|
|
|
|
39
posts
|
0
likes
|
|
|
❝
This is a default personal text message! Edit your profile to change it to anything your heart desires!
▼
|
Global Moderator
|
Post by Teo on Aug 4, 2015 21:15:45 GMT
Holds are the nine administrative divisions of Skyrim. Each of the nine Holds is governed by a Jarl who resides in the Hold's capital city. The Jarls are largely independent, but swear fealty to Skyrim's High King, who in turn swears fealty to the Emperor. Each Hold also employs their own guards, who can be identified by the color of their uniform and the Hold symbol they bear on their shields. Given the independent nature of governance, crimes are tracked independently by each Hold, and a criminal who is wanted in one Hold may have no bounty in another. Winterhold, Eastmarch, The Rift and The Pale are known collectively as the "Old Holds", and have remained more isolated. |
Last Edit: Aug 7, 2015 9:05:25 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
|
|
|
39
posts
|
0
likes
|
|
|
❝
This is a default personal text message! Edit your profile to change it to anything your heart desires!
▼
|
Global Moderator
|
Post by Teo on Aug 4, 2015 21:19:57 GMT
All Nine Holds
[PTabbedContent][PTab=Eastmarch] Eastmarch is one of the nine Holds of Skyrim, located along the eastern border. It is one of the four oldest holds in Skyrim, known collectively as Old Holds.The major city of Eastmarch is Windhelm, near the northern border. Ulfric Stormcloak is the Jarl of Windhelm and Eastmarch. Its symbol is a bear's head. Eastmarch covers much of Skyrim's eastern border with Morrowind. The surrounding holds are Winterhold to the north, The Pale and Whiterun to the west and The Rift to the south. Central/south Eastmarch is a volcanically active area, plains with steaming gas leaking in between cracks in the ground, colourful, mineral filled bodies of water, and geysers. The far west of the hold resembles much of the rest of central Skyrim, and to the north a mountainous tundra, where the hold's capital Windhelm lies. The east is composed of the Velothi mountain range, which extends down to the Rift. The province's border with Morrowind can be accessed by road a short walk up the mountains from Windhelm, though the border cannot be crossed.
Significant Areas:[PTabbedContent][PTab=Windhelm] Windhelm is the the hold's capital. The city is the oldest in all of Skyrim, and is almost completely made from stone. There are three quarters that lie within these walls. [/PTab][PTab=Stone Quarter] The Stone Quarter is Windhelm’s central district; the one visitors first enter when passing through the Main Gate into the city. It contains the marketplace and the most important shops and inns. [/PTab][PTab=Gray Quarter] The Gray Quarter was so named because of the large number of Dunmer that reside here. It was once named the “Snow Quarter,” but that was a long time ago. But, to the elves, the name “Gray Quarter” is one of derision, cruelty, and discrimination. They believe the Nord people of Windhelm have always seen them as outsiders and hated them because of it. [/PTab][PTab=Valunstrad] Translated from ancient Nordic, Valunstrad means “Avenue of Valor.” It is the oldest section of Windhelm and has the largest buildings in the entire city, including the ancient and majestic Palace of the Kings. [/PTab][PTab=Palace of Kings] Found in Windhelm, this palace serves as the headquarters for both the Jarl of Eastmarch and the Stormcloak Rebellion. Historically, this is the oldest building in Windhelm and quite possibly all of Skyrim. It served as the castle of Ysgramor and his dynasty until its rule ended. [/PTab][PTab=Sacellum of Boethiah]  The Sacellum of Boethiah is a Daedric Shrine east of Windhelm. It's usually populated by Cultists of Boethiah, and they are hostile to outsiders. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 22, 2015 15:10:17 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 7, 2015 1:15:26 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=Falkreath Hold] Falkreath Hold is the second southernmost hold in Skyrim, with its capital being Falkreath. It is the second southernmost hold in Skyrim, after the Rift. It borders Cyrodiil to the south and Hammerfell to the west, with a single road leading to both provinces. Other than its capital, Falkreath, the other notable town in the hold is Helgen.
Falkreath Hold is covered in characteristic pine forests and described by its citizens as being covered in a fine mist that makes it seem seasonless. The mountains rising above Falkreath are well above the snow line striking a stark comparison to the rest of the hold. The most distinguishing geographic feature is Lake Ilinalta which covers a large portion of the central region and acts as the source for the White River.
