There is a high emphasis on purity of bloodline in Rivendell high society. While the practice of interbreeding has long been abandoned, the idea of marrying or even courting someone who is not considered noble is a massive scandal and treated with the same level of scorn as sacrilege
Despite this, Scott insists on appointing common people as his advisors as well as courting the ruler of the Cod Empire
Many of the ruling class believe that they are part of Aeor’s chosen, and as such are destined to rule. The Lords and Ladies of Rivendell are the greatest of Aeor’s chosen
The Rivendellian rulers are referred to as either Lord or Lady, while the rest of the ruling class is referred to as High Noble
Despite the fact that they live in the barren mountains, or perhaps because of it, plants play a large role in Rivendellian culture. Rivendellian mint burns very hot and is known for trapping heat. Plus it grows everywhere. Because of this, Rivendellian mint is a primary fuel source as well as a key ingredient in many teas and soups
Any fruit from a tree represents strength and devotion, as they are very hard to grow in the harsh winter climate. They are often part of Rivendellian courtship, especially among the ruling class. Lemons are used for proposals, as the bright yellow fruit is incredibly rare and represents commitment and a once-in-a-lifetime chance
Poppies are banned and considered taboo, as they are believed to spring from Exor’s footsteps
The majority of Rivendell’s food is imported. They have a small farmland, but it is not nearly enough to feed the entire empire. They believe they can maintain their trade lines because they are rich enough and powerful enough to keep enemies away. However it would only take a single blockade to ruin the empire
Gold is very common to see in Rivendell, and most households have a small Aeor statue made out of the metal
A pair of stag horns is stamped into Rivendellian coins as well as a pair of owl eyes
Rivendell celebrates both Halloween and Christmas as well as another holiday in the spring: Alinar’s Conquest
Alinar’s Conquest is celebrated with a festival, featuring Divinity in the morning, dramatic reenactments of the great duel between Alinar and Connal in the afternoon and a feast in the evening