TM

dark dealings

Shaded
in the

Souq
A BLACK VOID RPG SCENARIO
 Survival
is only the beginning...

AN ESOTERIC ROLE-PLAYING GAME BY

CHRISTOFFER SEVALDSEN
 Cr
C edits
redits
Black Void created by
Christoffer S. Sevaldsen

Dark dealings in the Shaded Souq

conceived and written by
Daniel Cross

Contributions and editing

Christoffer S. Sevaldsen

Heuristic Creative Custodian

Deborah J. Corton

Artwork
Lucca Medeiros, Ekaterina Yastrubetskaya,
Vincent Van Hoof, Aske Schmidt Rose,
Tan Nguyen & Christoffer S. Sevaldsen

Special thanks to
All the wonderful people around the world whose kind
words and encouragement has made all the difference!
Thank you to all the Voidfarers - especially those on the Black Void
Discord channel for your valuable feedback and input.

Published by
Black Void Games
Amaliegade 13B, 3.mf.
1256 Copenhagen K
Denmark
www.blackvoidgames.com

ISBN 978-87-93781-07-8
Product code: BVG016D / MUH052118-PDF
1st edition

© 2020 Christoffer Schultz Sevaldsen - All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, photocopied, stored in a retrieval
system or transmitted in any form or by any means - for example, electronic,
photocopy, audio recording - without the prior written permission of the publisher.
“BLACK VOID” logo trademarked by Christoffer Schultz Sevaldsen

All artwork and image rights are owned by Christoffer S. Sevaldsen, Black Void Games
Additional graphic elements are used under the full extended license from www.designcuts.com

This is a work of fiction. Any similarity with actual people and events, past or present, is purely
coincidental and unintentional except for people and elements described in a historical context.

Disclaimer
For potentially impressionable readers/players it should be noted that this game is not meant to reflect or
indeed be applied to reality. The themes, events and ideas expressed in the Black Void RPG are fictional
and do not reflect any belief, political conviction, opinion or existential viewpoints of its author(s).
It is merely a game, meant to entertain and excite… Nothing more, nothing less!

4
 dark dealings
Shaded
in the
PREFACE 6
SCENARIO SETUP 7
ARBITRATING 8
THE STORY 9
THE KHAMEELIYA DISTRICT 10
Locations 10
District Inhabitants 11
Groups & Factions 11
Notable people (NPC’s) 12
CHARACTERS 13
Character backstory 13
Character motivation 13
Knowledge & resources 13
DARK DEALINGS IN THE SHADED SOUQ 14
SCENE 1 : THE RUSE 15
The Scapegoats 16
An unexpected friend 16
A beast unleashed 17
The ruined tavern 19
SCENE 2 : THE CIRCUS OF DISASTER 20
The impresario 21
The announced performance 21
The amphitheatre 22
the bloodied stage 25
Samang’s explanations 25
Garhasha 25
Souq
SCENE 3 : HUNTERS OR HUNTED? 26
Perusing the souq 28
The conversant oord 29
Yaat’s devious dealings 29
Meeting Su’tinn 30
The guild stalker 32
SCENE 4 : THE TOWER OF ZAGAN 34
Entering the tower 35
Meeting Zagan 37
Courteous overtures 38
Tempers flare 42
Fleeing the tower 42
SCENE 5 : FDULIEA’S SURPRISE 45
Choices 46
The messenger 47
Meeting YanWei 47
Revelations 48
Keeping secrets 50
SCENE 6 : ROAMING BEASTS 51
Requests 52
SCENE 7 : THE FUGITIVE DJINN 54
Plotting and scheming 55
The scorched ruin 56
The characters find Zagan 57
Zagan finds the characters 59
CONCLUSION 60
APPENDIX 61
ANTAGONISTS, ALLIES & NOTABLE PEOPLE 62
GROUPS & FACTIONS 71
BEASTS 74
MAPS 79
5
P r e face
Preface
 Scenario
setup
S cenario The appendix detail complete descriptions of antagonists,
allies and other non-player characters, including their game
characteristics, skills, combat abilities where needed. Maps,

setup
faction descriptions and new beasts can also be found in the
appendix.

Additional background stories and information on the

If you are unfamiliar with running Black Void scenarios, this various creatures, peoples and species found in Khameeliya
introduction clarifies the various elements and explains how and Llyhn can be found in the Black Void core rulebook.
everything works.

To play this scenario, you will need copies of the Black Void
core rulebook, some twelve-sided dice (at least one for each
player) as well as pen and paper. Other implements such
as figurines for combat and such can be used but are not a
necessity.

A scenario is a story much like the plot in

a book, but with the distinct difference
that the story is not entirely fixed,
and the players’ actions decide how
the story progress.

For convenience, the scenario is

divided into scenes or events, making it
easier for Arbiters to control and narrate
the story.

Each scene contains a brief synopsis of what is

intended to happen, a location description, applicable
maps, a non-player character overview, and usually some
annotations the Arbiter should keep in mind for the scene.

Some events are arbitrary, occurring either randomly, at the

Arbiter’s discretion or purely as a consequence of player
agency to add further elements and drama to the story.

The scenario provides several ways to get from one

scene to the next, allowing for players to follow multiple
paths in the story rather than leading them on a specific
linear path.

Whenever a scene or event has a specific opportunity

for characters to obtain pertinent information from
noticing a plot-relevant detail, an observation box
is provided.

If the characters succeed in their observation attempt,

the Arbiter can choose which detail they managed to
notice or make a roll to randomise the result from the table
if multiple options are available.

Throughout the scenario, supplementary information is

noted in boxes to assist the Arbiter with NPC interactions,
providing rumours or knowledge about places, occurrences
and people.

While most obstacles and tasks in the scenario follow

the regular rules regarding action difficulties, some have
specified predetermined difficulty ratings that are marked
in square brackets [].

7
 Arbit
A rating
rbitrating
Before running this scenario, the Arbiter should note that it
is ideally suited for four to six characters, each in the 65-75
points range.
If the characters are outside this range, the Arbiter can
reasonably tweak adversaries to suit less or more capable
characters as required.
The scenario is written to work equally well as a one-shot
to be run on its own or be woven into an ongoing extended
campaign, with possibilities for further exploits based on the
occurrences of this story suggested in the conclusion.
The scenes are arranged in the most regular order of
occurrence, but the chronology is rather loose and can be
rearranged to accommodate the characters’ choices, and
actions as the Arbiter sees fit.
While the scenario is written to be compellingly run on
its own, the narrative has been kept open enough to give
ample opportunity for creative Arbiters to weave their own
sub-plots and alternative storylines into it.
Many of the locations – such as the Shaded Souq –
provide abundant prospects for Arbiters to introduce
additional NPC’s and storylines as the characters
explore.
8
Several of the minor NPC’s – such as Taveesh and Daiwu –
can certainly have their stories expanded upon and provide
enticing avenues to be explored.
The story initially revolves around two characters being
deviously implicated in a deception by the antagonist Zagan.
As such, the Arbiter must – before the scenario begins –
pick out two characters as fitting the descriptions surfacing
after the hoax, but keep in mind that throughout the plot,
all characters are implicated by association.
The Arbiter can either choose the two scapegoats
deliberately or randomly determine who they are by rolling
a dice.
The story incorporates and accentuates the Black Void
setting’s central themes and concepts as it takes the
characters through a harrowing tale that offers opportunities
for profound role-playing, diplomatic savviness and raw,
brutal combat.
It is recommended that the Arbiter read through the NPC
descriptions to get familiar with their motivations, quirks
and particular persona to bring their personality to the fore
and understand the impetus for their behaviour.
Although the antagonists in the story are all inhuman, some
of the desires and ambitions driving them are very human
in nature.
 Th
Thee SStory
tory
In this scenario, the protagonists learn they have been
framed for an unusual crime against the Ghurayb animal
trader’s guild at the gates of the Khameeliya District.
A collection of exotic animals was slaughtered by attackers
looking remarkably like the protagonists.
As they seek to exonerate themselves before vigilante justice
catches up to them, their current patron - the leader of a
secret human commune in Khameeliya - requests them to
prevent furtive interlopers from usurping a wealthy Je’ehl
ally trading in exotic animals.
In their search for answers, they unwittingly stumble across
a plot with implications far beyond the Eternal City.
Eventually, lacking any decent leads to hunting down
their imposters, the protagonists learn about an arena
performance showcasing dangerous exotic animals at the
Masque in the Khameeliya district.
The exotic animal turns out to be a breed of war beast and
quickly frees itself from its chains and begins to rampage the
amphitheatre.
After the chaos, an Oord impresario named Samang tells
them about Yek’ Seng, a Ba’waikh merchant who sold him
the uncontrollable monstrosity.
This leads the protagonists to the Shaded Souq and the
Purveyors of the Hunt, an illicit group of animal traders
funded by a Djinn named Zagan.
The encounter with the Purveyors leads to meeting Zagan,
who supports all the activities of Yek’ Seng to get access to
rare creatures himself.
Zagan falsely offers the protagonists an alliance in an attempt
to placate and eventually capture them. He means to feed
them to his daughter, a horrible Ghulah living in his tower.
Their deaths would remove the risk of exposure of the Djinn
and his huntresses’ involvement in the crimes against the
Ghurayb animal trader’s guild at the district gate.
Meanwhile, the Djinn learns that a mysterious Warlord
waging holy war on faraway worlds is interested in war beasts
and – more interestingly – one of his personal collection of
animals; a rare, strange creature called an Arboreal Nadhir.
The diminutive creature is thought to possess unusual
mystical properties when consumed, supposedly giving the
ability of foresight.
The protagonists will have to use guile, diplomacy
or swordsmanship as they try to survive the intricate
manoeuvrings of traders, esoteric beings and callous killers.
Will they eventually find out the truth about what the
Warlord seeks, as well as the reason why Zagan choose to
frame them for the attack on the rival trader?
And would this ultimately spell the end of the Purveyors
activities in Khameeliya and pave the way for the
exoneration of the characters.
9
 the Kham
the e eli y a district
Khameeliya di stri ct
The scenario takes place in the Khameeliya district of Llyhn THE MANSION OF KANA’RA VORTHAXA (7): A small
the Eternal. Khameeliya is a district of merchant princes, mansion located between Asru Square and the Khameeliya
artisans and artists, featuring sites like the Floating Market, wall. Albeit off-limits to lowly commune members, this is
the Masque, Asru square, the Feast of Flesh, and the palatial where Kana’ra governs his burgeoning empire.
grounds of the Virgin Empress.
THE GROVE (8): One of many cultivated groves maintained
The area is home to a large number of higher caste residents, in the district for the enjoyment of the residents and visitors.
with Je’ehl, Shirr, and Ka’Alum being among the prominent Several leisure establishments situated on the adjacent plaza
species. draw constant throngs of visitants.

