Aventuria Almanac
CREDITS
Authors
Florian Don Schauen, Daniel Simon Richter
Additional material by Eevie Demirtel, Tobias Rafael
Junge, Alex Spohr, and Jens Ullrich
Publishing Managers
Markus Plötz, Michael Mingers
Rules Design
Markus Plötz, Alex Spohr, Jens Ullrich
Editor
Eevie Demirtel
Editorial Staff
Eevie Demirtel, Daniel Simon Richter
Copy-Editing
Marco Findeisen, Thorsten Most, Timo Roth
Art Director
Nadine Schäkel
Cover Illustration
Anna Steinbauer
Interior Illustrations and Maps
Helge Balzer, Steffen Brand, Tristan Denecke, Regina
Kallasch, Lorena Lammer, Jennifer Lange, Nele Klumpe,
Marcus Koch, Annika Maar, Ben Maier, Katharina Niko,
Nathaniel Park, Diana Rafoth, Janina Robben, Matthias
Rothenaicher, Nadine Schäkel, Fabian Schempp, Wiebke
Scholz, Elif Siebenpfeiffer, Anna Steinbauer, Mia
Steingräber, Florian Stitz, Sebastian Watzlawek, Rabea
Wieneke, and Karin Wittig
Composition, Layout, and Design
Patrick Soeder
ENGLISH VERSION
Studio Director
Timothy Brown
Translator
Eduard Lerperger
Managing Editor
Kevin MacGregor
Editing
Kevin MacGregor, Trish DeFoggi
Copy-Editing
Tim Beach, JM DeFoggi, Dale Donovan,
Chris Leyba, Greg Nagler
Layout
Ben Acevedo, Emma Beltran
Copyright © 2016 by Ulisses Spiele GmbH, Waldems.
THE DARK EYE, AVENTURIA, DERE, MYRANOR, RIESLAND, THARUN,
and UTHURIA are trademarks of Ulisses Spiele. All rights reserved.
This publication is protected under the copyright laws of the United
States of America. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any
means, whether electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or
otherwise, without prior written consent by Ulisses Spiele GmbH,
Waldems.
We would like to thank Tim Frießinger, Jean G. Kehnert,
Judith C. and Christian Vogt, Boris Alles, Gregor
Biberacher, Björn Hinrichs, Niko Hoch, Christoph Lack,
Thorsten Most, Bernd Teichert, Daniel Bruxmeier, Tjorven
Müller, Patrick Schumacher, Fabian Sinnesbichler, and
Dennis Weigt, as well as the countless clever and creative
minds who, over the course of the last thirty years,
created Aventuria as we know it today.
With thanks to all who helped create Aventuria.
Table of Contents The City-States of the Tulamydes
and of the South 58
The Caliphate and the Khôm Desert 60
Preface 6
Selem and Lizard Swamps 61
A Short Introduction 6
The Empire of Al’Anfa 63
Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria 7 The Forests and Islands of the Far South 64
The World of Dere 8 The Southern Sea 66
The Shape of the World 8 Cities of Aventuria 68
The Far North 8 Beyond Aventuria 91
The Forests of the North 10 Myranor, the Gyldenland 91
The Steppes of the Orcs Uthuria, Land of 12,000 Gods 91
and the Former Svellt League of Towns 10 Rakshazar, the Giant’s Shore 91
Thorwal and the Gjalskland 11
The Warring Kingdoms 11
Chapter 4: Culture and Science 93
Languages and Dialects 94
The Middenrealm 11
Garethi, Bosparano, and Old Gyldenlandish 94
The Delvings of the Dwarves 13
Tulamidya and Ancient Tulamidya 94
The Island of Maraskan 13
Other Human Languages and Scripts 95
The Realm of the Horas 14
Languages and Scripts of Nonhumans 95
The Lands of the Tulamydes 14
Customary Forms of Greeting 96
Arania, Land of the Matriarchs 14
Secret Languages and Scripts 96
The Khôm Desert and the Caliphate 14
Idioms and Superstitions 96
The Lizard Swamps 14
Idioms and Expressions 96
The City States of Meridiana 15
Aventurian Superstitions 98
Steaming Jungles 15
Calendars, Reckonings, and Holidays 99
Altoum and the Forest Islands 16
The Calendar of the Twelvegods 99
Wind and Weather 16
Other Human Systems of Reckoning 100
Levels of Cold 16
Nonhuman Systems of Reckoning 100
Levels of Heat 16
Feasts and Holidays 101
Over Road and Bridge 18
Cosmology 101
Journey on Land 18
The Creation of the World 101
Journey on Water 20
The Ages 103
Magical Journeys 21
The Starry Sky 104
Chapter 2: Races 23 Class and Feudal System 107
Humans 24 Class 107
Elves 26 The Feudal System 108
Dwarves 27 Town Rights and Burghers 108
Orcs and Goblins 27 Forms of Address 109
Additional Races 28 Battles and Armies 111
Chapter 3: Land and People 29 Army Organization 111
Locations and Settings 29 Military Ranks 112
The Middenrealm and Its Provinces 30 The Military Campaign 113
The Middenrealm in the Year 1040 FB 31 Great Battles of History 113
Horasian Empire and Cyclopes Islands 39 Food and Drink 114
Paavi and the Far North 41 Sport and Games 116
Gulf of Riva and the Lands of the Nivese 44 Craftsmanship and Technology 117
Thorwal and the Gjalskland 45 Music and Art 120
Nostria and Andergast 46 Books as Teachers 122
Orclands and Svellt Valley 48 Aventurian Libraries 122
The Free Cities of the North Selected Books 123
and the Elven Heartlands 49 Aventurian Diseases 126
The Bornland 50 The Art of Alchemy 130
Mountain Kingdoms: Poisons 130
The Dwarves of Aventuria 52 Elixirs and Tinctures 131
Warunkia and The Shadowlands 54 Chapter 5: Trade and Commerce 133
Maraskan and The Blood Sea 55 Currencies and Payment Transactions 134
Arania and Perricum 57 Minting Rights 135
 Promissory Notes 135 Chapter 9: Fame and Infamy 203
Common Currencies 135 The Garadan System 204
Trade Fairs and Markets 136 Rohaja of Gareth 205
Trade Fairs 136 Khadan Varsinian Firdayon 205
Weights and Measurements 138 Bibernell of Hengisford 206
Law and Order 139 Aikar Brazoragh 206
Courts of Law 140 Albrax son of Agam 207
Offenses 141 Abromolosh son of Agam 207
Punishments 142 Elodiron Crystalglimmer 208
God’s Judgement and Trial by Combat 143 Nahema ai Tamerlein 208
Taxes and Levies 143 Archon Megalon 209
Chapter 6: Flora and Fauna 145 Pardona 209
What Grows and Lives in Aventuria? 146 Ashtarra Okharim 210
Aventurian Seas 148 Raxan Shadow Wing 210
Aventurian Bestiary 149 Emmeran Stoerrebrandt 211
Goblin 150 Thorn Eisinger 211
Ogre 152 Arn Askrason 212
Orc 154 Baba ben Ali 212
Troll 156 Vanja Nadaljeff 213
Cave Spider 158 Deriago di Vincetta 213
Crypt Louse 160 Chapter 10: Myth and History 215
Krakennewt 162 Aventurian History 216
Tatzelwurm 164 Mythology and History 216
Treant 166 Prehistory 216
Grimwolf 168 The First Human Kingdom 218
Black Bear 169 The New Realm 221
Wild Boar 170 Recent History 224
Wolf Rat 171 The Living History:
Aventurian Herbarium 172 Aventuria as a Game Setting 225
Chapter 7: Gods and Demons 175 The Time of the Starfall 230
The Creed of the Twelvegods 176 Index 258
Praios 177
Rondra 177
Efferd 178 Spoiler Alert! This chapter is for GMs Only!
Travia 178
Boron 179
Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana 231
Mysteries 232
Hesinde 179
The Starfall 232
Firun 180
The Shards of the Demon Crown 234
Tsa 180
The Turning of the Ages 235
Phex 181
War of the Gods 236
Peraine 181
The Intrigues of the Nameless One 236
Ingerimm 182
Dark Eyes 238
Rahja 182
Rohal and Borbarad 238
The Adversary 183
The Wall of Efferd 238
The Archdemons 184
Secrets of the NPCs 239
Other Immortals 185
Mysterious Places 245
Beyond the Creed of the Twelvegods 187
Other Mysterious Places 248
The Beliefs of Non-Humans 188
Heroic Journeys Throughout Aventuria 250
Churches and Cults 189
Human Opponents 251
Chapter 8: Magic and Sorcery 191 Burgher 252
Aventuria as a Magical World 192 Bandit 253
Magical Traditions 193 Guard 254
Magical Artifacts 196 Cultist 255
Magical Beings 199 Living History for the GM 256
Magic in Daily Life 200
 Preface
The fantastic world of The Dark Eye has been evolving for
more than thirty years. Explorers have even discovered a
few new continents, but Aventuria was where it all started,
and Aventuria remains the centerpiece of the game. Now
that the Core Rules of The Dark Eye is in its fifth edition, we
wanted to publish an updated description of the world of
Aventuria in a new volume.
This book is intended as a classic setting guide designed
to help new players get their bearings in Aventuria.
Experienced players can browse it quickly for updates
on current affairs and rediscover a long-cherished game
setting. I wish to thank all the enthusiastic players and
authors who lovingly crafted Aventuria and the cosmology
of The Dark Eye. We wish you lucky die rolls and hope that
your heroes prevail time and time again in Aventuria.
Daniel Simon Richter (for the editorial team),
Oberhausen, on a warm summer day in August, 2015
A Short Introduction
Welcome to the world of The Dark Eye! The Aventuria
Almanac expands upon the material introduced in the Core
Rules by taking a closer look at life on the continent of
Aventuria. Upcoming sourcebooks explore specific regions
in even greater depth.
This book gives your role playing group a common starting
point for the game world, and is designed for game masters
and players alike. With one exception, players may read
freely without fear of ruining their gaming experience. In
other words, this book contains few spoilers.
Where Do I Begin?
We suggest you start at the beginning. The Aventuria
Almanac covers everything from the big picture to certain
finer details, and most chapters begin with an overview
of basic concepts. Experienced players may use the Table
of Contents (see page 4), the Index (see page 258), and the
enclosed map of Aventurian regions to skip directly to
sections of interest.
GM Information
Spoiler alert: Chapter 11: Mystery And Arcana (see
page 231) contains information intended only
for the GM. Players who do not wish to spoil their enjoyment
of the game should avoid reading Chapter 11, as it reveals
6 Preface
many secrets concerning the world, important NPCs, and
events. We mark such secrets with a page reference and a
symbol. The Index omits all references to these secrets
to prevent players from accidentally learning something
they later wish they hadn’t seen.
Level of Detail
Players familiar with the Regional Setting Guides of
previous editions won’t find as much detail in this volume,
but then again, this book could contain more than 1,000
pages and still not come close to those earlier efforts.
Instead, we condensed the sheer abundance of information
in a clear and readable way. Let this book serve as a
foundation for your campaign, a springboard from which
to create adventures. For example, Chapter 3: Land and
People (see page 29) presents descriptions and adventure
hooks for many fascinating regions. A region is much more
than its geographical description, as you shall discover. To
explore this concept further, see Locations and Settings, on
page 29.
Point of View
This book is told from the point of view of someone steeped
in the traditions and interpretations of events according
to the Twelvegods, as this is the most common belief
system in Aventuria (and the one that is most familiar to
the existing player base). This does not mean that other
perspectives are less important or less true. We intend
merely to emphasize the idea of a unified world. But worry
not, as the Aventuria Almanac also states things from the
perspective of different races, peoples, and cultures. As
with the Core Rules, this book is of necessity limited. If your
group is interested in exploring a specific region, world
view, or cultural mannerism in greater detail, watch for
the upcoming Regional Setting Guides, which expand on
the topics introduced in the Almanac.
What Does My Hero Know?
This book is intended mainly for players, as most
inhabitants of Aventuria know only a fraction of what
has been collected in the Aventuria Almanac. Even great
scholars and well-traveled adventurers may garner only
a few of the facts and rumors presented here during the
course of their entire lives. Naturally, heroes (and even
more so their players) should be well-informed about their
homelands and neighboring regions, but this does not
mean they can freely use all the information presented in
this volume. Be sure to discuss it with your players.
Chapter 1: The
Continent of Aventuria
“I am proud to have sailed with the daring captain Asleif
Foggwulf Phileasson during his legendary race against Beorn the
Blinder. Nothing less than the title of King of the Seas was at stake
back then. What wonders we witnessed, traveling the world at his
side! But I will not sing Phileasson’s saga this time, even though it
would be an honor. Today, I wish to tell you about what our eyes
were allowed to see as we went from one adventure to the next,
crossing blades with gruesome monsters and devious evildoers.

“We sailed north from our homeland of Thorwal, city of free

and fearless seafarers. Many miles we traveled through the cold
waters of Ifirn’s Ocean until we reached the ice. It wasn’t long
before we saw the frigid plains of the High North. Beyond Yeti
Land, where the white snowbugbears dwell, lies a frozen world
seen by few humans. Cold and darkness reign in the Grimmfrost
Wastes, interrupted only by the pale flicker of Ifirn’s Lights. There
are no human settlements this far north, but we found vestiges of
the secretive high elves, who called this hostile land their home
a long time ago. Explorers have found traces of their presence
everywhere on the continent, no matter which way they traveled.

“As we sailed back south, we stopped at the well-fortified trading

town of Riva. From there we followed the River Kvill through
frost-covered, boggy marshland. We left the village of Gerasim,
which is home to many elves, behind us, and crossed the Yellow
Sickle at Raven’s Pass. Finally we reached the Green Plains via old
paths used by the nomadic Nivese and their herds of karan deer.
We marched through the never-ending vastness of the steppe to
the southeast, in the direction of tree-covered Bornland, where
simple folk endure hardships under the whips of their nobles.
O Swafnir, what sort of land is that, in which women and men
cannot live free?

We soon came upon its capital city, Festum—an old and mighty
trading port on the Tobrien Sea—and continued south until
we reached magnificent Vallusa on the Misa River. We had
to crane our necks to appreciate the full skill of its architects,
whose buildings stretch into the sky like towers. From Vallusa
we traveled to the largest realm of men in Aventuria—the New
Realm or Middenrealm. Tobrien was the first province through
which we passed. It is an old and primitive land, bordered on
the east by the sea and on the west by the peaks of the Dragon
Stones and the Black Sickle. I can tell you that the Dragon Stones
are aptly named. No one would dare deny those mighty, winged
beings their dominion, which has endured for millennia. I now
know why we name our dragon ships after them. Nobody stands
in their way. Well, a sworn fellowship of dwarves might, but how
often do you see something like that at sea?

We set out to sea again from the Tobrien harbor town of Mendena.
It was bliss, let me tell you, for I had been stuck on dry land for
far too long.

7
 The Sea of Pearls is always treacherous, but our island destination
lies to the east of the continent, so we dared it. The Maraskan
jungles teem with numerous abominations that devour or sting
everything. Far stranger than the many and often poisonous
creatures are the people who dwell there. They love their freedom
more than anything, but they are not entirely right in the head:
They think the world is a perfect discus! We found what we were
looking for on the island–a horror from ancient times–but I will
tell of this another time. We soon left Maraskan and the other
coastal islands behind. Remember my words: the Sea of Pearls
is treacherous. Beware of areas coated in dark-blue seaweed–
many ships never leave the Sargasso Sea! We sailed into the Gulf
of Tuzak and traveled to the old city of Khunchom in the Lands
of the Tulamydes–what splendor we beheld! Pleasantly warm
throughout the year and with sweet fruit trees everywhere, the
city supports a vast population.
Yet the interior of the continent is a vast, empty desert. Beyond
burning sand and scorching heat, the Khôm offers little. Still we
wanted to travel there. But first we passed through Mhanadistan,
where time-honored Fasar lies in the shadows of the mighty peaks
of the Wall of Rashtul. The oldest city of man in the world, Fasar’s
splendid palaces stand next to squat clay huts. Money rules
this city. The mighty enforce their influence with mercenaries
and violence compels the poor in Fasar’s alleys. From there, we
trekked through the searing desert and found traces of ancient
settlements along the way.
How glad I was when we finally left that parched land! We
traveled through the Fairfield, where you find cities of splendor
in every direction. The inhabitants think highly of themselves
and even think their people were first settlers of Aventuria. Blind
fools, I say! Everyone knows that our ancestors settled this land
much earlier, by Swafnir’s name!
Our journey led us into the swamps over a rough road to Loch
Harodrôl and into the rainforests of the south. Dark-skinned
forest people and scaly lizardfolk who call themselves the Achaz
live there. The Achaz claim they once ruled the world and, after
seeing their overgrown temple complexes, I begin to believe them.
But not even the jungles and swamps of Meridiana could keep
us from our race; we had to return home to Thorwal ahead of
Beorn the Blinder! So we traveled to the west, into the Sea of
Seven Winds. As we sailed, we passed through the borders of the
world and reached behind the Mists to see the ancient wonders of
the high elves, whose traces we had discovered again and again
across the world.
Finally our journey ended there, where it had begun–in Thorwal.
You ask who won the race. Phileasson, of course! Who, you ask?
Well then, I guess I have to recount the entire saga, after all!”
—Ohm Follker, skald on the legendary expedition of Asleif
Foggwulf Phileasson, the Thorwaler captain of the Sea Eagle
8 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
The World of Dere
The continent of Aventuria, the primary setting for The
Dark Eye, lies on the world of Dere, which bears only a
passing resemblance to our Earth. We are not concerned
with whether Dere is spherical, like Earth, but many of
its inhabitants believe the world is round. Some scholars
speculate that it may be a flat disc, a hemisphere, or even
a ring. People normally refer to Dere’s sun as Praios’ Disk
or the Eye of Praios. The moon is commonly called Mada’s
Sign. Dere is a fantastical world of divine intervention,
wondrous magic, and dangerous monsters, and Aventuria
needs heroes to keep the world from sliding into darkness.
The Shape of the World
Three other known landmasses exist on Dere. If you leave
Aventuria and travel west across the Sea of Seven Winds,
you eventually reach the Gyldenland, which is called
Myranor by its inhabitants. If you travel straight across
the Southern Sea—a long and perilous journey—you reach
giant Uthuria, also called the land of the 12,000 gods. In the
east, beyond the Sea of Pearls, lies the Giant’s Shore, called
Rakshazar by the Tulamydes. It borders Aventuria in the
far north-east, but the two continents are separated by the
mighty peaks of the Iron Edge, which rise more than 9,000
feet into the sky.
Aventuria stretches approximately 2,000 Middenmiles
(which correspond to our kilometers) from west to east
and approximately 3,000 Middenmiles from north to south.
Compared to Earth, Aventuria is roughly the size of Europe
as measured from the North Cape of Norway to the Italian
capital, Rome, and from the west coast of Ireland to the
city of Warsaw, Poland.
The Far North
The far north of the world shivers in the icy grasp of
eternal cold under the pale, flickering North Star, which
is also called Ifirn’s Light. The names of its regions, such
“There have been many debates on the
shape of the world. Some think that Dere
is a disk, others that it is a sphere. The
Maraskani are certain that the world is a
discus, and I have even heard from scholars
who are convinced that a mysterious hollow
world exists inside Dere.”
—Nacladora Berlînghan, Blessed One of Hesinde Draconite
9
 as Hoarfrost Wastes and Grimmfrost Wastes, hint at their
desolate nature. Bards tell many tales of the horrors that
dwell here. Legends say that Firun, god of winter and the
hunt, keeps ancient evils imprisoned here. The snow-
covered Ice Cliffs, Misty Peaks, and Frozen Peaks mountain
ranges rise from the ice-encrusted plains. Yeti Land, the
name of Aventuria’s northernmost island, is home to
the wild snowbugbears. Ice dragons, such as the ancient
Schirr’Zach, rule the skies above the Eternal Ice. Tales tell
of the Wild Hunt of the archdemon Nagrach, which hunts
and kills indiscriminately. The harsh tribes of Fjarning Ice
Barbarians grudgingly share the land with the mysterious
ice elves, who generally avoid contact with anyone.
Apart from the city of Paavi, seat of the Duchy of the same
name, only a few scattered settlements lie on Icebreak Bay,
which is populated by amber collectors, hardy whalers, and
daring trappers. A short time ago, the Ice Witch, Glorana,
subjugated the lands surrounding Icebreak Bay. She is
presumed to have been killed, but it is said that her black
ice still corrupts the souls of those who carelessly leave the
protection of their homes.
A flat plain stretches out between the northern mountain
ranges and coasts and the eerie forests of the Salamander
Stones. This endless expanse of steppe, called Brydia, is
settled almost exclusively by nomads, the quiet and frugal
Nivese, who follow the course of seasons with their herds
of half-wild karan deer.
The Iron Edge, in the far northeast, is the mightiest
mountain range in Aventuria. The bards say that every
attempt to cross these 9,000 foot tall peaks has failed, and
the land beyond (the Giant’s Shore) is remembered only in
myth. Maybe the ancient dragon, Fuldigor, who is said to
be so huge that thousand-year old oaks grow on his back,
could reveal something about these lands. Folks say that he
has watched over the Demon’s Citadel at the border of the
world, deep in the Iron Edge, since the end of the Dragon
War.
The Forests of the North
In the east, the windswept, grassy plain of Brydia changes
over to the whispering, dark forests of Nornja, wherein lies
the city of Bjaldorn with its splendid Temple Hall made of
crystal. Even though a baron wields power here, the true
lords of Nornja are the treants, which impede settlement
attempts and watch outsiders warily from the depths of
the forest.
To the south is the Bornland, which lies on the rivers Born
and Wealbeck, the arteries of this feudal republic. Seafaring
trade is the lifeblood of Festum, the capital of the Bornland
and one of the largest cities of Aventuria. The Feudal
Marshal, elected every five years, resides here. Beyond the
10 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
free cities the Bronnjars rule as feudal landowners with
unrestricted power over their lands and over their serfs.
The wild, forsaken hills of the Transweal, northeast
of Festum, are home to strange fairies who have little
comprehension of or care for the worries of humans.
The rest of the land is covered in forests. A giant named
Milzenis makes his home in the Bornwood.
Ruined castles and dreams of a lost empire recall the
exploits of the Theater Knights, the faithful warriors of
Rondra. Hundreds of years ago, they fought valiantly
against the goblins and were just and fair rulers of the land.
The Bronnjars proudly trace their family lineage back to
this legendary Order.
The bustling Norbards travel through the Bornland and
its neighboring regions on business, always with songs on
their lips and memories of their kin in their hearts.
The former rulers of the land, the red-furred goblins, were
driven into exile in the Red Sickle and now dare to attack
humans only with superior numbers. They maintain their
ancient beliefs and still worship the Mother Sow, Mailam
Rekdai.
The mysterious forests of the Salamander Stones lie
separated from the Bornland by the Green Plains in the
east. Crystal-clear rivers flow here in deep valleys and the
leaves on the trees seem to whisper old songs. Within the
unspoiled beauty of the deepest wilderness one finds the
mythical homeland of the elves. Eons ago, the first of their
kind stepped out of the light into the physical world and
established the culture of the high elves. Their descendants,
the wood elves, still live here, albeit withdrawn from the
world. In the wet woodlands of the Kvill and other rivers
one finds the villages of the glade elves, built atop wooden
pilings.
The Steppes of the Orcs and the Former
Svellt League of Towns
The Stone Oak Forest and the mountain ranges of the Great
Olochtai and Firun’s Wall surround the dry steppes of the
Orclands, as if placed there to prevent their inhabitants
from ever leaving. Yet many wars of the past showed
that the orcs cannot be penned in. While most orcs are
content to reside here in large tribes and subsist via animal
husbandry and hunting, they are feared as vicious warriors
everywhere. A gruesome fate awaits their captives: the
strong are forced into slavery, and the weak are sacrificed
to the minotaur-like god, Brazoragh, or Tairach, the orc
god of death. The Aikar Brazoragh is seen by most orcs as
the unifier of the otherwise chaotic tribes and ruler of the
Orclands, sent by the gods directly. His warriors set out to
attack the humans from Khezzara, the only orc city in a
land of nomadic tribes. The Orclands are also regarded as
the home of man-eating ogres, gigantic horrors that once
raided beyond the mountains and struck deep into the
Middenrealm, devastating everything they encountered.
To the east of the Orclands lies the former Svellt League of
Towns. After the last orc raid, small settlements are all that
remain of this once prosperous trading power. Towns such
as Gashok were conquered by the orc horde. Deepenborg
resisted, and burned for its efforts. Lowangen still pays a
steep tribute to the occupying forces. Tjolmar, on the other
hand, escaped unharmed. Rumor says the town’s resident
dwarves purchased its freedom. Riva, which sits on the
shore of the gulf of the same name, is the last independent
city of the old Svellt League. It is the gateway to the Nivese
steppes and the most important harbor on Aventuria’s
northern coast.
Thorwal and the Gjalskland
Many think the culture of the tall Thorwalers consists only
of raucous bawling, brawling, and drinking. But that is
only one side of the coin, since there exists more to this
valiant northern folk. The Thorwalers are some of the best
seafarers in all Aventuria, and are feared along the western
coast as pirates and plunderers. The enmity between these
northern folk and the slave holders of the deep south is
famous, as is their poisonous hatred for whalers, since they
worship the whale god, Swafnir, above all others.
Thorwaler bards keep old wisdom and stories alive in
their songs to strengthen and unify communities, while
their runes weave mighty spells to command winds and
waves. Most Thorwaler settlements (especially coastal
communities or Ottajaskos) are independent and organized
along lines of extended families or kinships. It surprises
some to learn that Thorwalers elect their leaders, including
the highest-ranking Hetpeople.
The capital of Thorwal is praised for its cosmopolitan
attitude. Other important places are Prem (the source of
Prem Fire, Aventuria’s most famous schnapps) and Olport,
where the Hjaldings, the ancestors of the Thorwalers,
first set foot upon Aventuria after sailing from from the
legendary Gyldenland.
The land is rough and unspoiled from the chalk cliffs of
Olport to the windswept isles of the Olport Stones, the
ragged fjords of the west coast, the high moors around
Waskir, the treacherous Hjaldor and Gray Mountains, and
the lowlands of the Borodin. The Gjalskland lends its name
to the Gjalsker Barbarians, a reclusive people who are as
rough as the land and who fear nothing but the sea.
The Warring Kingdoms
To the south of Thorwal and the Orclands lie Nostria and
Andergast, whose feud has continued for more than 2,000
years and made them known as the Warring Kingdoms.
Shaped by strict feudalism, Nostria and Andergast are
separated by a forest wilderness that itself is home to
numerous druids and witches. While coastal Nostria feuds
constantly with the Thorwalers, the wooded hinterlands of
Andergast face constant threat from the orcs. Old enmity
and new conflicts have shaped a sullen and tight-lipped
people who trust only in tradition. Aventuria views both
regions as backwards, a belief supported by Andergast’s
general tenet that men are somehow superior to women.
The Middenrealm
In all of Aventuria, the Realm of Raul, also called the
Middenrealm or New Realm, controls the largest territory.
The Realm of Empress Rohaja of Gareth stretches from the
windswept coasts of the Sea of Seven Winds in the west to
the Tobrien Sea and the Gulf of Perricum in the east, from
Rashtul’s Wall and the Yaquir River in the south to the
Rathil and the mountain ranges of Dark Ridge and Dragon
Stones in the north.
At its most western point lies the Principality of Albernia
with its capital, Havena, the Middenrealm’s largest and
most important harbor on the Sea of Seven Winds. The
Albernian landscape is characterized by wide fens, dark
lakes, and treacherous moorsr.
Probably nowhere else in Aventuria can one find more
fairies than in the dense green of Farindel Forest, which
takes its name from the greatest of the fairies, Farindel.
Another well-known figure is the Father of Tides, whom
many see as the avatar of the Great River. His kingdom is
said to exist beneath its surface.
Between Albernia and the peaks of the Kosh Mountains
lies the Duchy of the Northmarches, home of infamous
river pirates and secretive druid circles and well-known
for its powerful dukes and nobles devoted to Praios. The
Northmarches hold much power in the Realm. The duchy
is characterized by mountain ranges, hills, and dense
forests with many settlements. The administration of
the Middenrealm resides in the Northmarches’ capital
of Elenvina. A long-standing enmity exists between the
steadfast and loyal people of the Northmarches and the
freedom-loving Albernians.
The high peaks of the Windhag Mountains and their forest-
covered valleys shape the landscape of the Margravate of
Windhag to the west, and it borders the Duchy of Grangor
in the south. Few live here, and those who do settle in
11
 fishing hamlets and pirate villages on the western cliffs
of the mountains where they survive on fish and other
seafood, the gifts of Efferd. Bands of bandits, wild kinships,
and even orc tribes claim territory in its remote valleys.
People who think of the Principality of Kosh generally
picture dwarves and homesteading. Two important
mountain kingdoms of the dwarves are located in this
region. The province contains large portions of the Kosh
Mountains and the hilly lands to the east, which border the
Great River. One fourth of its inhabitants are dwarves and
therefore Kosh is rightly seen as the center of craftsmanship
in Aventuria. This is especially true in Angbar, the capital
of the province, which is also the center of the worship of
Ingerimm.
The southernmost province of the Middenrealm is the
Principality of Almada, on the river Yaquir. Since it borders
the Horasian Empire, it serves as a fortress against the
Novadi, the fierce warriors of the Khôm Desert who often
ambush the infidels to the north of the Yaquir in the name
of their god, Rastullah. As a border province, it suffers
periodic flare-ups of the century-old rivalry between the
Old Realm, the New Realm, and the hot-blooded Almadan
12 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
nobility. Its mild climate supports grape cultivation and
the rearing of horses. Locals possess a certain joviality
but also a certain eagerness to quarrel. The capital, Punin,
is the heart of the northern sect of the Church of Boron.
Cosmopolitan in flavor, the city attracts adventurers,
cultural enthusiasts, and scholars alike.
To the northeast of the Kosh lies the Margravate of
Griffonsford, which suffered much from the military
adventures of the orcs. Many orcs stayed on and now work
in the fields or in the workshops and manufactories of the
province capital, Griffonsford. Refugees from Tobrien,
which was conquered by Borbaradian invaders, come here
to start a new life. Not all of them succeed.
To the east of the Kosh lies the Kingdom of Garetia, the
central province of the Middenrealm. Lush fields cover
this fertile land supports lush fields, and trade and
craftsmanship flourish in a large number of small towns.
Most of the land is dedicated to feeding the many hungry
mouths of the great metropolis of Gareth, which is the
capital of Garetia and the Middenrealm and the largest
city on the continent. All roads lead to Gareth, a city of
burghers and guilds, Blessed Ones and warriors, thieves
and vagabonds. It is the home of the Merchant Prince
(Emmeran Stoerrebrandt, the richest man in Aventuria)
and the location of the City of Light, the spiritual center
of the Church of Praios. The eeriest place in Garetia must
be the forest and swampland to the southwest of the
capital. The First Demon Battle, which was fought long
ago, left permanent scars on the land. To this day few dare
to venture into this cursed region, which is known as the
Demon’s Fallows.
After the Year of Fire, parts of Garetia and the former
Principality of Darpartia combined to form the eastern
Marks. The naval harbor in the city Perricum, capital of the
Margravate of the same name, is HQ for the Middenrealm’s
Sea of Pearls fleet. The two defining features of this rather
wealthy province are its seafaring trade and the most
important temple of the martial goddess, Rondra.
The young Rommilysian Marches include large areas
of the former Darpartia, and its capital, Rommilys, is the
spiritual center of the Church of Travia, goddess of home
and hearth. The land offers hope to refugees and war-
weary veterans seeking a peaceful existence.
At the Troll Gate, the wide mountain pass between Black
Sickle and the Troll Peaks, the forces of the Ravenmarches
prevailed against the hosts of the Dead from Warunkia.
The Margravate of Warunk continues the fight against the
dark legacy of Borbarad and has already liberated the city
of Warunk. Countless undead and ghosts were raised there
during the occupation by Borborad’s forces, and many of
thems still haunt the countryside to this day.
The northernmost province of the Middenrealm is the
Duchy of Weiden, which stretches from the Dark Ridge
to the Red and Black Sickles and from the southern shore
of Nine-Eye Lake to the river Rathil. Cattle barons operate
much of the land as grazing grounds and often fight each
other for supremacy, though they still hold chivalry in
high regard. The people of Weiden view themselves as
defenders against the orcs, which remain a constant threat
to the northwestern border regions.
Dense forests and meager farmlands typify the Duchy of
Tobrien, which used to include all the lands to the east
of the Black Sickle. It was once the largest province in
the realm. Except for the Margravate of Warunk, Tobrien
suffered the most from the occupation by Borbarad’s
henchmen and lost large amounts of territory to the
Shadowlands. The land stretching from southeast of the
Dragon Stones to the Beilunk Mountains has since been
reclaimed by the Tobrien Duchy. Only the mountainous
areas of the wooded Transysilia and the demonically
blighted city of Yol-Ghurmak continue to resist the
warriors of the Middenrealm. Many refugees from the
east chose not to settle in this sparsely populated land and
instead moved on to Garetia, Almada, and Albernia.
The Margravate of Sunmark, located near Beilunk, is a
bastion against the Heptarchs, the heirs of Borbarad. A
miracle of the sun god, Praios, protected it from the Demon
Master’s blasphemous magic during the war, and though
the Heptarchs have now all been defeated, it may take
decades to purge their legacy from the face of the world—
if such is even possible.
The Delvings of the Dwarves
Dwarves make their homes in many mountain ranges
in Aventuria, and their independent kingdoms remains
separate from human realms. The conservative ore
dwarves, the oldest and most numerous of the dwarven
peoples, live in the Phecano Forest, the Iron Forest, and
the deepest mountains, of which Xorlosh is the oldest
settlement. The forge dwarves, known for their thirst
for ale, their rowdiness, and their smithing artistry, live
primarily in the Forge and Thash Mountains, but scattered
clans live in the Khunchom Mountains and on the eastern
side of Rashtul’s Wall. The folksy hill dwarves live primarily
in the hilly lands around Lake Angbar in Kosh but also
in many regions of the Middenrealm. The adventurous
diamond dwarves lived in the Beilunk Mountains until
Borbarad drove them out, but they have since found a new
home in Rashtul’s Wall. Hill dwarves and diamond dwarves
maintain the best relations with humans.
The deep dwarves, the degenerate descendants of dwarves
of the lost delving of Umrazim, live in certain mountains
in the Orclands and the Middenrealm. The wild dwarves,
whose origin is unclear even in the dwarves’ own history,
prefer to settle in the far northeastern corner of Aventuria.
Many dwarves live in human cities where they are held in
high regard as artisans and merchants.
The Island of Maraskan
Before falling to the Borbaradian conquest, the combative
Maraskani fought a long guerrilla war against occupying
forces from the Middenrealm. Today only the Shîkanyad
of Sinoda in the south and parts of Maraskan’s east coast
remain free. The rest of the island is split between the Dark
Hordes (cruel warlords who worship the blood-drinking
archdemon Belhalhar) and worshipers of the archdemon
Charyptoroth (the Terror of the Blood Sea). An ancient
power haunts the heart of the island, but even before the
Borbaradian conquest the island was known for its dense
jungles and its poisonous plants and animals. Even today,
few can survive a march through this heart of darkness.
13
 The Realm of the Horas
The heart of the Horasian Empire lies in a region which
is also called Fairfield or Old Realm. On its western coast,
it spans from Grangor to Drôl and is separated from the
Khôm Desert in the east by the Golden Cliffs and the
High Eternals. Fertile fields and a mild climate guarantee
the wealth of this region, whose ports are home to many
renowned trading companies. As the most successful
traders in Aventuria, the merchants of the Horasian Empire
transport wares and passengers to the far corners of the
continent in their proud sailing vessels. Daring captains
and respected explorers set out for Uthuria or even distant
Gyldenland, the legendary home of the first settlers. The
capital of the realm, Vinsalt, was erected on the ruins of
the old Imperial capital, Bosparan, which was destroyed by
the people of Gareth. The city of Kuslik, still the only one
in Aventuria with three mage academies, is the spiritual
center of the Church of Hesinde. Long ago, the first people
to set foot in Aventuria landed at Bethana, which is now
the seat of the Church of Efferd
Its long history made the Horasian Empire into a haven of
traditions and a bastion of the belief in the Twelvegods.
Famous temples and holy places attract many pilgrims.
Many of the empire’s large cities compete with each
other—not just for political influence and volume of trade,
but also for glory and cultural splendor. Education and
appreciation of the arts are required virtues for nobles and
common folk alike.
Power struggles between old noble families take place
behind the scenes, and murderous conspiracies, sinister
secret societies, and strange cults blossom in the shadows
of palaces. The Cyclopes Islands in the Sea of Seven Winds
also belong to the Horasian Empire. These islands are
home to the last remaining one-eyed giants, the legendary
masters of smithing for which the archipelago is named.
The Lands of the Tulamydes
The variety of bazaars in the Lands of the Tulamydes
remains legendary, the artistry of their magical dancers
holds great fame, and their storytellers astound audiences
with tales of powerful djinn, cunning heroes, and
majestic sultans. On the shores of the Mhanadi River
and its tributaries (especially the Gadang) live a very
temperamental people who differ from the descendants
of the Gyldenlandian settlers in their tanned complexion,
dark hair, and exceptionally flowery language.
The fertile Mhanadi valley yields rice and other grains.
Warm-weather fruit trees grow in abundance. The largest
city is Fasar, a brooding crucible of people and the oldest
city of men in Aventuria, known not only for its legendarily
affluent masters but also for its sinister mage academy.
Other cities on the Mhanadi are Mherwed primarily
14 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
inhabited by Novadi devoted to Rastullah, fairytale-like
Rashtul, and Khunchom, which is said to have been
erected on the ruins of a lizardfolk city. On a high plateau
on the border of Arania lies the Gorian Desert, and it is
said that strong winds can carry its red sand all the way to
Mherwed. Few survive an expedition to this hostile place.
Another area, inhabited primarily by Tulamydes, is the
valleys of the rivers Thalusim and Ongalo, where the strict
manorial system sometimes fosters bands of thieves.
Arania, Land of the Matriarchs
Between Perricum and the Gorian Desert lies Arania. Its
cities include Baburin, the capital Zorgan, Elburum,
and Anchopal, which is currently occupied. Arania has
been influenced by the cultures of the Middenrealm and
the Tulamydes alike, and boasts industrious farmers,
skillful merchants, and ingenious artisans. Women play
a considerably greater role in society than men, which
is uncommon for Aventuria, which generally does not
support the idea of a superior gender.
The Khôm Desert and the Caliphate
The Khôm Desert, the largest desert in Aventuria, is home to
the Novadi, proud equestrians and warriors. They worship
one god, Rastullah, who appeared to them over 250 years
ago in the Oasis of Keft. From his teachings they created
the 99 Holy Commandments, which govern everyday life
and interactions between the strictly patriarchal tribal
cultures. Caravans with precious goods travel throughout
their territory, braving the dangers of the Khôm between
stops at oases and caravanserais. The most important of
the desert fringe areas is the Shadif, which is famous for
its noble breed of horse that exhibits proverbial fire and
grace.
The Lizard Swamps
The rotting swamps and impassable mangrove forests
south of the Khôm hold all sorts of poisonous animals
and gigantic reptiles. Its oppressive humidity makes life
hard for travelers. A mighty kingdom of lizard people
once controlled the southern half of the continent.
Few humans live in these jungles, which are the natural
habitat of the achaz, bipedal lizardfolk who live primarily
in pile dwellings. Very little is known about them other
than they worship old gods (the mighty H’Ranga) and
subsist on hunting and fishing, and some of them know
crystallomancy, the ancient magic of gemstones.
Despite the dangers and hardships, humans occasionally
enter these swamps in search of spices, reptile skins, Tsa’s
Spring of Eternal Youth, and treasure and artifacts from
ancient achaz kings.
On the northwestern border of the swamps lies the city
of Selem, which is what remains of the old Tulamydian
city of Elem. It is said that Elem was destroyed by the gods
themselves. Today humans and lizardfolk dwell in Selem
together, but the city is a sad hive of poverty, deterioration,
and creeping madness.
The City States of Meridiana
Al’Anfa, the Black Pearl, is the second largest city in
Aventuria. Here one can rise from coconut mat weaver
to wealthy Grandes in a heartbeat—a trait that attracts
immigrants from all across Aventuria. Yet the fall from free
citizen to slave can be just as quick, since the inhabitants of
the city embrace slavery. Often do the reckless or unlucky
disappear, only to be found later in the Hanfla River that
flows into the sea. Most citizens worship Boron as highest of
the Twelvegods, and poisons and intoxicants are the most
sought-after goods. Murders often go unsolved, which has
earned the city its nickname of Sore of the South. Al’Anfa’s
poor are not worse off than those elsewhere, but its rich
are unbelievably affluent—Al’Anfan Grandes make even
some Middenrealmish Counts look like beggars.
The archenemy of Al’Anfa is Brabak, where slavery is
outlawed and where the Grandes and their excesses are
both greatly despised and secretly envied. This city on the
marshy estuary of the Mysob faces a mountain of debts due
to years of financial mismanagement. As the gateway to the
legendary southern continent of Utheria, much money still
flows into the coffers of Brabak, but it is lost just as quickly.
The city is a popular destination for free spirits, since they
can indulge their whims to study at the local black-magic
academy, free from conventions and limitations.
Other cities in the region, such as Chorhop, Mengbilla,
Sylla, and H’Rabaal, are former provinces of other realms.
Today they are independent, just like the small jungle
kingdom of Kemi. Only Hôt-Alem is still allied with Gareth
as a protectorate colony of the Middenrealm. Few other
independent city states still exist today. Any that did not
seek a pact with Al’Anfa or the Golden Alliance (made
up of the Horasian Empire, Brabak, and Kemi) were soon
conquered by Al’Anfa. The Vice-Kingdoms of old now exist
only in name, and the former royal city of Mirham is a
vassal of the far mightier Al’Anfa..
Steaming Jungles
On the southern tip of the continent stand the Rain
Mountains. The western slopes of these 18,000-foot-high
peaks open into lush valleys, while the eastern slopes
descend to dense jungles. Travelers must be brave and
knowledgeable to survive where gigantic constricting
15
 snakes slither without a sound, crocodiles hide in shallow
waters, poisonous vipers fill the undergrowth, and saber-
tooth tigers hunt on the area’s few paths. The best teachers
are the native, copper-skinned Forest People, whom we
collectively call the Moha, after their largest tribe. These
small-but-agile folk do not often treat with outsiders and
are usually hostile toward trespassers.
Altoum and the Forest Islands
The defining feature of the Charybbean, as this part of the
sea is known, is pirates and freebooters. The Black Serpent,
a society of pirates with more than 100 members, maintains
its headquarters in Charypso, on Altoum. But the colonial
fleets of Bornland, the Horasian Empire, and Al’Anfa also
cruise these waters, along with Thorwalian Ottas and ships
of Kemi. Each has its own agenda.
White, palm tree-covered beaches, isolated bays, and lush
jungles dominate these islands. The remote Forest Islands,
far from any civilization, make excellent hideouts for the
pirates of the Southern Sea. Shady individuals sell so-
called treasure maps in almost every port tavern from Riva
to Hôt-Alem. Some maps might even be real.
Outposts of (Middenrealm) civilization exist only on Token,
Sokkina, Iltoken, and Benbukkula due only to the presence
of spices. The fleets of Al’Anfa, Festum, and the Horasian
Empire dominate the trade in precious goods. Various
tribes of Forest People live in the interior of many islands
alongside the dark-skinned Utulus, who came originally
from the southern continent of Uthuria.
Wind and Weather
“Central Aventuria’s climate is mild overall, but the winters do
bring some snow. Most humans live here, where their cultures
and sciences flourish. Truly, the Twelve love this land best, for it
is home to the Twelve’s most loyal worshipers.
Northern Aventuria, in contrast, lies firmly in Firun’s merciless
grip. It never warms in summer and the winter lasts for more
than half a year. Only the hardiest souls can live in these lands.
Southern Aventuria simmers with heat. In this land of sand and
dense jungles, bands of bronze-skinned warriors hunt all manner
of dangerous beasts.”
—from the Introduction to Great Aventurian Atlas, printed
in 885 FB
Despite its relatively small size (3,000 by 2,000
Middenmiles), Aventuria exhibits all possible climate
zones. While the far north lies covered in eternal ice,
tropical rainforests dominate in the south. Between these
extremes are tundra and wide steppes, taiga and wooded
16 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
highlands, rugged mountain ranges, vibrant river valleys,
dense forests, broiling deserts, and swamps that swim with
ravenous mosquitoes.
The weather in Aventuria reflects supernatural influences
as often as natural ones. Lightning is attributed to the gods,
especially the valiant goddess Rondra who is also known as
Lady of Storm and Lightning. Fog and clouds conceal many
things and thus are often associated with cunning Phex,
the god of secrecy. Seasonal and trade winds are named
after the gods’ children and are supposed to obey Efferd,
the Lord of Wind and Waves. In fact, nearly every weather
phenomenon is attributed to the work of an immortal or
at least to the casting of powerful magic. Legend says that
the Khôm Desert was once a vibrant jungle until it was
transformed into a hostile wasteland by powerful magic.
Three large climate zones dominate Aventuria. In the far
reaches of the north, eternal frost, pack ice, and biting
winds render survival enormously challenging. Firun’s
Frost (below -14 degrees, F.) is so cold that skin freezes
to metal items. A body with poor protection against the
cold loses so much warmth that death from freezing is
imminent. Outer Hellish cold (below -59 degrees, F.) freezes
even the sea and sudden ice storms make it dangerous to
travel. It is no wonder then that the Far North is seldom
visited and remains largely unexplored.
The largest portion of Aventuria (the area between the
Weal Mountains and Rashtul’s Wall) possesses a temperate
climate that enjoys four pronounced seasons. The summers
can be sunny, hot, and dry, and the winters biting cold and
full of snow and ice, but extremes of temperature occur
rarely. The coasts of central Aventuria seem particularly
blessed by the gods. The harbor of Festum practically
never freezes even though this Bornish port city lies far
Levels of Cold
Level 1 Cold 50 to 33 degrees F
Level 2 Freezing 32 to -13 degrees F
Level 3 Firun’s Frost —14 to -58 degrees F
Level 4 Outer Hellish below -59 degrees F
Levels of Heat
Level 1 Warm 51 to 95 degrees F
Level 2 Hot 96 to 113 degrees F
Level 3 Scorch of Praios 114 to 131 degrees F
Level 4 Blaze of the Khôm above 132 degrees F
 to the north and Bornland routinely experiences frosty
winters. On the other hand, summers in the Horasian city
of Kuslik are never so unbearable that daily life grinds to
a halt. Spring and autumn see frequent fog, strong winds,
and rain, which often lead to river flooding. Annual rainfall
shapes life in the river valleys and meadows. Most people
(of any race) live in these areas due to the abundant
harvests and plentiful forage for livestock.

Southern Aventuria is shaped entirely by heat. Depending

on the location, this heat can either be stifling and dry or
oppressive and sultry. In the sand seas of the Khôm Desert,
the sun beats down mercilessly. The scorching heat of the
day only seems to magnify the severe cold of the night
when the ambient temperature plummets from Blaze of
the Khôm (above 132 degrees F.) to Cold (33 degrees F.)
in just a few hours. Nevertheless, the greatest challenges
to life are sand storms, which can appear out of nowhere,
and shortages of water, and travelers must make their way
from oasis to oasis in a timely fashion or else die of thirst.

Beyond the Khôm lie rainforests, evergreen jungles,

mangrove forests, and swamps teeming with mosquitoes
and crocodiles. Rising above everything are mist-covered
mountain ranges that have yet to be fully explored. Travel
is further hindered by prolonged rainfall, which turns
brooks into rushing torrents and firm ground into marshy
muck.

Weather conditions can affect character actions, especially

while traveling. For more about the effects of heat and cold
on travelers, see the Core Rules, on page 346.

“Storm? By Swafnir’s fluke, I wouldn’t call this

gentle breeze a storm! Once, near Prem, we
could hardly see the port for the swell, and
Carolan went overboard. That was a storm!”
—Tjalva Garheltsdottir, Hetja from Prem

Windlore
Seafarers fear Beleman, Rondrikan, Nuianna, Horoban,
Harunka, Katla, and Caranthu—the winds that lend their
names to the Sea of Seven Winds. Of these, the best known
is Beleman, which carries warm winds across Aventuria
from the west coast to the east. The Rondrikan is a mighty
storm attributed to the anger-fueled work of the valiant
goddess Rondra, as it often brings thunder and lighting.
and moisture with them. In the south, the whirlwind
Winds influence the weather at sea as well. The Gebelaus named Kauca sometimes rages over the Sea of Pearls and
and Tobrien breezes blow from the north, bringing cold comes ashore, devastating entire villages.

17
 Over Road and Bridge
“It took us two entire weeks to walk to Ridgerock! The mistress
did not want to miss out on the famed sulfur springs. If she had
only hired traveling adventurers, I might have been spared this
martyrdom. A good road led us as far as Abilacht, but I had large
blisters on my feet after only two days. The antler ointment I
bought did not help much. Luckily, a peddler felt pity for me and
let me ride on his cart for a time. I could have ridden as far as
Honyngton, but my mistress decided to take a forest road toward
the Kosh Mountains to gather more ingredients for her elixir. By
the gods, Father, I swear this was no road at all! We made our
way through the densest thickets. So many burrs and crawling
things found their way into my clothes that I could no longer
concentrate on my notes on belmart and leechfright, which grew
in abundance on both sides of the path. We had to sleep on the
ground with only tattered blankets for cover. More than one
summer downpour soaked us to the bone in the dark forest. When
we reached the foothills of the Kosh, we turned north toward
Ridgerock, from where I am now writing you this letter. I pray
that the mistress finds many things to do here in the city. I fear
the day of our departure, I truly fear it.”
—letter from Hilderic Hausner, a young apprentice, to his
father, summer 1038 FB
Aventurians do travel unless they need to—the exceptions,
of course, being merchants, coach drivers, messengers,
pilgrims, traveling professionals, and traveling
entertainers. Most Aventurians know about military
expeditions and merchant caravans, but a common farmer
from the Middenrealm has never been more than half a
day’s travel from home. Some may visit the capital to see
the coronation of a new sovereign or pray in a famous
temple, but such journeys are the stuff of stories told to
the grandchildren.
Journeys in Aventuria are dangerous. Most undertake
them for trading purposes, and many forests hold bandits
that prey on such travelers. But vagabonds are not the
only ones who make life difficult for those on the road.
Past one’s borders, one soon encounters toll collectors,
especially when crossing a bridge or entering a new
city’s gate. The wilderness possesses many dangers, too.
Unexpected changes in weather and encounters with wild
animals and other dangerous creatures make extended
travel a hazardous prospect.
Cartography is an imprecise skill, and travelers can never
rely on a purchased map to show the true path. Sometimes
entire villages turn out to be abandoned, and roads have
long been reclaimed by the undergrowth. The warning
“Here be dragons!” should always be taken seriously since
the cartographer may have literally seen them.
18 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
Despite these hardships, Aventurians know that true
heroes always travel onward, unafraid of any danger.
Every risk offers another chance to be immortalized in the
songs and tales of bards, and every road leads to the next
adventure.
Journey on Land
The quality of Aventuria’s roads and paths varies widely.
This section presents different types of roads to give a
sense of the difficulty of getting around. Road quality
strongly influences travel rate and can help create a rough
estimate of time, although the season and the terrain also
have an effect.
“Would the gods have granted us two feet if
we were supposed to travel on horseback? I
think not. So, don’t be hasty. Let your own
feet carry you and be on your way. This is
the only true way of traveling.”
—Brother Hilbert, Blessed One of Peraine
Animal Trails
These paths are often too narrow and winding to be of much
use to mounted travelers. Someone who is unused to life in
the wilderness often finds animal trails indistinguishable
from the surrounding area. No inns sit cozily nearby, and
intervening bodies of water must be circumnavigated or
crossed in a cumbersome, possibly dangerous, process.
In the mountains, forest, or jungle: Only locals or good
trackers can locate animal trails in difficult terrain. If one
leaves the path, one may wind up lost or having to force
one’s way or through more difficult terrain (such as scrub,
steep slopes, or dense undergrowth).
Paths
Unlike animal trails, paths are easily discernable and
remain visible year round due to regular use. Small
farms, hermitages, and isolated settlements can typically
be reached only via paths. These routes cannot handle
carriages larger than small carts, and typically are wide
enough only for a pack animal (or riders moving in single
file). Travelers usually find stepping stones or simple
footbridges where these paths cross a brook or stream.
Paths are also characterized by a distinct lack of inns,
although one might be found in a nearby settlement.
In the mountains: paths are the typical road type found
in mountainous areas, and are often steep (since horses
can have difficulty climbing them, ponies and donkeys
are better choices in this terrain). Mountain paths often
lead through lonely passes or along the crumbling edges
of cliffs.
In the forest or jungle: pathways that do not see continual
use become overgrown quickly. Fast-growing vines are a
tripping hazard, as are thick tree roots or protruding or
slick stones.
Cart Paths
Simple cart paths remain visible due to frequent use
and are just wide and even enough to accommodate a
harvesting cart. Even in densely populated areas, many
smaller settlements and farms can only be reached by such
paths. These paths follow the terrain, and often meander
to avoid swampy ground, slopes, wooded areas, and other
obstacles. Cart paths cross streams and brooks at a ford
or other suitable spot. If no such spot exists, locals often
cooperate to build a simple bridge. Inns often spring up
near frequently used areas like crossroads. In difficult
terrain, only about 100 paces in either direction can be
seen, making ambushes easy to prepare.
In the mountains: Cart paths are uncommon in the
mountains and are rarely little more than dead ends
that branch off from larger roads or run up the sides of
valleys. It can take weeks for the locals to repair a cart path
destroyed by a landslide or an avalanche.
In the forest or jungle: cart paths run around forests
even if it means a longer route. In cases where the forest
cannot be avoided, woodcutters choose the path of least
resistance. Thus forest cart paths often wind, dip, and turn
with little apparent rhyme or reason.
Simple Country Roads
In poorer regions, most roads exist in a state of semi-
permanent disrepair—either they have slowly decayed to
that point or else they were never any better. They are
usually just wide enough for a single carriage, requiring
one vehicle to pull off the road (or back up) to make way for
a vehicle heading in the opposite direction. Wind and rain
create deep holes in these roads. With potholes up to two
feet deep or worse, carriage drivers must summon all of
their skill to provide a smooth ride for their passengers or
cargo. Often roads detour around eroded areas, landslides,
or fallen trees. Galloping along country roads is risky, and
sometimes it is safer to ride alongside the road, instead.
Inns can often be found along country roads, spaced at a
distance that is easily covered in a day on foot.
In the mountains: Roads of this quality that run through
passes may wind up blocked at any time, especially to
vehicles. Villagers, innkeepers, and fellow travelers can
be good sources of information regarding the condition
of local roads. Damage to roads is repaired quickly only if
they are especially important routes, and even then, any
repairs are likely to be temporary. It is usually better to
avoid taking country roads through the mountains.
In the forest or the jungle: When these roads get blocked,
travelers often must remove any obstacle or repair any
damage themselves if they wish to pass.
Country Roads in Better Condition
These wide but unpaved routes wind through open
countryside, avoiding forests and hills. After long periods
of rain, carriage wheels can dig deep ruts in the mud,
increasing horses’ chances of leg injury. Bridges, which
tend to be simple wooden affairs, are the exception
rather than the rule. Sturdy stone bridges exist only in
close proximity to cities and often serve as sites for toll
collection. Travelers in rural areas cross streams and rivers
at fords. Lakes and deeper rivers have ferry stations, but
the wait for the next ferry can sometimes be lengthy.
Repairs typically require a few weeks, especially when
dealing with fallen trees or eroded areas. Inns are more
common than on simple country roads, relieving some of
the pressure to keep up a brisk pace.
In the mountains: Most roads through mountain passes
follow the terrain except where unavoidable. Work crews
cut rock, dig tunnels, reinforce slopes, and build bridges
over ravines where needed, but the responsibility to clear
debris usually falls to the locals.
In the forest or jungle: Even good quality country roads
are only wide enough for one vehicle, and one must either
back up or leave the road when traffic approaches from the
opposite direction.
“Poppycock! If we take the horses, we’ll be twice
as fast. Can someone please tell the priest that
I am in no mood to wait for his sandals? I want
to arrive in Gareth quickly, and if he doesn’t
want to ride along on my horse, then he had
better find himself a cart.”
—Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary
Realm Road in Bad Condition
Important roads are relatively solidly constructed and
wide enough for two carriages to pass one another without
difficulty. However, this does not mean that they all meet
the standard of quality for a Realm Road (not because they
were built this way, but because roads often suffer damage
during times of war). Many good-quality roads are at least
partly paved, even if such pavement is sometimes flawed.
Any damage is repaired at least provisionally within one
week or so. Bridges are very common, but some Realm
Roads still rely on fords and ferry stations.
In the mountains: Work to repair damage from winter
avalanches and torrential rainfall begins in the Spring.
19
 When snow or ice is present on the road surface, proceed
with extreme caution. This is especially true for vehicles.
In the forest or jungle: Realm Roads generally follow the
terrain, but engineers sometimes shorten the course or
make it more secure by building bridges or digging tunnels.
As a precaution, crews clear the underbrush on both sides
of the road to reduce the risk of ambush.
Realm Roads
Realm Roads, also called Crownroads, are the best roads
in Aventuria outside of the Middenrealm, They are fully
paved and wide enough for four vehicles to pass each other,
two in each direction at once. They are well-maintained
and often feature roadside ditches that provide excellent
drainage. They typically employ stable bridges to span
small rivers, though travelers must still cross wide rivers by
way of ferries. Ferry stations operate during daylight hours
for a standard sum, and some workers operate at night
as well. Realm Roads of this quality usually run straight
and level (during construction, engineers move boulders,
dig ravines and tunnels through hillsides, and cut entire
swaths through forests, if needed). Inns, which usually also
serve as changing stations for dispatch messengers, are
spaced 15 miles apart at most.
In the mountains: Realm Roads do not usually cross
mountain ranges. When they do, they take the lowest
passes and avoid steep inclines or meandering paths.
Rock is cut away, if needed, to widen a passage. Pavement
is not usually required in the mountains, and roads are
20 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
reinforced on slopes to prevent subsidence. It is still very
risky to use such roads during heavy snowfall due to
slippery conditions and the risk of avalanches.
In the forest or jungle: These roads run in a straight line
whenever possible, and brush is usually cleared for more
than a dozen yards on either side, to make bandits think
twice about attacking travelers.
Journey on Water
Many trade goods, especially heavy goods, have always
been transported by water, with barges and rafts being
the two most common means. Travelers can almost always
find passage on ships, either by paying their way or by
temporarily joining the crew. Every coastal port (whether
seaside or on a river) takes advantage of waterborne trade.
Many different types of ships sail on the seas of Dere. One
finds bulky merchant ships such as cogs and hulks alongside
small fishing boats in every region of Aventuria and on
the coasts. Warships such as powerful Al’Anfan galleys,
maneuverable Horasian shivoons, and sturdy Middenrealm
caravels cruise these waters as well. Zedrakks and thalukks
sail the waters of the Lands of the Tulamydes, and further
to the south one sees the slender rafts of the Forest Folk.
Thorwalian dragon ships are both famous and infamous,
since the sighting of their sails often presages an attack on
a coastal village. Dragon ships are unique in that they can
both sail the high seas and also reach inland locations by
way of rivers.
 Most seafarers offer tribute to the god of the sea, Efferd,
but some are willing to appeal to any kind of supernatural
being before they set sail. After all, sea travel carries many
risks, not just from storms and pirates but also from mighty
creatures such as the dreaded sea snakes. Horror stories of
the Blood Sea tell of blighted demon arks that speed across
the surface of the water like huge water strider insects.
Nearly every captain between the Tobrien Sea and the Sea
of Pearls has a story to tell of a narrow escape from one
of these monstrosities. Harbors aren’t always safe, and
bandits often attempt to direct ships onto reefs by using
false beacon lights, plundering the wreck later.
Merchants make good use of the large rivers of Aventuria
for the transport of wares, and fast sailing boats, rowing
boats, and even towed barges are common trade vessels.
Most barges have a shallow draft, a large forehold, and
a small hut for the crew, and oxen or heavy horses pull
them upstream, using paths next to the river. Barges
often accept paying passengers, the rule being that the
trip downstream is cheaper than heading upstream (the
journey downstream is usually faster and less stressful for
ship and crew). The most advanced river boats are winding
freighters and chain ferries. Winding freighters mainly
sail the Yaquir, while chain ferries serve most of the great
rivers. Their low operating costs render the construction
of permanent bridges moot. Ferry houses often do double
duty as taverns or inns and are popular gathering places
for travelers of all kinds.
Where rivers become too shallow for ships, rafts will
shine as the workhorses of merchants. Rafts of all kinds
are found on almost every Aventurian river. River pirates
and bandits haunt most river regions, preying on wares or
monies from travelers. The ruthless pirates of the Great
River are infamous for their atrocities.
“As if horses were the fastest thing on Dere…
Swafnir save me. No, if we had a real dragon
ship, then we could simply row up the Great
River. Since the curse of the Father of Tides
has been lifted we are free to do just that, I say!
I tell you, if we did not have a sorry boat like
the Gullen Drakkar here, we could have been in
Ferdok by now.”
—Tjalva Garheltsdottir, Hetja from Prem
Navigable Rivers of Aventuria
Unless stated otherwise, these rivers are navigable
downstream to their estuaries.
Great River and Wide River: from Griffonsford
Yaquir: from Ragath
Mhanadi: from its first tributary
Gadang: approximately 20 miles upriver from its
second tributary
Born: from Norburg
Walsach: from Needmark
Bodir: from Phexcaer
Ingval: from the city of Andergast
Svellt: from the tributary Svall, and in areas of
deeper water from the confluence of Darkensvellt
and Lowangsvellt
Oblomon: from Oblarasim
Kvill: from Kvirasim
Tommel: approximately from the region of
Honeyngton
Darpat: from Rommilys
Dergel: from Warhome to the Oxwater
Tobimora: from its fourth tributary
Radrom: from Warunk
Barun–Ulah: from Baburin
Chabab: approximately 30 miles downriver of its
second tributary
Szinto: from its first tributary
The lower reaches of Arrati, Chaluk, Harotrud,
Mysob, Ongalo, Onjet, Pandlaril, Sikram, and
Thalusim
The middle reaches of Hira, Phecadi, and Roab
Few besides fishers make use of Aventurian lakes. The
Oxwater in the Rommilysian Marches is the only lake that
sees regular shipping traffic. Even the two largest lakes in
Aventuria—the Blue Lake and the Nine-Eye Lake—hardly
see any use at all. Thin ice covers the Blue Lake throughout
the year, and the Nine-Eye Lake in Weiden is thought to be
cursed (fishers stay close to shore, if they fish the lake at
all, as it is said that the unnatural lampreys that give the
lake its name can sink a small craft within minutes).
Magical Journeys
Aventuria exists in a magical world with a number of
magical methods to cover distances. Even these methods
are not always free of danger, however, and travelers often
pay steep prices for such expeditious means.
21
 Guild mages know of a very costly spell, Transversalis,
which can transport its subject many miles very quickly.
Another spell supposedly opens the doors to Limbo, the
Realm between the Spheres, making it possible to reach
any desired destination. However, Limbo is extremely
dangerous and hostile, so any decision to travel there must
be considered very carefully. As tempting as it may be,
such journeys in demon-infested areas remain one of the
most dangerous things travelers can attempt in Aventuria!
Witches rely on flying instruments such as brooms to reach
their destinations. In the Lands of the Tulamydes, one may
even travel on a legendary flying carpet supported by the
magic of a djinni.
It is known that elves can use magic to take the form of
an animal, and some can fly as birds or swim as fish.
Magical beings such as dragons and griffons can fly, and
some occasionally agree to transport heroes across great
distances.
Stories say that in ancient times, the trolls discovered
magical paths between different locations and thus were
able to cover great distances in the blink of an eye. Today
these secret routes are called troll paths, and their entrances
are guarded jealously. Some mage academies are said to
be connected by Dark Portals, secret pathways through
Limbo that follow magical ley lines of power. Some magical
portals lead to the fairy realms and other globules. Known
as Fairy Gates, their use is especially tricky, and unwary
travelers can suddenly find themselves decades older,
22 Chapter 1: The Continent of Aventuria
Travel Speed and Strategic Movement
As stated in the Core Rules, the distance travelers
can cover in one day depends on their mode of
travel. The following Strategic Movement Table
replaces the one that appears on page 349 in the
Core Rules. Use the examples in this table when
estimating travel times in your campaign. Note
that these examples assume good roads, calm
waters, and no complications. Rough terrain and
raging seas reduce travel rates accordingly.
Strategic Distance Covered Per Day
Movement
Means of Travel 30 Middenmiles
Foot March 40 Middenmiles
Coach Ride 50 Middenmiles
Sea Voyage 100 Middenmiles
For example, on a well-maintained Realm Road,
a hero on foot might expect to cover up to 35
Middenmiles per day. In the wilderness of the
Lizard Swamps, however, that same hero might
cover only 10 Middenmiles or even less during the
same period of time.
since time in the fairy realms passes more quickly than it
does in Aventuria. Furthermore, legends tell of travelers
who entered the fairy realms and were never seen again…
Chapter 2:
Races
“Many bipedal races exist, but here we concentrate on humans,
elves, and dwarves. It remains to be seen whether the dark-pelted
orcs, the shaggy red goblins, the secretive trolls, or the reptilian
and scaly achaz even qualify as civilized. For the moment, we will
not consider the man-eating ogres, the shy water sprites that
dwell in the Sea of Seven Winds, or the one-eyed cyclopes from
the islands of the same name.

Much variety exists within the races discussed here. Tall

Thorwalers from the north have little in common with the
diminutive Moha from the vast jungles of the far south. The same
can be said of the elves; firnelves may view the world differently
than their relatives, the wood elves, but the elves as a people
do not vary as widely in terms of stature and appearance as do
humans. The dwarves of Aventuria vary little in their physical
appearance as well, yet one can hardly confuse a pastoral hill
dwarf from the region of Angbar with a heavily armed dragon
warrior from a delving in Xorlosh.

Even if one could judge an orc or goblin according to their local

heritage, most observers care little to do so. This differs for the
cold-blooded lizards where one can tell a slender achaz apart from
a murderous mar at first sight, but these beings are so strange to
us that almost any attempt to classify them further is doomed to
failure.”
—excerpt from Humans and Nonhumans: A Phenotypical
Comparison, by Strathus, Blessed One of Hesinde, Garethan
copy, 586 FB

A wide variety of races spread across Aventuria over the

course of history. Some of them, such as the lizardfolk or
the trolls, ruled over the world in times past and left traces
in many areas. In current-day Garetia one can still find
the remnants of so-called troll castles, whose intent and
purpose remains a mystery even to scholars. The ruins of
lizardfolk cities, upon which many human cities have been
built, feature in a great number of Tulamydian fairy tales
and are viewed as arenas of bygone epic battles between
the warm- and cold-blooded races.

Many of the old races cultures experienced their golden

ages many centuries ago, and their days of great knowledge
and powerful magic are long gone. The promise of great
wealth and power lures many adventurers out in search of
the mysteries of this distant past.

23
 Humans northwest of the continent, are of mixed Norbard/
Thorwaler ancestry. Some say that the people who live in
the Troll Peaks have the blood of Tulamydes and Trolls in
Humans, the most widespread race in Aventuria, have
their veins.
adapted to all kinds of environments, be it the brooding
sultriness of the south or the frosty cold of the north, and
The Middenrealmers are the largest group of humans.
they have settled in almost every corner of the continent.
Their ancestors arrived from Gyldenland and quickly
became the dominant group of humans in Aventuria. This
Mankind is divided in different peoples, each having their
ethnicity represents the majority of the population not
own mannerisms. The main difference appears to be that
just in the Middenrealm, but also the Horasian Empire, the
Middenrealmers and Thorwalers originally came from
Svellt Valley, Bornland, Nostria, Andergast, and beyond.
distant Myranor, the Forest Folk and Utulu arrived in
The complexion of Middenrealmers varies from light skin
Aventuria from Uthuria, and Tulamydes and Nivese appear
to dark. Brown and blond hair are most common, while a
to be native to Aventuria.
variety of eye colors exists.
Intermarriages and mass migrations have played a
Long before the arrival of Middenrealmers, the Tulamydes
large role over the centuries. The ancestors of the
established great realms, such as the Diamond Sultanate, in
well-traveled Norbards and the barbaric Ferkina were
Aventuria. They dwelt in the lands of the southeast, from
Tulamydes, similarly, the Fjarnings from the high north
the Khôm Desert and Balash to Arania, parts of Meridiana,
and the Thorwalers are descended from the Hjaldings
and the island of Maraskan, where they first mingled with
of Gyldenland. The Gjalsker people, who live in the far

24 Chapter 2: Races
the Middenrealmers. The barbarian Ferkina mountain
people, who occupy the mountain ranges between the
Mhanadi highlands and Rashtul’s Wall, are relatives of the
Tulamydes. Their complexion and hair color are usually
darker than those of Middenrealmers, and blonde hair and
green eyes are rare. On average, Tulamydes live slightly
longer than Middenrealmers.
The northwest of the continent is inhabited by the
Thorwalers, bold seafarers and daring explorers. They
also originate from the western continent of Myranor
where their legendary ancestors, the Hjaldings, still dwell.
Thorwalers wear their often red-blond hair and beards
very long, are exceptionally tall, and are known to be a
very robust people.
One of the oldest human races is the Nivese, a nomadic
people who roam the tundra, taiga, and steppes of northern
Aventuria and have always lived in clans. Although they
tend to be more slender than Middenrealmers and slightly
shorter, the main difference is their almond-shaped eyes
and the typically copper-red hair, which they inherited
from the Gyldenland settlers. Nivese can grow to be
very old; there have been cases where people lived up to
120 years, a fact that gave rise to the saying “to reach a
Nivesian age.”
The Norbards of the northern domains are best known
as traveling merchants. Their ancestors, the Alhani,
ruled a large domain centuries ago but it was destroyed
by Tulamydes and Middenrealmers, and the peoples of
the Norbards were forced to scatter to the seven winds.
Norbards are slightly smaller than Middenrealmers and
have a darker complexion, and their typically black hair
stems from their Tulamydian heritage. It is customary for
Norbard married men to shave their heads and for married
women to shave a wide part into their hair.
Most scholars do not differentiate between the Forest
People and the Utulu, and tend to refer to them collectively
as Moha. The Forest People are smaller and more delicate
than Middenrealmers, while Utulu, on the other hand, are
25
 almost as tall as Thorwalers. The Forest People exhibit
bronze complexions which nevertheless vary in degree,
while the Utulu have skin almost as dark as ebony. Utulu
often have frizzy hair, while that of the Forest People is
often thin and straight. Both peoples originated on the
distant southern continent of Uthuria.
Most Aventurian cultures practice gender equality, with
both genders sharing everyday tasks. Many regions brag of
valiant swordswomen, daring female pirates, and mighty
enchantresses. Similarly, men are known to lead lives as
courtiers or stay home to watch children while the women
go out adventuring. Exceptions exist, of course, depending
on region. For instance, strict patriarchy is the order of the
day in Andergast and parts of the Lands of the Tulamydes,
while in Arania, women usually occupy important positions
in politics, trade, and the military, and their men lead lives
of leisure or devote themselves to the arts.
Elves
In Aventuria, speculation abounds on the origin of elves.
They claim that they dreamed themselves into existence,
stepping out of the light into Creation in the forests of the
Salamander Stones. The collected tales of their history,
known as the Faedhari, contain many legends related to this
one subject. The elves are a magical people. Millennia ago
the high elves ruled over large parts of Aventuria but their
time has long since passed. Who knows what catastrophe
befell them and led to the sundering of the elven people
into the tribes we know today. Some suspect a connection
to the pale-skinned, malignant night elves that live in the
Far North, away from the sun, and which call themselves
shakagra ( page 243).
Today, most elves choose to live secluded from the worldly
affairs of the other races. They often reside in extended
families in deep forests or lovely meadows, or on the
Eternal Ice or the wide steppes of the north, striving to
live in harmony with nature. One must travel far from any
human settlements to find an exclusively elven settlement.
The firnelves manage to survive in the icy north. The Grim
Frost Waste is their chosen home, where they wage their
eternal battle against the hated night elf queen, Pardona,
and her servants.
Steppe elves make their homes on the Green Plain and
are famed for their riding skills. The clans of Nivese who
wander that region say the elves they meet are distrustful
of outsiders and seem engaged in a fierce, ongoing war
with the goblins.
26 Chapter 2: Races
Wood elves, the most primal of elven peoples, disdain the
temptations of the high elven cities and still live within
the protection of the forests of the Salamander Stones, the
ancestral home of all elven peoples.
Humans most often encounter glade elves, which live near
the rivers and lakes of northern Aventuria, especially in
proximity to the Salamander Stones, but also in Albernia,
Alamada, and the Horasian Empire. As the largest elven
population in Aventuria, they have the strongest influence
on the image most humans have of elves. Some glade elves
have even given up the pastoral life and have settled in
human cities.
As expected, half elves result from the union of elf and
human. Contrary to common superstition, it does not
matter which parent is elven. Their slightly pointed ears
clearly mark them as mixed race, and it is often their fate
to remain a stranger to both cultures and find entry and
acceptance in neither.
Even though elves resemble humans at first sight, striking
differences exist. Their ears are pointed near the top and
distinctly longer than those of humans. The color of their
eyes, which are slightly larger than those of humans, varies
from sapphire blue to emerald green with flecks of silver
or gold, and they sparkle like gemstones in sunlight. Elves
tend to be taller and more slender than humans, and are
known for their great agility and elegance, as well as their
sensitive noses. Many humans consider elves the pinnacle
of beauty, as their symmetrical features look more pleasant
than is typically seen among humans. Their serenity and
almost ethereal otherworldliness combine in the human
psyche to produce the image of the classically beautiful elf.
They know no separation of work by gender, and only skill
and calling are what counts. It is said that they live and
love more freely than any other peoples.
Elves do not die of old age, rather only after they have
fulfilled their mission in life. Their lifespan may therefore
extend for hundreds of years. Every elf seems to pursue
a different goal in life, one which only reveals itself over
the course of years. Once elves reach adulthood, they stop
aging outwardly, but when they fulfill their life’s goal, they
age and whither within a few short days. Elves fear little
beyond what they refer to as badoc, a term that can be
translated roughly as “becoming too human.” Giving in to
badoc means taking a step further away from the light, of
becoming less of an elf.
Dwarves
Legends and myths say that Angrosh (known to humans
as Ingerimm) created the tribes of dwarves to guard the
treasures of the earth and to fight against the threat posed
by dragons.
Dwarves generally live in subderanean cities they have
dug deep under the mountains. All dwarves once lived in
Xorlosh, their holiest city, in the northern part of the Iron
Forest, which dwarves call the Ingra Knolls. Many large
dwarven tribes developed from the eight founding families
of the Angroshim and soon spread under most mountain
ranges in Aventuria. The fierce forge dwarves live in the
aptly-named Forge Mountains as well as in the Thash.
When humans think of dwarves, they tend to think of forge
dwarves.
The tradition-steeped ore dwarves still live in Xorlosh and
preserve their cultural heritage with proverbial dwarven
tenacity. They dwell primarily in Ingra Knolls but also in
the Kosh Mountains, the Iron and Phecano Forests, and
even Fasar.
The good-natured and fun-loving hill dwarves left their
caves and mines long ago and now make their homes in
the Hill Land Shire and the large cities of the Principality
of Kosh, alongside humans.
The diamond dwarves lost their ancestral homes in the
Beilunk Mountains to the servants of Borbarad the Demon
Master ( page 248), but most have since found a new
home in Rashtul’s Wall.
A number of smaller clans or tribes make their homes
in the Dark Ridge Mountains and places further north.
Dwarves and humans have lived together for generations
in cities such as Angbar, Fasar, and Dwarrow.
Dwarves seldom grow more than 5 and a half feet tall but
their defining features are their very compact builds and
heavy bones, their extraordinary toughness, and their
legendary endurance. Their eyes are well-adapted to life
under the earth and they can see well in almost complete
darkness. Beards are a thing of pride and joy to male
dwarves, and they are often skillfully braided and adorned
with ornaments.
Dwarves count themselves among the longest-lived races
in Aventuria and often live as long as 400 years or even
longer. It is said that old Angroshim slowly turn into stone,
returning to the element from which their god created
them.
* Isdira: Begone, orc!
** Isdira for the spell Hawk Eye. Literal translation:
“Sanyaza, fialgra!* Damned orcs. The only
things I would exchange with these wild
brutes are a couple of arrows. And by that,
I mean my arrows in their hearts! Iama yara
sla’dha!**”
—Layariel Treetopglint, elven wyldrunner
Female dwarves are less numerous than male dwarves and
are cherished by their tribes. Often female dwarves receive
many marriage proposals following courtships that can
last for decades. Even though dwarves think that their
females and especially their children need protection at all
times, this does not mean that they are defenseless: some
of the most feared dragon slayers of the past were actually
brave dwarven women.
Orcs and Goblins
Humans, elves, and dwarves all look upon the races of the orcs
and goblins with mistrust.
Orcs, a nomadic race of merciless and brutal warriors,
make their home in the barren steppes and hills of the
Orcland. Time and again they have laid waste to the realms
of men. They are about one head smaller than humans
but have a stronger build and their entire body is covered
with thick, dark fur. Their less-hairy faces seem rough and
possess a broad, flat nose, a receding forehead, and deep-
set eyes, and their ears are slightly pointed. The orcs’ teeth
are especially remarkable in that the canines that protrude
from their lower jaw would not look out of place on a
boar. Orcs have a life expectancy of around 40 years but
many die long before that in battle, a mainstay of orcish
culture. Female orcs sometimes live longer, but they play a
subordinate role in orcish culture and are seldom regarded
as better than slaves. In fact, they are not even granted
names of their own.
Orc tribes include the black-pelted Zholochai, the brown-
pelted Mokolash, and the white-pelted Shurachai, or
snow orcs, which live in the Far North. The union of orcs
and humans produces the coarse half orcs.
The home of the goblins lies in the Sickle Mountains as well
as the plains of Bornland and the Far North. Since they are
very numerous and multiply quickly, goblin clans have
even spread as far as the Horasian Empire. They are slightly
taller than dwarves and have strong, oversized arms. Their
slender bodies, which are covered in short, fuzzy, red fur,
are not as strong as those of orcs, and their faces seem to be
a mixture of orc and ape, with large canines, broad noses,
Let me become one with my bow! 27
 flat foreheads, and protruding eyebrows. Male goblins The aquatic beings include the nixies and water nymphs,
rarely live longer than 35 years, but female goblins, who the toad-headed krakons, the zilits, which take the shape
are sometimes endowed with magical powers and who of newts, and the fish-eyed risso of the Southern Seas
tend to lead the tribes and clans, can live twice as long. whose bodies are adorned with shining scales. The blue
mar (and their cousins, the black mar) live near the Iron
Additional Races Edge and in the depths of the glacial sea and seem to be
relatives of the risso but little else is known of them.
Other exotic races gave rise to high cultures a long time
ago in Aventuria. The large trolls, one of the oldest races Little is known about the shakagra, the insidious night
in existence, grow to 13 or 14 feet tall and have leathery, elves, except that they are said to live in cities under the
almost bark-like skin and thick hair. Trolls are strong and sea to avoid the light of the sun. ( page 243).
stubborn and possessed of great anger, which
can lay waste to everything in their path. They
prefer stone tools and weapons, and often live For detailed
in cavern systems. Trolls can live around 400 descriptions of other
years. For more about trolls, see Chapter 6: Flora commonly encountered
and Fauna, on page 156. civilized races, see
Chapter 6: Flora and Fauna,
Even larger than the trolls are the cyclopes, starting on page 149,
which can grow up to 16 to 17 feet tall. These so- as well as the Aventuria
called children of Ingerimm have only one eye, Bestiary and upcoming
which sits directly above their nose. All cyclopes regional guides.
live on the Cyclopes Islands and are regarded as
extraordinary smiths.

The reptilian achaz, also known as lizardfolk,

are an ancient race with scaly bodies, pointed snouts
similar to those of lizards, and long tails. Experts can
discern their gender from the ridges that run up their tails
to their heads. Legends say that achaz can live 150 years,
but scholars know of lizard people who have lived longer
than 250 years.

Other races of intelligent lizards include the bloodthirsty

mar, which resemble alligators that walk on two legs, and
the leviathans, long thought to be extinct and said to have
tremendous magical power.

The grolm are magically gifted beings with child-sized

bodies and overly-large adult-sized heads. They are viewed
as greedy hagglers. The gigantic ogres prefer to dine on
human flesh, but luckily they are not too smart. Just as
gigantic are the white-furred yeti of the frozen north,
which jealously defend their solitude, though they are
normally peaceful brutes that live simple lives.

28 Chapter 2: Races
Chapter 3:
Land and People
“Aventuria, land of the twelve true gods and their children.
Land of noble men, fair elves, and skillful dwarves, but also of
bloodthirsty orcs, devious goblins, and vulgar trolls. Land of
contrasts, land of culture and wilderness, land of lovely meadows,
of towering mountain ranges and merciless deserts, of mystical
forests and treacherous bogs, of small settlements and large cities
overflowing with life. Bound by the four oceans, fanned by the
twelve winds, and guarded by the six Old Dragons.”
—from the Introduction to the new edition of the Great
Aventurian Atlas, Gareth, 1040 FB

“To discover our world is truly exciting my friend. Do not be

skeptical just because I serve as a Blessed One of the traveling bird
of paradise, Aves, the guardian of all travelers and patron saint of
adventurers from which the land takes its very name!”
“Beyond the horizon untold adventures, great and modest, await
you. In the cities teeming with life, in the wild forests where
danger lurks unseen, but also on the roads and trails that cross
this continent. Often the journey itself can be as important as
the destination. I have been wandering for a long time, yet I
feel at home everywhere. You too can awaken this thirst for the
unknown, for it slumbers deep within all our souls. All you need
do is take heart and venture into uncertainty. Aves’ blessing be
with you.”
—Periegesos of Rethis, encyclopedist and Blessed One of
Aves, modern

Locations and Settings

This chapter provides a selected overview of regions in
Aventuria. Every region has a cohesive flavor or theme
that distinguishes it from its neighbors, offering many
opportunites for play.

Aventuria is a fantastic mosaic of settings more than 30

years in the making, assembled by countless authors. Each
culture and location is based on a historical example, but
all coexist within a single time period in Aventuria. While
this may create large differences in technology and magic
from one land to the next, be assured that the story comes
first. For example, the Thorwalers are daring, Viking-like
raiders who swoop down from the North and plunder at
will. But a civilization as advanced and powerful as the
Horasian Empire would surely snuff out these pirates,
right? In the real world, the answer to that question would
be and emphatic yes, but plot devices such as the power of
Thorwalian rune mages allow these fierce northerners to
hold their enemies at bay—at least for now. Perhaps the
heroes in your campaign will tip the scales in favor of one
side or the other, if the gods favor it.

29
 Products such as the Aventurian Regional Guides explore
and illuminate individual regions in much greater detail.
We present the Aventuria Almanac as a useful summary and
source of inspiration for your adventures.
The Middenrealm and Its Provinces
“The largest kingdom in Aventuria is the Middenrealm, also
called the New Realm or Raul’s Realm. Its capital, Gareth, is the
largest city on the continent and for many centuries now the
seat of the Emperor. Time and again these lands endured the Orc
Storms and saw many fateful encounters, such as the First Demon
Battle—a brutal struggle with unholy powers. The advance of the
forces of the Heptarch, Galotta, into the heart of the Realm left
disorder and strife among the vassals of the Realm in its wake.
Therefore, the young Empress Rohaja decided that she would
travel the Realm with her entire court, moving from palatinate
to palatinate, showing her presence in every corner of the Realm
and bringing the blessings of the Empress unto all.”
—from the new edition of the Great Aventurian Atlas, 1040 FB
The Middenrealm is comprised of different regions
connected by their common history (and sometimes
their strong antipathy for one another). The New Realm
sees itself as the free successor of the Empire of Bosparan
and values its independence highly. Not all of its barons
are wealthy, but they bow only to the sovereign of their
province and to their Empress, and no other—a fact of
which they are very proud.
“Raul’s Realm will not fall. We have faced all dangers, all
perils, and even the jealousy of our own provincial lords.
And what brave rulers we have had. Emperor Haal, who
faced the orcs, his son Brin, the Protector of the Realm, who
fought valiantly against the invasion of the demonic hordes
of Borbarad, and now his daughter, Empress Rohaja, who
has vanquished the last servant of the shadow from the
realm.”
—Rondrigan Paligan, Margravate of Perricum, Great
Privy Councillor of the Realm and husband of the
Empress, 1040 FB
“A large tract of land, yes. A realm that once had greatness,
yes. But today it is only the home of subservient lickspittles,
ruled by a girl who cannot assert herself against her own
nobles. I can’t decide whether I should laugh or cry.”
—Arngrimm of Ehrenstein, Duke of Transysilia, 1039 FB
Borders: The Middenrealm is bounded by the Sea of
Seven Winds in the west, by the Tobrien Sea and the Gulf
of Perricum in the east, and by the Nine-Eye Lake and the
mountain ranges of the Dark Ridge and the Red Sickle in
the north. In the south, its borders are the Yaquir River
and the mighty Rashtul’s Wall.
30 Chapter 3: Land and People
Geography: The Middenrealm is so gigantic, that it
contains every landscape one might imagine in a temperate
climate. The windswept coasts of the Windhag, the delta of
the Great River in Albernia with its bogs, the mountains
and valleys of the Kosh and the Northmarches, the fertile
acres of Garetia, the bountiful vineyards of Almada,
the croplands of the Rommilysian Marches, Warunk,
Raven, and the Sunmark around Beilunk, the wooded,
mountainous border regions of Griffonsford and Weiden
in the north, and the wasteland of Tobrien, created in the
wars against the heirs of Borborad the Demon Master.
Capital: Gareth (population: 172,000, including 1,000
dwarves, 500 elves, and 200-300 goblins, grolms, and deep
dwarves)
Population: 2,000,000, including 40,000 dwarves, 4,500
elves, roughly 1,000 grolms, several thousand goblins, and
a few thousand orcs, especially in the northern border
regions.
Provinces of the Middenrealm
Albernia (Principality)
Almada (Principality)
Garetia (Kingdom)
Griffonsford (Margravate)
Kosh (Principality)
Northmarches (Duchy)
Perricum (Margravate)
Ravenmarches (Margravate)
Rommilysian Marches (Margravate)
Sunmark (Parrish)
Tobrien (Duchy)
Warunk (Margravate)
Weiden (Duchy)
Windhag (Margravate)
Political Ties: Empire with 14 provinces of varying levels
of independence
Form of Government: Feudalism with a rigid class system.
The Empress rules with the help of powerful provincial
lords.
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods, with regional emphasis.
Gareth is the spiritual heartland of the Church of Praios,
and the Empress’ family has spread the worship of Phex
far and wide. Nobles venerate the goddess Rondra, while
common folk pray to Travia and Peraine. The artisan guilds
and the dwarves favor Ingerimm, whose main temple sits
in Angbar. The main temples of Rondra, Travia, and Boron
are also located in cities of the Middenrealm (Perricum,
Rommilys, and Punin, respectively).
Real-World Inspirations: Much of central Aventuria is
based on central Europe during the transition between the
Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Dense forests covered
the lands in these times and few would venture into their
depths without good reason. Such medieval primal forests
had little in common with modern day forests, which
 Borders: Garetia, the geographic heart of the realm, is
bordered by the rivers Wide, Dergel, Darpat, Rakula, and
The Middenrealm in the Year 1040 FB the Great River, as well as the Realmwood, the heights of
The Great Court Convention signed in Rommilys in Rashtul’s Wall, the hills of Caldaia, the Rommilyisan Mark
1028 FB, and the defeat of Borborad during the Twilight by the Dergel River, and the mountain ranges of the Black
of Shards ( page 234), brought about changes in the Sickle and the Troll Peaks
Middenrealm. The following is a list of provinces as of Geography: The eerie Realmwood (all that remains of the
1040 FB. Rulers are indicated in parentheses. Middlewood, which once covered north-central Aventuria);
Kingdoms: Garetia (Empress Rohaja of Gareth) the Golden Meadow, with its fields and farm houses; the
Duchies: Northmarches (Duke Hagrobald of the Great Dergel Fields; the Rakula Hills; the hills of Eslamsground;
River), Tobrien (Duke Bernfried of Ehrenstein), Weiden the cursed Demon Fallows ( page 249) near Gareth; the
(Duchess Walpurga of Lion’s Head) forbidding heights of Rashtul’s Wall and the Troll Peaks;
Principalities: Albernia (Prince Finnian ui Bennain), the Baernfern Plain
Almada (Prince Gwain of Harmamund), Kosh (Prince Important Cities: Gareth (172,000), Eslamsground (1,800);
Blasius of Eberstamm), Maraskan (part was lost to the Rommilys (10,000), Warhome (800)
Heptarchs and incorporated into the Shadowlands, the Population: Garetia: 510,000 humans, 3,000 dwarves, 1,500
rest now belongs to Free Maraskan) elves, and several hundred orcs and goblins; Rommilyisan
Margravates: Sunmark (Princess-Illuminated Marches: 200,000 humans, 1,000 dwarves
Gwidûhenna of Faldahon), Griffonsford (Margravine Political Ties: Provinces of the Middenrealm, Kingdom
Irmenella of Wertlingen), Perricum (Margrave of Garetia (Queen Rohaja of Gareth), Margravate of
Rondrigan Paligan), Ravenmarches (Margrave Swantje the Rommilysian Marches (Margravine Swantje of
of Ravensmouth), Warunk (Margrave Sumudan of Ravenmouth)
Bregelsaum), Windhag (Margrave Cusimo Gralishgrötz, Form of Government: Feudalism with a rigid vassal
also Duke of the Horasian city of Grangor) system; the Empress is also the Queen of Garetia; the
Margravine of the Rommilysian Marches seeks to convert
are managed by society and enjoy extensive use. The her sovereign territory into a hereditary principality once
Middenrealm is best summarized as the setting for the again
fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. Golden wheat fields Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods; the nobility worships
grow between dark forests, and pleasant villages nestle Praios and Rondra in particular, the common folk Travia
around proud castles and magnificent palaces. On the and Peraine. Garetia is the spiritual heartland of the Church
roads, one meets hardworking farmers, proud knights on of Praios (the main temple of the Church sits in Gareth), the
their gallant steeds, and travelers of all kinds. Rommilysian Marches is
the spiritual heartland
The Brothers Grimm
The Heart of the Realm: the Kingdom of Garetia of the Church of Travia
collected folk tales and
and the Rommilysian Marches (its high priests reside
made them available to a
in the city of Rommilys).
wider readership, despite
The worship of Phex is
abridging their content
“Garetia—and its capital of Gareth, of course—is the only much more widespread
for publication. These
thing you must see. The Golden Meadow feeds us all, even now, thanks to the
fabulous, dreamlike
the capital, and our knights’ armor shines brightest of all. efforts of the Empress’
versions can be used as
Our cities are large and mighty, and the provinces at the family.
a source of inspiration
heart of the Realm are proud and loyal. We are the source Trade Goods: Crops
and color, but we had
of the Realm’s splendor. None of our enemies can, or will (especially wheat), beet
the much older, and
ever, change this fact, and for that our Empress and Queen sugar, and other
significantly darker, folk
loves us.” agricultural products,
tales in mind when we
—a Garetian burgrave, 1040 FB baked goods, household
created this setting…
goods (made from tin or
“Rondra help us! Garetians are arrogant beyond measure. enamel), cloth (velvet,
Stubborn and so interested in maintaining their alleged power plush, cotton, linen),
that they do not see when danger looms. A danger from which leather wares, weapons and armor, carriages, candied fruit,
only we can protect them, since only we know how to fight it… oils, cheeses, liquors, limestone quarried from Rashtul’s
and win.” Wall, marble, other stone, and gemstones
—a countess from the Shield Lands, 1040 FB Real-World Inspirations: Garetia and the Rommilysian
Marches have elements of Germany and France in the late

31
 Middle Ages and the Renaissance. They are the sovereign
lands of the Empress, from which she draws a majority of
her income.
Garetia seems to be the land most favored by good fortune.
Its fields yield a bounty of produce, the nobles have many
diversions to pass the time, and even the farmers can relax
now and then. By tradition, the ruler of Garetia is the
Emperor or Empress. The current ruler, Rohaja of Gareth,
has been absent from the capital since the time of her
coronation. She continues to tour all the provinces of the
realm in a campaign to display her royal grace to all her
subjects. This has left Garetia (the kingdom) without ruler,
and her advisors and nobles plot and scheme to acquire
power and fill the void left by the Empress.
The battles of the recent past cost the nobility a fortune
but did enrich a number of merchants who capitalized on
the conflict. Governance of the capital changed after the
Year of Fire. Where once the city was ruled by nobles, a
Council of Heroes, which includes many burghers, now
rules in its place, a visible example of the recent shift in
the balance of power in Garetia.
The wounds of the Year of Fire still fester. The wreckage
of the Flying Fortress, now called the Shattered Mountain,
remains, and none that enter the ruin return with their
sanity. The shadow of the Demon Fallows still looms over
the country, though it pales in the light of the gods.
Warlords cling to power by might of arms alone in
the Rommilysian Marches, formerly known as the
Wildermarches. Margravine Swantje strives to restore law
and order to her province, but the warlords are strong,
and parts of the province are remote—so much so that
primitive and savage practices are still very much alive.
Swantje relies on the support of the Church of Travia and
32 Chapter 3: Land and People
The Heart of the Realm in the Game: The Heart of the
Realm is a largely cultivated area experiencing growing
tension between the conservative nobility and the
emergent burghers of the larger cities. As is often the case,
the peasant population sometimes gets caught in between.
At times, farmers and tradesmen need protection from the
despotism of their local lords, or else feuds between nobles
must be ended for the sake of all. Gareth, the largest city on
the continent, is a source of countless challenges. The outer
quarters of the city are controlled for all practical purposes
by gangs and mercenaries. Cultists from the Demon
Fallows work in secret to obtain power, slowly spreading
through the back alleys of this metropolis like a cancer. The
seemingly tranquil Old Town district is beset by the drama
of political struggles, and the majestic temples of the gods,
where visions and omens deliver portents both dire and
mysterious, can serve as inspiration for adventure.
Negotiations between the powerful Noble Houses of
Bregelsaum and Ravenmouth in the Rommilysian Marches
have achieved a rather unsteady truce. Former warlords
and their henchmen from the Wildermarches brew up
trouble for peasants and nobles alike. Lords govern parts of
Garetia, the Rommilysian Marches, and adjacent provinces
by the might of their sword arms. Law and order are yet to
be restored in several areas.
A Hero from the Heart of the Realm: A hero from
Garetia could be of any vocation; a shining knight, a battle-
hardened mercenary, an exceptional smith, a fearless
messenger, or a shady vagabond. An upstanding Blessed
One of Praios from Garetia can think of no higher calling
than to wander the lands teaching the word of the gods, the
way of order, and loyalty to the Empire. Many knights and
soldiers from the Rommilysian Marches look for coin now
that the war has ended. Solitary witches and disillusioned
mages practice their art far from the nuisances of urban life,
and the devout Blessed Ones of Travia bring comfort and
healing to refugees and the downtrodden.
her husband, Geldor of Bregelsaum. He works to rebuild
the haunted fortress city of Warhome, a garrison for
troops of the Middenrealm that was razed during the war
with Borbarad.
Albernia and Windhag
“Unbent and unbroken are we. This shall never change.”
—Prince Finnian ui Bennain, at his coronation,
1038 FB
“These pigheaded renegades! You cannot take them into
battle. All they do is boast of their superiority and the
deeds of their ancestors. I cannot expect to win if I am
forced to ride with them to war.”
—Helme Haffax, Arch-Marshal of the Realm,
1018 FB
Borders: Albernia is bordered by the coast of the Sea of
Seven Winds, the reaches of the Tommel and the Great
River, the Farindel Forest, and the foothills of the Ingra
Peaks. The Windhag stretches between the coast and the
Great River around the Windhag Mountains.
Geography: The Windhag is characterized by its windswept
coasts and silent mountains, Albernia by the course of the
Great River, its swampy delta, its enchanted fairy forests,
and its many brooks, lakes, and alluvial floodplain forests.
Important Cities: Harben (2,000); Havena (30,000 humans,
plus several dozen elves and dwarves), Honeyngton (2,800),
Winhall (1,200)
Population: Windhag: 15,000 humans, approximately
400 orcs, 600 goblins and 300 grolms; Albernia: 200,000
humans, 700 elves
Political Ties: Provinces of the Middenrealm, Principality
of Albernia (youngest Prince of the Middenrealm, Finnian
ui Bennain), Margravate of Windhag (Margravate Cusimo
Garlischgrötz of Grangor, also Duke of the Horasian city of
Grangor)
Form of Government: Feudalism, but the nobility is
historically rebellious and unruly
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods (especially Efferd and
Rondra); people worship fairies in some regions of the
countryside in Albernia
Trade Goods: center of trade (and smuggling) on the coast
and on the Great River; fish, clay, meat, Kosh basalt, wool,
and loden
Real-World Inspirations: The Celtic legends and myths
such as King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.
Albernia draws from Gaelic and Irish lore. The Windhag
has elements of the Scottish Highlands.
These two provinces routinely suffer from unrest. Albernia
rose from Principality to Kingdom under King Cuano, only
to lose its regality under his daughter Invher (the mother
The Demon Fallows
“After the good people of Gareth had thrown off the yoke
of Bosparanian rule and won their freedom, the Bosparan
Emperor set his legions before the city to recapture his prize.
Fran-Horas, called the Bloody, looked down upon the scene
from the hill and conducted the battle mercilessly. Though
his onslaught lasted from the break of dawn until the last
hour of the night, the Garethians held out and seemed fated
to win. Unwilling to accept defeat, the Bloody Emperor
raised his scepter. The Eaglestone embedded in its haft
shimmered evilly, and he spoke words of demonic binding in
a language that flowed all too easily from his lips. Lightning
bolts split the skies asunder as the Emperor performed a
rite of invocation to unleash the power of the Lower Hells.
A rift in the fabric of the world appeared and the unholiest
of creatures leaped from the billowing gray void into the
world. With horrible claws, slavering fangs, and twitching
tentacles, the horde of the Lower Hells stormed towards the
Garethian defenders. Faceless archdemons raged over the
battlefield with shining sabres and gnarled sickles, reaping
a bloody harvest among the rebels. At that moment, the
melee stopped being a battle and turned into a slaughter, a
massacre, a festival of unbridled carnage.
Even though the battlefield had been cleansed of the
Garethian freedom fighters, the demons of the Lower Hells
remained unsated. Without warning, they fell upon the
Bosparanian legionaries with a howl. Not even Fran-Horas
could stop them, and the slaughter continued until the only
soul left standing was the corrupted Emperor himself. Fran-
Horas fled the battlefield, horrified by what he had wrought!
Dawn came, and pale light spilled onto the cursed ground
of the First Demon Battle, where the dead all looked alike.
Among the fallen was the great hero Hlûthar, wielder of
Sevenstrike, the mighty blade of the gods.
Today the land is scarred and blighted. The unholy
forest of the Demon Fallows is haunted, its water poisonous,
its plants inedible, and it is said that unholy creatures still
seek victims near the grave of the fallen hero.”
—account of the First Demon Battle, modern ( page 249)
of Finnian, the current prince of the Realm). The bloody
war against the Northmarches a few years ago is still
fresh in the minds of the people, even though the capital,
Havena, was physically spared, and the land still shows the
scars of the conflict. The fabled Albernian willingness to
fight for freedom and liberty saved the region but also tore
it apart. Many heroes from that struggle are now seen as
criminals, ostracized from society. These warriors of the
common people advocate for the old Albernian values
from their hide-outs in the alluvial forests and bogs of this
watery principality. It is rumored that many of the old
families have strong bonds to the fairies of the land, and
perhaps some fairy blood even runs through their veins.
33
 A Hero from the Coast of Winds: Heroes from the
western Middenrealm are very proud of their heritage
and are particularly freedom-loving. This could be
a proud noblewoman from an old fairy castle, an
otherworldly Blessed One of Efferd with a deep-seated
hatred for all tentacled beings (demons), or a watchful
peasant soldier who fights against the oppression of the
people of the Northmarches. Another option is a witch
who rides through the air on an oar, an intrepid clan
warrior from the Windhag Mountains, a bold explorer,
or a daring river pirate.

The Coast of Winds in the Game: Albernia is

characterized by its rebellious, self-reliant inhabitants
and its connection to the realm of the fairies. In fact,
fairies are far more common here than anywhere
else in Aventuria. Havena might be the embodiment
of a disreputable smuggler’s den, but the Albernian
countryside is shaped by its mythical glamour. Windhag
is supposed to be a bastion of the Empire in the west, but
the land has barely been tamed. Its checkered history
and many isolated clans make centralized rule difficult.

controlled the region and its incorrigible inhabitants for

any length of time, and no army of outsiders has been able
to survive in the craggy mountain ranges for long. Perhaps
only an army of dragons can tame the mountain folk.

Northmarches and Kosh

“Without us this realm would be lawless. We wrote the

codex of ancient law on which everything else is based.
And if needed, our armies will march. We still have guard
regiments at our disposal, unlike the Empress. The Duke of
the Northmarches is the true power in the Realm.”
—the High Priestess of Praios in Elenvina, 1038 FB

“The Northmarches always arrive late to battles. That’s

The barriers to the mysterious fairy worlds seem to be
more tenuos on the Albernian border than anywhere else.
The region’s ever-changing forests and meadows attract
fairies of all kinds, and the old portals admit far older and
darker beings into the world.
The Windhag Mountains were, according to legend,
depleted of their mineral wealth eons ago by the god dragon
Pydracor while creating an army to fight the dwarves.
These days, the the greatest threat to the local nobles are
the defiant clans of the Windhag. No ruler has ever truly
the only reason they still have such military power at their
command. Even the narrow-minded people from Weiden
know this. Northmarchers are cunning and despicable
politicians who hide behind the word of Praios. They
are quick to yell “For the good of the Realm!” when it is
expected, but they will not break us. Hah!”
—an Almadian noble, end of 1038 FB
“Kosh? I can’t think of anything interesting
that happened in Kosh the last few years. Sure,
there was that Alagrimm, the firebird. But
what else? The princely family of Boarroot
tries hard to avoid scandal. Honestly, if I retire
I will do so here. No matter what happens in the
outside world, truly little changes here.”
—Kerry ui Brioghan, writer for the Aventurian Herald

34 Chapter 3: Land and People

“If the people of Kosh possess the good
qualities of dwarves—their festive mood,
their love of good food—then the people
of the Northmarches have got their worst
qualities. Rarely have I met such stubborn,
pigheaded people who are so full of mistrust for
everything new and unfamiliar. Reclusive, taciturn,
headstrong… I am at a loss for words to describe these people.”
—Brother Hilbert, Blessed One of Peraine

Borders: The border of the Northmarches follows the

Great River, with its narrow ravines, the Nabla and Tommel
rivers, and the Kosh Mountains and the Iron Forest, where
many dwarves live. Kosh is bordered by Ange and Rakula,
as well as by the Forge Mountains, the ancestral home of
the forge dwarves.
Geography: Gentle hills with flowering meadows and
orchards; the overgrown Borre Forest, which conceals
bandits in the north; the primitive and almost impenetrable
Kosh Mountains; Lake Angbar and the countryside of
Ferdok; the remote Ridgerock Basin; the valley of the Great
River with its ravines and its shallows plagued by pirates;
the mountains of the Iron Forest.
Important Cities: Elenvina (12,000 humans, 200 dwarves),
Elvenhus (3,000 humans and 550 dwarves), Ridgerock
(2,150 humans plus a few dozen dwarves); Angbar
(approximately 3,100 humans and 2,100 dwarves), Ferdok
(approximately 2,100 humans and 700 dwarves)
Population: Northmarches: approximately 240,000 humans,
approximately 10,000 dwarves (especially ore dwarves);
Kosh: approximately 80,000 (roughly one quarter of which
are dwarves, especially forge and hill dwarves)
Political Ties: Provinces of the Middenrealm, Duchy of
the Northmarches (the young Duke Hagrobald of the Great
River), Principality of Kosh (the old and sedate Prince
Blasius of Eberstamm). Although the dwarven mountain
kingdoms of Iron Forest, Koshim, Forest Watch, and Xorlosh
predominantly lie beneath Kosh and the Northmarches,
they are ruled independently.
Form of Government: Feudalism, but the nobility is
mindful of the people and hold to the ideals of Praios. The
barons in the Northmarches are more authoritarian.
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods; in Kosh, Ingerimm and
Travia, especially, as well as dwarven worship of Angrosh;
in the Northmarches, Praios is commonly held in highest
regard, though the nobility typically follow Rondra, plus
Efferd and Peraine to a lesser degree. In the countryside
Sumu is venerated as the earthmother.
Trade Goods: Wheat, ore, wood, paper from the
Northmarches, steel, dwarven crafts, beer, artisan
woodcrafts and anti-magical Kosh basalt from Kosh.
Real-World Inspirations: The Northmarches are inspired
by films depicting the Late Middle Ages. The nobility
considers their power a divine right, thus any challenge to

35
 that power is met with anger and swift reprisal, and the
dukes and barons of this land are angry that they cannot
rid themselves of the river pirates and other menaces. Kosh
and its jovial Hill Dwarves, near Angbar, borrow elements of
the Shire from The Lord of the Rings. The dwarven mountain
kingdoms of the regions also borrow from Tolkien’s novels.
A Hero from the Great River: A hero from Kosh
is typically more pragmatic than one from another
part of the Middenrealm. People from Kosh are very
reliable; they do not make promises they cannot keep
and are always true to their word. They do anything
in their power to help a friend—no matter the cost.
Artisans from the towns of Kosh are renowned for their
craft skills and their goods are prized in the whole of
Aventuria. Adventurers from this region may include a
hill dwarf who wants to discover the world or a forge
dwarf warrior who seeks to join a dragon hunt. Heroes
from the Northmarches are often straightforward
and law-abiding types. Typical characters from the
Northmarches include a knight from the County of
Ridgerock, a mage from the mage’s academy of Elenvina,
a traveling Blessed One of Praios, a sly river pirate, and
a secretive druid.
The Land on the Great River in the Game: The
Northmarches, traditional feud with rebellious Albernia
has created tangible friction at the border. Traveling
heroes often must act as liaisons between the nobles to
prevent internal conflicts. The infamous pirates of the
Great River sometimes abduct and ransom travelers.
If a ransom is not forthcoming, the hostage suffers a
cruel fate. Kosh is a relaxed, stable province in which
little changes. Still, the people sometimes join to defend
themselves from all enemies and they are allied with
the dwarves in the fight against dragons and other
threats that seek to shake the order of the world.
The Northmarches have very different facets. While the
towns on the Realm’s Road and the Great River grew
wealthy through trade, the remote settlements in the
hinterlands often suffer from dire poverty. The people
from the Northmarches live by a very down-to-earth
philosophy, but they do not talk much, are rather taciturn,
and know how to hide their enthusiasm.
“Be happy if they aren’t complaining,” is the best way to
think of citizens of the Northmarches. The war against
Albernia brought the nobility of the Northmarches
together for a while, but once the peace treaty was signed
(“We were robbed of our victory!”), they went back to
quarreling among themselves, cooperating again only
when threatened by foreigners.
36 Chapter 3: Land and People
In contrast, humans and dwarves have been living together
in peaceful harmony in Kosh for the last two millennia.
Though the tradition-bound ore dwarves accuse their
cousins of abandoning their customs to adapt to human
ways, the human Koshans seem extraordinarily dwarvish
in their manners. It is common for men and women to
appear a little round in the belly, enjoy smoking a pipe, and
hold regular village feasts that run with food and foaming
beer. Here a noble may be seen performing chores that
outsiders would consider demeaning, such as tending to
fields or cattle. For a long time, the Koshian nobility was
very loyal to the Realm, but the long and grueling wars in
the east have left many scars. Some feel that people should
stand up for Rondra and Praios, especially in difficult times,
while others, exhausted and jaded, do not wish to hear any
more of the suffering in distant lands.
The Shield Lands
Let the orcs come. We will drive them back over the
Rathil and hunt them down along the Dark Ridge. As
Rondra commands, we stand watch. We are the shield
of the Realm!”
—a baron from Weiden, 1038 FB
“This backwards lot always behaves crudely. Their steel-
clad knights never fail to utter “By Rondra’s honor!”
when they speak. They are obsessed with orcs. Other
matters are also worthy of consideration… many other
matters.”
—a Horasian signora, on a visit to Trallop, 1035 FB
Borders: The shadowy peaks of the Dark Ridge, the
treacherous Fog Moors, the eerie Nine-Eye Lake, and the
peaks of the Rathil, the Red Sickle, and the Dragon Stones.
Griffonsford is bordered by the rivers Ange, Wide, and
Dergel, and the Realmwood from Weiden all along the
Menzheim meadow. Tobrien is bordered by Tobimora,
Radrom, and Misa.
Geography: nearly impassable mountain ranges with many
hostile inhabitants, such as orcs in the Dark Ridge, goblins
in the Sickle Mountains, and dragons in the Dragon Stones;
sparsely populated, forested plains with many brooks
and rivers such as the Wide meadow and the Menzheim
meadow, mysterious lakes such as Lake Lamprey or Lake
Ysli and dangerous bogs characterize the Shield Lands.
Important Cities: Griffonsford (5,000), Eslamsgrub
(1,500), Trallop (6,000), Baliho (3,500), Perainefords (4,400),
Mendena (6,000), Ilsur (1,200), Eslamsbridge (3,500)
Population: Griffonsford: 50,000 humans, several hundred
orcs; Weiden: 135,000 humans, 1,000 elves, 500 dwarves,
several thousand goblins and orcs; Tobrien: 45,000
humans, 500 dwarves, several hundred goblins and orcs,

a small number of elves and trolls, and quite a few unholy
creatures
Political Ties: Provinces of the Middenrealm, Margravate
of Griffonsford (the lenient Margravine Irmenella of
Wertlingen), Duchy of Weiden (the battle-hardened
Walpurga of Lion’s Head), Duchy of Tobrien (the embittered
Duke Bernfried of Ehrenstein)
Form of Government: Feudalism supported by well-
trained knights
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods, in Griffonsford especially
Praios and Peraine, in Weiden Rondra, Firun in Tobrien
Trade Goods: In Tobrien: mainly potash for porcelain
production, but also wool cloth, mead, copper, and plum
brandy. In Weiden: cattle, meat sausage, leather wares,
horses (Northmanes and Tralloper Giants, both particularly
suitable as destriers), cloth, wood, amber, slate, and kairan
reed (a useful herb). In Griffonsford: wood, metals, stone
for construction, wool, and horses.
Real-World Inspirations: The Shield Lands are those
classic border regions from stories set during the High
Middle Ages, where knights (or witches, druids, or Blessed
Ones) face a constant struggle against Nature and the
enemy on the other side of the border, whether that be
orcs, goblins, or henchmen of the Demon Master. Elements
of Gondor from The Lord of the Rings or the Night’s Watch
from A Song of Ice and Fire fit well here.
The tough country of the northern provinces, with its
untamed mountains, dense forests, and rapids, has forged
its people into stalwart souls over the centuries.
The long war against the Heirs of Borbarad brought great
pain and hardships to the Tobrienans, but they never gave
up hope. Those who did not flee are haggard but rugged.
All who remained have a tale of horror and suffering to
A Hero from the Shield Lands: A classic knight from
a medieval romance, a wise witch of the bog, a worldly
elvish wyldrunner, a battle-hungry Blessed One of
Rondra, a helpful Blessed One of Peraine, a druid from
the lonely forests, a taciturn mountain guide, a battle-
weary half elf or a scout who knows all the tricks of
the woods. Most residents of the Shield Lands are
plainspoken, pragmatic, and quick with sword or bow
when called to action.
The Shield Lands in the Game: The Shield Lands are
characterized by harsh terrain and relentless assaults
from orcs and many other enemies. The people of
Griffonsford and Weiden have proven themselves
time and time again against the hordes that invade the
Realm from the Fog Moors or the Dark Ridge. While
no tribe of orcs or goblins is large enough to conquer
the Realm, the folk of the Shield Lands remain diligent
against raids for plunder. The Tobrienans suffered a
far grimmer fate than their neighbors when their land
was devastated by the demonic forces of Borbarad.
Tobrien was once even the heart of the Shadowlands,
and no less than four heirs of the Demon Master made
it their capital. The land was liberated after a military
campaign under the Empress in 1040 FB, but countless
horrors still lurk there in the form of unbound demons,
sinister black mages, and cursed stretches of ground
that poison any who attempt to live there. Transysilia
and the Demon Forges of Yol-Ghurmak (see page 90)
still control a large part of Tobrien that has yet to be
retaken. In the Shield Lands heroes might rescue a
prince from the clutches of a ruthless band of orcs,
storm a mage’s tower to prevent an unholy ritual, or
protect a defenseless village against a band of outlaw
goblins on the rampage.
37
 tell and a fallen friend or relative to weep for. But the
hard times brought together those who would never have
talked to each other before the war. Those who survived
the living nightmares together have learned to cherish
each another.
Weidenans are thought to dwell on the past and they even
cultivate the dialect spoken by their ancestors. Sometimes
derided for being bawdy, they are nevertheless appreciated
for their hospitality as well as their hard working and
straightforward character. Visitors are often surprised by
their mistrust of eves, as they worship Pandlaril, the fairy
that protects their land.
Griffonsforders have grown resilient, and very pious,
through the constant threat of orcs, which regularly issue
from the forests of the Dark Ridge. Their honesty, which is
pleasing unto Priaos, is admired far and wide. These tough
people face constant peril with bravery and determination.
Almada and Yaquir Fault
“Fiery-eyed beauties, men and women alike, full of elegance,
full of passion—whether they dance, work in the fields, duel,
or race their fiery steeds. Indeed, the month of Rahja is truly
the best time to visit these lands.”
—from Nimia Faireyes’ travel journal, 4th of Rahja,
1036 FB
“I can’t bear it! I should have paid attention to the old saying,
‘Talk only about the weather in Almada.’ But no, I had to
go and say something about his horse. O gods, why did I
do that? We dueled, of course, and while I quickly defeated
that hot-headed firebrand, I now must deal with his entire
family, which feels that their honor has been impugned. I
am afraid it’s going to be a long day tomorrow…”
—Ishannah al’Kira, Elburan Swordmistress
Borders: The mountain ranges of Phecano Forest, the
Ironforest, the Anvil, the highlands of Caldia, and Rashtul’s
Wall, as well as the reaches of Yaquir, Bisquir, and Gugella;
the heavily traveled Ironroad runs from Punin to the
neighbouring Northmarches.
Geography: the lovely Yaquir Valley; the heathland of
Caldaia; the densely forested slopes of the Forge Mountains
and Iron Forest; the wild and hot Bosquiria and the even
more distant Transbosquiria; the Thangolsforest; the Plain
of 1,000 Horses; the Mada Heights
Important Cities: Punin (27,500 humans, including 2,500
Tulamydes and Novadi, approximately 200 elves, and an
equal number of dwarves), Ragath (3,500), Taladur (3,000)
Population: 320,000 humans, including approximately
32,000 Zahori, Ferkina, and Novadi, 2,500 dwarves, 1,000
elves, 1,000 goblins, and a few orcs and ogres
38 Chapter 3: Land and People
Political Ties: Provinces of the Middenrealm, Principality
of Almada (the aged and weakening Prince Gwain of
Harmamund)
Form of Government: Feudalism with strong nobility,
wealthy burghers in the cities
Veneration of Gods: Around 85% of the population
worship the Twelvegods, especially Rahja and Boron (the
main temple of the Punin Rite is located in the city of
Punin), while 10%-15% worship Rastullah. The rest belong
to some local (and usually secret) bull and dragon cults.
Trade Goods: Crops (wheat and millet), wine, horses
(Yaquir Valley and Elenvinan Thoroughbreds), dried fruit,
tobacco, olive oil, cloth (cotton, linen, velvet, lace, tulle),
paper, wood, alum, iron, ironwork, stone for construction
(limestone, marble)
Real-World Inspirations: Almada is based on Late
Medieval Spain. The war between the Almadans and the
Novadi is modeled after the Reconquista or examples from
Granada. Historical Andalusia is another inspiration, both
in terms of landscape and inhabitants, including their fiery
temperament, their style of dress, and their enjoyment of
dance, horseback riding, and bullfighting. It is a region for
a character like Zorro, who wages a lonely battle for justice.
A Hero from Almada: The Almadans are hot-blooded,
proud, and quick to take up sabre or rapier when their
honor is at stake. A battle-hungry journeyman of the
sword, an overly intellectual mage from the Academy
of High Magic at Punin, a nimble thief from the alleys
of Punin, an aesthetic magnate who is engrossed with
wine and horses, a deeply devout Blessed One of Boron,
a proud Novadi who struggles to lift up his people, a
rich merchant, or a desirable Blessed One of Rahja are
good choices for this region.
Almada in the Game: Almada is a rich land with a
beautiful climate. Its nobles, called magnates, are
powerful and willful, and its Blessed Ones are consumed
with a sense of duty. This often leads to religious
disputes with the Novadi, who worship Rastullah and
rule on the other side of the Yaquir, and a conflict is
brewing within the country. Even the smallest insult in
the street may result in a duel, and a feud between two
hotheaded magnates may put an entire innocent village
at risk. Strange bull cults and the veneration of dragons
has grown from a mere nuisance to a serious threat as
people are kidnapped off the streets for bizarre rituals
and even human sacrifice. A metropolis like Punin is
a world unto itself with a profound lust for life. This
ancient city has a proud tradition of education and
scholarly endeavors, yet the strangest things happen in
its alleys…
Almadan heritage is largely Tulamydian and Bosparanian,
though a dash of elvish blood is not uncommon. Their
complexion is usually darker than in the rest of the
Middenrealm, their hair is often very dark, as are their eyes.
Arable land is plentiful and rich with mineral resources
such as iron, marble, or the precious alum, a salt that is
needed for dyeing and tanning. At the Almadan border,
the land becomes drier and less colorful, the people focus
on their own honor and the fight against the infidels (the
high-minded Almadans), and quarrels frequently erupt
between the Almadans and the martial Novadi.

