold to the most powerful families in Attria, including high-ranking military officials. Very rarely, they are given as gifts to foreign allies, and only to nobility or royalty.The Umbrezia lineage is the oldest in Attria, with bloodlines able to be traced to only ten original mated pairs. The breed is known for its incredible stamina, speed, and high intelligence.The Umbrezia is naturally tolerant of magicka, and does not spook easily when spells are cast in its presence. They are easily trained to become tolerant of most things other horses fear in a relatively short amount of time.

Adult Umbrezia

Umbrezia foal

Umbrezia horses are large but lean, making them ideal horses for battle and running. The breed has a long, graceful neck, which has given it the nickname “Swan Horse” among equine enthusiasts. All foals are born a pale gray, and grow into a black coat as they age. It takes six years for an Umbrezia to reach the age of a “mature coat.”The breed is further defined by its short ears, wavy or curly manes, feathered feet, powerful shoulders, and long, muscular legs.A trademark of the Umbrezia is that they are supremely loyal, and usually only bond to one rider. Much like Focuses and dragonlings, Umbrezia connect and bond with their riders on a magical level. Those who have the privilege of becoming an Umbrezia's companion report being able to share one another's thoughts and feelings, and that it is akin to a spiritual experience.

Whispering Isle

About

The smallest island in the Attrian Archipelago is Whispering Isle at 1500 square miles on the most southern tip of the chain. It has a resident count of 10,000 with only three townships to its name. The capitol city, Varolla, is on the northernmost point of the island. Situated within the arms of a natural moat sits Whisper Hall, the home of Lord Reikos Tavarra and his household, cousin to the Ascentros family. This hall serves as vacation home for the Ascentros' when they visit for hunting season, or to escape the oppressive heat on them main island.

Whisper Hall

Whispering Isle forest scape

Climate & Geography

Whispering Isle is the most temperate of all of Attria's islands and experiences the most diverse changes in its seasons. It is home to lush forests and has been nicknamed The Hunters Isle by Attrians across the archipelago due to its rich populations of game and other wildlife. The forests sustain large populations of deer, hare, foxes, wildcats, and wolves.There are two large lakes on the island, Ephitha and its cascades in the east, and Massea in the west. There is a large mountain chain that splits the island in two and is home to an extinct volcano known as Mount Ashaii. These mountains see plenty of snow in the winter months, and are home to the mining town of Silvermouth. Vast quantities of silver are mined from its shafts every year, and are the island's main export.

Black Hart Deer

The rarest and most elusive of the island's wildlife is the Black Hart deer. Males of this species grow large racks that are used for mating displays and combat during the annual rut during the autumn months. The older the buck, the larger and more elaborate the antlers. Elder bucks have antlers that grow to become intertwined. These shed antlers are called "forest baskets" and are collected by the locals to be carved and polished to become beautiful works of art.Female Black Harts are white and sport a black stripe down their backs. They do not become of mating age until they reach seven years old, and when they give birth to their single fawn, they will not mate again until that fawn has reached maturity or meets an untimely end. Because of this lengthy parenting period, Black Harts are slow to reproduce and hunting them is reserved for nobility. Poaching a Black Hart results in a seven-year prison sentence for each poached deer.

Black Hart buck

Crystal wisteria

Crystal Wisteria Glade

The Wisteria Glade, which can be found near the center of Whispering Isle, is home to the fabled crystal wisteria of Attria. The glade itself is considered sacred, with its flowers being used in the resurrection ceremony for raising Death Tender from the dead and into service.No one knows the true origins of the glade itself, with some scholars arguing that it was a gift of devotion between Ayleid lovers, while others insist that it is even older, with its flowers being of aedric origin.Today, the Glade is a protected sanctuary, overseen by the Death Tenders of Whispering Isle, and protected by Lord Reikos Taverra. Visitors are welcome under strict supervision, as it is illegal to remove even a single wisteria flower from the trees without royal or religious approval.

The Glade is commonly enjoyed as a day outing, where Attrians may visit and enjoy its serene gardens, surrounded by its magical splendor and its impressive collection of statues representing races from all walks of Tamriel. It is also not uncommon for proposals of marriage or even weddings to take place within the Glade, with many Attrians choosing to place their beliefs of the romantic origins of the garden.

