Lore:Hammerfell
Hammerfell | |
---|---|
Type | Province |
Continent | Tamriel |
Appears in | Arena, Daggerfall, Redguard, Shadowkey, ESO |
Hammerfell, once known as Hegathe, the Deathland (or Deathlands), and Volenfell, is a region in the west of Tamriel. It has been described as a province, kingdom, or republic throughout its history. Situated between Skyrim, Cyrodiil, and High Rock.[1][2] Hammerfell features diverse landscapes including beaches, jungles, grasslands, mountains, and the vast Alik'r desert. It is inhabited by the human race of Redguards, who migrated to Tamriel following the partial sinking of their homeland, Yokuda. While predominantly urban and maritime, with bustling port cities, the interior of Hammerfell is sparsely populated with small farms and nomadic tribes.
Contents
- 1 Geography
- 1.1 Abibon-Gora
- 1.2 Alik'r
- 1.3 Antiphyllos
- 1.4 Bantha
- 1.5 Cape Shira
- 1.6 Cespar
- 1.7 The Chain
- 1.8 Craglorn
- 1.9 Cybiades
- 1.10 Dak'fron
- 1.11 Dragontail Mountains
- 1.12 Ephesus
- 1.13 Fallen Wastes
- 1.14 Herne
- 1.15 Kairou
- 1.16 Khefrem
- 1.17 Kozanset
- 1.18 Lainlyn
- 1.19 Mournoth
- 1.20 Nohotogrha
- 1.21 Pothago
- 1.22 Santaki
- 1.23 Satakalaam
- 1.24 Sentinel
- 1.25 Sunforge
- 1.26 Stros M'Kai
- 1.27 Totambu
- 1.28 Western Reach
- 2 History
- 3 Politics
- 4 Architecture
- 5 Flora
- 6 Fauna
- 7 Notable Places
- 8 Gallery
- 9 Notes
- 10 References
Geography[edit]
Hammerfell is located in the western part of Tamriel. It borders High Rock to the north, Skyrim to the northeast, and Cyrodiil to the southeast. The border with High Rock is defined by the Bjoulsae River,[3][4][5] though the border was formerly further south at the Bangkorai Pass in the second Era,[6][7] and the fiefdom of Mournoth located south of the river was controlled by Orsinium for some time after the Warp in the West in 3E 417.[8] The Cyrodilic border is defined by the Brena River, which rises in the Colovian Highlands and separates Hammerfell from the Gold Coast. It has extensive access to the sea, with the Illiac Bay to the northwest, the Eltheric Ocean to the west and the Abecean Sea to the south. Craglorn and the Western Reach make up the borders along Skyrim's Druadach Mountains.
Hammerfell has a variety of environments, ranging from temperate to tropical climates. The coasts in particular are vibrant with plantlife, and biomes vary from open grassland, subtropical beaches, humid swamps, temperate mountains, and thick jungles.[9] The Alik'r desert is found in the northwest.
There is a notable level of thermal activity in the province, particularly around the Dragontail Mountains, as evidenced by lava harvested by facilities at the Bloodroot Forge, Aldunz, and Mzeneldt.[10] A volcano connected to Molavar is found near Elinhir,[11][12] and there is at least one volcanic crater in the province.[13]
Hammerfell is divided into several regions, among them the Alik'r Desert, southern Bangkorai, Craglorn, Khefrem, and Sunforge. Many isles in the Abecean Sea and Eltheric Ocean are under Hammerfell's control, including the Chain, Stros M'Kai,[6] Cespar and Herne. The Systres and Stirk have at certain times also considered a part of Hammerfell.[2][14]
Abibon-Gora[edit]
Abibon-Gora (also known as Albion-Gora) is a region that rests on the western coast of Hammerfell, in the Iliac Bay region. It is a humid subtropical region with beaches and grasslands on its coastlines. It shared borders with Kairou to the north and the Alik'r Desert to the east when it was a barony in the Third Era. It is unknown how far south it goes, but the entire region from Abibon-Gora down to the peninsula of Hegathe is a lush plant-filled rainforest. Redguards predominate the region, with Julianos as the favorite deity. Sophists and mystics at his chapel engage in friendly debates during gatherings. The capital city is the city of Abibon-gora, and the locality is protected by the Knights of the Wheel.
Alik'r[edit]
The Alik'r, best known as the Alik'r Desert, is a large region which forms the heart of Hammerfell.[15] In truth, the distinction between the Alik'r's shifting sands and the kingdoms of Hammerfell is hazy; travelers in the vast desert report never being entirely sure which kingdom they may be in. An enormous red mist seems to rise up from the sand in the mornings, though it disappears again well before noon.[16] Major cities of the region include Sentinel in the northwest, the port city of Tava's Blessing in the north, Satakalaam and Kozanset in the east, as well as Bergama in the south.[6]
Many Dwemer ruins lie under its sand,[1] as does a stronghold of the Blades, Wind Scour Temple.[17] The Lost City of the Na-Totambu is also hidden somewhere in the wastes.[6] During the Warp in the West, there were reports of a large, spontaneous sandstorm, and the region ultimately came under the rule of Sentinel.[8] At the beginning of the Great War in 4E 171, the Imperial legions in southern Hammerfell, overwhelmed by the sudden onslaught of the Aldmeri Dominion, were forced to retreat across the Alik'r in the now-famous March of Thirst.[18]
Antiphyllos[edit]
Antiphyllos is a region in northern Hammerfell and is part of the greater Iliac Bay area. The region's monarchy was once connected to the Phyllocid Dynasty, the Crowns family that ruled the province during its time under the Second Empire. Some of their last known descendants were Grandee Zizzeen of Antiphyllos and his relative, High King Fahara'jad of Sentinel. The local Redguards of the region have the utmost respect for Divad Hunding, one of the great sword-singers of Redguard history. They observe the holiday, Divad Etep't on the 12th of Sun's Height, which is a day of mourning dedicated to the warrior. The Anthotis clan of vampires and the Dust Witches are active in the region.
Bantha[edit]
The Bantha, or the Banthan Jungle, is a lush tropical jungle region in the province of Hammerfell.
The precise location of the Bantha is unknown; however, it is considered part of the Iliac Bay. The people of the Bantha are known to celebrate two holidays. Aduros Nau is celebrated on the 28th of Sun's Dawn to commemorate the transition from the winter, and the Feast of the Tiger is observed on the 14th of Last Seed. Though the Feast of the Tiger presumably originated as a means of venerating an obscure Tiger God, it is now a thanksgiving.
Cape Shira[edit]
Cape Shira is an area comprising the western end of mainland Hammerfell. It has a lush tropical climate, though the northern coast is rocky. Salas En is found here. Yaghoub sailed northwest to round the Cape, becoming the first of the Ra Gada to discover the Iliac Bay.
Cape Shira roughly corresponds to the location of the regions of Abibon-Gora, Kairou, and Pothago in the Iliac Bay.
Cespar[edit]
Cespar (also spelled Caspar) is a large island off the western coast of Hammerfell, south of Herne. Sometime in the mid-Second Era, the former noblewoman, Lady Benwyne Thronebane was exiled to the island of Cespar and lived there since at least 2E 582. When the Painted Eye took over the citadel Borderwatch in southern Cyrodiil, they made a demand to free Lady Thronebane but it was later revealed that all of their demands were a ruse. The island was considered by the Empire to be part of Hammerfell's territory in 2E 864.
Tralan the Two-Blade, a Redguard swordsman who became one of Emperor Titus Mede I's most valued men, hailed from Cespar.
The Chain[edit]
The Chain is a group of at least three islands in the Abecean Sea, south of Hegathe in Hammerfell and west of Stros M'Kai, near the Eltheric Ocean. The two smaller islands trail off to the west. The island was considered by the Empire to be Hammerfell's territory in 2E 864, a claim which remained by the late Third Era, as certain maps be considered them part of Hammerfell.
The coral kingdoms of Thras are described as a set of islands southwest of the Chain.
Craglorn[edit]
Craglorn is a region in northeastern Hammerfell, at the foot of the Dragontail Mountains. It is situated between High Rock, Skyrim and Cyrodiil.