A constant feud also connects Almada with its Horasian

neighbors. In the anguished border region known as the
Yaquir Fault, this eventually led to a break with the rulers
in Punin and Vinsalt. Independent rulers, the so-called
Taifa, established themselves in its towns and settlements
and enforce their will with mercenaries. The loyalty of
these local rulers constantly shifts between Almada, the
Caliphate, and the Horasian Empire—depending on the
benefits each government is offering at the time.

The Almadan magnates place great value on honor and

independence, and possess unbreakable pride. Therefore,
they are often mired in one dispute or another. Malicious
gossip suggests that this lack of unity is the reason that
the dream of a realm united under Almadan leadership will
never come to fruition.

An important distinction in Almada society is the

differentiation between the Nobleza, long-established
noble families who can trace their ancestry back to the
founding of the realm, and the Rescendientes, families that
were enobled relatively recently. The Nobleza hold their
ancient privilege as higher than that of the nouveau riche
and therefore look down on the younger families. A noble,
they feel, must flaunt one’s status with eloquence, style,
and a quick blade, and prefer facing ruin rather than be
thought of as stingy.

Horasian Empire and Cyclopes Islands

“This is a place of education, learning, and indeed of beauty
in art and expression—this is the Horasian Empire. No other
land is as modern, and no other people are as well traveled and
worldly. But none should forget that we are ready and willing to
defend these treasures with our lives.”
—a Vinsaltan burgher, 1034 FB
“These Horasians are something esle. They shove a pile of papers
in front of me and expect me to sign them without reading
them. As if I had the time and patience to do so. And instead
of agreeing to my offer, they send some mercenaries with their
damned rapians—or whatever these things are called—after me
and give me a bloody nose! Never again shall I do business with
these Vinsaltan crooks. Never again, I swear by Phex!”
—a long-distance trader from the Kolenbrander merchant
house, 1036 FB
Borders: The Phecadi and the Phecano Forests; the heights
of the Golden Cliffs, the Eternans, and the High Eternans;
the Sea of Seven Winds; the Harotrud, with its dismal
swamps
Geography: The Horasian Empire lies in Yaquiria and the
Gerondrata, rich land with a large population and many
magnificent cities. The flat, coastal area of the Septimana
transforms into the lovely Coverna, which is especially
fertile. In the east there is the Aurelat, a rather remote
mountain area at the Golden Cliffs Pass. Chababia is a dry
hill land that changes over into the fertile yet boggy land of
Harodia. The rugged Cyclopes Islands, which are covered

39
 with mysterious ruins, lie off the southwest coast.
Important Cities: Vinsalt (60,000), Kuslik (40,000),
Belhanka (15,000), Grangor (15,000), ruins of Arivor (once
12,000, today approximately 500) ( page 249), Neetha
(9,000), Methumis (7,000), Silas (6,000), Bethana (5,000),
Drôl (6,000); Rethis (on Hylailos, 3,000), Teremon (on
Pailos, 2,000)
Population: Horasian Empire: 920,000 humans, 3,000
dwarves, 7,000 Achaz, and approximately 100 elves;
Cyclopes Islands: 35,000 humans plus an unknown number
of cyclopes, minotaurs, and fairies
Political Ties: Sovereign Empire comprised of about 30
provinces and free cities. The emperor, Khadan-Horas,
reigns from the Cyclopes Islands and rules over the Sea
King (Palamydas Thaliyin, a vassal of Khadan)
Form of Government: Feudalism, but with an emperor;
powerful regional lords; numerous titular aristocracy and
very influential bourgeoisie
Veneration of the Gods: Spiritual heartland of the belief in
the Twelvegods, especially Hesinde (whose main temple is
situated in Kuslik), Efferd (main temple in Bethana), Rahja
(main temple in Belhanka) and Ronda; in the countryside,
Tsa and Peraine, and many demigods besides. Noted
regionally for veneration of the demigod Horas.
Trade Goods: Horasian Empire: merchants and
manufactories are held in high regard, and trade is
conducted with nearly every culture for almost every good
imaginable; Cyclopes Islands: fish, olives, wine, wool, gold,
silver, iron, lead, mercury, Cyclops-made weapons (rare)
Real-World Inspirations: The Horasian Empire is the most
advanced region in Aventuria. Parts of it are comparable
to the Italian Renaissance, while others resemble France
during the era of the Roi Soleil. Political intrigue within
40 Chapter 3: Land and People
the larger cities most resembles the handiwork of a Borgia
or a cardinal Richelieu. Additionally, there is a hint of the
swashbuckler trope even though firearms have not been
invented. The Cyclopes Islands, home to many fabulous
creatures from ancient mythology, resemble classical
Greek Antiquity.
Due to its mild climate and fertile fields, the Horasian
Empire, also called the Fairfield, was for a long time the point
of departure for the colonization of Aventuria by settlers
from the distant Gyldenland. They founded the legendary
city of Bosparan of the Hundred Towers, and many smaller
settlements, farms, and vast fields quickly grew up around
it. Today, most of its land has been cultivated by humans,
and sparse wilderness remains. The lifeblood of the land
is the Yaquir River, which wins its way slowly between
the hills. The glorious days of the Bosparanian Empire are
long past, but the Horasians still place strong emphasis on
their culture, which they view as far superior to others.
Sciences, arts, and technological advancement are more
developed in the Horasian Empire than anywhere else in
Aventura. They distain murky castles and dark places and
prefer bright palaces with lush parklands for walking and
recreation. Horasian artisans have developed technical
wonders that are supported by dwarven master mechanics.
These advancements elicit amazement even in the most
worldly and skeptical of travelers. Sightseers come from
far and wide to view wonders such as the pumpworks of
Vinsalt or the mechanical clockworks in various towers.
Khadan-Horas, son of the highest Blessed One of Hesinde,
Aldare Firdayon, and the Emperor Dragon Shafir the
Magnificent, is an unknown quantity. The young emperor
A Hero from the Horasian Empire: Heroes from
the Empire may include a skilled journeyman of
the sword with rapier and main gauche, a well-read
Blessed One of Hesinde, a battle mage from Bethana
loyal to the Realm, an inquisitive spy from Vinsalt, a
successful merchant from afar, a proud artisan from
Silas, a scholar who is desperately seeking funds
for an expedition to Gyldenland, or a charming
Blessed One of Rahja from Belhanka. Others include
a Cyclopean goat herder who wants to see the world
but always keeps a slingshot at the ready, a scholarly
mage from Kuslik, a mercenary who hires out to
anyone that can afford it, a taciturn prospector
from the Golden Cliffs, or a challenge-hungry big
game hunter from Drôl. Another possibility is a
bored actress from the Vinsaltan opera in search of
inspiration, a seagoing cartographer, or a scheming
signora seeking to escape from an assassin. Outsiders
view Horasians as arrogant and aloof due to their
preoccupation with the latest fashions, the best
cuisine, and the ideal wine vintage, and some call
them dandies and popinjays. Horasians describe
themselves as cultivated and educated, and are
very proud of their high standard of living and their
progressiveness.
The Horasian Empire in the Game: The Horasian
Empire is a land of intrigue and social manipulation.
While some vie for power, many want only a
glimmer of fame and attention. Therefore, Horasians
find themselves constantly embroiled in schemes
many layers deep, some of which have no obvious
connection to their lives. The long standing conflict
between old nobility and influential patricians has
intensified in recent years. The Succesion War,
also called the War of Dragons, was instigated by the
ruling Firdayon family, which maintained control of
the conflict from the shadows.
The ancient history of the land reveals uitself in
ruins of lizardfolk cities which can be found beneath
many metropolises. And the remains of Bosparan,
the old capital upon which Vinsalt stands today, is
rumored to hold countless, undiscovered treasures
but has barely been explored. Scholars and Blessed
Ones of the Horasian Empire constantly seek valiant
heroes to solve old mysteries or fight cults that take
advantage of the curiosity and boredom of the nobles
and the wealthy bourgeoisie to gain converts. The
Cyclopes Islands conceal the secrets of minotaurs,
fairies, and the eponymous, one-eyed children of
Ingerimm—secrets that beg to be unraveled.
is constantly surrounded by a staff of advisors and lackeys
who weave a web of intrigue and politics around him and
keep him secluded from the public. The aristocracy outside
of the Imperial family consists of a few old bloodlines that
own extensive estates and enjoy numerous privileges,
wealth, and influence. Just below them are the patricians,
which consist of nobles, wealthy merchants, mages, and
high-ranking Blessed Ones. Their power is based largely
on wealth, whether inherited or earned. The influence
of the patricians has grown during the last few centuries,
and increased even further during the recent Succession
War, wherein the most expensive mercenaries were the
decisive factor in the conflict. Courtly etiquette is no
longer valued in many places, having been replaced by the
virtues of diligence and personal achievement. Even the
aristocracy must make alliances with the patricians or risk
losing influence.
“And then the stars started to fall. By the gods,
it is true! It was the work of the dragons!
Father Angrosh did not forge the world to
see it ravaged so! I was on the road in the
Gerondrata, the dry hill land, on my way here.
Suddenly the entire world seemed to be shaking.
Then I heard a loud rumbling from the distance
and saw a cloud of dust. I swear, a star fell right in the middle
of the Gerondrata. A whole star! Arivor should not have been
built on that hill…”
—Arbosh, son of Angrax, forge dwarf mastersmith
Paavi and the Far North
“Times change, as does shakagra’s will. I
watched as the orcs put an end to the Nagrach
witch, Glorana, and saw them carry the shard
of the demon crown to the south. I have seen
stars fall and learned how they cut breaches
into the Iron Edge. There we found bell-like
sounding glass and pure life energy, which made us
strong. I cannot sense my mistress, but an inspiring spirit fills
me now. A spirit that yearns for more and promises me much.
We shall go to the south. Who can stop us?”
—Za’oreel Forces-into-the-Shadows, spellweaver of the
shakagra
41
 “We have endured the ice and the Ice Witch, and we
have overthrown my damned sister. Now we will try to
heal the land and defeat the Black Ice.”
—Duke Dermot the Younger of Paavi, 1038 FB
“You call this a Duchy? A lousy harbor locked in a
chokehold of eternal frost?”
—a Bornish Bronnjar, 1039 FB
Borders: The Far North, sometimes also called the High
North, stretches from the ice fields of the Hoarfrost Waste,
the Grimmfrost Waste, Ice Break Bay, and Amber Bay to
the Iron Edge and the Steppes of the Nivese.
Geography: Ice, snow, wind, and unbearable cold marked
by endless months of darkness. There are few landmarks,
save for the ice-clad Frozen Peaks, Mist Peaks, and Ice
Peaks that rise from a flat, white plain. The Bear Islands are
said to be cursed and scholars believe Yeti-Land is home to
ice bugbears.
Important Cities: Paavi (4,000, of which 1,000 are Nivese
and Norbards), Eestiva (1,000, including 250 Nivese
and Norbards; twice as many inhabitants in winter),
Glyndhaven (550, of which one quarter are Norbards, and
several dozen snow goblins), Frisov (250, of which one
third are Nivese and Norbards)
The Primotolith—the First Dark Eye
“How the Dark Eyes first came about is a mystery. We know
they were magical orbs of about 2 yards in diameter. It is said
that the first of its kind, known as the Primotolith in scholarly
circles, consisted of pure, magical Endurium and fit easily
in a dragon’s paw. Oral tradition and the few transcribed
documents known to exist say that the ancient god dragon
Pyrdacor possessed it for a time. We do not know, though,
whether he created it from the magical metal himself or
obtained it from another entity.
Legend provides a clue. The dragon Vitrador presumably
revealed to an alchemist that Pyrdacor tore the All-Seeing-
Eye from the skull of the Old Dragon Nosulgor, his brother,
because the Eye would allow Pyrdacor to see into the depths
of all Spheres and times. If this is true, Nosulgor would have
been doomed to fly blinded through the eons, which would
explain why there are no further accounts of him appearing
in Aventuria.
It would also explain why the walls of Time and Space did
not impede the first Dark Eyes but granted only the briefest
glimpse into the future, for viewing the yet unwritten pages
42 Chapter 3: Land and People
Population: Far North: very sparsely populated, primarily
by snow goblins, ice elves, Fjarnings, Shurachai orcs, yetis,
night elves, wild dwarves, ape men, and sometimes also
grolms
Population: Duchy of Paavi: 15,000 (of which 25% is Nivese,
15% Norbards, and 5% elves)
Political Ties: The majority of the north belongs to the
Eternal Ice, but Paavi is an independent Duchy which
models itself after the Middenrealm.
Form of Government: Feudalism among the
Middenrealmers, clan structure among most other peoples
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods, especially Firun and
Ifirn among the Middenrealmers; Hesinde and Mokosha
among the Norbards; pantheon of the Sky Wolves among
the Nivese; Devotees of the Ice Witch Glorana still exist and
worship the archdemon Nagrach; white-furred Shurachai
orcs pray to the traditional orc gods; the night elves,
who call themselves shakagra, pray both to their creator
Pardona and to the Nameless God.
Trade Goods: Very few lands trade with the Far North.
Notable goods include products from fishing, whaling,
and fur-trapping, as well as amber, iron, and rare healing
herbs. Rumor says that magical metals and Theriak (a
manifestation of pure life energy) can be found here.
of Fate is not possible. Indeed, is it said that the Primoptolith
can see into all worlds, Spheres, and globules at any point
in time, whether past or present. We assume that even the
Immortals fear this all-seeing artifact, for it can reveal things
which lie beyond all imagination.
The Old Dragon Fuldigor, who lives in the Iron Edge, tells
this tale: More than four millennia ago, the trolls stole the
Primoptolith from the hoard of the Golden Dragon in his
palace in Zze Tha. They did not want to keep it because
they feared the ire of the god dragon, so they gave it to their
cousins, the snowbugbears, which we call yetis, and asked
them to hide the artifact in the eternal ice. Pyrdacor had no
power over the ice even then.
If this tale is true, then I am certain that Pyrdacor created
the frostwyrms and sent them to retrieve the first Dark Eye.
They still search fruitlessly for the accursed object, the gods
be praised!”
—excerpt from the book Astral Secrets, collected by the
mage and astronomer Niobara of Anchopal, around
526 FB ( page 238)

Real-World Inspirations: The wide expanses of Alaska
and Canada with their lone trappers; Lapland with its
reindeer herds; the pole regions and expeditions to
Earth’s South and North Pole. The land is hostile and
unexplored, and millennia-old secrets of strange creatures
and civilizations lie buried beneath the shell of ice, and
the Starfall has exposed some of them once again. For
adventures concerning the threat from ancient magic, we
suggest using H.P. Lovecraft’s At the Mountains of Madness as
a source of inspiration.
The Far North is held firmly in Firun’s ice-cold grip.
Mountain ranges such as the Mist Peaks, Ice Peaks, and the
Grimmfrost Wastes remain frozen year-round. Just a little
further north, even the sea is covered by a thick layer of
ice. The region supports few plants, and animals are rare.
The firnelves stoically maintain eternal vigil against the
shakagra and the hordes of the Nameless God that dwell
in the Eternal Ice ( page 243). Humans cannot survive
here for long without protective clothing, as temperatures
rarely rise above freezing, even in summer. Furthermore,
threats such as ice crevices, avalanches, and snow blindness
abound. These risks do nothing to deter expeditions to
the Far North to find the legendary treasures of the
region, even those known only from ancient tales or a
rumors of something having been unearthed due to the
Starfall. Others come here to stop those enemies that
threaten the South—enemies such as the shakagra, the
white-furred Shurachai orcs, and the creatures of the
archdemon Nagrach.
A Hero from the Far North: A female clan warrior
of the Fjarnings searching for the riddle of steel, a
shaman of the Nivese who follows the trail of the
Sky Wolves onto the ice, a firnelvish shaper who
travels south to learn how to defeat the shakagra, a
daring whaler who wishes to catch the largest whale
of all, a Norbard merchant trying to bring crucial
supplies to her people, or a disillusioned fighter on
a doomed quest to destroy the archdemon Nagrach.
The peoples of the Far North are withdrawn and
dismissive, but they share the trait of hospitality,
which they consider honorable. Nevertheless, the
humans and elves who live here have become one
with their hostile environment, where life is always
about survival at nearly any cost.
The Far North in the Game: The Far North is an
inhospitable place to which no human would travel
if it were not for the lure of undiscovered secrets,
old artifacts, and new treasures. Loneliness and
the fight against nature are at the forefront. Many
mysterious creatures live here and some are trying
to head further south. The heroes might have to
intercept groups of shakagra who seek the Nagrach
Shard of the Demon Master’s crown. Or perhaps
they must try to break the curse of the Ice Witch,
which froze the hearts of those who ventured too
far north. On the other hand, greed and the pursuit
of fortune might come into play if the rumors hold
true that the Starfall revealed deposits of Fool’s
Glass, Endurium, and other magical metals in the
Iron Edge.
43
 Gulf of Riva and the Lands of the Nivese
“Riva is the safe harbor for every expedition to the north.
You can ask anyone. And let’s be honest, more people have
been arriving since treasure was discovered in the Reedy
Marshes. Good thing, I say!”
—Jarwen Seehof, proprietor of the Rastburger
Trading House, Riva, 1034 FB
“Mosquito infested swamps or mosquito infested
steppes—your choice. Plus, besides Riva, there are no
other cities in the entire region. What in Phex’s name
ever possessed me to come to this place?”
—Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan Vagabond, 1033 FB
Borders: Ifirn’s Ocean; the mountain ranges of Firun’s
Wall, Rorwhed, Salamander Stones, Yellow Sickle, and
Northweal Downs; the streams of Frisund and Letta
Geography: The Gulf of Riva is a tranquil bay, while the
Brinsasker Marshes is a treacherous bog land. The Blue
Lake, the second-largest inland sea on the continent, is
covered with ice throughout the year, while only Alavi Lake
to the south is ice-free during the summer. The region’s
taiga, thick with pines, spruces, and larches, stretches to
the tundra and its wide steppes of Jonsu and Brydia, and
the grassland of the Green Plains. Unicrns are said to be
native to the luch fields of the Unicorn Grass.
Important Cities: Riva (4,000), Kvirasim (750, including
approximately 500 wood elves, and some glade and half
elves), Gerasim (380 humans, 430 wood elves, 140 half
elves), Oblarasim (340 humans, 160 glade elves), Farlorn
(130, mainly Nivese and about 10% Norbards)
Population: approximately 20,000 Middenrealmers and
Thorwalers, 55,000 Nivese, a few thousand Norbards, a
44 Chapter 3: Land and People
few thousand glade and wood elves, a few hundred steppe
elves and goblins
Political Ties: None (Riva used to belong to the Svellt
League of Towns)
Form of Government: Patriciate in most human cities;
elven settlements do not follow any hierarchical order;
clan and kinship structures among the Nivese
Veneration of the Gods: Twelvegods among the
Middenrealmers; Sky Wolves among the Nivese
Trade Goods: Leather wares, pelts, nacre, salt, salted fish,
fish oil, whalebone, ambergris, seal skins, wool, elvish and
Nivese wares
Real-World Inspirations: Northern regions such as
the area around the Baltic, the steppes of Siberia, and
Scandinavia
Themes include the colonization of land, exploration, the
search for resources, and survival in a hostile environment.
The culture of the Sami people, mixed with stories of wolf
people, can serve as inspiration for the way of life of the
Nivese.
The region is dominated by countless lakes and ponds
nestled between scattered birch and fir trees. The lower
lengths of the Kvill are shallow but usually calm, and barges
and flat bottom boats traverse it easily. The Brinasker
Marshes are a labyrinth of lakes, brooks, and watercourses
intersected by large areas of reeds and forests filled with
6’ Kaauvil grass. Every year, after the floods of autumn,
the landscape changes as the rivers take up new routes.
The plains of the Nivese are flatlands in which one finds
few trees and other sparse features. The Nivese travel
in tribal communities alongside their karan herds over
the Green Plains, which they call the Karan Grass, and
the sunlit woods near the tundra. At night a piping wind
 A Hero from the Lands of the Nivese: A young
shaman searching for her destiny, a long-serving
warrior of the tribe, a resourceful hunter whose
arrows almost always find their mark, a stoic karan
herder who is good with a throwing cudgel, or a
wolf’s child who has not decided yet whether to take
his place within the tribe or the pack. The land also
fosters glade and wood elf heroes such as wyldrunners
and spellweavers. Wherever one finds the culture of
northern Aventurians, one finds people who always
expect the worst, whether they are on a hunt or just
headed to the trading post. Northern Aventurians
are often hunters or rangers who are quick with bow
and axe, skillful merchants, daring adventurers or
seafarers from Riva, whether Thorwalers or former
whalers.
The Lands of the Nivese in the Game: Point of
departure for all expeditions to the Far North (Riva
is the last civilized harbor north of here). The land
offers little of note unless one wishes to contact the
elves, who are more welcoming in this region than
their southern cousins. Gold fever persists in this
region, and prospectors still venture out to find that
valuable metal despite the long odds of success.
constantly rustles the grass, and the howls of wolves and
their offspring fill the air.
Thorwal and the Gjalskland
“Nobody tells me what I can and cannot do! I am a free
Thorwaler! I bend my knee to no one! Anyone who thinks
otherwise should prepare to meet my fist!”
—Tjalva Garheltsdottir, Hetja of Prem, 1039 FB
“One might think that the rugged northerners have no
laws, but I know they have punishments for all sorts of
things. Transgressions can be settled either with gold or
in trial by combat, which they call Holmgang.”
—an Andergastan knight, 1033 FB
Borders: Swafnir’s Rest in Ifirn’s Ocean; the mountain
ranges of Great Olochtai; the Stone Oak Forest; the Ingval
Stream and the Gulf of Riva
Geography: Steep coasts with many fjords along the
Gray and Hjaldor Mountains, which sometimes rise over
300 feet above sea level. The small islands of the Olport
Stones and the meager land on the Gulf of Prem, site of the
main settlement of the Thorwalers. The peninsula of the
Gjalskland, remote and barren, is bordered by Swafnir’s
Rest and the Gulf of Riva.
Important Cities: Thorwal (12,500; significantly more
during winter), Enqui (4,000, of which only 600 are
Thorwalers), Prem (3,100), Olport (2,700, including
approximately 1,100 people of Nivese and Norbardan
ancestry, plus 50 firnelves), Waskir (2,400)
Population: 100,000 humans, including Norbards, Nivese,
Nostrians, and Svellters, plus several hundred elves,
dwarves, orcs, and goblins, and approximately 12,000
Gjalskland barbarians
Political Ties: None
Form of Government: Numerous jarldoms and Ottajaskos
with elected representatives (Hersire and Hetpeople) and
a Highest Hetwoman (currently Jurga Trondesdottir);
Enqui was conquered by the Thorwalers in 1010 FB, and
the Highest Hjalding renamed it the Jarldom of Brinasker
Marshes in 1012 FB; in the Gjalskland, diverse clans
(Haeradi) led by a clan leader (Yalding)
Veneration of the Gods: Swafnir, who crosses the seas in
the form of a white whale, is the god of the Thorwalers.
Travia, Firun, and Ifirn, along with the spirits of destiny
(called Runjas) are favored. The other gods of the Bosparans,
particularly Praios and Efferd, are ignored or even despised
by some Thorwalers. Gjalskans worship the god mammoth,
Natûru-Gon, and fear both the god of death, Zwanfir, and a
being that they call the Midnight Black Spider. Belief in the
Twelvegods per se is unknown, though they do worship
Ifruun (Ifirn and Firun combined), the orc god Tayrach,
and Sindarra (a form of Hesinde); belief in nature spirits is
also very common.
Trade Goods: Amber, silver, and bronze ornaments, semi-
precious stones, pitch, tar, schnapps, mead, cheese, water-
proof leather ropes, ivory from sea tigers, soapstone, steel,
wool cloth, pelts, fish, wooly mammoth bone
Real-World Inspirations: The Thorwalers, along with
their long houses and dragon ships, are based on Earth’s
Scandinavian peoples from the Age of the Vikings.
Their art, clothes, and many of their customs correspond
to those of the historic Vikings, and their land is similar
to the Vikings’ rugged coastal landscape and long winter
nights. Television series such as “The Last Kingdom” or
“Vikings,” or films like “The 13th Warrior” capture the
mood of this setting very well.
The Gjalskland with its barbarians, however, is more
reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands mixed with Celtic
influences. In that manner the Highland Games can be used
as a model for Palenkel, the Gjalskland test of strength.
The land of the Thorwalers is harsh, with steep coasts,
deep fjords, and dense, inland forests. Its inhabitants
are tall and very robust, and decorate their bodies with
colorful tattoos. Hospitality, honor, loyalty, and bravery
are the foundations of their behavior and the superstitious
45

A Hero from Thorwal: The valiant warrior, the tranquil
wind mage from the Runajasko in Olport, the daring
Hetwoman of a sworn Ottajasko, a wandering skald
searching for material for a new saga, a mystical witch
from the Olport Stones, a shipwright skilled with runes,
a calm Shark Dragoon, or a Swafnir’s Child looking for a
cure for whale rage (bloodlust) all make fine heroes from
Thorwal. A wise shaman seeking to contact the spirits or
a powerful animal warrior seeking a worthy opponent are
promising heroes from Gjalskland.
Thorwal in the Game: The wild and harsh region of
Thorwal is home to a very independent people. Community
is highly prized and steadfastly defended, be it against a
wild orc tribe or a punitive expedition of the Horasians.
Even so, the culture requires constant mediation between
Hetpeople and Jarls, the elected representatives of the
people who seek more power.
The northerners fear only the mist, which not only
confuses seafarers, but hides terrors of the sea in its
midsts and breeds a monster that has no name, for none
have returned to tell of it. Wandering threats include
the Peaceless, men and women who have been banished
from their community and who have nothing left to lose.
Intrigue is unwelcome in Thorwal and the Gjalskland.
At the forefront are physical challenges such as brawls,
drinking contests, and tests of axe-throwing skill.
Furthermore, in the Gjalskland one finds the Palenkel,
traditional tests of strength that are similar to events held
in Scottish Highland Games. The constant struggle against
harsh and hostile Nature shapes the day-to-day life of the
Gjalskans, who of late have been suffering more attacks
from the dead and things known as corpse devourers.
46 Chapter 3: Land and People
northmen and women are proud of their freedom. Their
society is shaped by ship communities (Ottajaskos)
and unless they live farther inland, they are usually at
sea during summer, often on sea raids. They prize the
most skilled as leaders so they elect their Hetpeople and
shipmasters—a concept that the rest of Aventuria, which is
strongly shaped by monarchy, finds absurd. Their history
is preserved by the skalds, who immortalize heroes and
their deeds in sagas.
The Gjalsklanders look similar to Thorwalers due to their
mixed Hjalding and Norbard heritage, but their complexion
is darker and they are said to be extraordinarily strong and
determined. These kilt- and fur-clad barbarians live in the
forests, plains, and mountains of the craggy Gjalskland. In
contrast to their Thorwaler neighbors, Gjalsklanders shun
the sea.
There is nothing which these brave men and women fear
more than the sea, which, according to their belief, is the
realm of the god of death, Zwanfir.
Nostria and Andergast
“If we could only leave the roots of our hatred behind, we would
be destined for greatness. But these wretched Andergastans,
with their ideas of male superiority, will never listen to me.”
—a Nostrian bombast, 1037 FB
“Warring Kingdoms or not, the Stone Oak Forest is the only
place you can find the perfect material for a mage’s staff.
Just pay the provincial nobles in gold and they’ll leave you in
peace.”
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
Borders: The primal Stone Oak Forest; the Bladegrass
Steppes; the reaches of Nabla and Tommel, as well as the
lower reaches of Ingval and the Sea of Seven Winds
Geography: The region is dominated by the pathless
forest wilderness of the Stone Oak Forest, the marshes and
swamps on the coast, and the water-logged meadows of
Ingval and Tommel.
Important Cities: Andergast (6,500), Nostria (6,000),
Salta and Salterhaven (4,000), Joborn (1,000)
Population: 80,000, including almost 2,000 goblins and
some hundred orcs
Political Ties: Independent kingdoms; Nostria is ruled by
the mage Yolande II Kasmyrin, Andergast by Wendelmir
VI Zornbold
Form of Government: Old, traditional feudalism, but with
many additional, fanciful titles; Andergast practices a rigid
patriarchy.
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods, albeit fused with the
belief in the old gods of nature; in Andergast, strong belief
in earth spirits shaped by druids known locally as Sume.
Trade Goods: Andergast: wood (especially from stone oak
trees), pelts, meat products, and linen. Nostria: fish, wood,
wheat, and salt.
Earthly Inspirations: The Early Middles Ages, particularly
the Hundred Years’ War between England and France with
a touch of the Cold War. Also, Home Rule mentality and
conflicts akin to those experienced by the Holy Roman
Empire of the German Nation. The plots of many Czech
fairy tale movies work within the context of Nostria and
Andergast, where demanding nobles exploit the common
people.
A Hero from the Warring Kingdoms: A traditional
knight, a battle mage from Andergast, a curious witch
from the Tommel meadows, or a reclusive druid from
the wilderness of the Stone Oak Forest.
The Warring Kingdoms in the Game: Trust is a rare
commodity due to the constant threat of war between
Nostria and Andergast. The patriarchal Andergastans
look down with contempt on their neighbors, who in
turn despise the influence of the Sume (druids). The
common element between the feuding kingdoms is
the wilds of the forest, where, according to legend, two
animal kings, the King of the Stags and the King of the
Aurochs, struggle for dominance.
While the Andergastan sees only a dark and extensive
fairy forest all around, the Nostrian kingdom is based on
northern Germany and the Netherlands, where one must
fight the sea for every inch of land with the help of dikes.
Nostrians often say, “If one does not build dikes, one will
have to yield to the sea,” especially during the stormy
season in the month of Efferd,
The peoples of the Warring Kingdoms are an uncomplicated
folk, though the nobles are often extravagant in their
autocracy. Everyone knows their place in society and
they fill it with hard work and stout hearts. Most know
little of the outside world, for all one needs to know is the
enemy of the day and where to find them. Andergastans
believe that women are inferior to men according to the
laws of nature as passed to them through the Sume, their
47
 druids. Nostrians may not be much more enlightened, but
at least they accept the council of women. Witches are
not uncommon on the coast, and though they wield less
influence than the Andergastan druids, they are consulted
if problems should arise.
Orclands and Svellt Valley
Borders: The Orclands, bordered by the mountain ranges
of Great Olochtai, the Stone Oak Forest, Firun’s Wall, the
Ogre Teeth, the Blood Barrier, and the Thash Mountains,
consist of wide, barren steppes. The region of the former
Svellt League of Towns reaches from the Thash and Dark
Ridge mountain ranges to the Brinasker Marshes, but
primarily runs along the shores of the mighty Svellt River.
Geography: Large Wastes, Rorwhed Mountains, Svellt
Swamps, Valley of Fallen Stars; the Orclands is a high,
barren plateau with few trees.
Important Cities: Lowangen (11,500 humans, 500 dwarves,
500 elves), Deepenborg (destroyed in 1039 FB; until then, it
had a population of around 100 holdouts), Tjolmar (1,500),
Phexcaer (1,500), Gashok (660), Yrramis (750); Khezzara
“They were too weak to resist us, so we took what was ours by
right. And we shall do so again!”
—Ugur Blackspear, orc chieftain, 1039 FB
“Few towns remain since the orcs invaded. Lowangen pays
tribute to these vermin, and now even Deepenborg has fallen.
It cannot go on like this! Hear me! Let us lay seige to Khezzara,
the city of the Aikar! Let us crush the hated orcs and drive them
back to the steppes from which they crawled!”
—Brin of Rhodenstein, Blessed One of Rondra and Abbot-
Marshal of the Order of Safeguard, 1039 FB
48 Chapter 3: Land and People
(7,500 orcs, plus a few hundred slaves, namely, 100 humans,
200 goblins, and some dwarves and ogres)
Population: 38,000 humans, 100,000 orcs, and a few
hundred dwarves, achaz, elves, goblins, grolms, ogres, and
apemen
Political Ties: None; formerly Svellt League of Towns
Form of Government: The rule of might; chieftains and
shamans among the orcs; in human settlements, patricians
Veneration of Gods: Orc gods, Twelvegods (especially
Phex); Lowangen Dualism, characterized by chastity and
abstinence, is also very common. In this religion, Praios is
worshipped as the source of salvation, Boron is feared, and
the other ten gods play only minor roles.
Trade goods: Iron, silver, pelts, cattle, horses (Lowangen
Coldbloods); towns of the former League of Towns also
trade in handicrafts, while trade houses import foreign
goods
Real-World Inspirations: Svellt Valley is based on the
American Wild West. It is a place of endless vistas and
booming economies, where shifty characters get involved
in hopeless situations and play out tales of the Old West.
The orcs were inspired by their namesakes from Tolkien’s
The Lord of the Rings. The millennia-old culture of the Valley
is adapted from the legends of steppe peoples such as the
Huns and the Mongols.
The humans of the Svellt have grown disillusioned since
the orcs occupied their territory and forced many of their
booming trade towns into bondage. The orcs’ destruction
of the Royal City of Deepenborg was a heavy blow, and all
hope for a peaceful coexistence is almost gone. Lowangen,
the largest city in the region, must see to its own defense.
The Aikar Brazoragh, the chosen of the orc gods, holds court
A Hero from the Svellt Valley: An angry irregular
soldier with an abiding hatred for orcs, a half elven
mage from the Lowangen School of Transformation, a
scheming merchant who is interested only in profit, a
secretive prospector hoping to strike gold, a burgher
of Lowangen with secret alliances, and a knight from
Deepenborg searching desperately for the missing
queen all make good choices for northern Aventurian
heroes from the Svellt.
The Svellt Valley in the Game: The Svelltland is
shaped by the conflict between orcs and humans. Some
towns have arrangements with the orcs and pay them
tribute, while others are still fighting for their lives.
Some towns have been completely erased by the orcs. It
is a time for smugglers and outlaws, some of which are
flawed heroes and some are ruthless villains who must
be stopped. The humans have not given up the territory,
however. An army that set out from the fortress of
Griffonstone recently established a new bridgehead but
is in dire need of reinforcements. A fragile balance of
power exists in the Svellt, one which both sides hope
to maintain until they can mount a strong counter-
attack. In the meantime, the area attracts mercenaries
and othert fortune seekers hoping to make good coin
on the conflict or maybe find some of the scattered gold
from Phex’s Star Shower. Even though the Starfall is
changing the skies over the Svellt Valley, the embattled
residents view it as an omen of hope.
in the city of Khezzara, where he spends an increasing
amount of time at the Horned Tower, a monumental
building whose purpose is not clear to the humans
( page 241).
The Free Cities of the North
and the Elven Heartlands
“We are free and we shall remain free. There is money enough
to hire mercenaries who can guarantee this!”
—Drujan Wesseling, colonel in the Uhdenmount Legion,
1036 FB
“The thunder of the waterfall underneath Rondra’s holy place
fills me with confidence. Donnerbach repelled the orcs, just
like Bjaldorn repelled the forces of the Demon Master. And
Uhdenmount remains what it always was, a free city which
neither goblin, nor orc, nor Imperial troop dares to attack.
The North cannot be ruled in its entirety. Such is unthinkable
when one considers the influence of the elves.”
—a baron from the Rommilysian Marches, 1038 FB
Borders: The Fog Moors, Rathil, and Nine-Eye Lake; the
meadow forests on the Kvill River; the forests of the
Salamander Stones
Geography: Primordial forests, raging rivers, rugged hill
country, and treacherous swamps surround the cities in
the Fog Moors, Dead Man’s Moor, Nornja, the Kvill forests,
the Salamander Stones and the Red Sickle.
Important Cities: Donnerbach (2,100 humans, 750
glade elves, 150 wood elves), Uhdenmount (2,500,
including 200 elves, 300 half elves, 150 dwarves, 200
goblins, and 200 orcs), Bjaldorn (1,050 humans, including
approximately 150 Norbards); the very elvish settlements
of Kvirasim and Gerasim are listed on page 41 under the
Lands of the Nivese
Population: approximately 20,000 humans, 7,000 glade
elves, 6,000 wood elves, a few hundred steppe elves,
primarily in the Green Plains (see Lands of the Nivese)
49
 Political Ties: Free cities, often with small territories in
the surrounding area; the elves usually exclude themselves
from any sort of affiliation
Form of Government: Theocracy in the Dominion of
Donnerbach (shaped by Rondra and Prince Arch-Blessed
One Aldare VIII Thunderhall of Donnerbach); feudal rule in
Bjaldorn (ruled by Baron Fjadir of Bjaldorn); plutocracy in
Uhdenmount (ruled by the Miner’s Lodge, an association of
the wealthiest mine owners in the city); when needed, the
elves select speakers
Veneration of the Gods: Twelvegods (Rondra, Firun, and
Ifirn, especially); as always, the elves reject the worship of
gods and retain their own unique form of nature worship
Trade Goods: wood, pelts, ore, and schnapps; Elvish
products include furs, leather wares, cotton, bows, and
musical instruments
Real-World Inspirations: The Free Cities of the North
share elements with the colonization of Canada during
the 18th century, and exemplify the freedom and spirit of
exploration and frontier life
A Hero from the Free Cities: A Blessed One of Rondra
that can survive in the wilds, a bright mage from the
Committee of Elven Communication and Natural
Healing of Donnerbach, a cranky merchant with an
ox-drawn cart, an idealistic Blessed One of Ifirn from
Bjaldorn, a reclusive hunter or a knight who adheres
to the old tradition, a worldly mercenary of the
Uhdenmount Legion, a clever alchemist, and any glade,
steppe, or wood elf characters, including the peculiar
wood elf preservers.
The Free Cities in the Game: The basic themes are the
struggle against nature and the preservation of hard-
won freedom against all odds. Other themes include the
pursuit of land and resources that must be defended
from all kinds of enemies, encounters between elves
and humans (these frequent meetings in the forests
and meadows of the north play an important role in
the relationships of the peoples of the region). Humans
find it extremely difficult to decipher the mysteries of
the Salamander Stones, which makes passage through
the forest almost impossible. So many magical beings
such as unicorns live here that this region is said to
have a connection to the World of Light, from which the
first elves stepped into Being. Mages believe that the
legendary Dark Well, an inexhaustible source of arcane
energy, can be found here somewhere.
The Witcher series of novels by Andrzej Sapkowski can
serve as inspiration for adventures in this region. The
Salamander Stones are modeled after Lothlórien from The
50 Chapter 3: Land and People
Lord of the Rings, even though the elves of Aventuria are
very different from those created by Tolkien.
The North is characterized by large forests such as the
Salamander Stones, which borders the rivers Kvill,
Oblomon, and Nornja. Such forests are either soggy
meadows with widely-spaced deciduous trees, patches
of thick underbrush, or shadowy and nearly impassable
coniferous forests. The climate is almost humid, as fog
occurs often and disperses rarely. During late summer and
autumn (the so-called elven summer), the forest leaves
turn yellow and red, painting the whole forest with the
colors of fire. Winters are cold, snowfall totals often reach
6’ or more, and the snow persists for a long time. The
people who live here are proud, very protective of their
freedom, and well able to defend themselves.
The Salamander Stones are certainly one of the most
mysterious areas in Aventuria. Wood elves claim the
entire area and refuse humans entry into their territory,
since many deem contact with humans harmful. The wood
elves believe that contact with the outside world invokes
badoc, the loss of what it means to be an elf. Glade elves are
generally more open to contact with humans and often live
in pile villages on rivers or lakes. They frequently trade
with humans and help them in times of need.
The Bornland
“We conquered this land by Rondra’s will, we rule it by Praios’
will, and no one will stop us. No shifty goblin, no wandering
Norbard, and certainly not the Duke of Tobrien!”
—Duchess Marja of Cherrydell, 1038 FB
“They treat their people like possessions to be used up and
thrown away. It is unbelievable—and the only thing that stops
a Bronnjar is a good sword arm. That is truly no way to live.”
—a Blessed One of Rahja from Belhanka, 1036 FB
Borders: The Misa, Born, and Wealbeck rivers; the
mountain ranges of Dragon Stones, Red Sickle, Northweal
Heights, Weal Mountains, and Iron Edge; the Green Plains;
the Tobrien Sea; the sinister Bornwood
Geography: Heavy woods, treacherous swamps, and
precious little cultivated land near larger villages. The
Marches in the southwest are comparatively fertile;
Festenland is the most populated; Seweria is the heartland
of the Bronnjars.
Important Cities: Festum (33,000 including 3,000
Maraskani exiles, plus 3,000 goblins), Vallusa (4,000),
Neersand (2,100), Norbury (3,000), Needmark (1,600)
Population: 150,000 humans, including 22,000 Norbards
and 7,000 Nivese, plus several thousand goblins
Political Ties: Independent aristocratic republic; Festum
and Norbury are free cities. Vallusa, politically separate
from the Bornland, is a free city perched between the
Bornland and Tobrien and thus is included here.
Form of Government: Feudal rule of the Bronnjars, plus
a representative body of the Congregation of Nobility led
by the Noble Marshall (currently Nadjescha of Lionsford).
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods, in particular Rondra
and Ifirn; strong worship of saints
Trade Goods: Wood for construction and furniture,
pelts, iron ore, slate, copper, marble, salt, amber, pitch,
tar, honey, beeswax, Meskinnes (oat schnapps made with
honey), horses, and potatoes
Real-World Inspirations: The Bornland shares many
traits with Eastern European fairy tales and Russia during
the reign of the Czars. Its history has parallels to the land
acquisition carried out by the German Order in the Baltic
region. Festum is a magnificent trading city with elements
of the cities of the Hanseatic League during its period of
greatest prosperity.
The Bornland is dominated by mighty forests such as the
Bornwood and the Nornja, which are the home of giants
and treants, and swamps such as the Dead Man’s Moor,
which some claim is a wound inflicted by a demonic
creature in the body of the world.
A Hero from the Bornland: An unworldly witch from
the Transweal region, an ultra-conservative Blessed
One of Rondra driven by a hatred for all goblins, a young
Norbardian Zibilja searching for her tribe, a Bronnjar
with a sense of entitlement, a merchant with a heavy
money pouch, a shifty river captain, a well-traveled sea
captain, or a well-versed mage from the Mercury Hall
in Festum.
The Bornland in the Game: The tensions between
the wealthy burghers of Festum, the status-conscious
Bronnjars, and the common people of the land are
a major theme in the Bornish setting. Every Russian
(winter) fairy tale could have been set here, and the
land is ripe for conflicts between humans and goblins.
Furthermore, it is said that the land is slowly awaking
and turning against its inhabitants. Giants, witches,
the fairylike beastingers, and similar creatures are now
rumored to haunt the common folk. Great treasures
wait to be discovered in the ruins of the lost cities of the
Theater Knights. Festum, a mighty trading city, offers
its own charm and entanglements. Here, trade and the
pursuit of profit mixes with exotic influences (goblins,
Maraskani) and melds with the nobility of the Bornland,
who remain perpetually stuck in the past.
51
 The Dead Man’s Moor
“According to legend, the Dead Man’s Moor is one of the four
Swamps of Death, which were created when the drool of the
Many-Bodied-Beast, the Omegatherion, streamed across the
earth during the war with the Nameless One. The three other
Swamps of Death are the Fog Moor in Weiden, the Mysob
Swamps, and the Lizard Swamps.
Old songs of the elves say that the Dead Man’s Moor was the
site of one of the cruelest battles in history. Here, a gigantic
army of elves and Nivese faced the dark hordes of the Nameless
God. Giants, ogres, trolls, night elves, and humans crossed the
Iron Edge at the Nameless One’s bidding to destroy everything
in their path. At their head marched the shakagra Feyangola
Grimgaze astride the feared demon steed Ghon’chmur, who
returned to take his revenge on the elves. The forces of Anvarion
Who-Walked-into-the-Shadows valiantly stood their ground
until they were slain by the giants Cloudhead, Thunderarm, and
Tugrabab who weilded gigantic tree trunks. The ogres hungrily
Bornlanders mainly descend from the Bosparanian settlers
and Rondranian Theater Knights who long ago conquered
and settled this land. The Norbards, who lived here
long before they arrived, originated in the Lands of the
Tulamydes as refugees fleeing from from the south. If one
were to describe the mentality of the Bornlanders in a few
words, one might think of their hospitality, stubbornness,
and alcohol-tempered melancholy. Bornish merchants are
known for their shrewd business acumen, especially in
Festum.
52 Chapter 3: Land and People
overran the slowest of the survivors, and trolls and orcs pursued
those that could run to the last man.
Even when the elves were victorious, those who had fallen soon
rose again as undead and fought on. Thus perished the army of
the elves, slain nearly to the last warrior. The few who survived
did not truly escape, for they were pulled into sinister Spheres
shortly afterward and disappeared forever. To this day it is said
that the Dead Man’s Moor still guards the treasures and weapons
of the warriors who died in its waters. Countless tales of horror
speak of the moor’s treacherous will o’ wisps, spectral grave
mists, and gruesome bog bodies that lay in wait for the unwary.
The heart of the swamps is called Tiakoal’s Slough and few who
dare to explore this cursed place ever return. Those who manage
to escape the swamps come close to madness and whisper of
nefarious blood rituals and unholy human sacrifices.”
—Jaminka of Brandthusen, witch, 1035 FB
Mountain Kingdoms:
The Dwarves of Aventuria
“These halls were built to protect us. No dragon has ever
pierced our Watch, nor will one ever be able. Just look at these
finely chiseled ornaments… and look, this chimney. Just wait
until we get deeper and the ornaments are set with jewels.”
—Arbosh son of Angrax, forge dwarf mastersmith
“Alright, alright, fine. I have seen it all. Can I get back to the
daylight now, please?
—Layariel Treetopglint, elven wyldrunner
Borders: Ingra Peaks, Iron Forest, Kosh Mountains, Hill
Lands, Wall of Rashtul, Thasch Mountains, Phecano Forest,
Troll Peaks, Anvil Mountains, Khunchom Mountains and
Darken Crest
Landscape: The dwarves live in many mountain ranges of
Aventuria and have built their halls deep within the earth.
While some mountain kingdoms extend above ground,
their hearts beat deep within the delvings of the mountain
king. Hill dwarves live above ground in towns in the area
of foothills.
Important Cities: Xorlosh (1,600, primarily ore dwarves),
Okdrâgosh (350)
Population: 7,300 forge dwarves, 9,600 ore dwarves, 5,600
hill dwarves (about 5,000 of them live in the Koshan shire
of Hill Lands), 3,200 diamond dwarves, several hundred
deep dwarves and wild dwarves
Political Ties: The Mountain Kingdoms are independent;
some mountain kings hold positions within human society.
Form of Government: Gerontocracy with elected judges
called mountain kings. A High King is appointed in times of
crisis. The current High King is Albrax son of Agam, who
resides in Okdrâgosh.
Veneration of Gods: Angrosh
Trade Goods: Precious metals, jewels, Kosh basalt, steel,
weapons, fine mechanisms, and beer
Real-World Inspirations: The Mountain Kingdoms of the
dwarves are based on Tolkien’s work such as Moria from
The Lord of the Rings or Erebor from The Hobbit, as well as on
tales from the Niebelungenlied. The Hill Lands are inspired by
Tolkien’s Shire and elements of alpine living. The dwarves
of Aventuria are also based on old legends and retellings,
which can be found in modern fantasy literature.
The dwarves have made most mountain ranges of central
Aventuria their home. In fact, the Angroshim hewed halls
and delvings into the stone of almost every mountain,
A Hero from the Mountain Kingdoms: A dragon
warrior of the forge dwarves, a mechanicus of the
ore dwarves, a hill dwarven innkeeper, a cavalier of
the diamond dwarves, or a dwarvish Blessed One of
Angrosh. All dwarven characters, from the warrior to
the smith, to the magically gifted Geodemancer make
their homes here.
The Montain Kingdoms in the Game: The Mountain
Kingdoms are the heartlands of the dwarven tribes.
Every individual dwarven tribe has its ancestral
homeland: the forge dwarves in the Mountain Kingdom
of Forest Watch in the Forge Mountains, the ore dwarves
in Xorlosh in the Ingra Peaks, the hill dwarves in the
Hill Lands at Lake Angbar, the diamond dwarves in the
young Mountain Kingdom of Angralosh in Rashtul’s
Wall. Each hall has its own secrets, mighty weapons,
and immense wealth.
though some are now long abandoned. Their long war
against the dragons has taught the dwarves to retreat
underground and into the depths of the mines and
hallways of the mightiest mountains to escape dragon fire.
The parts of the Mountain Kingdoms that exist aboveground
are called Mountain Freeholds in the Middenrealm. Since
the Lex Dwarfia was enacted, only dwarven law applies to
these lands.
The oldest dwarven settlement is the Mountain Kingdom of
Xorlosh in the Ingra Peaks, site of the holy city of Xorlosh.
This ancestral home of all dwarven clans is today primarily
seen as the home of the ore dwarves, who maintain their
ancient traditions to this day. Ore dwarves also live in
the Mountain Kingdoms of Iron Forest and Phecano
Forest. Iron Forest lies in the Iron Forest Mountains to
the south of the Great River and is in such bad shape that
many creatures now occupy its older tunnels and caverns,
leading many to believe that the kingdom is in decline.
Ore dwarves also live in the Mountain Kingdom of Koshim
in the Kosh Mountains. The kingdom is being rebuilt after
its near destruction by by the Firebird, Alagrimm, in 1027 FB.
The people of Koshim are proud to guard the surviving
spark of Alagrimm so that he may never break out again.
The hill dwarves live in the shire of Hill Lands to the east
of the Kosh Mountains, around Lake Angbar. To hide their
home from the dragons they plant trees and grass on their
roofs.
The Mountain Kingdom of Forest Watch, home of the forge
dwarves, sits in the Anvil Mountains and the eastern Iron
Forest. A spirit of optimism resides here as an increasing
number of dwarven warriors train and prepare for the
coming Age of Heroes.
The diamond dwarves built the new Mountain Kingdom
of Angralosh in Rashtul’s Wall after their old home,
Lorgolosh, in the Beilunk Mountains, fell to the servants
of Borbarad ( page 248). They graciously accept all
asistance as they construct the infrastructure they need to
extract the riches of their gemstone mines.
“Why do you humans have to name everything
in the fashion of your langauges, eh? What
you call Phecano Forest is Angoramtosh
in our language, Rogolan. We call the
Mountain Kingdom of Iron Forest Isnatosh,
and Forest Watch is Tosh Mur. I’m surprised
that Okrâgosh has found its way into your
language. It means Black Dragon Watch, in case anyone
is interested.”
—Arbosh son of Angrax, forge dwarf mastersmith, modern
53
 Some Mountain Kingdoms lie beyond the heartlands of
the dwarves. Examples include the Mountain Kingdom of
Dark Ridge as well as the fortress of Okdrâgosh in the
Troll Peaks, the seat of the High King of all dwarves and
therefore the most famous.
Warunkia and The Shadowlands
“O glorious Yol-Ghurmak! Finally I can pursue my experiments
without restriction. This city is the perfect place, for it is in
constant flux itself. I don’t believe for a second that the stone
will reject the sacrificial blood. Father of Flames, I thank thee!”
—an alchemist of the Heptagon Academy, 1040 FB
“The land is almost as badly damaged as the souls of its
people, who had to suffer under Borborad’s evil servants. For
this reason we have come to Ilsur. From here we can carry
Peraine’s blessings into the Shadowlands and begin the
process of healing.”
—Leatmon Phraisop the Younger, Servant of Life,
Highest Blessed One of Peraine in Aventuria, 1038 FB
Borders: The reaches of Tobimora as well as the ragged
ridges of the Black Sickle and Troll Peaks, the fuming
chimneys of the Demon Forges of Yol-Ghurmak
Landscape: Huge expanses of the former Shadowlands
have been demonically tainted. Ghosts and undead arise
from fields of bones, Armored, tentacled horrors rise from
sulpherous swamps and river courses, and the forests
are inhabited by black trees that seize intruders to drink
their blood. The Duchy of Transysilia is mountainous
and covered by forests. The city of Yol-Ghurmak is a
living, demonically-warped sore on the world, and the
54 Chapter 3: Land and People
A Hero from the Shadowlands: Heroes from the
Shadowlands must decide whether they fought against
the threat of the Heirs of Borbarad from the beginning,
and determine if they can distance themselves from their
demonic, otherworldly homeland. A disillusioned Blessed
One of Kor, a battle-hardened mercenary, a half elven
scout, a travelling Blessed One of Praios and all kinds
of fighter professions and mages could originate in the
Shadowlands. With GM permission, it is possible to play
a morally questionable character or anti-hero such as
a gout-ridden necromancer from Warunkia, a dark and
cruel amazon from Lion Stone, a blood-thirsty werewolf
knight, or a sly, traveling priestess of Borbarad.
The Shadowlands in the Game: To this day the former
Shadowlands are characterized by subtle horror, as no
traveler knows what lurks over the next hill or behind
the next bush. Also, conflicts of conscience often come
into play here. Who would blame the common folk for
their beliefs or for the arrangements they’ve made
with their new lords? Why should a blood sacrifice for
Agrimoth be less appropriate than the Blessings of
Peraine? Missing persons must often be rescued from the
grasp of evil mages or demon worshipers, and sometimes
an overzealous Blessed One must be stopped from
burning an otherworldy-seeming child on a pyre “just to
be safe.” Transysilia is characterized by the fact that many
of its rulers, who are werewolves, like to go on the hunt.
The free city of Yol-Ghurmak is the site of all manner
of unscrupulous experiments that attempt to anchor
demonic powers in the world, a trait that attracts many
free thinkers to this ever-changing city of the dark arts.
Shard of the archdemon Agrimoth is said to have fused
with the city.
Important Cities: Yol-Ghurmak (12,000 humans,
numerous demons), Warunk (3,500), Beilunk (7,500),
Oldtoll (1,400)
Population: Approximately 100,000 humans, a large
number of unnatural creatures, and several hundred
grolms, krakons, and hummerians
Political Ties: Shadowlands; partly liberated by the
Middenrealm
Form of Government: Shadowlands, Yol-Ghurmak is ruled
by a city council
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods in liberated areas such
as Warunk and its surroundings; open demon worship
(the Otherworldly Family, and the archdemons Agrimoth,
Thargunitoth, Blakharaz, and Charyptoroth); in Transysilia,
the worship of demons is universal, even if performed only
out of fear. In Yol-Ghurmak, everything is permitted on
principal, but the Cult of the Father of Flames (Agrimoth)
is most infuential; in Transysilia, the Church of Borbarad is
most powerful.
Trade Goods: Wood, silver, and copper ore, horses
(Warunkers), slate, saffron, cattle, products of the forge
Real-World Inspirations: In general, the information for
the Middenrealm applies here as well. The influence of
demons and undead, and the presence of many dark mages,
makes this region especially suitable for grim stories from
fantasy or horror literature. Nowhere else in Aventuria can
a party of heroes face as great an evil as here, whether it
be obvious or subtle. The Moloch Yol-Ghurmak is inspired
by fantastical cinematic cities such as those in films like
Dark City or City of Lost Children (La cite des enfants perdus).
The city’s technological aesthetic is inpired by steampunk.
Since Empress Rohaja’s war against Prince-Commander
Helme Haffax the Shadowlands are largely subdued. The
last Heirs of Borbarad retain power only in Yol-Ghurmak,
the city of Agrimoth, and Transysilia. Still, the land is
not yet healed after the destruction of the Shards of the
Demon Crown and the demise of the Heptarchs. Many
necromancers seek their fortunes in haunted Warunkia
and Beilunkia. The pacification and healing of the land is
carried out from Beilunk, the city of Praios, and Warunk,
which was freed by the Rondranians. From these cities
forces of Rondranians, Priaotes, war-weary knights and
mercenaries act to spread and enforce the peace, while the
Wolf Duke struggles without pause to subjugate Transysilia
and the Demon Forges of Yol-Ghurmak. Even after the
fall of Mendena and the Tobimorian Dark Hordes, many
human enemies remainto be hunted down.
Maraskan and The Blood Sea
“The world is beautiful, brother-sister. It is beautiful in its
creation and beautiful in its destruction. And the beauty of
Rur’s Gift is not lessened by any negative opinions you may
hold. It does not fall to us to condemn the course of history.”
—a Maraskani priest of Rur and Gror, 1038 FB
“Snakes, spiders—everything here is deadly. Unbearable heat
and miserable humidity. And the din of the locals! Kladj, they
call it. And the accursed food. Either so spicy or sweet that I
can no longer taste anything. I need to get out of here as fast
as I can. They can’t pay me enough for this job!”
—a mercenary in the service of the Dark Hordes, 1039 FB
Borders: The Blood Sea washes around the coasts of the
island of Maraskan, which itself lies east of Aventuria and
is approximately as long as the distance between Vallusa
and Jilaskan.
Landscape: Flat coastlines, mosquito infested swamps,
and thick jungle which gives way to the misty ridges of
Maraskan Chain and Amdeggyn Massiv in the island’s
interior. The Blood Sea is actually comprised of the Tobrien
Sea, the Gulf of Perricum, the Gulf of Tuzak, and Selem
Sound. Mangrove forests dominate some coastal areas as
well as the island of Andalkan, which lies east of Maraskan
and is supposedly the site of the Graveyard of Seasnakes.
Important Cities: Boran (7,500), Tuzak (14,000), Jergan
(10,000), Sinoda (10,500)
Population: 75,000 Maraskani, 10,000 non-Maraskani, and
an unknown number of lizardfolk
Political Ties: Dark Hordes, Shîkanyad
Form of Government: Despotism (Dark Hordes,
Duumvirate of Admiral Commander Sarastro Dorstein and
Prince Commander Iradon Kolenfeld); popular aristocracy
with strong religious influence; the Alabaster Council rules
in the freed areas of the Shîkanyad
Veneration of Gods: Rur and Gror; Twelvegods
almost unknown; Belhalhar and other demons, ancient
lizardfolk gods
Trade Goods: Alabaster, precious woods, ore and steel,
spices, citrus fruit, almonds, rice, cane sugar, tobacco,
Endurium
Real-World Inspirations: The varied Maraskani culture
draws its inspiration from a number of earthly sources and
strong, dualistic philosophies. Think colorful, African-style
clothes; Medieval Japan-inspired weapons, architecture,
and strict warrior’s code of of honor; Indian bustle
and amazing variety of seasoned dishes; a long war of
occupation reminiscent of the Vietnam Conflict (complete
with impassable, poisonous jungles); guerilla warfare as
practiced by rebel troops in South America.
55
 The jungles are sweltering, and thunderstorms invariably
develop by early evening. The Maraskani primeval forest is
full of strange, poisonous animals and viewed as the most
exotic of all jungles on Aventuria. The unbelievable variety
of insects, spiders, and plants leads many people to believe
that this land formed while the goddess Tsa wandered in
an amazingly creative dream.
A Hero from Maraskan: A witch of the Avengers
Lycosas with her giant tarantula familiar, an
eloquent wandering priest of Rur and Gror, a
façade runner with a deadly discus, whose parkour-
like skills lend the appearance of living free of the
constraints of gravity, an eccentric mage from the
School of Fourfold Transformation in Sinoda, or a
passionate freedom fighter from the Shîkanyad.

Maraskan in the Game: Maraskan is poisonous.

Maraskan is deadly. The battle between Dark
Hordes and Shîkanyad is one of partisan warfare.
The Maraskani have mastered the Tuzak knife, but
more often than not they prefer the thrown discus
or the subtle application of poison to resolve
conflicts. The Dark Hordes, which practice demon
worship and sacrifice, are the obvious enemy,
but deep within the heart of the island, protected
by the veil of history, lurks a different, far more
ancient evil that tries to corrupt the island and its
human inhabitants once and for all.

The Maraskani think that the world is a discus that Rur,

the creator of the world, threw at his twin sibling, Gror.
The world will end when the discus hits its target (this
is supposed to occur around 4,000 years from now). The
Maraskani belief in the Twin Gods led to the related
concept that everything has a double, and the number 2 is
seen as holy.

The Maraskani people are freedom-loving, belligerent, and

very talkative. They love discussions and bright colors and
always have a counterquestion on their lips. The Alabaster
Council, a place for debates and the forging of alliances,
was created shortly after the founding of the Shîkanyad.
Members include the noble Haran and Baruun, as well as
the Wezyradim, former rebels and respected warriors. At
traveling priest of the Twin Gods attends every gathering
to prevent the discussions from growing too violent.

The Dark Hordes, on the other hand, are characterized by

their worship of the archdemon Belhalhar, the nemesis
of Rondra, who drinks blood and loves carnage. The
occupiers are very unpopular on the island but manage
to hold onto their conquered territory even in the face of
stong resistance. And even though they have a reputation
for steadfastness, more than a few Maraskani have given
in to the foreigners’ temptations of power and influence.

56 Chapter 3: Land and People

Arania and Perricum

“Arania is blessed by Phex, Peraine, and Rahja. We were

right to secede from the Middenrealm, for now we can
reap the riches of the land and keep all we desire.”
—a Zorgan Moonsilver Vizieress of the Mada
Basari Trading Company, 1037 FB

“They put power and rulership in the hands of women.

Even the control of finances and the politics of marriage.
How barbaric! This just can’t be right…”
—an Andergastan knight, 1037 FB

Borders: The mighty Gadang River; the mountains of

Rashtul’s Wall; the wide Baburian basin. The Margravate of
Perricum is surrounded by the Gulf of Perricum, Rashtul’s
Wall, and the mighty Troll Peaks.
Landscape: The Zorganian land along the Barun-Ulah
is fertile and highly populated. The flatlands east of the
river change over to hilly countryside near Rashtul’s Wall.
Baburia, with its many irrigation canals, is also very fertile,
as are parts of the Elburian peninsula, which lie next to the
Oronian highlands. Yalaiad is covered by fever swamps and
cypress trees. The land around Perricum is characterized
by the salt mountains on the coast, the Darpat meadows,
the Troll Peak Mountains, and dense forests.
Important Cities: Zorgan (20,000), Baburin (13,000, plus
many pilgrims), Elburum (9,500); Perricum (13,000)
Population: Arania: 680,000 humans, including 170,000
Middenrealmers; Perricum: 80,000 humans; in the Troll
Peaks, an unknown number of grolms, trolls, and humans
Political Ties: Mhaharanyat Arania (Ruler: Mhaharani
Eleonora Shahi); Middenrealm: Margravate of Perricum
(Ruler: Margrave Rondrigan Paligan, husband of the
Empress)
Form of Government: Tulamydian moneyed aristocracy
with feudalistic elements and a strong, matriarchal
character in Arania; Middenrealmish feudalism in Perricum
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods (emphasis on Rahja,
Peraine, and Phex in Arania; Rondra and Travia in
Perricum); all sorts of strange and archaic cults at Rashtul’s
Wall
Trade Goods: Wheat, tropical fruits, wine, marble, wood
for construction, gemstones, cloth, horses Three quarters of the population of Arania are of
Real-World Inspirations: Arania is drawn from the Tulamydian descent, however the remaining quarter have
former British colony of India, especially in its display of Middenrealmish ancestors and are still called the Rauls,
splendor at court and its preference for jewelry and other after the founder of the Middenrealm. Even though both
beautiful things. It also draws upon some Arabian elements, cultures have had positive influences on each other in many
especially in rural clan groups. Socially, the placement of ways, this mixing often also leads to conflicts. Even the
women as heads of families and clans is distinctly different Tulamydes find it hard to unify here, and many differences
to Earthly history. exist between the tribes of the southern Baburs and the
northern Nebachots. Arania belonged to the Middenrealm
For Perricum, use the information presentedf for the for many years. It was cut off from the Empire during the
Middenrealm, but add a dash of Aranian-Tulamydian Borbaradian invasion, and the now-independent country
influence. seeks to find its own identity.

57

A Hero from Arania and Perricum: A wealthy merchant
from Baburin, a battle-hardened knight from the Darpat
River, a wild barbarian from the Troll Peaks, a graceful
saber dancer, an intrepid sailor of the Imperial Fleet,
an Aranian Blessed One of Peraine, a Middenrealmish
Blessed One of Rondra, a swift journeyman of the sword
from Elburum, a dark-eyed cat witch from the Yalaiad, a
dazzling illusionist from the School of Existing Pretense
in Zorgan. Even though Perricum is strongly influenced
by the Middenrealm, and Arania by Tulamyde cultures,
the proximity of both regions leads to amalgamations.
Borders: The Lands of the Tulamydes lie south of the
Barun-Ulah and west of Rashtul’s Wall, and from the
Khoram and Unau mountain ranges down to the Chaneb.
The southern city-states of Chorhop and Mengbilla sit on
the western coast of Aventuria, on the Askanian Sea.
Landscape: Fertile plains, such as the Balash, through
which the mighty Gadang and Mhanadi rivers flow; the
lakes and brooks of the hill lands of Mhanadistan, which
support large cattle herds; the dry steppes of Goria and
the hostile plateau of the Gorian Desert border the ragged
and remote mountains of the Ongalo highland; the windy
valleys and high, forested plateaus of Thalusia.

Arania and Perricum in the Game: The attack of

Prince-Commander Helme Haffax was a heavy blow for
Perricum, but its people are eager to rebuild their city
and return to the prosperity and defensive strength
of the good old days. Arania suffered in the fight
against the Heptarchs and it is said that the followers
of Dimiona, former ruler and Heiress of Borbarad, still
hide among the nobility. Confrontations with remnants
of the Borbaradian threat are typical for the region, as
is the search for old ruins and relics. Conflicts between
the tribes, such as the feud between the Baburs and
Nebachots caused by their differing worship of Rondra,
make for another possible theme as does the mighty
role played by women in Aranian society. And of course,
heroes may hire on to protect trading caravans or
undertake sensitive missions for the Perricum fleet.

Characterizing is the high respect for women. In the city of

Zorgan, women are generally the heads of families and hold
nearly every important office and position of power. In
Perricum one finds classical Middenrealm values, martial
vigilance, and hospitality that is pleasing unto Travia.

The City-States of the Tulamydes

and of the South

“We are not simply the land of 999 fairytales. We are also the land
of true history. The oldest known city of men is found in the Lands
of the Tulamydes, effendi, as is magnificent Khunchom, the City
that Never Sleeps.”
—a proud local, 1039 FB

“The can use flattery and flowery language to claim a rusty nail
is a relic from the time of the ancient lizardfolk, and you’ll buy it
from them right there on the spot. Trust me. I’ve bought a dozen
nails so far…”
—a mage from the Academy of High Magic in Punin, 1038 FB

58 Chapter 3: Land and People


The legendary Jashalei
“You must know, daughter of impatience, that our
magnificent and never-sleeping Khunchom was built on the
ruins of another city. A mysterious city, a dangerous city.
Tthe name of this mighty bastion, o ignorant one, was Jashalei
the Magnificent. Much larger than the current city, and
possessed of legendary wealth. Towers reached to the skies!
Step-pyramids of incredible size! It is said they were built
so that the gods could step down from the sky to cherish the
splendor of Jashalei. Mountains of gemstones filled its treasure
chambers, and the throne of its ruler was said to be covered
with diamonds. And magic was said to be so common in the
city that even the mages of the Dragon’s Egg Academy would
not believe their eyes. It is said that the ruler could kil just by
lowering his scepter. Artifacts such as these made Jashalei a
place to behold.
The days were always warm, and even at night light sparkled
in the wide streets of the metropolis, reflected many times by
gold and silver and countless gemstones. And what gardens!
Boulevards swam with the scent of lotus. Every plant and every
poison grew there. Yet the greatest treasure of the city was the
Cauldron of Life. It is said that the ruler would bathe in it and
rise up as a young man again, the burden of old age tossed
aside like a worn piece of clothing. He possessed the secret of
eternal life and eternal youth, my child. Just imagine it! But so
much power and wealth corrupts a human. And one day the
good Bastrabun ibn Rashtul came to the city and quarreled
with the ruler over his lifestyle. The quarrel turned into a duel
and these powerful masters of magic fought for three long
days and three long nights. Bastrabun triumphed and razed
Jashalei to the ground. A short while later he founded his new
capital, our beloved Khunchom, on its ruins.
This is the reason why you find strange, overgrown ruins
hidden more or less everywhere in the city. Not all of the dark
catacombs, moldy tombs, and other buildings were collapsed
or taken apart, stone by stone. Few dare to enter the ruins of
Jashalei, and even fewer return.”
—a Haimamud in the Bazaar of Khunchom, 1039 FB
Swampy mangrove forests grow on the east coast and
the delta of the Mhanadi. Slave plantations suround the
coastal cities of Mengbilla and Chorhop, which are in
turn surrounded by dry steppeland, wet swampland, and,
further out, steaming jungles
Important Cities: Fasar (40,000, including 32,000
Tulamydes and Novadi, plus 6,500 Middenrealmers, 500
Forest Folk, and 1,200 dwarves), Khunchom (20,000,
including 5,500 Middenrealmers, 900 Maraskani, and a few
dozen dwarves), Rashdul (8,500, including 6,000 Tulamydes,
2,500 Novadi, and a few Middenrealmers and dwarves),
Anchopal (2,500), Thalusa (6,000); Mengbilla (5,500 in the
city itself, plus 6,000 freedmen and 15,000 slaves in the
suburbs), Chorhop (1,500, including 300 Novadi, plus 500
freedmen and 500 field slaves outside the city)
Population: Over 500,000 humans (85% Tulamydes, 8%
Middenrealmer, 5% Novadi, the rest being Forest Folk,
dwarves, ferkinas, and achaz)
Political Ties: Sultanate of Goria, Grand Duchy of
Khunchom, Sultanate of Rashdul, Sultanate of Thalusia,
various free cities
Form of Government: Sultanates of Goria and Rashdul:
mageocracy of the sultan (ruler: Sultan Hasrabal ben
Yakuban); Grand Duchy of Khunchom: Tulamydian feudalism
(ruler: Grand Duke Selo Kulibin); Sultanate of Thalusia: cruel
despotism (ruler: Sultan Dolguruk): Free cities: (see the
corresponding section)
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods present but not
predominant (Phex is known as Feqz, and Rahja is known
as Radsha), often mixed with old cults, local city gods,
Rastullah, and bull cults, especially in Thalusia
Trade Goods: cattle, ostriches, rice, wheat, (flying) carpets,
the magical metal known as Mindorium, iron ore, spices,
steel, silver, papyrus, glass wares, ships, artisan craftwork,
weapons and armor, magical artifacts, slave trade in
certain areas. The Tulamydian art of trading is practiced
everywhere and there is hardly anything that is not traded.
Real-World Inspirations: The flair of the region is very
similar to that presented in the fairytales of the Thousand
and One Nights.
A Hero from the Lands of the Tulamydes: a
beautiful magical dancer, a business-oriented
artifact mage from Khunchom, a cunning Blessed
One of Phex, a ruthless assassin, an elegant sabre
fencer from Khunchom, a charismatic gladiator
from Fasar, an outlandish scholar searching for
artifacts of the lizardfolk from a bygone age, an
ecstatic Blessed Ones of Rahja from Anchopal, an
attentive bodyguard of a Fasarian noble, an eloquent
bazaar merchant. In the southern free cities: an
imperious slave hunter, a bored plantation owner,
a big game hunter, a knowledgeable alchemist who
can craft poisions and narcotics with ease.
The Lands of the Tulamydes in the Game: The
land is old and diverse and supports equally
diverse adventures. Explore old lizard ruins near
Khunchom, protect a trading caravan, battle
an unbound djinni threatening the area around
Rashdul, search for missing people who taken by
slavers or thrown into the dungeons of Thalusa,
or acquire fame in the arenas of Fasar. The land
is imbued with magic and the Tulamydes use it
matter of factly, just like they take the fairytales of
their Haimamudin (storytellers) at face value.
59
 Magical aspects are ubiquitous, whether in the form of
flying carpets, magical artifacts, djinn, or powerful mages.
The Lands of the Tulamydes are the cradle of humanity in
Aventuria, as the proud inhabitants of this region know
all too well. According to legend, a mage named Rashtul
al’Sheik defeated the lizard men who lived in these
lands before men arrived. The Tulamydes retained their
passion, pride, and spirit of independence, even during
long occupations by both the Bosparan Empire and the
Middenrealm. Today the Lands of the Tulamydes reflect a
mix of millennia-old culture and knowledge and the secrets
of the lizard men. The fertile land yields a plentiful harvest
twice a year. For ages there has not been one ruler over
this land. Instead, power is shared by potentates, many of
whom are mighty mages or have such at their side, and
there is seldom peace between them.
The free cities of the south are proud of their status, and
flourishing trade allows them to hold their own against
stronger powers. Their declarations of loyalty are only
empty promises. Mengbilla, where anarchy clashes with
harsh legislation, is known proverbially for its chaotic
conditions. In Chorhop, a city known for its gambling dens,
the fortune of one means the suffering of another.
60 Chapter 3: Land and People
The Caliphate and the Khôm Desert
“The true god Rastullah could only appear to the proud
sons of the desert. We are of pure heart and we shun no
challenge. Look around you, child of ignorance. Do you
think a tribe that lives in the desert would not be willing to
go to extreme measures?”
—sultan of the Beni Novad, 1029 FB
“Sand, sand, nothing but sand. It is no wonder the Novadi
are so eager to invade the fertile lands beyond Amhallassih
and the Golden Cliffs. But this has been their error—we shall
drive these idol worshippers back to the desert every time!”
—an Almadan magnate, 1039 FB
Borders: the scorching Khôm Desert (the Heart of the
Caliphate) to the Yaquir River in the north, across the
Khoram Mountains, to the banks of the Mhanadi River, and
south to Loch Harodrôl and the northern Lizard Swamps.
Landscape: The contested Amhallassih Knolls with its
fertile valleys on the Yaquir; the hostile and sunburnt
sand of the Khôm with its few oases, the most famous
being Keft, where Rastullah appeared to the faithful); the
mystical mountains of the Wal-el-Khômchra in the center
of the desert; the gigantic Cichanebi Saltlake; the Khoram
Mountains and the Mountains of Unau; the fertile land on
the banks of the Mhanadi River; the hilly steppe landscape
called the Shadif, where excellent horses are bred; the dry
steppeland of Chababistan, which lies to the west of the
Eternans; Arratistan, which reaches to Loch Harodrôl, with
its savannah and rainforests.
Important Cities: Unau (12,000), Mherwed (6,000,
including 2,000 non-Novadi), Keft (1,500, plus several
hundred pilgrims at any particular time); Rashtul, Goria,
and Thalusa also nominally belong to the Caliphate, but
they are described with the Tulamydian City-States (see
page 58).
Population: 145,000 human (20,000 of them in the Khôm)
Political Ties: Caliphate
Form of Government: Patriarchal tribal society under the
rule of a caliph (currently Malkillah III)
Veneration of Gods: Rastullah; veneration of old, local
gods and Twelvegods rare
Trade Goods: spices, camels, horses (Shadif), porcelain,
salt, slave trade in some areas
Real-World Inspirations: The region is based on the
Arabian deserts, with the Novadi borrowing from the
tribal culture of the Bedouin. We also added a pinch of
A Hero from the Caliphate: The patriarchal Novadi
value honor and pride above all, and are quick to reach
for their swords if someone insults their friends, family,
or horses. Typical heroes include the proud tribal
warrior on his noble Shadif steed, the beautiful Sharisad
(dancer) with her many colored veils, the wise Mawdli
(legal scholar and preacher of the Rastullah faith) who
hails from Unau, the drum-beating Dervish, the djinni
summoner from the Pentagram Academy of Rashtul,
and the well-traveled caravan guide. The culture is
especially competitive, and men occupy most positions.
A woman who becomes an Achmad’Sunni, a daughter
of vengeance, gains the legal status of a man and is
effectively treated as such. An Achmad’Sunni may (and
often does) become a warrior.
The Caliphate in the Game: Many adventures in and
around the Khôm Desert focus on the struggle against
infidels that live beyond the borders, and surviving the
rigors of the desert. Many expeditions set out to find
secrets such as the ruins of the ancient dragon realm
of Zze Tha, long lost to the shifting sands. There are
many mundane reasons to travel into the desert, too.
Trade caravans often hire warriors to protect them
from bandits, and peace must be maintained between
feuding desert tribes. Power and influence in the cities
of the Caliphate often boils down to two things: the
ability to gain an audience with the Caliph, and being
able to convince others that your interpretation of the
99 Laws of Rastullah is correct.
Frank Herbert’s Dune and some elements of Lawrence of
Arabia. Areas south of the Yaquir River have architecture,
lifestyles, and conflicts reminiscent of Moorish Andalusia.
The landscape is similar to African savannah in the
southern Shadif and along the Harotrud.
A Novadi is someone who believes in Rastullah and obeys
his laws. This belief includes the tenet that the people are
the chosen of their god. The Novadi are proud of their beliefs
and their origins, but at the same time they are hotheaded
and full of passion. Most citizens of the Caliphate live as
nomads on the fringes of the desert or in the many oases
scattered throughout the Khôm. Some settled tribes have
given up the ways of the deset and now live in the various
cities of the region.
Central to belief is the concept of respect for Rastullah,
one’s own honor, the honor of a son, a friend, a brother,
one’s tribe, one’s steed, one’s wife, and one’s daughter…
and usually in this order.
Selem and Lizard Swamps
“Mighty knowledge from bygone ages can be found
within the walls of Selem, a fact that no one can change.
But it is our task to find and decipher this knowledge.
That part is not quite so simple. In fact, it’s rather tricky,
I would say.”
—Feruefa, Mistress of Books in the Silem-Horas
Library in Selem, 1038 FB
“The dull heat and oppressive humidity has taken its toll
on them. Decay and madness are all I can see here.”
—a travelling Blessed One of Nandus, 1038 FB
Borders: The Lizard Swamps from Selem on the estuary
of the Szinto and its peninsula to Khannemouth on the
Chanab; in the west, Selem Sound
Landscape: Steaming, soggy mangrove forests; insect-
infested swamps; treacherous bogs; many hidden bodies of
water
Important Cities: Selem (around 3,800, including
approximiately 500 achaz and 200 Novadi)
Population: 8,000 tribal achaz, 5,000 archaic achaz, and
an unknown number of Maru and Zilits; few humans live
outside of Selem
Political Ties: Contested; the city is claimed by the
Caliphate (and its various sultans and emirs) as well as the
Empire of Al’Anfa
Form of Government: Tulamydian feudalism with
influential families (ruler: King of Kings Ghulsev XXIX)
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods plus strange cults in
Selem; lizardfolk worship H’Ranga (especially Zsahh) and
other old lizard gods in the swamps
61
 A Hero from the Lizard Swamps: A crazed scholar
searching for ancient secrets, a fearless hunter who
ventures out into the swamps to kill lizards, a treasure
hunter or mage who seeks artifacts from the old Great
Sultanate of Elem, an agile warrior who hopes to enlist
in the Guard of the King of Kings (troops known as the
Faceless because they hide their faces behind a mask
of scales).
The Lizard Swamps in the Game: Ancient secrets and
old lizard ruins wait to be rediscovered in the swamps
or even in the lost city of Elem, which was destroyed
during the Dark Ages. Many of these dangerous secrets
can induce madness, and only heroes seek them out.
Some tomes exist only in the slowly decaying Silem-
Horas Library, and finding them can be an adventure
in its own right. Old families of the city weave
intrigues… What are they hiding? What mystery lies
behind the strange half-human, half-achaz hybrids
that walk the city’s streets? The swamps are a source
of bouty as well, as evidenced by the common presence
of hunters, herb gatherers, and lizard scholars, most of
whom need the protection of battle-hardened warriors
and the experience of experts skilled in survival. And
rumors of attacks by Krakons and Zilits from the
depths of the sea might hold more substance than one
first assumes…
Trade Goods: Rice, spices, herbs, tea, and products of lizard
make, such as tortoise shell or fire-proof Iryan leather
62 Chapter 3: Land and People
Real-World Inspirations: The Lizard Swamps are similar to
the mangrove forests in Cambodia and the Everglades in Florida
In Selem, one finds elements of the dark tales of H.P. Lovecraft
and also of New Orleans during the Colonial Era.
Selem is all that remains of a once magnificent city, destroyed
long ago when a star fell out of the skies and ended the reign
of the Great Sultanate of Elem. Today the city is viewed as a
“The Starfall is clearly not the first time
meteorites have struck the world. The Star of
Elem plunged into Selem Sound around 100
years before the Fall of Bosparan, and the
resulting tidal wave destroyed that mighty
city in the blink of an eye. Today, decay and
madness walk the streets between derelict buildings,
and the human and lizard inhabitants of the city struggle
consdtantly to hold off the encroaching swamp. Stories like that
scare me… because who’s to say that something like that could
not happen again?”
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
degenerate and decaying hive of creeping madness, in which
lizards and humans somehow live side by side. Little remains
of the city’s former glory and the secrets of its magically gifted
inhabitants that the muddy waters have not reclaimed, but
still, adventurers and people with a thirst for knowledge still
dare to venture into the ruins in the vain hope of making a
great discovery one day.
 The Star of Elem
“It was the year 106 FB, when a shining star fell from the
heavens, hit the depraved Elem, and pulled it into the depths of
the Bed of Selem. Land bridges were shattered and a large tidal
wave washed Elem away. The water stayed and formed the
bays of Selem and Port Corrad. What could have angered the
gods so, to destroy such a mighty city, the site of the coronation
of the Great Sultans, in one blow? Was the ire of the gods even
meant for Elem? After long research in this matter, I now dare
to say no, it ws not meant for Selem. Long did I search the ruins
of Selem, and only with the help of the Noionites was I able to
withstand going mad from the terrible things I have seen. But
because I have seen these things, I am convinced that the gods
intended not to punish the so-called decadence of Elem, but
rather the depraved races that live under the surface of the sea.
I am convinced that the hand of Phex himself plucked the Star
of Elem from the sky and hurled it at Yal-Zoggot, the city under
the sea, in Wahjad. May I be struck permanently mute if I dare
describe what the sea dwellers did there!
The ire of the gods fell justly upon the Sea of Darkness and its
unpredictable maelstroms, for it was the site of Yal-Zoggot, the
largest demon sanctuary in the world. Priests in the Temple of
Krakon opened a portal to the domain of Charyptoroth, and the
races that dwelled there—the frog-faced krakons, the alligator-
headed mar, or the zilits that take the form of bipedal newts—
prayed to the archdemoness and offered up their service. Only
the water nymphs refrained, and thus were driven out of
Wahjad.
I thank the gods for sending the star and sealing the portal,
even if tainted krakon silver is still recovered from the seabed
near Selem. It is better that the seas are free from that scaled
and tentacled brood. I still wonder whether Yo’Nahoh, the ten-
horned son of Charyptoroth, really attempted to step through
that portal into the Being of the world, as rumors hint. Great
gods, save us if he tries again.”
—Critiana Livella, historian from Methumis, 1038 FB

The Empire of Al’Anfa

“No one can equal us in terms of splendor. The Empire
will take its rightful place among the mighty realms once
again and none shall stop us. Let the old Vice-Kingdom of
Meridiana inspire us, but we aim to exceed it by far!”
—Procurator Oderin du Metuant, 1036 FB
“Wretched slavers! If I see even one galley from the Sore of
the South before the bow of my ship, I shall not rest until I
have sent it to the bottom of the ocean.”
—a Thorwaler Hetwoman, 1037 FB
Borders: Al’Anfa claims all lands south of the Chabab and
Arrati, but in reality their domain extends only from the
coastal areas and the banks of the Jalob to Selem, and from
Loch Harodrôl across the Rain Mountains.
Landscape: The Golden Bay; the swamps and mangrove
forests of Selem Sound; Askania; the South-Elemite peninsula;
Aurelia; the Bay of Doom
Important Cities: Al’Anfa (105,000, 25% of which are slaves),
Sylla (2,800), Mirham (2,200), Port Corrad (2,000)
Population: 150,000, including around 20,000 slaves; an
additional 25,000 slaves on nearby plantations and on galleys,
plus a few Achaz, elves, dwarves, goblins, and half orcs

63
 Political Ties: Empire of Al’Anfa (ruler: Patriarch Amir
Honak and Procurator Oderin du Metuant, plus the Council
of Twelve, which consists of Grandes and Blessed Ones of
Boron)
Form of Government: Theocracy (Al’Anfan Church of
Boron) and plutocracy
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods, veneration of Boron
as king of the gods (seat of the Al’Anfan Rite); Kamaluq
the Jaguar God among the Forest Folk; shamanism and
secretive, animistic spirit cults
Trade Goods: Gemstones, precious woods, spices, glass,
opals, narcotics, silk, slaves, sugar cane, tobacco, tea,
colonial wares (coffee, peanuts, precious metals, lumber),
exotic creatures and slaves from Uthuria
Real-World Inspirations: Pre-Civil War southern
American states and the the time of the Spanish colonies
in Central and South America inspired the Empire’s
plantations, upon which slaves toil under the vigilant eyes
of merciless overseers. Its intrigue- and fashion-obsessed
A Hero from Al’Anfa: Al’Anfa is the classic setting
for all southern Aventurians, be it merciless slave
hunters, rich plantation owners, gladiators beloved
by the audience, Blessed Ones of Boron lost in
reverie, or battle-hardened mercenaries from the
Ducat Guard, and scholars of all kinds, including
black mages from the Hall of Illumination. Others
include runaway slaves desperate for a new life,
daring explorers who do not even fear the passage
to Uthuria, brave foreign legionnaires and warriors
from Orders such as the Basalt Fist or the Raven
Guard. With determination, money, and ruthlessness,
there are almost no limits to what one can achieve in
Al’Anfa.
Al’Anfa in the Game: Intrigues between the
leadership of the Churches and the rich Grandes of
the city are daily occurrences. Powerful citizens,
Blessed Ones of Boron, and influential army leaders
must always be on the lookout for assassination
attempts. Recently the Fana, the free citizens of the
Empire, have started demanding their share of power
and wealth. Slavery is ubiquitous in this region, and
slaves who seek to escape are often recaptured.
Oderin’s military campaigns require a steady influx
of new recruits, not just to face enemies in battle but
also to protect trade caravans, rebuild villages, and
bring unruly colonies to their knees. The metropolis
of Al’Anfa is a world unto itself where intrigue, luck,
and daring are emphasized. One can quickly rise
through the ranks and become a merchant prince
or Grande, or fall from the heights just as quickly,
possibly ending up in the sand of the arena.
64 Chapter 3: Land and People
upper classes and wealthy families are reminiscent of the
golden age of the Roman Empire, as do its large gladiatorial
spectacles. Al’Anfan galley fleets with their chained rowing
slaves, which never existed as an institution in real life,
come from films such as Ben Hur.
The mix of Tulamydian and Bosparanian culture resembles
Medieval Spain during and after the Moorish occupation,
including its naval power and its ruthless treatment of
colonies. The Al’Anfan form of a State Church, plus its
mysticism and decadence, are reminiscent of the Byzantian
Empire shortly before the Ottoman conquest.
The Al’Anfan Empire is a colorful mix of different cultures.
Middenrealmers, Tulamydes, Forest Folk, and even
Thorwalers mix freely in the streets and even the upper
classes. This equality goes both ways, however, and it
is not only Forest Folk tribes from the surrounding area
that are enslaved. Whole ship crews can suddenly find
themselves being traded on the slave market. Al’Anfan
wealth stems from its extensive plantations, its numerous
gemstone mines on the slopes of the Rain Mountains, and
its slave trade, although the coveted Al’Anfan silk is the
unrivalled leader in the markets of the Black Pearl (as the
city of Al’Anfa is known in the South). Al’anfa’s military
power stems primarily from the Black Armada, a fleet of
over 120 black-varnished galley ships that is rightly feared
throughout the Southern Seas.
The Forests and Islands of the Far South
“The Tayas, the stories told by Forest Folk, say that Kamaluq
the jaguar-god created the forest. This explains why it is
so dangerous! And because spirits permeate everything,
Kamaluq gave each of us a Tapam, a personal guardian
spirit.”
—a shaman of the Mohaha, 1025 FB
“No, I have never heard of that place. I only know of Altaïa
around these parts, and only because a teary-eyed Blessed
One told me that the Borboradians destroyed the city’s
oracle. But don‘t ask me which god it belonged to. I can’t
remember.”
—a soldier of the Lion’s Guard, Middenrealm, 1038 FB
Borders: The region stretches from the Rain Mountains to
Cape Brabak and Alemite Bay, to the jade island of Altoum
and the Pirate Islands, the Spice Islands in Kaucatan, and
the Charybbean
Landscape: Primeval jungles with numerous brooks
and lakes; the jagged, snow-covered ridges of the Rain
Mountains; the rain forest highlands, steaming swamps
of Mysobia, the sandy beaches on the Alemite peninsula,
the Spider Mountains of the Syllan peninsula (which are
 Form of Government: Feudalism and plutocracy in Brabak
(rulers: King Mizirion III De Sylphur plus the Grandes of
the Audienzia); tribal and clan structures among the Forest
Folk and achaz
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods (especially Boron) among
the southern Aventurians; Kamaluq (the jaguar god) and
forest spirts among the shamans and animists of the Forest
Folk; lizard gods (H’Ranga) among the achaz
Trade Goods: Alchemicae, Brabakan reed (bamboo),
precious woods (especially mohagoni), spices, Iryan
leather, jade, purple dye, tobacco, sugar cane
Real-World Inspirations: The jungles of Central and South
America, before and after their conquest by the Europeans.
The islands in the South Sea are the ideal background for
classic pirate adventures as depicted in countless novels
such as Treasure Island and films such as “Pirates of the

A Hero from the Far South: A fearless explorer,

a black mage with a thirst for knowledge from
the Dark Hall of Ghosts in Brabak, a free-thinking
alchemist from the Red Salamander Society,
a shaman of the Forest Folk searching for the
Father of Spiders, a weather-hardened prospector
searching for jade deposits, a Forest Folk tribal
warrior guarding a Taboo Zone, a daring sailor
whose ship was sunk by pirates, a Blessed One of
Hesinde who seeks to understand the H’Ranga of
the achaz, a pirate or mercenary seeking to get
rich quickly.

The Far South in the Game: The Far South is

infested by creepy-crawlies), and the palm tree-covered
islands of the Charybbean.
Important Cities: Brabak (4,000); H’Rabaal (1,100,
including 100 Forest Folk and 50 achaz, plus 1,600 achaz
and 200 Zilits in the surrounding area); Charypso (2,000);
Hôt-Alem (2,100); Port Stoerrebrandt (1,000)
Population: Approximately 40,000 Forest Folk, 75,000
southern Aventurians, and an unknown number of achaz
Political Ties: Kingdom of Brabak; large parts of the region
are either a No Man’s Land or else claimed by Al’Anfa, while
Hôt-Alem is a Prince-Protectorate that nominally belongs
to the Middenrealm
largely unexplored by Middenrealmers and other
Aventurians. The jungle changes constantly,
rendering maps useless after just a few years.
Nevertheless, expeditions regularly head for the
Far South in search of spices and healing herbs,
deposits of jade and other gemstones, and precious
metals. Some people travel to Brabak to pursue
research without restriction. Ancient ruins and
fabulous treaures await discovery beneath the wet
canopy of the rain forests. Explorers sometimes
come into contact with the shy Forest Folk, and
heroes have plenty of chances to protect them when
slave hunters of Al’Anfa come prowling around.
Forest Folk and even jungle explorers sometimes
ask heroes to help them overcome certain Taboo
Zones. Heroes also have many chances to drive off
or apprehend priates and freebooters, preventing
them from attacking ships, stealing wares, and
selling crews into slavery.