Government
Reikos Taverra
Hemedes Taverra
Mattias Crestshield Taverra

The Taverra family has been governing over Whispering Isle for generations. The current head of the household is Reikos Taverra. The family can trace its paternal roots to Colovia, while its maternal roots hold some mystery.Reikos currently has two lovers, Hemedes and Mattias, both of which hold the title of Lord alongside him and now share his family surname. Hemedes is a known Focus, while Mattias is his bound mage.

Other notable Locations

Crow's Watch Estate

Once an overrun and ruined vineyard estate belonging to the Taverra family, Hemedes took it upon himself to repair and tame the property, turning it into a prosperous manor once more. It sports lush, plentiful vineyards, apiaries, stables, and a sizable winery. Crow's Watch has become a haven for the island's crow population, with many seen roosting along the estate's property. It has become a lodge, as well, to house the Ascentros family when they wish to hunt in the island's forested countryside.

Whisper Hall

Attrian Focus

A sacrifice of that which is most precious is never lost, but becomes something greater in the hands of another.

Singular = Focus
Plural = Foci

Current Foci

NameAgeLocationBound Mage
Hemedes Taverra25Whispering IsleMattias Crestshield
Galen Ascentros27Island of AttriaNone
Lanithyr55Death Tender HQ on AttriaEliren Caerath

A Precious Sacrifice

The history of Attrian Foci is a long, prestigious one, steeped in mystery.The legend of the original Foci dates back to the founding of Attria, with the taming of the great volcano. During this tumultuous time, the wrath at the heart of Attria's violent, fiery mountain was a formidable threat, one that could prove destructive to lands beyond the archipelago.Great spells were required to subdue the fires that raged and roared beneath the island, spells that the greatest mages of men were incapable of weaving alone, even with the assistance of Ayleid wizards. All seemed hopeless, the threat, the Great Evil, breaking open the earth and spilling scalding blood into the sea.It was in the final moments of this impending doom, when the situation had become most dire, and hope seemed out of reach, that three mages born under the sign of the Atronoch, came together to perform a great sacrifice. Knowing that the spells required more magical strength than their fellows could provide, they took part in a ritual that stripped them of the use of their own magicka and bound them to mages of their choice. This binding allowed their chosen companions' magic to tether to the great well of magicka within each of the Three, bolstering their mages' power ten-fold.

With the selfless sacrifice of the Three, the Great Evil was banished into the recesses of the island's bowels, secured by the arcane chains of the spells cast by men and mer. Hope was restored and Attra and the rest of Tamriel were saved, but the Three were forever changed, and the price that they paid on that day would have far-reaching consequences in their own bloodlines.

Wells of Power

Following the defeat of the Great Evil, the Three were honored for their heroic deed and mighty sacrifice, which allowed for their mages to do the impossible. The ritual proved to be a permanent change, with the Three never again able to access their own wells of magicka, but the power of their bonded mages continued to be strengthened, fueled by the untapped resources of their partners. This unique bond was likened unto a mage using a focus to enhance his spells, drawing upon the power of a relic to bolster his own gifts. In time, the Three were given the venerated title of Focus for their continued role as support for their mighty mages.Two generations passed from the time of the Sacrifice of the Three, and all seemed well within their families. Children were born, and some grew to become great mages in the blossoming island of Attria despite their ancestors having no access to their own magicka any longer. In time, the duty of their forefathers seemed to be a moment to remember in the distant past, but all of that was about to change.In the third generation, one child of each bloodline was born without the use of magicka, and while this would have not been of any true note under normal circumstances, these three were different. Mages near these children began to feel a tug on their own magicka, as if being summoned, as if their magic was reaching out to another. The three children were tested by the royal wizards, and it was discovered that they held the same unique gift as their forebears. They could not use their own magic, but the mages around them could harness the untapped magicka within them.

