Demetae

Located on the north-western tip of the island, this tribe is devoted to extracting surface ores and minerals. Open-cast mining produces chalk, marble, sandstone, slate and granite, whilst other methods of extraction, such as panning, are used to collect gold, gemstones and clay. This surface mining is less time-consuming than deep mining and consequently the Demetae have time to carry out other production activities, most notably sculpting and other artistic activities. They are renowned for producing breath-taking marble statues and figurines, many of which are studded with gems or laced with gold, and these usually fetch a high price on the open market. Many of the important buildings on the island, in particular the palace and the Inner Council chambers at Galatus, are adorned with architectural ornamentation and decorated with artistic pieces made by the Demetae. As well as creating beautiful art with their gemstones and minerals, the Demetae have also learnt to harness the various curative properties of the different types of stone and consequently are believed to be amongst the best healers on the island. In times of great illness and despair many Chevellians have embarked on pilgrimages to the healing centres of the Demetae, particularly to The Shrine of Elementra on the east coast.