The southern part of the region, called Lower Craglorn, consists mainly of dry wastelands, with some green areas near the bodies of water. A gate in the western mountains connects the region with Bangkorai. The main settlement is Elinhir, a city heavily influenced by the Colovian culture, located in the easternmost part of Lower Craglorn. Elinhir lies very close to the Skyrim town of Falkreath, which is just across the border to the northeast. Belkarth is located within the south-central portion of Craglorn.
The northern part of the region is called Upper Craglorn and is part of the Western Reach. Its landscape is rugged, mountainous, and very similar to the Reach, which is just across the mountains to the north. The main city, Dragonstar, lies in the northwest corner of the region. The east part of this region is called the Valley of Scars, while the west is known as Skyreach.
Craglorn was home to many different civilizations in the past. These include Ayleids, Dwemer and Yokudans, and their ruins are common in the region. It was also the last bastion of the Nedes and the remnants of their civilization can be found here. A Nedic Bloodroot Forge can be found near the city of Elinhir. The Iron Orcs are the oldest remaining civilization in the region. Old Nordic ruins are located in the northernmost mountains of Upper Craglorn.
Cybiades[edit]
Cybiades is an island off the northern coast of Sentinel, within the Iliac Bay. It has a tropical coastal climate with a vibrant variety of plantlife. The people of Cybiades create an oil condiment from hot peppers.
By the fifth century of the Third Era, the only notable structure on the island was the ruins of Cosh Hall, where armed human squatters had taken up residence. Although otherwise uninhabited, Cybiades was considered a separate political entity until the Warp in the West, when it was most likely subsumed by the massive expansion of the Kingdom of Sentinel.
Dak'fron[edit]
Dak'fron is a dry region within north-central Hammerfell in the greater Iliac Bay region, dominated by Redguards. It is one of the most barren wastelands in the province, and giant scorpions migrate from the "blighted Dak'fron" to the marginally lusher Alik'r Desert as an invasive species. Dak'fron borders the Alik'r Desert to the northwest, Santaki to the north, and the Dragontail Mountains to the northeast.
The Sisters of Kykos are found in Dak'fron and the dominant vampire bloodline is the Anthotis. Dak'fron is known for its fine amethysts.
After the events of the Warp in the West, Dak'fron became part of the Kingdom of Sentinel. Circa 3E 433, Ayaan-si, High Prophet of Elinhir, had called upon the Crowns of the north to rebel against Lhotun, and had financed a number of forays against the borders in Dak'fron.
Dragontail Mountains[edit]
The Dragontail Mountains, (called the Dragon's-Tail in the First Era by Redguards) are a mountain range in northern Hammerfell. They contain the Upper Craglorn region and then curve to the southwest, towards the Fallen Wastes and the Iliac Bay. Politically, the mountains are surrounded by several regions to the east and west. On its western flanks was the Alik'r, Dak'fron, Tigonus, and Santaki. To the east is Lainlyn, Mournoth, Kozanset, and Totambu. The march of Ephesus is located in the middle of the Dragontail Mountains. Regions in the area include the Valley of Blades, Bazidir Valley, Lemdazi Valley, and Ngonta Valley, and named peaks in the range include Mount Dakobo, Mount Ewado, Mount Nombaje, and Heldorn Mount. Other locations of note include Drear and Ganada Pass.
Ephesus[edit]
Not to be confused with Ephesus the region of High Rock bearing the same name in the 2nd Era.
The March of Ephesus was a Third Era political entity in western Hammerfell, in the Iliac Bay region. It was completely surrounded by the Dragontail Mountains. Its capital was the city of Ephesus. Mara was worshipped by the Redguards who inhabited this area.
Fallen Wastes[edit]
The Fallen Wastes is the southernmost region of the greater region of Bangkorai. The entirety of the Fallen Wastes is considered geographically to be on the Hammerfell side of the border, although around 2E 582 it was controlled by the High Rock city-state of Evermore and considered a part of High Rock by the Bretons. The capital of the region is the city-state of Hallin's Stand, located on the northern end of the Dragontail Mountains, just before the Bjoulsae Estuary. The ancient ruins of the Hall of Heroes is the gateway to the Redguard afterlife, the Far Shores. Many Redguard heroes were buried in the Hall of Heroes, including Frandar Hunding and Makela Leki. Among other large ruins in the region are Nilata Ruins and Razak's Wheel, which are Ayleid and Dwemer respectively. The Bangkorai Garrison marks the northern end of the region and connects both provinces. The eastern gates lead into the region of Craglorn.
Herne[edit]
Herne is an island off the west coast of Hammerfell, north of Cespar. It is most notable for acting as the temporary refuge for the Yokudan nobility, known as the Na-Totambu, during the Ra Gada exodus to Tamriel in the early First Era.
Although some sources claim Herne was uninhabited before their arrival, others claim that it was inhabited by a tribe of Nedes, led by a warchief named Haakon. The Nedes had successfully repulsed many attacks by elves prior to the arrival of the Yokudans, but the Ra Gada ultimately exterminated them.
After the loss of Eyevea to the Mages Guild in 2E 582, Sheogorath considered bringing Herne to the Shivering Isles, but it was not the right shape. The island was considered by the Empire to be Hammerfell's territory in 2E 864, but by the late Third Era, the island appeared to be considered part of High Rock in certain maps.[verification needed — see talk page]
Kairou[edit]
Kairou is a region on the western coast of Hammerfell, in the Iliac Bay region. It is bordered by Pothago to the north, Myrkwasa and the Alik'r Desert to the east, and Abibon-Gora to the south. Its main city is the city of Kairou.
On the 20th of Evening Star, Kairou celebrates a special event called Chil'a. It is the blessing of the new year in the region and is both a sacred day and a festival. The archpriest and the baroness each consecrate the ashes of the old year in a solemn ceremony, then street parades, balls, and tournaments conclude the event.
The regional deity of Kairou is Zenithar, and the dominant vampire bloodline of the region is the Selenu. After the Warp in the West, Kairou became a part of the kingdom of Sentinel.
Khefrem[edit]
Khefrem is a coastal region in southwestern Hammerfell, meeting the waters of the Eltheric Ocean and Hubalajad's Bay. The city of Gilane and ruins of the Rourken capital are part of the region. It contains the peninsula of Hew's Bane, which was originally known as Khefrem's Boot.
The region is also home to the Khefrem Academy of Yokudan Heritage.
Kozanset[edit]
Kozanset was a small Third Era barony in Hammerfell towards the western end of the Dragontail Mountains, near the Iliac Bay. It was cut off from the sea by its neighbor to the north, Lainlyn. To the east was Totambu, while the mountains made up the southwestern border. The Redguards who lived here called the city of Kozanset their capital, and the regional deity was Kynareth. The Khulari clan was the predominant vampire bloodline in the region.
After the Warp in the West, this region came under the dominion of Sentinel.
Lainlyn[edit]
Lainlyn (formerly known as Tava's Blessing) is a region located on the north coast of Hammerfell, on the Iliac Bay. Lainlyn is a fairly large coastal region located in the forest area of the Hammerfell-Iliac region, east of the Dragontail Mountains and directly south of Balfiera. The region is affiliated with the Crowns, the remnants of the noble class of Yokuda, It is also known for its abundance of harpies, winged creatures that have a possible origin story tied to the region. The Host of the Horn is the barony's knightly order and they are sworn to protect both the royal family and their country.
Mournoth[edit]
Not to be confused with Mournoth the region of High Rock bearing the same name in the 2nd Era.
Mournoth was a Third Era fiefdom of northern Hammerfell at the east end of Iliac Bay. Its northern border was formed by the Bjoulsae River, across which lay the High Rock provinces of Wayrest and Gavaudon. To the west lay the region Satakalaam, to the southwest was the region Totambu, and it was surrounded on all other sides by the Dragontail Mountains. The region's capital was the city of Mournoth. After the Warp in the West, it was purportedly under the control of Orsinium.
The regional deity was Stendarr and the provincial capital was the city of Mournoth. There were no special holidays in this province. As this region was in Hammerfell, Redguards were the primary race that made their homes in Mournoth. The dominant vampire bloodline in the region was Montalion.
Nohotogrha[edit]
Nohotogrha is an oasis within Hammerfell. The Devotees of Satakal have been seen rolling in the desert sand sidewinder-fashion in continuous, hundred-mile stretches, from Balhar all the way to the Nohotogrha oasis.