More information about the district can be found on page

276 of the core rulebook.

Locations

THE ARIJWANI TAVERN (1):

A renowned drinking establishment
owned by Muawu and often
frequented by the members of the
human commune in Khameeliya
because of its affability towards 6
humans.

THE MASQUE (2):

An illustrious amphitheatre
known across the Cosmos for
staging extravagant performances 2
and plays. This is the exclusive
venue for Samang’s flamboyant and
eccentric acts.

THE SHADED SOUQ – ASRU SQUARE (3):

A large square containing a multi-tiered souq
placed on platforms, bridges and gangways
suspended from towers above the ground.
The souq is the location of the seat of
operations for the Purveyors of the Hunt. 7
ZAGAN’S TOWER (4): The abode of
Zagan, as well as living quarters for Zagan,
Asha, Fduliea, Yek’ Seng, Su’tinn as well
as the Timaniém huntresses. A menagerie
holds some of their captured beasts.
8 3
THE GHURAYB GUILD DOMICILE (5): A
large building adjacent to an outer gate of the
Khameeliya district. The domicile contains guildhalls,
pens for creatures, accommodations for clients and guild 5
members as well as recreational areas. 4
THE DREAMING GOMOR (6): A famous tea house on a
small peninsula in the Margidda river. The establishment is
owned and run by a Variin called Aiusyr. The Variin is an
acquaintance of YanWei and occasionally assist with
advice and guidance in esoteric matters. 1

10

District Inhabitants
Khameeliya is a thriving hub for commerce and trade,
and the residents mirror this in every way. In essence,
everything is considered a commodity, every interaction is
a negotiation, and everyone has an agenda.
Because of the vast number of foreign traders coming to
Khameeliya, many of the regular folk the characters will
come across are visitants and not residents, and there is a
distinct difference between the two.
Locals tend to be condescending and jaded, and while they
do retain aloof civility towards visibly affluent foreigners and
outsiders, they have little patience for anyone they consider
beneath them – which is most anyone else.
There is an air of entitlement about them, proffered by the
fact that mainly prosperous merchants, artisans and high-
castes can afford to retain property in Khameeliya. Even the
less affluent residents have acquired this sense of privilege
and often tend to act even more pretentious than those who
have wealth.
Locals habitually wear flamboyant attires and expensive,
extravagant jewellery, seeking to mirror the fashions in
vogue in Penda’Rinn. An ostentatious prized possession
amongst the affluent is rare and exotic species of animals.
Colourful songbirds are perched for full display by posh
merchant princes seated in lavish palanquins.
Splendorous ladies saunter between shops accompanied
by entourages of pleasure slaves with Kapagois and other
striking creatures skipping about heads and shoulders.
Adorned and pruned riding animals are laboriously steered
through the narrow streets with their obese masters leisurely
reclining on their backs.
Humans and other perceived lesser species are generally
frowned upon and often find themselves accosted and
removed by the countless personal guardsmen and hired
constables employed by merchant princes, guilds and
bazaars around the district.
This conceited mentality pervades much of the populace,
causing many residents to react instinctively with apathy,
condescension or even hostility towards the characters if
they are openly flaunting their humanity or dress unbefitting
commoners or higher castes.
Groups & Factions
PURVEYORS OF THE HUNT: A venture started by
Yek’Seng to enter the market of trading exotic beasts in
Khameeliya.
As his efforts to join the Ghurayb guild were declined
Yek’Seng decided to continue illicitly and furthermore tries
to ruin the guild in the process.
The Purveyors of the Hunt later got the patronage of Zagan.
The organisation consists of Zagan, Yek’Seng, Su’tinn, a
score of Timaniém huntresses as well as various labourers
and scribes.
THE GHURAYB GUILD: This cartel holds control on the
trading of exotic animals in the Khameeliya district and
defends this exclusivity ardently.
A privately funded guard corps enforces their will and
monopoly in the district with the tacit approval of the Civic
guards.
HUMAN COMMUNE: A secret society founded by
Kana’ra Vorthaxa. The commune is located underground
close to Kana’ra’s mansion and connected to the sewers
running all over the district.
Albeit the commune is still in its infancy, it is rapidly growing
fuelled by Kana’ra’s passion and escalating influence.
CIVIC GUARDS: The sanctioned enforcers in the district.
Although rarely interested in the petty squabbles of the
inhabitants the Civic guards will get involved if circumstances
require.
Civic guard patrols are detailed in the groups and factions
section. For more details about the Civic guards, see page
242 of the core rulebook.
JINASSAR GARRISON: The Jinassar corps is the army of
the Unseen Rulers. They only get involved at the request of
high officials from the Civic guard or at the direct command
of the Unseen Rulers.
The scorching of Zagan’s tower will spur Jinassar attention
and involvement. A Khameeliya garrison Jinassar squadron
is detailed in the groups and factions section.
For more details about the Jinassar, see page 242 of the
core rulebook.
THE COWL: The secret informants and spy network of
the Unseen Rulers. After the Princely Envoy’s attack
on Zagan’s tower, The Cowl gets prompted to ferret
out the involved parties. For more details about The
Cowl, see page 242 of the core rulebook.
11
 Notable people (NPC’s)

AIUSYR: A learned Variin acquaintance of YanWei, who

– now and then – provides guidance in esoteric matters.

ASHA: The daughter of Zagan and a vicious Ghulah.

DAIWU: A Je’ehl Ghurayb guard officer and personal

friend of Muawu and her brother YanWei.

FDULIEA: The Djinn consort of Zagan.

GARHASHA: A massive Talath who works as Samang’s

beastmaster and guard.

KANA’RA VORTHAXA: The leader of the hidden human

commune and reticent patron to the protagonists. He
remains elusive and is not intended to be encountered by
the characters in the scenario.

MUAWU: The Je’ehl owner of the Arijwani Tavern – sister

to YanWei.

NAEHI: An Oord delegate to the Princely Envoy of the

Warlord.

SADA: A wife of Kana’ra Vorthaxa.

SAMANG: An Oord impresario who stages rare and

exclusive beast performances in the Masque.

SU’TINN: A Ka’Alum friend and ally of Yek’Seng.

TAVEESH: Messenger for Kana’ra Vorthaxa.

Huntresses: A band of Timaniém that work for Yek’Seng –
specialised in the capture of exotic and dangerous animals.

YANWEI: A Je’ehl Ghurayb guild trader whose animal

stock was murdered.

YEK’SENG: A Ba’Waikh trader and the leader of the

Purveyors of the Hunt – capturing and selling exotic
creatures out of the Shaded Souq.

THE PRINCELY ENVOY: A lieutenant of a shadowy

Warlord, sent to Llyhn to acquire war beasts and the
Arboreal Nadhir. He commands two delegates and a
squadron of soldiers from a yacht at anchor off the Dhaarese
wharf. He is of an unknown species and intended to be an
obscure presence not directly confronted in the scenario.

THE WARLORD: A mysterious Warlord waging holy war

on faraway worlds and the secret bidder on the Arboreal
Nadhir. He is not present in Llyhn, and his existence is
only hinted at through various sources as being an ominous
behind-the-scenes power.

