About the people
The Alds are an ancient people of Dyung. Their homeland is the forests in the east of Vorto, where Berkh stands — their capital and sacred city.
The Alds are all but immortal and perceive the passing of time differently. They live calmly and unhurriedly, in harmony with nature. The Alds care for plants and animals and strive to preserve the natural balance. The forests of Eastern Dyung are sacred: living, sentient trees dwell within them, which the Alds honour and protect.
The Alds strive to keep peace across Vorto. After the Liberation War, their ruler Aldeviy founded the Order of Dyungius. It brought together representatives of different countries and peoples to prevent new wars and uphold peace on the continent.
Life and customs
The daily life of the Alds passes calmly and unhurriedly. Every Ald has the right to choose their own fate: to stay in the forests of Eastern Dyung or to see the other lands of Vorto. A journey beyond the home forests is considered an important decision, so before leaving an Ald must receive the permission of the elders.
Children are born rarely among the Alds and grow up more slowly than humans. On reaching maturity, a young Ald chooses a craft and leaves the parental home to study under a mentor. Such training lasts for years. Over their lifetime the Alds may master several crafts. They work meticulously and are in no hurry to finish what they have begun. The clothing, furniture, tools and other things they make are of high quality and can serve their owner for hundreds of years.
The Alds gather forest plants and are considered skilled hunters. After a successful hunt they thank Dyungius for the quarry and pray that the animal's death will not break the cycle of life. Meat is part of their food, but they treat hunting with respect and do not see it as entertainment.
Life in harmony with nature protects the Alds from illness, but a grievous wound can be fatal to them. Ald medicine is considered the finest in Vorto, and legends are told of the skill of its healers. To meet an Ald healer and to see one at work is considered a great honour.
