Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Jennifer S. Lange, Andrew Clark THE AYARI ......................................... 6 JUNGLES OF MARAROKA ............... 110
Cartographers Hugo Solis, Robert Altbauer ANCIENT ATHYR ................................ 7 Kintaba ......................................... 124
Dungeon Maps Jose Esteras
THE ARRIVAL OF THE AYAARI ............ 8 GLOSSARY: ISHTA ........................... 130
Character Sheets Runehammer
Symbols & Icons Oray Studios, Annelot van der Staak THE RISE OF THE CULTS .................... 9
Additional Contributors Marco van Stiphout, Sandra Catharin, Cheyenne Kuijs, Jeroen de Jonghe, Katrina CHAPTER 3:
Waldman
CHAPTER 1: ISLANDS OF ROSHAN . . .... 132
Playtesting & Consulting Daniel Tol, Sennen Thus, Marco van Stiphout, Wiebe Haksel, Kees Kok, Giovanni
van der Wielen, Dirk Vandereyken, Niels van den Kieboom, Goran Deckers,
ETHENNIA ................................ 10
Wouter Koot, Sandra Catharin, Allard van der Willik, Bob Quicken, Rik Veerman,
Jason Bak, Roald Smet, Ajay Sharma, Tom Schuijt, Jeremy Dudok.
VALGAR PLAINS ............................... 14
CHAPTER 4:
Tamon ............................................ 25 SUNDERED WASTES . . ....... 137
Special Thanks Samorra. . ......................................... 31
All the great people and communities who supported this
project from an early stage on. Friends and early playtesters
Blood and Doom © Dicetale Games 2023. Artwork © Dicetale
Games 2023. Distributed by Modiphius Entertainment. OVA DYR .......................................... 38
CHAPTER 5:
who helped the project sail the right course. The amazing
Darren Watts (who passed away recently and who will be
Printing Edition: 2023-01. EVANDYR ............................... 142
The Blood and Doom ruleset and names, logos, characters, Lamaris .......................................... 53
sorely missed) for his wisdom and for helping to refine the
likenesses, characteristics, and all related elements included in
game’s concept. My dear friend Fadil el Ghoul for believing
this work are copyright Dicetale Games 2023. Unauthorized Messani. . ........................................ 60
in me throughout development. Dirk Vandereyken, for
use of copyrighted material is prohibited. This is a work of
being available day and night to get this project finished.
Mark Graham, the first artist to join and help shape the
fiction. Any similarity with actual people and events, past or Nadir.. ............................................ 66
present, is coincidental and unintentional. All Rights Reserved.
project visually.
A Blood and Doom Open Game License will be made GLOSSARY: ETHENNIA ..................... 72
Also Thanking
available upon the final release of the game. This BaD-OGL
Runehammer, Dungeon Craft, Seth Skorkowsky, Questing
will allow creators to use any and all content presented in the
Beast, and Web DM for providing endless inspiration on game
Blood and Doom Open Game Content, made available at the
design and principles through their online platforms.
same time.
Influences
Dungeons & Dragons, Call of Cthulhu RPG, Index Card
RPG, Five Torches Deep, 5e Hardcore Mode, Powered by
the Apocalypse, Conan – Adventures in an Age Undreamed
Of, Grim World, Exalted, Deathbringer, Numenera, Fate
Core, Old School Essentials, Forbidden Lands, Ironsworn,
Lamentations of the Flame Princess, Torchbearer, Low Fantasy
Gaming, Mouse Guard, Pathfinder, Changeling the Lost, 13th
Age, Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, HERO System.
2 3
Introduction
Also note that, even though there are quite a lot of ▪ Each Subregion and Location’s History, Peoples
cities and points of interest indicated on the Athyr map, and Cultures and Politics.
this in no way means those are all of the places your
Characters can visit. There are many settlements and
▪ Over 80 unique Monsters and NPCs not included
in the Core Rulebook.
locations rife with danger, treasure, and adventure in-
between! ▪ Cult activity for each Location, to easily link
INTRODUCTION
the cults described in the Doomsayer’s Codex:
Of course, in order to get everything out of the
immersive setting presented in this book, you will also Twelve Pillars or Doom to any place in Athyr.
need the aforementioned Blood and Doom Core ▪ Dozens more full-color illustrations.
Rulebook (or the Core Rulebook Primer.) Additionally, ▪ Totaling around 375 pages.
The Doomsayer Codex: The Twelve Pillars of Doom
adds the horror to this setting by presenting the 12 vile
cults that worship the Heralds of Doom, the depraved
extradimensional beings whose presence in this reality is
threatening not just the world of Athyr, but the entire INSPIRATION &
universe.
We hope that you will enjoy this book and the world of
INFLUENCE
Athyr as much as we do! Please do join us on our social ▪ Conan The Barbarian (1982),
media @dicetalegames and back our game through ▪ Conan The Destroyer (1984),
this link:
▪ Berserk (1997),
WWW.KICKSTARTER.COM/PROJECTS/ ▪ The Golden Voyage Of Sinbad (1973),
DICETALEGAMES/BLOOD-AND-DOOM
▪ The Witcher (2019),
A BOUT THIS focusing on two of those areas: The Valgar Plains and
THE BLOOD AND DOOM TEAM ▪ Red Sonja (1985),
▪ The Beastmaster (1982),
PRIMER BOOK Ova Dyr in Ethennia, and Torra Nyega as well as The
Jungles of Mararoka in Ishta.
▪ Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom (1984),
▪ Hellraiser (1987),
Welcome to the Doomsayer’s Codex Primer: Guide The final book will also include all other subregions, so if SUMMARY OF A DDED ▪ The Dark Crystal (1982),
to Athyr ! This book is an extensive excerpt of the full
Guide to Athyr, one of the three core books of the
you’d like to delve further into any of these great nations,
backing our Kickstarter will get you all of them! Each
K ICKSTARTER CONTENT ▪ The Dark Crystal: Age Of Resistance (2019),
dark fantasy tabletop roleplaying game Blood and subregion comes with comprehensive and evocative
For a full overview of all 3 books’ added content and all
▪ Dagon (1917),
Doom that you will be able to back on Kickstarter. To information on its local history, people and culture,
Kickstarter Rewards and Stretch Goals, please check out
the Introduction Chapter of the Core Rulebook Primer. ▪ Beyond the Wall of Sleep (1919),
get even more great Blood and Doom material, simply points of interest, secrets and rumors, and possible travel ▪ Nyarlathotep (1920),
join us on the 4th of April 2023 to back the game and encounters (known as Acts, and which can be used in
▪ The Nameless City (1921),
potentially also get our Doomsayer’s Screen , custom conjunction with the travel rules described in the Core DOOMSAYER’S CODEX: ▪ The Other Gods (1921),
dice, card sets, miniatures, soundtrack, adventures, and Rulebook). GUIDE TO ATHYR ▪ Azathoth (1922),
▪ Covering all Subregions of Ethennia and Ishta,
much more! Every subregion also includes full information on one
▪ The Call of Cthulhu (1926),
Although all five of the best-known regions on Athyr
also have an overview included in the Blood and Doom
or more of its cities. This means you’ll be getting sizable
information on the town or city itself, its population,
including the currently missing Beshaar Desert,
▪ At the Mountains of Madness (1931),
Core Rulebook , the text in that tome only offers an key locations, several NPCs, quest hooks, and even its
Plains of Nihar Din, The Dying Lands, Badawo
▪ The Shadow over Innsmouth (1931),
outline meant for Players, whereas the Guide to Athyr possible doom: the dark, foreboding things lurking in
Wilds, Akani and Charr Dhan.
▪ The Croning (2012),
covers those areas of the world in much greater detail. its shadows, capable of destroying the entire city and ▪ Complete Chapters on the Islands of Roshan, the ▪ The Burrowers Beneath (1974),
Find out more about the arid deserts of Ethennia, maybe even more should certain events come to pass. Sundered Wastes and Evandyr, also including all
▪ Baour: Strands of Death (2009),
the many Islands of Roshan, the scarred lands of the Note that this is version 1.0 of the Primer book, which their Subregions (over 16 more in total) described
▪ The Bleak Shore (1940),
Sundered Wastes, the feudal kingdoms of Evandyr, and
means it is mainly designed to promote our Kickstarter in detail.
▪ Elric of Melniboné (1972),
the humid jungles of Ishta in the complete version of
this book.
campaign and it still needs some editing. We promise ▪ All Subregions will have (as they do for Ethennia ▪ The Thing (1982),
Inside of this Primer, you’ll find out about two of the
that the final version will have been fully checked
for grammatical or spelling errors. It will also include
and Ishta in the Primer book) countless Locations,
▪ The Fly (1986),
five known regions of Athyr: Ethennia and Ishta. Each more illustrations and Stat Blocks for all the Monsters
NPCs, Local Specialties, Goings-On, Quest Hooks,
▪ Prince of Darkness (1987),
of these has several unique subregions and we’ll be mentioned in the texts. Yes, that’s right: all of them.
Secrets & Rumors, Points of Interest, Travel Acts,
▪ Children of the Corn (1977),
Hex Maps and more.
▪ The Omen (1976)
4 5
Introduction
A NCIENT ATHYR Unsurprisingly, the Ancient Gods did not take kindly
on their rivals. Above Ova Dyr, they struck, their rage
Long before the space faring endeavors of the Ayaari shaking the world underneath them. The celestial battle
and the coming of the Heralds of Doom, many stars was fierce and ruthless, and neither side seemed to
separated the Ayaari homeworld from Athyr, an cave, until, suddenly and completely unexpectedly, the
opulent world lit by two sister suns, their light often Ancient Gods withdrew. Maybe they ended the Battle
also reflected in the five moons that circle the world. of the Gods because they were too few in number, or
Humans sprang into being in what is now known as the maybe they were losing more of their kind than what
GUIDE TO ATHYR
Sundered Wastes, at that time an abundant and thriving is commonly believed. Perhaps they realized that the
land, marked by gentle rolling hills, opulent forests, and people of Athyr had already decided to embrace the
water so clear that it would reflect the two suns even new contenders, or they were able to foretell the gloomy
at dusk. future of the world and simply wanted to escape before
One hundred thousand years ago, mankind developed the Heralds of Doom would arrive. Whatever the case
language. With this ‘Proto Athyrian’ came culture and the Ancient Gods retreated, allowing for a realignment
the transference of knowledge, but violence came, too. amongst the religions of Athyr.
As people became more adapt in communicating with With this transition in faiths came great calamity. As
each other, they also started to connive, covet, steal, if to make a statement, the event now known as the
and even murder, often as a direct consequence of Divine Heat (‘Al’Harayad’) struck a large portion of
being able to talk to each other. What were once small Ethennia, and in the center of Athyr, the earth itself
conflicts became skirmishes, and skirmishes became shook as what seems to have been one final celestial
battles in which hundreds were maimed and almost retribution, burying ancient tombs underneath the
just as many were murdered. Some societies decided sands and covering unimaginable secrets with entire
to flee or migrate, others stayed to vie for power, most layers of earth and rock. It took some parts of Ethennia
fractured, with each group choosing a different new a thousand years to recover. Others never did.
home. Many were devoured by the local beasts, but
THE AYAARI
By the end of the cataclysmic series of events that hit
even the monsters that prowled the night didn’t deter
Athyr, the Ancient Gods had abandoned the world,
Ayaari astronomers were able to count their number these first colonists from spreading out over the world,
although many claim that the twin sister suns, Aureya
4797 years ago, in a removed corner of reality, an alien and create new sigils representing each of the foul no matter how brutal it was to them.
and Issira, purposefully stayed, unwilling to abandon
race known as the Ayaari was on the brink of achieving creatures to record their coming before the scientists Maybe it was the demise of the Eldra Gavan, an ancient their former flock, and still revered by enough peoples
its dreams to travel through space and explore new would perish: Twelve they were, the Heralds of Doom, race that had learned how to master the arcane energy to refuse leaving them. Whatever the case may be,
worlds. Pushed by their leaders as well as their peers and Twelve they remain. of Athyr itself, and the coinciding surge of devastating humanity went on, but the recent times of great
and impatient for their experiments to work, the Many of those who had survived the first cataclysmic mystical power responsible for razing the Sundered distress had left their mark, leaving academics and
Ayaari scientists decided to create a hybrid engine that changes brought forth by the celestial realignment Wastes that prompted these movements of entire other learned men and women to wonder what had
would infuse arcane energy into their technologically caused by the multidimensional rift went mad after peoples, maybe it was simply curiosity or the necessity happened.
advanced but faulty warp drives. In their hubris and looking at the skies, while others were mutilated and to find more space or resources, but with migration
In Evandyr, these scholars started to study the fabric
restlessness, they tore the fabric of time and space, torn apart, absorbed, or subjugated by the Heralds, came diversification and more localized customs,
of reality itself, but their quest and thirst for hidden
opening up a rift to another plane of existence, their immortal souls decaying or blinking out of ideologies and beliefs. As Proto Athyrian became Old
knowledge led them to a darker, much more ominous
where its residents – unfathomable extradimensional existence as they were denied the solace of an afterlife. Evandyrian in the west, Old Athraki in the north, Ancient
place. Still, many of these researchers dismissed the
monstrosities that had lain waste to their own universe Athyrian in the south, and Old Valdyrian in the east,
In a last-ditch effort to preserve their creed, the dangers their research posed and repudiated those
in ages untold – stirred once again. kings, queens, and emperors arose, dynasties emerged,
few remaining Ayaari retrofitted their seven largest authorities who had not sanctioned their studies. In
At first, the fissures were infinitesimal and went and tribes slowly started to take on their current forms.
spacecraft into colony ships and launched them other places, the same endeavors were embraced by
unnoticed, but soon, they tore open like wounds, and into the void of space without being able to input Busy with their own practices and peoples, most the local rulers. No matter how much or how little
much of the Ayaari system was mercilessly sucked into the coordinates of a clear destination. One of these communities started to abandon the Ancient Gods, or it was supported, hermetic and sorcerous magic
the gaping extraplanar hole. Arks was destroyed by the Elder Daemons before it forget about them entirely, whilst almost simultaneously, was developed all over Athyr and its advance was
As the entire species was rallying, they appeared. could travel beyond the Ayaari solar system, another new gods appeared, their appearances and demeanors unstoppable.
was caught unaware years later and the complete closer matching those of humanity, their motives more
Inhuman and utterly incomprehensible, the insanity- The ability to wield arcane power changed society upon
complement of a third succumbed to mutiny and recognizable (and sometimes also more deplorable or
inducing foul beings that scholars would later refer society and became an integral part of many cultures. In
infighting. Three more went missing. insidious). More and more people took to worshipping
to as the Outer Gods or Elder Daemons squeezed some, the druid and shamans of old withdrew, in others,
these new beings, often identifying them with more
themselves through the cracks of space, their ethereal The seventh Ark would later crash on a world called they reaffirmed their connection to nature and the
specific domains than the abstract concepts the Ancient
essences molding into unnatural forms as they Athyr by its (then) primitive population, after having spirits that dwell there, while more showed themselves
Gods stood for.
gained substance. Though caught by surprise, the navigated the cold vastness of space for 459 years. willing to live alongside the emerging spellcasters.
6 7
Introduction
8 9
Ethennia
CHAPTER 1:
ETHENNIA
10 11
Ethennia
ETHENNIA OVERVIEW
Dying Lands aren’t a misnomer. Barren and completely city in these plains, whilst the local Khalindrim are too
infertile, the entire subregion is one large stretch of isolationist and kept busy with their own tribal affairs to
rock and stone, a literally dying patch of waste and care (and sometimes even know) about other cultures
fossils that keep degrading at rates faster than the laws and peoples. This being the case, much of the land is not An overview of the Ethennian Pantheon is presented
of nature would dictate, and even the undead here are in the hands of humans, but rather dominated by the here. Each deity will be described in more detail in the MOSTLY
fouler and more putrid than anywhere else in the world. great telepathic Sandworms that make this subregion final release of the Guide to Athyr. LANGUAGE SPOKEN IN
Unsurprisingly, the humans who inhabit this region are their home. Not even the Urandir have been able to claim Kalliope: Flower of Passion Aghab: The Conqueror Most towns and cities across
Ethennian
some of the hardiest people on Athyr, having built up (for true dominion over the area, even though they have Ethennia
the most part) a natural resistance to the land’s degrading succeeded in appropriating abandoned tunnel complexes Bhaidiri: The Enlightened Dharnan: Djinn of Chaos
character. from their Sandworm enemies. Aurelia: Queen of Stars Wadahe: Shepherd of Adiri Beshaar
Even more dangerous however, are the Sallutah, a people Still marked by divine conflict even several ages later, Ova Nature
Sareha: Peaceful Jewel Aldaran Plains of Nihar Din
native to the Dying Lands who roam around its desolate Dyr is well-known for its floating rocks, all of them pointing Quisani: Eternal Guardian
Esmet: The Dreamer
landscape ambushing travelers, not for gold or wares, but downwards as if they were some godly projectiles, and Ethyri Ova Dyr
Alahad: Watcher of the Seas
to feast on their flesh. Inhabiting underground tunnels and a rare metal called thelhium, the sturdiest forgeable Jutow: Lurker in Shadows
caverns, these half-humans have caused many caravans substance on Athyr. There are more things here than the Menef iri: Daughter of Ethemi Valgar Plains
Eothep: The Formless
passing through the region never to return, and entire eyes and other natural senses would suggest, though, and Creation
Whisperer
adventuring parties to be made courses of a meal. it has long been speculated that a gateway to the world Baimon: The Dark Omen Valdyrian The Dying Lands
Vastor: The Sand Dragon
Khamenos: The Just
12 13
Ethennia
VALGAR PLAINS
EXPLORATION
creatures, but rather have achieved ultimate mastery forming what many consider to be the true beating insidious as well, whilst many creatures have evolved to
over specific, more mundane things, and whose motives heart of Valgar. have short legs and carapaces sturdier than all but the
are easier to understand. best-crafted plate armor. There aren’t that many well-delineated roads and
OVERVIEW
It seems sure that the Ancient Gods unleashed the Though one could spend an eternity wandering through paths crisscrossing the Valgar Plains, but this has
epic drought, parching the hills and turning the crops Valgar Plains without encountering all its secrets, it entirely to do with the fact that the lands themselves
to ash. The entire landscape turned rusty brown, like is certain that any brave soul willing to traverse this are extremely flat and the grass that grows here rarely
the skin of fruit that has been exposed to the heat There are many reasons to travel across the Valgar land and truly seek out what would otherwise remain reaches knee height. Because there also hasn’t been
too long. The suns Aureya and Issira – both often Plains, as today some of the greatest Ethennian cities unseen will never again know peace or rest easy in much open military conflict over the last few centuries,
considered to be Ancient Gods themselves – beat can be found there, each of them a unique center of their beds. Luckily, adapt survivalists know how to read the need to spend time and resources to build roads
down on the land mercilessly, their rays of searing heat civilization. Most notably Tamon, Adesh and Samorra. the land and travelers usually find the benefits far has never been very acute.
causing the land to crack. The water in the riverbeds Even though most Valgar Plains communities are found outweigh these perils. Whether it be the magnificent
in its cities, its endless golden-yellow savannas certainly Still, a single broad path leads along the river from
evaporated, leaving the dry beds filled with hardened Ten Statues, the prehistoric Mel’Daharad rocks or
aren’t empty. Samorra to Tamon, forking in the middle and leading
sand, and millions of creatures died. Now a wasteland, Nuldor Ahm, there is plenty to discover and investigate over a bridge to its rival city of Adesh. Known as the
the land laid cracked open like a skull on its side, the Still, many dangers lurk in and under the grass canopy for adventure-seekers among these lands.
grass decayed, leaving only sand in the wind. that covers most of Valgar’s flat surface, where the
14 15
Ethennia
• A wizened old crone named Thylena makes her home here. She claims
to have been abandoned among the rocks as a baby and says she
can understand what the Mel’Daharad are trying to communicate.
According to her, the rocks are predicting Athyr’s doom, but they
have also told her how to escape or even avert the world’s eventual
destruction and she is willing to share that information for a price,
namely accepting one quest without knowing the details first.
17
Ethennia
SECRETS & R UMORS
• Travelers who have been passing by the Ten Statues and many of
NULDOR A HM on at Nuldor Ahm. She has
TEN STATUES the nomads feel like the facial expressions of some of the statues
Nuldor Ahm is a seemingly bottomless pit found Half-buried beneath the sandy dunes are changing in subtle ways over time. Many have come to suspect
set up a permanent camp
several days of travel south-east from Tamon. Many south of Azul stands a circle of ten this isn’t a visual illusion at all: maybe they are living beings who
approximately two miles from
have tried to gauge its depths and some extremely weathered stone statues, estimated are too slow to communicate fast enough to be comprehended
the Nuldor Dah’n and actively
foolish adventurers have even put in an effort to to be as high as a castle tower top to easily? If anyone can decipher their message, they might find out
encourages adventurers to
scale it, but none have ever succeeded. What is at bottom. This is more of a guess than an these stone creatures have amazing – or dark – secrets to share.
come over and stay there,
the bottom is cause for much debate, as people who educated assessment, though, as there
providing them with large
put up camp nearby or spend a lot of time in its are no records of what they looked • Some claim the statues are actually tombs, each of them containing
residential tents, food,
surroundings often start to hear rumbling, roaring like before being covered by the sands. the mummified remains of a sorcerer-king who belonged to an
drinks, company, and even
sounds echoing from down below, and those who They depict crude human-like faces ancient dynasty that once ruled over the area. Their existence is still
climbing equipment in order
decide to spend more than an evening or two that bear no typical male or female mentioned in the legends shared by many of the Valgar Plains nomads
to explore the Nuldor Dah’n,
nearby are never heard of again. features and that therefore could be and is hinted at in myths from other parts of Ethennia as well. It may
charging a hefty fee for the
considered either, both, or none. even be that the magic that was once coursing through the bodies
The Kalihn, a semi-nomadic tribe living in the area, entire experience.
have chosen to include the Nuldor Dah’n in their rite What is visible above ground was of these rulers is still leaking to the surface of Athyr, infusing the Ten
This adventuring ‘tourism’ has
of passage. Youngsters who are ready to ascend to carved in amazing detail and most Statues with some kind of power. Whatever the case, the entrances to
caught on and is attracting
adulthood at age 14 are required to spend an entire scholars think these statues predate these tombs should still be accessible, if only someone is able to dig
scores of foolhardy would-
night alone at the outskirts of the pit with only the the Al’Harayad and depict the deep enough.
be heroes, not despite of,
clothes on their backs. If they run or disappear, they ancient gods who were worshipped
but because of the fact that
are exiled from the tribe, left to wander the plains by here in times forgotten. The Order • Legend says that, should a handsome young adult man stay here for
none have returned so far, as
themselves or perhaps find a life in one of the cities. of the First Elements and other pagan the night, he will probably be visited by Aamuhl – a Banshee spoken
the prospects of eternal fame
druids still travel here on pilgrimages, about in legends. Once nicknamed The Seductress in her own tongue,
Melindra, a former Kalihn who was exiled over a decade have proven too alluring to
but it is very unlikely that even they she will try to beguile her would-be suitor, then possess him to cut
ago, has found a way to capitalize on the eerie goings- withstand.
know who is represented by these up his own body, reveling in the racking pain caused by her savagery
effigies, and most druids come here
before leaving him again. (Characters may be called upon to find out
to worship nature and the elements
what happened to someone who seems to have committed suicide
themselves, not gods of old.
here, even though he was happy and recently betrothed to the love of
his life, possibly encountering Aamuhl).
18 19
Ethennia
PEOPLES & CULTURE of burden unique to the tribe, that has succeeded
in domesticating these animals before they went
Despite their seemingly extreme way of living, Order
of the First Elements druids are very pragmatic. They
extinct elsewhere. Mendrih’lihk fight with sword and will talk and provide help to anyone who displays
spear, and their warriors are said to be unrivaled sympathy for their ways, and even though they might
M ENDRIHM to attack. They are led by Anluhk, a great defender
in skill. They are a people of few words, but many
tales of their deeds echo through the Valgar Plains.
actively try to convert non-believers, they never try to
push their faith on anyone. This and their willingness to
By far the largest nomadic group in the Valgar Plains, of his people, but cruel and haughty. As ferocious as
Interestingly, they are well aware of this reputation learn (and communicate in) many different languages
the Mendrihm seem to have been around for ages. he is facetious, Anluhk always wears a half-smile on
and often use it to their advantage, even going so far other than Ethemi and Ethyri, including Valdyrian and
They are taller than most Ethennians and efforts to his thin lips, as if he were constantly amused by some
as to make sure visitors – who are welcomed as long Ethennian, has made the Order of the First Elements
count the number of tribes that trace their lineages private inside joke only he knows the punchline of.
as they seem to have good intentions – ‘happen to quite popular, and the willingness of these druids to
to the Mendrihm forefathers have all but failed. This THE MENDRIH’KOHN: A nomadic tribe of warriors pass by’ groups of Mendrih’lihk honing their combat trade raw food and materials (like driftwood) as well
has led to the saying ‘The only common thing about who live and die by the sword. They are a hardy abilities. as crafted items they found or scavenged is lauded
a Mendrihm is their name’, and although this is people, not easily cowed by the dangers of the throughout the region.
a gross exaggeration, the aphorism does hold some The chieftain of the Mendrih’lihk, Ahlykha, is small
wild. Their fierce reputation precedes them and
truth, although almost all Mendrihm tribes do set and plump, with a round face and eyes as dark as
many a hapless traveler has shied away from their
up camp for a year or so, leaving as soon as their night. Ahlykha has been soaking her tribe’s recent
path. Mendrih’kohn live in fierce, bold groups,
livestock has depleted the grass and often returning
after a decade or more has passed.
beholden to nothing but their own honor. Though
history in the blood of her perceived enemies, but
is facing opposition from within her own ranks, who
A HLDUR
they wander the land, they are always welcomed A fringe nomadic tribe, the Ahldur have committed
are afraid she will soon launch one unjustified strike
The only Valgar Plains nomads to live mostly off with open arms in the cities of the Valgar Plains, their lives to the spirits. Always clad expressively
too many.
raising cattle, Mendrihm are quite protective of their for they are a proud people who bring news and in short, colorful, evocative robes and wearing
lifestyle, realizing it would put rivaling peripatetic share stories of their travels with all they meet. intricate sandals inlaid with small bells to scare
tribes at an advantage if they were to learn the same They are loyal friends, but their enemies fear them away malevolent spirits, these nomads are mostly
animal-rearing techniques as the Mendrihm have
mastered over the centuries that they have been
all the same, for the Mendrih’kohn know no mercy
in the heat of battle.
ORDER OF THE shamans and ghost whisperers. Uniquely, they do not
20 21
Ethennia
2. EVENTS
4. INTERACTIONS
Arcane Storm
An arcane storm approaches at incredible speed. Dark, purplish clouds seem to struggle for Kalihn Barter
1 control with each other while lightning scours through them. Drops of what seems like rain 1 A small group of Kalihn nomads is looking for live animals to hunt. They don’t care much
shoot out from the sky, starting several miles ahead of the storm’s periphery. Closer inspection about strangers but may be interested in bartering if approached in a friendly manner.
reveals the drops to be razor-sharp electrically charges spikes of ice.
Pagan Druids
The Earth Below A class of pagan druids on their way to The Ten Statues. They seem friendly, but become
A wide area of dried, cracked ground. Whenever someone sets foot on it, the earth starts 2 hostile if religion is brought up (or if they happen to start such a conversation themselves),
2 to crumble and anyone who tries to traverse the land is in danger of falling down, revealing as they believe in a very specific visual representation of the ancient gods and carry an all-
a hollowed-out cavern system. The subterranean system was probably once filled with water consuming hatred for the current pantheon.
that has long since dried up, but may have been caused by altogether less mundane means.
City Dweller
Tornado 3 Go to the description of the nearest city and find one NPC. This person will be met while
A tornado rages over the territory ahead. It is strong enough to knock a horse off its feet travelling back after visiting a family member or friend living outside the city.
3
and doesn’t show any signs of calming down. Several smaller tornadoes seem to be forming in
other directions as well. Barukh
A Minotaur is found hanging on a sturdy tree branch, upside down. If given the chance,
Mahlomut Panic 4 Baruhk explains he has been cast out of The Jackal Horde after refusing to kidnap a baby and
A Mahlomut herd of several thousand seems to have panicked and races across the plains take it to the tower of the sorcerer his mercenary band works for. If freed, he will be grateful,
4
destroying everything in its path. All of these massive beasts of burden are thought to be and may even divulge the sorcerer’s wicked plans.
domesticated, but it seems that at least one herd is still roaming free.
22 23
Ethennia
6. LANDMARKS
The Watchtower
Just within eyesight, the surrounding flatlands elevate, resulting in a rare plateau. Some
1 Mendrihm have built a watchtower on top of it, but it’s currently deserted. Upon closer
inspection, a ladder at the bottom of the watchtower can be found. It leads down into a hole
in the plateau’s surface.
Tunnel Complex
2
Across a diameter of about a mile, some kind of creature has created hundreds of mole hills.
There is danger of falling through the ground and into the tunnel complex, which was created
by a nest of hungry Arbabhi, omnivorous burrowing animals the size of a pig.
Mysterious Bones
A recent Rhogoon has moved a large part of sand and dust, revealing treelike fossils, each of
3 which seems to have several tentacles. Could this be the remnants of one of the legendary
Haran Hu’hk? Specimen like these are rare and could fetch some decent gold. Perhaps there
are other prehistoric fossils to be found here as well.