The face sculptor Galathil of the Cloudrest Faculty of Chirurgeons claimed to have walked with the Hollow-Faced Men of Nohotogrha for three years.
Pothago[edit]
Pothago is a region on the western coast of Hammerfell, in the Iliac Bay region. When it was a duchy it was surrounded by Myrkwasa to the east and Kairou to the south. Pothago's main city is the city of Pothago. The Selenu clan is the predominant vampire bloodline in the region.
On the 18th of Sun's Dusk, the people of Pothago celebrate Hel Anseilak, with it being the holiest day for them. The ancient way of the sword-singers and their rich heritage is remembered and honored on this day.
After the Warp in the West, Pothago came under the dominion of Sentinel.
Santaki[edit]
Santaki is a small, landlocked county in the northern portion of Hammerfell and is located in the Iliac Bay region. Santaki's position between the Alik'r Desert and the Dragontail Mountains provides it access to two different biomes. The desert wastes in the southwest half of the county and the forests in the smaller northeast half. The Knights of the Hawk is Santaki's local knightly order but despite that, they are mainly based in Antiphyllos.
Satakalaam[edit]
Satakalaam is a region on the western coast of Hammerfell, on the eastern coast of the Iliac Bay. To its east lay Mournoth; to the south, Totambu; while Lainlyn was situated to the west.[19] Its provincial seat shares the same name.
The people of Satakalaam have upheld the worship of Yokuda's ancient pantheon since their departure from the west.[20] The name draws an immediate connection to the deity, Satakal the Serpent God, a spirit observed by the Crowns and popular among Alik'ri nomads affiliated with them.[21]
On 3rd of Sun's Dusk, the region celebrates a holiday named "Serpent's Dance", which seems to celebrate a now-forgotten serpent god dating back to the time when the Redguards lived in their former home of Yokuda.[22] In 3E 417, the Montalion bloodline predominated among vampires in the region.
Sentinel[edit]
The Kingdom of Sentinel is located in northwestern Hammerfell, on the shores of the Iliac Bay.[4]
Sentinel is a great city of the Redguards, and the capital of the kingdom of Sentinel. It is located in the northwestern hills of Hammerfell, overlooking the Iliac Bay. Its population is relatively low due to the inhospitable nature of the surrounding Alik'r Desert. However, some fertile fields can be found along the coast near the city, and the city is actually a major population center in Hammerfell.
The city is an exotic retreat for the nobility of Daggerfall and Wayrest, who delight in the cooking, craftsmanship, and plays which can be found there. Many great and famous people throughout history have called Sentinel their home, including the renowned poet Weltan and the famous Redguard hero Cyrus.
Notable city-states and regions that are part of the Kingdom of Sentinel after the Warp in the West are:
Sunforge[edit]
Sunforge is a tropical region of Tamriel, supposedly located in central Hammerfell, bordered by Bangkorai to the northwest and Craglorn to the northeast, along the Dragontail Mountains, and containing the cities of Ska'vyn, Verkarth, and Cliff Keep. The Irk and Tark Rivers are found to the south. Buildings here may have a layer of patina on top.
In the countryside outside of Skaven is one of the Halls of the Virtues of War, where there are still people who follow the old ways and are believed by some to be able to form a Shehai sword. The Ket Keptu were native to central Hammerfell, and were believed to have had cultural interchange with the Reachmen. The roving Redguards of the region bred the local Painted Wolves into sure-footed mounts to cross the terrain. The Firedancers of central Hammerfell wear scandalously little clothing by local standards, which may be why they protect their modesty—and identities—by hiding their faces behind Flamebrow Fire Veils. As a Breton holiday, Saturalia is not celebrated in central Hammerfell.
Stros M'Kai[edit]
Stros M'Kai, named Sanloa M'Kai (Sister of Thought) in Yoku, is a strategically located tropical island off the southern coast of Hammerfell near the Cape of the Blue Divide. It is renowned for the completely steam-powered Dwemer ruins of Bthzark and the observatory of similar design containing a telescope and orrery.
Its main two settlements are the city of Port Hunding, which has also been called Stros M'Kai at times, and the small settlement of Saintsport that is found at the southern tip of the island.
Totambu[edit]
Totambu is an inland fiefdom of Hammerfell, south of the Iliac Bay. It was named after Na-Totambu, the ruling class of Yokuda and progenitors of the Hammerfell Crowns faction.
Totambu borders Lainlyn to the northwest, Satakalaam to the north, Mournoth to the northeast, the Dragontail Mountains to the south, and Kozanset to the west. The main deity of this Redguard-dominated region is Zenithar. The military force of Totambu is the Order of the Scarab. They also served as the official guard for the royal family of Totambu, based in the city of Totambu. The Khulari clan is the predominant vampire bloodline in the region.
After the Warp in the West, Totambu came under the dominion of the Kingdom of Sentinel ruled by the Forebears faction. Later, however, it became a site of a Crown rebellion against King Lhotun of Sentinel. Totambu declared independence from Sentinel and pledged allegiance to the Crown leader Ayaan-si, High Prophet of Elinhir. Even though Lhotun's kingdom surrounded Totambu on all four sides, its people kept holding their resistance. The Knights of the Scarab remained a military force in the region even after the Warp.
Western Reach[edit]
The Western Reach is the western part of the historic territory of the Reachmen, which was split from Skyrim's hold of the Reach by Emperor Reman Cyrodiil in the late First Era along the line of the Druadach Mountains. It is traditionally considered to be part of the Breton province of High Rock, but the region can also include the areas of northern Hammerfell which also border Skyrim. It is divided from the rest of High Rock by the Wrothgarian Mountains.
History[edit]
Merethic Era[edit]
Early inhabitants[edit]
Nedic peoples in Craglorn are known to have existed since at least the late Merethic Era, where they regularly engaged in conflict with the local Iron Orcs.[23]
Ayleids[edit]
During the late merethic and early first era, the Ayleids from Cyrodiil created several settlements in what was to become Hammerfell. Some were close to their territory of origin such as Molavar and Balamath in eastern Craglorn or Varlaisvea just across the Brena river, but a few were far away such as Nilata in the Fallen Wastes or even Salas En on the western reaches of the Alik'r desert close to the rocky coast of Cape Shira.
