Map of Avalonia, by Jason Cicchini
Avalonia is the western-most realm of Historia. Often referred to as the 'Sacred Paradise'. From the rolling green fields and countryside of its capital, to the great lakes, hidden waterways and mystical islands of its heartland and all the way to the enchanted forest at its far western-most point, its beauty is one of a kind. Home to all kinds of life and treasures, it is a land full of myths & legends and stronghold of the mighty Guild Of The West.
History
Avalonia has always been a sacred place. From its very beginnings it was home to a powerful race of Druids who settled there. Attracted by its beauty and mystique they lived in harmony with the land for many centuries and used their skills to protect the land, which flourished under their rule. As time moved on, their numbers started to decline and the last few remaining took it upon themselves to create one final enchantment. They gave all their power and their lives in one final spell, a treasure, that if found, would bring peace and protection to the land for all eternity. They hid the treasure in their sacred shine, and with their final task now complete, they vanished into dust, although many of their shrines and temples can be seen throughout the land. Days turned to months, months turned to years and years turned to centuries. During that time the land became inhabited by all sorts of mysterious life and became a very dangerous place. One group who settled there were a tribe of Elves who made their home in the forest. The Elves were drawn to the land's sacred power and vowed to watch over the land until the day came when a suitable ruler could be found. One who's people could bring peace and prosperity back to the land. And so they waited...
The Guild of Avalonia
Avalonia's Guild is the youngest of the four great lands, having only been in power for a few years. From where they came, no-one knows. All that's known is that when Avalonia was at its darkest hour, a Guild led by men rode to its safety. Mounted on huge war horses, they thundered through the land and no enemy or evil could stand in their way. For two years now, the new Avalonian guild has ruled. In that time they have given protection and stability back to the land, secured peace with the other realms and trade has flourished. A warrior race, they are never ones to back down from a fight and have no fear in battle. For in battle lies their true calling, in battle they are free, and as the joy of battle takes over them, their minds are focused towards one thing, the slaughter and destruction of their enemies. Riding into battle, the sound of charging horses echo's that of the beating wings of a mighty dragon. Hence they are known throughout the land as 'The Flight Of Dragons'.
Artorious Rex
Artorious Rex (Eurobricks Fellow Derfel Cadarn)
Artorious is a young ruler, at only the tender age of 25. Yet he leads and rules with all the authority of someone twice his age. Trained to fight with the sword from the first day he was strong enough to wield a weapon, he soon became an expect swordsmen. Short bladed or long, with any size sword he is a man to fear. An expert horsemen, he learned the value of a cavalry and how a well timed charge from a group of horsemen could break through any enemy shield wall. He will always fight side by side with his men at the front line of battle, as he believes a ruler who doesn't fight is a coward, "Never send your loyal subjects where you would not dare go yourself!" His most trusted men make up the famed 'Flight Of Dragons', and they would ride into Hell with him if he asked them to, such is their respect and loyalty.
Landscape
Avalonia is made up of three regions.
The East Region: Countryside and Capital
Avalonia's Eastern Region is a picturesque medieval setting.
This is where Avalonia's Capital is located. It is an area full of lush green fields mighty stone castles, quaint villages and shimmering lakes. The area has very rich farmland which gains much trade between the other great Guilds. We regularly supply farm produce to the other three corners of the world in exchange for oil and other resources. So you may often see a raised flag from another land when their emissary's come to barter goods. The area is primarily inhabited by the realm of men, but many other peaceful races have also made their homes and lives in this area, so it is not uncommon to see all walks of life in the busy Capital and its surrounding villages.
The West Region: Enchanted Forests
Avalonia's Western Region is a forest, born from magic unknown and inhabited by elves.
This whole area is engulfed by an ancient enchanted forest. According to legend, the forest sprung from the grave of a mighty Wizard. When the Wizard died, his followers plunged his staff upright into his grave, which then grew into a giant Oak and the rest of the forest grew up around it. No one has ever found the mythical Oak, but some claim its guarded by the Elves. The Forest can be a dangerous place for those who venture here without a guide, as its known to have a mind of its own and is constantly shifting and changing. It is home to the Elves who live deep in its heart. Not much is known about the Elves, but they are a proud race, and feared by all in battle. They are allied with the Guild but will only fight along side them if the cause is a just one and threatens the land. The forest is also home to many bands of Outlaws and other unknown groups who have taken shelter in its depths.
The Middle Region, Heart Of Avalonia: The Mystic Isles
Avalonia's mysterious Middle Region is said to have once been the home of powerful druids.
This area is the most sacred of all Avalonia. It is here where the legendary ancient Druid shrine is supposed to reside, with the mystical treasure hidden within. Many have lost their lives in search for it, and most now believe its simply a myth. The Isles are shrouded in a think mist, supposedly cast by an ancient Druid to keep the evils of the world at bay. Now it acts as a gloomy curtain, concealing the unknown within. The Isles are surrounded by mazes of twisty waterways, lakes, marshes and tidal estuaries . It is not known exactly how many Islands lie in this area, many say that you can never find the same island twice. The only way of travel through these waterways are by the 'Water Folk', dark figures who are the only ones who know the safe hidden routes across the Isles. Who knows what creatures and tribes have made their settlements deep in the center of the Isles and remain hidden. The thick mist makes visibility difficult and Will O' The Wisps have been known to frequently lead unfortunate souls to their doom. The main route across to the Enchanted Forest is on the outskirts of the Isles, and allows an easy passage to and from the Capital. What really does lie deep inside the heart of the Isles? That's for you to decide...