24
Ethennia
OVERVIEW and succeeded in making lucrative business deals with honor and validation of excellent craftsmanship, and GOINGS-ON
Tamon is famously known as ‘The Golden City’, a nickname the best craftsmen, artisans and traders of the region applications from newcomers can take years to process 1. An Ethennian poet from Ova Dyr by the name of
reflecting both the city’s wealth and its many buildings and before having the first stone building erected. due to high demand. Sildor has drawn in a crowd doing a spoken-word
towers decorated with glittering, gold-plated rooftops. Even during the decades it took to build the inner city The wealth accumulated through Salamon this way is performance on a street corner, talking about his
The rich are very rich in Tamon, and even the poor don’t of Tamon, people flocked to the building site as if the shared evenly with all citizens of Tamon – no matter what travels around Ishta.
have much to complain about. The city’s exuberant construction process was a spectacle in and of itself. This their current status or wealth. This provides everyone
architecture goes hand in hand with its denizens’ love for 2. People are hanging out of the windows of the
contributed to the later wealth of the city, which has who is registered as a permanent denizen of the city with
luxury, excessive feasting and decadence. Blue Lotus bathing house because a troupe
been wisely ruled by the Prince Salamon ever since his a basic income and the buying power necessary to keep
father died from an unexpectedly-developed allergy. up the image the prince has so purposefully refined. of famous foreign minstrels is making quite
Prince Salamon, whose reddish skin hints at a mixed
descent with at least one Mendrih’tahl forebearer, is an impression.
favored by the people and his rule is mostly fair and just. 3. Streets are blocked of for a Hiriku race that will
He funds many of the festivities inside of the city walls, LAYOUT CUSTOMS run straight through the city. Brokers are taking
such as gladiatorial fights and hiriku races. The city’s Tamon’s outer wall is robust, but only surrounds the The people of Tamon tend to wear an exorbitant bets and minstrels are livening up the event with
riches are the result of both centuries of prospecting city to the west and south, as it depends on the natural amount of gold and jewelry, but it is considered bad cheerful music.
gold on the banks of Lake Auron and Tamon’s central barriers of Lake Auron and the Namedian River for further form to wear anything that doesn’t have a story or that
location in Ethennia, making it a hub of commerce and protection. Its only set of outer gates is flanked by semi- doesn’t represent something more personal. Asking 4. A Kaa’hen is chanting his prayers on top of
merchant activity. circular watch towers. The Tamon docks on Lake Auron about the jewelry someone is wearing and showing a nearby minaret at the wrong time of day,
are every bit as beautiful as the city itself and much care a genuine interest in who made it and how much it surprising passersby. People downstairs are
Aside from the main festivities, Tamon is just as famous
for its fine food, almost always paired with great has been given to embellishing the wooden structures. costs is not only appreciated but expected. wondering what’s up.
imported wines, local spirits and signature mixed Many of Tamon’s sandstone buildings are painted During conversations and business meetings, citizens 5. A whiff of sweet nargile smoke catches the
drinks. Even more entertainment is provided by some and even more are covered in the same gold mined tap their chest twice to show they agree with someone, heroes. Several groups of people are trying out
of Athyr’s best bardic troupes, exotic dancers and from the quartz veins nearby. The architecture is fairly or only once if they disagree. When this is done as part a new blend that seems to be putting them in
famous artists, who are often invited by Prince Salamon consistent everywhere, with pointed arched gates and of a trade, tapping is the only way to conclusively seal some kind of trance. The salesman is charging
himself to perform in his city. windowpanes, geometric motifs, intricate patterns a deal and is considered binding. Being asked to sign
quite a lot of gold for the experience. (In truth,
Tamon’s denizens are a colorful, cultural mix with and symmetrical silhouettes. Residential buildings a contract in any way is seen as a sign of bad faith and
the tobacco has been spiked with Bimbu Ipan,
origins from all over Ethennia and outsiders won’t rarely exceed two floors, but the Tamon Biblioteca, often met by disbelief.
also known as Dream Spice, hailing from the city
easily stand out. People tend to sit outside, enjoy ‘hija’ the Tamon Art Academy and its temples all tower far
above them. Most public and religious buildings also of Nadir.)
(honeyed wine) and spicy food, and smoke ‘nargile’ (a
standing metal and glass pipe with flavored tobacco have minarets, some of them over 30 meters in height. R ELIGION 6. A royal herald is announcing a gladiatorial fight
that is often shared) on the city’s many garden terraces, The city’s preternatural architecture elements become At noon and at midnight each day, some of the city’s that is scheduled to start in the nearby coliseum
rich with flowers, brushes and ponds. much more apparent in the inner city, which is Kaa’hen climb the stairs to the top of the minarets in in an hour. He claims the gladiators will be
surrounded by its own wall, accessible through arched order to chant their prayers – usually monophonic fighting ‘monstrous abominations from across the
gates over its entire perimeter. Here, the buildings of the parables with a lot of ornamentation, sung in a wide desert’, which is a highly unusual thing to happen.
HISTORY royal court can be found, as well as the military barracks, variety of scales and intervals of three quartertones.
7. A crew of city builders arrives with fresh pots of
Tamon is located on the south banks of Lake Auron, the temple of the Morning Star, and some of the best, This lasts exactly half an hour and also serves as
a reminder of what time of the day it is. paint to retouch part of the road, blocking the
the second largest body of water in Ethennia and by most luxurious public eateries in all of Ethennia.
corner until they are done.
far the largest in the Valgar Plains. Gold prospecting During these services, everyone is expected to stop
opportunities drew people to this location many whatever they are doing and be quiet. True worshippers 8. Several kids have set up a make-shift sales stand.
centuries ago and what once was a collection of ECONOMY put on a silk, ceremonial garb and kneel on the ground They’re trying to sell adventuring gear that looks
small camps of mixed lineages, including Mendrihm Instead of levying taxes, Salamon has his own artisans, while repeating the Kaa’hen’s prayer. Devout persons like it’s been used recently, some blood stains still
and Ahldur, grew into the beginnings of a small town craftsmen and specialists selling their services and almost always carry an idle of their preferred deity and remaining.
not long after. The camps were called ‘Tamonish’ wares all over the city. All of the products they end their hymns and mantras by kissing it three times.
(meaning ‘Fortune’) in Ancient Ethennian and the name produce are recognizable by his Royal Seal and 9. A philosopher is teaching a group of people in
Interestingly, the Kaa’hen are allowed to sing and talk
stuck through the ages as the town grew into one of counterfeiters are banished from the city permanently a garden. He’s whispering instead of talking out
about any deity within the Ethennian pantheon during
Etnennia’s largest cities, even though only learned after being branded with the very same seal they tried loud, but his listeners are enthralled by what
these intercessions and worshippers of other gods are
scholars still know what the word ‘Tamon’ refers to. to misappropriate. he’s saying.
encouraged to participate, but quietly substitute the
The current prince, Salamon, can trace his heritage Salamon provides these royal tradesmen (called godhead being called upon with their own divinity’s 10. There’s a huge wine tasting on the market.
back to the legendary Ethennian King Baduhlan ‘Almalahn’) with the raw materials they need, as well name. Despite this openness of religion, the shrines and Prince Salamon has provided barrels as large
of Keshan, Son of Abdal, the Uniter. Educated and as lodging and food inside of the inner city. In return, temples of Tamon are dedicated to specific gods, most as doorframes. His entertainers are promoting
knowledgeable beyond belief, Baduhlan saw the he takes a share of the profit as part-owner of their of them tied to themes like the desert, fertility, music, a new regional grape.
opportunities offered by the mineral deposits nearby businesses. Being an Almalahn is considered a great pleasure, sand, travel, trade, and wealth.
26 27
Ethennia
28 29
Ethennia
i ii
QUEST HOOKS
i ii
SAMORRA
NAZIHA KIDNAPPED ZIDANA’S ROBBERY
—CITY OF GUILDS—
Prince Salamon’s daughter, Naziha, has been kidnapped Rialto of Oded has been robbed, again. Both previous
by Beastmen. She was on the road back to Tamon after times the culprit was identified as Prince Salamon’s niece
having visited Samorra for a few weeks when the attack Zidana, but this time a necklace worth half a castle has A GIGANTIC, THRIVING HARBOR CITY RULED
BY TWO MINOR ANLIKA (ETHENNIAN QUEENS)
LOCATION
occurred and is in bad shape according to one of her been stolen and the royal court is denying Zidana’s Samorra is a large harbor city on the east coast of
WHICH PRIDES ITSELF IN BEING THE ‘GUILD Athyr. It is located on the edge of the Valgar Plains
guards who survived the incident. Unbeknownst to most, involvement. This means Rialto won’t get compensated
CAPITAL OF ATHYR’ alongside the Black Pearl Sea, in a gulf that is well-
the crime was actually orchestrated by Belal of Ekalos, for the theft. He is furious and is looking for proof of her
offended after Salamon refused him his daughter’s hand wrongdoing, or, alternatively if it turns out she is not to known for its rough waters. Most of the coastal line is
in marriage. blame, he wants to find out who really is responsible. inaccessible and ships perish here all the time, but near
POPULATION 80,894 Samorra, the gulf narrows into a surprisingly calm and
Reward: Should the Characters bring Naziha back to Reward: Not the generous kind, Rialto will award
GOVERNMENT Queendom ruled by two Anliki. easily navigable cove. This sole approach has made
her father, he will reward them with brightly-colored whoever solves the crime with a single jewel worth about
Samorra one of the largest harbors in all of Athyr and
jewels and a patch of land large enough to build a fair- one-thousandth of what the necklace would sell for. If DEFENSE Bowmen (1200), crossbowmen (1200), an almost mandatory stop for most ships that have to
sized house on. They will also have to start paying pressed, he will grudgingly add a few rubies to the reward. infantry with swords and halberds (1200), navy of 32 pass the otherwise perilous Black Pearl Coast.
taxes. Salamon won’t mind keeping the Characters galleons with a full crew.
around and may consider giving them an official rank i ii SERVICES Adventuring supplies, armorer/blacksmith,
that grants some minor privileges in inside the city. GOLDEN VEINS art, assassins boat fares, companionship, curio, bank, A CITY OF CONTRASTS
Three times now, Faisehl and his group of prospectors have general supplies, gladiatorial combat, guide, healing, Despite being part of Ethennia, Samorra is the most
i ii been robbed at night while on their way back to Tamon. housing, inventing, jeweler, leatherworker, library, diverse city in the realm outside of Tamon, which is
ESCAPED SCRILLYM lodgings, meals, mounts, repairs, ships, taxis, tailor,
They upped security, started taking shifts standing watch immediately apparent in its architecture. The harbor
Recently, a horribly mutated Scrillym was caught feasting and last time even ordered a small band of mercenaries temple, translator is a hodgepodge of architectural styles, eclectic
on an entire farmer family just outside of the city. The to guard their gold, but to no avail. There is no indication decoration and unusual layouts. There is no real
beetle was deemed far too dangerous to let it roam free, as to how everything can keep disappearing, but it’s clear pattern readily discernible in how the city is planned,
but the academics of Tamon wanted to study its true something extremely mysterious is going on. with broad avenues intersecting smaller streets and
nature. It was being held captive at the coliseum, but has In truth, the prospectors themselves are stashing away narrow alleys. Towers stand next to villas and three-
now escaped! the gold and pretending it gets stolen in order to seek
It seems like someone broke the degenerated animal compensation from Prince Salamon whilst still being able
free, but the coliseum staff is puzzled and the guards to sell their loot outside of the city state at a later date.
believe magic may be involved. People are waiting for They will hire the PCs to keep up appearances but will
Prince Salamon for guidance and are expecting to be only pay them if the ‘mission is a success’. Everything
told to stay at home for a while, but the royal court is comes to a head when an entirely new band of robbers
remaining silent. shows up, intent on actually stealing the gold.
Reward: Friends of the savaged family will offer the Reward: If Faisehl and his men aren’t found out but the new
Characters livestock and the adventurers will always robbers are stopped, Faisehl will promise to spread the news
have a place to stay when they visit Tamon. The of the adventurers’ skill and ability throughout the city. That
coliseum staff itself will let the Characters choose one changes if the Characters discover what he has been up to.
animal from its collection to take home. In that case, he will offer part of the gold to pay for their
silence. If they are caught and brought to Prince Salamon,
the ruler will be far more generous in his reward.
30
Ethennia
story buildings, shops next to residential houses, and Only masters, grand masters, and guild masters can unlock THE PEOPLE OF SAMORRA the proper way of handling things and even the proper
military barracks around the corner of commoners’ bracelets and grant someone an upgraded version, whilst Counter-intuitively, Samorrans are extremely easy way to seal a deal. Many of these things are slightly
neighborhoods. each bracelet also has an engraved symbol denoting the to get along with. They originally hail from an old ritualized and often involve handshakes or kisses.
attached guild: housekeeping & cleaning, companionship island group that was overcome by a flood millennia
Many houses are made of malleable materials like wattle
& other personal services, and various kinds of ago and are a hardy, if superstitious lot – one of
and daub, cob or wood, but stone and lime are used as
well. There are buildings with cellars, while others have
craftsmanship. Craft guilds include farriers, locksmiths, the few things they have in common with many of R ELIGION
executioners, cobblers & cordwainers, embroiderers the nomadic tribes that roam the plains outside of Samorra doesn’t have temples but is riddled with
their own dungeons or have no underground rooms
& upholders, bowyers & fletchers, chandlers, painters the city. They usually speak multiple languages and unattended shrines. There are always Ka’heen who
at all. Strangers often get lost here until they learn to
& dyers, masons & woodworkers, bakers & cooks, almost all are fluent in Ethennian and the more local worship the entire Ethennian pantheon wandering
navigate by focusing on the unusual, which is not hard
leatherworkers, skinners & fishers, and armorers. Ethemi, although most also understand both Ethyri through the streets instead of serving a specific patron
to do at all once one gets used to it.
Scriveners, philosophers, academics, and priests follow and Ancient Ethennian. deity. Ka’heen here don’t just act as ritualists, but also
higher education or some sort of temple career and Samorrans have a well-developed, cynical sense of as guides and counselors, particularly in private and
A CITY OF FREEMEN are expected to either be completely free of affiliation (black) humor and rarely take slight in anything. marital matters.
AND GUILDS or follow the path laid out before them by their patron
deity. Entertainers are allowed full individual expression
However, crimes are seen as counter to the gods’ will Almost all Samorrans carry small mats with them. They
and punishment is meted out slowly and painfully. The don’t pray on set occasions but will take time out to
Soon after Samorra was founded centuries ago, it
in theory, but are punished just as severely as other people of Samorra are also very much aware of the get down on both knees and worship whenever they
started to get frequented by civilizations from all
offenders should they break Samorra’s laws or promote fact that their region has changed for the worse over think an action might have offended one of the gods –
over Athyr, many of whom know slavery. However,
wrongdoing. Other than that, they are encouraged to the last decade and have no patience with criminality any of the gods – or when they feel danger is nearby,
the ruling monarchy observed that most of the slaves
never join any guild or organization other than small or cults. Members aren’t accorded any mercy and but not immediate. Locals are responsible for keeping
got treated extremely badly. The Samorran potentates
bands of other performers. always executed publicly. the shrines clean and doing so is considered to be
wanted to expand their territory but were too few in
number and too far removed from the rest of Ethennia The inherent upward mobility of almost all careers has a public service, not a job for any of the guilds.
to attract cheap labor easily, so they started buying kept anyone from revolting or even leaving the city,
slaves in large numbers. Soon, other cities and nations and natives who try to own slaves or criminals who TRADE
caught on. Evermore slaves got shipped to Samorra to mess with the guild bracelets are executed without Samorrans have taken pride in creating the most ORGANIZATIONS
sell them on the slave markets. any form of trial. intricate locks, nigh-unbreakable chains, best wheel Even though guilds are important throughout almost
locks, and hard to replicate keys in Athyr. Their all of Ethennia, there are little to no guilds that focus
Centuries later, in an unprecedented move, the then-Amrin
locksmiths, armorers, executioners and inventors are on educating the people about local custom and
Himambarad started to grant slaves far more privileges
than they had been used to and promised them upwards THE TWO QUEENS legendary throughout the world and almost all are history… except, of course, in Samorra. The Teachings
Samorra is ruled by Anlika Nulayi of Samorra, daughter of willing to build on that reputation. In their tales, their of a Thousand Ways (‘Telihm’Alw Turaqua’) is not just
mobility. This led to an uprising amongst some of the most
Muh’Ahmud, Sister of Nails, and her wife, Anlika Lauralai locks are even more complex, their chainmail shirts functional, but also social and educative in nature. Its
unscrupulous former slave owners, but the attempted
Hearthborn of the Evandyrian kingdom Vahlia. They met more impenetrable, their execution devices infallible members educate children about the proper way to act,
insurrection was soon quelled by Himambarad’s royal
five years ago shortly after Nulayi ascended to the throne and their cages impossible to escape out of. the edicts of the gods, marital loyalty, and much more.
guard and allowed the Amrin to clean up house by issuing
of Samorra following the tragic death of her parents in This tendency to overstate things even extends to the They also teach their kids that crimes against these
the Freemen Edict, which was supported by Ka’heen all
a storm. Lauralai soon grew enchanted with Nulayi’s other main commerce in Samorra: fish. Nowhere else important pillars of decency should be punished harshly
over the city, whose scattered shrines saw worship rise. In
treatment of the local guilds and tried to introduce a lot in Ethennia can so many different fish, crustaceans and and often demonstrate the sentences on criminals or
front of a crowd of thousands gathered before the palace
of the same ideas in her home country of Vahlia, but other seafood be found, and fishers use all kinds of would-be slave traders (often the same thing).
and flanked by his guild masters (some of which had just
replaced the ones who had tried to overthrow him) as the locks and other tools to denote ranks and affiliation different methods to catch them: simple hand lining, The Teaching of a Thousand Ways also trains some of
well as the high priests from most Ethennian gods, Arim never had any success overseas. These contraptions did long-lining, weir baskets, woven nets and harpoons. A Ethennia’s best assassins, hiring out their services to
Himambarad announced that no human would ever be earn the city a lot of revenue and together, the Two lot of fish get snatched by the currents and caught anyone who does not only have enough gold to spend,
a slave in Samorra again, instead installing a flexible system Queens perfected the hierarchical structure that had in sophisticated net structures before they can wash but also seems just and righteous.
denoting occupation – the only of its kind in Ethennia. This already been in place for centuries, doing a far better ashore. The fishers and skinners are said to be some
There is a significant presence of secretive occult
was a concession to the guilds, who had seen too many job in promoting it than their predecessors. Within years, of the world’s best – a reputation that was created by
groups in Samorra, but most don’t manage to stay
charlatans claim they were members of their organizations. Samorra’s reputation as ‘guild capital of the world’ was their own guild, of course.
hidden for long. They are eagerly weeded out and
cemented.
Guild members got given a metal bracelet with an their execution is cause for great festivities, including
Both queens are well-liked by the local populace songs with unusual time signatures, wild dances
intricate lock that can only be opened with a key that
looks like a puzzle piece. The type of metal denotes the and are considered harsh, but just rulers who have CUSTOMS and even avant-garde performance art or poetry
succeeded in giving their city a new direction and Male Samorrans greet each other by clenching their readings, all organized around the central squares
guild member’s rank, with iron denoting novices and
vision. Their marriage was a drawn-out five-day long fists together. All other genders greet by kissing where transgressors are killed before enthusiastic and
brass being the next tier up (initiates), followed by copper
feast that culminated with the imaginative execution the cheek. Most people here are also extremely appreciative audiences.
(apprentices), silver (assistants) and gold with one or
of thirteen criminals (with amongst them quite possibly superstitious: they will insist on the proper greeting,
more platinum bands (which indicates associates, fellows,
masters, grand masters, and guild masters). several cultists). It garnered quite the support and
admiration of the local populace.
32 33
Ethennia
35
Ethennia
36 37
Ethennia
OVA DYR
38 39
Ethennia
proven themselves to be resourceful, and the abundance a threat to these giants should they decide to claim mountains, but all expeditions that have been mounted many ways – far less dangerous than trying to journey
of subterranean Sandworm pathways has given rise to an back their tunnel complexes. to find it again have met with failure. through the desert plains of Ova Dyr. This is mainly due
entirely new tribe: the Urandir, a brave people that has to three reasons: the absence of any settlements of
Scattered across the desert are flying rocks or ‘Andrir’, If true, the existence of a gateway to another
risen over the last millennia, claiming abandoned tunnels note where travelers can recuperate or find resources,
their sharp bottom ends pointing downwards, as if dimension would be disconcerting if not for the
as their own and evolving a completely new – and, to the loose sand that covers almost the entire surface of
ready to pierce the earth and puncture the world. legendary reputation of Djinns as bringers of fortune
many, altogether outlandish – culture. the subregion, and the underground worm complexes
Remnants of the devastating battle between the and wishmasters, and the tales about the supernatural
As a result of the scarcity of life aboveground, Ova Dyr has Ancient Gods and the new Ethennian pantheon, they that make every step more perilous than it appears to
entryway have spawned an entire tradition of
stagnated somewhat, its history more marked by events float there in silence, covered in a hallucinogenic be at first glance… and that’s without taking the other
charlatans who claim that they are able to bind or
that happened many thousand years ago than by any moss referred to as ‘andrir-lan’. Eating the substance is life on Ova Dyr into account.
subjugate Djinn to make them to do as their employers
innovation or advancement, as most people who travel said to ‘open the eyes’ of whoever consumes it to the wish. The fault in their logic – if it were so, these ‘Djinn It can’t be stressed enough that any remnants of
here only stay for a while, drawn by the many mysteries complete truth of reality, and many claim to have seen charmers’ wouldn’t need to a job, as they could simply towns or cities have long disappeared, leaving only
that the land holds, unless they come to study the books another, far more peaceful world, where chariots fly ask for whatever they wanted – may seem obvious but tent camps the size of hamlets and small tribal villages
of the biblioteca in Aghrapur. through the sky and everyone wields magic. Despite of has escaped numerous people. outside of ancient Aghrapur – think hundreds of miles
these assertions, only a rare few are willing to use the of a single flat, sandy landscape with no routes at all,
moss, as many others have collapsed into insanity after except for the ones at the borders and a single trade
digesting it, their thoughts now forever haunted by triangle running Aghrapur, Turan, and Thoral together.
40
Ethennia
• A few of the survivors who entered The Nest report having seen glowing larvae the size
of Hiriku in one of the chambers they stumbled into. No-one has ever seen Sandworms in
this stage, but this might mean that their origin is more magical than assumed, which in
turn has some spellcasters attracted to The Nest to find out whether there is some arcane
benefit to reap there.
• Alarmingly, many sages believe that The Nest is even larger than assumed and stretches
all the way up to the Sea of Jewel coasts and Tamon. This has some people pretty upset
and academics have been expressly asked to stop spreading this theory by the Aghrapurian
ruling body.
42 43
Ethennia
MONDUL H AHN
The biggest known Urandir city, Mondul Hahn isn’t SECRETS & R UMORS
nearly as large as The Nest, but it is still impressive, as who used to dwell here, the
the tribe has adapted the entire abandoned complex Urandir have carved out • There is a massive cult presence at the yearly meetings here, as the constellations and celestial
to their needs. . Located along a rock formation additional living quarters signs are even more important to some of the cults than to most traditional seers or priests.
that stretches out northeast from Oman for almost and even temples. Much of
• At certain times of the year, Ihr-Alada offers a clear view of the universe as it once was, long
400 miles, the city can be entered through multiple their art involves pottery,
guarded openings in the ground and is lit by fireflies wall drawings, and wall before the Heralds of Doom arrived. This glimpse into the reality of the past usually comes with
and fluorescent lichen cultivated by the Urandir. designs, including patterns, the horrible realization that much of the cosmos has since been consumed or destroyed. During
Access to lower levels is by an intricate system of shapes, and carvings. Urandir particular celestial events, the view shifts to a dark, blackened nothingness above, which
pulleys and wooden platforms, but there are also sculptors tend to prefer many fortunetellers believe is a look into the future. At these moments, onlookers under the
several chutes with ropes and gradually descending natural, somewhat abstract influence of andrir-lan also see a series of occurrences that might be the causes of this dark end
tunnels where one can walk that connect the shapes without sharp corners and almost without of the universe: explosions, falling stars, and the sudden creation of gigantic black hole. This
different sections with each other. Aside from the straight lines, and some of it fetches high prices at scene always ends with whoever saw it disoriented and often even driven to insanity.
tunnels that were naturally shaped by the Sandworms markets outside of Ethennia.
• Amongst some of the Khalindrim who are somewhat in touch with the outside world, there is
a rumor that meditating in the middle of Ihr-Aladas puts someone in touch with the ancient
S ECRETS & RUMORS arcane energies of Athyr itself, thereby gaining true understanding of magick. It is unknown
whether anyone has already survived the process, but if they have and the Khalindrim are
• Of late, Mondul Hahn has fallen victim to frequent Rhogil – localized sand blasts that storm right, they might have acquired an innate ability to cast spells unheard of anywhere else
through the tunnels, leaving everything covered in sand. Some Urandir believe that these Rhogil on Athyr.
aren’t natural but are caused by the arcane experiments of Amendril Ahn, a legendary alchemist
and mystic who disappeared hundreds of years ago, soon after the city was formed. Amendril had
been experimenting with magic that would graft sand to his body in an effort to achieve near-
immortality and is often used as somewhat of a bogeyman in children’s tales.
• The guards of Urandir have been suffering losses at the hands of the Gendarim – a much- SECRETS & RUMORS
reviled rebel sect that is intent on changing the Urandir culture from within. According to some
• The flying creatures here are said to instinctively be drawn
‘deprogrammed’ members, the Gendarim want to change the city’s meritocracy to a society
to Andrir Sul because they sense that it is a magical nexus.
in which everyone is considered equal. This is unacceptable to most Urandir, but amongst the
Others think they innately know it will be the site of some
younger city dwellers, their ideas are gaining ground and support is growing, up to the point that
great occurrence that is soon to unfold, while some claim these
some youngsters are ready to take up arms against their elders.
monsters are simply highly territorial and simply stay here
• The many secrets the Urandir here seem to hold have led several kings, as well as the ruling body because the many Andrir offer them a great variety of resting
of Aghrapur, to send in spies and adventurers to find out what is really going on, but none of them and breeding places. Lastly, there is a rumor that the beasts all
have returned. The Urandir are feigning ignorance but have tightened the security in unlikely areas consume andrir-lan and are quite protective of their source of
of the complex. Could there be hidden passageways even most denizens do not know about? A NDRIR SUL nourishment or hallucinated existence.
Several days of travel east from Nadir
lies a place that is colloquially known • Some spellcasters see a magical formula into the way the Andrir
as Andrir Sul, the largest concentration here float. Andrir Sul might be the encryption of a series of
IHR-A LADA of Andrir in Ova Dyr. There are exactly
144 floating stones forming distinct,
gestures, an incantation, or both. If this is true, it might allow
Also known as Center Point due to its location before having to pack up whoever is able to unlock its secrets to summon the Ancient
exactly in the middle of Ova Dyr, Irh-Alada is and leave. Because of these interconnected circular patterns. Gods, find and open the fabled portal to the realm of the
completely barren and without any notable features. short-lived congregations, Ominously pointing downwards, the Djinns, or otherwise grant immense power.
Nothing can survive in this stretch of land spanning Ihr-Alada has become Andrir here are obviously positioned
a diameter of about 20 miles – not even insects or a place where new ideas this way for a reason, but they have • A community of Khalindrim has been spotted here. The tribe
native creatures like Sand Crawlers or Sandworms. and hypotheses about the been excruciatingly difficult to study members seem to be able to wander the area surrounding
Despite that fact, Ihr-Alada has become an almost cosmos and fortunetelling because of the concentrated presence Andrir Sul without getting attacked or even being disturbed.
mythical place, as the stars whose light is still able are developed, and of flying predators. In fact, the site has Whenever someone tries to talk to them, they scatter and
to reach Athyr are clearer here than anywhere else. some groups hold annual been the focus of many aerial battles flee, and it is thought they might have access to underground
This has drawn astrologers, diviners, and academics conventions here in order between these beings, and there have escapeways or magical transportation.
from all over Ethennia to Ihr-Alada, where they small to share observations and been several Dragon sightings here.
pockets of them stay here for stretches of a few days opinions.
44 45
Ethennia
• One woman is said to have visited the Tower of Anir Malehn and survived; two years ago, the SECRETS & R UMORS
Evandyran cleric Emilia Forrether decided to travel to the ruins to sanctify them and remove all
• Some academics, hunters and adventurers who study beasts and monsters have come to believe
evil influence from the place. She returned without the ability to speak and is now taken care of
that Dragons didn’t evolve out of the mountains, but out of the Imlim-Rhaan . A less nimble
in a temple inside of the city, her face stuck in an everlasting expression of utter panic.
gliding creature every bit as large as a Dragon often referred to as a Drake nests here and it might
very well be that it is a predecessor of the true Dragons, which have grown stronger muscles and
more agile wings.
• The canyon caverns may not only be home to a host of creatures, but also to a human tribe
similar to the Urandir. Some claim to have seen these mysterious people, but they are said
to be entirely obsidian black, hairless, and pupilless, which puts their human heritage into
question altogether.
