House Caelthorn


Heraldic Coat of Arms

Rank: Lesser Noble House

Type: Ly`Tel`Quessir {Grey}

Background:

House Caelthorn traces its lineage back over 30,000 years to the ancient days of Kael. Once a powerful and influential house in the Kingdom of Arethane, House Caelthorn's legacy is intertwined with the rise and fall of the Elven kingdoms. In ancient times, the house held vast lands and wielded great military and magical power. However, centuries of political intrigue, conflict, and misfortune reduced the family's influence.

Today, House Caelthorn is a shadow of its former glory, with only three surviving members. Despite this decline, they have preserved their status through their stewardship of Silverbranch Winery, one of the finest and most renowned wineries in Arethane. The winery, assigned to House Caelthorn by the king, to operate, is a symbol of both honor and burden, as the family is tasked with producing the finest vintages to grace the tables of royalty and nobility.

Motto or Saying:

"From Ancient Roots, Eternal Harvest."

Prominent Members:

  • Patriarch/Lord Speaker: Lord Kaelith Caelthorn
  • Matriarch: Lady Valeria Caelthorn
  • House Heir: Elarin Caelthorn
  • House Elder: None (Line weakened)
  • House Weapons Master: Captain Aerion Velassar (Sworn to House Caelthorn)
  • House Mage: Deloria Moonbrook (Advisor and magical specialist)
  • House Seeker:
    • None

    House Sajorte:

    None

    House Squire:

    • Farannis Velara (Second
    • in
    • Command of the Silverbranch Guard)
    • Sthandor Duskbane (Senior Ranger)
    • Waelar Orithiel (Master Archer)
    • Kaelion Vaelaris (Swordmaster and Combat Trainer)
    • Sylraen Starwhisper (Master Tracker and Scout)
    • Vaeril Dawnsinger (Swiftblade Ranger)
    • Tyra Elensar (Healer and Marksman)

    Family Traditions:

    House Caelthorn holds to the ancient elven traditions of reverence for the land and seasonal rituals tied to the harvest. The first and last pressings of each vintage are blessed in the name of the Seldarine, ensuring the vineyard's continued prosperity. Ancestral songs are sung during each harvest, echoing the memory of those who came before.

    Business Interests:

    House Caelthorn controls the Silverbranch Winery in the Vale, producing highly sought

  • after wines known for their rich flavors and magical undertones. They have exclusive trade contracts with the Elven court, the nobility of Arethane, and several merchant guilds.

    Influence and Prestige:

    Despite their reduced numbers, House Caelthorn commands immense respect due to their mastery of winemaking and the value of Silverbranch wines at court. Their direct connection to the king ensures that they remain influential among the noble houses of Arethane.

    Related Houses:

    • House Velassar (Military ties through Captain Aerion)
    • House Starwhisper (Loyal retainers and advisors)
    • House Moonbrook (Magical ties through Deloria)

    Alliances and Feuds:

    Alliances:

    • The Royal House of Arethane
    • House Velassar
    • House Moonbrook
    Feuds:
    • House Ilvanna (Competing winery)
    • House Duskthorn (Historical betrayal)

    Other Notes of Interest:

    • The wines of Silverbranch are rumored to possess subtle magical properties, enhancing health and vitality.
    • House Caelthorn retains ancient magical wards around the vineyards, protecting them from pests, disease, and sabotage.

    Colours:

    Silver and Deep Green, representing the silver leaves and the rich green of the vineyards.

    Residences:

    • Silverbranch Estate – The main residence and center of the winery.

      Political Influence:

      House Caelthorn holds limited political power directly, but their close relationship with the king ensures that their voice carries weight in matters of trade and courtly diplomacy.

      Cultural Preservation:

      The house maintains several ancient Elven songs and rituals connected to the harvest, which are performed only during the sacred festivals of the Vale.

      Arts and Culture:

      House Caelthorn's connection to winemaking and nature is reflected in their support of music, poetry, and art inspired by the harvest and the changing of the seasons.

      Education and Training:

      The family trains their retainers and heirs in both the art of winemaking and the martial skills necessary to defend the vineyard. Deloria Moonbrook oversees magical training for the younger members of the house.

      Philosophy and Ethical Beliefs:

      House Caelthorn values precision, tradition, and stewardship of the land. Their philosophy emphasizes the balance between nature, magic, and the careful hand of the vintner.