Significant Areas: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Falkreath] Falkreath is one of the major cities located in the province of Skyrim. Falkreath is the only major city within Falkreath Hold and thus, is home to its Jarl. The town lies in the southwest of the province of Skyrim, near the borders of Hammerfell and Cyrodiil. At one period in history, Falkreath was part of Cyrodiil. Later, the town became a settlement in Skyrim. It is famous for its large graveyard, in which many Nords, both combatants and non-combatants, are buried. The city lies in a valley near the center of the Falkreath Hold, in the low-lying forest area some distance west of Helgen. It is one of the smaller major cities, with no real walls surrounding it and no large buildings. The town more represents a small farming village rather than a major city. The Hammerfell border can be accessed by road a short walk west of the city. The graveyard of Falkreath contains many famous Nords who requested to be buried in Falkreath, next to the other honored dead of past battles. Since they were constantly living alongside the dead, the people of Falkreath gave many of their shops and other buildings names related to death. As told by the residents, Falkreath was the place of many battles in the past, being the main reason for the large graveyard. [/PTab][PTab=Jarl's Longhouse] The Jarl's Longhouse serves as the seat of power in the Falkreath Hold and is the residence of the Jarl of Falkreath. [/PTab][PTab=Helgen] Helgen was a moderately-sized community in Falkreath Hold in Skyrim. It was one of the only heavily inhabited settlements located in Falkreath Hold, apart from the city of Falkreath. Helgen was a thriving town and keep on the southern border of Skyrim with Cyrodiil, before its destruction by Alduin. Now, Helgen is a shell of the city it once was, and it sits are a haunting reminder of the death and tragedy that happened there. [/PTab][PTab=Bleak Falls Barrow] Bleak Falls Barrow is an ancient Nordic tomb in Falkreath Hold, Skyrim. It is a large temple that was built by ancient Nords to worship the dragons. It is one of many places where the ancient Nords had buried their dead, and as such, the Barrow is infested with aggressive draugr. The exterior of the ruin is very impressive with its stone arches. The first section of Bleak Falls Barrow that is encountered is known as Bleak Falls Temple. This is an underground-style dungeon rather than the normal ancient Nord style of dungeon. There is also an inner section, Bleak Falls Sanctum, which is blocked by a variety of Nordic traps. [/PTab][PTab=Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary] The Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary lies the forest near Falkreath. Not many people know how to get in, nor do many know it's location. All you'll see from the outside is a mysterious door and a small pool of some dark liquid. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 22, 2015 15:06:02 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 7, 2015 1:56:42 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=Haafingar] Haafingar, the ancient name given to the city of Solitude, was an ancient Nordic kingdom and later one of the nine Holds of Skyrim. It is located on a peninsula on the far north-west coast, and encompases the area surrounding its capital city, Solitude. Haafingar is the smallest Hold in area. It also appears to be the most remote, being located on a peninsula on the far northwest coast. The hold is separated from Hjaalmarch by the Karth River and The Reach by mountains. Dragon Bridge is the only access to the hold by road, crossing the Karth River. Much of the hold is rocky and mountainous with soaring snowy mountains surrounding the north and west of Solitude, though the lower lying areas including Dragon Bridge to Solitude are mostly comprised of forests and hills. Its symbol is a wolf's head.
Significant Areas: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Solitude]   Solitude is the capital city of both Haafingar Hold, and all of Skyrim. Currently ruled by Jarl Elisif the Fair, widow of the late High King Torygg, it is the headquarters of the Imperial Legion stationed in Skyrim. The Thalmor have an embassy hidden in the nearby mountains. Part of the reason for this is the eminently defensible nature of Solitude itself. Set upon a great stone arch that towers above the mouth of the Karth River, the city is surrounded by the soaring peaks of the nearby mountains. Solitude is both a reinforced and breathtaking stronghold. Solitude is located on the eastern coast of a peninsula in Haafingar, in the far northwest of Skyrim. The city is built on a cape on the mouth of the Karth River and has a port on the river itself. A large percent of Haafingar's population lives within Solitude’s walls. It is also one of the northernmost cities on the mainland of Tamriel, second only to Dawnstar. Along with all of this, the Bards College is also located within the walls of Solitude, making it quite the attraction. [/PTab][PTab=Blue Palace] The Blue Palace is located in Solitude, the capital city of Skyrim. Solitude’s awe-inspiring landmark is its ornate palace, where the Jarl Elisif the Fair resides. It is built on the ruins of the old palace, which was destroyed by a fire. There is only one entrance: from the cloisters at the end of the Avenues District. Within the Blue Palace, there are many kitchens, bedrooms, the Pelagius Wing that is forbidden to enter, a cellar, many bedrooms, the Northeast corridor, and a second floor with the Jarl's throne room on it. [/PTab][Ptab=East Empire Company Warehouse] East Empire Warehouse is a dock located in Haafingar Hold, at the foot of the city of Solitude. This storage is run by the East Empire