• At the very bottom of the Imlim-Rhaan is a micro-climate and ecosystem where Dinosaurs roam
free and vegetation abounds, which leaves those few who have been there to wonder whether
one does not pass some dimensional portal to another place entirely.
46 47
Ethennia
48
Ethennia
4. INTERACTIONS
2. EVENTS Khalindrim Contact
A few miles away, a dozen Khalindrim are observing the travelers as they cross the sandy
Caught in a Storm 1
flatlands. As soon as they realize they’ve been spotted, they dart away and jump behind the
1
All around, a series of small whirlwinds is forming, kicking up sand and spinning across the
dunes to take cover.
sand dunes. The vortices gather momentum with every passing second and seem destined to
develop into a full-fledged Rhogoon within minutes.
Conglomerate of Bhulaahn
The Conglomerate of Bhulahn is a famous adventuring troupe currently consisting of the
Quicksand
2 overly-enthusiastic Evandyrian Stargazer Leonardo Darihn, the soft-spoken Ishtan Slayer
Treacherous patches of quicksand are scattered throughout the area. Getting caught in one
2 Ghuruk Amlik, the dissident Roshan Sorcerer Kimlik Hi-Wook, the boisterous Evandyrian
of these pools of sand may result in a quick but horrible and painful death.
Vanguard Sir Caspin Roughwater, and, of course, their pirate-Hunter leader Bhulaahn. They
Tunnel Complex are encountered while on a similar quest as the Characters and might either become great
The desert’s surface suddenly shifts down into the earth and everyone is swept away along allies or (more plausibly) lifelong rivals.
3 the resulting avalanche of sand. Anyone caught in this landslide ends up in a tunnel complex
Vultures
below ground. Sands keeps pouring inside the tunnels, though there are several escape routes
Five vultures are circling above some dunes nearby. They have spotted a camp that has been
that lead deeper into the underground complex.
3 raided and are getting ready to feast on the corpses of the hapless travelers who got killed
Deadly Tumbleweed during the attack. Perhaps those responsible are still in the area, and one or two people may
A steady wind is blowing a swarm of flaming tumbleweeds across the sandy wastes, having have survived, wounded among their slain allies.
4
caught fire in the blazing hot sun. These blazing hot balls bounce and roll, occasionally pilling
Urandir Family
up into great mounds of fire, and rage across an area as far as the eye can see.
4
The Characters meet an Urandir family that is headed towards the same destination. They
are friendly and the two eleven-year old twins, Imya and Yinya, are excited and very curious
about the foreigners, but their mother, Thalyii, keeps eying the Characters suspiciously.
50 51
Ethennia
Mysterious Crater
1
A ridge of stone curves across the desert. Crossing the ridge reveals as vast crater. The bottom
of the crater is glassy smooth, covered with drifts of sand and clusters of bones. In the center
of the crater is a cluster of small buildings made from blocks of sandstone.
Abandoned Observatory
A single makeshift observatory that seems to be abandoned, thrust in the middle of the flat
2
desert land. The hut seems to be made of the parts of four or five wagons and is sparsely
decorated whatever was left over, such as wheels and ropes. Strangely, the sole room was
clearly not meant to live or sleep in, but rather features a single telescope with a broken lens
pointed up towards the sky, through a hole in the roof.
Lone Andrir
3 A lone but particularly large Andrir is floating above the ground. There definitely is activity on
its top – maybe even a Dragon?
Fata Morgana
4
A city can be seen in the distance. It appears to be massive metropolis, consisting of shining
towers inhabited by strange humanoids. The city appears green and well-watered, and looks
to be close by. If the travelers make a detour of a few miles, they should reach it.
52 53
Ethennia
GEOGRAPHY BY SEA by the Lamarian government, but the importance of beautifully ornamented galleons with large weapon
Lamaris is situated in a valley at the north coast of their new status far outweighs any motivation that emplacements, fast sloops that seem to cleave through
Ethennia, at the Sea of Jewels, several miles away from Once the always-persistent fog that protects might be gleaned from getting a fixed fee. the ocean as a Dragon does through the air, and
The Great Artery (‘Al’Chirem Ileazum’), the river that sturdy brigands fortified with steel plates and fittings.
Lamaris so well from foreign invasion lifts,
cuts through the middle of Ethennia and connects All three are easily recognizable and their appearance
its monumental walls appear out of the
many of its major cities. A few ruins of an earlier
lasts whisps of mist, the immense twin sea AURELIA’S SHIPBUILDING often makes pirates rout within minutes.
attempt to build Lamaris at the river delta still remain,
but the excessive floods and shifting marshes made gate flanked by two colossal statues, one WHARF & ROYAL
the original settlers move further up east. Six- to ten- depicting a robed man wearing an intricate SHIPBUILDERS LAYOUT & A RCHITECTURE
person basket boats with single lateen sails still provide crown and holding a gigantic scepter, Out in the waters, within the city walls, is Aurelia’s
No city is as flexible and customizable as Lamaris and
transportation back and forth from the city through the other one a beautiful young woman Shipbuilding Wharf. The reference to Ethennia’s
it shows in its architecture, most of which is extremely
the marshes to The Great Artery. wearing a similar, but more elegant and goddess of the stars is not meant literally, but rather
functional. Building blocks can be shifted around
slenderer crown, the last remnants of recent as a way to make clear how wondrous this monolithic
within hours, market stalls fold together and can be
scaffolding still visible around her lower legs. rectangular stone building really is. It is controlled by
moved, pieces of decoration can be swapped with
THE SEA GATE the Royal Shipbuilders or ‘Binaht fi Alhantra’, a group
other ornaments, wall slots hold multiple canopies and
AND THE NATALIHB Waves crash against the barrier, but they are
of expert craftsmen and specialists who use advanced
techniques to warp wood into shape, strengthen the
breweries all store multiple grains and yeasts.
Upon approaching Lamaris by sea, the first thing inviting instead of threatening, low enough This has all made Lamaris a very enigmatic city, as
fittings and even temporarily hoist ships into the air
one would notice would be its immense walls, which to easily navigate and strong enough to with an intricate system of chains and pulleys without accounts about the harbor vary and the widely
extend into the water, surrounding the entire port. easily carry even the largest ships into the different tales told by travelers make many wonder
a need for elaborate scaffolding. This has allowed for
Its huge twin sea gate is considered to be one of the sprawling docks. Sculptures and engravings whether they are even telling the truth. The one thing
major technical advances that have made the small to
architectural marvels of Athyr. Looming forebodingly of sleek seafaring vessels are everywhere, that is a constant, is the abundance of shipbuilding
medium-sized ships built here the fastest in the world.
against the sky like two giant stone sentinels, the gates references. Embroidery, sculptures and paintings
even more plentiful than the many ships However, it also keeps Lamaris from manufacturing
tower over the harbor like silent guardians. Massive invariably refer to ships and life at sea. Foreign traders
waiting to enter the steel- and brass-edges bigger seafaring vessels, as the mechanisms used aren’t
and foreboding, the carvings in their brass and steel would do well to bring goods that are tied to the same
gates, or just leaving the great harbor city. able to handle those kinds of weights.
edges have weathered centuries of storms and raids, themes if they want to sell their wares to the citizens
but their original intricate details remain impressively Behind the walls, flat roofs top blue-colored Becoming a member of the Royal Shipbuilders Guild
of Lamaris.
intact, the left gate depicting the legendary First King buildings that almost look like blocks stapled is very different than enrolling in the natalihb or
of Lamaris, Mandarud, the mythical Scepter of Equity upon each, serving as a splendid herald of the mutalihb guilds: even though it does require an
in hand, whilst the right gate was recently remodeled
to reflect Princess Alhantra herself, although all who
architectural inventiveness to be found inside
of the city proper.
impeccable track record, acceptance is entirely
based on a series of timed skill tests that feature rope
THE PEOPLE OF LAMARIS
Even though the permanent population of Lamaris is
ever laid eyes upon her agree no human structure knotting, woodworking, drawing blueprints and more.
nearing 20,000, there are, at any time, at least as
could ever truly capture her true pulchritude and many temporary visitors staying inside of its city walls.
alluring aura.
Both gates can only be opened by the natalihb, a close
LAMARIAN SHIPS To the people living here, trade is everything. They
adapt easily and quickly appropriate new techniques
group of harbor supervisors who coordinate travel in THE LAND GATE Most ships in Athyr are built frame-first, with planking
added later, but Lamarian ships are generally carvel-
from foreigners, making Lamaris as much a hub of
and out of the port from the lighthouse that stands
on the edge of the harbor proper. It can, however,
AND THE MUTALIHB built. The planks don’t overlap and are fixed edge-to-
innovation as a major trading port.
Interestingly, the southern land gate is not controlled edge with wooden pegs called treenails. The largest Shipbuilding and seafaring is so much an integral part
be overridden by a second mechanism that can only of the Lamarian way of life that you would be hard
by guards, but by a second group called the mutalihb, vessels have three masts, with square sails on two of
be controlled by a second group of extremely loyal pressed to find a native citizen who is jealous of the
market superintendents who command access to the those and a triangular sail on the back mast.
natalihb from inside of Princess Alhantra’s palace. three guilds in power, as everyone is taught from an
city. This allows their assistants to keep records of
Even though the sleek Lamarian builds are impressive
The natalihb are all seasoned captains or navigators everyone who enters and leaves through land. A tight early age on that ships only get built because of the
enough on their own, one of the most astounding
who have spent years under the tutelage of senior coordination with the natalihb allows them to keep tabs combined efforts of many people working together,
things the Royal Shipbuilders have developed is the
members after retiring from active seafaring duties. on the demographics of everyone inside of the city. often at disparate times and at separate steps of the
compass, which is integrated into the wood next to
Entrance is by invitation only and must be approved construction process. This lack of bitterness, rancor or
The mutalihb guild structure shares many similarities where the helmsman sits. Another invention is the
by the guild masters. During the final interview, the resentment is ingrained throughout the entire society
with the natalihb, but only allows for experienced inclusion of raised wooden chairs and protective
natalihb are joined by a Kaa’hen who is left with the and helps the people here come together during times
traders who used to work in the markets of Lamaris transparent wind shielding for key crewmembers. The
difficult task to ascertain whether the candidate is lying of need or danger.
for at least 5 consecutive years. In order to prevent chairs even have a form of seating belts, with locks that
or not. If deceit is suspected, the interviewee is not Travelers would be hard-pressed to find a more
malfeasance as much as possible, they aren’t allowed use Samorran technology.
only thrown out of the guild quarters, but also given accommodating, friendly place, but there is a limit:
to practice their old profession anymore and are even
only 8 full hours to leave Lamaris and never return. Aurelia’s Shipbuilding Wharf produces three kinds of
prevented from having others sell their old goods or the people here are accustomed to a give-and-take
This banishment can never be revoked, no matter what iconic ships that have become emblematic for the city:
services. In return, they are awarded a monthly stipend philosophy, and kindness is always expected to be
the circumstances.
54 55
Ethennia
repaid – either by coin, or by something of similar graces the streets with her entourage and personal GOINGS-ON LOCAL SPECIALTIES
value. Failure to do so will results in animosity first and servant/guards, it is a momentous occasion marked 1. The streets are being cleared, people are flocking ‘Su’muhk’, a very meaty sea bass only found in the Sea
even hatred if allowed to continue. by the scattering of rope figures shaped like anchors in front of their windows and children are of Jewels.
or ships, dancing, and singing contests. Lamarians and throwing miniature rope anchors to the ground. ‘Sadduht alkuhal’, a fermented drink that is supposed
outsiders alike have been known to feint or even die This can only mean one thing: Princess Alhantra
TRADE from the excitement while watching the parade, but will soon be coming through with her entourage,
to cure hangovers.
Curiously, even though Lamarians will make almost never has the princess fallen out of her role as humble throwing kisses to the crowd from inside of her ‘Lombal malan’, an exceedingly spicy fish stew that is
anything and offer any kind of service if they think and gentle ruler – at least not as far as anyone knows. horse-drawn royal wagon! graded in levels of heat and is used in dozens of eating
people will purchase it, the passion for seacraft is so competitions organized throughout the city.
2. A curioso shop is changing its façade, swapping
ingrained in their mindset that not many of them are
interested in anything that doesn’t refer to shipbuilding CUSTOMS lighthouse miniatures with small pyramids. Might
and the sea. Everyone – family, friends and even mere acquaintances
there be a large delegation from Ishta inside of
the city walls?
K EY LOCATIONS
and foreigners – are greeted in exactly the same way: by THE SEA DRAKE (‘DIREHK ALAHBAN’): One of the
There is a catch, as building a single galleon requires 3. An argument has developed between a Beshaar
a hug, accompanied with two taps on the shoulder. This most iconic bathing inns in Lamaris, owned by Captain
about 2.000 trees and there aren’t nearly enough oak barbarian from the much-scorned Belkoroman
also serves to gage the disposition of people Lamarians Menahr Muhl, an Evandyrian knight who decided to
forests near Lamaris that can provide wood suitable tribe and two Lamarian salesmen. Apparently,
meet for the first time. An awkward greeting, trying stay in the city after he visited for the first time about
for shipbuilding. Thus, Lamaris is largely dependent the barbarian drank some hot mint tea he was
to make space or stepping back will make coming to a decade ago. Some patrons believe Muhl was actually
on trade with the Islands of Roshan and problems offered and is now refusing to give anything in
any kind of trade agreement afterwards much more exiled for some unknown reason, but as long as he
between the Lamarians and the Roshani sometimes return.
expensive, if not impossible. keeps brewing the best ale in all of Lamaris, no-one
lead to partial trade embargoes, export tax raises and
4. A recently arrived ship crew is talking to some really seems to care.
other incentives meant to make the other side comply
with demands. So far, this has never resulted in war as locals about the strange weather that threatened INNER KEEP: This is the palace of the princess. It is
both the Ethennian city state and the Roshani Emperor R ELIGION them in the north-east of the Sea of Jewels. The a walled, large, single-building affair, with concealed
realize stopping trade entirely would most likely lead There are shrines to Alahad and Aurelia everywhere thunder and lightning had some supernatural fortifications. Princess Alanthra’s entire staff, military
to the mutually assured destruction of their respective around Lamaris, as well as three temples specifically elements to it. and entourage lives inside. Despite her main resident’s
economies. dedicated to Alahad, each one accenting a different 5. A guard patrol passes by. The captain walks up reputation for beauty, the keep is largely undecorated
aspect of the sea god, which has as much to do with to the PCs, desperate for some friendly small- and functional, which only serves to keep the focus on
The one exception to the commercial focus on
the fact that half of the people staying here at any talk after a hard but boring day catching minor the princess herself.
shipbuilding is the trade in products and services that
time are from outside of the city (and often outside of culprits and juvenile delinquents.
honor the Lamarian princess, Alhantra, who is considered THE ROYAL SHIPBUILDING WHARF (‘RAHSEF
Ethennia), as with the Lamarian philosophy of being as
the most beautiful young woman in all of Ethennia. 6. A group of Roshani pirates passes through with ALAHAD AL’SALAF’): The Royal Shipbuilding Wharf
accommodating as possible (mostly to optimize trade
the smell of liquor on their breath. They all seem consists of a huge, enclosed stone building inside of
opportunities).
quite content and ready to hug anyone nearby. the water with enormous gates and smaller doors at
PRINCESS A LHANTRA Anyone. deck-level. It is adorned with giant statues depicting
Princess Alhantra has ruled over Lamaris since her father,
King Imrid, died when she was only 14 years old. Now,
ORGANIZATIONS 7. A guide is offering a tour through the
various sea gods and monsters.
SEA GATES: The huge twin sea gates to the harbor,
Other than the natalihb, the mutalihb and the Royal Shipbuilding Wharf, claiming that visitors will get
29 years on, she doesn’t seem to have aged past 19 or so to ‘learn everything about the secret techniques made of stone. The gates have ramparts that connect
Shipbuilders, Lamaris also holds an extremely adapt
and has never faltered to beguile anyone who lays eyes used by the natalihb’. to the rest of the wall and are controlled by an
navy and fearsome standing infantry. Due to its location
upon her. This has led to some speculation, with rumors underground mechanism.
and relatively flat area to the South, it only maintains 8. There’s music being played in the Indar
ranging from the suspicion that her youth is being
a small cavalry on horses. Undarin bathing house. The song seems to be SOUTHERN GATES: Smaller and less impressive than
assured through magical means to the presumption
There is a dark side to the international nature of a cautionary tale about sea travel to the the sea gates, the iron-fortified wooden Southern
that she has a personal Djinn at her command who will
Lamaris. Its accessibility and proximity to the Sea of north-east. gates are still sturdy and flanked by watch towers.
rejuvenate her upon the rise of Issira each morning and
the more mundane idea that she uses a set of man- Jewels has attracted a sizable number of pirates and 9. A translator is offering her services on a street MANOOHK’S BEARD: Manoohk’s Beard is one of the
made elixirs with an unheard-of efficacy. Interestingly, privateers, most of whom are wise enough to refrain corner, claiming to know every language on most innovative eatery in all of Ethennia. Here, meals
none of the chitchat is negative or involves dark cults from raiding the waters surrounding Lamaris, instead Athyr and every possible Ethennian dialect (the feature 22 to 42 courses, each of them dedicated to
and evil magic, and most citizens even consider it bad preferring to work under the cover of criminal first claim being untrue). a different minor god from the Ethennian pantheon,
form to doubt Alhantra’s natural beauty. organizations active within the city walls itself. There, and each of them presented in an innovative, surprising
10. People on the street stop and pause, trying to
they deal in illicit goods, offer contract killings, sell matter. Its owner seems to have a knack to pull out the
Alhantra has become quite the style icon and always make sense of the smell coming from Manoohk’s
their services as navigators (only to slit the throat names and backstories of gods who are worshipped
appears in a different outfit, wawing her subjects with Beard, which is hosting some of the best chefs in
of whoever owns the ship, and steal the loot while by only a very small group of people, often sects that
her refined taste and fashion sense. Dolls, dresses and Ethennia to show off its owners superior cooking
out in the open ocean), and establish other kinds of hold no influence whatsoever, to imbed his succulent
statues that refer to the princess are always in high skills.
shady businesses.
demand by children and adults alike. Whenever she
56 57
Ethennia
but extremely expensive meals in stories that manage K EY NPC S QUEST HOOKS
to captivate just as much as the tastes and textures of ROGAN OF LAMARIS: Rogan is one of the few Lamaris-
his dishes do. born champions. He isn’t tied to the military, but is i ii facing each other on it. No one in the city recognizes
often consulted by would-be adventurers, even though THE MISSING GALLEON the banner and there doesn’t seem to be any crew
THE INDAR UNDARIN: A bathing house without guest
he’s not active anymore. Rogan once accidentally on board, as the deck has remained empty for days
rooms or dining facilities, the Indar Undarin offers rare Merchants are aghast with the news that some kind of
discovered a secret dungeon underneath a bathing now, the oars aren’t moving, and there is no other sign
segregated bathing areas as well as mixed-gender sea serpent has swallowed an Evandyrian galleon whole…
inn that was run by one of the cults. He was caught of life. Every adventuring group that tries to get to it
facilities. Famed throughout Lamaris for its specialized inside of the city walls! Within hours, the entire city is
unprepared but managed to kill all the cult members either is inexplicably drifts off-course or gets lost in the
massages from all over Athyr (even a supposedly bustling with rumors. What is going on?
with a kitchen knife, earning him the nickname ‘Little fog and needs to turn around. There must be a way to
‘typically Keldorian deep-tissue treatment’), saltwater Reward: If the Characters find out what happened and
Knifeman’ – which, to his great annoyance, stuck. board the ship and find out what is going on.
baths, bubble pools, steam inhalation rooms, spa come up with a solution, they will be invited by the
treatments, and seasonal herbal teas, the Indar Undarin TAHLINA OF TAMON: A fairly young but experienced Reward: Whatever is going on, the Characters will be
Royal Shipbuilders Guild to explain in-length what their
attracts a very diverse and wide audience. member of the Binaht fi Alhantra. A sorcerer-engineer royally rewarded by both the natalihb, the royal court,
methods of deduction or induction were, and how
of some repute, she her magic to bend and warp wood and any government that may hold rightful dominion
THE SU’MUHK MALAI: A series of small fisher villages they went about solving the problem. If their accounts
in the desired shape during the shipbuilding process. over the ship, should they be able to discover its true
held together by ropeways and cables along the Great sound plausible or can be collaborated, they will be
She is passionate, but she is ready for more and would origins and get it to the Lamaris harbor as a gift to the
Artery near Lamaris that ends in the Su’muhk Talihn, granted a small sloop, ready to set sail whenever they
love to go on an adventure – preferably on one of the city. If particularly successful, or if it seems like the ship
a fishers’ quarter inside of the city walls, as if it were please, or will be offered customizations to a boat the
ships she helped build. might be haunted or otherwise compromised, it will be
an extension of the village conglomerate. All villages Characters already own.
offered to the PCs, as long as they promise to hire crew
are governed by the Fisher Guild of Lamaris and each MANOOHK OF LAMARIS: Manoohk isn’t your typical staying in Lamaris.
of them focuses on specific kinds of bass found in the chef. He didn’t get interested in cuisine by watching i ii
river and in the Sea of Jewels, supplemented with other his mother or grandmother cook, but rather by THE IMPOSTER PRINCESS
seafood. participating in a number of raids beyond the Ethennian i ii
After not being seen for a month – which is highly
THE DUSK ALLEY CLUB: A small venue tucked away borders as a mercenary. Weary of killing other people, INFILTRATED!
unusual – Princess Alhantra has reappeared. However,
in one of Lamaris’ alleys where people who dabble in Manoohk travelled through Athyr for more than 2
almost everyone who saw her during the first parade According to a rumor, one of the mutalihb was caught
the esoteric, arcane, and occult arts come together decades to learn about local ingredients and cooking.
since her return noticed something off: the person in the robes of a member of a splinter religious sect,
to debate and talk about magic. Membership is by He eventually returned to his home city, where he
inside of the wagon was wearing mismatched jewelry. a cult, or some kind of other criminal organization. This
invitation only and is open to all who show themselves started Manoohk’s Beard, named after his very first dish:
Surely this can’t be the Jewel of the Sea! Who is this is cause for great concern, but the man keeps denying,
knowledgeable and wiling to pay the steep monthly a stringy salad topped with fried hairs from his own beard.
imposter – and are criminals or even a secret cabal of claiming that any similarities are purely coincidence. The
membership fee – either in coin or in magical artifacts. Always innovative and looking for new presentations
sorcerers to blame? incident has alerted the Princess, who is ready to take on
Although it doesn’t really have a name, it is sometimes and techniques, Manoohk now is on a mission to spread
a discrete group of investigators to find out the truth.
his particular kind of cuisine throughout Ethennia and Reward: The recompense here depends entirely on
referred to as the ‘Dusk Alley Club’ by people in the
maybe even the entirety of Athyr. what is really going on, but is almost certain to involve Reward: If the Characters manage to solve the case
know, although some just call it ‘A zela’s Hole’, referring
the royal court or even Princess Alhantra herself. expeditiously, Princess Alhantra will offer them to flank
to the wizened old woman who pulls back the curtain SARAH WHITEWATER: Scourge of the Cults, Bearer of
her during one of her parades – a rare honor indeed!
behind the door to reveal the club entrance when the Sword of Naldur, Avenger of the Enslaved, Sarah has
The amount of renown and recognition involved will
someone knocks five times on the glass of the low- made quite the name for herself during her campaigns i ii easily eclipse whatever monetary award they would
hanging lantern above the outside porch. as a noble knight of Lhandor. In fact, the only thing THE ENIGMA otherwise have gotten, but if the Characters decline
she is even better known for than her adventures and
Consternation in the harbor. A huge black warship has or seem disappointed, she will send them off with
martial accomplishments is her beauty. Vein and at
appeared in the fog. It is more than 120 feet long and a treasure chest full of gold pieces… and never call on
least somewhat pretentious, Sarah has decided to stay
is sailing under a black flag with two coiled serpents them again.
in Lamaris because she has grown jealous of Princess
Alhantra, who is supposed to be even more beautiful
than Sarah is.
THREATS & DOOM: THE SPY FROM WITHIN THREATS & DOOM: THE FORBIDDEN GATE
Darkan, a spy from Taliath, infiltrated the Royal Shipbuilders Guild 21 years ago. He has worked his way up Unbeknownst to anyone, Princess Alhantra has inherited a terrible secret from her father: underneath
to overseer status and has been adding a structural weakness to each and every ship that is being made the city’s waters is an extradimensional gate that accesses an alien dimension where terrible monsters
in Lamaris. It allows for good swimmers who can get underneath the boats to literally open up the hull reign supreme. Her family has been sacrificing all manner of sea creatures for generations now but, of
with contraptions specifically made for that purpose. He has been reporting to a fierce fleet under the late, the gate has grown larger and the arcane energy inside of it has been swirling ever faster. Alhantra is
command of the infamous Captain Melindra, who is ready to set sail and attack Lamaris as soon as Darkan afraid that soon, whatever is on the other side will either require a significantly larger animal… or demand
sends her a message by raven to do so. human offerings.
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a strict caste system, with each caste living in its own THE DULAH’DUR ORGANIZATIONS LOCAL SPECIALTIES
partially segregated section of the city. Because of Even though most of the city’s important stone The almost-singular focus on a lone goddess has ‘Bibik mei’, a thick, spicy vegetable chowder with a goat
this, and because the mountain base location of the resources can be found underground, the quarries there allowed cultists to infiltrate multiple Messani temples yoghurt base.
royal buildings makes it hard to deploy troops fast, the rarely yield expensive gems or rare minerals – those after killing off the Kaa’hen who used to serve there. ‘Maza-el-Messani’, a unique blend of cooked meats,
military barracks are found inside of the city and not can still only be found in the Ayurpaya Mountains. This Cultists from all over Ethennia believe Quisani is secretly spices and exotic diced fruits. This culinary delight
inside of its royal citadels. has given rise to a very specific organization unique residing somewhere inside of the Tempahk Pesaar and is especially popular among travelers and visitors to
The people of Messani do realize travelers need a place to Ethennia: the Dulah’Dur, adventurer excavators and are intent on murdering her. the city, as its savory and sweet flavors gave an ever-
to stay and foreigners are welcome here, but upon miners specifically trained to combat Mountain Giants. changing and exotic experience, but it is difficult to
entering through the wall, they all receive a stamp on These guerilla workers are experts at going in, finding find, as it is only sold in the night markets, which are
the back of the hand that indicates the day of entry. what they need as fast as possible, withdrawing small GOINGS-ON far more treacherous than their daytime equivalents.
Visitors are only able to stay for an entire week – amounts of uncommon resources and getting them 1. A caravan of wine salesmen arrives at the wall
‘Feykin’, a savory stew crafted from the finest meats,
anything longer than that needs to be approved by back to the city. They pack light and avoid the kind unannounced. The Watchers there don’t seem to
herbs, spices, and produce which can be found in the
Queen Lagheri’s advisors. of open spaces where Mountain Giants are at their know whether to let them in or not and an envoy
local markets. Only the most knowledgeable of cooks
most dangerous, but still often don’t return home is dispatched to the Queen.
are able to prepare it properly and the flavors of the
alive, which has made them heroes or fools to other 2. People are clearing the area around the house
THE UNDERGROUND
meat and spices are whimsical, each bite bringing with
Messani, depending on how a specific individual looks of a guard. He is on his death bed and wishes to it a new surprise. Some say that the Fey-kin was is so
QUARRIES at risky endeavors. become a Watcher. A host of Munagi is expected delicious that it is worth risking one’s life to find a chef
Although the city itself seems impervious to attacks, the to visit him soon. who has mastered it.
quarries where its people used to collect their stones
and minerals lie outside of the wall, which left them TRADE 3. Traders from outside of the city who want to buy
some local products are arguing with a market
vulnerable to the Mountain Giant tribes that live in the Despite the proximity of the Great Artery, there is little
to no trade with Lamaris or any other city. Even the
vendor. They feel they should be able to pay the K EY LOCATIONS
mountains. Mountain Giants are well-known for hating same (i.e., lower) amount of money as Messani, THE CORNER OF ETERNAL LUCK: Located on the
humans and particularly workers who cut through the gems so sought after by the Dulah’Dur tend to be sold but no-one else seems to agree. east side of the Tempahk Pesaar, near where the wall
stone that they believe once had the essence of their and bought in the markets of Messani itself… which
4. A local Kaa’hen is being beaten because he was flows into the mountains, is an inscription said to have
godly ancestors running through their arteries. has made exported Messani jewels extraordinarily
trying to explain to his flock that the other been made by Quisani herself, but more likely added
expensive.