ZAGAN: The Djinn patron of Yek’Seng and Su’tinn, and

father of Asha.

12
 Charact
C er s
haracters
Characters should either have progressed by 20-30
experience points and preferably have attained a few
rankings of Wastah/Enlightenment or be newly generated at
Adept capability (68 points).
Refer to the Character Creation chapter in the Black Void
core rule book for details on how to build your character.
Players are free to adapt pre-generated characters
accordingly at the Arbiter’s discretion.
Character backstory
In addition to individual backstories, the following text
summarises the characters’ collective background.
The assumption is that the protagonists have come to the
Khameeliya district to join their new patron, the supposed
leader of a mysterious human commune. Secrecy surrounds
him, and his existence is thought only a rumour to most.
They have been taught a secret code – one of Kana’ra’s
infamous quotes – used to identify members of the
commune to each other. One will say: “Be not it they who
lie upon the ground…”, to which the other must reply: “…
and let the dogs of death feast upon their corpse.”
Their new patron’s name is Kana’ra Vorthaxa (page 307
core rulebook). Kana’ra is hoping to make considerable
inroads with other factions in the Eternal City to cement
himself and his burgeoning empire.
His interest in the protagonists is borne by their repute
as resourceful individuals with a knack for advancing the
interests of humanity – the perfect sort of people to help
him gain momentum for his growing empire.
If the scenario is played as part of an ongoing campaign,
and the characters are already in Khameeliya, or they
have established patrons, the Arbiter may need to adjust
elements of the scenario to fit.
This could include making the characters presence in
Khameeliya part of an agreement between their current
patron and Kana’ra, weaving the incriminating ambush into
the ongoing story and perhaps changing the Arijwani tavern
to accommodate already established haunts and so on.
Character motivation
Depending on whether the characters need active
inducements or not, the Arbiter can have a representative
of Kana’ra dangle the promise of incentives to bring the
protagonists to Khameeliya. Below are some suggestions for
enticements the representative can have proffered:
COMPASSION: The nascent commune needs capable
patrons and protectors, and the characters would be
instrumental in supporting their cause.
GREED: The enclave leader has amassed a fortune and is
endowing generous gifts on those who assist his burgeoning
empire.
STRATEGIC: Gaining status and influence in a human
commune outside of the poor districts is likely to be
prosperous and advantageous.
TRADE: Mingling with the merchant princes and trader
guilds of Khameeliya is valuable for someone looking to gain
a foothold in the Eternal City.
FAVOUR: Helping someone capable of keeping a human
commune secret in the upper districts of Llyhn could very
well confer otherwise unattainable favour and status.
REWARD: If the characters become esteemed members of
the enclave rewards and remuneration are sure to follow.
Knowledge & resources
Unless they have previously had dealings in or around
Khameeliya, the characters are nominally familiar with the
district and its inhabitants, having recently moved there
incentivised by a member of the hidden commune.
The Arbiter can relay the first two paragraphs of the district
description to the players to give them an introduction to
the district – see page 276 in the core rulebook.
Should the characters have progressed to less than the
suggested point range for the scenario, the Arbiter can
allocate supplementary resources for them to utilise during
the scenario.
A way to conceivably implement this is for Kana’ra to
have granted them assets or other aid as an incentive to
join his cause.
If the characters have the recommended point totals,
no additional resources are made available to them at
the scenario start.
13
 D ar k
dea lings
dark

in the
dealings

Shaded
in the

So uq
shaded
souq
 Scene
S cene11 :: T
The
he Ruse
Ruse

Scene synopsis

The characters discover they have been framed for a

bizarre crime against the Ghurayb guild at the gates of the
Khameeliya District.
Their new patron sends his wife to contact them as they
relax in a recommended watering hole called the Arijwani
tavern. She explains the situation about the slaughtered
exotic beasts at the gate.
Wealthy Khameeliya residents love acquiring exotic animals,
and several of those killed were earmarked for purchase by
some influential high-castes.

Knowing that they are innocent, the party must contend

with the widespread belief that they are the culprits as they
pursue vindication. The fallout of the unfounded attention
threatens not only their lives but also jeopardises the interests
of their new patron by imposing scrutiny on humanity and 1
their presence in the district.

Violence and robberies are rare in Khameeliya, and

scapegoating is a decidedly wise choice, but that the
perpetrators were able to disguise themselves as the
protagonists so convincingly is disturbing.

To avoid exposure, the real culprits unleash a terrible beast

to kill the characters before they can exonerate themselves.
This is done brazenly, serving the purpose of removing the
characters and sending a message to prospective allies of
the guild.
Location
The party later uncovers hints and rumours about the origin
of the attack, but little about the motives of the antagonists.
ARIJWANI TAVERN (1): The protagonists start out in
what is colloquially known as the “purple tavern”.

NPC’s The proprietor is a Je’ehl named Muawu, and the tavern is

called ‘purple’ as several Je’ehl city state cultures associate
purple with majesty, and it is commonly recognised that all
Muawu: The Je’ehl proprietor of the Arijwani Tavern. customers are treated like royalty in the tavern.

Sada: Messenger from the human commune and wife As a consequence, the place is also more welcoming to
of Kana’re Vorthaxa. reputed lesser species – including humans – than most
establishments in Khameeliya.

So long as clients are not distinguishably low-caste or

casteless, the owner remains rather more open-minded (or
just slightly more enterprising) than the norm.

15
 The Scapegoats
The protagonists may be just arriving at the tavern or could
be relaxing there for a time.
They are awaiting word from Kana’ra about his patronage,
details about the human commune and in what ways he feels
that their association could be mutually beneficial.
As twilight falls, Sada – one of Kana’ra’s reputedly multiple
wives – enters the building looking anxiously around.
She spots the characters based on their description – or
perhaps from the fact that they are currently the only
humans in the establishment – and approaches them.
She is tall and dark, wearing plain clothes, her long black
hair tied back in a ponytail. Her expression is hard to read,
but she seems stressed.
She walks to the table and whispers “Be not it they who lie
upon the ground…”, the first half of a secret code used by
the commune and one of Kana’ra’s infamous quotes. The
characters know that to confirm their identity, they must
finish the proverb: “…and let the dogs of death feast upon
their corpse.”
She then hastily introduces herself as the wife of Kana’ra and
asks to join them.
She nervously informs the characters that they have been
implicated in an attack in the district and recounts what has
occurred. She also advises them that Kana’ra is distraught
about the situation which has substantial implications for him
and his ally YanWei.
Sada relates the following information:
There was an ambush at the gates of the district, targeting
the animals for sale of a well-known Je’ehl merchant
named YanWei.
The Arbiter should describe the group of assailants as if
describing the protagonist group – detailing specifically two
of the attackers with their facial features and characteristics
such as tattoos and accoutrements as identical to the two
selected characters.
As the supposed culprits the Ghurayb guild are pursuing
share a remarkable resemblance with the characters there is
no doubt that they will be targeted – innocent or not.
An unexpected friend
After Sada has told the characters what she knows, Muawu
– the proprietor of this tavern and friendly toward humans
– greets her and joins them at the table.
She and Sada reveal that Muawu is the sister of YanWei, and
both are allied with Kana’ra because of shared beliefs such
as “speciesism being bad for business” and vested interests.
Muawu suspects that the Civic Guards are not likely to get
involved with “provincial” guild squabbles, and the Jinassar
will not give a damn about such drama.
However, the Ghurayb Guild that unifies all of the trade of
strange and exotic creatures in the district retain a private
guard who is intently trying to locate the perpetrators of the
crime against YanWei.
She feels convinced that there is no way her family would have
been betrayed by the human commune but knows the guild
itself will want somebody to blame – and humans
are convenient scapegoats.

The Arijwani Tavern

The entire stock
of animals –
worth a vast
fortune – was
and surrounding streets
massacred.

YanWei is a
prominent
member of the
Ghurayb Guild,
the established
traders in exotic
animals, and the
guild is now on the
lookout for the
perpetrators.

With a knowing
glance, Sada says
that a description
of the attackers is
going around.

16
She offers that the characters can stay to plan their next step
and that she intends to help them if the Ghurayb guards
track them down to the Tavern.

If questioned, Muawu will tell the protagonists of a Ba’waikh

who tried to push her brother into letting him take over a
portion of his exotic beast business, claiming he had superior
hunters and assets that could vastly expand their enterprise.
YanWei rejected him, and Muawu is suspicious that this
Ba’waikh is behind the massacre.

However, she has little idea of why such pains were taken
to mask themselves in the guise of humans. She explains
that the Ba’waikh has not been spotted since his rejection,
before the attacks on her brother’s assets. The Urbat, which was captured by Yek’Seng’s Timaniém
Huntresses for this purpose, bursts into the tavern and
instinctively begins to rampage, striking out against anyone
near it.
A beast unleashed
The compulsions and motives of Urbats are largely unknown,
but they do have a propensity to attack anyone entering
While the protagonists hear the story and discuss strategies, their perceived territory – and this one unmistakeably wants
the lackeys of the Ba’waikh in question are rolling a huge to clear the room it finds itself in of fleshy things.
wooden crate mounted on wheels through the street, pulled
by two Hariths.