The three young Foci were announced to the people, and celebrations were held in their honor. As the Foci grew, they were kept separate from the mages of Attria until they were of age to choose mages to bind themselves to. The ancient rites performed during the time of the Great Evil were once again used to complete the bindings, and the mages of the new Three became renowned for their incredible strength at the sides of their Foci.Every three generations, this pattern was discovered to repeat, with one child of each bloodline being born a Focus. They became known as Attrian jewels, their greatest and most beloved treasures, but as lineages began to dilute, and illegitimate children were born into the lines, the predictability of where and to whom a Focus would be born was muddled. In time, only one family had a certainty of bearing a Focus -- the Attrian royal Ascentros line.The hunt for the other two Foci becomes a matter of importance for all Attrians every three generations, with each citizen hoping that a Focus is born into their family, and praying that affairs made off-island do not produce a Focus without anyone's knowledge. In an effort to curb this concern, the birth of Attrians, legitimate or otherwise, are required to be registered, and any illegitimate children born to main-landers have been seized in the past and brought back to the island to be raised. This has caused rifts and conflicts between Attria and the mainland of Tamriel, but in the past two hundred years, accommodations have been made to move mainland mothers to Attria to raise illegitimate children, which has restored relations with Cyrodiil.Still, the concern persists that, one day, one or more Focuses will be born far from Attrian influence, leaving them vulnerable and at the mercy of mages beyond the island's governance.

Bound, Magic & Soul

In modern Attria, the act of binding a mage to a Focus is almost a religious affair, the union being blessed by local priests of Julianos, who further conduct the ancient rites that bound the first Three to their mages in centuries past.The process in which a Focus chooses a mage is a rigorous, calculated, and often times, exhausting effort. In order for any potential bond to take place, a mage's magicka must first be compatible with the Focus' untapped source, which both mage and Focus can feel upon meeting.

When a Focus and mage are found to be compatible, a courtship may begin after being sanctioned by both a priest of Julianos and the current ruling Ascentros.Focus courtships do not necessarily always end in marriage, but it is rare for it to take a different path. The union of a Focus and mage and the sensation of sharing magicka is so intimate, that even if a bonding does not start out as a love affair, it most certainly can end as one. Not all bindings result in romance, however, with some resulting in close friend and partnerships. The fear of a poor binding is often on a Focus' mind during courtships, as abuse of their power has occurred in the past.In rare situations, Foci have been stolen away and forced into the binding against their will, resulting in mages rising to power with an enslaved Focus at their side. Four centuries prior to current events, a Focus was kidnapped and bound to a necromancer, who overthrew the Ascentros lord on the throne, seizing power. The balance of power only shifted when the lord's brother, a Focus himself, bound himself to his mage lover, and they fought back. The necromancer was slain, and his Focus freed of the bond, and an Ascentros was once again on the throne of Attria. Such threats are ever present on the island, and Focuses are guarded most jealously by the citizens and ruling nobility to hopefully prevent such a disaster from ever occurring again.

Death Tenders

"Death is a circle. It has no end, no beginning. We are born to die, and in death, are reborn."

- Death Tender Proverb

Guardians of the Dead

Sacred but misunderstood members of Attrian society, Death Tenders play a vital role in the well-being of the entire archipelago. They protect and sanctify the many crypts that dot the islands, as well as prepare and bless the recently deceased in what is, arguably, the most vital duty of any citizen.On Attria, it is well documented that the dead rarely stay that way without help. Due to its necromantic origins and lingering magic, those who die upon Attrian soil have five days to be properly consecrated by a Death Tender. Souls of the newly deceased are unable to rest and are tethered to their bodies during this period, but time is a cruel predator that swiftly begins to move against them. An unconsecrated soul suffers corruption the longer it lingers with its body, and if after five days it remains unattended, the soul will re-inhabit its body and rise as a violent, blighted undead husk.

The most horrific punishment assigned to a condemned criminal is to be executed for their crime and then have their bodies disposed of in an unmarked and unconsecrated tomb, trapped forever, with no hope of redemption or rest.

Historical Keepers of the Fires

A Death Tender's greatest honor and most sacrificial duty is to tend to the Five Fires of Attria. They monitor the flames and watch for signs of weakening strength, which indicate the overall health of the seals on the Jewel volcanoes which contain the fury of Mount Ilkron. They fuel the Fires with their own souls to keep them burning for as long as possible, but, over time, the spells on the mountain weaken beyond the point of sustainability, and an eruption becomes imminent.Historically, it is at this time that the most important and selfless sacrifice was made. When the island was at its most vulnerable, and the destruction of Mount Ilkron and the Jewels is at its most critical, Death Tenders stayed behind while the rest of Attria was evacuated, and then they sacrificed their own lives to restore the embers of the Flames and rein in the fury of the volcanoes. In so doing, Death Tenders were solely responsible for the the safe recovery of Attria, and ensuring the "Great Evil" within the mountain was never released to do harm upon Tamriel.