Company. Inside, there are several ships, there are also several guards, known infamously as East Empire Wardens, who patrol the docks inside the warehouse. No one is allowed to be in here, unless they work for the East Empire Warehouse, and there are only two openings. An iron door, with one guard standing outside of it, and the massive gates that let the boats in and out of the warehouse. [/PTab][PTab=Castle Dour] Castle Dour is an Imperial Legion outpost in Solitude during the civil War. General Tullius resides within, along with his second in command, Legate Rikke. Together they command the Imperial forces in Skyrim. Within the Castle, there are many rooms, but there are two specifically important ones: the Emperor's Tower and the Castle Dour Dungeon. The Castle Dour Dungeon is the dungeon inside of Castle Dour. Those who commit crimes in Solitude are sent here to serve their sentence. The Emperor's Tower is a wing of Castle Dour, reserved for the Emperor of Tamriel, when he visits Skyrim's capital, Solitude. Lavishly furnished, the tower contains many valuable items. The Solitude Windmill is connected to this wing. [/PTab][PTab=Thalmor Embassy] The Thalmor Embassy serves as a base of operations for the Aldmeri Dominion in Skyrim. It's an extremely difficult to enter building that is full of the Thalmor, for this is where they resign. [/PTab][PTab=Dragon Bridge] Dragon Bridge is a small community located on the Karth River between the major cities of Solitude and Markarth, southwest of the Solitude Sawmill. The settlement is a small village, but what is most notable is from what it derived its name from―the bridge that arches across the Karth River there. When crossing the bridge, a giant statue of a dragon's head is on an arch over the roadway in the middle, hence the name. From there, Solitude is visible above the mouth of the river as towers in the distance. It is home to the only Penitus Oculatus Outpost in all of Skyrim. [/PTab][PTab=Statue to Meridia] The Statue to Meridia is a daedric shrine dedicated to Meridia in Skyrim. It is located on Mount Kilkreath, due west of Solitude. [/PTab][PTab=Mor Khazgur] Mor Khazgur is an Orc Stronghold in Haafingar, west of Solitude and north of Markarth. It is right next to the Mor Khazgur Mine. The Orcs own and work the mine, which mainly produces orichalcum. This mine has plentiful orichalcum ore which may then be smelted at the smelter directly outside of the mine. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 7, 2015 2:29:59 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 7, 2015 6:45:42 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=Hjaalmarch] Hjaalmarch is one of the nine Holds of Skyrim. Its capital is Morthal. It is one of the smallest Holds. The Hjaal River runs through a large portion of this Hold. Hjaalmarch is located in northern Skyrim, at the mouth of the Karth River. Morthal lies near the center of the hold. The hold borders Haafingar, separated by the Karth River to the northwest, The Reach to the west, Whiterun to the south and The Pale to the east. Much of the terrain is covered by wetlands, marshes, and swamps, which are infested with vampires.
Significant Areas: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Morthal]   Morthal is a small city in Skyrim located in the dense marshes of Hjaalmarch. Its ruling Jarl is Idgrod Ravencrone. Morthal lies deep in the marsh, a foreboding area of Hjaalmarch isolated from other villages and shrouded by a constant and ominous fog. Morthal's small population and relatively remote location have kept it distant from most major conflicts in recent years. The citizens of Morthal appear reclusive and cautious of outsiders. Due to their distrust of magic, the Jarl does not have an acting court wizard. Due to its isolation and lagging economy Morthal remains of little strategic importance in the war. The city's lumber mill appears to be its only source of trade, a point which the citizens show concern for. To the east of Morthal lies Stonehills, which supports Rockwallow Mine, but it is owned by Bryling, one of the Thanes of Solitude, and the ore is used to support the Imperial war effort. There are few points of interest: nothing in the way of a market, no general goods stores; armorers, stables, farms and shrines are also notably absent from Morthal. [/PTab][PTab=Highmoon Hall] Highmoon Hall is a large building in Morthal, and the residence of the Jarl of Morthal. Highmoon Hall is located in the northwestern town of Morthal. Highmoon Hall is the central meeting place for all citizens of Hjaalmarch. However, few seek audience with the reclusive and mysterious Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone. She spends most of her days pottering around this sturdy Nordic structure. Upon entering the structure, much like the Jarl's Longhouse in Falkreath, contains a large room with a long bed of fire several feet in front of you. Beyond that is the Jarl's throne where she resides for most of the day. Before the bed of fire to the left and right is a staircase. Each leads up into a small room which is generally occupied by the Jarl's daughter in one room, and the Jarl's son in the other. Just past the firebed are two more doors on your sides. One holds the Imperial Legate of the region, and the other is the Jarl's room. [/PTab][PTab=Labyrinthian]  Labyrinthian is an ancient Nordic ruin in Hjaalmarch. Labyrinthian is located southeast of Morthal. Labyrinthian is in the Hjaalmarch hold and Frost trolls inhabit the outside area. The ancient Nordic ruin of Labyrinthian was first constructed by the Dragon Cult as a temple to the dragons. The temple then grew to become the city of Bromjunaar, and it is theorized that the city may have been the capital of Skyrim during the height of