The Harith were paid to bring this crate to the front door
of the friends of Kana’ra. They quickly accepted – in
part because of their inherited loathing towards the Je’ehl
species.

A large chain is attached to the crate door on the side,

designed to be pulled to release whatever beast is inside.

The Harith hirelings will push the box right to the front
entrance of the Purple Tavern, forcefully pull the chain and
rip the door from the crate, releasing an Urbat into the
tavern.

VIGILANT CHARACTERS

If the players are of the wary sort and station one of the
characters to watch outside the tavern for suspicious
activities, the crate being rolled by the two Hariths will
undoubtedly be spotted.

However, such crates are commonly used to transport

animals and may not – in and of itself – cause suspicion
until pulled very close to the tavern entrance.

Should the characters confront the Harith’s outside,

the hirelings will continue to push the crate as close to
the tavern as possible.
They might be unable to quickly release the beast
directly into the tavern – seeking to ensure their own
safety as they escape. The Harith will engage the
characters if they block their way of positioning the
crate where instructed.

If one Harith is injured in a fight, the other may pull the

chain and break open the crate on the street to cause a
distraction and make their escape.

17
 A BEAST UNLEASHED (ENCOUNTER)

The Urbat will rush into the room, killing everyone

around it. The creature will try to grapple its enemies,
shaking and violently tossing the bodies around the
room, knocking over tables and braziers, with the
distinct possibility of starting a fire. An Urbat does not
use sight for perception and is not hindered by light
conditions, obstacles or powers affecting vision.

If the protagonists try to flee, they will witness the
death of Kana’ra’s wife Sada, screaming while being
shredded into slivers by the Urbat’s knife-like fingers.
Muawu, shocked, will grab her sabre and attack the
beast, trying to save her patrons and establishment
from the raging beast.
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Urbat
LOCATION: The Arijwani Tavern.
CRATE OBSERVATIONS
On the side of the crate can be found a line of
pictographic writing prevalent among low-castes and
commoners in Llyhn.
The arbiter can show the above pictograms to the
players and if any of the characters is versed in Low-
Darij (languages) offer the intended meaning: “friends
of Je’ehl (YanWei) – leave or die.”

ENVIRONMENT: A furnished and crowded tavern The Hariths who delivered the crate will be either dead
common room. Tables, stools and other obstructing or long-gone, their involvement remaining a mystery.
furniture, barrels, and a few braziers are dispersed
about the room.

COMBAT CONDITIONS: Because of the closely

packed furniture, the fighting conditions count as
cramped, causing a -1 modifier and restricting the use
of weapons to size 3 or less. After 2D3 combat rounds,
enough patrons have fled the scene, and the Urbat has
smashed multiple tables and chairs in its scrambling
about to make combat conditions ordinary.

POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: The Civic Guard may hear

the commotion and come to investigate.

18
 The ruined tavern
After the Urbat rampage, the protagonists will be given
whatever treatment and aid available from Muawu and
Sada, or if either of them died, the remaining and Arijwani
employees will aid them.
If Sada is alive, she will urge the characters to investigate
whoever is behind this, suspecting YanWei’s rival – the
previously mentioned Ba’Waikh trader.
At first, leads and information will seem impossible to dig
up, the only advice being to start talking to anybody who
buys exotic animals.
High-caste buyers, however, are not likely to speak to
humans, especially if these resemble the very ones accused
of the massacre at the gate.
Meanwhile, the Ghurayb guard will attempt to stop,
interrogate, or capture the protagonists. Such encounters
necessitate escape or avoidance if not outright killing guards.
If the characters are captured, the Arbiter will need to
arrange opportunities for them to escape before being put
before a vigilante tribunal in the guild domicile.
While the characters remain free to explore and collect
clues about the identity of their enemies, they learn that
Kana’ra has gone underground to avoid apprehension at the
hands of the Ghurayb guild.
There are no details of his whereabouts or what the Ghurayb
guild has accused him of. The characters can hear of this
from Sada or another associated member of the commune,
at the convenience of the Arbiter.
At the Arbiters discretion the Ghurayb guards – already
on their way to speak with Muawu about recent events
related to her brother – will investigate the occurrence,
push the large crate aside and arrive at the unsettling
spectacle.
Muawu or the surviving members of her staff will hide
the characters from the Ghurayb Guard if that becomes
an issue, slipping them out the back door or into the
cellar below.
Whether the protagonists are spotted by the guards or
not, their presence at the tavern was known. With this
being on the heels of the ambush at the gate, it is one
more occurrence to implicate them in the disturbing
events.
RUMOURS AND GOSSIP
The characters can speak to commoners or low-castes
such as stable grooms, animal handlers and the like
– with impartial susceptibility [7]. These can reveal
information about who is purchasing and keeping
exotic animals in the district. Approaching high-castes
uninvited might cause offence, and such interaction
has a susceptibility of [10] further modified by the
applicable caste difference penalties found on page
220 of the core rulebook.
• If engaging with vendors around the numerous
bazaars, the protagonists are told there have been
reports of the capture and sale of animals too
dangerous to contain. The Ghurayb Guild claims
no responsibility. There was an incident recently
where the residents had to slay some dreadful
creature being transported by a small team of
Timaniém near the Masque. The Timaniém
reportedly fled and escaped questioning.
• If asking further questions about similar
occurrences, the name Samang may come up in
conversation, especially if talking to entertainers
near the Masque. The characters are told of the
Oord brokering a deal involving a Mardkhora
between a supplier and a gladiatorial arena in Daer
Bitaan.
• There’s been a marked increase in the sale of
exceptional slaves at the Feast of Flesh lately.
Some have said it is a Djinn living somewhere near
the Shaded Souq making the purchases, and at an
unprecedented rate.
• A delegation consisting of an Oord and a Qhu
escorted by soldiers in dark spiked armour have
been roaming Khameeliya, inquiring about
powerful and unusual creatures for sale in the
Shaded Souq. The delegates outbid everyone else,
which has piqued the interest of the public.
19
 SScene
cene 2
2 ::
The ci r cus of
The circus of disaster
d i saste r
Scene synopsis

The perpetrators who slaughtered the exotic animals of the

Ghurayb Guild were previously contacted by Samang, an
Oord owner of a stage production in the Masque, who had
heard of their newly established exotic animal trade.

The impresario wished to use a particularly dangerous

otherworldly beast in a kind of circus performance, to awe
his audiences and play a game of one-upmanship with his 1
competition at the Masque Theatre.

This event starts out with the protagonists hearing about

Samang’s upcoming dangerous spectacle, just before it goes
on stage in the Masque.
It is rumoured in the street that some mysterious and
incredibly dangerous beast will be showcased as a triumph
of animal training.

If the protagonists witness the show, they will find themselves

in the middle of bloody carnage.
Otherwise, they hear of the catastrophe caused by the
reckless spectacle involving a fearsome Aigioma from
rumour-mongers, gossipers and chatter-brokers.

Either way, this leads the protagonists to the impresario,

who is severely wounded when encountered – having barely
survived the onslaught of the beast when it broke free of its
chains. Samang believed the creature was containable, even
trainable.
Location
After being proven so dreadfully wrong, he decides to
blame the Purveyors of the Hunt – who sold him the beast
– for misrepresenting the extent of the danger. Therefore, THE MASQUE (1): A renowned amphitheatre located
he willingly describes the one who sold him the monster, a near the centre of Khameeliya, is a considerable attraction
Ba’waikh who operates out of the Shaded Souq. to Llyhn residents, as well as drawing spectators from other
worlds.

Most of the entertainment is theatrical plays, performed

NPC’s on the stage with surrounding tiered stands providing a
magnificent view.

Samang: The Oord Impresario. But one Oord impresario had a different vision and wanted
to put on something more like a circus featuring exotic
Garhasha the beastmaster: Talath animal trainer. animals – a type of performance usually kept to the arenas
of Daer Bitaan.
Daiwu: A Ghurayb Guild guard.

20
 The performing monster is not revealed, but it is rumoured
that various beast traders were competing to capture a
creature bred as a war beast in a place called Shahm Tar.

The impresario – Samang himself – has become known

for shows featuring exotic animals in Khameeliya – notably
showcasing some species never sold by the Ghurayb Guild.

The performance is set to premiere during twilight on the

day the characters hear about it.

Assuming that the characters’ curiosity is piqued, this leads

to the CIRCUS OF DISASTER event. Otherwise, they will
hear about the disaster at the Masque after it unfolds but
The impresario can still learn about those involved and who they might
benefit from talking to.

The eccentric Oord impresario Samang wants to edify,

entertain and amass wealth. His personal interest in bringing
knowledge of the myriad creatures of the Cosmos to Llyhn
is the basis for most of his acts.