First Era[edit]
Dwemer[edit]
Hammerfell was originally called Hegathe by the Aldmer and the Deathland by the early Nedic people, both terms roughly meaning the same thing. In 1E 420, the Dwemer Rourken Clan settled the region after opposing the creation of the joint Dwemer-Chimer state of Resdayn. It is said that the leader of the clan threw his mighty hammer, Volendrung, across the continent, and followed it west to their new home. The region eventually became known as Volenfell, or "City of the Hammer", after the Dwemer capital built near the location of modern-day Gilane.[1] The Dwemer were eventually driven from the province by an otherworldly invasion of giant goblins.[24][UOL 1] Any remaining Dwemer of Volenfell vanished in 1E 700 along with the rest of the Dwemer race, and their empty cities were looted by Akaviri and Nordic pirates before being reclaimed by nature.[1]
Warrior Waves[edit]
Over a century passed before civilization would return to Volenfell, and when it did it took the form of "warrior waves" of migration from Yokuda, known as the Ra Gada. This mass colonization occurred in four successive waves during the eighth and ninth centuries of the First Era, and spanned approximately twenty eight years.[25]
The first recorded wave of migration took place around 1E 780. After winning a war against Emperor Hira, Frandar Hunding and his army of renown sword-singers left their homeland and sailed to Hammerfell.[26] Hunding's flotilla of ships landed in Hammerfell and discovered vast numbers of giant goblin strongholds littering the sands. Frandar refused to co-exist with the Flint-Tooth tribe on their new homeland, and rallied his army to slay the beasts. Frandar was killed in one of the early conflicts, but his son Divad Hunding pushed onward and forged five mighty Shehai, which allowed him to drive out the giant goblins and conquer the Alik'r Desert.[27][28]
The next wave is believed to have occurred around the time of Yokuda's sinking in 1E 792.[29] This wave consisted of ships that departed from both the continent and its islands, including Yath and Akos Kasaz, the largest island of Yokuda and home to its capital. The bulk of the refugees, including the Na-Totambu ruling class, were put ashore on the island of Herne while the Ra Gada sailed on to mainland Tamriel in 1E 808.[15][29][22] The fleet first landed at Hegathe on the southwest coast of Hammerfell. From Hegathe they spread along both southern and western coasts, while others continued north and east into Hammerfell itself.[30] The fifty-six ships of the second wave, known as the "Tavan wave", sailed southeast towards Hunding Bay and the southern coast of Hammerfell.[31][25][32] The island of Stros M'Kai was one of the first landfalls settled by the Yokudans.[33] They discovered the peninsula of Khefrem's Boot. Led by Prince Hubalajad, he established the city of Abah's Landing and built a citadel named No Shira.[34]
To the north went the third wave of warrior-sailors under the leadership of Grandee Yaghoub, in ships they had brought from Akos Kasaz. Yaghoub was the first of the Ra Gada to discover the Iliac Bay as he rounded Cape Shira. Yaghoub, following the constellation of the Steed, decided to make his home on the northern coast of Hammerfell and established the city of Sentinel.[30][35] Many of the Ra Gada kings were wealthy corsairs, and raided Breton coastal cities and merchant vessels along the southern Iliac Bay.[36] Ra Gada colonists from the island of Yath clashed with an Altmeri clan known as the Corelanya. They quickly established settlements along the coasts of Cape Shira, and built a grand palace in a valley known as the Ash'abah Pass. They also attacked the Altmeri inhabitants of Salas En, and established their own settlement within the ruins.[37] The Yokudans pushed farther inland into Bangkorai and discovered the ruins of Nilata, which were also inhabited by Elves.[38]
The fourth wave of Ra Gada was arguably the most ruthless. Led by the self proclaimed emperor Tarish-Zi, the Anka-Ra cut a bloody swath across Hammerfell and all the way into Craglorn in their search for a new home.[39][40] In their wake, the Nedes as a distinctive people disappeared from the historical record shortly after their arrival, although some accounts claim Nedic culture was already fading prior to the Ra-Gada.[41][42] The Anka-Ra established Hel Ra Citadel, a vast complex believed to be used as a training ground for their Ansei.[43][44]
Goblin Wars[edit]
During the First Era, sometime after the foundation of the Redguard city of Ojwambu, a giant goblin warlord by the name of Mahgzoor Rockhand, became warlord of all the goblin tribes in the Dragontail Mountains. Mahgzoor rose his great blade 'Bone-Hewer' and roared in a mighty voice like an earthquake, and declared that the day of vengeance, at last, was at hand. He led his "Endwise army" down the Dragontail Mountains and into Hammerfell, and the people of the Fallen Wastes fled from this goblin army to Ojwambu, where the city became full of refugees. As the people started to leave the city to travel to the Alik'r, goblin scouts saw that the Redguards had a considerable number of Ansei warriors, and the smallest goblin scout was forced to return to Mahgzoor by the other goblin scouts. Once this scout returned, Mahgzoor struck his head off and then told the goblins to destroy the crop fields and block up the rivers so that nobody in the city could eat or drink, unaware that only Hallin and his fellow Ansei were in the city. After a long time of waiting, Mahgzoor became suspicious as the city should have starved at that point, so he called forth his goblin shamans, asking them if the Redguard warriors were just "shadows". To see if this was the case, the shamans sacrificed twin infants and sent a scullion to the East Gate, and this scullion was killed by a spear from Hallin. The shamans returned to Mahgzoor and told him that they were real warriors, and in response to this, Mahgzoor was enraged and killed the shamans. He then ordered his army to get ready to assault the city. This assault lasted for 17 days, where no Ansei survived except for Hallin and at the end of this assault, Hallin and Mahgzoor clashed swords for a whole day. Eventually, both were mortally wounded, with Hallin striking off the head of the Warlord Mahzgoor. They both died, but Hallin was smiling knowing he had won. The Redguards who had been using this time to train with the Book of Circles then marched to retake the lands captured by the goblins, renaming Ojwambu to Hallin's Stand.[45]
In 1E 874, when Warlord Thulgeg's army of Orcs and Goblins was driven from Hammerfell by the Redguards, the Bretons of Bangkorai Garrison denied them passage through the Pass and forced them to flee northeast, trudging all the way through the Dragontail Mountains before they finally reached Orsinium. Not a single goblin made its way through the pickets into High Rock.[46][47]
The Siege of Orsinium[edit]
In 1E 948, King Joile of Daggerfall sent a letter to Gaiden Shinji of the Order of Diagna, which proposed a joint attack on Orsinium. Agreeing to provide aid, an alliance was formed between the Order of Diagna, the armies of Daggerfall (High Rock), and Sentinel (Hammerfell). The Bretons of the Bjoulsae River Tribes also agreed to lend their aid.[48][49] The armies amassed and began a campaign for the destruction of Orsinium.[50][51]
During the 30-year campaign, which became widely known as the "Siege of Orsinium", the Breton armies of Daggerfall, the Redguard soldiers of Sentinel, and the Yokudan Order of Diagna invaded the Orc homeland. The Orcs gave much resistance and proved themselves to be fearsome and brutal warriors, just as they did in the past. However, King Joile of Daggerfall already planned to betray the Redguards and invade Hammerfell after having destroyed Orsinium. He and his Reachman general, Mercedene of the Winterborn, tricked the Orcish hero Baloth Bloodtusk and his Savage Sons, who initially did not take part in the war, to join King Golkarr of Orsinium. Afterwards, he manipulated the leader of the Order of Diagna, Gaiden Shinji, into having a duel with Bloodtusk over Orsinium's fate. During the duel, Mercedene ordered Joile's archers to kill both combatants, effectively removing the most powerful warriors of both Orsinium and the Order of Diagna for Joile.[6] In 1E 973, with Orsinium's defeat still years away, King Joile launched his invasion of Hammerfell, but he was defeated and killed at the Bangkorai Pass by the Ansei warrior Makela Leki.[52]
The Siege of Orsinium finally ended in 1E 980 when the allied forces breached the city's defenses, overran it, and razed it to the ground. Despite this loss, it did not mark the end of either the Orcs or the dream of Orsinium.[50][51] The city was rebuilt in the same location and razed again at least two more times over the following centuries.[53]
Thrassian Plague[edit]
In 1E 2200, the Thrassian Plague broke out and it first appeared on mainland Tamrielic soil through major port cities on the southwest coast. Hegathe was the disease's point of entry in Hammerfell and it caused a significant decrease in the population.[54] Many people at the time searched for a cure in vain and unsung heroes like Mazazim al-Hegathe died on their quest.[55]
When Mount Firesong erupted over in the Systres in 1E 2484, Hegathe experienced vibrations from the seismic force of the volcano.[56]
Second Era[edit]
During the Interregnum, the Crowns quickly reestablished a hereditary monarchy and reasserted their dominance over the Forebears. Adding insult to injury, the new High King of Hammerfell moved his throne from Old Hegathe to the more prosperous Forebear city of Sentinel, capital of the province to this day.