65
 Caribbean.” Note that cannons and barrels of explosive
black powder do not exist in Aventuria… at least not yet.
The south of Aventuria is populated mainly on the
coast, as the tall peaks of the interior of the continent
are covered by steaming jungle and reach up to the sky.
Forest Folk tribes, who usually live and work in small tribal
communites, dominate the Rain Mountains and adjacent
regions. But the normally peaceful Forest Folk are not the
greatest threat, for lizard men and many poisonous snakes
and other creatures live in this region.
But the temptation of finding precious metals and valuable
gemstones on the slopes of the mountains is too alluring,
and daring people are not deterred by the hissing, roaring,
ever-growing vastness of the trackless jungle. Even in their
raw form, the countless valuable resources of the region,
such as spices, precious woods, rare remedies and poisons,
and exotic animals can be exchanged for hard cash in the
hearthlands of Aventuria.
66 Chapter 3: Land and People
The Southern Sea
“Here you can be anything you really want to be, but
only if you are able to take what you need.”
—pirate captain Vanja Nadaljeff, 1039 FB
“Every other island hides either a den of pirates or
creatures that I’ve never seen before. And then there
are the crews of all those Al’Anfan galleys, who think
that everything here belongs to them. But then I think
of all the Uthurian riches you promised us… Don’t mind
me. Let’s set sail!”
—a Bornish captain, 1039 FB
Borders: The South Sea stretches from Cape Brabak to
the islands of the Charybbean and the northern coast of
Uthura. Beyond the Archipelago of Risso the South Sea is
known as the Sea of Fire.
Landscape: The eerie Sargasso Sea (a nearly-impassable
field of seaweed); the island group of Efferd’s Tears;
the rocky but jungle-covered Archipelago of Risso; the
expansive, jungle-covered northern coast of Uthuria
Important Cities: Ghurenia (2,000); Porto Korisande
(350); on the northern coast of Uthuria, Porto Velvenya
(1,000 including 200 locals outside of the city) and Nova
Methumisa (400)
Population: Unknown
Political Ties: Various power groups (including Al’Anfa,
Brabak, the Horasian Empire, the Bornland, and the
Middenrealm) fight for influence, but so far none has
achieved the upper hand
Form of Government: Depending on affiliation, feudalism,
theocracy, plutocracy, the law of the strongest; colonial
rulers change frequently

A Hero from the South Seas: A daring explorer
from any realm, a precise cartographer, an intrepid
scholar or mage, a Blessed One of any god, a sea
warrior, a pirate (many of which descend from
colonists, but Forest Folk or Utulu are also possible
choices, as their ancestors arrived here from
Uthuria a long time ago.
The South Seas in the Game: Exploration,
cartography, and colonization of an unknown world.
Potential problems include: is the archipelago,
which is supposed to be your supply base, still in
the hands of your people? Is your planned route
secure, or do enemy ships sail here? Can you tell
if the creatures that appeared out of thin air
are friendly or hostile before it is too late? Such
questions prompt many captains to hire heroes
to fend off potential threats. Also, try scenarios of
survival at high sea, in the deep jungle, or among
natives with strange customs. One thing is always
certain: you can indeed earn fame and money just
from telling stories of your adventures…
Veneration of Gods: Twelvegods, shamanism, animism,
and the many unknown gods of Uthuria
Trade Goods: Spices, gemstones, precious woods, live wild
animals, coffee, peanuts, and other exotica from Uthuria
Real-World Inspirations: Our main inspirations for this
setting include the colonial Caribbean Sea during the
Golden Age of Piracy around 1700, and also lawless pirates
and freebooters as depicted in films and on television (see
also The Forests and Islands of the Far South). However, there
are neither cannons nor exploding barrels of black powder
in Aventuria—at least not yet.
Islands become rarer the further south one travels, until,
after a dangerous voyage, one reaches the legendary
continent of Uthuria. However, most ships refuse to
venture that far into the Southern Sea, for sailors claim
that there the sea boils and fire rains from the heavens.
Supposedly, pirates discovered most of the islands that are
known today. New harbors such as Ghurenia or Anterroa
are often mentioned in Aventurian dockside taverns,
but most such places are usually viewed as fanciful tales.
Those traveling to Uthuria must first prove themselves on
the passage through the Southern Sea. Aventurian naval
powers understand its potential and now seek to exploit it
as the gateway to Uthuria, the land of untold wealth.
67
 Cities of Aventuria
Al’Anfa, the Black Pearl of the South
“Al’Anfa is like a lover—beautiful,
passionate, intoxicating—but
her lips conceal scorn and
venom. One kiss can cost you
your life, but you cannot escape
her embrace.”
—an Al’Anfan Grandessa,
1039 FB
“Wretched slave owners! Assassins
lurk on every street corner. Every
citizen, whether rich or poor, free or not,
lies to your face and tries to mix drugs or poison
into your food. What kind of city is this?”
—a Thorwalian traveler, 1040 FB
Region: Capital of the Empire of Al’Anfa
Population: 105,000 (including approximately 25,000 slaves)
Governance: Procurator Oderin du Metuant, plus Patriarch
Amir Honak
Temples: All Twelvegods (main temple of the Al’Anfan
branch of the Church of Boron); Kor; Marbo; Rur and Gror;
secret temple of Levthan
Trade and Industry: Gemstones, opals, narcotics, silk, slaves,
tobacco, big game, beasts bound for combat in the arena.
Characteristic Features: Colossus of Al’Anfa, Bal-Honak Arena,
Silvermount (domicile of the Grandes), the University, Hall
of Illumination (mage academy, black, clairvoyance, ship
mages), Raven’s Rock, City of Silence (site holy to Boron)
Atmosphere in the City: Busy and business-minded; scheming;
ruthless; arrogant and merciless ruling class who base their
rule on slavery; lower class fighting for its survival
The Pearl of the Southern Seas is built at the foot of Visra,
a black volcano on the estuary of the crocodile-filled Hanfla
River. It rises on multiple layers up the steep, dark-colored
bedrock that overlooks the Golden Bay. Below, humble
citizens (Fanas) struggle for their survival alongside the
efforts of thousands of slaves, all toiling to increase the
wealth of the families of the Grandes who live in luxury in
their villas on the Silvermount. On an outcropping of black
rock in the shape of a raven lies the City of Silence, the
spiritual center of the Al’Anfan sect of the Church of Boron.
Its members worship Boron as the greatest of the gods.
Reminders of death can bee seen everywhere in the city,
which might be why the people who throng the staircases
of the city’s alleys live life so intensely. The Black General
and current Procurator, Oderin du Metuant, recently
established himself as the ruler of Al’Anfa after a lengthy
68 Chapter 3: Land and People
period of feuding and maneuvering for power. He shares his
rulership with the Patriarch of the Church of Boron, Amir
Honak, who manages spiritual affairs. Through loyalty and
achievement, a member of the Fanas can rise to offices and
grandeur, a tradition which the old, established families
of the Grandes are trying to change. And even though the
Procurator’s Black Guards maintain the peace, various
struggles for power can quickly turn deadly.
Andergast, Capital of Woodcutters
“We are the bulwark against the
orcs and the wretched Nostrians.
Abiding and unbreakable, like
stone oaks!”
—an Andergastan knight,
1039 FB
“Unkempt, very backwards, and
hostile towards women. I don’t like
it here.”
—a Horasian scholar, 1040 FB
Region: Capital of the kingdom of
Andergast
Population: 6,500
Governance: King Wendelmir VI Zornbold, who is advised by
the City Council of Guilds
Temples: Hesinde, Ingerimm, Peraine, Praios, Rondra, Travia,
Tsa; also, multiple shrines
Trade and Industry: trading center for wood (especially stone
oak) and wood products, products from pig farming, coal,
horses (Teshkalians), gateway for trade with Thorwal,
Nostria, and the interior of Aventuria
Characteristic Features: Proud royal castle, Combat College of
Andergast (mage academy; gray; produces classic combat
mages), branch of the order of the alchemists of the Red
Salamander Society
Atmosphere in the City: Insistence upon old traditions,
distrustful of anything new, submissive to authority
Andergast lies within expansive forests on the estuary of
Andra on the Invgal River. Its walls are dark, and the temper
of its people is patriotic and traditional. The city’s alleys are
usually dark due to the tall, peaked roofs, and so many pigs
wallow in the omnipresent mud on the streets that many
inhabitants leave their houses only while wearing special
wooden shoes (the so-called pattens).
Older houses are primarily constructed with sturdy wood,
such as stone oak. Since a disastrous fire in the smithy
quarter, homes are now made from stone. King Wendelmir
VI, a knight from the Zornbold family, rules his subjects
from his defiant fortress within the city walls. The city
bursts at its seams in the month of Rondra, the time of the
popular knight’s tournament. It is busy at other times, too,
but at a more leisurely pace. Most townsfolk fill their lives
with artful woodcuttings, pig farming, and trade, and are
certainly more worldly than Andergast’s rural population,
but foreigners view them as conservative and resistant to
progress.
Angbar, the Brazen
“Ah, well. So there are a few
broken walls. It’s nothing we
cannot fix with diligence and a
few years’ time.”
—an Angbaran builder, 1028 FB
“It’s a bit quiet here, but everything
is very solid. And they have excellent
beer!”
—a carriage driver for the
Stoerrebrandt Trading House,
1038 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Principality of Kosh
Population: 5,000, including approximately 2,000 dwarves
Governance: Council of Guilds and a Steward of the Realm
Temples: Boron, Hesinde, Ingerimm (site of the main temple
of the human congregation of Ingerimm), Phex, Praios,
Rondra, Travia
Trade and Industry: Many, especially dwarven artisans,
products of the forge, steel, beer
Characteristic Features: Harbor on Lake Angbar, a chapter
house of the Therbûnites (Peraine), main seat of the Order
of the Guardians of Rohal (white magic); master school for
architects and mechanics; a distinct guild system, peaceful
coexistence of humans and dwarves
Atmosphere in the City: try to look beyond dfficult times
and live according to the motto “loyal, proud, and stout.”
Diligence, deliberation, and a calmness of character are
viewed as natural and praiseworthy traits.
The Prince of the Kosh, Blasius of Eberstamm, resides in
Angbar, probably the largest dwarven settlement outside
of the mountain kingdoms. Beyond its steadfast walls
lie numerous silver and iron mines. Their ore is artfully
processed in the city, which is seen as the capital of
Aventurian craftsmanship.
By standing together, humans and dwarves put an end to
the rampage of the Firebird Alagrimm, who ravaged the city
in the year 1027 FB. Even though the damage has long since
been forgotten, thanks to diligent repair work, the fear of
the creature sits lies deep within the hearts of many city
dwellers.
Baliho, City of Knights and Cattle Barons
“Old royal city of the north, and
a stronghold of chivalry. That is
the essence of Baliho, not these
cowhands you see on the plains
below.”
—a Knight of the Meadow from
the Countess’ Guard, 1036 FB
“It’s really two cities, one staid and
clean, the other bustling and chaotic.”
—a traveling Blessed One of Travia
from the Rommilysian Marches,
1038 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Duchy of Weiden
Population: 3,500 (including 800 in the county seat)
Governance: A Master of the town, who serves as the
representative of the Countess
Temples: Phex, Praios, Rahja, Rondra, Travia, plus a shrine
to Efferd
Trade and Industry: Cattle (especially Balihoean Fawns), meat
and sausage products, horses (Northmanes and Tralloper
Giants), leather, cloth
Characteristic Features: The old king’s fortress of Räuharsch
above the confluence of Redwater and Pandlaril, the Sword
and Shield Warrior Academy, the Thousand-Year-Old Oak,
the North Star Casino
Atmosphere in the City: Rule of force in the oxen quarter;
chivalrous order in the county seat.
Streets in the county seat are narrow and paved and lined
with small, half-timbered houses clustered tightly together.
Citizens place great importance on old manners, chivalry,
and decency.
The southern part of the city, sometimes dismissively called
the oxen quarter, is characterized by cattle breeding. Most
buildings have two floors and flat roofs, and the streets are
rather wide but not often paved. Wooden boardwalks line
the sides of the roads so one can reach one’s destination
with clean shoes.
69
 Beilunk, the Gleaming
“Only the will of Praios saved us.
And the light of the king of gods
still shines everywhere in the
city.”
—Praiosmin Brandner, female
market vendor from Beilunk,
1039 FB
“It is called Arcanum Interdictum,
the prohibition of magic. Magic does not
function in such places. Let’s hope these
brave people know to defend themselves. My
arcane powers are useless there, but luckily, I still
have my brilliant mind.”
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
Region: Middenrealm, Sunmarches
Population: 7,500
Governance: Princess-Illuminata Gwidûhenna of Faldahon
Temples: Efferd, Hesinde, Phex, Praios, Rahja, Rondra;
shrines of Ingerimm, Peraine, and Tsa
Trade and Industry: Important manufacturing and related
processing of linens (in the Bedon factory), dyeing, clay
baking (bricks, clay bricks, glazed tiles, statues), fishing,
distilling, pottery, sculpture
Characteristic Features: Sanctum of Light (domed temple of
Praios, one of the twelve wonders of the human world), Law
Seminar of the Griffin (renowned educational institution),
mint of the realm, headquarters of the Beilunk Riders
(similar to the Pony Express). A gods-imposed Arcanum
Interdictum exists throughout the city; magic is not only
prohibited, it is not even possible.
Atmosphere in the City: Everyone, even the lowliest inhabitant,
knows that they were saved from impending doom by
the godly intervention of Praios. This has resulted in an
exuberant love of life for some, and dogged piousness and
austerity for others.
Beilunk is protected by massive city walls, and from every
direction, travelers can see the golden dome of the Temple
of Praios, where prelates sing hymns around the clock.
Since the surrounding area is frequently flooded by the
Radrom River, all roads leading to the city are raised on
dikes. The city stands on a hill and remains dry year-round.
Beilunk’s two city districts differ widely: the upper city is
characterized by magnificent temples and mighty edifices,
while the lower city is an overcrowded arrangement of
houses that are often damaged by the seasonal autumn
flooding.
Thanks to the intervention of Praios, Beilink withstood a
years-long siege during the war with Borbarad. Now, under
the rule of Princess-Illuminata, the Blessed One of Praios,
the city is viewed by its inhabitants as a fortress of faith
against the Shadowlands.
70 Chapter 3: Land and People
Belhanka, the Serenissima
“You should henceforth absolutely
forgo using the title of Comto, I
implore you. If they catch you,
you will be banished from the
city for 12 years.”
—a Belhankan council
member to a noble from a
long-established family,
1033 FB
“Colorful and magnificent. The
scent of rose oil filling the entire city.
No pack of nobles telling you what to do. Heavy coin pouches and
heavy bodices… I applaud that!”
—a vagabond from Havena, 1038 FB
Region: Horasian Empire, Coverna
Population: 15,000
Governance: Republic under the leadership of the patricians
Temples: Efferd (two), Nandus, Peraine, Rahja (main temple);
Wandering Star temple; shrines to Aves, Ingerimm, and
Levthan
Trade and Industry: Long-distance trading with the
Southern Sea and Cyclopes Islands, shipbuilding, perfume
manufacturing, brocade and linen weaving, production of
tailored robes, glasswork, fishing
Characteristic Features: Palace of Rahja on Dere (main temple
of the Rahja cult), Academy of Spirit Journeys (mage
academy, gray, telekinesis), the Captain’s School, Court of
the Evening Glow (a school for courtesans), Rahja’s Cavaliers
(a fencing school), Palace of the Republic (former palace of
the Count)
Atmosphere in the City: confident and joyful
Through its island position in the estuary delta of the
Sikram the city always used to be joyful and freedom-loving.
The patricians expanded Belhanka’s autonomy until the city
gained its independence during the dispute of succession
in the Horasian Empire. Now Belhanka is almost as famous
for being a republic as it is for housing the most important
temple of Rahja. Every year, at the exuberant Festival of
Pleasures, the Beloved of the Goddess is elected as Head
of the Church. The inhabitants are known for their open-
mindedness, characteristically southern temperament, and
hospitality. Trade in the city flourishes thanks to numerous
manufactories and the presence of the largest shipping
company in Aventuria (owned by the family Terdilion)
which the turmoil of the Succession War a few years ago did
nothing to dampen.
Bjaldorn, City of the Crystal Palace
“The struggle ends only when
we enter into the Halls of Boron.
That is the will of the Old Man of
the Mountain.”
—a Bjaldorn trapper, 1039 FB
“The people seem dour at first,
but they quickly warm up you
when they notice that you are here
to witness the miracle of Ifirn.”
—a pilgrim from Bornland, 1040 FB
Region: Free City of the North
Population: 1,050, including approximately
150 Norbards
Governance: Baron Fjadir of Bjaldorn (but he leaves
government business to his sister Liwinja)
Temples: Firun, Ifirn
Trade and Industry: Pelts, furs, schnapps (Bjaldorn Hobgoblin
being a famous example)
Characteristic Features: Bjalaburg (seat of the ruler), Hall of
Crystal (former main temple of Firun, now a high temple of
Ifirn), Ice Rose of Jarlak (Ifirn sanctum in the Hall of Crystal)
Atmosphere in the City: Pessimism remains after a long period
of harsh mercenary rulership, but hope is slowly growing.
The Hall of Crystal (formerly the main temple of Firun and
which today houses a high temple of Ifrin) stands in the
center of a lush, green city park. Seven circular chambers
nestle against the temple, which is built from shimmering
marble and has windows of pure, clear ice. During the era
of Borbarad, a miraculous wall of ice formed around the
temple when demons tried to desecrate it. Only the pious
could pass this barrier.
The people of Bjaldorn endured much during the war, and
they still seem distrustful of strangers, but a steady trickle
of pilgrims is slowly changing their opinion.
Brabak, City of Freethinkers
“People pour into the city from all
directions, so I can rightly claim
that we are the navel of the
world.”
—a Brabakan merchant,
1036 FB
“It is no coincidence that ‘being
poor like King Mizirion’ is a
proverb. The city smells so moldy
because it is surrounded by swamps
and jungles. If Uthuria hadn’t been
discovered, and the new wharf hadn’t been
built at Nagra, the country would be bankrupt by
now.”
—a sea merchant for the Stoerrebrandt Trading House,
while going ashore at Brabak, 1038 FB
Region: Kingdom of Brabak
Population: 4,000 humans of various origins, several hundred
achaz
Governance: King Mizirion III de Sylphur, plus the Grandes of
the Audienzia (board comprised of influential families)
Temples: Boron (Punin sect with Al’Anfan influence), Efferd,
Phex, Rahja; also, presumably a Temple of Nandus, which
can only be found by deciphering a difficult riddle
Trade and Industry: Brabak is an important port of call for all
shipping traffic between east and west, and its markets offer
countless wares. Exports are primarily sugar cane, tobacco,
Brabakan reed (bamboo), alchemicae, and Iryan leather.
Characteristic Features: Dark Hall of Spirits (mage academy,
black, necromancy and invocation); alchemist’s laboratories
of the Red Salamander Society; headquarters of the BAOC
(Brabakian Amalgamated Occidental Company)
Atmosphere in the City: Tolerant, destitute, but proud
A mighty and ancient fortress dominates the mouth of the
river, which probably dates back to a time when Brabak still
belonged to the Bosparan Empire. On a hill in the north of
the city stands the lavishly decorated royal palace, which is
composed mainly of pink-colored, expensive marble from
the Eternans. The local mage academy would probably not
be tolerated at any other place since the darkest schools of
magic are explored and taught: the invocation of demons
and the rising of the undead, which are here called zombies
in the language of the local Forest Folk. The markets offer
nearly anything that can be bought for coin. Even preparers
of poison sell their wares openly, when even mere possession
of such substances would elicit harsh punishments almost
anywhere else. The BAOC’s wharf construction in the
nearby village of Nagra has fueled an economic boom, and
the streets are always bustling. The burghers now proudly
refer to their city as the Gateway to Uthuria.
Charypso, City of the Black Serpent
“Miserable hellhole, certainly! But
you can find anything your heart
desires here, yar-har-har. T’is
nothing you can’t buy nor sell here,
if you catch my drift, yar-har-har.”
—a freebooter sailing with the
Black Serpent, 1036 FB
“Miserable nest of pirates!”
—a Tulamydian freebooter, 1038 FB
Region: Islands of the Far South
Population: 2,000, but often more than
twice that number of strangers, due to frequent shipping
traffic stopovers
Governance: Nominally, a Council of Captains, but in reality,
the street justice of the rabble
Temples: Efferd, Phex
Trade and Industry: In Charypso, everything being bartered
71
 and smuggled was originally gained via piracy. The city is
one of the main trading centers for loot and even slaves,
usually unfortunate seafarers who could not command
ransoms after their ships were boarded and captured.
Characteristic Features: Sanctuary and home port of the Black
Serpent, an infamous league of pirates
Atmosphere in the City: Cruel and profoundly rotten
The city that gives the Charybbean its name is a hive of
scum and villainy like no other—full of pirates, harlots, and
the shadiest traders. Tavern keepers, artisans, and (slave)
traders comprise the workforce of the pirate city, which is
mainly populated by sailors on shore leave. Furthermore,
rumors in Charybbean harbor towns speak of a very
influential Blessed One of Efferd who lives here on donations
from god-fearing pirates and who does not care much
about the moral values of the Twelvegods. A tall wooden
construction known only as the Plank rises above the harbor.
Prisoners who do not yield enough ransom money or fetch
enough profit on the slave market find themselves carried
to the top and pushed off into the harbor, which is kept full
of sharks, thanks to the spread of chum. This beloved event
is cheered by the crowds that gather for the spectacle.
Chorhop, City of Chance
“Phex is with us.”
—a city councilor of Chorhop,
1036 FB
“Phex has left me.”
—a Drôlian adventurer, 1038 FB
Region: Free city, allied with
Al’Anfa (signatory of the Black
Alliance)
Population: 1,500, including 300
Novadi; outside of the cit,y 800 free
men and 500 field slaves
Governance: Nominally a city council, but in truth, the head
of the Temple of Phex
Temples: Boron (Al’Anfan rite), Phex, Rastullah; shrine of
Efferd
Trade and Industry: Rose wood, sugar cane, slaves, Chorhopian
ink, ships, herbs and wood from the jungle, dice
Characteristic Features: The nine highest public offices in
the city are assigned yearly via raffle. House of Games,
Tulamydian bath-house, the arena, the statue of Phex
throwing dice
Atmosphere in the City: Stark contrast between rich and poor;
hedonism; corruption
72 Chapter 3: Land and People
The popular opinion is that Phex himself secretly govern
the city. Nowhere else can one find as many gambling dens
as in Chorhop, where visitors can make a fortune or lose
everything in a heartbeat. The House of Games is always
packed, and many bets are placed on the results of gladiator
or animal fights in the arena. The most important offices of
the city, with their attendant privileges, are doled out once
a year in the Great Lottery. All who can afford a ticket may
enter—the price is just 1,000 ducats, or one’s own freedom.
Elenvina, the Ducal City
“Here beats the heart of the
Northmarches—loyal and powerful,
just like us.”
—a river guard from the
Northmarches, 1036 FB
“Everything, and I do mean
everything, is regulated here.
Sometimes they even ramble on
about iron law. I have no idea what
they are talking about.”
—an alchemist from Khunchom,
1038 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Duchy of Northmarches
Population: 12,000 humans, 200 dwarves
Governance: A steward who rules in the name of Duke
Hagrobald of the Great River
Temples: Efferd, Hesinde, Phex, Praios, Travia
Trade and Industry: Important transfer point for wares from
(nearly) all destinations, horses (Elenviner Thoroughbreds),
wool products, dwarven weaponry
Characteristic Features: Ducal residence Eilenwïd-above-
the-Waters, Fortified Hall of Praios, Academy of Command
(mage academy, white, influence), the Trade Hall
(with its impressive dome), horse breeding (Elenviner
Thoroughbreds). Outside of the mage academy a strict
prohibition against magic is enforced.
Atmosphere in the City: Liberal-minded but steeped in
tradition; strong middle class; bureaucratic; hostile to magic
This trading city and its impressive harbor on the Great River
enjoy the protection of the mighty ducal castle. Numerous
magnificent buildings shape the cityscape. The large Trade
Hall, with its impressive dome, and the inspiring Fortified
Hall of Praios, second in its glory only to the Sun Temple
in Gareth, are just two examples. The local administration
buildings of the Middenrealm lie just outside of the city, so
Elenvina plays an important role in Imperial politics.
Farlorn, Trading Post on the Blue Lake Temples: All Twelvegods except Efferd and Firun, plus Kor,
“I could shoe your horse, but would you not Nandus, Aves, Marbo, and Levthan, numerous shrines of
rather take a snow badger sled? What old Tulamydian gods (such as the river god Gadanga, the
do you intend to feed that nag?” Maimed, pious Rashtul, and Umm Ghulsach, the Mother of
—Ugdalf Urrisk, sole Vultures); small houses of prayer to Rastullah
shopkeeper in Farlorn, Trade and Industry: Crops (millet, cotton, tobacco, tea);
1030 FB leather goods; parchment; ink; soap; horn work; Tulamydian
carpets
“Nothing to speak of.” Characteristic Features: walled city quarters; large shanty
—a Bornish long-distance towns; towers of the Eminences connected by bridges;
trader, 1035 FB Al’Achami (mage acdemy, black, influence magic); Exorcism
Academy (mage school, no guild, anti-magic); Murak-al-Kira
Region: Lands of the Nivese Arena; relics of the Mage Moguls of Gadang
Population: About 130 (90% of Atmosphere in the City: Exotic and fascinating, but shaped by
them Nivese, plus some Norbards) beggers and the constant power struggles of the Eminences
Governance: Free settlement
Temples: Firun Fasar spread southward from the headwaters of the Gadang
Trade and Industry: Seal products, pelts, provisions and in an entirely chaotic manner, but it is seen as the oldest
equipment for expeditions onto the Eternal Ice human city on Dere. Block-like clay huts sprawl next to
Characteristic Features: Farlorn has exactly one store, a the tower dwellings of the Eminences. A tent village of the
glorified village shop in which strangers can purchase Novadi sits south of the city. The diversity or ethnicities is
equipment at exorbitant prices. Conveniently, the town’s tainted by the wide gap between rich and poor and by the
only inn is located in the same building. numerous organizations and gangs that constantly form and
Atmosphere in the City: Stoic, day-to-day life of hunters and break alliances during their unending war. Even wearing the
gatherers, who mistrust all strangers wrong color can be dangerous if an Eminence decides the
offender is treading on their authority. Violators can easily
Farlorn’s few dozen log cabins and two stone buildings become the target of attacks ranging from vulgar remarks
might as well sit at the end of the world. If not for its store, to rough brawls or even a dagger thrust from ambush.
the only one within 100 miles, this small hamlet would
be entirely unknown. Farlorn offers one last chance for Festum, City of Moneybags
expeditions to stock up on provisions or to purchase badger “If you can’t buy it in Festum, it
sleds on their way north. probably doesn’t exist.”
—Arvid Stoerrebrandt,
Fasar, the Eldest manager of the Festum
“Fasar has as many gods as Trading House, 1035 FB
its needs, effendi. Why do
you think we have survived “I would never have suspected
all these millennia? You that a northern city could be this
definitely need this statuette open-minded. Still, I must admit
of Gadang. It is made of real that I don’t like all these goblins in
jade, I swear.” the street.”
—a Fasaran bazaar —a sailor from Perricum, 1035 FB
merchant, 1036 FB
Region: Bornland
“Fasar is one of the most Population: 33,000 humans, including 3,000
dangerous cities on the continent, and I Maraskani exiles, plus 3,000 goblins
don’t say that in jest. They don’t just have one Governance: Govern by the Grand Council (300 members) and
assassin’s guild, they have several!” the Close Council (12 members)
—a Garethan traveling merchant, to his business partner, Temples: All Twelvegods, plus Rur and Gror, Swafnir,
1036 FB Rastullah, Mokosha, Ifirn, and numerous demigods
Trade and Industry: Important trading harbor, seat of many
Region: Tulamydian city states large trading houses, shipping, leather and leather products,
Population: 40,000, including approximately 32,000 Meskinnes (oat schnapps made with honey)
Tulamydes and Novadi, 6,500 Middenrealmers, and 500 Characteristic Features: Seat of the Noble Marshal, zoological
Forest Folk, plus 1,200 dwarves garden, dragon museum, Mercury Hall (mage academy,
Governance: Several rival Eminences govern the city gray, object), Grand Festum Cavalier’s Academy (warrior

73
 academy), chapterhouse of the Hesindian Draconites, main
workshop of the alchemists of the Red Salamander Society,
hospital of the Therbûnites (a healing order of Peraine),
Noble Marshal’s School for Officers and Warriors, Admiral
Seweritz Naval Academy, main office of the Northland Bank,
the Maraskani Quarter (New Jergan), the goblin ghetto
Atmosphere in the City: cosmopolitan; full of pride for the city
and its freedoms
Festum is the capital of Bornland. Scholars, Bronnjars, and
destitute bridge barons coexist in this trade city located on
the estuary of the Born River. The small quarters of the city
each have their own charm, be it the Old City’s half-timbered
houses embellished with figurines of saints, the Tanner’s
Quarter dwellings of the goblins, Hesinde Village where
institutions of culture, art, and sciences have gathered over
the years, or the newly adopted home of the Maraskani in
exile, the loud and lively district of New Jergan.
Gareth, the Metropolis
“If you haven’t seen Gareth,
you haven’t seen anything.”
—an aged Garethan citizen,
1038 FB
“O merciful gods! It will take
me weeks to see everything.”
—a young noble from
Albernia, 1037 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Kingdom
of Garetia
Population: 170,000, plus 1,000
dwarves, 500 elves, and some goblins,
grolms, and deep dwarves
Governance: Council of Heroes, consisting of burghers,
priests, and nobility
Temples: All Twelvegods (including the City of Light, site of
the main Temple of Praios); Aves, Haal, Simiar, Ucuri
Trade and Industry: Numerous merchants and artisans of
nearly every kind; one can find everything in Gareth, if one
is willing to pay its price.
Characteristic Features: Enormous number of temples and
shrines, many chapterhouses (Noionites, Draconites),
headquarters of the Stoerrebrandt Trading House, City
of Light with the Sun Palace (main Temple of Praios),
important Temples of Phex (protector of the city) and of
Ingerimm (patron of the guilds), catacombs of the Hesinde
temple, other subderanean tunnels, Academy of Magical
Armor (mage academy, white, bodyguard and anti-magic
mages), Academy of Sword and Staff (mage acdemy, white,
combat mages), Institute of the High School of Cavalry
(warrior school), Imperial Cavalry School (cadet’s school),
Old Residence, ruins of the New Residence, Guarding Griffin
(a monument pleasing unto Praios), Demon Fallows with
remains of the Flying Fortress, Hotel Sea Eagle (probably the
74 Chapter 3: Land and People
most expensive hotel in Aventuria, noted for its excellent
cuisine)
Atmosphere in the City: Industrious; full of pride; bustling;
loud and optimistic, despite the recent devastation (but this
varies strongly by district; the misery of residents of the
outlying districts is proverbial).
Gareth is capital city of the Middenrealm and by far the
largest city in Aventuria. In fact, according to the edict of
the Herald of Light, Gareth is the center of the world. The
presence of so many imperial palaces and institutions
proves that fact, as do the posh neighborhoods of affluent
burghers and nobles and the city’s many towering temples,
which give Gareth the name of City of One Hundred Towers.
However, this much light creates an equally large shadow,
and many Garethans from the districts outside the city walls
endure severe poverty. Gangs of criminals struggle there for
power, earning their daily bread mainly by racketeering,
robbery, smuggling, theft, and fencing stolen goods. The
fear of crime, famine, plagues, and uprisings are just part
of life in this huge metropolis where gargoyles are said
to lead a mysterious life of their own and the inhabitants
take particularly strong pride in their city. Empress Rohaja
resides in Gareth when she is not traveling through the
provinces with her Imperial court.
Many refugees found long-sought shelter in Gareth during
the Borbaradian Invasion and the last Orc Storm, much to
their joy. Many adventurers from all over the world come
to the Imperial city, and many adventures have started in
a tavern called the Sword and Armor, a legendary heroes’
gathering place known as much for its patrons as for those
seeking to employ them!
Griffonsford, the Steadfast
“We have been blessed by
Praios and Peraine, and
we willingly defend these
blessings against the orcs,
time and time again.”
—officer of the Griffonsford
rural police, 1037 FB
“It is good to see that at least
a few servants of Praios are not
blinkered and narrow-minded.
Our Count should retain one of these
individuals as an advisor!”
—a knight from the Northmarches,
1037 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Margravate of Griffonsford
Population: About 5,000
Governance: Margravine Irmenella of Wertlingen
Temples: Peraine, Praios, Rondra, Travia; shrine of Tsa
Trade and Industry: Griffonsford loden (high quality wool
cloth), linen, wheat, Griffonsford Gold (maple syrup), cider,
metal armor, pitch, tanbark, lumber
Characteristic Features: Important Praios temple; stronghold
at the harbor entrance; holy orchard of Peraine; Answin’s
Sight (the armor of Answin of Ravenmouth, who saved
the city from the orcs, is on display here in a memorial on
Boron’s Field)
Atmosphere in the City: Deep-rooted hatred for orcs, and pride
at having defeated them numerous times; proud of being
the chosen of Praios
According to legend, the griffon named Scraan showed the
humans where they should build the city of Griffonsford (it
was called Saljeth at the time). Even though it is unclear how
much of this legend is true and how much has been added,
one cannot deny the fact that the king of gods, Praios, and
his emissaries, the griffons, always had a particular interest
in this place. Life in the city is strongly shaped by the fight
against the orcs, and Griffonsforders remain particular
vigilant. The holy sanctum of Tairach that used to stand
on this site is thought to be the reason for the constant orc
attacks (and would explain why the orcs laid siege to the
city for an entire year during the Third Orc Storm).
Havena, Harbor City with Rich Tradition
“We have been in the trading
business for decades, and
I must say that the young
prince is a breath of fresh
air, like I haven’t seen in a
long time.”
—a merchant from Havena,
1039 FB
“An Undercity formed by a
devastating flood? Legendary
creatures and hidden secrets?
Sounds like something we should see.”
—a Brabakan mage, 1038 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Principality of Albernia
Population: 30,000 humans, several dozen elves and
dwarves, and some merfolk (water nymphs)
Governance: Town magistrate together with the Council of
Elders and the Council of Captains, seat of the Albernian
Prince, Finnian ui Bennain
Temples: Twelvegods (except Firun); emphasis given to
Efferd as patron of the city and its maritime trade (in place
of Phex)
Trade and Industry: Trading city with a large harbor; transfer
point for wares moving between river and seagoing vessels;
many trading houses (kontors) and wharves
Characteristic Features: Large natural harbor; cursed
Undercity (flooded ruins); palace of the prince; Ruada’s
Honor (warrior academy); naval cadet school; two temples
of Efferd (one is almost 2,000 years old, the other is a
magnificent new building); Boron Isle; Princess Emer
Bridge over the Great River; Fairy Spring water palace;
cave of the giant turtle Lata, which is sacred to Efferd.
While Havena imposes a citywide prohibition on magic,
recent exceptions have been granted for healing magic.
Atmosphere in the City: Loyal to Efferd; freedom-
loving; industrious; distrustful of magic; hostile to the
Northmarches; ambiguous feelings towards the Empress
and the Middenrealm
Havena, the capital of Albernia, lies in the boggy delta of
the Great River and has often suffered from ill strokes of
fate. An event known as the Great Flood destroyed entire
districts of the city 350 years ago and the ruins of old Havena
remain flooded to this day. Some blame the catastrophe on
the city’s veneration of Efferd above the king of the gods,
Praios. However, the Havenans still would rather pray to
Efferd to protect them from further such disasters, and
their fear of the god of death, Boron, is greater than that
of other Aventurians. Magic has been illegal within city
limits ever since the Mage Wars, when several tyrannical
mages temporarily usurped power in the city. These laws
have only recently been relaxed to permit magic used for
healing. Today Havena is one of the largest trading ports on
the west coast. The spirit is enterprising and there is great
piety toward Efferd. Stern guards and agile pickpockets
wander the busy streets of the city, merchants hastily go
about their business, and it is said that many ancient evils
still lurk in the flooded ruins of the Undercity. The young
prince rarely spends time in his capital, which is perhaps
why he is known as Finnian the Seafarer.
H’Rabaal, the Temple City
“We are proud to be able
to look back at such a long
history. And yes, it does
spring from the conflict
between lizardfolk and
humans.”
—a Blessed One of Hesinde
from H’Rabaal, 1040 FB
“Are you sure that these people
are pure-blooded humans? I have
heard that the few humans who
dwell here choose to mate with the
scaled beings…”
—an Albernian traveler, 1040 FB
Region: Deep South, Kingdom Brabak
Population: 1,100 (including 100 Forest Folk and 50 achaz),
plus a further 1,600 achaz and 200 Zilites in the surrounding
swamps
75
 Governance: A self-proclaimed king from the Charazzar
Dynasty
Temples: Chr’Ssir’Srr, Hesinde, H’Szint, Kha, Tsa/Zsahh;
plus many places of worship in the swamps
Trade and Industry: Many exotic herbs and plants from the
jungle, Iryan leather, gray H’Rabaal pearls
Characteristic Features: Countless ruins and remains of an
ancient lizardman culture; former holy city of the lizardfolk
with many temples, now overgrown by the jungle; shells of
giant turtles serve as dwellings for some; the ruling family
increasingly shows lizardfolk characteristics with each
passing generation.
Atmosphere in the City: Eccentric and unapproachable;
strained relations between humans and achaz
H’Rabaal is bordered on one side by thick rainforest and
on the other by a bog that contains the remains of ancient
buildings erected by the hands of the lizardfolk. The
Tulamydes conquered this ancient city more than 1,800
years ago but lost it afterwards. The Charazzar dynasty
ruled over this region for centuries, and the head of the
family still calls himself king even though the Kingdom
of Brabak annexed the city some time ago. Human and
lizardfolk customs have fused to the point that the
Twelvegods are hardly recognizable in the residents’
current form of worship. Only the occasional big game
hunter or rugged scholar searching for traces of the
lizardfolk strays into this place.
Jergan, the Occupied
“Hush! If one of the Velvet
Gauntlets hears you say that,
you will have more than the
armored fist of a Karmoth
Guard to worry about.”
—a Jergan fisherman,
1040 FB
“Life seems almost normal, aside
from the occasional brutality of
the Karmoth Guards, but that’s not
unusual with occupying forces. The
point is that I hardly see any signs of
demon worshipers anymore.”
—an informer to the Great Privy Councilor
of the Realm, 1040 FB
Region: Maraskan, Dark Hordes
Population: 10,000
Governance: A Commander of the Dark Hordes
Temples: Belhalhar, Belkelel, Borbarad; shrine to
Charyptoroth
Trade and Industry: Precious woods, exotic animals, herbs,
tea, spices
Characteristic Features: Oldest Maraskani city; Lily Throne
76 Chapter 3: Land and People
of the Maraskani kings; 218-yard tunnel connecting the
harbor with the city; numerous suspension bridges over
the river Hira
Atmosphere in the City: gratitude that business is booming;
misery, aggression, and resignation after long years of
occupation
Jergan, which lies at the heart of the territory of the Dark
Hordes, groans under the tyrannical rule of Admiral-
Commander Sarastro Dorstein and Commander Iradon
Kolenfeld, the two heirs of the notorious traitor, Prince-
Commander Helme Haffax. The terraced city lies in a
narrow valley, and the harbor connects to the city only by
a long tunnel. Many houses were built as towers, which are
often interconnected via bridges, because land was (and
remains) scarce within the city walls. The Red Legion and
the Karmoth Guard form the backbone of the occupying
forces, but the city is most strongly influenced by the
Blood Templars, a former Order of the Church of Rondra
that now worships demons. No other city is characterized
by so many uprisings against foreign domination, and
nowhere else on the island are revolts routinely put down
in such a bloody fashion.
Khunchom, the Never Sleeping
“The Pearl on the Mhanadi is
the true empress of the Lands
of the Tulamydes, sayid. One
who has been enthralled by
her scent, seduced by her
spiciness, and mesmerized
by her glamour is forever
addicted to her and will always
desire her presence.”
—a beauty from the Palace of
Sensual Delights, to a visitor,
1027 FB
“Even in the middle of the night this city
offers what I desire. I am impressed.”
—a Horasian comto, 1030 FB
Region: Tulamydian city-states, Grand Duchy of Khunchom
Population: 20,000 humans, including 5,500 Middenrealmers
and 900 Maraskani, plus several dozen dwarves
Governance: Grand Duke (currently Selo Kulibin)
Temples: Twelvegods (except Firun); Rastullah; Rur and
Gror; shrines of Aves, Swafnir, and Nandus; main temple
of Kor
Trade and Industry: Important river and sea harbor with
long-distance trade in all directions; spices (Khunchom
pepper); tea; Khunchom steel and weapons; artifacts;
alchemicae; important transfer point for wares from
Maraskan; many trading houses built their headquarters
here, to support the flow of goods from far and wide.
Characteristic Features: Dragon’s Egg Academy (mage
academy, gray, artifact mages), Adamant Press (famous
printing house), House of the Codex (main temple of Kor),
Healing Springs of Tsa, Palace Island, Maraskani quarter
(Astuzak), the annual All-Aventuria Meeting of Jesters
Atmosphere in the City: Colorful mixture of cultures;
cosmopolitan; bustling; lively; loud; fairytale-like
The city overlooks the scenic estuary of the Mhanadi just
like in a fable from a golden age. Khunchom is not only one
of the most important harbor cities on the Sea of Pearls,
it is also one of the oldest cities on the continent. It was
erected on the ruins of the lizardman city of Yash’Hualay
and has since grown into a cultural center and meeting
point for scholars and merchants from all across
Aventuria. The city had long been under the rule of the
Middenrealm, and before that, the Bosparans, but the city
has enjoyed independence for nearly 50 years now and has
rediscovered its Tulamydian heritage.
Particularly famous is the legendary Dragon’s Egg
Academy, an old mage’s school that has produced most of
the magical artifacts in Aventuria. Visitors to the massive
Temple of Tsa may view the Lizard’s Eye, a fist-sized
emerald with miraculous healing powers and a soothing
aura, or find relief in Tsa’s holy Healing Springs, a favorite
pilgrimage destination for the sick and lame.
Every year, at the beginning of the month of Boron,
countless jesters, storytellers, minstrels, and clowns
gather here to test their skills at the All-Aventuria Meeting
of Jesters. Naturally, this event attracts audiences from
near and far, and the city becomes quite crowded during
this time.
Kuslik, the Erudite
“There are three mage
academies in Kuslik, as well
as The Halls of Wisdom,
Hesinde’s main temple,
which houses the largest
library on the continent. If
you cannot find the answers
you desire in this beloved city
of Hesinde, then the knowledge
you seek simply does not exist.
—a Kuslikan scholar, 1036 FB
“Large and confusing. And while they
are open-minded with regards to trade,
they are restrictive in many other ways. Strange, since you
meet so many learned people on the streets. Maybe they are too
occupied with their own hobbyhorses. Perhaps I can still make
some coin here.”
—a vagabond from Havena, 1037 FB
Region: Horasian Empire, Yaquiria
Population: 40,000
Governance: The Horas as Grand Duke of Kuslik, however
the city council has far reaching liberties
Temples: Main temple of Hesinde. Temples of Efferd,
Peraine, Praios, Rahja, Rondra, Tsa, Travia, and Boron
(Boron’s temple is located outside the city, while the
temples to Praios, Rondra, and Ingerimm are found in the
fortress city of Rigalento); Hesinden abbey on the island
of Morrisca; many shrines and chapels of saints, demigods,
and Alveranians
Trade and Industry: Important transfer point between the
coast and the interior of the country; many large trading
houses; trade with Gyldenland; linen mills; supplies for
mages, scholars, and alchemists (paper mills, printing
presses, bookbinders, etc.); sea and river fishing
Characteristic Features: Halls of Wisdom (main temple of
Hesinde); Hall of Anti-Magic (mage academy, gray, court
mages and anti-magic mages); Hall of Metamorphoses
(one of the oldest mage academies in Aventuria, white,
transformation mages); Institute of Arcane Analyses (run
by the guild; researches magical phenomena); Alveranide
Castle; Hall of Fine Arts; Magical Theater of Visions and
Adventures (theater that makes use of illusion magic);
Imperial Kuslikan Carriage Factory (carriage makers);
headquarters of the Kuslikan Sea Mercenaries
Atmosphere in the City: Thanks to the presence of many
artists, scholars, and mages, the mood is erudite and
cosmopolitan, yet still very bourgeois
This city at the mouth of the Yaquir, the estuary of the
river into the Sea of Seven Winds, is a center of culture,
education, and wisdom. No wonder, as it supports the main
temple of Hesinde, no fewer than three mage research
academies, countless libraries, and museums. Printed
periodicals, books, and gazettes carry newfound knowledge
out into the world. The populace holds the arts in high
regard, and wealthy burghers congregate in theaters and
galleries, or else in salons and lodges for private meetings.
As the largest harbor city on the west coast, Kuslik is the
focal point for trading with Gyldenland and a major transfer
point for wares from all over the world, which flow inland
from here. With so much money streaming into the city, it
is no wonder that the affluent pay the merciless Kuslikan
Sea Mercenaries to protect them. The unit’s battle cry,
“For Kor, for Kuslik!” is feared for many leagues around.
77
 Kvirasim, Tolerant Elven City Region: Svellt Valley
“Come on, we can talk about it.” Population: 11,500 humans, 500 dwarves, 500 elves
—a glade elf from Kvirasim to an Governance: Free city-state governed by a City Master and a
exhausted hero, 1035 FB Council of Magisters, tribute payments made to the orcs of
the Aikar Brazoragh twice a year
“I have never seen such Temples: All Twelvegods (only a shrine to Rondra)
harmony. And I hope I will Trade and Industry: Iron, silver, pelts, livestock, horses
never will again.” (Svellt Valley Heavy Horses), many workshops, several
—a Koshan mercenary, trading houses
1035 FB Characteristic Features: Academy of Shaping (mage academy,
gray, transformation mages); Hall of Might (mage academy,
Region: Elven Lands black, influence mages); castle of the gray mages of the
Population: 750, including Ordo Defensores Lecturia (or ODL), a.k.a. the Order of Gray
approximately 500 wood elves, Staves; significant number of horse breeding stables (Svellt
some glade and half elves, and a few Valley Heavy Horses)
humans Atmosphere in the City: Steadfast and stubborn; worldly;
Governance: None, problems are discussed and solved by constantly looking for allies against the orcs; clearly
the community as a whole saddened by the destruction of Deepenborg
Temples: Peraine
Trade and Industry: Elven wares of all kinds, especially Lowangen views itself as an outpost of civilization in the
cotton, leather goods, and carvings; rarely, weapons such stricken Svellt Valley. They adhere to the customs of the
as elven bows Middenrealm even though they are very proud of their
Characteristic Features: The city consists almost entirely hard-won freedom. This heavily fortified city, which stands
of wood elven tree dwellings, plus a few pile dwellings of on a defensible island in the Svellt River, successfully
the glade elves and a log cabin that houses the Temple of weathered a years-long siege and always prevailed against
Peraine the depredations the orcs. However, Lowangen has
Atmosphere in the City: Characterized by serenity, tolerance, been forced to pay tributes to the orcs for almost thirty
and peaceful co-habitation; the community banishes years. Some burghers view this as the lesser of two evils,
troublemakers compared to orc rule over humans. Trade flourishes thanks
to the city’s ideal location and today it is one of the most
Kvirasim is a remarkable place. A large part of the important centers of commerce in the north. The city’s
settlement consists of tree houses and pile dwellings that residents were deeply shocked by the orcs’ destruction
are almost unrecognizable as such by the average traveler. of Deepenborg in 1039 FB, and while many burghers feel
The city’s few human residents have adapted to the secure behind their formidable city walls, others believe
lifestyle of the elves. Peaceful and harmonic co-habitation that the doom of the city is nigh.
characterizes life in this city. In no other place can one
experience such close contact with the elves, trade with
them, and purchase unique elven crafts (everything from
Mendena, the Maltreated
“We cannot keep up, but
flutes to elven bows).
I promise this at least:
by year’s end, the largest
Lowangen, Free Trading City blights will have been
“Everything would be easier razed to the ground.”
if not for the orcs. We —the fortress steward of
would still be the head of Mendena, 1040 FB
the Svellt League of Towns
and our coin purses would “I hardly recognize the city. If
practically fill themselves.” the good gods are willing, may
—a Lowangan merchant, much of what I have seen here
1036 FB quickly disappear again.”
—an old Tobriennen knight,
“Remarkable that they held out 1040 FB
so long. They are quite smart, this
town of shopkeepers. May the gods let Region: Middenrealm, Duchy of Tobrien
them continue to buy off the orcs and Population: 6,000
save them from the fate of Deepenborg!” Governance: A fortress steward, appointed by the
—a Griffonsford courier, 1040 FB Tobriennen duke, who oversees the reconstruction of
the city

78 Chapter 3: Land and People

Temples: Boron (Al’Anfan rite), Efferd, Rondra, Tsa, Travia,
Ingerimm; shrine to Hesinde; shrine to Praios (since the
liberation of the city)
Trade and Industry: Center of long-distance trade on
the Tobrien coast; ship construction; fishing; textile
fabrication; brewing of beer
Characteristic Features: Signs of the Dark Hordes’ occupation
(which have not yet been cleared away); the Golden House;
the Arena Aquatica; the Living Wharf; the Borbaradial; the
Officer’s Academy for Strategy and Army Command, and
the Army Academy for Invocation and Unified Magic (mage
academy, no guild, combat mages), both since closed
Atmosphere in the City: Trading city devastated by a military
campaign in which the Tobriennens pursued every option
to erase the traces of demon worship
Mendena used to be the capital of the Dark Hordes of
Tobimora. It is a flourishing harbor town and has grown in
the last twenty years to triple its initial size. The storming
of Mendena, led by Empress Rohaja against strong Dark
Horde resistance, resulted in heavy damage to the city.
Blessed Ones, Tobriennens, and Imperial contractors work
feverishly to erase all traces of the occupation by the
servants of Borbarad, a task that will keep them occupied
for a long time. Entire sections of this old county seat were
demolished during the occupation and rebuilt by demons.
The new buildings’ bizarre architectural motifs still
dominate the urban landscape where they stand in strange
contrast to the old half-timbered houses. Meanwhile, the
lowland quarters of the city slowly sink into the mud.
Mengbilla, City of Assassins
“Gotcha!”
—a Mengbillan assassin,
1039 FB
“Why does the wine have a
metallic aftertaste?”
—a Drôlan plantation owner,
1039 FB
Region: City-states of the south,
Grand Emirate of Mengbilla
Population: 5,500 within the city
proper, plus 6,000 freemen and
15,000 slaves in the suburbs
Governance: nominally, a Grand Emirate
under the rule of the Grand Emir; however, cartels
disguised as guilds and the high priest of the temple of
Boron wield most of the power.
Temples: Boron (originally Al’Anfan rite), Efferd, Hesinde,
Rahja
Trade and Industry: Perfumed oils; poisons; purple dye;
slaves; silk taffeta; dreaming herbs; Mengbillan Fire (fuel
oil), and many other alchemicae
Characteristic Features: Infamous slave market; drug and
poison market; many brothels; famous purple dye works
Atmosphere in the City: Unpredictable and dangerous;
melting pot of scum from Tulamydian and Horasian lands;
however, it only seems like everything is allowed
Aventurian popular conception holds that conditions in
Mengbilla are chaotic and godless, and everything wicked
is permissible. The harbor city on the Nordask River is
infamous for its slave market but even more so for its
assassins and preparers of poison. It is no wonder that
one of the most abhorred weapons, a dagger with a poison
groove, is known as a mengbilar. Despite the perceived
chaos, the city actually bows beneath a very rigid and
extremely unjust legal system controlled by the influential
guilds. Visitors must constantly re-purchase their rights as
citizens or forfeit their freedom and become slaves. The
belief system of the Mengbillans is also unique: Boron is
worshiped as first of the nine accepted gods (the churches
of Praios and Phex are outlawed (the former temple of
Praios has been converted into a bath house, a couple of
taverns, and a brothel; the worship of Phex continues, but
only in secret).
Neetha, the White Watch
“Yes, I know that Saint
Thalionmel fought for the
Twelvegods here, but let us
come back to the price for
the passage to Rethis.”
—a sea merchant from
Neetha, 1040 FB
“The White Watch, finally. Hang
on, wait, isn’t that one of the cults
of unbelievers from the desert?
What’s the meaning of this?”
—a Rondranian pilgrim from
Almada, 1038 FB
Region: Horasian Empire, Chababia
Population: 9,000
Governance: Countess of Chababia, who resides in the Curia
Temples: Boron, Efferd, Hesinde, Phex, Praios (including a
shrine to Horas), Rahja, Rondra, Tsa; chapel to Ingerimm
Trade and Industry: Glass; wood; marble; olive oil; horses;
porcelain; salt; tobacco; weapons; bustling sea trade
Characteristic Features: Pilgrim’s Temple of Saint
Thalionmel; Chabab bridge; castle of the Rondranian Order
of the Ardarites; castle of the Ordo Defensores Lecturia (ODL),
a gray magic order also known as the Gray Staves; Grand
School of Cavalry (warrior academy)
Atmosphere in the City: Steeped in tradition; temperamental;
a mixture of industriousness and pride for Rondra’s Saint
Thalionmel
79
 Neetha, the “White Watch against the Unbelievers,” is a
harbor and trading city at the mouth of the Chabab River.
Residents view the city and its countless white marble
buildings as a bright cultural jewel in the otherwise
uncivilized south of the Horasian Empire. They venerate
the Rondranian saint Thalionmel for her lion-like defense
of the city against the Novadi hordes that invaded from
the Khôm Desert more than 400 years ago. A thermal bath
in the Thalionmel Ford became an important pilgrimage
destination when some children recovered the saint’s
sword from its waters. Despite this strong association with
Rondra, Neetha exhibits a colorful blending of cultures and
an air of Phexian salesmanship.
Norbury, City of Gongs
“Yes, there are advantages to
letting traders run the town,
but let’s be honest. When
the goblins come knocking
at your door, you’ll wish the
Count and his knights were
still here.”
—a Bronnjar from Norbury,
1039 FB
“If it weren’t for all those
merchants from the north, especially
the Norbards, who regularly stop here,
this city would never see me again.”
—a carriage driver for the Kolenbrander
Trading House, 1037 FB
Region: Bornland
Population: 3,000, including approximately 100 Norbards
and Nivese (entire tribes camp here in winter)
Governance: Burgomistress
Temples: Hesinde, Ifirn, Praios, Rondra, Peraine
Trade and Industry: Honey, horses (Norbury Giants), pelts,
long-distance trade with north Aventuria
Characteristic Features: Hall of Life (mage academy, white,
healing mages); Statue of Rondra; breeding of Norbury
Giants (heavy horses); chapterhouse of the Marbides;
winter campsite for Nivesean karan herders and several
Norbard tribes; different gongs sound throughout the day
Atmosphere in the City: Bustling, trade-related optimism;
locals have mixed feelings about all the strangers who pass
through the city
Life in secluded Norbury is typically rather dull. However,
this trade center is important to the Bornland region of
Seweria and serves as a counterbalance to Festum. Norbury
has experienced a significant upturn since overland trade
picked up. The city is one of the oldest original Norbardean
settlements, but few of the original buildings have stood
the test of time. Most of the town’s houses and palisades
are made of wood, and the region’s lengthy dry spells raise
80 Chapter 3: Land and People
the risk of fire. One of Norbury’s most unique features is its
numerous gongs, spread all over the city, which attendants
ring periodically throughout the day and during special
events.
Nostria, Capital of Fishermen
“Our queen will restore us to our
pride of old. Long live Nostria!”
—a Nostrian grand burgher,
1039 FB
“Behind the public splendor lies
a deep-rooted insecurity and
brewing schism. The nobility is
estranged, the queen hesitant,
and the customs are downright
archaic.”
—a Horasian scholar, 1039 FB
Region: Kingdom of Nostria
Population: 6,000
Governance: Queen Yolande II of Nostria, represented by a
steward
Temples: Boron, Efferd, Peraine, Rahja, Rondra, Travia, Tsa;
numerous shrines, including a large shrine to Rondra in
the royal castle
Trade and Industry: Minor but growing sea trade; fishing
(especially of flounder-like Saltarels); boat building;
numerous workshops; daily market in Freedom Square
Characteristic Features: Stone of Nostria in Freedom Square,
spacious royal castle with bewildering architecture; the
Academy of Light and Darkness (just outside of the city;
mage, academy, white, object); street after street of
abandoned houses and dilapidated mansions that once
housed wealthy burghers.
Atmosphere in the City: Conservative and backwards;
patriotic; newly hopeful after a long period of grim
decline; optimism as many things are repaired or restored
to working order.
Nostria sits at the confluence of the Tommel River and the
Sea of Seven Winds. At first glance, it may look proud and
affluent, but its gloriously decorated facades hide a city
in decline. The city’s harbor, once an important transfer
point for many kinds of wares, is rapidly silting up and the
warehouses now often stand empty.
The city is still recovering from a terrible plague, the Blue
Wheeze, which killed a quarter of the population in the year
1027 FB and wiped out entire families. The disease’s effects
can still be felt, but ever since the young and inexperienced
mage Yolande ascended to the throne, Nostrians have gone
about their daily work with enthusiasm. The aristocracy,
who proudly refer to themselves as Bombasts, try to outdo
each other in terms of pomp and showiness at court, and
they regard even slow progress with suspicion.
Olport, the Old Region: Far North, Duchy of Paavi
“Olafjord is the first settlement of Population: 4,000, including approximately 1,000 Nivese and
our ancestors in Aventuria. The Norbards
Hjaldings landed here under the Governance: Duke Dermot the Younger of Paavi
command of Jurga Tjalfsdottir Temples: Efferd, Firun, Travia; shrine to Peraine
after a long voyage. Her great saga Trade and Industry: Whale products; pelts; carvings of horn
is related in the Song of Jurga.” and bone; sulfur; obsidian; theriac; diamonds; gold
—an Olport skald teacher Characteristic Features: Remains of Glorana’s Ice Palace;
from Drakkenhalla, in an numerous manifestations of lightning at the Thunderstorm
address to students, 1035 Tower. The harbor is open only between the months of
Rahja and Efferd, as bad weather seals it off the rest of the
“It is exciting to see how the city just grew over time. A traveler year.
won’t find much of a city here, but he can count on finding the Atmosphere in the City: newfound optimism, now that the
typically rough Thorwalian cordiality.” city has thrown off the yoke of Geldana, the duke’s evil
—a Blessed One of Aves, 1035 FB sister, but many wounds still need to heal.

Region: Thorwal This capital of the small Duchy in the Far North was long
Population: 2,700, including approximately 1,100 people of mixed held by the servants of the Ice Witch Glorana and ruled by
Nivesean and Norbardean ancestry, plus about 50 firnelves the cruel despot Geldana, the disloyal sister of the duke.
Governance: Hetman and the Folkhjalding (council of free After her defeat, her disciples fled the city and peace
men and women) returned. From the mighty ducal castle of Dermot the
Temples: Swafnir, Ifirn/Firun, Efferd, Travia Younger, a serious man, rules over a. The city supports
Trade and Industry: Dog breeding (Black Olporter); chalk; itself primarily from whaling, and its harbor turns blood
mead; weapons; snow badger breeding red when workers dismember the huge animals in Flense
Characteristic Features: Whale-shaped Temple of Swafnir Square. The harbor freezes over during the winter, at
with a long history; Eternal Ice Crystal in the Temple of which time people can only reach the city by land, but
Ifirn; skald school in the Hall of Winds; Runajasko (mage such a trip is very arduous at this time of year. Now and
academy, no guild, ship and rune mages); Efferd’s Pillar then some daring people set out from Paavi in search of
(the dangerous harbor entrance) the treasures of the north.
Atmosphere in the City: Hospitable; rough; emphasis on
traditional Thorwalian values Perricum, City of Rondra
“They hurt us, yes, but we
The Hjaldings, ancestors of modern Thorwalers, first set will make sure this can
foot on Aventuria at the point where the Nader meets the never happen again. In
Sea of Seven Winds. Their stories say that the god-whale Rondra’s name!”
Swafnir led them safely over the ocean. Only experienced —an Ardarite from
seafarers reach the harbor of Olport undamaged, for Perricum, 1040 FB
without the help of a knowledgeable guide, the steep
cliffs and hidden reefs of the harbor entrance are nearly “Truly, the Church of Rondra
impassable. Many alleys of the city are reinforced with should reveal the splendor of
boardwalks, as the meltwater turns the ground into deep the Lion’s Castle to the outside
mud in spring. Olporters take great pride in the Runajasko, world.”
an academy that studies ancient Thorwalian rune magic —a Blessed One of Praios from
and teaches elementalism in concert with firnelf mages. Griffonsford, 1036 FB

Paavi, the Frigid Region: Middenrealm, Margravate of Perricum

“Finally we can get back to doing Population: 13,000
what we do best, without fear of Governance: A councilor for the magistrate; also, seat of
attack from ice creatures.” Rondrigan Paligan, the margrave/husband to the Empress
—a whaler from Paavi, 1039 FB Temples: Boron, Efferd, Hesinde, Ingerimm, Phex, Praios,
Rahja; main temple of Rondra
“They have established themselves Trade and Industry: Middenrealm’s most important harbor
well, considering that they live at on the Sea of Pearls; numerous workshops around the
the end of the world. Now, if only harbor entrance; famous armor smithy
they could do something about this
constant wind…”
—a trader from Riva, 1040 FB

81
 Characteristic Features: Lion’s Castle (Seat of the Sword of
Swords, the head of the Church of Rondra); Long Walls of
Perricum (city walls); Saint Leomar Temple (main temple of
the Church of Rondra); School of Exorcism (mage academy,
white, anti-magic mages); home base of the Sea of Pearls
fleet; Fleet Academy for Sea Warfare and Discovery; order
branches of the Orders of Draconites, Noionites, Ardarites,
and Gray Staves (sealed); ruins of the old Nebachot
Atmosphere in the City: Confident harbor city; pride of
tradition; long-time bastion against the Shadowlands and
the Blood Sea
This harbor city on the Sea of Pearls, formerly called
Nebachot, is a storied place. Here the Nebachotes, an
offshoot of the Tulamydes, long prevailed against the
Bosparan Empire until the legendary hero Leomar
destroyed the walls of the city with the Holy Trumpets of
Rondra. The city is still characterized by its deep devotion
to the goddess, while the Nebachotian tribal warriors of
the region remain loyal to her godly son, Kor.
Perricum is the site of the main Church of Rondra and
also the home of the eastern fleet of the Middenrealm.
It served as the base of operations in the war against the
Shadowlands until Prince-Commander Helme Haffax
attacked the city in 1040 FB. Perricum was liberated from
the grip of the Heptarch only after many bloody campaigns,
and the people, whose sense of community has suffered
deep wounds, still labor to rebuild their city. With the
Heptarchs’ defeated, Perricum has become an important
port of call for the Middenrealm, but the influx of so many
different peoples from around the realm increasingly leads
to friction in the streets and alleyways.
Phexcaer, City of Thieves
“If you pay me, I will protect you.”
—a gang member from
Phexcaer, 1039 FB
“It’s not worth the trouble. What
is there for me to steal here?”
—a Garethian thief, 1039 FB
Region: Free human city in the
Orclands
Population: 1,500
Governance: Magistrate elected by the
gang leaders
Temples: Peraine, Phex; shrine to Ifirn;
temple of the Golden One
Trade and Industry: Pelts; wares from Thorwal (uncommon);
exotic goods that adventurers bring to the city
Characteristic Features: The largest temple of Phex in
82 Chapter 3: Land and People
Aventuria; cult of the Golden God; gangs rule everyday life
Atmosphere in the City: Bustling, loud, and optimistic despite
the devastation wrought by the orcs
According to legend, a giant named Orc-eater helped
defend the city against the orc onslaught in 1029 FB,
which caused much death and destruction. Since then,
strongmen and corrupt officials have ruled the city, and
gangs control the various aspects of city management.
Travelers must often pay a “walking fee” to one or more of
the many gangs to pass freely in the city. Even so, Phexcaer
is a point of departure for expeditions to the north, and
many adventurers set out from this city of Phex in search
of the legendary Orc Hoard, the myth-enshrouded treasure
chamber of the fox god.
Port Stoerrebrandt, the Colonial City
“Many explorers sail in this
region, but we were here first,
and we are the most successful!
We Stoerrebrandts are like
that, after all.”
—a spice merchant from
Port Stoerrebrandt, 1038 FB
“Efferd, I thank you for the Sea
Wolves, who saved me from the
pirate scum so I could steer my
battered ship to safe waters.”
—a captain from Hôt-Alem, 1038 FB
Region: Islands of the Far South
Population: 1,000
Governance: A governor administrates the city for the
Stoerrebrandt Trading House.
Temples: Efferd, Rondra, Travia; shrine to Phex; shrine to
Swafnir
Trade and Industry: Colonial wares (especially spices and
dyes)
Characteristic Features: Monumental port facilities; the
smell of spice everywhere; garrison of the Sea Wolves
(Festum’s pirate hunters)
Atmosphere in the City: Industrious, gods-fearing, and
prudent; nostalgia for the northern regions (their ancestral
home), but pride in everything they have achieved
Port Stoerrebrandt, located on a spice island called Iltoken,
is one of the oldest colonial cities in the Southern Sea
and the only safe harbor in the Forest Islands. Its berths
welcome any ship, save for pirate vessels of the Black
Serpent. The Bornlandish Stoerrebrandt Trading House
owns the island and the city, which is a transfer point for
spices and dyes being shipped to all parts of Aventuria.
Punin, the Heart of Almada
“Punin was the capital
of the realm under the
Moon Emperors, and it
shall be again! Just look
at our magnificent city,
full of wealth, beauty, and
learning. Vivat Almada!”
—an Almadan Soberan
(head of a family), 1038 FB
“The gate to the Lands of the
Tulamydes. If you wish to conduct
trade, there is no going around Punin.
The people there are quite similar to us
in character, but they have loose tongues and
rapiers, even more than in our southern regions.”
—a Horasian merchant, 1029 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Principality Almada
Population: 27,500, including 2,500 Tulamydes and Novadi,
plus approximately 200 elves and 200 dwarves
Governance: An Alderman; when in residence, Prince Gwain
of Harmamouth
Temples: Twelvegods (except Firun); shrines to Marbo,
Mada, Nandus, Aves, and Etilia; Rastullah house of prayer
Trade and Industry: Important center of commerce on the
Yaquir River; many merchants make their home here;
region attracts many scholars and famous artisans
Characteristic Features: Main temple of the northern Church
of Boron (Punin rite); main temple of Tsa; Eslamidian
Residence (old royal palace); Mada thermal baths; gladiator
school; arena for horse and chariot races; Yaquir Stage
(theater); Academy of High Magic (mage academy, gray,
clairvoyance and meta mages); numerous chapter houses
(especially with a Boronian background); Therbûnites
hospital; Royal War College (warrior academy)
Atmosphere in the City: Colorful mix of Middenrealmers,
Horasians, Tulamydes, and Novadi, but not without
friction; full of joy and life; prideful and valiant
This affluent city on the banks of the Yaquir is today the
capital of the Principality of Almada. Sciences, arts, magic,
and religion flourish here. Punin is a meeting ground
for Horasian, Middenrealmish, Tulamydian, and Novadi
culture, and all inspire and antagonize one another. This
melting pot of cultures also encourages the presence of
many churches and cults. A few buildings from the days
of Bosparan settlement still stand, and many nobles, who
call themselves Magnates, still think back wistfully to
the time when Punin was the capital of Almada under its
own king. The city’s tradition-steeped mage academy is
famous for its groundbreaking magical research and the
unworldliness of its graduates.
Rashdul, the Inestimably Old
“Rashdul is just like a sharisad,
a thrilling Tulamydian dancer:
cheerful in the mornings, quiet
at noon, and magnificent in the
evenings.”
—a Rashdulan merchant of
date wine, 1028 FB
“It is said that the djinn of the
wizard sultan prowl through the city
at night, spying for their master. Such
power impresses me, but I find it disgusting at
the same time.”
—a mage from Punin, 1035 FB
Region: Tulamydian city-states, Sultanate Goria (nominally
part of the Caliphate)
Population: 8,500, including 6,000 Tulamydes and 2,500
Novadi, plus a handful of Middenrealmers and dwarves
Governance: Mageocracy under Hasrabal ben Yakuban, who
is usually represented by one of his sons
Temples: Phex, Rahja, Rastullah, Boron (both sects),
Hesinde; numerous shrines to ancestors
Trade and Industry: Rice; pepper; carpets; Rashdulan
Winding Horns (mountain cattle); parchment; glass;
weapons; armor
Characteristic Features: The ancient Pentagram Academy
(mage academy, gray, invocation); School of the High
Tulamydan Art of Fighting (school for journeymen of the
sword); Alabaster Palace of the Sultans; watcher golem
at the old bridge; old sewer system underneath the city;
numerous rock tombs
Atmosphere in the City: Loud, lively, and very traditionally
Tulamydian; marked by magnanimous tolerance between
cultures and religions
Rashdul is the living embodiment of everything mentioned
in Tulamydian lore. This ancient city, with its red and
yellow walls and tall, onion-domed towers, rises between
the floodplains of the Mhanadi and the steep, barren cliffs.
The gleaming white Alabaster Palace, which looks out over
the city from the cliff top, is surrounded by walls that have
never have been breached. Djinn of the ancient mage,
Sultan Hasrabal of Goria, prowl the alleys and bazaars of
the city seeking knowledge of his enemies. His wife, Shanja
Eshila, is regarded as one of the most beautiful women in
the Lands of the Tulamydes, despite her advanced age.
Inhabitants of the city treat the invokers of the Pentagram
Academy with respect, as the mightiest of them act only at
the sultan’s command.
83
 Rethis, the Radiant
“There is room here for everyone.
Anyone who wants honest work
can find it. No one goes hungry!
What are your skills? Oh, um,
you probably came here to buy
something, didn’t you?”
—an alchemist from Rethis,
1039 FB
“A fresh breeze from the sea, the
smell of pines and cedars, and the
mouthwatering aroma from dozens of
restaurants… This is a good place to live!”
—a traveling Blessed One of Hesinde from
Kuslik, 1039 FB
Region: Horasian Empire, Sea Kingdom Cyclopes Islands
Population: 3,000
Governance: Three Ephores (court magistrates) of the Sea
King, Palamydas Thaliyin
Temples: Efferd, Praios, Tsa, shrine to Peraine, shrine to
Thimorn of Rethis (Ingerimm holy architect)
Trade and Industry: Sea trade; ship construction; olives; fuel
oil; ores such as vermilion, lead, iron, and silver; purple
dye; earthenware containers; wool weaving; production
of Hylailan Fire (weapon similar to Greek Fire) and other
alchemicae
Characteristic Features: Colossus of Rethis (bronze lighthouse
in the shape of a cyclops); palace of the sea king A’Laÿis
Hiphon; wharf of the sea king; Mother Rondra (warrior
academy); famous alchemists’ workshops; stone tablets of
Tykates (preserved legends); prison fortress Merymakon
Atmosphere in the City: Joy that trade is flourishing; relief at
having escaped the worst of the Succession War
The whitewashed, red-tiled houses stand out on the hills
and the sea glitters brightly in the sun as one sails past the
Colossus of Rethis into the most important harbor in the
Cyclopes Sea. Many ships berth at the city to rest during
the lengthy voyage along the Horasian coast. Reasonable
trade tariffs and port fees have brought the city of the
sea king moderate wealth, but business is booming and
there is always work to do in the shops and wharves. Many
buildings date back to the days of Bosparan, and Rethis is
a popular leisure destination, especially for Horasians, due
to its many culinary delights and its rich history.
84 Chapter 3: Land and People
Riva, Trading Harbor of the North
“Times change, it’s that simple.
But this doesn’t mean that
things usually get worse. Phex
be praised, our coffers always
fill up.”
—a merchant prince from
Riva, 1039 FB
“Finally, a city in the north that
deserves its nickname.”
—a traveler from Havena, 1038 FB
Region: Free city of the north
Population: 4,000
Governance: Free city, governed by a city
council
Temples: Efferd, Firun, Phex, Travia, Tsa
Trade and Industry: Leather wares; pelts; nacre (mother-
of-pearl); salt; salt fish; wool; elven and Nivesean wares;
whaling-related smuggling
Characteristic Features: Stoerrebrandt College (mage academy,
gray, clairvoyance; also produces mage bodyguards); many
merchant houses and trade offices; encampment of the
Thorfinn Ottajasko before the gates of the city; Nivesean
sanctum of Nivilaukaju in close proximity to the city; reed
bog south of Riva
Atmosphere in the City: Friction between natives and
the intrusive prospectors who flocked to the city after
adventurers discovered treasure in the wetlands
Riva, located on the gulf of the same name, is surrounded by
mighty walls and protected by a proud castle that watches
over both harbor and city. It is a bastion of civilization in the
wilderness. Due to the many changes in the north, this once-
quiet trading city has transformed. Many routes on the sea
are now closed, but new land and river routes have newly
opened. Whaling is illegal thanks to Thorwalian influence,
but smugglers still secretly trade in whalebone, meat, and
oil. The arrival of so many treasure hunters shifted power
into the hands of wealthy merchants and speculators, but the
local burghers have not abandoned their fight to maintain
order in the city. Riva remains the most important port in
the north and the best place to equip oneself when setting
out for the Far North or even when seeking to unearth
treasures from the great reed bogs to the south.
Rommilys, the Faithful
“Our homes have survived once
again. I implore you—honor the
goddess of the hearth fire and
the benevolent Travia will always
protect you.”
—a Blessed One of Travia from
Rommilys, 1040 FB
“The disparaging looks of those adherents of Travia make me
quite nervous.”
—a Blessed One of Rahja from Belhanka, 1038 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Margravate of the Rommilysian
Marches
Population: 10,000, plus a few dozen dwarves
Governance: City steward appointed by the Holy Couple of
the Church of Travia; residence of Margravine Swantje of
Ravenmouth
Temples: Twelvegods (main temple of Travia); Angrosh
Trade and Industry: Leather wares; paper; parchment; tools;
weapons
Characteristic Features: Temple of Peace Emperor Yulag
(main temple of the Church of Travia); chapter houses for
the Mephaliates (main chapter house), Badilakans, and the
Order of the Banishing Ray; Information Institute (mage
academy, white, clairvoyance mages); Fire Lily School
(warrior academy); extensive, well-designed sewer system;
each quarter of the city enforces its own variation on the
central legal system
Atmosphere in the City: Unwavering faithfulness to Travia;
conservative; stubbornly optimistic
This city of proud burghers prizes the virtues of hospitality
and spousal fidelity above all others, traits that are
pleasing to their patron goddess Travia. But times have not
always been rosy. After many battles and a long siege, the
army of Prince-Commander Helme Haffax sacked the city,
plundered its wealth, and damaged or destroyed countless
houses and temples. The struggle to provide for the many
hundreds of disabled veterans and hundreds more war
orphans has proved daunting for the city and the Church of
Travia. Reconstruction is progressing under the leadership
of the Margravine, but it will take many years to heal the
terrible scars of war and restore the city’s quaint, half-
timbered houses and strong walls to their former glory.
Selem, the Ruinous
“No one can essssszcape
thisssssz place – there are
shackelsssssz here, which
bind more than just body
and ssssszoul.”
—an achaz local, 1036 FB
“I must get out of here! Distorted
shadows scurrying through the
night, the never-ending hissing of
the neighbors, and the itching! Gods,
I get rashes just from the sweltering
heat… and humans and lizardfolk
interbreed here!”
—a scholar from the University of Methumis, 1038 FB
Region: Lizard Swamps
Population: Approximately 3,800 (about 2,750 in the inner
city and 350 in Old Elem), including about 500 achaz and
200 Novadi
Governance: King of Kings Ghulsev XXIX, Council of
Harbormasters (in the harbor quarter)
Temples: Boron (Al’Anfan rite), Efferd, Peraine/Tsa,
Satuaria/Satinav, H’Szint, Rastullah (outside the city);
multiple, diverse secret temples to strange gods and idols
Trade and Industry: Lumber; rice; spices; healing herbs;
poisonous plants; tortoise shells; Iryan leather
Characteristic Features: Palace of the King of Kings; Hall of
Final Secrets (mage academy, abandoned); Silem-Horas
Library; Noionites Abbey (in the Szinto Valley); Amhas
Stair (former Dark Portal, ends on a cliff face); Shr’Szint
(lizardfolk sanctum to H’Szint); many other mysterious
places; nearly impassable island terrain in some areas
Atmosphere in the City: Dull sluggishness, madness, and
decay
This decrepit and dilapidated harbor town on the Szinto
estuary is reputedly the home of maniacs and addicts.
Centuries ago, a gigantic tidal wave destroyed the
flourishing port of Elem when a star fell out of the heavens.
Today all that remains of that magnificent city is a few
moldy ruins. All that remains of the collection of the once
enormous Silem-Horas Library are those records that not
yet decayed or been eaten by pests. The waterfront is a
checkerboard of small islands, and even though there are
many foreign merchant houses here, there is hardly any
profit in the city. Humans and lizardfolk coexist in a city
whose old walls still hide treasures and ancient secrets.
Whispers hint that the blood of lizardfolk flows in the veins
of the old families of the city, and that they worship sinister
idols and perform human sacrifices. Treasure hunters and
scholars with a thirst for knowledge occasionally set out to
search the swamps, inlets and marshy ruins in the Selem,
looking for long lost artifacts or old secrets of wizardry
or chimerology. Most lose their sanity, and some never
return at all.
Sinoda, the Sting
“We stand against the
Dark Hordes, but I cannot
explain what our brothers
and sisters in Tuzak and
Boran are up to. They talk
much of independence and
kingdoms. Hah!”
—a female warrior of the
Haran, 1035 FB
“Someone should have warned me!
A ridiculously huge swarm of insects
attacked my ship. They ate entire boards
off the deck, and even devoured half of the
85
 mast! I don’t care if these Aldec bugs are named after one of the
Priest Emperors! We cannot afford to meet them again!”
—a ship captain from Zorgan, 1037 FB
Region: Maraskan, Shîkanyad
Population: 10,500
Governance: A Haran
Temples: Rur and Gror; shrines to Boron (Al’Anfan rite) and
Phex
Trade and Industry: Pearls; alabaster; tobacco; plants and
rare herbs of the jungle
Characteristic Features: Seat of the Alabaster Council; School
of Fourfold Transformation (mage academy, gray, anti-
magic and transformation); Abudijian Theater; Alabaster
Residence of the Haran
Atmosphere in the City: Pride on becoming the capital of Free
Maraskan; sadness for having lost the simplicity of small-
town life
Sinoda was a sleepy fishing village before the Borbaradians
occupied Maraskan. Only Sinoda remained free, so it
became the de facto capital of the Shîkanyad and the seat
of the Alabaster Council. These days, dozens of relatively
new, redbrick towers stand next to old, white washed
houses within the spacious city walls, and the place
has long since lost its idyllic charm. The Kladj district is
strongly flavored by political debates. Daring mortals often
set out from here to hunt horrors in the jungle or combat
the servants of Dark Maraskan.
Thorwal, City of the Hjaldings
“This has been the starting point for
many great expeditions and also
the legendary sailing races
between Asleif Phileasson
and Beorn the Blinder.
Only we Thorwalers could
do something like this—
and we have more deeds
yet to accomplish!”
—a member of the
Windbinder Ottajasko,
1036 FB
“It feels like a real city. I could get used to this place. The only
thing that reminds you of Thorwal is all those longhouses on the
east side. Interesting, but I’ll take a modern house, thank you.”
—a sailor from Harben, 1037 FB
Region: Thorwal
Population: 12,500 (considerably more in winter), 100 orcs,
50 goblins
Governance: Folk Council and Council of Captains together
with the Hetman of the Bodir and the Highest Hetwoman
(currently Jurga Trondesdottir)
Temples: Swafnir, Efferd, Ingerimm, Phex, Peraine, Travia, Tsa
Trade and Industry: Central trading hub for the Aventurian
north; exports include amber, silver and bronze
ornaments, pitch, tar, waterproof leather ropes, sea tiger
ivory, soapstone, wool cloth, pelts, and fish
Characteristic Features: School of Clairvoyance (mage
academy, gray, clairvoyance mages); Map Library (largest
collection of accurate coastal maps in Aventuria); Orc’s
village; Ugdalfskronir (warrior academy) in the old fortress
of the same name; bi-annual Highest Hjalding (meeting of
Jarls and Hetpeople); spirited Hesinden disputes in the
mage academy
Atmosphere in the City: In the summer, direct and cordial, in
the winter, polite, even though the city is quite crowded
Thorwal is the largest Thorwaler settlement and also
the seat of the Highest Hetwoman. The city consists of
three parts, each different in character: the cliff with the
Hall of the Hetpeople and the Map Library; the City of
Strangers, where foreigners live in their half-timbered and
stone houses; and the East City, which consists mostly of
traditional longhouses with artfully carved beams.
The city brims with the hustle and bustle of life in summer.
Ships from different regions constantly load and unload,
and it seems like there is no end to the work and the profit.
Many crews winter here, and the skalds sing sagas of great
heroes at the hearth fires of the Ottajaskos.
Trallop, the Watchful
“We are the heart and mind of
the Duchy!”
—a Knight of the Bear
(ducal guard), 1038 FB
“Pardon me? Did you say there
are no inns here? Is this some
kind of joke?”
—an Albernian knight,
1033 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Duchy
Weiden
Population: 6,000
Governance: A master of the city (representative of Duchess
Walpurga of Lionhead, who resides in Bear Castle), as well
as the Seal Council of Guilds and Trade Associations
Temples: Boron, Firun, Peraine, Phex, Praios, Travia, Rahja,
Rondra
Trade and Industry: Different workshops, especially
leatherworkers, smiths, and rope makers; horse breeding
(especially Tralloper Giants, which originated here);
Kolenbrander Merchant and Carriage House
Characteristic Features: Three mighty castles: Bear Castle
(the ducal seat), Old Fortress (old castle of the count), and

86 Chapter 3: Land and People

the Hall of the Defense Against the Orcs (a combination
fortified town gate and Temple of Rondra); Hall of Mists
(important Temple of Phex); Therbûnites abbey, Badilakan
abbey (an Order of Travia); Frigid Steles (sanctum of Firun);
the city has no inns (travelers can stay overnight only in
one of the two abbeys or in a private home, and nowhere
else); Nine-eyes (deadly, giant, lamprey-like creatures that
inhabit the lake of the same name and threaten boats and
shoreline fishers)
Atmosphere in the City: Confident and industrious; distrustful
of strangers
Trallop sits where the Pandlaril River empties into Nine-
Eye Lake and spreads over multiple islands. Great walls
with high towers surround each segment. The mighty
Bear Castle of the dukes dominates the entire cityscape.
Trallop is regarded as the embodiment of Weidenan valor
and it is one of the best-fortified cities in the Middenrealm,
a key factor in its ability to withstand numerous assaults
by the orcs. Commerce is slowly beginning to flourish
again, especially since someone discovered that it was
possible to safely cross the cursed Nine-Eye Lake and reach
Donnerbach (under the right conditions, that is).
Tuzak, the Lily-like
“Tuzak was reborn through its
liberation!”
—a Treetop-Tiger (former
rebel unit, today guard),
1035 FB
“I just don’t understand who
is in charge here. Everyone is
talking out of turn and there are
no real results! These things have
to speed up, I tell you.”
—a former captain of the Realm’s
army, 1036 FB
Region: Maraskan, Shîkanyad
Population: 14,000, including about 1,000 Middenrealmer
Governance: A rebel leader
Temples: Rur and Gror, shrines to Boron, Phex, Swafnir and
Travia
Trade and Industry: Maraskan paper; weapons; wine
(Tuzakan Dragonblood); decorative bricks; rare herbs and
plants of the jungle; stone for construction; Tuzakan steel;
other natural resources
Characteristic Features: Starting point of the annual discus
relay race; the city’s eventful history has resulted in an
eclectic architectural diversity.
Atmosphere in the City: Loud, chaotic, overcrowded,
threatened by limited financial resources, surrounded by
enemies
The magnificent Tuzak on the Roab River was once the seat
of the kings of Maraskan. For many years it served as the
seat of the hated Middenrealmish occupiers until they lost
it to the Borbaradians. The city is sometimes called the Lily
because its defensive walls are decorated with lily-shaped
tiles. The residents of the poorest city quarter, Un’Tuzak,
face a constant struggle for survival. The so-called living
towers of Tuzak rise as much as 60 feet or more into the sky,
and city planners have gone to great lengths to deal with
the ubiquitous problem of uneven ground. Steep, winding
stairs are hewn everywhere into the stone, and many
footbridges and ladders criss-cross the skyline. Outside
the city walls lurk the horrors of the jungle, including the
servants of Dark Maraskan, who still rule over the north
half of the island and have not abandoned their plans to
retake the city.
Unau, City of the Caliph
“This is the city of our glorious
past and our glorious future.”
—a vizier of the Caliph,
1038 FB
“It does have nice palaces,
but this is barely more than a
large oasis.”
—a Tulamydian mercenary
cavalryman from Fasar,
1034 FB
Region: Caliphate
Population: 12,000 (almost entirely
Novadi)
Governance: Caliph Malkillah III
Temples: Three prayer houses to Rastullah
Trade and Industry: Salt, glass wares, porcelain, horses
(Shadif), livestock (camels, goats, sheep, cattle), dates,
almonds, slaves
Characteristic Features: Al’Shorioth (magnificent residence
of the caliph), Al’Shabaoth (palace of the sultan), Feggagir
(subterranean water supply), Quad Al’Zulquh (the Field of
Fraternization, upon which the first caliph presented his
companions to the Novadi)
Atmosphere in the City: strange optimism; distrustful
towards infidels, but certainly more open to them than in
previous times
The desert city of Unau started out as a garrison for the
Middenrealm. Today it is the capital of Caliph Malkillah
III and thus the capital of the Novadi Caliphate. The court
recently moved here from Mherwed, the birthplace of the
caliph, fostering growth in the city for the first time in many
years. It may yet live up to the legends the desert tribes
tell about the ancient capital. The lavish palace quarter,
which sits on a 45-foot-high rock plateau, overlooks most
of the city. A whitewashed city wall surrounds the city and
87
 is itself ringed by the huts of farmers, the poor, and the
numerous tents of wandering tribes. Unau’s homes and
fields get their water via subterranean canals connected
to fresh springs in the mountains. They support the palace
gardens of the affluent while the poor often struggle with
rationing (water from the nearby Cichanebi Salt Lake is not
potable).
Vallusa, the Fiery City on the Sea
“As long as trade is flourishing we
can afford our independence.”
—a member of the Council of
Merchants, 1038 FB
“A harbor I have navigated
many times. The light of the
Firetower always calms my
nerves after facing the dangers
of the Blood Sea.”
—a merchant ship captain from
Perricum, 1038 FB
Region: Free city between Bornland and
Middenrealm
Population: 4,000
Governance: Council of Merchants (a 24-member committee)
Temples: Efferd, Ingerimm, Peraine, Rahja, Travia; shrines
to Praios and Rondra
Trade and Industry: Porcelain with Vallusean violet; artist’s
smithy; precision machinery; important mid-point for
trade between Bornland and the Middenrealm
Characteristic Features: The Great Wall (protects the island
city from storm tides); March Bridge (connection to
the Bornland); Tobrien Bridge (connection to Tobrien);
the Firetower (tallest building in Vallusa and temple to
Ingerimm); castle of the Ordo Defensores Lecturia (ODL),
the gray magic order of Gray Staves; fortress of the
Rondranian Order of the Ardarites, located south of the
city
Atmosphere in the City: Optimistic, proud, and boastful of
their independence, but fearful of Ingerimm
The free city Vallusa was for many years a point of
contention between the Middenrealm and Bornland, due
to its location on the border, on an island in the estuary
of the Misa. A large wall, erected by dwarven architects,
protects the city from floods and storms blowing in from
the Tobrien Sea. Access to the city is via one of two large
bridges. Since land is at a premium inside the walls, many
houses have multiple floors, and some as many as six.
The city’s tallest building, the Firetower of the Temple of
Ingerimm, became integrated with the city walls over the
years. Many people of Vallusa believe that Ingerimm will
lift his protection from the city if anyone builds higher
than the Firetower. On that day, it is said, Efferd will
reclaim the island with typhoon force.
88 Chapter 3: Land and People
Vinsalt, City of a Hundred Towers
“Maybe I shouldn’t say this
aloud, but Vinsalt is the new
Bosparan—even if the Horas
now resides in the Sangreal
in Horasia.”
—a Vinsaltan burgher,
1038 FB
“Blasé splendor, games of
intrigue for power… All of this
strongly reminds me of Bosparan.
And that city is fallen, if I am not
mistaken…”
—a Garethan burgher, 1038 FB
Region: Horasian Empire, Yaquiria
Population: 60,000, plus several hundred dwarves and elves
Governance: A prince who rules with (and sometimes
against) the patricians
Temples: All Twelvegods (two each for Phex and Travia);
main temple of Nandus; temples and shrines to various
demigods
Trade and Industry: Many different products of trade, craft,
and manufacturing; many banking houses; services for the
administration of the Horasian Empire
Characteristic Features: Seat of the Crown’s Convent and
Imperial Administration; cultural center for opera and
clock-making; Firdayon Palace; ruins of old Bosparan;
Nasuleum (the city’s first splendid tomb, which lent
its name to all that followed); pumping station for the
city water supply; monasteries of the Knights of the
Holy Blood, the Order of the Eagle, and the Order of the
Pentagram; Anatomical Institute (mage academy, white,
healing mages); Academy of the Arts of Warfare and Living
(warrior school); Horasian Imperial Cadet Academy; School
of the High Art of Dancing; Circle of Stone and Iron (school
for engineering and architecture), Academia Horasiana
(university); Cosmological College (astronomy, philosophy
and mathematics); Law Seminary (law school)
Atmosphere in the City: Educated; proud; mindful of history
and the achievements of Vinsaltan culture; Vinsalt is
the capital of the Horasian Empire, but it is also secretly
regarded as the capital of organized crime.
Vinsalt is at the same time one of the youngest and oldest
cities. It was founded about 500 years ago on the ruins of
time-honored Bosparan, an ancient metropolis. The city
has still not reached the dimensions of the old capital, but
it is the largest and probably the most important city in the
Horasian Empire. The cityscape is shaped by the display of
wealth and progress; this includes the water towers in the
North City (which supply many houses with running water),
the famous tower clock (a masterwork of engineering), and
the facades of the many theaters and temples. The demigod
Nandus receives more worship here than does his mother
Hesinde. Vinsalt is the societal role model for the entire
Horasian Empire. The affluent and educated merchant
class is slowly blending with the nobility, thanks to the
sale of titles and the increasing importance of money and
connections. The upper class consists, in large part, of
merchants, moneylenders, speculators, and their heirs.
The prince may rule over Vinsalt’s streets and surrounding
area, but many baronies now belong to the nouveau riche,
who purchased their titles from impoverished nobles.
The city’s new law enforcement authority, the Connetablia
Criminalis Capitale, is making greats strides in combating
the criminal element. However, in the byways of the ruined
Undercity, which lends Vinsalt a certain morbid charm,
they stand little chance of eliminating the influence of the
insidious criminal underworld.
Warunk, the Haunted
“It pains me to see the old
streets empty. Not one of our
neighbors has returned. But
complaining won’t help. Let
us take up hammer and chisel
and complete the new Temple
Chapter.”
—a Warunkan stone mason,
1037 FB
“We will see Warunk returned
to its former glory. The goddess
revealed to us, through her signs,
the Thunderstorm and the Trumpets of
Perricum, that the city would not fall, and it
still stands today!”
—a Blessed One of Rondra from Gareth, 1036 FB
Region: Middenrealm, Margravate of Warunk
Population: 3,500
Governance: A fortress steward who represents Margrave
Sumudan of Bregelsaum
Temples: Boron, Peraine, Rondra; shrine to Phex
Trade and Industry: Leather wares, cloth, tobacco, cheese
Characteristic Features: Abbey of the Three Good Sisters;
philosopher’s school; caves in the Salamander Mountains;
home of the Warunk gnomes and Warhome hammerlings
(small kobolds that are sometimes helpful, sometimes
mischievous); important place for the Church of Rondra
Atmosphere in the City: Grim determination; lacking in
exuberance or celebration
Not long ago, the undead outnumbered the living in
Warunk, and even today many doors remain barred
and entire streets of houses remain empty. The horror
of the Nightmaremarch, brought about by the undead
dragon Rhazzazor, still echoes through the dreams of the
Warunkans even though many brave heroes sacrificed
themselves to end his reign of terror. After the liberation
of the city, thanks to a miracle of the goddess Rondra,
many Blessed Ones and other warriors sought to reclaim
all of Warunkia from the grip of the dark servants. Artisans,
merchants, and others found inspiration in these deeds
and joined the effort. The flame of hope has rekindled for
the first time in ages, but the terrors in the dead lands
outside the city have yet to be defeated.
Xorlosh, the Holy
“Show some respect, big fellow, or
else I’ll have you thrown out.”
—a grim ore dwarven
smith, 1036 FB
“And how did they manage
to dig so many tunnels and
halls without destabilizing
the mountain! It’s a pity that
I don’t speak Rogolan. I have
so many questions.”
—a Tobrien architect, 1037 FB
Region: Mountain Kingdoms
Population: Approximately 1,600 ore dwarves
Governance: Mountain King (currently, Tshubax son of
Tuagel)
Temples: Angrosh
Trade and Industry: Dwarven artisan products (especially
items of the forge), metals and other products from mining
Characteristic Features: Holy city and original home of
all dwarves; mighty furnaces; summer residence of the
Mountain King; Holy Hall of Angrosh; School of Dragon
Warfare (warrior academy, admits only dwarves)
Atmosphere in the City: Very conservative; quiet; hard
working
Xorlosh is the spiritual home of all dwarven clans and lies
well protected, and warily guarded, within two mountain
rings in the Ingra Peaks. The city contains a valley and vast
subterranean halls. As the cradle of dwarven culture, its
chambers are etched with millennia of history and lore.
According to Aventurian scholars, Xorlosh is the oldest
continuously inhabited city in Aventuria, but this claim
ignores certain troll settlements. The city admits members
of other races only rarely. Most quarters of the city ring
with the constant hammering of dwarven mastersmiths.
89
 Yol-Ghurmak, the Demon Forges
“Everything is in flux in our
glorious capital, but do not be
afraid. The Fiery Father will
grant you the patience to get
through it. And afterwards
we will be better and
stronger than ever before!”
—a priestess of the Fiery
Father, 1039 FB
“Streets of horror swallow entire
houses, and demons prowl the alleys
in broad daylight! This monstrosity
must be swept off the face of Dere!”
—a Blessed One of Ingerimm from
Uhdenmount, 1039 FB
Region: Shadowlands
Population: 12,000 living residents plus an unknown number
of demons
Governance: A citizen-clerical guild council
Temples: Amazeroth, Agrimoth, Blakharaz, Tasfarelel,
shrines to all archdemons; Borbarad; emphasis of worship
on the Otherworldly Family (the archdemons Agrimoth,
Thargunitoth, Blakharaz, and Charyptoroth)
Trade and Industry: Smithy and noble artisan products
(weapons, armor, mechanical equipment); crystal mining;
Yol-Ghurmakan lace; beer and schnapps brewing; black
corn (wheat); fishing; mushroom farming
Characteristic Features: Agrimothaeum (temple of the Fiery
Father); Heptagon Academy (mage academy, no guild,
invokers and artifact mages); Demon Forges; the Black
Palace; incomprehensible architecture; large numbers of
demons; the city is in a constant state of change at night,
houses shift location and streets change their course.
Atmosphere in the City: Those that dwell here fear few things,
if they fear anything at all.
Ysilia, the old city on Lake Ysli, was completely destroyed
during the assault of Borbarad’s armies. Demons architects
built a new city on its ruins. The structures were bizarre
and otherworldly, shapes that only demons and their gods
could appreciate. A gaping maw known as the Crater of
Crystals now marks the center of Yol-Ghurmak, where
the former ruler, the Demon Emperor Galotta, turned the
city center into his Flying Fortress and used it to devastate
Gareth. The sky above the city is eternally gray thanks to
the many smokestacks of the Demon Forges, and sunlight
never reaches the ground. Braziers and demonic ember
pillars create a flickering, unnatural light in the city. Many
streets and houses are empty, demons are a part of every-
day life, and not all of these fiends are under the control
90 Chapter 3: Land and People
of invokers. Many inhabitants are sure that the city will
kill them sooner or later. Many give in, accepting their
grim fate, and hope that they might be spared due to their
fervent prayers to the Archdemons…or they flee into
madness.
Zorgan, the Moonsilver City
“It is a fact that Zorgan is the
Rose of Arania. Lovely, but also
valiant when it needs to be.”
—a Zorgan kadi, 1039 FB
“I can’t shake the feeling that
something festers underneath
the surface, and I will find out
what it is.”
—a writer for the Aventurian
Herald, 1037 FB
Region: Mhaharanyat Arania
Population: 20,000
Governance: Seat of the Ruling Couple (Mhaharani Eleonora
Shahi and Arkos Shah)
Temples: Temple of all Twelvegods
Trade and Industry: Mainly wheat and fruit, but nearly
anything can be purchased in Zorgan.
Characteristic Features: School of the Existing Pretense
(mage academy, gray, illusion mages); Moodsilver
Palace (magnificent main office of the Mada Basari, a
Phexian merchant order); Mirror Palace (residence of
the Mhaharani); writer’s school; Typographical Institute
(dedicated to the art of books); rose garden; Krak al’Shah
(the royal citadel)
Atmosphere in the City: Cosmopolitan trading city; looks
proudly to a bright future while denying its dark and
sordid past
Zorgan is the capital of Arania and residence of the
Mhaharani and her husband. The heart of business in the
city is the bazaar quarter, Sulaminiah, with all its exotic
smells and tastes and its love for the Tulamydian gods
Rahja and Phex. Life pulses like a heartbeat here. When
one merchant meets another, they celebrate and haggle
with passion. Artisans work away in the quiet quarters
of Schamiran and Kenragrid in the shadow of the palace
quarter, to which only the upper class has full access.
Zorrigan, the old town, is now a place where thieves and
beggars roam free and where illicit deals occur among
abandoned and decaying buildings. The dark past of the
depraved demon realm, Oron, has been swept away by the
hospitality and lust for life of the Zorgans. Nevertheless,
rumors hint that disciples of the archdemoness Belkelel
remain hidden in the city to this day.
Beyond Aventuria oldest parts of Kuslik and Bethana. I was glad to meet people
who were similar to our Thorwalers. They may call themselves
Hjaldings, but they are Thorwalers, I swear! Now, should I really
“You do know that Aventuria isn’t the whole world, right? The
believe what the locals told me about Gylduria? No, I won’t
most extraordinary magical secrets await us beyond the Sea of
listen to that hogwash. But I’ve seen the ships that move as if by
Seven Winds, as do strange gods with rich cultures beyond the
magic…”
Southern Sea. You say there are monsters and nameless horrors
—excerpts from a sailor’s tale, overheard in the harbor of
on the other side of the Iron Edge? Hah, they are just waiting to
Teremon, 1030 FB
taste our steel!”
—a half-drunk adventurer in a Garethan dive, 1040 FB
Uthuria, Land of 12,000 Gods
Sailors are aware of only four large continents on the “I don’t care what gods they worship. I am only interested in the
world of Dere: Aventuria, Gyldenland, Uthuria, and the Giant’s Rose of Immortality. Money is not an issue.”
Land. The approximate locations of globules (magical —Stover Regolan Stoerrebrandt, father of Emmeran
parallel worlds such as the hollow world of Tharun, Stoerrebrandt, the richest man in Aventuria, 1035 FB
the lizardfolk realm of Zze Tha, the Islands in the Mist,
and many fairy realms besides) are known only to a few Since its discovery a few years ago, Uthuria has become
Aventurian scholars. more than just legend for the people of Aventuria.
Many suspected that a mysterious continent, ruled by
countless alien gods, existed beyond the Sea of Fire and
Myranor, the Gyldenland the constricting seaweed fields. Now the large seafaring
“It is said that Efferd the Unfathomable placed a curse on the
nations of Al’Anfa, Horasia, Brabak, and Bornland are in a
emperor of the Gyldenlandian Empire and his subjects for siding
race to launch expeditions for colonies, resources, and new
with the archdemoness Charyptoroth, for he abhorred their
secrets of magic.
demon worship. Efferd’s Wall, it is said, stretches from Ifirn’s
Ocean to the Sea of Fire and thus divides the entire Sea of Seven
“No, no, no! I won’t set my ship on this course, daughter of
Winds. No Myranian ship is able to cross it.”
insanity. Haven’t you heard of the Isle of Pyrdacor, the source of
—common wisdom among sailors on the Sea of
all the evil that the lizardfolk inflicted on our people? No! I will not
Seven Winds
face the brood of a dragon who considered himself a god. It took
Sheik-al-Sheik to save us back then. No, only a foolish mariner
Aventurian seafarers set sail towards Gyldenland
would throw himself against an army of dragons. No!”
on numerous occasions, but few have ever returned
—a Khunchoman captain, 1034 FB
( page 238). If one returns home with a full cargo hold,
then one is very fortunate indeed. Exotic wares from
“I’ve seen winged beings more than six feet tall and thirsting for
Gyldenland trade for outrageous prices – though more
blood. Humans who behave in the most barbaric manner Bronze-
often than not they are counterfeits decorated with stories
skinned sorcerers with colorful headdresses who live in gigantic
of lands across the seas. The journeys of the Princess Lamea
pyramids and sacrifice humans and beasts without qualms, all in
under the daring captain Harika of Bethana are probably
the name of power gained with spilled blood and grotesque rituals.
the most famed expeditions to Gyldenland.
I will not even mention all the things crawling on the ground! The
Xo’Artal claim that there are far worse tribes in Uthuria. Lord
“Myranor, as Gyldenland is called by its inhabitants, is enormous
Boron, this cannot be worth the trouble. Have mercy and let us
and absolutely astonishing. Beings there resemble humanoid
depart!”
cats, lions, and tigers. There are lizardfolk-like chameleons,
—diary entry of a survivor of the second Al’Anfan
blue-skinned beings with four arms, and creatures similar to
Expedition, 1037 FB
our levschije that seem to be half human and half goat. There
are fishmen who resemble our risso yet are remarkable beings in
their own right. Such wonders this land holds.” Rakshazar, the Giant’s Shore
“We landed in a gigantic city called Balan Cantara, which dwarfs “Beware you fools! You don’t know what might come at us from
Grangor. In fact, it even makes Gareth look like a hamlet in the Giants’ Passes. The Great Mother revealed herself to me in the
comparison. And what did we discover? That Cantara is only a Puur Mulla and showed me what these horrors have wrought.
Horasiat in a mighty empire ruled by three-eyed wizards. This And I am glad that the Dead Man’s Bog has swallowed them all.”
worries me to death! I shall not tell this to the Hesindens or to the —the ancient goblin shaman, Kunga Suula, 50 FB
informants of the Empress. I don’t have a death wish!”
“But despite its size and strangeness, we also found many familiar The Giant’s Shore is the staging ground from which many
things, Aves be praised. The buildings are similar to those in the nameless abominations invaded Aventuria. It is the reason

91
 why the gods raised the mighty mountain range of the Iron
Edge from the earth. The mountains keep the inhabitants
of the Giant’s Shore at bay, be they black giants, savage
human tribes, or flesh-eating horses. The Giant’s Shore is
also sometimes referred to as the Land of Darkness.
“Mist, nothing but mist. This blasted inlet is so large that we
haven’t seen anything but rock and fog. We would land if not
for the endless howling. I am going to finish mapping this place
quickly, even if the results are sloppy. I can see a steely gate in
the rock, if I am not mistaken, but we must turn back or we shall
not see Bornland again. The cliffs straight ahead glimmer sickly
yellow in the dusk and it smells of sulphur—the work of demons!
Gods be done with this cursed place!”
—handwritten remark on a map of the Misty Meadows in
the Giant’s Shore, undated
92 Chapter 3: Land and People
“According to the Faedhari, it was the high elves that stopped
the Hordes of the Nameless One from the Giant’s Shore. This tome
also mentions dust creatures, sword wizards, and black trees, but
one should not believe everything reported in a magical history
book, especially one that does not mention dates. The sources
from the Diamond Sultanate of the Tulamydes are far more
fruitful, though sparse. We believe that there was trade between
the Giant’s Shore and our lands, as evidenced by Yal-Kharibet, a
city in Rakshazastan named after Sultan Karibet. Unfortunately,
there were at least two sultans with that name…”
—excerpt from a lecture in history at the University of
Methumis, 1037 FB
Chapter 4:
Culture and Science
“Let me give you some words of warning before you plunge into
your studies and forget the most basic tenets in pursuit of your
goddess-given curiosity. Knowledge is distributed unevenly. This
may seem unfair to you at first, but keep in mind that knowledge
is only a tool, just as an axe is a tool. An axe splits a log so I can
have a warm fire in winter, but it is also an impressive weapon,
whether in the hands of an experienced fighter or a carefree child.
Is the axe good or bad? In truth the axe is just an axe. The wielder
decides if it used for good or for evil.

It is the same with knowledge. Knowledge is not equal to

knowledge. The knowledge of agriculture and the choice of plants,
given to us by benevolent Peraine, sister of our lady Hesinde, is
basic and down to earth. It can hardly be used for evil. Therefore
it is important and good, that this knowledge widespread and
everyone has access to it. The knowledge of sword fighting is far
more dangerous and one must practice it for many hours before
entering combat or else risk injuring oneself or one’s friends.
Because the knowledge of sword fighting is so dangerous, another
sister of our lady Hesinde, the tempestuous Rondra, established
many rules to prevent abuse of that knowledge.

Think of the disasters that could be wrought by knowledge

of a particular spell, the formula for a dangerous alchemical
substance like Hylain Fire, or even worse, something that could
endanger the salvation of a human soul?

The all-knowing lady Hesinde teaches us that knowledge without

wisdom is perilous. This is why we conduct research and discuss
our findings so thoroughly. May Hesinde’s wisdom guide us as we
decide which information to share, and with whom.”
—novice mistress in the Halls of Wisdom (Hesinde’s main
temple) in Kuslik, 1040 FB

93
 Languages and Dialects
“Bha’salasandralya*. You have already cast the taubra**?”
“In Satuaria’s name, what are you talking about, elf?”
—dialogue between a glade elf and a witch, as overheard by
a squire, 1029 FB
Garethi, Bosparano,
and Old Gyldenlandish
Garethi is the most widely used language on the continent.
It is spoken in the Realm of Raul (the Middenrealm and
its provinces), the Horasian Empire, the north, and even
the Far South, and can be considered the common tongue
of middle and northern Aventuria. Most travelers and
merchants speak it sufficiently to convey at least simple
ideas.
Garethi developed from Bosparano, the lingua franca of
the Bosparan Empire, which fell more than 1,000 years
ago, and is still the language of scholars. It is not unusual
for guild mages and Blessed
Ones to switch entirely to
Bosparano is based Bosparano when engaged in
on Latin, but is not disputes or trying to express
identical. Feel free to finer points. Bosparano itself
improvise Bosparano developed from the even older
in-game; no specific language of Aureliani or Old
knowledge of Latin is Gyldenlandish, the language of
necessary. the Gyldenlandish immigrants.
Current day Garethi has many
different dialects due to its
widespread use and contact with other languages and their
corresponding cultures. Speakers of most dialects can still
communicate, and readily identify each other’s region of
origin. Furthermore, every dialect has its own vocabulary,
which often includes loan words from other languages and
which might not be clear to a non-native speaker.
Garethi and Bosparano use the same script, Kuslik Letters,
which consists of 31 characters. Aureliani and very old
Cyclopean’ scripts, however, use Imperial Letters, a system
of 57 curved letters that originates in distant Gyldenland.
The Imperial Letters serve in their reduced form as basis
for the Kuslik Signs just as the Aureliani is the basis for
Bosparano.
“Come to a mercantile agreement? Swafnir help
me! Couldn’t he just say that he wants to buy
my skraja?”
—Tjalva Garheltsdottir, Hetja from Prem
* Isdira for “Greetings, thinking spellweaver.”
** Isdira for “human spellweaving”
94 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
Language Specialization Garethi
Alberned: Albernia, Garethi with loan words from
Thorwalian and Isdira
Andergastish/Nostrianish: Andergast and Nostria, simple
but archaic Garethi with influences from Alaani and Orcish
Aretya: Arania, mix of Garethi and Tulamidya
Bornlandish: Bornland, Garethi with numerous influences
from Alaani
Brabaki: Southern city-states (upper classes), mixture of
Garethi and Bosparano, some terms from the language of
the Moha
Charypto: Southern city-states (especially among pirates),
mixture of Garethi and Tulamidya, includes many foreign
terms, especially from the languages of seafarers such as
Thorwalian and Mohan
Gatamo: Southern city-states (lower classes), mixture of
Garethi, Bosparano, Mohan, and Tulamidya
Horathi: Horasian Empire, Garethi with many loan words
from Bosparano
Maraskani: Maraskan and exile cities, mixture of
Tulamidya and Garethi with many combined and newly-
coined terms
Countless further dialects combine terms from different
languages. The Weidenans speak an antiquated form of
Garethi, Bosparano, and Isdira, and the Tobriens speak a
mixture of Garethi and Alaani. Speakers emphasize the
high form of Garethi in all of these dialects.
Tulamidya and Ancient Tulamidya
Tulamidya is the language of the Tulamydes and the
Novadi, as well as people living south of Rasthul’s Wall and
east of the Golden Cliffs and the two Eternan massifs. It has
strongly influenced languages south of the Harotrud.
Tulamidya developed from Ancient Tulamidya, the
language of the Diamond Sultanate, used only in scholarly
circles in the region today. Tulamidya has a great number
of dialects, each with strong regional associations. Experts
can tell from a few sentences whether a speaker belongs to
the desert tribes, dwells along the Mhanadi River, or even
hails from Selem, a city with many lizardfolk influences.
Tulamidya either uses the 56 Syllable Letters of the script
of the same name or the 19 Holy Glyphs of Unau, a ssyetm
of syllables and indications used primarily by the Novadi.
The script of Ancient Tulamidya used about 300 phonetic
symbols and indications, and was developed long ago from
the lizardfolk language known as Chrmk.
 Language Specialization Tulamidya
Aranian: Arania, mixture of Tulamidya and Garethi
Khôm-Novadish: Caliphate (especially among the
desert tribes of the Khôm), Tulamidyan but with
rougher pronunciations and slight differences in
vocabulary
Maraskani: Maraskan and exile cities, mixture of
Tulamidya and Garethi with many combined and
newly coined terms
Mhanadish-Balashidish: Mhanadistan and Balash,
main dialect
Zahorish: especially Almada and Lands of the
Tulamydes, language of the extant nomadic Zahori
tribes
Other Human Languages and Scripts
Thorwalers speak a language that developed from Saga-
Thorwalian, which is also called
Hjaldingish. Modern Thorwalian
borrows many words from Garethi. Its
written form uses either the modern
Thorwalian Runes, a system of 30
letters, or the old Hjaldingish Runes,
which add a further dozen pictograms.
Many Thorwalers also use Kuslik Signs.
Fjarningish, the scriptless language of
the Fjarnings, also
developed from
Saga-Thorwalian.
The Norbards speak
Alaani, a very complex
language with similarities
to Ancient Tulamidya.
Their script of the same
name developed from the
writing systems of Ancient
Tulamidya and Chrmk.
The Nivese speak Nujuka,
which emphasizes vowels
and has no written form.
Around Selem, the populace
sometimes still speaks
Zelemja, which mixes
Ancient Tulamidya with
the lizard language Rssahh.
Written Zelemja uses
the glyphs of Chrmk.
Cyclopean, spoken on
the Cyclopes Islands
and very rarely heard
today, mixes Aureliani
and Garethi and uses
Kuslik Signs in its written form (although documents
from older eras sometimes also use Imperial Letters). The
Forest Folk use no scripts, and scholars collectively refer
to their languages as Mohan. Utulu is a dialect of Mohan.
Dialects often vary by the tribe and sometimes even
by the settlement. However, communication between
different tribes is made possible by shared terms and the
use of a form of body language. The list of dialects goes
on. The wild Ferkina as well as those who dwell in the
Troll Peaks possess very unique languages (Ferkina and
Zhulchammaqra, respectively), both of which developed
from Ancient Tulamidya, but have evolved so much that
native speakers of Tulamidya understand them only with
great effort. Also, neither of these languages have their
own script.
Languages and Scripts of Nonhumans
Every elven tribe speaks Isdira, which developed from the
enormously complicated Asdharia, the melodic language
of the high elves. The particular difficulty of Asdharia lies
in its pronunciation. Emphasis, which can mark subtle
differences in meaning in Isdira, plays a critical role in
Asdharia, the pronunciation of which requires the physical
ability to sing with two voices at once (something which
only elves and certain half elves can accomplish). Humans
cannot pronounce Asdharia without magical help, due to
differences in physiology. Both languages use the same
script, which consists of 27 phonetic symbols and a large
number of indicators. The script of Asdharia is even more
ornate than the already flowery symbols of Isdira.
Night elves communicate in the melodic but unusually
harsh sounding language Shakagoran, which is a blend of
Asdharia, Rssahh, and Zhayad. It uses an ornate script that
skillfully combines Isdira and Zhayad.
Angry sounding Rogolan is the shared language of all the
dwarven clans. It developed from the far older Angram,
which the dwarves view as a holy language. Rogolan uses
24 phonetic runes for its script, but Angram is a highly
complex pictographic script that is understood by few
dwarves today. An even more complex script is the Trollish
Stereogram Script, which is difficult for non-trolls to
learn. Non-trolls find the spoken language of Trollish just
as difficult to learn and almost impossible to pronounce
due to its unusual scraping vocalizations.
Another widespread and ancient language is Rssahh, the
lingua franca of all scaled beings. The lizard script, Chrmk,
uses 5,000 complex phonetic symbols and indicators.
The orcs share a common language, the greatly simplified
Oloarkh, or “orcish,” which is also used by many goblins
and ogres. Shamans, chieftains, and warriors tend to speak
Ologhaijan, the high language of the orcs, more often.
Orcish has many dialects, just like the related language of
the Goblins, but does not have a written form.
95
 The language of goblins, Goblinese, is unlike any other
Aventurian language. Goblins love to incorporate foreign
words (with necessary adjustments in pronunciation, of
course) into their own language.
Other Aventurian races, such as grolms, giants, cyclopes,
mares, yetis, ogres, Zilites, Risso, and water nymphs, also
have their own languages. Aventurian scholars cannot
decipher, or sometimes are not even aware of, many of
these languages and thus can neither group them into
families nor understand their corresponding scripts. Even
stranger languages exist as well. Dragonnic projects words
and pictures directly into the mind of the ‘listener,’ and
outsiders cannot learn the incredibly fast language of
kobolds without the aid of magic.
Secret Languages and Scripts
Many less well-known languages and scripts exist in
Aventuria, such as the secret script Nanduria used by
scholars, or the magical Zhayad which is regarded as
the language of demons. Zhayad uses several hundred
phonetic syllables and indicators, which are aligned into
ligatures and symbols.
Thieves and merchants communicate nonverbally using a
form of sign language called Atak, and the Secret Signs of
Vulpinian allow shady characters to leave messages for one
another on house corners, tavern doors, and fence posts.
Vulpinian (or Foxish), named after the secretive fox
god Phex, allows users to appear to engage in a trivial
discussion while expressing their true meaning only to
other initiates. Fan language, which allows users to send
simple messages via subtle movements of a personal fan, is
common in the salons and theaters of the Horasian Empire.
Idioms and Superstitions
Idioms and Expressions
“They are as dumb as Selemite sour bread!”
—a lecturer at the university of Al’Anfa on graduates of the
university of Methumis, 1039 FB
96 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
Customary Forms of Greeting
Garethi: Greetings!
Tulamidya: Ahlan!
Thorwalian: Hej!
Nujuka: Paika!
Alaani: Bin’urdam!
Isdira: among elves: Sanyasala!
to humans: Sanya bha!
Rogolan: Garoshem!
Orcish: Ke khur!
Goblinese: Bluug lak vaas!
A large number of idioms and proverbs find use well beyond
their cultures of origin. Such expressions are usually very
colorful and, in the lands of the Twelvegods, often refer to
the gods or their churches. A number of expressions are
quite common in Aventuria and, when used in-game, help
bring the setting of Aventuria to life. This section presents
examples from many different regions.
Most Aventurians use the names of the gods for
greetings, to say thanks, or even just to emphasize a
statement. Examples include “Praios forbid!”, “Phex be
praised!”, “Greetings of Travia!”, and “Rondra’s thunder!”
Aventurians have many general sayings, too, such as “The
good gods forbid it!”, “In the name of all the Twelve!”, and
“May the Alveranians protect us.” A common form of an
oath is: “In the name of the High Dragons of Alveran!” And
one should be wary when voicing a very sinister fear, for
“Speak of the Nameless One and he shall appear!”
“To hear the wings of Golgari” is a euphemism for dying, as
the raven of death carries the fallen to the Halls of Boron
across the Sea of Oblivion. Golgari’s brother, Bishdariel,
is the bringer of dreams, and therefore “dreaming under
the wings of Bishdariel” means one has enjoyed a restful
sleep full of dreams. Satinav is associated with the passage
of Time, and something that “defies the horns of Satinav”
is so enduring that it never shows signs of wear and tear.
“To reach a Nivesean age” has a similar meaning, as Nivese
often live to a great age.
Someone who “fights like a dragon” is a dangerous
opponent, to whom one should show great respect. To
defend oneself “with axe and sword” has its roots in
ancient times, as the original settlers had to fight off all
kinds of dangers. In Weiden, people use a similar saying:
“An axe in the house replaces a scholar.”
To “put air in the wineskin” or to “shoot a bear” are
common idioms for drinking. To “drink like a Thorwaler”
means to engage in drunken revelry, and anyone who can
“booze it up like a dwarf” can drink a lot.
Injecting Aventurian expressions into your gaming
sessions can definitely enhance the playing experience,
and we encourage you to invent your own idioms, but
do so with moderation. Don’t be too obtuse with your
phrasing, otherwise you will find yourself often having
to explain your clever expressions.
Aventurians have their own terms for objects that have
real-world analogs. Many are either self-explanatory
or else explained in context where they occur. The
following includes some examples, to give you a sense for
Aventurian language.
“Eating like an ogre” refers to the insatiable hunger of
these creatures and sometimes also indicates that someone
has no table manners.
If one is “as wise as Rohal” then one is exceptionally
intelligent and in no way “as dumb as Selemite sour bread.”
One who plays “boltan in a Phexian manner” is a cunning
and resourceful person. Bullheaded people who are not
easily swayed once they have formed an opinion are
sometimes called “as stubborn as a dwarf.” A “Fuldigor”
is a person who is regarded as an unpleasant know-it-all
or braggart.

Aventurian Neologisms “To stink like an orc” is self-explanatory. In general,

Dere name of the planet; setting many curses in the Middenrealm are associated with
for The Dark Eye orcs. For example, “Orc’s dirt!” is a common exclamation.
Repeatedly occurring problems, which rise like the
adamant diamond; a diamond undead from the ground, are referred to as “annoying
as a revenant.” Teaching someone to “stand at attention
Alveran’s mission an especially risky mission;
in Warhome” means forcing them to obey, like was
a suicide mission
taught to young recruits in the since-destroyed academy
arange orange (both the color of that famous city. An “imp” or someone who has “a
and the fruit) kobold sitting on one’s neck” is someone who is up to
shenanigans and mischief. Someone who says, “I am not
Boron’s acre; God’s acre; a graveyard or
a Stoerrebrandt!” which refers to the wealthiest merchant
Boron yard cemetery
prince in Aventuria, is stating that they do not have the
bospernut a chestnut necessary coin for a proposed idea.
Bospagne Champagne (the alcoholic drink) Thorwalers often use the exclamations “I say!”, “O
Mada’s Mark; the moon Swafnir!”, or “In Swafnir’s name!” Thorwalers are known
Mada’s Sign to hold formal insult contests that quickly lead to brawls.

mohagani mahogany A Maraskani who proclaims a companion “singularly

praiosflower a sunflower smart” really means that they think their partner is damn
stupid. This form of sarcasm arises from their strictly
Praios’ Disk; Praios’ the sun dualistic world view.
Eye; Praios’ Mark
rust pelt slang; derogatory term Tulamydes and Novadi
for goblins The languages of the Tulamydes and Novadi have fewer
idiomatic expressions. These articulate speakers are rather
coal pelt Term for orcs extraordinarily gifted in thinking up new terms within the
pointy ear Derogative term for elves blink of an eye, most of which are particularly flowery.

south-pointer a compass, which points

south in Aventuria “Hesinde help us… These sons of
Travia-bound; marriage simplemindedness just don’t get it! They
covenant of Travia can call me a witch all they want—me,
an educated guild mage gifted with
Tsa’s Day birthday knowledge—but the rules of their harems do
not apply to me!”
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
After such a binge, one is probably “drunk like Bardo
and Cella”, the decadent and infamous emperor siblings. They strongly favor figurative language and expressive
The next day, one has a “wolf” or even a “werewolf”, comparisons, such as “Ayasha’s skin is as smooth as a
Aventurian terms synonymous to a hangover. peach, her ankles as slender as those of a Shadif.” Tulamyde

97
 insults are either very blatant or very subtle, and always
very colorful.
Novadi add colorful descriptions to the name of their
god Rastullah: “By Rastullah’s mighty beard,” and so on.
The orthodox excuse themselves for (real or imagined)
violations of the 99 Laws with the oft-heard “I pray for
forgiveness!”
Among the Dwarves
Dwarves mention Angrosh’s name, or objects attributed
to him, in sayings such as “By Angrosh’s hammer!”, “By
Angrosh’s beard!”, and “By the anvil of the forefather!”
Their hatred for dragons has entered into their language
in a noticeable manner, and dwarves like to curse magical
things that they suspect of being dragon’s work. This is also
the origin of the exclamation, “Flames!” “He is a clanless
fellow!” is probably the worst curse a dwarf can utter, as
family means everything to dwarves.
Aventurian Superstitions
Not all supernatural phenomena are apparent at first
glance in Aventuria. Some find it strange that people in
a world so strongly shaped by wizardry and the work of
gods also possess a great deal of superstition. The kind of
superstition is influenced by region of birth, especially
rural areas, where strange beliefs and customs persist to
this day.
The real-world saying that there is a kernel of truth in
every superstition holds especially true in Aventuria, even
though the facts might not always be apparent at first
glance. We give some examples below and recommend this
section especially for players who are looking for further
variations on Negative Trait (Superstition).
Red hair is often associated with witches and changelings.
It is true that a number of witches possess red hair and
the same applies to rascals who have been brought up by
kobolds, but this does not apply to all redheads by any
means. Red hair is rare in the Lands of the Tulamydes, and
touching it is supposed to bring good luck. Furthermore,
red hair is a common component in talismans. Supposedly
owning a redheaded slave brings one luck for life, even
though it might bring bad luck to the person who first
enslaved the redhead.
Superstitious beliefs also surround mages and magically
gifted people. Some examples include the idea that shaving
a wizard’s hair and beard negates his magical powers, or
that a mage without a staff cannot cast spells, or that elves,
like kobolds, have a true name (and the one who knows
it holds power over them). Other fallacies include: if one
does not look at a wizard, the wizard cannot read your
mind. Black cats are bad luck (humans fear witch’s curses,
and black cats are seen as the companions of witches,
ipso facto…). However, a cat at sea on a ship is an entirely
98 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
different situation. If the cat goes overboard or dies, then
the ship is most certainly doomed. An elf or half elf onboard
a ship is a sure sign of ill luck. On the other hand, one
almost never sees a dwarf onboard a ship, as dwarves fear
the water (it can extinguish their life flame). According to
many Angroshim, one should drink water in moderation. It
is far safer to enjoy brewed or distilled beverages.
Many superstitious customs relate to armed combat, too. If
one kills an opponent in a duel without knowing his name,
his ghost will surely haunt the victor. Weapons break if one
does not oil them on a daily basis. No one fights at the side
of someone who has broken three blades, out of fear that
this person has been cursed. Furthermore, people might
come to regard such individuals as dishonorable.
A superstitious custom called numerology, which links
certain numbers with the gods and their work, is especially
common among the Tulamydes and the dwarves. People
all across Aventuria believe that the number 13 is unlucky,
and it is usually associated with the Nameless One and all
his evil deeds in the world. In this regard the Novadi are
the exception, for they view 13 as a lucky number and 12
as bad luck.
Middenrealmers view the numbers 3, 7, and 12 as lucky
numbers (worshippers of Phex include the number 9
as well). Many cultures regard the numbers 6 and 12 as
perfect. The Tulamydes consider the number 5 magical, the
number 6 elemental, the number 7 demonic, the number 9
holy, and the number 12 as the number of power. Finally,
the number 2 and its multiples hold great importance in
the dualistic worldview of the Maraskani, who see it as the
paragon of perfection and a highly powerful number that
contains both good and bad luck within itself.
Talismans
Common superstition holds that talismans can grant good
luck or at least prevent bad luck. Even when they are not
magical or karmic in origin, many Aventurians use them
to strengthen positive abilities or ward off weaknesses.
Talismans usually take the form of necklaces, brooches, or
rings. These objects incorporate magical symbols, symbols
of the gods, or even parts of animals the gods consider
holy, including lizard tails, feathers from a raven, or hair
from the mane of a lion. Certain gemstones and plants are
also attributed to the gods and are very popular. Gold and
amber are holy to Praios, and it is said, that they can reveal
any lie if fashioned into the form of an eye. A closed Dark
Eye made from onyx, which is holy to Hesinde, is purported
to aid in the exorcism of demons. For healing wounds,
many believe that nothing beats stork amulets made from
the wood of an apple tree, which is cherished by Peraine.
The growing use of relics as talismans displeases the
various churches, as relics are small containers that hold
the remains of a saint or pieces of a holy item. Temples
 Some realms also measure time from the year in which
they gained independence, whether from the Bosparan
Empire or the Middenrealm.