His venue slot in the Masque tends to stand out among

the regular plays, and musical performances from the other
impresarios as his theatrics include displaying exotic beasts
with their tamers and trainers.

For Samang, entertaining means dangerous, especially

when bringing his most prized and dangerous creatures to
the gladiators in the arenas of the Eternal City, which he
occasionally does. But his obsession with one-upmanship
over the other “boring” impresarios and showmen of the
Masque will be his undoing.

Samang recently found a new provider in Yek’Seng, who

promised him much lower prices than the competitors and
had no qualms about appropriating ruthlessly dangerous
animals.

Samang began working with Yek’Seng, occasionally advising

the Ba’waikh’s team of Timaniém on Voidfaring to help
carry out missions bringing back the most bizarre and
“entertaining” creatures from faraway worlds.

The announced performance

Eventually, the characters will learn about an upcoming act

at the Masque amphitheatre featuring a strange, dangerous
beast.

The information can be conveyed by either Sada, Muawu or

someone else as the Arbiter wishes.

The rumours say that the Great Samang (his show name) is
putting on his ultimate show on the Masque stage, featuring
a creature so terrifying that spectators are told to attend at
their own risk.

21
 The Masque
1. The stage
2. The backstage area
3. Dormitories for staff
4. Stands (expensive)
5. Stands (regular)
8 8 6. Stands (cheap)
7. Covered spectator balcony
8. Entrances

5 5
7

5 5
8
8
4 4

6 4 4 6

5 1 5
8 6 6

3
2
8 8

Read or summarize the following: “The Aigioma, almost

The amphitheatre
If and when the protagonists decide to visit The Masque
to see Samang’s show, they will see his two Oord beast
handlers supported by two Talath guards and Garhasha on
the stage.
Amongst the crowds there are ten guards of The Ghurayb
Guild – as is always the case when exotic animals are used
in an act.
When the show commences, Samang will announce loudly
from atop his high platform: “Ladies and gentlemen of all
species, today you witness the triumph of civilisation over
the savagery, chaos and danger of the Cosmos.
Today we demonstrate to you how the raw power of nature
and its beasts can be harnessed! Witness the first Aigioma
trained for entertainment and not war!”
7 cubits tall, is released from its huge cage and lumbers
menacingly out into the courtyard, slowly at first, its
tentacle-like appendages feeling erratically about the open
air.
The stage flooring creaks and cracks under its massive
forward claws as it rears its chitinous horned head and emits
a thunderous roar, sending tremors of terrified anticipation
through the spectators.“
The Oord beast handlers are Mystics with telepathic
abilities – cousins of Samang in fact – that were able to
make the Aigioma obey and remain somewhat subdued in a
controlled environment.
However, they were either unaware of its powerful
pheromones that can cause delirium or believed they had
already managed to withstand it. Unfortunately for them,
they were overconfident and mistaken.
When the beast emerges, the clamour and excited tumult of
the large crowd immediately fuels its aggressive nature, and
it releases a powerful burst of pheromones.

22
23

The potent intoxicant overwhelms the two nearby trainers
and cause instant delirium, making them lose any control
they possibly had.
As the mental subduement evaporates, the Aigioma breaks
its chains and runs headlong into the pedestal, smashing the
platform and toppling Samang with his cage to the ground.
The beast is clearly confused and agitated by the surrounding
crowd and waves of unknown scents overwhelming its
senses.
The monster swings its head around and lunges itself at the
closest living things – the two Oords Mystics standing near,
recuperating from the pheromones and futilely trying to
regain control using their Mystic powers.
Before they can react, the characters witness the beast
slashing both Oord Mystics with its talons, gripping one in
its jaws and breaking every bone in its plump body.
As the spectators quickly realise that this is not part of
the performance they panic and scramble for the exits –
screaming and bawling in terror.
As the Aigioma is now free from any mental restraints
imposed by the Mystics, its natural aggression takes hold,
and it advances on the nearest prey: Samang caught in his
shattered cage.
The Masque stage
Topvi ew
1 gates leading into the backstage areas are barred, and
2 2
3 or suffer D6 damage. The stage floor is obstructed
4 4
1. The pedestal
2. Stage trapdoor
3. Aigioma cage
4. Stage doors
5. Trapdoor corridor
24
The Masque stage
Sidevi ew
THE GREAT SAMANG’S MISTAKE (ENCOUNTER)
The characters may join The Ghurayb Guild, Garhasha,
the two Talath guards and spectators in attempting to
stop the beast, but in so doing risk being spotted and
recognised as the ones who attacked YanWei’s animals
at the gate.
The Ghurayb Guild guard will doubtlessly be confused
by their aid in this case but will not turn on them until
after the Aigioma is subdued or dead.
Eventually, either the characters or the other partakers
manage to slay the enraged beast – leaving a deserted
and damaged theatre with a massive war beast bleeding
out on the stage.
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: An Aigioma
LOCATION: The stage of the Masque
ENVIRONMENT: The stage is an open space
surrounded by a low wall. Two trapdoors used in
theatrical plays are placed around the stage, and a few
props for the act lie ready on the stage border. The
the tall pedestal-like platform Samang stood on is now
empty. The ornate cage holding Samang is smashed
and littering the stage floor beneath the pedestal.
The surrounding stands and aisles are full of fleeing
spectators.
COMBAT CONDITIONS: If the characters are caught
by the panicked mob in the stands, there is a risk that
they will get trampled – opposed Strength Roll [7]
only by the pedestal and smashed cage. The two stage
trapdoors leading into tunnels to the offstage area can
be thrown open and used for escape.
POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: The Ghurayb Guild guards
are initially standing by – hesitant to engage – while the
two Talath guards and the beastmaster Garhasha are
desperately trying to get Samang out of his cage and
keeping the rampant Aigioma at bay.
Eventually, the Ghurayb guards, as well as multiple
spectators, decide to jump onto the stage to stop the
beast, causing the Aigioma to truly commit to battle.

the bloodied stage
The Ghurayb Guild guard – whoever survives the attack of
the Aigioma – will seek to question the protagonists about
the attack on YanWei’s animals.
Regardless, he is now shaken and angered, claiming
Yek’Seng misrepresented the danger of showcasing such a
beast in public. He is wilfully blind to the past warnings of
the Ghurayb Guild, and shifts blame onto Yek’Seng rather
than his own absurd arrogance.

However, they will let them go temporarily if the characters Garhasha

can convince them that the actual perpetrators are likely the
Purveyors of the Hunt and that they intend to track down
and neutralise the faction.
The Ghurayb guards are inclined to be suspicious [10]
towards the characters, but with supporting explanations
from either Samang or Garhasha, they will revert to
impartial [7] and be easier to persuade.
One of the Ghurayb Guild guards is a Je’ehl named Daiwu.
He is highly respected by his peers for his skill in combat,
but his compatriots worry he is too hot-headed and hard-
line at times, especially regarding perceived affronts to his
honour or the repute of the guild.
Daiwu will argue against the idea that the protagonists be
allowed to take matters into their own hands, especially
since several of them, if not all of them, are among the
accused. However, his protests are silenced by the attending
officer of the guild guard.
This course of action is not only a way for the characters to
exonerate themselves if they can prove they were framed
but also a way to appease the guild.
Garhasha the Talath beastmaster – if still alive – will be
enraged that Samang allowed his livelihood to be destroyed
by such an ill-advised show of stupidity.
He knows of Yek’Seng and his Timaniém Huntresses and
could not have cared less where Samang obtained the
dangerous beasts he trained.
He was apprehensive when expected to “train” an Aigioma.
Samang explained to him that he was relying on his Oord
Mystics to control the monster, so in this case Garhasha’s
job was more protection and neutralising any threat rather
than realistically training such a creature.
Now that the inevitable disaster that Garhasha predicted has
happened he has a very dim view of the Purveyors of the
Hunt as well as of his employer.
The Talath beastmaster does not outright offer his services
after the debacle, distracted and angry as he is. Still, he is
hireable and willing to accompany the protagonists if they
provide the right price or other deal.

Given how disgusted he is with Samang and Yek’Seng’s

faction, he would not mind slicing open the Ba’waikh for
Samang’s explanations free, if he were standing near.

Otherwise, his next move is to join the Ghurayb Guild, as

Assuming Samang got away from the Aigioma or somehow his experience with exotic animals in addition to his prowess
survived the disaster inside his cage, the protagonists may would be a valuable asset to them.
question him. He is severely shaken and the realisation of
the death of his cousins further devastates him.

Samang tells the protagonists that Yek’Seng is a Ba’waikh Garhasha

who leads a group of Timaniém huntresses called the
Purveyors of the Hunt.

Yek’Seng was spurned by the Ghurayb Guild, rejected from

membership, and subsequently sought to overtake their
business by undermining their prices, or by finding ways of
poaching notable catches of the established animal trade.

Samang sought to purchase the Aigioma at the Shaded

Souq after the Ghurayb Guild laughed at his “absurdly
dangerous” idea.

