Waldhen

Waldhen (walðən) are an ethnic group consisting of dwarves and niedene native to the temperate, coastal forest of southeastern Alteniquia, entirely within the nation of Yimmu-Audal. The entire population of Waldhen lives within the city of Wyldvarn or within nearby settlements. The Waldhen population is estimated at between 95 and 120 thousand, of which around 80% are dwarves.

Waldhen speak Waldhe, a language isolate.

Under the rule of The Azurian Syndicate, the Waldhen maintained a vassal state. Since the ascent of The Magisterium the Waldhen have been a subject of larger nations.

Etymology
The name Waldhen is transparently related to the Waldhe words walt (to speak) and dhe (a hill), from which the language also derives its name. Alternatively, it has been postulated by members of the Waldhendoig that the name comes from the word Weldreri, the name of a clan that existed prior to the First Coalition War.