After losing too many good people to the wrathful Ethennian gods are just as important as Quisani by a local Kaa’hen centuries ago. It reads ‘Let all who
giants, the Messani government held a competition The notable exception is wine, as there are no herself. A new priest will soon be needed. stand here be safe under Quisani’s hand’. So far, the
that was announced throughout all Ethennia in grapes growing anywhere in Messani. Efforts to grow engraving has lived up to its name: no robbery, fight or
grapevines have all failed, which is a cause of frustration 5. A bunch of kids stop playing with their marbles murder has ever happened here, although this might
order to find an architect who would come up with
to many of Messani’s people, some of whom whisper and look at the Characters as if they shouldn’t obviously also have to do with superstition. During bad
a solution to the problem. After a full year of reviewing
this is due to an ancient dispute between Quisani and be there. times, people sometimes gather at the Corner and
and dismissing plans, the former king settled on
Imelda Laaialyn, an unknown but brilliant academic Wadahe, the Shepherd of Life. 6. A mother is hauling her artisan son away by the even put-up tents until led away by the city guard, all
who claimed to have been living in Messani all her arm because he tried to make out with a soldier in the hope for better times.
life. She came up with an elaborate series of tunnels woman from another caste. She’s quite upset – THE SARING BODOAH: The only true tavern in town.
that allowed stone to be extracted from underneath CUSTOMS & R ELIGION and her son is as well. It is located in the poorest district, where only lowly
the city grounds. The project proved to be successful, Denizens of Messani end almost all weighty discussions 7. An old man is standing outside of his home, craftsmen live, but it is still quite nice and offers no less
and the mining complex has grown to be increasingly with ‘if Quisani pleases’, then wait a few moments for looking at the sky. He’s been there for a full day than four 8-person bedrooms. Foreigners who don’t
layered, as workers are delving ever deeper to find the a sign from the goddess. Outsiders have observed this waiting for a sign from Quisani after praying already know are never told, but the name translates
resources they need. supposed portent can be almost anything and seriously for guidance. to ‘Fool’s Den’.
doubt whether whatever follows truly is a sign from
This underground labyrinth is the subject of many 8. A smart young beggar starts talking to the PCs THE UNDERGROUND QUARRIES: Accessible through
Quisani, a decision born out of cognitive dissonance, or
urban folkloristic tales and some even whisper that about the lack of upwards mobility in Messani. any of the four well-guarded guild houses (in Messani,
an excuse for whatever course of action the Messani in
Imelda Laaialyn was actually Quisani in disguise. architects and miners share the same guild), the
question wants to take. 9. A group of young adults is running up the
underground quarries are a marvel of technology,
Although the entire Ethennian pantheon is recognized mountain side with telescopes. The youngsters
with layer upon layer of tunnels, interconnected with
here, all temples in Messani cater to Quisani exclusively, have heard that a band of marauders is standing
pulley lifts and sturdy staircases. They run hundreds of
with worship of the other gods being relegated to outside the walls, enthralled by the purple water.
meters deep and are lit by naturally occurring crystal
small shrines. 10. A passing denizen spits at the PCs and screams for deposits. The air, although thin, is provided by small
them to get ‘back to their own country’. shafts that pierce through the ground up to fields
outside of the city center quite simply known as ‘Air
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Pastures’. Mine cart tracks cover a large part of the K EY NPC S QUEST HOOKS THREATS & DOOM:
tunnel complex, which doesn’t extend beyond where PAVAAN BALAKRISHAH: A gentle Kaa’hen who i ii
the wall is outside. Much happens here, but most of believes his city should be more open to strangers. A FALSE PROPHET
what does never reaches the world above. Pavaan is somewhat of an activist and has been
appealing for an audience with Queen Lagheri for 3 Queen Lagheri’s advisors wish to hire the PCs’ services.
SHRINE OF LOYALTIES PAST AND PRESENT (EL
They’ve discovered that the existence of Kaa’hen
DORIDI MELAIN): This shrine was erected by locals years now. He feels the caste system is keeping people
from achieving their full potential and would like to Balakrishah’s miracles may be exaggerated at best or THE LIVING MOUNTAIN
whose heroic family members became Watchers of the false at worst but want proof before taking action. This
Wall. It is almost like a museum, a two-story affair that see some changes. He would probably already have Unfortunately for the citizens of Messani, their
been excommunicated if not for the miracles ascribed might confront Characters with their own sets of morals
houses a permanent exposition showcasing poems and and decide what to do before handing Pavaan over to days are numbered. One of the reasons why there
written tales about the exploits of heroes before they to him as a priest of Quisani.
the city guard. have been less incursions by Mountain Giants isn’t
became Watchers, as well as clothes, favored weapons, MAHNAR BAHNARJEE: One of the city’s most famous that the Dulah’Dur are so effective – it’s that the
and other personal items that used to belong to them. Dulah’Dur. Mahnar is the only known living example of Reward: If the Characters turn in Pavaan, the court
will award them with a pouch full of jewels from original inhabitants of the region are partly right.
THE BALLISTA OF IMLIHN: Nestled in the heart of the upwards mobility, as Queen Aarif Lagheri has granted The mountains may not be the gods personified,
him access to a higher caste not once, but twice. This the Ayurpaya Mountains. If they decide to save the
city is a grand and spacious courtyard, where a single Kaa’hen, he will be eternally grateful and the Characters but the petrified remains of a creature from their
ballista stands vigilantly. So prominent is this intricate has caused many of the downtrodden to view Mahnar
will have made an ally for life who may even perform myths: Umlau-Raah, a legendary stone titan
projectile weapon that when the morning sun rises and as a hero, while many born in higher castes hate him –
both of which Mahnar dislikes a miracle for them when it is needed most. the size of a mountain that sleeps under the
shades of brilliant oranges, yellows and reds reflect off
surface of the mountain. Lately, the giants have
its steel, it illuminates the entire city like a beacon of MEERAH CHUKRABAHTI: Meerah is the wife of one
i ii heard one of the mountains stir and rumble –
hope. It was used by the ancient hero Imlihn to defend of the city’s Watchers of the Wall. She lost her husband,
SOMETHING WICKED YOUR WAY COMES something that hasn’t happened in generations
the city from an invasion by local marauders while Rhamish, after he was mortally wounded defending
the city walls were still being erected. It is here where Messani is abuzz with some bad news: several Dulah’Dur
– and they are beginning to suspect that Umlau-
her honor in a bar. Rhamish had always been a devout
many stories have been told and lessons shared about servant of the city and was rescued from the Munagi. have seen a Dragon circle over the Ayurpaya Mountains. Raah is starting to awaken.
a bygone age, with tall tales of daring feats, heroic last He is now living eternally on a rampart near the main An attack from above might be one of the only things
stands and legendary heroes. gate. Meerah still visits her husband every day, bringing that could threaten the city and the Queen is looking
THE NIGHT MARKET: On the outskirts of the city, him food and drinks, and doesn’t want to listen to to strengthen her air defenses. In truth, the Dulah’Dur
nestled in its moated embrace, the Night Market those who say he doesn’t recognize her anymore. in question are in league with a criminal group of siege
emerged from the shadows with a mystical beauty. engineers who are seeking to sell a lot more of their
DICTAH: Dictah is a lowborn from Akani who left Ishta
trademark ballistae, counterweight trebuchets and
This grand bazaar, lit by torches and the flickering
echoes of forgotten voices, is unlike anything seen in
to find a better fortune for her in Ethennia. So far,
things haven’t been working out for her, but the young
catapults than they’ve been able to so far. They’ve THE FANATIC
the surrounding kingdom. Soon after dusk, the market concocted the Dragon story in order to do just that.
woman has become a devout follower of Quisani and One of the greatest threats to Messani comes
gets filled with exotic fragrances, beckoning visitors to is hoping to improve her lot by becoming a cleric. She Reward: If the Characters can discover what is going
from one of its most devout citizens: Uarkhwan,
explore the goods and wares that were being traded. has learnt Ethennian and is highly motivated, but is on and inform the court, the Queen will offer to make
a former priest of Quisani, was excommunicated
Tables and stalls, each with a plot more tantalizing barred from priesthood because of the inflexible caste them Messani citizens and grant them a house with
than the last, offered food and wares from all over after mistreating followers of other gods or spirits
system. She is now considering revolting in the hopes a small complement of servants, but this will also mean
the land. Merchants, singers, storytellers, magicians to raise a movement that will force the royal court to they will now belong to a fitting caste out of which on numerous occasions. A religious fanatic who
and all manner of adventurers wander through the change the system. they won’t be able to escape easily. allows no room for any other deity, Uarkhwan has
mazes of trinkets and treasures. Here, adventurers can had time to tap into the mental realm through
MELENDRIS OF BESHAAR: Melendris is an
find spells, cures for the mysterious ailments of their magical means. His plan is as brilliant as it is
aged shaman who has been insisting that he can i ii
days, or potions, some of which are said to be powerful terrifying: he wants to invade the thoughts of the
communicate with the spirits of the Watchers of the WHAT LURKS BENEATH
enough to alter fate itself. Watchers of the Wall and control them to leave
Wall. According to him, they are very much aware
of everything that happens around them and have One of the mining crews hasn’t come back from the their station to attack the palace, overthrow the
retained their personalities, even though they are underground quarries. Most of the guards aren’t Queen, and usurp the entire city-state. Wily,
unable to communicate as they used to. trained in tunnel combat and the heroes are hired stealthy, and extremely discrete, Uarkhwan has
to go inside and find out what’s happening. Once in, been able to keep his machinations so well hidden
they’ll eventually stumble on a cult that has set up
that he may succeed without even needing to lift
camp inside of a rarely used section of the complex.
a finger.
Reward: If the Characters manage to clear out the
tunnel complex, the Guild of Miners & Architects will
allow them to keep whatever they salvaged from the
cult’s lair. They will also each receive a small pouch with
crystals mined in the mountains.
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extremely easy to get along with, visitors from outside distinguishable by their jade green baggy trousers and GOINGS-ON K EY LOCATIONS
of Nadir often get a little spooked because they blue head cloths, but also by their pale, earth-stained 1. Two members of the Gemdor ying Haladin THE EMERALD GARDENS: A huge herb garden
feel so different and most decide to continue their skin, as their guild house is the only one in Ethennia are talking animatedly at a nearby corner, with lots of beautiful trees and shrubbery along the
travels after a short stay and rest. However, beneath that is completely subterrestrial and most of their lives complaining about how a recent trade mission bank of the Great Artery. It connects to the harbor
that peaceful veneer are some of the most scheming, is spent underground. almost went awry after getting ambushed by and features paved roads, lots of banks, Dream Spice
conniving, and manipulative criminals of all Ethennia; Dream Spice trade is regulated by the Mandor Haladin, a bunch of bandits looking to steal Dream Spice. booths and food stalls, as well as several bathing inns.
scammers, smugglers, and dealers who profit from the which roughly translates as the ‘Royal Inspectors’. Clad 2. The Characters come across a minstrel who is THE NADIR CONCERT HALL: A huge seated indoor
illegal export of uncut Dream Spice. in the same green and blue colors as the Radin Haladin, singing about a great hero while accompanying theater that can accommodate up to 800 people.
but wearing tunics and tight-fitting leather armor, himself on a lute, but the tale sounds more The circular center stage has arms stretching out in
inspectors are posted at every trade route node, where
WINE & GAMING travelers are required to have any goods they have
mellow than it should and is lacking the oomph it
needs to really make an impression.
eight directions so that performers can almost wade
into the public, entertaining them from all sides. The
Nadir features some of the best vineyards in Ethennia. with them be inspected. Only Royal Merchant Guild hall also has dressing rooms for the musicians, as well as
A lot of grape varieties grow here, and wine is one of the 3. A few locals are playing an intricate multi-level
members are allowed to transport any Dream Spice at stockage for a full orchestra consisting of sitars, sarods,
two most important export items of the city, the other board game with playing pieces representing
all, and even so a sample is always taken and sifted to sahnai, sarangi, tabla, fiddles, vina, kanjira and violins.
one being board games. The city state is famous for the gods in a nearby garden. Some of them are
make sure it isn’t pure Bimbu Ipan.
its progressive game designers and has taken a leading smoking, but all of them are drinking wine. THE PALACE THRONE ROOM: Tastefully but
The second most influential organization is the Farmasi minimally decorated, the throne room of the palace
position in that field. Almost any peaceful profession 4. The Characters see a young boy cutting an old
ying Hibit, a guild that provides medicines, potions, is never empty, as it is open to the public. Under the
can be found here, but there are no weaponsmiths of woman’s pouch without her noticing. They’ll have
salves and other ointments to its citizens. Healthcare is marbled arches sit two thrones joined together and
any kind to be found. to be pretty fast if they want to catch him. If she
free for citizens and travelers alike and paid for with city infused on a pedestal, but the most interesting thing
notices, the woman will sigh, but won’t curse or
taxes. The guild is not responsible for the production about the room is the open staircase winding down
shout.
R ELIGION of Dream Spice, even though their highest-ranking
members tend to be called to the palace to serve there 5. A young couple that seems it already had
into the depths of the castle below, where Dream Spice
is reported to be made.
All Ethennian gods are worshipped here, and all enough Dream Spice offers some leftovers to
once there is no way to ascend even further in their
temples include sprawling hammams and extensive the Characters – enough for two of them to NISWILLA’S WINERY & BATHING INN: Unique
rank. Once there, they must swear an oath of fealty and
hospitals where experts provide free healing. However, experience the drug. in Ethennia and named after the famed, universally
secrecy which none of them have ever broken, keeping
the most popular gods by far are Kalliope, Flower of revered winemaker Niswilla, who passed away a decade
the mystery of even the small knowledge they manage 6. While passing by a bathing inn, the Characters
Passion; Bhaidiri, the Enlightened; and Sareha, Peaceful ago, this is a vineyard of about 39 acres where no less
to glean about Bimbu Ipan intact. see how a rugged-looking, drunken man is gently
Jewel. All three have major temples here and their than 5 different grape varieties are grown. Using a host
priests are held in high regard. Those who believe gods Finally, the Gemdor ying Haladin, or ‘Royal Merchant pushed out the door. He stammers and objects, of innovative methods to ferment and process the
to be responsible for the production of Dream Spice or Guild’ is responsible for the actual transportation and but doesn’t otherwise resist. grapes, Niswilla’s Winery offers more then 14 different
at the very least for the peaceful aura around the city trade of Dream Spice, which is always cut with other 7. A few Radin Haladin are returning home, wines, each of them either a monocepage or a refined
often point at this trio of gods, whom they suspect to substances before being allowed to leave Nadir. It is covered in sediment and looking very tired. They blend. There is a large but cozy bathing inn attached
reside within the palace itself. also the only guild whose members are armed and are treated with the utmost respect by other to the vineyard where the patrons don’t use water,
armored, although even Gemdor ying Haladin are citizens, who step aside almost reflexively to let but wine to wash themselves with. Unsurprisingly,
only allowed to pick up their weapons upon leaving them through; attendance is quite expensive.
ORGANIZATIONS the city-state. All are expert drivers and riders, and all
are trained outside of Nadir in farms that act much like 8. A rucckus in the distance, close to the city gates. THE CENTER HARBOR DISTRIBUTION CENTER:
The most important organization in Nadir, the Radin They inspectors probably just discovered some A fairly large, wooden building with three floors and an
military barracks.
Haladin only share the procedure they use to create uncut Dream Spice on a smuggler who was trying above-the-ground rail track with carts leading directly
Dream Spice with the royal court, and the relationship As can be expected, there are quite a lot of smuggling to leave the city. to the palace where Dream Spice is distributed, the
between parties has always been inexorably linked rings active in the city, and dealers are always playing Center Harbor Distribution Center also includes a bar,
and intimate, both bodies acting as one in most a cat and mouse game with the local militia. with 9. Two Kaa’hen of Baidiri are conducting a survey
a Dream Spice tasting room, and a huge storage space
Dream Spice-related instances. What is certain, is neither side gaining the upper hand. This is cause in the street about what kind of appetizers
guarded full-time by the business owners and their
that the main ingredient is extracted from a plant for some concern and foreign traders have asked the people in the city would like to be served
employees. As the Bimbu-lah closest to the docks, it
that exclusively grows underneath the valley itself, in for stricter measures, but so far the kings don’t seem during the next Joining – a rather obvious way to
seems more vulnerable to theft than any of the other
a subterranean complex that seems solely connected inclined to change their policies in any significant way. promote initiation into their faith.
distribution centers. Interestingly, because everyone
to the palace. Radin Haladin cooks aren’t only 10. A band of barbarians is drinking mead in a local knows it is, thieves often prefer to steal their Dream
bathing inn. Some of them are talking to each Spice somewhere else, as they realize more eyes are on
other fairly animatedly, while a few others are the Center Harbor Distribution Center than on any of
almost asleep, the remnants of the Dream Spice the five other ones.
they just used on a plate in front of them.
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GLOSSARY: ETHENNIA
the desert.
Ethennians prefer to put a ‘k’
after the ‘c’ in magic to reflect A mixture of 12 different spices
MAGICK SAR’AL’EFRAN
their harsher pronunciation of often used in Ethennian cuisine.
the word.
A type of beetle found exclusively
Immense beasts of burden used in Ethennia with carapaces
MAHLOMUT SILKBEETLE
exclusively by the Mendrih’lihk. made out of thick but ultra-soft
silk fibers.
A small nomadic tribe native BIBLIOTECA Ethennian libraries. A large pack animal native
MALIN
AHLDUR to the Valgar Plains comprised to Ethennia. A naturally occurring metal found
A place where travelers can rest
mostly of shamans. CARAVANSERAI in thin sheets on the surface of
and buy goods. The largest nomadic group found
MENDRIHM Ova Dyr after periods of intense
Also referred to as the ‘Divine on the Valgar Plains. THELIUM
Many cities claim large swathes heat. It is stronger than any
Heat’, the Al’Harayad was
of lands far beyond their city Pagan druids who are still other known alloy and thus much
a century-long drought that ORDER OF THE
walls, which effectively makes devoted to the Ancient Gods in demand.
turned the Valgar Plains into CITY-STATE FIRST ELEMENTS and who mostly live in the
AL’HARAYAD them city-states, even though
dry and barren savannah. A fairly recent tribe that makes
the princes and princesses who Valgar Plains.
It is thought to be an epic its home in underground tunnel
enforce them don’t usually URANDIR
punishment by the Ancient Gods A falling star that scoured the complexes abandoned by the
charge taxes. PASSING OF THE
for abandoning them. skies above Ova Dyr more than Sandworms that made them.
STAR
Full Ethennian names consist 4,000 years ago.
World-renowned academies, A term used to denote non-adult
of a first name followed by YOUNGLING
ALJ’MAYA each of them specialized in very One of many words used to refer members of a nomadic tribe.
birthplace and name of the most RHOGOON
specific subjects. ETHENNIAN to a sandstorm.
significant parent (usually the one
NAMES
A title given to Ethennian with the highest status). Usually
aristocrats or high-ranking though, only a first name and
military commanders that birthplace is used.
also indicates they are leading
An Amrin who has been elected
AMIR a group of other people. Nobles
to coordinate an entire region
who aren’t in a position of GRAND AMRIN
and act as a liaison between the
worldly power are never referred
local Amrin and Anlika.
to as Amirs, even if they are
princes or princesses. A large, flightless bird that is
able to travel over the desert
An Ethennian prince or king
sand far faster than any other
AMRIN whose position is determined by HIRIKU
animal. It can easily be trained
heritage and bloodline.
and is used almost exclusively as
Mysterious loating stones found riding animal.
ANDRIR
only in Ova Dyr.
A type of academic priest
An Ethennian princess or queen trained both in the rituals of the
KAA’HEN
ANLIKA whose position is determined by Ethennian pantheon and in the
heritage and bloodline. efficient use of the biblioteca.
Horned giant snails with A semi-nomadic tribe that roams
AZURE WORMS KALIHN
acidic breath. the Valgar Plains.
Most Ethennian inns include Probably the last descendants
a mixed-gender bathing house of the original inhabitants of
BATHING INN next to the tap room, with the KHALINDRIM Ova Dyr. A solitary people who
guestrooms on higher floors and have almost no contact with the
the stables in a separate building. outside world.
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Ishta
CHAPTER 2:
ISHTA
ABOUT ISHTA who are just as much revered as they are feared by
THE R EGION
their own people. Though each of Ishta’s tiny nations
Far below the ornate Troglodyte caverns and extensive Ishta is often said to be the most savage and deadly varies somewhat in the nature of their governance and
cliff dwellings, dinosaurs vie with humans for living space known region of Athyr, much of which can be structure, they follow the same basic societal outline,
Ishta is a hot and humid jungle region bordering the and dominance. The only place where these lizard- attributed to the abundance of predatory wildlife and and a traveler can rest secure knowing the basics of
dry plains and deserts of Ethennia in the north and the like creatures are known to be found in significant the high number of warring indigenous tribes that what-is-what as they travel from one to another.
lukewarm Sea Of Blood in the south. It is a naturally numbers, Ishta is home to the hulking Tyrannosaurus inhabit its jungles. Of course, this assumption could
occurring lowland, with the Alakh Mountains to the Rex as well as smaller predators like the Velociraptor Ishta is very old, and many civilizations have come and
very well be a misconception, as almost all lands of
northwest and the Iron Peaks of Dorganthur to the and many other Dinosaurs. gone over the ages, leaving behind traces in the form of
Athyr can be quite pernicious, while both Keldor and
northeast delineating its outer perimeters. These buried and forgotten ruins in the jungle so old that no
The mountain ranges, the peaks of which can reach as Taliath are sure to hide dark mysteries people from
natural barriers have long kept the nobles of Ishta’s living person knows even their names. Some say these
high as 1,000 rods, are snow-locked during the winter other regions don’t know about.
numerous tropical city states from having too much are filled with jewels and gold, bus also harbor ancient
months, allowing for a prodigious melt in the spring In a sense, Ishta could be considered an ocean evil. Though the downfall of these civilizations largely
contact with the nomadic tribes and traders from
which feeds the many rivers that crisscross Ishta in the of dangerous wilderness dotted by tiny islands of went undocumented, certain carvings left by the
southern Ethennia.
south-flowing direction, giving life to the great lakes civilization… or an unspoiled paradise of wondrous peoples who once made Ishta their home give reason
However, stouthearted merchants still brave the Odazi and Kahija, as well as countless smaller bodies beauty marred by scattered pockmarks of development. to believe that the devastating eruptions of the great
treacherous passes from time to time, despite their of water. These empty into the tepid Sea of Blood, so It all depends on how one feels about the opposing Mount Obetu, The Parching Pinnacle, played a role in
gorges and saddlebacks containing an unknown but named because of its reputation as the southernmost natures of both angles. their fall. Certainly, that ancient volcano lies restless and
significant number of dangerous creatures like the hunting ground of the much-feared pirates of Taliath, violent to this day, its turbulent seismological roaring
degenerate, semi-human Troglodytes that claim the the boldest of which have been known to take smaller Though much of Ishta’s population resides in small
reed and clay hut villages scattered throughout the watched carefully by priest-astronomers of Qualat and
heights as their own. Prone to feasting upon the flesh of vessels upstream to attack cities in audacious, tactically Akshan for signs of another devestating eruption.
the unwary, these quick-witted bipedal predators have ingenious raids, with the wealthy centers of civilization various jungles and along their rivers and lakes, there
an understanding of the territory that far surpasses located on either rivers or lakes as prime targets for are several large city states which maintain a more Beneath the surface of everything in Ishta, whether
that of almost any human, allowing them to wage obvious commercial reasons. sophisticated, governed, and decadent existence. The natural or man-made, lies conflict, struggle, and
a constant guerilla war on unsuspecting or ill-prepared most prominent of these are Qualat and Huexolta, instability. The ground rumbles unpredictably.
travelers. ruled by powerful juntas of priests, nobles, and sages, Beautiful, multi-colored feathered serpents called
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BADAWO WILDS
While the perimeters of the Badawo Wilds are as lush
and green as anywhere else on Ishta, the frequent lava
eruptions that occur at the vents along the fractures
of Athyr’s largest shield volcano, Mount Obetu, form
broad plateaus of up to two miles thick, and the soil
to its north east is cracked and broken. Here, the earth
shakes frequently, but the peoples of the Badawo Wilds
have taken extraordinary measures to prosper here,
while their priest-astronomers constantly confer with
the spirits to forewarn their communities should The
Parching Pinnacle show signs of becoming fully active
once again. It certainly has done so in the past, and
accounts left in the ruins covered in centuries-old ash
and landslide sludge speak of smoke columns of 90 to
120 miles high.
Living both in forest towns and small palisade burgs
built over molten magma, most Badawons – unlike
most Ishtans – do not have to fear reptiles or other
natural creatures, but rather have to contend with
the unnatural monstrosities made out of volcanic glass
known as Shard Beasts, gaseous entities that are referred
to as the Malekorim, and extraplanar elementals that
were drawn to this subregion because of its unusually
hot surface. In fact, there are many sages who believe
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that the magma itself is alive, and it certainly seems like With direct river access to the entire western part To the north, where the river forks, trading boats can has prompted the priests in Tixal to up the number
there might be some sentience lurking inside of the of the continent, Nosso is of supreme importance to easily reach The Dying Lands. Here, intrepid nomads of sacrifices and call on the omnipresent spirits of the
surface layers underneath the walkways, rope bridges, Ishta, and the relationship it has with Qualat in Charr are more than willing to barter their more in-demand region more often than even their Akshanian and
and huts that make up the Badawon villages. Despite so Dhan is complicated. Akani diplomats are constantly goods and services. However, this has made Charr Huexoltan peers. Maybe this is why it is so hard to
much of its land being covered in scorched minerals, the being sent upstream to negotiate treaties and tolls, but Dhan – and Tixal in particular – a prime target for raids traverse the country without encountering spirits,
periphery of the Badawo Wilds is rich with vegetation, their powerful negotiation position has angered more by Thalian pirates, who often anchor their larger ships both friendly and malevolent ones, and the presence
and small settlements provide trade posts to sell the than one Qualat official. to the west of the Charr Dhanian island to serve as of the ethereal is large here.
crystals, iron, and basalt found in the molten landscape a base for their smaller boats and rowing vessels. This
that comprises so much of this subregion, where the
most valuable treasure is not found underneath the CHARR DHAN
earth, but rather inside of the brittle layers that cover Lush and green with enough rivers and veins of open
it. Unfortunately, this has also attracted the largest areas, Charr Dhan would undoubtedly be a contender
concentration of Beastmen anywhere on Athyr, and for the potentially most prosperous stretch of land in
these violent creatures have formed large warbands Ishta if not for its treacherous delta which keeps any
that threaten the stability of not only the Badawo
Wilds, but also neighboring Akani.
harbor from being established along its western shores.
Rapids and waterfalls, swampland and dangerous rocky NATURE SPIRITS LANGUAGE
OF ISHTA OVERVIEW
One lone city blooms here: the thriving metropolis of outcroppings prevent large ships from passing here,
Akshan, where courageous Osador have developed and even its lone bay island is too inhospitable to host
ingenious climbing harnesses, rappelling kits, and anything other than the occasional romantic couple
An overview of the most common nature spirits
pulley systems to explore the cracked wounds left in out to risk life and limb in return for some excitement.
worshipped in Ishta. Each spirit will be described in more MOSTLY
the soil in cages that are enhanced to withstand the Despite its raging currents, Charr Dhan is more easily detail in the final and complete release of this book. LANGUAGE SPOKEN IN
heat and steam for up to forty-five minutes, making navigable overland than most other subregions on
any exploration attempt both exciting and extremely Huwsedo: The Wind Iawande: The Purity Ishtan Several large cities
the continent, and its most northern city, Tixal, has
hazardous. Above them are the Magstradamis, an been able to survive with only small stretches of river Spirit Spirit
Ishari
order of revered mystics and astronomer-priests that accessible for trade and other purposes. Kta’Vaska: The Leaf Spirit Oyferi: The Healing Spirit
has vowed to keep Akshan safe, but that is timorously Ashiri
With direct river access to both the small but efficient Jamasepta: The Earth Bao-Ar: The Mountain Charr’Dhan
hiding a terrible secret of its own. Imen
harbor town of Nosso and The Dying Lands, the Spirit Spirit
metropolis of Qualat stands in the north of beautiful Lake Kirea
Odo Oya: The Rain Spirit Zo’Xepl: The Warrior
A KANI Odazi as one of Ishta’s only two metropolises (the other
one being Huexolta). A beacon of acculturation and Xalhuota: The River Spirit
Spirit
Baadi
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TORR A NYEGA
OVERVIEW
gatherers and the abundance of tropical plants and came not from the living, but from the ethereal. Originally erected to appease the spirit gods and
animals made this lifestyle relatively easy and appealing.