The Purveyors agreed to find and capture such a beast for

his show, and Samang advised Yek’Seng and his huntresses
about where and how they might catch such a creature
using his Voidfaring experience.

25
 Scene
cene 33 ::
Hunt ers or
or hunted
hunted??
S
H unters

Scene synopsis NPC’s

After the debacle at the Masque, the characters learned Su’tinn: A Purveyors of the Hunt trader.
that the conflict with the Ghurayb Guild is caused by a
rival group of animal traders known as the Purveyors of the Yaat: An Im’Zu guide hired by Su’tinn.
Hunt.
Daiwu: A Ghurayb guild guard.
The Ghurayb Guild guards likely offer to let the protagonists
go temporarily if they volunteer to hunt down and stop the
Purveyors of the Hunt.

This seems in the best interest of the characters, as they

must exonerate themselves of their alleged crimes or risk
being “brought to justice” by the guild.

The information gained from Samang after the disaster at

the Masque reveals that the rivals to the Ghurayb Guild,
operate secretly from within the Shaded Souq. Yek’Seng,
the Ba’waikh organizer of the group, happens to be away
from the city on a hunting mission at this time.

During their investigations, the protagonists will meet a

member of the delegation of an affluent otherworldly
warlord bidding on one of the rarest and most prized
creatures appropriated by the Purveyors. 1
The delegate is actually probing for knowledge about
competitive bidders, one of which is Kana’ra Vorthaxa – a
fact that the characters are not aware of. This information
becomes more critical in subsequent events of this scenario.

Either by their own efforts or with the assistance of an Im’zu

guide, the protagonists eventually meet a representative of
the Purveyors of the Hunt – a Ka’Alum named Su’tinn.

The ardent and distrustful Daiwu has followed the characters

and does not care if the humans get a chance to exonerate
themselves or not. He just wants everybody involved
(allegedly or not) dead, so if the characters fail, he is ready
to take matters into his own hands.
Location

THE SHADED SOUQ (1): The Souq is a veritable maze

of walkways, bridges and platforms overhanging the narrow
byways, obscuring the activities of mongers who sell
everything imaginable.

If the characters have the desire and know where to look,

they can undoubtedly find black market items and other
offerings of an obscure or macabre nature.

26
 ARBITER’S NOTE Perusing the souq

The Purveyors of the Hunt assumed that newly

arrived humans in the district would make convenient
scapegoats.
However, the characters’ escape from the attack at
the Arijwani Tavern and their subsequent arrival at the
Shaded Souq flouted that notion.
Zagan is the benefactor of the Purveyor Huntresses,
their true leader – regardless of how important
Yek’Seng considers himself to be.
Despite Su’tinn and Yek’Seng believing that releasing
the Urbat in the tavern would solve and tie up any
loose ends, Zagan – in his wariness – anticipated the
possibility of the humans’ survival and eventual arrival
in the Souq and planned accordingly.
He put the matter into Su’tinn’s hands and instructed
him to lure any inquisitive humans found in the Souq
to his tower.
His plan is to placate the characters with false promises
of exoneration and lucrative offers and then deal with
them in his own time and way – more specifically,
feeding them to his Ghulah daughter.
Following Samangs information and clues about the
whereabouts of the Purveyors of the Hunt’s seat of
operations, the protagonists find their way to the Shaded
Souq located in Asru Square, a large central plaza of
Khameeliya.
Streetwise, socialise, intrigue and the Commerce skill can
greatly benefit characters here.
As the characters enter the shadows beneath the arched
bridges and platforms hanging over the streets of the Shaded
Souq, they are faced with the task of figuring out who might
lead them in the right direction.
Many souqs and bazaars in Llyhn have guides whose services
can be purchased when looking for specific vendors or
wares.
Albeit the Purveyors of the hunt seek to keep their operations
confidential, and the ordinary guides are unaware of their
existence, the characters can come across two sources of
information: Naehi and Yaat.

4
2
4
4
3 3
2

2
4

2
The Shaded Souq
1. Constable barracks
2. Tiered tower plaza
3. Temple
4. Stairs

28
 The conversant oord

At some point, as the characters roam about the Shaded

Souq, an Oord – dressed in outlandish finery – approaches
them and bluntly asks if they know of Kana’ra Vorthaxa.

He then introduces himself and tells them that rumour has

it that a henchman of Vorthaxa has put in a substantial bid
on a unique creature currently held by the Purveyors of the
Hunt and that they – as humans – might know something
about it.

The Oord called Naehi is a delegate for the Warlord’s

envoy – although he naturally does not reveal this to the
characters. Being part of the Warlord’s delegation and
therefore briefed by the spies in place across Llyhn, he
knows far more than he lets on.

That someone brazenly confronts the characters Yaat’s devious dealings

with this knowledge could be disconcerting and raise
questions from them as very few know of Kana’ra’s
heritage and association with humankind.
The Warlord’s spy network has infiltrated much of
Llyhn, and the rarity of humans in Khameeliya combined
with the fact that the perpetrators of the earlier attack
were disguised as humans make the characters easily
noticeable.
The delegates are prompted by the Princely Envoy
following the Warlord’s orders to obtain the creature.
As such, Naehi approaches the characters to learn
as much about the competitors and their means as
possible. He is reasonably certain the protagonists will
know something of the human commune’s bid for the
creature – albeit they do not.
The small creature up for auction is called an Arboreal
Nadhir, and is currently in the possession of Zagan - a
Djinn - who keeps it in a cage in his tower.
An Im’zu named Yaat touting her services as a guide in the
souq approaches those looking indecisive or lost.
The protagonists certainly fit this description, so she
approaches them. She knows which peddlers and parlours
sell what and where, and for a small price she can lead a
seeker through the convoluted streets to their desired type
of shop.
However, she sometimes leads seekers to other places than
they desire or indeed directly to specific locations, if spurred
on by payment or threats.
In this case, Yaat was directly instructed by Su’tinn, to
lure any humans even remotely matching the characters’
description directly to him. With haste, if they are looking
for exotic animal traders.

To entice the characters to talk, Naehi volunteers that

Yek’Seng is the name of the Ba’waikh who auctions off the
rare creature.

The Oord explains that he is willing to pay for information

about other bidders and that – so far – he has come up with
nothing. He lies and claims that the creature is unidentified,
although that is true for any who are not a part of the
auction.

All he claims to know is that it is a strange and reputedly

innocuous creature, rumoured to retain vast latent potency
accessible by a blood ritual in which the creature is consumed
alive. He seems disappointed when the characters know
nothing of it, and quickly leaves them alone.

29
 Meeting Su’tinn
Su’tinn
Either Yaat leads the characters to Su’tinn, or – if they do
not take up the Im’zu’s offer for direction – it will not be
long before Su’tinn learns of humans asking about dangerous
exotic animals in the souq and seeks them out himself.

Su’tinn is acting under strict orders from Zagan, who –

albeit he would rather have the humans be disposed of in
his tower as a multi-course meal for his Ghulah daughter –
has allowed the Ka’Alum to use deadly force if threatened.

Su’tinn is a large specimen of Ka’Alum wearing a draped

scarf of violet hue hiding hardened leather armour and
carrying an ornate staff. His beak is decorated with an
adornment made from a blueish metal.

Regardless of where he goes, he is always furtively

accompanied by five Timaniém Huntresses hanging back in
the crowds to remain unnoticed.

Irrespective of how and where the characters

initially meet Su’tinn, the Ka’Alum introduces
himself as the lead broker for the Purveyors of the
Hunt:

“Ah, humans, you are known to us, allied as you are

with Kana’ra Vorthaxa. Your patron is in hiding,
and your friend Muawu of the Arijwani Tavern
found that her loyalty to YanWei was ill-advised,
no matter the relationship. YanWei is as arrogant a
Je’ehl as one would expect, but to be an ally of Vorthaxa?
We didn’t anticipate that. However, the Purveyors do not
play favourites, so our impersonation of you was nothing
personal. We didn’t know of their alliance with the humans,
so perhaps you’ll forgive our poor choice. We wish only
to be recognised by the Ghurayb Guild; a gesture flatly
rejected by YanWei. This is a matter most unfortunate for
all of us. Still, it is not one without a remedy. If you’ll
hear out our benefactor, Zagan, I am certain we may find a
mutually beneficial resolution to this problem. Please come
with me to Zagan’s tower where we may speak privately”.
If the protagonists let him finish his proposal, he will give
them ample time to respond, and even answer a few
questions.
If they wish to think about a meeting and go to the tower
at a later time Su’tinn warns that the Ghurayb Guild needs
their scapegoats to be held accountable.
He also points out – quite rightly – that the charges against
them have not been lifted and that time is of the essence.
Whether the characters accept the invitation or attack
Su’tinn determines the elements of what happens next. If
they decide to attack, act threateningly or outright refuse
to cooperate with Su’tinn, he will retreat and signal the
Timaniém Huntresses to dispatch them without further ado.
If they decide to follow him, he will lead them to Zagan’s
tower.

