Interview with Tenkahamin Tristam: Kohlingen History

This interview was conducted at the Radiant Heart. This interview was conducted by High Magus Datura Willowgrave of the Earthkin Arcanum.

Willowgrave: I am researching the Manor of Minmir. Specifically the magic involved in its tumble into darkness. During this research, I have found that texts on Minmir Manor and Kohlingen are not accurate. So I am seeking to correct that. You mentioned in your note that you have information on the subject. If you have tales to tell, please speak them.

Tristam: I am from a long line of historians. I have many tales I can share. I guess I should start with where I am from, and who my descendant was. I am from the Isle of Leafton. That is where the woman who first found these Isles come from. Her name is Cata Na'Reduin; She was the one who paid and lead her expedition to come here, to what is now the Isles of Arelith. Even the name she created. Quite the adventurous woman. Her home is where my lineage began. Lord Darius left that home to come here to Arelith. As for the Manor and Kohlingen, I can state to you that he aided in forming the Army that protected it, as well as established our Sect of Faith; The Knight's Templar of Red Knight.

He spent his time fighting Cyclops and Ettins, so as you can imagine, I was surprised to find none when I came to Minmir; well, no Cyclops.

Willowgrave: Some records have him as building the city. Is that correct?

Tristam: That is not correct, he was the first one to establish better trade, and an Army within it, allowing him to further the path of the people of the Kohlingen. He was able to get buildings built there to aide with this, changing the structure of the City. He was given leadership by a fellow named Marinsbane.

Willowgrave: There are very few documents on the city itself. Is there anything you can share on its culture or founding?

Tristam: Oh much. Many knew that the Triad was at the principles of the formation of culture in the city. For many years, the Kohlingen Defenders prospered under his name and became a righteous city, often called the City of Paladins. Over time, it became a major trading port and safe haven for all those of good heart.

Willowgrave: Amn established Cordor. Who established Kohlingen?

Tristam: Lord Darius did. It was just a simple city prior to his arrival, his status as a Knighted Lord of Benwick allowed the Small City to start to become a thriving body of it's own under his direct leadership.

Willowgrave: I understand. I meant prior to his arrival.

Tristam: Amn as well.

Willowgrave: Ah. Very well. There is mention that the city held the Light before Benwick did. Is that correct?

Tristam: No, that is not true. The Light was never held in Kohlingen. Actually The Last Vestigate of Galahad's Benwick was held there, till we brought it back to Taliv.

Willowgrave: Which would be what, exactly?

Tristam: The Sword of Benwick. It rests in Taliv in our family vault.

Willowgrave: Hm. Do you know what happened during the fall of the city?

Tristam: Verbatim, as the Lord survived the fall. All of those he was able to bring with him, went to Taliv. That night, the records tell us an evil that brandished many undead swept through the city, and the defenders who remained were fighting it off and making portals to escape. His account only speaks of him working with Framir his personal mage, and another of his Knights to help people escape through the portals Framir made.

When all was done, he moved through the portal as his men moved him off the Battlefield, sacrificing themselves to push him into the portal. He did not wish to go willingly. That day he set down his Hammer, and took up a vow to find a better way to stop what happened to Kohlingen for any future path.

Willowgrave: Did they find the cause?

Tristam: No. That's why I am here.

Willowgrave: Do you have anything else about the city or those events that you would share?

Tristam: The city is in the same shape that matches his telling before the fall for the most part. I went around it myself recently. As for the culture as you mentioned, just imagine a city directly governed by the Triad and you know the culture of the city. Benwick was not Triadiac, nor was Cordor. That would be why those who wished to follow their faith freely, moved to Kohlingen.

As for large events in the City, aside from tournaments similar to what takes place in Cordor, and the occasional festival, not much else was had.

Willowgrave: Do you know of any enemies of the city or secrets that were unearthed before the Fall?

Tristam: The enemy of Kohlingen was record as the Banites of Stonehold to be sure. Then the Battle to save Cordor lead the people of Benwick, as well as Kohlingen to come to Cordor to fight for it. Also, the temple of Malar was much more prevalent then it is now. They still live in the Arelith Forest and during that time they would lay sieges on Kohlingen. The Minotaurs, and Cyclop's were Kohlingen's biggest hassle.

The End