Knahaten Flu[edit]
One of the most famous stories from the Knahaten Flu is that of the Crimson Ship. Filled with Kothringi refugees, it left the shores of Black Marsh on the 9th of First Seed, 2E 563, only to be turned back at every port. After a year on the sea, they reached Hammerfell, and with no one to shelter them, they sailed west[57] to the Abecean Sea. The book, Pirates of the Abecean tells a tale of the discovery of the ship, found adrift by a group of pirates, its entire crew dead.[58] To memorialize this event, the people of Hammerfell honor the 20th of Rain's Hand as the Day of Shame. Nobody leaves their house, for it is told that the Crimson Ship will return on this day.[59]
Daggerfall Covenant[edit]
In the middle of the Second Era, King Fahara'jad of Sentinel allied himself with High King Emeric of Wayrest and the Orc king Kurog gro-Orsinium and became one of the leaders of the Greater Daggerfall Covenant. The Covenant participated in the Alliance War circa 2E 582.[60][6]
During one of her archeological expeditions, famed treasure hunter Lady Clarisse Laurent uncovered a magical portal in the Ayleid ruins of Salas En in the Alik'r Desert. While investigating where the portal led, her assistant inadvertently brought an Aldmeri Dominion army back through with him from the ruins of Ne Salas in Grahtwood. The Dominion quickly established a base within Salas En and began to prepare for a full-scale invasion.[61] With the help of an assistant, the two were able to push back the Dominion and seal the portal, thus ending the threat of invasion.[62] Seemingly, the portal didn't remain sealed for long as Covenant forces attempted to use it to launch their own invasion into Grahtwood, however their plan also failed when the portal was sealed this time from Ne Salas.[63][64]
While Septima Tharn's forces suffered heavy losses at the Bangkorai Garrison, the Seventh Legion was still in control of Hallin's Stand. The legion had swiftly taken control of the town under the cover of night some weeks prior. Rumors swirled that a traitor from within the city opened the gates to their army.[65] During the occupation a resistance formed under the leadership of Ufa the Red Asp and they carried out various attacks against the legion. When the legion planned to publicly execute Grandeya Nuwarrah the resistance worked with the city guard to storm the palace and save her. Once Grandeya Nuwarrah was freed, the revolution began in earnest as she ordered the lighting of the palace watchtowers. This signaled to the entire town to rise up against the legion.[66] After much fighting in the streets, the resistance eventually fought and killed Sadas Secundus, the commander of the Seventh Legion's forces in Hallin's Stand. Without their leader, the remaining Seventh Legion soldiers fell swiftly and Hallin's Stand was liberated.[67]
Planemeld[edit]
The Celestials Fall to Craglorn[edit]
The Constellations fell from the sky to Craglorn circa 2E 582, and took on mortal form. As is his nature, the Serpent used this opportunity to attack the other Celestials by corrupting the Guardian Constellations through their Nedic Apex Stones. Quickly establishing a cult known as the Scaled Court, the Serpent gained control of the Mage beneath the city of Elinhir and the Warrior in the Ruins of Kardala. Under his influence, the Mage took control of an army of atronachs that had been summoned to the region recently to repel Molag Bal's Planemeld, and created the powerful new Air Monarch and Foundation Stone Atronachs, before being sundered into many aspects scattered throughout Craglorn.[68] The Warrior was forced to summon Emperor Tarish-Zi from the past so that he could raise an undead army of Anka-Ra warriors from the many Yokudan tombs in the region, but not before he summoned his own champion, a contemporary Nedic warrior named Titus Valerius.[69] A great celestial obelisk known as the Mage's Staff also crashed to Tamriel at that time.[70]
As the only guardian remaining, the Thief hid her Apex Stone in the ruins of Reinhold's Retreat beneath the city of Belkarth. She then assumed the guise of a blind Redguard woman named Hara, and took control of the Star-Gazers.[71] Recruiting scholars and warriors from across Tamriel, Hara sent the Star-Gazers to search for the missing Guardians and prevent more Anka-Ra from being summoned. With the help of Kelmen Locke, the only surviving summoner of the atronach army, the Star-Gazers managed to locate the uncorrupted aspects of the Mage so that they could overpower the Serpent; the restored Mage subsequently fled to the Aetherian Archive in an attempt to escape Time. Meanwhile, Titus Valerius helped the Star-Gazers return Tarish-Zi to his grave.[72] However, the Serpent soon learned of the Thief's location and attempted to corrupt her, but was prevented by Locke, Valerius and the Vestige.[73]
After being forced to reveal her true identity, rumors of the Thief's appearance in Belkarth drew the attention of the Undaunted. Groups of Undaunted launched an assault on the Aetherian Archive and Hel Ra Citadel to free the Mage and the Warrior from the Serpent's influence. Regardless of this, the Serpent continued his attempt to raise armies, planning to return Nirn to a primal state. However, the Scaled Court was betrayed from within by Cassipia, the Regent of Serpentine Stratagems. Along with her companion Little Leaf, Cassipia secretly worked alongside the Vestige in stopping the Court's creation of mantikora and dismantling the Iron Orcs' attempt at raising an army of primal, nirncrux-infused trolls. Cassipia's true motives were revealed when she subsequently declared herself the Exalted Viper and sought to usurp the Serpent's place in the sky. She briefly succeeded in becoming a Celestial, but was killed in battle against the Thief and the Vestige.[74] The Undaunted later entered the Scaled Court's stronghold of Sanctum Ophidia and defeated the Serpent.[75]
The wards at Skyreach Pinnacle were also broken by the Scaled Court that year, but were quickly resealed before the Celestials could escape.[76] Other minor Celestials were known to have appeared on Tamriel around this time. Celestial Rams became notorious for wandering the rocky terrain of Craglorn, as they sometimes entered gardens and ate everything that had been planted.[77] Nebulous Star-Born Steeds were Celestial horses that originated in Spellscar,[78] a magically polluted area created when the Mage's Staff fell to Tamriel.[70] Starchaser Senches also appeared at this time; these creatures resembled senche-cats composed of floating onyx shards similar to stone found at Spellscar.[79]
The fallen Constellations later reassumed their place in the sky.[80]
Thieves Guild of Abah's Landing[edit]
By the mid-Second Era, royal power in Abah's Landing had been entirely supplanted by a group of criminal cartels known collectively as the "Merchant Lords". The hinterlands of Hew's Bane were populated primarily by smuggler crews and Maormer pirates, with whom the Lords actively did business.[81][82] The city-state of Abah's Landing thus developed a deep rivalry with the kingdom of Taneth to the north, whose traders usually bore the brunt of this thievery they harbored.[81]
A local criminal gang known as the Thieves Guild was founded in Abah's Landing in the Second Era, and ultimately grew to become a Tamriel-wide organization.[83][84]
Tiber War[edit]
The best-understood episode of the Tiber War was the conquest of the Redguard Kingdom of Hammerfell. Despite observing the might of the quickly expanding Empire, the already aged and ailing High King of Hammerfell, Thassad II, resisted all forms of Imperial invasion.[85] It was only after his death in 2E 862[15] that Hammerfell began to weaken; not from an external invasion, but rather from an internal revolution. It was a civil war between the two most prominent factions: the rebellious Forebears and the loyalist Crowns, the latter of which supported Thassad's heir, A'Tor.
After initial defeats, the Forebears signed a pact with the Emperor, granting him minor territory concessions in exchange for aiding them in the civil war. The already weakened Crowns still provided heavy resistance to invading Imperial forces, until at last they were cornered at Stros M'Kai in 2E 864. The Battle of Stros M'Kai was won thanks to Admiral Richton's shrewd tactics and the aid of Septim's dragon vassal, Nafaalilargus. The Empire swiftly took control of Hammerfell, imposing several Provisional Governors to rule different regions.
Later that same year, an uprising led by siblings Cyrus and Iszara saw the Restless League come out of hiding. They stormed the Palace, and Cyrus himself cornered Provisional Governor Amiel Richton and Imperial Emissary Dram aboard a Dwemeri dirigible. Cyrus killed them both with the Soul Sword, which was enchanted with the soul of Prince A'tor.[86] This act was allegedly the third incarnation of the HoonDing.[87] Thereafter, Tiber Septim came to Stros M'Kai personally to sign a treaty that held more favorable terms for the Redguards. Iszara represented Hammerfell, and was guided by the wisdom of Prince A'Tor via the Soul Sword.
Third Era[edit]
Camoran Usurper[edit]
Rihad and nearby Taneth were on the path of the Camoran Usurper's invasion of western Tamriel, which started in 3E 249. The Redguards were fully confident that the two cities would have defeated the Usurper, but the Forebears cities were defeated in the Battle of Dragontooth in 3E 253.[57]:8 Refugees from these cities fled north into the Iliac Bay and went as far as Dwynnen.[88] Since the Crowns of Elinhir noticeably did not help the cities to the south, the Forebears of Rihad and Taneth also did not help them in the midst of the War of the Bend'r-mahk years later. They preferred to watch from afar instead of helping them.
Emperor Cephorus, busy in a war of succession with the supporters of his cousin Andorak, attempted to halt the Usurper's invasion by sending mercenaries to Hammerfell, but to no avail.[89]
Imperial Simulacrum[edit]
During the Imperial Simulacrum in the late Third Era, the Eternal Champion had approached Queen Blubamka of Rihad, seeking out the ruins of Fang Lair and the first piece of the Staff of Chaos. Blubamka would ask the warrior to retrieve a parchment from Stonekeep, in order to gain the Fang Lair's location. After delving into Stonekeep and acquiring the parchment[90], Queen Blubamka gave the location to the Eternal Champion who visited it and retrieved the piece on their quest to defeat Jagar Tharn.