30
ATTACKING SU’TINN (ENCOUNTER)

In case any of the preconditions for using violence

are met, Su’tinn will seek to withdraw and signal the
Timaniém to attack. Two huntresses emerge from the
crowd directly behind the Ka’Alum as soon as he bolts.
At the same time, three positioned on surrounding
gangways quickly move to intervene. Any character
charging Su’tinn will immediately be the target of a
nearby Timaniém firing an arrow.

PRIMARY ADVERSARIES: The Timaniém Huntresses.

SECONDARY ADVERSARY: Su’tinn, if cornered.

LOCATION: The Shaded Souq.

ENVIRONMENT: Gangways within the Shaded Souq

(see map). The gangways are crisscrossing at various
levels and combatants can jump down from one to
another but risk falling damage [see jumping page
125]. The height difference between walkways is 6
metres.

COMBAT CONDITIONS: The rather narrow and

crowded gangways and bridges around the Souq make
ranged combat problematic – unless one is willing
to fire into a crowd [-3 to hit / rolls of 2-3 strikes a
bystander] – making close melee preferable.

Cover may be found behind hawker’s tables, and

mobile stalls and the confusion of panicked people
can cause cramped conditions [-1 to hit]. Wayside
entertainers and snake charmers with Beakboas impede
the movements of combatants as they cannot move out
of the way with any haste.

POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: The Arbiter makes a

D12 roll every combat round to determine if anyone
intervenes. Roll:
1 = D3 bystanders draw weapons and engage with the
nearest combatants.
2 = A Beakboa of a nearby snake charmer gets agitated
and strikes out at the nearest combatant.
3-4 = Bystanders shove the closest combatant away
(make AGI roll [7] or get knocked down).
5 = Souq constables notice the commotion and start
closing in.
6+ No one intervenes.
In case the Timaniém get the upper hand Daiwu will
intercede and attack them and Su’tinn with his troupe
of Ghurayb Guild guards.
Su’tinn meets the characters here.

Two Timaniém are hiding in the crowds

under the overhanging gangway, another
two with bows are located on the gangway
and a last one is hiding on the gangway plaza
behind them.

31
 The guild stalker
Daiwu, an influential but not high-ranking Je’ehl member of
the Ghurayb Guild guards, secretly follows the characters
into the Souq to unearth the guild’s covert rival. He is
hoping that the characters will attack the rival faction and
eliminate the threat for him.
He has gathered and brought a troupe of loyal guardsmen
to get rid of any Purveyors before they have the chance to
leave the Shaded Souq, should the characters fail.
He will reveal his presence and attack if he suspects the
characters would ally themselves with the Purveyors or if the
rivals are about to prevail in or escape any confrontation.
Daiwu surmises that allowing the characters to find
Yek’Seng’s band for him is prudent and stalks them at a
distance.
His hope is to get information, discern the whereabouts
of the Purveyors, or even apprehend them if possible. He
is acting without the approval of the guild as he secretly
follows the characters into the Souq with his squad.
His primary goal is to see Yek’Seng’s network dismantled
and prevent further attacks on the guild.
He does not care one whit whether or not the humans
exonerate themselves – distrusting the species as a whole.
He is, however, willing to placate and use them to find
out more information and the whereabouts of the guild’s
clandestine enemies.
Once he has gleaned enough information or if he recognises
Su’tinn’s affiliation with the Purveyors, he will seek to
apprehend the revealed rival traders.
If he perceives that the characters are building rapport with
Su’tinn during their meeting, he will conceivably order his
troupe to attack rather than capture, believing that this will
tidy up any question of culpability.
He considers it an added bonus that their removal is likely to
obstruct YanWei’s friendly attitude toward the followers of
Kana’ra Vorthaxa, who he feels are a liability and inherently
untrustworthy.
If the Purveyors or characters resist capture or try to flee,
Daiwu will immediately command his squad to attack them.
At the Arbiter’s discretion, any nearby souq constables will
intervene to quell the conflict.
Recognising the guild guards, the constables will side with
Daiwu’s squad as fellow district deputies while threatening
the characters and Purveyors.
Should Su’tinn manage to flee, Daiwu and a few other guild
guards loyal to him will follow him to discover the rival
group’s primary seat of operations and then attempt to kill
him. If capture is not feasible, Daiwu’s remaining squad
is instructed to sneak attack each of the protagonists
(attacking unseen from within the crowd) to
dispose of this liability.
32
DAIWU’S VIGILANTES (ENCOUNTER)
PRIMARY ADVERSARIES: Daiwu and a seven-man
Ghurayb Guard troupe.
SECONDARY ADVERSARIES: Timaniém Huntresses,
and Su’tinn.
LOCATION: Anywhere in the Shaded Souq.
ENVIRONMENT: Platforms, gangways and suspended
bridges of the Shaded Souq (see map).
COMBAT CONDITIONS: The crowded gangways
and bridges in the Souq cause cramped conditions [-1
to hit] and make ranged attacks unfeasible – unless one
is willing to fire into a crowd. [-3 to hit / rolls of 2-3
strikes a bystander]
Hawker’s tables and mobile stalls are obstacles. If any
lower gangways are nearby combatants may jump onto
them at the risk of falling [see jumping page 125]. The
height difference between walkways is 6 metres.
Milling and panicked souq-goers obstruct movement
and push the combatants in random directions, making
it easy to withdraw and vanish into the crowd [+3
to disengage and hide]. Snake charmers, fire breathers
and other wayside entertainers pose risks to combatants
stumbling too closely.
POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: The Arbiter makes a roll
every combat round to determine if anyone intervenes.
Roll:
1 = D3 bystanders draw weapons and engage with the
nearest combatants.
2 = A Beakboa of a nearby snake charmer gets agitated
and strikes out at the nearest combatant.
3 = An adjacent firebreather spits fire at
the nearest combatants to keep them at
bay [attack roll +3 for the area, D4 burn
damage, exceptional hits = target catches
fire].
4-5 = Bystanders shove the closest combatant
away (make AGI roll [7] or get knocked down).
6-8 = Souq constables notice the commotion and
start closing in.
9+ No one intervenes.
 S
Scene
cene 44 ::
The
T tow e r of
he tower of Zagan
Zagan
Scene synopsis

Regardless of whether they are led there by Su’tinn, or

find their own way through their investigative efforts, the
protagonists eventually arrive at the gates of Zagan’s Tower.

Unless the protagonists have attacked Su’tinn earlier, he will

either lead them to the tower or greet them there and invite
them inside to speak with Zagan who is expecting them.

Su’tinn explains that Zagan wishes to express his apologies

for their being “unintended victims” over the attacks and
that he wishes to offer a solution for everyone to avoid a
factional war.
1
If the characters have fought Su’tinn earlier and find the
tower on their own, they will find the gate open and Zagan
waiting for them in the garden.

NPC’s

Zagan: The Djinn patron of the Purveoyrs of the Hunt.

Asha: The illegitimate daughter of Zagan and a Ghulah.

Su’tinn: The Ka’Alum Purveyors of the Hunt trader.

ARBITER’S NOTE
Three Timaniém huntresses are positioned in the
garden while one remains in the quarters high in the
tower – the rest are either with Su’tinn or away on a
hunt with Yek’Seng.
If Daiwu managed to follow their progress to the tower,
he would leave the area once they enter and return
with a larger contingent of Ghurayb Guild guards.
Location
THE TOWER OF ZAGAN (1): While the various rooms in
the tower are described below, a variety of odd trinkets and
useful items can be found here and there.
If any room is searched the Arbiter can pick items from the
following list as findings in addition to room-specific items:
Fine chain, fine cloth, cosmetics, incense, bronze mirror,
sheesha and smoking herbs, vials, various fine clothes items,
herbal ointment, poppy juice, stone tablets and styluses,
wine bottles and barast glands.

34
 Entering the tower

Read or paraphrase: “An imposing windowless tower

covered in myriad coloured stones is surrounded by a tall
wall of almost shimmering pale rock.

A lush garden of exotic plants can be seen over the wall’s

top, and various animal noises can be heard from inside.
A large gate of a faintly green metal seems to be the only
way in.”

Inside the walls, a small but overgrown garden with a path

leads up a small hill towards the tower.
It is evident that whatever animals made the noise are
obscured from view and located in a separate garden behind OBSERVATIONS IN THE GARDEN
another wall with a small door. A beautiful columned hall
extending into the garden acts as the entryway into the Three Timaniém huntresses are hiding amongst the
tower. trees and bushes. Spotting them is challenging [10].

Oddly there are no apparent guards or staff around. The If the Timaniém are spotted and approached, they
only noticeable life is buzzing insects, a variety of Kapagois will wave the characters on and not engage in any way
– a species of small feathered lizard monkeys – and birds unless attacked or otherwise harassed.
flying about the garden.