Slowly, the druid leaders, who had been used to the survive without the need of walled cities, there are
At the time, there were even less open areas than
weather conditions on the Valgar Plains long before that The region of northeastern Ishta is known as Torra ancient pyramids to be found throughout Torra Nyega,
now. The forest canopy was too thick and the surface
territory was flattened, were growing accustomed to Nyega. It’s a large area located between Lake Kahija and even in desolate places where only small semi-nomadic
too heavily burdened with leaves and shrubbery to
their new natural surroundings, and most of them had the metal-rich peaks of Dorganthur, and is bordered tribes dwell. These places of worship are still shared
encourage any other way of living, but that all changed
started to commune with the spirits more than ever on the southeast by the Jungles of Mararoka, where by Ishtans hunting up to a few dozen miles away, and
with the Geradron.
before in a call for protection and help. settlements are few and far between and remain small further serve to keep them from moving to agriculture
A large six-legged herbivore with razor-sharp antlers, the until one reaches the harbor of Kintaba. Bisecting the and erecting cities, as their bond with the spirits makes
Geradron made great prey, and at one point the Ishtan The spirits responded, but they needed to be appeased. region are the quick-flowing Orn and the slower Uro, life more comfortable and, frankly, less work-intensive
trappers must have come up with the idea to use the The first to accept the druids’ pleas was Huwsedo, the which flow together to form the Orunuro; one of the than farming. They are also the reason why there
antlers as weapons, creating the first geradril, a thick Wind Spirit, who took their words and gently carried great rivers of Ishta, which flows into Lake Kahija and are so many languages spoken throughout Ishta, and
axe capable of slicing through wood if swung hard them throughout Ishta, where the other spirits couldn’t later down to the Sea of Blood. outside of Huexolta and Nakbu, either Wanpuri, Polesi,
enough. Under leadership of the druids of the time, one help but listen to them. Soon, Xalhuota, the River and Apane is used, making communication between
Torra Nyega is a pleasant country of forests, farms, and
of the communities in the north of Torra Nyega started Spirit, and Uru’Massari, the Sky Spirit, made themselves Ishtans difficult at times. Most large communities have
small towns, with the triangle shaped region between
chopping trees and experimenting with seeds in a valley known, offering allegiance and guardianship in return interpreters or use spirits to speak with their neighbors,
the mountains and the joining of the Orn and Uro being
underneath the shelter of the Iron Peaks of Dorganthur. for sacrifice. More spirits revealed themselves fast and but conflicts are rare, both because of their common
particularly fecund. It is the least tropical region of Ishta,
This would later become Nakbu. their worship spread from out of the forest camps to the and its rivers are lined with a string of charming semi- spirit worship and because there are so many edible
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DEMON’S FORK demon spirit Lapayetta, either to hide where he is best efforts of architects and adventurers alike. and alcoves. It is
residing or to protect a community of Mandalin. easy to understand why these montages hold so much
The place where the Orunuro splits in two is dark The last two pyramids, simply called Up North and Down
significance to the Muwali, but to most, it is an utter
and foreboding, as if something sinister resides It would certainly explain why there have been so North by the Muwali, are carefully guarded by the tribe,
mystery why they are so fiercely protective of them, and
there. This is why the locals have come to refer to many Mandalin attacks upriver. as their interior walls are of particular significance to them.
why 30 to 60 warriors from their tribe are stationed
this area as the ‘Demon’s Fork’, and the territory Encrusted within the walls are thousands of glowing blue
• The sightings aren’t of demons at all, but rather here around the clock.
between where the fork springs is avoided even by
of some unknown benevolent species that simply
the bravest of Xerifas. There have been sightings
of all kinds of demons, but no known deaths or looks somewhat demonic. If contact can be made,
disappearances. maybe an alliance with the city state of Nakbu might
be possible, but this might shift the power balance
between that city and Huexolta, which many would
find to be an unfavorable development. S ECRETS & R UMORS
• Some believe that the symbols tattooed on the cheeks of the
Muwali are exact copies of some of the mosaics found in the Eyes of
Uru’Massari, which would mean that the pyramids are even more
important to the entire Muwali culture than most might think.
SECRETS & RUMORS • The hidden entrances to Up Middle and Central Middle have long been
found, but the secrets stored within are so terrifying that the Muwali
• The grove sometimes seems to shift and move, leadership is keeping them from their own tribe members. Maybe the
as if the trees unroot themselves. Could this be undead mummies of two necromancer-kings are bound to these places,
the work of the Irudinu trying to move back to or maybe they contain references to extradimensional entities that
THE WEEPING TREES their birthplace? would destroy the world if they were summoned.
Near the Domes of Maradhar in the south of • The Irudinu have been around for millennia and hold • None of the pyramids have really been looted. In truth, they are
Torra Nyega stand the Weeping Trees, a grove of connected by hidden passages and dozens of Muwali are staying there,
information on Ishta and Athyr that no-one else has.
trees inhabited by nature spirits known as Irudinu
If they are asked the right questions and appeased studying the magic glyphs found there. Those who truly believe this
who lament the damage caused by Mount
in some way, they may be able to solve mysteries wildly outrageous rumor also think that the Muwali may be on the
Obetu, across the border. They seem to have
or divulge secrets that would otherwise remain brink of discovering an entirely new – but most probably baleful – way
moved here after the last outburst, ages ago,
and want to return to their former birthplace. unsolvable or hidden forever. of weaving magic.
Unfortunately, they refuse to accept that their
• The Irudinu might not be entirely wrong. After all,
roots won’t be able to take hold anymore there,
large swathes of the Badawo Wilds are still covered
and that much of the land is lain to waste. If told,
the Irudinu will become angry and lash out. If by greenery without having been destroyed by lava,
not told, they will insist on bringing them back dust, or smoke. Maybe somewhere amongst the
to the Badawo Wilds. Anyone traveling through charred, cracked landscape where they originally
this area may hear the sound of soft weeping dwelled a small patch of fertile land still remains.
coming from trees all around them, especially
at night when there are one or more full moons.
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• This isn’t the home of any lost civilization, but a city of spirits. Here,
many of Ishta’s revered spirits reside or at least spend some leisure
S ECRETS & RUMORS time here, and everything found inside the cave complex is just
a reflection of their otherworldly dwellings, shown to mortals as things
• Spirits worshipped by both sides are making sure no infighting erupts here. These they can relate to.
apparitions react swiftly to anger and other negative emotions, and will attack anyone
who isn’t able to remain calm relentlessly.
• Some of the diplomats here have formed a secret cabal that wants to overthrow the
governments of Huexolta and Nakbu. They may even be in league with one of the cults,
believing they can control its disciples.
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Swamp Lake
4 The trail ends at a large swamp lake and snakes around it, but pockets of quagmire (sinking
mud) surround the body of water, making travel unpredictable and dangerous.
4. INTERACTIONS
Xerifa Patrol
2. EVENTS 1
A group Xerifas are on a regular patrol, pretty far outside of their city-state. They are
perfectly happy enquiring about any dangers or obstacles someone may have encountered
Tropical Thunderstorm before reporting back to their camp.
1
A lightning storm breaks loose, channeling forked arcs of electricity out of the cumulonimbus
clouds as loud claps of thunderous sounds assault the ears. The wind picks up as well and Exiled Monstruo
animals may become afraid, possibly breaking loose and running away if not properly trained. 2
A group of young, former Monstruo students have made their home near a cliff, trying to
hidden from anyone who approaches. If befriended, they might share their story of how they
River Flood were exiled from Camp Ymal after they had entered the forbidden ziggurat.
2 A nearby rainstorm has caused a river to flood. The water soon expands to 5,000 to 30,000
square miles, washing away anything not tethered to the ground or attached to large objects. The Victim
Sayra, a brazen adventurer from Evandyr is found hiding behind a fallen tree. She has a broken
Spirit Escape 3 leg, but the rest of her party is in worse shape, as their maimed corpses are scattered around
3
The belongings of a clan that left behind their camp can be found up ahead. Amongst the pile everywhere. According to her they were attacked by a pack of Cazrick. Is that really what
of mostly useless materials is a rumbling clay pot. It holds a malevolent, bound spirit who is happened though? Perhaps Sayra isn’t telling the whole truth.
about to escape his prison.
City Caravan
Strangle Lichen A caravan is encountered on one of the winding paths through the jungle. The travelers are
4
4 Strangle Lichen are hidden among the many other (less dangerous) plants growing in this area dressed in dark, tattered clothing and their faces are painted with intricate designs. They offer
and can mean death to those unable to spot them in time. to trade goods, but are suspiciously secretive about who they are.
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Fortified Observatory
3
An observatory is found in the middle of the wilderness, overgrown and clearly abandoned
long ago. It’s constructed much like a wooden barbican, but a single large telescope juts out
from a slit in its domed top. It seems to be untouched by looters or animals.
Hypnotizing Crystals
4
The jungle in this area is thick and impenetrable, a place where light barely penetrates the
canopy above. Yet, at its center is a clearing that glows with otherworldly light. Its source is
a large crystal formation at the center, pulsing with hypnotic energy.
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OVERVIEW or craft come about, it will be impossible for another While the priests of most other cultures focus far more HISTORY
Known throughout Ishta and beyond for its magical guild to get its own building there. This has kept the on the relief of physical plain, as well as the treatment When the druidic orders that originally came to the
and visual arts, as well as for the quality of its sage- number of lodges stable for longer than anyone can of wounds and illnesses, the Villak Umar believe that all Dorganthur Mountains discovered the area where
sorcerers, Huexolta is a marvel of architecture remember, although some recent developments were natural bodily discomfort originates in the spirit world Huexolta is now located, they immediately realized that
characterized by great pyramids and temples, statues integrated in the existing organizations. Guild members and spend a lot of time talking with their patients, it could make for an easily defendable seat for their
that sometimes reach even higher than the ziggurats always wear a black-and-green ribbon around their preferring a far more mentally-centered approach and first true city. While looking for possible resources, they
that they are erected next to, and magical lighting wastes, no matter the specific organization. the intervention of spirits to help. stumbled upon one of the richest gem deposits in all
that lends it even more of a legendary status than it XERIFA: In Huexolta, the Xerifa (wandering law of Ishta. The decision to stay was an easy one, but the
would have without the integration of the arcane. In enforcers of Torra Nyega) have more responsibilities territory wasn’t entirely able to sustain any long-term
the middle of the city stands a series of gargantuan SMARAGDINE COUNCIL than anywhere else. While they also keep the order human community yet. However, the ruling diviners
towers and smaller buildings, all made the distinctively After the royal sovereigns who used to rule over in faraway Nakbu and have almost complete judicial who visited these lands were amongst the best and
colored granite found nearby. Each of these belongs Huexolta were violently ousted out of power more than power outside of the city proper, the court judges there most intelligent amongst their kind, and were able to
to no other structure is allowed to use the same type 800 years ago, a junta was installed and dubbed the are independent magistrates, whereas in Huexolta, all eloquently communicate their own ideas to the spirit
of stone. ‘Smaragdine Council’. The idea was to have a committee members of the court are elected from the ranks of the gods, who agreed to help them with their ambitious
The most iconic of all sights in Huexolta however is that truly represents the people’s best interests. To Xerifa and the acting Constable Xerifa also has a seat architectural proposals.
undoubtedly that of its Kongamata (greatly feared accomplish this, one representative was chosen from on the Smaragdine Council. This had led many to fear Rather than being built up like most cities, Huexolta was
giant flying lizards which are indigenous to the Jungles each of five organizations that were believed to cover that Nakbu might gain implicit control over Huexolta, built down by literally carving away a mountain made
of Mararoka to the south) patrolling the azure heavens most strata of society. Over the centuries, this has had should nefarious elements in that city be able to bribe of igneous granite, then using the tailings to create the
above the city. These sentries of the sky are controlled the effect of making these institutions more influential. or otherwise corrupt the local law enforcement. After Huexolta Valley.
by the Arak Liman, sorcerers who dedicate their lives Although Huexolta’s society isn’t entirely hierarchal, all, the Xerifa of both factions often convene at mid-
the committee members hold more power than During the decades of construction, the druids started to
to protecting the city, each of them bonding with way points to share information and there are plenty
anyone else and status is largely derived from being differentiate and specialize, but modern scholars surmise
a single Kongamata after graduating and becoming of opportunities to influence decision-making on the
a member of an organization that has a representative that this cannot have been enough to evolve to the
able to see through the creature’s eyes and control other side.
in the Smaragdine Council. The 5 positions are chosen system of royal rule and widely differing arcane covens
their every move. GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: The guild representative
every 2 years and each person can only be up for that was eventually adopted. Aside from their exposure
Locals of Huexolta will politely greet travelers and doesn’t need to hail from one of the major guilds, to the local spirits, something must have happened
election 5 consecutive times.
answer questions if talked to in a language they although this helps getting enough votes from time to to introduce the magical arts to the druids. Within
understand, and many of them will gladly serve as The positions are: time. More important is a question round in which the centuries, there were many magical orders active, all
guides or hosts should those visitors need assistance.
▪ 1 Sage-Sorcerer (Arak Madur) potential new member is asked to present a project under the rule of a succession of princes and princesses.
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K EY LOCATIONS spirit-talkers, no matter their kind. Uniquely, there surface to allow its visitors to peer at the sky. It is upkept the White Smaragdine Palace is where the Huexolta’s
CUAXYLTY’S GUESTHOUSE: Although Huexolta are many rooms where they can be trained in the by the Villak Umar, many of whom also live here, and Smaragdine Council convenes on a weekly basis. It is
doesn’t have any inns or taverns that cater to foreigners, mystical arts, or where they can practice their craft its upper levels are only accessible to them. It is said accessible to the public, but heavily guarded by a full
visitors are often pointed to Cuaxylty’s house, where without being disturbed, and all are warded by spirits that the world’s largest telescopes and astrolabes are complement of elite warriors during those days that
the old former Arak Liman will gladly play host to up to prevent collateral damage or interference by evil found in its observatory and the sorcerer-astronomers the committee convenes.
to 12 guests at the time. Patrons are treated to local spirits. Sorcerers are taught by others in their order, aren’t doing anything to prove that rumor false.
HUEXOLTA VALLEY: The location of the Twelve Villages,
specialties and drinks, and for an extra fee can also but those who are sensitive to spirits or to the arcane GREEN-BROWN SILO OF AGRICULTURAL EXCHANGE: the Huexolta Valley is the home to thousands of living
enjoy the excellent services of someone who knows can also go here and petition for an instructor. Most The lower ground levels of this squat structure are open residents, with roughly 500 dwelling in each village.
the entire layout of not just the city, but its environs such questions are met with a positive response within on one side, creating a sort of giant tent in which an These villagers labor in the surrounding fields, providing
by heart, having seen them through the eyes of her weeks or months. There are rumors that some of enormous farmer’s market conducts its business daily. the entire community with all of its food needs.
bonded flying lizard back when it was still alive. the chambers have been sealed because too many It is the only market of its kind to speak of, which also
malicious entities were summoned there, while less serves to delineate the importance of grains. The upper
MALEPOL COURT: The most colorful square in all of
Huexolta (and one of the few multi-colored structures
common hearsay claims there is a hidden underground
level where necromancy is still practiced.
levels are reached by ladders and wenches, which can be K EY NPC S
outside of the towers), the city’s malepol court is a 60 hauled up if there is a siege, while the lower catacombs PRINCE AMAR LEEKAN: Prince Amar Leekan is the
feet-deep basin accessed by long flights of stairs inside BLACK-RED KANCHOW (GAMBLING HOUSE): can be sealed off from below. last remaining member of the royal bloodline that
one of the building blocks. Surrounding the upper Huexolta’s largest kanchow is a three-story rectangular RED-BROWN TOWER OF ARAK LIMAN: A stout, was removed from power more than 8 centuries ago.
stairs are small buildings where food, drinks, and toys building made of some of the most difficult to find imposing building, the Red-Brown Tower of Arak Liman Physically enormous in literally every direction, the
are sold, and the entire place gets crowded during red granite with elegant swirls of black granite in it. features a single ground floor and a winding staircase current Prince has never been seen walking on his own
game time. With games on every 3 days, much of the Registration is required to enter to avoid – or, at the going up 90 feet to get to the first of its five floors. but is always transported through the efforts of servants
city’s cultural life revolves around this court and other, very least, punish – theft and the casino is guarded There, dozens of servants work round the clock to wash using conveyances of various sorts. A member of the Arak
smaller ones like it. Malepol is played with four teams by hirelings who all also serve time in the militia at and feed the entranced Arak Liman, using hot water Madur and master of the arts of the priest-astronomer
competing at the same time and trying to get a single all times. All kinds of gambling games can be found tubs and intricate hand techniques to manipulate their as well as an adept politician, much of Prince Amar’s
leather ball inside of a goal hoop using any body part here, and tough, multi-round huitillica tournaments jaws and throats. The city’s complement of Kongamata time is spent lobbying for the various guilds.
available. Special games feature Arak Tiyiix and draw are organized every month. is kept on the two highest levels and attended to by CUAXYLTY METICLA: Cuaxylty is a kindly old woman
even more spectators. BLUE SPIRE OF PRECIOUS STONES: This slim but highly-specialized animal handlers who work closely who used to be an Arak Liman for 22 years. After losing
THE FORBIDDEN ZIGGURAT: The only ziggurat elegant structure is the home of the city’s jewelers, and together with the servants below. her Kongamata to a band of marauding Troglodytes
made of basalt, not granite, the Forbidden Ziggarat is thus exceedingly well-guarded and designed with RED CITADEL OF MARTIAL INVULNERABILITY: This 11 months ago, she decided to return to her family’s
stands alone on its own platform. Astonishingly, it security and defense in mind. Gems are brought here is the home of the Huexolta military. It is the widest of house, which she found empty. She refurbished and
isn’t patrolled by elite warriors, but by a revolving and cut, then sold directly to local traders and shops. the Huexolta towers, with its bizarrely smooth exterior now wants to dedicate her life helping foreigners who
threesome of one Arrak Madur, one Villak Umar, and Foreigners are forbidden to enter, although some featuring a human face and spartan quarters that visit by offering her services as a host and guide.
one Xerifa. Huexolta’s ruling body maintains that it is notable exceptions have been made throughout the only take up a small portion of its upper level inside. ALYA JALMEZ: One of the servants working in the
being kept there as a monument and as a reminder last few years, the most significant of which is a supposed Its exceedingly thick walls, murder holes, arrow slits, Red-Brown Tower of Arak Liman, Alya is kind, good-
of darker times, when some of the pyramids were visit by Emperor Zhang of Roshan. Unfortunately, the and other fortifications make it the most defensible natured, and always willing to crack a joke. She loves
appropriated and corrupted by evil spirits during the enigmatic ruler was never actually seen by anyone and location in the city and it is riddled with twelve-foot- the Arak Liman she takes care of and often also goes
civil war. thus it remains unknown what he looks like. long tubes that can be extended outwards through to visit their Kongamata, treating them almost as her
TUHELTA’S GEM EXCHANGE: Even though the front GREEN-BLUE TEMPLE OF KAJEMBA: An imposing wall slots. The tubes can fire pointed projectiles that own pets. This has made some of her colleagues think
of Tuhelta’s Gem Exchange is a small, immaculate adobe, structure comprised of a vaulted roof supported are projected by minor wind spirits and that can reach she might be a little jealous and even overly protective
a fortified door with a unique locking mechanism in by pillars that rise more than 120 feet into the sky, any point inside or just outside of the city. of the animals, and they may be right.
the back provides access to a far larger silo where gem Kajemba is only worshipped during daytime. There are RED-GREEN PILLAR OF SAGACITY: This cylindrical UMALA HILKAMESH: A jeweler by trade, Umala is also
currency and exclusive jewels are kept. Inside of the several intricately decorated daises underneath the structure is basically an enormous, carefully guarded absolutely obsessed by gems. She is an expert appraisal
customer area, gems are glued to the many shelves, roof but no walls, and each platform is dedicated to library with its living quarters and laboratories situated and knows absolutely everything there is to know
serving more as examples than as products that can worship on a different time of day. Each period also entirely beneath, save for the top levels in which both about jewels – not just the ones commonly found in the
be bought, but Tuhelta is an extremely proficient represents a different aspect of day, such as food and the rarest manuscripts reside together with a small Dorganthurs and in Huexolta, but found anywhere. As
appraiser and will even graciously offer clients to check drink, crops and harvest, light and illumination, birth army of librarian-servants overseen by Arak Madur. a shopkeeper, she has become used to hide her greed,
the balances he uses before (or after) he weighs the and education, hope and opportunity, and healing.
WHITE SMARAGDINE PALACE: Made from white but she isn’t above to hire thieves or even assassins to
coins or gems that are to be exchanged. GREEN TOWER OF HEAVENLY ASTRONOMY: The granite but encrusted with hundreds of emerald recuperate some of her most priced goods.
BLACK OBELISK OF THE ARCANE ARTS: This tallest structure in the city features reclined walls and mosaics depicting rulers from the past eight centuries,
thin black sliver of rock is home to all sorcerers and numerous large vertical rectangular openings in its
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SMARAGDINE COUNCIL occasions. This has led the other committee members QUEST HOOKS
M EMBERS to become annoyed at times, as they feel that some
Xerifa should be punished for certain transgressions that
RAZGUL MANAR: The current Arak Madur committee i ii landslide is supposed to be is necessary. Through it,
the Constable is willing to turn a blind eye to.
member, Razgul Manar, has ruled capably ever since he ROYAL COUP they intend to call upon the local spirits for guidance.
was chosen to succeed his much-loved but debilitated GUILD MASTER QUAMIL: Guild Master Quamil is Characters brave enough to help will have to face the
Since his royal line was stripped of power 8 centuries ago,
predecessor Yamla Mao, but his taciturn demeanor a master of secrets, a shrewd negotiator, and a feared local Troglodyte tribes and natural dangers to find
Prince Amar Leekan has grown up in a family that has
and ghostly face have led many citizens to speculate opponent in the game of politics that is played out the necessary raw materials. Should someone return
always accepted the Smaragdine Council’s rule as a given.
that he is a necromancer – a reviled occupation that among the various guilds.He is a tall, imposing figure, with the rock, the spirits will only want to talk to one
The Prince has never shown any intention of changing
was banned back when the junta first took over. Razgul clad in the intricate and ornate robes of the ruling person: Grand Oracle Nephitiy. For the fortunetelling
that, but most committee members have come to realize
hasn’t reacted to this rumors yet, but the city certainly elite. His face is hidden behind a mask of gold and jade, to succeed with the help of the spirits, the Grand
that he may wield more power and influence than any
has seen an increase in incidents with the undead since adorned with strange and exotic symbols that hint Oracle will need to be persuaded to look at the stars
of them are openly willing to admit, and his requests
he joined the Smaragdine Council. at the depths of his knowledge and power. His voice one more time, almost certainly losing her mind in
have been denied more often over the latest few months
is low and commanding, and his every gesture is filled doing so.
GRAND ORACLE NEPHITIY: The ruling Villak Umar, than at any time before. Unfortunately, the committee’s
with a sense of purpose and authority. Despite of his
Grand Oracle Nephitiy was elected amongst the city’s misgivings are now risking to become somewhat of self- Reward: The diviners and the Council will prefer
impressive appearance, some say that he is a puppet
priesthoods for her great accuracy in fortunetelling, fulfilling prophecy, as for the first time, Prince Leekan keeping the possibility of a landslide a secret to their
of the guilds, a figurehead who is manipulated by the
but of late, she has begun refusing to even look at the is wondering whether he should look into disbanding people for fear of panic erupting, but if the Characters
true powers behind the scenes. Others believe that
stars. In an unprecedented move, Nephitity has literally the Smaragdine Council and re-establishing royal rule are successful, they will be rewarded with a different
he is the ultimate power in Huexolta, the one who
spiked her chin to hang a weight on the protrusion, over Huexolta. However, he has been asking too many gem and a free divining or medium session each.
truly controls the Smaragdine Council and its various
making raising her head difficult and fairly painful. In questions, and Constable Azel Oatiles is looking to enlist
interests. He is known to have a vast network of spies
public, she has been claiming that she has done so the help of some discrete investigators or adventurers
and informants, who keep him apprised of all the latest i ii
because the spirits have directed her to remain humble who are willing to delve into the matter.
developments in the world of guild politics. He is also THE ILLNESS
in her function, but to close confidantes, she has
a master of diplomacy, able to negotiate complex deals Reward: If the Characters find proof of Prince Leekan’s
admitted that she had been seeing ominous portents Of late, several Kongamata have fallen victim to
and alliances that benefit all the guilds under his sway. plans and present it to the Council, they will be
in the sky and she doesn’t dare to gaze at the celestial a mysterious disease. More are sick and the Arak Liman
handsomely rewarded with their pick of jewels. If they
constellations anymore for fear of going insane. GENERAL OMECIHUATL: The master of the Red Citadel are extremely concerned. The Characters are hired
leave any room for the prince to deny the accusations,
of Martial Invulnerability is a towering, intimidating to discover what is going on, as their numbers are
CONSTABLE AZEL OATILES: One of the members of the they may risk imprisonment or worse. If they choose to
man who oversees the defenses and internal security dwindling fast. Behind it all is a rogue band of Obega.
Smaragdine Council, Constable Azel Oatiles is shrewd, side with the royal, they’ll be given a position of power
of Huexolta with ruthless determination. Little is known Their chief, a powerful shaman known only as Elc, has
quick on his feet, and physically fit. Always entirely within his court as well as a chest full of treasure.
of his personal life; though he clashes often with Lady been sending disease spirits to the Red-Brown Tower
clean shaven, he always moves with undeniable flair and
Xochitl of the Blue-Red-Green Spire of Precious Stones of Arak Liman to finish off the winged reptiles. He is
elegance, but often feigns ignorance to make people
during meetings. As one of the sitting members of the i ii planning to target the Xerifa next to break the control
feel more comfortable and to get suspects to reveal the
Smaragdine Council, General Omecihuatl is known to THE PORTENT
truth about their actions. Oatiles leads his Xerifa with Huexolta has over its surrounding reason, but has no
take his duties seriously, although he is also purported A group of fortunetellers have all seen a landslide interest in invading the city or killing off its population.
a firm hand but has defended their actions to the other
to be slightly paranoid at times. that will cover the entire city in the near future, but
members of the Smaragdine Council on numerous Reward: If successful, the Characters will be granted
they can’t pinpoint what its exact origin or path will their own – unbound – flying lizard. It won’t be bound
be without having some material from the mountains to the Characters, but it will be able to understand
to attune to. They believe that a piece of rock taken simple commands and accept the PCs as its new
from the general location of where the source of the masters.
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NAKBU OVERVIEW
Nakbu is a medium-sized walled city situated in a cool
incomplete. Because of this, they don’t realize that
many of the stars have disappeared since the coming
—CITY OF CARAVANS— semi-alpine valley near the headwaters of the Orn of the Heralds and anyone claiming so would have
and at the foot of the well-marked trail which leads a hard time making them accept that fact.
northward to the most frequented pass through the As much as Nakbu is known for its merchants, its Xerifa
THE PRIMARY LOCATION FOR
Iron Peaks of Dorganthur. Despite Nakbu being much (wandering lawmen/judges), and its priest-astronomers,
CARAVANS COMING OVER THE
smaller than Huexolta, its junta of priest-astronomers nothing horrifies their would-be adversaries so much
IRON PEAKS OF DORGANTHUR TO
Upon approaching the white city of Nakbu, it is hard not called Jimya lays claim to almost all of the Torra Nyegan as their warrior spirits, fearsome spirits led by the
EITHER ARRIVE IN OR DEPART FROM
to notice the many footprints and traces – both old and territory that isn’t covered by Huexolta, making it only Jimya who worship Zebado, the War Spirit. This
TORRA NYEGA
more recent – in the dirt road leading up to it. Surrounded a city state in name, if not in reality. regiment of destructive ethereal beings is capable of
by a semi-circle of rectangular fortresses and barracks, the Nakbu is a pleasant if somewhat disreputable place, and completely obliterating far larger cadres while the
POPULATION 7,589 full-time; roughly one of the few communities in Ishta which contains complement of 12 specialized priests that leads them
city proper is built in a circle as well: multiple platforms
1,800 more visiting at any given time. a comparatively large population of non-Ishtans, all stays in the background, directing their fury towards
with rectangular buildings surrounding eight monumental
GOVERNMENT Junta board of Jimya of whom are busily engaged in the import of foreign any enemies in their way. Their overpowering presence
towers and an imposing central citadel. The sky seems
(priest-astronomers) under direction of goods and the export of Ishtan ones via caravans over is another reason why Nakbu’s city-state assertions are
clearer here than anywhere else, as if one had just entered
Jimya-Lao Xiantrix. the nearby pass from Ethennia; mostly from Tamon only truly challenged consistently by the Obega.
a different time of day or even an entirely other reality,
and Samorra, but others come through Oman as
DEFENSE 184 warriors with geradril and the air somehow smells clearer and more flowery, as if
well. Nakbu also attracts the odd professional traveler
wearing jazeraint armor, 118 warriors with
athlathls and shields wearing jazeraint
the spirits worshipped inside of the city are greeting their
visitors.
(typically adventurers, sages, architects, and herbalists) LAYOUT
heading south into Ishta. Most simply visit for a brief Unusually for an Ishtan settlement, Nakbu was
armor, 142 warriors with spears and shields
period of time and the majority of its inhabitants are deliberately constructed as a circle with its population
wearing hide armor, 92 warriors with
Mere miles beyond Nakbu, the Iron Peaks of Dorganthur still Ishtan, but with a noteworthy ethnic and social contained entirely within its outskirts, save for
blowguns and maces wearing hide armor,
46 cavalry with javelins and maces, 54 stand, but here, the mountains are further apart than up variety of people. a modest docking facility for the barges which carry
warrior spirits led by 12 Jimya west or east, allowing for easy access, both by land and Although the original settlers of Nakbu were druids, its trade up and down the Orunuro River and an outer
river. Guard outposts are dotted next to these passes, their advantageous position of the city soon started to circle of military barracks and small fortresses that
SERVICES Adventuring supplies, armorer/ serve to protect the city from unwanted incursions,
smaller than one would expect, and sporting the same change society and was ruled by merchant princes for
blacksmith, companionship, curio, general as Nakbu does not have a wall. Most of the army and
supplies, guide, healing, housing, jeweler,
white walls found in the city proper, only slightly tainted by centuries. However, these trade moguls proved harsh
dust and dirt. and demanding on the local populace and when their the Xerifa have headquarters, training grounds, and
lodgings, meals, mounts, stonemason, living quarters here, although an entire regiment stays
priest-astronomer counselors grew tired of seeing their
storage, taxis, tailor, tapestries, temple, in the center citadel at all times and the dozen Jimya
warnings being disregarded, they staged a successful
translator, woodworker who direct spirit forces hold a separate section in the
coup and installed a junta. Unlike the junta of Huexolta,
which has representation from different careers, the periphery, just in case the spirits manage to break loose
junta of Nakbu is ruled by priest-astronomers – called and try to cause mayhem.