Conversion
Arania Year of Independence 995 FB
Nostria and Andergast Year of Independence 854 b.FB
Regions that worship the Twelvegods divide their year
into 12 months, each of which is named after one of the
Twelvegods. The standard year starts in summer on the
first day of the month of the king of gods, Praios.
usually prefer that these remain intact in the sanctum of Months
the god (but note that some temples sell relic talismans,
Aventuria Real-World Equivalent
either directly or on a table in front of the temple, to keep
their offering bowls full. Praios July
Rondra August
Other talismans take the form of body decoration such as
Efferd September
Thorwalian tattoos or Luloas, lines with ritual meaning
that are drawn on the skin of the Forest Folk to protect Travia October
against the Evil Eye and other malevolent magic. Boron November
Hesinde December
Calendars, Reckonings, Firun January
and Holidays Tsa February
Phex March
“After Reto, after Haal, after Bardo and Cella, after Perval…
How in Hesinde’s name am I supposed to know what year they Peraine April
mean? Can’t these Middenrealmers reckon events according to Ingerimm May
Horas’ Appearance, as is right and proper? That would at least be
Rahja June
consistent. I’m sorry, did you just say ‘after the Fall of Bosparan?’
I’ve never heard that term before in my life!” Aventurian months are often called moons, after the
—a chronicler at the court of the Horas Emperor, 1038 FB changing moon phases, or are referred to by a god’s name.
One moon encompasses 30 days. One week, which is also
Different forms of chronology coexist (more or less) in called a Day’s Run or a Praios’ Run, is seven days long. The
Aventuria, and differ from race to race, realm to realm, days of the week have standard names in the calendar
and region to region. Even the length of a year can vary. of the Twelvegods,
Some peoples base their calendar on the moon, others on yet there exist some
the sun. All cultures measure days and nights, even when Products for The Dark Eye differences, depending
they are hard to differentiate, such as in the Far North or generally use the notation on the region.
deep underground in the delvings of the dwarves. after the Fall of Bosparan Aventurians usually
or FB for clarity. To make refer to the days of
The Calendar of the Twelvegods conversions between the week as Windday,
In every region that recognizes the Twelvegods, one reckonings easier, all Earthday, Marketday,
year consists of 365 days and begins in summer on the 1st Aventurian reckonings Praiosday, Rohalsday,
Praios. However, annual reckonings differ in many realms. possess a year 0. Fireday, and Waterday
The most common of these reckons time after “the Fall of (corresponding to
This section introduces our Sunday, Monday,
Bosparan” (FB), and is measured from the year 0 FB (the
only the most commonly and so on). Days are
fateful year in which the Garethians destroyed the old city
employed system of divided into two cycles
and empire of Bosparan). Events that occurred before the
reckoning. We discuss other of 12 hours. Each day
Fall of Bosparan (b.FB) are reckoned in a similar manner.
reckonings in greater detail starts with the first, or
Conversions in their relevant regional Praios, hour (midnight
sourcebooks. to 1:00 a.m.) and
Middenrealm 0 Haal 993 FB proceeds through the
Horasian Empire Horas’ Appearance 1491 b.FB
Al’Anfa Golgari’s Appearance 686 FB

99
 hours of the gods’ circle as seen in the constellations in the names for the months (Midsunmoon, Cornmoon,
night sky. This progression of hours repeats, starting with Heimamoon, Battlemoon, Stormmoon, Frostmoon,
the second Praios Hour (noon to 1 p.m.), and runs from Grimmfrostmoon, Goimoon, Friskenmoon, Eggmoon,
afternoon to evening. Faramoon, Vinmoon) and the days of the week. The
Thorwalers refer to the Nameless Days as Hranngars’
Time of Day Days, named after the eternal enemy of their whale
god Swafnir.
Aventuria Real-World Equivalent
Maraskani count from the year in which Rur sent
Praios 12:00 - 01:00 am the world discus on its journey, an event known as
Rondra 01:00 - 02:00 the Flight of the World Discus. According to their
calculations, this occurred in 3822 b.FB.
Efferd 02:00 - 03:00
The chronology of the Novadi starts on the 23rd of
Travia 03:00 - 04:00 Boron, 760 FB, the anniversary of the day their god
Boron 04:00 - 05:00 Rastullah appeared before them in the Oasis of Keft.
They divide the year into 40 weeks called god names,
Hesinde 05:00 - 06:00
each consisting of nine days. The remaining five days
Firun 06:00 - 07:00 of the year are holy holidays called Rastullahellah,
Tsa 07:00 - 08:00 which follow every eighth god name. Interestingly the
Phex 08:00 - 09:00 Novadi reckon time with nights, not days, and divide
their week into nine nights, each with its own name.
Peraine 09:00 - 10:00 Norbards use a different calendar system, as well,
Ingerimm 10:00 - 11:00 but whether they divide their years based on the
Rahja 11:00 - 11:59 am transition from light to darkness or according to the
needs of their karan herds is not entirely clear. The
Norbards calculate time according to moon months
Praios 12:00 - 1:00 pm of 28 days each. One complete cycle of their calendar,
Rondra 1:00 - 2:00 called an Uh’Jun, encompasses 100 moon months. This
Efferd 2:00 - 3:00 corresponds to nearly eight years in the reckonings of
other human cultures.
Travia 3:00 - 4:00
Boron 4:00 - 5:00 Nonhuman Systems of Reckoning
Hesinde 5:00 - 6:00 Neither elves nor dwarves use a continuous chronology;
Firun 6:00 - 7:00 instead they reckon by the major events that have
determined the fates of races and peoples. The dwarves
Tsa 7:00 - 8:00 call their months Summermoon, Ardormoon, Rainmoon,
Phex 8:00 - 9:00 Winemoon, Mistmoon, Darkmoon, Frostmoon, Rebirth,
Peraine 9:00 - 10:00 Marketmoon, Sowingmoon, Firemoon, and Bridemoon.
They, too, have Nameless Days, which they refer to as the
Ingerimm 10:00 - 11:00
Dragon Days.
Rahja 11:00 -11:59 pm
Scholars doubt whether the elves of Aventuria even have a
The last five days of the year are particularly sinister
system of reckoning.
and Aventurians associate them with the Nameless One,
the arch nemesis of the gods. They call this period the
The reckoning of lizards is highly complicated and scholars
Nameless Days. During these five days, no stars are visible
have failed to unravel the puzzle of the dates found on
on the meridian, and most people believe the might of the
lizard inscriptions. It is known that their week consists of
Nameless God is greatest during this time. Initiates and
5 days, and their month has 33 days. The lizards aggregate
novices, especially, have many unholy, demonic labels for
these into segments of 553 months (50 years). Ten segments
these days. Many cultures face the Nameless Days with
are called an Ehhn (500 years), and 33 Ehhn correspond to a
great fear as supernatural and unholy phenomena become
Tsiina (16,500 years). The rest is a mystery.
more common during this time.
The orcs measure time with the recurring cycle of lunar
Other Human Systems of Reckoning eclipses, and their shamans use measures of Great Years,
Thorwalers count their years from the date of which consist of 240 moon months (of 28 days each), as the
Jurga’s Landing (1626 b.FB). They also use different basis for their reckoning.

100 Chapter 4: Culture and Science

Feasts and Holidays
Holidays vary by region, so this section lists only a selection
Cosmology
of important holidays, with an emphasis on the festivals and “The world was created, that much is clear. Why would a sane
events that are most widely celebrated and therefore likely person even question this fact? After all, we are standing on this
to be of the greatest relevance to heroes and adventurers. world, we are part of it, and it is ordered. A better question would
be, who created the world, and why are we here? Or, to be more
1st of Praios: Midsummer; the beginning of the new year; precise, are we only here because someone created the world?
the most important holiday in all lands that worship the
Twelvegods; a time to honor sovereigns and order. Major I reject this idea this from the bottom of my heart. We are here
knight’s tournament held in Gareth because creation, wherever it may come from, is ours. We must
2nd-3rd of Praios: Griffon Festival; traditional date of defend it against the chaos of the Outside, the Unmade. We
ennoblement must also defend it against those who would make us dance like
5th of Rondra: Day of the Oath; the most important holiday puppets on strings. Nota bene: I say, neither demon nor god can
of the Church of Rondra, traditionally celebrated with the defeat my free will.”
ordination of many novices —Azaril Crimsonweed, High Prophet of the Church of
15th-16th of Rondra: Celebration of the Sword, a holiday Borbarad, 1039 FB
of the Church of Rondra marked with tournaments and
contests The cultures of Aventuria have different perspectives on
1st of Efferd: Day of Water; the most important holiday of the creation of the world and on the role each plays today.
the Church of Efferd celebrated with many processions and
festivals Most human cultures, especially those who believe in the
30th of Efferd: Fishermen’s Feast, a remembrance of the Twelvegods, accept a rather uniform cosmology.
souls of those who have drowned; Examination Day, a
holiday of the Church of Hesinde and a popular date for final
examinations in many mage academies
The Creation of the World
“I desperately wanted to learn the truth but my conversations
1st of Travia: Day of Homecoming, celebrated especially in
with elves and dragons revealed only that we all tell different
the north by Thorwalers, Norbards, and Bornlanders.
stories to one another. I am afraid I will only find peace of mind if I
12th of Travia: Day of Faithfulness; many weddings and
accept that the world was created by immortals—whether I like it
other oaths occur on this day
or not. It makes no difference if I call them gods or something else.
1st of Boron: Day of the Dead; a day of prayers for the deceased
I am part of creation and I can see which dangers The Outside
2nd-8th of Boron: All-Aventuria Meeting of Jesters in
has planned for us. However, I also see that The Outside possesses
Khunchom, marked by countless performances
power that I can use to create and enforce order. It would be
20th of Hesinde: Beginning of the opera season in Vinsalt
foolish not to use it.”
30th of Hesinde: Festival of Illumination, the most
—Salpikon Savertin, Respectable One of the School of
important holiday for the Church of Hesinde, marked by
Variable Shape in Mirham, 1039 FB
many processions
1st of Firun: Midwinter; the Day of the Hunt; a holiday of
According to the common religious creed of the
the Churches of Firun and Ifirn; masked processions take
Twelvegods, in the beginning there was nothing. From this
place in many places to drive away winter
nothingness arose two beings, or rather two principles: Los
30th of Tsa: Day of Renewal, a holiday of the Church of Tsa;
and Sumu, the domain of the mind and the domain of the
usual time to launch new ventures of all kinds
body, respectively. These principles organized everything
16th of Phex: Day of Phex, a holiday of merchants and
else around them, until they perceived one another.
thieves; secret pacts with the gods are often made on this day.
When they recognized their principles were incompatible,
1st of Peraine: Sowing Festival, accompanied by the blessing
they began to argue. This struggle created the world and
of the fields
the gods as Aventurians perceive and understand them.
7th-12th of Peraine: Annual convention of bards (alternates
According to the mythology of the Twelvegods, Los killed
between the towns of Honeyngton, Norbury, Bethana, and
Sumu after a long struggle, but suffered grievous wounds
Zorgan)
in the process. When he realized what he had done in his
1st of Ingerimm: Day of Fire, a ritual consecration of
rage, Los cried out with regret. Twelve drops of Los’ blood
weapons; the most important holiday for worshippers of
fell upon Sumu’s corpse and created the gods. Praios was
Angrosh; the Trade Fair in Festum begins on this day
the first of the gods to spring forth, and Rahja was the
21st of Ingerimm: Day of Weaponsmiths, the most
last. Heretical free thinkers, such as the Hesindan Ilaristes,
important holiday of Ingerimm; observed with torchlight
claim that Los actually shed at least 13 drops, and that
processions, admission of new apprentices, and the forging
the first drop, which was full of hate and pain, created
of masterpieces
the mightiest of the gods—the Nameless One, he who has
1st-7th of Rahja: Festival of Pleasures, celebrated with joyous
fought against the Twelve since the beginning in order to
festivals and processions in the streets, in honor of Rahja

101
 remake creation ( page 236). All other living beings are
said to have arisen from the tears of Los. Plants, however,
formed out of the body of the ancient titan Sumu, while
her dying womb birthed the titans.
The Nivese have a different tale concerning the origin
of creation. According to them, the mythical Heavenly
Couple gave birth to the first human and the first wolf and
blessed them with descendants. These lived together in
harmony, until Mada, one of the sons of men, killed the
cubs of the Heavenly She-Wolf, Liska. Liska laid her cubs
into a bowl, which became Mada’s Mark in the heavens.
Liska then returned with her pack of Heavenly Sky Wolves
to devastate creation. The Nivese believe Mada’s sacrilege
and the ire of the Sky Wolves formed the world.
The Maraskani believe that the world is a discus created by
the god Rur as a perfect present for his brother-sister Gror.
Rur threw the discus towards Gror and so the world discus
flies through the Ethrajin, the home of demons and the
Brotherless (the Maraskani term for the Nameless One).
Nearly all creation myths describe an interplay between
two primordial forces at the beginning of time, and the
world sprang from their interactions, whether harmonious
or adversarial. Many see this confrontation as a battle
102 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
between godly creation and demonic chaos. Even though
these are different myths, scholars believe they largely
agree on three aspects:
Immortals created the world
The world is subject to change because mortals and
immortals fight for influence in the world
The most important aspect is that immortals can only
intervene indirectly in the world through the use of
miracles, and it is the work of their believers that must
affect the fate of the world
Despite all their might, gods and immortals must submit
to the iron Law of the World as devised by Kha, to prevent
the world from falling into chaos. She laid down this Law,
called the Mystery of Kha, In the Heart of the World. None
can violate this Law, neither the immortals nor Kha herself.
Kha determined the structure of the world, the natural
laws, and the order of the Spheres. She appointed a mortal
named Satinav to serve as the Guardian of Time, after he
committed many crimes against Time. As punishment she
bound him to the Ship of Time, where he languishes with
his daughters Ymra (past) and Fata (future), punishing every
sin against the ordered course of creation without mercy.
Even though Kha was worshiped as a goddess by the
first lizard people, the mythos of the Twelvegods does
not consider her an immortal in her own right. Instead,
Kha is the name given to the Law of the World, to which
all the gods submit. Satinav is also relatively unknown
among humans outside of scholarly circles. Only the lizard
peoples, thanks to their ancient culture, possess accurate
stories of these primordial events, and Kha and Satinav
are still worshiped as gods in certain lizard temples. Also,
there is no agreement on the organization of the Spheres,
or whether they were arranged by Kha or the gods, and
Aventurian scholars argue about different Sphere models.
Most of these theories agree that the seven Spheres are
separated by Limbo, a gray and highly-magical medium,
but scholars debate whether the Spheres encompass one
another like the layers of an onion, drift freely within
Limbo like drops of oil within a bottle of water, or lie on
top of each other like the layers of a cake.
The Spheres of the World According to the Creed of
the Twelvegods
First Sphere: Heart of the World. Kha’s Law of the
World resides here
Second Sphere: Plane of Elements. Here one finds
Sumu’s body and the pure forms of the elements
Third Sphere: Dere, home of mortals. The world, as it
is known and experienced by Aventurians, lies in the
Third Sphere
Fourth Sphere: Realm of Ghosts and the Dead. Site
of the Halls of Boron, the home of the souls of the
deceased
Fifth Sphere: Citadel of the Gods. Site of the paradises
of the various Twelvegods; home of the immortals and
also of Alveran, the Fortress of the Gods
Sixth Sphere: The Wall of Stars. Location of the star-
studded sky and its constellations as well as the source
of magic, which is also known as stars’ energy (astral
energy) or arcane energy
Seventh Sphere: Infinite Chaos. Beyond the Wall of
Stars lies the Seventh Sphere, the home of demons,
Chaos, and everything described as being Outside by
the Myth of Creation
There are also a number of sub-Spheres, such as the fairy
realms or the overgrown jungle of the dragon realm of Zze
Tha, which are detached from Creation and which have
their own natural laws. The hollow world of Tharun and
the elven Islands in the Mist exist here as well.
The Seventh Sphere, which is actually not part of Creation,
is the home of beings of Chaos called demons. They wish
to destroy Creation and thus have tried for eons to break
through the protecting bastion of the Wall of Stars (also
known as the Star Wall), which was put in place by the
gods.
The Wall of Stars prevents demons from entering into
the other Spheres of creation. But there exists a breach
in the Wall, in a place called the Starless Void. From the
Third Sphere, this breach looks like a starless expanse in
the night sky (and it is this area that sits highest in the
sky during the Nameless Days). Presumably, the Nameless
One breached the Wall at the beginning of the Fifth Age to
grant demons access to Creation. The other gods defeated
him, chained him into the breach, and arranged to use his
own power to keep the breach sealed for all eternity.
The Ages
Scholarly circles broadly agree that the world passes
through different ages. The following list of these ages is
taken from the lore of the Church of Hesinde and is thus an
Aventurian view of the ages, the one used by most human
scholars.
Summary of the Ages
According to Hesindan lore
1st Age: Creation
2nd Age: War of the Titans
3rd Age: Age of Dragons
4th Age: Age of Trolls
5th Age: Age of the Nameless
6th Age: Age of Praios’ First People
7th Age: Age of the Many-Legged Beings
8th Age: The Forgotten Age
9th Age: Age of Maritime Beings
10th Age: Age of Lizards
11th Age: Age of Long-Lived Races
12th Age: Age of Short-Lived Races
13th Age: The Last Battle and the End of the World
The ages reckoned by cultures on other continents, such
as Myranor and Uthuria, were naturally influenced by
local mythology and history. However, all look toward a
promise of great things in the coming age.
The exact length of any particular age is not known.
However, most scholars assume that an Age lasts at least
a few thousand years, and in some cases a few hundred
thousand years. An Precise calculations, especially of the
earliest ages, is difficult or nigh-impossible due to the lack
of extant sources. Even where remains from the ancient
epochs of the world still exist, such as in vast dragon cities,
gigantic troll castles, or extensive, undersea complexes,
written records are often missing or cannot be deciphered.
Recorded history did not emerge on Aventuria until
perhaps as late as the 10th Age. For more details on the
history of the continent, see Chapter 10: Myth and History,
on page 215.
The Turning of Ages
According to the Hesinden classification of Ages, the
world is currently entering the 12th Age. Transitions like
these, which are also known as the Turning of Ages or
the Karmakortheon, are, regretfully, neither abrupt nor
peaceful.
103
 For Aventuria, and perhaps even for the entire world,
a Turning of Ages ( page 235) is a time of upheaval,
danger, and uncertainty. Scholars believe that the battle
between Good and Evil, between Creation and Chaos,
reaches its high point during this period, decisively
influencing the fate of the world. Actions taken during the
Karmakortheon ste the stage for the world in the coming
Age, including which races (and which gods) will dominate.
According to Hesindian interpretation, the 11th Age was
dominated by elves and dwarves, the so-called old or long-
lived races. Scholars predict that the 12th Age will be an
Age of humans. However, there are many rivals among the
short-lived races, rivals such as goblins or the resurgent
orcs, either of which is quite happy to stifle all hope of
human dominance in the coming Age ( page 236).
“O good and wise gods, the fairy tales which the
Haimamudin tell in the bazaars have a grain
of truth at their heart after all! These lizard
glyphs prove that the Scaled Beings founded a
city upon the ruins of which the unparalleled
realm of Khunchom now stands today. Could it
be true that lizards once ruled this world?”
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
A Time for Heroes
The current Turning of Ages coincides with a Heroic Age
( page 235), another system that seems to repeat in
cycles. The dwarves speak of these Heroic Ages, as do the
songs of the elves and the old records of humans. About
every 1,000 years or so, a time dawns in which heroes can
accomplish great deeds. Many signs point to the advent
104 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
of a Heroic Age, not the least of which being the Starfall
( page 232) that has enthralled almost every Aventurian
with its nightly changes. Talk of the Heroic Age flows from
scholarly circles and quite a few adventurers now see
themselves as destined for greater things.
“1,000 years before the Fall of Bosparan, Geron
the One-Handed fought with the heavenly
blade Sevenstroke against a great number of
beasts. Shortly after the Fall of Bosparan, a
band of nobles founded Rondra’s loyal Order
of Theatre Knights. Only a short time ago, the
Desecrator of Spheres, Borbarad, met his doom,
and the heirs of the Demon Crown were crushed – if
this isn’t a Heroic Age, my friends, I’ll eat my own beard!”
—Arbosh son of Angra, forge dwarf mastersmith
The Starry Sky
“I can hardly believe what I have witnessed in the last few weeks.
If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I would definitely not believe
it. Stars disappear from the heavens while others change their
position upon the firmament. The Starfall is no illusion. It is really
happening, right now!
The constellations of the Circle of Twelve are not behaving as
predicted by the astronomical tablets of the highly esteemed
Niobara of Anchopal. I checked it four times and even consulted
two different versions of the Alamgest Folio (Bosparanian and
Tulamydian). At first I noticed a star which I had never seen
before, gray-black and wandering about the sky. Then, as my eye
searched for reassurance in the zigzag of the Serpent, I noticed
that the stars seemed to be moving. At first the Serpent appeared
to stretch and then to writhe. Then the familiar constellation
changed into something new, an ouroboros, a serpent that bites
its own tail. Hesinde, I see thy will, but I cannot understand it.
Illuminate me, o mistress!”
—Magistra Teaphanu of the Golden Cliffs Observatory, 1039 FB,
diary entry a few months after the onset of the Starfall
The Starfall has fundamentally changed the heavens above
Aventuria. This fact causes great concern everywhere, but
especially among scholars and mystics. Most Aventurians
viewed the sky as a reflection of the work of gods and
immortals, immutable and unchanging, until now.
Many peoples and races have tried for centuries to divine
the will of the gods, or their own fates, from the position
of the stars or the course of the moon. Cosmologically,
Aventurians look out from the Third Sphere into the Sixth
Sphere, from Dere to the Star Wall, the bastion that keeps
the demons outside of Creation. This also means that
Aventurians could be quite right about their assumption
that the sky mirrors the work of the gods.
Prior to the Starfall, the sky above Dere, with its stars and
celestial bodies, was remarkably consistent, and events
such as the rising and setting of the sun or the course of
the moon’s phases were easily predicted. Astronomers and
those knowledgeable in algebra could calculate the path of
constellations on the tent of heaven. It was only the paths
of the wandering stars that were difficult to predict. After
the changes wrought by the Starfall, these old certainties
no longer hold true and it seems scholars must learn them
anew (see page 106).
The Elements of the Sky
“I understand your concern, little Niobara, but the world has seen
more than one Starfall. Think of the Star of Elem, or Phex’ Rain of
Stars. You will come to understand this if Hesinde doesn’t leave
you. You, the Chosen of the Alveranian of Hidden Knowledge, are
not the only one who had to struggle with this. I recall the Herald
of the Alveranian of Forbidden Knowledge, back in the Ninth
Age, who almost went mad. Remember that the Wall of Stars is
the tapestry upon which the work of the immortals is drawn. It
is mutable, and mortals can never fully understand it—not even
you, though you have come further than any mortal I’ve ever
met.”
—the Old Dragon Fuldigor to Niobara of Anchopal, as
recorded in 511 FB
This section presents the worldview of worshippers of
the Twelvegods, whose interpretation of the celestial
bodies is the most widespread, even though the Novadi,
the Nivese, and the dwarves also study the skies. The idea
of a dwarven astronomer might seem odd at first, given
that most dwarves live far underground, but they see the
work of their god and creator Angrosh in the course of the
celestial bodies and wandering stars. Few Angroshim dare
to venture to the surface, but they reproduce the sky using
complicated machines to better understand Angrosh’s
world mechanism as it relates to the movement of the
stars.
The sun, often called the Eye of Praios or Disk of Praios,
always follows a similar course across the sky and its run
marks the span of one day. Therefore, a day is often called a
Praios’ Run. The sun reaches its highest point in the sky on
the 1st of Praios (Midsummer) and its lowest on the 1st of
Firun, or Midwinter. Between them are the two equinoxes
(just before the 1st of Travia and just before the 1st of
Peraine).
The moon, also known as Mada’s Mark or Mada’s Sign,
follows a sometimes erratic path from north to south, but
goes through regular phases in which it grows darker and
then brighter again. These phases shape a month, which is
the reason why a month is also referred to as a moon. When
only the slightest bit of the lower rim of the moon remains
lit, it is said to be in the phase of Mada’s Mark, a small sickle
from which it derives its general name. When the moon is
half full, the phase is called the Chalice. The full moon is
known as the Wheel. As the lower half darkens, only the
upper sickle, or Spire, remains visible. Finally, when it
sinks into darkness, the phase of the new moon is called
the Dead and Reborn Mada, from which the Sickle grows
into the Chalice once again.
The North Star, which is also called Los’ Star, is the only
celestial body that never moves. Some believe it is the
anchor of the world or the representation of the Mystery
of Kha, which holds the world together at its core. Many
Aventurians are convinced that the North Star is a gigantic
diamond on heaven’s tent, and more than a few expeditions
have been lost attempting to find it in the Far North.
The sun, moon, and North Star are the only constants
for all the peoples and races on Dere and are the most
important heavenly objects in the creed of the Twelvegods.
105
 After these come the Circle of Twelve, 12 constellations
consisting of more than a hundred stars in total, each of
which corresponds to the work of a god. Many of these
stars carry the names of famous Alveranians such as
Schelachar (the Griffon), Bishdariel
(the Raven), or Gorfang (the Polar Bear), and each
possesses a mythological connection to its corresponding
god. The constellations of the Circle of Twelve slowly move
through the firmament and the constellation of one deity
stands ascendent during every moon. The arrangement
of months, in the faith of the Twelvegods, is therefore
directly related to the star-studded sky.
The bright, amber-colored constellation of the Griffon,
which ushers in the new year when it is at its highest
point, is dedicated to the sun god Praios. The steely, jewel-
studded Sword is holy to Rondra. Frighteningly, the star
that represented the tip of the Sword disappeared during
the Starfall. Known as the Sar Stone (its name was derived
from the language of the lizards—sar is the Rssahh word
for soul), its disappearance is seen as a dire omen. Efferd’s
constellation, the Dolphin, shines greenish-blue. The
Goose, which belongs to Travia, is easy to find and shines
with tones of orange and blue. The Raven, which represents
Boron, the god of death, glows a sinister red and shines
very faintly. The Serpent, the symbol of Hesinde, has
undergone a great change since the Starfall began. Once
it had a distinctive zigzag form, but now the stars, which
twinkle in the colors of the elements, have rearranged
themselves into a circle. The Polar Bear, symbol of Firun,
gleams bluish-white and dominates the merciless winter.
Tsa’s constellation, the Lizard, sparkles with all the colors
of the rainbow and contains the second-brightest star in
the Aventuria sky (the elves named it Sajalana, which is
Isdira for The Companion Home). The turquoise Fox, the
symbol of cunning Phex, is surprisingly easy to find. The
warm green-golden constellation of the Stork heralds the
beginning of spring and is holy to Peraine. The Hammer
and Anvil of Ingerimm shimmers with red light. Finally,
106 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
the fifteen stars of the red and violet Mare, the sign of
Rahja, make it the largest constellation in the sky.
Not counted among the Circle of Twelve but inseparably
linked to it is the unholy Nameless Gap of Stars between
the Mare and Griffon, the void that accompanies the
Nameless Days between the years. The Gap of Stars is
believed to be the breach that the Nameless God hewed
into the Wall of Stars, and within which the Nameless one
himself now lies chained in darkness.
The stars of the Retinue of the Twelve, which shine far
less bright than those of the Twelvegods, are nonetheless
considered part of the Circle of Twelve. They move
synchronously in the background of the Circle of Twelve,
where some mistakenly attribute them to the Circle or
simply miss them all together.
The eight wandering stars are especially bright celestial
bodies that seem to choose their own paths in the firmament.
They are particularly interesting to astronomers, and most
bear the names of important demigods. Outside of realms
that worship the Twelvegods, they are known by a great
many different names.
Horas, the brightest wandering star, shines pure white and
is the symbol of contentment and harmony. Ucuri shines
with a white and gold light; rulers and champions invoke
it as a protective sign. Simia shimmers reddish white and
symbolizes restoration and beginnings. Kor, regarded as a
symbol of conflict and aggression, shines deep red. Nandus
is milky blue and associated with wisdom, prudence, and
knowledge, but it is also often interpreted as a warning.
Aves, which shines faintly of all colors, is the symbol of
carefree freedom because it completes its often-winding
path across heaven’s tent faster than the other wandering
stars. Marbo, which glimmers in pale white, is regarded
as a symbol of death, decay, and endings, but also of
perfection, Levthan, which shines in faint hues of green
and is particularly visible during the equinoxes, seems
to be surrounded by a ring, which astronomers call
Levshije. Astronomers attribute it with excessiveness,
abandon, and wild revolt, as well as failure and the doom
of business ventures.
Only a short time ago, astronomers discovered a new
wandering star as predicted by the powerful wizards Rohal
and Borbarad ( page 238): Called Xeledon, this nearly
black star loops in an almost unpredictable trajectory
across the sky and represents the futility of all earthly
endeavors. This normally-invisible star was seen clearly,
however, on numerous occasions during 1039 FB when
the Starfall began, greatly worrying astronomers and
Blessed Ones.
“We should wait until Kor has moved on. The
son of the lioness will stand in the Dragon
tomorrow, and that can only mean trouble.
Damn it, Layariel! As an apprentice Niobara
could predict the course of the constellations 58
nights in advance, so I should be able to predict
what’s going to happen tomorrow!
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
Besides the Circle of Twelve, countless other constellations
traverse the northern and southern skies. The northern sky
includes the Hound, the Hero, the Antlers, the Dragon,
Uthar, and the Emperor’s Star, which reaches its zenith
above Gareth. The Elven Star, the progress of which the
elves use to measure time, moves particularly quickly, and
many stars follow in its wake. Astronomers discovered a
new star, Rohal, only a few years ago.
The southern sky is dominated by the Barque, the Rings,
the Harp (also known as the Scroll), the Arrow (also called
Dagger), the Rubies, and the Chalice. This region of the
heavens also has Satinav, its two companions Ymra
and Fatas, and the faint, reddish star Borbarad, which
appeared near Satinav a few years ago.
Current Day Astronomy
The famed astronomer Niobara of Anchopal was certain
the order of the world would become visible via the
constellations in the sky. Essentially, the Aventurian
night sky—as part of a fantasy world—mirrors that which
transpires on Dere and even in other Spheres, namely shifts
in power, influence, and the domains of gods, demigods,
High Dragons, and other immortal beings, and the changes
that occur as a result.
Niobara observed and predicted the course of the
constellations and recorded her knowledge in the
Astronomical Tablets, which modern astronomers use
as the basis for their predictions. And even though
Aventurian astronomers have put great effort into the
creation of detailed star charts and artful astrolabes over
the years, the sky is still not fully explored. Some attribute
the recent drastic changes in the starry sky to the Sphere
quake that hit after the Third Demon Battle. However,
the repercussions of the Starfall seem to be even worse,
for entire constellations have shifted (or, like the Eye of
the Dragon, have disappeared completely from heaven’s
tent). The initial signs of this disaster occurred a few
months ago. At the end of Travia 1039 FB, on the Night of
the Starfall, Aventurians across the continent observed
unusual celestial phenomena. Some witnessed hundreds
of shooting stars, while others watched as celestial bodies
collided and burned.
Since then, circles of astronomers have been in a flurry of
excitement over the changes in the night sky. Almost every
star chart has been rendered inaccurate or entirely useless
(assuming, of course, that they were ever reliable in the
first place). As a result, navigation by the constellations,
and the casting of horoscopes, has become quite
challenging, even for experts such as the astronomers of
the famed observatories of Anchopal and the Golden Cliffs
( page 232).
Class and Feudal System
“What gives you the idea that you have the right to stand before
the Empress and make your claim? I do not recall that this is a
general audience. And looking at your coat of arms, I see you do
not even have two shields, highborn. I don’t care one bit if you
helped with the liberation of Rommilys. This is a question of
principle!”
—Garafanio, Herald of the Realm, 1040 FB
Class
A high social status carries advantages and corresponds to
a character’s class within the game world. The effects can
differ greatly, according to situation. A noble-born is more
likely encounter sealed lips and deaf ears in a Havenan
harbor tavern than would a free sailor. On the other hand,
a countess will rarely admit a serf into her presence, while
a man of high social standing is often welcome at court.
Five general classes govern social relations and measure
the social standing of an individual: the aristocracy, nobility,
lesser nobility, free, and not free. The nobility rules over a
large part of Aventuria, as well as over the other classes.
The free include wealthy burghers, free farmers, and even
the poorer inhabitants of a region or a city. The so-called
not free are either slaves without any rights, as they are
the property of their master, or else serfs who live and
work on the lands of their manor lord. Serfs or slaves
under a responsible master may live a better life than that
of free beggars. The Middenrealm and the Horasian Empire
prohibit the enslavement of humans, and any freedom-
loving Thorwaler looks down on the practice. But, in
Mhanadistan and many city-states of the South, slavery is
still the norm.
Blessed Ones of the Twelve and guild mages stand outside
of this system. All treat them with great respect due to
their vocation, although they are free in terms of their
class. Therefore, they are not subject to the general system
of class law. This leads to conflicts between nobles and
Blessed Ones about authority and responsibility. You can
find more information on this in the section Law and Order,
on page 139.
107

The Feudal System
In many realms of Aventuria, there is a longstanding
custom where rulers give parts of their lands to followers
as a reward for loyalty. Initially, ruled granted this right
for a lifetime. The entrusted land, called a fiefdom, is seen
as a sort of loan where the vassal becomes the ruler of the
entrusted land. Feudal lords hold their vassals accountable,
as do their superior sovereigns, be they counts, dukes,
or empresses. Vassals can tax the rural population, from
which they support themselves, and pass and enforce laws.
In return, vassals swear loyalty and fealty to their feudal
lords, as well as to the protection of their own vassals and
subjects. In times of war, vassals stand with their feudal
lords, supporting them in battles and mustering soldiers,
but they must continue to see to the protection of their
rural populations.
In exchange for the taxes they collect, vassals protect
their subjects from enemies. In the feudal system, direct
descendants inherit sovereignty. This is especially true for
the aristocracy.
Usually a feudal system consists of multiple levels, as
many vassals divide the lands entrusted to them into
smaller fiefdoms managed by their followers. At the top
of the feudal pyramid is the regent of the corresponding
realm, usually a king or an emperor. Dukes, princes, and
margraves are provincial rulers, lords who claim an entire
region as their own. Below them (or at the same level as
them) are counts. Then comes barons and members of the
lesser nobility, such as squires, nobles, and knights.
The illustrious titles of the nobility vary from realm to
realm. In Arania, the baronesses are called beyrouni, and
the Tulamydes are ruled by an emir instead of a count. For
more examples, see the upcoming regional source books.
The ways in which the common folk relate to their
corresponding rulers also vary greatly from region to
region. There is a distinction between free and non-free
subjects. Non-free subjects are not allowed to leave the
land of their lord without permission, as they are tied to
the earth, to the piece of land they work for their master.
108 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
The tributes to their lord are usually so great that they
have almost nothing left for themselves. If they are serfs,
they have almost no choice in matters of their lives. Their
lord decides, for example, what they can grow on their
fields. If they wish to marry, their liege lord must approve
the wedding. In addition, serfs must perform corvée services,
labors for which they receive no pay and which can include
additional work in the fields or even personal services. Free
people, however, can leave the land whenever they wish.
In some regions, bondsmen (meaning serfs, not slaves)
can theoretically purchase their freedom, but since their
income is so low, this rarely happens. Some bondsmen
flee their lands and try to find work in the cities. If they
succeed, they can become freemen after a year and a day.
It goes without saying that feudal lords try everything in
their power to catch these fugitives and return them to
their land.
Town Rights and Burghers
A new power base—that of the burghers—has emerged
within Aventuria’s feudal system within the last few
centuries. Through successful trade, many large cities
began to generate greater wealth than that of the nobility.
They used this wealth to purchase a sort of independence,
which initially included market rights (that is, the right to
hold their own markets). Since then, many of these places
received city rights as well (they may build a wall around
the city, cultivate the surrounding land, collect taxes, pass
laws, organize a city guard, and hold courts of law). The
city, as a collective, became entitled to the same rights as
a feudal lord. However, the authority which granted the
city these rights still holds them accountable, and the city
must still support them in battle. When this happened,
the nobility lost control of many of the large cities. Often
this was due to destitute nobles willingly granting these
privileges to wealthy burghers in exchange for financing
their extravagant lifestyles.
Now burgomasters rule from city halls, commanding the
city and its surrounding area. This independence is not
uniform across all cities. How many privileges a city gains,
and how much influence the feudal lord retains, varies from
city to city. In places where the nobility is still powerful,
cities are governed by stewards appointed by the nobility.
Independent cities often have a magistrate or city council
comprised of, for example, representatives from guilds,
influential families, and important temples. Sometimes
councils include representatives of mage academies. The
chairperson of a council is called master of the town,
burgomaster, or master of the council. Chairpersons are
responsible for enforcing the resolutions of the council. In
addition, they guard the sigil of the city and the key to the
city, which can open or lock the city gates.
 In the Middenrealm, so-called Realm Cities owe fealty
only to the empress and are often a thorn in the side of
the provincial lords. Outside of the Middenrealm there are
a few free cities that owe allegiance only to themselves
and fealty to no one. Anyone who wants to become a free
citizen (burgher) of such a city must take the burgher’s
oath, which often requires the payment of a large sum
of money. To obtain a burgher letter, some cities require
applicants to own a house there or possess a certain
amount of wealth. Sometimes one can only purchase a
house in a city after obtaining burgher rights, in which
case the applicant needs the support of other burghers, the
so-called bailsmen.
“In order to become burgher I must own a house
in the city, but I cannot buy one without a
burgher letter? Surely, you can see that this isn’t
going to work? But never fear, we can fix this, I
know a reliable forger…er, I mean bailsman!”
—Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond
The descendants of a burgher do not automatically inherit
burgher’s rights. When they come of age, they must take
the oath and pay the burgher fee anew. This usually takes
place at an age of 21. In principle, only burghers of a city
may practice a trade, sue someone in a court of law, and
own property. Often, for a fee one can obtain a special
permit to exercise these rights from one of the local guilds.
The same holds true for trades, which are often organized
The same rules apply to each player at the gaming
table. However, the GM has the final say.
What holds true for all players may not hold true
for their heroes. A Garethan baron or a Weidenan
knight can use noble status to their advantage.
Similarly, a Blessed One of Rondra or a mage from
Punin can make use of their influence. But a noble
from the Middenrealm, a stubborn forge dwarf, or a
glade elf from Donnerbach might leave a Thorwaler
unimpressed.
The Baron of Twomills might be the hero with the
highest social status, but if this hero is always the
sole decision maker for the group, this can lead to
problems. A strong, hierarchical gap in the group can
be fun for everyone, but depending on the situation,
it can also lead to conflict between players. Not
every hero, and likewise not every player, likes to be
ordered around. Use the standing of your heroes in
a constructive manner and support the shared game
experience. Make decisions in- and out-of-game
together, democratically, if you prefer (as a side note,
democracy is rare in Aventuria, except in Thorwal).
by a guild or a councilman. Most cities allow traveling
merchants to sell their wares at the markets for a fee or for
a tax on their income.
The responsibilities of a burgher usually include services
regarding the town, such as: keeping the city walls in
good condition, serving on a jury in a court of law, or
defending the city in times of war. All these hurdles and
responsibilities contribute to the fact that only a small
percentage of a city’s inhabitants (namely, that percentage
who can afford the cost) are burghers of the city. Some
cities have enacted a new law that fills many serfs with
hope. By living a year and a day within one of these cities,
serfs gain their freedom, and their former lords can no
longer persecute them. This does not hold true for slaves,
who often have only one option: fleeing to a city or a realm
that has outlawed slavery.
Forms of Address
An aspect of playing with class standing includes the
correct forms of address. It makes a difference whether
you address your conversational partner directly, politely,
or indirectly. And this form of address varies from region
to region. In general, the higher ranks use polite forms of
address, while the lower ranks use a more direct form of
address. With large differences of standing (a noble talking
to a serf), the high ranking member usually addresses the
lower ranking member directly or even only indirectly.
The Pluralis Majestatis, where one speaks of oneself with the
royal We, is usually only used by a provincial ruler, such
as the Empress, or by the Heads of the Churches of the
Twelvegods.
In the Middenrealm and the Horasian Empire, persons of
the same or higher rank are usually addressed as ye, plus
their corresponding form of address. In Thorwal a form
of direct address is always used, whether one is talking
to the Hetwoman or the highest ranking Blessed One of
Praios in Aventuria. Tulamydes also use direct forms of
address, but they often use honorary attributes or flowery
praise, especially towards people of higher rank. Dwarves
and elves use direct forms of address, but with respect if
speaking to someone who is older or wiser.
Examples for Forms of Address
Direct: “You call this hot bath water, Alrike?” (a baron to
a handmaiden)
Polite: “Could ye possibly show me the road to Gareth?”
(traveling adventurer to a carriage driver)
Indirect: “She may go.” (noble to a serf)
Pluralis Majestatis: “We are in your debt!” (Emperor
Khadan-Horas to one of his paladins)
Nemesis: “Die, you cur!” (cuckolded husband to his rival)
109
Secular Forms of Address
Rank Form of Address
Emperor/Empress Imperial Majesty Key Etiquette requires one to
Member of the Imperial Highness Gray Nobility bend one’s knee when the
Imperial Family Blue Lesser Nobility Emperor enters the room.
Without color No Noble rank
King/Queen Royal Majesty
Mountain King (Dwarves) Venerable Father
Forms of Address for Clergy
Duke/Duchess Majesty
Rank Form of Address
Prince/Princess Serene Highness
Matriarch/Patriarch Your Dignity
Margrave/Margravess Illustrious
of a Church
Children of a duke Princely Majesty
Metropolite of a Church Eminencez
Children of a prince Princely Serene Highness
Archpraetor (High Excellence
Count/Countess Excellency Provost of a Temple)
Children of a count Highborn Provost of an Order Excellence
Baron/Baroness Highborn Arch Blessed One Magnificence
Children of a baron Highborn Blessed One Your Grace
(Baronet/Baroness)
Acolyte/Lay Preacher Your Honor
Noble-born Honor
Address among Blessed Ones Brother/Sister
Squire/Signore Honor
(Familiar) Addressing Believers Son/Daughter
Children of a Lesser Young Lord/Young Lady
Noble
Etiquette requires one
Knight High Lady/High Lord Children of Margravates to bend one’s knee when
Doctor (also Learned Sir/Lady are addressed according to a matriarch or patriarch
Dottore/Dottora) their hereditary title. enters the room, and also
Imperial Officers Excellence to kiss their sigil ring or
their hand.
Master of a Master
CraftHandwerks

110 Chapter 4: Culture and Science

To Which Class Does My Hero Belong?
With the advantage Noble I, heroes belong to the
knight class, with Noble II they are squires or noble-
born, and with Noble III they are barons. Heroes
with the advantage Blessed usually start as simple
Blessed Ones, and heroes with the advantage Wizard
and Tradition (Guild Mage) are adepts.
Forms of Address for Guild Mages
Rank Form of Address
Archmage/Archmaga Your Magnificence
Honorary title for extraordinary achievements,
granted after an examination. Prüfung verliehen wird
Academy Dean, Grand Your Archmagister
Master of an Order
Provost of a magical school or a magical order
Magister/Magistra Magister/Magistra
Mage with teaching license
Magus/Maga Learned Sir/Lady, Master
Comparable to a Doctorate Degree on Earth
Adeptus/Adepta Learned Sir/Lady, Master
Graduate of an academy or a private
teacherLehrmeisters
Address among Collega
Mages
Usually of the same rank
Things get more complicated in the south, where it is
sometimes difficult to differentiate between moneyed
aristocracy, priests, and the common people. The situation
is quite clear with slaves, who are addressed either directly
or indirectly.
In hostile situations, at a certain point, all politeness goes
out the window. Curiously, nemeses almost always address
each other directly.
Knowing how to correctly address people of higher rank
gives many Aventurians headaches, and only those
educated in the art of etiquette always know how to choose
to the correct form of address. The customary offices and
addresses vary greatly according to region. This section
presents the most common forms of address for the
Horasian Empire and the Middenrealm. When uncertain
of the rank, choose Lady/Lord, or, in the Horasian Empire,
Signora/Signor.
Battles and Armies
“For Empress, Right, and Realm!”
—often heard battle-cry of the Realm’s Army
Aventurian wars and skirmishes are usually fought by
war bands or detachments, as only realms such as the
Middenrealm, the Horasian Empire, Al’Anfa, and Arania
employ real standing armies. A war band is usually the
retinue of a local ruler and consists of nobles, knights,
warriors, and home guards. Regular uniforms or equipment
are a rarity among these war bands. Usually, rulers mark
troops with colored sashes or their coat of arms, which
they wear upon their jerkins.
To repel raids or assaults, local rulers must rely on
territorial armies (or yeomanry regiments), of which, in
the Middenrealm, every county can muster at least one
regiment in times of war. These territorial armies are
usually poorly trained and equipped, and consist of local
farmers mustered into units. As they are often forced into
service, the morale of these units is usually quite low.
Cities must also muster a militia in case of war. It is possible
to purchase one’s freedom from military service, but most
farmers and artisans simply cannot afford the price. It is
not unusual, especially in the Horasian Empire, for counts
to free their entire county from the duty of war service by
either mustering a mercenary unit or paying for one from
the Crown.
A standing army is better trained and equipped than
territorial armies. Its warriors are more motivated and
equipped with uniform surcoats. The surcoat of the Realm’s
Army, blue with the red griffon of the Middenrealm
emblazoned on it, has become a common sight in recent
years. The officers of these armies train in the cadet
academies and elite schools of the realm, while the
commanders usually hail from the aristocracy. Although
the elite guards of the realms are under the supreme
command of the Empress or the Horas-Emperor, the de
facto commander of these regiments is a marshal.
Army Organization
“Even if we have battle mages and field invokers in our ranks and
our archers are excellent, the battle is only over when the heavy
cavalry has finished with their games.”
—Prince-Commander Helme Haffax before one of his last
battles
Most armies of Aventuria consist of a variety of different
units, referred to by their fighting technique or the make
of their armor. The primary military distinction between
army units is that of infantry and cavalry.
111

Infantry
Aventurian armies mostly consist of light infantry: lightly
armed fighters with one-handed weapons such as axes,
sabers, or swords; often with a shield. They bear the brunt
of battle, as they usually fight in the front ranks and incur
heavy losses.
The heavy infantry train with different tactics and
formations, and only deliver their full potential when
fighting as a unit. These heavily armored soldiers wear
cuirasses or full suits of armor. They usually wield long
polearms (such as halberds and long pikes), two-handed
swords, warhammers, or battle-axes, plus a short backup
weapon.
Lightly equipped archers carry, depending on the region,
either a bow, a crossbow, or a balestra. Even though the
Church of Rondra regards archers as less honorable
because they do not fight their enemies hand-to-hand, in
recent years archer units have proven essential to winning
battles.
Many units not involved in the main battle act as
supporting troops, but are considered to be part of the
infantry. Sappers destroy enemy defensive positions or
build their own entrenchments. They also carry heavy
equipment such as siege towers or battering rams with
them. Bombards move mighty siege weapons such as
catapults or artillery onto the field of battle.
Cavalry
The light cavalry is lightly armored, usually with a cuirass,
therefore the riders are often also called cuirassiers. The
light cavalry fight with lances, sabers, or maces and often
carry shields. These daredevils often win the greatest glory
in battle.
The heavy cavalry, also called chargers, battle riders, or
dragoons, descend from the classical knights. They usually
wear full suits of armor and carry long war-lances, sabers,
swords, maces, or warhammers. Their task is to disrupt
enemy infantry. Most still regard heavy cavalry as elite
units on the battlefield, even though Horasian strategists
often quarrel with Weidenan knights on this issue. Other
types of cavalry include mounted archers, scouts, and
couriers. While rarely seen on modern battlefields,
chariot drivers are viewed as part of the cavalry.
112 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
Military Units
The smallest unit contains 50 fighters and has many
different names. The infantry refers to this unit as a
banner, the cavalry a squadron, and the sappers call it a
company. A banner is usually subdivided into platoons,
or sometimes batches, of 10 fighters. Among the cavalry
this is usually called a lance. Magical or Blessed One special
units, referred to as a hand or a star, usually contain only
5 personnel.
10 banners (or squadrons) of 500 fighters form a regiment,
the most common unit on Aventurian battlefields.
Legions, which consist of 5,000 fighters divided among 10
regiments, form up only during times of war. The famous
Bosparan legions of the past conquered a large part of
the known world. They had a nominal strength of 5,400
soldiers, though this was rarely achieved.
Size Unit Composition
5 Hand/Star Specialists
10 Platoon/Batch Infantry
10 Lance Cavalry
50 Banner Infantry, five batches
50 Squadron Cavalry, five lances
50 Company Bombards or sappers, five batches
500 Regiment 10 banners, squadrons,
or companies
5,000 Legion 10 regiments; only common during
large-scale military campaigns
Within fleets a squadron of about 12 ships is the usual unit.
Only the large naval powers, such as Al’Anfa, the Horasian
Empire, and the merchant fleet of Bornland, use squadrons.
The two fleets of the Middenrealm, thinned out by wars
or falling into disrepair, have too few seaworthy vessels to
form such units. Smaller realms lack the necessary number
of ships for such an endeavor. Thorwalers rarely set sail in
naval units for sea raids these days, to the great relief of
coastal dwellers.
Military Ranks
The command structure is very similar among the various
Aventurian armies, even if various regions use different
names for the ranks. The Middenrealm refers to common
soldiers as privates. It places corporals in command of a
hand or a siege engine, and sergeants in charge of a lance.
A platoon or batch is commanded by a sergeant. Many
graduates of the cadet’s academies carry the rank of ensign.
An ensign has the command over the first lance and is
often the deputy of a lieutenant or captain. A lieutenant
is the deputy of a captain. A captain commands a banner
or a squadron. A colonel commands an entire regiment.
Marshals, who are appointed by the Crown, command the

Middenrealm Horasian Empire
Recruit Recruit
Private Soldier
Corporal Corporal
Sergeant Sergeant
Ensign Ensignio
Lieutenant Lieutenant
Captain/Cavalry captain Capitan
Colonel Colonello
Marshal Marshal
entire army during times of war and return this title after
the commendation of the army at the end of a military
campaign. Most marshals also carry the rank of colonel.
The Military Campaign
All freemen and nobles are subject to muster. If a feudal
lord calls the banners to arms, they must report for
service. Referred to as comrades in arms or, informally, as
loyals, they form the backbone of Aventurian armies. In the
Middenrealm, a provincial lord or the head of a church may
only arm bondsmen if they declare a state of emergency.
A military campaign begins with a mustering where the
ruler conducts a close inspection of the troops and their
equipment. It ends with the commendation of the army,
where the fallen are honored and the soldiers are dismissed
from service. A prime example of this in the current era
was the Great Muster of Gallys in the year 1039 FB in which
Empress Rohaja of Gareth gathered her guard regiments
and provincial troops to advance on Mendena and deliver
the killing blow to the Dark Hordes.
Great Battles of History
Aventuria has seen countless battles, both great and small.
But even the largest battles of the current era seldom had
more than 10,000 men and women fighting on both sides.
Especially infamous are battles in which magic was used or
demons stormed over the battlefields, such as in the three
Demon Battles.
After the Return of Borbarad, unholy rituals were
used in military campaigns. Armies employed demons,
constructed golems, or raised undead on the battlefield to
bolster troops and demoralize the enemy. Even though the
Middenrealm has battle mages in its ranks and the support
of Blessed Ones of Rondra, the wide-scale use of magic
and works of the gods in battle is rather rare except when
fighting unholy powers and creatures.
Below we would like to present a small selection of battles,
which have strongly influenced the history of Aventuria.
The Battle of Heaven’s Fire
This legendary battle between dwarves and dragons took
place around 7,200 b.FB in the Ingra Knolls. Dragon fire
had already consumed two dwarven cities and the dwarves
defended Xorlosh by all means necessary. Finally, the brave
dwarf Organa, daughter of Ordamon, defeated the leader of
the dragon army, Ancarion the Red. After Pyrdacor’s son
and marshal had fallen, the dragons agreed to an armistice
and spared Xorlosh from the flames.
“Why aren’t the wizards throwing around
fireballs in battle? Maybe because they don’t
want to hit their own troops. Or because
they’re afraid that if they do, then the
enemy will send forward their own wizards.
And this always turns very, very ugly…”
—Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary
The Second Demon Battle
This battle began on the 30th of Praios in the year of the
Fall of Bosparan. On one side of the battlefield stood the
Horas’ Imperial Legions, which far outnumbered the
rebellious Garethian burghers led by the young Raul of
Gareth. Via superior tactics, the Garethians appeared to
be winning. Empress Hela-Hora then performed the ritual
of Fran-Horas (see page 33), with the help of the Demon
Scepter, and let loose hordes of demons on the insurgents.
According to popular belief, the gods Praios, Rondra,
Efferd, and Ingerimm appeared in bodily form on the
battlefield to chase away the demons and to disrupt the
Bosparan legions. This battle marks the end of the gigantic
Bosparan Empire and the formation of the Middenrealm,
also called Raul’s Realm after its founder and first Emperor,
Raul of Gareth.
The Battle in the Dragongap
In 337 FB a battle took place in Weiden between the troops
of two influential churches. The Sun Legion of Praios and
the Order of the Banishing Ray ambushed an army of
the Rondranian Order of the Theater Knights, under the
command of Order Marshal Anshag of Glodenhof, and
almost completely destroyed it. This marked the end of
power for the Order once and for all, and the Bornland,
which was controlled by the Theater Knights, had to
submit to the Garethian Priest Emperors.
The Battle in the Gorian Desert
On the 22nd of Boron, 590 FB, one of the most gruesome
battles of all times took place on the high plateau of the
Gorian Desert. The powerful mages Rohal and Borbarad
( page 238) unleashed hitherto unknown magical
powers to win this battle. Of the approximately 2,000 men
and women who went into battle, only a small handful
survived, and they were insane. This battle marked the
beginning of the War of Mages.
113
 The Third Demon Battle
This battle, also called the Battle at the Trollgap, is one
of the most important events in recent history. On the
23rd and 24th of Ingerimm, 1021 FB, the free peoples of
Aventuria faced the dark hordes of the resurrected Master
of Demons, Borbarad. Borbarad unleashed ancient powers
on the field of battle. Demons, undead, and golems faced
the champions of the free peoples of Aventuria, who
wielded the holy blade Sevenstroke and the Thunderstorm,
the chariot of the goddess Rondra. The Seven Sign-Bearers,
some of the greatest heroes in Aventurian history, led
them into battle. The battle ended with the victory of the
free peoples, nd Borbarad himself was banished to Limbo
for all time. Most scholars agree that the Third Demon
Battle marks the beginning of the Turning of Ages between
the Eleventh and Twelfth Age ( page 235).
The Battle in the Skies
On the 29th of Peraine, 1027 FB, the hordes of Demon
Emperor Galotta and the undead dragon Rhazzazor, former
allies of Borbarad, attacked the capital of the Middenrealm,
Gareth, from the skies. After their army had reduced
Warhome, which lay north of the capital, to ash, the Flying
Fortress moved on to the imperial city. Entire sections of
the metropolis were destroyed when the flying demon city
Yol-Ghurmak crashed into the city. The Middenrealmers
repelled the attackers, but the abduction of Realm Regent
Emer of Gareth and the enormous loss of life plunged the
Middenrealm into its greatest crisis.
“Trollgap. Flying Fortress. Mendena. The servants of the
Desecrator of Spheres should have learned by now that they
cannot defeat us. Always, when they beat us down, we stand
up and pay them back in equal measure. We shall always
be victorious, because we have the gods on our side—and
because I command the cavalry. And also, we have wizards
in our ranks!”
—Marshal Alrik of Bluefir and of the Mountain
Food and Drink
“Does the Weidenan always have to hold his nose when he delivers
my plate? Can’t he just wish me a pleasant meal? So what if I want
little pieces of garlic in my bread? Without it, this establishment’s
food is barely palatable. Thank Travia that at least their beer is
good.”
—Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary, 1039 FB
As one might imagine, Aventurian cuisine varies greatly
by region. In the north, the cuisine is heartier yet blander
than in the south, while in the large cities and on the
dinner tables of nobles, food is more extravagant than that
114 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
commonly found in the countryside. The most common
dishes are stews with fish or meat added, depending
on where you are, but usually limited by what the acres
and forests of the surrounding area have to offer. Many
delicacies are known far beyond their region of origin,
such as the pale Ferdokan beers and ales whose quality
and names have become legendary. Other favorites
include Andergastan ham, Warunkan sembelquast (a type
of exquisite blue cheese whose strong odor can even send
the undead off to their eternal rest), sweet Punin marzipan
(sometimes called Punipan), and famous Premian Fire, a
potent schnapps that can put even the heaviest drinkers
to the test.
“Leave me alone, Rowena! I am… n… not…
d… drunk, as long as I can still… lie on thee
floor… with… without holding on!”
—Tjalva Garheltsdottir, after downing
three bottles of Premian Fire
Farmers grow many different varieties of grain, such as
rye, barley, and wheat, on the fields of central Aventuria,
along with pumpkins, sunflowers, beans, peas, chickpeas,
lentils, and spinach. Potatoes, less common here than
on Earth, originated in the islands of the Southern Sea.
This delicious tuber remained for many years a strictly
Bornish delicacy until the Borbaradian Invasion, when
soldiers who had learned to cook with it carried it back
to their homes across the continent. As its popularity
spread, it turned up in many new dishes, and demand
for its cultivation grew. Another popular dish that got its
humble start in the Bornland is panjas, a type of flat cake
made from sausage stock, buckwheat flour, and Plotzinger
Dotzen, which is itself a small, delicious cake. Other
famous drinks include Norbardian Meskinnes, a strong oat
schnapps made with honey, and Kwassetz, a type of beer
brewed from fermented rye bread and dry cherries. Even
 If you like to cook and find the topic of food and
drink interesting, you can find real, cook-it-yourself
Aventurian recipes and atmospheric short stories
on the subject of food in the upcoming supplement,
Culinaria Aventurica, available separately.
though regional differences exist, the cuisine within the
Middenrealm is quite similar. Meat is only served when
animals have just been slaughtered or brought in fresh
from the hunt. Only on the dinner tables of the nobility or
wealthy burghers, or in the dishes of well-placed inns can
one find venison, chicken, or even mutton on a daily basis.
A region’s surrounding lands and political situation have
the greatest influence over what appears on the table. In
Albernia, thanks to its proximity to the coast, citizens are
able to enjoy fish more often than their inland neighbors,
and prefer their fish ground up and fried in balls. Almada’s
cuisine bears a strong resemblance to Horasian cuisine,
and many rice dishes in both lands are very reminiscent of
the cuisine found in the Lands of the Tulamydes.
Dwarves are famed for their spicy and heavily-seasoned
mushroom stews. Hill dwarves earn high praise for their
talent for combining sausages, cheeses, vegetables, fruits,
and varieties of mushrooms. Elves eat everything that
the forest and the glades have to offer, from fine smelling
berries and herbs to freshly caught game or fish. Due to
their highly sophisticated sense of smell, they regard
fermented foods, such as cheese or wine, as unpleasant.
In the Lands of the Tulamydes, especially in the trading
towns, the ingredients are more abundant and one can
easily find the many spices and dried fruits required for
traditional Pilaw, a delicious rice dish that is often served
with date wine or yogurt that has been thinned with water.
Almost everything from the sea can be found on the
Thorwalers’ dinner plates, but apart from that, their rustic
cuisine has few real highlights. Thorwalers preserve fish
by curing or salting and drying, and one such cured fish,
the Varnheim Stockfish, remains edible throughout their
months-long sea raids. Inland Thorwalers like to combine
hot and sweet foods, but also enjoy fried foods, stews, and
spelt porridges with large helpings of mutton, cabbage,
or turnips. The gardens of the Horasian Empire produce
numerous types of fruit and vegetables and a large variety
of herbs. Horasians also enjoy fresh fish from their rivers
and the sea. Belhancani, a soup developed originally by
the Church of Efferd and which features hearty portions
of crustaceans, starfish, and kraken, is especially popular
and served often near the coast. Fairfield’s reputation for
fine dining is made possible by the great variety of fresh
ingredients available in the area.
The Inn of
the Black Boar
Spelt Stew 3 Halers
Lentil Soup 2 Halers
Light Meal 5 Halers
Tommelpunky (fish) 7 Halers
Rockridge Bratwurst 15 Kreutzers
Rockridge Gale (red beer), pitcher 16 Kreutzers
Red Wine, cup 3 Halers
Schnapps, small cup 2 Halers
Water, pitcher 6 Kreutzers
Those who can afford it often develop sophisticated palates
and follow food fashions that change from region to region
and from year to year. These trends influence not just the
dish but also the manner of its serving, and meals are often
presented so artistically that diners hesitate to consume
these culinary treasures. Food for the common people is less
abundant, but they do nevertheless have a great variety.
Many vegetable gardens boast peas, beans, onions, leek,
tomatoes, paprika, lettuce, spinach, cabbage, pumpkin, and
much more besides. Noodles, which are made from durum
wheat, are growing in popularity in Fairfield but remain
largely unknown in other regions of Aventuria. For dessert,
fruit is almost as popular as sweets, and upscale meals are
often followed by a cheese platter. The more affluent the
host, the more elaborate the cheese platter.
Naturally, a science is being made of the pairings of beverages
for every meal and every individual course. In the region of
Fairfield, people rarely drink beer or mead because the local
wine is far too popular. Sparkling Bosparagne, an expensive
specialty wine that is now exported all over Aventuria, is
available in a red Arivoran or a white Belkraman. On hot
days, one likes to drink Limonsata, which is made from
thinned, sweetened lime juice.
115
 Sport and Games Even though many rules have been incorporated over
time, Imman remains a very rough sport, and players must
always expect to receive bloody noses or even broken ribs.
“They play boltan here? Good. I am going to earn my dinner
then, because the way I play it, boltan is certainly not a game of
Card games are very popular in the taverns of the heartland,
chance.”
even though a full set of full-color cards is not cheap to
—Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond
come by. Many cards are artfully-handcrafted items that
are often unique, even though one can find printed (and
Most Aventurians must work every day to make ends meet.
thus much less expensive) playing cards in larger markets.
For diversions from everyday life, people enjoy many
Inrah is not a card game, per se, but rather a set of 121
types of distractions, whether large festivals or games
lavishly decorated cards, which mystics use for predicting
of cards or dice conducted in taverns in the evenings.
the future. A deck of Inrah cards consists of 49 symbol cards
Tournaments remain very popular with common people,
(the so-called major arcana) with illustrious names such as
even though they are usually barred from competition.
The Law of the World, Infinity, or The Emperor, as well as 72
Audiences wait on the edges of their seats to see how their
elemental cards with names such as Five of Water, Squire of
favorites will perform in the joust, and loyal fans cheer for
Fire, Mage of Ore, or Ace of Ice.
their chosen heroes in melee (tournaments with sword or
two-handed sword) and unarmed competitions. Betting on
The best known card game is boltan, which is played using
outcomes is not unusual. Sometimes large tournaments
the elemental cards of Inrah. Players of boltan bluff with
offer events in which any free citizen may participate, and
their hidden cards while angling to increase the stakes. If
archery competitions, spear hurling events, and contests
every player but one passes, the remaining player wins the
with clubs or quarterstaves offer more prize money than a
pot, even on the strength of a weak hand. If two or more
farmer can make in an entire year.
players do not pass, they compare hands and the player with
the highest card hand wins the pot. Boltan is also known
One event that grows in popularity every year in many
as Five Aces, a name derived from the game’s strongest
regions of Aventuria is the Thorwalian sport of Imman.
hand. Due to the usually large sums of money at stake,
One can usually find enough people for a game of Imman
brawls often develop over game results or accusations of
in almost any large city north of the Khôm Desert, and
cheating. This is the reason the game is banned in some
many cities already have their own teams. Supporters of
cities of the Middenrealm and the Horasian Empire.
the sport like to meet in taverns to discuss players and
However, such laws do not hinder devoted players, who
the day’s results. In this game, two teams compete to get
can always manage to find a game in a smoky backroom
a small ball made of cork into the opposing team’s goal
dive or a private salon in a more respected establishment.
with the help of wooden sticks made from the wood of an
ash tree. A hit above the goal post earns one point, while
Another popular card game is Black Alrik, in which all
a hit below earns three points. Extraordinarily, this sport
players strive to make sure the eponymous card ends up
is not only popular among the common people, as many
in the hand of one of the other players when the game
nobles see it as a rather rough pleasure. Every Quarter in
concludes.
the city of Gareth has at least one team, and all meet in
the month of Praios for the Garethian City Championships.
Nearly every child knows the rules by heart and can define
an off-side emperor, a Mada’s ball, and an elven roller. Teams “Hah! My hand would make even a Bennain
consist of 15 players each, and the playing field measures turn green with envy. I wouldn’t raise the
153 yards by 87 yards. stakes if I were you, Rowena. An ancestor of
Raidir Conchobair the Sword King, rest his
soul, bet his entire Margravate in a game of
boltan with the Albernian princess—and lost.”
—Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond

Dice games are popular and portable, but far more dice
are rolled in taverns than elsewhere. Most dice games
are played with six-sided dice that are usually made
from wood or bone, though some nobles own
dice crafted from metal or semi-precious
gems that are worth far more than the stakes
on the table. Being games of pure chance, card
and dice games enjoy Phex’s protection, and
many followers of Phex indulge in them extensively.

116 Chapter 4: Culture and Science

In farmer’s cottages or the huts of fisher folk, people
rarely play dice for money. Rather, the game helps folk
to pass the time, and high stakes, such as are frequently
seen in the salons of the Horasian Empire or at the gaming
tables of the Chorhopan House of Games, are unthinkable.
Famous dice games include Gareth Burns, Ogrewall, and 21
Kreutzers, though these games and their endless variations
sometimes have different names in other regions.
Games of skill, in which daggers, knives, or axes are thrown
at targets of different sizes, are very common. Targets
come in many shapes—from round wooden plates or straw
mats decorated with simple rings, to detailed mockups of
animals or even humans, as used in the distasteful slave
hunts practiced by Al’Anfans. In northern Aventuria,
slighting lashing enjoys some popularity. Players try to hit
a small coin (the slightling) with the lash of a whip. Arm
wrestling and drinking games are very well known and
widespread in inns and taverns.
The highest refinement of gaming is found in board or
strategy games, the most famous of which is a Tulamydian
game known as Red and White Camels, in which players lead
the title beasts and their freight over the game board to the
correct oases. During play, one must mislead opponents,
use one’s own caravan routes to block those belonging to
others, and use feints to conceal secret route destinations
and the value of freight. It should come as no surprise that
the Tulamydes have devoted centuries to perfecting the
intricacies of this game, which mirrors the central tenets
of their culture like no other game in Aventuria.
Two other games, Urdas and Garadan, both use the same
six gaming pieces—king, queen, rook, bishop, knight, and
pawn. In both games, the primary goal is to break through
the opponent’s battle line. Garadan also originated in
the Lands of the Tulamydes but has now spread across
the entire continent. As a game of tactics, it is especially
popular among the nobility.
On the board of a game known as Inrah, invented by the
Tulamydes and introduced to the Middenrealm by Rohal
the Wise, players simulate the eternal battle between the
King of the Wind, who is a Master of Djinn and a brilliant
schemer, and a figure known as the mighty Sultan and his
warrior host. The symbolic gaming pieces each correspond
to a card in the Inrah fortune telling deck.
Naturally, there are a countless number of other games
and pastimes, such as cock fighting and even so-called
cowpat betting, where participants bet on the next place
a cow left to wander in a marked field will relieve itself.
Races involving horses, chariots, or camels draw many
gamblers to racetracks. Coastal settlements host sailing
races ranging from regattas with smaller rowing boats to
long-distance races between large sailing ships.
Craftsmanship
and Technology
“You call that mechanical achievement? I call it amateur work at
best. Here, let me see that. Grandfather Albrax did send me here
to see to such things, after all.”
—Arbosh son of Angrax, forge dwarven Master Smith
The state of technology varies greatly
across Aventuria. For example, the Horasian
Empire is certainly the most advanced realm,
technologically, and is comparable to the early
Renaissance in terms of achievement. Nostria,
Andergast, and Weiden are solidly Medieval,
while Thorwaler accomplishments most closely
resemble those of early Medieval Vikings.
Thorwalers favor old fashioned broadswords
and axes, but fighters in other regions prefer
lighter, more modern fencing weapons. Vinsaltan
engineers have already invented complicated
pocket watches, but there is no knowledge of
explosives and thus no firearms in Aventuria,
even though scholars have made great advances
in the study of alchemy. Technological progress
in Aventuria, even with its minor exceptions, still
follows the conventions of a classic fantasy setting.
It is a fantastical setting where magic is almost
commonplace and the work of the gods can be seen
and felt by everyone. Aventurian technologies
and sciences are often similar to their historical
Earthly equivalents but aren’t perfect matches
in every way. Technological achievements are
guarded jealously and therefore often limited to
certain regions or even to certain cities.
117
 Aventurian science can already boast several important believed that some master smiths, such as Thorn Eisinger,
achievements: the mathematical concept of zero was the Smith of 1,000 Heroes, somehow learned the secret and
discovered long ago, and Tulamydian scholars have millennia-old techniques of the cyclopes.
uncovered many secrets of Al’Gebra (algebra). Kuslik has
published its goniometer tables, and the mathematical
extraction of roots has been known since the time of “Of course we are better artisans. Father
Bosparan. On the other hand, the past 100 years has Angrosh gave us more time than you short-
seen few groundbreaking discoveries in mathematics. living humans to perfect our craft.”
Rulers understand that the application of mathematics —Arbosh son of Angrax, forge dwarven
contributes to the quality of life in Aventuria: the Festuman master smith
tables of compound interest and commercial fractions play
an important role in trade, and is therefore responsible for
the great wealth of Horasian and Bornish merchants. With the exception of the one-eyed cyclopes, dwarves
are still regarded as the absolute masters of the crafts
Architecture and ship construction also profits from of engineering and forging. Perhaps Angrosh really has
mathematics, as geometry helps calculate the ideal forms blessed them with extraordinary mastery. The highly
for hulls and sails and reveals the strength of domes advanced and greatly esteemed art of crafting is practiced
and defensive walls. Technical marvels of mechanical in every dwarven community, and humans have learned
engineering, which are crafted by dwarves in particular,
include instruments such as adding machines and
calculator spindles, tower clocks, and complicated locking
mechanisms. Vinsalt Eggs—mechanical pocket watches
developed by engineers in the Horasian Empire, have
become particularly common among wealthy merchants
and nobles in just the last few years. It is rumored that
machinists working in the Demon Forges of Yol-Ghurmak
also recently created a very precise chronometer.

Engineers have been hard at work redesigning astrolabes

and orreries, which track the movements of constellations
and wandering stars, ever since the event known as the
Starfall rendered such ancient certainties obsolete. There
have been many advances, both mundane and magical,
regarding new astronomical and terrestrial telescopes,
the complex lens systems of which stem from the work of
dwarven experts.

Modern shooting weapons are complex mechanical

devices that are time-consuming to produce and expensive
to purchase and maintain. Examples include the dwarven
repeating crossbow (the Iron Forest crossbow) as well as
similar weapons fashioned by humans (winding crossbows
or torsion weapons such as the arbalette, the balestra,
and the smaller balestrina). One of the most famous
siege engines from history was the mighty cyclopean, a
catapult that could hurl a weight of up to 500 kilograms
and was used to tremendous effect during the age of the
Diamond Sultanate. Explorers unearthed the secret of its
manufacture only a few years ago, and now engineers turn
out cyclopeans for use in war once again. Differences in
technology reveal themselves in many weapons produced
in Aventuria, and the manufacture of swords is no
exception. Tulamydian master swordsmiths fold their steel
many times to create sharp, robust blades. Dwarven smiths
twist raw steel, cut it into shavings, and then re-forge the
metal to obtain the best steel possible. But technology
alone does not account for all differences in weapons. It is

118 Chapter 4: Culture and Science

much from the Angroshim. It is not unusual for human
families to scrape together all their money to buy their
child an apprenticeship with a dwarven master.
Dwarves value the art of smithing above all others and
revere every practitioner, from blacksmith to silversmith.
Stone masons, architects, and carpenters also garner a
great deal of respect in dwarven society. With the uniquely
dwarven art of stone founding, dwarves can cast stone
objects much like metalworkers cast objects in bronze or
gold. Stone founding also lets dwarves harden certain types
of stone beyond their natural limits. The designs of many
magnificent bridges and structures with impressively
large domes are based on techniques that were developed
by the dwarves.
Humans, too, possess their share of masters of their
prospective crafts. Leonardo the Mechanicus is regarded as
the most famous and most brilliant inventor of this Age.
He designed and built the longest bridge in Aventuria, and
invented a multitude of devices as creative and diverse as
flying machines and diving bells. Unfortunately he was
abducted and taken to the demon city of Yol-Ghurmak
where he fell into madness. Thereafter, up til the day he
died, he gained sad notoriety as a Heptarch for his countless
cruel inventions. His former student, Sorp Sanderwik, who
so far has resisted the lure of Yol-Ghurmak, strives to live
up to Leonardo’s legacy.
The Horasian Empire there is also a focus on fine mechanical
skill as well as the production of high quality glass and
mirrors. Horasian researchers dedicate themselves to
advances in alchemy, especially in the city of Mengbilla.
Without a doubt, the most spectacular development of
Mengbillan alchemists so far has been the reconstruction
of the formula for Hylailean Fire, a highly potent oil that,
once ignited, cannot be extinguished by water.
Most business ledgers, public records, and personal
correspondence are still traditionally written by hand on
parchment, especially in cases where durability is important
or paper is simply not available. Paper is produced from rags
or raw plant fibers in special paper mills. The proliferation
of books and gazettes in recent times is credited to the
Maraskani, who invented the movable type printing press,
a groundbreaking development that uses moveable letters
made from hardwood or lead alloys. The creation of high
quality editions of books such as the Encyclopaedia Magica
and the lesser gods’ vademecums would not be possible
without these technological innovations. Similarly,
printing presses have fueled the widespread distribution
of gazettes such as the Aventurian Herald. Nevertheless,
in many places, books are still copied by hand, and printed
pages are produced from single images carved into wood,
according to long-held tradition.
Message delivery in most parts of the continent relies upon
local courier services such as the Beilunk Riders, which
is similar to the posting system of the Roman Empire or,
for those up on their American history, the Pony Express.
However, parts of the Horasian Empire now employ a far
more advanced method of transmitting messages, though
mainly for military purposes. This system relies on a series
of tall signal towers, or semaphores, for communication
across long distances on land via a flag alphabet, similar to
the method used at sea.
Porcelain production has flourished for some time among
the Novadi, and Unauean porcelain, especially, is much
sought after. Among the Tulamydes, and especially among
the mages of Khunchom, one finds countless artifacts that
combine magic with craftsmanship: delicately-forged
enchanted jewelry, flying carpets, and apparatus such as the
rare aetherlabe, which is purported to allow one to orient in
Limbo. This research into so-called arcanomechanics (that
is, the relationship between mechanics and magic) was
also pursued energetically by the followers of Borbarad,
the Master of Demons. Among other things, their work
led to the development of impressive golems made from
stone and metal, and which were used as gigantic weapons
of war.
The Northern provinces are known for their exports of
skilled and artistic carvings, though in general, technology
is not as advanced in the north as it is in the south. This
may be due to the fact that the lives of people in the north
are rougher and closer to nature. When faces enemies
constantly, one rarely has time even to rest, let alone
conduct research. Practical pursuits have proven their
value many times over, and inhabitants of the north are
duly skeptical when it comes to innovation. However,
when dealing with northerners, be wary of applying this
statement across the board.
Thorwalers are highly respected in Aventuria for their
shipbuilding skills, and their traditional longboats
have hardly changed over the centuries, except for the
occasional innovation to sails, masts, rigging, or rudders to
make the ships of the northmen glide even faster through
the waters. A few envious shipwrights from the south
claim that these qualities are due only to the magical runes
that the Thorwalers carve into the wood and weave into
the sails of their dragon ships.
The shivone and its variants, the most modern ship design
afloat, was invented almost simultaneously in Grangor
and Festum. Today, these hardy ships are built by almost
every major naval power that can afford them. Thorwalers
and Tulamydes adhere to the traditional ship designs
of their ancestors (longboats, and zedrakke or thalukke,
respectively).
119
 Despite many innovations in seafaring, sailing the high
Aventurian seas still has its risks. Even though ships have
succeeded in making the crossing to other continents,
navigation on open water is still rather imprecise. Ships
still usually rely on coastlines and widely recognizable
landmarks. Navigators can make some use of latitude, but
the determination of longitude is critical for determining
position. Calculating longitude is very difficult, and the
skill is available to only a very few cultures.
Unfortunately, the most modern instruments available
for determining one’s position (the south-pointer,
the quadrant, the Hylailean three-pointed cross, and
the Vinsalt Egg) can still be foiled by the unexpected
appearance of supernatural phenomena, storms, or even
simple ocean winds.
The recent changes in the night sky have been especially
ruinous to ships trying to navigate on the high seas,
as sailing out of sight of a coastline has become a real
challenge once again.
It doesn’t take long for word of new inventions to spread
across Aventuria, and in return, the demand for such
innovations soon rises. Al’Anfa and the Horasian Empire
stand at the forefront of technological development, as
they are prosperous realms with large universities, but
they spare neither expense nor effort to purchase, copy,
or steal new inventions and techniques. They rely on
their respective spy networks both to steal from others
and to protect their own innovations from prying eyes.
Yol-Ghurmak is far less scrupulous and often cuts out the
middleman by simply sending demons to abduct promising
scholars.
Music and Art
“What would life be without the beautiful things which Rahja has
given us? Yes, I speak of music and drama, as well as the arts of
painting and sculpting. Everything that was made to uplift and
inspire the human spirit expresses itself in art.”
—an actor of the Vinsaltan opera, 1039 FB
Music in Aventuria is usually used to provide a backdrop
for stories, to accompany a dance, to liven up work, or to
boost morale in a military campaign. Singing is widespread
in all cultures, even though critics claim dwarves cannot
sing at all, and Thorwalers are always so drunk that they
can do little more than bray.
There are many examples of the different styles of music
in Aventuria. The Minnesang of knights and bards of the
Middenrealm sing accompanied by a hand-harp or a lyre.
The mythical sagas of the Thorwalers, which the skalds
recite from memory, are often evening-long presentations
120 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
accompanied by a lute. The sad Lamentos of the Almadans
are similar to songs of the Tulamydes, which are almost
always accompanied by complex soundscapes, created
by kabas fluete, dabla drums, and bandurria, a string
instrument with a whirring sound.
Dwarves primarily know working or drinking songs, which
can be sung or shouted without accompanying music. The
Angroshim have a preference for a style of music that
imitates the sounds of ore mining or a hammer striking an
anvil. Therefore, they primarily use drums, kettledrums,
cymbals, and Angrosh bells, as well as brass instruments.
The success of the bard group Rolling Thunder, consisting
of both human and dwarven musicians, is a prime example
of this sort of rock music, which is becoming popular with
a wider audience. Furthermore, hill dwarves cherish music
which creates a cozy atmosphere. Instruments such as the
squeezebag (accordion), sackpipes (bagpipe), flutes, and
fiddles are popular.
Norbards love dance and song, which they accompany with
a bell ring, the tambourine, or a klamfa, a three-stringed
instrument similar to a lute.
For the elves, music is an essential part of their everyday
lives, as well as their magic. This is the reason why it
greatly differs from that of other peoples. Elven singers
shape their songs with their emotions to create harmony
among the listeners. But, elven music does not always
sound beautiful to human (or dwarven) ears, especially the
djassandra (Isdira: sweeping sound), when multiple elves
start playing and singing at once. This is often unbearable
to humans as it usually follows no distinctive harmony.
The ability of the elven people to sing in two voices may
contribute to the fact that their songs are regarded as
heavenly and strange. Elves usually use flutes or harps,
either on their own or to accompany their songs. The
elven magic songs are particularly special, containing both
a tale and a spell, as the harmony of the melody magically
influences the singer’s surroundings. The magical dances
of the Tulamydian Sharisad are similar in their ability to
touch their audiences, however
most attribute this effect to the
passion of the dance than rather
than to the music.
Music flourishes in the
Horasian Empire. In
many places in the
empire, composers and
conductors command
respect, and find their
music regarded as an art
form in itself. The Vinsaltan
opera has gained particular

fame. There, orchestral music and singing mixes with
drama and dance. Initially invented in Belhanka, the
Vinsaltan opera house is the best location to watch a
spectacular performance, one where large choirs, dance,
drama, fireworks, and sometimes, even magic accompany
the orchestra.
Wandering minstrels and balladeers travel through
villages and towns, performing at festivals to earn a few
halers. Many hope to find a wealthy patron, who will enjoy
their music for a longer time and may even take them
into service, becoming their patron. These wandering
minstrels are very popular among common people and as
well as the nobility. Although quite a few insulting songs
about an unloved noble circulate incredibly fast, because
the audience begins to sing along at the top of their voices.
For centuries, painting and sculpting have been shaped by
figurative images, though they sometimes have allegorical
approaches or depict topics the artists could not have
seen or experienced themselves. One can find images of
gods and saints in all forms: the gold-decorated wooden
icons of the Bornlanders, as well as the statuettes of saints
made out of wood, stone, metal or, very rarely, gemstones.
These statuettes find their place in many Aventurian
houses as talismans. The temples of the Twelve usually
house large statues of the gods, some of which have gained
legendary fame themselves, such as the famous Kuslikan
sculpture Hesinde with her Human Pupils or the Six-Armed
Rondra. Secular depictions are also widely known, such as
the gigantic Colossus of Al’Anfa, which rises over the port
entrance of the city. Tapestries, which depict mythological
scenes, are widespread in the Tulamidyian areas as well as
in northern regions. The Maraskani, the Thorwalers, and
the Tulamydes are regarded as the true masters of pattern
art, even though they use very different subject matter.
Thorwalers like curved lines and prefer mythological topics,
while Tulamydes favor playful, floral patterns. Maraskani
connect all of this together and some of their patterns are
said to have a mystical power. The supernatural power of
the carved magical runes of the Thorwalers and the glyphs
woven into the magical carpets of the Tulamydes is widely
known.
Painting often follows classical subjects. Paintings of
battles, landscapes, and portraits of affluent merchants
and famous nobles are widespread. Landscapes or pictures
of cities have become increasingly realistic thanks to the
understanding and use of perspective. Cartographers have
been sponsored to produce series of maps and atlases,
but hitherto only rarely have their works depicted exact
geography. They include countless decorative elements.
Sometimes cartographers produce real works of art and
they find their way onto walls as decoration.
The Hall at the Sea
(traditional skald’s song from Olport)
I was with Tula on Skerdu and Skerdu became my grave.
The witch, she spoke words of comfort, but poison she
gave.
Treasures of mine I wanted to find and take ashore,
But I drank her wine, and find my home again I will
nevermore.
She invited me to her hall and treated me with a
delicious feast,
I ate it all and I drank her mead.
Tula pulled me close to her resting place
We loved each other fiercely in the Hall at the sea
Fool, stupid reveler me, I drank passion’s ardor
And tossed the emptied cup into the harbor.
And as death drew near, I begged for one last kiss,
She gave me this mercy, sent Boron a wish.
(sung to the Earth melody “The King in Thule”)
Loving Regards
(Old song from the Albernian lake land)
If you go to Nostria fair,
Sage, donf, joruga, and vine
Remember me to one who lives there,
For once she was a true love of mine.
Tell her to make me a cambric shirt,
Sage, donf, joruga, and vine
With no seam nor needlework fine
And then she’ll be a true love of mine.
Tell her to wash it in yonder dry well,
Sage, donf, joruga, and vine
Which never sprung water nor rain ever fell,
And then she’ll be a true love of mine.
Oh, please find me an acre of land,
Sage, donf, joruga, and vine
Well between surf and parcel of strand:
For then he’ll be a true love of mine.
Oh, plow it with a lamb’s horn.
Sage, donf, joruga, and vine
And sow it all over with a single corn:
Or he’ll never be a true love of mine.
Oh, cut it with a sickle of leather,
Sage, donf, joruga, and vine
Bind sheaves with an ostrich’s feather:
Or he’ll never be a true love of mine.
And if you are at the end of your work,
Sage, donf, joruga, and vine
Ask him to come for his cambric shirt
And you’ll be once more a true love of mine.
(sung to the Earth melody “Scarborough Fair”)
121
 Most painters of today still use traditional materials and
techniques, such as oils on canvas or wood, and ink on
parchment or rice paper. Furthermore, some believe that
a few use magic to increase effect of their paintings. The
pictures of the elven artist Golodion Lakemoon are so
artfully crafted, that even reality fades next to them.
For instance, the rustling of leaves in the wind, the foaming
of the waves, and even the people depicted in Golodion’s
pictures move or change over time thanks to the magic
that lives within them.
The Horasian Empire, where many people are literate, has
many different genres of literature. Poets write not only
sagas and legends, but they create poems and dramatic plays.
With the same passion they also write Travial literature.
These are simple stories with an archetypical ensemble of
characters, whose plots are usually about unrequited love,
jealousy, and gods-fearing actions. Novellas and novels,
such as The Love of a Princess, the serialized adventures of
Avestos, or the heart-breaking daredevil Rapiero Floretti,
have also found a large following.
Aventurian Libraries
“They might believe that knowledge in books is useless. But in
fact it is quite the opposite. In a book, knowledge will never be lost.
Lady Hesinde teaches us that we never truly forget, and this holds
even more true once we have put it in writing. Although one can
find great volumes at the universities of Al’Anfa or Methumis, and
in mage academies such as the Academy of High Magic in Punin,
we can truly claim that the Halls of Wisdom, Hesinde’s main
temple, contains in its Parlor of Learning the largest library the
world has ever seen. Why, do you think, so many scholars come
here to use our library? Exactly, because they seek knowledge
only found here and not at the courts of the nobility. They think
too highly of their standing and spurn this valuable knowledge.”
—Rymorio Erkenlander, grand master of the Parlor of
Learning, 1040 FB
Books are valuable items in Aventuria, and the invention
of the printing press and its regular use has not changed
that fact. Written works circulate faster and wider
than was previously the case—back when scribes and
illuminators had to produce books with painstaking
manual labor: writing in silver, gold, and colored inks.
Not every Aventurian can use the knowledge held within
in books, as most humans can neither read nor write. The
Horasian Empire might be the exception to the rule, as
the educational standard of even a simple city dweller is
very high. The larger cities of the Middenrealm now teach
reading. The ability to read has become more important
with the increasing texts associated with trades and crafts.
122 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
Many nobles in the Middenrealm do not approve of their
subjects educating themselves, as they fear that farmers
and artisans could become rebellious and unruly due to
strange ideas gained from books.
Therefore, most printing presses are in the hands of
nobles, churches, or mage academies. This guarantees
the best control of which publications leave the printing
companies for circulation. To this day, books considered
heretical or rebellious are written by hand, primarily
in secret. This also holds true for the spell books where
guild mages record their magic spells. To this day, it is not
possible to print the core of a spell on a press so that mages
can learn them. Still, the Adamant Press, the printing
press of the Khunchoman Dragon’s Egg Academy, has been
experimenting with magical printing blocks for a long
time.
Books as Teachers
The heroes of The Dark Eye usually need a teacher
to activate their skills or to raise activated skills.
Heroes can also attempt to increase them with
self-study.
A hero can use a book as a teacher, as they
contain a great variety of informative facts.
Mages can use the widespread spell books to gain
the knowledge of a certain spell or property.
Self-study usually takes longer when compared to
studying under a private tutor, as the hero must
learn many things through trial and error. The
length of time needed is at the GM’s discretion
and should be based on the skill, spell, or combat
technique in question, and the existing skill of
the hero. To learn from a book, the hero must
be able to read it, and have a command of the
corresponding language and script of the book.
This means the hero must speak the language at
level III and must have learned the alphabet of
its script.
Raising or learning skills from a book costs the
hero adventure points per the cost table on
page 351 in the Core Rules.
Selected Books
Breviary of the Twelvegods
“The times were darkest and most desperate when the sound of
Spheres reached the educated prophet Illumnestra. The melody
of the world of the gods illuminated the wise one, and afterwards
she could share with the humans of Aventuria the only true
creation myth. It was then that the cosmogonica was revealed to
the world and so we know that LOS, the all god, walked through
the infinity of eternity when he laid eyes on the primordial titan
SUMU, who was resting. Her sight angered LOS, as nothing
should exist beside him in the eternal infinity.”
Language and Script: Garethi in Kuslik Signs
Value: 75 silverthalers
Subject: Religious lore
Availability: very common
The College of the Twelvegods in Gareth publishes The
Breviary of the Twelvegods and it contains about 70 pages.
The emperor ordered the first edition published in 681 FB,
and the College of the Twelvegods revised later editions
multiple times. The latest edition was published in 1016 FB.
Many of Praios’ day schools use The Breviary as a textbook
and it covers the beliefs of the followers of the Twelvegods
and the duties of people. Numerous manuscripts and
originals of the different editions exist and many Blessed
Ones carry a copy of the Breviary with them. All in all, there
are about 5,000 copies in circulation. The Imperial Archive
in Gareth stores a complete collection of all editions.
Codex Albyricus
“No living being, which the gods have blessed with a soul, may
be sacrificed or killed. Violating this law is punished according
to severity by Disvocatio (annulment of all titles), Disliberatio
(denial of all guild resources), or Expurgico (banishment from
the guild) for at least one year and one day.
If someone violates a living being, which Hesinde blessed with
reason, he should immediately be punished with an Expurgico
and death by the purifying force of fire through the guild to
which the perpetrator belonged.”
Language and Script: Bosparano in Kuslik Signs
Value: 300 to 700 silverthalers per volume
Subject: Magical lore, law (guild law)
Availability: common
The Codex Albyricus is a collection of 7 volumes, each of
140-160 pages, published by order of Rohal the Wise in
547 FB and forms the generally approved legal codex
concerning magical matters. It is the basis for the guild
law and contains the rights and responsibilities of guild
mages of all three guilds. Due to this fact, the Academy
of Magical Armor in Gareth, where the Codex is printed,
constantly revises it. It is currently in its 9th Edition,
the Emperor-Haal-Edition, and is available for the first
time in printed form. It lists magical misdemeanors and
crimes, how to investigate them, and the punishment for
such offences. Furthermore, the Codex contains the rules
and regulations for the garments of a mage and the daily
life at an academy. It also aims to unify the standards
for guild mages exchanging information, whether at
teaching institutions or among the three guilds. Almost all
academies, temples of Praios and Hesinde, and large courts
of law have complete editions of the Codex. In total, about
1,700 copies of different editions are in circulation.
123
 Encyclopaedia Magica
“It is no easy task to clearly define magic and to separate it
according to different properties, as the working of magic differs
among all peoples. But despite these phenotypical problems it
was possible after century-long research to order and catalogue
the core premises of magic. There are, to this day, still topics
which need extensive research, especially temporal magic and the
Contra-Contraria, the anti-anti magic.”
Language and Script: Bosparano in Kuslik Signs (only the
oldest editions in Imperial Letters)
Value: 800 silverthalers per volume
Subject: Magical lore
Availability: rare
The Enyclopaedia Magica is the standard work of magic and
a reference book for guild mages, and one can find it in
almost every academy library. It contains a list of known
spells with names and effects. However, these volumes
contain no master formulas from which a reader could
learn the spells.
The Encyclopaedia contains 7 folios, each about 200
pages. It was published around 800 b.FB and is revised
approximately every 200 years. The Academy of High
Magic in Punin currently publishes The Enyclopaedia Magica.
They, in 1010 FB, released the first printed edition of The
Encyclopaedia. Only three volumes from the first edition
still exist and there are about 500 copies of the individual
volumes in circulation.
124 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
Herbarium Kuslikum
“Of the disdychonda: it remains unknown which immortal
thought of such a plant, but the disdychonda of the rainforests
remains as the most frightening example of a plant that feeds on
flesh. It carries a violet bloom with numerous garlands, which
sprout on a trunk of about 7 inches. The real danger lies in the
four giant leaves, which spring from the greenish brown trunk
near the ground and their dark green color often melts it into
the surrounding area. If a living being touches them they roll
together, to constrict their victim, and the nettles on its surface
emit their insidious poison.”
Language and Script: Garethi in Kuslik Signs
Value: 250 silverthalers per volume
Subject: Herbal lore
Availability: less common
The Kuslikan temple of Hesinde published The Herbarium
Kuslikum, an extensive treatise on Aventurian flora,
consisting of nine volumes of 200 pages each, in 1005 FB.
The volumes are surprisingly entertaining to read,
containing many references to varied sources as well as a
great number of sketches and drawings. The book is a must
read for anyone who wants to occupy themselves with
herbal lore. In total about 700 copies of varying quality
are in circulation. The Halls of Wisdom in Kuslik stores the
manuscript collection, and the Blessed Ones constantly
expand it.
Prem’s Wildlife
“Of sharks: the terrors of the sea and enemies of all seafarers are
these toothy monstrosities which we refer to as sharks. These
murderous beasts can detect the smallest amount of blood in
water, and are almost magically drawn to its smell. Their sharp
teeth, aligned in many rows, and their mighty jaws make them
highly dangerous. Many smaller types can devour seals whole,
while larger specimens can bite off the arm or leg of a man. All
breeds of sharks have a dorsal fin in common, which, when seen
in the water, announces their arrival. It is no wonder that the
shark lancers, who actively hunt for these beasts, are so highly
respected.”
Language and Script: Garethi with Thorwalian influences in
Kuslik Signs
Value: 250 silverthalers
Subject: Animal lore
Availability: rare
Prem’s Wildlife is a comprehensive study of the animals of
the western and northern coasts of Aventuria, including
the Orcland, Albernia, the Horasian Empire, and the
Cyclopes Islands. The volume was published around 923 FB.
The texts were most likely written earlier, and assumed to
be a composition of different Thorwaler authors. The book
is embellished with drawings of the beasts it covers. The
nearly 200 direct copies include commentaries, with the
original kept in Prem. Copies of the commentated versions
are more extensive, but often less precise concerning
individual entries.
The Vademecum of Combative Crafts
“Mark this, as this is the first teaching of the sword;
That you learn to strike from both sides,
That you fight valiantly and justly,
Equal to Rondra’s spirit and Rondra’s talons.
If you flinch before the strike, you will only enjoy small arts;
Be careful of the strike but do not shy away from battle.
Step forward, not weakly, and not mildly,
So that no strike will pierce your shield.
Do not strike the enemy’s blade,
But always the exposed part,
Strike the head and the body.
What you want to strike,
Strike with the full force of your body.”
—excerpt from the Vademecum of Combative Crafts,
Gareth, 985 FB
Language and Script: Garethi in Kuslik Signs
Value: 150 silverthalers
Subject: Swords, two-handed swords
Availability: uncommon
Written in 985 FB by the late Garethian sword mistress
Krona Adersin as the first dedicated book on the art
of fencing, the Adersin-Vademecum was regarded as an
important step in the founding of the warrior academies. It
vividly describes the different techniques of fighting with
bastard sword, sword, shield, and parrying dagger, and
compares their effectiveness. The warrior academies and
temples of Rondra opposed this book, but it spread quickly.
About 200 copies are currently in circulation. Work on a
printed edition, supplemented by further bastard sword
techniques written by Krona’s sons, was begun after the
death of Jost. There has been no word about when sword
master Erlan Adersin will publish this revised edition.
125
 Gazettes and Periodicals
In some regions, a town crier still publicly announces
the news, because many people cannot read. Coverage in
printed form, however, becomes ever more dominant in
the cities of the Middenrealm, the Horasian Empire, and
the South. Newspapers such as the Havena-Fanfare, the
Yaquir View, the Brabakan Picture Postillion, and the newly
founded Andergastan Friend of the People cover mainly local
events.
The Aventurian Herald is the best-known Aventurian
newspaper, as the news bulletin with its main seat in
Gareth has many offices and traveling correspondents all
over the continent. As a press review, it covers news from
all over the world and summarizes reports from other
regions.
The Aventurian Herald is the free support
magazine for the roleplaying game The Dark Eye.
It advances the living history of the continent
from the perspective of Aventurian authors, and
is published every two months in German. Several
sample issues of the Herald are available in English
as free downloads. For more information, visit us at
www.ulisses-us.com.
The Hesinde Mirror mainly concerns itself with scientific
and magical topics and the Hesinde temple of Kuslik
publishes it every three month. The Salamander, a
quarterly publication of the mage’s guilds, reports on the
latest research in magic and alchemy, and also contains
guild proclamations.
Aventurian Diseases
“We have learned much about diseases and plagues in recent
years – and what we have learned causes us to fear them beyond
all measure. The constant wars, lack of access to food, and, not
least, the increasing work of demons, have caused so much pain
and suffering throughout the entire world. I am not talking about
a dripping nose during deepest Firun’s moon, where a hot herbal
infusion might help, nor about the Wolf after a heavy night of
drinking. No, the epidemics which haunt us, like Zorganpox or
the Red Wheeze, are the events for which the mild Lady Peraine
put us on this world.
Certainly, this fight—man against man, woman against woman,
and human against demon—requires bravery and courage. But
true courage shows only when we set out to test our wisdom,
126 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
abilities, and faith against an enemy we cannot see. For who
would we be, if we did not make sacrifices to help in the fight?
Who would we be if we did not show compassion, and comfort
those already beyond Peraine’s help? I tell you, we would be no
one. We would be no better than the dark henchmen who bring
disease and ruin to the world in the name of their demonic
masters. No, we are better than that, because the Twelve and
Peraine are with us!”
—the Servant of Life Leatmon Phraisop the Younger,
highest Blessed One of the goddess Peraine, 1040 FB
Aventurian air possesses a curative effect, which stimulates
rapid healing. This is also the reason why plagues have
had less of an impact on Aventurian history than they did
on European history. This does not mean that there have
been no devastating plagues in Aventuria—only that they
occur far more rarely than on Earth. There are numerous
diseases in Aventuria, and while some possess annoying
symptoms, others are highly contagious and are often
terminal. During the military campaigns of the current era,
gangrene and Battlefield Fever have become enormous
problems.
Scholars cannot agree on what causes diseases; ideas
include filth and contamination, bites, stings, claw wounds
from animals and monsters, and even the works of demonic
powers. Some view diseases as a curse from the gods.
Even if the cause of a disease or epidemic is not evident,
Aventurian healers, and especially those of the Church of
Peraine, have dedicated themselves to the struggle against
such infections.
Diseases as Part of the Game
If there is no experienced healer in the group
who knows how to Treat Diseases and has the
necessary means, diseases are insidious opponents.
Sometimes, the correct healing herb is not available
in the region through which the heroes travel.
There are probably few groups who enjoy having
their entire party face a painful death from disease,
without any hope of relief.
We advise you to use diseases mainly for dramatic
purposes; for instance, to create tension in the
game, as an unseen enemy of the heroes, or to
show the hopelessness of a specific situation.

Blessed Ones can often combat diseases very effectively,
thanks to their blessings and liturgies. They can also sooth
symptoms magically, although the disease remains.
Many healers trust in the potency of herbs or alchemicae
that have proven their efficacy throughout the centuries.
You can find the game mechanics on the state diseased, the
outbreak of a disease, and its treatment in the Core Rules on
pages 35 and 343.
Selected Diseases
“Zorganpox? By blood-drinking Kor, don’t worry about such
a rare disease. Battlefield fever and gangrene are your worst
enemies, once you have felled your opponent.”
—a mercenary of the Tulamydian Riders, 1039 FB
Leprosy
Leprosy causes lengthy suffering, heavily disfigures the
victim, and often ends fatally. In the beginning, there is a
growing feeling of numbness, and dark spots appear on the
skin. As it progresses, fingers, toes, and even entire flaps of
skin are lost. The diseased are called lepers. Society exiles
lepers to live in isolated settlements or infirmaries, so that
the disease cannot spread into the general populace.
Level: 5
Progress: Leprosy progresses very slowly, beginning
with red spots on the skin, which feel numb and spread
over a number of weeks. The spots become increasingly
knotty, and within a few months, face and limbs starts
to disintegrate. The diseased does not lose the ability to
regenerate, unlike the state diseased. When healed in a
later stage, the knots and any disintegration caused by the
disease remain.
Resistance: Toughness
Incubation Time: 3 Months, in rare cases multiple years
Damage: The diseased lose two levels of their appearance,
going from normal-looking to the disadvantage Ugly II,
or going from Good Looking I to Ugly I, and so on. At the
GM’s discretion, for every month in which the disease
continues, the diseased loses a further small part, such as
a finger or toe. Once per year, the hero suffers a variant of
the disadvantage Mutilated (the first instance of this is a
year after the disease starts). The diseased loses another
level of appearance. Once the disease subsides, no damage
remains and the lowered level of appearance regenerates
after 1D6 days.
Duration: Until healing or death/20 days
Causes: Contact with diseased (1 on 1D20, 5%)
Treatment: Regular baths in hot vinegar and herbal baths
slow the negative effects of the disease by half.
Antidote: None; the Church of Peraine knows liturgies to
stop leprosy.
Blue Wheeze
One of the most dreaded plagues of Aventuria is the blue
wheeze. It usually occurs as a secondary infection that
follows a more harmless disease, such as dullskull or bloody
phlegm. The diseased suffers increasing chest pains, fever,
coughing, and diarrhea. The blue wheeze gets its name due
to the faint, slightly bluish complexion, the swollen blue
tongue, and the violet mucus of the diseased.
Level: 6
Progress: Starting with the first day, the diseased develops
severe pains in the chest, a fever, restless sleep, and
shallow breathing. On the second day, coughing fits begin,
accompanied by blue and violet phlegm. The skin grows
pale, and sometimes the face takes on a lightly bluish cast.
There is often discoloration of lips and tongue, which also
turn blue. As blue wheeze progresses, the diseased suffers
increasing fatigue and even complete exhaustion.
Resistance: Toughness
Incubation Time: 1 day
Damage: From the first day, 1 level of Pain (only occurs on
the first day), from the second day, 1 level of Stupor every 3
days, plus 2 DP per day/1 level Pain (only occurs on the first
day), plus 1 DP per day
Duration: 14 days/7 days
Causes: Following a disease of bloody phlegm or dullskull
(1-2 on 1D20, 10%), longer contact with a diseased (1 on
1D20, 5%)
Treatment: Bed rest, home remedies, and drinking plenty
of liquids reduces the duration of the disease by half.
Antidote: None; the Church of Peraine knows liturgies to
stop the blue wheeze.
Bloody Phlegm
Bloody phlegm is an unpleasant, yet rarely deadly,
disease that occurs primarily in southern Aventuria. The
characteristic reddish-brown mucus, emitted through
coughing, is the basis of its name. The longer one stays in
the jungle, the more likely one is to catch Bloody Phlegm.
Many healers assume certain plants or animals living
there transmit the disease. Another assumption is that the
127
 shamans and magically-gifted Forest Folk are responsible Efferd’s or Dungeon Syndrome
for it. They are said to be able to invoke the bloody phlegm Sailors fear Efferd’s syndrome, and prisoners worry that
through rituals, to deter slavers and brash adventurers. In dungeon syndrome will drive them mad at some point.
reality, many Forest Folk and Utulus are naturally immune Both diseases have a different origin, but their courses are
to bloody phlegm. very similar. Whether too long at sea, or rotting away in
Level: 3 a dungeon, a hero begins to suffer the corresponding
Progress: The mouth and syndrome. Initially the diseased only feels weary; but
throat swell up, and then Immunity against bloody fever and hallucinations follow. The healing process
one coughs up reddish- phlegm is a recommended starts only when the hero has firm ground underfoot or
brown phlegm, which is advantage for Forest Folk has left the dungeon.
accompanied by fits of and Utulu characters. Level: 2
coughing and a low fever. Progress: This slow disease starts with fatigue, followed
In some cases, bloody by clouded vision and even hallucinations.
phlegm can lead to Resistance: Spirit
contracting blue wheeze (1-2 on 1D20, 10%). Incubation Time: Immediate
Resistance: Toughness Damage: 1 level Confusion per 5 days/1 level Confusion
Incubation Time: 3 days Duration: Until the victim leaves the ship or dungeon
Damage: Every three days, 1 level of Stupor, plus 1 DP/1 (disease stops immediately)
level of Stupor, plus 1 DP per day Causes: At least 5 weeks at sea or in a dungeon (starting
Duration: 10 days/3 days from the sixth week every week, 1 on 1D20, 5%)
Causes: Long stay in the rain forest, at least 2 weeks (1-2 Treatment: Restraints, so the diseased does not pose a
on 1D20, 10%), proximity to someone with the disease (1-5 danger to themselves during the hallucinations.
on 1D20, 25%) Antidote: See duration. Fresh sansaro keeps the disease
Treatment: Bed rest and home remedies reduce the course from getting worse (no further levels of Confusion).
of the disease by 2 days. Consuming sansaro for two weeks cures the disease.
Antidote: A secret mixture of different herbs from the rain Ingesting fresh merman’s weed prevents the disease for a
forest (only known to shamans and animists of the Forest week.
Folk tribes)
Jaundice or Battlefield Fever
Dullskull High fever and strong bodily pains characterize the
Dullskull is a particularly strong form of common cold. infamous battlefield fever. Mercenaries, warriors, and
Symptoms include fatigue, stuffy nose, and strong soldiers are its main victims, as the disease usually begins
headaches. Some believers of the Twelvegods regard on battlefields or when wounds are not treated cleanly. As
dullskull as punishment from Hesinde or Praios for telling the disease causes a yellowing of the lips, battlefield fever
lies in the temple. is also known as jaundice.
Level: 2 Level: 2
Progress: Fatigue, weakness, and dizziness, as well as Progress: Heavy fever, accompanied by cramps and bodily
fever, coughing, and a blocked nose. pains. In later stages, yellowish lips. Elves suffer more
In some cases, dullskull can lead to contracting blue severely from jaundice (the disease check for jaundice
wheeze (1-2 on 1D20, 10%). is always successful). In some cases, jaundice can lead to
Resistance: Toughness yearly fever (1-2 on 1D20, 10%).
Incubation Time: 2 days Resistance: Toughness
Damage: 1 level Stupor, 1 level Confusion as well as 1 DP Incubation Time: 3 days
per day/1 level Stupor. Dwarves who suffer from dullskull Damage: 1 level Pain and 1D6 DP per day/1 level Pain, as
become very grumpy and receive the negative trait Short well as 1 DP per day
Temper, as long as the disease lasts. Duration: 7 days/3 days
Duration: 6 days/3 days Causes: Contaminated wounds, especially on battlefields
Causes: Lying or spreading falsehoods in a temple of Praios (1-4 on 1D20, 20%), proximity to someone with the disease
or Hesinde (1 on 1D20, 5%), proximity to a diseased person (1 on 1D20, 5%)
(1-2 on 1D20, 10%), hypothermia (at least one level of Treatment: Bed rest and general fever treatment (1 DP
hypothermia, 1-8 on 1D20, 40%) less per day).
Treatment: Bed rest reduces the duration of the disease Antidote: Alcoholic potion made from yoruga and
by 1 day. gulmond shortens the disease by 2 days; an ointment made
Antidote: Thrashbeard (immediate relief, the diseased from thrashbeard prevents catching yearly fever.
loses no further DP through the disease)

128 Chapter 4: Culture and Science

Yearly Fever Causes: Care of/being bitten by someone affected by rabies
The yearly fever is a reoccurring illness caused by jaundice. (1-2 on 1D20, 10%)
Sufferers have reoccurring fevers and severe stomach Treatment: Bed rest and general fever treatment (1 DP
aches—for the rest of their life. less per day), restraints to protect the diseased and their
Level: 3 environment
Progress: Without any noticeable indications the yearly Antidote: Consuming a dose of yoruga oil protects for 4
fever breaks out in irregular intervals (per month, 1 on months after an infection. A tripled dose taken within a
1D20, 5%) for 3 days. The symptoms are high fever followed day after a bite lowers the probability of an infection to 5%
by strong bodily pains. (1 on 1D20).
Resistance: Toughness
Incubation Time: Immediate Rabies
Damage: 1 level Pain, 1 level Stupor, and 2 DP per day/1 Foxes, wolves and rats carry rabies. An infected animal bite,
level Pain or exposure to its saliva, transmits this disease. Someone
Duration: 3 days per outbreak, yearly fever itself until the surviving this illness is usually immune to it.
end of life/3 days per outbreak, yearly fever itself until the Level: 6
end of life Progress: On the first day: difficulty swallowing, followed
Causes: Lingering effect of jaundice (1-2 on 1D20, 10%) by difficulty breathing. Starting with the third day there
Treatment: Bed rest and general fever treatment (1 DP is increasing fever, hallucinations, clouded senses, and
less per day). regular fits of rage (per hour, 1 on 1D20, 5%). During these
Antidote: A potion made from sansaro, quinja and fits the diseased receives the state bloodlust.
donf prevents another outbreak for 5 months, a cure is Resistance: Toughness
unknown. The Church of Peraine knows liturgical chants Incubation Time: 2 months, in some cases up to one year
that cure the yearly fever. Damage: From the third day, 1 level Confusion and 2D6+2
DP per day/from the third day, 1 level Confusion, as well as
Black Rage (Black Rabies) 1D6+1 DP per day
Symptoms of black rage (or black rabies) are similar Duration: 7 days/3 days
to rabies, but the probability of succumbing to rage is Causes: Bite of either an animal or someone affected by
significantly higher. The disease derives its name from the rabies (1-6 on 1D20, 80%)
black scales which cover the body during the illness, and Treatment: Bed rest and
which sometimes remain as black spots after the disease general fever treatment (1 A survivor of rabies
is healed. After recovering, survivors are often immune DP less per day), fixation usually cannot contract
against black rage. to protect the diseased rabies or black rage again.
Level: 3 and their environment The hero should purchase
Progress: On the first day: difficulty swallowing, followed Antidote: Consuming a the corresponding
by difficulty breathing. Starting with the third day there dose of yoruga oil protects immunity (rabies) for 3 AP
is slight fever, hallucinations, clouded senses, and regular for 4 months after an and/or immunity (black
fits of rage (per hour 1-2 on 1D20, 10%). During these fits infection. A tripled dose rage) for 2 AP.
the diseased receives the state bloodlust. Furthermore, taken within a day after a
small black scales form bite lowers the probability
all over the body, which of an infection to 20% (1-4
sometimes remain as One who survives on 1D20).
scars after healing (1-2 black rage is usually
on 1D20, 10%). immune against it and Traumatic Fever
Resistance: Toughness should purchase the Warriors particularly fear traumatic fever, which causes
Incubation Time: corresponding advantage high fever and states of confusion. No mundane antidote
2 months Immunity (black rage) has any effect on the disease. It must either run its course
Damage: From the third for 2 AP. For elves, over three days, or be treated with magical or karmic
day, 1 level Confusion and Immunity (black rage) is a healing. Without magical intervention, it most often
1D6+2 DP per day/from the recommended advantage. ends in death. Carrion feeders are seen as carriers, but
third day, 1 level Confusion other ways of transmitting the disease are contaminated
plus 1D6 DP per day weapons and the ever-present filth on the battlefields
Duration: 7 days/3 days entering a wound. Undead are notorious disease carriers.