the Dragon Cult's power and influence, though few historical records exist to verify this. There are, however, some historical records that prove that Bromjunaar was a center for the Dragon Priests, and many of the highest ranking Dragon Priests met here to discuss important matters. During the Dragon War, the city went through drastic changes as the forces of the dragons mobilized to fight against the people of Tamriel who were rebelling against them. After the war ended, the city was abandoned and it fell into ruin. The Labyrinthian is a very large area composed of many sub-levels, all of which are worth exploring. Some consider the wilderness in Hjaalmarch too dangerous to travel, so they take a gamble by traveling through the massive underground maze that is Labyrinthian instead, and many never return. [/PTab][PTab=Stonehills] Stonehills is a mining community in the Hold of Hjaalmarch to the southwest of Frostmere Crypt. It consists of a mine, a cottage, and a number of tents outside the cottage. It is used by miners working within Rockwallow Mine. The settlement and the mine are owned by Bryling, a Nord Thane living in Solitude. Stonehills is located slightly northwest of the Shrine of Mehrunes Dagon, at the bottom of the mountain. During the day, the miners work inside the mine. At night, they sit around the campfire before sleeping in the nearby tents.The camp is managed by Pactur, who lives in the cottage. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 12, 2015 2:29:49 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 7, 2015 8:59:56 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=The Pale] The Pale is one of the nine Holds of Skyrim. It is one of the four oldest holds in Skyrim, known collectively as Old Holds. Its unique shape resembles that of a boot. Its coat of arms is a four pointed star. The Capital City of The Pale is Dawnstar. The Jarl of Dawnstar and The Pale is Skald the Elder. The Pale is located in the central northern area of Skyrim and extending to the northern coast where Dawnstar is situated. The hold borders Hjaalmarch to the west, Whiterun to the south, and Winterhold and Eastmarch to the east. Most of the region is treacherously cold, pine forests stand straight facing the harsh winds whipping down the mountians. Only the southernmost part of the hold towards Whiterun becomes grassy plains.
Significant Areas: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Dawnstar] Dawnstar is one of the major cities located in Skyrim. It is the capital of The Pale, and serves as a garrison town along the northern coast of Skyrim. Governed by Jarl Skald the Elder, it is a relatively small town, consisting of two rival mines, a small dock and a small number of residents. Dawnstar is one of the colder settlements in Skyrim; along with Winterhold and Windhelm, as it resides in perpetual snow and ice. [/PTab][PTab=Hall of the Vigilant] The Hall of the Vigilant is a small dwelling that is the headquarters for the Vigilants of Stendarr in Skyrim. This isolated building is located south of Red Road Pass which is south of Dawnstar. It serves as a home for the Vigilants of Stendarr and their leader, Keeper Carcette. Inside, the Hall looks like a cross between an inn and a small place of worship. [/PTab][PTab=Nightcaller Temple] Nightcaller Temple is a fort located near Dawnstar. Also known as the Tower of Dawn, is a ruin located on a mountain top overlooking Dawnstar from the east. Many refer to it as a ruin within a ruin. First used as a military fort, then occupied by worshippers of Vaermina, both times it has fallen into disrepair and disuse. Now it is an empty fortress, waiting to be used until it will ultimately fall to ruin, again. [/PTab][PTab=Shrine of Mehrunes Dagon] The Shrine of Mehrunes Dagon is a Daedric shrine near Dawnstar. The shrine is dedicated to Mehrunes Dagon, the Daedric Prince of Destruction, Change, Revolution and Ambition. The door to the interior of the shrine is sealed, but can be opened when you kill the 2 daedra outside of the shrine. The site doesn't have any worshipers, despite it being a shrine. [/PTab][PTab=White Hall] The White Hall serves as the seat of power in The Pale, including the city of Dawnstar, and is the residence of Jarl Skald the Elder. The White Hall keep serves as both the Jarl's residence and the place where he holds court. The keep's main feature is the large combined throne room, mead hall, and council chamber that dominates the largest portion of the main floor. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 8, 2015 21:04:07 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 7, 2015 9:31:14 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=The Reach]  The Reach is one of the nine Holds of Skyrim. Its capital is the ancient Dwemer city of Markarth, where the Jarl Igmund resides and holds court in Understone Keep. The symbol of the Reach is a ram's head. The Reach is infamous for harboring the Forsworn, Reachmen who are fighting a long war of independence and seek to retake Markarth from the Nords and free the hold from Imperial authority. The Forsworn are the Reach's most common enemies and dwell in the majority of its locations. With the constant threat of Forsworn attacks looming over Markarth and its surrounding settlements, the Reach is often considered the most dangerous hold of Skyrim, fit only for seasoned adventurers or hardened mercenaries. The Reach covers much of the western border of Skyrim, with High Rock and Hammerfell to the west. These are the Highlands of Skyrim, a rugged environment with few flat clearings, dotted with juniper trees and rich in valuable ores, especially silver. Surrounding holds include Whiterun to the east, Haafingar past the mountains to the north and Falkreath to the south-east.
