Frosthaven is the largest and most prominent settlement in the frozen expanse of Aeltharion, serving as a beacon of hope in the otherwise unforgiving tundra. Built into the face of an enormous glacier known as the Ivory Wall, Frosthaven thrives as a center of trade, survival, and political intrigue. It is a city of contrasts: both a bastion against the frost and a hub where cultures, adventurers, and merchants converge.

The Glacier Gates:

Massive steel gates carved into the glacier's surface, reinforced with arcane runes to repel frost giants and other tundra threats. Guards armed with enchanted weapons patrol the gates, ever vigilant.

The Hollow Market:

An expansive market within caverns of ice, lit by bioluminescent crystals. Merchants sell goods such as frost-resistant gear, enchanted weapons, and exotic items scavenged from the ruins of ancient empires.

The Luminarum:

A grand hall adorned with intricate ice sculptures and magical torches that never melt their surroundings. This serves as the seat of Frosthaven’s council, where decisions about trade, defense, and exploration are made.

The Forge Warrens:

Deep beneath the glacier, geothermal vents power the forges of blacksmiths and artisans. Frosthaven is renowned for its frostforged steel, a material prized for its durability and ability to withstand extreme cold.

The Frozen Hold:

A heavily guarded prison where dangerous criminals and frost-infected beings are held. Its icy cells are said to sap the strength of even the most formidable captives.

The Frozen Hearth

The Frozen Hearth is a cozy, well-worn tavern famous for its warm atmosphere and hearty meals, offering a much-needed respite from the tundra’s relentless cold. Its sturdy stone walls are reinforced with frost-resistant timbers, and its large hearth—crafted from enchanted frostglass—radiates a comforting, magical warmth. Above the bar hangs a chandelier made of icicles, enchanted to glow faintly blue, giving the tavern its signature frosty ambiance.

The walls are adorned with relics and trophies from daring adventurers: frost troll claws, fragments of Abyssal creatures, and faded maps of the Glacial Labyrinth. The tavern’s reputation as a gathering place for mercenaries, scholars, and travelers ensures it’s always buzzing with stories, deals, and the occasional brawl.

Society

Rulers: Frosthaven is governed by the Glacier Council, a coalition of representatives from major guilds, nomadic tribes, and religious leaders. While their decisions often aim for balance, political tension arises from conflicting interests.

Inhabitants: A mix of hardy survivors, merchants, scholars, and adventurers. The city is also home to outcasts from the Frostforged Clans and traders from far-off lands.

Customs: Festivals like the Aurora’s Ascension celebrate the northern lights, with music, dancing, and storytelling to honor survival and unity.

Challenges

Encroaching Threats: Frost giants, frostwyrms, and raiding bands from rival factions often test Frosthaven’s defenses.

Internal Struggles: Disputes between the Glacier Council factions—particularly between the nomads and merchant guilds—threaten the city’s unity.

Ancient Secrets: Unearthed ruins and icy caverns beneath the city hint at dark powers tied to the Frostveil Ascension. Explorers risk everything to uncover the truth.