129
 Level: 5
Progress: On the first day: confusion and a loss of speech
control occur, afterwards fever and a strong sense of
fatigue. Some victims fall into a state of restless sleep.
Resistance: Toughness
Incubation Time: 1 Day
Damage: On the first day, 2 levels Confusion, from the
second day, 2 levels Stupor and 1D6 DP per day/on the first
day, 1 level Confusion, from the second day, 1 level Stupor as
well as 1D3 DP per day
Duration: 3 days
Causes: Bites of carrion feeders, wounds from heavily
contaminated weapons, poor or no dressing of wounds (1-2
on 1D20, 10%)
Treatment: Bed rest and general fever treatment (1 DP
less per day).
Antidote: None; the Church of Peraine knows liturgical
chants that cure traumatic fever.
The Art of Alchemy
“You just want to purchase a simple love
potion? Do you think
me a charlatan?
I am a studied
alchemist from the
workshops of the
Red Salamander
in Brabak. I can
brew you a potion which
brings forth unbridled
lust. But you will not win
true love with this. I can
accomplish other things
with my art: I can concoct
a potion of invisibility,
that will let you be close to
your lover, unseen. If he proves
to be unworthy of your love, I
can produce poisons for you to
take your revenge. Naturally,
only if you can afford it, as the
ingredients are expensive and
rare.”
—a southern alchemist in
Mengbilla, 1040 FB
Alchemy is a high art,
even though the guild
of alchemists has
often been disgraced.
130 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
Laboratories are dangerous places, which leak stinking
exhalations, and from time to time these workshops are
responsible for fires in cities.
Even with these troubles, many people buy from
alchemists. Scented fragrances, love potions, healing and
magic potions, weapon oils, or burn ointments are only
a few of the things one can purchase from them for coin.
According to popular belief, some alchemists can enhance
the effect of their potions thanks to their magical gifts,
but, in general, the regular practice is quite different. The
typical steps of mortar, dissolve, distill, and distill again
are found in alchemist’s labs and witches’ kitchens alike.
Whether one is in an archaic or a highly modern workshop
(such as those of the Red Salamander), the practices do
not vary. Often alchemy uses plants from many different
regions to brew the ingredients needed for antidotes
against diseases and minor ailments. True masters of the
art know many secrets of the craft, such as how to create
the dangerous, ever-burning Hylailian Fire, or brew a
variety of outlawed poisons.
The ingredients for a potion or an ointment sometimes
sound fantastical. While one can purchase such ingredients
as Unau brine, Khunchomer pepper, or Brabakan vitriol
from a well-supplied alchemist or a large town’s market,
finding dragon’s blood, ice from the peak of a glacier,
children’s pitch, the nails of a hanged man, alabaster dust,
or troll saliva might be adventures in their own right.
Specific rules on the recipes, ingredients, and laboratories
for brewing such elixirs, tinctures, and potions are covered
in the Core Rules on page 270.
Poisons
Aventuria has a large variety of poisons of herbal, animal,
or mineral origin. Not every poison leads to the death
of its victim, but among the less law-abiding alchemists,
producing poison is seen as a dangerous but
highly lucrative discipline.
Most realms strictly prohibit even possessing
certain poisons. In the Middenrealm, the law
punishes their use most severely. The law is no
less strict on creating such infernal tinctures,
and in the Middenrealm, the Horasian
Empire, the Bornland, the Warring Kingdoms
Nostria and Andergast, Arania, the Caliphate,
and many other places, there are strict
punishments for alchemists caught brewing
or selling such dangerous potions.

Coucris
Alchemists extract coucris from Mirhaman silk lianas, and
it is very popular among assassins due to its quick effect.
It also has the name kingmaker, as apparently many nobles
have been assassinated with coucris.
Level: 4
Type: Ingestion and weapon poison, herbal
Resistance: Toughness
Effect: 1D6-1 DP per CR, itching (1 level Confusion), cramps
(1 level Pain)/1d3-1 DP, cramps (1 level Pain)
Start: 10 CR (damage and itching), 15 (cramps)
Duration: Until death/50 CR
Price: 350 silverthalers
Mandragora
Mandragora is a weapon poison with no lethal effects,
extracted from mandrake root. The nausea it causes
weakens an enemy, which can be an advantage in battle.
Level: 2
Type: Weapon poison, plant poison
Resistance: Toughness
Effect: 1D6 DP, nausea (1 level Stupor)/1d3 DP, queasy
stomach
Start: 5 CR
Duration: 30 CR
Price: 125 silverthalers
Omrais
Omrais is extracted from the poison of the desert scorpion.
Though often used by assassins, it has a bad reputation
among them, as many victims survive the poison.
Level: 4
Type: Ingestion and Weapon poison, animal venom
Resistance: Toughness
Effect: 1D6-1 DP per CR, burning sensation all over the body
(1 level Pain)/1d3-1 DP per CR, slight burning sensation
Start: 5 Minutes
Duration: 30 CR/15 CR
Price: 250 silverthalers
Sunsura
Alchemists refine sunsura from the poisonous abdomen of
the Maraskan tarantula. It is a poison which puts its victim
into a rage.
Level: 2
Type: Ingestion and weapon poison, animal
Resistance: Toughness
Effect: 1D6+4 DP, poisoned receives the state bloodlust for
5 CR, afterwards 4 levels Stupor/1d3+2 DP, poisoned rolls
1D20, on 1-10, receive the state bloodlust.
Start: 5 Minutes
Duration: 30 CR/15 CR
Price: 300 silverthalers
Elixirs and Tinctures
The alchemists of Aventuria do not only produce poisons,
healing potions, or scented fragrances, but also elixirs and
tinctures which can be helpful for heroes to carry out their
work.
Banedust
Banedust is an alchemical product for depriving mages
of their arcane energy. The powder produces its effect
through skin contact and must be thrown at its target. Make
a Throwing Weapons fighting technique check, modified as
usual (range: 3/4/5, if carried on hand as powder; 5/10/15
when thrown in a satchel). To evade the thrown dust, make
a successful dodge check. Ranged combat modifiers apply
for this attack. It makes no difference if the banedust is in
the hand of the thrower or in a small satchel that opens on
impact.
The effect of banedust is immediate.
Poisoners can dissolve banedust in water and administer
it as an ingested poison, although it is difficult to disguise
its bitter taste. Banedust prevents the recovery of arcane
energy during the regeneration phase. A victim of banedust
can still use magic potions to recover AE.
Typical Ingredients: Amber, Kosh basalt, nitrol, egg
shells of a rooster that hatched on the 1st of Praios, griffon
feathers, iron powder, rainwater distilled by sunlight, pure
salt, Brabakan vitriol, gold, urine of a sun lynx, fresh petals
from a Praiosflower (sunflower)
Price of Ingredients/Level: 400 silverthalers per level
Laboratory: Archaic laboratory
Brewing Difficulty: -4
Quality Levels:
1: The victim of banedust immediately loses 1D6+2 AE.
2: The victim of banedust immediately loses 2D6+4 AE.
3: The victim of banedust immediately loses 3D6+6 AE and
cannot regenerate AE for 1d2+1 days.
4: The victim of banedust immediately loses 4D6+8 AE and
cannot regenerate AE for 1d3+2 days.
5: The victim of banedust immediately loses 5D6+10 AE and
cannot regenerate AE for 1d3+3 days.
6: The victim of banedust immediately loses 6D6+12 AE and
cannot regenerate AE for 2d3+3 days.
131
 Pastilles Against Pain
These pastilles suppress pain for a short time. They are
popular not only with traveling heroes but also among the
wealthy patients of tooth pullers and patricians plagued
by headaches. Ingestion does not make the condition level
disappear, it merely suppresses the effects. For instance,
someone suffering from the effects of a level III condition
can ignore one level thanks to pastilles of QL 2, and only
suffers from the effects of level II. If the hero reaches Pain
level IV, the effects of the pastilles no longer help and the
full effects of level IV apply. The effect of the pastilles is
immediate.
Typical Ingredients: Ice water, gulmond, candy sugar,
garlic, horse sweat, stone oak acorns
Price of Ingredients/Level: 10 silverthalers per level
Laboratory: Archaic laboratory
Brewing Difficulty: 0
Quality Levels:
1: Suppresses the effects of one level Pain for 15 minutes.
2: Suppresses the effects of one level Pain for 30 minutes.
3: Suppresses the effects of two levels Pain for 15 minutes,
after that suppresses the effects of one level Pain for a
further 15 minutes.
4: Suppresses the effects of two levels Pain for 30 minutes.
5: Suppresses the effects of three levels Pain for 15 minutes,
after that suppresses the effects of two levels Pain for a
further 15 minutes.
6: Suppresses the effects of three levels Pain for 30 minutes.
Sleeping Potion
A sleeping potion provides restful sleep and improves
regeneration. However, the user of the sleeping potion
must sleep to receive its effect.
Typical Ingredients: One beery, clear rainwater, yagan
nuts, mint, gulmond, chamomile, raven feathers, white
Khôm sand
132 Chapter 4: Culture and Science
Price of Ingredients/Level: 20 silverthalers per level
Laboratory: Archaic laboratory
Brewing Difficulty: 0
Quality Levels:
1: Regenerates 1 additional LP, AE, and KP during sleep in
the next regeneration phase.
2: Regenerates 2 additional LP, AE, and KP during sleep in
the next regeneration phase.
3: Regenerates 3 additional LP, AE, and KP during sleep in
the next regeneration phase.
4: Regenerates 4 additional LP, AE, and KP during sleep in
the next regeneration phase.
5: Regenerates 5 additional LP, AE, and KP during sleep in
the next regeneration phase.
6: Regenerates 6 additional LP, AE, and KP during sleep in
the next regeneration phase.
Potion of Toughness
A potion of toughness can improve a hero’s physical
resistance against poisons, diseases, and malicious magic.
It is equivalent to the potion of will (see Core Rules, page
273), which strengthens the mind. The effect of the potion
of toughness is immediate.
Typical Ingredients: Diamond, finage, coconut, granite,
oxen’s blood, olgin root, Unau brine
Price of Ingredients Levels: 55 silverthalers per level
Laboratory: Alchemistic laboratory
Brewing Difficulty: -2
Quality Levels:
1: Toughness improves by 1 for 5 minutes.
2: Toughness improves by 2 for 10 minutes.
3: Toughness improves by 2 for 15 minutes.
4: Toughness improves by 2 for 20 minutes.
5: Toughness improves by 3 for 30 minutes.
6: Toughness improves by 3 for 45 minutes.
Chapter 5:
Trade and Commerce
“O brother of mine, I see you are skeptical. Well, well. If you don’t
want to purchase this excellent copper pot for the educated lady
at your side, I am sure you have your reasons. But don’t scold
me for offering you the best item one can find beyond the Dogul,
an excellent piece of work directly from the copper works of the
beautiful Lands of the Tulamydes. It’s sad, really, and I hope
passing it by will not lead to misfortune. Well, first of all, take a
sip of Meskinnes. It’s no good bartering with a dry throat.

If you want to travel onwards into the Dragon Stones, then I have
excellent ropes from the rope makers of Ilsur. You’ll definitely
need those in the mountains! You already have rope? Well, then,
I can see that you are experienced travelers and have almost
everything you need for survival, eh? Do you have a hatchet to
cut kindling? You don’t intend to mar your valuable sword by
hacking away at innocent pieces of wood? Ah, I see, your dwarven
friend has an axe. What a pity. This hatchet comes from the finest
smithies of Angbar. Well, so it is.

Come, have another Meskinnes. You don’t want to grow hair on

your tongue, after all. Here I have two very valuable items you
can’t ignore. A precious healing potion from the workshops of the
Red Salamander Society in Festum. The master who brewed this
potion said that it would even wake those at Death’s door. And
maybe not so special but very helpful, some haversacks packed
with the best rye bread from Festum, hard-cured sausage made
using game from the forests of Pandlaril, a sembelquast that
melts in the mouth, and dried fruit from Seweria.

Well, brother of mine, one last drink and I’ll give you a skin of
kwassetz and a small earthenware flask of thise Meskinnes
you like so well, straight from my sister-in-law’s distillery in
Cherrydell. Well, what do you say? Isn’t that a good offer? Are we
in agreement? Fine, get out your silver and let’s shake hands on it.
Here’s to your good fortune.”
—a traveling merchant of the Norbard tribe of Surjeloff,
1039 FB

133
 Currencies and
Payment Transactions
Among many peoples and in many regions, typical
business transactions involve an exchange of goods rather
than payment with coins. Farmers trade goods with one
another, hunters from the north exchange pelts and game
for everyday items, Nivese nomads barter with each other
using herds of karans instead of money, and Novadi tribal
princes trade in camels as often as with coin. In areas that
welcome currency, coinage has mostly replaced metals and
gemstones as the most common form of payment,
and one can now pay by coin in cities and market
towns across the continent.
People throughout most of Aventuria accept the currency
of the Middenrealm (the Horasian Empire even mints
coins in the same denominations). Coins made of gold,
silver, bronze, and iron are called ducats, silverthalers,
halers, and kreutzers, respectively. A golden ducat equals
10 silverthalers, 100 bronze halers, or 1,000 iron kreutzers.
The silverthaler and the haler are the most common coins
in the Middenrealm and indeed all of Aventuria. Due to the
feudalistic tax structure in place in many regions, simple
farmers may never see a gold coin their entire lives, even
though the value of the goods they produce is sufficient to
obtain one.
Traders regard some coins as less trustworthy because
their precious metal content is too low. In contrast,
Middenrealmish ducats, gold lumps from Bornland,
doubloons from Al’Anfa, and the coins of the dwarves are
regarded as especially secure currencies. Moneychangers
exchange these particular coins without question, though
for a small fee, of course. Also, they charge high rates to
exchange older currencies or coins of questionable origin,
if they accept them at all.
All rule books and most regional source books use
Middenrealmish currency for prices, which are quoted
in silverthalers to avoid confusion. A good GM can
enhance the game’s atmosphere by stating prices in
maravedi while playing in the Caliphate, or by having a
Thorwaler hetman pay the heroes in hacksilver.
134 Chapter 5: Trade and Commerce
Sometimes, exuberant local patriotism and tangible
commercial interests lead to strange practices. For
example, laws in the Horasian town of Silas prohibit
travelers from bringing in silver pieces that do not bear
the city’s coat of arms, and fee-based exchange offices
exist at every city gate. In Mengbilla, where the worship
of Praios is prohibited, Middenrealmish ducats are not
accepted because their reverse shows the griffon, a symbol
of Praios. Someone wishing to enter Angbar must possess
at least 12 halers, a rule established nominally to protect
the city from pickpockets and beggars.
Arania uses Middenrealmish denominations but mints its
own coins, known as the dinar, shekel, hallah, and kurush.
In most of the Lands of the Tulamydes, people
accept Aranian coinage as means of payment.
In Bornland one pays with lump, penny, and
slightling. Bornland has no corresponding coin
for the kreutzer. Smaller coins of foreign origin
are often accepted, especially in the south of the land.
The Empire of Al’Anfa uses the doubloon, a coin
worth two ducats. The Caliphate’s golden maravedi also
corresponds to two ducats.
The Lands of the Tulamydes use countless local currencies,
but also accept standard currencies from bordering lands,
the coins of the Middenrealm and the Caliphate being most
common. Large debts are often settled with shining gems.
Affluent merchants and nobles usually carry a special
reserve with them in the form of gemstone embroidery or
gems stitched into the hems of clothing.
In Thorwal, traders determine the worth of a coin
according to its physical value. The use of so-called
hacksilver goes back to an old tradition of the sea raiders,
and silver necklaces, bangles, and rings are designed to be
hacked into four or eight parts at clearly designated points.
One often sees market merchants weighing precious
metals or foreign coins to determine their values.
Dwarves use the coveted golden dwarventhaler, also known
as an auromox, which is worth 12 silverthalers. Other
dwarven coins includethe dwarvenshilling or arganbrox,
worth 2 silverthalers, and the brazen dwarvenpenny
or atebrox, valued at 2 halers. The ancient dwarven
gringwashox is a system of currency that seems to function
rather like a board game. It consists of 343 different coins,
each of varying abundance and with a fixed value, but one
which can change drastically in combination with other
coins and under different conditions.
The peoples of the rainforests use ritual barter items
made from jade, mother of pearl, or other materials. Such
items are used like currency rather than as trade items.
Minting Rights promissory notes more popular in the south. Merchants
The right to mint coins is held by the land’s Master of in the Horasian Empire think it very modern to settle
the Mint. In the Middenrealm, the sole minting right for business affairs without coins. Since the War of Dragons,
gold coins lies with the empress, which is why all imperial some banking houses have had to declare bankruptcy due
ducats of recent mintage bear the portrait of Rohaja of to overextended war loans, and many people are now more
Gareth. Older coins, such as those depicting Emperor Haal, careful with their money.
remain valid. Ducats are stamped by the imperial mints
in Gareth and Punin. In the Horasian Empire, the face of Common Currencies
Khadan-Horas, or his grandmother Amene-Horas, shines Country Currency Value in Material
on coins stamped in Vinsalt. Silverthalers
Provincial lords hold the minting rights for silverthalers, Al’Anfa Doubloon 20 Gold
which therefore often bear the originating land’s coat of Al’Anfa Oreal 1 Gold,
arms, as well as its corresponding ruler and motto. Counts Copper,
and barons hold the right to mint halers and kreutzers. or Silver
These coins are, due to their large variety, standardized Al’Anfa Small Oreal 0.5 Gold,
only by weight and approximate form, and the coat Copper,
of arms and even the amount of metal in each can vary or Silver
greatly. Ridgerock used to be infamous for its highly
Al’Anfa Dirham 0.01 Copper
political minting policy, and the worth of a coin rarely had
anything to do with the value printed on its face. Aranien Dinar 10 Gold
Aranien Shekel 1 Silver
The situation in Bornland is similar. The lump, a crown
Aranien Hallah 0.1 Bronze
coin of the Noble Marshal, must be stamped in Festum, but
other nobles may mint the remaining coins. The Caliphate Aranien Kurush 0.01 Iron
and the Empire of Al’Anfa grant minting rights only to the Bornland Lump 10 Gold
ruler, and their tolerance of foreign coins is correspondingly
low. In Unau and Al’Anfa, one is lucky if a moneychanger Bornland Penny 1 Silver
gives even half the usual value for Middenrealmish coins, Bornland Slightling 0.1 Brass
possibly because the moneychangers’ position in society Horasian Horasdor 200 Gold
is fixed and they often try to take advantage of unwary Empire
travelers.
Middenrealm Ducat 10 Gold
Dwarves consider it sacrilege against Angrosh if a coin’s Middenrealm Silverthaler 1 Silver
worth does not correspond to the value of the metal from Middenrealm Haler 0.1 Bronze
which it was made. Therefore, the economically stable
dwarventhalers are especially popular among long- Middenrealm Kreutzer 0.01 Iron
distance traders and merchants, and their material worth Caliphate Maravedi 20 Gold
can often be reclaimed simply by melting them down.
Caliphate Zechine 2 Silver
Caliphate Muwlat 0.05 Copper
Promissory Notes
A rather new idea in the arena of money exchange is the Dwarves Dwarventhaler 12 Gold
promissory note, which was first issued by the Festuman or Auromox
Hall of Exchanges and Deposits, usually simply called the Dwarves Dwarvenshilling 2 Silver
Northland Bank. Such notes may be exchanged for hard or Arganbrox
currency in any branch of the bank. This paper money,
Dwarves Dwarvenpenny 0.2 Bronze
which can be issued to a specific person or group, has found
or Atebrox
favor especially among banks and merchant houses with
branches all over Aventuria. These promissory notes make
time-consuming and heavily guarded money transports,
“Arganbrox, atebrox, auromox. shilling, penny,
often the targets of bandits, unnecessary. However, most
haler. By Angrosh’s beard, what’s so difficult
Aventurians find it difficult to grasp the idea that their
about that, human?”
solid gold can be replaced by apparently worthless
—Arbosh son of Angrax, forge dwarf
paper. The Methumisian merchant bank of ya Strozza,
mastersmith
from the Horasian Empire, is also attempting to make

135

Trade Fairs and Markets
“Yes, it may be cheaper in the bazaar of Khunchom, you old
penny pincher, but I have neither the time nor interest to travel
to the Lands of the Tulamydes to get it. Phex be praised that we
are in Gareth! We will definitely be able to find it here somewhere.
It’s just a question of price and knowing where to look. Trust me,
it is definitely quicker this way!”
—an anonymous adventurer in the alleys of Gareth, 1040 FB
Every region produces and trades different goods.
Perishable goods can travel only a short distance.
Therefore, one rarely finds fresh Efferd’s mussels in the
interior of the continent. Other wares, such as valuable
Al’Anfan silk or the sought-after Maraskan steel, are traded
throughout Aventuria, provided someone is willing to pay
the price, of course. A journey across half the continent
makes an item many times more expensive. For example,
the Middenrealm must usually import salt for a high price
because its most abundant sources are the Cichanebi
Salt Lake in the Caliphate and the salt edge coast in the
Horasian Eldorat. Dwarves mine salt in their subterranean
tunnels but sell it at a high price.
The same applies to any goods and products that are
available only in specific regions or from certain cultures.
The construction of a dragon ship is not a cheap endeavor
in Thorwal, but the region’s abundant timber keeps
costs manageable. If one wanted to purchase such a ship
at a harbor on the east coast of Aventuria, one would
find it simply unaffordable. It is possible to purchase a
Khunchoman sabre made from folded steel in a bazaar in
Fasar, if one has the necessary means, but one would have
to be very lucky to find such a weapon on the other side
of the continent in Riva. Even all the money in the world
is often no help, for who would import such a weapon in
the first place? Few merchants would bother to front the
transportation costs.
Even though many trade routes are regarded as relatively
safe, transportation risks always affect costs. Camels,
wagons and draft animals, and expensive cargo ships must
be hired or purchased, and then maintained. Moreover,
nearly all long-distance traders spend good money to
hire escorts such as heroes, mounted mercenaries, or
warships. These guardians deter bandits, and repel them if
necessary, but this increases the price of transported goods
even further. Land routes often raise prices more than
transportion by sea. A good example is the silk caravan, a
merchant convoy that transports silk and other valuable
goods, such as spices or opals, from the Empire of Al’Anfa to
Mengbilla in a trip that takes an entire year. Transporting
wares on the sea route to Port Corrad costs just a quarter of
what is required to transfer all goods and transport them
on land via Realm Roads and corduroy roads to Mengbilla.
136 Chapter 5: Trade and Commerce
A Word on Prices
“Who do you think I am? Stoerrebrandt?”
—horrified exclamation of a Garethan burgher at the
iron market, 1039 FB
Distribution of resources and manufacturing processes
differ in Aventuria in most cases from those on Earth,
so determining prices can be difficult. We put much
thought into creating and balancing our price lists for
playability, but it is not possible to use them to derive
a working simulation of the Aventurian economy.
Nevertheless, we hope that they help make the game
enjoyable.
The Dark Eye products list average prices for equipment
and services, based on the markets where such items are
common (places where such goods are either produced
or commonly traded). If a culture does not use money
for trade, your hero must offer a similar value in trade
goods, hopefully ones that the seller has need of at the
moment. This is a common practice among hunters of
the north, who understand and appreciate money, but
for whom a sharp hatchet or a quiver of arrows is more
immediately useful than a golden coin. As a rule of
thumb, the price of an item increases as it gets further
from its place of production. The final price range is left
to the discretion of the GM, but goods transported a
great distance, via sea or via land, could sell for twice or
three times the regular price, or even more.
Goods from all corners of the world might be available
in large trading cities such as Al’Anfa, Festum, Gareth,
Havena, Khunchom, and Kuslik, but often at many
times their original price. Few foreign goods are
available outside of these trading hubs. Prices also rise
with availability, unless the place lies along a trading
caravan’s route, a heavily frequented coast, or a Realm
Road. As with price, the availability of items is left to the
discretion of the GM.
Trade Fairs
Trade fairs are popular events held in all parts of Aventuria,
where merchants, traveling folk, and many others gather
for commerce of all sorts.
Trade fairs quickly turn into large folk festivals,
frequented not only by merchants, but also by performers,
fortune tellers, illusionists, and artists. These trade fairs
guarantee good prices and a wide variety of goods. To
attract merchants from all corners of the world, cities and
towns, as well as merchant and craft guilds, often loosen
or even suspend, their laws and regulations. Import taxes
are suspended and even strangers are allowed to enter
the city to sell goods that normally fall under exclusivity
agreements with guilds. Experienced merchants as well as
crafters and merchants with a small or unusual assortment
of goods find it is well worth the effort to attend a trade fair.
Sculptors and painters take the opportunity to show their
art among the people, balladeers offer their talents, jesters
perform to entertain visitors, and pickpockets ply their
trade among customers and audiences. Moneychangers
check the amount of metal in coins, scribes draft contracts,
and Blessed Ones of Phex oversee trade agreements (for a
small fee, they can take the oaths of trading partners to
uphold their agreements). Wandering cook shops sell food
to hungry market visitors, people bet on cockfights, and
attractive men and women offer their bodies for coin. A
large assortment of goods and variety of attractions draws
huge crowds to the major trade fairs.
All in all, a trade fair is a golden opportunity to purchase
something that one cannot otherwise find in the region,
and for a low price. Also, haggling over price is considered
good manners. Some merchants enjoy creating a real
spectacle out of haggling and often solicit testimonies form
bystanders as to the quality of their goods, or ask passersby
to swear that their prices are far lower than those offered
at the next stall.
Most cities host trade fairs on a specific day or weekend.
It is customary for merchants (and curious onlookers) to
arrive in the city a few days early, and trade fairs usually
last at least a week if one counts arrivals and departures.
A Calendar of Trade Fairs
The following list includes dates for selected trade fairs,
arranged by month or time of year.
Praios
Tournament and Games for the People in Gareth
(1st-9th): a large market with countless merchants
accompanies the Imperial Knight’s Tournament, the
competitions for the common folk, and the city’s
imman championships. During this time, Gareth offers
every trade good and amusement imaginable, the
selection of weapons and armor being particularly
impressive.
Rondra
Theater Festival of the Horasian Empire: The cities
of Vinsalt and Kuslik stage performances for the entire
month, except on the 8th of Rondra, when citizens
commemorate the Fall of Bosparan. At the same time,
the cities host well-attended trade fairs that conclude
at the end of the month with the procession of jesters.
Similar festivities were held in Arivor until the city’s
destruction at the end of 1039 FB ( page 249).
Efferd
Colorful Lights of Perricum: Perricum celebrates the
1st of Efferd, the Day of Water, with a large folk festival,
games, and a lantern procession. These festivities,
which last about a week, attract countless merchants,
especially from Garethia and Arania.
Travia
The Travia Moon is celebrated rather quietly with a
number of small, local, autumnal wheat and vegetable
markets and wine festivals.
Wine and Ware Fair in Belhanka (12th-25th): This
fair focuses on luxury items, including expensive
wines, fine spirits, jewelry, fragrances, dresses (the
latest Vinsaltan fashion), and mechanical oddities and
gadgets of all kinds.
Boron
Jester Festival of Khunchom (2nd-8th): This largest
and probably most exuberant public festival in the
Lands of the Tulamydes attracts numerous visitors
and many merchants. The city bubbles with activity,
and attendees can purchase goods from all over
the continent. Some mages and alchemists produce
137
 artifacts and tinctures especially for this festival in
hopes of finding affluent buyers.
Trade Fair and Great Slave Auction in Al’Anfa
(2nd-5th): The largest trade fair in the south attracts
merchants who are not otherwise engaged in
Khunchom at the time. The slave auction draws many
onlookers in addition to intermediaries, wealthy
buyers, and people desperate to purchase the freedom
of an enslaved family member.
Hesinde
Opera Festival in Vinsalt (20th-29th): The opera
festival is held in tandem with an art fair that offers
works from the most famous artists in Aventuria.
Great Camel Market of Mherwed (around the 25th):
This trade fair, held in conjunction with a popular
camel race, draws merchants from the Lands of the
Tulamydes offering all kinds of exotic wares, slaves,
and tropical fruit.
Tsa
Trade Fair of Riva (27th-2nd Phex): This northernmost
trade fair in Aventuria offers all kinds of goods from
the Far North, including rare elven and even firnelven
items, as well as findings from the Reed Moor.
Phex
Trade Fair of Trallop (12th-15th): This rather rustic
trade fair features beef products, wool, linen, and
other goods from the area of Weiden, Donnerbach, and
Uhdenmount. The Trallop Fair is especially famed for
its signal horns and many antique weapons.
Market and Games in Lowangen: this city on the
Svellt attracts many merchants and traveling folk
during the last week of Phex. Besides artisan products,
the fair also features thoroughbred horses, leather
wares, and metal ores ranging from gold to tin. A
secret market, dealing in orcish weapons and findings
from the Rain of Stars, thrives here as well.
Peraine
Aventurian Convention of Bards (7th-12th): Bards
and minstrels meet annually in Bethana, Honygnton,
Norbury, or Zorgan (the venue changes each year).
Artists and performers loudly present what they
have learned while merchants noisily praise their
wares. People attend to exchange artfully decorated
instruments, compositions, and scholarly writings.
Spring Festival in Fasar (19th-25th):This week-long
folk festival and large trade fair attracts merchants
from across the Land of the First Sun, and beyond,
offering animals such as ostriches and camels, natural
resources such as marble and sulfur, and glassware,
carpets, and weapons.
Ingerimm
Great Trade Fair of Festum (1st week): This fair
offers artisan wares as well as amber, wax, honey, and
anything the industrious merchants of Festum can
get to the city. This fair is also the traditional time for
commissioning the newest Bornish ships.
138 Chapter 5: Trade and Commerce
Oxen Market of Baliho (18th-22nd): This rustic trade
fair feels more like a folk festival with cattle drives
tacked on. Jesters perform their art between the
colorful market stalls, and the common people enjoy
an archery competition and games of cowpat betting
(betting where a cow will do its business on a field
marked with gridlines) and knife throwing.
Angbaran Trade Fair (21st-23rd): Probably the
largest craft fair in Aventuria; This fair for Koshan
and Angroshim wares begins on the Day of Weapon
Forging, and is accompanied by a public festival
organized by dwarves and humans.
Rahja
Great Trade Fair in Grangor (8th-12th): This Horasian
harbor town holds one of the largest trade fairs in
Aventuria, Even goods from Gyldenland are sometimes
offered. The popular Grangoran Masquerade Festival
accompanies the trade fair.
Weights and Measurements
“A Warunkan ell? What in Swafnir’s name is that supposed to be?
Does it have anything to do with the undead? No? Good! Wretched
brood of Hranngar, damn them all… What’s an ell, then? A
measurement of length for linen? Why didn’t you say that in the
first place, my good fellow? Now, how much is that in Imperial
yards?”
—a Thorwaler hetman on the Radrom, searching for cloth
for a new sail, 1040 FB
Aventurian weights and measurements are a complicated
matter, because almost every region and many villages use
their own measurements. Terms such as the Warunkan ell,
Trallopan bread, Mirhaman drop, and Festuman stere often
confuse travelers.
Aventuria didn’t gain a (more-or-less) standardized
system of measurements until the wise Rohal reformed
measurements in 539 FB. Rohal’s successors sometimes
encountered strong resistance against this system from
local rulers, and sometimes had to resort to brutal methods
to enforce it. Today, however, most realms and rulers use
this system. There remain some exceptions, especially
among the dwarves, who stubbornly hold onto their
traditional measurements.
Measures of Length
1 Inch (or thumb)
1 Hand 4 inches
1 foot 12 inches
1 Yard (or ell or pace) 3 feet
1 Mile (or Middenmile) 1,094 yards (3,282 feet)
 Weights and Measures in the Game
Aventurian weights and measures are intended to evoke
atmosphere in the game. As with currencies, someone
might try to cheat heroes during an exchange. A foreign
alchemist might be surprised to receive less Praiosflower
nectar than expected compared to the measure used at
home. As explained in the Core Rules, the Middenrealm
uses many real-world Imperial measurements, such
as foot, yard, and pound. Official products sometimes
introduce other systems of measurement but use them
sparingly, to reduce confusion at the gaming table. We
present measuring systems for other cultures and races in
their corresponding sourcebooks, for interest and flavor.

Square Measures Law and Order

1 Imperial yard 1 square yard (9 square feet)
“In the name of the Lord of the Northmarches, Duke Hagrobald
1 Morgen 100 yards by 100 yards
of the Great River, and conscious of the order of the luminous
1 Imperial mile 1 mile by 1 mile king of gods, Praios, whose domains are law and order, this court
1 Land 2,400 miles by 2,400 miles finds you guilty, high-born. Guilty of shaking the foundations
of Dere and of heavenly order, guilty of high treason against his
Majesty the Duke, and, worst of all, treason against her Imperial
Measures of Capacity
Majesty Rohaja of Gareth. There can be no objection to this
1 Ounce sentence, damned one. Count yourself lucky that we won’t hang
1 Pint 16 ounces (one pound of water) from the tree in the market place. Due to your standing, you will
1 Measure 2 pints receive the mercy of a quick death delivered by a swift blow from
Guldebrandt, the executioner’s sword of the Realm of Raul.”
1 Urn 21 pints, or 10.5 measures —pronouncement of judgement against a squire who
1 Barrel 211 pints fought for the Heptarch Helme Haffax, 1040 FB
1 Room Foot 1 cubic foot (12 inches³)
Many judicial traditions, some of them centuries old,
have come about during the thousand year history of the
Weights
Middenrealm. Many bodies of law govern not only different
1 Carat used for gemstones aspects of daily life, but also sovereignty and trade. An
1 Ounce unmanageable number of regional laws fill the books. This
1 Pound 16 ounces (weight of 1 pint of gave rise to a class of legal scholars that also acts as judges
water) or advisers to the nobility.

1 Stone 14 pounds In the Middenrealm, the word of the noble in charge is

1 Boulder 500 pounds
1 Ton 2,000 pounds
All weights and measurements are decreed by Imperial law
in the Middenrealm and the Horasian Empire, meaning they
are controlled by the bailiffs of the Empress or the Horas.
Every attempt to change measures or weights for selfish
gain is punished severely. Only uniformity guarantees the
whole system works, and especially that the provincial
lords receive the correct amount of taxes. Accordingly,
even barons check scales and measuring tables against
imperial measures, so they are neither cheated nor owe
anything to their count. Other lands and remote regions
still use countless outdated systems of measurement.
Examples include the acre (about half a morgen), which is
still in use in the Lands of the Tulamydes, and the dwarven
barosht, which corresponds to one measure.
generally regarded as the law. However, a noble must
rule in accord with the regulations set down in the legal
texts and decrees, and furthermore, is accountable to a
feudal lord. Thus, a noble who pronounces arbitrary or
unjust sentences can be reprimanded by the feudal lord,
the provincial lord, or even the Empress. A noble who acts
within the system is challenged by few. The word of a noble
carries more weight in rural areas, while judicial courts in
cities place more importance on decrees and laws. A similar
situation holds true in the Horasian Empire, the Aventurian
south, and large parts of the Lands of the Tulamydes, even
though money and social influence can have considerable
effects on the interpretation of laws the further south
one travels. Bornland has a tradition of law, even in the
countryside, but few bronnjars accept interference in their
treatment of their serfs. Peoples like the Novadi, Nivese,
Norbards, Thorwalers, and Forest Folk, as well as races

139
 such as dwarves and elves, have their own perceptions
of the law. These legal perceptions rarely match those
of Middenrealmers, and as with humans, are influenced
by customs and practices. Laws and punishments are set
according to the word of the corresponding mountain
king, shaman, or tribal leader.

The modern legal system of Aventuria is largely based on

the Codex Raulis (legislation collected in several volumes
written between 3 and 39 FB), the Ius Concordia (issued
in 466 FB by Rohal the Wise), and the Garethian Pamphlet
of 596 FB. Other bodies of law exist, such as the Realm
Reforms of Reto and Brin, the Oxenblood Charter, the Lex
Dwarvia (jurisdiction regarding dwarves), the Trallopan
Contract (jurisdiction regarding elves), plus many more
works that supplement, extend, or even contradict the
Codex Raulis. In general, Imperial decrees take precedence
over regional law, but Imperial laws are often fragmentary
or formulated with room for interpretation. To minimize
conflict with the often powerful provincial lords, decrees
do not address certain areas of daily life. One’s legal status
can change suddenly, simply by passing over a border or
through a city gate. Only a knowledgeable legal scholar can
help navigate the pitfalls of different legal texts.
as the High Court or Lord’s Court), is usually convened by
a baron and concerned with crimes and large disputes. It
also has the authority to revise sentences handed down by
the magistrate’s court. Nobles can be called before a free
court, as can Blessed Ones in certain cases. The Supreme
Court, which is convened by a noble of the rank of count
or higher, deals with feuds between nobles as well as
serious crimes. In the case of serious crimes, the judge can
pronounce sentences of capital punishment or maiming.
Within the Middenrealm, the Oxenblood Charter explicitly
transferred this right from the counts to the barons.

Law and order derive from the will of the king of the gods, The highest courts of law, known as the Realm Court in
Praios, who, according to the faith of the Twelvegods, the Middenrealm, the State Court in the Horasian Empire,
governs the world. Since nobles stand above the common and the High Diwan in Arania, deal almost exclusively
people, as is Praios’ will, the nobility has traditionally held with serious cases such as high treason or feuds between
jurisdiction over most matters. In cities without provincial members of the nobility.
lords, burghers themselves sit in court and pass judgement.
Other lands handle legal cases less bureaucratically
Not everyone is equal before the law. Blessed Ones, guild and often much more quickly. In Thorwal, for example,
mages, guilds, and even elves and dwarves live under their hetpeople and jarls perform the tasks of a court and pass
own laws and are allowed to regulate internal problems sentences in all regards. Only the most complicated or
themselves. However, should an outsider be harmed, the most serious cases come up before the bi-annual Highest
perpetrator can be brought before the court of the local Hjalding.
jurisdiction for trial and sentencing. Even if found guilty,
those accused can still be freed if their guild or Church pays Courts and Presiding Judges
a ransom, but this often leads to more dire consequences
Magistrate’s Courts
anyway, for guilds and Churches are prudent when it
comes to their reputations, and any member who risks Middenrealm Bailiffs of the crown, cities
damaging it can expect punishments that go much further Horasian Empire Bailiffs of the crown, country towns
than those of the civil justice system, especially in cases
involving demonology or necromancy. Blessed Ones and Bornland Village mayors
soldiers of the Realm’s armies must be handed over to their Arania Kadis or haranis
corresponding jurisdictions. So-called wandering folk, on
Thorwal Hetpeople
the other hand, usually have no rights in the Middenrealm,
and it is best if they avoid conflicts with the law altogether. Free Courts
Middenrealm Barons, realm cities
Courts of Law
Horasian Empire Barons, free cities
Different courts of law convene for different kinds of
offenses. The Magistrate’s Court, also called the Lower Bornland Bronnjars
Court or Village Court, is concerned with small offenses Arania Beyrounis
or disputes and is often called to order by a noble, though
other nobles have no voice in it. The Free Court (also known Thorwal Jarls

140 Chapter 5: Trade and Commerce

Supreme Courts
Middenrealm Counts, provincial lords
Horasian Empire Dukes
Bornland Small Marshal’s Court
Arania Emiras, sultanas
Thorwal Highest Hjalding
Only freemen can sue someone in court. Bondsmen must
hire an advocate to conduct their legal case, as must
children and wards.
Ancient tradition holds that a judge is only an arbiter who
must determine which damages were done to the victim
and which compensation is due. This court system persists
in the Lands of the Tulamydes, in Nostria and Andergast,
and even parts of the Middenrealm, particularly where
civil disputes are concerned. It is the system of preference
for the dwarves and the Thorwalers. Judges are not
concerned with finding evidence, and instead leave this
to the prosecutor. Judges only pass sentence. If a judge
does not have the power to execute the sentence, or if the
accused refuses to accept the sentence or does not even
appear before the court, the judge usually has no option
but to let the prosecutor carry out the sentence by force.
This has been known to lead to protracted and bloody
feuds, even between entire tribes and regions.
So-called inquisition trials have taken hold in many parts
of the Middenrealm. This type of trial is concerned mainly
with the conscious breaking of an existing law, not on any
damage that resulted. Prosecutors are often Blessed Ones
of Praios or court chaplains appointed by the nobility,
although the Horasian Empire and Gareth both employ
criminal investigators. Some cities retain legal scholars
and advocates to represent the accused in front of the
court (if they can afford it, that is).
Bounties are placed on the heads of infamous bandits,
pirates, people who consort with demons, and any
dangerous criminals that evades apprehension by the
city watch, or a noble’s personal guards. Wanted posters
proclaim accused as open game, and sometimes promise
considerable amounts of gold to the successful hunter. In
such hunts, the court is free to decide if it wants to see the
fugitive delivered dead or alive.
The inquisition trail has supplanted the arbiter trial as the
most common proceeding in criminal cases in some parts
of the Realm. But in very traditional dukedoms, as well as in
Almada, both systems of court exist side by side. This often
results in difficult cases that are sometimes consciously
protracted by the parties involved. If, for whatever reason,
the parties cannot agree to a decision or settlement that
is pleasing unto Priaos, the law of the realm allows the
aggrieved to solve the conflict by Rondra’s will, a condition
that was made possible only because the peace of the realm
was annulled by the Oxenblood Charter, which paved the
way for duels of honor and feuds. Also, contrary to popular
belief, the goal of a feud is not merely to make rivals and
their retainers suffer physically. Instead, the aggressor
tries to force the other side to relent by causing material
damage. Because a fued is seldom an all-or-nothing
proposition, this form of resolving arguments is preferred
over duels of honor.
Offenses
The concept of the presumption of innocence is something
that lawyers and advocates throughout Aventuria might
have encountered during their education, but only in the
context of a class about absurd legal opinions. A harsh
reality reigns outside of the universities of Methumis and
Al’Anfa, namely that the accuser is right unless the accused
is proven innocent. Note that this does not necessarily
hold true if the accused belongs to a much higher social
class than the accuser.
The three levels of law breaking are misdemeanors, crimes,
and serious crimes.
Misdemeanors, which are prosecuted only if there is a
charge, include infractions such as vagrancy, brawling,
fisticuffs, and theft of items worth less than 50 silverthalers,
total.
Crimes include break-ins, major acts of theft (goods valued
above 50 silverthalers), fraud, arson, assault, slander, and
false accusation.
Serious crimes include offenses such as highway robbery,
piracy, rape, abduction, and aggravated assault with a
weapon, murder, manslaughter and crimes against the
divine order of the world, (crimes directed against the
nobility, such as poaching, smuggling, tithe fraud, false
minting, malfeasance in measurements, blasphemy,
treason against one’s land or feudal lord or, especially,
against affluent and influential burghers, and consorting
with demons.
It is important to note here that serfs fleeing their lands,
or members of wandering communities (which includes
traveling, but not noble, groups of heroes) are not entitled
to protection under the law. This also holds true for
evildoers that have been condemned and banished. They
are regarded as outlaws and cannot claim any damages
from freemen. This also means that anyone may kill them
without fear of punishment.
141
 Punishments
Aventurian punishments are harsh and diverse. Judges
select punishments based on the severity of the offense,
whether it was a repeat offense, and whether magic was
used. Use of magic in a crime is considered particularly
reprehensible in the Middenrealm and is always punished
as if the offense was premeditated. Cruelty, self-interest,
and the use of magic while committing a crime lead to
punishments that are more severe than if one can honestly
plead error, confusion, or imprudence. The saying
“ignorance is no excuse” holds true in Aventuria. Violating
a law unintentionally may have a mitigating effect but
neither is there a law that obliges judges or nobles to
grant clemency. The only exceptions are the elves, whose
otherworldliness was taken into consideration in the
Trallopan Contract.
Arbiter trials also take so-called justifications into account
as mitigating circumstances. If the accused broke the law to
prevent a greater evil, all charges might even be dropped.
However, particularly conservative Blessed Ones of Praios
prefer inquisition trials and believe that breaking the laws
bestowed by Praios may never be done with impunity.
They always call for at least symbolic punishment or a
special act of penance.
Judges rarely impose prison sentences, since family
members must pay the convict’s costs of incarceration.
Then, at the end of the sentence, they must pay a final
ransom to secure the convict’s release. This is true for
criminals as well as those incarcerated in debtors’ prison.
In cases of political hostages, the treatment of the hostage
may depend upon the donations of the family.
Those guilty of misdemeanors commonly receive shaming
punishments that range from so-called discrediting, a sort
142 Chapter 5: Trade and Commerce
of social reprimand, to public humiliation in the pillory.
These are followed by fines of up to 200 silverthalers or
corporal punishment, which may consist of caning or
flogging. The forced cutting of ones’ beard or hair is
another classic form of shaming punishment.
Crimes are often punished by fines, which may be
supplemented by corporal or shaming punishments,
depending on the severity of the crime. Thieves and
slanderers are often sentenced to mutilation, which
entails the removal of one or more body parts according
to the nature of the crime. Thieves lose fingers or even an
entire hand, for repeat offences, while liars and slanderers
have their tongues pulled out. The most popular forms
of corporal punishment include the cutting off ears and
noses, and also blinding.
People sentenced for serious crimes often must perform
road construction or endure forced labor in quarries,
pits, or mines. Al’Anfa punishes even minor crimes
with enslavement or service at the oars of the galleys of
the Black Fleet. Such pronouncements are usually life-
sentences, and some recipients survive such conditions for
only a short period of time.
Dangerous criminals are usually branded, so that everyone
recognizes them. Serious crimes, such as tithe fraud, are
punished by onerous fines and branding. City courts are
especially likely to commit a person to debtors’ prison
until someone pays the fine imposed by the court. Since
the cost of the prisoner’s upkeep is added to the fine,
the bill quickly grows too large to pay. When all hope of
payment is gone, the convict is usually sent to a quarry or
a mine to die.
Serious crimes may also be punished with a death
sentence. Only nobles have the right to die by the sword.
Simple freemen or bondsmen are hanged. In particularly
serious cases, a death sentence might be combined with
corporal punishment, and one may suffer a painful death
and then have one’s corpse burned afterwards. Burning
a body means the punishment transcends death, for,
according to popular belief, such treatment prevents the
condemned from entering into the Halls of Boron. Only a
Blessed One of Praios can approve a sentence of burning a
person alive for the purpose of purification, and these days
it is reserved for only the most severe crimes, such as evil
sorcery or consorting with demons. Old forms of execution,
such as drowning, breaking on the wheel, impaling, and
quartering, are very rarely employed in the Middenrealm,
but if rumors are true, they are still frequently used beyond
the borders of the Realm of Raul and the Horasian Empire.
Severe punishments are frequently imposed for blasphemy
and heresy. Individuals charged with such crimes are
supposed to be handed over to the Church against which
the blasphemous act was committed, but this mandate is
rarely obeyed these days.
God’s Judgement and Trial by Combat
“We demand Praios’ judgment, for right and life!”
—Baroness Duridanya of Griffonmount-Ravenmouth, at
the Council of the Imperial Court in Gareth, 1015 FB
An accused who does not accept judgement or blame,
or perhaps thinks the judge is prejudiced, can call for a
god’s judgement, usually in the name of Praios or Rondra
(in which case it is referred to as Rondra’s Ordeal). In the
south, god’s judgements are usually sworn in the name of
Boron. Freemen accused of serious crimes, such as murder
or treason, also have the right to call for a god’s judgement,
but in practice it is claimed primarily by nobles.
A god’s judgement almost always takes the form of a duel
that is usually fought to first blood (first injury) or second
blood (incapacitation), and rarely to third blood (death).
Usually the accused must fight this duel personally, but
can, in some regions, ask for a champion to fight in place
of the accused. The court (or the suing noble) must then
appoint a champion. The Champion of the Realm usually
fights in place of the Empress. An accused who wins this
duel is henceforth regarded as innocent, with honor
restored. However, an accused who loses and does not
die as a result of the duel then faces a death sentence for
giving false testimony before the gods.
Worshipers of the Twelvegods believe that the god or
goddess judges these ordeals personally, and participants
try their best to fight a god’s judgement with honor. Beings
who do not worship the Twelvegods are usually ineligible
to participate, but a non-believer may fight after swearing
an exception, that is, if they demonstrate that their belief
system has a parallel. For example, the warrior culture of
orcs recognizes the religious import of trials by combat. In
an ordeal between a human and an orc, the human might
pray for Rondra’s aid while the orc would pray to Brazoragh.
The sanctity of a god’s judgement extends to fairness, and a
combat between a renowned swordsman and an untrained
peasant would be considered dishonorable in the extreme
(unless the swordsman agreed to fight blindfolded or
accept a similar hindrance). If both participants carry
swords, but one is known to possess much better skill, the
trial by combat cannot proceed unless both parties make an
effort to balance the contest. For instance, the more skilled
fighter might choose to wield a different weapon or fight
the trial without the benefit of armor—anything that puts
the more skilled fighter at an acceptable disadvantage.
For lesser offenses, a trial by combat may be granted if
both parties agree to it. The decision lies with the presiding
judge, although in practice it occurs far more often in some
regions than in others.
Even though the model of the classic duel prevails, in theory
there are no limits to the form a god’s judgement could
take. For example, it is said that a mage once challenged
an accuser to a game of Garadan to resolve the trial. In the
Lands of the Tulamydes, magicians prefer to let summoned
djinn fight in their stead.
Trial by combat is very common in certain cultures
outside of the Middenrealm, where trials are often far less
complicated. In Thorwal, disputing parties often challenge
each other to a ritual duel known as a holmgang. To prove
their innocence, some individuals vow to undertake a
dangerous sea raid or volunteer to be marooned on a
deserted island in Ifirn’s Ocean.
Taxes and Levies
“We were traveling through lands that didn’t belong to nobles
or priests and we thought we were finally safe from levies of all
kinds. Then we came to a ramshackle bridge across a raging
river. It looked safe, so we started across only to be stopped by
a bridge troll, who demanded honey and licorice from us. Honey
and licorice! He might as well have asked me for a green horse.
There was nothing we could do against this brute, so we wound
up crossing at the ford about 10 miles upstream…”
—Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary, 1037 FB
Taxes
“You want me to pay a tax on double-bladed weapons? I don’t
understand. I am carrying only one sword. Of course it has a
cutting edge on both sides. It’s a sword. But that doesn’t mean
that it is a double-bladed weapon. Hesinde help me! Fine, fine,
alright. Here are two halers, by Praios’ will.”
—a young warrior entering a small town in the County of
Ridgerock, 1040 FB
143
 Most realms in Aventuria levy taxes, which means that
each burgher must pay certain amounts to the lord of
the land and to the temples of the Twelve. Normally this
equals one-tenth of what a person generates in a year. This
tax is paid to the lord of the land, and serves as the main
source of income for the nobility. Tithes are seldom paid
with coins, as farmers usually pay with produce or natural
resources, or through special services performed for the
land or in the court of the ruler. A lord’s subjects sometimes
also pay levies for a number of other things, such as using
the lord’s mill, buying one’s way out of military service
(paying a banner coin), desiring to marry (paying a wine
coin), or having the misfortune to die (paying a death coin or
mortuary coin). Nobles, too, must pay similar levies to their
feudal lords. For example, they must pay a knight’s coin or
dowry when their firstborn children enter into the order of
knighthood or are married.
One particularly unpopular levy is the Emperor’s Thaler, a
head tax of varying amount that is collected from landlords
and cities alike. In times of peace this money goes toward
financing the visit of the traveling Imperial Court. In
wartime, it finances military campaigns.
Landlords or cities that are short on money charge
additional taxes and levies to refill their coffers as quickly
as possible.
In addition to these levies, most sedentary Aventurians
also pay the so-called temple tithe to their local temple of
the Twelvegods, usually the temple of a deity they revere
or look to for protection. It is not always easy in cities to
tell whether a burgher has paid a tithe, and envious people
sometimes denounce their enemies by claiming they have
not yet paid their temple tithe. Out in the countryside, the
lord of the land usually collects the temple tithe personally
and passes it on to favored temples, a practice which
sometimes leads to resentment from Churches that have
fewer ties to the nobility, such as those of Peraine and
Travia.
Tolls
“This is only a ford through a brook. Why should I give you my
hard-earned coin? I’ll give you a taste of my steel instead!”
—last words of a mercenary who tried to cross the river
Rathil towards Weiden before the Count’s guards pulled
him from his horse, 1039 FB
Every realm in Aventuria collects tolls to fill the coffers of
local nobles. However, real toll fortresses, with toll gates,
towers, and far-reaching walls, are rare and often found
only along borders on routes leading into the realm.
Avoiding toll stations involves long detours and exposes
traders and caravans to greater risks, such as robbery and
wild animals.
144 Chapter 5: Trade and Commerce
Travelers most frequently encounter toll houses that
monitor traffic at provincial borders. Similar installations
are also found in most harbors.
The import tariff, payable at a realm’s border, is about
five to ten percent of an item’s value and can vary
depending on where the goods were made. Travelers
who are not merchants must pay an obolus, the amount
of which depends on their profession, which they can
prove by showing a document or a seal. If no document
is forthcoming, the custom officers can set an amount at
their discretion. Day laborers should expect to pay about
1 haler, warriors and mercenaries around 10 silverthalers,
and a guild mage up to 5 ducats. Toll fraud is a serious
crime, and offenders are harshly punished. At the borders
of provinces, travelers pay a symbolic amount, usually
between a haler and a silverthaler. Merchants pay about
5% of the value of any wares they carry. Nobles and Blessed
Ones who hail from the province they intend to enter are
usually exempted from payments. Blessed Ones rarely pay
more than a symbolic amount in any case.
Bridge tolls are usually assessed at 1 kreutzer per foot and
1 haler per wheel. This holds true for most passes, dikes,
and tunnels as well. A ferry covering the same distance
costs around eight times the amount charged at a bridge.
Toll collection outside of the Middenrealm and the
Horasian Empire is not always as organized as this. In the
Lands of the Tulamydes, the collection of taxes by the
ruling tribe more closely resembles extortion. Thorwaler,
on the other hand, are very proud of the fact they do not
pay taxes. Attempts to impose a head tax have rarely lasted
for very long.
The launching right is a special form of tariff that can
be granted as a privilege to trading cities or harbors. In
addition to the actual tariff paid on wares, the launching
right requires that traders sell their wares only to local
merchants for at least two days, granting them an advanced
purchasing rights and making easier for them to negotiate
better prices and increase their own profits.
Chapter 6:
Flora and Fauna
“Of crypt louses: Many repugnant-looking vermin hide
from the light. This includes the crypt louse, which lives
in dank caves, underground tombs, and dungeons, but is
also encountered in dark and damp forest valleys, where
the sun seldom reaches the ground. In shape it resembles
the ordinary pill bug or wood louse, but of frightening size,
with some specimens more than six feet long.

ven though the crypt louse feeds primarily on carrion,

it sometimes dares to attack humans. It is clearly more
nimble than one might expect, and can inflict considerable
damage with its sharp biting and gripping mandibles. Like
its smaller relative, the crypt louse has a very thick shell
that is nearly impenetrable. Therefore it is hard to hurt,
and light blades might break on its shell. Thank the gods
this monstrosity usually flees after taking a few heavy
blows.

Tracking or hunting a fleeing crypt louse is unwise, as

darkness does not hinder its movements and it knows its
home tunnels well. Its armored body is surprisingly flexible
given its strength, and the crypt louse can squeeze through
cracks which a human may not enter safely. Avoid the
dark lairs of the crypt bug and be grateful they live almost
exclusively in isolation.”
—from Prem’s Wildlife, revised edition, 923 FB

145
 What Grows and
Lives in Aventuria?
Since many of the northern forests are overgrown with
dense groves of pine trees, sunlight almost never reaches
the ground. The further north one travels, dense stands of
black or sword firs replace the pine forests. In Andergast,
one can find the defiant stone oaks, whose timber is
thought to be the hardest on the entire continent. Mosses
and ferns grow in profusion on the ground, and healing
herbs such as yoruga and needhelp thrive here as well.
Many animals migrate in winter, which affords even less
experienced hunters a bit of success. The majestic elk is
regarded as the typical Bornish animal, but during winter
can be encountered in many places. Black bears and
aggressive swampreeks should be treated with caution,
and further north one encounters ravenous snow-lurkers.
At the campfire people exchange stories of meeting treants
and unicorns, or tell of sightings of Milzenis the Giant in
the depths of the Bornwood.
Wildlife is not as plentiful or diverse in the Orclands, the
steppes of the north, and the Green Plain. Herds of steppe
cattle, Halmar antelopes, and, occasionally, karans roam
through the land. One might also encounter Orcland
bears and dire wolves, or less commonly, horned dragons
or woolly rhinos. Woolly mammoths are a particularly
common sight in the Gjalskland, but seldom seen
elsewhere. In the ever-green Salamander Stones one can
see gigantic elephant trees and other fantastical flora and
fauna. The pristine homeland of the elves provides hints
of the wonder of primeval Aventurian forests, such as the
great Middenforest that once covered the Heart of the
Realm. In the Far North and the Eternal Ice, little grows
and thrives. Various species of seals and the droll Boron
146 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna
capdivers (a species of penguin) are native to these lands,
but so are strange creatures such as the extremely deadly
ice urchin and the snow-white Firun’s polar bear, which
competes for prey with scaled glacier worms and gigantic,
flying frost wyrms.
“Ice urchins? They are real monsters, by
Swafnir! They look like little balls made out
of sharp ice splinters. But if you get too close,
they explode and impale you! Where do you
think I got this scar?”
—Tjalva Garheltsdottir, Hetja from Prem
The Heart of the Continent is known for its green pastures,
where countless shepherds escort their animals to the
pastures at daybreak and drive them back to their yards or
pens in the evenings. Sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, geese,
turkeys, and cattle are common. Abilachtian Fleckvieh
spotted cattle and Gyldenland brown cattle are the best-
known and most widespread cattle breeds. Balihoen
yellows graze in Weiden, and farmers also keep Bornlander
cattle because they can easily be trained to pull carts. In
most cases, herds are driven only to wild meadows, heaths,
or thinner forests because the most fertile land is reserved
for crops.
Dense, primeval forests still cover large parts of the
Middenrealm. In many places, stands of tall elm trees,
red and ghost birches, and dark blue firs are nearly
impenetrable, and spider briar bushes and hazel bushes
make overland travel even more difficult, unless one uses
one of the rare paths cut through the thicket.
Besides wild boars, there are deer, aurochs, rabbits and
different species of hare, partridges, pheasants, and
capercailzies. Many wolves, foxes, martens, badgers, and
weasels prowl around but rarely pose a danger to humans.
However, one should not start a fight with bears, cave
spiders, the slimy giant amoeba, cave panthers, or the much
larger stinking pit worms, cave dragons, and tatzelwurms.
Hunting is easier in the brighter forests and meadows,
which are filled with songbirds and small rodents such as
the pika and the red pom. Red deer and black boars frolic in
the forests, and with a little luck one might also encounter
the heraldic animal of the Imperial family, the red fox.
Larger, more dangerous animals such as bears, wolves,
horned dragons, warty rhinos, and wild cats are less
common here, as they subject to aggressive hunting. The
waters are rich in fish, so that fishing with pole or spear is
generally successful. Drake dragonflies are a real nuisance,
they reach a size of up to eight inches, and they descend in
swarms upon people and animals that venture close to the
waters at the end of summer. Some regions now contain
creatures which did not exist there before the Year of Fire.
Corpse-eating ghouls increasingly cause trouble, as do the
undead that used to be part of the Endless Army of the
Dead and which now aimlessly wander the lands.
In the Horasian Empire, Yaquir Valley and in the south of
the Middenrealm the light forests give way to deciduous
forests of Bosparanian trees (chestnut trees) and copper
beeches, pine groves, and cypress forests. This increases
the farther south one travels. The climate is also milder
and a large variety of plants grow here. Olive groves and
fruit trees line the paths and fields, their branches bending
in the summer under the weight of butter pears, juicy
cherries, or pomegranates. The meadows smell of herbs
such as methyme (the Aventurian equivalent of thyme)
and basil, and colorful flax and canola fields shine in bright
colors between fertile fields where wheat bends in the
wind.
Azila, wild roses, and pepper plants grow in the Lands of
the Tulamydes, even though the land is typically arid. In
contrast, the areas near the great rivers are fertile and
green, and support orchards of almond trees, date palms,
and the Fasaran fig tree, which blossoms only here. Harvests
so abundant in Arania that carts groan under the weight of
cereal grains, Peraine apples, and Aranges, which is why it
was regarded as the breadbasket of the Middenrealm for
many centuries until it gained its independence. Peacocks,
the sacred animal of Aves and Rahja, strut freely in many
gardens and are a particularly common sight in Arania. But
it is not always quite so divine here. Swarms of locusts are
especially feared in the Lands of the Tulamydes because
they can devour entire harvests, and their origin remains
a mystery. In Mhanadistan and its surrounding mountains,
wild Khoram’s beasts often kill cattle and attack careless
wanderers. Scorpions, snakes, and other crawling things
sometimes venture from the border areas of the desert
into the cities, and some rivers are populated not only
by crocodiles, but also by giant, blood-sucking, jumping
leeches and slimy morfus (a type of predatory giant snail).
Amazingly, some animals manage to survive in the blazing
heat of the Khôm Desert. These include insects, arachnids,
small lizards, and birds such as vultures or proud Khôm
falcons. Birds live in the inhospitable heights of the
mountains where they nest between rocks, and the region
supports a few mammals, such as the rat, the Khoram’s
beast, and the Rashtul’s lynx. It is said that many dragons
of different species also live here, including the small and
sullen dour dragon, the wingless cave dragon, the fiery
purple worm, the majestic emperor dragon, and the three-
headed giant wyvern.
The lizard-bodied achaz live in the mangrove swamps of
the south alongside many types of fish, amphibians, and
snakes. Few mammals can survive here without being
devoured. On the other hand, insects of a multitude of
species live in the murky mire, as do large and voracious
crocodilians like caimans and alligators. It isn’t only
dangerous fauna that one must worry about, for the 6’ tall,
carnivorous disdychonda plant, which also lives in the
jungles, easily threatens fully-grown humans (and elves,
and dwarves).
Truly giant trees grow in the Aventurian jungles, such as
the Alveran’s pillar and the elephant tree, which reach
a height of almost 328 feet. In the dense green countless
dangers lurk beneath cypress and magnolia trees, such
as large constrictors, the highly poisonous tarantula,
or the leafhead adder. In some waters of the jungle, one
has to watch out for the infamous bloodfish, or piranha,
whose swarms can gnaw skin and flesh off a human within
minutes. Almost nowhere else can one find such rich fauna
as in the rain forest; however, it varies greatly from level to
level: in the treetops live many kinds of monkeys and birds,
at the halfway point one finds snakes, spiders, and climbing
cats, while the ground is populated by ants, herbivorous
mammals, and large lizards. Insects and crawling creatures
are omnipresent, they exist in all shapes and colors. Many
of them prey on the “walking blood bags” on which
mosquitos, leeches and vampire bats like to feast. Others
lay their eggs in living flesh, and naturally many of them
transmit hideous diseases.
Yet, far worse than on the continent is the extremely hostile
wild- and plant life on Maraskan, which is regarded as most
dangerous region of Aventuria for a reason. However, this
is not due to large predators, but to a myriad of crawling
creatures and snakes, a surprisingly high number of
147
 which are highly poisonous or otherwise dangerous. The
Maraskan tarantula or Maraske, which is nowhere else as
common as here, is the best known poisonous creature
from the island. The arachnid is waist-height, covered
in yellow and red dots, and loves to feed on the highly
toxic, pungent toadstool mushroom. It has a horrifying
scorpion’s sting, from which experts get a treacherous
poison. Red Marans, probably the largest birds of prey of
“A chimera is when two beings are melded
into one, by using ancient magical arts.
Most of them cannot beget offspring, thank
the gods, but some of them have spread
all over the continent to this day. There are
the harypie, hybrid beings of woman and bird,
which often occur in entire swarms or the manticore.
It has the features of a human, body and mane of a lion and the
sting of a deadly scorpion. The wizard sultan Hasrabal is said
to have kept one in his palace! And you must surely have heard
of the Borbarad mosquitoes which do not only rob you of your
blood but also of your memories, right?”
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
148 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna
Aventuria, and pearl dragons populate the skies above the
island and may become dangerous to humans, if they are
not quarrelling with each other. Moreover, many plants
of Maraskan are also poisonous or at least, very strange.
From the bark of the rare Axorda tree one of the few cures
against the Zorganpox can be produced. Of the trees of the
traveler it is even said that their roots reach into Limbo.
Chimerology is the art of melding two living beings
together; luckily, very few such creatures are able to
reproduce. Besides revenants and demons of all kinds, the
former Shadowlands are especially infamous for harboring
chimerae and creatures that resulted from the demonic
corruption of natural animals (daimonids being one such
example). The Heptarchy of Oron, which was located in
Arania, was the birthplace of the carnivorous Shadifriitim,
which were created by crossing demons with proud Shadif
mares. The White Harrier was first bred by demons in
Transysilia. Several of these gigantic, two-headed wolf
creatures still menace Tobrien lands.
Aventurian Seas
The Aventurian seas are home to a number of humanoid
races, including the newt-like zilites, fishmen such as the
risso, the mysterious mermaids and mermen, and the
toad-bodied krakonians. Moreover, the seas are home to
a multitude of creatures and are regarded as extremely
rich in fish. In the coastal areas of temperate and northern
regions, one frequently encounters schools of fish of all
kinds, but also dolphins, moray eels, swordfish, striped
sharks, minke whales, and giant krakens. Sometimes,
hammerhead sharks, sword sharks, and tiger sharks hunt
in these waters for easy prey. However, the Ifirn’s shark in
Ifirn’s Ocean is considered particularly dangerous. It is the
largest Aventurian shark known and has no qualms about
attacking humanoids or even dolphins, the sacred animals
of Efferd.
Aventurian Bestiary
“We traveled far and saw much. Here I record my account, so that
you will know the dangers that might await those who set out on
a journey.

Many creatures know little more than the urge to feed, and they
will not be stopped by us. Therefore, always be prepared when
you set out to explore the world.”
—from the Introduction to Prem’s Wildlife, Prem, 923 FB

“There is a creeping and a crawling on the entire damned

continent, in the steaming jungles of the south as well as in the
far reaches of the north. We defeated ogres, slew countless orcs,
fought through swarms of Borbarad mosquitos and more than
once fled pell-mell from a tatzelwurm. And as much as I have
learned to appreciate my blade throughout all these years, a
sword will not always help you. The more you know about your
opponent, my child, the better! Therefore, listen well, when I tell
you about our last encounter with a krakennewt and learn from
it. It was not at sea, but in the well of an old coastal castle and only
with a good amount of luck and the help of my brave companions
I was able to escape its cursed tentacles…”
—Alrik, adventurer in retirement, to his grandchild,
modern

This section presents an assorted a number of intelligent

creatures, monsters, and animals which Aventurian
heroes may typically encounter. These creatures are native
to many regions of the continent.

Special rules for poisons, special combat actions, and new

special abilities appear in the descriptions for the relevant
creatures. Powerful Blow is described here because it is
modified by attribute values.

Powerful Blow (passive)

Some creatures are so strong that their attacks smash
opponents to the ground.

Rule: After a successful attack, opponents of size

categories medium and smaller must make a successful
Feat of Strength check, or gain the state prone. The check
suffers a penalty equal to half the points the creature
has above Strength 20 (for example, with Strength 23,
the penalty is 2, with Strength 26, the penalty is 3, and
so on). Parrying a Powerful Blow also requires a Feat of
Strength check, even if the parry succeeds. A Powerful
Blow can be completely avoided only by dodging.

Prerequisites: Creatures must possess this SA naturally.

149
 Goblin Their human neighbors often look down on them but view
their work as a sign of bravery.
“Goblins are smallish creatures. They may have ape-like
Goblins are known to live only in Aventuria, although
countenances, but they are able to speak and use simple tools. One
rumor has it that some live on the Giant’s Shore. They have
can meet them as bandits on the road, as hunters and gatherers
not spread to the other continents.
in the wilderness, and even in certain cities, like Festum, where
they have found their niche catching rats and performing menial
tasks for their human masters. Never trust a goblin. They are Way of Life
born thieves.” Urban goblins have gradually come to adopt the customs
—Dame Gilda of Honingen-Salpertin, Almanac of Folklore, and religions of their human neighbors. For that reason,
Honingen, 921 FB tribal goblins (and the humans themselves) view goblins
with mistrust and contempt. Their less “civilized” brothers
Of all the intelligent races in Aventuria, goblins might and sisters in the Sickle Mountains live in family units
very well be one of the most misunderstood. Goblins are where women hold prominent positions due to their
related to orcs, but they stand somewhat smaller than a importance for the creation of progeny. This rural goblin
dwarf on average, their build is wirier, and their slightly- culture is founded on the worship of the divine couple,
stooped bodies are covered head-to-toe in dense, shaggy Mailam Redkai and Orvai Kurim, who are usually depicted
fur that usually ranges in color from rust red to brown (the as boars that walk upright on two legs. Mailam Redkai,
source of common slurs against them). They are weaker the Great Mother or Mother Sow, created the Suulak (the
than orcs, but they are much nimbler and more agile. Their goblins’ term for themselves). She symbolizes fertility,
low, prominent brows, protruding teeth, and wide noses healing, food, and summer.
give their faces a somewhat ape-like appearance, such that
most humans find it hard to believe that an intelligent Goblin families are led by a wise woman, who often also
mind resides within a goblin’s frame. This misjudgment can serves as the family’s shaman. The Great Mother’s male
lead to disaster, as goblins, which partner, Orvai Kurim, is the lord of
have a reputation as thieves and hunters. He represents the martial
cowards, have one of the oldest aspects of goblin culture. Goblins
cultures in Aventuria. The several view hunting, feuds, and war to be
hundred thousand goblins known basically similar activities. Orvai
to live on the continent maintain their Kurim is most often worshiped by male
own culture, their own language, and an goblins. For that reason, in times
impressive shamanistic tradition. of war, the most experienced
hunter or warrior of the family
assists the wise woman
Distribution in word and deed. When
Goblin strength is often underestimated
there is war, goblins ride
in Aventuria. Most have settled in the
boars into battle, a sight
Green Plains, the Sickle Mountains, and in Nostria
which many experienced
and Andergast. One can encounter them in every
knights find ridiculous.
corner of Aventuria, either as roaming bandits,
As anyone who has
simple workers, or slaves. Goblins are extremely
been trampled by an
adaptable and inventive. You can even find
angry boar can tell you,
white-furred snow goblins living near
it is no laughing matter.
the hostile coast of the Ice Sea. In most
regions of Aventuria, goblins have no
Goblins have no known
rights and are viewed as mere animals.
written language, and little is
Killing one is no more serious a crime
known of the history of the
than poaching. Goblin coexistence with
goblins before their first
humans and other races is indeed possible, as
contact with humans. They
demonstrated by the large goblin communities
ruled their own kingdoms in
in Festum and Uhdenberg, where they work
northern Aventuria millennia ago,
as rat-catchers or tanners or serve in
and 800 years ago, an empire of
other dirty and dangerous trades.

150 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna

goblins covered the Bornland. The Order of the Theater
Knights put an end to goblin expansion but suffered heavy
losses in the process. One should never underestimate the
goblins. One goblin might look weak and scared, but they
rarely travel alone. In hunting groups or armies, they can
prove very dangerous.
Tribal goblins wander the wilderness, but gangs of
goblins can be found almost anywhere in central and
northern Aventuria. These bands are comprised mainly
of young males who have left their homes to achieve
fame and fortune through thievery and robbery. They
pursue nocturnal raids, burglaries, and any other criminal
activities that promise quick rewards.
A Selection of Goblin Names
Female: Garrgh, Jääni, Kashka, Orvazz, Riiba,
Rrhuusa, Rukuka, Seenä, Souli, Yaashka
Male: Bluugh, Grrargh, Groinkh, Gurluug, Joraak,
Shraa, Sulrik, Traak, Urmeg, Xeetsh
Goblin
Size: 4’8’’ to 5’4’’ at the shoulder
Weight: 80 to 120 pounds
COU 10 SGC 9 INT 12 CHA 12
DEX 14 AGI 15 CON 12 STR 11
LP 24 AE – KP – INI 13+1D6
DO 8 SPI –1 TOU 0 MOV 8
Unarmed: AT 11 PA 6 DP 1D6+1 RE short
Dagger: AT 12 PA 8 DP 1D6+2 RE short
Saber: AT 10 PA 7 DP 1D6+3 RE medium
Wooden Spear: AT 11 PA 8 DP 1D6+2 RE long
Short Bow: RC 12 RT 1 DP 1D6+4 RA 10/50/80
PRO/ENC: 0/0
Actions: 1
Advantages: Darksight I, Exceptional Sense (Hearing),
Resistant to Cold
Disadvantages: Negative Trait (Superstition, Curiosity)
Special Abilities: Feint I
Skills: Body Control 4 (15/15/12), Climbing 5 (10/15/11),
Empathy 4 (10/13/13), Fast-Talk 3 (10/13/13), Feat
of Strength 4 (12/11/11), Intimidation 4 (10/13/13),
Perception 7 (10/13/13), Self-Control 4 (10/10/12),
Stealth 7 (10/13/15), Swimming 3 (15/12/11), Willpower 1
(10/13/13)
Number: 1, or 2D6+2 (goblin gang), or 3D20+20 (goblin
tribe)
Size Category: medium
Type: Intelligent Creature, humanoid
Combat Behavior: Goblins living away from home are
most often bandits and robbers who prefer to avoid
combat. They like to scare their opponents via threats,
instead. When they must use force, they prefer bows
or spears.
Escape: per individual (after losing 50% LP, or upon the
escape or death of the leader)
Pain +1 at: 18 LP, 12 LP, 6 LP, and 5 LP and less
Experienced: INT 14 instead of 13, AGI 16 instead of 15; LP
26 instead of 24; Unarmed DP 1D6+2, Dagger DP 1D6+3,
Saber AT 11 / PA 8 / DP 1D6+4, Wooden Spear AT 11
/ PA 8 / DP 1D6+3, Cudgel AT 10 / PA 3; Climbing 7
instead of 5, Body Control 7 instead of 4, Feat of Strength 5
instead of 4, Perception 9 instead of 7, Stealth 10 instead of 7,
Empathy 6 instead of 4, Willpower 3 instead of 1
Competent: INT 15 instead of 13, DEX 15 instead of 14,
AGI 16 instead of 15, STR 12 instead of 11; LP 28 instead
of 24; Unarmed DP 1D6+2, Dagger DP 1D6+3, Saber AT
12 / PA 8 / DP 1D6+4, Wooden Spear AT 13 / PA 9 /
DP 1D6+3, Cudgel AT 11 / PA 4; Climbing 10 instead of 5,
Body Control 10 instead of 4, Feat of Strength 6 instead of 4,
Perception 12 instead of 7, Stealth 12 instead of 7, Empathy 7
instead of 4, Willpower 5 instead of 1
151
 Ogre Their closely-related but vegetarian cousins, known as
moundlings, live in earthen caves in the upper Bodir and
in the Orclands. So-called black ogres live on the Forest
“The children of the giant Ogeron still live among us today, and
Islands and in the rain forests of the south. They are much
we can be happy that they are not as numerous as they once
more dexterous, smarter, and even somewhat civilized,
were. Their hunger cannot be sated, and all ogres prefer human
and people fear them greatly because they can control
flesh. Never forget the carnage that these powerful giants caused
their constant hunger long enough to create and follow
during the Battle of 1,000 Ogres, when a whole army had trouble
plans.
routing them. Ogres are three times as strong as an adult human.
When hungry, they swing clubs or throw rocks to kill what they
Large populations of black ogres inhabit Uthuria, where
want to eat.
they are said to have even built their own cities—nobody in
Aventuria would have thought ogres capable of such feats.
It seems that Hesinde forgot about them when she was assigning
Ogres have never been seen in Myranor.
intelligence. Ogres are as simple as they are strong, which is why
it is easy to deceive them when you need to save your life.”
—Excerpt from an outdated version of the Bestiary of Belhanka Way of Life
Ogres live in small family units comprised of three to six
Ogres are the natural enemies of humans, as they hunger individuals. Males go out on raids that can last days, while
for their flesh. Their insatiable hunger is well known, and females stay behind to guard the cave. Except for rare
many wanderers or mushroom hunters have fallen prey individuals with above average intelligence, Ogres speak
to these muscular beasts. According to legend, they arose only a basic, grunting language that borrows many words
in their thousands from the remains of the ever-hungry from Garethi or Oloarkh, the lesser orc language. There is
giant Ogeron when it fell to Dere during the Giant Wars. evidence of a forgotten shamanistic culture that suggests
Since that day, they are driven by Ogeron’s hunger for ogres once possessed a higher level of civilization. Those
flesh. The people-eaters, as they are often called, stand few scholars who study the people-eaters even claim that
more than 8 feet tall and are very corpulent. Their pale ogres have their own oral tradition of myths and
skin is hairless and shines with the rancid fat they use legends. Despite the constant hunger that
to cover their bodies. If you are lucky, this smell will drives many ogres, instances of cannibalism
alert you to their presence before you see them. are exceedingly rare.
Ogres have some skill with crafts, and even
though they know how to make fire, they Ogres sometimes form
often use their sharp, yellow teeth to partnerships of convenience
rend and devour their prey raw. Ogres with orcs or goblin gangs,
have the lowest intelligence of all such though the poor goblins
races in Aventuria, and their limited often wind up being eaten
minds are slave to their instincts to if the mutual raids don’t
feed and mate. When sated (a rare succeed. Orc shamans
condition), an ogre can manage to sometimes capture
hold a rather limited conversation ogres to break their
(if it speaks your language, that is). spirits with magic and
beatings, and then arm
and train these enslaved
Distribution ogres to serve the orcs
Ogres can feel at home anywhere in
in war. Some shamans
Aventuria but choose to live mainly in
lend these battle-tested
ruins, abandoned structures, and caves.
bodyguards to orc
Sometimes they build simple leaf huts
warriors as signs of favor,
or dig short tunnels into the ground. Many
in return for those orcs’
ogre families roam the countryside throughout
loyalty.
the year, and groups can be encountered almost
anywhere, at any time. Cave ogres, which are
Ogres normally hunt alone
human-sized, blind, and possess no exceptional
or in small groups, but in rare
senses, live only in the northern mountains.
cases they form gangs, and hordes

152 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna

of flesh-hungry ogres have been known to threaten whole
cities. Many people have faced the cruel fate of being
devoured alive. In the year 1003 FB, a traitor named Galotta,
the former court mage for the Imperial family, enslaved
a large number of ogres (and other creatures) with dark
magic to create an army. His forces marched towards the
former capital of Tobrien Ysilia but were defeated at the
Troll Gate (in what would later be known as the Battle of
the 1,000 Ogres).
Ogre
Size: 8’ to 9’ at the shoulder
Weight: 340 to 400 pounds
COU 16 SGC 6 INT 10 CHA 8
DEX 10 AGI 12 CON 20 STR 22
LP 60 AE – KP – INI 13+1D6
DO 6 SPI –1 TOU 5 MOV 8
Unarmed: AT 10 PA 8 DP 1D6+8 RE medium
Ogre Club: AT 9 PA 7 DP 2D6+7 RE long
Large Rock: RC 10 RT 3 DP 2D6 RA 4/20/32
PRO/ENC: 2/0
Actions: 1
Advantages: none
Disadvantages: Negative Trait (Superstition)
Special Abilities: Forceful Blow I (Unarmed, Ogre
Club), Powerful Blow (Ogre Club; after a successful
attack, medium-sized and smaller opponents must
make a Feat of Strength check with a penalty of 1
or else suffer the state of prone), Shield-Splitter
(Unarmed, Ogre Club)
Skills: Body Control 4 (12/12/20), Climbing 3 (16/12/12),
Empathy 0 (6/10/8), Fast-Talk 0 (16/10/8), Feat of
Strength 9 (20/22/22), Intimidation 7 (16/10/8),
Perception 7 (6/10/10), Self-Control 5 (16/16/20),
Stealth 2 (16/10/12), Swimming 3 (12/20/22),
Willpower 1 (16/10/8)
Number: 1 or 2D6+2 (ogre family)
Size Category: large
Type: Intelligent Creature, humanoid
Combat Behavior: Ogres prefer to eat humans and
other bipedal creatures. They are almost always
Ogre names often sound like little more than hungry,
snarling noises. Some ogres (such as war ogres) receive
names from the orcs they accompany into battle or
from the humans whose villages they prey upon.
Female: Ahrkh, Arzach, Bone-Gnawer, Blood-Gargler,
Gharraa, Lahuff, Meat-Cleaver, Orc-Death, Shlach,
Zhuraar
Male: Arzuch, Barthak, Blood-Drinker, Bone-Drinker,
Elf-Eater, Gorpp, Krog, Ullgump, Wehkhir, Yahrazz
hungry and on the lookout for
prey. They prefer to sneak up
on their victims, corner them,
and try to kill them with a club.
Once they knock an opponent to
the ground with a Powerful Blow,
they usually switch to Forceful Blows to kill their
opponent, even though this renders them less likely
to hit their target.
Escape: Ogres do not run away. They are just too
stupid.
Special Rules
Voraciousness: When hungry and facing edible bipedal
creatures (such as humans), ogres must make a Self
Control check at -5 or give in to their hunger and
attack at once.
Pain +1 at: 45 LP, 30 LP, 15 LP, and 5 LP and less
Experienced: CON 21 instead of 20, STR 23 instead
of 22; LP 65 instead of 60; Unarmed AT 11 / PA 10 /
DP 1D6+9; Body Control 6 instead of 4, Feat of Strength 12
instead of 9, Self Control 7 instead of 5, Perception 9
instead of 7, Stealth 4 instead of 2, Intimidate 9 instead
of 7, Willpower 2 instead of 1
Competent: CON 22 instead of 20, STR 24 instead
of 22; LP 70 instead of 60; Unarmed AT 13 / PA 11 /
DP 1D6+10, Ogre Club AT 12 / PA 8 / DP 2D6+9; Body
Control 8 instead of 4, Feat of Strength 14 instead of 9,
Self Control 9 instead of 5, Perception 11 instead of 7,
Stealth 6 instead of 2, Intimidate 11 instead of 7,
Willpower 3 instead of 1
153
 Orc throughout the steppes in heavy wagons that resemble
rolling fortresses. The Olochtai, which even other orc
tribes consider primitive, dwell in the Olochtai Mountains
“They are tough. They are strong. They are brave. No other race
and the Waskir Highlands, where they shelter in caves.
is as dangerous to humans. They multiply quickly, and their only
Olochtai fur is especially dense and protects them from the
goal seems to be to further their eternal struggle against humans.
cold winds of their homeland.
Orcs are more dangerous than even trolls or ogres.”
—Corporal Jost Undernickel, Army of the Middenrealm, to his
After the most recent war of conquest ground to a halt,
cadre, two weeks before the Third Orc Storm.
orcs settled along the Svellt River and began to demand
tribute. The other tribes suspect that these traitors chose
Few things in central and northern Aventuria can raise
to live close to the humans of the Svellt in order to adopt
as much panic and fear as shouting the word “Orcs!” As
their relatively soft lifestyle.
one might expect, orcs live mainly in the wide steppes
of the Orclands, which are surrounded on three sides by
Beyond the Orclands, one encounters individual orc
inhospitable mountain ranges. Orc raids and military
families in the far reaches of the Brydia. A tribe of white
campaigns are feared widely, and their belief in the
orcs, the last of the seven major tribal divisions of orcs, is
rightness of their strange culture is just as strong as
known to live in the far north, among the Ice Pinnacles.
their instinctive hunger for battle and pillaging. Orcs are
Apart from these areas, orcs can be found roaming almost
somewhat smaller than humans, though much sturdier,
anywhere in Aventuria in gangs of orc bandits known as
and their arms are longer. Orcs are resistant to cold, and
Yurach. The members of these gangs were driven off by
the horny soles of their feet make easy work of stony
their families for showing cowardice or weakness. Yurach
mountain paths. Their bodies are covered completely in
often ally with goblins or human bandits to waylay
dark brown or black fur which blends into long hair at the
travelers, but these pathetic, half-starved creatures are
back of their head. Protruding, tusked jaws, flat noses, and
nothing like true orc warriors.
wide brows dominate their almost-hairless faces.

Way of Life
Distribution An orc’s life cycle is faster
The largest orc settlements
than a human’s. Orcs
are found in the Orclands,
reach sexual maturity
where several dozen
at an earlier age, but
families comprise each
rarely live more than
of seven larger tribes.
40 years (assuming
The Orichai of the
violence doesn’t
Orclands have more
cut their life even
than ten thousand
shorter). Orcs live
members, mostly
in family groupings
hunters, gatherers, and
under a strict caste
smallholders. The primal
system, their lives
Zholochai, who are just as numerous,
dominated by the
are nomadic hunters and warriors
concept of might
who range between the Orclands and
makes right. Slaves
the Blood Spires. The fast and mobile
and women occupy the
Zholochai Rider hordes have made quite
lowest rank. Next come
an impact during raids in recent years.
farmers, craftsmen,
The Truanzhai, more than 12,000 heads
and hunters. Elite
strong, populate the Bodir Valley,
warriors and priests
where they breed cattle and conduct
hold the third rank,
trade. From an orcish perspective, the
and the top rank
Truanzhai are almost peaceful. The
is held by chieftains
Molokash isolated themselves from
and shamans. Not
the other tribes by choosing to
surprisingly, the
settle in the marshes of the Bodir
orc caste system is
and live by fishing. The
based not on birth or
Tsharshai tribe conducts
family, but rather on
trade with any who
skills and strength.
agree to barter, and move

154 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna

 The strongest and most ruthless orc can claim the title
of chieftain, no matter the circumstances of its birth or
upbringing.
Aikar Brazoragh, the chosen one of the orcish god of war,
is the supreme leader of all orcs. Besides Brazoragh, who
is often depicted as a bull, orcs also worship Brazoragh’s
divine father, Tairach, who gathers the souls of the
deceased in the Realm of the Dead. Orcs believe that
Brazoragh slew his father, a thought which neatly sums up
the orcish attitude towards life. Shamans are the highest-
ranking servants of Tairach. Along with chieftains, they
lead their families and tribes. Orc history survives in an
oral tradition which is passed from shaman to shaman, and
some shamans are renowned for their incredible memory.
They are the reason why the legends of the orcs extend
back more than 400 centuries in Aventuria. The myths and
tenets of their complex and warlike culture are conveyed
in Ologhaijan, the high language of the orcs. For everyday
matters, orcs and Yurachi use the more vulgar tongue,
Oloarkh.
A Selection of Orc Names
Male: Airakh, Ash(i)rraz, Azzek, Brazoch, Burchai,
Byakkrak, Dradgk, Drasok, Drugh, Garvash, Garzlokh,
Gharrai, Ghairazz, Girkush, Grakshazz, Gryazhai,
Hark hash, Hulgharruk, Jurran, Kershoi, Khaidach,
Khurrach, Khurraz, Mardukh, Naggai, Nargazz,
Netragh, Orchegg(z), Raszech, Sadrak, Sarkhai,
Shardur, Sharraz, Shurrak, Tairon, Thurraz, Uigar,
Varrakh, Yagu(ch), Yorrak
Respected warriors, shamans, and spellcasters often
have intimidating epithets such as Blood-Eye, Blood-
Fist, Bone-Breaker, One-Ear, Shadow-Fur, Stone-Hand,
or Yellow-Tooth.
There are no known female orc names, as they have no
standing in orcish tribal society.
Orc
Size: 5’ to 5’8’’ at the shoulder
Weight: 120 to 150 pounds
COU 15 SGC 10 INT 11 CHA 9
DEX 12 AGI 12 CON 14 STR 13
LP 38 AE – KP – INI 14+1D6
DO 6 SPI –1 TOU 2 MOV 8
Unarmed: AT 12 PA 6 DP 1D6 RE short
Saber: AT 12 PA 6 DP 1D6+3 RE medium
Battle Axe: AT 12 PA 5 DP 1D6+4 RE medium
Short Bow: RC 12 RT 1 DP 1D6+4 RA 10/50/80
PRO/ENC: 0/0
Actions: 1
Advantages: Darksight I, Resistant to Cold, Rugged Fighter
Disadvantages: Negative Trait (Superstition, Short Temper)
Special Abilities: Forceful Blow I (Unarmed, Battle Axe)
Skills: Body Control 4 (12/12/14), Climbing 5 (15/12/13),
Empathy 3 (10/11/10), Fast-Talk 3 (15/11/10), Feat
of Strength 4 (14/13/13), Intimidation 5 (15/11/10),
Perception 4 (10/11/11), Self-Control 5 (15/15/14),
Stealth 7 (15/11/12), Swimming 3 (12/14/13),
Willpower 4 (15/11/10)
Number: 1, or 1D6+1 (orc gang), or 2D20+10 (orc tribe)
Size Category: medium
Type: Intelligent Creature, humanoid
Combat Behavior: Orcs prefer either to intimidate
their opponents or ambush them. Each wants to
fight the strongest opponent, as it gives them the
most glory, but the orcish concept of honor differs
from that of humans, and they enjoy using dirty
tricks to win. Orcs attack prone enemies without
hesitation, usually with Forceful Blows. Similarly,
orcs think ranged weapons are appropriate in any
situation.
Escape: per individual (usually after losing 50% LP)
Pain +1 at: 27 LP, 18 LP, 9 LP, and 5 LP and less
Experienced: COU 16 instead of 15, STR 14 instead
of 13; LP 38 instead of 36; Saber AT 13 / PA 8,
Battle Axe AT 13 / PA 7; Body Control 6 instead of 4,
Feat of Strength 7 instead of 4, Self Control 8 instead
of 5, Perception 6 instead of 4, Stealth 9 instead of 7,
Intimidate 7 instead of 5, Empathy 4 instead of 3,
Willpower 6 instead of 4
Competent: COU 16 instead of 15, CON 15 instead
of 14, STR 15 instead of 13; LP 42 instead of 36;
Unarmed AT 14 / PA 8 / DP 1D6+1, Saber AT 14 /
PA 8, Battle Axe AT 14 / PA 7 / DP 1D6+5; Forceful
Blow II; Body Control 8 instead of 4, Feat of Strength 9
instead of 4, Self Control 10 instead of 5, Perception 8
instead of 4, Stealth 10 instead of 7, Intimidate 9 instead
of 5, Empathy 5 instead of 3, Willpower 8 instead of 4
155
 Troll Way of Life
Trolls live in small family units and prefer to make their
“Trolls are small giants, but you should not be afraid of them. homes in caves or the ruins of old troll fortresses built
Despite their fearsome appearance, most trolls have gentle hearts. from huge blocks of stone. In ancient times, trolls built
Trolls grow up to 16 feet tall, have shaggy hides, and speak in a fortresses, standing stones, and even the so-called troll
rumbling language. Often they speak a little Garethi, too, making tables, which usually indicate the presence of ley lines
it possible for most people to communicate with them. If you and magical nodes. According to legend, some of these
anger a troll, it can work itself into a rage. Trolls almost always structures serve as portals that lead to the fairy realm or
act friendly towards people bearing sweets—as long as you are connect the old fortresses along magical paths. According
willing to share, you and the troll will get along quite well.” to rumors, trolls know that their magic is somewhat similar
—from the memoir of Narla Hamletstetter, an adventurer with to druidic magic, but some scholars claim that trolls are
romantic notions of heroic life, modern so strongly connected to stone in their mind that they are
able to cast magic through rock paintings and crystals. It
Trolls have lived in Aventuria since ancient times. Their is possible that the many standing stones and troll tables
ruins can be spotted in almost every mountain range now scattered across Aventuria once belonged to a magical
on the continent, proof of their past successes. Their system so enormous that the human mind is incapable of
advanced culture came to an end during the so-called grasping its scale.
Troll Wars fought by Belen-Horas in the years 873 to 858
bFB, when almost all the trolls were killed. These immense Dealing with trolls is not easy, as they have a well-earned
creatures most resemble humans of great size and thus are reputation for stubbornness and obstinacy. You can
sometimes counted among the giants. Their skin texture sometimes bribe trolls with sweets, but don’t be fooled
ranges from leathery to barky, and male trolls grow huge by their somewhat awkward demeanor and often crass
beards. Trolls typically live for 300 to 400 years, but some humor. Trolls are shrewd and pay close attention to those
individuals are known to have reached a much greater with whom they interact. If they get the impression
age. Trolls use simple tools and usually wear that you intend to cheat or insult them,
simple clothes made of leather and furs. Wall trolls can fly into a frenzied rage.
paintings from the age of Belen-Horas depict When merely angered, they
heavily-armored trolls using huge axes to fell swing their fists and tree-
countless human warriors. It is said that trolls are trunk-sized clubs in fits
eccentric, moody, and easily enraged. Due to their of passion. In the worst
somewhat barbaric demeanor, they appear more case, a troll in a rage
stupid than they really are. can be a merciless
opponent—it retrieves
its ancient, heirloom
Distribution weapon and devises
Most of the 1,000 or so trolls a complex plan for
who remain in Aventuria bloody revenge.
now live in the Troll Teeth,
a mountain range named for Besides sweets,
one of their prominent features. fruit, sugar beets,
Some trolls live in other mountains and troll pears
of the north, sometimes even close to (their absolute
human settlements. For unknown reasons, some favorite), many
trolls began to wander recently to visit the ancient trolls seem to like
sites of their culture. It is while undertaking music even though they
these travels that they sometimes make homes do not build instruments
under bridges and demand gifts and sweets from themselves. Some trolls
travelers.

156 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna


like to collect figurines and carved items. The giant fellows
are surprisingly fastidious regarding their collections.
Trolls that have lived near humans for a while usually
come to know some Garethi, but most Trolls speak the
primal language of all troll-kind. It consists of complicated
humming and grunts, and its three-dimensional written
form involves the placing of rocks. It is very difficult for
outsiders to grasp the complex written history of the trolls.
Troll names reoccur often, as they prefer to name
their children after ancestors. For example, Drollgomp
son of Durlatsh from the Drolldarsh tribe would likely
name his son Durlatsh son of Drollgomp from the
Drolldarsh tribe.
Female: Bagosha, Durshanna, Garlesha, Knopphild,
Krashta(r), Illksha, Mursha
Male: Bagsh, Bombatsh, Drollgomp, Durlatsh,
Gumbalodsh, Kerbhold, Knopphold, Murdlatsh,
Staumpff, Trolltatsh, Tumpatsh, Wungwatsh, Ylkholt
Tribe names: Bumbartosh, Drolldarsh, Malmartash,
Mulmartosh, Tarpatsh, Thautorkatsh, Tolpatash,
Tragatsh
Troll
Size: 11’8’’ to 16’8’’ at the shoulder
Weight: 1,000 to 1,400 pounds
COU 17 SGC 11 INT 12 CHA 11
DEX 9 AGI 11 CON 25 STR 26
LP 120 AE – KP – INI 14+1D6
DO 6 SPI 3 TOU 8 MOV 10
Unarmed: AT 15 PA 8 DP 2D6+6 RE medium
Troll Axe: AT 13 PA 9 DP 3D6+12 RE long
Large Rock: RC 12 RT 3 DP 3D6 RA 5/25/40
PRO/ENC: 2/0
Actions: 1
Advantages: none
Disadvantages: Negative Trait (Short Temper,
Vengeance)
Special Abilities: Powerful Blows (Unarmed, Troll
Axe; after a successful attack, medium-sized and
smaller opponents must make a Feat of Strength
check with a penalty of 3 or else suffer the state
of prone), Shield-Splitter (Unarmed, Troll Axe),
Forceful Blow I (Unarmed, Troll Axe)
Skills: Body Control 5 (11/11/25), Climbing 4
(17/11/26), Empathy 3 (11/12/11), Fast-Talk 3
(17/12/11), Feat of Strength 12 (25/26/26),
Intimidation 8 (17/12/11), Perception 8 (11/12/12),
Self-Control 7 (17/17/25), Stealth 2 (17/12/11),
Swimming 0 (11/25/26), Willpower 3 (17/12/11)
Number: 1, or 2 (troll couple), or 1D3+2 (troll family)
Size Category: large
Type: Intelligent Creature, humanoid
Combat Behavior: trolls rely mainly on their
intimidating size and superior strength to relieve
travelers of their belongings (such as supplies).
In preparation for such acts, they hide under
bridges and demand gifts from passersby. Trolls
can make use of complex tactics when they plan
to fight, such as when avenging an insult. In such
cases, they sometimes employ ancient, inherited
weapons, usually axes or maces, and armor made
out of leather or (rarely) iron.
Escape: Loss of 50% LP.
Special Rules
Troll Rage: When angered, the troll must make a
Willpower check or else enter troll rage, gaining
the state bloodlust.
Pain +1 at: 90 LP, 60 LP, 30 LP, and 5 LP and less
Experienced: CON 26 instead of 25, STR 27 instead
of 26; LP 125; Unarmed AT 14 / PA 12 / DP 2D6+7,
Troll Axe AT 14 / PA 9 / DP 3D6+13; Feat of Strength 14
instead of 12, Stealth 4 instead of 2, Intimidate 10 instead
of 8, Empathy 5 instead of 3, Willpower 5 instead of 3
Competent: CON 27 instead 25, STR 28 instead 26;
LP 125; Unarmed AT 15 / PA 12 / DP 2D6+8, Troll
Axe AT 14 / PA 9 / DP 3D6+14; Feat of Strength 16
instead of 12, Stealth 5 instead of 2, Intimidate 12 instead
of 8, Empathy 6 instead of 3, Willpower 6 instead of 3
157
 Cave Spider the cave systems inside this mountain range in the middle
of the Khôm Desert often gets surprised by the attacks of
this spider, as its fur, coated with hooks, enables it to cling
“Of the cave spiders: these entirely disgusting creatures make
to the walls and ceilings of the caves and pounce down
their homes in caves. The cave spider is large and hairy, and
onto its prey with a jump. For some time there were also
the webs it spins for itself and its brood can trap creatures as
accounts, from rather unreliable sources, that there exist
large as an adult human, and those so ensnared cannot defend
smaller specimens of cave spiders in the Svellt Valley who
themselves. They can only watch as the spider draws closer and
carry crystals on their bodies.
closer, waiting to drain them of blood and life. These unfortunates
can only pray to the Twelve in Alveran that death comes quickly.
Remember this: if you travel in the caves underground, torches Way of Life
not only illuminate the dark, they also set the webs of these spider Finding a cave spider is easy. One need only tug on a
creatures alight.” web, even if it looks abandoned at first glance, because
—from a copy of the Bestiary of Belhanka, date unknown the spider hides out of sight at one of the corners of the
web, waiting for prey. When waiting proves unsuccessful,
The cave spider’s body ranges from 55 to 63 inches long these spiders go on the hunt. Some cave spiders are smart
and is an imposing sight, even without its eight powerful, enough to stalk prey while waging an effective campaign
bristly legs, which gives most people who behold it a cold of terror that causes victims to rush headlong in special
shiver. Males have black fur, while the females have brown webs prepared in advance. Anything caught by one of
fur that sometimes bears a reddish-brown mark. Dripping these strands, which is coated with an incredibly strong
fangs complete this gruesome, nightmarish picture. Little adhesive, finds it almost impossible to escape. The web’s
is known about the origins of these giant arachnids. Some substance is so robust that even stags and young aurochs
think they are result of a failed experiment from the Dark have been caught in its embrace. Once victims are secured,
Ages, while others claim that they are the degenerate the spider administers its bite. Contrary to popular belief,
descendants of an alleged civilization of spiders. However, spider venom doesn’t kill victims, it only paralyzes, but
it is possible that they are simply very large spiders that this effect takes time. While waiting for the venom to take
aren’t supernatural at all. effect, the spider finishes cocooning its victim and hauls
it up into its nest. Later, the spider injects the victim with
slow acting digestive juices. The victim is then devoured
Distribution alive at the spider’s convenience.
Cave spiders are relatively rare and live, as their name
suggests, in caves, caverns, and mountain cracks, but some
dwell in ruins and dark forests. One can easily recognize
their territory by the presence of large cobwebs. However,
since they constantly prowl around their vast
territory when on the hunt, one might come
across them quite unexpectedly. Their close
relatives, the tree spiders, live in southern
Aventuria. Unlike cave spiders, tree
spiders do not spin webs. Rather, they
stretch gluey snares between trees and
rocks. The exceptionally rare mist
spider, another relative, lives in
the hot, humid mist forests of the
South Sea island of Altoum, and
is said to possess almost human
intelligence, which it uses to
devise traps and ambushes.
Finally, as another direct
relative of the cave spider,
there is the hook spider, which
builds its nests in the Djurkaram
Massif. Whoever ventures into

158 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna

Cave spiders live alone or in large colonies, some of which
have been occupied for generations. Spider colonies can
pose a considerable threat even to experienced warriors.
Spiders think in an alien fashion and appear to have no
interest in valuables or man-made items of any kind. The
possessions of all those who fall victim to these eight-
legged creatures eventually get pushed to the side or wind
up in nearby refuse piles.
Matings produce several dozen to several hundred eggs,
which the mother hides close to the nest in a hollow tree
or between small cracks in rocks. Hatchlings must fend for
Cave Spider
Size: 1 to 2 feet tall; 5 to 6 feet long
Weight: 60 to 80 pounds
COU 11 SGC 9 (a) INT 14 CHA 8
DEX 12 AGI 15 CON 12 STR 14
LP 22 AE – KP – INI 13+2D6
DE 5 SPI 2 TOU 0 MOV 7
Bite: AT 14 DP 1D6+2(+poison*) RE short
PRO/ENC: 2/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Darksight I, Exceptional
Sense (Touch)
Special Abilities: None
Skills: Body Control 12 (15/15/12), Climbing 14 (11/15/14),
Feat of Strength 7 (12/14/14), Intimidation 7 (11/14/8),
Perception 12 (9/14/14), Self Control 10 (11/11/12),
Stealth 14 (11/14/15), Swimming 2 (15/12/14), Willpower 5
(11/14/8)
Amount: 1, or 1D3+2 (spider colony)
Size Category: medium
Type: Animal, non-humanoid
Loot: 25 rations innards (inedible), poison (value 75
silverthalers)
Combat Behavior: Cave spiders wait for something
to touch their web and then attack mercilessly,
pursuing prey as far as 150 feet from the web.
Occasionally, cave spiders hunt outside of their
territory, in search of prey up to the size of an adult
human.
Escape: Losing 50% of LP
themselves, and few survive to adulthood. Of the various
species, only the mother tree spider takes an active role
in parenting, and the young spiderlings spend their days
clinging to her body until they are old enough to survive on
their own. Those that make it to old age remember those
days as the happiest of their lives. In some species, the
mother sacrifices herself to her young so that they can eat
and grow. Maraskani and goblins regard cave spider eggs
as a delicacy. Many a young goblin lad has found himself
spun into a cocoon while attempting to prove his courage
by stealing an egg.
Animal Lore (Monsters or Wild
Animals)
QL 1: Knowledge of cave spider
poison.
QL 2: The cave spider’s territory
extends out about 150 feet from
the web.
QL 3+: Cave spiders dislike leechfright and suffer
a -2 penalty to Attack when fighting an opponent
coated in leechfright ointment.
Special Rules
Web: Heroes can get entangled in the spider’s web. To
notice a web in time, make a Perception (Spot) roll at
-1. If the check fails, the hero becomes entangled
and gains the state of bound. Escape requires a
cumulative check against Body Control (Squirm) (10
QL, check interval 1 CR, 7 rolls permitted—failure
means the hero cannot escape)
*) Cave Spider Poison: Cave spiders can inject their
poison multiple times. The effect is cumulative.
Level: 4
Type: Weapon poison, animal venom (complex)
Resistance: Toughness
Effect: One level Paralysis / no effect
Start: 3 CR
Duration: 24 Hours / -
Price (Buying/Selling): 300 silverthalers / 75
silverthalers
Pain +1 at: 17 LP, 11 LP, 6 LP, and 5 LP and less
159
 Crypt Louse
“Brothersister, the world as created by Rur knows only beauty,
even though some creatures may seem disgusting at first glance.
Take, for instance, the crypt bug. They are large, have many legs,
and devour carrion. There seems to be nothing about them that
one would call beautiful. And yet, these giant crustaceans are a
gift of the gods. Remember, if not for the crypt bugs, there would
be a lot more rotting flesh lying around everywhere. Crypt bugs
do us a great service by devouring carcasses. Thanks to them,
fewer carrion feeders live around humans and we are spared
many diseases. Plus, they also eat rats, the only creature I think
was not a present from Rur to Gror. As long as you leave it alone,
the crypt bug will leave you alone.
Yes, sometimes they attack humans, but what do you expect from
wild animals? They really only attack you if you provoke them.
It is quite easy to avoid them entirely. How? Don’t venture where
these creatures live. That is always the best choice. And there is
always a choice. I’ve never met someone who could prove they
had only one option…”
—Garakziber, gardener from Zorgan, in a philosophical
dispute with a Maraskani visitor, modern
Crypt louses, sometimes called crypt bugs, are scary
monsters from the lightless world below. They are
essentially dog-sized crustaceans. Their razor-sharp and
uncommonly powerful mandibles pose a considerable
160 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna
threat to life and limb, their hard shell is a serious challenge
for sword or axe, and even their appearance sorely tests
courage and morale.
Crypt bugs have a very bad reputation, and are thought to
attack any humans they perceive. The dwarves tell some
colorful tales of these many-legged creatures, and their
ancient legends tell of large numbers of crypt bugs that
constantly prowled the home tunnels of the Angroshim,
always searching for food.
Some say they servants of the dragons or other dark
powers. Actually, crypt bugs prefer abandoned areas
and fight two-legged beings only if when threatened or
starving. They are not particularly intelligent and live
mainly by their instincts.
Distribution
It is unknown whether the crypt louse is the legacy of the
Seventh Age, in which many-legged beings ruled over
Dere, or simply a whim of Sumu. An appearance by one
of these expressionless monsters is always accompanied
by eerie clicking sounds. Groups of them nest primarily
in dark, damp places such as cave systems, ruins, crypts,
catacombs, and canals.
These creatures seem native to all continents. One may
encounter them in Myranor and Uthuria where even
larger and more intelligent specimens are said to exist.
Whether this is merely a sailor’s yarn or the truth is not yet
known, but giant crypt lice have already been caught by
Uthuria questadores and brought to the Bal-Honak Arena
in Al’Anfa to be pitted against gladiators.
Way of Life
The crypt louse is understood to be a patient hunter that
waits until prey wanders too far into its preferred habitat
(subderanian labyrinths), gets hopelessly lost, and finally
dies. Due to their size, crypt louses do not fear humans,
elves, or dwarves. And even though they are primarily
carrion feeders, given advantageous terrain, they might
try to expand their diet.
They normally feed on mice, rats, and insects—basically
anything that is smaller than them and which they can
catch. They avoid sunlight, even though it does not cause
them pain, because they simply dislike it. Therefore, crypt
louses are usually encountered in dark places.
Little is known about how long a crypt louse can live, as
few scholars bother to study these animals. However, they
definitely live longer than their smaller cousins, the pill
bugs (which are also on the menu). The life expectancy of
a crypt louse is estimated to be around twenty years. The
brood of one louse usually consists of a dozen animals, of
which only about half reach maturity. The rest fall victim
to greedy siblings, hungry parents and relatives, or other
predators. Unlike the tasty innards of the giant stag beetle,
intelligent beings find the flesh of the crypt bug inedible,
as its stench alone causes nausea.
Crypt Louse
Size: 2 to 3 feet tall; 6 to 7 feet long
Weight: 88 to 154 pounds
COU 10 SGC 6 (a) INT 13 CHA 8
DEX 10 AGI 14 CON 15 STR 13
LP 40 AE – KP – INI 6+1D6
DE 7 SPI -4 TOU 0 MOV 4
Mandibles: AT 10 DP 1D6+4 Re short
PRO/ENC: 4/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Darksight II
Special Abilities: None
Skills: Body Control 4 (14/14/15), Climbing 10 (10/14/13),
Feat of Strength 5 (15/13/13), Intimidation 6 (10/13/8),
Perception 7 (6/13/13), Self Control 10 (10/10/15),
Stealth 14 (10/13/14), Swimming 2 (14/15/13),
Willpower 13 (10/13/8)
Amount: 1 or 2D6 (nest)
Size Category: medium
Type: Animal, non-humanoid
Loot: 25 rations innards (inedible), chitin plates (10
silverthalers)
Combat Behavior: Crypt louses usually lurk
in hiding places, waiting for opportunities to
ambush prey.
Escape: After losing 75% of LP
Animal Lore (Monsters or Wild Animals)
QL 1: Crypt louses have poor eyesight and wait
to attack until prey comes within 6 feet.
QL 2: Crypt louses feel strong vibrations up to
150 feet away and are attracted by them.
QL 3+: Crypt bugs can be distracted with food
such as carrion. While feeding, they care little
for what is happening around them.
Pain +1 at: 30 LP, 20 LP, 10 LP, and 5 LP and less
161
Krakennewt
“It was almost twenty years ago, the krakennewt epidemic in the
Gulf of Prem. Phex and Efferd protect us from something like that
ever happening again! We were stuck in Prem for weeks after two
of these beasts sank our ship out from under us, and several times
we had to drive one of these tentacled monsters from the entry to
the harbor! I’ve seen seasoned mariners and pirates cry with rage
and sadness as they told us about mates who were pulled into
the dark waters by tentacles. Many crews set out with mighty
shark lances and harpoons to destroy the brood of Hranngar, as
they call these monsters there. It was weeks before all the ports
were navigable again and some of the creatures turned up later
in coves, caves, and even well shafts. Their beak-like faces and
sharp teeth are hideous to look at. My old scars sometimes ache
in winter and they will never let me forget. What I just can’t get
over after all these years is this: they just peeled the flesh of these
beasts like other people would do with cucumbers. Makes me
nauseous just thinking about it!”
—a veteran’s tale in the Sword and Armor tavern, Imperial
city of Gareth, modern
The krakennewt is one of the largest and most fearsome
terrors of the sea. With its eight, all-crushing tentacles and
its beak-like maw that bristles with fangs, it instills fear in
the most valiant sea-dwellers and mariners. Even mighty
galleys and the fast dragon ships of the Thorwalers are
not safe from its attacks. Despite its gigantic size, the agile
krakennewt moves quickly through the water. Not even
settlements close to shore are safe from this amphibian.
Two specialized tentacles allow it to come ashore
and travel on land to hunt and perhaps choose
a lake or a water-filled cavern to serve
as its new home.
Although a krakennewt can grow
to enormous proportions, its body
still fits through surprisingly narrow gaps. Aside from
its tough skin, most of its body parts are soft and elastic.
Krakennewt hunters prize the two bone-white horns on
its forehead, which give it a demonic look. However, their
tough meat is only fit for human consumption after expert
preparation, and even then it is better suited to more
adventurous appetites.
A subgenus, the dwarf krakennewt, is also dangerous, as
it is small enough to hide in wells and pull unsuspecting
victims into the deep. Although it is not as strong as its
larger cousin, it usually possesses sufficient strength to
deal with one or two humans.
Distribution
The krakennewt has been spotted in every ocean, from the
Sea of Pearls to Ifirn’s Ocean, as well as in many coastal
regions. Despite its amphibious nature it seems to prefer
open water to the shore. Thanks to its ability to move on
land, some specimens have reached deep lakes and ponds.
Most scholars assume that the krakennewt has a natural
origin, but legend says it is a chimera that was born in the
waters beyond the Wall of Efferd. If so, it must have been
crated long ago, as magical and karmic analyses reveal no
demonic residues. Other sources claim that the krakennewt
is related to the tridecapus, a creature with thirteen arms
that is said to work in concert with the Nameless One.
Way of Life
It has large yet strangely soulless eyes, and its tendency
to abandon tactics and fight to the death when hungry
is evidence of animal intelligence at best. Little is known
about it except that it feeds and is able to reproduce. It
avoids poisonous animals but otherwise has no qualms
venturing onto dry land to attack intelligent beings when
hunger gnaws it from within.
Krakennewt
Size: 13 to 16 feet long (body); 20 to 26 feet long
(tentacles)
Weight: 1,984 to 2,645 pounds
COU 15 SGC 6 (a) INT 13 CHA 8
DEX 13 AGI 12 CON 35 STR 36
LP 350 AE – KP – INI 14+1D6
DE 6 SPI 1 TOU 7 MOV 2/9 (on land/in water)
Tentacles: AT 13 DP 1D6+8 RE long
Bite: AT 10 DP 3D6+6 RE short
PRO/ENC: 1/0
Actions: 4 (max. 1 x Bite, max. 3x Tentacles)
Advantages/Disadvantages: Darksight II
Special Abilities:
Clutch (Tentacle; the clutch attack suffers a penalty
of -4. If the creature’s AT succeeds and the target’s
Defense fails, the target is seized and suffers the
states of immobilized and bound. Roll DP as usual.
Starting with the next CR, the creature’s AT succeeds
automatically and inflicts DP (ignoring PRO) equal
to the initial DP roll (due to squeezing). Instead of
squeezing, the creature can use one action to lift
the victim to its maw. The creature can then bite
the target (if it has a bite attack) on the following
CR. Bite attacks succeed automatically against
seized opponents. After biting, the creature’s
Defense drops to 0 for the remainder of that CR.
Creatures can only seize opponents with a smaller
size category. To escape from a clutch maneuver,
the target must make a competitive Feat of Strength
(Dragging and Pulling) check. The creature can
release its target with a free action. If the creature
releases a target it has lifted into the air, the target
drops to the ground and must make a Body Control
(Combat Maneuvers) check or suffer the state prone.
Prerequisites: the creature must possess this SA
naturally.
Powerful Blow (Tentacle; after a successful attack,
opponents of size categories medium or smaller
must make a successful check on Feat of Strength
with a penalty of -8 or suffer the state prone.)
Tentacle Sweep (Tentacle; if the krakennewt is
at least one size category larger than its targets,
then it can use a tentacle sweep to knock multiple
targets off their feet. This attack suffers a penalty of
-2, and Dodge is the only permitted defense. If this
fails, the targets fall down, receive the state prone,
and take 1D3 DP (ignoring PRO). Such an attack can
be made only against targets next to or in front
of the krakkennewt. The difficulty of the attack is
increased by 2.)
Locked Jaws (Bite; the
krakennewt makes a bite
attack with a penalty of -2.
If the target does not defend,
the creature bites down hard. In
the following CR the creature’s bite
attack succeeds automatically (the GM does not
have to roll). The bite attack does +1 additional DP
per CR (no additional DP in the first CR, +1 DP in
the 2nd CR, +2 DP in the 3rd CR, and so on). Roll
damage as per usual. Also, the target suffers the
state immobilized. The creature’s defense drops to 0
as long as it holds a target in its jaws. The creature
can release the target at the end of a CR by spending
a free action.)
Skills: Body Control 5 (12/12/35), Climbing 2 (15/12/36),
Feat of Strength 12 (35/36/36), Intimidation 13 (15/13/8),
Perception 7 (6/13/13), Self Control 10 (15/15/35), Stealth 10
(15/13/12), Swimming 9 (12/35/36), Willpower 4 (15/13/8)
Number: 1
Size Category: Gigantic
Type: Supernatural creature, non-humanoid
Loot: 90 rations flesh per severed tentacle (tough), 200
rations flesh from the torso (inedible), flotsam (in
the digestive tract; value: 1D6x3D20 silverthalers);
trophy (forehead horns, 25 silverthalers)
Combat Behavior: At the beginning of the combat
the krakennewt attempts to constrict victims with
1D3 tentacles and bring them to its maw. Then it
bites until its victim is dead. If needed, it fends off
remaining enemies with its other tentacles.
Escape: the krakennewt retreats if it loses 6 tentacles,
or 50% of its LP on the torso.
Fishing (Monsters of the Sea)
QL 1: The krakennewt can also survive and move
on land.
QL 2: Once the krakennewt has lost 6 tentacles, it
usually flees.
QL 3+: the krakennewt cannot easily grab a victim
coated with oil or another greasy substance (Clutch
attack suffers an additional penalty of -6; the Feat of
Strength (Dragging and Pulling) check to free oneself
from the clutch has its difficulty decreased by 2).
Special Rules
Severing Tentacles: To sever the tentacle of a krakennewt,
the attack on the tentacle must be declared before
making the roll. Only weapons with a sharp blade
can pierce a tentacle. The tentacle must take 12 DP
in 1 CR to be severed. If less than 12 DP are taken, the
opportunity is lost for that tentacle.
Pain +1 at: 263 LP, 175 LP, 88 LP, and 5 LP and less
163
 Tatzelwurm Findings in the Hoard of a Tatzelwurm
“The tatzelwurm might not be as dangerous as the ancient 3 tatzelwurm eggs
dragons but it is a plague nonetheless. It lives in ruins, tunnels, 400 pounds of dragon dung
and forests. Many times these beings have advanced into our 15 gilded buttons
underground cities, always searching for food. But we know 2 gnawed belt buckles
how to deal with them. We are experts in this. The stench of the a green slouch hat with a peacock feather
tatzelwurm is particularly foul. You cannot get it off you for a small, broken box full of cutlery
weeks.” 8 shiny stones of different sizes
—Hardas son of Kurolas, dwarven adventurer, to young a hand mirror
warriors of the Dragon Warrior Academy in Xorlosh the bridle from a horse’s harness
a number of dead dragonflies
Dragons exist in different sizes in Aventuria. An emperor unusually large butterfly wings
dragon flying overhead can instill fear and terror into a silver statue of a knight, about 15 inches long
entire regions. The tatzelwurm, on the other hand, is not a chewed-up riding boot
the most imposing representative of the dragon race. This a dead jay
wingless reptile grows up to 13 feet long and has three pairs the blade of an axe
of legs. Its scaly skin, flat, ridged back, and maw full of sharp 2 horseshoes
teeth are quite dragon-like, but its animal intelligence 6 silverthalers
and lack of magical abilities keep it from being classified a number of bones, primarily from sheep and deer
with its mightier relatives. Furthermore, its relatively
cool 140 degrees F. blood only produces a putrid, stinking
gas instead of a firestorm, but open flames can ignite the Distribution
gases it spews. Its proverbial stench, which has no equal in The tatzelwurm can live anywhere in Aventuria but mainly
Aventuria, is its most memorable feature. Anyone who gets lives in caves, ruins, and dark forests. Mountain regions
too close to a tatzelwurm acquires its hellish odor for two such as the Dark Ridge are its preferred habitat.
to four weeks. Long baths and expensive perfumes help
only a little.