This fate has recently changed when it was discovered that the sacrifice of their own soul was not, in fact, protecting the Flames or Attria, but, rather, feeding Yolsilkron and aiding in the growth of his power. Now, Death Tenders do not offer themselves up as sacrificial lambs. They are now guardians of the Fires, sentinels of Attria, and have denied the dragon his soul-filled meals. They are no longer required to give their lives in the event of a destruction as well, as it has been discovered that even that sacrifice was simply to feed their enemy in the volcano. With this change in duty and fate, the citizens of Attria are slowly coming to terms with their mistreatment of the Death Tenders and the true horrors of what they have endured are being brought to the light of the public. Death Tenders are not to be feared, be venerated, and that belief is starting to spread throughout the archipelago.

Former Pariahs of Attria

While their role in Attrian society is crucial in ensuring the souls of the dead are safely released from their bodies and sanctified in Arkay's name, and misconceptions about them are beginning to be quelled by the Attrian nobility they are still deeply misunderstood by the population.Historically, Death Tenders have been required, by law, to cover their entire bodies from head to toe, and to wear skull-visage masks to mark their macabre caste. They were only permitted to remove their masks in private, and never in public. Relationships and worldly attachments were forbidden to them, with their sole purpose devoted to the sanctity of the dead and their resting places. They were forbidden from owning property and, instead, lived in provided communal housing in the vast catacombs under the Temple of Arkay in the Temple District, or in communal abbeys near the Five Flames.Because of their mysterious and isolated positions, they were often feared and even shunned by the rest of society. Myths surrounded them at every turn, with some believing that if a Death Tender so much as spoke to you, your death may be close at hand. These rumors were always unsubstantiated at best, but, nevertheless, fueled fear among the citizens of Attria.

The unfortunate truth behind the laws and rules surrounding Death Tenders, however, was a pracitcal one. Death Tenders were to be willing and ready at a moment's notice to make the ultimate sacrifice to not only protect Attria and its people, but also all of Tamriel. Attachments of any kind would have hindered a Death Tender's resolve, and, thus, they were encouraged to shun such things and devote themselves entirely to their purpose.Of course, in practice, this sometimes did not always work. Death Tenders often had forbidden relationships with others, including romantic ones between themselves or Attrians brave enough to see beyond the social prejudice surrounding them. Death Tenders also frequently visited their familial relations in secret.With the truth of a Death Tender's fate coming to light and with the nobility of Attria making it known to the public, the attitudes toward Death Tenders has been tentatively warming, and the strict laws surrounding them have been considerably lessened. Death Tenders are now free to pursue relationships and own land if they so choose, but are still expected to tend to Attria's dead and serve Arkay as religious priests. Their uniform is still a requirement, but now it is less a symbol of oppression and more a matter of Death Tender pride and endurance. Still, Attria is slow to change its perception of these once-enigmatic people, and some prejudices and mistrust remain. The road to acceptance will likely be a long one, but events have been set in motion to ultimately free Death Tenders from their former stigmas.

Reborn In Flame

The calling of Death Tender is a sacred one, steeped in myth and religious purpose. In order for a being to become a Death Tender, they must meet one crucial prerequisite -- they must be recently deceased.It is believed that after a person dies and their soul is freshly tethered, the Matron -- the highest-ranking priestess of Arkay in Attria, and mother of the sacred Order of the Tenders -- is led to them and decides if they are worthy of being offered a second chance at life in exchange for service.Many Death Tenders come from heroic backgrounds, having died in the act of saving another. Some are criminals, who, upon their death sentences, are offered a chance at redemption if the Matron deems them a suitable candidate for such a solemn position.