War of the Bend'r-mahk (3E 397)[edit]
The War of the Bend'r-mahk was a conflict that started in 3E 397 during the Imperial Simulacrum period between the provinces of Hammerfell, Skyrim and High Rock.[91] High Rock and Hammerfell fought as allies in the war against invading Skyrim forces.[92]
During the war Skyrim defeated the forces of Hammerfell and High Rock and claimed many miles of the eastern parts of those provinces, including the cities of Elinhir and Jehanna.[93] Some of these territories were claimed to have been lost in previous wars at the expense of Skyrim.[94]
The most peculiar situation in Hammerfell's territory in the war arose in the city of Dragonstar, where the city was divided into western (Hammerfell) and eastern (Skyrim) sections of the city, walled off from each other, with each section having its own government and a desire to take control of the entire city. even resorting to acts of terrorism.[93] One such act was members of the Mages Guild of Dragonstar using noxious enchantments on Skyrim soldiers.[73] The Thieves' Guild of Dragonstar were also known to be aligned with Hammerfell despite being in Skyrim's section of the city.[95][96] The national divide in Dragonstar persisted for thirty odd years after the conflicts conclusion.[93]
The war resulted in a deeper division between the Redguard factions of Crowns and Forebears, as the Forebear cities showed no inclination to help the Crown cities assaulted and occupied by the Nords, which in turn was a response to the lack of help by Crowns to the Forebears during the Camoran Usurper's invasion.[1]
The Redguards harbor a fierce grudge against Skyrim, and yearn for a chance to take back land that was seized from them.[1] After peace was established, a commission was created to repair the damage done by the war.[97]
War of Betony (3E 402 – 3E 403)[edit]
The War of Betony (sometimes the Siege of Betony) was a military conflict between the Kingdoms of Daggerfall and Sentinel, spurred on from the wars embroiling Tamriel during the Imperial Simulacrum period, in this case, the Wars of the Iliac Bays. The war was sparked when Lord Mogref of Betony, an island strategically located in the entrance to the Iliac Bay, asked King Lysandus of Daggerfall for protection against pirates and other brigands. King Camaron of Sentinel and his advisors, citing an old contract that suggested Betony was a holding of their kingdom, declared war. Hostilities ended after Lysandus' son, Gothryd, who became king after his father was killed in battle at Cryngaine Field, won the battle. Camaron would also die before the conclusion of the battle. Sentinel surrendered and Betony passed under the control of Daggerfall. As part of the peace settlement, King Gothryd married the daughter of the late King Camaron, Princess Aubk-i.
Despite the defeat during the War of Betony circa 3E 403, the city of Sentinel continued to flourish, and it was renowned at the time as the place to go to earn some quick gold or find a bit of adventure.[98] Hammerfell was controlled from the city's throne.[99] An unsuccessful assassination attempt on the life of Queen Akorithi was widely attributed to jealous Daggerfall royalty, though this was never proven.[100]
Fourth Era[edit]
In 4E 11–15, following the Oblivion Crisis and the destabilization of the Third Empire, Orsinium was once again sacked by the combined forces of Hammerfell and High Rock, and many Orc refugees fled east into Skyrim.[101] The kingdom eventually reformed at a new location between Skyrim and Hammerfell,[102] where it would be guarded by the Seventh and Fifteenth Legions.[101]
At some point in time, Emperor Titus Mede I went to war with Hammerfell, where he met one of his most trusted generals, Takar.[101]:Part 3, Chapter 4
Night of Green Fire[edit]
In 4E 42, Altmer dissidents who had fled to Sentinel from the Thalmor in Alinor were attacked by Thalmor operatives in what became known as the Night of Green Fire. Their efforts to fight back against the Thalmor were in vain and, by the time Imperial Legion soldiers arrived, the entire refugee district of the city had been destroyed. According to Legate Fasendil, an Altmer stationed in Sentinel at the time as a member of the Imperial Legion, the Aldmeri Dominion was not content with killing dissidents at home, so they went to Hammerfell to finish the job.[103] Thalmor agents were also harassing and possibly murdering refugees in Balfiera and Sentinel around 4E 48; the victims were all of mixed blood or had associations considered by the Dominion to be "unclean."[13]
Great War[edit]
Over a century later, the Thalmor of the Aldmeri Dominion would attempt to seize control of Hammerfell from the Third Empire. Emperor Titus Mede II's refusal to concede to Thalmor demands triggered the Great War in 4E 171. Aldmeri forces crossed western Cyrodiil and invaded Hammerfell's southern coast, easily sweeping through the scattered resistance put up by the disunited Redguards. Initially only seeking to conquer Hammerfell, the Dominion launched a full-scale invasion of Cyrodiil when it realized the Empire was weaker than previously believed. Imperial fortunes took a turn for the better in Hammerfell two years later, when a Forebear army from Sentinel broke the siege of the Crown city of Hegathe, leading to the reconciliation of the two factions. After the Empire's hard-won victory in the Battle of the Red Ring in 4E 175, the Empire and Dominion signed the White-Gold Concordat and ended the war. Outraged that the terms of the treaty called for a large portion of southern Hammerfell to be turned over to the Dominion, however, the Redguards soundly rejected it. Titus II was forced to officially renounce Hammerfell as an Imperial province to preserve the peace, and fighting between the Aldmeri and Redguards continued. In 4E 180, the Dominion agreed to the Second Treaty of Stros M'Kai and finally withdrew from the region, leaving Hammerfell an independent albeit devastated nation.[18]
Politics[edit]
Redguards are divided between the cosmopolitan, open minded Forebears and the traditionalist, isolationist Crowns. The Forebears are the descendants of the Yokudan military class, the Ra Gada, and are generally open to outside cultures such as the Imperials and Bretons; the Crowns are the descendants of the Yokudan noble class and still prefer to shun outsiders, vying to preserve the customs and culture of their ancestors.
Known Rulers[edit]
- Unknown Period
- High King Amdashir[104]
- Queen Jezerei[105][106]
- King Makala (2E ??? - 2E ???) [107][108][109][nb 1]
- First Era
- Second Era (Under the Second Empire)
- King Ja-Fr[107] (ca. 2E ??? - 2E 3??)[111][108]
- High King Ar-Azal (ca. 2E 3?? / 4??)[111]
- Queen Arlimahera (ca. 2E 412)[112]
- Second Era (During the Interregnum)
- King Ramzi the Distrait (2E ? - 2E 5??)[113]
- King Fahara'jad (2E 5?? - 2E ?)[113]
- High King Thassad II (2E ? - 2E 862)[15][1]
- Queen-Regent Iszara (2E 864 - ?)[UOL 2]
Architecture[edit]
Redguard buildings vary from simple tents to the sturdy domed structures of the cities which incorporate many Yokudan advancements. The latter are renowned for their rigidity, flexibility, heat transference, and general ornate beauty. They are much easier to repair than most Imperial stonemasonry. While much Imperial construction requires demolition and rebuilding after conflict, many of the Yokudan accent pieces, such as the flying staircases or ornamental domes, are designed to crumble after an attack or an earthquake, which allows them to be easily replaced in sections afterward. However, these structures are still solidly built; they stand tall and firm against the harsh environment of Hammerfell.[113] They are characterized by thickly-built walls to help insulate against the heat of the desert, as well as a carefully-planned system of ventilation ducts. These ducts are built alongside windows high on the walls, and are covered by horizontal slats which keep out the sun while permitting the wind to enter. Each building is designed to channel even the slightest breeze from these ducts down to the floor.[114]
Redguard stables have been recognized for their lavishness and the ingenious design which makes them perfect for the environmental hazards the Redguards face. Their enormous mausoleums are thought to be the purest, undiluted representations of Yokudan architecture in their society. The most famous example, Tu'whacca's Throne in the Alik'r, is also a monument to the many Yokudans who died when the continent was destroyed, and it receives many pilgrims seeking to pay their respects.[113]
The buildings of the Redguards are notable for being heavily ornamented, with engravings and golden domes. However, some of the cities in Hammerfell are built in different styles: for example, Dragonstar consists of Nordic buildings, whereas the Colovian style can be seen in Elinhir.[6]
Since Hammerfell was home to many civilizations in the past, many different types of ruins can be found throughout the province, among them Ayleid, Dwemer and Yokudan ruins. In Craglorn, there are also Nedic and Nordic ruins.[6]
Flora[edit]
In the Alik'r, southern Bangkorai and Stros M'Kai, typical desert vegetation like palm trees and cacti can be found. In Craglorn, crooked trees grow on the central dry plains, whereas the eastern lands near Elinhir and northern mountains are more temperate.[6]
- Aloe Vera are tall and leafy plants that are found mainly in southern Hammerfell. The Yokudans were well aware of the herb's potential in medicine, often using it to staunch the flow of blood and to heal wounds. It can be mixed with other ingredients to create elixirs, like combining the aloe's lacquer with a crushed leaf can lessen the effects of pox.[115]
- Angelica - Known among those who dwell in Hammerfell as a delicacy when crystalised. It has been used to cure flatulence.[115]
- Arabesque Nuts can be found growing wild in the Hammerfell mountains. Their succulent nuts are often the only nourishment of adventurers who find themselves in the wilderness without rations. It is believed they have magical properties. When they are crushed and mixed with the milk of the agile footed mountain goat, a potion that allows the user to glide safely above the ground can be made.[57]:127
- Ash Tree -
- Basil - This herb is beneficial for reducing swelling in the nose. It is applied as a poultice over the affected area.[115]
- Cave Palm - type of palm tree found in the Alik'r Desert. The pungent fruit is sometimes used by the Ash'abah in rituals.[116]
- Crabapple Tree -
- Ginkgo Trees - Found along the banks of rivers and lakes in Hammerfell. They are most inconspicuous, only their peculiar half-moon shape making them noticeable. The edible foliage is very sweet and quite tasty. Legend has it that when mixed properly with the pulp of the aloe plant, the resulting concoction has the ability of increasing one's stamina for a short while.