164 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna

Way of Life
Tatzelwurms remain solitary for most of their life—they
meet only for mating. The female lays up to half a dozen
eggs, which both parents keep warm in their den, using
their own excrement. Once they are large enough to do so,
the young follow their mother. Tatzelwurms are therefore
usually encountered alone, but at worst one might
encounter a mother with her half-grown young, hunting
together.
Like all dragons, the tatzelwurm collects a hoard of
sparkling loot, but it is not very picky, and anything that
sparkles or shines may arouse its greed. Even a simple belt
buckle can entice a tatzelwurm to attack a wanderer.
Tatzelwurm
Size: 3.3 to 3.9 feet tall; 4.9 to 8.2 feet long (without tail);
9.4 to 13 feet long (with tail)
Weight: 882 to 1,543 pounds
COU 15 SGC 9 (a) INT 13 CHA 8
DEX - AGI 12 CON 22 STR 28
LP 200 AE – KP – INI 14+1D6
DE 6 SPI 1 TOU 7 MOV 5
Bite: AT 15 DP 1D6+6 RE medium
Claws: AT 15 DP 1D6+6 RE medium
Tail: AT 13 DP 1D6+4 RE long
PRO / ENC: 4/0
Actions: 2 (max. 1 x Bite and 1 x Tail)
Advantages/Disadvantages: Darksight I
Special Abilities: Powerful Blow (Claws, Tail: a after a
successful attack, victims of size categories medium
and smaller must make a successful Feat of Strength
check, or gain the state prone. The check suffers a
penalty of -4. Parrying a Powerful Blow also requires
a Feat of Strength check, even if the parry succeeds.
A Powerful Blow can be completely avoided only by
dodging.), Shield-Splitter (Bite, Claws), Tail sweep
(Tail; against targets of size categories medium and
small, the tatzelwurm can attack with its tail to sweep
targets off their feet. This attack can only be dodged.
If the defense fails, the opponent falls and suffers 1D3
DP (no PRO). Such an attack can only be made against
targets next to or behind the tatzelwurm.), Forceful
Blow I (Bite, Claws, Tail), Takedown (Claws, Tail).
Skills: Body Control 4 (12/12/22), Climbing 1 (15/12/28),
Feat of Strength 14 (22/28/28), Intimidation 10 (15/13/8),
Perception 7 (9/13/13), Self Control 7 (15/15/22), Stealth 1
(15/13/12), Swimming 1 (12/22/28), Willpower 12 (15/13/8)
Number: 1, or 2 (couple, during mating season; or
mother with young)
The hoards it amasses can sometimes be found abandoned
as the tatzelwurm is not particularly sedentary and tends
to have a poor memory. Although the tatzelwurm is not a
very aggressive carnivore (being mainly a carrion feeder),
it should not be underestimated in open battle due to its
sheer size, razor-sharp teeth, and, especially, its nausea-
inducing stench.
When exploring narrow caves, there is hardly anything
more dangerous than being surprised by a tatzelwurm that
has just returned home.
Size Category: Large
Type: Dragon, non-humanoid
Loot: 250 rations (flesh, inedible),
trophy (tatzelwurm carbuncle, 1
silverthaler), tatzelwurm hoard
(value: 2D20 x 2D20 silverthalers)
Combat Behavior: A tatzelwurm tries
to ambush trespassers in its territory, initially to
sweep its victim off its feet with swipes of its tail or
attacks with its claws. Then it tries to bite.
Escape: Loss of 75% of LP
Animal Lore (Monsters)
QL 1: Tatzelwurms build a hoard, in which they
hide prized items.
QL 2: Even though the tatzelwurm is related to
dragons, it cannot breathe fire.
QL 3+: The stench of the tatzelwurm lingers for
weeks. Only a mixture of vinegar and coconut
milk has any effect on covering the stench, but
only for 2D6 hours.
Special Rules
Foul Stench: A hero that fights a tatzelwurm in close
combat range of medium or less must make a check
on Self Control (Ignore Distractions) or receive one level
of Confusion. It makes no difference who attacked
first. This effect is not cumulative. After combat,
the stench remains with the hero, who receives
the state foul stench (checks on social skills (expect
for Intimidation, Empathy and Willpower) suffer an
additional penalty of -1 for 1D3+1 weeks. The stench
cannot be washed out, and other strong scents, such
as perfume, cover it only for an hour.)
Pain +1 at: 150 LP, 100 LP, 50 LP, and 5 LP and less
165
 Treant
“Today, little Alrik, I want to tell you something about treants.
They are living trees with souls, just like us. Like people, some
of them are good and some are evil. The good ones can help you
if you get lost in the woods, as they lead you back out again. If
they like you, they may even give you nuts and fruit. No, not from
their own branches, little Alrik. They are beings that are much
older than us and they are very proud. You should never laugh at
them, as they do not like that. And stay away from the bad ones.
They kill people, whom they consider intruders. Well, they might
be right about that one. You should especially keep away from
rowan treants, they are not to be trusted.”
—Grandpa Elwain to his grandson Alrik, Winhall, 1037 FB
Little is known about the origin of these tree-tall beings.
When standing still, they are difficult to discern from the
surrounding trees. These 10- to 13-foot tall beings are called
treants for a reason. They look like gigantic mixtures of
man and tree. Although most of them have arms and legs,
166 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna
they grow branches and twigs from their bark-covered
bodies (which are not made of flesh and bone but rather
wood and resin). Treants have never been known to use
tools and clothing, but they possess excellent minds and
speak a creaking language. Depending on species, treants
can live as long as 1,000 years.
Distribution
Treants can be found in forests and groves all over the
continent, but they are encountered most often in the vast
forests of the north. Notably, treants are differentiated
by the species of tree to which they belong. Fir, spruce,
and pine treants live in the dense, coniferous forests
of the north and claim entire forests for themselves. Fir
treants, it is said, are wise and noble, while spruce treants
are regarded as rather war-like. Unlike them, pine treants
seem to be rather quiet fellows. The less durable birch
and aspen treants usually make their homes in smaller
groves and woods. Birch treants are the most curious and
can be fairly intrusive, while aspen treants are said to be
very sociable. Larch treants, which are mostly female, are
considered very just and are a rare sight, indeed.
In the lowlands of the north and the deciduous forests of
the Middenlands, one is more likely to encounter beech and
oak treants, and, rarely, elm treants. While beech treants
are deemed strong and stable, it is said oak treants are just
but quarrelsome. It is said elm treants possess amazing
magical abilities. Gloomy and unforgiving ash treants are
regarded with suspicion, even among other treants. It is
said that yew treants take century-long journeys through
Aventuria.
In the Deep South, one finds mohagoni and coral tree
treants, but they are known only to the tribes of the Rain
Mountains. Lone irontree treants are said to wander the
jungle on Maraskan. They deemed to be prideful and
resilient.
Way of Life
Treants usually live on their own or in small families. They
all have a love for the forest and nature in common. They
defend their forest fiercely against any troublemaker who
dares to strike even one of their trees with an axe. They
will remain motionless and watch wanderers, trying to be
mistaken for trees. This way they let loggers and charcoal
burners come close so they can strike them all of a sudden.
Some treants understand human languages, especially
birch and aspen treants, who sometimes stay close to
resting places or human dwellings to watch the, in their
eyes, always industrious fleshlings. Treants find it very
difficult, however, to tell humans apart from orcs or
goblins, or even to recognize individual humans if they
should meet them again. Therefore, they often make one
person responsible for the acts of another. Some treants
seem to stay in close contact with fairies, kobolds, or
unicorns, or are friendly with trolls or druids.
At irregular intervals, treants meet for the Ratbazamithing
(treant for: mighty, all serving thing/discussion/council),
a large meeting where treants discuss important issues.
Apparently, treants have a method for communicating
over wide distances, but to date no scholar knows if they
communicate by magic, the rustling of leaves, or the
flight of pollen.
Treant
Size: 13 to 26 feet tall at the
shoulder
Weight: 1,102 to 5,511 pounds
COU 13 SGC 10 INT 11 CHA 11
DEX 11 AGI 11 CON 30 STR 30
LP 250 AE – KP – INI 12+1D6
DE 6 SPI 1 TOU 10 MOV 11
Hit: AT 14 DP 2D6+4 RE long
Kick: AT 12 DP 3D6+6 RE medium
PRO/ENC: 4/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Afraid of… (Fire) III
Special Abilities: Powerful Blow (Hit, Kick; after a
successful attack, victims of size categories medium
and smaller must make a successful Feat of Strength
check, or gain the state prone. The check suffers a
penalty of -5. Parrying a Powerful Blow also requires
a Feat of Strength check, even if the parry succeeds.
A Powerful Blow can be completely avoided only by
dodging.), Shield-Splitter (Hit, Kick), Forceful Blow
I (Hit, Kick).
Skills: Body Control 2 (11/11/30), Climbing 4 (13/11/30),
Feat of Strength 13 (30/30/30), Intimidation 9 (13/11/11),
Perception 7 (10/11/11), Self Control 12 (13/13/30),
Stealth 7 (13/11/11), Swimming 10 (11/30/30),
Willpower 9 (13/11/11)
Number: 1, or 1D6+1 (Treant-Thing)
Size Category: gigantic
Type: Plant, non-humanoid
Loot: Timber (1 to 30 silverthalers, depending on kind)
Combat Behavior: Treants are generally peaceful
creatures. However if their forest is destroyed, they
can become extraordinarily aggressive. Usually,
they wait, disguised as a tree, until their enemies
are in range, then they ambush and trample them.
Escape: Loss of 50% of LP
Herbal Lore
QL 1: Treants often look like trees if they do
not move.
QL 2: Cutting wood and using fire in the forest
often provokes treants.
QL 3+: Treants are mentally quite sluggish and
often need some time to decide on a matter.
Special Rules
Vulnerability to Fire: Damage by fire is doubled.
Camouflage: When treants remain motionless in the
forest they are easily mistaken for trees. In this
case, the difficulty for a check on Stealth (Hiding) is
lowered by 3.
Pain +1 at: 188 LP, 125 LP, 63 LP, and 5 LP and less
167

Grimwolf
Different kinds of wolves exist in Aventuria: dire wolves
hunt in the north, while forest wolves live in the forests
of central Aventuria. Sandwolves are found in the Lands of
the Tulamydes, and the rare silverwolves live only in the
Rorwhed Mountains and the Green Plains. The common
grim or gray wolf is native to Andergast, Garetia, and
Tobrien, but packs occasionally roam beyond these areas.
Grimwolves usually avoid humans, but desperate hunger
may drive them to attack villages or parties of travelers,
which they attack in large packs. Even so, people fear them
mainly because they can transmit dangerous diseases.
168 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna
Grimwolf
Size: 3.6 to 3.9 body length
Weight: 110 to 132 pounds
COU 14 SGC 14(a) INT 13 CHA 12
DEX 14 AGI 13 CON 13 STR 13
LP 22 AE – KP – INI 14+1D6
DE 7 SPI -2 TOU 0 MOV 12
Bite: AT 14 DP 1D6+3(+disease*) RE short
PRO/ENC: 0/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Darksight I, Exceptional
Sense (Smell)
Special Abilities: Locked Jaws (Bite; the grimwolf
makes a bite attack with a penalty of -2. If the target
does not defend, the wolf bites down hard. In the
following CR the bite attack succeeds automatically
(the GM does not have to roll). The bite attack does
+1 additional DP per CR (no additional DP in the first
CR, +1 DP in the 2nd CR, +2 DP in the 3rd CR, and so
on). Roll damage as per usual. Also, the target suffers
the state immobilized. The wolf’s defense drops to 0
as long as it holds a target in its jaws. The wolf can
release the target at the end of a CR by spending a
free action.)
Skills: Body Control 7 (13/13/13), Climbing 0 (14/13/13),
Feat of Strength 5 (13/13/13), Intimidation 7 (14/13/12),
Perception 7 (14/13/13), Self Control 4 (14/14/13), Stealth 7
(14/13/13), Swimming 7 (13/13/13), Willpower 4 (14/13/12)
Number: 1, or 1D6+2 (small pack)
Size Category: small
Type: Animal, non-humanoid
Loot: 15 rations meat (tough), fur (5 silverthalers)
Combat Behavior: Grimwolves are not particularly
brave and usually attack only if driven by hunger or
when threatened in their territory. They avoid fire.
To approach a torchbearer or a campfire, a wolf must
make a successful check on Self Control or flee (or at
least move no closer). If the alpha animal is killed,
the rest of the pack flees. To identify an alpha animal,
make a check on Perception (Spot).
Escape: Loss of 50% of LP or if the alpha wolf dies
Animal Lore (Wild Animals)
QL 1: Grimwolves avoid fire.
QL 2: Grimwolves can transmit diseases.
QL 3+: If the alpha animal is killed, the rest of the
pack flees.
Hunt: -2
Special Rules
*) Disease: Grimwolves can transmit diseases. For every
10 DP it inflicts in combat, roll 1D20: 1-16 (no disease),
16-20 (rabies). If infection occurs, make a disease
check (see Core Rules, page 343). For more information
on rabies, see page 129.
Pain +1 at: 18 LP, 11 LP, 6 LP, and 5 LP and less
Black Bear
The black bear is the most common and therefore the
best known species of bear in Aventuria. Although not as
large as a cave bear or Firun’s bear, it is an impressive
sight nonetheless when it stands up on its hind legs. Black
bears mainly eat plants (berries, roots, and so on), but also
eat bee larvae, meat, and fish, depending on the time of
year. Humans are not on the black bear’s menu, but they
should avoid approaching bears too closely. Moreover,
black bears, like many other bears, can become highly
aggressive when injured.
It is much sought after as game because hunters can sell
its fur for profit, even though they put their lives at risk.
The black bear’s natural range is the Bornwood, but it can
also be found in central Aventuria, especially in Weiden
and Tobrien, where it shares territory with its cousin, the
brown bear. Black bears can also be found in menageries
of traveling circuses, where they perform as trained
attractions.
Black Bear
Size: 6 to 8 feet long; 5 to 6 feet at
the shoulder when standing on
two legs
Weight: 550 to 650 pounds; females
weigh a little less
COU 14 SGC 12(a) INT 12 CHA 12
DEX 11 AGI 11 CON 20 STR 21
LP 60 AE – KP – INI 13+1D6
DE 6 SPI 0 TOU 5 MOV 10
Paw: AT 13 DP 1D6+6 RE medium
Bite: AT 11 DP 2D6+2 RE short
PRO / ENC: 1/0
Actions: 2 (max. 1 x Bite)
Advantages/Disadvantages: Exceptional Sense (Smell)
/ Negative Trait (Curiosity)
Special Abilities: Forceful Blow I (Bite, Paw), Takedown
(Paw)
Skills: Body Control 4 (11/11/20), Climbing 7 (14/11/21),
Feat of Strength 12 (20/21/21), Intimidation 10 (14/12/12),
Perception 10 (12/12/12), Self Control 12 (14/14/20), Stealth 2
(14/12/11), Swimming 7 (11/20/21), Willpower 4 (14/12/12)
Number: 1, or 1D3+1 (family)
Size Category: Medium
Type: Animal, non-humanoid
Loot: 100 rations meat, fur (30 silverthalers), trophy
(teeth and claws, 5 silverthalers)
Combat Behavior: When provoked or attacked, the
bear stands up on its hind legs attacks with its claws,
attempting to grab and bite its enemy.
Escape: Loss of 50% LP, except when in frenzy (see
below), in which case it fights to the death.
Animal Lore (Wild Animals)
QL 1: Bears can run faster than humans.
QL 2: Bears are curious and have a good sense of
smell. They can detect food and prey from afar. You
can avoid trouble with bears by staying downwind
of them.
QL 3+: Bears can become enraged when injured or
when their cubs are threatened.
Hunt: -3
Special Rules
Bloodlust: When a bear suffers a level of the condition
Pain, or when its cubs are threatened, make a Willpower
check. If the check fails, it falls into a rage and gains the
state of bloodlust. Starting with the next combat round,
it gains a +4 bonus to all close combat attacks and +2
to damage, but cannot defend. The bloodlust lasts for
2D20 CR. The bear can end the bloodlust if it succeeds
at a Self Control check (once per combat), otherwise the
bloodlust ends automatically after 1 hour or the death
of the opponent. At that point, the bear suffers two
levels of the condition Stupor.
Pain +1 at: 45 LP, 30 LP, 15 LP, and 5 LP and less
169
 Wild Boar
Aventurian wild boars are feared by farmers and hunters
of many regions. They can act very aggressively towards
humans, especially when caring for their young. Many
wild boars become agitated simply when someone intrudes
into their territory. They try to knock opponents off their
feet with ramming attacks and then drive them away with
their tusks.
Some travelers speak of encountering giant wild boars.
These large specimens are particularly dangerous, and
people have become famous just for killing one. Goblins
occasionally train boars as mounts and ride them into
battle.
170 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna
Wild Boar
Size: 3 to 4 feet long
Weight: 440 to 550 pounds
COU 15 SGC 13(a) INT 12 CHA 10
DEX 11 AGI 10 CON 15 STR 15
LP 35 AE – KP – INI 11+1D6
DE 5 SPI -2 TOU 2 MOV 10
Bite and Ram: AT 15 DP 1D6+4 RE short
Ramming: AT 13 DP 1D6+3 RE short
PRO/ENC: 0/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Extraordinary Sense
(Smell)
Special Abilities: Takedown (Ramming)
Skills: Body Control 4 (10/10/15), Climbing 0 (15/10/15),
Feat of Strength 7 (15/15/15), Intimidation 1 (15/12/10),
Perception 4 (13/12/12), Self Control 4 (15/15/15), Stealth 4
(15/12/10), Swimming 4 (10/15/15), Willpower 4 (15/12/10)
Number: 1, or 1D3+3 (sounder)
Size Category: Medium
Type: Animal, non-humanoid
Loot: 100 rations meat, fur (10 silverthalers), trophy
(tusks, 5 silverthalers)
Combat Behavior: Wild boars are aggressive when
raising piglets and attack anyone within 30 feet.
They use their whole body to ram opponents (SA
Takedown) and then fight with their tusks. Roll 1D6:
on a result of 1-2, they fight until their opponent is
dead; on 3-4, they flee after 1D6 CR; on 5-6, they fight
until they lose 50% of their LP.
Escape: Loss of 50% of LP; see Combat Behavior
Animal Lore (Wild Animals)
QL1: Wild boars react aggressively if they are
approached too close or if they currently have
young. They can become especially dangerous if
famished or in mating season.
QL2: Boars are unpredictable. Sometimes they
simply flee, sometimes they fight like berserkers
until the very end.
QL3+: Don’t underestimate wild boars. They are
dangerous even when seriously injured and can
remain active longer than expected.
Hunt: -1
Special Rules
Giant Wild Boar: The giant wild boar is similar to its
smaller cousin, but with the following modifications:
+3 CON, +3 STR, +15 LP, +2 TOU; +2 DP; +1 PRO; Size
Category Large; Feat of Strength 10; Loot: 200 rations
meat, trophy (tusks, 30 silverthalers); size and weight
increase by 10% to 20%.
Pain +1 at: 28 LP, 18 LP, 9 LP, and 5 LP and less
Wolf Rat
Rats are regarded as bad omens and messengers and
servants of the Nameless One in the lands of the Twelvegods.
Even if some rat species are benign, the sight of wolf rats
may be one more reason to believe in the stories that
propose a link between these rodents and the god without
a name. Wolf rats grow up to 1.6 feet, have dark fur, and are
extremely aggressive.
Wolf rats live in northern and central Aventuria. It is just
as likely to be found in Tobrien as in Almada and Arania.
They can usually be found in ruins, forests, or city sewer
systems. Some people witnessed wolf rats form large packs
and overrun entire villages. Wolf rat numbers have been
increasing since the beginning of the Starfall.
Adventurers might encounter these voracious rodents
in tavern cellars, in the basements of houses or other
buildings, and even in the forest. Unlike their calmer
relatives, wolf rats attack before they get cornered.
Wolf Rat
Size: 1 to 2 feet long (without tail);
2 to 3 feet long (with tail); 0.6 to
0.8 feet tall
Weight: 1.1 to 3.3 pounds
COU 10 SGC 10(a) INT 14 CHA 11
DEX 11 AGI 13 CON 6 STR 10(s)
LP 5 AE – KP – INI 12+1D6
DE 7 SPI 1 TOU 2 MOV 6
Bite: AT 10 DP 1D3 (+disease*) RE short
PRO/ENC: 0/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Darksight II / Fear of
Fire II
Special Abilities: Attack Weak Spot (Bite; Attack
suffers -2 penalty. If successful, attack ignores PRO
from clothing and armor. Natural and magical PRO
apply as usual.)
Skills: Body Control 4 (13/13/6), Climbing 10 (10/13/10),
Feat of Strength 2 (6/10/10), Intimidation 2 (10/14/11),
Perception 10 (10/14/14), Self Control 4 (10/10/6), Stealth 7
(10/14/13), Swimming 6 (13/6/10), Willpower 2 (10/14/11)
Amount: 1, or 2D6+6 (rat nest), or 3D20+100 (gigantic
pack)
Size Category: tiny
Type: Animal, non-humanoid
Loot: 1 ration (tough)
Combat Behavior: Wolf rats sometimes ambush
humans and try to attack unprotected parts.
Escape: Loss of 50% of LP
Animal Lore (Wild Animals)
QL1: They are creatures of the Nameless One.
QL2: They usually retreat from fire.
QL3+: Wolf rats can transmit diseases.
Hunt: -1
Special Rules
*) Disease: Wolf rats can transmit diseases. For every
10 DP they inflict, roll 1D20: 1-16 (no disease),
17 (lutanas), 18 (swamp fever), 19-20 (rabies).
If infection occurs, make a disease check (see
Core Rules, page 343). For more information on rabies,
see page 129.
Panic from Fire: when confronted with a large fire (torch-
sized or larger), roll 1D6: on a 1-3, the wolf rat flees.
Pack: When attacking en mass, wolf rats receive +1 AT
per rat (up to a maximum of +4 AT).
Pain +1 at: 4 LP, 3 LP, 2 LP, and 1 LP
171
 Aventurian Herbarium “The four-leaved singleberry is known to the
elves and all inhabitants of the north as an
“So that it is worthy in the name of Lady Hesinde and pleasing to effective remedy. But you can significantly
her mild sister Peraine, who holds divine dominion over all plants, enhance its effect if you prepare it as a
we aim to collect and record what there is to know about the juice. By the grace of Peraine, some plants
different types of plants of Aventuria. Be they as commonplace require no alchemical preparation whatsoever
as grass, as majestic as the mammoth tree, as mysterious as the to be useful. Chewing freshly harvested sansaro, for
Alveranie, or as repulsive as the purulent toadstool—no plant instance, helps prevent dungeon syndrome. How do I know?
whose shape and use we know shall be left out, in praise of the Well, that’s a very long story…”
works of Peraine and in testimony to the glory of omniscient Lady —Brother Hilbert, Blessed One of Peraine
Hesinde!”
—from the preface of the Folio of Herbalism, first collected
by the Sisterhood of Mada, Grangor, 1005 FB Ingesting a dose of yoruga oil prevents infection by black
rabies for 4 months. However, this medicine does not help
with rabies infections. Taking three doses within a day of
Healing Herbs exposure lowers the chance of infection to 5% (1 on 1D20)
Many healing herbs do not require alchemical preparation
for black rabies, or 20% (1–4 on a D20) for rabies. Taking
to take effect. This can be especially useful for heroes
an alcoholic brew of yoruga and gulmond shortens the
traveling in the wilderness, provided they have the
duration of battlefield fever by 2 days.
knowledge needed in herbal lore to discover such plants
and categorize them correctly.
Waternymph Weed
Waternymph weed is reminiscent of
Four-leaved Singleberry
chives but grows near the sea, on
The four-leaved singleberry is a well-
sandy surfaces. It is a proven remedy
known healing herb
for Efferd’s and dungeon syndrome.
that grows in forests
and along forest edges all
Search Difficulty: -1
over northern and central
Identification Difficulty: 0
Aventuria. Overuse of
Applications: 3/4/5/6/7/8
singleberry can lead
Effect: Taking a dose of
to addiction.
waternymph weed suppresses
symptoms of Efferd’s or dungeon
Search Difficulty: -3
syndrome for a day. Taking
Identification Difficulty: -2
fresh waternymph weed also
Doses: 1/1/2/2/3/3
prevents contraction of these
Effect: Per use, recover 2 additional LP during the next
two diseases for a week.
regeneration phase (maximum of 4 additional LP per
Increasing the dose has no
regeneration phase). Anyone taking 2 or more doses within
effect.
a single day becomes addicted to singleberry and loses 1D6
Price: 3 / 3.5 silverthalers
LP per week when not taking at least 1 dose per week.
Price: 6/7 silverthalers
Sansaro
Sansaro is a type of seaweed that occasionally grows near
Yoruga
the Aventurian coasts. Even though the plant
Yoruga is similar in appearance to the celery
smells foul, it helps prevent diseases of all kinds
plant. The roots of this healing herb,
and repels parasites.
which grows in the forests and meadows
of northern Aventuria, helps prevent
Search Difficulty: -5
numerous febrile diseases.
Identification Difficulty: -4
Search Difficulty: -4
Applications: 1/1/1/2/2/3
Identification Difficulty: -3
Effect: Sansaro alleviates the effects of
Applications: 1/1/2/2/3/3
Efferd’s and dungeon syndrome. There
Effect: The raw yoruga root is indigestible
are no extra levels of Confusion added by
and causes diarrhea. When processed
the diseases. Constant ingestion for two weeks
into a fever tonic, however, it helps
completely cures both diseases. If taken for
relieve cases of rabies and black
febrile diseases, sansaro subtracts 1 from the DP
rabies.
suffered each day.

172 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna

Moreover, if processed into a brew, it prevents diseases
of all kinds for one day—those that are not magical or
otherwise supernatural in origin, that is.
As a paste, the plant helps against parasites for two days.
After one week, the paste takes on a septic odor, and the
user suffers an additional penalty of 1 on all CHA checks
that involve the sense of smell.
A decoction of quinja, sansaro, and donf prevents the onset
of yearly fever for five months after ingestion.
Price: 9/18 silverthalers
Quinja
Quinja berries are bright red and
make a restorative tonic. The berries
grow mainly in southern Aventuria,
especially in warm, shady spots in
the rainforest.
Search Difficulty: -3
Identification Difficulty: -2
Applications: 3/3/4/4/5/5
Effect: A quinja berry increases
the user’s physical strength by 1
for 2 hours. Taking multiple berries at
a time has no further effect. A decoction of quinja, sansaro,
and donf prevents the onset of yearly fever for five months
after ingestion.
Price: 6 / 6.5 silverthalers
Thrashbeard
Thrashbeard is a type of lichen
that grows on the bark of trees.
Thrashbeard is named for the
green braid that hangs from a tree
like a beard and gives it an eerie
appearance. Fresh specimens are
notorious for their musty odor.
Search Difficulty: -3
Identification Difficulty: -2
Applications: 1/1/2/2/3/3
Effect: If taken for febrile diseases,
whether fresh or in dried powder form,
thrashbeard subtracts 1 from the DP taken
each day. For those who contract jaundice (battlefield
fever), thrashbeard ointment prevents yearly fever.
Price: 6 / 18 silverthalers
Yagan Nut
Yagan nuts grows on bushes on
the island of Maraskan and on the
Aranian coast. As many as twelve
nuts grow on a single bush, and their
oil improves stamina. The nut itself is
very nutritious, but can be extremely sharp.
Search Difficulty: -2
Identification Difficulty: -1
Applications: 1/2/2/3/3/3
Effect: yagan oil increases stamina when imbibed. For
purposes of skill checks, Constitution counts as 1 higher
for a day. However, on the following day, the user receives
one level of Stupor.
Eating a yagan nut requires a check on Self Control (Ignore
Distractions) at -2. Failure incurs breathlessness (gain 1
level of Stupor) for five minutes, fear of death for six hours
(gain 3 levels of Fear), and watery eyes for seven hours. The
effects are so severe that the sufferer cannot attempt to eat
a yagan nut again for at least three months. Successfully
eating the nut sates the appetite for three days.
Price: 6 / 6.5 silverthalers
Supernatural Plants
Aventuria is filled with magic and the work of gods, and
many plants are said to possess supernatural powers.
Kairanreed, one of the best known, stores magical power
and releases it again. Anyone injured by the thorns of
the morningthorn bush is thought to slowly turn into a
swampreek, and demonic black oaks have gained great
notoriety in recent years. This section presents two other
examples of plants touched by the gods.
Alveranie
“The Alveranie, they say, was the first creation
of the eternally youthful Tsa. Thanks to her
creativity and ingenuity, this
flower changes its dress every
moon to match a color of a different
god (each god and goddess has their
own color, which can be found in
the rainbow). The Alveranie flower
protects you from unholy influences.
If one ever saves you by its grace, thank the
gods and praise this creation of the Young
Mistress.”
—a wandering Blessed One of Tsa
in a sermon in the Temple of the
Rainbow, Punin 1035 FB
173
 The legendary Alveranie, a plant holy to the Twelvegods,
grows throughout Aventuria, though it is extremely rare,
and cannot be found anywhere during the Nameless Days.
Each month, it blooms in a different color, to match the
color of that moon’s associated deity.
Search Difficulty: -6
Identification Difficulty: -2
Applications: 1/1/1/1/1/1
Effect: No particular effect is attributed to the Alveranie,
but miraculous events are said to occur in its vicinity.
Finding an Alveranie is considered a good omen by
worshippers of the Twelvegods. It is extremely difficult
to destroy an Alveranie (100 LP), but once destroyed, it
can only be coaxed into flowering again by a deed that is
pleasing to the gods.
Price: Not traded (but commands up to 100 ducats on the
black market)
Rat Fungus
“There is nothing more we can do for
her. Her lips continuously praise
him, he-whose-name-one-cannot-
say, and her words drip with
poison and falsehood. Even
for the trained mind of a
Blessed One, it is heavy to
bear, especially if one knows
how pious Anglinde used to
be. I can only pray. I have
called for the Inquisition.
Maybe my brothers and
sisters can save her soul, at
least.”
—undated diary entry of a Blessed One of Praios, modern
Rat fungus, a small mushroom that is holy to the Nameless
One, grows everywhere in Aventuria. It is grayish brown
in color and has off-white lamellas with purple spots that
emit soft, bluish glow. It holds a mysterious fascination for
mushroom hunters, who seek its promise of divine flavor.
However, when ingested, it inspires lasting doubt in the
Twelvegods, and causes bad nightmares and hallucinations.
These experiences often set victims at odds with the world,
and some even convert to the faith of the Thirteenth god.
This fungus is particularly dangerous to Blessed Ones of the
Twelvegods, for mere contact with it can lead to infection
with the deadly zorgan pox (see Core Rules, page 344).
Blessed Ones of the Nameless One value rat fungus for
its ability to corrupt even the most pious servants of the
Twelvegods and sets the stage for their conversion to the
faith of the Adversary.
174 Chapter 6: Flora & Fauna
Rat fungus grows readily throughout Aventuria as long as
there is no frost (especially between the months of Rahja
and Praios). It can be used to create rat fungus poison (see
below).
Search Difficulty: -4
Identification Difficulty: -3
Applications: 1/1/2/2/3/3
Price: None (as it is not publicly traded)
Special Rule: This fungus exerts a strong attraction on
people. The GM rolls against the poison level, which is
3 (13/13/13) modified by the SPI of the hero. If successful,
the hero inhales spores or even eats the fungus and is
consumed with doubts. If a Blessed One consumes rat
fungus, the GM checks for infection with zorgan pox
(see Core Rules, page 344). The chance of infection is 50%
(1–10 on 1D20). Even if infection does not occur, the Blessed
One is still overcome with doubts.
Rat Fungus Poison
Poison Level: 3 (13/13/13)
Type: Inhalation poison (spores) or ingestion poison/
Mushroom
Resistance: Spirit
Effect: victims gain one level of the condition Rapture
unless they are Blessed Ones with Tradition (Nameless
One). This condition cannot be reduced for the duration
of the poisoning. Victims suffer a penalty to resist the
temptations of the Nameless god as well as to all skill,
spell, and liturgical checks that are contrary to the
principles of the Nameless One. Each additional dose
taken during the initial duration of the poison incurs an
additional level of Rapture. At Rapture level II, the victim
gains bonuses to skills which are pleasing to the Nameless
One. Victims that do not already worship the Nameless
One suffer tempting visions, but can try to resist these
seductive visions by making
a Willpower (Resist Persuasion)
check. In this case, Rapture The skills that are
is a detriment to the pleasing to the Nameless
victim. / Victims begin to One are: Persuasion,
experience severe doubt Religions, Law, Myths and
and suffer penalties to Legends, Self Control, Fast-
resist the Nameless One. To Talk, Stealth, and Disguise
resist conversion attempts,
make a competitive check
on Willpower (Persuasion
vs. victim’s Resist Persuasion) with the applicable Rapture
penalty. If successful, the victim still suffers nagging
doubts until the duration ends and the levels of Rapture
subside.
Start: 5 Minutes
Duration: 7 days / 13 hours
Chapter 7:
Gods and Demons
“Thank the good and merciful gods that, when dark times fell
upon our world, when chaos and destruction reigned, a pious
woman who was full of understanding was enlightened by the
nature of the twelve true and only gods. She recorded her visions
and revelations in a book which describes the creation of our world
and confirmed that the Cosmogonika, the creation narrative of
our world Dere, as penned by the prophetess Illumnestra, is the
truth of the origin of the world. Every believer should know what
it reveals, for the twelve alone shaped the world in which we live
and we must follow their design.

And it came to pass: in the beginning there was nothing, a cosmos

without order and boundaries. Los the All-God roamed through
infinity until he laid eyes on Sumu.

Sumu, the Primordial Giantess who was the embodiment of

everything with a fixed form, was resting. This sight enraged Los,
who loved principles above all else. And Los decided that there
should be nothing in infinity and eternity besides his principles.
Sumu laid eyes on Los and felt the same, for she detested
everything that lacked form. Los tried to destroy Sumu, but Sumu
fought back. The Primordial Giantess injured the All-God, but she
was slain by the incredible power of the Unfathomable.

Twelve heavy drops of blood fell from Los’ wounds. When the All-
God bent over the body of the Primordial Giantess and realized
what he had done, he regretted his anger and shed bitter tears
which rained in their thousands upon the dying body of Sumu.
The twelve drops of blood became the twelve good gods, and from
the thousand bitter tears sprang all living creatures, born from
despair to share Sumu’s fate of mortality. The tears also gave life
to plants, which grew from the body and the hair of the dying
giantess.

The first tears became the dragons, the slime creatures, and
the multi-legged beings. Fish and the creatures of the deep seas
followed next, then birds such as owls and eagles, then horses
and lions and so forth until every creature we know of existed on
Dere. From the tears that were shed of Los’ left eye, male beings
were created, and from the tears of the right eye, female beings.
And since Los’ tears did not always fall in pairs, some beings in
the world have only one gender, such as unicorns, which are all
stallions. Finally, from the last two tears of the All-God sprang
man and woman, the parents of all peoples that walk under
Praios’ Eye. ”
—from the Beviary of the Twelvegods, Emperor Haal Edition,
994 FB

175
 The Creed of the Twelvegods contradict each other. Yet, if one considers the bigger
picture, all twelve deities are on the same side, for they
stand steadfast against Chaos.
In 98 b.FB, Emperor Silem-Horas determined which gods
should be henceforth the only true gods in his world-
The solidarity of the Twelvegods is particularly influential.
spanning empire. With the so-called Silem-Horas Edict he
A worshipper never worships only a single god, but always
ended long conflicts between the numerous competing
the entire pantheon. A warrior devoted to Rondra might
churches. The edict also discussed cults, which were
condemn the reign of the Priest Emperors, but would never
frowned upon during his time. Thus the inseparable
deny the divine influence of Praios. A seductive Blessed
pantheon of the Twelvegods and their children rose to
One of Rahja cannot ignore the fact that Travia represents
prominence, and all other gods were condemned as false
spousal fidelity, even while renouncing marriage in order
gods. This was also the deathblow to many formerly
to meet the faithful with love and passion. Personal
popular cults, as their priests could perform their rites
preferences do play a large, even decisive, role in the
only in secret. That this edict combines the gods of
veneration of the gods, however. Aventurians pray to
Gyldenland with the deities of Aventuria is known to only
the deity closest to them, whether due to matters of the
a few Aventurian scholars. ( page 236)
heart, their convictions or vocations, or because that deity
represents their interests in the best way. A nobleman
The Silem-Horas Edict applies to the Middenrealm, the
might honor Lord Praios, but as a hunter, he may be
Horasian Empire, Bornland, and nominally also to Arania,
preferentially devoted to grim Lord Firun. Many farmers
which was once under the rule of the Middenrealm.
pray mainly to the goddess of agriculture, Peraine, while
Although the Twelvegods also play an important role in
scholars and those gifted in magic often bow first to
the rest of Aventuria, Silem’s decree could not enforce
Hesinde, the goddess of wisdom and magic. Similarly, most
the belief in the “only true gods” throughout the rest
warriors and traveling swords pray first to Rondra, the
of the continent. In Andergast, for example, the druids
goddess of honorable combat.
and certain ancient animist religions resist the Edict’s
enforcement to this day. On Maraskan the edict is decreed
by law, but on that island, shaped by the dualism of the
“Death makes us equal and all is forgiven
twin gods, no-one really follows it. The Thorwalers have
and forgotten? Unthinkable! Nothing is
returned to the veneration of their whale god as chief
really ever forgotten! This is what I believe,
patron of their people, while they slowly forget some of
the maxim by which I live. Lady Hesinde
the less popular Twelvegods, which are seen having been
ordered me here to bear witness and record
forced on them by occupation.
events. Even if I honor the silent Lord Boron
and pray for his favor, his Blessed Ones are wrong
The twelve large Churches teach the proper ways to
in what they say. Wait, let me write that down, so that it may
worship the Twelvegods. There are, however, significant
never be forgotten… ”
differences in the interpretation of the Twelvegods’
—Nacladora Berlînghan, Blessed One of Hesinde Draconite
teachings, and the interaction between individual churches
is not always harmonious. Sometimes there are quarrels
over responsibilities, because some deities incorporate
aspects that are contradictory to those of other gods.
Even within the same Church, differences may arise due
to different sects, such as between mystical and pragmatic
congregations. These frictions may ultimately lead to a
schism, the prime example of which, in the current era,
are the two completely separate Churches of Boron—the
so-called Punin and Al’Anfan rites (sects).

Despite their quarrels, the Twelvegods collectively

represent good and are interpreted as inseparable entities.
Still, the deities embody sometimes drastically different
aspects, and their churches tread diverse paths to do them
honor. For example, Praios is the Lord of Truth and Order
while Phex personifies Cunning and the clever Lie. The
same holds true for Boron and Tsa, who represent Death
and Life, and Efferd and Ingerimm, who have chosen Water
and Fire as their elements. Thus, two doctrines always

176 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons

Praios
“We were sent out to bring order to the world. Everyone needs to
know their place in the grand scheme of the world, according to
the abilities which the good gods granted them.”

Aspects: Order, Rule, Truth, Justice

Symbols/Emblems: Sun, Light
Holy Animal: Griffon

Praios is worshipped as the king of gods and also as the god

of kings. He is usually depicted as a man with a griffon’s
head, and griffons are also regarded as his emissaries. In
the creed of the Twelvegods he is supreme, and as god of
order, law, and truth, he is particularly important for many
nobles. As the sun (sometimes called the Eye of Praios)
he follows his daily path, and the radiant light of his all-
seeing eye disperses all shadows. Lying and disobedience
are anathema to him, and many of his most determined
Blessed Ones reject magic as a disturbance to order.
However, moderate religious leaders accept white magic
if it is used for good and in accordance with the order of
the world. Praios is venerated by those who administer
justice and those who hope for justice. Many believers also
pray to him as protector against evil and dark magic. His
magnificent main temple is the City of Light in Gareth,
and the supreme representative of the Church of Praios is
called the Herald of Light.

Rondra
“We must protect those who cannot fight for themselves. With
Rondra’s courage we face even superior forces to defend creation
and good people everywhere.”

Aspects: Combat, Bravery, Protection of the Defenseless,

Honorable Duels
Symbols/Emblems: Sword, Lightning and Thunder, Storm
Holy Animal: Lioness (Lynx, in the north)

Rondra is the goddess of honorable combat. She commands

thunder and lightning and is sometimes also worshiped
as the goddess of war. Her symbolic animal is the lioness,
and she is often depicted as a warrior in shining armor,
her sword lifted to the skies. Rondra teaches honest and
open combat, and regards attacks against those who are
weaker as serious breaches of conduct. Rigorous advocates
of her doctrine reject the use of ruses and ranged weapons
in war. She finds her greatest worship among knights,
warriors, and traveling swords. The most sacred temple
of the goddess can be found in Perricum. The head of the
Church, called the Sword of Swords, resides in Threelions
in Beilunkia so she can lead the drive to liberate the last
few occupied provinces. Her Blessed Ones usually wear
chainmail and red-and-white tabards, and often carry
swords (typically, the flanged, two-handed Rondra’s Crest).
It is their duty in battle to stand in the front line, which is
why they are considered especially courageous.

177
 Efferd
“Water cannot be formed or forced. It is eternal and gives life and
prosperity to all beings. ”

Aspects: Water, Sea, Wind, Seafaring

Symbols/Emblems: Trident, Waves, Surges
Holy Animal: Dolphin

Efferd is the god of the sea, waters, and wind. His sacred
animals are dolphins, but he rules all creatures of the
sea, and his retinue includes mermen, mermaids, and
water nymphs. It is said he is one of the oldest gods. As
the lord of waves and surges, he is regarded as moody and
unpredictable. The Lord of Winds is worshiped by fisher
folk, boaters, and seafarers who hope for his mercy. In
times of severe drought, he is revered as lord of live-giving
water.

His priests are also known for their moodiness. Efferd

sometimes grants a bountiful catch and at other times
sends storms raging across the seas. Many of his servants
dislike fire in any form, so Efferd’s temples are often
illuminated by the bluish glow of Gwen-Petryl stones.

Travia
“Only where hospitality and faithfulness reign, can people live
together in peace and harmony and without fear.”

Aspects: Faithfulness, Hospitality, Homeland, Charity

Symbols/Emblems: Hearth fire
Holy Animal: Wild goose

Travia is the motherly lady of family, hospitality, and

hearth fires. Nobody wants to be homeless or without
family, so the Divine Mother is held in high regards across
Aventuria. Many oaths are given in her name, such as the
marital Travia Bond (or Covenant of Travia) made between
husband and wife. Faithfulness in marriage is particularly
important to Travia, which sometimes leads to conflicts
with the ideals of the fun-loving Rahja. Innkeepers worship
Travia, as does anyone who cherishes family happiness and
the unity of family. The goddess is also regarded as patron
of the culinary arts and of charity, which play major roles
in communal life. Thus the Church of Travia operates food
kitchens for orphans and the poor. The sacred animal of
the Church is the wild Brant goose, and families of geese
can often be seen in the temples, waddling along behind
orange-robed priests. The leadership of the Church is
always held by a married couple called the Holy Couple,
which resides in Rommilys.

178 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons

Boron
“Everything ends. Mortality is our grace and our redemption.”

Aspects: Sleep, Death, Dream, Oblivion

Symbols/Emblems: Boron’s Wheel (a broken half-wheel with
5 spokes), Beam and Scales, Raven Wings
Holy Animal: Raven

The Inevitable is lord over the Realms of the Dead. Most

Aventurians fear him more than they love him, and many
of his temples are filled with dignified silence. Boron is
the god of death and mortality, but he also represents
sleep and the grace of oblivion. Many of his Blessed Ones
are well-versed oneiromancers and healers of the soul, or
else serve as silent guardians at Boron yards (cemeteries;
also known as Boron’s Acres) and deliver a final blessing
for the deceased. They are often regarded as sinister and
unapproachable in their black robes, and many of them
shave their heads out of humility, or take a vow of silence.

The Church of Boron is split into two sects. The head of the
Punin rite is called Raven, after the holy animal of Boron,
and leads the main temple in Punin. In the Al’Anfan rite,
Boron is worshiped as supreme god even above Praios,
which leads to conflicts with the other churches of the
Twelvegods. In the south, one gives oneself to the divine
intoxication of oblivion, and suicide is regarded as the
highest form of sacrifice to the silent god. Al’Anfa hosts the
main temple of this sect, which is under the leadership of
a Patriarch.

Hesinde
“Your mind may be imperfect, but you may learn and grow, for
the gods have granted you gifts to make it perfect.”

Aspects: Knowledge, Wisdom, Erudition, Magic, Change

Symbols/Emblems: Ouroboros (a snake biting its own tail)
Holy Animal: Serpent

Hesinde is the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, and the

sciences, but is also worshiped as Mistress of Magic. People
teach and conduct research in her name, yet the Church of
Hesinde debates which knowledge may be passed on and
which should be made available to only a select few. Since
the arts are often associated with Hesinde, the church is
patron to many artists. Her followers include scholars
and mages, and the temples of the goddess often house
sizeable libraries or map collections, and assiduously
collect knowledge. The Blessed Ones of Hesinde dress in
green and gold and always carry small notebooks, called
books of the snake, for recording their findings. Hesinde’s
holy animals are wise serpents, which are often found
in her temples, whether as living specimens, images, or
as elaborate ornaments coiled around the necks of her
Blessed Ones. The most important temple of the goddess
stands in Kuslik, and is home to the highest priestess of the
Church, the Magister of Magisters.

179
 Firun
“Life is not simple. It is a constant struggle for better quarry, food,
a safe bivouac in the wilds, and protection from the cold. The
timid can never retain the upper hand in this struggle.”

Aspects: Winter, Ice, Hunt, Hardship

Symbols/Emblems: Bow and Arrow, Ice Crystal
Holy Animal: Firun’s Bear (polar bear)

Firun, also called the Old Man of the Mountain by his

worshippers, is the god of ice, winter, and the hunt. By
many he is considered an even more merciless god of the
dead than Boron, and only those who can resist his element
are worthy of his grace. His followers consist largely of
rangers and hunters, whose lives are often shaped by the
forces of nature and the hardships of the wilderness. Even
in warmer climes, people often pray to Firun when a winter
is particularly grim. He counts many nobles among his
followers as well, because of their enthusiasm for hunting.
His sacred animal is the polar bear, and his Blessed Ones
usually wear practical clothes fashioned from leather and
furs. One rarely encounters his priests in the few temples
and shrines devoted to Firun, because they prefer to be
out traveling in the wilds. The official main temple of
the Church of Firun is located in Trallop. The First, as the
highest-ranking priest is called, travels constantly, and
might walk as a human or as a polar bear.

Tsa
“Life is colorful. It changes constantly. Do not cling to the past.
Rather, embrace the new beginning. Shape what is to come, mold
your future as you would like it to be.”

Aspects: Life, Creation, Renewal, Serenity

Symbols/Emblem: Rainbow
Holy Animal: Lizard

Tsa is sometimes called the Young Goddess. She is the lady

of change, renewal, birth, and beginnings. Monotony and
being set in one’s ways are anathema to her. She loves all
that is new. Accordingly, her priests are often cheerful,
freedom-loving, creative, and open to change and new
ideas. Tsa loves all living beings equally and is considered
to be extraordinarily gentle. Thus many of her Blessed Ones
eat no meat or are pacifists. Few faiths in Aventuria have as
many different, ever-changing sects as the Church of Tsa,
and her Blessed Ones often come into conflict with other
Churches or authorities due to unusual or revolutionary
ways of thinking. Few humans worship Tsa above the
other Twelvegods, but her name is often invoked during
childbirth and at the beginning of new ventures. Her
priests wear clothes that display all colors of the rainbow.
The church has neither a main temple nor a supreme
representative, and her Blessed Ones rarely remain with
the same temple for long.

180 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons

Phex
“Know your options and use them, and Phex will grant you his favor.”

Aspects: Luck, Trade, Cunning, Thievery, Self-Reliance

Symbols/Emblems: Fog, Night, Stars
Holy Animal: Fox (in the Lands of the Tulamydes, the
Mongoose or Bat, or in rare cases, the Magpie)

The Cunning One is the god of merchants, thieves, and

secrets. As Lord of Stars he sets especially deserving stars
as sparkling gems into the night sky. The blessing of Phex
is often invoked in trade and gambling, and before setting
out on risky ventures. In the Lands of the Tulamydes Phex
is also considered to be the night hunter, a champion
against lizard beings. As Lord of Magic he borrows many
aspects from other deities.

Several cities have two temples to Phex: a public one,

in which people can conduct business and make sworn
statements, and a hidden one, in which thieves, fences,
and other secretive people can meet, worship, and practice
their skills.

Finding a secret temple or identifying a disguised priest

can be challenging, as many of them are masters of lying
and concealment. The location of the main temple of Phex
is a mystery, as is the real identity of his supreme Blessed
One, the Moon.

Peraine
“There is much to do before you can reap the fruits of your labor.
This applies to all areas of life, and only those who sow and care
for their crops can eventually reap.”

Aspects: Fertility, Agriculture, Healing

Symbols/Emblems: Bundle of Ears of Maize
Holy Animal: Stork (or, in the South, the Ibis)

Peraine is the goddess of fertility, agriculture, and the

healing arts. Her name is invoked by all those who trust
in her healing powers or hope for a bountiful harvest.
This gives her a large following, because farmers make
up the majority of the Aventurian population. Although
her Church does not aspire to political power, nobles dare
not act against her will for long, as they risk angering her
numerous followers. The helpful priests of Peraine wear
simple green clothing which is sometimes embroidered
with patterns of maize ears. They serve mainly in rural
areas, where they tend small temples or shrines, bless
fields, and look after the sick and injured. The Church
maintains infirmaries, hospitals, and large temples only in
cities. However, many priests often travel to help where
they are needed the most. The supreme Blessed One of
Peraine, the Servant of Life, has chosen Ilsur, in Tobrien, as
his seat and therefore the site of the main temple.

181
 Ingerimm
“Even the young can learn what one can make the world’s natural
gifts, but only a master can give these things permanence. No one
wants to swing a sword that breaks after the first blow.”

Aspects: Ore, Fire, Crafts, Permanence

Symbols/Emblems: Hammer and Anvil, Flames
Holy Animal: -

The god of forges and crafting, Ingerimm, has many

similarities to the dwarven god Angrosh (see page 188),
and he is often depicted as short and stocky, as if he were
a dwarf himself. He is the only god of the twelve who
has no holy animal. Instead he is always depicted with a
smith’s hammer. His followers include crafters, such as
smiths, builders, tailors, and bakers. In the cities where he
is worshipped, he is also considered the patron of guilds.

Priests of Ingerimm wear leather aprons and carry lanterns

whose flames must never be allowed to go out. They are
regarded as tireless and very willing to undertake hard
work. Few give much thought to sermons, but instead
serve their god in a practical manner. The main temple
of Ingerimm is in Angbar. It has been lead since time
immemorial by the Keeper of the Flame.

Rahja
“Without beauty and joy, life would be senseless. The world is
beautiful, as the gods have decreed it, so let us celebrate!”

Aspects: Joy, Love, Intoxication, Lust, Beauty

Symbols/Emblems: Grapevine, Rose
Holy Animal: Mare

Rahja, the Serene, is goddess of ecstasy and love-making.

She loves intoxication and dance and is considered the
patron of lovers, wine, and feasts. Her worshipers include
lovers, artists, and revelers of all ages. The austere priests
of Travia often look upon the actions of Blessed Ones of
Rahja with great suspicion, and usually view them as
too frivolous. They might not be entirely wrong, yet the
scantily clad priestesses of Rahja act quite responsibly,
even if they impose fewer restrictions on their faithful
than other Churches.

Mares are regarded as the embodiment of grace and love of

life, and therefore fall under the protection of the goddess.
Rahja is most strongly worshiped in the vineyards of Almada
and the Horasian Empire. A more mystical interpretation
of the faith prevails in the Lands of the Tulamydes, where
the states of intoxication and divine ecstasy are celebrated
in honor of Rahja the Passionate. The main temple of the
goddess, seat of the Beloved of the Goddess, is in Belhanka.

182 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons

The Adversary beings. His followers and
Blessed Ones hide behind
masks of righteousness but
“The world and all the gods shall tremble with fear when he rises!
secretly pray for the end of
Their eyes will burst in their sockets when He shows them His face.”
the existing order, hoping
—excerpt from the First Doxology of the Nameless One, circa 307
to play important roles
b.FB, author unknown
in his new kingdom. Dark
chapels that sustain the cult
Aspects: Power, Dominion, Hatred, Destruction, Lies
of the Nameless God are said
Symbols/Emblems: Golden mask, rat fungus, Starless Void
to be concealed everywhere in
Holy Animal: Rat (Spider, among the Tulamydes)
Aventuria, their altars running
with blood sacrifices.
The greatest enemy of the Twelvegods is the Nameless One,
whom it is said brought demons from beyond the Seventh
It is said that his Blessed Ones
Sphere into the world because he was denied sole rulership
must mutilate themselves to gain
of Creation. The gods punished his treason by erasing his
access to the deeper mysteries of
name syllable by syllable from memory and chaining him
the cult. Whether they be decadent
within the Star Breach, the hole he himself had smashed out
nobles, ruthless grand burghers,
of the Wall of Stars to give demons access to this world.
hate-filled mercenaries, or
oppressed serfs who
This empty spot in the starry sky is at its zenith during the
know they deserve
five so-called Nameless Days, the days between the years.
something better,
These ominous and cursed days belong to the Nameless One,
many people succumb
for they represent the time he tore a hole between Rahja’s
to the Nameless God’s
passion and Praios’ law at the spot where the Circle of the
dark teachings and
Twelvegods (the constellations) was most vulnerable.
promises of endless
power to be granted during
Mystics say the Nameless One is no friend of chaos, and that
the coming 13th Age under his
he would rather destroy Creation than serve others. He is
rule.
the very essence of power, dominion, selfishness, revenge,
temptation, lies, treachery, malice, hatred, destruction, and
The priests of the Nameless God are
even self-mutilation.
infamous for their powers of persuasion and
manipulation. Many are excellent liars who have used
It is perhaps telling that no other god has been given as many
intrigue, murder, and dark miracles to undermine or topple
names and descriptions as he. His true name was forgotten
faith groups, temples, rulers, and even entire realms.
eons ago. Faceless One and Thirteenth God they call him, and
also Rat Child and Nameless One. The Tulamydes call him Iblis,
Few believers in the Twelvegods comprehend the power
the Net Weaver. The Nivese fear a being they call the One-
the Thirteenth grants to his servants. The most powerful
Too-Many. Maraskan curses often mention the Brotherless
among them are supposedly called the Tongue of the
or the One Without Siblings. The Forest Folk speak of Burdaq
Nameless One and his Thirteen Eyes. The liturgical chants of
whose tapam (soul) has been stolen, and the elves whisper
the Twelvegods have no effect on them, and their words
of dhaza (Isdira for That-Which-Fights-Creation). The dwarves
command even demons.
blame Pyrdacor, the Golden Dragon, for all the world’s evils.
It is not very reassuring that the myths and legends of
The Nameless One’s countless worshipers refer to him as the
many peoples agree that, one day, the Nameless God will
Promised One, the Purple God, He-Who-Rests, or Ruler of Rulers.
conquer all of his enemies in an epic battle. It is possible
Some speak the name Golden God or Golden One with awe in
that these prophecies hold a kernel of truth. ( page 236)
their voices, claiming to know that he is the Elder of Eons,
the first god, the primal ruler of the world whose legacy was
stolen. ( page 236)
“They tried to banish our Lord and extinguish his
The Nameless God has been manipulating events from his name from the world, but nothing so powerful
prison for eons, working to free himself one day. Lies and can ever be forgotten. The false gods have
seduction are his strengths. He is often depicted as a faceless always feared the revenge of the one true god.
golden man accompanied by rats, crows, and thirteen- Their servants should fear us as well, because
legged spiders. According to legend, the Nameless God is we are here to ruin them all.”
served by countless creatures, monsters, and intelligent —Arraloth Westfal, Hand of the Nameless One

183
 The Archdemons Thargunitoth or Tiakoal: Enemy of Boron, Lady of
Nightmares, Mistress of Ghosts and Undead
Amazeroth or Iribaar: Enemy of Hesinde, the
“Be on your guard, for Chaos obeys no logic. Do not suppose that
Blinder of Many Shapes, Lord of Forbidden Knowledge
Chaos is only a black abyss from which eternal screaming seeps into
and Madness
Creation. No, just as the gods have their various paradises, there
Nagrach or Belshirash: Enemy of Firun, the Vicious
are places in the Netherhells where it is easier to find demons of
Hunter and Lord of the Corrupted Ice, Master of the
a particular sort. Places like the bloody execution sites of Kholak-
Wild Hunt (which hunts its victims to their deaths and
Kai, the gruesome bone fields of Yaq-Monnith, the midnight blue
devours their souls)
and tentacle-filled depths of Yamesh, the oppressive and lie-
Azfuloth or Calijnaar: Enemy of Tsa, Duchess of the
filled Thezzphai, the soul-grinding Fortress of Night, the lunatic
Teeming Chaos, Mistress of Chimeras
mirror structure of Gnaph’Caor, the blinding flash of the Plains of
Tasfarelel or Zholvar: Enemy of Phex, the Greedy
Unnatural Ice, the eternally confusing mutability of Sefaloth, the
Haggler, Lord of Bloodstained Gold
always-brimming treasuries of Zholvar, the teeming chaos of the
Mishkara or Belzhorash: Enemy of Peraine, Decaying
halls of Hirr’Horash, the diseased streets and smoking chimneys
Monarch of Eternal Disease, Mistress of Crop Failure
of Yol-Ghurmak, the black, rotting fortress of Dar-Klajid. Find the
and Infertility
order in non-order and the key to ruling the world is yours. None
Agrimoth or Widharcal: Enemy of Ingerimm, Defiler
can resist a being who can invoke the power of the Netherhells
of Elements, Corrupter of Ore, Fire, Air, and Humus,
with one word.”
Prince of the Otherworldly Demon Forges of Yol-
—from the original lizardfolk manuscript of the Daimonicon,
Ghurmak, Lord of Dark Craftsmanship
currently in the possession of Pardona
Belkelel or Dar-Klajid: Enemy of Rahja, Temptress
of Many Sexes, Mistress of Rotting Lust and
Many opponents besides the Nameless threaten the
Bloody Ecstasy
order of the gods, ones who stand outside of creation, the
adversaries of all gods—the Horrors of the Seventh Sphere.
The world beyond the Wall of Stars and the Sixth Sphere,
also known as Outside or Chaos, is the home of demons. It
seems that Chaos has produced an adversary of each of
the Twelvegods, ones whose hordes seek to undo the work
of the gods or at least pervert it so Chaos can devour the
entire world. Whether they must obey the Demon Sultan
of legend, or have simply sworn fealty to him, is unknown.
However, concepts such as fealty derive from the ordered
thinking of the world and mean little to the chaos from
which these entities come. Some tainted mortals form a
pact with one of these beings, offering their souls for power
from the Netherhells. It is said that the sinister black mage
Borbarad was able to form pacts with seven Princes of Hell
thanks to the accursed Demon Crown ( page 234). The
legacy of this sacrilegious artifact persists in the world
today in the form of the sundered Shards of the Heptarchs.

Blakharaz or Tyakra’man: Enemy of Praios, Lord of

Blind Revenge, Guardian of the Mill of Souls, which
grinds the lost souls of mortals.
Belhalhar or Xarfai: Enemy of Rondra, the Otherworldly
Murderer, Lord of Blood Rage and Massacre, Leader of
the Invincible Legion of Yaq-Monnith
Charyptoroth or Gal’k’Zuul: Enemy of Efferd, the
Merciless Drowner and Mistress of Unnatural Water,
Mother of all Sea Serpents
Lolgramoth or Thezzphai: Enemy of Travia, the
Restless, Lord of Discord and Treason

184 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons

Other Immortals great curiosity, daring, and a desire to explore the
unknown. His Blessed Ones are usually very approachable
and sociable people and one usually encounters them on
Despite its name the pantheon of the Twelvegods is not
travels. They are rarely averse to an adventure and gladly
limited to the twelve gods, which rule from their seats
give their blessing to fellow wanderers.
in Alveran, the Fortress of Gods. Several demigods are
regarded as the offspring of the Twelve. According to
Ifirn, Bringer of Spring
legend these descend either from two gods or from a deity
This demigoddess takes the shape of a swan and is the
and a mortal. Some gods, it is said, created a demigod out
daughter of Firun and a mortal woman, though some
of themselves, whether by splitting off one of their aspects
see her instead as the rebel daughter of Efferd. Many
or by sheer will. Not all demigods are considered as such
worshippers do not dare to directly address grim Firun and
in all regions, and certain pantheons hold some demigods
therefore ask his mild daughter for mediation. She is often
in higher esteem than their alleged parents. The rank of
depicted with the four Heavenly Swans. Ifirn is regarded
demigod also includes entities that are worshipped by so
as the herald of spring, patron of all communities, and a
many people, and who thus control so much power, that
helpful hunting companion. Blessed Ones of Ifirn now run
the faith of the Twelvegods cannot ignore them. Even
many of the temples of Firun.
foreign deities found their way into the extended pantheon
in this fashion.
Kor, the Gem-Hearted
This bloodthirsty reaper is said
Retinues and heralds of the gods, which carry the
to be the child of Rondra
principles of the corresponding deity into the world,
and the Great Dragon
are also worshipped in large numbers. Examples of such
Famerlor. He loves battle
Alveranians (or heralds from Alveran) are Golgari the Raven
and fierce fighting, and,
of Death and Bishdariel the Dreambringer (in the Church
as his father’s heir, he is
of Boron), Uthar the Grim Guardian of the Realm of the
said to have a dragon
Dead, and the Twelve Winds, which are said to obey the
carbuncle for his
capricious god of the sea, Efferd. Great veneration is also
heart and is therefore
given to the six Great Dragons who, according to legend,
particularly merciless.
entered into Alveran after the First Dragon War.
He worshiped mostly by
mercenaries and fighters who
Branibor with iron wings; a servant of Praios; Dragon
rely more on effectiveness than on honesty. The holy
of Justice
book of Kor, known as the Khunchoman Code, delineates
Darador with hundred colored wings; a servant of
the rights and obligations, as well as the remuneration for
Praios; Dragon of Anti-Magic
military services, of all mercenaries, whether hired alone
Famerlor with the lion’s head; husband of Rondra;
or as a unit.
Guardian of Alveran
Naclador also called Varsinor, confidant of Hesinde;
Levthan, the Rutting Goatman
Dragon of Wisdom
The ram-headed Levthan, considered the son of Rahja,
Menacor, the six-winged Guardian of Limbo
represents unbridled desire and male virility. He is said to
Yalsicor with the goat’s head; friend of Travia; Dragon
be an indomitable troublemaker that has forced himself on
of Friendship
the demigoddess (or goddess, depending upon your view)
Satuaria, who enjoys great veneration among Aventurian
Aves, the Wanderer
witches. To this day it is said that one might spy him
This demigod, who is often
chasing after her at especially magical places on Witches’
depicted as a bird of paradise,
Nights. Many followers of Satuaria regard him in a similar
is regarded as the son of
light as their highly revered goddess, torn between hatred
Phex and Rahja in the
and passion.
faith of the Twelvegods.
He is the patron of
Mada, the Banished
wanderlust, adventure,
The daughter of Hesinde, Mada, is said to have brought the
and travel, and the
gift of magic to mortals. Praios punished her by confining
continent of Aventuria
her in stone and setting her into the sky. Since then, the
is named after him.
silvery moon (called Mada’s Sign or Mada’s Mark) shines in
Aves attributes include

185
 the night sky, and magic performed in its light is said to be Swafnir, the God-Whale
particularly powerful. The Nivese also know Mada, but as In the shape of a white sperm whale,
a human wrongdoer who endangered the peace between this son of Efferd and Rondra
humans and the heavenly Sky Wolves. travels the seas of the
world. He is regarded as
Marbo, the Gentle lord of seafarers and
The gentle Marbo is the child of Boron and a mortal protector against all
woman, and her task, similar to Ifirn’s, is to intercede on kinds of sea monsters.
behalf of mortals with her father. People often pray to He is venerated most
her for a quick and merciful death and the safe return of by the Thorwalers. The
souls into the Halls of Boron. She is often associated with pugnacious northmen
vultures, which many scholars find puzzling. even consider him their
main god, since legend
Nandus, Lord of Riddles says he led their ancestors,
Nandus is considered a child the Hjaldings, across the Sea of
of Hesinde and Phex, Seven Winds to Aventuria, and they now view themselves
and combines Hesinde’s as his chosen people. According to their sagas, he wages an
wisdom with Phex’s endless battle against the gigantic sea serpent Hranngar,
cunning and rebellious the source of all evil.
nature. He loves riddles
and promotes public Ucuri, Herald of the Gods
education and the pursuit Ucuri was created by Praios from his own essence. The
of knowledge. Many of the falcon-shaped herald of the gods is sent out when the gods
nearly-heretical thoughts, need to discuss important matters. Only the most depraved
which his Blessed Ones carry mortals would dare to attack an Ucuriate. Members of his
to the common people, mark the Order travel as heralds to all parts of the world, delivering
Blessed Ones of Nandus for hostility and sometimes even important documents and messages to the Churches of the
persecution by secular authorities and rulers. Twelvegods.

According to legend, Nandus is the divine father of two Xeledon, the Mocker
powerful wizards, Rohal and Borbarad, who repeatedly This son of Hesinde and a mortal man receives little
returned to the world in past centuries to fight each other reverence, as it is his sport to make fun of the imperfections
in a bitter war of ages ( page 238). of worldly achievements. He has only ridicule and mockery
for the works of mortals. There are numerous stories about
Simia, the Inventive the demigod with the nimble tongue denigrating crafts,
Worshipped as son of Ingerimm and Tsa in the creed of art, and many a life’s work.
the Twelvegods, he combines the creative will of his father
with the creative and freedom-loving nature of his mother.
Simia is considered the god of inventiveness and even
though he has no Blessed Ones of his own, a magnificent
temple to him stands in Gareth. Priests at that temple
invented the prism, which turns Praios’ sunlight into
Tsa’s rainbow. Simia is also known to the dwarves, but as a
goddess, and they worship her as the daughter of Angrosh.

186 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons

Beyond the Creed of the
Twelvegods
“Praios forbid! I am aware that people worship other deities. But
you should not forget that the Twelve are the only true gods. It
never hurts to learn the false idols of foreigners, of course, for
only then can you be truly prepared, and preparation is half the
struggle.”
—the Master of Novices at the Temple of Praios in Beilunkia,
1040 FB
Although the belief in the Twelvegods is widespread and
has many followers, it is not the only religion in Aventuria.
The Novadi of the Khôm Desert worship Rastullah, who
appeared before them about 300 years ago in the Oasis
of Keft to reveal his 99 Holy Laws. Even with no attested
miracles, his worship grew quickly among the desert
nomads. Rastullah is one of the few gods who is never
depicted in any form. Instead believers invoke individual
aspects of the god to emphasize oaths (“By Rastullah’s
magnificent curls!” or “By the all-seeing eye of the All-
one!”). The only known symbol of Rastullah is a white tent,
from which he is said to have descended from the heavens.
The Nivese believe in the
Sky Wolves, a divine pack
that once ruled the
world. In the language
of the Middenrealm,
the Sky Wolves are
named Gorfang (the
pack leader, who
embodies dominion
and revenge), Grispelt
(Gorfang’s wife, fertility),
Ripgrief (hunting), Redtail
(cunning and rebellion against rule), Firngrim (the winter
mother), Arngrim (spring), Liska (mediator between
Nivese and the Sky Wolves), Rangild and Rissa (the eternal
lovers), Tongja (beauty and grace), and Ranik (who rolls
the sun across the sky). Grayfang represents retaliation,
anger, and revenge. All the other Sky Wolves together are
unable to tame him and is considered so dangerous that
even worshipers invoke him only in rare instances.
The Norbardes worship the Bee-Mother Mokosha (Alaani
for “great bee”) as patroness of their traveling society.
Their bustling behavior can be attributed to this deity.
Mokosha was worshipped by the ancient Tulamydes
and entered into the pantheon of the Twelvegods, where
she is sometimes worshipped as the daughter of Ingerimm
and Peraine, and sometimes as the daughter of Ingerimm
and Hesinde.
The people of Maraskan believe in the hermaphroditic
twin gods Rur and Gror, and the perfect beauty of the
world (also known as the Gift of Rur, created in the form of
a discus which was then thrown toward Gror, and has been
in transit ever since). The Maraskani usually consider the
Twelve to be siblings, guardians that accompany the world
discus on its journey. Miracles have no place in this belief,
as the course of the world was predetermined in wise
foresight. Maraskani adhere to a strict dualistic worldview
in which everything has its matching counterpart. They
believe in reincarnation and strive to fathom the Sixty-
four Questions of Existence, to which Gror will one day
provide the answers.
Although the Forest Folk worship the jaguar-shaped god
Kamaluq (Mohan for hand that makes the ground), they also
fear and honor the spirits of the jungle that surround them
every moment of their lives. Many peoples in Aventuria
view shamans and other magically-gifted animists as
intermediaries between the world of gods and spirits and
the world of mortals. They believe the world is permeated
by a great number of spirits that either must be appeased,
or which can be petitioned for advice. This belief in spirits
is often accompanied by the worship of gods, as is the case
with the Forest Folk, the Nivese, the Gjalsklanders, the
Fjarning barbarians, and the orcs. Shamans exist in many
cultures and among races, which regard them as healers
and wise advisors to chieftains and clans.
The druids worship the ancient earth mother Sumu and
seek to heal the wounds inflicted by Los on the body of
the goddess. The witches believe that the daughter of
Sumu, Satuaria, is a mediator who is trying to restore the
primordial giantess to new life. Satuaria even plays a role
in the tradition of the Twelvegods, if only as the object of
Levthan’s desire.
There are also schools of thought that entirely reject the
works of gods. One such system of belief is the so-called
wizard’s philosophy which, as the name suggests, is
especially prevalent among the magically gifted. Its
adherents view the gods as very powerful beings and claim
that their power is related to the degree of veneration they
receive in this world. The Churches of the Twelvegods
universally condemn this school of thought, for it
postulates that mortals with sufficient power can become
gods themselves. Even more disreputable and subject
to the harshest of punishments is Borbaradism, which
takes the basic tenet of wizard’s philosophy a step further.
Borbaradians act according to the teachings of the black
mage and Demon Master, Borbarad, who said that every
being must free itself from the bonds of faith and spiritual
submission. According to his worldview, anyone with
sufficient will can shake off the yoke of gods and demons,
with the ultimate goal of controlling one’s own destiny and
187
 casting spells via sheer power of the mind and the use of
one’s own life energy.
The Beliefs of Non-Humans
The dwarves worship only their creator god Angrosh,
the Lord of Fire, Ore, and Crafting. According to their
understanding, Angrosh created the entire world. They
see it as their task to protect and maintain the world
mechanism, and combat all threats, especially from the
dreaded dragons. Hill dwarves who live in close proximity
to humans are slowly adopting the worship of the Twelve,
and especially of Travia, the patron of hospitality. Not to
be left out, diamond dwarves increasingly worship the
resourceful Simia, having named her the daughter of
Angrosh.
Elves are far removed from the true worship of gods
although they worshipped their own gods a very long time
ago. Elves generally agree that gods are very powerful
beings, but don’t find this a compelling reason to offer
them worship. Modern elves have only two principles:
becoming (in Isdira, nurdra) and fading (in Isdira: zerza).
They also revere Creation (in Isdira, dha) and struggle
against its eternal adversary (in Isdira, dhaza), which is
loosely equal to the Nameless One in concept. While the
glade elves are more open to the beliefs of their human
neighbors, firnelves are downright hostile towards any
worship of deities.
188 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons
The orcs worship two powerful and bloodthirsty gods—
Brazoragh (dominion, sun, combat), and Tairach (death,
magic, knowledge). Some also worship Gravesh (crafts)
and Rikai (healing), but only among the lower castes of
what passes for society in the Orclands.
Goblins worship Mailam Rekdai, the Great Sow who
excavated the world from the Great Heap (goblinese: puur
mulla), and Orvai Kurim, god of hunting and war.
The gods of the lizardfolk are collectively and reverently
addressed as H’Ranga, but they are so unfathomable and
vindictive that the lizardfolk do not pray to them. Instead,
the lizards try very hard to avoid drawing their attention.
The most important H’Ranga, whom the lizardfolk respect
and revere greatly, are as follows.
Chary’Yzz the quick-tempered, who rules over water
and seas
Chr’Ssir’Ssr the irritable, who rules over the skies and
holds dominion
H’Szinth in the shape of a serpent, whose aspect
is Change
Kha in the shape of a turtle, the eldest
Krr’Thon’Chh, the bloodthirsty crusher
Ssad’Huarr in the shape of a toad, mistress of the end
of Time and Life
V’Sar, the lord of perfect souls
Zssahh in the shape of a lizard, mistress of new
beginnings and rebirth; possibly an aspect of Tsa
Ppyrr, master of the elements of fire, humus, air,
and ore
Churches and Cults weakens when a child turns 13. Children who accept the
faith are then considered full members of the community
of believers.
“The goddess placed us here to fulfill her will. She did not send
us here to argue with those of limited intelligence regarding the
Temples are not merely places for gathering. They are also
interpretation of her will. Yes, there is a time for preservation.
imbued with the power and principles of their respective
And yes, there is a time for sharing. But multiple paths are also
deity. One can feel the presence of Alveran within the
possible. To discover absolute truth, we must always deliberate,
walls of a temple or other holy place. Blessed Ones of the
like the goddess taught us. We must let ourselves be guided by
Twelve always encourage believers to enter the service
divine wisdom and not be blinded by the lust for power or the
of a temple, but service is not an obligation. Most people
desire for influence. Our reward is an eternity in Hesinde’s Grove,
come to the temples to give thanks or to ask for blessings.
not a comfortable life here on Dere. Set aside your narrow-minded
Most temples sustain themselves with money from temple
disputes and remember your duty! Follow the teachings of the
tithes, while particularly magnificent temples owe their
wise and omniscient mistress Hesinde, and learn to live together!”
condition to more generous donations, which believers pay
—Erynnion Quendan Eternalwatch, Prime Abbot of the
directly to the temple. Temple tithes take different forms,
Hesindan Order of Draconites, 1026 FB
depending on the deity. Even though Peraine, the goddess
of agriculture and healing, has many worshipers, gold
The secular aspects of worship are strongly shaped by the
rarely appears in her temples’ offering boxes. Donations to
individual Churches of the Twelve within the creed of the
the Church of Peraine come mainly from rural populations
Twelvegods. Each Church has tangible worldly interests
and are often paid in kind (that is, in the form of baskets of
besides the salvation of the faithful—interests that include
wheat, barley, or other crops, or simple craft items such as
power, influence, and gold.
forks or dinner bowls). One the other hand, a baron who
swears his oath of loyalty to his lord in a temple of Praios
In general, the different Churches and their Blessed
may donate a large sum of gold or precious liturgical items.
Ones treat one another with great respect. Even when
two believers don’t share the same primary deity, they
Blessed Ones agree to serve a deity but they make these
still revere the same pantheon and adhere to the same
decisions on their own, and they are not infallible. Not all
core teachings and ideals. However, the often conflicting
priests are able to interpret the will of their deity correctly,
aspects of the gods inevitably lead to friction between
and individuals sometimes disagree with the will of their
the Churches. The potential for conflict sometimes even
Church leaders. Blessed Ones are also often torn between
grows within a Church. Forms of worship vary by region,
three basic things: the principles of the deity, church
and the worldviews of Blessed Ones vary accordingly, and
politics, and their own personal ideals.
not always insignificantly. For example, Garetians regard
Phex as the god of merchants and thieves and patron of
Blessed Ones enjoy a good reputation among the faithful
the Imperial family, but in the Lands of the Tulamydes,
and their special legal status means that they are almost
Pheqz is the god of magic and a tireless fighter for the
untouchable by secular authorities. Blessed Ones can be
cause of humanity. Middenrealmers worship Rondra as the
convicted only by church courts, even when they commit
mistress of honor and fair combat, while in the Lands of
a secular offense. If a Blessed One of Tsa helps a serf to
the Tulamydes she is also the bringer of storms, mistress
escape, an enraged Bronnjar may not care about who has
of oracles, and lady of elegant combat. Horasians think of
proper jurisdiction over the case. However, in the eyes
Hesinde as the goddess of learning, arts, and magic, the
of the faithful, a physical attack against a Blessed One is
Tulamydes think of her as the lady of eternal change, and
no different from an attack on the deity, and therefore
the Norbards revere her as the patron of the tribes and as
tantamount to blasphemy. Of course, honorable combat
the one who gifted mankind with the knowledge of writing.
with a Blessed One of Rondra, a duel with a priest of Kor,
and an unknowing attack on a covert Blessed One of Phex
Most people who worship the Twelvegods begin initiating
are all exceptions to this rule.
their children into the circle of the faithful at the age
of 12, for the protection afforded by the Birth blessing

189
190 Chapter 7: Gods and Demons
Chapter 8:
Magic and Sorcery
“You have a very special gift, my child. The gods put it in your
cradle. You could say that you have been kissed by Mada,
because in your blood lies the arcane power that enables the
knowledgeable to cast spells. Now you must decide what to do
with your gift, and therefore I want to tell you something very
important.

Ever since Mada destroyed the Citadel of Power and brought

magic into the world, those who control this power have tried
to understand it. Even though much has been learned over the
millenia, no mortal can ever comprehend magic in its entirety.
Nor can any mortal ever be able to decipher the mysteries
that magic gives us. The mages of the Academy of High Magic
in Punin may claim they understand everything, but this is
complete poppycock! Certain rules make the casting of spells
possible and even simpler one you understand them, but you
should know that there is a significant difference when a guild
mage casts an Ignifaxius, a flame lance, versus when an achaz
crystalomancer or even a dragon uses this spell. These represent
three completely different magical ways to manipulate the
element of fire. Dragons, mighty magical beings in their own
right, employ the most primal and most powerful means of
channeling spells, and only a handful of wizards can even begin
to understand how. Mages know that a crystalomancer focuses
magical power through a gem, even if they do not understand
why the stone can do so. These same mages channel their power
through a spell or so-called thesis, which usually required years
of research to perfect.

The point is this: magic cannot be fully explained, and it frequently

produces effects that will surprise you. This how the world has
decreed it, but that does not mean you cannot learn anything
about it. The goddess Hesinde helps us to learn, and observe, and
identify ways to achieve desired effects. Our minds are powerful
tools, and we can learn about and come to understand magical
power. The only question is, should we conduct research in our
ivory towers, or should we study outside in the world, where
magic occurs on a daily basis?”
—Mistress Kiranya of Kutaki to a new student, 1039 FB

191
 Aventuria as a Magical World So it came to pass that Mada grew depressed from her futile
prayers and wished to die. As the day of her death approached she
mustered up all her strength, and her god-like mind perceived the
Every Aventurian child knows that magic is inherent
unity of the Spheres. But she had grown too weak to give mortals
to their world and grows up with stories about dragons,
the gift she intended. Thus, the forces of the stars mingled with
fairies, elves, and powerful wizards such as Rohal and
the powers of Dere and became one, and ever since then a new
Borbarad. Some children even encounter one of these
power has flowed throughout all the Spheres.
magical beings or a spellcaster, as those who can control
the stream of power exist among most races and peoples.
Praios, the king of the gods, cursed Mada three times for her
However, the predisposition to magic is a rare gift (except
sacrilege. He banished her to a silver stone which he set in the
for elves, which are always born with the ability to use
firmament, and ever since then Mada’s Sign has shone in the
magic). Dwarves, on the other hand, almost never produce
nightly sky as both a consolation and a warning for mortals.
wizards. Few humans have the potential to become great
Praios then appointed Phex the guardian of the firmament so that
wizards, witches, or druids because their abilities are often
neither Mada nor anyone else could cause such damage again.”
too weak for the demanding training or else were stunted
—excerpt from Annals of the Age of Gods, a holy text of the
by handling too much magic-inhibiting iron when young.
Church of Hesinde, written around 1,400 b.FB
The origin of magic (or, as many guild mages like to call
Magical power permeates the entire world but does not
it, arcane energy) is unclear. Some believe the gods brought
always reveal its workings, not even to those skilled in
it into the world, although which gods depends on whom
its use. In general there exists a balance between the six
you ask. Most Tulamydes thank Phex for it, Horasians
elements: ice, ore, fire, humus, air, and water, which are set
always thank Hesinde, and orcs thank Tairach alone. There
in pairs of opposites. Magic seems to be able to influence
is a widespread belief that Mada brought magic into the
each of these elements, but some scholars believe that
world, although many disagree on the details. Was she
magic was its own element before the time of Mada’s
a goddess or a mortal? Did she take the power from the
Sacrilege. Naturally, the less knowledgeable argue that
stars or destroy the Citadel of Magic? In the creed of the
anti-magic or non-magic would have needed to exist as a
Twelvegods the legend is known in the following version.
counterpart to magic. The old dispute over these seventh
and eighth elements, called heptessence and octessence,
“When the gods still walked among mortals in the early days,
respectively, remains unresolved to this day.
Hesinde gave birth to the daughter of a mortal man. Blessed
with the mind of her mother but cursed with the mortal coil of
The world is covered in so-called ley lines of power, veins
her father, the child was called Mada. When Mada saw how the
of raw arcane energy that assist or inhibit the casting of
gods toyed with humans, she was saddened and begged the gods
certain spells. For ages, guild mages believed that ley
to give humans the power to control their own destinies. But the
lines were unalterable, but events such as the return of
gods did not want to listen to her prayers.

192 Chapter 8: Magic and Sorcery

Borbarad and the onset of the Starfall ( page 232) have
changed many minds. It is now known that ley lines can be
created and destroyed, can change their course, and can
even lose their ascribed characteristics or gain new ones.
Of the different types of magical lines, many are limited to
one locale and of little influence. But there are also those
that span the entire continent and may possess unlimited
power. Whenever two such lines cross, a powerful magical
site is almost always the result. Those gifted in magic often
make use of such sites for their strong, inherent magical
properties. These might include sites for a witches’ dance,
an ancient druidic sanctuary, or the location for a mage’s
academy. It is even said that these nodices (from the term
nodix, which is Bosparano for node) may be connected by
troll paths, fairy gates, or so-called dark portals.
In contrast to ley line intersections, there are also places
on Dere that are devoid of magic. One example is a temple
or sanctuary of Praios that enforces a karmic Arcanum
Interdictum, which prevents any kind of spellcasting.
Another might be a room that is shielded by the anti-
magical properties of Kosh basalt. Many metals inhibit the
flow of arcane energy unless they are explicitly magical
themselves. Such sites are common in the ore-permeated
delvings of the dwarves, which are known as places where
the force of Mada cannot flow.
Magical Traditions
“Which magical Tradition do I prefer? That is a difficult question
for most of us who are skilled in magic, as we are often blinded
by our own Tradition. I decided long ago to cast off these mental
shackles and trust in the divine wisdom of Hesinde alone. Just as
magic is a unique gift that shows the goddess’ concern for humans,
Traditions are a gift that shows the goddess’ love for diversity.
Guild mages classify and catalogue; witches feel and crave; elves
search the world for sense; animists ask their ancestors for advice
and enlightenment and even grant them possession of their
bodies. None of these methods is wrong as long as they do not
endanger the salvation of human souls. We have been sent out
into the world to live and learn, and ultimately to grow. Perhaps
one day you will understand.”
—Haldana of Ilmenstein, archmage and Magister of
Magisters, 1026 FB
Mages know of a large number of magical Traditions in
Aventuria. Some are ancient, such as the geodes of the
dwarves, the zibiljas of the Norbards, the animists of the
Forest Folk, and the crystalomancers of the achaz. Elves
have always possessed a natural talent for magic. Other
Traditions, such as those of guild mages, witches, and
magical dancers are relatively recent discoveries (or, in
the case of pranksters and charlatans, fabrications). All
Traditions are similar in that followers adhere to a specific
philosophy that teaches them how to comprehend and
interpret spellcasting and even the world around them.
Few Traditions look upon others as equals but some
Traditions are more tolerant than others. This section
presents examples of the best known and most widespread
Traditions in Aventuria. For details on the rules for many
of the magical Traditions discussed above, see the Core
Rules, starting on page 274.
“Mandra? No, I am not casting a spell. I only
want to shoot this evil-doer. My vision
becomes clearer and my mind more focused
if I sing this song. That is all. Now step out
of the way, and please stop interrupting me.”
—Layariel Treetopglimmer, elven wyldrunner
The race that brings forth the greatest number of mages in
Aventuria is certainly the elves. This might be due to their
origin, as the elves claim they once dreamed themselves
into existence from the world of light via magic. Elves
view magic as a natural part of the world. They constantly
use their inherent magic to influence their environment,
and in fact, it is so natural that many elves do not even
realize they are using magic. This is especially true for
their magical songs, often cast by an entire elven tribe in
the magical community of the salasandra, and they can
achieve almost unlimited effects.
When Aventurians think of mages, they think of the small,
well-trained elite corps of guild mages. This is largely
because guild mages study the world and its inherent magic
according to scientific principles. By researching basic
principles and noting observations, they derive laws and
draw conclusions about how magic functions in general.
This scientific approach offers them insights that might
never occur to other spellcasters, but guild mages often
encounter obstacles in their research, whether due to the
exhaustion (or complete absence) of financial resources,
or a lack of existing research upon which to draw, or
even because a rival with considerably greater influence
chooses an entirely different approach.
“You son of frivolity! I must first identify a
concept before I can try to understand it. Only
then can I think of a way to fight such evil.
Your rash actions will bring trouble upon all
our heads. Don’t draw your axe, Arbosh, that’s
a demon!”
—Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage
193
 The great Magician’s Guild dissolved after the disastrous
War of Wizards in 595 FB, leading to the creation of
the three guilds that exist today: the Order of the White
Pentagram, an association of law-abiding and god-fearing
wizards; the Great Gray Guild of the Mind, a guild for
mages who are tolerant of other views and have a thirst
for knowledge; and the Brotherhood of the Knowing, also
called the Black Guild, an association of freethinking and
sometimes unscrupulous mages.
Many educated mages do not belong to one of these guilds,
but despite its costs and restrictions, membership in a guild
grants very special advantages. Guild mages live under
Argelion’s Law (a special legal code named for a Hesinden
saint who tried to protect society from the misuse of
magic), which states that guild mages must wear approved
clothing or display the magically tattooed seal of their
academy or their teacher, so as to be easily recognizable
as mages.
Argelion’s Law also states (at least on paper) that guild
mages are protected from secular law and may be punished
only by their own guild. They are the only magically gifted
who enjoy such protection, even though this right is often
contested by Churches and the nobility. And while witches
and other spellcasters should not fear being burned at
the stake from every stray suspicion of wrongdoing, it is
unfortunately true that trials are not always conducted in
a fair manner.
194 Chapter 8: Magic and Sorcery
Witches, often called Daughters of Satuaria even though
their numbers include the occasional man (called a sorcerer
or warlock) among their ranks, are quite prevalent in
Aventuria and organize themselves in different sisterhoods
or circles. They share a strong connection to the earth, and
their magic is based on the free expression of feelings.
“Fiddlesticks! My gut tells me that this kind
of magic is completely rotten. I don’t have
to understand it, I want to feel it. My curses
are most effective when my blood boils!”
—Rowena, Bornlandish cat witch
Most witches work in secret because they do not enjoy
the same legal protections as guild mages. Witches still
meet in secret in many regions of Aventuria, although
mainly out of a sense of tradition and caution rather than
genuine need. The various sisterhoods are comprised of
witches who share a common or similar type of familiar, or
those who were chosen by their familiar. The best known
among these groups are the Daughters of the Earth (toads),
the Beauties of the Night (cats), the Sisterhood of Knowledge
(serpents), the Seers of Today and Tomorrow (ravens), and
the Secretive Sisterhood (owls). Other sisterhoods, those
which have monkeys or even spiders as their familiars, are
far less numerous.
Witches meet once a year at secret places for witches’
dances to worship their goddess Satuaria. There they work
together to prepare the flying ointment with which they
are able to fly on their brooms, barrels, fences, or similar
items.
Some village healers or midwives are in reality witches
who use their abilities for the good of their neighbors.
Nevertheless, Blessed Ones of the Twelve, most notably
those of Praios, still bear many prejudices against witches
and tell tales of hate-filled curses and sinister black
magic. The Daughters of Satuaria are often blamed for
supernatural-seeming tragedies, and angry villagers do not
always hand suspects over to the local legal authorities…
Even so, state-sponsored witch hunts are a thing of the
past, and in some areas (Arania in particular), witches are
even held in higher regard than mages.
 Dwarves very rarely possess the gift of magic but they
possess a magical Tradition that is very closely-related
to that of the druids, namely, the geodes. Practitioners
lead a hermit’s life in the wilderness surrounded by
nature, to which they feel a particularly strong
connection. Geodes serve as priests for their
own people but seldom receive much respect,
because dwarves commonly believe that
Angrosh’s world mechanism has no need of
magic. Therefore, geodes are almost always encountered
far from dwarven delvings.

The magically adept among lizardfolk typically practice

so-called crystallomancy, a special form of magic based
on the properties of gems, although certain individuals’
spellcasting resembles that of witches or druids or even
has strong animistic traits.

A number of cultures have followed the voices of spirits

for centuries. Animists serve as mediators between the
powerful beings that inhabit the Spheres, and can call upon
natural or ancestral spirits and even let them possess their
bodies. The Fjarnings bring forth magical mastersmiths
“You simply have no idea! This is precisely the reason that can bind the power of spirits into weapons; the animal
why we avoid most people. We seek to reawaken Sumu, warriors of Gjalskland call upon their Odûn, animal spirits
so the Primeval Mother can save us one day. For this that grant them strength. The orcish horned warriors and
endeavor we must heal the ulcers wrought by the Defiler the Wolf Children of the Nivese also call upon such powers.
of Spheres upon the body of Sumu.” The worldview of most animists is most closely connected
—Xindra of Sumu’s Cottage, Arch Druid of Tobrien to that of shamans, even though they draw their power
from a karmic source. Animism is particularly widespread
among the Forest Folk tribes of the Far South.
The mysterious druids view themselves as the chosen
saviors of Sumu. They protect Creation and defend Nature,
often against their fellow human beings. Therefore, they
are not regarded as the wise men of the forest, but instead
as the quintessential fairytale villains in quite a few stories.
They live on that which Nature provides. Druids frown
upon the smelting of metals and therefore use daggers
fashioned from flint or obsidian in their rituals, and they
cast spells that focus on the forces of nature and the
elements. But even these reclusive spellcasters, who often
live in the remote wilderness, follow different schools of
thought. The archetypical druids are the Grove Druids, who
usually live far from civilization in harmony with nature
and are considered its protectors; the Guardians of Power,
who also live remotely but usually guard special locations
such as a long-forgotten cult site, a temple of an ancient
god of nature, a nodix of strong magical ley lines, or an
ancient barrow or stone circle; and the Augmenters of Power
who live secretly in cities in order to study the human
mind and thereby accumulate knowledge and power.

195
“Sycophants of gods, flatterers of demons.
They are all repugnant. We must rise above
them, and magic is our way!”
—Azaril Crimsonweed, High Prophetess
of the Church of Borbarad
Borbaradians believe that every human can be a mage if
in possession of the required willpower. They cast magic
with their own life force or by means of blood magic and
tolerate subjugation by neither gods nor demons.
Demon worshipers have succumbed to the temptations
of demons and sold their souls to the Netherhells in order
to obtain tangible magical power. It is rumored that
ancient wizards such as Balphemor of Punin achieved
immortality via such pacts. But even ordinary people are
said to have obtained the most terrifying abilities after
signing a Netherhellish contract and agreeing to spread
the influence of demons in the world.
The Dark Eye
“I don’t care what wizards call these powerful artifacts, whether
Optoliths as the Bosparans said, Al’Satafri like the ancient
Tulamydes called it, or even Arcanoscopes. Every soul touched by
Mada’s power desires a Dark Eye. Far too many magically gifted
people have vainly sold their souls to create one, and too many
others lost theirs in the search for one.
All of the initiated have heard the legends of the first Dark Eye, also
known as the Primoptolith or Eye of Pyrdacor. The Golden Dragon
himself was said to be its master. According to legend it showed its
owner events from past and present in every imaginable place in
the world. Who has not dreamed of owning something like that?
No one knows where the Primoptolith is today, for it has been lost
for millennia. None can find it, and none have been able to create
its equal.
It is said that a Dark Eye is made from the heart of a fallen star and
that no spell and no army of the world can move one. They must
remain where their essence was imbued, and I mean that literally.
Whether they fell from the sky, came from the deepest Endurium
mines, were made from the eyes of an Ancient Dragon, or (in very
rare cases) are movable, one thing is certain: all Dark Eyes are
deep black, roughly spherical shapes that vary only by size. Most
are about the size of a child’s head, but both smaller and larger
specimens are known. I am afraid that almost all Dark Eyes share
the trait of unpredictability, as if they each possess a will of their
own. Anyone beholding an Eye must first make it subject to their
will. The Dark Eye then chooses which view of the past to display,
as if it had a mind of its own. Sometimes I wonder if Niobara was
right when she postulated that the ultimate magical power is the
196 Chapter 8: Magic and Sorcery
Magical Artifacts
A Dark Eye ( page 238) is certainly one of the
most powerful artifacts in Aventuria. To create one is
considered the epitome of the magical craft, and to own
one brings the promise of immense power, as it allows one
to remain unseen while gazing at any conceivable place at
any desired time. No known artifact can show the future,
yet some claim that a lizardman sorcerer’s Dark Eye that
grants time travel lies lost somewhere beneath the sands
of the Khôm Desert. The infamous Star of Elem is said to
have been an incredibly powerful Dark Eye that allowed
people to peer into far-away fairy realms.
No one has successfully created a Dark Eye for many years
and there are probably few human spellcasters alive today
who would even be able to do so.
simultaneous control of time and space. I have not yet figured out
how to do so, unfortunately…
Dark Eyes rarely show exactly what the beholder expects. Whether
revealing a live view of a distant location or a frozen moment in
time, most of these artifacts are uncontrollable and can only be
used when certain constellations are ascendant, or even for just
one day a month.
Some Dark Eyes had names that have been passed down through
the centuries, even though their fate sometimes remains unknown.
One such orb is the Eye of the Morning, which obeys the will of the
Empress and lends its name to the Secret Order of the Eye. This
particular Dark Eye is portable, but it has rarely been moved from
the Empress’ pretty palace, if memory serves. Then there is the Eye
of the Ogre used by the court wizard Galotta, who unfortunately fell
into disgrace, and the Eye of the Wise, which was associated with
Rohal the Wise. Both are said to be unusable today. The Obsidian
Sphere of Khunchom and Rohezal’s Cloudview are, and have been,
far more reliable. I cannot claim the same of my first attempt to
produce such an artifact, so long ago… Scholars have named my
creation the Eye of Satinav, or so I’ve heard. Currently I suspect
the only three Eyes still in use in Aventuria (besides the Eye of the
Morning, that is) belong to good old Tubalkain, Hasrabal of Goria,
and myself. The rest probably rot in dragons’ hoards, ancient
tombs, and moldy treasure chests… except, there are rumors…
Well, enough of that. Let me show you how to use this good old
thing here.”
—Nahema ai Tamerlein, the Gray Raven, to her student,
1032 FB ( page 238)
Crimson Eyes are even rarer than Dark Eyes, and very
little is known about them. It is said they can track magical
people and objects. During the Horasian war of succession,
someone nearly razed an entire city to rubble in order to
gain possession of a Crimson Eye known as the Sphere of
Mada.
Significantly more common are the Ivory Eyes, which can
store images, sounds, or scents, and are especially popular
among wealthy Tulamydes for entertainment purposes.
The wizards of the Dragon’s Egg Academy in Khunchom
are said to be masters in their creation.
Immediately following Dark Eyes on the list of most
desired artifacts are the Cauldrons of Primal Forces, the
creation of which is attributed to particularly powerful
users of magic. Some claim the cauldrons may even be of
divine origin. Thirteen such cauldrons are thought to exist.
According to legend, harpies and other such chimerae
were created in them. It is said that the high elf Pardona is
in possession of one such artifact, from which she brought
forth the night elves. Nobody knows what happened to the
other Cauldrons of Primal Forces.
Mages, witches, and any other magically gifted people with
the appropriate skills can craft such artifacts themselves.
Spells like Applicatus or Arcanovi allow casters to bind a
great variety of spells into a large number of materials.
Since spell triggers are set by the enchanter, many magical
portals require an audibly spoken password, and many
magic rings need only be placed on a finger and rotated to
activate their stored spells.
The failed creation attempts for certain artifacts led to
those items being inhabited by a demon, an annoying minor
spirit, or even an errant soul. Such items tend to have a will
of their own. In one case, a powerful magic sword could not
be drawn from its sheath until its bearer promised to spill
sufficient blood. In another instance, an assassin’s weapon
produced colorful and highly visible sparks whenever it
was drawn. There have also been stories of boots with soft
soles that, once wet, made exaggeratedly loud splashing
noises while the wearer was attempting to sneak around.
The following are examples of magical artifacts. For further
examples, see the Core Rules, starting on page 269.

Several mysterious artifacts were made in the past, and it is

uncertain whether their creation could even be attempted
today. Particularly notorious are the Dark Portals which
are said to have once connected all the academies of the
great guilds of mages. It is believed that some of these
portals through Limbo still exist and that the brave who
dare to venture through them can travel long distances
with almost no passage of time. The so-called World Gates
lead to distant continents and even into strange Spheres.
The Durthanish Spheres, complicated aetherlabe devices,
are said to aid travel in the billowing gray of Limbo by
providing a reliable form of orientation.

Certain significantly less powerful artifacts are far more

numerous and sometimes found in the bazaars and
markets of Aventuria, at least in the fairytales of any
good storyteller. These items include flying carpets from
the Lands of the Tulamydes (which, according to legend,
incorporate genuine air elementals), high elven cloaks of
invisibility fashioned from white snake leather or metal-
imbued cotton which make their wearers invisible, and
magical swords that cry out when they strike an innocent
person.

Less legendary artifacts also enter into the stories of

Aventuria: magical feathers that improve accuracy when
used as fletching on arrows, magic keys that can open any
lock, and magic lamps that contain subservient, bound
djinn. All appear as often in Tulamydian tales as does the
legend of the amulet of truth in Praios’ Day school.