Significant Areas: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Markarth] Markarth is one of the major cities in Skyrim. The city is located in the far west of Skyrim, in the mountains of The Reach, west of the Karth River. As a result the city has a good natural defense, even from the skies. Being a long distance from any other major city and with both main roads cutting through mountains, valleys and rugged terrain, traveling to and from Markarth is one of the most treacherous trips for travelers. The city is split by a large running river and comprises two parts: Riverside, where the native Reachmen and the working district are found; and the Dryside, housing all the houses of Nord nobles and Silver-Blood ownership. The Jarl's palace, Understone Keep, is located at the top of the city and contains the Hall of the Dead, the Dwemer Museum, and the Nchuand-Zel Excavation Site where the internal part of the old Dwemer city remains in ruins. Most of the city's residents tend to be quite unfriendly to outsiders. [/PTab][PTab=Dwemer Museum] The museum is located in Understone Keep in Markarth off to the right of the entrance with one guard standing by the door. It contains the accumulated findings of Calcelmo's work from Dwemer ruins all over Skyrim, including deactivated Dwarven spheres, Dwarven spiders and Dwarven centurions. The museum also displays various pieces of kitchenware that were created and used daily by the Dwemer. Many of the guards complain about postings in the ruins as traps claim the lives of many of them. Despite having guards detailed to the museum it appears the Jarl takes very little interest in it as he rarely visits, for which Calcelmo is thankful. [/PTab][PTab=Understone Keep] Located high above the city of Markarth, Understone Keep is a gigantic dwarven structure, now used as the city’s keep. Much like the city itself, the keep is built upon the ruins of an ancient Dwemer city of Nchuand-Zel; relics of their machinery and automatons can be seen throughout. Obviously, this being the city's keep, this is also where the Jarl resigns and where his throne room is located. [/PTab][PTab=Shrine to Peryite] The Shrine to Peryite is located in the Reach, far to the northeast of Markarth. There is only one worshiper there, whom is a Khajiit known as Kesh the Clean. [/PTab][PTab=Dushnikh Yal] Dushnikh Yal is an Orc Stronghold located in The Reach, to the southeast of Markarth and northwest of Arkngthamz. Inside the stronghold is the Dushnikh Mine. The Orcs own and work the mine, which mainly produces orichalcum, iron ore and ebony ore. The settlement contains Burguk's Longhouse with beds and living space. [/PTab][PTab=Markarth Stables] The stables include a Dwarven main building and two small Dwarven guard towers. The Markarth Stables are exactly the same as every other stable in every other hold, the only difference about these stables is that this is the most known place that you can purchase a war-dog. [/PTab][PTab=The Warrens] The Warrens are an area of Markarth set aside for the poor and sick. There are only a few residents that live in the Warrens. [/PTab][PTab=Temple of Dibella] The Temple of Dibella is a structure atop a crag in the city of Markarth. There is a Shrine of Dibella where you may pray. A small number of priestesses wander the temple grounds. Inside the Sanctum, more priestesses pray and seek sensual contemplation. [/PTab][PTab=Cidhna Mine] Cidhna Mine is a prison in Markarth. It is run by the Silver-Blood Family who use prisoners to mine the silver ore inside. It is commonly referred to as the most secure prison in Skyrim. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 8, 2015 21:08:20 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 7, 2015 21:56:00 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=The Rift]  The Rift is the most southeastern of the nine Holds of Skyrim. It is one of the four oldest holds in Skyrim, known collectively as Old Holds. Major settlements include Riften, Ivarstead, and Shor's Stone. Its symbol is two crossed daggers. Its capital city, Riften, is home to the Thieves Guild. The Rift is located around the southeastern corner of Skyrim and borders Morrowind to the east and Cyrodiil to the south. The surrounding holds are Eastmarch to the north, Whiterun to the northwest and Falkreath to the west. Much of the Rift is composed of lush, autumn-colored valleys and rivers, surrounded by mountains to the south, east, and northeast. The Rift itself is located atop an immense plateau that clearly separates it from Eastmarch, and the western mountain range south of Throat of the World goes along its border with Falkreath, making it one of the most isolated holds in Skyrim, even more so perhaps than Winterhold and The Reach.The Rift is teeming with wildlife, both docile and hostile. It serves as an excellent hunting ground, and as such encounters with hunters and poachers are common. Bears, sabre cats and wolves make a common practice of hiding in the foilage and jumping out at unsuspecting travelers, and the hold is also quite literally crawling with Frostbite Spiders, which seem to enjoy spitting poison at unsuspecting farmers out for a stroll. All these combined can make traversing the Rift very arduous and time-consuming, even potentially dangerous.