When able, souls of the deceased are communed with and the offer is extended, but in some rare cases, no such conversation can be achieved, at which point the Matron decides on whether or not to resurrect a worthy soul. This most often occurs when a soul is nearing the end of its five day tethering and consequential corruption period.Once the bargain is struck -- or the decision is made -- the Matron or her highest ranking Death Tenders return the soul to the body by way of a sacred potion so precious that its recipe is known by only a select few. These same few are the only ones who know that a main ingredient in the "Breath of Life" potion is the crystal wisteria, which is grown on Whispering Isle. Because the soul is returned to the body during this process, the raising of a Death Tender is not seen as necromancy, but rather as a restoration and resurrection, nothing short of miraculous. This sacred raising ceremony occurs only once a year and is known as the Night of Skulls among Attrians.

Temples & Palaces of Attria

Temple District

Built within the bowels of a dormant volcanic vent lies the Temple District on the main island. This district houses temples to the two most important patron deities, Arkay and Akatosh, with one to remember those who have passed, and the other to plead for more time from Mount Ilkron.

Temple Market

The market street of this Distrct has a vast array of foods, wines, and effigies that can be purchased as sacrificial gifts to the altars of the Divines by Attira's many pilgrims. It also sells religious and historical texts at its local bookshop, offers a bathhouse for pilgrims to bathe in prior to visiting the temples, and has a small restaurant to cater to hungry patrons.

Palatium Attria

The seat of power and home to the Ascentros family, the noble rulers of the Imperial province of Attria, Palatium Attria was a token of goodwill between houses and was made to solidify ancient alliances forged through brotherhood and blood. Audiences with the Ascentros family may be sought here. The grounds are open to the public to enjoy, but the inner sanctum of the palace is off limits and is accessible via appointment only.

Pleasure Point Palace

Once a former pleasure palace built by a former Ascentros lord, Pleasure Point Palace is now a respectable home, gifted to Attria's resident Maormer pirate, Zedvius, and his crew by Lyre Ascentros. They occupy the small outpost island north of the main island, known as Pleasure Point, where Zedvius monitors the waters for enemy vessels that may threaten Attria. It has a lighthouse that is used for ship navigation as well as security viewing.

Domus Ascentros

Located at the southern most tip of the main island, Domus Ascentros is the private dwelling of the Ascentros family when they are on pilgrimage to one of the Five Fires during the Fire Festival. It is home to one Fire, and is the closest shrine to volcanic activity. The home, when not in use by the Ascentros', is where the shrine's Death Tenders reside.

Economy and Tourism

Attria is known for its wealthy style of living and its booming tourist trade. People travel to Attria from all over Tamriel to enjoy its balmy weather, vast coasts and beaches, beautiful coral reefs, ancient structures, unique wildlife, famous bathhouses, grand temples and palaces, volcanic landscapes, and cultural oddities such as Death Tenders.

Divina Lacrimae Bathhouse

One of the many properties belonging to the Acentros family, the Divina Lacrimae Bathhouse has been in operation for decades. Its warm mineral waters come from natural hot springs that formed as a result of the island's volcanic activity. Founded in honor of Dibella, the establishment reveres the Goddess of Beauty and honors her throughout with serene gardens, lavish grounds and pools, and comfort for its patrons. It sits on Attria's eastern shoreline, surrounded by panoramic views of the ocean. It is open to all who wish to bathe in its clear and rejuvenating waters.

Ash Wine

Ash Wine is Attria's most expensive export, with some of the oldest wines selling for hundreds of thousands of gold per bottle. Vineyards span the eastern slopes of the Fire Crown, fueling the immense wine trade Attria has become famous for. Ash Wine is a dry, red wine with a unique undertone of smokey notes that come from the nutrient-rich ash the vineyards grow in. Entire villas and warehouses are dedicated to the production of wine. Ash wine is often sacrificed at Attrian temples by the most wealthy citizens.

Glass Rubies

Glass rubies are one of Attria's most incredible exports. Found only within the lava flows of Mount Ilkron, these astonishing gemstones look like liquid fire when examined under direct sunlight. They radiate with magic, and must be purified and cleared by the archipelago's best mages prior to being put on the market for sale, and only in small amounts. The glass ruby is the island's official gemstone, and perfect cuts are fashioned into elaborate jewelry worn by nobility and the Ascentros family.

