The Tower Xal in the Arashi Peaks, Artist: Andeavenor
The Arashi Peaks
In the furthest reaches of mid-west Iria lay the border of what is known, for good reason. In Korami, ‘Arashi’ means “Storm,” also nicknamed ‘The Thundering Mountains’ or ‘The Stormpeaks.’ Whilst Iria itself is made up of terraces, the Arashi Peaks are a wall of mountains that go beyond what should be reasonable. Most peaks are so high in altitude, mortals cannot breathe nor find warmth. Despite being above the clouds, these peaks are locked in endless storms of unknown cause. On clear cloudless days, these storms are visible maelstroms circling the peaks, never halting their assault of hail and lightning.
These mountains are home to spring-rich caverns which source most of Iria’s rivers and countless waterfalls. The peaks are home to great creatures of flight, as well as small settlements isolated at the base of the mountains. These are said to have the greatest views of Iria Province.
A few centuries ago, Clan Kensho attempted an expansive mining network through the mountains for precious minerals that Iria famously lacks unlike the northern clans. Unfortunately today, most of these mines are abandoned and dangerous, with rumors of horrific monsters lurking in the labyrinthian depths that exist only within the dark abyss they dug into.
Tower Xal
House Xal was once Aedallian nobility that was put to the torch for committing a heinous crime; sabotaging arcane rituals. Fleeing, the few remaining loyal servants and relatives fled by sea west, lead by Ephor Alexios Xal. They traveled west until they reached Arashi Peaks, where they claim 'the world blocked them further passage.' Hidden within the peaks, ashamed of their heritage, Alexios named all offspring "Xal'tara," with the 'tara' meaning "after." Over time, they would be named a Clan as they slowly adopted Korami culture over generations.
Around 1131AC, the Tower of Xal was complete to where it remains standing today. An imposing wizard tower constructed into the side of the Arashi Peaks. Built of Aedallian architecture, the tower has been home to the outcast family of witches and healers of Clan Xal’tara since. It is said to house a grand library of old tomes, magical artifacts and historical relics.
Clan Kensho tolerates the presence of Clan Xal'tara, only because of their humanitarian ways as set by the Codex Xal'taran. In dire circumstances where mundane cures are not enough, Iria citizens and nobility may call upon Xal'tarans for cures-- though this is considered a great shame due to Clan Kensho's distrust of the arcane. To date, Clan Xal'tara has not broken any laws, claimed any lands nor disobeyed any Kensho orders. Were this to change, Clan Kensho would not hesitate to end the fragile peace and, by extension, Clan Xal'tara as a whole.