‘Jimya’ in Nakbu – only and the number of members The Jimya-Lao’s residence is located in the center of
varies as all are elected until unable to serve, while town, with the remainder divided into four sections: the
members join their ranks automatically after serving 21 Gem Quarter, Celestial District, the Grand Marketplace,
years as priest-astronomers. and the Stablery. None of these are strictly professional
Decision are made by majority vote, but with the districts, as they all contain a mixture of residences and
acting Jimya-Lao (or ‘Chief Priest-Astronomer’) having businesses, but the focus is evident.
tie-breaking rights. To the chagrin of many, the
current Junta is deeply divided about issues ranging
from civilian autonomy to Xerifa patrol hours, and ECONOMY
Jimya-Lao Xiantrix has been ruling in favor of the more Trade is the primary purpose of the City of Caravans.
progressive elements within her council consistently. Besides the trade coming over the mountain pass,
If she keeps up this pattern, she might be confronted small, finely cut gems come upriver from Huexolta,
with an uprising by the tougher priest-astronomers at which also supplies a steady stream of medicinal herbs
her side. and unique carvings. Finely made weaponry from
Ethennia is also imported through Nakbu, while other,
The priest-necromancers of Nakbu only use recent
stranger objects are brought all the way upriver via
charts and although they are supported with Ayaari
Kintaba. Often, these products are of unknown origin
artifacts, they don’t believe in referencing older
and the Kintaban traders aren’t telling, but many
documents, believing the knowledge back then is
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Nakbuti believe that they mostly hail from Taliath ORGANIZATIONS GOINGS-ON KEY LOCATIONS
and even Keldor – two secluded regions that remain There are many merchant organizations publicly 1. A new caravan has just arrived from over the THE GEM QUARTER: Although Nakbu’s gems used to
a mystery to most of the world. Of course, most trade active in Nakbu; and presumably other, less-reputable be cut quite poorly, it has seen a revival after attracting
mountains, including a complement of Ka’heen
products are by necessity small items, with gems, ones are secretly present as well. In the past, these some of the best jewel cutters of Huexolta in exchange
jewelry, precious metal ingots, and medicines heading who are clearly looking for something. for superior living quarters and lower taxes. This
trader groups were in charge of the city, but now, they
north into Ethennia, and scrimshaw carvings, herbs, have to answer to the Jimya. This actually has worked 2. A big fight breaks out in the Cua-xualtu between move was the last one promoted by the right-wing
books coming in. out very well for them, as the astrological insights of locals and a renowned adventuring party after section of the junta and it has served to heighten the
the priest-astronomers are shared diligently bwith the former group heckled the troupe’s two rivalry between the city and Torra Nyega’s one other
the merchants, who have profited tremendously from minstrels during a particular badly-received major city, which is one of the reasons why Xiantrix is
CUSTOMS their fortunetelling, warnings, and suggestions. This is uncalled far performance.
reluctant to allow more passive-aggressive ideas bear
While exotic by Ishtan standards, the culture of a deliberate decision, and the ruling body knows full fruit. Whatever the case, senior gem cutters willing to
3. Imlak Uhr river pirates have been spotted reach new apprentices have been given larger, more
Nakbu is typical of that of the inhabitants of Torra well that this policy helps prevent resentment and
discontent. a dozen leagues downriver from Nakbu. They comfortable shops, with their own living quarters
Nyega. Locals are welcoming to strangers, generous,
and outgoing compared to the decadent inhalants of have a bound spirit moving the boat faster than located on top of them, which has created an entire
The Jimya themselves wear the same woven or knitted
Ishtan metropolises like Qualat or Huexolta. Like other is normally possible and seem intent on reaching neighborhood of fairly similar white buildings.
textiles with colorful embroidery as the rest of the
Ishtans outside of Huexolta, the inhabitants of Nakbu citizens from Nakbu, but add cloth chaplets with the city proper. THE CELESTIAL DISTRICT: This is where Nakbu’s only
tend to identify themselves by profession; for example, golden rims to that to be easily identifiable. They are 4. Somebody thought it was funny to stable their towers are located: eight large structures centered
Shimsusa the Courtesan, Urbarra the Guard, and Zimah more revered than any other occupation and also around a monumental citadel where the junta holds
Dinosaur mount alongside the horses. It wasn’t.
the Jeweler. Last names are virtually unknown, although maintain their own – much feared – army regiment. court and where all of its members except for the
some families have adopted one, apparently mainly to 5. A discontent rogue priest-astronomer has
Jimya-Lao come to live with their families once they
appeal to foreigners. The Xerifa are clothed much the same as their heretical things to say about the spirit gods
are promoted to its board. The star charts, astrological
colleagues from Huexolta, but generally carry maces after several of his prophecies have proven to be
Of particular note is the custom of ‘maloa-mina’, which texts, and telescopes found here rival any of those
and blowguns. Although they patrol both the city and
basically means one should never – ever – respond widely inaccurate. The Xerifa are searching for encountered in Ethennia, but it is rumored that much
its environs, there aren’t enough of them to maintain
a question with only a short ‘no’ or ‘yes’. Nuances him. of their efficiency is due to several mythical artifacts
the same level of vigilance all over the city-state and
are not preferred, but required, and most answers 6. There’s been a break-in at the Five Banners kept in secret chambers only accessible to the Jimya-
most of them are posted inside of Nakbu or within its
will be lengthy and will often include a reference to Lao and her most trusted colleagues. This is true, and
valley. While the Xerifa from Huexolta have a presence warehouse, and the city guard are looking for
the celestial alignments or the spirit gods. Again, it is were the cults to discover how many powerful Ayaari
in its Smaragdine Council, all law enforcement from suspicious outlanders to blame.
understood that foreigners aren’t accustomed to this divination and recording devices are kept within the
Nakbu answers straight to the junta and thus holds less 7. An adventurer from Evandyr is seen arguing with
and locals will try to be patient as long as possible citadel, Nakbu would be in grave peril indeed.
power, especially as far as policy is concerned.
before losing their poise and disengaging from the some of the locals after asking whether it would
THE MARKETPLACE: The market is where the
conversation. be wise to stay here for a full week. Following settlement’s public commerce takes place, as opposed
LOCAL SPECIALTIES local custom, the citizens refused to give him to the private merchant-to-merchant transactions of
a straight answer, which has apparently riled him the Gem Quarter. Farmers bringing in fresh food from
R ELIGION
‘Sambaza’, deep fried crispy fresh water fish served on
tiny wooden skewers with citrus, small bowels of a tart up quite a bit. Torra Nyega’s villages, fishermen bringing in the day’s
Like most of Torra Nyega, the Ishtan population of and spicy sauce. catch, down-and-out sage-sorcerers sell protection
8. A group of Obega guerillas is being escorted to
Nakbu worships the land’s spirits. In spite – or maybe from curses, tailors and cobblers all hawk their wares.
‘Kappa’, a dish of boiled tapiocas cooked in a ground one of the garrison buildings in the periphery of
because of – the people ruling Nakbu, most methods The Grand Marketplace isn’t an actual plaza, but rather
of divination are looked down upon, as astrology is paste of coconut and spices. the city after being caught trying to set fire to a labyrinth of small, winding roads and dozens of stone
considered to be a superior method of divination, and ‘Pashrutum’, a broth of chicken accented by leek, a Xerifa patrol headquarters. shops, each of them offering wares like pottery, tapestry,
all temples here cater either to Dalnorra, the Night coriander, and onion flavors. 9. Three Xerifa come up to the Characters and and more. Contrary to Huexolta, many of the goods
Spirit, Uru’Massari, the Sky Spirit, or Urunura, the start chit-chatting. They appear friendly, but are here are geared towards visitors and adventurers and
‘Nibilu’, the mild and dry shredded flesh of a type of
Divination Spirit. Although there are many minor spirits include dry rations, sambaza and other local specialties,
giant lizard. This dish is served with a variety of spicy simply checking if the PCs are keeping enough of
representing specific stars and constellations, they are chaiza, and all kinds of adventuring supplies, although
condiments and has a sweet, earthy aroma. a low profile.
honored, but not actively worshipped. iron weapons and sophisticated armor won’t be found
‘Chaiza’, (the only alcoholic beverage made in the 10. A jeweler from Huexolta who has been working here and animals are forbidden to enter this quarter.
Services include copious consumption of chaiza, but
region, is a fermented corn drink that plays an integral in Nakbu for over a year now is being insulted by
rarely stick to scripts and are ad-libbed, although THE STABLERY: The Stablery is where livestock can
part in all celebrations. During rituals, it is drunk by the a group of young kids because of his accent.
certain principles are always followed and the spirit be purchased, as well as riding steeds. There are no
priest-astronomers in gem-encrusted gold cups and
god being worshipped is mentioned profusely. They blacksmiths, however, and saddles or reins aren’t
offered to the spirit gods.
are a source of celebration, but chanting and making used and considered to be an affront to the animal
music just isn’t something most people of Nakbu are spirits. Luckily, this aversion doesn’t extend beyond
interested in or used to, and thus isn’t used. the Nakbu culture and natives regard foreigners as
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Ishta
ignorant, not necessarily as enemies. This is also where TEAHMA THE TAMIPUWA: Teahma is a Tamipuwa QUEST HOOKS
the only tamipu are found, but while these inns only – a tamipu owner – from Ova Dyr. As a young girl,
cater to state personnel in Huexolta, they host mainly she often joined her parents – diplomats working for
the royal family of Tamon – on business trips to Ishta
i ii water cage full of these froglike creatures is attached to
outside visitors in Nakbu, and most residents will point THE HEIST OF MARUM AMLAK the bottom of the boat and they are intent on climbing
foreigners to these establishments instead of charging and after their death she decided to stick around and
out at night to scout Nakbu for their tribe and bring
a fee to let someone stay within their own homes. found the Cua-xualta. She tells everyone this is because Consternation at the Grand Marketplace! Someone
back some tasty food (i.e., human flesh) as well.
Tamipu even feature hay mattresses, whereas locals she loves living in Nakbu, but secretly, she is fascinated has succeeded in robbing Agata Asuka’s shop of all
simply sleep on the floor. by spirits and she’s been dabbling on summoning them gemstones at bright daylight! Even Romlin the Xerifa is Reward: If the Characters manage to stop the
from out of the cellar. Things are bound to go very flabbergasted, and help is needed to find out what has Mandalin before they succeed in capturing some
YOALTA’S ENTERTAINMENT CORNER: Connected
wrong very soon. happened. The robbery was orchestrated by master succulent young humans or in drawing up a map of
to the Grand Marketplace by a single alley, this sleazy thief and spirit-talker Marum Amlak, who had Agata the city, the board will reward them with an honorary
small subdistrict houses the small city’s entertainments, ROMLIN THE XERIFA: One of the best investigators
possessed by one spirit while having air spirits lift the loot title and a small building capable of housing one family.
including brothels, gambling dens, taverns, restaurants, in all of Torra Nyega, slim Romlin has become famous
up through the roof. If Marum is caught, he has more
and herbalists of a less-than-reputable sort. By law throughout not just the city-state of Nakbu, but
spirits at his disposition and will not go down easily.
Nakbu’s sex workers and its financial services are also Huexolta as well. He has a supernatural smell instilled in i ii
restricted to this district. It is run by a single person, him by a spirit who wanted to thank him for releasing Reward: Agata will offer the Characters five bright IMAO THE FORTUNETELLER
crime boss Yoalta, but she is allowed to do pretty it from a Keldorian lantern box, keen human insight, opals if they succeed and will also help them to guide
and an excellent understanding of how things work in through Nakbu during her downtime. Imao the Fortuneteller has gone missing. One of the
much as she pleases as the Xerifa prefer having
the world. Romlin doesn’t like to be bound to anything few diviners who use scrying through reflective water
one dependable person to deal with than having
or anywhere for a long stretch of time and has refused surfaces and mirrors, Imao warned almost all of his
to investigate and question all sorts of criminals if i ii clients that he would soon be captured and taken away
something goes wrong in this part of town. any position of power offered to him, preferring to be FUNERAL BOAT
‘just a xerifa’ who is allowed to handle things pretty by unknown bandits. This has a lot of people spooked,
THE JIMYA-LAO’S RESIDENCE: Standing next to A single funeral boat has come drifting into Nakbu. It is but if the Characters help, they may discover that Imao
much as he wants to, as his superiors believe that will
the center citadel and connecting to it through an carrying ornamental offerings and personal belongings staged his own death to demand ransom form the
yield the best results.
enclosed corridor more than 20 feet in width is the of someone who might be a shaman, but there is no junta board as well as solidify his reputation of being
palatial structure where the Jimya-Lao lives. It sports SIMUSH THE TRANSPORTER: An extravagant fellow corpse or any indication of an exact identity on board. a dependable fortuneteller despite not depending
eight domes around a larger ninth one, reflecting the who specializes in transporting those learned men The locals don’t want to touch the thing and will ask on astrology.
layout of the district, and each of them has its own fleeing the Rhogoon and fickle fortunes which can the Characters to investigate. In truth, the funeral boat
be found in Ethennia to the city of Huexolta. Simush Reward: Mostly thanks and a meal at the citadel. Maybe
telescope. The central dome has an immense lens is a diversion sent by a group of Mandalin. An entire
considers himself to be a lettered man, able to judge a gemstone, depending on how the Characters act.
sticking out of it, always pointed to the sky.
the value of educated Ethennians and to get them
THE CUA-XUALTA: Although there are almost no inns
over the Iron Peaks of Dorganthur without them being
in Torra-Nyega, the Cua-xualta, located in the Stablery
eaten by monsters. He knows how to get things and
district, is a fully-equipped tamipu with three floors,
people into – or out of – Nakbu without the authorities
drinking and eating facilities, and four large rooms,
noticing.
each suitable for up to 8 travelers. Guests are still
AGATA ASUKA: A former coquette from Roshan,
THREATS & DOOM: THE DOOMSDAY DEVICE
expected to make their own food, but can use all of
the utensils available downstairs and chaiza is available who retired from her previous career to become One of the devices in the Celestial District is the Clock of Doom, an enchanted Ayaari device used by that
at all times. an appraiser and trader in opals far to the south of alien race to count down to the destruction of their world. It was first set soon after the Heralds of Doom
her native land where none know of her previous appeared and was found many millennia later near Nakbu. Jimya-Lao Xiantrix tried resetting it several
profession. Agata has built up a respectable business times, but each time it jumps to 3 years before 0. This has Xiantrix spooked, but, worse, several of the
K EY NPC S in the Gem Quarter of Nakbu and is renowned for her
elegance and beauty even as she slips into middle age.
Jimya have gossiped about its existence, which is attracting some of the cults, all of which are ready to do
JIMYA-LAO XIANTRIX: Wise beyond her years, anything to get the device into their hands.
Xiantrix has been trying to keep the peace between URBARRA THE GUARD: A big man with big appetites,
both factions within her own council for years now. Urbarra doesn’t make nearly enough working as
She is acutely aware of the dangers should her more a caravan guard. Skilled both with his spear and with
conservative colleagues win, but also realizes that a bow, he is willing to hire out to anyone traveling THREATS & DOOM: THE GEM OF A MLEESH
she needs to give them a win soon and is discretely the length of the Orunuro from Nakbu to Kintaba;
Forgotten on a dusty shelf in one of the shops in the Gem Quarter is the Gem of Amleesh, a jewel used
lobbying friendly Jimya to add subjects on the agenda assuming they can pay well, of course. He’s a veteran
by a conclave of sorcerers to bind Amleesh, an ancient necromancer-king from Huexolta in it. The jewel
that will appease the more vehement opposition if she and can appraise his employers of the many perils
casts the tiebreaking vote. If the progressives in her which lay in wait along and between its shores. was passed down for more than 750 years and after a few generations, its true purpose was forgotten. If
faction get wind of this, the government is almost sure it is taken from the shelf, Amleesh’ presence will awaken and enchant the holder with one command: find
to explode. a way to shatter to the jewel and set the spirit of Amleesh free. Powerful and merciless, the necromancer-
king will rain terror upon Nakbu until no living soul is left standing.
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JUNGLES OF
M AR AROKA
110 111
Ishta
EXPLORATION
the death blow to the warring clans. Clan members no them from forging alliances with the outside world.
been showing up with what must be mythical weapons,
more, these women warriors were the Jaida and their
and it seems like the tide may soon turn in their favor.
wrath was terrifying.
Most of the commerce, exploration, and travel that Unfortunately, living creatures are nowhere near the
takes place in the Jungles of Mararoka is conducted in only threat to the Jungles of Mararoka. Huge, colorful
one of two ways: by waterway or on trails. To make the flowers known as Mind Blooms project their pollen
best use of its many small rivers, various sorts of sturdy-
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Ishta
through the areas where they stand, infecting anyone swallowing a man whole, and a form of giant (though THE SHORES OF SOLITUDE
who breathes them. Victims start to have random quite edible) catfish, also large enough to gulp down On the eastern tip of Ishta lie the Shores of Solitude,
thoughts and act upon them until the seeds take hold an adult human in a single sip. Birricadi swim through a small patch of land where no sound penetrates. Neither someone takes the
deep enough and they are consumed with the single- the waters as well, and Rimalin Leeches aren’t big at the animals scurrying over the beach nor people trying time to observe
minded desire to walk up to the host Mind Blooms, all, but rather so small that they are almost invisible to speak to one another are heard, and those who try these wooden rods,
where they are then enveloped and consumed. The until they attach themselves to a living being, after to talk only find empty air coming out of their mouths. it will soon become
much smaller Barbed Weed activates when walked which they grow bloated within half a minute ready to Standing in the middle of the Shores of Solitude are apparent that their
upon, cutting through even plate armor to feed on devour their prey. twenty poles where former necromancer-kings and slave shadows are leaning
bleeding feet and legs. More dangerous fauna and flora All of these dangers great and small do not deter the masters were left to die, as even with their tongues they into each other, as if
remains to be uncovered, waiting for unsuspecting most determined of adventurers, as the abandoned would have been unable to cast their reviled incantations. they are ever growing
travelers to feed on. pyramids left here are either virtually untouched or No-one really knows what causes the sound to disappear closer, no matter
Given all of the perils overland, river travel is generally have been plundered, and the gigantic varieties of within a radius of at least 300 feet of the poles, which where Aureya and
preferable... despite the presence of crocodiles of regular animals tend to fetch high prices on markets seem to be placed at the epicenter of the bubble. If Issira are in the sky.
both the standard and gigantic sort, fearsome and all over Athyr as well as in the trading shops of the
incredibly dangerous reptiles which lurk in the mire, Evandyrian and Ethennian gladiatorial arenas.
a variety of poisonous giant frog or toad capable of
POINTS OF INTEREST
• The dome of silence was created by clan sorcerers with the specific purpose
of punishing their evil subjugators. It remains there because fortunetellers
foresaw a new wave of dark magic-users, and the shadows cast by the poles
are counting down to that moment. When they finally merge into each other,
a new era will break, possibly heralding the end of mankind in Ishta.
SECRETS & RUMORS • The absence of sound is only an illusion. Rather, the sounds are carried away
by Huwsedo the wind god, who eats them to create the storms and tempests
• The clans living in the general vicinity of The
of the world.
Pyramid of Numan Khamon claim to have been
hearing wailing and shrieking inside of the edifice • The entire area is not on Athyr at all, but rather a pocket dimension that
for decades now. They avoid the place for obvious accesses a reality without sound. If one is to find the right way to enter
reasons, and some even claim the sounds are further, one would step outside of Athyr entirely and into another world –
those of a multitude of ravenous undead. Has maybe the spirit realm, maybe a wholly different one.
some kind of necromancer been able to get in,
THE P YRAMID discover some forbidden knowledge and raise
OF NUMAN K HAMON more undead? Or does the spirit of the long-dead
In the middle of the Jungles of Mararoka stands Numan Khamon himself haunt the place? If true
a ziggurat, overgrown with dark vines that bleed and the necromancer-king is allowed to regain
blood and gnarled trees that desperately try to pry his former strength, no living being will be able
themselves loose from the building’s unrelenting
to stop him from enacting revenge that has been
cold grip. Neither tomb nor living quarters, the
centuries in the making.
Pyramid of Numan Khamon was once exclusively
used by the necromancer-king as a throne on top • Sometimes, the winds around the ziggurat
of an enclosed ritual room where the disobedient seem to be whispering, clearly an invitation to
would be tortured by scores of undead. The throne come in. The voice is thought by most to be the
is still there on top of the ziggurat’s highest step,
malevolent spirit god Munajé, but others are
built out of the same piece of stone and jutting out
convinced that it actually belongs to Huwsedo.
of the canopy just enough to look over the jungle.
Bound by spirits and magic sigils, the entrance seems
The Wind Spirit once helped the people of Ishta
shut forever, depriving adventurers of the tomes of and maybe it has its reasons to ask them to take
dark knowledge as well as the treasure inside. up the challenge and enter somehow?
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Ishta
• Although the exact origin of its name is shrouded in mystery, some local clan members who know
about the grove say it was named after a warlock who has been claiming the glade as her own
for decades now. She is said to be stuck in the reality-bending field of energy that permeates the
SECRETS & R UMORS place and has gone quite insane. Her prolonged exposure has made her actions seem erratic and
almost random, but it has also forged a symbiosis between her and the grove, and Aquilas can
• The shaft leads down to the magical roots of Mount Tomalek. These supernatural tendrils command almost any aspect of it for a moment before it changes into something else again.
are infused with the arcane essence of Athyr and any spellcaster who is able to travel deep
enough can draw on their immense power, effectively becoming a conduit for the crackling • The different colors of the waters are thought by many to mean something. Maybe they each
mystical energy found here. produce some kind of specific effect when drunk, or maybe they allow someone to peer into the
future if used correctly.
• Below is the home of a spirit god, most probably Bao-Ar, the Mountain Spirit, Balkepi, the Fire
Spirit, or Jamasepta, the Earth Spirit. None of these spirits is evil, but it is unknown whether
visiting them would be considered an intrusion or a welcome diversion. If the latter, chances
are that the spirit residing here would want to play a game or at least have an interesting TEMPLE OF ZEBADO be able to touch her
in unarmed or armed
conversation, and that anyone who is able to entertain them would be handsomely rewarded One of the few ziggurats that were erected after the
with some kind of supernatural gift. combat, without
Jaida uprisings, both the outside and the inside walls of the
drawing blood.
Temple of Zebado are engraved with hundreds of images
• The drop may lead to an ancient Ayaari artifact buried here – probably by the alien race itself,
showing one-on-one fights, small skirmishes, and all-out Xiuma still holds
or by spellcasters who caused so much collateral damage while trying to use it that they war scenes, as well as warriors standing in triumphant a weekly service to
decided to bury the device before it could be misused again. poses, weapons (some of which aren’t common or even Zebado, the War
used anymore), and armor. Inside, the temple’s inner shrine Spirit, here. Alas,
is connected to dozens of armories, enclosed training since the temple
rooms with wool dummies, living quarters, and more. It is stands in the middle
tended to by Xiuma the Warrior-Priest, but no-one else of nowhere, she
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PEOPLES & CULTURE Some of the shamans outside of the clan have been
warning that Clan Amila’s string of incredibly good
be easily found or attacked, and all know the trails
through the wilderness just as well as any Kiongozi.
fortune is only a ruse by the dark spirits to draw them While Kiongozi are members of their individual clans
in and lead them further down a path that can only and stay within their family units when not acting
The people of Mararoka are nominally organized in CLAN BITIKU lead to bad things, but the clan members certainly as guides, the Mercenaria live, sleep, eat, and drink
tribes, but the clans within each such group have so Clan Bitiku is a small extended family whose members aren’t listening and have no intention to stop or even together, and dissention is punished with immediate
much autonomy that they sometimes seem to belong live close to the Temple of Zebado and visit its priestess, slow down their dangerous religion experiment. banishment… after getting stripped down of all
to different societies altogether. All clans do feel an Xiuma, at least once a month. They have been trying belongings. Camaraderie is encouraged and promoted
unwavering allegiance towards their mother tribe and to defeat her for years now, but none have succeeded. through occasional feasts, sports competitions, and
still get together during eclipses to celebrate the spirits This has not earned the priestess their rivalry or CLAN QUACALA boardgame tournaments. Their slogan, ‘All Stay
and share stories. Clans are difficult to keep track of as disdain, but rather their respect, although the clan’s Clan Quacala is one of the most open-minded family Together’, reflects their no-one-is-left-behind policy
they are always named after their current elder, who two youngest ‘adult’ members – fourteen-year old units in Mararoka. Its members don’t only welcome and has greatly aided in attracting fresh members.
stays in charge until death or until unfit to serve as Faydal and his sixteen-year old sister Kaestria – have strangers, but gladly invite them to their village. This Although the Mercenaria mostly consist of Ishtans,
a leader anymore. At that time, the entire name of been found arguing about how to tackle the priestess is a direct consequence of its clan elder, Quacala, who many of their current leaders and instructors are
the clan changes to the name of the new person in and seem covetous not just of the lessons she has been has instructed everyone to be friendly and offer visitors foreigners, mostly from Evandyr. Most of them were
charge. The only exception is formed by the Jaida, the holding back, but also of the connection she clearly has succulent dishes and the best chaiza available. She is hired directly by Yowelta, who found them in Ishta’s
powerful and skilled Dinosaur riders whose ancestors to the War Spirit and of the treasure they believe she acutely aware that foreigners are the best way to learn harbors while looking for the most able and willing
helped overthrow the Jungle of Mararoka’s despotic might be hiding. about what is going on in the outside world, about commanders. The Mercenaria are now spearheaded by
former rulers. new ideas and technology, and about looming dangers
All Bitiku clan members are quite ferocious if provoked the Thalian Sir Barabos Manos, a veteran captain who
All clansmen have a few things in common as well. (and in recent years they certainly have been!) and and the movements of other peoples or monsters. used to command his own fleet. He left after losing
They are distinct in appearance from the cosmopolitan skilled with many weapons, including poisoned blow Under their genius chieftain, this clan has become one an argument with his supervising board and suffering
inhabitants of Ishta’s city states. In their environment darts, bows, spears, clubs, bolos, knives, and a peculiar of the most innovative, successful clans to roam the a devastating defeat because he was obligated to
the traditional toga isn’t practical, and they disdain sort of sword (if one wishes to call it that) made from Jungles of Marraroka. Quacalo has travelled extensively follow their proposed strategy, and he feels he
it in favor of simple but distinctive embroidered loin a flat elongated pierce of wood with viciously sharp and has brought many ideas and products from other has something to prove. Manos is already looking
cloths (the only item of clothing they really need) or teeth taken from giant, carnivorous lizards embedded nations to her clan, including Roshani scale armor, into expanding his mercenary army to the seas and
long strips of cloth wrapped around their waists and along its edge. Clan Bitiku does not have many allies Vahlian swords, Ethennian spices, and more. It is even acquiring war galleys, but for now he is content staying
held there by two sashes. but also lacks sworn enemies, as dark fates typically whispered that Quacalo holds a mythical artifact, but in the jungles and building up a legendary reputation
Hair styles and jewelry vary wildly from tribe to tribe befall those who intrude with malice upon the territory no-one knows exactly what. The rumors are true, as she with his Mercenaria.
and even from clan to clan, with body piercings being of the clan if they are captured. has acquired an Ayaari disintegrator several years ago.
extremely common. Many Mararoka warriors favor
using the fangs of conquered predatory reptiles for THE JAIDA
this purpose, while others utilize ‘plugs’ made from CLAN A MILA THE M ERCENARIA The literal meaning of Jaida is ‘She Who Rides The
gold, silver, and jade or materials such as shells, wood, Led by the elder shaman Amila, this clan believes that Not a clan but rather a powerful organization, the Giant Lizard’. These woman warriors hold a high
bone, copper, and even stone. This is in partly because all great spirits should be worshipped – not just one or Mercenaria are an army of mercenaries that was status amongst the people of Mararoka, who have not
the average Ishtan, whether nobleman, villager, or even a selection of spirits. They are convinced that not formed a mere 9 years ago by Yowelta the Huntress, forgotten that they were liberated by them more than
tribesman, wears their day-to-day wealth and status on paying service to the darker spirits only serves to anger a Clan Quacala champion who broke with her family 800 years ago.
their body. This may include rings worn on the fingers or them and are firmly intent on finding a balance in after disagreeing about the morals and edicts imposed The Jaida are a matriarchal clan, and all women are
toes, earrings, ear clasps, bracelets, necklaces, torques, their ceremonies. This had led other clans of the same by Quacala herself. Despite their differences, she taught from the age of 13 how to control and ride
clasps, and a bizarre native form of belt comprised of tribe to look at Clan Amila with mixed distrust, disdain, was given a large recompense for past services and Tyrannosaurus Rex. Even though the spirits allow them
removable links of different sorts of precious materials. and curiosity, as they prefer to keep their distance founded the Mercenaria out of her own pockets. The to forge the bond necessary to do so, this remains
All of these decorative adornments are designed to be while trying to gauge whether this unconventional organization has grown exponentially since then and a backbreaking and burdensome process, but failure
removed at will and used as currency. approach can be successful. For now, Clan Amila has is recognized throughout Ishta as one of the most is not an option, and the children are taught never to
been prospering, and the bizarrely coincidental good fearless military forces in the entire realm. Yowelta has give up. Most continue to try until they either succeed
These fearsome jungle-dwelling people are semi-
luck its members have been having seems to be almost yielded control since, preferring to stay in the shadows or die. They are also taught the art of warfare from
nomadic, sometimes practicing a limited form of
preternatural in nature. The clearings they pick to raise and advise. Some believe she has incurred too many this age on, including not just martial skill itself, but
agriculture, sometimes hunting, often fishing, often
their tents in are never hit by rain even when a storm grave injuries over the years and is now unfit for active war philosophy, strategy, and tactics. At age 16, they
restlessly moving within large territories recognized by
rages mere feet away; the fish they catch are always duty, although she remains sharp as ever. are sent out on an initiation rite that culminates with
other tribes in custom and tradition. However, this is
big and edible; and if they bow down to pluck a plant, going into a part of the jungle where wild Dinosaurs
where most of the similarities end, as their customs The Mercenaria maintain several easily defendable
one can safely bet that it will not only be nutritious, are known to thrive. There, they must find and bond
vary widely. Here are a few of the best-known clans. camps in the Jungles of Mararoka, where they can’t
but also delicious. with their own Tyrannosaurus Rex.