Dragon Bones

Most people agree that the dragon bones sold in Attrian marketplaces are replicas of actual dragon bones. They are a staple of the island's tourist economy and can be found on every island for purchase as souvenirs.Local legend tells the tale of the island's origins being the throne of a mighty dragon that was defeated by an alliance of Ayleid mer and their freed slaves. A holiday is held every year in which citizens decorate their cities with dragon motifs and sell such items as bones, dragon-shaped kites, and scales, teeth, and claws shed from dragonlings.

Ash Rose Trading Company

The Ash Rose Trading Company is responsible for the delivery of much of Attria's imports and exports. All trade in or out of Attria, whether or not by ARTC, is required to receive a permit through the company's main office. Non-company ships are required to pass through Attria's trading port for inspection and to receive their permits.Formerly a pirate ship known as the Black Widow, and repurposed as a trade ship, The Ember Star is the flagship for Attria's merchant fleet and is captained by Lyre, the eldest son and heir to House Ascentros.

Religion

The Divines

As Attria was an extremely isolated archipelago for much of its existence, the Divines make a rather late appearance on the islands. Adoption of the Imperial Pantheon was slow at best, but it was not altogether rejected. Worship of Arkay and Akatosh were instantly popular among the citizens, and cults and temples were swiftly erected. Generations passed before Julianos was added to the acceptable pantheon. The remaining Divines have slowly been gaining popularity and footholds with worship of Dibella and Mara being the most recent additions.

Arkay

Arkay's role in Attria is nothing short of essential. He is the patron Divine of the Death Tenders and it is believed he oversees their vital work in ensuring the dead do not have a chance to rise again. One of the Five Fires can be found at his shrine in the Temple District.

Akatosh

Akatosh is prayed to more than any other Divine on Attria, with pilgrims burning offerings of Ash Wine in a plea for more time from the mountain. His shrine in the Temple District houses one of the Five Fires.

Julianos

Julianos is the patron Divine of magic and logic on Attria, and is most closely associated with Focuses. When Focuses are bound to their chosen mage, it is always done with the blessing and attendance of a Priest of Julianos.

Dibella

The worship of Dibella is a relatively recent one on Attria. Her adoption into the official Attrian pantheon came less than a century ago, when the reigning lord lived a life of passion and pleasure. Her likeness was welcomed and even became the patron Divine at the Divina Lacrime Bathhouse. Her statue still stands in the original hot pool today.

Daedric Princes

The worship of Daedric Princes is deeply frowned upon on any of the islands of the archipelago. Owning or possessing any Daedric artifacts or effigies of any kind inside any city limit has been grounds for arrest for decades. Worship outside the gates is tolerated, but barely.

Government

Attria has been an independent, free state from Cyrodill for centuries, and was, arguably, never actually a part of any empire in any official way. It has always been autonomous, regardless of its citizens mainly hailing from what is now the Colovian Highlands. They are, however, governed by the Ascentros family, who have held the title of Attrian Lordship ever since the containment of the "Great Evil." For as long as there has been Attria, there has been an Ascentros on the throne.The current Lord of Attria is Lyre Ascentros, his title recently won following an arena challenge for the throne from his father, Orien Ascentros.Orien ruled for forty years with his wife Dramita at his side. They had four sons, but after the events of the White Tide Invasion, in which their second eldest son, Octavius, was found to be a traitor and subsequently slain, there are now only three living sons. The eldest, Lyre, is followed by Galen, and then Tulios.The Ascentros family have extended family members that assist in the government of the smaller islands in the archipelago, most notably Reikos Taverra of Whispering Isle.

History

Former Ayleid Empire

The Attrian Archipelago was once ruled by Ayleids, and evidence of their former empire is found all over the islands in the form of vast and intricate alabaster ruins. Based on historical accounts and records, scholars believe the kingdom on Attria was highly successful, but, as with all Ayleid kingdoms, it was built on the backs of slaves, magic, and cruelty.Shortly before the Alessian Slave Rebellion, the Ayleids had already worked to free their slaves to combat a common enemy. A dragon that lived on the island had become a true threat, and it forced the hands of mer and men to unite as one to defeat it. Following their victory against their foe, the Ayleids and their former slaves formed a new kingdom they called Attria. Eventually, the Ayleids either bred out, or departed Attria to fates unknown, leaving the kingdom in the hands of men.