Significant Area: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Riften]   Riften is a city situated in the southeastern corner of The Rift, at the eastern end of Lake Honrich, with a good portion of the city actually spilling over the water atop large wooden piers. It is the southernmost and easternmost of all the cities in Skyrim. The entire city is bisected by a large canal that used to serve as access for small cargo boats, but lately has fallen into disrepair, decay and stagnation thanks to the lack of trade during the Civil War. Despite this, Riften remains a bustling centre of commerce; the Black-Briar Meadery has a near monopoly on the sale and distribution of a Nord's favorite pastime: drinking. Despite the city's economic strength, it holds a darker side. The home of the notorious Thieves Guild in Skyrim, Riften also sees much corruption in the form of Maven Black-Briar, especially when dealing with rivals. Many poor residents frequent the less desirable areas, and thieves both Guild and freelance take advantage of the frequent mist, dark alleys and the Canal, preying on travellers and citizens alike. Such conditions reflect on the city; deaths are common, and people will often fight in the street over dropped items. [/PTab][PTab=Mistveil Keep] Mistveil Keep is the seat of power in Riften. This stone keep is where Jarl Laila Law-Giver lives and rules, and where the city's jail and barracks are located. The barracks are to the left and the jail to the right of the main door into the Keep, with the banners on each side. This is where most of the city's guards reside. The barracks can also be entered from inside the keep, go to the hallway behind the throne, turn left and enter the room directly ahead. The door to the barracks is opposite the entrance. [/PTab][PTab=Ivarstead] Ivarstead is a small community located far west from Shor's Stone and north-west from Riften. It serves as a rest stop for pilgrims before they make the journey up the Seven Thousand Steps to High Hrothgar. Ivarstead is roughly halfway between Riften and Whiterun. It is still within the Rift and is therefore governed by Riften. It is, in fact the only town in Skyrim which is not along a major road travelling between two Hold capitals. The citizens are often heard complaining about how they want to leave Ivarstead as there is nothing there. [/PTab][PTab=Goldenglow Estate] Goldenglow Estate is a settlement in The Rift. Goldenglow is a large estate and apiary outside Riften, located on a group of islands, connected by bridges, in Lake Honrich. The honey produced there is the primary supply for Maven Black-Briar's Meadery, making it an important location in the Rift. There are many mercenary guards that protect the Estate. The bee hives are located on an island southwest of the estate's main building. The mercenaries outside are hostile to members of the Thieves Guild (if they know that you're a part of the Thieves Guilds that is), but they will let others pass. [/PTab][PTab=Black-Briar Lodge] Black-Briar Lodge is a location east of Riften. This lodge is one of the houses the Black-Briar family owns, possibly serving as a holiday home. The place is protected by mercenaries, both inside and out, and they will attack anyone that isn't a part of the Black-Briar family, unless told other wise by their employers Maven. The Lodge is divided into three sections, the ground floor, second floor and the basement. [/PTab][PTab=Stendarr's Beacon] Stendarr's Beacon is a watchtower found in The Rift. A few Vigilants of Stendarr reside here. Stendarr's Beacon is located south east of Riften. Stendarr's Beacon is a tower home to several Vigilants of Stendarr and serves as a reserve location if the Hall of Vigilance is to ever be ransacked. The bottom of the tower contains a shrine to Stendarr. [/PTab][PTab=Shor's Stone] Shor's Stone is a small village in eastern Skyrim near the Velothi Mountains. It is a community of miners in the northeastern portion of The Rift. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 7, 2015 21:57:20 GMT by Lmn
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 7, 2015 23:02:33 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=The Winterhold]  Winterhold, sometimes known as "The Winterhold", is one of the nine Holds of Skyrim. It is one of the four oldest holds in Skyrim, known collectively as Old Holds. At one point Winterhold was the capital of Skyrim. Winterhold is located on the north-east corner of Skyrim. It is a vastly cold region, most of the hold is covered in snowy tundra plains and high mountain ranges. Along the cost is a polar environment of glaciers and icebergs. The surrounding holds are Eastmarch, to the south, and The Pale, to the west. It is home to the College of Winterhold. Winterhold has fallen on rough times. In the aftermath most of the residents moved away, and those that refused or could not afford to were left behind to witness the slow death of the town. The College of Winterhold is miraculously still intact, and this has led many residents to resent the College. Once a source of pride for residents, the College became a hated institution, a reminder of all they had lost. Eventually, due to inherent distrust of magic in Skyrim and the animosity of the townsfolk, the College began to experience a gradual attrition. The town sees little business these days, except from nobles looking for enchantments, due to the fact that Winterhold is so out of the way.