- Goldenrod -
- Jarrin Root is a rare plant unique to the island of Stros M'Kai.[117] It is extremely toxic, and even small amounts when consumed will result in death unless an antidote is administered in time.
- Juniper Tree -
- Mountain Tails are bushy red flowering herbs that can be found high in the icy mountains on the Hammerfell and Skyrim border.
- Persa Flower - Flower that grows high in the mountains on the Hammerfell and Skyrim border. When eaten, helps with lockpicking.[118]
- Pomegranates are a type of fruit that grows in shrubs. It has the most cultural influence in Hammerfell and can be found across the Alik'r Desert. In Satakalaam, where bees pollinate them,[20] and Sentinel, where pomegranates, figs, and olives grow across the green shoreline. In honor of the city's founder, Grandee Yaghoub, the Redguards of the kingdom celebrate Koomu Alezer'i by eating pomegranates.[30] Pomegranate wine is the most popular type of wine in the Alik'r Desert[119] and it is an ingredient in seared venomsteaks, a dish native to the desert region.[120]
- Poppy - Both black and white varieties can be found growing wild in the mountains of Hammerfell. Their succulent pods are often the only nourishment for adventurers who find themselves in the wilderness without rations. It is said that black and white poppies imbibed together have magical properties. When they are crushed and mixed with the milk of the agile-footed mountain goat, the resulting potion allows the user to glide safely aboveground.
- Sage -
- Satakal's Blossom - A rare flower found in the Alik'r Desert. It's known for its hallucinogenic properties and is sometimes used by the Ash'abah in rituals.
- Torturer's Pillow - A cacti found in the Alik'r Desert. The extracted powder is sometimes used by the Ash'abah in rituals.
- Tremble Weed - A weed that grows high in the mountains on the Hammerfell and Skyrim border. When eaten, increases one's speed but makes them fatigued.
- Yucca -
- Yuin Root - An herb found high in the mountains on the Hammerfell and Skyrim border.
Fauna[edit]
The hot and dry lands of Hammerfell are home to many fierce creatures. The Alik'r Desert is inhabited by dunerippers, assassin beetles, giant scorpions, crocodiles, jackals and harpies, and the local people insist that their vast plain of sand is home to a multitude of dragons.[9] Giant wasps, lamias and lions can be found in Bangkorai. Sep adders,[121] dragon frogs, haj mota, herons, jackals, and kotu gava can be found in Hew's Bane. In somewhat cooler Craglorn, one can find Welwa, duneracers, or more peaceful camels, daggerbacks, fellrunners, sandroaches, and fennec foxes.[6] The Western Reach is home to several reptilian creatures, such as the wickeder, the bounder, the clawrunner, and the wormmouth. Wolves and floaters also reside in the region.[122]
Notable Places[edit]
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Ayleid Ruins[edit]
- Balamath
- Nilata
- Molavar
Dwemer Ruins[edit]
- Aldunz: Dwarven ruin in the southern Alik'r Desert.
- Bthzark
- Fang Lair: Also known by its Dwemeri name Arkngthamz-Phng, this ruined Dwarven city and mine is located in the Dragon's Teeth Mountains, on the border between High Rock and Hammerfell.
- Mtharnaz
- Rkhardahrk
- Rkundzelft
- Santaki: A Dwarven ruin located in the Alik'r Desert, southwest of Sentinel.
- Volenfell: The capital city of the Rourken clan of Dwemer, located in the Alik'r desert.
Nedic Ruins[edit]
- Bloodroot Forge: A Keptu ruin found in the Elinhir Region of Lower Craglorn, deep within the Dragontail Mountains and accessed near the Molavar volcano.
- Earthtear Caverns
- Fearfangs Cavern
- Sanctum Ophidia
- Shada's Tear
- Skyreach: A Nedic City of the First Era hidden high into the mountains of Upper Craglorn, in the Hammerfell portion of the Western Reach It was one of last remaining bastion of the Nedes of the region during the Yokudan invasion.
Settlements[edit]
- Abah's Landing: A large port city on the Hew's Bane peninsula in Khefrem.
- Azra's Crossing: A village that was built in close proximity to a large magically-made crater created by Azra Nightwielder.
- Aswala Stables: A town near the coast of the Alik'r Desert. It is known for its expert horse-breeders, specifically regarding the Yokudan Chargers, an iconic breed of horse that comes from the main island of Akos Kasaz, on the lost continent of Yokuda.
- Belkarth:
- Bergama: A large city found in the dry canyons of the Alik'r Desert. It is a vast and bustling trading city that is occupied by the Crowns.
- Chasetown:
- Dragonstar: A city-state in northwestern Craglorn, just south of the border with High Rock and Skyrim.
- Elinhir: A town in eastern Craglorn, close to the border with both Skyrim and Cyrodiil.
- Gilane: A town in southern Hammerfell lying west of Taneth and southeast of Sentinel.
- Hallin's Stand: A town in southern Bangkorai.
- Hegathe: A port city in southwestern Hammerfell that served as the capital until the Interregnum.
- Heldorn Mount:
- Karnver Falls:
- Kelps Yat:
- Kozanset:
- Lainlyn:
- Leki's Blade
- Rihad: A port city on the coast of the Abecean Sea, on the main road between Anvil and Taneth.
- Roseguard:
- Sentinel: A major port city in the Alik'r Desert, overlooking the Iliac Bay, and capital of Hammerfell.
- Shady Grove:
- Skaven: A town in north-central Hammerfell.
- Snowline:
- Sunkeep:
- Taneth: A town in southern Hammerfell on the Abecean Sea lying northwest of Rihad and east of Gilane.
- Thorstad Place:
- Vulnim Gate:
Yokudan Ruins[edit]
- Hall of Heroes
- Hel-Ra Citadel
- Kardala
- Lost City of the Na-Totambu
- The Seeker's Archive
- Tombs of the Na-Totambu
- Tu'whacca's Throne
Gallery[edit]
Maps[edit]
Notes[edit]
- The province's name originated from the novel The Heirs of Hammerfell by Marion Zimmer Bradley. Michael Kirkbride planned on giving it a more phonetically African-sounding name as a way to make it more interesting and drop the stolen name, but the plan did not go through.[UOL 3]
- Thief of Virtue states that Sutch (found in Colovia) was a city in Hammerfell; it is unknown if this is an error or if Sutch was once indeed considered part of nearby Hammerfell.[123]
- Regions called the Weeping Desert and the Desert of Nedea appear in alpha maps and design boards for ESO.[UOL 4] These regions are not mentioned anywhere in released content.