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TRAVEL ACTS
1. OBSTACLES
Forest Fire
1
Animals run past in a hurry as if distraught by something. Before long, dark smoke comes
dwindling down the jungle. The heat, combined with a rare drop in humidity, has caused some
of the jungle to catch fire.
Barricidi Rapid
A rapid that can’t be found on any map runs through the area as far as the eye can see. The
2 stream is full of Birricadi and there is no rope bridge to be seen. If these Monsters aren’t
enough of a problem, the water and the jagged-rock waterfall it leads to could easily drag
away anyone trying to swim across.
Sliding Slope
3
The land, mostly flat until now, suddenly slopes upwards. It’s not too far a journey to get on
top, but the many loose leaves and other sediment make it difficult to get to higher ground
without causing the debris to slide down.
Infected Swamp
4
A large stretch of land turns into a vast swamp up ahead. There are a decent number of
Jaida who undergo the rite are encouraged to help its teeth as sharp as knives. Together they are an hammocks sticking out of the water, but it will be tough getting from one protrusion to the
each other but are often forced to find a balance unstoppable force, charging through the jungle with other. What lurks in the mud and foul water of this swamp is another matter entirely…
between team effort and individual needs, as the the power and grace of a thunderstorm.
bond a Jaida has with her Tyrannosaurus Rex is highly Her village is the node of a larger network of camps, all
personal and spiritual, and that Dinosaur will never connected through trails that are only identifiable by
again let anyone else command it – not even another,
more experienced Jaida. Only one in three initiates
the Tyrannosaurus Rex steeds, who are trained to use 2. EVENTS
their exceptionally keen sense of smell to follow the
survives the ordeal, and those who do are required routes from one camp to another. Tropical Cyclone
to bring back the bodies of their fallen sisters to be
honored and blessed by the spirit gods before burial. A The camp itself is a marvel of engineering. It is 1
A tropical cyclone sets in and the travelers are caught right in the middle of it. It is warm with
bond between a Jaida and her Tyrannosaurus is for life composed of a series of large huts, built from – and clear skies, but all around this patch of jungle a destructive eyewall has formed, with strong
and when one dies, the other usually goes on a lone upwards against – the trunks of massive trees, woven winds and heavy rainfall. The cyclone moves west and this area won’t be safe for much longer.
suicide mission, raking in as many trophies before with vines and thatch to create a sturdy, yet flexible
ending it with laying down their life. Both of their structure. The huts are arranged in a circle, with Volcano Eruption
names are added to their camp’s totems, there to be a central clearing that serves both as a training ground The ground starts to tremble, and then an ear-deafening explosion is heard. A nearby volcano
2
remembered by their sisters until there is no-one left and a gathering place. The structures seem to be one has erupted, sending projectiles of hot stone and balls of fire to come crashing down in
to do so. with nature, with vines and flowers wrapped around a 10-mile radius around the angered mountain.
their supports, and hanging gourds filled with water.
The biggest Jaida settlement of Mararoka is known as They are connected by a network of rope ladders,
Jaimala, led by the mighty Tharaqui Thunderstorm. She Dinosaur Stampede
bridges and vines that seem to defy the laws of physics, 3
stands tall and proud, her lithe form draped in armor A herd of Brachiosaurus is running away from some unseen predator. They are absolutely massive
snaking through the air with a grace and fluidity that is
of gleaming gold and dark green, adorned with the in size and anyone caught in their path risks getting crushed into the ground by the stampede.
both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
bones and teeth of the mighty beasts she has hunted
and slain. Her long, black hair cascades down her back In the center of the village stands a massive totem, Landslide
in wild waves, framing a face that is fiercely determined. carved with images representing Howeme, Ikomeno, A few drops of rain come falling down, but before a minute has passed the rain becomes
Her eyes are a piercing green, sharp as the talons of Pakse-Muni, and Zebado, and topped by a large a torrential force, clouds darken, and thunder can be heard. Solid ground turns to pools of mud,
Tyrannosaurus abstraction, an unmistakable symbol of 4
a raptor, and they gleam with a fierce intelligence and within a few minutes the ground starts to shift and move, large chunks of ground come
and unyielding will. Her mount is a towering, veteran the Jaida’s bond with the great beasts and their place
sliding down from uphill areas, and trees and chunks of rock crashing down, causing a deadly
Tyrannosaurus Rex, its scales as black as obsidian and as rulers of the jungle.
situation.
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4. INTERACTIONS
6. LANDMARKS
Jaida Encounter
A group of fierce Jaida are on patrol in the region, seemingly distressed. The dino riders will Hot Spring
threaten anyone they encounter but won’t immediately kill. They have been suffering losses Steam rises from a pool of crystal-clear water inside a small rock formation. Despite its
1
from Beastmen attacks and are trying to find out what caused the sudden influx and whether 1 foreboding appearance, this hot spring offers a haven of warmth and comfort. The water is
the Beastman have any plans to venture deeper into the Jungles of Mararoka to pillage and surrounded by moss-covered rocks and exotic plants that thrive in the humid environment,
enslave local tribes. creating an otherworldly atmosphere that seems almost surreal.
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K INTABA OVERVIEW
The fortress city of Kintaba is one of the only two
Fortress Lord Mashda has shown himself to be a firm
but just ruler and even though he does not surround
—FORTRESS ISLAND— harbors in Ishta, and by far the most eclectic. It himself with advisors or even a board or council, there
was founded after the Jaida managed to topple the have been no signs of a brewing insurrection of any
cruel regime of necromancer-kings and evil spirit kind, mostly because of his demonstrated forward-
A FORTRESS HARBOR CITY AND thinking and his willingness to let the people under
worshippers that had enslaved most of the population
TRADING POST LOCATED JUST his dominion make their own decisions. Mashda does
about 8 centuries ago, but its growth has been
UPRIVER FROM WHERE THE have great plans, however, and wants to expand
exponential. The regime installed by the newly-formed
ORUNURO MEETS TO SEA OF BLOOD As the Sea of Blood flows around the Kintaba Island, the first military on the southern coast has always accepted all Kintaba over the entire island, effectively making it
thing any navigator seas is a black war galleon bearing both folks from all walks of life as equals, and the resulting into a fortified island-state under his control. To this
POPULATION 4,856 full-time; roughly a Thalian and an Kintaban flag. Ballistae and bolt throwers trade brought more abundance. Even though it also end, he has invited farmers from all over to hold
2,309 more visiting at any given time. line its skull-encrusted hulls as the attentive crew keeps started to attract more pirates from Taliath, but never land and grow crops outside of the city proper, and
GOVERNMENT A semi-military dictatorship its eyes fixed on incoming ships, obviously disciplined and in numbers that have threatened the existence of the bring their own seeds, plants, or even animals if they
with a fortress lord at its head. focused on the job. Within minutes, a smaller and highly local Ishtans, no matter how tumultuous and chaotic choose to do so, all in return for lower taxes. So far,
maneuverable two-masted schooner bearing the Isthan and life gets here sometimes. this is working out extraordinarily well, and dozens of
DEFENSE 210 archers with geradril and
Kintaban flags appears from behind the impressive vessel, its hamlets are cropping up in all directions. The head
short bows wearing gambeson armor Kintaba is a military outpost and, unusually for Ishta,
crew manning the two war galleons from Taliath have
and leather helmets, 230 archers with crew waving at the newcomers before the ship sails around maintains its own small fleet of sixteen seaworthy
all been promised land as well, and this is keeping
longbows a wearing gambeson armor and the galleon to guide their guests through the treacherous two-masted schooners. These boats are fast, easy to
the mercenaries even more loyal than the sizable fee
leather helmets, 198 warriors with spears strait without incurring hull damage. maneuver, and enjoy a large capacity for ballistae
they’re already getting.
and shields wearing wearing chainmail and and catapults. Their narrow hulls and shallow drafts
helmets, 165 warriors with blowguns and The sight is identical whether the west or east strait is mean they can easily hide in estuaries and surprise
their enemies, typically while working in tandem with
maces wearing chainmail and helmets, 124
cavalry with javelins and maces wearing
chosen, but only the eastern channel is deep and broad
the Evandyrian mercenaries hired by Fortress Lord LAYOUT
enough to allow larger vessels in. Kintaba is a large walled stockage built out of towering,
chainmail and helmets, 32 spirit-talkers, Mashda or pirate allies handling scouting duties for
him. When signaled that their prey is nearby, they sail treated logs driven into the earth. Within, however,
16 two-masted schooners with a full
Kintaba is built on Kintaba Island, nicknamed Harbor Island out quickly to shower them with stones and bolts, then is a vibrant and fascinating complex of warehouses
complement of crew, 2 hired war galleons
with Evandyrian mercenaries, 36 canoes
since the port was founded, a while after the Jaida Dino grapple to board and fight it out hand-to-hand. As and market stalls in which countless transactions take
Riders managed to overthrow the despotic regime in the Kintaba Wardens seldom loose this sort of fight, and place between Taliath merchants (In the moment; in
and reed boats with enough crew to man
Jungles of Mararoka. It stands apart from mainland and Kintaba’s easily defendable position makes unwanted another, they are pirates!) and Ishtan bargemasters
24 of them at a time
the only way to cross over is a narrow land connection of incursions outrageously difficult, pirates mostly avoid as goods are transferred up or out of the Orunuro.
SERVICES Adventuring supplies, armorer/ This bartering and exchange of currency has naturally
only 60 feet wide or passage by reed boat, canoe, or raft. the southeastern coast of Ishta.
blacksmith, art, black market, boat fares, caused a second, ‘outer’ Kintaba to come into
companionship, curio, bank, dancers, Giant herbivorous amphibious lizards called Yoatls are The city has a small complement of warriors simply existence beyond its walls filled with restaurants, tea
fletcher/bowyer, general supplies, guide, seen swimming through the water, towing these boats referred to as ‘spirit-talkers’ who do not serve an official houses, taverns, brothels, and all the other various sorts
healing, hirelings, housing, jeweler, or – sometimes – getting towed by them. function per se, but who function as militia when the of semi-reputable establishments which cater to sailors
leatherworker, lodgings, meals, mounts, city faces a supernatural threat or when it seems like and merchants. These stretch down to the fortress’s
music, repairs, shipbuilding, ships, storage, Constructed out of towering logs stuck into the earth on it would be wise to involve the spirits in a particular extensive dock system that is filled with barges and
taxis, tailor, tapestries, temple, translator, the only lower piece of land before the island rises, its confrontation. These shamanic fighters do not use ships off all sizes.
woodworker wooden architecture is far more eclectic than anything spirits to complement their own physical prowess,
preferring to send them in at a distance so they can Just as important as the layout of the city itself is its
found on Ishta, as are the banners, flags, and sign posts defensive position, as the lands surrounding Kintaba
take advantage of the spirits’ unique ethereal abilities.
that are visible upon approach. Veteran travelers will slope upwards fast. There are no beaches outside of
recognize writing in not just the Ishtan languages, but in Kintaba also maintains a Yoatl farm where these the port and the island instead drops down almost
tongues from all over Athyr, and symbols belonging to all giant amphibious animals are bred and raised to use 500 feet, making it almost impossible to enter through
kinds of different cultures. Of particular note are the many as towing beasts for the small Kintaban boats. These anywhere but the straits leading up to the harbor.
reptilians sense sandbanks and other things that might Impressively, a wooden wall is built along the island’s
native tribal and clan emblems, crests, or placards, making
obstruct easy passage and guide the rafts and canoes entire perimeter, and wooden watch towers line the
the port feel even more diverse, if not beautiful.
through the island straits with ease and agility. Since full circumference.
the highlands of the island often block the wind, their
Unusually, a wooden wall trails the outskirts of the harbor assistance means that many of the smaller vessels travel
to ditto rectangular fortress towers, all lined across the a lot faster than one would expect them to.
entire perimeter of the land and looming over the unscalable
white cliffs that drop down into the lukewarm Sea of Blood,
earning the harbor the moniker ‘Fortress Island’.
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Ishta
THE PEOPLE OF K INTABA A hilarious tradition that was born in the taverns found it easier to have an actual way to refer to going to play. Some of the Ishtans passing by roll
If asked, most Ishtans would say there is no such thing as of the harbor is ‘facesmudging’, which is when the them), although craftsmen and artisans alike regularly their eyes or look at each other, smirking.
a ‘Kintaba people’, as the entire harbor is populated by patrons of the place write all kinds of funny and/or organize in small groups that resemble collectives 5. A local trader is loudly promoting her wares,
folk from all over Athyr, and while not entirely wrong, disparaging remarks on the cheeks of guests who pass instead of highly-organized unions, and all are required
amulets to most of the good spirit gods.
they would not be completely right either. Despite the out after drinking too much ghostbroth, usually with to keep their own profits. Instead of regular taxes,
chalk or cold coal. Some facesmudge artisans who the Fortress Lord imposes a tax that is determined She is a little too tenacious about it, though,
mix of clans and tribes with many other ethnicities,
there is such a thing as a prevalent sentiment and have specialized in writing intelligible short poems and through a checklist that includes not only the size of and doesn’t seem very eager to take ‘no’ for
a standard way of going about things, beginning with painting beautiful small illustrations on the inebriated the property, the location of the shop and the type of an answer.
the observation that Kintaba is never quiet, not even clientele. service being offered, but also the size of the sign and 6. In front of a local tavern, an entire Ishtan clan
deep in the night. People who are easily irritated have – especially – the amount of Warden protection being wearing similar feathered helmets and loincloths
either learn how to become more accommodating, asked for. The Fortress Lord is known to discuss and
leave the city cursing, or are ostracized by their more R ELIGION & CULTS sign all agreements himself and has always been very
is seen waiting to be allowed in. The place is
already packed and there are 23 of them, so it
tolerant neighbors and acquaintances. This has helped The Wardens of Kintaba aren’t known for being understanding and willing to discuss issues, which has
make Kintaba a fun place for more outgoing people, particularly religious in the traditional Ishtan sense, earned the dictator a tremendous amount of respect may be a while.
but individuals and groups who like their mannerisms but they are fairly superstitious and all wear layered amongst the traders and merchants of his city. 7. A fruit trader rolls up his cart, packed with
refined, their dinners quiet, and their conversations necklaces with pendants that each represent a different chayote, up to the Characters, asking them
sophisticated often end up hating the place altogether. benevolent spirit. In the city proper, there are shrines whether they would like a bite (if they do taste,
Culture clashes do occur, but unlike the rest of Ishta, to many of the spirits as well as a non-denominational LOCAL SPECIALTIES they’ll also have to pay for the entire fruit).
minstrels, bards, and stage actors have an audience temple where foreigners who worship other gods or ‘Etouffee’ is a dish of shellfish, simmered in a light fatty
8. A squire is removing some of the plate armor
here, and are fairly well represented. Here, no square pantheons are allowed to pray and – if their religion sauce served over rice.
requires them to do so – sacrifice material goods. There of his lord-knight, who is sweating profusely in
can be crossed without some kind of song, poem, or The ‘chayote’ fruit is cooked and served like summer
is even a small chamber reserved for animal offerings, the heat.
play resounding from out of one of the taverns or inns squash; it is generally lightly cooked to retain the
– the only such establishments found in the Jungles of although live offerings are strictly forbidden. 9. An Ethennian noble is seen arguing with an
crispy consistency.
Mararoka. Naturally, Huwsedo, the Wind Spirit and Xalhuota, the innkeeper. He is looking for a ‘bathing inn’, but
‘Snapper Soup’, made from the snapping turtle. It is
River Spirit are venerated more than any of their ilk, there are none in the entire subregion and the
a heavy, brown broth similar in appearance to a thick
but interestingly, there are large shrines dedicated to prospect of simply having to use a wooden tub
beef gravy.
TRADE Odo Oya, the Rain Spirit, and Cuatalemo, the Thunder
‘Ghost Broth’ is a velvety drink made out of wide variety
isn’t particularly to his liking.
Anything and everything which travels in or out of the Spirit as well, indicating an implicit preoccupation
of grains with a high alcohol percentage that is known 10. A couple of children are climbing the walls of
Orunuro River first passes through Kitaba, where the with possible storms and other weather phenomena
that may impede travel on the waters. Enu Sutu the to never cause a hangover… although people who get their parents’ house in order to get a good look
Wardens inspect and charge a modest tariff on goods.
There is also a lively public market within its walls Song Spirit does not have a shrine, but rather an entire drunk on it tend to pass out for a while. at the ships coming in.
in which anything from exotic pets to finely crafted amphitheater dedicated to him, and when minstrels
rapiers can be purchased or traded for. Additionally, or other artists have shown that they draw in crowds
significant commercial transfers take place on the too large for the taverns or inns, Mashda often invites GOINGS-ON K EY LOCATIONS
docks, where cargo from incoming seaworthy ships them to play there and pays them himself, without 1. A drunken pirate from Taliath stumbles out of FORTRESS LORD’S OFFICES: This complex of heavily
is transferred to river-going barges poled or towed charging an entrance fee. a nearby tavern, his face full with funny one-liners constructed two-story wooden buildings serve as both
upriver by lizards-of-burden, and vice versa. and phrases like ‘Kick me, I’m drunk!’, written the residence and administrative headquarters for
Fortress Lord Mashda, and can be used as a fallback
ORGANIZATIONS in chalk.
position (or ‘keep’) should the town’s walls be breached.
CUSTOMS The Fortress Lord doesn’t tolerate a lot of rival
2. A Warden detachment strolls down the street,
looking through the window of each tavern and THE DOCKS: This bustling series of long wooden piers
Because of the plethora of languages spoken in organizations within his small territory, where the
allow both river-going barges and sea-going ships to
Kintaba, residents who were born here – or who have Wardens’ rule is complete (if somewhat relaxed). restaurant it passes quite ostentatiously before
dock and load, unload, or exchange goods. There is
been staying in the harbor for a long time – are prone The Taliath corsairs have their own organizations, of resuming its patrol.
a separate section for vessels whose captains or masters
to use far more gestures and hand signs than Ishtans course, ranging from individual ship hierarchy to loose 3. The Fortress Lord himself walks past. Most people would like to tie up for a while for shore leave. The
from elsewhere in the region. This sometimes seems alliances of captains in support of a supposed ‘prince’,
don’t even seem to notice until some step aside wardens’ three vessels are also docked in this area.
exaggerated and overly melodramatic to people who but no-one in Kintaba actually knows how their society
to let him through. Mashda has no guards with PUBLIC MARKET: The famously colorful and lively
aren’t from here, but the custom soon starts to make is really structured and different crews tend to share
sense, as certain body language is fairly universal to widely different accounts on the matter. him whatsoever and takes the time to talk to market area of Kintaba is a great place for Ishtans
fellow citizens and this greatly aids communication some of the locals. to purchase exotic foreign goods, while exotic
Guilds in Kintaba do not exist and giving names to
when both the person who is trying to say something 4. A troupe of Ethennian bards are arguing at the foreigners purchase Ishtan goods. It is also an excellent
groups of people is even actively avoided (even the
and their listener speak different tongues. corner of a tavern about the songs they are place for (more sober) ship’s captains to conduct
Wardens are named such only because the locals
economic transactions.
126 127
Ishta
THE AMPHITHEATER: Like many other places in of entirely Ishtan subordinates. Mashda, however, also QUEST HOOKS
Kintaba, the great marble amphitheater has no specific keeps a dark secret, as he is indebted to a bookie after
name attached to it, but it is one of the favorite he spent too much money at a gambling house in
i ii Reward: If the PCs manage to successfully scout the
places of any Kintaban to find some entertainment. Huexolta, and he is planning on adding the number of
THE RAID UPRIVER region and solve the problem, Mashda will ask them
Only the best musicians and artisans are allowed to windows to his tax checklist.
to play a game of cards with him. If they win, they can
perform on the semi-circular stage. A technological Once again, the small Taliath raider Sir Lamaras
CAPTAIN SAYIDA: Enormous and imposing even claim one of his most prized possessions as their own. If
marvel, the stage can be raised or even dropped up d’Harangue has slipped past ‘the Stump,’ heading upriver
by Taliath standards, the mercenary captain of the they lose, he will simply pay them in coin.
to 10 feet into the ground with a pulley mechanism, under cover the of night to capture some cargo barges
Galleon Massari (one of the two warships patrolling the
and its straight half has a screen that functions as an or attack villages. Captain Sayida is going in pursuit along
island’s straits) is a voluptuous rampart of bejeweled
easily-changeable backdrop. with one of the fortresses’ ships to stop them. i ii
dreadlocks, silk, and weapons. Boisterous and well-liked
THE FIVE-PRONGED TEMPLE: Not really a temple as it in Kintaba, her carousing is the stuff of legend, as is her Reward: If the Characters help the captain in his THE DARK BOOKIE
is usually thought of, the Five-Pronged Temple actually prowess in battle. pursuit, he will offer them a paid position in his The bookie Fortress Lord Mashda owes money to is
consists of five large white shrines centered around personal retinue. If they pass, he will promise a future a cult leader who used magic to misdirect the dictator.
NUMUSHDA: Always found in the Five-Pronged
a stone plaza. One shrine is dedicated to Huwsedo, favor to each of them, to be called in at a time of His ultimate aim is to start an entire chapter of the
Temple, Numushda spends most of her time praying
another to Xalhuota, a third to Odo Oya, and a fourth their own choosing. cult on the island and use it as a base of operations.
to Oseme. She seems extremely pious, but many locals
to Cuatalemo. Surprisingly, the fifth shrine is devoted Numushda, who has been supplying the Fortress Lord
know that this place of worship also functions as some
to Oseme, the Breath Spirit, who is worshipped there i ii with some much-needed diversions, has found out
kind of a private office, as Numushda will arrange
as a conciliatory, unifying spirit who celebrates all living OUT TO SEA about his gambling debts, but knows that confronting
companionship and even joint lodging with one of her
beings that breath and the power of passionate love. him will be met with denial, and is looking into hiring
workers if paid the right amount of money: The military commanders overseeing the watchtowers
TAVERN UMILA: Simply named after its famous owner, someone to look into the matter, as she feels something
KHATYR: Khatyr is one of the most efficient Yoatl drivers have informed the Fortress Lord that a group of pirates
Tavern Umila features the most complete assorted is terribly wrong.
in Kintaba. Young, handsome, and suave, his steering is has set up an outpost at the mouth of a deep inlet
drinks from all over Athyr as well as memorabilia taken (almost a river) off the coast to the northeast. Most Reward: If the Characters succeed, Numushda will
unparalleled and he is known to make his boat make
from Umila’s many adventures. In the center is a huge likely they are attempting to create a permanent base offer any kind of information they may need for free,
maneuvers no-one else is able to accomplish. Khatyr is
orb more then 6 feet in diameter of the blackest glass with which to raid the coastline as far north as the or provide the PCs with any service she can arrange for
also quite the swashbuckling hero and is always looking
imaginable, but not even Umila knows what it is exactly, Dorganthur Mountains. Unless they are quickly crushed them. If they approach Fortress Lord Mashda tactfully,
for adventuring opportunities. However, he is quite
as she pried it from the dying claws of a Dragon after it and stopped, of course. Unfortunately, there are no spies he will offer them coin in order to keep quiet and
reckless and although he isn’t arrogant, his fearlessness
killed most of her friends. available as Mashda has deployed all of them on some a boat to sail away on, but he will be too afraid that
could soon devolve into recklessness, endangering
THE SPIRIT AND THE GOD: An inn that boasts literally the very people he is supposed to transport from one secret mission and he is now looking to hire a group of they would tell anyone about what happened to have
hundreds of signs outside, all naming different gods in location to another. intrepid adventurers to look into the issue. them stay in Kintaba.
the writing of the cultures where they are worshipped
JAYMAR, PRINCE OF AMLESH, SCOURGE OF THE
as well as featuring slogans like ‘Your God Says: Come
OCCULT: The innkeeper of The Spirit and the God is
In!’ and ‘No Pantheon Excluded!’ Inside, the place is just
actually the prince of a small Ethennian city that was
as chaotic and crowded, as the Ethennian innkeeper
Jamayr has no less than twenty-four different kinds
once infested by a cult. A caring and responsible ruler,
Jaymar left his palace in the hands of the rest of the
THREATS & DOOM: THE MOTHER
of Ghost Broth on tap, and has been known to quip
royal court and followed the cult to Ishta, where he Unbeknownst to anyone, the elder Yoatl used in Kintaba all have the same mother… and these reptiles
that the ‘spirits are in his spirit’. No-one ever laughs
managed to completely decimate its chapter. While can grow to sizes far bigger than is thought. Standing 30 feet tall and with a head-to-tail length of no less
with the pun, but Jamayr keeps thinking it is pretty
staying there, he took a liking to the region and his than 310 feet, the great Yoatl Mother has recently become aware of what her children and their offspring
funny nonetheless.
new anonymity, and finally ended up opening his own are used for, as one of the dark spirits has told her about this travesty. She is underway to the island, but
inn and becoming an innkeeper… one with a sizable
needs to stop for weeks at a time to gorge herself on huge sea animals. When she finally arrives, she will
amount of wealth and a keen awareness of dark and
K EY NPC S shady dealings, who is willing to take down any evil cult
not hesitate to kill every single human on Fortress Island, Ishtan or not, and none of the watchtowers will
FORTRESS LORD MASHDA: Aside from being the he comes across.
be able to withstand her onslaught.
city’s dictator, Mashda is one of the best warriors in
GERALDINE OF OSKOLIM: The conductress of bard
the region and maybe in all Athyr, and has once been
troupe ‘Songs from Beyond’, Geraldine is a pretty good
seen defeating an entire score of raiders from Taliath
before needing to sit down and rest. This dark, friendly
singer, but an even better storyteller. She loves writing THREATS & DOOM: THE WAVE OF JAMARAKH-A LUHN
the lyrics to the original songs her troupe plays, but,
man is actually a former Taliath corsair prince who Underneath the island, a great water spirit called Jamarakh-Aluhn is brooding. He isn’t worshipped by
unbeknownst to anyone, she has ulterior motives, as
replaced the previous fortress lord (his former lover anyone in Ishta and has grown jealous of both Huwsedo and Xalhuota. Wild as a whirlpool, he has no idea
the dark god she and her band of minstrels worship is
and friend) when he was killed in battle stopping an of how to communicate with humans and if his frustration continues to fester; he will end up creating
allowing her to hide subliminal messages in their music,
upriver raid. He is a diligent and serious man who also
all meant to slowly corrupt their listeners and destroy a crushing wave that will smash over the entire island, destroying everything from the harbor to the
loves jokes and entertrainment, respected by his staff
their sense of morality. mountains in the north-east.
128 129
Ishta
GLOSSARY: ISHTA
only a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
State personnel taverns
A popular team sport and ball in Huexolta that cater to
game that draws large crowds in TAMIPU organizations that also
MARIPOL
Huexolta and cause for the city’s have representation in the
main social gatherings. Smaragdine Council.
130 131
Islands of Roshan
CHAPTER 3:
ISLANDS
OF ROSHAN
THE R EGION barely worth a mention on any map. This has made
estimating the true number of inhabitants here nigh to
legend seem to have gone extinct. If written about in
poems or covered in musical compositions 10.000 years
There are a great many fabled places to be found in
Emperor Zhang’s realm. Most of these don’t need to
The Islands Of Roshan are an archipelago separated from impossible even to their rulers, with informed guesses ago, they are still bathing in the clouds above, swimming be uncovered or even pinpointed on a map, as their
the mainland of Athyr by the always crystal-blue but ranging from 2 to 3 million, while Roshan’s number of in the oceans, and roaming the lands, visible to all who existence is somewhat well-known. No-one would ever
sometimes tempestuous Sea Of Jewels. A meritocracy supernatural creatures per capita is higher than any point their heads in the right direction. Much of this can question that the Temple of Yaorak – a blasphemous
with little respect for the old and the decrepit, most other known place on Athyr, putting it into the hundreds probably be attributed to the relatively forgiving Roshani wizard who led a sect that worshipped the Ancient Gods
of the realm is ruled by the mysterious emperor of thousands, a large chunk of which is concentrated in attitude towards nonhumans. before the organization was cleansed by the dynasty –
Zheng, whose dynasty has held an iron grip over the the east. is haunted by the spirits of the malevolent heretics, but
On the islands, only monsters that have been shown to
Islands since time immemorial. It is comprised of eight most Roshani would never dare to tread inside. Many
threaten or attack fellow citizens, their livestock, or their
large main islands, though their supreme ruler resides people know the Tomb of Emperor Xiao-Hin is guarded
ABOUT THE
resources are actively hunted, whereas others are left
on his own, centrally-located island-city, Kyoso, an by golems that still channel the long-dead ruler’s energies
alone. This policy is called the Ildum-Li, which roughly
architectural marvel built on cliffs too high for anything from beyond the grave, but also that anyone who enters
ISLANDS OF
translates as ‘Quarter Given’ in Eroshan or ‘Bowing the
but flying creatures and the island’s imposing 300 feet- will be afflicted with the same curse that killed him. And
Knee’ in Eshi. This mindset is even adopted in regions
wide pulley elevator platforms to reach. there is no doubt that the Celestial Cave of Giya-Lin can
that don’t adhere to imperial law, which includes Iokara,
Other than the southern trinity of islands Omara, Sionto
and Arosha, the empire also holds sway over the frigid ROSHAN Unigo, and some of the smallest islands on the continent.
