Wayward

City Description

Population: ~1000

Founded: 2200 (190 years ago)

The only elven city in Core Vandal without an elven name, the people of Wayward turned their backs on their kin in order to live free of the necrotic influence inherent in the Galdarion elves. Unable to accept their lives built on the backs of deceased loved ones, they left their previous lives and built new ones on the shores of Elfhome lake. While initially not a great number, the elves of Wayward are always growing as they keep their doors open to any elves who have had enough of the everlasting reign of Eve Galdarion, the Lamentless.

Because of their exile from Lyr'Lowain and their self-imposed exile of Galdarion, Wayward elves are not quite as proud as their counterparts in the east. They are fully aware that they have benefited from the kindness of those around them, and because of this they have tried to pay that kindness back by sharing the skills of their kin with others.

One of those skills it the creation of beautiful canoes. Many of their ornately carved hand-made crafts make their way into the hands of Trine nobility. They would be a priceless treasure if it weren't for the elves insistence that anyone who asks for one could have one.

This artistry with wood developed over the years to include wagons, carts, sculptures, and even their own homes. Folks travel from across Vault to see the spectacular detail lovingly put into each facet of their architecture. Wayward is sometimes called "The Little Forest" for how much woodworking is done there.

Of their relationship with Galdarion, it is a peaceful one. As with most things, their former Queen doesn't care if they stayed or left, nor would she care if they returned. She pays the elves of Wayward the same attention as she pays most of Core Vandal: none at all.

City Landmarks

Whisperwillow Inn: often called "the most comfortable sleep outside your own bed," this inn pays special attention to amenities that create comfort, peace, and rest. Mercenaries who have been on campaign will flock to Wayward to escape nightmares, and physicians will prescribe a night's stay to cure a number of ailments. Built like a hunting lodge without the dead animals, Whisperwillow Inn dedicates itself to making one feel like themselves.

Merryhall Vineyard: bringing the traditions of Lyr'Lowain's elven wine to the people of Core Vandal, the elves of Wayward consider Merryhall to be a thank you for accepting them when so many others wouldn't. These gorgeous green hills overlooking the lake are dotted with grapes of every spectrum of color, each tended throughout the year using secret techniques. If the Lyr'Lowain knew this place existed, there would likely be trouble.

Tranquil Docks and Woodworkers: this small community within the community looks like a group of workshops all huddled together on the shores of the lake. It's here the boats, or "vessels" as they're called in Wayward, are created. Wayward's elves refuse to buy from Tree Pass considering the origin of the timber. Instead, they pay to have timber brought over from the Elisar Woods near Crooked Post and Roost.

Duskmaker Aviary: outside of town, Wayward has taken up an attempt to save the endangered birds of the Duskmaker Plains from Run'Thar sport hunters. The aviary tends to wounded, assist breeding, and acts as a place to educate the people of Core Vandal on the benefits of the grass sea raptors.

Copper Ring Alley: an alley in only name, this marketplace is named for how much an average person need bring to get all they need. In truth, while nothing is so cheap as to be traded for a copper ring, Wayward prides itself on finding ways to provide for those in need. Farmers from around the area always have stalls to sell their produce, and the elven crafts are of course always on display.

People of Note

Glynd Findarion: Female Elf, town leader and distant cousin to Eve Galdarion

Elder Tiaesti Talindra: Male Elf, master craftsman for the vessels of Wayward, son of elven war hero

Pierce of the Rend: Male, Elf, ranger and caretaker of the aviary, mute, refuses to live indoors

Elder Tamora Irithiel: Female, Elf, wine maker and connoisseur of all things noble and dignified

Betsy Yonderfell: Female, Halfling, proprietor of the Whisperwood Inn

Bugle Yonderfell: Male, Halfling, stablehand and worker at the Inn, sons of Betsy, intellectual disability

Vandor Irithiel: Male, Elf, head of the peacekeeping force in Wayward, Copper Ring facilitator