197
 The Eye of the Morning
Description: The Dark Eye known as the Eye of the
Morning is about the size of a child’s head and possesses
a rich black color. Since the time of the Peace Emperors,
this artifact has been held by the Middenrealm. It is one
of the few portable Dark Eyes known. The empire’s secret
circle of advisors, the Order of the Eye, makes use of it at
court to supply Empress Rohaja with timely information
and advice.
Effect: About once a month, in the presence of the proper
constellation, the Eye of the Morning allows the user to
view a distant event, person, or place. It usually reveals
images from the present, but sometimes shows events
from the past and on very rare occasions has sometimes
revealed images of future events. Also on rare occasions,
it sometimes shows only whirling gray ether or the distant
flash of lightning. The Eye of the Morning is activated
by either the secret Seal of the Realm or by speaking the
pass phrase, which is known only to the highest ranking
members of the Order and the Imperial family.
AE Cost: Unknown
Price: Priceless
Djinn Lamp
Description: a fire djinni is bound to this somewhat
old and worn bronze lamp despite having outlived its
summoner by centuries or perhaps even millennia. Once
each month he can leave the lamp for an hour, provided
someone polishes the lamp anew. This prison has made
its occupant, who calls himself Flazdran ibn Flandon, even
more capricious than is generally said of these beings
of fire. Thus he may fulfill the wish of his liberator,
converse excitedly, or set everything in the immediate
vicinity on fire.
Effect: Once per month the artifact may be activated for an
hour, which frees the djinni inside to act during that time.
The trigger is the act of polishing the lamp.
AE Cost: Unknown
Price: 4,444 silverthalers
Belt of Strength
Description: This wide leather belt has a buckle of
exquisite ugliness that depicts the face of an angry ogre.
Effect: By simultaneously pressing the eyes of the ogre
face, the wearer gains enormous powers. The belt serves as
a storage artifact containing 3 Attributo (Strength) spells (SR
12). See sidebar for an explanation of its effects.
AE Cost: 48 AE, 5 additional permanent AE
Price: 1,200 silverthalers
198 Chapter 8: Magic and Sorcery
The Effect of the Belt of Strength in Detail
The wearer of the Belt of Strength receives different
bonuses depending on QL. Bonuses are cumulative,
meaning at QL 3, the wearer gains a total +2 STR and
+1 TOU. Also, for every QL, the duration of the effect
lasts 10 minutes.
1 QL: +1 STR
2 QL: +1 TOU
3 QL: +1 STR
4 QL: +1 TOU
Petrifaction Brooch
Description: This gilt brooch, into which an agate is set, is
worn for personal protection. It is particularly useful when
the wearer expects a lethal blow in battle or a fall from a
great height and wishes to survive. The petrifaction effect
is so strong that the body becomes indestructible for the
duration of the spell. While petrified, the user receives the
state immobilized, but the user’s clothes and equipment are
not affected by the magic of the brooch.
Effect: Magical storage with 1 Paralysis (SR 12). The trigger
involves laying a hand upon the brooch and speaking the
word Yeti.
AE Cost: 24 AE, 2 additional permanent AE
Price: 850 silverthalers
The effects of certain artifacts, such as the
Petrifaction Brooch, vary from the effects of
ordinary spells. This was intended by the artifacts’
enchanters, who possessed arcane special abilities
that allowed them to alter spells and improve upon
their effects. For more about these new special
abilities, see our upcoming volume on magic in
Aventuria.
Boots of Sprinting
Description: These lightweight boots fashioned from
green leather are embossed with complex patterns of
leaves and flowers. By clicking the heels together, the
wearer gains supernatural speed.
Effect: Self-charging artifact with Axxeleratus (SR 9, 15 CR);
can be activated once per week; trigger involves clicking
the heels together.
AE Cost: 96 AE, 10 additional permanent AE
Price: 2,200 silverthalers
Syronius’ Protective Blade
Description: This long sword, decorated with arcane
gravures, functions as a magic weapon and also protects its
wearer from harm.
Effect: The sword is enchanted with Spellblade and serves
as a magic weapon for the next 60 years. In addition, it is
a self-charging artifact with Armatrutz (SR 12, PRO 2 for 12
minutes). It can be activated weekly. The Armatrutz trigger
involves speaking the key words Syronius’ armor.
Costs: 196 AE, 20 additional permanent AE
Price: 4,360 silverthaler
Teleportation Ring
Description: A small, night-black onyx is set in this gold
ring. The inner surface of the ring bears the engraving,
“Fear the three guardians.” When the ring is rotated on
the finger, the wearer teleports through Limbo to the
backyard of the Hotel Elmstaff in the city of Gareth (unless
the wearer is more than 15 miles away from the hotel, in
which case the spell fails).
Effect: Magic storage with 2 Transversalis (each SR 15); the
trigger involves rotating the ring.
AE Cost: 62 AE, 6 additional permanent AE
Price: 2,150 silverthalers
Magical Beings
“No, I am not crazy to stay close to shore. The Lady Pandlaril may
be with me, but I still fear Nûranar, Lord of Lampreys, and his
host. Besides, the fire mountain glows in the middle of the lake. I
will definitely not get too close to that!”
—a fisher from Nine Eye Lake, 1036 FB
Aventuria is inhabited by a large variety of magical beings
which sometimes interfere in the daily lives of the other
inhabitants of the continent. For example, minor spirits
such as small elemental spirits often manifest when two
elements clash with each other. Sometimes they appear
in forges where fire, ore, and air combine, or they cavort
merrily on the wheel of a water mill where vortices form
in the river.
Some of these beings are restless souls that are trapped
on battlefields and hope to enter the Realm of the Dead
and find their peace. While some cultures worship the
many spirits that dwell in this world, these hauntings and
nightmares are considered unnatural and reprehensible to
worshippers of the Twelvegods.
Many free elemental spirits makes their homes in ancient
forests or the sparkling spray of the sea. Some of these
spirits are particularly famous and hold peoples’ lives in
their hands. The Father of Tides, a powerful king of the
fairies and one of the oldest of his kind, is mentioned in
many legends and customs of those who live along the
Great River. Pandlaril, the Lady of River and Lake, is also
a fairy and is said to live in Nine Eye Lake. The people of
Weiden revere her in an almost superstitious manner and
she is almost accorded the rank of a goddess.
There are many other beings besides fairy rulers. Dryads
inhabit trees, sylphs live in lakes and brooks, and will o’
wisps float along in marshes and swamps, luring careless
wanderers to their doom. People know of ghosts and
fairies, but less is known about kobolds, which are always
involved in mischief. They are known to occasionally
kidnap children (preferably redheaded ones) or swap them
with kobold children, to raise them up like kobolds. These
so-called changelings often become pranksters whose
character is influenced by their kobold foster parents and
marked by bittersweet mockery and their own strange
understanding of the world.
Humans worship or fear quite a few of these magical
beings, about which many adventurous and fantastic
stories are told. Children love stories about unicorns
that roam the forests and save whole hamlets from great
distress with the purity of their hearts. The fact that every
unicorn described in these tales is male leads to discussions
among interested guild mages who ponder the origins of
these proud animals and debate whether they might really
be another creature or spirit in disguise. However, the
rural population cherishes the protection that a unicorn
provides to their region and rarely asks such questions.
Dragons view themselves as the paragon of Creation since
they were (and probably still are) among the mightiest
beings of this world. Not every type of dragon does this
tremendous heritage honor, but a giant lindworm or an
emperor dragon is quite able to incinerate entire cities and
destroy large armies. Their relatives on the lower rungs,
be it cave or tree dragons, are, fortunately for most people,
less dangerous. Unfortunately, however, they multiply
very quickly and brave heroes are frequently called upon
to stop their depredations and drive them off.
On a more somber note, many regions have legends about
vampires, and even plagues of them, as occurred a few
years ago in Weiden. Werewolves are said to roam freely
199
 and even participate openly in public life as nobles in the
Transysilian Shadowlands. Ghouls are widely regarded
Magic in Daily Life
as a curse of the battlefield. They feed on the flesh of the
“And then… then we had to flee from these wretched swampreeks.
dead, and certainly do not refuse the flesh of the wounded.
They were simply too numerous, and they were determined to
Blessed Ones of the Church of Boron constantly seek them
kill us! Nasty things, with their red eyes and sharp teeth. I told
out and destroy them.
Dappert to be careful near the morningthorn since the sun had
almost set behind the hill. But he did not listen to me. Instead
Many of these creatures have been touched by the magic
of taking the safe path through the moor, he made his own path
that is innate to the world and are commonly regarded
through the hedges… I heard his screams as the thorns tore
as a natural part of the world, whether they be kobolds,
through his clothes. Now there will be one more swampreek. Why,
treants, or minotaurs. Magically-gifted individuals, in
gods, why?”
their quest for power or even just the pursuit of science,
—a peat cutter, Bornland, 1038 FB
have tried many times to create hybrids of these creatures
and give them life. The crazed harpies, beasts that are
Magic is common in much of Aventuria, and except for the
half-woman and half-bird, are certainly the best known.
daily tribal life of the elves or the day’s work in a mage’s
Experiments in chimerology have also produced the
academy, few Aventurians recognize it when they see it, as
colorful Ikanaria butteflies, which rob careless people of
many magical beings and phenomena are considered part
their minds with their dazzling colors and pose an extreme
of the natural world. In Albernia, for instance, the sigh
hazard, especially for spellcasters. Legends tell of the
of a small flower fairy in the forest is fantastic, certainly,
hybrid creature known as the manticore, a lion with a
but it is also common, an encounter which a local would
human face and a giant, deadly scorpion’s tail. Daimonides
rarely consider worth mentioning. A traveling Tulamyde,
are an amalgamation of living being and demon created by
on the other hand, would probably tell her grandchildren
the unfathomable forces of the Netherhells.
impressive stories of the “countless small, djinn-like
creatures” she met in the Bornwood.
By far, the most dangerous of all magical beings are those
creatures which directly arise from the Seventh Sphere
Many villages and do not have a village witch and have
and thus from Chaos: demons. Their number is said to
never even seen a traveling wizard. The works of gods
be infinite, and Aventuria has had to deal with far too
are also not widespread. The Blessed Ones of Peraine
many creatures from the Netherhells in the wake of the
journey to many villages only during times of sowing and
Borbaradian Invasion. Creatures such as the sabretooth-
harvesting, and even Birth Blessings must be administered
like Zantim whose sole purpose seems to be to shred and
by a traveling priest in many instances. A human bowyer
maim its enemies; the invisible Gotongi, which are often
might look upon an elven competitor and her magic with
used as spies; or the many-horned Arkhobal, which can
suspicion in a big city, and people might avoid guild mages
blight entire regions. The most dangerous aspect about
altogether on the streets, or greet them in an especially
these creatures is that they are immune to most normal
friendly way, just to be safe. Only people with good
weapons and can only be defeated via magic or the blessing
contacts, a lot of coin, or both commonly possess magical
of the gods (and even then, heroes must possess a goodly
artifacts outside of the Lands of the Tulamydes.
amount of courage to stand in the path of such a creature).
In The Dark Eye, the heroes are the exception to the rule, as
they encounter magic on an almost daily basis.

This may be because a member of the adventuring party is

a mage, or because the group helps desperate villagers deal
with a pack of daimonides or a haunt of ghosts, or because
they set out to save the count’s child from a dragon. Behind
every fork in the path, the next adventure awaits, and such
adventures naturally involve fantastic events.

200 Chapter 8: Magic and Sorcery

 The individual Aventurian regions have varying
degrees of magical influence. If your gaming group
prefers a less magical world, choose to play in a region
with few wizards and magical phenomena. If, on the
other hand, your players cannot get enough of magic
in your games, then make magic more commonplace
in your version of Aventuria, introduce more magical
beings into your game, or have your heroes encounter
spellcasters on a more regular basis. You could even
treat magic in a more scientific way, or as even more
mystical. It is your campaign, after all. Do not hesitate
to adjust the level of magic to suit your party’s tastes.

The GM should use the magic, magical phenomena, magical

beings, and other fantastic elements of Dere and Aventuria
to show how the setting differs from the real world. Players
and their heroes should feel invited to discuss, theorize,
and weave legends around such phenomena, especially
if guild mages are involved (their presence always lends
itself to the development of hypotheses, but an elf might
also draw from family legends and songs to understand
why the sight of demonically twisted trees causes her such
great discomfort).

Regardless of the amount of research performed, magic

should remain something unexpected, maybe even
something incomprehensible. It should always hold some
surprises and mysteries even for experienced spellcasters.
Sometimes, things may not be understood immediately
(or beyond the fundamental level). It goes without saying
that the games needs magic rules and numerical values
to give meaning to rituals and spells such as Paralysis and
Ignifaxius at the table. However, on the world of Dere, magic
is beyond all such fixed formulas. It is a decisive power
that exists alongside the power of the gods. Aventurian
scholars may think they have something figured out, but
they do not always find explanations that correspond to
the truth.

201
202 Chapter 8: Magic and Sorcery
 Chapter 9:
Fame and Infamy
“What would Aventuria be without those names that accompany
us on an almost daily basis? Where would the world be without
those who shaped it through the will of the good and indivisible
gods? Could Aventuria even exist if legendary heroes of the
past, such as Lamea or Gylduria, had not landed on its western
coast? Would we have law and order if good Emperor Raul had
not overthrown the corrupt Witch-Empress Hela during the fall
of Bosparan? Would we have learned so much from the elves if
Emperor Murak had not met the elven queen Amarandel Sundew
in Trallop? Would people still live in fear of magic if Rohal, the
Protector of the Realm, had not adopted so many useful laws?
And, most unthinkable of all, what would we believe if good
Emperor Silem-Horas had not adopted the Twelvegods Edict
under the guidance of the wise prophetess Illumnestra?

But there is always a flip side to every coin. Nandus did not put
a head on your shoulders just to prevent the rain from running
down your throat! You are supposed to use your head to learn
from past mistakes. No one should treat with demons. The
desperate Emperor Fran the Bloody learned this lesson too late,
and Borbarad, the Defiler of Spheres, ignored it to his peril. We
must oppose any who wish to open the floodgates and allow chaos
into our world. We must look beyond the veil of legends and
recognize our fear when we whisper names such as Pyrdacor or
Pardona, for even though they are long gone, the horrors they
brought into the world still affect us to this very day.

But let us not part on such a somber note. Think back to the good
Emperor Haal, who systematically refashioned the realm and
made it secure. Praise his son, Brin, who gave his life fighting
orcs and demon worshippers. Venerate his daughter, the good
Empress Rohaja, who drove the last servants of the Shadow into
the eastern sea, allowing us to live free under the blessing of the
gods and pursue our day’s work.”
—overheard in a Nandus school in Gareth, 1040 FB

203
 In addition to your heroes, many important characters,
both past and present, shape the fate of Aventuria, and
their names are either proclaimed in awe or cursed in
disgust. This section introduces a few of the individuals
who have greatly influenced present-day Aventuria.
There are two different types of NPCs. Those such as the
Empress Rohaja, the sorceress Nahema, or Bibernell, the
Sword of Swords, propel the fate of the world forward as
rulers, mighty wizards, or influential Blessed Ones. Far
more frequently, though, the heroes encounter ordinary
NPCs who send them on missions, serve as local sources
of knowledge, or meet them as enemies on the battlefield.
And who knows, perhaps the guild mage from your party
becomes a wise archmage from whom younger heroes
seek advice. Or maybe your heroes are granted a barony
in Weiden, after they help push the orcs back into the Fog
Moors. One of your heroines might even rise through the
ranks of the Church of Rondra to guide the path of the
entire congregation.
The NPCs in this chapter play important roles in the
Aventurian setting and are considered kings and knights
(see The Garadan System, below).
The entry for each NPC includes a personal quote
and a description that does not reveal any secrets,
so this information can be read by GM and players
alike. Many of these NPCs are famous (or infamous),
so it is not unusual for a hero from the South to
know something about Empress Rohaja. Each entry
also includes two opposing views that show how
the common people perceive this person. One is
mainly positive (+), the other rather negative (-).
GM-only information starts on page 231.
The Garadan System
Every publication for The Dark Eye divides NPCs into three
or four different categories, depending on their importance
to the official living campaign of Aventuria. To distinguish
between the categories, we use symbols depicting the
playing pieces used in garadan, an Aventurian game of
strategy that is equivalent to our chess. This Garadan
System allows you to easily assess what your heroes can
change in the game while adhering as closely as possible to
the official history of Aventuria.
204 Chapter 9: Fame and Infamy
King: Kings are essential to Aventuria’s ongoing,
living history. They are either a key part of a story
or they put into motion events that advance the
Aventurian setting or the plot of an adventure.
Since these characters are so important, their
fate is largely set in stone, although heroes
might influence that fate. Any deviation to
the narrative—be it the premature death of a
villain at the hand of a hero, or the replacement
of an NPC—is possible in principle but leads
to conflicts with other publications. Empress
Rohaja, who has decisively influenced the
fortunes of the Middenrealm, is one example
of a king in this system.
Knight: Knights are important officials in
Aventuria and appear in future publications
if their death or fate is not explicitly placed
into the hands of your players. Knights can
usually be replaced by other NPCs without
much worry, as long as replacement fill
the same function in the game world, such
as guiding mentors, main antagonists,
or cavalry coming to the heroes’ rescue.
Recurring villains or high-ranking officers
in the military are often considered knights.
Pawn: Pawns play a fixed role in an adventure
module but have no further role in the living
history. They can easily be replaced by other
characters without conflicting with official
Aventuria. The owner of a tavern, a quest
giver, or the villain of an adventure could all
be considered pawns as long as their roles are
not critical beyond that adventure module.
Rook: Rooks are a special case and occur
only in campaigns. Within a campaign, a
character marked as a rook plays a defined
role and is an important official. This
character appears in several publications
of that campaign but plays no further role
in the official history. Within a campaign,
a rook corresponds in importance to a
knight, though the character itself is as
interchangeable as a pawn. A recurring
quest giver within the larger plot of a
campaign is an example of a rook.
 Rohaja of Gareth
Empress of the Middenrealm
“Finally, we defeated the Heptarchs! Now, we must rebuild the
Realm. I do not consider even myself above this task. We take our
gods-given duty seriously, and now we must fulfill it. What would
you have us do, Master Baron?”
Rohaja is the young Empress of the Middenrealm. She is a
heroine who actively tackles issues and rallies upstanding
champions who follow her every command. Her battle
experience makes her a prudent ruler, and she travels with
her Imperial Court from palace to palace to address the
worries and needs of her subjects and dispense justice.
She married the love of her youth, Rondrigan Paligan, who
loyally serves her in the capital as Grand Privy Councilor
of the Realm. They have no children, much to the dismay
of the people and of utmost concern to the nobility. Some
even whisper that the Empress is cursed and, therefore,
cannot give birth to an heir. Many now put their hopes of an
heir in Rohaja’s twin sister, Yppolita, who is actually older
than Rohaja by a few minutes but who was not permitted
to ascend to the throne because she is a guild mage.
Voice of the People
+ “Rohaja is a heroine, a good Empress. I don’t want to hear one
bad word spoken about her. My farm would not be standing if
she had not freed the Realm and saved us all at the Battle of
Mendena!”
− “Heroine Empress? Hah! She shouldn’t be Empress. The idea
of a traveling Imperial Court makes it seem as though she is
running away. She ran from her responsibility and effectively
disenfranchised the nobility. Thank the gods the provincial rulers
are defying her. How many heirs to the throne do you see around
here? None, right? You know what I’m talking about.”
Khadan Varsinian Firdayon
Horas of the Horasian Empire
“What? Yes, we are well aware of the problem. But we need
to proceed with caution, as experience has shown this is not
something we should take lightly. We don’t want to repeat past
mistakes. So, no troops! Send spies and scribes who can bring us
more information before we come to a decision in this matter.”
The young Emperor of the Horasian Empire is the son of the
Magister of Magisters, Aldare Firdayon, and the Emperor
Dragon, Shafir the Magnificent. All parties recognize
him as the true champion of the Horasian Empire’s War
of Succession, though many remain uncertain as to how
being the son of a dragon will affect him.
Even after he ascended to the throne in 1040 FB, he is still
rarely seen in public. Instead, the Horas often withdraws
to his gigantic private library and spends entire days
pondering his role as ruler. Unquestionably, Khadan is one
of the most educated people in Aventuria. His calculating
nature and imperturbable calm, with which he tackles
every problem, make him seem eccentric, even to his
advisors.
Voice of the People
+ “The Horas does things right. He lets the nobility do as they
please, but he does not ignore the concerns of the middle class.
A ruler who has little need to intervene in the fortunes of his
realm certainly has the best advisers and knows exactly what he
is doing.”
− “He has completely withdrawn to the Sangreal Palace and almost
never appears in public. What sort of Horas is that? The people do
not need a ruler who hides behind closed doors. They must see
their ruler to love him. Khadan thinks he is above tradition!”
205
 Bibernell of Hengisford
Sword of Swords
“Thunderstorms are a powerful gift from the goddess that let us
feel her presence. Through them, she reveals the knowledge we
need to fulfill her will. We are the shield of the faithful; we shall be
as unstoppable as thunder and lightning.”
With her dying breath, Ayla of Shadowground appointed
Bibernell to be the new Sword of Swords, leader of the
Covenant of the Sword (Rondra’s Church). She is a rather
shy mystic who has spent many years interpreting
Rondranian texts written in Ancient Tulamidya.
Initially, Bibernell had few allies in the Church, which
was heavily shaped by the Middenrealm. Now, she relies
completely upon good friends who understand how her
gentle words can guide Rondra’s Church to new glory.
While she strives to understand the reasons behind events
and to illuminate every conceivable angle, she is not
opposed to using unconventional methods to achieve her
goals—as long as they further Rondra’s will.
Voice of the People
+“She will lead the Church of the Queen of Thunder to new glory;
nowhere else is Rondra worshipped in such an elegant and
uncompromising matter as in the Lands of the Tulamydes.”
− “All this mystic gobbledygook she performs will be our downfall!
I hope the Church won’t use this nonsense to defend itself from
hostile Kor worshippers. She can be as eloquent as she likes, but
what ultimately counts is the sword.”
206 Chapter 9: Fame and Infamy
Aikar Brazoragh
Chosen of the Orc Tribes
“We do not need to conquer the entire world. We must simply
open a gateway for Brazoragh, the sun bull, into this world. Then
our rule of the world will come about on its own. For who will dare
to stand against us? Not the humans, as I will have defeated the
last of our enemies before then. Their skulls will be put on stakes
in front of Khezzara, for the glory of Tairach alone. Tairach’s
moon and wisdom will guide us.”
Aikar Brazoragh is the long-awaited chosen one whose
dark charisma has united all of the orc tribes under
one banner. Born Ashim Riak Assai, this natural leader
managed to accomplish what all of his predecessors, even
Nargazz Bloodfist, could not. He has survived numerous
assassination attempts, and his military campaigns have
led to the recovery of many sacred orc artifacts. He is
undefeated in battle, and humans consider him a brutal
and cunning opponent.
His plans are exceptionally far-reaching for an orc, and
not even the wisest human minds are able to deduce them.
The construction of a gigantic, horned tower, which Aikar
expedites with unrelenting determination, is of great
concern to his human foes ( page 241).
Voice of the People
+“He is Aikar Brazoragh, the Uniter of Tribes! Not even the
strongest of us could challenge him. He will lead us into battle
against the smooth skins and we shall be victorious!”
− “The Scourge of the North. He invaded the Realm and escaped,
but how can this be? An orc who dares to defy Rondra? No, our
next crusade must be against Khezzara. We must crush this Aikar
once and for all.”
 Albrax son of Agam
High King of the Dwarves
“Father Angrosh has willed it. You are invited to implement his
will.”
These two dwarven brothers hail from the Forge Mountains,
specifically the Mountain Kingdom of Forestwatch, and
two dwarves could not less alike.
Arombolosh, the eldest, is considered a masterful
weaponsmith, the best among all dwarves. He is the
high priest of the forge dwarves, who call him Angrosh’s
Champion. As the highest ranking judge, he is known for
his harsh but fair judgements.
His brother, Albrax, is an experienced warrior who led the
dwarven mercenaries, Kor’s Fellows, for many years. When
Abromolosh son of Agam
Angrosh’s Champion
Borbarad returned to the world, Albrax was chosen as the
High King of all dwarven clans, the Angorak Rogmarok,
in order to lead the dwarves into the new Heroic Age. He
enjoys great respect among the four dwarven clans because
he calimed the soulstone of the undead dragon, Rhazzazor.
He now resides in the ancient fortress of Okdrâgosh in the
Trollpeaks.
Voice of the People
+ “Arombolosh is his father’s son. Albrax is more brash, he takes
after his mother. I say that is fine, since we need both of them in
the fight against our enemies.”
− “One is traditional and the other is obsessed. Both are equally
stubborn. Dwarves. Bah! One can neither understand nor
convince them.”
207
 Elodiron Crystalglimmer
The Huntress
“I tire of the senseless bloodshed. There should be no more fighting.
Instead, we should hunt those who instigate fighting. A longing for
the eternal frost still burns inside of me, but I know that I have
lost my tribe. Never again will I find a real home, except in my
daughter, and she has chosen the glades. At least I can still be
useful and mediate between the humans and fey.”
Elodiron is a lost wanderer in a cruel world. A glacier worm
wiped out her entire tribe, which once lived at the Blue Lake.
Full of grief, Elodiron fled south and lived among humans, as
the icy wastes reminded her too much of what she had lost.
The firnelf was lover to Halman, the Albernian prince, until
his death. Elodiron even fought in his memory during the
Middenrealm’s great military campaign against Maraskan. To
this day, her heart suffers from unquenchable homesickness.
After witnessing the horrors of that war, she gathered up her
newborn daughter and withdrew from the human world.
For more than a century, Elodiron has been the embodiment
of a wanderer between worlds, torn between the worlds of
the humans and the elves. Many nobles in the Middenrealm
value her as a mediator between cultures, since she lends
her voice to those whose concerns might seem hopeless.
Voice of the People
+ “We would not be here if she had not helped us. Although we still
don’t know what the elves really expect from us, we are grateful
that someone accepted us.”
− “There is something wrong with that one! She constantly cries for
the days of yore, when she should just accept that we humans are
now at the helm.”
208 Chapter 9: Fame and Infamy
Nahema ai Tamerlein
The Gray Raven
“You came to me for counsel? Then you are either mad or
incredibly brave, or perhaps you think that you possess something
that might interest me. Emperors, queens, and archmages
have sought my help. Allow me to be frank. Your problems are
beginning to bore me greatly.”
Even at the mere sound of her name, children’s eyes widen,
rulers tremble, and quite a few archmages turn green with
envy. No other magic user in the last four centuries figures
in as many legends as this ageless sorceress.
A common sight at the court of Emperor Haal, Nahema was
responsible for the fall of Galotta the Court Mage, who later
became a Heptarch. Later, Nahema was unimpressed by the
return of Borbarad the Demon Master. Her countless different
identities and secret retreats allow her to drift through
society seemingly at will. No one knows what she might be
planning next, though many suspect that she now meddles
with the fortunes of the powerful out of sheer boredom alone.
The countless stories about her agree only on two points:
this stunningly beautiful woman was born in the Lands of
the Tulamydes and, as Veiled Mistress, is one of the most
powerful wizards in Aventuria. Many young mages dream
of studying one of her spell formulas some day.
Voice of the People
+ “She fought against Borbarad, and who, besides the Bearers of
the Seven Signs, can claim that? She is a role model for us wizards.
If only I had a fraction of her knowledge…”
− “Nahema is only interested in Nahema. This immoral sorceress
should be put to the stake!”
 Archon Megalon
Augmenter of Power
“You don’t need to tell me anything. I studied the human mind for
years until I mastered its intricacies. You are afraid—and I alone
can take this fear from you. But it will cost you something. Give
me your blood and a strand of your hair, and you will be free.”
Archon Megalon, a former Court Druid to the Albernian
Prince, is now recognized as an author among the circle of
magical experts, since he published a treatise on fear and
its effect on the human mind.
He is an extremely ruthless druid who has little in common
with the wise folk that people normally imagine in such a
profession. He toys with people’s lives and uses them as
test subjects in his experiments without remorse. Fear and
terror are his fields of expertise. It is no wonder he appears
as a frightening figure in Albernian children’s tales.
This aged and extremely astute druid now lives under an
assumed name in Havena, pursuing his evil plans in its dark
alleys. He is always on the lookout for new test subjects for
his experiments, whether they be careless victims or those
whose courage is downright legendary. He works to break
their will, as this is the only way the acknowledged expert
in human nature can prove his scientific and magical
theories.
Voice of the People
+“Yes, what would you like to know? He cured me of my fear.
Great guy.”
− “No, I won’t speak on that matter. Not a single word! I would
rather die than learn what he would do to me if he found out I
talked.”
Pardona
The Fallen High Elf
“Perish, unworthy one. I may no longer rule the high elven cities
of Man-dalya and Vayavinda, but I do not tolerate disobedience.
Your bones shall serve me far better.”
Mere mention of her chills the blood of the wise. No other
name generates as much fear in as many different cultures
as does this sorceress with an elven shape. Pyrdacor the
Ancient Dragon created this bringer of disaster who is
known to the elven tribes as Bhardona (Isdira: Bringer of
Desire). To this day, elves everywhere curse her name
and hold her responsible for the fall of the high elves. So
despised is she that the firnelves of the Eternal Ice commit
their entire existence to the fight against her work.
Believed to be more than 5,000 years old, she is the creator
of countless chimeras, primarily glacier worms, harpies,
and the eponymous lampreys of Nine-Eye Lake). Rumor
has it that Pardona is the favorite servant of the Nameless
One, and as such directs all of her efforts to bringing about
the return of the fallen god.
Defeated by an alliance of dragons a few years ago, Pardona
fled to Gyldenland, where she awaits the return of her
former strength. Until then, her most heinous creations,
the night elves or shakagra, carry out her will in Aventuria’s
Far North.
Voice of the People
+ “Our Lady will return. Until then, her cities will thrive in secret.
No path will reveal their locations.”
− “The mother of night elves will fall, as will all of her abominations.
Their very existence is an insult to the world.”
209
 Ashtarra Okharim
Head of the Dragon Egg Academy
“O you curious children! I most certainly have not spent all these
years studying the magic writings of the venerable Mudramulim
in vain. Such knowledge is most precious, but I am sure we can
come to a mutually lucrative agreement.”
Ashtarra recently succeeded her father as head of the
Dragon Egg Academy in Khunchom, known across
Aventuria for its magical artifacts. Her secretary,
Cloudflight the air djinni—who has friendly ties to Khadil
Okharim—is always at her side.
The talented but shy Ashtarra was Head of Analytical
Faculty for many years and even served as legate of the
Gray Guild. Many were surprised when she, and not her
older brother, was named Archmage of the academy when
her father stepped down. Her illustrious predecessor left
big shoes to fill, but Ashtarra’s self-confidence has grown
significantly.
Because of her years spent as guild ambassador, the mage
knows the secrets of numerous academy graduates. She
primarily uses this sensitive knowledge to further her own
studies, but she certainly knows enough to defend herself
if someone becomes too bothersome.
Voice of the People
+ “Every bit as experienced as one would expected of a guild
mage. But also competent and a real help in times of need.”
− “A truly relentless negotiator, effendi. Expect nothing from her
without giving something in return! It’s her Okharim blood, I tell
you.”
210 Chapter 9: Fame and Infamy
Raxan Shadow Wing
Seer of Today and Tomorrow
“I have been expecting you. I have a task for you, something only
a hero can do. Come in, come in! I shall explain everything.”
This small woman seems unconcerned with worldly
affairs and appears slightly unkempt. In reality, she is
the influential head of the witches of the Realmwood in
Garetia. Raxan lives in a secluded hut in the forest, far from
human settlements. A masterful clairvoyant, blessed with
the gift of prophecy, she is often asked to glimpse one’s
fate or peek at the future. The only thing anyone knows for
certain is that this Daughter of Satuaria is a raven witch,
and her familiar, Horax, is far more talkative than she.
She is known outside her circle as level-headed mediator
who facilitates dialogue between the various sisterhoods
of witches and strives for unity. She can serve as a teacher
for a hopeful young witch, or provide missions in-game.
Depending on their agenda, she might also be the heroes’
antagonist, especially if they are hostile towards witches.
Voice of the People
+ “Lady Shadow Wing is on our side and all her efforts are aimed
at helping people. Even if it is not obvious at first glance.”
− “This witch does not hesitate to curse her enemies. She is
definitely up to no good, even if she can see the future!”
 Emmeran Stoerrebrandt
The Trade Magnate
“You are not sure? Well, then I suggest you go away until you are
sure. By Phex, I don’t conduct business without knowing all the
potential pitfalls.”
As heir to the Stoerrebrandt trading empire, which
relocated from Festum to Gareth a few years ago, Emmeran
is by far the richest man in Aventuria. Even though many
still refer to Emmeran’s father, Stover, when talking
about the wealth of a Stoerrebrandt, almost everything
said about the trade magnate also applies to his son. He
is a patron of crafters and the arts, he employs countless
workers in warehouses, manufactories, and cartwrights,
and he regularly gives alms to the poor and supports soup
kitchens in the capital. His reputation is everything and he
honors every agreement made before Phex.
Emmeran Stoerrebrandt is an almost merciless creditor,
and people should never underestimate his influence
over the rich and powerful. His trading empire includes a
courier service and even owns an entire island in the South
Seas. In addition, he holds shares of the Northland Bank
and maintains his own mage academy at the Stoerrebrandt
College (with branches in Riva and Wagonhold). To keep
his edge over his competitors, he often funds expeditions
to the Far North and distant Uthuria. As a result, the
trading house is always looking for brave heroes who can
offer protection to his merchants and scouts.
Voice of the People
+ “You should talk to Stoerrebrandt. He can help you out.”
− “Don’t go to Stoerrebrandt! If he gives you help, you belong to him.”
Thorn Eisinger
Smith of a Hundred Heroes
“My time is limited and precious, so tell me quickly: why do you
need a blade from my forge? Only a real hero, one who fights for
the common people, shall have a blade made by my hand. What
do you think I am? A shopkeeper? I only sell swords that are made
specifically for their bearers. Now be gone, you fool!”
Thorn Eisinger is a legend, both as a smith and as a hero
of the Battle for Gareth. He is the face of the Council of
Heroes that rules over Gareth, and it is he who forges a
new, perfect sword for Imperial Marshall Alrik of Bluefir
whenever the Marshall’s blade is broken in combat.
Master Eisinger creates such outstanding weapons that
every hero wants to own one. Even dwarven smiths praise
his name, if you can believe it! But Master Eisinger is not
easy to deal with, as his time in the Council of Heroes made
this once approachable and likeable man surly and gruff.
He left too many problems unresolved, and bowed down
to political expediency too often. However, in his forge, his
word is law. Only he decides who is worthy of one of his
blades—and proving one’s self worthy in his eyes may very
well be an adventure in itself.
Voice of the People
+ “Without Master Eisinger, the Council of Heroes would be
nothing. And without Master Eisinger, many heroes themselves
would be nothing. I am quite sure that the council is named after
him.”
− “Grumpy and complicated. What does he mean, only the truly
worthy should bear his weapons? No, he did not sell me a sword!
Why do you ask?”
211
 Arn Askrason
The Strongest Man in the World
“Swafnir watches over the brave. Every child knows that, Tjalva!
But you probably imbibed fear along with your mother’s milk.
And your father was too cowardly to go out to sea himself, huh?
Come on, show me how well you can brave the waves. Through
the bay to Prem, by Swafnir—it is on!”
Arn, who hails from the Hammerfist Ottajasko in Olport, is
the epitome of the quarrelsome Northman—he is a broad-
shouldered, muscular, hard-drinking braggart. Countless
stories circulate about his real and alleged heroic deeds,
and he boasts that he is the strongest man in the world,
partly because he does possess considerable strength, but
also due to his rather outspoken, competitive personality.
His constant need to prove he is the greatest, strongest,
and best—whether it be at swimming, tug of war, arm
wrestling, or drinking—means he constantly challenges
himself and others, as he believes true Thorwalers should.
He is usually a good sport when defeated, but sometimes
his ambition gets the better of him and he refuses to
surrender until he has proven his superiority. He typically
stays near the coast, but he has been known to venture
inland to spread his own legend.
Voice of the People
+ “Arn the Strong survived alone for three weeks on Skerdu,
and he pulled a rotten tooth from the mouth of the sea serpent
of Hylailos. I’d like to drink with him, by Swafnir’s name! Maybe
then I could become part of his legend.”
− “Nothing about him is as great as his reputation would have you
believe! He’ll make fun of you and brag that he can beat you at
anything, to make himself look better in comparison.”
212 Chapter 9: Fame and Infamy
Baba ben Ali
The Wind of the Desert
“By the eternal splendor of Rastullah’s beard! You do not need all
of these goods. They will only hinder your survival in the desert.
You want to survive, right? Just leave them here with Ali, Ali,
and Ali. You may move on unhindered—and you shall live, if the
Unfathomable has ordained it.”
Baba is more than just a simple highwayman who haunts
the border regions of the Khôm Desert and the Lands of
the Tulamydes. He supposedly leads 33 proud thieves, all
of whom obey him blindly. If rumors from the Caliphate
prove true, Baba is responsible for at least half the robberies
between Wal-el-Khômchra and the Cichanebi Salt lake in
the last five years.
Many Novadi desert dwellers believe Baba is the outcast
son of a sultan who searches for his destiny in the desert.
However, the viziers of the Caliph consider him a dangerous
revolutionary. Baba has repeatedly escaped his captors
and has the blood of at least one Emir on his conscience.
However, he supplies many tribes of the Khôm with food,
spices, and water and thus can always count on their
support. His band of thieves does not seem to maintain a
hideout; instead, Baba travels with his men from oasis to
oasis, like a real Novadi.
Voice of the People
+ “Now that’s al Caliph, I tell you what! No roof, only a canvas tent
and the desert wind… Just as Rastullah told us it would be!”
− “Are you crazy? I most certainly will not lead my caravan
anywhere near the 33 thieves. That Baba is the worst of them all. No,
I won’t risk it for any price. I have no desire to get my throat slit.”
 Vanja Nadaljeff
The Terror of the Southern Sea
“Is there anything better than the fresh sea breeze in your hair,
a clear horizon, and the planks of a fast ship beneath your feet?
No one will ever again tell us what to do. We are our own masters,
and they have what we want. On my command… Board!”
Nadaljeff, the daughter of a Bornish merchant princess
and her Mohan lover, was born in the colony of Port
Stoerrebrandt. Rumor says she sold herself into slavery to
escape her domineering mother. Many sailors tell stories
of how she started out as a rowing slave but soon became a
navigator in the Horasian navy, and from there went on to
become one of the most feared pirates in the Southern Sea.
Now a fixture among the pirates of the Charybbean,
Nadaljeff may even come to succeed the infamous pirate
king, Lolonna, after leading a mutiny and stealing one of
his ships. However, she does not care much for politics.
Instead, she promises her crew a good haul and lets them
manage their own affairs aboard her ship, the Bloodray. She
is extremely clever and acts only as ruthless as necessary to
maintain her reputation, but she avoids harming her crew.
Unless, of course, someone questions her marksmanship
with the balestrina or asks her how she lost an eye…
Voice of the People
+ “Miserable cur, aye! But Nadaljeff is not above selling your
own goods back to you afterwards. That’s what I call a sense for
business!”
− “Don’t be a hero, you understand me? That captain is a blood-
drinking maniac. She will rob you, certainly, but it is your actions
that will determine whether she also enslaves you, maims you, or
sinks the tub on which you sail.”
Deriago di Vincetta
Horasian Womanizer
“Rahja has blessed us with desire and passion, and the crafty
Phex has given us this night so that we can indulge in Rahja’s will
undisturbed and undetected. Let us honor them, my rose.”
Born a lesser noble, the charming Deriago goes by many
aliases in the alleys of Vinsalt. “Rimaldo,” “Alrigio,” or
even “Rahjacomo” are just a few of the names he has been
known to whisper in the ears of potential mistresses while
gallantly kissing their hands. He is said to have broken
countless hearts, and his notorious liaisons are a source of
constant trouble. Nevertheless, he makes every lover feel
as though she is the only girl for him.
Discretion is his highest priority, as it is the only way he
has managed to keep his head on his broad shoulders thus
far. Despite his caution and his reputation as an excellent
fencer, his notoriety attracts a long line of angry husbands
demanding to duel him. Therefore, he is constantly on
the run, or in search of a willing second, or, even better,
a champion to fight his duels for him. Fortunately, his
eloquence helps him make friends quickly and he always
has enough money to treat a new friend to a cup of wine.
Voice of the People
+ “He’s a good man. You can trust him completely. Somewhat
laidback, perhaps, but very reliable. And so handsome!”
− “No one flirts with my wife and gets away with it! What
arrogance! When I get my new sword, I’ll show him a thing
or two…”
213
214 Chapter 9: Fame and Infamy
 Chapter 10:
Myth and History
“On the first day, before Time existed, the elves stepped out of
the light. Simia-Who-Stepped-from-the-Light and Aldarin-of-
the-Sign-of-the-Stars were among the first to enter into existence.

Being contained the depths of the forests, the heart of which we

now call Sala Mandra, and existed only because Madaya was
present, for it was Madaya who dreamed Being into existence.
Simia, Aldarin, Panlariêl, Orima, and others were there at the
beginning of all things. They began to explore the Being of this
world, a task that lasted an eternity, for the forests had no borders
and Time held no power over the elves. They expressed their
amazement at Madaya’s Dream through sound. And the sound
became song, and the song became language. And so the children
of light began to give names to the things they saw. This is how
the fey’e, the children of light, came to be.

But Simia was not satisfied. He gazed at the sun, moon, and stars
at length, pondering not their origin but rather the reason for
their existence. After much wandering, Simia finally proclaimed
that some things had yet to be named and declared that he
himself would do so. He invented the words space and time, and
the moment he spoke these words, space and time became real.
And so he divided the world into here and now and light and
dream, which were now separate from reality. Not every fey’e
wished to become subject to this unknown, and some of them
stepped back into the light. But Aldarin, marked with the sign of
the stars, assembled a community and together they stepped into
the reality that Simia had named. Thus, the world as we know it
today was formed.”
—Transcription from the Faedhari, the history of the elves

Elven legend singers update the Faedhari regularly, and

through their songs and perspectives change its very
foundation incessantly. Though the elves believe this to
be an accurate history of the world, the stone steles of
the dwarven city of Xorlosh tell a very different story.
Similarly, worshippers of the Twelvegods accept the
history presented in the Hesinden annals of the Age of
Gods, the lizard people trust the writings and traditions
of their ancestors, and the dragons rely on the lore in the
magical Hall of Covenant in Drakonia.

Aventurian history is a matter of perspective, and these

are all possible representations of a story which remains
miraculously changeable, partly as a result of the heroes’
adventures.

215
 Aventurian History
Aventurian history is subjective, as the victors of a
battle typically write it, gloriously praising their own
achievements while downplaying or completely omitting
those of their enemies.
Humans in particular claim association with many events
from earlier ages even though humans did not exist at
the time. Chroniclers who believe in the Twelvegods
like to assume the number 12 was important throughout
history. After all, there are 12 gods, 12 Great Dragons, 12
archdemons, and so on. In reality, the number 12 only
gained importance with the current, common faith, and
the true number of all of these beings is unknown. It
should come as no surprise, then, that the details of many
events recorded in elven lore differ from those recorded
in human, dwarven, orc, and lizardfolk history. Even
historians who are committed to the truth and who try
to present events as objectively as possible still find their
understanding of history limited to the framework of their
own common faith and value systems.
Countless civilizations have risen and fallen, their records
lost to current generations. When big cities fall, entire
libraries have been known to disappear—whether due to
fire war, or simple decay. Untold numbers of documents
likely slumber in secret places, waiting to be rediscovered
and deciphered, after which their contents will no doubt
upset many a person’s worldview.
Long before humans even existed, the peoples of Aventuria
passed their history to their descendants through oral
tradition and, later, written records. However, few living
Aventurians could translate the complex pictograms of
the lizard cultures that flourished thousands of years ago.
Even those with the appropriate knowledge have trouble
discerning whether a particular passage refers to a legend,
a parable, or a factual report. Whether other, earlier
civilizations left any written records is unknown, although
it cannot be ruled out.
Mythology and History
“The world is mysterious and its creation remains an enigma,
even for those who are enlightened by Hesinde’s wisdom. We
exist, the gods gave us free will, and we live here, in creation.
Beyond creation lies chaos, wherein dwell creatures that desire
only to corrupt and destroy our world. Therefore, we must always
be prepared to fight the battle between creation and chaos.”
—Nacladora Berlînghan, Blessed One of Hesinde Draconite,
1038 FB
216 Chapter 10: Myth and History
Prehistory
According to the faith of the Twelvegods, the world as we
know it was conceived in battle. At the beginning of the
First Age, there was only nothingness. From this void,
two principles formed—the principle of the ordering mind,
and the principle of the tangible reality. The respective
embodiments of these two principles (Los, the All-God, and
Sumu, the Primeval Giantess) struggled with each other for
dominance until Los killed Sumu. When he saw what he
had done, he cried bitter
tears, for he could not
restore Sumu to life. The For an overview of
gods that we know today the various Ages of the
sprang from the drops Hesinden tradition, one of
of Los’ blood that fell to the subjects of this section,
the ground, and from his see Chapter 4: Culture and
tears were all living beings Science, page 103.
created. Plants grew out
from Sumu’s lifeless body,
and from the blood of her
wounds sprang the titans.
As a mighty entity known as Kha began to classify the
newly created world, she created Time to track the world’s
progression. A lizard mage named Ssad’Navv once used a
complicated ritual to attempt to travel to the beginning
of Time to change it. But Kha knew that once the wizard
removed the supporting pillar of Kha’s World Law, Time
could flow forward, backward, or even sideways without
warning, and might even collapse in on itself, to the
extreme detriment of the world. Therefore, Kha intervened
quickly and chained Satinav, as the humans know him
today, to the Ship of Time. From his prison, Satinav must
forever ensure no one else attempts to change the course
of Time. At his side, his daughter Ymra records the past on
the black pages of a vast tome, while his other daughter
Fatas writes the future on the white pages of another.
What Does My Hero Know About Prehistory?
Aventurian prehistory has been strongly transfigured
and glorified by mythology. Thus, what the heroes
know depends significantly on their race and culture.
To provide a coherent view of the early history of the
world, this chapter emphasizes the mythological and
legendary aspects of history as told through the myths
of the Twelvegods. Aventuria and its inhabitants have
changed significantly since the world began, and no
scholar can accurately guess what really happened
several thousand years ago. What most mortals know
about the great Dragon War, the Battle between Los
and Sumu, and Mada’s Sacrilege comes from highly
fragmented and idealized legends. Nobody alive today
knows the true cosmological context of every story
told by every race.
The Second Age was also shaped by conflict. The myth The great dragons ruled the Third Age, of which little is
of the Twelvegods says mighty titans emerged from known today. However, scholars assume that the direct
Sumu’s body after her death. The titans, in turn, created descendants of the Ancient Dragons who guarded Dere
the dragons and giants. By this time, the children of Los created the first civilization. These peoples raised many
had already divided creation between themselves and had gigantic cities and fortresses during this age. The mighty
chosen Alveran, the radiant Fortress of the Gods, as their fortress of Drakonia in Rashtul’s Wall is believed to have
home. The newborn titans demanded their fair share of the been built during this time.
world and decided to attack the fortress of the gods. Thus
Ingerimm, Efferd, Firun, Peraine, and many other titans The rule of dragons passed, and the culture of the trolls
waged war against Alveran. In a rage, Kauca smashed the rose up, heralding the Fourth Age. These gigantic beings
walls of the Fortress of the Gods and countless glittering occupied the world in large numbers. To this day, the
stones rained down on the world. These shining, blue ruins of their monumental works can be found throughout
fragments are now known as Gwen-Petryl stones. The Aventuria (locals often refer to them as troll castles). Mortals
gods, of course, retaliated—Hesinde wove powerful spells, know little of this Age, too, but many people believe that
Phex cloaked the attacking titans in dense mists, Rahja Ingerimm the titan created the one-eyed cyclopes at this
befuddled them with mindless intoxication, and Rondra time. The Fall of the Golden God, whom we know today as
beheaded Rashtul, the mightiest of the giants. Legend has it the Nameless One, occurred as the Fourth Age drew to a
that Rashtul’s Wall, one of Aventuria’s mightiest mountain close. The effects of this event are still felt, and versions of
ranges, is actually the fallen body of Rashtul. Praios slew it are recorded in the lore of many cultures.
the gluttonous Ogeron with one mighty blow, and from his
remains sprang the race of man-eating ogres. It started when the Golden
God sought to overthrow
While the battles of the Titan Wars surged back and The origin of a mighty the other gods, become the
forth, Chaos saw its chance. The the Demon Sultan entity such as Kha, who sole ruler of the world, and
loosed his hordes on Creation and the creatures we call existed before the gods, is shape it according to his
demons entered the world for the first time. The titan practically ignored in the will. He beguiled the trolls
Tsa and the goddess Travia demanded an immediate end creed of the Twelvegods. and began to subjugate the
to the fighting. For his part, Praios created the Herald, Kha is acknowledged as land with their help. The
Ucuri, from his own substance and sent him to the titans the creator of the Law of gods decided to put an end
to negotiate a peace. Thus, five titans also came to live the World (simply called to his work and destroy all
in the Fortress of the Gods. Six dragons were called to the Mystery of Kha), which mortals, whom they saw
stand guard over Alveran, while six others would defend bound the gods and titans as his compliant servants.
the Third Sphere, the world we know as Dere. Of all after they agreed to make For days the anger of the
the combatants, only the giants received nothing, and peace, but Kha’s fate after gods rained down upon the
they have hated the gods and dragons ever since. The that is not mentioned. Golden God and the world.
dragons could not agree which among them should go In their rage, the gods
to Alveran, igniting the First Dragon War. Large swathes turned the world upside
of the world were devastated by their merciless battles, down and slew every living
until lion-headed Famerlor defeated golden Pyrdacor. thing they could find. When the Golden God was finally
defeated, the other gods stripped him of his name and
The world was organized once more after this massive banished him from the world. ( page 236).
upheaval, and this new order was set down in the Law of
the World, which is also known as the Mystery of Kha. But their victory was not entirely a joyous one. When their
anger had subsided, they lamented the death of the mortals.
Spheres were defined and separated from one another, But Hesinde and Phex, who had always loved mortals, are
and beyond their borders was the Outside, where demons said to have saved twelve-times-twelve creatures of each
roamed in their strength. This structure limited the kind and hidden them in a secret refuge called Thalam
influence of immortals on the mortal world. The Law of the Sora. These lucky few survived the destruction and began
World is now said to rest in the First Sphere in the form to populate the world anew.
of a bastion of pure diamond, one that is connected to the
Fortresses of the Elemental Lords—and it seems the mighty Much of what took place in the Fifth Age is forgotten
gods are bound to it as well. During this time, magic, which today. Every believer in the Twelvegods, however, knows
until now belonged only to dragons, came into the world. the legend of the great sacrilege of the Nameless One, who
Depending on the tradition, this event was either the has sought revenge ever since his defeat. Full of anger at
work of the gods or the result of an act known as Mada’s both creation and the other gods, he gathered terrifying
Sacrilege.

217
 allies and struck a breach into the Wall of Stars, opening a giantess named Chalwen revealed Pyrdacor’s deception to
gateway into the world for the cruel hordes of the Demon the high elves and they turned away from him. In response,
Sultan. This chasm also unleashed the Omegatherion, Pyrdacor cast Chalwen and her worshipers, a civilization
the Beast of the Last Day whose poisonous slaver created of humans known as Sumurreans, into the sea. Pyrdacor’s
wastelands wherever it fell to the ground. The gods pride grew until he thought to challenge the gods once
prevailed and shattered the Omegatherion into pieces, again. Thus began the Second Dragon War. The Ancient
though they suffered heavy losses. Together they bound Dragons who guarded Dere quickly rallied to the side of
the Nameless God in heavy chains within the Starless Void the gods. Pyrdacor even dared to form an alliance with the
so his body would forever seal the hole he had created in shackled Nameless One to secure his power. Much of the
the Wall of Stars and thus deny the demon hordes access surface of Dere was destroyed in the ensuing conflict. The
to the world. magnificent cities of the high elves were laid waste, and
Pyrdacor’s magnificent kingdom of lizard people, Zze Tha,
Sadly, very little is known about the Ages immediately disappeared completely from the face of Dere.
after the Fall of the Nameless One, as well. The first
humans are often said to have appeared during the Sixth The golden dragon’s legendary treasure hoard, with all its
Age, although many legends include the children of man mighty artifacts, was lost and scattered.
among those preserved in Thalam Sora. Praios’ Chosen
People are said to have ruled over the world at this time (at Except for the proliferation of the orcs and goblins, which
least according to ancient legends of the Church of Praios). already existed in small numbers in Aventuria at that time,
It is said that the many-legged ones ruled Dere during the the world had almost become as we know it today.
Seventh Age. Curiously, no records, stories, legends, or
even fables remain of the Eighth Age, which is now often The First Human Kingdom
referred to as the Forgotten Eon. According to the tradition
of the Twelvegods, this Age was characterized by shocking The Tulamydes and the Old Realm
blasphemies, and the gods expunged all memory of it from It is said the Tulamydian hero, Rashtul
the world. Not until the Ninth Age, when the world was al’Sheik, founded the first major human
dominated by sea-going peoples, does recorded history kingdom of Aventuria around 2,000 b.FB.
resume. It is during this time that the golden dragon He led his people, whoa re now called
Pyrdacor, Guardian of the Elements, created the Eternal Ice the Ancient Tulamydes, down from
in the north, by means of a world-shaking ritual. the protection of the mountains
into the delta of the Mhanadi
The Tenth Age saw the rise of different civilizations of River, and then to victory over
lizard people, almost all of whom worshiped the God- the lizard people of Pyrdacor.
Dragon Pyrdacor (undoubtedly the most powerful being in Afterwards, he founded the
the world at that time). Under Pyrdacor’s patronage, the city of Khunchom on the
dominance of the scaled ones lasted well into the Eleventh ruins of the magnificent
Age, which saw the appearance of the so-called old races— city of Yash’Hualay. His son,
the elves and dwarves. Bastrabun, wove a shield
(called Bastrabun’s Ban) from
Angrosh the creator god, known to humans as Ingerimm, powerful magical signs to
is said to have created the dwarves to guard his treasures, prevent the scaled ones
which lay hidden below the surface. The dwarves quickly from ever invading the
became arch nemeses with the dragons and lizard men Lands of the Tulamydes
who ruled at that time. Again and again, Pyrdacor attacked again. Many of the
the dwarves and burned their cities. During the Battle of exiled lizards fled
Skyfire, Xorlosh was the only dwarven city to hold out to Maraskan, which
against the dragons. Dwarven records place this event became known as
precisely at 7,200 years before the Fall of Bosparan (b.FB). Marustan, the

In the verdant forests of the Salamander Stones, the

ancestors of modern elves stepped out of the light and
began to spread across the continent. These so-called
high elves worshiped their own gods and built gigantic
elemental cities. But they succumbed to the guile of
Pyrdacor and began to worship him as the God-Dragon. A

218 Chapter 10: Myth and History


“What do you humans even know about history?
We Angroshim always chisel everything in stone
so we shall not forget anything. The dragons
seek our demise, but one day we shall be theirs,
by Angrosh’s eternal axe!”
—Arbosh son of Angrax, forge dwarf master smith
exile land of lizards). The Tulamydes settled on the fertile
land of the Mhanadi and established various sultanates,
claiming what they called the Land of the First Sun for
themselves. A thirst for power among individual rulers
led to the Scorpio Wars. The powerful Mage-Moguls of
the Gadang, who ruled from Fasar, the first named city of
humans, fought against Sulamn al’Nassori, the Sultan of
Khunchom, but his magic defeated them. From Khunchom,
the new dynasty of the Adamantine Sultanate would soon
rule a mighty empire stretching from Al’Anfa to Ysilia. It
is said that some of the sultans of the empire’s Late Period
even used ancient lizard spells to achieve immortality.
Around 1,500 b.FB, settlers from distant Gyldenland
reached the coast of what is known today as the Horasian
Empire. They spread quickly across the continent, and
many humans living between Paavi and Brabak can trace
their ancestry to these settlers. Note that human cultures
already existed in Aventuria at that time. Examples include
the Forest Folk in the southern jungles, the Utulu on the
Forest Islands, the Nivese in the steppes of the north, and
the Tulamydes in Rashtul’s Wall and the Mhanadi valley.
However, the culture brought by the Gyldenlandish
settlers had the greatest influence on most people living
in Aventuria today, as it is said that the divine Horas, a
descendant of the god Praios, founded the Old Realm (with
its capital, Bosparan) at this time. His adventurous wife,
Lamea, and the sorceress Gylduria are said to have played
important roles in this endeavor. Even though it has been
centuries, the Emperors of the Horasian Empire still take
the name Horas as their own and claim descent from him
directly.
The Bosparans were not actually the first to arrive in
Aventuria from the Gyldenland. More than a century
earlier, the Hjaldings, ancestors of the Thorwalers, landed
their ships in the Bay of Olport. These brave seafarers,
trying to escape the clutches of the Gyldenland Empire,
were quite shocked to come face-to-face with their
oppressors again in Aventuria.
Legend says that the Horas reigned over the Old Realm
for five hundred years. Even after his death, this realm
of Gyldenlandish immigrants continued to expand,
especially after Geron had slain most of the monsters in
the surrounding regions. Expeditions routinely set out
from Bosparan, the largest human city in Aventuria at
that time, to explore the continent. The teams of scouts
and explorers were usually closely followed by the
dreaded Bosparan legions, to secure new lands. Trolls,
dwarves, and goblins faced the invaders each in their
turn, but none were able to halt their relentless advance.
The power of the Adamantine Sultanate was waning at
this time, and cities known today as Punin, Havena, and
Gareth were easily conquered and made into Bosparan
outposts. The natives were considered barbarians suitable
only for exile, enslavement, or assimilation into the fold
of the Empire.
“We still sing the Song of Jurga, which
tells of our journey over the Sea of Seven
Winds. Every child in Thorwal knows it
by heart. Yes, all 104 verses, I say! What?
You want me to sing it to you? I will not,
by Swafnir’s flukes!”
—Tjalva Garheltsdottir, Hetja from Prem
The Deeds of Geron the One-Handed
During the near-mythical reign of Horas, the legendary
hero Geron the One-Handed is said to have accomplished
his heroic deeds. He was one of Rondra’s chosen and the
first bearer of Sevenstrike, the sword of the gods, which
according to legend was forged by Ingerimm at Praios’
behest. To this day, Geron’s seven heroic deeds are told
and retold in song in taverns across the land. It is said
that every victory with the sword of the gods increased
his craving for battle. He slew the great serpent of the
Sikram, the chimerical ogres of the Bosparan forest, the
serpent-shaped sisters of the Yaquir, the demonic beast
known as Harodia, and the great worm of Chababia. He
went on to defeat the Basilisk King, which had destroyed
the high elven city of Simyala. The venom of the Eternal
Dragon of Phecadia was his doom, but he still managed
to defeat the terrible beast (with seven strikes, it is said)
before he succumbed to his wounds and died.
The God-Emperor, The Peace-Emperors,
and Fran the Bloody
Around 873 b.FB, Belen-Horas, in his pride, declared
himself God-Emperor, thereby drawing down the anger of
the gods onto his realm. Trolls attacked the Realm in force,
and the protracted war depleted the reserves of troops
protecting the extensive borders of the vast empire. Soon,
ogres—gigantic man-eaters—invaded and pierced as far
as Gareth, where they held a gruesome feast on the local
population. This First Onslaught of Ogres was followed by
numerous orc and goblin invasions, the effects of which
were felt for decades.
219
 Quieter times returned after the death of Belen-Horas and
a period of reconstruction. The Peace-Emperors, as they
were called, prudent and wise, reigned for more than 200
years.
Things changed for the worse again when Haldur-Horas
ascended to the throne and accused the troublesome
Garethan province of skimming taxes. His legions lay siege
to the city, whch fell after 200 days. Two months later,
someone assassinated Haldur in distant Bosparan. His son,
Fran-Horas, sought revenge by ordering countless arrests
and executions in Gareth. His atrocities earned him the
nickname, “the Bloody.”
The Garethans had endured enough and rose up against
the Bosparans, expelling their hated overlords from the
city. The emperor’s hastily dispatched expeditionary force
failed to defeat the rebels in 568 b.FB, and the insurgency
gained momentum. Atrocities were committed on both
sides. Eager to force an outcome, Emperor Fran-Horas
220 Chapter 10: Myth and History
performed an ancient and powerful summoning rite on
Commander’s Hill. The demons who answered his call
destroyed the Garethan defenders and then turned against
the Bosparan legions, completely destroying them, as well.
Scholars have named this massacre the First Demon Battle.
It is regarded as one of the bloodiest battles in history, for
fewer than ten people survived out of thousands. Emperor
Fran-Horas never spoke another word and refused to eat
more than a thin broth. Four years later, his shrill screams
were heard to echo through the palace and then suddenly
stop. His body was never found.
The Dark Ages
The disappearance of Fran-Horas ushered in the Dark
Ages. Between 564 b.FB and 162 b.FB the Bosparan
Empire continued to disintegrate. Entire regions had
been depopulated during the First Demon Battle, while
others sank into chaos and decadence. Orcs under the
leadership of Nargazz Bloodfist invaded and, meeting no
effective resistance, assimilated the northern provinces
and founded their vast Kingdom of the North. In the
heart of the Bosparan Empire, people worshiped strange
new gods and idols, and the sciences were, for the most
part, set aside. Many worthy cultural achievements were
forgotten, and provinces broke away from Bosparan or fell
into barbarism.
Much invaluable magical knowledge from ancient times
was lost, several gods descended into oblivion along with
their congregations, and military conflict and rapid regime
change was the order of the day for many regions. These
days were witness to the flowering of Elem, as well as the
prophet Nemekath’s sermons, which led to a schism in the
Church of Boron. The Great Sultanate in the south actually
gained in power and influence until the meteorite known
as the Star of Selem fell into the bay, and the resulting
tidal wave destroyed its capital. Few facts, and few names
of sovereigns, survive from that era, and the scant written
records that do exist often contradict each other.
“During this time, my people went to war
against the dwarves for cutting down the
forests of the Yaquir Valley. You’ve never
heard this tale, Arbosh? Our legend singers
still recall the pain. Elves and dwarves were
reconciled only when your ancestors stood with
us at Saljeth, which you now call Griffonsford,
against the cursed fialgra—the orcs. Unless I’m mistaken, no new
war has broken out between our peoples since then. Don’t even
think of starting one!”
—Layariel Treetopglint, elven wyldrunner
The Kuslikan Emperors and the Fall of Bosparan
It fell to the Kuslikan Emperors to reorder the power
structures and lead the realm out of the darkness. History
credits Silem-Horas with numerous cultural achievements.
He established Bosparano as the language of the Court,
introduced Kuslik Signs as formal writing system, and
enacted the Silem-Horas Edict—also known as the
Twelvegods Edict—in 98 b.FB, which condemned the idol-
worshipping cults of the Dark Ages. The edict established
the twelve true gods and their followers and introduced
the new standard calendar, which is still used to this day in
lands that worship the Twelvegods.
Murak-Horas further expanded the borders of the empire,
bringing the Old Realm to its largest geographical extent.
Murak’s troops defeated the Tulamydes in the Battle of
the Gadang in 17 b.FB, incorporating the Adamantine
Sultanate into the empire. Murak died shortly thereafter
due to an injury sustained on the battlefield. As a result, his
daughter and successor, Hela-Horas, hated and persecuted
the Tulamydes all her life.
Known as the Beautiful Empress, Hela-Horas would repeat
the mistakes of her ancestor Belen-Horas when—against
the fierce protest of the Garethan Blessed One of Praios—
she declared herself a goddess. As sign of her power, she
summarily burned the rebellious Garethan envoy in the
public square. People reacted with shock at her arrogance,
and the Garethans sent a citizen army against Bosparan to
hold the Empress accountable for her actions. The Empress’
troops met the Garethan force at the village of Brig-Lo on
the Yaquir. As Fran-Horas had done before her, Hela called
upon the Netherhells and summoned a powerful demon
army.
This Second Demon Battle would have ended as
disastrously as the first if the gods themselves had not
intervened. Four shining champions in golden armor—
widely believed to be Praios, Rondra, Efferd, and Ingerimm
themselves—defended the Garethans and banished the
screeching demon brood back to the Netherhells. Hela’s
forces retreated in panic, pursued all the way to Bosparan
by the raging citizen army. Lightning struck a breach
into the walls of the Imperial Palace, opening a path for
the attackers, and the Beautiful Empress ordered her few
remaining soldiers to attack. As her men rallied for a last
stand, a heavenly voice proclaimed her reign at an end,
and Hela-Horas fell from her throne, dead. Overjoyed at
their victory, the Garethans razed Bosparan, city of the
hundred towers, to the ground, and set about plundering
the Bosparan Empire. The goblins joined in and completed
the destruction. The Fall of Bosparan, year 0 in the current
Aventurian calendar, marks the end of the Old Realm and
the beginning of the New.
The New Realm
Emperor Raul and the Wise-Emperors
After the destruction of Bosparan, Gareth became the
capital of the New Realm. A young Garethan military
leader, Raul of Gareth, was crowned its first emperor. To
this day, the Middenrealm is also called the Realm of Raul,
in honor of his reign. Before his coronation, the nobility
and priesthood of Praios agreed that he could never hold
the office of Herald of Light in the future. In the past, the
reigning Horas was appointed as the High Priest of Praios,
and former Horas-Emperors Hela and Fran also served as
heads of the mage’s guild. They resolved that the power in
the realm should be split between the emperor, who would
hold secular power, and the Herald of Light, who would
wield religious power.
After 36 years of intensive, knowledgeable council,
including Tulamydes and legal scholars from old Bosparan,
Raul created a body of law that became the basis for
legislation in the New Realm. Published in 39 FB, the Codex
Raulis, as it was called, separated religious ands ecular
power, defined crimes and codified punishments, laid
out terms of fealty and social standing, and established
the rules of hereditary imperial succession which, in the
face of Hela’s transgressions, was henceforth limited to
male heirs—it would be many centuries before a woman
would wear the title of emperor again. Raul’s successors
are recorded in history as the Wise-Emperors—they ruled
prudently and wisely, and kept peace in the realm.
Under the reign of the Wise-Emperors, humans began, in
247 FB, to settle Maraskan, the eastern island that until
that time had been a land of exile for the lizardfolk. About
the same time, the pious Theater Knights of Rondra finally
destroyed the goblin kingdom of the mighty shaman Kunga
Suula in the region now known as the Bornland. The New
Realm soon stretched farther than ever, from the ice of the
Far North to the jungles of the Deep South.
The Reign of Terror of the Priest-Emperors
The last of the Wise-Emperors, Ugdalf, died in 333 FB,
but his son Ruda was too young to take up the crown and
scepter, so a regency council of priests consisting of Blessed
Ones of Praios took over the affairs of the state until he
could reach adulthood. But the young crown prince was
cruelly murdered on the day before his 15th birthday. The
council of priests remained in power and quickly accused
the servants of Rondra of Ruda’s murder. Though these
allegations were never satisfactorily proven, the temples
of Rondra were closed one after the other and her Blessed
Ones were persecuted and killed without mercy.
Once such instance occurred at what became known as
the bloody Harvest Feast Massacre in 335 FB in Gareth,
221
 when many Blessed Ones of Rondra were rounded up and
executed by the Sun Legion. This event ushered in the
reign of the Priest-Emperors: an era of bloody despotism
under which the common people suffered dearly. In
337 FB, the last remaining Theater Knights perished in
the Battle of Dragon’s Rift, ending all resistance to the
The Order of the Theater
To bring an end to the goblin wars that plagued the Horasian
Empire after the Fall of Bosparan, twelve heroes who
worshipped Rondra founded a military alliance in the Theater
of Arivor. They called themselves the Holy Order of our Lady
Rondra of the Theater of Arivor, but the common people
referred to them as Theater Knights.
Under the masterful leadership of Marshall Lutisana of
Kullbach, large portions of the roving goblin armies were
either banished, killed, or enslaved within two years. The
Theater Knight Pakhizal al’Murfun slew the legendary queen
of goblins, Uspushanna the Bloody, in 5 FB, finally breaking
the goblin resistance. About one hundred years later, the
Theater Knights mobilized again, this time on orders to claim
the Bornland from the goblins. Their conquests included
lands of the goblins and also of the Alhanians, a people with
Tulamydian roots.
The Theater Knights built mighty castles and ruled with an
iron fist, and their full history is recounted elsewhere. They
suffered their final defeat at the hands of the Priest-Emperors,
who burned the last Grandmaster of the Theater Knights at
the stake during the Battle of Dragon’s Rift in 337 FB. Today
the Bronnjars of Bornland still proudly invoke their descent
from the Theater Knights. The Theater of Arivor in the
Horasian Empire remains a popular pilgrimage destination
for worshippers of Rondra. Even though the city was destroyed
by the Starfall in 1039 FB, thrill-seekers still make their
way though the rubble to the ruins of the Theater standing
defiantly in the lost city.
222 Chapter 10: Myth and History
tyrants. The Church of Praios extended its persecution to
believers of other faiths, including worshipers of the other
Twelvegods. Witches and other spellcasters were subjected
to mock trials and then burned at the stake or lynched by
angry mobs. The realm suffered under an unimaginable
burden of taxes and levies, the so-called godly appreciation.
Magnificent palaces, each one more lavish than its
predecessor, were built to honor Priaos the king of gods. As
people began to starve, resentment grew against the rule
of the Priest-Emperors.
Rohal the Wise and the War of Wizards
A knowledgeable old wizard known as Rohal the Wise led
the final rebellion against the Priest-Emperors. Under his
leadership, the rebellion drove the last Priest-Emperor
from the throne in 466 FB. Rohal ruled wisely and justly
over the Middenrealm as Protector of the Realm for more
than 120 years and allegedly aged less than one day during
his reign. During this Era of Rohal, education, sciences, and
arts flourished. Spellcasters of all traditions exchanged
knowledge, elven poetry was recited at court, and people
romanticized the mysteries of the Ancient Dragons.
Philosophers and scholars enjoyed elevated status, and
many mage academies were established during this time.
Soon the people grew fearful of Rohal’s seemingly never-
ending reign, and in 589 FB, a mob approached the palace
chanting, “Strike the demon from the Imperial Throne!”
The Protector of the Realm arose, left the palace with a
simple salutation, and disappeared without a trace. The
Realm was suddenly without a ruler. Rohal left no heir and
the great mage’s guild could not agree over the succession.
Many followed in Rohal’s footsteps, but an increasing
number of magically gifted individuals turned to the
teachings of a man whose name would haunt the world
many centuries later—the very epitome of an unscrupulous
black mage—Borbarad ( page 238).
Rohal was allegedly spotted one last time during the Battle
in the Gorian Desert, where he supposedly confronted
Borbarad. Many warriors, spellcasters, and Blessed Ones
followed Rohal into battle, but few of these champions
returned from the desert.
A significant number of guild mages died in 590 FB in
a magical catastrophe known as the Disaster of Punin,
but this did nothing to end the disagreement over the
succession of the Realm.
A mighty union of wizards announced that Rohal had been
one of them, which therefore gave them a legitimate claim
to the throne. Another group made the same claim and,
within a short time, there began a terrible war of succession.
Known as the War of Wizards, it ushered in another dark
chapter in Aventurian history. The unscrupulous methods
and magic with which this conflict was handled ravaged
entire regions and cost countless human lives and minds.
Entire mage academies were obliterated, demons and
chimeras were sent into battle against djinn, golems, and
undead, and common soldiers fell in their thousands on
both sides. Still, the War of Wizards had no victor.
The Decline of the New Realm
The Garethan Pamphlet, published in 596 FB, was the result
of long deliberations between nobles and burghers. It
specified that a wizard would never again rule the New
Realm. Many mage academies were closed permanently,
influence magic was prohibited, and much magical
knowledge was soon lost as a result.
The New Realm had reached the zenith of its power,
and the orcs invaded once more. The advance of the two
massive orc armies was finally halted at Ferdok. The
Second Orc Storm was stopped in 600 FB in the Battle of
the Bloodfields near Gareth. Eslam of Almada, a distant
descendant of the last Wise-Emperor, ascended to the
throne in 602 FB, but many provinces—such as Albernia—
seceded from Gareth, which had grown weak. However, a
terrible earthquake and great flood destroyed almost the
entire city of Havena, the Albernian capital, in 702 FB, and
the renegade provinces were easily brought back into the
fold. The Horasian Empire, former seat of the Bosparan
Empire, declared its independence with the Oath of Baliiri
in 744 FB and fought to throw off the Garethan yoke for
eight years.
In the Kuslikan Peace of 752 FB, the Middenrealm received
only one concession, namely that the Regent of Vinsalt,
which stood on the ruins of ancient Bosparan, would not
refer to himself as an emperor or Horas. The Realm of
Raul then gradually deteriorated. Bornland, Maraskan,
Tulamydian cities such as Rashdul, Fasar, and Al’Anfa, as
well as Brabak and Mengbilla in the south, all declared their
independence. In 760 FB, the god Rastullah appeared to
the Novadi people in the Oasis of Keft in the Khôm Desert.
The region now known as the Caliphate was subsequently
lost to the Middenrealm. The heirless Emperor Valpo,
who bore the less than charming epithet the Drinker, was
the last of the Almadan Emperors. His death plunged
the Middenrealm into the Interregnum, a 30-year war of
succession of which 74 self-proclaimed regencies survive
to this day.
Perval, the Imperial Twins, and Reto
An experienced military commander named Perval
finally brought the chaos to an end when he executed his
rivals and ascended to the throne of the Middenrealm in
933 FB. Emperor Perval ruled with an iron fist and became
infamous for his cruelty.
Hmm, Emperor Perval… He must have been
one tough character! He is said to have
squeezed his people for everything, but
it is also said that he loved tournaments,
though he prohibited blunt weapons and
had his knights compete against each other
with sharp blades. To this day we say that a
tournament like that is using Perval’s Rules.
—Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary
When Perval died, his twins Bardo and Cella shared the
regency, as had been his wish, but their excesses brought
the reputation of the imperial family to a new low. Cella
gave audiences only while bathing in mare’s milk, and
Bardo, known as a drunkard, loved to appoint very young
girls as his ministers, and then muster them, scantily clad,
to his cabinet meetings.
Their cousin, Reto, eventually ejected the royal siblings
from the palace and claimed the throne for himself.
Although Reto was more of a soldier than a patient ruler,
the reputations of the Imperial family and the Realm grew
during his reign. He ruled with a firm hand, and in 988
FB, he reconquered the island of Maraskan to honor the
memory of his late wife, a Maraskani princess.
Emperor Haal
Reto’s only son, Haal, succeeded him in 994 FB, and some
discontented provinces saw their chance to act. The new
emperor personally oversaw the quelling of the Tuzakan
Uprising on Maraskan, but the wealthy cities of Khunchom
and Arania, the breadbasket of the realm, then seceded.
Many nobles viewed Haal as too soft and yielding—
a prejudice the emperor struggled to overcome his
entire life.
223
 Despite his shortcomings, the emperor was popular among
the common folk, and his reign is romanticized today as a
golden age. While alive, Haal wavered between populism
and aloofness until, in 997 FB, he pompously dubbed himself
“All-Twelvegodly Magnificence,” and some regions even
worshiped him as a deity. Emperor Haal’s only son, Brin
of Gareth, was born of his union with Alara Paligan, the
daughter of Al’Anfan Grandes. The crown prince was well-
liked by all,, and narrowly avoided an attempt on his life
during a tournament in honor of his engagement in 998 FB.
The Chancellor of the Realm, Answin of Ravenmouth,
was revealed to be one of the masterminds behind the
assassination attempt, but his relation to the emperor
and his family’s influence ensured that he was exiled, not
executed, for his crime.
The Khôm War broke out in 1008 FB. Under the leadership
of Patriarch Tar Honak, Al’Anfa conquered large portions
of the Caliphate and even seized control of many of the
Khôm’s oases. It was not until 1010 FB that the Novadi were
able to push back the invaders, united under their new
Caliph, Malkillah III.
More hardship befell the Middenrealm in 1010 FB, when
orcs invaded the Svellt League of Towns, north of the
realm’s borders. Later that year, Emperor Haal disappeared
under mysterious circumstances while on a hunting trip
in the Bornish Ilmenstein. His body was never recovered.
Recent History

The heir to the throne married his betrothed, Emer ni The Answin Crisis and the Orc Storm
Bennain, in 1004 FB. This daughter of the Albernian prince The Chancellor of the Realm, Answin of Ravenmouth, took
was the first prince consort to hail from the Middenrealm advantage of the disappearance of Emperor Haal and the
for quite some time. The couple seemed to be extremely impending threat of a new Orc Storm. He returned from
fond of one another, and were quite popular with the exile, promptly seized the Griffon Throne, and had himself
common people. crowned Emperor of the Middenrealm in 1010 FB. A fierce
internal struggle for the Crown of Raul began to unfold just
Emperor Haal, on the other hand, began to develop as the orc invasion pierced the Realm from the north. Brin
peculiar preferences for advisors as well as pertaining to
the affairs of the Court. He rarely appeared in public but
held lavish private receptions. The emperor frequently
elevated deserving heroes with offices and honors, and
even presented lands to the son of the Forest Folk’s
chieftain—a glade elf—which provoked distrust and anger
between long-established noble families and the new
Haalian aristocracy. He replaced his advisors regularly but
often took council with the mighty sorceress, Nahema, a
Tulamyde who was free to come and go at Court, and it was
said that she not only had the emperor’s ear, but also shared
his bed. It was she who finagled a momentous judgement
from Haal regarding an especially cruel punishment for his
court wizard, Galotta, for a grievous error. The Emperor
ordered Gallota’s head shaved and dyed a deep red, and
then made him perform the scarlet cap dance, a dance on
red-hot iron. Humiliated and disfigured for life, the exiled
wizard vowed revenge. One year later, Gallota led a force of
man-eating ogres against Gareth. The Second Onslaught of
Ogres obliterated the Tobrian city, Ysilia, but was stopped
at the Trollgap between the Black Sickle Mountains and
the Trollpeaks. Numerous members of the royal family and
other monarchs fought alongside brave men and women in
the Battle of a Thousand Ogres.

The Middenrealm was not he only place undergoing change

in Aventuria at this time, however. Between 1007-1009 FB,
two Thorwaler captains, Asleif Phileasson and Beorn
the Blinder, along with their courageous companions,
competed in a legendary sailing race for the title of King of
the Seas, and nearly circumnavigated the entire continent.

224 Chapter 10: Myth and History

of Gareth, the rightful heir to the throne, had already been
crowned king and valiantly led his troops against the orcs
to protect his people. But while he was off fighting, Answin
the Usurper remained in Gareth and strengthened his hold
on the throne. The provinces split over whom to follow
and the Middenrealm seemed on the verge of collapse if
the growing rift between the Answinists and Loyalists
could not be mended.
Civil war broke out in Albernia in 1011 FB when Isora of
Elenvina, loyal to Answin, incited a revolt against the
then-absent ruler, Cuanu ui Bennain (see below). Tobrian
insurgents captured the city of Perricum from the
Answinists, and an army of Brin Loyalists persuaded the
Northmarches ducal city, Elenvina, to surrender. After the
gods’ judgement before the gates of Punin, Almada also
sided with the Loyalists against the Usurper.
An army led by rebellious barons gathered on the Silk
Meadows outside Gareth in 1011 FB, casing many to fear
a bloody struggle if they stormed the capital. However,
a squad led by the Albernian Prince (Cuanu ui Bennain),
The Living History:
Aventuria as a Game Setting
The reign of Emperor Haal brought about more changes
for Aventuria than were obvious at that time. The living
history of Aventuria began with this era and, from this
point forward, players took part in the creation of the
world. The first The Dark Eye publications in 1984 were
set at exactly this point in time. Many present-day
Aventuria characters and narrative strands originated
here, and countless player characters experienced
and influenced the world via adventure modules and
campaigns. Some of the following historical data
contains spoilers for old adventure modules, but please,
do not let that prevent you from reading this chapter,
as certain important Aventurian events can be hard to
grasp without this background knowledge.
The Aventuria Almanac’s main function is to give you and
your gaming group a feel for present day Aventuria.
Therefore, the following sections are written with you
in mind. You will have the chance to experience and
even influence Aventuria at the gaming table through
new game supplements adventure modules, and many
our novels!
Aventuria is a world of challenges both large and small,
with many different starting points you can use to
create your adventures. If the official living history
the Grand Privy Councilor of the Realm (Dexter Nemrod),
and the Swordking (Raidir Conchobair) managed to
capture the self-proclaimed emperor. The Answin Crisis
was over. However, the Usurper managed to escape
before his sentence could be handed down, having spent
only a year imprisoned in a dungeon. Brin, who had no
desire to assume the title of Emperor after his father’s
disappearance, instead took the reins of the Middenrealm
as the new Protector of the Realm.
The Third Orc Storm was still underway. Ashim Riak Assai
united almost every tribe in the Orclands and proclaimed
himself Aikar Brazoragh—the chosen of the orc gods. In union
with the Black Marshal, Sadrak Whassoi, and the powerful
High Shaman of Tairach, Uigar Kai, he led the orcs against
human settlements time and again. The wild hordes of the
Orclands overran large parts of the Svellt Valley. Lowangen,
the largest city of the Svellt League of Towns, weathered
their siege, and the towns of Weiden and Griffonsford saw
bitter fighting. To everyone’s surprise, the orcs were able
to destroy the Thuran Legion in the Battle of Miststone in
1012 FB, opening a path to the heart of the Middenrealm.
heads in a direction that your gaming group does not
like, feel free to change it! Nothing says you must have
our Emperor on the throne, or cannot abolish the
mage’s guilds, or can’t allow an unpopular noble to
die an early death. Wars may break out earlier, later,
or not at all in your campaign, and you do not have to
destroy a city just because an adventure module makes
it possible to witness its destruction. We can only tell
one version of the story in our publications, but you
create your own history every time you play the game.
Think of the living history as a suggestion to follow the
exciting stories in Aventuria—nothing more, nothing
less.
An adventure module’s connection to the living history
is spelled out on its back cover (see Core Rules, page 389).
Similarly, the NPCs in our supplements are also marked
accordingly (see The Garadan System, page 204), to let
you know at a glance whether your group will diverge
from the living history by making changes.
Apart from adventure modules and supplements,
you can find regular news about Aventuria in the
Aventurian Herald, a supplement presented in the form
of an Aventurian newspaper. This useful supplement
is published bimonthly and is available for free, as a
download and in print. For more information about the
Aventurian Herald, inquire at your local game store, or
online at www.ulisses-us.com.
225
 Under the leadership of Sadrak Whassoi, the main orc
The Bearers of the Seven Signs
army eventually conquered Griffonsford, and Brin’s army
The Bearers of the Seven Signs were legendary heroes
was routed in the Battle of Orcwall.
spoken of in the prophecies of the famous Al’Anfan,
Thamos Nostriacus, more than 500 years before the
The Margravate of Griffonsford became known locally as
return of Borbarad. The Signs were mystical artifacts
the Darkmarches under its orc governor, Sharraz Garthai.
Emboldened, the orcs plundered their way through Garetia
The legends of many cultures speak of heroes who fought
and soon threatened the capital of the Middenrealm.
horrors by themselves, but this time the threat was so
Human forces under the leadership of Brin won a decisive
considerable that the heroes could not face it alone.
victory over the orcs in the Battle of the Silk Meadows
These Bearers of the Seven Signs were chosen to defy
outside Gareth on the 1st and 2nd of Phex, 1012 FB. By 1013
the wizard Borbarad. Amazingly, most of the Bearers’
FB, many regions had been reclaimed and Griffonsford had
names were never recorded, and it is unclear whether
been liberated. To this day, the lands of the Svellt are still
any of them survived the horrors of the Third Demon
partly occupied by orcs, and the humans who live there
Battle to witness the triumph over Borbarad.
pay taxes to their orc overlords. The infamous leaders of
the Third Orc Storm would appear in history once again,
First Sign: the Almadine Eye, a clairvoyant artifact of
many years later.
great magical power from Ancient Tulamydian times
Second Sign: the Wandering Image, a magical, elvisn
The orcs were not the only ones who used the Answin
tattoo that created harmony and granted insight into
Crisis to try to expand their power. In the Horasian Empire,
opponents’ motives and even their souls
which had been independent from the Middenrealm since
Third Sign: the HassGrurSst (Brave Animal with Toad
752 FB, Queen Amene Firdayon tried to take advantage of
Sense), an ancient lizardfolk artifact that granted the
the situation by making a pact with the king of the Cyclopes
wearer the might and courage of a leviathan
Islands to once again assume the title of her ancestors.
Fourth Sign: the Five Firnglimmering Fingers, a
From that day on, Empress Amene-Horas ruled over the
mechanical hand crafted of moon silver, a legendary
revived Horasian Empire.
substance, in the early days of the dwarves
Fifth Sign: the Steely Brow or Cap of Rohal, which
The Borbaradian Invasion
protected the mind from magical influence
The Orc Storm, as it turned out, was not the greatest
Sixth Sign: the Winged Missile—a fragment from a Sky
threat of that era. The oracle Thamos Nostriacus’ sinister
Wolf’s heart that could unleash incredible destructive
prophecies of a coming darkness began coming true in 1015
power
FB. An undead wizard named Liscom of Fasar managed to
Seventh Sign: the Sharpness from Seven Cups—this
summon Borbarad’s spirit back to the Third Sphere. His
was Sevenstrike, the reforged blade of Geron the
blasphemy caused devastation to an entire region, and
One-Handed
produced the Weidenan Desert.

To convince Borbarad to join her alliance, the fallen high

elf Pardona fashioned him a new body, which she brought
to life with blood gathered by vampires. Borbarad declined
the alliance, as he was not about to share his soon-to-be
limitless power.
The horror began in 1019 FB, when mercenary forces
began coming ashore near the small village of Sardosk,
on Aventuria’s east coast. The Borbaradian Invasion of
Tobrien had begun. Many cities of the Realm fell in the
ensuing battles. Borbarad’s army fought with magic and
the power of demons, and Aventurians who fell in battle
rose again as living corpses that joined the seemingly
unstoppable demon army. Mendena was the first city to
fall to the enemy. Ysilia and Warunk followed soon after.
On the 4th of Efferd, 1020 FB, Borbarad finally revealed
himself to the world by speaking through the beak of
an undead griffon cub, saying “Hear the words of the
new master of the world, the Alveranian of forbidden
knowledge, lord of the seven elements and all beings of
the Seven Spheres. Hear the voice of he who crushed you
at Mendena, Ilsur, and Eslamsbridge. Hear the voice of
Borbarad the Eternal. Surrender to me, body and soul, or
perish!”
Borbarad, the terror from long-forgotten legends, bound
the seven-pointed Demon Crown to himself ( page 234)
and began to use his power over the hordes of chaos to
subjugate the entire known world to his rule.

The Imperial armies suffered terrible defeats, again The struggle against this insurmountable opponent
and again. Many nobles, mages, Blessed Ones, and even lasted long into winter, and the dispirited Imperial troops
provincial rulers lost their lives. The Duke of Weiden fell in rarely saw victory. Great lamentation went up in Tsa
battle, as did the Church of Rondra’s Army Mistress. 1020 FB, when, of all people, the former Marshall of the

226 Chapter 10: Myth and History

Realm, Helme Haffax, defected to the enemy. The brilliant
strategist quickly conquered the island of Maraskan for
the Demon Master, despite the fact that the Middenrealm
had not eradicated all of the rebel troops during their
occupation of the island. Haffax led the charge that sealed
the doom of Ysilia, the Tobrian ducal city, which is now
the site of dark Yol-Ghurmak. Borbarad also unleashed
the Omegatherion, the many-legged beast that had been
cut apart during the Nameless Age. It changed water to
blood and caused acid to rain from the sky, and in its wake
livestock birthed malformed beasts across the Empire. By
the end of 1020 FB, nearly one quarter of the Middenrealm
had fallen to the Borbaradians. Entire armies of undead
arose and fought under the banner of the Demon Crown
against their former comrades. To this date, few can speak
openly of the horrors of the war against the Defiler of
Spheres, including many seasoned veterans. Conflicts such
as the Battle at Ox and Oak, and the Battle at the Vallusan
Fields were hard-won victories, the news of which spread
fear and terror among Borbarad’s followers even outside
the Middenrealm.
Finally, the Middenrealm and the Horasian Empire formed
an alliance against their common enemy in 1021 FB. The
Bornland joined in these efforts as well, even though
it had not recovered from suffering heavy losses at the
hands of Borbaradian troops. The Bearers of the Seven
Signs convinced the old races of elves and dwarves to fight
alongside the humans, and even the brave Amazons joined.
An army of trolls is said to have come down from the peaks
of the mountains to fight the ancient evil. Thus, at the Wall
of Death, the Ogre Wall between the Trollpeaks and the
Black Sickle, the Allied armies gathered to determine the
future of Aventuria in a monumental battle.
Borbarad’s ally, Galotta, assassinated Brin of Gareth,
Protector of the Realm, on the Day of Weaponsmiths (21st
of Ingerimm), 1021 FB. The former court wizard of Brin’s
father, Haal, still harbored much hatred, and Borbarad’s
war gave him the perfect opportunity to seek his revenge.
Bereft of leadership, the Allied forces faltered against the
hordes of the Demon Master, but the Bearers of the Seven
Signs turned the tide of battle. The Third Demon Battle
raged on for two days, and the Allies conquered the Wall
of Death despite heavy losses, giving the Bearers time to
reach Borbarad’s command tent and stop his ultimate
heresy—the shattering of the boundaries between Spheres.
Sevenstrike, the re-forged sword of gods, shattered the
Demon Crown, casting shards in all directions. Borbarad
was hurled to the end of time, an event dubbed the Rapture
of Eternity. His annihilation sent severe shocks echoing
throughout every Sphere.
So great was the quake that shook the world that even
magical ley lines shifted and the night sky warped. In
the days that followed, it became clear that the Wall of
Death marked the new border of the Shadowlands, as the
territory occupied by Borbarad’s heirs came to be known.
Though the Allies’ losses were heavy, the Demon Master
had finally been defeated. This battle commonly marks the
beginning of the Twelfth Age in Aventurian history books
( page 235).
The Time of the Heptarchs
The Middenrealm and its allies were so weakened by long
years of battle and deprivation that they could do little
against the newly created Heptarchies, the kingdoms
established by those who obtained shards from Borborad’s
shattered crown (see below). The war against Borbarad
had claimed many lives, and many cities in the occupied
territories were considered lost. Brin of Gareth had fallen
in battle, and his heir, Rohaja, was still too young to rule,
which left the Realm of Raul without an emperor. Brin’s
wife, Emer ni Bennain, eventually took control of the
fortunes of the Middenrealm as Regent of the Realm.
The struggle against the Shadowlands started out slowly
but gained momentum, spreading from Perainesford,
Perricum, and Beilunk. However, success was often short-
lived and the influx of refugees from the east rose steadily.
In 1026 FB, orcs invaded the Realm yet again and were
defeated only by a joint effort.
Without warning, in 1027 FB, the troops of the Ancient
Black Dragon, Rhazzazor, broke through the Wall of
Death and the Endless Ranks of the Dead poured into the
Middenrealm. They met little resistance until the
Battle of the Field of Mythrael, which took place on
the 24th of Peraine, 1027 FB, near Warhome, the city
with the strongest defenses in the Middenrealm. The
united armies of the Realm finally defeated the Endless
Ranks of the Dead only to witness the appearance of
Heptarch Galotta’s Flying Fortress in the skies overhead.
227
 The Shards of the Demon Crown
Those who secured one of the seven shards of
Borbarad’s Demon Crown ( page 234) after the
Third Demon Battle became known as the Heptarchs.
Each shard, which carried the power of one of the
archdemons, would affect its respective Heptarch’s
territory for many years to come. An overview on the
archdemons can be found in Chapter 7: Gods and Demons,
on page 184.

Galotta, the former court wizard of Emperor Haal,

who was driven mad by his desire for revenge. He
constructed the mad demon city Yol-Ghurmak
in Transysilia with the power of the Agrimoth
Shard and ruled over the demon kingdom as self-
appointed emperor. The mad genius Leonardo the
Mechanicus acquired the shard after his death.

Helme Haffax, the traitorous Marshal, obtained

the Shard of Belhalhar. With its power, he made
himself Prince-Commander and ruler of Maraskan,
and conquered Tobrien after Xeraan’s fall.

Dimiona of Zorgan, the renegade witch princess

of Arania, split her homeland with the help of the
Belkelel Shard, and created the Moghulate Oron,
where perversion and cruelty knew no limits.

Xeraan the Hunchback, a mage with an immense

This dreaded war machine employed world fire—a mighty
invocation of the archdemon Agrimoth—to level Warhome
and kill most of the army before flying on unopposed to
threaten Gareth, which housed a quarter of a million
people at that time.
At the last moment, several heroes boarded the Flying
Fortress and slew Galotta. His fortress fell from the sky,
unfortunately destroying New-Gareth and burying the
Imperial Palace and the City of Light under its wreckage,
but the city’s inhabitants were saved. The next day, the
Black Dragon bound the Regent of the Realm, Emer ni
Bennain, to the Golden Pyramid of Warunk with mighty
chains and promised to return within the year.
“A nice anecdote about the effect of morale in
battle: Emperor Haal is said to have personally
appeared on the field. By riding against the
enemy at the troops’ side, he granted courage
to those who were present. What a nice story. I
wish it were true. Well, maybe it is. I have heard
that some of my old comrades believe it…”
—Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary
lust for gold, secured the Shard of Charyptoroth.
He appointed himself head of the newly founded
Church of Borbarad in his capital, Xeraania, and
hoarded gold like a dragon. He eventually lost the
shard to Darion Paligan, former admiral of the
Al’Anfan Armada and notorious pirate, who then
went on to haunt the Blood Sea on his floating
demon ark, the Plaguebringer.
Glorana the Beautiful, a mighty witch, ruled over
her kingdom of ice from her palace in Paavi with
the Shard of Nagrach. She ruled the north without
pity and was responsible for the eternal winter,
which turned even her subjects’ hearts to ice.
Rhazzazor, the undead dragon, kept his hoard in
Warunk. With the help of the Thargunitoth Shard,
he secured control of Warunkia and environs.
The walking dead outnumbered the living in the
Nightmaremarches, as his realm was called. The
Warunkan Council of Necromancers seized the
shard after his demise.
The Shard of Azfuloth disappeared early on, and
its whereabouts remain unknown.

228 Chapter 10: Myth and History

The Year of Fire swept over the Middenrealm. The powerful
Duke of the Northmarches, Jast Gorsam of the Great River,
began managing the affairs of State when the heir to the
throne, Rohaja, went missing after the Battle for Warhome.
Instead of uniting to defeat their common enemy, old feuds
started anew in many provinces. Around this time, Answin
of Ravenmouth—who had been thought dead for years—
returned and liberated the city of Griffonsford, which was
under siege by orcs. Once again, the question arose as to
whether he could enforce his claim to the Griffon Throne.

The last major confrontation of the Year of Fire took

place at the gates of Gareth. Rohaja of Gareth returned
from Warhome and battled Answin of Ravenmouth for
the crown and sovereignty of the Middenrealm. In what
became known as the Battle of Three Emperors, which
occurred on the 15th of Phex, 1028 FB, the missing Emperor
Haal suddenly reappeared and rode into battle under his
granddaughter’s banner.

Rohaja’s troops triumphed over Answin of Ravenmouth,

who for the second time in history had come within inches
of securing the Griffon Throne. The old enemies, Haal and
Answin, both died in the Battle of Three Emperors when
the now-undead dragon, Rhazzazor, returned and made
good on his threat. Many brave heroes put their lives
and sanity on the line to destroy the beast. Thus, shortly
after Galotta fell, Rhazzazor—the second Heptarch—was
also vanquished, but the demonic power of the shards of
Borborad’s Crown was far from broken.
Those who did not hesitate to use the powers of the shards
soon appeared in the Shadowlands.
Following the turmoil of the Year of Fire, a grand court
meeting was arranged at Castle Ruda’s Shield in Rahja, 1028
FB, to reorganize the Middenrealm. Rohaja’s coronation
was set for the coming month of Praios, but her younger
brother Selindian Haal—of all people—now disputed her
claim to the throne. He fought the changes to succession
their father had implemented to favor Rohaja, and
reminded the people that since the era of Hela-Horas, no
woman had been allowed to ascend to the Griffon Throne.
Perhaps unwisely, Rohaja made drastic concessions to the
Middenrealm’s nobles in the Oxenblood Charter, to gain
the support of the provinces. She was crowned on the 1st
of Praios, 1029 FB and immediately founded the Traveling
Imperial Court to stay close to her subjects. However, that
very same month, her brother was crowned Emperor Haal
II in Punin, and from that day forward reigned as Moon-
Emperor in Almada. The two siblings’ struggle for the
Griffon Throne lasted until Selindian’s death in the year
1034 FB.
Struggles for dominion were not limited to the Horasian
Empire or the Middenrealm, for there were also conflicts
among Borbarad’s heirs. In early 1028 FB, brave Aranian
troops had already defeated the Moghulate Oron and put
an end to Dimiona’s rule, and even with the threat from
outside kingdoms, the Heptarchs were never on good terms
with one another. After the deaths of Galotta and Rhazzazor
at Gareth, it was only a matter of time until someone made
a move to take control of everything. In 1029 FB, Prince-
Commander Helme Haffax invaded the Pirate’s Coast to
establish a secure base from which to launch his planned
military campaign against the Middenrealm. When the
Heptarch Xeraan perished while attempting to exploit the
city of Ilsur’s sacred springs, muchs of Xeraania fell under
the control of the Prince-Commander, who established his
capital at Mendena.
People on the other side of the Ogre Wall did not remain
idle. The Middenrealm’s troops were able to retake
Misamouth County. The Thorwalers bravely fought against
the Heptarch Glorana under the leadership of the Highest
Hetwoman Jurga, who had lost her father Tronde in the
fight against the Ice Witch. In the east, the former Noble
Marshall, Thesia of Ilmenstein, led a military expedition
against the Realm of Ice but disappeared without trace
in the realm of Nagrach. It was not until much later that
Glorana was dealt a devastating blow and met her demise
at the hands of the orcs, of all people. Scholars presume

229
 The War of Dragons and Its Consequences
The sudden death of Amene-Horas in 1028 FB
sparked a war of succession in the Horasian
Empire. Her son, Timor Firdayon, took the wreath
as the new Horas, but the Crown Convent of Arivor
recognized her daughter, Crown Princess Aldare,
as the true heir and made her queen. Their sister
Salkya (a Blessed One of Rondra who had renounced
her claim to the throne) also returned, but she died
in battle. After prolonged and bloody fighting, the
Timorite faction seemed to emerge victorious… at
least at first.
In 1030 FB, Shafir the Magnificent intervened in
the conflict. Surprisingly the siblings called for a
truce after the Emperor Dragon’s intervention,
and after long negotiations, enacted the Peace of
Arivor. Timor and Aldare renounced their claims
to the throne, and Khadan Varsinian, son of Aldare
and Shafir, was proclaimed the new Horas. Timor
withdrew from public life, while Aldare, who had
been ordained in the Church of Hesinde years prior,
was made the new Magister of Magisters, the head
of the Church of Hesinde. The War of Dragons, so
named for the protective, heraldic animal used by
both factions, reached a happy conclusion despite
the losses.
After the War of Dragons, the Al’Anfans saw their
chance to end their long stalemate at sea and
attacked the Horasian Empire. They intended
first to occupy the Cyclopes Islands with their
Black Armada, while military commander Oderin
du Metuant’s troops marched overland north
to conquer Drôl at the same time. In the largest
naval battle of the current era, near the island of
Phrygaios, the Horasians were able to repel the
enemy thanks to their state-of-the-art ships and
sailors’ tremendous sacrifices. It would take Al’Anfa
many years to recover from this bitter defeat and
rebuild its weakened fleet.
that the shard of the archdemon Nagrach now rests in the
hands of the orcs.
Meanwhile, a violent war for the Blood Sea—as the demon-
infested waters between Maraskan and Tobrien came
to be called—was waged in the south of the continent.
The Heptarch Darion Paligan met his end together with
his demon ark, Plaguebringer, severely weakening the
archdemoness Charyptoroth’s dominion.
After an unexplained period of seeming inactivity, Empress
Rohaja finally retaliated in 1039 FB by dispatching a mighty
army from Gallys to reconquer Mendena. Imperial forces
captured Haffax’ capital by the end of the year after weeks
230 Chapter 10: Myth and History
of fierce fighting, but the Prince-Commander had an ace
up his sleeve. During the Nameless Days of that same year,
the brilliant strategist conquered Perricum, and from there
his troops advanced far into the Middenrealm. He laid
siege to Rommilys and Gareth, but he and his troops were
narrowly defeated in the capital at the very last second.
A large portion of the Shadowlands is finally free now
that Heptarch Helme Haffax is dead. However, the Starfall
( page 232) now casts a new and much greater shadow
over Aventuria.
The Time of the Starfall
The Twilight of Shards—as the war on the heirs of
Borbarad is called—came to an end, as did an Aventurian
era. It is uncertain whether the wound of the Shadowlands,
perverted by demonic power, can ever be healed. Transysilia
remains in the hands of Arngrimm, the wolf-like Duke. The
city of Yol-Ghurmak may never be known as Ysilia again,
as it has merged with the Shard of Agrimoth. Ghosts and
other undead still plague the Ravenmarches, the Sunmark,
and a large part of Warunkia. But the Middenrealm and
its allies might yet prevail, thanks to a great extent to the
efforts of brave heroes, and there are many opportunities
to strike a decisive blow against the corruption spread by
the Heptarchs.
In the meantime, Khadan-Horas, the dragon’s son, did not
remain idle. He spent many years researching ways to
destroy the Shards of the Demon Crown ( page 234) and
break their power. After many long and secret preparations,
he traveled to the Khôm Desert with the Charyptoroth Shard
early in 1039 FB to perform a special ritual far from any
source of water. Amazingly, he managed the unthinkable
and the shard was destroyed, yet the task weakened the
Horas significantly and almost claimed his life (or so people
now whisper in the salons of the Horasian Empire). Almost
immediately, the Starfall ( page 232) began rending the
skies over Aventuria. It is an event of such major cosmological
significance that some scholars already speculate there may
be a correlation between the two events.
The starry sky above Aventuria has changed significantly
since then, slowly at first, but then with increasing speed.
One cannot forget the Night of the Starfall in Travia,
1039 FB, during which countless celestial phenomena were
observed, but this time, entire constellations have changed.
Stars flicker and shine brighter or else are completely
extinguished. One constellation, the Hero, shines brighter
than ever before in the skies over Aventuria, and for the
first time in living memory, humans and dwarves can
agree on this at least—the continent is experiencing a new
Heroic Age. The actions of your heroes will determine the
course of future history.
For more about Aventurian constellations, see The Starry
Sky, on page 104.
 Chapter 11:
Mystery and Arcana
“Of course there are secrets in the world. And yes, I know many
of them. But what makes you think I would simply share them
with you?

Part of the nature of the world is that one must work for and earn
such knowledge. Was there ever an architect who was not first an
apprentice?”
—the ancient dragon Fuldigor the Finisher, 1034 FB

SPOILER ALERT!
This chapter contains GM-only information. Players who
look forward to in-game surprises and who do not wish
to diminish their enjoyment of the game should not read
beyond this point!

This section of the book is intended for GMs only and

includes more about the NPCs and locations presented in
this book, as well as information about the Starfall, the
Shards of the Demon Crown, and current and upcoming
events in Aventuria. You will also find in-depth background
material and practical suggestions for developing a shared
gaming experience in Aventuria, such as adventure hooks,
backdrops, generic enemy stats, and GM tips.

231
 Mysteries Empire. The earthquake that followed marked the doom of
the city. A huge, dark chasm gaped in the ground where
one of the most fortified and tradition-conscious cities of
The Starfall the Horasian Empire once stood—to this day, only ruins
(Pages 104, 107, 193, 229, 230) remain (see also The Ruins of Arivor on page 249).

“I could not believe it! The constellation of the The Changing World: Aventuria in Its New Edition
Dragon began to blink. The eye of the Dragon After the Starfall, certain details are more uncertain and
went dark over and over again only to shine mystical in Aventuria and, we hope, more exciting for
even brighter when it returned. Then, the the players. But not to worry. We do not intend to turn
Dragon’s eye went out entirely. I fervently pray everything upside down—at least not yet. The Dark Eye still
that our patron, the High Dragon Naclador, has contains all of your favorite Aventurian regions, people,
not gone to sleep; not now, when we so desperately and idiosyncrasies, which after all are the heart and soul of
need his eternally watchful eye. Then, stars began to the game. We are simply taking this opportunity to advance
fall from the skies and constellations changed and shifted. The the living history of the continent and the narrative of
Starless Void began to grow. And I could find no predictions the world via NPCs in an organic way, preserving its rich
of these occurrences in the works of the brilliant astronomer, background while introducing exciting new events.
Niobara. Lady Hesinde, enlighten me!”
—Nacladora Berlînghan, Blessed One of Hesinde, Order of Heroes have the potential to tip the scales, prevent the
the Draconites worst from happening at the very last moment, and
possibly even bring about a favorable ending. Often, heroes
are the ones who proverbially, or sometimes quite literally,
The event that became known in every Aventurian
save the world. The rules of the 5th edition introduce Fate
language as the Starfall began midway through 1038 FB.
Points, which heroes may use to help with small, large, and
Individual constellations flickered restlessly in the night
mighty heroic deeds. However, the enemy is also prepared,
sky, while others slowly began to lose their brightness.
and an arch nemesis may make use of similar means,
In Boron 1038 FB, a large meteorite made of Gwen-Peytrl
influencing fate in a similar way. Phex, the god of luck,
went down near Havena, in the month of Rahja that same
may grant Fate Points to the heroes, but so may any other
year, one made of star-iron went down near Oldenbridge
deity with an interest in the heroes’ destinies. Long-time
in Kosh. Wild rumors and the most sinister of conjectures
players of The Dark Eye may simply introduce Fate Points
made the rounds among scholars. But the common people
as an exciting rule mechanism to enhance gameplay, or,
either looked at the night sky in fear or turned a closed
like some GMs, connect them to the Starfall. It’s up to you.
eye to what was happening. Insecurity, panic, and chaos
surrounded such events, but brave heroes often prevented
If, as a GM, you like to link the rules and the setting for your
more terrible things from happening.
gaming group, the 5th edition innovations offer wonderful
connecting points to events in Aventuria. Not all of the
In 1039 and 1040 FB, the changes in Aventuria’s night sky
changes can be reflected in-world, as some are primarily
became more dramatic. Stars went out in the night sky—
new rules for cooperative play. But numerous points of
sometimes slowly, sometimes suddenly, and sometimes
contact exist through which the changes in the game can
entire constellations shifted or changed their arrangement.
also be addressed within the game world context—whether
that be through changes to magic in the world, or the fact
During these changes, mystics, prophets, and clairvoyants
that Blessed Ones can now draw on considerably more
from all peoples and races were repeatedly plagued by dark
karmic energy than before, or the significant changes in
premonitions that revealed a substantial threat. However,
the works of the gods.
no one could tell with certainty what exactly these signs
were predicting or in which way this threat could be
We hope to shed some light on what awaits you in
addressed.
Aventuria’s near future.
However, one thing quickly became clear: old certainties
“The world is changing. I see it in the light of the stars and I
no longer held true! Not only did the night sky change, but
taste it in the dust and ash carried on the wind. I feel it in the
the web of magical ley lines that encompasses the world
depths of my soul, which longs for the light from which my people
shifted and acquired new pathways.
emerged. Maybe it has always been like that. Perhaps, it will soon
be decided whether we will return to the light or if that-which-
Then, in Rahja 1039 FB, the unthinkable happened: the
fights-creation will plunge us into eternal darkness.”
point of the Sword constellation went out and a star fell
—Elidiriel Moon-over-the-Waters, glade elven legend singer,
from the sky and crashed down near Arivor, in the Horasian
1040 FB

232 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana

“Angrosh’s hammer! The world may change, but we shall not!
Flames, we were created to be immutable like stone—the world
should follow our example. As long as we live, we shall ensure
everything remains as it is. Your fears are entirely unfounded.”
—Xolgorim son of Xaraf, Preserver of Power, high priest of
Angrosh, 1040 FB
Effects of the Starfall
At the onset of the Starfall, a shock went through the
Spheres. But the Sphere structures and starry sky were not
the only things to change. Magical ley lines also shifted, and
with them, the mythical and magical network pervading
the continent. The casting of spells also changed—witches
and druids now feel the quake of Sumu’s body, and elves
hear the variances in their magical songs. Resourceful guild
mages form new working groups to analyze and calculate
the magical innovations.
Naturally, ley lines and nodes still exist, and many lines
that span the continent, including exceptionally strong
lines with illustrious names such as Satinav’s Chains,
Basilius Lines, Witches Band, or Elemental Hexagram,
hardly change at all. Yet other lines vanish, new lines
appear, and some lines —such as the mighty Council Line,
which runs from the peaks of the Iron Edge to Brabak—
change their path.
Of course, these changes also affect node points of magical
power, as well as some troll paths and fairy gates. Even the
mysterious Dark Portals (see page 197) may now lead to
entirely different places.
The structure of the work of gods has also been shaken. The
fight against archdemons and their human servants, those
who possess the Shards of the Demon Crown, has taken
a great toll on churches as well as gods. In recent years,
many churches have discovered new liturgical chants, lost
sacred artifacts, or even unearthed new ones.
Some Blessed Ones feel a stronger connection to their
deity, while others feel increasingly isolated. In either case,
the fact remains that the divine karma flows through them
in a different way than it did before.
The most obvious change in Aventuria, however, is related
to the night sky. Constellations change, and wandering
stars now move slower or faster over the firmament.
Some constellations shine brighter, others simply stop
shining, and still others are extinguished in a shower of
stars. Therefore, it has become particularly difficult to
determine prophecies and horoscopes, choose the correct
constellation for summoning and invocation purposes,
and—perhaps most importantly—navigate at sea.
Effects of the Starfall
Focus Rule
The clearly visible changes of the Starfall also impact
the actions of the heroes in terms of rules. Every check
related to astronomy, especially navigation (at sea), the
summoning of demons, the invocation of spirits and
elementals, and the creation of horoscopes should have an
increased difficulty of 1 until the hero becomes accustomed
to the new circumstances. How long this takes is at the
GM’s discretion. Specifically, this includes all checks on
Astronomy, Stellar Cartography, and Calendars.
Starfall and the Feeling of the Game
This section introduces some variants of the Starfall theme
and explains how it may impact your players’ experience
in Aventuria.
We have chosen to state definitively whether the Starfall
was triggered by the destruction of the Charyptoroth
Shard, or if it was simply a natural event that accompanied
the Turning of Ages, or even whether it was due to the
Nameless One shaking his chains and thus causing stars to
fall from the sky. All three approaches have their charm
and we plan to introduce all three variants as possible
explanations in future publications. For now, this major
event produced a great number of theories, the most
common if which we have collected here along with their
consequences. Use them as you wish for color, or if your
playing group decides it would enjoy addressing these
theories in-game. Of course, feel free to combine these
ideas in any way, or devise your own. It is probably best
if you set the narrative tone that appeals most to your
gaming group, or discuss with your players which playing
style they would prefer.
Trial: Perhaps the gods are silent because they wish to
test the mortals and determine the chosen race for the
coming age. Set between doubt and trust in the gods,
the tone of this variant is very mystical—but may also
be marked by temptation and heroism.
End Times: The Nameless One has triggered the
Starfall by pulling at the chains that have long bound
him. This variant conveys a strong apocalyptical
feeling, which makes mortals and Twelvegods seem
powerless at first. Heroes must wisely use the time
remaining before the impending doomsday to prepare
their stand against the forces of chaos.
Heroic: The gods have chosen the heroes to defend
their world order. This conviction might originate
solely from their upright faith or come from signs and
233
 visions. This interpretation clearly makes the game The first signs of the Starfall were already present in the
more heroic, and is particularly close to the tradition night sky by then, and the first record of falling stars is
of the game as a real “heroes’ role playing game.” dated from mid to late 1038 FB.

Mundane: The destruction of the Charyptoroth Shard
by Khadan-Horas accelerated the Starfall (or perhaps
even triggered it in the first place). In this variant,
mortals provoked a major catastrophe, despite their
best intentions. Alternatively, they might have done
exactly what was necessary to avert a worse disaster.
Significantly more focus lies on mortals rather than
immortals. Instead of being mere tools of the gods,
mortals assume responsibility for their own fates.
The Shards of the Demon Crown
(Pages 31, 184, 226, 230)
“I had already begun to wonder whether the shards from
Borbarad’s Demon Crown were formed out of pure essence of
the Seventh Sphere. The latest reports give me further reason
to doubt it. At least some of the shards must have had tangible,
elemental components attributed to them: foremost the Shard of
Charyptoroth, but the same must apply to the Shards of Agrimoth
and Nagrach, as well. This could mean that their fate is more
entwined with the world than we would like to believe. If we
accept the old legends, the Nameless One had a part in creating
the Crown, and even though he has not used it in a long time,
we cannot rule out the possibility that it holds some portion of
his strength. I do not like to think about what could happen if,
when these shards are destroyed, this power returns to him in the
Starless Void.”
—Ysolphur the purple worm, 1040 FB
Of the seven shards from Borbarad’s Demon Crown,
only three are known to have been destroyed. A few are
in safekeeping thanks to heroes who took part in the
adventures surrounding the Twilight of Shards. It remains
to be seen whether they can be destroyed as well.
The origin of the Demon Crown remains a mystery, and
there has been much speculation on the exact nature of
this powerful artifact ever since the return of Borbarad.
The artifact with which Borbarad formed pacts with
multiple archdemons may actually be related to a much
older artifact of the same name. The original Demon Crown
belonged to the Nameless One who used it to strengthen
his hold over the Seventh Sphere, and the mythology of
the Twelvegods often refers to it as a thirteen-pointed
Demon Crown. If these two artifacts are in fact the same,
it is extremely likely that more shards exist, even if no
one in Aventuria dares to express this theory. According
to myth, the Demon Crown was sundered after the fall of
the Nameless One. Unless they have been destroyed, the
missing shards must still exist somewhere in the world.

Your heroes can now experience firsthand the events of the

Twilight of Shards, which have strongly shaped Aventuria
as a setting over the past few years, in adventure modules.
For a summary of the events surrounding the fight against
the heirs of Borbarad, see Chapter 10: Myth and History, on
page 227.

After the fall of the first Heptarch, a few Shards of the

Demon Crown found their way into the hands of people
who consciously renounced the temptation of their
power. The shards were analyzed, and people prayed for
enlightenment—yet it remained unclear what they should
do with such powerful, demonic artifacts. With each passing
day, the risk increased that someone might succumb to
their promise of power—as had happened before.