Significant Areas: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Winterhold] Winterhold is a former major city which is located in northern Skyrim. It is the capital city of the hold of the same name. Once a great capital rivaling Solitude in power and importance, Winterhold is now little more than a shell of its former self. Scholars from all over Tamriel have descended upon the hold since it became home to the Ysmir Collective, a library rescued from destruction in the east and the cornerstone of academic life at the College of Winterhold. [/PTab][PTab=College of Winterhold]  The College of Winterhold is a guild of mages centered in Skyrim. It is a faction of magic-users similar to the Mages Guild of Cyrodiil and Morrowind. When outsiders approach the College, there is normally a member of the guild there to intercept what message they have for the College. If you wish to enter and join the College, you must show aptitude in magic, this is so that the citizens of Winterhold don't enter and attack the College, for they aren't very happy of their presence in their city. The College of Winterhold is located just north of Winterhold, on a large cliff. A narrow bridge in a state of disrepair connects the city to the College. The central courtyard is dominated by a statue of the first Arch-Mage of the College, Shalidor, who is also the supposed founder of the city; this is the hub of the facility, offering access back out to the bridge and into the three Halls. The exterior windows offer exceptional views of the coastline. The courtyard branches off to the three halls of the College. The Hall of Attainment, the living quarters for mage apprentices, is off to the left upon entering the College, while the Hall of Countenance, the living quarters for more advanced mages, is off to the right. Straight ahead lies the Hall of the Elements, the lecture hall of the college. From the Hall of the Elements, the Arch-Mage's Quarters branches off on the left while The Arcanaeum, the College's library, branches off on the right. [/PTab][PTab=Shrinze of Azura] The Shrine of Azura is devoted to the following of the Daedric Prince Azura. It is located to the south of Winterhold, and one priestess remains at the shrine. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
|
|
|
|
Administrator
|
Post by Lmn on Aug 8, 2015 1:04:12 GMT
[PTabbedContent][PTab=Whiterun Hold] Whiterun Hold is one of the nine Holds of Skyrim. It is the largest of the nine holds. Whiterun Hold is the central hold of Skyrim. It is named for the capital city of the hold, Whiterun. The landscape is mostly boreal plains with vast, sparse tundra and flowing rivers; however its most striking landmark is the Throat of the World, the highest peak in Tamriel. This hold is also known for having a large number of Giant camps. The White River divides the region. Sparse plains extend from west of the river to the township of Rorikstead near the western border, which is situated on ideal farmland. Much of the area near the southern border and east of the river is mountainous. Whiterun appears to have stable security, but some residents complain that Whiterun's security is the worst in the province, calling it shameful.