Culture

Tattoos

Attrians pride themselves in their histories and stories, and one way that they honor such moments in their own lives is by adding them onto their bodies by way of tattoos. In fact, tattoos are so synonymous with Attria, that non-natives joke that Attrians are "living canvases."Tattoos are received by Attrians every year on their birthday, and the tattoo they choose represents an event, achievement, memory, or defining moment important enough to immortalize on their skin as a summary of the previous year.Attrians begin earning their tattoos at the age of twelve.

Marriage

Attria has always been welcoming of many forms of marriage over the centuries. Given the isolation of the archipelago, they were not quick to adopt the Divines or any of their teachings on the manner of marriage. Mara was originally rejected by Attrians over a misunderstanding about her stance on multiple partners in households. She was, however, welcomed and openly worshiped by farmers due to her role in fertility and agriculture. Over time, Mara has become more accepted by the main populace, and in recent years, a cult to her has been established on the main island.While now more rare, it is not unheard of for Attrian households to have multi-partnered relationships or unions.

Special Positions
&
Titles

Attria has unique positions and titles for select, special groups of individuals.

Holidays and Festivals

Attria celebrates many of its own holidays and festivals in conjunction with the general holidays observed throughout Tamriel. Some of its holidays are more religious and ceremonial.

New Tide Day

30th of Rains Hand (April)

New Tide Day is celebrated in honor of the victory of Attria over the year-long invasion attempt by the White Tide Maormer pirates. The holiday is traditionally observed with food and drink, music, and naval reenactment displays in the various coastal arenas and stages across the archipelago. The grandest display takes place at Pearl Beach. Until recently, effigies of Maormer were paraded in the streets and then set alight. With the arrival and welcoming of the Maormer crew of the pirate captain, Zedvius, effigy burnings have been banned.

The Fire Pilgrimage

Midyear - Entire 1st week (June)

The Fire Pilgrimage is a sacred holiday in which the Attrian noble family treks across the Great Island of Attria to strengthen the Five Fires. During this particular festival, the common folk celebrate by burning a fire in their home hearth for the full seven days in which the holiday is being observed. It is considered bad luck for a fire to go out prematurely. When the noble family passes through the cities and towns housing a Fire shrine, the citizens escort them with burning torches. Parades and plays depicting the original founders of Attria creating the Five Fires and taming the fires of Mount Ilkron are common during this holiday as well.

Wine Festival

Hearthfire - Entire 2nd Week (September)

Attria prides itself in its famous Ash Wine, which comes in a variety of forms. This festival is observed in early autumn, when the grape harvest is complete. The official dates of the festival falls on the second week of Hearthfire and is celebrated all week long. During this festival, there is music, theater, dancing, games, and, of course, a vast supply of wine available for purchase. On the final day of the festival, wine is sacrificed on the top of Mount Ilkron and wine is offered to the shrines of Arkay, Akatosh, and Julianos.

Night of Skulls

25th of Frostfall (October)

The Night of Skulls festival focuses on the passage of souls lost over the course of the year. It is an evening of honoring the dead with feasts, and children dress up in makeshift Death Tender masks that they use to frighten others and fool spirits into ignoring the living. The general population believes that on this day, Death Tenders commune with the spirits of the dead and allow them to walk freely on the mortal plane. Feasts and fires meant to appease and frighten off the dead are a staple in Attrian households on this night.Death Tenders, however, observe the holiday with the most extreme reverence and celebrate together in their private cloisters. After the feast, Death Tenders gather at the Wall of Skulls, where masks of their departed brethren have been laid to rest over the centuries and put on display, and new masks are added to the memorial site.

It is also on this day that new Death Tenders are created. Death Tenders gather for resurrection ceremonies across the archipelago in which freshly deceased bodies are prepared for the most sacred of rituals. When the sun sets on the eve of the holiday, the bodies are blessed with a potion whose recipe is closely guarded by the Death Tender Matron. The potion resurrects the body and restores the soul to it, bringing the new Death Tender back to true life and binding their soul to the Fires of Attria. The fledgling Death Tender is welcomed into the fold of the order with great celebration and their new duties begin.