With their myths so intact and their factual history so
be accessed through the everlasting Amiyi clouds above
Roshan, but only spellcasters or people on flying steeds
can reach the cave to ask for the oracle’s advice.
northern islands of Eshiri, Riukala, and Oneshi. Eastern Perhaps more than any other region in the world, the murky, much of Rohsani storytelling is based on epic
Iokara and Unigo are of little importance to the monotheistic Islands of Roshan are steeped in tradition All magical places of significance are guarded by the
adaptations of past accomplishments and heroic deeds,
emperor, as they count too few settlements and too and nowhere have beliefs and ideologies evolved so little imperial army and only dynastic visitors are allowed in,
spiced-up folklore, and verbose myths, some of which
many monsters to risk spreading the family’s imperial over het last few millennia than here. This may be partly should they be strong, bold, or stupid enough to wish
cover multiple volumes of threehundred pages or
forces too thin, but most of the people living on the because the empire is heavily populated by monsters so, but a few famed places have remained undiscovered
more. Nowhere else can so many supposedly magical
400 inhabited smaller isles (out of a total of about both majestic and frightening, which has been the case so long that even Roshani discount their existence. If the
ceremonial garbage, sophisticated ornaments, and
2,000) do pledge allegiance to Zheng and follow his since anyone can remember. Where in other regions, the underwater mirror palace of the aquatic emperor Nih-
emblematic weapons or armor be found. In Roshan,
dynasty’s tenets. The islands range from land masses tens creatures of myth and legend have disappeared, none Oaix is real, it remains hidden under millions of cubic
arcane flourish is nothing to hide or lock away, but rather
of millions of hectares in size to tiny, frozen sandbars of the great beings talked about in Roshani myth and feet of crushing fluid. If there really is a shrine where
something to wear, flounder, or use.
132 133
Islands of Roshan
the canonical Hair of Jigao is kept safe, it is undoubtedly Evidently, the existence of this island and its private loyal militia in return for exclusive gambling rights, and E SHIRI AND R IUKALA
guarded by the One True God’s celestial servants. And if it nature also contributes heavily to the peoples’ that arrangement is unchanged. Every single corner of As one travels up north, the temperature progressively
is true that the human-hating Kylin retain a kingdom that willingness to accept an emperor who is never seen Basari is guarded by fearless expert warriors, combat drops, the gastronomy changes to an even more fish-
stretches out from the subterranean grottos underneath and only heard of. It also serves to heighten the almost mages, and other eclectically-armored Roshani, and based cuisine, and people start to wear thicker clothing
Eshiri to domed underwater settlements just off the mystical sense of mystery and awe that surrounds the city is bursting with bookies, all kinds of gambling and become more taciturn. Correspondingly, the type
Riukalan coast, no-one is ready for the clear danger this Zheng and, by extension, the other, more visible and houses, fighting rings, and animal races (the most of monsters that inhabit the lands differs significantly
devilish and lithe scaled species poses. present members of his dynasty. famous of which feature Monsters from all over Athyr). as well, with fur-covered beasts and thick-skinned,
Despite being an island chain, Roshan’s borders are well- This is also where Roshan’s most extensive penitentiary, muscular sea creatures being far more common in and
guarded. The various ports have strict rules and guidelines The Wooden Fortress, can be found, and it serves as around these lands.
for those who visit, usually for the purpose of trade or a perfect example of prison design.
Of particular note are the Yon-la. These white-furred,
seeking treasure, but many an Ethennian or Evandyrian
can be found especially on the Trinity Islands. Whatever THE EIGHT Sionto has two rival harbor cities: Soyama and Orenaga.
The former’s claim to fame is it easy access to Ethennia
ape-like creatures have been mistaken for albino
Beastmen by foreigners and were hunted by glory-
M AIN ISLANDS
the future may hold, Roshan’s ideology has been firmly (despite the often-rough waters of the Sea of Jewels), seeking Slayers for years until the dynasty issued
rooted in its monotheistic religion and belief in the One while the latter’s location is far less easily accessible a decree to protect them. Since then, there numbers
True God, who is worshipped in the three Aspects that to pirate raiders and marauders, making it a far safer have exploded and no-one really knows why, as they
together comprise a Holy Trinity representing every city and more popular with the local populace. So far, can only bear children once every three years and never
sentient living being: Jigao (The Body), Gaoya (The
Mind), and Aoji (The Soul). Even priests are dedicated to
THE TRINITY ISLANDS the rivalry has always remained playful, and all kinds have more than two babies at a time. This is extremely
With their proximity and easy access to the empire’s of competitions are regularly organized between the suspect, but the dynasty seems reluctant to start an
a specific Aspect of the Trinity, and it is rumored that two ports. Resentment is growing somewhat, though, investigation. Moreover, the ban has attracted some
seat in Kyoso, it should come at no surprise that the
Gaoya clergy has mental powers that are very different as The Seven Waves, an annual frigate race, has now of the most vicious, unscrupulous bands of monster
presence of the dynasy and the church of the One
than magic encountered anywhere else. been won by Orenaga seven times in a row and some hunters anywhere on Athyr, and these bandits have
True God are felt more strongly in Omara, Sionto, and
Every priesthood strives for self-improvement with Arosha than anywhere else except of course for Kyoso Roshani are suspecting foul play by the local dynasty chased the rare Quanar – a semi-intelligent feathered
a focus on their chosen Aspect, and, uniquely, libraries itself. Proud warlords who received their medals and representatives. scavenger species – to the brink of extinction. This is
are operated by all three ecclesiastic branches working armor embellishments straight from their dynastic In Arosha, the Jingling-lan, the ‘River That Cuts’, very disquieting, as certain folktales posit the Quanar
together, each running a separate, clearly-delineated rulers patrol the lands and their highly-disciploned seems to spring out of nowhere before flowing into as the offspring of the great Xuocual Malan, giant
section of these athenea. This has led to exceptionally troops deliver swift and summary justice whenever the central water basin simply known as the Kiryn- predatory birds of legend that are supposed to be
well-organized and referenced centers of learning and needed. The multi-leveled temples of the One True are Tan (‘Fragmented Heart’) before literally dividing the able to speak. Although no-one has actually seen one
book collections, where knowledge is strikingly accessible higher here than on the other islands, often allowing island in distinct segments. No natural source has ever of these legendary beings, both islands might be in
and easy to find, if present. Needless to say, the Islands each of the three three different orders to occupy been found, and it simply seems to begin in the Border trouble if the ancient tales are true.
of Roshan are often frequented by academics and their own floors, with the priests of Jigao taking in the Mountains before crashing down into the lake. Many
adventurers from across the ocean who are seeking more lower levels, their peers of Gaoya above them, and the of the canonical tales state that these waterways are
information on a wide range of subjects, and nowhere Aoji clerics taking in the upper floors. the persisting tears of the great Indral, the last know IOKARA AND UNIGO
on Athyr can more concentrated expertise be found on representative of an ancient race of gigantic fur- As the most eastern and distant islands of Roshan, both
Of all islands, Omara caters to the most Roshani visitors
subjects like legends, myths, folklore, monsters, anatomy, covered creatures that towered over the Islands long Iokara and Unigo have little contact with the dynasty.
from other islands, as the Tinal-him, an extensive
and human behavior, although almost all athenea are before Arosha assumed its current form. Indral is said The people here are often referred to as Roshani-mak
cemetery on the southern tip of the land where the
sorely lacking books on history and geography. to have grown up with Rylik-Ying, the very first Roshani (‘Fake People from Roshan’) by other Roshani, who
greatest heroes of Roshan are buried, has been the
prime destination for a great many pilgrims, many emperor, and to have cried himself to death after the feel their hunter-gatherer lifestyle is barbaric and
of whom claim to be descendents of these warriors, man died of old age while cradled in Rylik-Ying’s hands. outdated. The real reason for not moving towards
minstrels, seers, and mages of old, and it is widely More ominous versions of the tale claim that the agriculture is twofold: the harsh territory and freezing
KYOSO believed that anyone who dies here cannot have their venerable ruler was crushed to death by the creature, temperatures in Iokara don’t lend themselves well to
souls taken by the Munagi. while the most fantastical account speculates that agriculture outside of its southern tip, and there are
Indral and his gargantuan companion were the same. way too many monsters to make big settlements on
Stretched out over an entire island, the capital of Kyoso Omara has no real harbor, and its locals maintain Unigo viable. One might be tempted to think that
is Emperor Zheng’s private home. It holds his royal hundreds of small docks. As easy as it is to anchor The Aroshan rivers are broad and easily navigable
walled cities would make for better protection, but
army and fleet, his servants, his hunting grounds, his a small boat here, it is impossible for larger ships to get by even mid-sized ships, making central Naen a very
one would be wrong, as many of the creatures here
palaces, and those family members who aren’t residing close to the island and even simply passing through the popular and easily defendable harbor. It is known
have an innate arcane ability to fly or even shimmer
in their own stately mansions on the other islands. The strait between Omara and Sionto would be a grueling for its floating market, fishers, skilled navigators, and
out of existence in one spot and reappear in the next.
city-island is thought to be impenetrable, which in challenge to even the best of captains. Without a port expert divers, and a prime destination for captains and
This has the people of Unigo constantly on the move,
no small part is due to the many watch keeps dotted to speak of, Basari is its most important city. Nicknamed naval commanders who seek to recruit new crew.
looking for temporary shelter on an almost daily basis.
around the smaller islands, the protective embrace of ‘Rickety Town’, it is a wooden stronghold that seems
the bigger Roshani masses of land, and the enormous far weaker than it really is. Centuries ago, the local
wall that constitutes the entire island’s perimeter. thugs struck a deal with the dynasty to build a fiercely
134 135
Sundered Wastes
Although nomadic by necessity, the Iokara natives and across the sea, although some claim to have seen Yua-
Unigo residents have vastly different customs, even up lyiun dive underneath the surface of the sea, where
to the point that certain gestures common on one island they stay for hours before resurfacing, and think
CHAPTER 4:
can mean exactly the opposite thing on the other. In the Dragons might have some kind of underwater
the past, this has led to bitter skirmishes between both habitats there.
SUNDERED
peoples, but over the last decades, they have been Oneshi has an interesting history as it was granted to
collaborating a lot more, finding common ground in the guilds by Emperor Umlin-Ha 431 years ago with the
the contempt other Roshani often have for them. specific purpose to come up with new innovations and
new ideas. A conqueror at heart, perhaps Umlin-Ha
WASTES
wanted to create an advantage he could use against
ONESHI territories he wished to invade, but he soon died in
Also called ‘Dragon Skull Island’, Oneshi is, indeed, mysterious circumstances and his throne was succeeded
somewhat shaped like the skull of a particular type by his benevolent wife, Yili-Quin, who decided to use
of Dragon that is bizarrely common on this island. the guilds’ inventions and recommendations to steer
Luckily, these ‘Yua-lyiun’ are hugely territorial and the empire in a different direction. The guilds stayed
don’t venture out of their mountain lairs very often, on Oneshi, attracted more apprentices, and grew
preferring to hunt for whales and other large fish their families, expanding into what might be the most
that are mainly found off the northern coast of the diverse and interesting villages in all of Athyr. As one
island. These winged mastodonts remain one of the could suspect, each village is known for its specialty,
most enigmatic of monsters in Roshan, as they seem to and some of the guilds have become very specialized,
migrate to the north when it gets warmer, as if they with the Guild of Firemakers and the Guild of Arcane
prefer colder temperatures to hotter ones. This had Translations as the of the most notorious ones.
led many to speculate that there must be more land
136 137
Sundered Wastes
139
Sundered Wastes
of the exanimated hordes that roam the lowest grounds a painstaking process that involves successfully vision being some of the most common adjustments. impassable node of the Alakh Mountains. However,
and the random bolts of arcane force that suddenly completing a thaumaturgic process and distilling However, none of these even hold a candle to the far- the ridges to the west and to the east of the Southern
spring into existence at the most unlikely of places, a number of enchanted brews. In fact, the way of reaching ‘mecharcan’ adjustments the Red Wizards Wastes also hold more remnants of the Eldra Gavan than
adventurers are still drawn to the Sundered Wastes, and life here is so different from the nomadic existence have implemented on their own, and their entire any other place in the subregion, and there are many
the best of them don’t just return home to have songs of most Kayachi that most tribes do not refer to the city is a nightmarish amalgam of metal contraptions wall carvings, glyphs, crude drawings, and old utensils to
written about them, but to become kings and queens. citizens of Faru Sadin as such, but rather as ‘Sadinians’. and symbiotic lifeforms that cater to their sorcerous be found in its caverns and natural tunnels.
masters’ every whim.
Although the Guild of Alchemists in no way possesses the
arcane knowledge wielded by the Red Wizards, its designs Despite their disquieting appearance and surroundings,
wouldn’t work without the prevalence of raw magic in the Red Wizards are very welcoming to strangers and the VALE OF LOST SOULS
SUBREGIONS the region. Of late, the institution has been busy trying
to reverse engineer the Red Wizards’ body modifications.
city holds a disproportionate amount of inns and taverns
for a place that is difficult to access except for the forked
The only large wooded area in the entire Sundered
Wastes, the Vale of Lost Souls would probably make
for a good site to build a harbor at, if not for it being
rivers running from the north of Beshaar to the mountains
enclosed by a huge, oval-shaped mountain range and
THE BLACK SANDS M ALAK’DOR
east of the city, but those are nowhere near bi enough
for anything larger than medium-sized one-masters to its inhabitants: a mischievous species of sadistic Faerie
Unsettling and ominous, The Black Sands are exactly creatures. These small, pointed-ear humanoids seem to
Ancient Athyrian for ‘The Scaled Lands’, Malak’Dor is not sail on. Despite of their agreeableness, the Red Wizards
that: an entire subregion covered in sands of various be the only beings still capable of naturally harnessing
a misnomer, as its surface is broken up in large flakes, are rumored to secretly pry their visitors for information
dark shades. From ebony to onyx and charcoal: literally the magic energies flowing throughout the Sundered
laminas, plates, and other incrustation of all shapes and about Ayaari or Eldra Gavan technology, and Quan is said
the entire territory is black, from the licorice-colored Wastes, but they wield their power in the most
forms. Not nearly as dark as The Black Sands but still to rest on an arcane nexus point that may either erupt at
mountain peaks to the extremely unnerving vantablack abhorrent, twisted way. Prone to creative but viciously
mostly grey and black, Malak’Dor is home to several any time, or host demonic beings that the sorcerers have
surfaces of its biggest ravines. Sovereigns from all over destructive behavior, these xenophobic forest dwellers
large carnivorous species that hide underneath its many made a deal with in order to power their own artifacts
the world send artisans and dyers here to bring back have ruthlessly killed off the entire animal populace of
layers, however thin, and prey on each other as well as and extend their influence.
pigments to use in their most expensive tints, but most the Vale, and anyone who enters here will be taken
do not have the stomach to continue onwards for on almost any living being of flesh and bone. Carapaced
aback by the total absence of bird or mammal noises.
borrowers, teethed arthropods, and acid-spewing
more than a few miles, as the absence of color makes
even simple movements far more difficult. Here, the monsters thinner than sheets of paper slither through THE SOUTHERN WASTES The Valists, as they are nicknamed by the Kayachi, are
completely preoccupied with being the sole caretakers
very shadows seem to move, arcane shades of ages the cracks of these fields, and their presence would be The least inhospitable of all subregions, the Southern
and rulers of the forest, but are nevertheless challenged
bygone that want nothing more than suck every speck enough to give any adventurer pause were it not for the Wastes are of strategic importance due to the region’s
by their feared enemies: the lost souls of thousands of
of chromaticity out of their living hosts. existence of Golmorhan – flaked creatures with fronts only two true ports: Nhakai and Asreja. Despite both
Eldra Gavan who died here, and whose essences remain
that hover above the surface while their tail ends trail being essential for travel, these harbor cities are difficult
linked to the forest, the only fertile ground of significant
through the upper layers of Malak’Dor, leaving easy to to reach, as they top large cliffs and bringing in ships
size left in the Sundered Wastes. Unfortunately to the
FARU SADIN follow grooves in the surface peel. The Golmorhan can
be tamed and ridden up to the southern ends of the
safely to the docks below is an arduous affair best left
to experienced and skilled sailors. Once inland, travelers
Valists, many adventurers invade the premises, drawn
Sandwiched between The Black Sands and Malak’Dor, in by the presence of enox, a rare and priceless rock that
Northern Wastes and the north ends of Faru Sadin, and soon face more difficulties, as supernatural phenomena
an area that has no name other than the Sundered Wastes, grows underneath the trees of the Vale and fetches
provide transport to the area just outside of Quan far become more prevalent near The Black Sands and as
Faru Sadin is the only bastion of civilization outside of the extremely high prices at markets all over Athyr.
faster than cutting through the more tranquil western the river that runs from Asreja ends in a particularly
cities and towns along the region borders. Despite being
flank or the mountain passes to the eastern side.
inhabited by humans, Faru Sadin is almost as alien as the
uninhabited parts of the Sundered Wastes. It stretches
higher than any other known center on Athyr, and
THE NORTHERN WASTES
although it only covers a relatively small surface area, life
here is distributed amongst many different levels, each of The Northern Wastes border Keldor, the Sea of Jewels, CURSED GODS OF LANGUAGE
THE SUNDERED OVERVIEW
them connected through wires and elevators, cables and and Beshaar, and harbor the largest concentration
ropes, ladders and stairs, bizarrely-curved walkways and of Kayachi anywhere in the Sundered Wastes. This is,
WASTES
two kinds of thoroughly alien-looking flying steeds: the of course, due to the presence of the Red Wizards,
Ymryll, winged lizards the size of horses that instinctually who hold unchallenged sovereignty over the great MOSTLY
only fly up until they break the clouds, and that are bred city of Quan. As one draws nearer to Quan, it is hard LANGUAGE SPOKEN IN
Instead of worshipping their gods, people from the
on the floor level to bring their riders to higher ground; not to notice that modified Kayachi are becoming
Sundered Wastes mostly just curse at their gods when Across most of the Sundered
and the Daremdar, similarly-sized gliders with three more plentiful, and most of the nomads living close Kayachi
things go wrong or when some calamity befalls them. Wastes
heads stacked on top of each other that are bred on the to the center are both heavily mutilated and strongly
higher levels to bring their passengers to lower grounds. enhanced, with gas masks that are stitched to their Orthar: The Blood God Silnami: The Judgemental Malak Dorr and Northern
faces to protect them from the toxic clouds in the area, Athraki
The Kayachi of Faru Sadin are not ruled by a single Rhak: The Gluttonous Wazini: The Trickster Wastes mostly
skin that has been replaced with protective leather or
sovereign or royal family, but rather by the Guild of metal plates, and eyes that have been removed in favor Kamano: The Beast King Arakrex: The Great
Alchemists, whose members are elected through of internal goggles that allow for better-than-human Scorcher
Diredja: The Lustful
Milandre: The Depraved
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Evandyr
CHAPTER 5:
EVANDYR
THE R EGION may not actively work against the people it caters to,
like it does in regions like Ethennia or the Sundered
Evandyr is the westernmost known continent of Athyr. Wastes, but where it hides monsters like the fabled
It’s a place of widely different environmental conditions Hydra, where corrupt rulers, scurrilous religious sects,
and terrain, with a frozen north, hot arid south, dark and opprobrious cults operate both in the open and
forests, vast mountain ranges, and a surprisingly large out of obscure shelters, and where conspiracies are
amount of fertile land perfect for settlement. This forged that will potentially change the face of not just
ideal land is, however, unevenly distributed due to an Evandyr, but the entirety of Athyr forever.
abundance of microclimates created by a combination
of huge mountain ranges with numerous bays,
peninsulas, and rivers.
Most probably, it is precisely because of these geographic ABOUT EVANDYR
and agricultural factors that Evandyr has never really Nowhere else in the world are the lands so fertile and
stood united except when threatened by outside abundant, nowhere else is the local produce so varied
kingdoms from across the seas. Instead, its six distinct and are trade guilds so powerful and active… and
kingdoms, Solnos, Oskolim, Lhandor, Vahlia, Korchova, nowhere else are neighboring countries so distrustful
and Orthoss have been at odds with each other for and – sometimes – even covetous of each other. Ruled
more generations than anyone cares to remember. by rivalling kings and queens who don’t hesitate to
Dotted with citadels and castles, border keeps and arrange marriages purely to enforce blood bonds and
island fortresses, Evandyr is a land of countless hamlets, strengthen allegiances, Evandyr is rife with political
almost as many villages, civilized towns, and palatial infighting and infested with spy networks, backstabbing,
cities. However, it is also a land with much untamed deception and underhanded dealings.
hinterlands, damp dungeons, and haunted ruins where As different as the kingdoms of Evandyr are from each
the ethereal specters of rulers past lament their own other, all of them adhere to a fairly strict feudal system
avariciousness and impatience. A land where nature with lieges and lords, knights and squires, priests and
142 143
Evandyr
clerics, monks and nuns, and numerous vassals forced Except for Solnos, there aren’t many public libraries against the malevolent creatures that too often LHANDOR
to pay ever-increasing taxes, often to fund their in Evandyr and much of its population is illiterate, but plague its forests, and take up arms against the cults Situated to the west of Evandyr’s military giant Vahlia,
sovereign’s intelligence apparatus and arsenal. Still, many people of learning keep private book collections are extremely welcome and venerated everywhere the Lhandorian queen Yvrette recently managed to
open warfare is rarer than one would expect, mostly and some even open their homes to their fellow in Evandyr, with Slayers being particularly revered. In secure her country’s safety by having her youngest
because each kingdom’s aristocracy has too many citizens or interested travelers. However, deception fact, the fastest route to success and renown on this daughter, princes Imerelda, betrothed to the Keldorian
common enemies to risk weakening the bordering and covertness provide fertile ground for clandestine continent has never been ascendency to any throne, prince Maskarev. This has made the nobles bolder than
forces so much that they won’t be able to come to experiments and research into the darkest of arcane but rather martial prowess and strategical insight – ever before, encouraging them to raise taxes along the
their aid should an emergency arise. arts. If expressed per capita, there is no place on Athyr so much so that the paths walked by these monster- toll rivers running from the great Central Lake to Solnos.
where the high availability of dark tomes and forbidden killing daredevils have become true careers supported
With so much power concentrated in its cities and their Lhandorians are also widely known throughout Athyr
lore has prompted so many pernicious sorcerers from by entire colleges, great guilds, and affluent royals.
surroundings, most rulers do not have the resources to for being extremely superstitious – mostly about curses,
summoning baleful demons and vengeful ghosts, all in
keep their hinterlands safe and free of monsters, rovers, bad luck, and portents of doom. Commoners of any
a bid to further their own influence.
and marauders. A lot of Evandyr is pure wilderness and station spend their days festooned with a wide variety
many freebooters, brigands, and raiders set up camp For all its conservatism, Evandyr’s established religion, of charms, totems, phylactery, and amulets. Rooms are
here. Most of these bandit bands have more reason to
fear the many indigenous monsters and otherworldly
creatures that skulk through the dark forests than
the Sareclum, often seems to be the one thing that
binds its inhabitants together. Its dioceses often overlap
two or three kingdoms and all religious orders –
K INGDOMS constantly smudged with herbs, complicated warding
gestures are enacted, and mirrors of any kind tend to
get treated with extreme suspicion. This is encouraged
Evandyr is made up of six kingdoms, each with their
they would knights or soldiers. The most dangerous priests, nuns, monks, and beguines – are well-educated by the fact that Lhandor also has the largest share of
own unique culture, traditions, and landscapes.
of them, such as Llewella’s Company, have succeeded and fluent in Old Evandyrian. All believe in the same bona fide fortunetellers, seers, and diviners anywhere
in striking a deal with these malevolent beings, and pantheon, but most temples and chapels are dedicated in Evandyr, and many a hero has come here first to
their existence poses a serious threat to Evandyr’s
sovereigns, who are often forced to hire adventurers
to a single deity. Unsurprisingly, the god one chooses
to follow tends to predict a lot about that person’s K ARCHOVA learn about their fate before mastering the courage to
live up to their potential.
and mercenaries from outside of the continent to deal character and disposition, although most Evandyrians Karchovans are best known for their great galleons and
with their problems. tend to be pragmatic and go to whatever temple they caravels. King Zabian holds more western isles than any
144 145
Evandyr
OSKOLIM
A highly advanced fishing culture, Oskolim do not only
VAHLIA
There is no doubt that Vahlia has the largest surface of
GODS OF LANGUAGE
excel as trawlers, clam diggers, and lobster trappers,
but also as rugged mariners who are said to be
fertile mass of land in all of Evandyr, and access to so
many resources has turned the kingdom into a huge
EVANDYR OVERVIEW
capable of surviving freezing temperatures even when trading powerhouse that is only kept from becoming An overview of the Evandyrian Pantheon, which you
submerged for protracted periods of time. Confronted the most authoritative nation in Evandyr by its borders will be able to read more about in the final release of MOSTLY
with icebergs and entire floating islands of ice, Oskolim with the other kingdoms and by the lack of easy sea this book: LANGUAGE SPOKEN IN
have cemented an already-legendary reputation access because of the Gerneyan Mountain Range and
Vanorra: The Fortubo: The Dreamer Vahlian Vahlia
for themselves by building the only icebreaker ships the Berendir who make their home there. If not for the
Earthmother
anywhere on Athyr – juggernaut boats that double as manmade passage through the two mountain passes Lirr: The Illuminating
Melorra: The Queen of Lhandorian Lhandor
capable, if slightly difficult to maneuver, warships. leading to the Sabretooth Bay east of Tarvos and to Bhalion: The Prince of
the north of Mooncrest Valley, Vahlia would not be Chaos
Often at odds with Solnos over the mineral-rich Darkness
able to capitalize on its trade capabilities as well as it Karchovan Karchova
northern Isles of Urbolg, Oskolim has nonetheless Anagdir: The Courageous
has done over the last centuries. Jergal: The Envious
retained control over the ice-covered peninsula, Felnor: The Bringer
Torin: The Valorous Orthosi Orthoss
despite the incessant (and obviously state-sponsored) This – amongst other, more typical reasons – has led Of Justice
guerilla naval raids of which the Solni royals officially Vahlians to keep sponsoring the largest, best-armed Nerys: The Angel of
Erathis: The Osho Oskolim
deny all involvement, and even the sporadic incursions military in the known world, and it’s only the mutually Beauty
by Lhandorian raiders have done nothing to change assured destruction of drawing the renowned First Knowledgeable
Ekashi: The Hateful Solno Solnos
the status quo. King’s Regiment away from Sabretooth Bay should Acanthe: The Bestower
passage to the Middle Sea be cut off that has kept the of Power Morgalf: The Inventor
entire continent from becoming unstable, undoubtedly Dherone: The Patron of
Shaeida: The Harbinger
SOLNOS plunging it into incessant warfare.
of Death Peace
Well-known for its availability of higher education and Needless to say, Vahlia also has some of the world’s best Xinteus: The Watcher in
Parsemos: The Voice of
the grand universities that mark the land more than military schools and the weapon training to be had the Sky
Reason
its palaces and temples. Adroit diplomats, charismatic here is unparalleled. Adventurers who are educated in
negotiators, and soft-spoken rulers, the princes and Yadira: The Deceitful Ephalos: The Protector
the art of war and combat skills so typical of the Vahlian
princesses of Solnos are all just as versed in espionage army usually hold an edge over fighters who have been Gorshag: The Lord of Geshta: The Forsaken
and double-dealings. Friendly at most times, but taught cruder and less effective martial techniques. War
ruthless if necessary, Solni have astounded the rest of
Evandyr by striking the most incredible land ownership
deal in recent history, signing an agreement with
Lhandor not to contest rulership over the western
island of Domaia by turning it into a massive resort
open to the peoples from all six kingdoms, as long as
the required amount of gold is paid.
Still, Solnos is also marked by its illustrious past, when
ancient bloodlines waged a grisly war with the rest of
the continent, and the land to the south-west remains
largely barren except for the half-buried remains of
soldiers long dead and war machines the likes of which
have not seen since. There may be more treasure to
be found there than anywhere else on Evandyr, which
is why so many adventuring troupes – often in search
for the same mythical item or priced relic – clash here.
146 147