The Cobalt Corsairs
The Cobalt Corsairs are not merely pirates of the sky; they are a band of daring aeronauts, explorers, and opportunists who ply the skies above the Iron-Grip Mountains in their magnificent airships. Unlike the earthbound dwarves, the Corsairs embrace the open sky, navigating the treacherous winds and avoiding the territorial Skyclaw Griffons with unmatched skill. Their flagship, the Aetherium Dawn, is a marvel of engineering, powered by stolen Aetherium Conduits and bristling with cannons capable of unleashing devastating salvos. They have frequent trade with the Gnomish Tinkers, exchanging materials looted from expeditions for modified weaponry.
The Corsairs are led by the enigmatic Captain Valeria, a charismatic woman with a thirst for adventure and a disdain for authority. Captain Valeria has a keen interest in the Sunstone of Aethelgard, believing it is a powerful relic that could give her crew the edge over their enemies, and has been sending expeditions to the Dwarven Abbey in order to steal it. They actively raid Order of the Azure Hand convoys, stealing Aetherium shipments and selling them on the black market. Their most frequent port of call is the neutral Floating Market of Zephyr, a bustling hub of trade and intrigue nestled amidst the clouds.
They are constantly seeking new routes and uncharted territories, hoping to discover lost civilizations or forgotten treasures. It is said they possess maps leading to The Lost City of Umbral, seeking to steal ancient technology to improve their airships. The Crimson Cartographers actively avoid their gaze, fearing the repercussions of any aerial engagement. The Corsairs have even been rumored to have dealings with the Shadow-Goblins, trading information for safe passage through goblin-infested regions. They have lost some members exploring the Warped Gates. The Silent Monks of Durin's Peak have foretold of a massive Corsair fleet that will lead to the Great Unmaking. Perhaps they have raided the Vault of Whispers for more information. Even the Chitinous Swarm can be threatened by these aerial bandits, dropping dangerous alchemical compounds upon the hives. The Deep-Delvers view the corsairs with disdain, as they disturb the sanctity of the mountains. They raided Elder Vorin's tomb.