Festival of the Hunt

9th-12th of Sun's Dusk (November)

The Festival of the Hunt is more a Whispering Isle tradition, with the noble lords of the House of Taverra and House Ascentros taking to the wilds and mountains of their island home to hunt the Black Hart deer. Now, it also includes hunting games among all noble classes who travel to Whispering Isle to participate and compete. During the lesser noble hunt, common deer, bears, foxes, wild boar, lions, and wolves are common trophies. Hunting the Black Hart deer is still only reserved for the Taverra family, and their cousins, the Ascentros', but a handful of guests may be invited to participate. Participants to the Black Hart hunt are chosen via a lottery system. The commoners of Attria celebrate this holiday by organizing hunts that go after much smaller and more easily accessible game such as rabbits and fowl. Superstition abounds about the origins of this holiday, however. Many believe it stems from an ancient cult of Hircine honoring their Daedric Prince, but today, the tradition holds no such significance.

The Amaranthine Order

Defenders Against Evil

The Order of the Amaranthine Ring has gone by many names over the centuries, most lost to time and memory, but its purpose has never faltered.First founded on the Imperial island of Attria in a truce between man and mer to abolish "The Great Evil." from destroying Tamriel, the Order attracted men, mer, and beastfolk from all walks of life, both legal, and illegal, to maintain its devoted mission in hunting down dark entities and artifacts.In the light, the Order's public face of honorable members swore knightly oaths to root out evil through justice and valor. Its scholars gleaned wisdom and weaved spells to combat darkness where it could be found, while its warriors cut down Tamriel's most fearsome enemies and protected the innocent from harm.

However, unbeknownst to the public and most of its honorable ranks, the Order hosted illicit dealings in the shadows to fill the Order's coffers and further the efforts of its mission.Its secretive, underground agents utilized subterfuge and guile to gain intelligence on vile beings or artifacts of note, while its fences hosted a vast and profitable black market behind the scenes. This illicit market lined the Order's pockets with wealth, as well as rooted out and contained the most dangerous of goods to ensure they did not fall into the wrong hands.Attria grew from a small island with an obscure existence, to a flourishing Imperial stronghold of might and resolve. The Order prospered and built sanctuaries and strongholds across Tamriel to house its growing ranks and safeguard dark entities and artifacts that could not be banished off the face of Nirn. Its influence spread, and the knights under the Eternal Banner toiled to fulfill its promise to keep the people of Tamriel safe.But darkness can never truly be destroyed. It hides in the deep recesses of the world, waiting for an opportunity to strike when light inevitably begins to fade.The golden age of the Order came to a quick and violent close when a cruel betrayal occurred from within the upper echelons, and brought the organization to its knees when brother turned against brother. The internal conflict shattered the once-unbreakable bonds of knighthood. In their most desperate hour, the Order rallied one last time against a foe that had once been kin, emerging victorious -- but at a great cost.The Order had been reduced to a handful of knights, and the might of their banner was left in tatters, scattered on the wind. Shaken by their betrayal, the remaining members sealed away the darkness that had been cultivated within their own ranks, but the damage had been done. The strength of the Order crumbled to a mere shadow of its former glory, and, in time, the brotherhood faded out of memory and fell into obscurity.Now, the dark secrets the Order strove to keep contained threaten Tamriel once again, and the brotherhood must come out of the shadows to fulfill its forgotten oaths.The ancient Order has risen back into the light from the ashes to take on a new name: The Order of the Amaranthine Ring. This new Order is determined to succeed where its predecessor failed, by any means necessary. Its ranks have re-opened, its purpose re-kindled, to perform its mighty duty in defending against the great evils that threaten the world.

Notable People

Pirate Captain Zedvius

Captain Zedvius is a Maormer pirate who has recently taken up residence on Attria's Pleasure Point Island with his crew. The palace has been given to him as a gift from Lyre Ascentros, his lover and lord of Attria. Zedvius and his crew watch over and protect Attria from the sea when they are present. The people of Attria are slowly coming to terms with their presence, with some still exercising caution at least, and hatred at most, toward them, given the event of the White Tide Invasion. Despite this, there is a large portion of the population who are pleased to see Lyre happy, and attitudes are shifting towards the positive.