Khadan-Horas, son of the emperor dragon, Shafir, finally

accomplished the impossible and destroyed the Shard of
Charyptoroth in early 1039 FB. But this destruction did
not have the intended result. Shortly after the Horas’
expedition into the Khôm Desert, initiates began to wonder
if the shard’s destruction threw the world out of balance.

234 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana

Current Status of the Shards of
Borbarad’s Demon Crown
The Turning of the Ages
(Pages 104, 114, 227, 228)
Agrimoth: This shard was destroyed in 1039 FB, an
event which the Heptarch Leonardo did not survive.
A Karmakortheon is a time of great change that brings
However, the city of Yol-Ghurmak acquired an
conflict and uncertainty. Nobody knows for sure how
indestructible, demonic aspect when the essence
long the transition period between ages, also known as
of the shard fully merged with it. This Portal of
a Turning of Ages, can last. It may be years, decades, or
Horror, with a direct connection to the Netherhells,
even centuries. Yet, this time, it seems it is up to the mortal
is currently the largest archdemon sanctum in
races to determine the outcome of this era. Indeed, when
Aventuria.
the fate of the continent, and perhaps the entire world, is
Azfuloth: Since the fall of Borbarad, this shard
decided, mortals will be the ones to tip the scales.
has been in the possession of an ancient and little-
known snake-like chimera, the Serpent of Maraskan.
Malicious tongues claim the gods are too preoccupied to
The story behind this shard is not addressed in the
help their chosen people in this time. Each Turning of
Twilight of Shards, and few mortals even know that
Ages reignites the conflict between gods for their seats
the Serpent of Maraskan has the Shard of Azfuloth.
in Alveran, the Fortress of the Gods. Only the mightiest
Maraksan’s various races fight bitterly against the
of them prevails against their competitors and secures
shard’s chaotic influence, making the jungle an even
their place in Alveran. But the events of the Twilight of
deadlier place than it already was.
Shards grant the Netherhells an opportunity to inflict
Belhalhar: Since the Nameless Days of 1039 FB-
considerable damage upon Creation. Also, the Nameless
1040 FB, this shard has been embedded in Ayla of
One is pulling at his chains, trying to take advantage of the
Shadowground’s body. The former Sword of Swords
conflict of gods and the changing world to usher in his new
banished the power of the shard with the power
beginning.
of her own soul. To this day, the Church of Rondra
disagrees about what should be done with Ayla’s
But mortals do not only fight against chaos as champions
body—currently, it is preserved at a secret location
of the gods, they also fight for themselves and their own
in the foothills of the Salamander Stones.
destiny. For each Turning of Ages determines which mortal
Belkelel: The faithful of the Twelvegods have kept
race holds dominion over the next Age.
this shard safe since 1037 FB when it was enclosed
intact in an Urn of the Unknowable, a powerful
According to prophecy, this will be the age of the so-called
magical artifact made by the Horas specifically for the
short-lived races; however, this does not necessarily mean
purpose of containing the shard. Its current resting
humans will triumph, for other non-elven races, such as
place, whether the Palace of Mirrors in Zorgan,
the orcs, are more than eager to prove themselves.
the Sangreal in Horasia, or the hoard of Shafir the
Emperor Dragon, is a well-kept secret.
“This is no simple change. This is the consequence. All promises
Charyptoroth: This shard was destroyed in 1039 FB
and trade agreements are now called in. Phex knows how to hide
in the Khôm Desert by Khadan-Horas and a group
his faithful in the heavens, so that no one, neither god nor demon,
of powerful mages and Blessed Ones. However, only
may abduct them from his fellowship.
part of the shard’s essence was sent back to the
Netherhells. Some scholars have begun to view this
Do we know if the old three—Efferd, Firun, and Ingerimm—are
event as a possible cause of the Starfall.
really fighting on our side? Or do they simply want to claim the
Nagrach: This shard, which remains intact, is
legacy of the titans and seize the throne of the world against
secured in a mighty dungeon of spirits in Firun’s
everything we have been taught about the unity of the Twelve?”
Wall, guarded by a circle of wise and powerful orc
—Mharbal al’Tosra, the Voice of the Moon
shamans.
Thargunitoth: This shard was destroyed in 1038
FB by the supreme Blessed One of Peraine, Leatmon
Phraisop, with the strong support of heroes. “This is our hour! Chaos rushes through the
The shard’s essence returned to the Netherhells, Starless Void as the Twelvegods fight among
depriving the archdemoness of her powerful anchor themselves. Behold what shall happen now.
to the world. A portion of the shard’s power went Remember what still needs to be done!”
to the nine-horned demon, Nirraven, who last —Arraloth Westfal, Hand of the Nameless One
possessed it.

235
 War of the Gods
(Pages 138, 176, 183)
Scholars know the sky often changes over the course of
eons, but no one knows the reason.
Across the face of Dere, the Karmakortheon or so-called
Turning of Ages has begun. Most scholars agree that
the struggle between good and evil, order and chaos,
creation and dissolution reaches its height during this
time, for, according to tradition, it decides which race
gains superiority over the next age of the world. Some
mystics among the Blessed Ones, as well as shamans and
other prophetic, magically-gifted folk, believe this period
of transition determines which gods will rule the coming
age as well, and a conflict of gods is almost certain. The
followers of the Nameless One eagerly await this shock to
the structure of the world.
Although many pious Aventurians would deny this fact
out of fear, it is not unusual for the gods to remain silent
during a Turning of the Ages, as they become preoccupied
with themselves. However, it would come as quite a
surprise to most Blessed Ones to learn that the gods also
pay little heed to the prayers of mortals during this time.
For the bulk of mortals, not much changes in matters of
faith. Blessed Ones act independently, according to their
deity, and make use of the divine power granted to them.
Congregants see them as the ones who bring order to the
world, in the name of their deity. Doing so in the current
Turning of Ages requires an increased awareness of one’s
own responsibility to act. The new edition of the rules
takes this development into account by granting Blessed
Ones more karma points that replenish much faster than
was previously the case.
The gods must trust the mortals to do their work in the
world as they must fight on other fronts to defend their
position as ruling pantheon, maintain their place in
Alveran, and preserve Creation itself.
Three of the Twelve have already prepared their churches
to enter into this new era. Praios tested his Fellowship of
Light with the Quest of Quanion and gave his Blessed Ones
the burden of responsibility, as befits his principles. Hesinde
purified her Church, the Vault of Perpetual Gifts, after it
suffered great losses, and established proportionality as
one of her new tenets. Peraine commanded her Servants of
Life to advocate for diversity and vehemently fight against
diseases, famine, and all threats to salvation.
Firun, Rondra, and Boron are on the verge of implementing
similar plans for their churches. But all three are currently
locked in conflict with other immortals, to secure their
positions beyond the Turning of Ages. The situation is
236 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana
particularly difficult for Boron, as various cultures and
races have worshiped many gods of the dead throughout
time. Indeed, several entities seek to claim dominion over
the Realms of the Dead and hold the scepter in the coming
age. The orcish god, Tairach, is one of Boron’s strongest
competitors, and it remains to be seen whether Boron’s
other adversary, Thargunitoth, truly has been weakened
by the destruction of her shard. Even gods such as
Rastullah or Brazoragh, who are not part of the pantheon
of the Twelvegods, may enter the struggle, along with
other unexpected candidates.
“Finally, the stars are falling as was prophesied
millennia ago! Have no fear, for it is our sign that
the gods are fighting, and that Brazoragh, heir
of Tairach, will defeat the other gods. He has
already claimed his first victories. Our people
shall rule. And we will crush the humans!”
—the Aikar Brazoragh, uniter of the orcish tribes
“Ironically, it is the Serpent that sends me a
sign. This is strange, but the great change in
the firmament leads me to just one possible
conclusion: the fight between order and chaos
has begun, and the outsider moves to defeat
our world. To this I say “Never!” We have the
strength to resist the demons. We have the power to
shake off the yoke of the gods. We shall fight, and we shall win,
because our free spirit conquers all!”
—Azaril Crimsonweed, High Prophetess of the Church
of Borbarad
The Intrigues of the Nameless One
(Pages 101, 138, 183, 218)
“HIS name was fragmented into thirteen parts. They are scattered
throughout the world and still carry the power of the true lord.
Even you might find them, the parts of the Tridekarion, because
you have been chosen by HIM to serve. But know this: HIS name
is more than the syllables of a word. Every single one holds faith,
hope, anger, power, promise, and a thirst for revenge. Beware of
the guardians who watch over them on behalf of the nefarious
Twelve. May the power of our lord enable you to defeat them.”
—excerpt from a pamphlet entitled The True Power of the
Golden, seized in Gareth, 1039 FB
There is only one who profits greatly from the strife of
gods during the Turning of Ages: the Thirteenth, the god
without a name. His goal is domination over Creation,
which was denied him by the other gods. He will stop at
 Conspiracy Theories Involving the Nameless One
Time and time again, the question arises as to whether
nothing, even if it means destroying and reorganizing the
the Nameless One truly does influence the fate of mortals,
world according to his will. He even attempted to force
either directly or via the agency of mortals, demons,
the creatures from the chaos of the Seventh Sphere to do
or his chosen servants. If you like to spin conspiracy
his bidding. The events of the Starfall play into his hands,
theories, sprinkle evidence of the secret works of the
as many mortals begin to doubt their gods and traditions.
Thirteenth God throughout your game. The following
Whether the Nameless One prepared long for this chance
suggestions are explicitly for GM eyes only, as even the
or decided to seize the opportunity inherent in the current
highest servants of the Nameless One do not necessarily
upheaval, one thing in certain: he will not remain idle.
know this information. Examples of historical Aventurian
His mortal servants work with fanatical zeal to restore his
events that can likely be attributed to the actions of the
former power and shatter his chains once and for all.
Nameless One are as follows.
According to the myths of the Twelvegods, the Nameless
Murak-Horas allegedly died in 17 b.FB from a never-
One will not bring about the chaos of the end of the world
healing wound inflicted by a shimmering purple
until the 13th Age, but an entity with such power will
lance. In retaliation, his daughter Hela persecuted all
not waste this opportunity—even if he is in chains. The
Tulamydes with blind hatred after arrogantly turning
Thirteenth is anything but squeamish in his choice of
from the gods, and her actions ushered in the Fall of
methods and does not rely only upon mortal servants. He
Bosparan with the Second Demon Battle.
also commands a number of his own demons, created to
The Blessed Ones of Rondra were blamed for the
serve him alone. He sent his powerful servants, known as
death of the Middenrealm heir to the throne, Ruda,
the Thirteen Eyes of the Nameless One, to roam throughout
in 335 FB, which led to the long and bloody reign of
Dere and report all that they observe. Among his most loyal
terror of the Priest-Emperors. It looked as though a
followers are Pardona the elf, known as the Mouth of the
lion had torn the prince to pieces, and his wounds
Nameless One and herald of his will; the human supreme
had a purple sheen to them. Such wounds could be
Blessed One, Arraloth Westfal, known as the Hand of the
attributed to the work of the invisible demon of the
Nameless One; and the Nameless One’s incarnate son,
Nameless One, Grakvaloth, which takes the shape of
Tionnin Madaraestadin, who according to prophecy, will
a lion.
lead the servants of the Nameless into a new era.
The Nameless One commanded his legate, Pardona, to
create a body for the resurrected Borbarad in 1016 FB
To outsiders, the Nameless One appears to be a dark god;
as an offering to convince him to join their alliance.
but to his followers, he is the bringer of influence, power,
Fortunately for the world, Borbarad, that equally
and justice. His Blessed Ones often portray him as the
powerful and haughty Alveranian of Forbidden
oldest and mightiest of the gods, cruelly cheated of his
Knowledge, declined.
right by the other gods, and they preach the new order he
A brotherhood of Al’Anfan conspirators was blamed
will purportedly establish after he shames his adversaries’
for the death of Amene-Horas, but in fact, she was
false creation.
poisoned by a follower of the Nameless One in her
immediate vicinity. Her death plunged the Horasian
Blessed Ones of the Nameless One are archetypical villains
Empire into the War of Dragons (1028-1030 FB),
for one reason alone: logical arguments cannot convince
during which her heirs fought bitterly for the throne.
these deluded fanatics of their wrongdoing. Fervent
followers of the Nameless One wish to destroy the existing
order and bring about the kingdom of their lord. Some cults
strive for nothing less than the end of the known world.
They want to see creation destroyed, as they believe they
alone know the truth and are the only ones who can see
past the lies spread by the faith of the Twelvegods.
Many of them would prefer death from torture
rather than renounce their lord and submit to the
false idols who stole the power of their god.

Despite their relentlessness, cults of the Nameless

One do not act in clumsy and brutal manners to achieve
their goals. Not all are secretive, cloaked figures who
perform human sacrifices in dark dungeons. Many are
masters of deception who masquerade as sophisticated
burghers, wise rulers, or even as the Blessed Ones of other

237
 gods who gain the trust of others and begin to slowly sow
the seeds of doubt. The teachings of the Nameless God
succeed not because his Blessed Ones preach sacrifice
and devotion; rather, their words lure people in with the
promise of a new world order, which in turn appeals to the
needs of hopeful converts. The willingness of his followers
and priests to make sacrifices eventually blossoms of its
own accord. Despite his imprisonment in the firmament,
the Nameless One protects his servants and cloaks them
from the Twelvegods. In turn, his followers take this as a
sign of his boundless power.
Dark Eyes
(Pages 42, 196)
Mysterious images repeatedly flicker in these powerful
artifacts as a result of the onset of the Starfall. During the
years 1038-1040 FB, Dark Eyes show mainly scenes of the
past or else gray, whirling images, even those Dark Eyes
which normally show only one place. Many of these fast-
changing images reveal uncertain or possible futures, or
else show a night sky full of shooting stars, a great heroic
feat, or even the destruction of Arivor.
Some images seem to show another, far mightier artifact—
the Primotolith, the legendary first Dark Eye. Believing
they have interpreted the signs correctly, many now search
intensely for this legendary artifact. The mighty, whether
they be magically gifted, Blessed, or even mundane rulers,
influential patricians, trading magnates, or deserving
heroes, feel tempted to change the world with this artifact.
Thus, many set out to find it during the Starfall, as legends
say Dark Eyes once fell from the skies. In truth, Dark Eyes
require intensive enchantment to create, and few beings
are capable of performing this level of magic today. Fallen
stars are highly desired for their meteoritic iron and
magical metal content alone. The prospect of even greater
magical power only increases their value.
Rohal and Borbarad
(Pages 106, 114, 186, 222)
The powerful wizards Rohal and Borbarad fought each
other twice in recent history: before the War of Wizards,
around 590 FB, and about 450 years later, during the
Borbaradian Invasion. However, the conflict between these
two beings is far older, and neither of them even started
out as human. Both have been reborn in different ages, and
they have always fought each other bitterly. While Rohal
represents the responsible use of knowledge and wisdom,
Borbarad has no scruples and uses extremely dangerous
knowledge to promote the unrestricted freedom of the
spirit.
238 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana
One of Borbarad’s incarnations was the cruel and powerful
Mage-Mogul Assarbad, about whom many stories are told
in the bazaars in the Lands of the Tulamydes. His magic-
wielding opponent, Sulman al’Nassori, an incarnation of
Rohal, founded the Adamantine Sultanate. Troll legends
speak of the Dark Twin, who brought great misfortune to
the troll people, and even the lizardfolk have stories of
incarnations of these two powerful beings.
The Bearers of the Seven Signs discovered the truth
about their resurgence while fighting the Defiler of
Spheres during the Borbarad Campaign, when they finally
banished him from this world. There is endless speculation
in Aventuria about Rohal and Borbarad, but it is usually
limited to myths and stories. Few actually believe Borbarad
used to be Assarbad of the Tulamydes, or that he was once
a great lizardman wizard.
In the mythology of the Twelvegods, Rohal and Borbarad
are regarded as sons of the god Nandus and, thus, the
grandsons of Hesinde and Phex. However, they are in fact
the Alveranians of Nandus (Alveranians are messengers
chosen by gods to carry divine works into the world of
mortals, where the Mystery of Kha prohibits their direct
intervention). They embody contrasting aspects of Nandus’
being—Rohal is the Alveranian of Hidden Knowledge, and
Borbarad is the Alveranian of Forbidden Knowledge. Each
is represented by his own star in the Aventurian sky, and
each is often depicted as a white (Rohal) or black (Borbarad)
unicorn, the symbol of Nandus.
The Wall of Efferd
(Page 91)
The Wall of Efferd is a mystical barrier in the Sea of
Seven Winds that prevents Myranian ships from reaching
Aventuria. Now that the Horasian Lamea Expedition has
returned from Gyldenland, the young Horas is especially
worried that the Wall’s efficacy could subside.
Aventurian legend says that the sea god, Efferd, created
this barrier to punish the emperor of Gyldenland for
worshiping the archdemoness Charyptoroth—which is
not far from the truth. The Myranian house of Carybalis
began to worship the goddess Carypta almost 1,000 years
before the Fall of Bosparan. This greatly displeased the
capricious god of the sea, who sent storms, floods, and sea
monsters, and eventually created the Wall of Efferd. This
mighty barrier is the manifestation of sailors’ worst fears,
as the sea itself seems to turn against them. Efferd’s sea
creatures, such as whales and dolphins, protect the wall
diligently—any ship that gets too close gets caught up in
rushing waters and falls over the edge of the world and
down into the abyss.
The Wall of Efferd is in fact still intact, and Myranians can
only reach Aventuria by way of creative detours through
Dark Portals, Limbo, or a passage through the Eternal Ice of
the north. God-fearing Aventurians seem to be able to pass
through the wall in both directions without any trouble,
and Gyldenlanders aboard Aventurian ships are said to
have successfully made the passage. The curse of the sea
god seems to focus upon Myranian vessels alone.
Secrets of the NPCs
“Everyone has secrets. Usually, they are easily deduced, as they
are related to their keeper’s essence. However, it is far worse to
face something unknown—such as when all you know is that the
person you face is an enemy and you must win by any means
necessary. I tell you, the fight is not over yet! It will only end when
we defeat the Serpent of Maraskan. No, the Serpent is not just
a fairy tale that Maraskani mothers use to scare their children
into obedience. She is very real—and that makes her even more
dangerous!”
—Kerime al’Kadim, Draconite Arch-Abbess of the South,
1038 FB
All characters in the game have their own motivations,
dreams, and wishes, and follow their own agendas.
Adventure modules and other publications include details
such as the secrets, desires, and plans of NPCs so you can
present them as inhabitants of the world in a credible
fashion.
The NPCs presented in this book all play a large, even vital,
role in Aventuria’s living history. This section presents
background information to help you understand what
makes these characters tick and how they might affect the
heroes’ lives, whether directly or indirectly. Note that we
are presenting only basic, surface-level information about
their personal history because we do not want to give too
much away. Each NPC’s relevant publication or adventure
reveals the role they will play in the official history of
Aventuria.
This section provides additional information for various
NPCs. An asterisk (*) denotes the NPC’s year of birth,
which is followed by a description of their profession
and any special characteristics, such as physical
features, defining advantages or disadvantages, or
adjectives that describe the NPC’s personality.
Rohaja of Gareth, Empress of the Middenrealm
The Empress (*1008 FB; hot-headed knight
shaped by Rondranian ideals; strong-
willed sovereign) is a confident
and energetic young woman.
She can appear anywhere in the
Middenrealm if she chooses to steer
her traveling Imperial Court in that
direction. She is quite popular among
the common people and many nobles, as well as young
knights, who try to emulate her heroic example. Long-
standing noble families often view the Empress’ position
far more critically, especially in regard to her modest
diplomatic manner and the ways she fulfills her duty to
the realm. The Middenrealm’s laws of succession were
changed specifically for her, and she has not yet born an
heir. Indeed, due to a serious injury she suffered during
the Year of Fire and a curse by the black mage Asmodeus
of Andergast, she might never conceive another child. A
few close confidants know she has a son, Albiron (*1027
FB), from a premarital relationship, but he is not in line
to succeed her. In fact, Squire Albiron was raised by foster
parents and does not even know Rohaja is his real mother.
Therefore, many place their hopes in Rohaja’s twin sister,
Yppolita, regarding matters of succession. Yppolita is the
mirror image of her sister and is a trained mage. She only
recently returned from exile in Bornland, where she was
sent as punishment for a plot from her younger days.
Since her return, the young sorceress seems to pursue her
own interests and has no intention of marrying to further
political goals.
Rohaja’s husband, Rondrigan Paligan, is very devoted to
her, though it pains him that she does not love him to
the same degree. As Grand Privy Councilor of the Realm,
Rondrigan unconditionally backs his wife’s rule and often
makes the hard decisions so as not to burden the Empress’
conscience.
The Empress In-Game: even attempting to meet with
Rohaja might be an adventure in and of itself. The best
opportunities to do so are at the Great Imperial Tournament
in Gareth or during a visit with the traveling Imperial
Court, where the Empress grants audiences. If the heroes
perform a great service for the realm, the Empress rewards
them generously and likely asks to use their services again
in the future. It is far more likely, however, that the heroes
would meet Rondrigan, who, in his role as head of the
secret service, prefers to rely on hired specialists.
239
 The Ea’Myr
Khadan Varsinian Firdayon, Horas-Emperor “However, it is unclear exactly how the magical power of the Ea’Myr
The Horas (*1022 FB; highly intelligent; manifests itself. There are some reports of a third eye in the middle of
controlled; unworldly and—at times— the forehead, others of a mark that looks like a shadow or a projection
inhuman) is the descendent of a which only appears if the powers are used. […] No statement from
princess and an emperor dragon. He the Horus’ old private medicus about a real eye […] Exhibit 147A may
ranks amongst the wisest scholars provide further information: this elongated skull retrieved from the
of Aventuria. Through his dragon ruins of Bosparan shows an oval hole in the middle of the forehead.”
heritage, the Ucuri-Spark in his —restricted research report of the Institute of Arcane Analyses
bloodline has awakened and manifested of Kuslik, 1039 FB (held under lock and key)
as a fully-viable third eye, the so-called Ea’Myr. It
grants the Horas great magical power, which he uses quite In Aventuria, the Ea’Myr is only known as it relates to the
prudently since the destruction of the Charyptoroth Shard Horas-Emperor and is usually called the Ucuri-Spark. Praios
nearly cost him his life. is said to have granted this special gift to the mythical Horas
through Ucuri, the herald of the gods, and subsequent Horas-
Although he appears extremely composed and controlled, Emperors inherited the gift Legends from Myranor, however,
his draconic heritage seethes within him at all times, and proclaim that this so-called Star Eye originates from the
he finds it difficult to deal with everyday aspects of human Bashurides, who are said to be Mada’s chosen people. The
life, especially since he regards them as inconsequential. Horas-Emperors Brigon, Fran, and Hela each allegedly bore the
Occasionally, he quickly agrees to the wishes of his Ea’Myr, which supposedly manifested as a third eye on their
countless advisors, no matter how outlandish, while at foreheads. In addition, the supreme Blessed One of Peraine,
other times, he broods for weeks over what should be a Leatmon Phraisop the Younger, exhibited a third eye, but
simple decision. He often asks unexpectedly for advice, it closed after the destruction of the Shard of Thargunitoth.
especially with regard to simple human trivialities. Recent Tionnin Madaraestadin, regarded as the incarnate son of the
events have ignited in him a secret passion—namely, Nameless One, is also said to have the power of the third eye.
studying the shards and the Starfall—and he carries out Myriana Sarostes (*1010 FB; appears older and frail; unruly
meticulous research, clearly thinking in larger dimensions brown hair; often has seizures or visions; daughter of a scholar)
than his fellow human beings when it concerns the world’s on the other hand, cannot control the powers of her Ea’Myr.
cosmological changes. The Horas rarely appears in public She currently lives in the Kuslik underworld, where she is
after taking over the reins of government in 1040 FB, and known as Lady of Shards, the insane leader of a criminal gang.
he always wears a magnificent diadem to hide the mark on
his forehead.
sand—is unparalleled throughout Aventuria. As a
The Horas In-Game: Strict protocols at court make it
competent war marshal, Bibernell has an excellent
difficult for heroes to meet Khadan-Horas. However, he
reputation throughout the Lands of the Tulamydes, and
might pay attention to famous heroes who, for instance,
even the grim Novadi tribal leaders show her respect.
desire to speak with a known dragonologist. He even
employs middlemen or his twelve chosen paladins to
Bibernell In-Game: Bibernell is searching for a new
find individuals brave enough to join one of his infamous
location for Rondra’s main temple. Since Haffax’s attack
expeditions to further his study of the demon crown
on Perricum, the Matriarch is convinced that Rondra’s
shards.
greatest house should stand where the fight is still
happening. Bibernell allows visions of the goddess to
Bibernell of Hengisford, Sword of Swords
guide her, and she seeks help from upstanding heroes in
Bibernell (*969 FB; passionate warrior;
her quest to destroy the Shard of Belhalhar—which lies
outstanding swordfighter; brilliant
embedded within the body of Ayla of Shadowground and
Blessed One of Rondra) has been
rests under Church protection.
Matriarch of the Rondran Church
for only a short while. As niece of
Ashim Riak Assai, the Aikar Brazoragh
the former Sword of Swords, Viburn
Ashim Riak Assai (*around 978 FB; fanatical
of Hengisford, Bibernell is a mystic and
priest; physically intimidating;
one of the few Blessed Ones of Rondra who
unusually charismatic; powerful aura,
can read the will of the goddess in thunder and lightning.
for an orc) is the chosen champion of
The Blessed Ones of Rhodenstein, scholars from the
the orc god, Brazoragh. Currently, he
Order of Protectors, do not question her knowledge of old
is the only orc who can cast miracles
Tulamydian cult history, and her collection of Rondra’s
in the name of his god, though he is
signs—chunks of raw glass formed from lightning-blasted
also a powerful shaman of Tairach, and in

240 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana

this dual role he is regarded as the unifier of the orc tribes.
However, one should not assume this unification came
about peacefully—rather, the Aikar typically subjugated
the tribes by unceremoniously slaying their chieftains. It is
his goal to make Brazoragh the most powerful of gods and
to restore his followers’ divine power. For this reason, he
led the orc tribes to war against the humans many times
and recently began construction on the mighty Horned
Tower at the headwaters of the Bodir River. Thanks to him,
old cult objects such as the mace Xarflesh, the Fleshrender,
was recovered from the hands of humans during the Orc
Storm and returned to the lands of his fathers. The Aikar,
who has lived an exceptionally long time for an orc,
believes in fate and follows old prophecies which tell of the
success of his plans. So far, he has not been successful in
his far-reaching plans, but he remains undefeated in battle
and is seen as a truly formidable foe.
The Aikar In-Game: The Aikar is a powerful antagonist,
whose powers are nearly limitless. Heroes will hopefully
not encounter him personally, though they may encounter
one of the champion’s envoys—such as his Red Moon Guard
or perhaps shamans of Tairach who work to decipher
old orcish riddles to further the Aikar’s plans. Captured
scholars or Blessed Ones are sometimes brought before
him and could give a report of their meeting—provided
they survive it.
Albrax and Arombolosh, sons of Agam
Arombolosh (*738 FB; extraordinary
smith; deeply devout Blessed One;
wise and prudent sovereign) is highly
respected as Mountain King of Forest
Watch. He also serves as the forge
dwarves’ supreme Blessed One of
Angrosh as well as their chief judge.
His verdicts are as renowned for their
wisdom as his hand-forged, masterful blades are for their
sharpness.
The title of High King of all Dwarves was
originally granted to Arombolosh, but
he surprisingly declined the position
in favor of his younger brother
Albrax (*757 FB; passionate fighter;
hot-headed but responsible leader).
The experienced mercenary leader
and long-time commander of Kor’s
Fellows was certainly a good choice for the Heroic Age. The
conservative ore dwarves of Xorlosh regard Albrax’ choice
of residence—the old troll fortress Okdrâgosh, in the
Trollpeaks—as a grave insult. Even moderate Angroshim
were surprised when he refused to smash the black
carbuncle of the undead dragon Rhazzazor, and instead
placed it under lock and key in an anti-magical chamber
made from Kosh basalt. Many fear he fell under the
The Horned Tower ( Pages 49, 206)
This mysterious tower, under construction since 1022
FB, is located in the hills at the headwaters of the Bodir
in an almost circular valley surrounded by craggy cliffs
nearly 500 feet tall. The asymmetric Tower has a diameter
of 363 feet at its base and already towers over the valley
walls below. Two powerfully magical ley lines intersect
inside the tower while a third, which points straight to the
heavens, seems to have formed for the moment. Discharges
of magical energy have been occurring more frequently
around the tower’s spire ever since the Starfall began. The
tower’s more than 20 floors contain storehouses, prison
cells, sacrificial chambers, barracks, kitchens, armories,
and, at the summit, the Aikar’s private sanctuary. Many
ballistae protect the Horned Tower, which the orcs call
“Moon Spear of Brazoragh.” A few years ago, a group of
heroes and a shaman by the name of M’Darrsla managed
to severely damage the tower, but today it appears to be
nearing completion.
dragon’s influence long ago, succumbing to the promises
of power and glory.
Though dwarves may not understand it now, Arombolosh’s
decisions serve only one purpose: he has seen signs of the
coming Heroic Age in the flames, and together, he and his
brother build alliances with other races to prepare for the
fight against the foul dragon brood.
Albrax and Arombolosh In-Game: Arombolosh regularly
sees visions in the flames of the forge. However, since he
is often needed in his Mountain Kingdom, he frequently
dispatches heroes to investigate situations. Albrax also
gladly welcomes the support of energetic heroes, as he still
appreciates brave companions such as he had in his days
as a mercenary leader. The High King is rarely seen on the
field of battle today, but he has been known to set out into
the world from time to time, especially to fight against
dark magic or dragon power.
Elodiron Crystalglimmer, the Huntress
The firnelf Elodrion (*904 FB; determined
but often melancholic; master archer)
roams restlessly through the expanse
of the North, trying to forget the
many atrocities she has witnessed.
In 987 FB, during Emperor Reto’s
military campaign on Maraskan, she
led the archers of the Albernian Guard into
battle for the sake of her lover, Albernian Prince Halman ui
Bennain. But the resulting carnage caused her to turn her
back on the realms of men. Without her tribe, which she
lost to an attack by a glacier worm, she is now a solitary
wanderer. Her half-human daughter, Madayra (*986 FB),
accompanies her from time to time, She may occasionally
241
 be encountered in a human settlement and has been known
to enter archery competitions in tournaments since she
is an expert archer. She kept some treasures as personal
mementos from her time among humans, including many
pieces from the Maraskani crown jewels.
Elodiron In-Game: The firnelf can appear as savior in
times of need, or as a coveted and competent guide through
the wilderness. She only rarely makes an appearance at a
shooting match or tournament, but her name is certainly
legendary, and an archer could learn quite a bit from her.
Moreover, she can also serve as a witness to an eventful
century.
Nahema ai Tamerlein, the Gray Raven
Nahema (*unknown; highly intelligent
and narcissistic sorceress; bored and
possibly world-weary) is over 400
years old and regarded as one of the
most powerful mages in Aventuria.
No one has ever fully understood the
eternally young Tulamyde’s plans. It
seems as though only highly complex
intrigues still give her any joy in a life shaped by downright
deadly boredom of her immortality. She likes to intervene
in the lives of the rich and powerful and sometimes even
willingly draws their hatred upon herself.
She has countless magical artifacts in her possession,
including, but not limited to, magical chainmail armor,
around a dozen flying carpets, and several Dark Eyes.
She has created at least three in her long life: one in the
Orclands, one in Havena, and one in Festum. Only the last
two are still active, and she regularly uses only the artifact
in Festum. Nahema gives precious little consideration
to the guild mages’ restrictive regulations and knows
countless forgotten and forbidden spells.
She maintains an extravagant and decadent lifestyle
full of love affairs. She changes her identities often, and
appearing as a man is no trouble at all for the savvy
transformation mage. Surprisingly, she often takes on
the identity of a merchant or a trader, presumably to give
a plausible explanation for her wealth. In Festum, she is
known as the eccentric Master Lamertien; in Khunchom,
as the sharp-tongued Merat al’Niai; and in Gareth, as the
charismatic tradeswoman El’Tremian. It seems to give her
great pleasure to create anagrams of her real name for her
alter-egos.
Nahema In-Game: Most heroes encounter Nahema in
the form of legends or legacies. However, with her many
identities, she can also serve as an excellent quest-giver,
242 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana
using the heroes as pawns in her game. On a whim, she’ll
hire adventurers to retrieve old scrolls, bring her a rare
alchemical component, or simply humiliate another
magically gifted person or a jealous noble. Heroes can
quickly get caught up in her complex plots, often without
even knowing exactly whom it is that they serve.
Pardona, the Fallen High Elf
The high elf Pardona (*around 4,100
b.FB; haughty; cruel; reserved and
condescending toward mortals) is
one of the most ancient evils ever
to haunt the world. Created by the
God-Dragon Pyrdacor and the old elf
Orima-with-the-Sign-of-Stars using
the mightiest of the thirteen Cauldrons
of Primeval Forces, she went on to lead the high elves to
their doom. A summoning accident left her stranded in
the Netherhells until the Thirteenth freed her, and since
that time, she has served as his legate. She is the Mouth of
the Nameless One and his most favored servant. Pardona is
regarded as an incredibly clever and beautiful temptress,
and has brought entire cultures to ruin with a cruel smile.
As master chimerologist, she is said to possess one of the
Cauldrons of Primeval Forces—with which she created the
glacier worms and the cruel night elves. She also created
a new body for the Defiler of Spheres, Borbarad, but he
haughtily refused an alliance with her master and went on
to subjugate large parts of the known world.
Her defeat at the hands (and claws) of heroes and dragons
a few years ago weakened her significantly and she had to
flee to Myranor. Currently, she can influence Aventuria’s
fortunes only indirectly, via her people, the shakagra.
Her confidante, the young emperor dragon known as
Gabijanar, resides at the fabled Demon’s Citadel in the Iron
Edge Mountains. No one knows how he fits into Pardona’s
plans.
Pardona In-Game: It is far more likely for the heroes to
encounter her legacy in the world rather than the tainted
elf herself, whether hunting for one of her glacier worms or
helping the firnelves fight against the night elves. Pardona
currently serves as more of an ancient and inscrutable
power in the background, acting out of a level of arrogance
that is unusual for nearly immortal beings. The fact that
heroes of all races reminded her of her own mortality
only emboldened her plans on behalf of the Nameless One.
Her actions are in no way selfless, as the Nameless One
indirectly revealed to her long ago how to achieve that
which she really wants: her own divinity.
The Shakagra ( 26, 28, 44) to achieve his goals. However, he usually acts behind
Millennia ago, in her hubris, Pardona created a race of the scenes, revealing himself only after his plans have
people who worship only her as both goddess and creator. succeeded or failed.
In the Heaven’s Tower, a gigantic pinnacle in the Hoarfrost
Wastes, using the same cauldron that produced Borbarad’s Ashtarra Okharim
body, she created the shakagra—or night elves—from Ashtarra (*985 FB; friendly even in
elves and demons. The shakagra are probably her most difficult situations; good observer;
dangerous servants, and they still haunt the Eternal Ice master of magical signs) is Khadil’s
to this day. Because they cannot bear the light of the exceptionally talented daughter.
sun, the shakagra inhabit cities that were discovered She tries to make up for her
at the bottom of the ocean by Pardona’s scouts. She has natural shyness with selected public
frequently experimented on the shakagra, and there now appearances, but she feels most
exist several generations whose abilities differ from each comfortable in a scholarly environment in
other. Currently she is working on reducing the shakagra’s which she can pursue her research. Her duties as head of
sensitivity to daylight. the academy, however, rarely grant her time for that. She
effectively leads the largest magical business enterprise
on the continent, and is in constant competition with
Archon Megalon
her brother, Nabatil, who sees himself as the true family
Archon Megalon (*955 FB; brilliant
heir. Ashtarra collects information on trading partners
druid and influence mage; excellent
and academy graduates alike, building up a network of
judge of character; strong-willed
obligations which she can call upon when the need arises.
and calculating) changes his name
Even though she is said to be blessed by Phex, like her
and residence frequently. He likes to
entire family she primarily worships Hesinde, the bringer
conduct his research in disguise as a
of knowledge and mistress of all magical signs. She is also
private scholar in Havena, especially
good friends with the Draconite Kerime al’Kadim, the
after discovering an artifact in Nahema’s
expert on the doings of the lizardfolk in the Lands of the
Tower that provides an excellent trigger for any kind
Tulamydes.
of anxiety disorder (see page 246). Heroes might even
encounter him at the Count’s court in Elvenhus, or
Ashtarra In-Game: Ashtarra analyzes magical items for
in Elenvina or Ridgerock, where he is known as Alrik
payment and can create almost any artifact imaginable.
Smallsmith or Elgor of Brownsbeard, respectively. Since
Heroes might meet her at the academy in Khunchom
he does not obtain all of his information in a strictly legal
or at social events in the city on the Mhanadi River. She
manner, he often absconds to different cities for a time, to
does not share the fear that many Tulamydes have of the
avoid legal entanglements.
lizards’ strange secrets, and often hires external specialists
to investigate them. She also frequently requests help
As a scholar interested only in the discovery of new
to combat intrigues launched by her brother, a trained
knowledge, Archon regards moral restraints as a sign of
battle mage who is jealous that she was made head of the
weakness and narrow-mindedness. His research on the
academy instead of him.
subject of fear now follows a new (and to him, fascinating)
theory that says the underlying reason for human primal
Raxan Shadow Wing
fears is a common fear of something much, much greater,
Raxan Shadow Wing (*989 FB; brilliant
and he intends to discover what that unifying thing is. He
oracle and raven witch; slight of
obtains his numerous research subjects—for that is how he
build; often talks in an otherworldly
views fellow humans and other races—where he prefers
manner) is the speaker for the
to conduct his research, namely in or near war zones and
Realmwood witches’ coven. Blessed
other sites of slaughter. People that witness great horrors
with the gift of prophecy, she
make ideal subjects for his work, and the lack of security
always appears somewhat absent-
means it is unlikely anyone will notice if one or two people
minded and unkempt. She lives with
go missing…
her familiar in a ruined castle on the outskirts of the eerie
Realmwood. People often visit her to ask for advice or get
Archon In-Game: This druid is an unscrupulous
rid of a curse, interpret their dreams, or tell their futures.
researcher who would not hesitate to enmesh heroes in
Like her deceased friend, high witch Luzelin of Bluefir,
scenarios where they face their greatest fears. He is even
Raxan tries her best to achieve unity among the Daughters
known to manipulate unsuspecting heroes into spreading
of Satuaria, which is no easy task. The dark visions of
fear and terror. Archon acts friendly or mysterious and
recent days particularly cause her great worry.
authoritarian—he can ask politely or threaten in order

243
 Raxan In-Game: Raxan can hasten to the heroes’ aid if
they get into trouble in the Realmwood. She is a suitable
teacher for a player’s witch character, or may appear as
a mysterious seer who warns the group of impending
danger. Heroes might choose to visit Raxan if they dare to
seek a glimpse into their future.
Emmeran Stoerrebrandt
Emmeran Stoerrebrandt (*979 FB; stingy;
attentive listener; gifted merchant;
secretly a Blessed One of Phex)
controls his family’s gigantic trading
empire and is the richest man in
Aventuria. As a child, he competed
often with his siblings, the other
potential heirs of the family fortune, and
to this day he still enjoys a good contest. When it comes
to economic innovation, no challenge is too great for
Emmeran. He trusts mainly in family ties when it comes
to filling influential posts. When in doubt, loyalty and skill
are most important to him. Even though he could easily
throw crowned heads into bankruptcy with bonds and
trade boycotts, this family-man prefers to see himself as a
patron of arts and culture. However, he is notorious for his
penny-pinching in matters that have nothing to do with
social obligations, and even his employees and family are
not exempt.
Emmeran is secretly a Blessed One of Phex. Thus, sooner or
later, he expects something in return for his investments.
He secretly enjoys the fact that hardly anyone knows his
true calling, and is quite a good sport when disciples of Phex
steal from one of his trade caravans, falsify promissory
notes, or break into his villa in the city of Gareth.
Emmeran Stoerrebrandt In-Game: Any heroes that
work for the Stoerrebrandt trading house, the Aventurian
Herald, or the mage academies of Riva or Wagonhold
already work for Emmeran. Even though his residence in
Gareth is guarded like a fortress, heroes can sometimes
encounter Emmeran without bodyguards in a number of
places within the city, whether making the rounds in one
of his warehouses, grabbing a bite to eat with the head of
the Northland Bank, making his way to a charity event, or
even, quite publicly, in a temple of Phex—though merely
to participate in worship, of course…
Thorn Eisinger, Smith of 1,000 Heroes
Thorn Eisinger (*962 FB; master
blacksmith; often ill-tempered;
increasingly plagued by his age)
learned the blacksmith’s craft on the
Cyclopes Islands and still holds the
island’s typical cuisine in high regard.
He is a true magic blacksmith—one
of the few magic dilettantes among the
blacksmiths who succeed in producing magical weapons
244 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana
from time to time. He chooses for whom he forges weapons,
and makes his decision according to the reputation of and
how much he cares for the person concerned. He is also
famous for never stating a weapon completion date.
As member of the Garethan Council of Heroes, he tries to
keep his ears open, and he likes to solve problems quickly
and simply. He has a strong dislike for the old patricians’
elaborate maneuvers, and dealing with them has made him
even grumpier than he used to be.
Thorn In-Game: Obtaining a famous Eisinger blade might
be the end goal of a whole series of adventures. The master
does not craft his weapons for just anyone, after all! He
is also quite picky in his choice of apprentices. His son
Feron and his daughter Ryssana seem destined to be his
successors, but for some time now he has been taking in
other apprentices, as he realizes the importance of a hero’s
access to an extraordinary weapon.
The heroes might encounter Thorn at a political function,
when serving as councilor for the Imperial city of Gareth,
or when the city requires brave heroes for a mission, for
example.
Arn Askrason, Strongest Man in the World
Arn (*1012 FB; daring; humorous; hard-drinking; intent
on competing with others) was weak and
frail as a young boy, although anyone
gazing upon this tall Thorwaler today
would find that hard to believe. The
scrawny and shy lad needed two
attempts to pass his Ottajara, the
Thorwalian rite-of-passage. He has
worked hard to obtain the advantages
he did not receive at birth. He wants to be just
like Jurga, the hero who led the Hjaldings to Aventuria, or
like Asleif Phileasson, who sailed around the known world.
He sometimes grows depressed when drunk because he is
afraid his name will be forgotten one day, a fate he regards
as failure in the eyes of Swafnir. To escape this fate, he
unintentionally sacrifices that which is most important
for a Thorwaler: companionship. This might be the reason
Arn has made so few friends on his journeys. But those he
regards as friends can rely on his help—anytime, anywhere.
Arn In-Game: Arn can appear anywhere on the continent,
though usually near the coast, where he looks for
witnesses, helpers, or opponents against which to prove
himself one way or another. Travels with Arn always turn
out to be daring adventures, though Arn’s demeanor lies
somewhere between heroism and cockiness, and quite a
few of his deeds run the risk of backfiring if Arn forgets
in his zealousness that his new friends could use his help.
He is rarely seen in Olport, his hometown, because he
still fears that the members of his Otta do not take him
seriously.
Baba ben Ali, The Wind of the Desert
Baba (*unknown; shrewd; very competent captain
of thieves; expert in desert survival)
cultivates his reputation as the son of a
sultan, as this entirely fictitious story
garners him great respect among the
Novadi. Baba usually presents himself
as hospitable and always keeps his
word, once given. He encourages
rumors that he alone is responsible for
all bandit attacks in the Khôm Desert, and as a result, the
simple mentioning of his name has saved his thieves the
hassle of quite a few fights. No wanted posters show Baba’s
face, so he is able to walk through the bazaars of Mherwed
and Rashdul undetected. Any member of his thieving band
could assume his role if he were to be captured or killed,
for in truth, Baba has never been a single person, and only
he knows how many different personalities and character
traits he possesses.
Baba In-Game: Baba will most likely serve as the heroes’
antagonist. Perhaps they set out to catch him, or his band
attacks the caravan they have been hired to escort. Or, they
might meet him under more peaceful circumstances—for
instance, when he brings much needed food to an oasis.
Vanja Nadaljeff, Terror of the South Seas
Apart from Efferd, Vanja (*1008 FB; capricious and
eloquent pirate; superstitious; outstanding
actress) is the only person to whom
the crew of her ship, the Bloodray,
is accountable, as her word is law.
Her practice of resolving conflicts
via duels arises from her years in
the Horasian Empire’s navy. To keep
a duel from being a matter of life and
death, she prefers honorable duels to first
blood or, better yet, duels of rude insults, at which she
excels. She loves the Horasian theater and keeps books of
countless plays in her cabin, from which she likes to have
passages read to her. True connoisseurs of the theater
world recognize quotes from famous stage productions
intermingled with colorful curses, in her eloquent tirades.
She seeds rumors along the coast of the Southern Sea
that emphasizing her ruthlessness and cruelty. However,
anyone with the courage to face her discovers that a large
portion of these stories are just well-chosen propaganda.
It is true, however, that she fled her domineering mother
and was involved in a mutiny against the infamous pirate
captain, Dagon Lolonna. She was also never a slave, and
she lost sight in her right eye from constantly staring
into the sun in her role as a navigator. Being a pirate is
Vanja’s true calling and at the same time, its fulfillment.
She would not exchange the freedom her life affords her
for anything, and she would never subject herself to a
hierarchy that did not place her at the top.
Vanja Nadaljeff In-Game: The heroes might encounter
the pirate captain in any port of the Southern Sea looking
for new recruits for her crew, selling goods, or bartering
alliances with other captains. In a worst case scenario, the
heroes might meet her during an attack at sea. However,
Vanja is savvy enough to avoid gambling her crew’s lives
away when facing strong resistance, unless she wants to
make an example of her enemies. Depending on the heroes’
reputations, she might ask them to enter into an alliance
or procure a new play for her, and may even ask them to
abduct its author.
Deriago Vincetta, Horasian Womanizer
Deriago (*1015 FB; charming; forgetful; stylish; perfect
manners; exaggerated gestures) was born the son of
a simple vintner, near Kuslik. From a young age, his
encyclopedic knowledge of wines won
him the hearts of quite a few older
ladies, who in turn introduced him to
high society. Ever since, he has used
his gods-given advantages to live off
the generosity of his current lover.
The fact that his complicated web of
lies usually leads to trouble does nothing
to keep him from trying the same thing again. After all,
he never deceives his beloved with malicious intent, and
every moment of his undivided attention and affection is
genuine.
Deriago Vincetta In-Game: The heroes might encounter
Deriago anywhere in the Horasian Empire, and beyond—
anywhere there are beautiful and wealthy women to be
found. He is constantly looking for new liaisons (as well as
seconds or champions to assist with his countless duels), or
on the run from angry husbands.
Mysterious Places
“I may be bold, yes. I may be cunning and shrewd, yes. And
perhaps Phex shields me with his protective hand. But I am not
crazy! So put that idea right out of your mind. We will not row
out there and lose our minds in Nahema’s Tower like so many
adventurers before us. I have no desire to end up as a drunken
wreck in a greasy harbor tavern—if we even survive!”
—Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond, modern
There are countless mysterious places in Aventuria
where heroes may find treasures or rediscover long-lost
knowledge. This section presents one such place in greater
detail. As GM, you can introduce Nahema’s Tower in an
ongoing adventure in the city of Havena, or even make it
the focus of an adventure. This section also includes a few
brief descriptions of other mysterious locations to provide
inspiration for other adventures.
245
 Nahema’s Tower in Havena
“It is said that Nahema, the powerful sorceress and advisor to
the former prince, once lived in that tower and that many of her
artifacts and treasures still lie hidden there. It has been deserted
since the Great Flood, so we should explore it. Don’t be afraid of
the black fluttering creatures that often take wing from the tower.
Think only of all the gold that will fill our pockets.”
—a Havenan rapscallion who was never seen again, modern
Caution! A visit to Nahema’s Tower may easily prove fatal,
especially if heroes ignore all warning signs and venture
into the room containing the Dark Eye. You can allow a
recently deceased adventurer to appear as a ghost to warn
them of the dangers on the upper floor. Or you can offer
your players the following insight: if your heroes do not
turn around now, all of them will most certainly perish!

Nahema’s Tower, former home of the sorceress, rises from However, if your group regards any warning as a
the murky waters of the Undercity in Havena, which was challenge, we recommend you adapt the description of
destroyed more than 300 years ago during the Great Flood the second floor accordingly.
(see page 75). To this day, green-gray water covers the
flooded city as far as the eye can see, and, except for small
islands with traces of ancient ruins on them, only a few
giant jellyfish, red luminescent snails, giant snake flowers,
columns and rooftops are visible above the water when the
and coffin shells, are said to dwell here.
tide reaches its lowest point.
The Tower from the Outside
Even in summer, a cold wind blows through the Undercity
Most of the Tower sank into the sea during the earthquake
and dense wisps of fog hang over the waters, which
that triggered the Great Flood, and the unusually stable
bubble eerily. According to tales told by fishers in Havena,
structure never tilted to one side like many of the other
the sounds of the water mingle with the wailing of the
buildings. Even though it sank, its spire still rises up
drowned. Countless smugglers and river pirates stir up
about 48 feet above the sea. Originally, the stalwart
trouble here, and far worse creatures, such as krakennewts,
building belonged to the fortifications of the old (and now
completely sunken) prince’s palace. It is built from massive
sandstone blocks, now blackened with slime and covered
with deep green, slippery moss. The round tower is about
26 feet in diameter, and has five narrow arrow slits in the
two upper floors. A conical slate roof forms the crown,
which is remarkably well-preserved.

“The sorceress could not escape her tower and starved to death.
I tell you, she still walks around that tower as a skeleton with a
dark cape, long black hair, and bright red eyes. If she looks at you
with those eyes, you either lose your mind or fall over dead, or
both!”
—an old fisherman, port of Havena, modern

Ways Into the Tower

The heroes must either swim or rent a boat to reach the
tower, as very few fishers are so bold as to row out to the
cursed tower themselves. An extremely menacing aura
emanates from the building and the closer one gets, the
stronger it becomes. Upon reaching the tower walls, each
hero immediately receives the condition Fear at Level 1
(Uneasy, all checks -1.) Gaining access to the tower is not
easy, as follows.
The arrow slits are too narrow to crawl through.
The slightly tilted area of the crown offers no support
for a grappling hook. Furthermore, the roof is solid—
there is no way to get inside from there.
The front door is entirely submerged. It was made
from reinforced stone oak wood and is remarkably

246 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana

 intact, despite the salt water. However, because the
heavy mounting is so rusted, the door cannot easily
be opened. It has 150 structure points and only impact
weapons or two-handed impact weapons can damage
it. However, those weapons inflict only 1/4 of their
DP underwater. A maximum of two heroes at a time
can try to break it down and must make Swimming
(Diving) checks as well.
A cave-in about 48 feet away has exposed a former
escape tunnel that provides entry. This tunnel, which
lies 16.5 feet below the surface of the water, is partly
clogged by mud (Cramped). Furthermore, it is flooded
and, of course, dark (visibility modifier of Level 3). The
numerous sludge eels that dwell here are quick to bite
(AT 13, PA 7, LP 12, PRO 0, INI 13+1D6, DP 1D6+1) and
then disappear into a crack in the wall. Swimming
checks here are almost impossible without a source
of light, due to modifiers. The familiar blue glow of a
Gwen-Petyrl stone is a good choice, as its light helps
drive off the eels.

The Cellar
The escape tunnel leads to a flooded, low-vaulted cellar
occupied by a greedy krakennewt (for stats, see page 163)
that immediately attacks the heroes. A small air bubble is
trapped in a niche, allowing heroes to quickly come up for
air—provided the krakennewt does not grab them. If the
heroes can cause the krakennewt to retreat, it withdraws
to the furthest submerged part of the cellar.

A spiral staircase set into a shaft in the wall leads out of

The First Floor
the cellar to the ground floor above. Scattered about on
The first floor is dry, but the remains of deceased
the steps are numerous human, elven, and dwarven
adventurers lie scattered about the floor in strangely
skeletons—the remains of adventurers who met their
contorted poses, partially mummified, with hands still
dooms in the tower.
gripping their daggers. Cause of death is not clear from the
bones.
The Ground Floor
The ceiling of the ground floor is about 13 feet high, but
Very little light passes into the room through the mildly
this level is filled with about 10 feet of water. The air is
opaque glass that has been set into the arrow slits. This
stale and the heroes’ throats become more constricted with
room appears to have been the bed chamber of a young
every breath. Additionally, the heroes get the feeling that a
woman: the four-poster bed, dresser, wardrobe, bookshelf,
horrific entity is lurking close by (each hero gains another
and large mirror are covered with dust but otherwise in
level of Fear.) Everyone must make a successful Willpower
good shape. The air is stale and smells of decay.
(Face Threats) -1 check or risk losing consciousness and
sinking.
The wardrobe contains moldy, moth-eaten clothing that
was once elegant and magnificent. The jars and vials sitting
This room bears the obvious signs of having once been
near the mirror contain hard, dark clumps, their scent
a kitchen and servant’s chamber. A spiral staircase in
gone entirely. Several valuable books sit among others on
another shaft leads up to the next floor; however, access to
the bookshelf, and despite the climate, they seem to be in
the staircase is flooded. A successful Swimming (Diving) +1
reasonable condition.
check allows the heroes to swim through the short passage
to the stairs.

247
 All in all, the precious books are certainly worth more than
5,000 ducats, especially since these editions are more than
300 years old.
a complete edition of the Encyclopaedia Magica
a copy of the Codex Dimensionis
a copy of the Compendium of Dragon Magic
an Almanac of Changes
Feelings of terror and oppression increase as time passes.
All heroes in this room soon receive another level of Fear
and gain the strong desire to climb the spiral staircase to
the level above, even though their instincts tell them to
flee. Climbing the stairs requires a successful Willpower -3
check.
The Second Floor
The second floor is nearly empty. A pentagram is formed
by red stones set into the dark stone floor, its points facing
the arrow slits. Between the arrow slits, high shelves stand
against the walls, holding scrolls, boxes, and peculiarly
shaped containers. Bones lie scattered on the floor.
A 3-foot, white marble column sits in the middle of the
pentagram. On top of the column stands a golden tripod
upon which rests a sinister black orb the size of a human
head—a Dark Eye!
As soon as someone enters the room, the Eye becomes
translucent and starts to glow with a reddish hue. At
first, the heroes hear a rhythmic pulsation—their own
heartbeats—and then the Eye begins to project the horrific
images and feelings it absorbed in 702 FB. The heroes
watch transfixed as people and animals of Havena drown
in the churning water, and feel every cruel stroke of their
agony, despair, and horror.
The Dark Eye absorbed so much terror and pain that it
gained a semblance of life and now unleashes a flood
of horror upon all who come in contact with it. All the
suffering and cries of a thousand souls pour into the heroes’
minds, forcing them breathless to the floor. A moment
later, silence follows, allowing the heroes to recover a bit.
Eyewitnesses of the Great Flood reported a similar respite.
As GM, it is up to you how exactly all the unfortunate beings
in the tower lost their lives; whether they were all killed by
the impressions of the Dark Eye, or completely lost their
minds and could not make it out of the tower alive. Maybe
they killed each other in their delusions, or broke their
necks when they fell down the stairs in a panic. Perhaps
they fell victim to creatures such as the krakennewt, or
were quite literally scared to death…
248 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana
This is the heroes’ last chance to flee and leave the tower.
They have one combat round to escape the tower and
get far enough away to rid themselves of the Dark Eye’s
horrifying mental images. If the heroes do not (or cannot)
take this opportunity, they find themselves joining the
unfortunate souls whose bones already lie here. For, when
the orb’s silence finally breaks, the heroes hear only the
rustle of Golgari’s wings…
Other Mysterious Places
Aventuria is full of places just waiting for heroes to explore
and test their skills: the mighty, halls of the Drakonia Mage
Academy in Rashtul’s Wall; the magnificent City of Light in
Gareth; the Labyrinth of Bal Honak in the Silver Mountain
in Al’Anfas; the mysterious ruins of Jashalei buried beneath
Khunchom; the unearthly Septahegon on Lake Ysli in
Tobrien; and the legendary Hoard of Phex in the Orclands.
Many of these locations are described in detail in upcoming
regional guides and adventure modules. We include three
others here to get you started.
The Ruins of Lorgolosh ( 27, 52)
The abandoned Mountain Kingdom of Lorgolosh, which
contains the ruins of Throlosh and Shatodor, two important
delvings of the dwarves, lies in the Beilunk Mountains. The
servants of the Demon Master, Borbarad, conquered and
destroyed the home of the diamond dwarves after a long
siege in 1021 FB. Most of the diamond dwarves left their
native delvings and founded new homes in Rashtul’s Wall.
It is said that the Mountain King, Omgrash son of Orbal,
still dwells in Shatodor and continues to fight against the
servants of demons to protect the treasures and secrets of
the city. Whether this is true, or the guardian of Lorgolosh
has become a ghost, is unknown. During their retreat,
the Angroshim flooded large parts of the complex with
dwarven cast—the Aventurian version of cast concrete—
to seal the halls and prevent the unholy creatures from
escaping. Supposedly, the Borbaradians opened a Portal
of Horror to the domain of Agrimoth, and the tunnels
now reverberate with the screaming sound of giant metal
worms as they eat through the stone. Heroes who decide
to plunder this place must also deal with the last defenders
of Lorgolosh, who now exist as undead. However, their
reward for the effort would be considerable, as well-filled
gem chambers are suspected to still exist in Lorgolosh,
as well as the knowledge of the creation of the legendary
crystal walls and the secret formula for dwarven cast.
The Demon Fallows ( 32, 33)
The Demon Fallows, the site of the First Demon Battle,
begins just a few yards from Gareth, the largest city on
the continent. Old villages rise from its eerie forests and
withered wastelands. Like a cancer, the Demon Fallows eats
into the edge of the city, and its wild bramble has already
conquered several buildings. The sane avoid the place, for
they know the powers of the Netherhells are still present
and still corrupting plants and animals.

Hermits, sinister wizards, outcasts, and bandit gangs hide

in the Fallows to escape punishment for their nefarious
deeds. The grave of Hlûthar, a saint of Rondra, is located
here, as are the black towers of the wizard kingdom of
Ash’Grabaal, where people once worshiped beings from the
Netherhells. Tales are told of Phygius the chimerologist,
who created blasphemous hybrids of plants and animals, of
the damned guard of Fran-Horas, and of Harkola, a forest
spirit born of an unholy union between human and tree.
The wizard Balphemor of Punin is said to have planted
cursed oaks in the Fallows to corrupt the heart of the
Continent. Gargoyles fly constantly around the summit of
Splintered Mountain, the monstrous remnant of Heptarch
Galotta’s Flying Fortress that has lain in the north of this
vile stretch of land since the Battle in the Skies. A journey
into the Demon Fallows can bring one knowledge, fame,
and fortune, but is any of it it worth the dire risk to body
and soul?

Two shrines of the Church of Boron—one for Golgari and

one for Marbo—are said to be the only refuges in the
Fallows where a traveler can spend the night in safety. But
who would even consider such an endeavor, unless they
had taken leave of their senses?

The Ruins of Arivor ( 40, 137)

The city of Arivor stood in the Horasian Gerondrata region
until Rahja 1039 FB, when catastrophe struck. The impact
of a falling star east of the city caused many caverns
below Arivor to collapse, and countless buildings fell
into the resulting abyss. Your heroes can experience the
destruction of this famous city in the adventure module
Arivor’s Doom.

The city once held more than 12,000 inhabitants, but

few survived, and the city is now all but deserted. A
few farmers still live on the edges of the ruins, and only
isolated buildings, all of them now empty, protrude from
the crater at the center of the old city. Heroes who search
the crater and the ruins may find cash boxes, jewelry casks,
statuettes, paintings, weapons, and armor—things the
burghers left behind as they tried to flee.

249
 A few buildings in the city’s Golden Helmet district survived
the catastrophe. The temple rooms and castle walls are
heavily damaged, but unlike most of the houses in Arivor—
which now lie in the depths—the Golden Helmet still stands,
like a beacon of Rondra that cannot be destroyed. Here one
may encounter pious pilgrims and Rondra-worshipping
Ardarites who incessantly sift through rubble, ruins, and
the astonishingly well-preserved parts of buildings found
in caverns, hoping to recover a lost sacred artifact, relic,
or sacred object of the goddess. The exploration of a crater
is not an easy task, even for experienced climbers, and
the descent is a reckless and often deadly endeavor. Far
greater dangers lurk in the lower levels. Old tunnels under
the mountain lead to secrets from Bosparan’s time, and
even older tunnels, hewn with claws and sharp mandibles,
lead still deeper. Heroes may also encounter restless ghosts
of the deceased, as well as denizens of the deep, such as
rummaging bugbears and stone lice. These monstrous
Heroes’ Work
If you are looking for short, pre-generated adventures
that can be played quickly and easily, we recommend
the Heroic Works series.
These smaller, 16-page adventure modules are typically
easy to complete in one or two gaming sessions and
contain everything you need to play, though we
recommend that you keep a copy of the Core Rules
close at hand. The Aventuria Almanac also makes a
nice addition.
Aventurian Herald subscribers receive printed Heroic
Works adventure modules as a bonus, free of charge.
You may also purchase individual modules as PDFs at
www.DriveThruRPG.com.
250 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana
creatures from deep inside the earth first ventured onto
the surface shortly after the disaster, and few explorers
have survived such encounters to share their tales.
Heroic Journeys
Throughout Aventuria
“We could search for the Polar Diamond and face the gruesome
ice dragons! Or we could slay the terrible Chaidarion in Forest
Watch and plunder its hoard. What do you think? Or should we
do what we always do? Us against the orcs, Rondra on our side,
strength and courage!”
—a group of village children, overheard in Weiden, modern
Intriguing places are the stuff of adventure and heroic
encounters in Aventuria, but the rich legends and myths
of the continent can also inspire adventures. Almost every
child knows stories of shining treasure, cruel dragons, and
sinister wizards, and there are always heroes bold enough
to set out on a heroic journey to win immortal fame and
fortune.
The section Prepare and Play Your Adventures on page 388
in the Core Rules, discusses the types of adventures heroes
might experience in Aventuria and explains how plot
hooks work and how heroes might be motivated to go on an
adventure. The following section includes some additional
plot hooks that you can turn into adventures with a bit
of preparation and improvisation. We hope these ideas
inspire further adventures, so your group can experience
many fun and exciting evenings in Aventuria.
Heaven’s Diamond
Legends of Heaven’s Diamond are known throughout
Aventuria. It is believed to be a gigantic diamond discovered
by the dwarves in ages past. The amorous Mountain King
of Murkhall gave the Agam Bragab (Rogolan: luminous
apple), as they called it, to the demigoddess, Ifirn, as token
of his love. She imbued the gem with her power and placed
it in the center of her realm, the depths of the Eternal Ice.
The North Star, used by many travelers for orienting even
after the Starfall, is said to be a reflection of light from this
diamond shining on the firmament above.
Dwarves from every clan, Blessed Ones of Ingerimm, and
thieves from Phexcaer have all organized expeditions
into the Eternal Ice to search for the diamond. Some
astronomers believe the star fell from the sky, creating the
Starless Void. Spherologists consider it part of the Mystery
of Kha, and many worshipers of Rastullah see it as a sign
from their one god.
Naturally, the search for Heaven’s Diamond is a daunting
challenge. The Eternal Ice is a hostile region and a hero’s
safe return hinges upon good preparation and nerves of
steel. Besides the many inherent hazards of the Eternal
Ice, heroes may also encounter glacier worms, shakagra,
white-furred orcs, yetis, or the infamous ice urchins. Often,
competitors set out at the same time and the mission
turns into a race with exciting conflicts between the two
expeditions.
Off With His Head!
An Almadan magnate from the Amhallassih mountains
(alternately: a vizier of the Caliph, or a rich merchant from
Rashtul) has placed a bounty on the infamous desert bandit,
Baba ben Ali, and his thieves. It is now up to the heroes
to set a trap for the clever outlaw. They can only hope he
has not yet heard of their plans through his network of
informants, or he will surely hunt the heroes mercilessly
through the Khôm Desert.
Ancient Knowledge
A lecturer from the University of Al’Anfa has decided to
take a closer look at the Starfall. He needs the old star
charts of the lizard people for his research, but these items
must be recovered from an old, overgrown temple pyramid
guarded by a tribe of achaz in the rainforest. Once the
tablets are interpreted and the ancient glyphs transcribed,
clues lead the heroes to, of all places, the Lizard Swamps
near Selem Sound, where the Star of Elem crashed down
from the sky centuries ago. The heroes must now venture
into the swamps to find yet more clues.
Trials and Tribulations
A Middenrealm noble seeks upstanding heroes to save his
abducted son. At first, the crime seems obvious: an envious
neighbor took the young man hostage and demanded
a ransom. However, after one or two failed attempts to
rescue him, the heroes do some research and discover
that the so-called victim is actually madly in love with the
neighbor’s daughter, and the two were intercepted when
they tried to elope. Neither the girl’s father nor the noble
who hired the heroes is excited about this unexpected love
affair. The heroes eventually find the young man and his
young lover in jail (in separate cells, of course). It is now up
to the heroes to liberate the two lovers and lead them away
to prevent a feud between the two noble families. Perhaps
they can even help the two lovers live happily ever after.
Against the Shadowlands!
The Duke of Tobrien (alternately: the Church of Rondra, or
the Church of Boron) is mounting an expedition to combat
the legacy of the Shadowlands. While the Duke musters
his army, he dispatches riders to identify possible sources
of danger along the marching route. As expert scouts, the
heroes discover the army of a wizard who has made pacts
with demons, undead, and daimonides. With no time to
send for reinforcements, they must stop the wizard before
he can carry out his dark ritual and recruit even more
revenants into his service, otherwise the Duke’s expedition
will end in disaster.
The Route to Uthuria
The great naval powers of the Horasian Empire, Bornland,
Al’Anfa, and Brabak still hope to discover a safer, shorter
passage to Uthuria. Scouts are constantly on the lookout
for heroes daring enough to take the perilous journey
across the Southern Sea and skilled enough to map the
route accurately. Eternal fame and a hefty reward await
those who discover new commodities on the southern
continent. The Land of the 12,000 Gods is home to the
Rose of Immortality, which can allegedly grant eternal
life to any who find it. Besides the mundane but very real
dangers of sea travel, countless pirates and freebooters
sail the Southern Sea in search of rich plunder. The heroes
might be taken prisoner after the unexpected mutiny of
a disgruntled crew, or possibly even find themselves as
captain and crew of their own ship.
Human Opponents
Heroes probably encounter humans more often than any
other race during their adventures. This section presents
four human archetypes for use in such encounters.
Equipment varies according to region; in these examples,
we list typical clothes and armaments for residents of the
Middenrealm. The following archetypes use an experience
level of Ordinary, although conversion notes for Experienced
and Competent levels are provided as well.
251
 Burgher Burgher
COU 12 SGC 12 INT 13 CHA 12
The common burgher is a good example of Aventuria’s
DEX 13 AGI 12 CON 12 STR 12
general population. Few burghers are veterans of combat
LP 29 AE – KP – INI 12+1D6
and they typically do not make effective opponents.
DO 6 SPI 1 TOU 1 MOV 8
Burghers usually dare to attack known heroes only when
Unarmed: AT 10 PA 6 DP 1D6 RE short
they are in the majority.
Dagger: AT 9 PA 5 DP 1D6+1 RE short
Cudgel: AT 7 PA 2 DP 1D6+2 RE medium
Knife: AT 9 PA 3 DP 1D6+1 RE short
PRO / ENC: 0/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: None
Special Abilities: None
Skills: Body Control 4 (12/12/12), Climbing 2
(12/12/12), Empathy 3 (12/13/12), Fast-Talk 3
(12/13/12), Feat of Strength 3 (12/12/12),
Intimidation 2 (12/13/12), Perception 2
(12/13/13), Self-Control 2 (12/12/12), Stealth 3
(12/13/12), Swimming 2 (12/12/12), Willpower 2
(12/13/12), Crafting Skill for profession 10
Number: 1 or 2D6+6 (mob)
Size Category: Medium
Type: Intelligent, humanoid
Loot: depending on burgher, random loot of 2D6
silverthalers
Combat Behavior: Burghers usually avoid violent
conflicts. If they have to defend themselves,
they use a cudgel or a dagger, but typically
they attempt to flee. In greater numbers—for
instance, as part of an angry mob—they tend to
act far braver.
Escape: Individual; attempts to flee upon
suffering Pain I
Experienced: DEX 14, CON 13; LP 32; Unarmed
AT 11 / PA 6, Dagger AT 10 / PA 6, Knife AT 10 /
PA 4; Empathy 5, Perception 4, Willpower 4
Competent: INT 14, DEX 15, CON 13; LP 34;
Unarmed AT 12 / PA 7, Dagger AT 10 / PA 6,
Knife AT 10 / PA 4; Empathy 7, Fast-Talk 6,
Perception 6, Willpower 6, Crafting Skill used for
profession 12

LP Loss Pain
22 LP (¾) +1 Pain
15 LP (½) +1 Pain
7 LP (¼) +1 Pain
5 LP and less +1 Pain

252 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana

Bandit
Heroes might face bandits and highway robbers more Bandit
often than other types of foes because bandits often try to COU 14 SGC 11 INT 13 CHA 10
ambush travelers, or because heroes are often called upon DEX 13 AGI 12 CON 12 STR 13
to eliminate groups of bandits. LP 30 AE – KP – INI 13
DO 6 SPI 1 TOU 1 MOV 8
Unarmed: AT 12 PA 6 DP 1D6 RE short
Sabre: AT 12 PA 6 DP 1D6+3 RE medium
Battle Axe: AT 12 PA 5 DP 1D6+4 RE medium
Short Bow: RC 11 RT 1 DP 1D6+4 RA 10 / 50 / 80
Light Crossbow: RC 11 RT 8 DP 1D6+6 RA 10 /
50 / 80
PRO / ENC: 0/0
Actions: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Negative Trait
(Greed for Gold)
Special Abilities: Forceful Blow I (Unarmed,
Sabre, Battle Axe)
Skills: Body Control 3 (12/12/12), Climbing 4
(14/12/13), Empathy 4 (11/13/10), Fast-Talk 4
(14/13/10), Feat of Strength 5 (12/13/13),
Intimidation 5 (14/13/10), Perception 4
(11/13/13), Self-Control 4 (14/14/12), Stealth 6
(14/13/12), Swimming 3 (12/12/13), Willpower 3
(14/13/10)
Number: 1, or 1D6+2 (highway robbers), or 2D6+6
(bandit gang)
Size Category: Medium
Type: Intelligent, humanoid
Loot: depending on bandit, random loot of 2D6
silverthalers
Combat Behavior: Bandits prefer to lay traps.
Typically, they begin an ambush with ranged
attacks before they close in on their opponents.
They usually shy away from Rondra-pleasing,
one-on-one duels, and attack only when in the
majority.
Escape: Individual; attempt to flee after suffering
Pain II
Experienced: AGI 13, CON 14; LP 33, INI 14, DO 7;
Saber AT 13 / PA 8, Battle Axe AT 13 / PA 7;
additionally, SA Feint I; Body Control 5, Climbing 6,
Fast-Talk 5, Feat of Strength 7, Intimidation 8,
Perception 6, Self-Control 5, Stealth 9, Willpower 5
Competent: AGI 13, CON 13, STR 15; LP 37,
INI 14, DO 7; Unarmed DP 1D6+1, Saber AT 15
/ PA 9, Battle Axe AT 14 / PA 6 / DP 1D6+5;
additionally, SA Feint I, Forceful Blow II;
LP Loss Pain Body Control 7, Climbing 7, Fast-Talk 7, Feat of
23 LP (¾) +1 Pain Strength 9, Intimidation 10, Perception 8, Self-
Control 7, Stealth 12, Willpower 7
15 LP (½) +1 Pain
8 LP (¼) +1 Pain
5 LP and less +1 Pain

253
 Guard
Guard
Guards fight on the side of the law. Since heroes sometimes COU 14 SGC 11 INT 13 CHA 11
please Phex, they may come into conflict with the law. DEX 10 AGI 13 CON 13 STR 13
LP 32 AE – KP – INI 12+1D6
DO 6 SPI 1 TOU 2 MOV 6
Unarmed: AT 11 PA 4 DP 1D6 RE short
Dagger: AT 10 PA 3 DP 1D6+1 RE short
Halberd: AT 11 PA 2 DP 1D6+6 RE long
Sword: AT 11 PA 4 DP 1D6+4 RE medium
Light Crossbow: RC 10 RT 8 DP 1D6+6 RA 10 / 50
/ 80
PRO / ENC: 4/1 (Chainmail)
Number: 1
Advantages/Disadvantages: Negative Trait
(Submissive to Authorities)
Special Abilities: Feint I (Unarmed, Dagger, Halberd,
Sword), Inured to Encumbrance I, Forceful Blow I
(Unarmed, Dagger, Halberd, Sword)
Skills: Body Control 5 (13/13/13), Climbing 2 (14/13/13),
Empathy 4 (11/13/11), Fast-Talk 2 (14/13/11), Feat
of Strength 5 (13/13/13), Intimidation 6 (14/13/11),
Perception 8 (11/13/13), Self-Control 6 (14/14/13),
Stealth 6 (14/13/13), Swimming 2 (13/13/13),
Willpower 5 (14/13/11)
Amount: 1 or 1d3+1 (patrol) or 2D6+3 (troop)
Size Category: Medium
Type: Intelligent, humanoid
Loot: depending on guard, random loot of 2D6+4
silverthalers
Combat Behavior: Guards usually try to threaten
opponents with their crossbows to get them to
stand down. If their threats are not successful,
they fire their crossbows and attack with their
halberds. Then, they use Feints and Forceful
Blows. In close quarters, they use swords instead
of halberds. They also try to fight an opponent en
mass, if the opportunity arises.
Escape: Individual; guards attempt to flee after
suffering Pain II
Experienced: AGI 14, STR 14; LP 35; Sword AT 12
/ PA 7, Light Crossbow RC 11; additional SA
Alertness, Takedown; Climbing 4, Empathy 6, Fast-
Talk 4, Intimidation 8, Perception 10, Self-Control 7
Competent: AGI 15, STR 15; LP 38, DO 8, INI 14,
SPD 7; Unarmed AT 14 / PA 8, Halberd AT 14 /
PA 6, Sword AT 14 / PA 8, Light Crossbow RC 12;
additional SA Alertness, Inured to Encumbrance II,
Feint II, Takedown, Forceful Blow II; Body Control 9,
LP Loss Pain Climbing 6, Empathy 8, Fast-Talk 6, Feat of Strength 9,
24 LP (¾) +1 Pain Intimidation 10, Perception 12, Self-Control 10,
16 LP (½) +1 Pain Willpower 7

8 LP (¼) +1 Pain
5 LP and less +1 Pain

254 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana

Cultist Cultist
The cultist serves the Nameless One or another sinister COU 14 SGC 11 INT 13 CHA 12
entity, but is only a fanatical follower, not a Blessed One. DEX 12 AGI 12 CON 12 STR 12
Though they are not battle-experienced, cultists use their LP 29 AE – KP – INI 13+1D6
courage and determination to stand up for their beliefs. DO 6 SPI 1 TOU 1 MOV 8
Unarmed: AT 11 PA 6 DP 1D6 RE short
Basilisk-tongue: AT 12 PA 5 DP 1D6+2 RE short
Mace: AT 10 PA 4 DP 1D6+4 RE medium
PRO/ENC: 0/0
Number: 1
Special Abilities: None
Advantages/Disadvantages: Personal
Weakness (Arrogance)
Skills: Body Control 4 (12/12/12), Climbing 3
(14/12/12), Empathy 5 (11/13/12), Fast-Talk 6
(14/13/12), Feat of Strength 3 (12/12/12),
Intimidation 4 (14/13/12), Perception 3
(11/13/13), Self-Control 5 (14/14/12), Stealth 5
(14/13/12), Swimming 3 (12/12/12), Willpower 4
(14/13/12)
Number: 1, or 13, or 2D6+6 (mob)
Size Category: Medium
Type: Intelligent, humanoid
Loot: depending on cultist, random loot of 2D6+4
silverthalers
Combat Behavior: Cultists usually protect
the life of their leader above everyone else.
Depending on the situation, they may behave
defensively or fight only when attacked.
However, if given the command to attack or
faced with what they regard as blasphemers,
they throw themselves at their victim with
fanatical zeal. Fortunately, they are quite
uncoordinated and usually rather useless in a
fight.
Escape: Roll a D6: most cultists are either so
motivated that (1-3) they fight to the death, or
(4-6) flee if their LP fall below 50%. As long as
their leader is still alive and has not run away,
they usually do not flee.
Experienced: COU 15, STR 13; LP 31, SP 2,
INI 14; Unarmed AT 12 / PA 6, Basilisk-tongue
AT 13 / PA 6, Mace AT 11 / PA 5; additional
SA Feint I, Forceful Blow I; Body Control 5, Feat
of Strength 5, Intimidation 4, Perception 5, Self-
Control 7, Stealth 7, Willpower 6
Competent: COU 16, INT 14, STR 13; LP 33, SP 2,
LP Loss Pain INI 14; Unarmed AT 12 / PA 6, Basilisk-Tongue
22 LP (¾) +1 Pain AT 14 / PA 6, Mace AT 13 / PA 6; additional
SA Feint I, Forceful Blow I; Body Control 7, Feat
15 LP (½) +1 Pain
of Strength 6, Intimidation 8, Perception 7, Self-
7 LP (¼) +1 Pain Control 10, Stealth 9, Willpower 8
5 LP and less +1 Pain

255
 Living History for the GM Living History vs. Freedom of Playing
The following practical examples illustrate how
One of the special features of the The Dark Eye is Aventuria’s
conflicts can arise with the living history, and
living history. In official game supplements, adventure
how you can easily circumvent them.
modules, and campaigns, as well as in issues of the Aventurian
Herald (see page 126), we propel the continent’s history
Our Personal Archvillian
forward. Though few things change overnight, Aventuria
An adventure module is supposed to end with the
never stands still, and you can follow these changes in
death of an important villain—the cruel wizard,
the game world over time as GM, player, or even just as
Alrik the Dark. Alrik was specifically created to
a reader. Furthermore, you can help bring about change
be a particularly horrifying opponent. He has
through our official adventure modules. The actions of
already survived several encounters with the
your brave heroes may help overthrow a tyrannical ruler
heroes and has cheated death quite a few times.
or stop the orc army marching against the Middenrealm.
But, the time has finally come for his demise, and
the heroes are supposed to put a stop to him, once
As the GM, your in-game descriptions greatly determine the
and for all, and send him on his way over the Sea
outlook your players and their heroes have on Aventuria.
of Oblivion. But as GM, you know your players
You decide at the gaming table exactly how much influence
love this villain just as much as their heroes
your player’s heroes have on the world, and how accurately
hate him. Fortunately, Alrik the Dark is marked
they follow the events we writers portray in official
with the knight symbol. Therefore, at the end
publications.
of the adventure you can kill off one of Alrik’s
henchmen instead, allowing your party to face
If you want to follow the living history very closely, you
him once more in one of your own adventures.
should pay close attention to important NPCs, denoted
As far as the official campaign is concerned, Alrik
by king symbols (see page 204), in your own adventures.
died, but you are free to disregard this for your
These characters play important roles in future official
campaign.
publications, so unless an adventure explicitly calls for
their demise, they should survive. However, if your group
Long Live the Emperor!
prefers to play in Aventuria without restrictions and
Rohaja of Gareth is the Empress of the
you desire to shape the world yourself, simply use the
Middenrealm in official Aventuria. However,
descriptions in the official publications for inspiration.
there is nothing to prevent you from crowning
another emperor in your Aventuria: Emperor
Ratings on the back covers of our adventure modules let
Haal or Answin of Ravenmouth could just as
you see their importance to the living history at a glance,
easily still sit on the throne, or Rohaja’s brother,
as follows.
Selindian-Haal could have been crowned Haal II,
1 Star: The adventure is not connected to the living
or perhaps one of your player’s heroes married
history of Aventuria. People and events can be set
the young empress and now reigns at her side.
anywhere in the game world and are easily modified.
2 Star: The adventure is tangentially related to the
Rohaja is marked with the king symbol, and
living history. It may need to play out within a certain
official publications assume she is the sovereign
time frame, or official NPCs may be involved.
of the realm, so you must make many adjustments
3 Stars: The adventure is strongly integrated into the
if you want to adapt future adventures in the
living history, giving the heroes a chance to experience
Middenrealm. Rohaja’s decisions might play an
it up-close. Official NPCs play an important role in the
important part in the adventure. She certainly
adventure, and the sequence of events is set at a specific
makes different decisions than Emperor Haal,
place and time. Adjustments are usually difficult, as the
as their actions are shaped by different wishes
storyline is crucial to the ongoing Aventuria narrative.
and goals. Your challenge as the GM is to adjust
4 Stars: Much like a 3-point adventure, this adventure
such circumstances to your own campaign when
changes the game world permanently or has a profound
official publications do not consider them. But,
influence on the course of the campaign. Significant or
this requires a keen eye when choosing adventure
defining Aventurian NPCs may die, or entire regions
material, or some creativity and diligence when
could change.
adapting it.

256 Chapter 11: Mystery and Arcana

It is best to discuss with your group exactly how closely
you wish to adhere to the official Aventuria. Not all
defining events affect all regions of Aventuria in the same
manner. So, you may choose to closely follow a plotline
in Thorwal because you enjoy that narrative, and only
mention the latest developments in the Horasian Empire
on the sideline. We hope this helps you better assess the
leeway you have as a GM in an adventure you have created
yourself or have adjusted for your party.
Absolute freedom of action is not really compatible with
the Aventurian background. In order to update the living
history, adventures need a fixed ending so we can advance
the story. Too many variables create situations where you
can only cryptically guess what actually happens. As GM,
you need specific information about the past to plan future
adventures, and the same applies to the authors who
continue to tell Aventuria’s story. Therefore, even though
an adventure module might have three possible endings,
only one makes it into the official Aventuria (though with
some adjustments, it is often possible to reconcile the
other outcomes with the official history, if desired).
257
 Index
99 Laws 61, 98, 187 Arcanum Interdictum 70, 193 Belt of Strength 198
Achaz see Lizardfolk Archipelago of Risso 66 Beorn the Blinder 7, 86, 224
Ages 23, 103, 216 Archdemon 184 Bernfried of Ehrenstein 31, 37
Agrimoth 55, 184, 228 Archon Megalon 209 Bethana 14, 40, 138
Aikar Brazoragh 10, 49, 155, 206 Ardarites 79, 82, 88 Bibernell of Hengisford 206
Al’Anfa (Empire) 15, 16, 63, 91, Arivor 40, 41, 222, 230 Bishdariel 96, 106, 185
134, 142, 223, 230 Army 111 Bjaldorn 10, 49, 71
Al’Anfan Rite 64, 176 Arn Askrason 212 Black Alliance 72
Alaani 95 Arngrimm of Ehrenstein 30, 230 Black Alrik 116
Alagrimm 34, 53, 69 Arombolosh son of Agam 207 Black Bear (Stats) 169
Alara Paligan 224 Arratistan 61 Black Rabies 129
Albernia 11, 30, 31, 33, Art 179 Black Sickle 13
115, 200, 223 Artifacts 43, 59, 77, 119, Bladegrass Steppes 47
Albrax son of Agam 53, 207 196, 226, 228 Blakharaz 184
Alchemy 119, 130 Asdharia 95 Blessed Ones 140, 189
Aldare Firdayon 40, 205, 230 Azfuloth 184, 228 Blue Wheeze 127
Alemite Bay 64 Ashim Riak Assai see Aikar Blue Lake 22, 44, 72
All-Aventuria Brazoragh Blood Sea 21, 55, 228, 229
Meeting of Jesters 77, 101 Ashtarra Okharim 210 Bloody Phlegm 127
Altoum 16, 64, 158 Askanian Sea 58 Blood Peaks 48
Alveran 103, 158, 189, 217 Asleif Foggwulf Bodir 11, 21, 154
Alveranian 105, 185 Phileasson 7, 86, 224 Boltan 116
Alveranie 173 Atak 96 Boran 55
Amazeroth 184 Aventuria (Continent) 7, 24, 30, 91, Borbarad,
Amazons 54, 227 103, 117, 146, Master of Demons 38, 106, 113,
Amber Bay 42 185, 192, 216 114, 184, 186,
Amene-Horas 226, 230 Aventurian Herald 126, 225 187, 222, 226
Amhallassiah Knolls 60 Aves 106, 147, 185 Borbaradians 187, 196
Amir Honak 64, 68 Baba ibn Ali 212 Borbaradian Invasion 226
Anchopal 14, 59, 107 Baburia 57 Borbaradianism 187
Ancient Tulamidya 94, 95 Baburin 14, 21, 57 Born 10, 21, 50
Andalkan 55 Badoc 26, 50 Born Forest 10, 52, 146
Andergast (Kingdom) 11, 24, 26, 46, Balash 24, 58 Bornland 7, 10, 50 66,
68, 94, 99, 117, Baliho 69, 138 73, 91, 134, 222
126, 141, 146, 176 Banedust 131 Boron 15, 48, 68, 79, 106, 176, 179
Andergast (City) 21, 47, 68 Bardo of Gareth 97, 223 Bosparagne 97, 115
Angbar 12, 27, 30, 36, Barun-Ulah 21, 57, 58 Bosparan 14, 41, 88, 219
69, 134, 138 Bastrabun 59, 218 Bosparan Empire 30, 41, 94, 113, 219
Angram 95 Battlefield Fever 128 Bosquir 38
Angrosh 27, 35, 53, 89, 98, 101, Battle in the Gorian Desert 113 Brabak 15, 65, 71, 91
105, 182, 188, 195, 218 Battle in the Skies 114 Brazoragh 11 155, 188
Angroshim see Dwarves Battle in the Dragongap 113 Break Ice Bay 10
Angrosh’s Battle of Silk Meadows 225 Breviary of the
Champion see Arombolosh Battle of Heaven’s Fire 113 Twelvegodly Order 123
son of Agam Battles 113 Brig-Lo 221
Animal Kings 47 Bestiary 149 Brin of Gareth 224
Animal Warrior 195 Beilunk 13, 30, 55, 70 Brinasker Marshes 44
Animist 187, 193, 195 Beilunk Riders 70, 119 Bronnjar 10, 50, 140, 222
Answin of Ravenmouth 75, 224, 229 Beleman 17 Books 119, 122
Answin Crisis 224 Belen-Horas 156, 220 Books as Teachers 122
Arania 14, 26, 57, 90, Belhalhar 13, 56, 184, 228 Boots of Sprinting 199
94, 95, 99, 108, Belhanka 70, 137, 182 Burgher 13, 32, 33, 41, 49,
134, 140, 147, 194 Belkelel 184, 228 51, 64, 108, 111

258 Index
Bourgeoisie 108 Dark Portal 22 Elburum 14, 57
Cave Spider (Stats) 159) Darion Paligan 228, 229 Elem see Selem
Caldia 31, 38 Darpat 21, 31, 37 Elenvina 72
Calendar 99, 137, 221 Darpatia 13 Eleonora Shahi 57, 90
Calendar of Dawn of the Shards 31, 230 Elixirs 130
the Twelvegods 99, 221 Dead Man‘s Moor 49, 52, 92 Elodiron Crystallglimmer 208
Caliphate 14, 39, 60, 134, 223 Deep Dwarf 13, 30, 53, 74 Elves (Magic) 193
Cape Brabak 64, 66 Deepenborg 11, 48, 49, 78 Elves (Race) 23, 26, 50, 77, 215, 218
Carbuncle 53, 165, 185 Deep-Sea Navigation 119 Elvenhus 36
Cauldron of Primeval Forces 197 Deep South 64, 75 Emer ni Bennain 224, 227
Cavalry 112 Demigods 185 Emmeran Stoerrebrandt 211, 244
Cella of Gareth 97, 223 Demons 33, 38, 52, 90, Emperor Dragon 147, 199, 205, 230
Chabab 21, 63, 79 103, 113, 183, Encyclopaedia Magica 124
Chababia 40, 79 184, 196, 200, 228 Endurium 43, 55
Chalwen 218 Demon Ark 21, 148, 228 Enqui 45
Charlatan 193 Demon Fallows 13, 33 Eslam of Almada 223
Charypso 16, 71 Demon Emperor see Galotta Eternals 14, 40, 61
Charybbean 16, 64, 71., 213 Demon Battle, First 33, 220 Etilia 83
Charyptoroth 14, 63, 148, 184, 228 Demon Battle, Second 113, 221 Eye of the Morning 196, 197
Chimera 148, 184, 187 Demon Battle, Third 114, 227 Faedhari 215
Chimerologist 148, 200 Demon Sultan 184 Fair Field see Horasian Empire
Chorhop 15, 58, 72 Demon Citadel 10 Fairies 10, 34, 40, 167
Chrmk 96 Dere (World) 8, 16, 91, 103 Fairy Gates 22, 239
Churches 98, 176 Dergel 21, 31 Fairy Realm 22, 34, 103
Church of Borbarad 55, 228 Dermot the Fall of Bosparan (Event) 113, 221
Cichanebi Salt Lake 60, 88, 136 Younger of Paavi 42, 81 Fall of Bosparan (Calendar) 99
Circle of Twelve Dha 188 Famerlor 185
(Constellation) 104, 105, 106, 183 Dahza 183, 188 Fan Signs 96
Climate 16 Dialects 94 Farindel Forest 12, 33
Coal Pelts see Orcs Diamond Dwarves 13, 27, 53 Farlorn 73
Codex Albyricus 123 Diamond Sultanate 25, 219, 221 Far North 10, 42
Codex Raulis 140, 221 Dimiona of Zorgan 58, 228, 229 Fasar 73
Cold Levels 16 Diseases 126 Father of Tides 12, 21, 199
Constellations 107 Dishes (Food) 114 FB see Time Measurement
Cosmology 101 Djinn 60, 83, 143, 198 Feast Days 100
Coucris 131 Djinn Lamp 198 Ferdok 36
Courts (Law) 140, 189 Donnerbach 49 Ferdok County 36
Crafts 117 Dragons, Ancient 10, 29, 42, 217 Ferkina (Language) 95
Creation 101 Dragons, High 96, 107, 185, 217 Ferkina 24
Crimes 74, 88, 123, 140 Dragon’s Egg Academy 76, 210 Festenland 50
Crusade 113 Dragon Ship 21, 119 Festum 51, 73, 138
Crypt Bug (Stats) 161 Dragon Stones 7, 37 Feudalism 107
Crystalomancy 15, 193, 195 Dragon War 216, 217, 218 Fiefdom 107
Currencies (Overview) 134 Dragonnic 96 Finnian ui Bennain 31, 33, 34, 75
Cyclopean 95 Drinks 114 Fire Sea 66, 91
Cyclops 23, 28, 40, 96, 118, 217 Drôl 14, 4 Firn Elves 26, 44, 188
Cyclopes Islands 40 Druids 11, 47, 187, 195 Firun 99, 180, 185
Daimonid 148, 200 Dullskull 128 Firun’s Wall 10, 44, 48
Dark Ages 220 Dungeon Syndrome 128, 172 Fjadir of Bjaldorn 50, 70
Dark Ridge 13, 27, 30, 37, 38, 48, 54 Dwarves 13, 26 Fjarnings 10, 24, 42, 187
Dark Eye 196 Efferd 99, 137, 178 Fjarningsh 95
Dark Hordes 14, 55, 76, 78 Efferd’s Syndrome 128 Flying Carpet 59, 119, 197
Dark Lands 13, 82 Elburan Peninsula 57 Flying Fortress 90, 114, 227

259
 Fogmoors 37, 49, 52 Great Olochtai 10, 45, 48 Hjaldings 25, 81, 219
Food 114 Great River 12, 21 Hjaldingsh 95
Forest Folk 16, 21, 24, 25 Green Plains 10, 26, 45, 50 Hjaldingsh Runes 95
Forest Islands 16, 82, 152, 219 Griffonsford Hoarfrost Wastes 10, 42
Forest Watch (Margravate) 12, 31 Holidays 99
(Mountain Kingdom) 36, 53, 207 Griffonsford (City) 74 Holy Glyphs of Unau 94
Forge Mountains 13, 27, 36, 38, 53 Grimmfrost Wastes 7, 10, 42, 44 Horas’ Appearance 99
Forge Dwarves 13, 27, 36, 52, 207 Grimwolf (Stats) 168 Horas (Demigod) 106, 219
Forms of Address 70, 108, 109 Grolms 28 Horas (Ruler) 176, 205, 219,
Foxish 96 Gror 102, 187 223, 226, 230
Fran-Horas 33, 113, 220 Gulf of Perricum 11, 30, 55, 57 Horasian Empire 14
Frozen Peaks 10, 42 Gulf of Riva 44 Horathi 94
Fuldigor 10, 97, 105 Gulf of Tuzak 55 Horned Tower 206
Gadang 21, 57 Guild Magic 193 Hôt-Alem 15, 65
Galotta 90, 114, 153, 224, 227 Gwidûhenna of Faldahon 31, 70 Host 111
Games 116 Gylden (God) 183 Host (Units) 111
Garadan 117 Gyldenland 91, 219 Hylailos 40
Garadan System 204 H’Rabaal 15, 75 Ice Peaks 10, 42, 44, 154
Gareth 30, 74 H’Ranga 188 Ice Witch see Glorana
Garethi 94 Hagrobald of Idioms 96
Garetia 30 the Great River 31, 36, 72 Ifirn 101, 185
Gashok 11, 48 Haal of Gareth 203, 223 Ifirn’s Ocean 7, 45, 91, 148
Gazettes 119, 126 Half Elves 26 Ilsur 37, 54
Geldana of Paavi 81 Half Orcs 27 Iltoken 82
Geodes 193, 195 Halman ui Bennain 208 Imman 116, 137
Gerasim 44 Hanfla 15, 68 Imperial Letters 94
Gernot of Mersingen 32 Harben 34 Infantry 112
Geron the One-Handed 104, 219 Harika of Bethana 91 Ingerimm 99, 106, 182, 186
Ghurenia 66 Harvest Feast Massacre 221 Ingra Peaks 13, 27, 53
Giant 10 Hasrabal ben Yakuban 59, 83 Ingval 41, 45, 47, 68
Giants’ Shore 8, 10, 92 Havena 11, 34, 75 Inrah 116
Gjalsks 11, 24, 45, 187, 195 Healing Herbs 172 Interregunum 223
Glacier Sea 28 Heart of the Realm 31 Invher ni Bennain 34
Glacier Worm 209 Heat Levels 17 Iradion Kolenfeld 55, 67
Glade Elves 10, 23, 26, 50, 188 Hela-Horas 113, 221 Irmenella of Wertlingen 31, 37, 74
Globules 22, 91, 103 Helme Haffax 226, 228 Iron Edge 10
Glorana the Ice Witch 10, 228 Heptarch 228 Iron Forest
Glyndhaven 42 Heparchies see Shadowlands (Mountain Kingdom) 53
Goblin (Stats) 151 Herald of Light 221 Iron Forest
Goblinese 96 Herbarium 172 (Mountain) 12, 13, 27, 36, 38
Goblins 10, 27, 150, 188 Herbarium Kuslikum 124 Isdira 94, 95
Gods 175 Heroic Age 104, 230 Ivory Eye 196
God’s Judgement 143 Hesinde 99, 179, 185 Jashalei 59
Golden Bay 63, 68 Hesinde Mirror 126 Jaundice 128
Golgaris’ Appearance 99 High Elves 8, 209, 218 Jergan 55, 76
Golden Cliffs 14, 40, 107 High Eternans 40 Jilaskan 55
Golem 83, 113, 223, 229 High King Joborn 47
Gorian Desert 14, 58, 114 of Dwarves see Albrax Son of Agam Journeys, Magical 22
Grangor (Duchy) 12, 34 High Nobility 41, 80, 107 Journeys, On Land 18
Grangor (City) 40, 138 Hill Dwarves 13, 27, 36, 53, Journeys, On Water 21
Gravesh 188 115, 120, 188 Jurga Trondesdottir 45, 86, 229
Gray Mountains 11, 45 History see [Myth and History] Jurga’s Landing 100
Great Flood 75 Historiography 215 Kamaluq 64, 187

260 Index
Karen 10, 45, 146 Mada’s Sign 97, 102, 105 Nahema ai Tamerlein 208, 224
Karmakortheon see Turning Mada’s Sacrilege 102, 217 Nameless Days 100, 106
of Ages Mages’ Guilds 126 Nameless One (God) 183, 218
Keft 14, 60, 100 Mage Wars 114, 194 Nanduria 96
Kemi 15 Mage Moguls 219 Nandus 106, 186
Kha 102, 105, 188, 217 Mages’ Philosophy 187 Navigation (Seafaring) 107, 119
Khadan Varsinian Magic 192 Nebachot 82
Firdayon see Khadan-Horas Magical Artifacts 196 Necromancy 140
Khadan-Horas 40, 205, 230 Magical Beings 199 Needmark 21, 51
Khanemouth 61 Magic in Everyday Life 200 Neersand 51
Khezzara 11, 48, 154 Magic Lamp see Djinn Lamp Neetha 40, 79
Khôm 14, 16, 60, 147 Magic Songs 120, 193 New Realm see Middenrealm
Khôm-Novadi 95 Magic Traditions 193, 195 Night Elves see Shakagra
Khôm War 224 Mailam Rekdai 10, 150, 188 Nine-Eye Lake 13, 22, 199
Khoram Mountains 58, 60 Malkillah II., Caliph 61, 87, 224 Niobara ofAnchopal 107
Khunchom 14, 59, 76, 136, 219 Mandragora 131 Nivese 25, 44, 100, 187
Kobold 89, 98, 199 Maraskan 13, 55, 148, 187 Noble Marshall 10, 51
Kobold Language 96 Maraskan Chain 55 Node 193
Kor 106, 185 Marbo 106, 186 Norbards 25, 100, 187
Kosh 12, 30, 35, 69 Markets 108, 136 Norbury 21, 51, 80, 138
Kosh Basalt 36, 193 Master of Demons see Borbarad Northland Bank 73, 135
Krakenewt (Stats) 163 Mathematics see Algebra Northmarches 12, 31, 35
Kuslik 14, 40, 77 Mechanics 118 Northstar 10, 105
Kuslikan Emperors 221 Measurements 138 Nostria (Kingdom) 11, 47, 99
Kuslikan Letters 94 Mendena 37, 78, 226 Nostria (City) 47, 80
Kvill 10, 21, 45, 49 Mengbilla 15, 79, 119, 134 Novadi 14, 61, 97, 100, 187
Kvriasim 21, 44, 77 Mermaid 28, 148 Nova Methumisa 66
Lake Angbar 13, 36, 53 Meridiana 15, 25 Nujuka 95
Lake Ysli 37 Methumis 40 Nurdra 188
Lands of the Nivese 44 Mhaharanyat 57 Oath of Baliiri 223
Lands of the Mhanadi 14, 21 Oblarasim 21, 44
Tulamydes 8, 14, 22, 26, 52, 58 Mhanadistan 25, 58, 147 Oblomon 21, 50
Languages 94 Mherwed 14, 61, 138 Oceans 148
Law 139 Mirham 15, 63 Oderin du Metuant 64, 230
Leonardo the Mechanicus 119, 228 Middenlander 24 Ogre 11, 28, 152, 217
Leprosy 127 Middenrealm 11, 30, 99 Ogre (Stats) 153
Levthan 106, 185 Misty Peaks 10, 44 Ogre Teeth 48
Levies 98, 194 Mizirion III de Sylphur 65, 71 Okdrâgosh 53
Ley Lines 22, 193, 227 Mohan 94, 95 Old Realm 14
Libraries 61, 62, 77, 85, 12, 205 Mokosha 43, 187 Old Gyldenlandish 94
Limbo 22, 103, 185, 196 Months 99 Oloarkh 96
Liscom of Fasar 226 Moon 97, 99, 105, 185 Olochtai 10, 45, 48
Literature 122 Moon Emperor see Selindian Haal Ologhaijan 96
Living History 225 Mountain Kingdoms Olport 11, 45, 81
Lizardfolk 14, 28 of the Dwarves 12, 13, 36, 52, 89 Olport Stones 11, 45
Lizard Swamps 21, 61 85 Minting Rights 135 Omegatherion 218, 226
Loch Hardrôl 60, 63 Murak-Horas 221 Omrais 141
Lolgramoth 184 Music 120 Ongalo Highlands 58
Lorgolosh 53 Myranor see Gyldenland Onslaught of Ogres, First 220
Los 101, 105, 175 Mystery of Kha 102, 217 Onslaught of Ogres, Second 224
Lowangen 11, 48, 78, 138, 225 Myth 215 Opera 120, 138
Low Nobility 107, 110 Nadjesha of Lionsford 51 Orc (Stats) 155
Mada 102, 105, 185, 192 Nagrach 184, 228 Orclands 11, 48, 146

261
 Orcs 11, 27, 96, 100, 188 Rabies 129 Satinav 102
Orc Storm, First 220 Race 23 Satuaria 197
Orc Storm, Second 223 Radrom 37 Sculpture 121
Orc Storm, Third 224 Ragath 38 Scripts 122
Ore Dwarves 27 Rahja 182 Sea Battle of Phrygaios 230
Order of the Rain Mountains 16, 63, 128, 166 Sea of Pearls 8
Banishing Ray 85, 113 Rakshazar see Giants’ Shore Sea of Seven Winds 8, 18
Oron 57, 91, 148, 228 Ranged Weapons 118 Seas 21, 148
Orvai Kurim 150, 188 Rank (Military) 112 Secret Signs 96
Ottajasko 11, 45, 46 Rashtul (Titan) 217 Selem 85
Oxwater 21, 22 Rashtul al’Sheik 60 Selem Ground 63
Paavi (Duchy) 10, 42 Rashdul 83 Selindian Haal of Gareth 229
Paavi (City) 10, 42, 81, 228 Rastullah 100 Selo Kulibin 59
Pact-Makers 196 Rat Fungus 174 Semaphores 119
Pailos 40 Rathil 49 Seven Bearers
Painting 120 Raul of Gareth 113 of the Signs 114, 226
Pandlaril (Fairy) 38, 199 Ravenmarches 13 Seven-Strike 219
Pandlaril (River) 21, 87 Raxan Shadow Wing 210 Seweria 50
Paralysis Brooch 198 Realm of Raul see Middenrealm Shadif (Horse) 61
Pardona 43, 197, 209, 226 Red and White Camels 196 Shadif (Landscape) 61
Pastilles against Pain 132 Red Sickle 10 Shadowlands 54
Paths see Roads Rssahh 96 Shafir the Magnificent 41
Payment Transactions 134 Realmwood 31 Shakagoran 95
Peace Emperors 220, 85 Rethis 84 Shakagra 28
Peraine 181 Reto of Gareth 140, 223 Shamans 187
Perainefords 37, 227 Rhazzazor 53, 89, 114, 227 Shards of the
Perricum (Margravate) 57 Rikai 188 Demon’s Crown 228
Perricum (City) 57 Risso 28 Shieldlands 37
Perval of Gareth 223 Riva 84 Shîkanyad of Sinoda 13
Phecano Forest 38 Roab 21 Ship Building 78
Phex 181 Roads and Paths 18 Sign Tower 119
Phexcaer 82 Road Quality 18 Silem-Horas-Edict 221
Phileasson Saga 7 Rogolan 95 Simia 186
Poisons 130 Rohaja of Gareth 11, 31, 205 Singing in Two Voices 95, 120
Port Stoerrebrandt 82 Rohal the Wise 222 Singleberry 172
Porto Velvenya 66 Rommilys 84 Sinoda 85
Potion of Toughness 132 Rommilysian Marches 13 Sky Wolves 187, 226
Praios 177 Rondra 177 Slavery 15
Praios’ Disk (also: Eye Rondricane 18 Sleeping Potion 132
of Praios, Praios’ Mark) 8 Rondrigan Paligan 205 Social Status 107
Prankster 98, 193 Rorwhed 44 Sorp Sanderwik 119
Prehistory 216 Rune Mages 11 South-Pointer 97, 119
Prem’s Animals 125 Rur and Gror 187 Southern Sea 8
Prices 134 Rust Pelts see Goblins Spheres 217
Priest Emperors 114, 176, 221 Sadrak Whassoi 225 Sport 116
Primoptolith 42 Saga Thorwalian 95 Standing 107
Promissory Notes 135 Salamander (Periodical) 126 Starfall 104
Provinces of the Salamander Stones 10 Starless Void 100, 106
Middenrealm 31 Salkya Firdayon 230 Star of Elem 63
Punin 83 Salta 47 Starry Skies 104
Punin Rite 38 Salterhaven 47 Stars 104
Punishments 142 Sansaro 128, 172 Steppe Elves 26, 44, 50
Pyrdacor 42, 91, 113, 209 Sarasto Dorkstein 55 Stoerrebrandt
Quinja 173 Sargasso Sea 66 (Trading House) 211

262 Index
Stone Oak Forest 47 Townright 108 Warunkia 13, 30, 54,
Sulman al’Nassori 219 Trade 133 89, 228, 230
Sumu 101 Trade Fairs 136 Waskir 11, 45
Sun 8 Trading House ya Strozza 135 Waternymphs 28, 148
Sunmarches 13 Trallop 86 Waternymph Weed 128, 172
Sunsura 131 Transbosquiria 38 Wealbeck 10, 21, 50
Supernatural Plants 173 Transweal 10, 51 Weal Mountains 17, 50
Superstition 98f, 194 Transysilia 13 Weather 16
Svellt 21 Traumatic Fever 130 Weiden 13, 22, 30, 37
Svellt League of Towns 48 Traveling Speed 18 Weights 138
Svellt Valley 48 Travia 178 Wendelmir
Swafnir 186 Treant (Stats) 166 VI Zornbold 47, 68
Swafnir’s Child 46 Trial by Combat 143 Werewolf 54, 199
Swantje of Ravenmouth 31, 85 Troll 22, 28 Whale Rage 46
Sword of Swords 206 Troll (Stats) 156 Wide River 21, 31, 37
Sylla 63 Troll Gap 11, 13, 114, 153, 224 Wild Boar (Stats) 170
Syronius’ Protecting Blade 199 Trollish 95 Wildermarches 32
Szinto 21 Troll Peaks 13, 32, 53, 156 Winds 16, 18, 178, 185
Taifas 39 Troll Peaker 24, 57, 58, 95 Windhag 12, 30, 31, 33
Tairach 155 Tsa 180 Winhall 34, 166
Taladur 38 Tulamydes 14, 25 Wise Emperors 221, 223
Talisman 98 Tulamidya 94-96 Witches 193
Tar Honak 224 Turning of Ages 103, 114, 227 Wood Elves 10, 26, 44, 50, 77
Tasfarelel 184 Tuzak 8, 55, 87 Wolf Rat (Stats) 171
Tatzelwurm (Stats) 164 Twelvegods 176 World Creation 101
Taxes 143 Ucuri 74, 106, 186, 217 Xeledon 106, 186
Technology 117 Uhdenmount 50, 150 Xeraan 228, 229
Teleportation Ring 199 Unau 87 Xeraania 228, 229
Temple Tithes 144 Unau Mountains 58, 60 Xorlosh 89
Temperature (Overview) 16 Unicorn 199 Yagan Nut 132, 173
Teremon 40 Urdas 117 Yalaiad 57, 58
Thalusa 59 Uthar 106, 185 Yaquir 11, 12, 21, 22, 30, 38
Thalusia 59 Uthuria 8, 14, 24, 64, 91, 103 Yaquir Fault 38
Thargunitoth 184 Utulus 16, 24, 25, Yaquiria 40, 77, 88
Thash Mountains 53 67, 128, 219 Yash’Hualay 76, 219
Theater Knights 222 Vademecum of Yearly Fever 128, 129, 173
Thirteenth (God) 183 Combative Crafts 125 Year of Fire 13, 33, 147, 228
Thorn Eisinger 118, 221 Vallusa 7, 51, 55, 88 Yellow Sickle 7
Thorwal (Region) 86 Valpo of Gareth 223 Yetis 28, 42, 96, 198
Thorwal (City) 86 Vanja Nadaljeff 66, 213 Yeti-Land 7, 10, 42
Thorwalers 25 Vinsalt 14, 39, 88, 101 Yolande II Kasmyrin 47
Thorwalian (Language) 94 Vinsaltan Egg 118 Yol-Ghurmak 90
Thrashbeard 128, 129, 173 Visra 68 Ysilia see Yol-Ghurmak
Time 10 Wal-el-Khômchra 60, 212 Yoruga 121, 129, 146, 172
Timor Firdayon 230 Wall of Rashtul 11 Zelemja 95
Titans 101, 103, 152, 216 Wall of Stars 103 Zerza 188
Titles 107, 111 Walpurga of Zhayad 95, 96
Tjolmar 11, 48 Lionshead 31, 37, 86 Zhulchammaqra 95
Tobimora (River) 21, 37, 54 Wandering Stars 105, 118 Zibilja 51, 193
Tobrien 13, 30, 37, 226 Warhome 21, 32, 114, 227 Zorgan 14, 57, 90, 101, 138
Tobrien Sea 30, 50, 55 War of Dragons 41, 230 Zorganpox 126, 148
Tolls 18, 84, 137, 144 Warring Kingdoms 47
Tommel 21, 33, 36, 47, 80 Warunk (Margravate) 13, 31
Tournaments 68, 101, 116, 137, 223 Warunk (City) 21, 55, 89, 226

263
Arm yourself for battle!

Aventuria is a dangerous place. Lurking behind every corner may be treacherous

monsters, exciting adventures, or an ill-humored comrade who challenges you
to a duel. Gather your weapons, armor, and magic spells! Acquire unique skills
and surprise your opponent with unexpected tricks!

But you must strategize as well—will you save your strength so you can play a
Shining Blade later? Or will you press the attack with your dagger and try to
disarm your opponent?

Aventuria is a fast-paced card game for 1–4 players, ages 14+, where each player
takes the role of a hero from Aventuria. Choose from Arbosh the fierce dwarven
smith, Layariel the fleet-footed elven scout, Carolan the cunning half elven
rogue, or Mirhiban the mysterious Tulamydian mage.
AVENTURIA ALMANAC

Explore the many facets of The Dark Eye with the Aventuria
Almanac, your guide to the official setting for the fantasy
role playing game. Immerse yourself in this exciting world
and learn why the fantastic continent of Aventuria is like
no other.
This indispensable guide is designed both for players and
GMs. Explore the regions, kingdoms, and history of Aventuria
in detail. Entries for key cities cover inhabitants, customs, trade,
science, law and order, magic, and the works of the gods. Learn
about the icy wastes of the Far North, the many provinces of the
Middenrealm, and the mysterious home of the elves in the verdant
woods of the Salamander Stones. Travel the merchant routes of the
Khôm Desert, face the perils of the Lizard Swamps and the steaming
jungles of Meridiana, and delve into the hidden mines of the dwarves.
The Aventuria Almanac also includes two large-format poster maps
of the continent, stats for new creatures and useful plants, and
fascinating new mysteries for the heroes to investigate.

Recommended for
1 GM and
3–6 Players www.ulisses-us.com
14 Years and Older US25002EPDF