References[edit]
- ^ a b c d e f g Pocket Guide to the Empire, 3rd Edition: The Ra Gada: Hammerfell — Imperial Geographical Society, 3E 432
- ^ a b Map from Pocket Guide to the Empire, 1st Edition: Invocation — Imperial Geographical Society, 2E 864
- ^ Map of Pocket Guide to the Empire, 1st Edition/Hammerfell
- ^ a b Map of West Tamriel in Redguard
- ^ Map of Hammerfell (Morrowind Codex)
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j Events of ESO
- ^ Bangkorai, Shield of High Rock — King Eamond
- ^ a b The Warp in the West — Ulvius Tero
- ^ a b Daggerfall User's Guide
- ^ Sees-All-Colors' dialogue in ESO
- ^ Elinhir Private Arena location in ESO
- ^ Daggerfall Illiac Bay terrain map
- ^ a b The Infernal City — Greg Keyes
- ^ Stirk loading screen in ESO
- ^ a b c d Pocket Guide to the Empire, 1st Edition: Hammerfell — Imperial Geographical Society, 2E 864
- ^ The Alik'r — Enric Milres
- ^ The Rise and Fall of the Blades — Anonymous
- ^ a b The Great War — Legate Justianus Quintius
- ^ Map of Iliac Bay in Daggerfall
- ^ a b Blessed, Blessed Satakalaam — The Unveiled Azadiyeh, Songbird of Satakalaam
- ^ Varieties of Faith, Crown Redguards — Brother Mikhael Karkuxor of the Imperial College
- ^ a b Holidays of the Iliac Bay — Theth-i
- ^ Orcs of Tamriel, Volume 3 — Grassius Vilco
- ^ Notes For Redguard History — Destri Melarg
- ^ a b Crafting Motif 28: Ra Gada Style — Lady Cinnabar of Taneth
- ^ Redguards, History and Heroes — Destri Melarg
- ^ Throne Keeper Farvad's dialogue in ESO
- ^ Shrine to Divad Hunding
- ^ a b Pocket Guide to the Empire, 3rd Edition: Other Lands — Imperial Geographical Society, 3E 432
- ^ a b c Sentinel, the Jewel of Alik'r — The Unveiled Azadiyeh, Songbird of Satakalaam
- ^ Ra Gada Lodestone Compass item description in ESO
- ^ Ra Gada Style Platinum contraband item in ESO
- ^ Stros M'Kai loading screen in ESO
- ^ In Defense of Prince Hubalajad — Lady Cinnabar of Taneth
- ^ Legend of the Yokudan Chargers — Honnorah af-Lahreq
- ^ Yokudan King's dialogue in ESO
- ^ The Salas En Expedition — Lady Clarisse Laurent
- ^ Nilata Ruins loading screen in ESO
- ^ Warlords of the Ra Gada
- ^ Hel Ra Citadel loading screen in ESO
- ^ Nedes of the Deathlands — Argus Mender
- ^ This Text Property of Leki's Blade — Sima the Edged Scholar
- ^ Castles and Coffers Volume III: Hel Ra Citadel
- ^ Elenaire's Journal — Elenaire
- ^ The True-Told Tale of Hallin
- ^ Bangkorai, Shield of High Rock — King Eamond
- ^ Thulgeg's March — Kraltha the Rememberer
- ^ Ancestral Breton Style Antiquity Codex entries in ESO: High Isle
- ^ The Royal House of King Eamond — Seneschal Derric Andras of Castle Evermore
- ^ a b Wayrest, Jewel of the Bay — Sathyr Longleat
- ^ a b Pocket Guide to the Empire, 3rd Edition: Orsinium — Imperial Geographical Society, 3E 432
- ^ From The Memory Stone of Makela Leki — Makela Leki
- ^ Old Orsinium loading screen in ESO: Orsinium
- ^ 1. The Thrassian Plague
- ^ Systres History: Volume 3 — Trilam Heladren, Associate Dean of Eltheric History, University of Gwylim
- ^ Systres History: Volume 5 — Trilam Heladren, Associate Dean of Eltheric History, University of Gwylim
- ^ a b c The Daggerfall Chronicles — Ronald Wartow
- ^ Pirates of the Abecean
- ^ Holidays in Daggerfall
- ^ Guide to the Daggerfall Covenant
- ^ Lady Clarisse Laurent's dialogue during The Emerald Chalice in ESO
- ^ Thwarting the Aldmeri Dominion quest in ESO
- ^ Passage Denied quest in ESO
- ^ Ne Salas: Need Reinforcements — Thaendil
- ^ Yarah's dialogue in ESO
- ^ A Thirst for Revolution quest in ESO
- ^ The Shifting Sands of Fate quest in ESO
- ^ The Thief's dialogue during Elemental Army in ESO
- ^ The Celestial Warrior's dialogue in ESO
- ^ a b Sara Benele's dialogue in ESO
- ^ The Thief's dialogue during The Missing Guardian in ESO
- ^ The Warrior's Call quest in ESO
- ^ a b The Missing Guardian quest in ESO
- ^ Dawn of the Exalted Viper quest in ESO
- ^ The Oldest Ghost quest in ESO
- ^ Uncaged quest in ESO
- ^ Celestial Ram mount description in ESO
- ^ Nebulous Star-Born Steed mount description in ESO
- ^ Starchaser Senche mount description in ESO
- ^ The Celestials' dialogue during The Oldest Ghost in ESO
- ^ a b Magnifica Falorah's dialogue in ESO: Thieves Guild
- ^ Abah's Landing Merchant Lords, V. 1 — Tamonir, Master of Secrets for the Queen of Taneth
- ^ Zeira's dialogue in ESO: Thieves Guild
- ^ The Vault of Moawita quest in ESO: Summerset
- ^ Introduction of Redguard
- ^ Raze the Palace quest in Redguard
- ^ Varieties of Faith... — Brother Mikhael Karkuxor of the Imperial College
- ^ The Refugees — Geros Albreigh
- ^ Brief History of the Empire v 3 — Stronach k'Thojj III
- ^ Fang Lair quest in Arena
- ^ Map of the High Rock, Hammerfell and Skyrim border in Shadowkey
- ^ Lathon's dialogue in Oblivion: Knights of the Nine
- ^ a b c Pocket Guide to the Empire, 3rd Edition: The Throat of the World: Skyrim — Imperial Geographical Society, 3E 432
- ^ Pocket Guide to the Empire, 3rd Edition: The Sons and Daughter of the Direnni West: High Rock — Imperial Geographical Society, 3E 432
- ^ Porliss Thieves' Guild quest in Shadowkey
- ^ Clever Sed's dialogue in Shadowkey
- ^ A Dance in Fire, Chapter 7 — Waughin Jarth
- ^ Tutorial rumors in Daggerfall
- ^ Mynisera's dialogue in Daggerfall
- ^ Words and Philosophy
- ^ a b c Lord of Souls — Greg Keyes
- ^ Loading Screen in Skyrim
- ^ Legate Fasendil's dialogue in Skyrim
- ^ Imperial Napkin Holders item description in ESO
- ^ Hags, Harpies, and Hagravens — The Unveiled Azadiyeh, Songbird of Satakalaam
- ^ Diamond-Tooth Cat Comb item description in ESO
- ^ a b The Royal Lineage of Sentinel
- ^ a b The All-Beneficent King Fahara'jad
- ^ King Makala's Ear Piece item description in ESO
- ^ Ramati at-Gar's dialogue in ESO
- ^ a b The Worthy Ar-Azal, His Deeds
- ^ The Brothers of Darkness — Pellarne Assi
- ^ a b c d The Improved Emperor's Guide to Tamriel: Hammerfell — Flaccus Terentius, 2E 581
- ^ Crafting Motif 6: Redguard Style — Doctor Alfidia Lupus
- ^ a b c Flora of Hammerfell
- ^ Morwha's Curse quest in ESO
- ^ Proven Moon-Sugar Fertilization Techniques
- ^ Makor's dialogue in Shadowkey
- ^ Pomegranate Distiller item description in ESO
- ^ Recipe from Desert Delicacies
- ^ Triumph of the Sep Adder — Zabia-ko
- ^ Creatures in Shadowkey
- ^ Thief of Virtue
Note: The following references are considered to be unofficial sources. They are included to round off this article and may not be authoritative or conclusive.
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