Significant Areas: [PTabbedContent][PTab=Whiterun]   Whiterun is the capital city of Whiterun Hold, in the center of the province of Skyrim. In Whiterun, Nords live in the 'traditional' manner: their lives are simple, harsh, and rooted in ancient traditions. Even the city's fortifications—wooden and stone palisade walls and the sheer defensive advantage offered by its position on a large bluff that raises the city above the surrounding tundra—are archaic by contemporary standards. Due to its central location, Whiterun serves as the commercial heart of Skyrim. Whiterun was once considered Skyrim's equivalent of the Imperial City, but in recent times has suffered from many problems. The Civil War, excessively harsh winters, and the attacks of frost trolls have diminished the once-proud city. It's a strategic city for both the Imperial Legion and the Stormcloaks because of its central location, however Jarl Balgruuf the Greater remains neutral in the conflict. The city is home to two important dynastic families, the Grey-Manes and the Battle-Borns. Once on good terms with one another, they are currently bitter enemies, as a result of their differing views on the civil war conflict, as well as the economic disparity between both clans, since the Battle-Borns are wealthy and the Gray-Manes are modest. Whiterun is home to The Companions, a faction similar to the Fighters Guild of Cyrodiil. Their headquarters are in Jorrvaskr, a legendary mead hall that was built next to the Skyforge, an ancient forge that is said to be older than both men and Elves. The city of Whiterun itself was built around Jorrvaskr, which used to attract warriors from all across Tamriel. Due to The Companions' reputation for being over-glorified sellswords, Jorrvaskr is no longer held in such esteem as it once was. [/PTab][PTab=Dragonsreach] Dragonsreach was constructed in the ornate wooden style of the great Nord longhouses of ancient days. Visually and politically, it is very much the focal point of the entire city itself and perhaps even Skyrim as a whole. As is true of the keeps in other cities, Dragonsreach serves many important functions. As the seat of government in Whiterun, Balgruuf the Greater resides here as its ruler. Dragonsreach is situated in the "Cloud District" of Whiterun and, as the name suggests, it is elevated from the rest of the city. The building gained its name after a battle with a dragon that left the victorious party as "rulers of the clouds". [/PTab][PTab=Rorikstead] Rorikstead is a small community in Whiterun Hold, and is therefore patrolled by Whiterun guards. It is the farthest settlement from Whiterun along the western border near The Reach. The settlement consists of two cottages, an inn, and a manor. [/PTab][PTab=Riverwood] Riverwood is a small village located in the province of Skyrim. The village is built on the eastern bank of the White River, in Whiterun Hold. It is a small Nordic village set in a valley, between the river and the steep mountainside of the Throat of the World. It serves largely as a stopping point and rural community along the road from Helgen to Whiterun. The village is small, despite the fact that there is a lumber mill, tavern, blacksmith, general goods store, and three log houses and huts with small vegetable gardens. The village is largely self-sufficient, growing its own vegetables as well as hunting and fishing for meat. [/PTab][PTab=Throat of the World] The Throat of the World is a major landmark in Whiterun Hold, and the highest mountain of Tamriel. The Nords believe that Men were formed here. Pilgrims travel from across Tamriel to climb the Seven Thousand Steps to the ancient monastery of High Hrothgar, where the order of the Greybeards dwells in absolute silence in their quest to become attuned to the Voice of the Sky.Most of the enemies who reside on the path to the mountain are wolves. But due to the strength of some frost trolls, bears, sabre cats, and ice wraiths, which may dwell on the stairs of the mountain, it is difficult to travel there. [/PTab][PTab=Temple of Kynareth] The Temple of Kynareth is a temple to Kynareth, located in Whiterun. Accessible from the residential district of Whiterun (also known as Wind District), the temple is a place of worship and healing. Priests and priestesses there tend to the sick and injured of Whiterun and the surrounding area. The temple sits across the circle from Jorrvaskr, and overlooks the sickly Gildergreen tree. [/PTab][PTab=Skyforge & Underforge] The Skyforge is an ancient forge located next to Jorrvaskr in Whiterun, said to be older than even the Elves themselves. Under the Skyforge is "The Underforge," where The Circle holds its meetings and worships Hircine. There is also a passage to the right of the stone bowl that leads to a secret one-way exit out of the city. It is here that members of the Companions are inducted into the Circle by a blood ritual, thus gaining the ability to transform into a werewolf. [/PTab][PTab=Gildergreen] Born from the branches of the Eldergleam Tree, the Gildergreen is a tree that stands in the center of Whiterun, near the Temple of Kynareth. Followers of Kynareth revere the plant for its relation to the Eldergleam. [/PTab][PTab=Eldergleam Sanctuary] Eldergleam Sanctuary is a cave located in southern central Skyrim. This is where the Eldergleam Tree is located. It is considered a holy place in Skyrim, sacred to the goddess Kynareth. There is an abundance of Alchemy ingredients that grow here. Within the sanctuary, many priests, priestesses, worshipers, and those looking to be healed can be found here. [/PTab][PTab=Jorrvaskr] Jorrvaskr is an ancient and honored mead hall that has served as the headquarters of a mercenary company, The Companions, for untold generations. It was built after the discovery of the Skyforge. According to local legend, Jorrvaskr is the oldest building in Whiterun. It once existed by itself on the mountain, with the rest of the town springing up around it over the centuries. [/PTab][/PTabbedContent][/PTab][/PTabbedContent] |
Last Edit: Aug 9, 2015 0:58:57 GMT by Lmn
|
|