Kapagoi

35

3
5 1. Garden
The ENTRANCE
THE Entran ce COLONNADE
Co lonnade
The main entrance hall is a roofed colonnade leading
into the tower with the outer wall to the right. Various
decorations with weird, indiscernible motifs and several
statues are interspaced along the sides.
At the end of the hall, an impressive staircase leads up to
an open entrance on the second floor. Midway a mezzanine
holding a large gong on a stand with a striker divides the
stairs. Presumably, this gong is used to announce visitors,
although no one is staffing it at the moment.
The gong is made from the same green-tinted metal as
the outer gate and has an impressive motif of a mountain
embossed into it.
OBSERVATIONS IN THE HALLWAY
One of the trophies is the head of an Anqa bird –
native to Mount Qaf, the homeworld of the Djann.
The aviary holds several dawningales, famed across the
Cosmos for their delightful and enthralling song. Sought
by princes and aristocrats as a coveted trophy, one such
bird is worth several hundred Dhin to the right buyer.
36
2
1
2. Entrance colonnade
3. Hallway
4. Audience chamber
5. Menagerie garden
The HALLWAY
THE Hallway
The tower has no windows, and its interior is lit up by
oddly glowing stones built into the walls, casting an eerily
iridescent light.
These stones are imported from Mount Qaf, the homeworld
of the Djann, at great expense and risk.
The hallway beyond the stairs features several hunting
trophies of species supposedly unknown to the characters,
a large central aviary of unusual birds from several different
worlds, a few loungers and several tall, potted, exotic plants.
A large imposing central double-door opens into a grand
audience chamber beyond.
From the hallway, two ornate staircases lead up to a sizeable
landing overlooking the entrance. The landing has doors to
two rooms and a central stairway leading further up into the
tower. One room is the boudoir of Asha – Zagan’s Ghulah
daughter – the other is Zagan’s own bedroom.
 Meeting Zagan Once the characters have settled down, he observes that:
“Obviously you have the guile to discover the heart of my
operation, and I am impressed by your determination and
How the party enters depends on whether they are led ability to escape capture.”
there by Su’tinn or not. He magnanimously apologises for the whole debacle and
continues to – disingenuously – offer them a stake in his
Either the party will be led by Su’tinn to Zagan’s audience enterprise, for which he claims they would be remarkably
room where the Djinn presents himself on a balcony well-suited.
overlooking the outdoor menagerie from the
audience chamber. Zagan continues emphatically and jovially
offering the characters opulent abodes and
Or, if Su’tinn is dead or in hiding because of equipment to aid them in whatever aspect
earlier events, Zagan will meet the characters of the business they desire.
standing on the garden path – as if he has Further, he presents them with visions of
been expecting them – and bring them to riches, assuring prominence and inroads
the audience chamber himself. for humans unheard of without the unlikely
aid of a Djinn.
The audience chamber is spacious and
features a large, smooth table If the characters show interest or even
of exotic cyan-coloured wood, accept the proposition, Zagan will
presumably used for meetings restrain his desire to feed them to his
and negotiations. daughter and continue to entertain
There is an unused fireplace them for the time being. Proceed to
in one corner. The walls COURTEOUS OVERTURES.
are adorned with several
embroidered cloth wall- Should the characters decide
coverings depicting various to confront, reject or even
beautiful palaces against attack Zagan, the Arbiter
mountainous backdrops – may go directly to the violent
landscapes of Qaf, the Djann encounter: TEMPERS FLARE.
homeworld.
In case the characters opt to make
Several tall ornate cabinets stand a run for it – proceed to the event:
against opposite sides of the rooms FLEEING THE TOWER.
filled with tablets and scrolls, mostly
myths and poems, with a few
bestiaries of strange creatures here
and there. Light semi-transparent
drapes screen the balcony.

If the characters are led in by

Su’tinn, the imposing silhouette
of the waiting Zagan is visible
through the drapes.

Zagan musters all his otherworldly

charm and allure to placate the
characters as he intends to lull
them into a false sense of security
and then capture them for his
daughter.

He bids them a hearty welcome.

A rather large bowl containing a
dark purple liquid stands on the
table. It holds an assortment of
small live larvae.
Zagan offers them refreshments
Zagan
from the table and grabs a larva,
delicately slips it into his mouth and
eats it as it wriggles. “A delightful
Landriguese delicacy” he states.

37

Courteous overtures
If the protagonists are interested or pretend to be enticed by
Zagan’s proposition, he will not rush their demise. Instead,
he will enjoy recounting tales of his exploits aiding Yek’Seng
finding new, ingenious ways to capture exotic beasts from
many worlds.
Zagan is prone to brag and talk a lot, so he is only too
eager to showcase some of his more unusual discoveries –
particularly if asked.
Through a hidden door in the audience chamber, there is
a stair leading down to his collection room. This is a large
room used as a facility for holding many creatures of interest
that are not for sale.

He will mention his consort – Fduliea – but say that she is

something of a recluse and does not enjoy the company of
others as he does.

If asked, he will reveal how he and his beautiful daughter

Asha had taken on the guise of two of the characters, leading
the attack on the rival beast traders. Conceit shines through
as he proudly explains his subterfuge and shapeshifting
abilities. However, he shrewdly does not mention that Asha
is a Ghulah.

ARBITER’S NOTE

If the protagonists hired or otherwise brought Garhasha

along, he is preoccupied and fidgety during any
extensive conversation, wishing either to hastily leave
or kill Zagan.

His presence can be used to instigate a dramatic

exchange where the characters have to act as mediators
or face a stand-off between the two.

During the conversation Zagan will privately weigh his

Asha
options to decide precisely when to dispose of the human
interlopers. Depending on whether they have any useful
knowledge, he will spare them for the moment – and if not,
he will soon lead them to a deadly meeting with his Ghulah
daughter. This hinges mainly on what the characters say,
and how much enthusiasm they show about his venture. As
such, Zagan may even opt to let the characters leave, with
a promise that they return at some point to finalise their ASHA MAKES AN APPEARANCE
agreement. (ARBITRARY EVENT)

At the Arbiter’s discretion, Zagan might introduce the

characters to his daughter – in the guise of a striking
OBSERVATION woman – during the conversation.

The characters might notice a clay tablet on the
table detailing interest in purchasing Aigiomas and
particularly the Nadhir in Zagan’s possession, with a
mentioning of handsome payment for the swift delivery
of the creature.
The tablet carries the seal of a stylised 12-pointed sun
as a signature at the bottom.
If so, she will pick a target and unabashedly flirt with
him or her using the “touch of the Djinn” ability to lure
the character to her chambers without the others.
Should a character succumb to temptation, Asha will
continue her flirting while locking the door and then
abruptly change form and seek to kill and subsequently
eat the character.

38
DECEPTIVE APPEARANCES
(THE STRANGE PLIGHT OF FDULIEA)

When the characters come upon the Nadhir in its cage,

it is actually the shapeshifted Fduliea, unable to speak
or escape. Zagan notices and comments on its peculiar
behaviour but is unaware of the duplicity.

One day, before the protagonists arrived at the tower,

Fduliea went alone into the collection room where
Zagan kept the Nadhir and was entranced by its
influential aura.
She touched it, and absorbing its toxin, gasped as
she felt her mystical powers draining from her body.
Clutching her hand, she turned as she heard Zagan
approaching on the stairs.

Panicked and wishing to avoid discovery tampering with

his most prized creature, she quickly opened its cage,
let the creature loose, shapeshifted to assume its form,
and locked herself in the cage before the transformation
was complete.
Zagan walked into the room, perused his animals after
hearing a noise, then left without discovering anything
amiss.

Fduliea’s decision was folly, as her powers of

shapeshifting were impeded for several days due to the
Void suppressing toxin of the Nadhir.

The Nadhir itself ran out the door, undetected until it

reached the Ghulah’s room.
Asha heard a scratching at her door, then grabbed the
creature when investigating the noise and ate it, with no
effect other than indigestion – a fact unbeknownst to
anyone, including Zagan.

39
 5
5

4 2

4 1
3
6
5

1. Arboreal Nadhir cage

2. Wailing Vulture aviary
3. Horncrow aviary
4. Occupied pens
5. Empty pens
6. Glass cases

Zagan ’ sPERSONAL
ZAGAN’S p er sona lCOLLECTION
co lle ction
In this lower floor room are held several species of Arachnids
and insects in glass cases, as well as several breeds of exotic
birds, including a Horncrow and a Wailing Vulture in tall,
iron aviaries. A door leads to the second garden with the
outdoor menagerie.
Sets of keys to each of the cages hang on one wall. Zagan,
seemingly unconcerned with the possibility of the humans
bolting from the scene tells them about one creature in
particular, one with an unusual history despite its diminutive
size – an Arboreal Nadhir.
He points out the Nadhir in a metal cage sitting on a table.
The rare species is sometimes harvested for balms and
poultices on their homeworld, their scales believed to have
remedial properties. Their meat is considered a delicacy.
If he is not interrupted, Zagan will tell the protagonists that
this creature is being sought by various parties willing to pay
vast fortunes for it.
Its fame is caused by rumours that consuming the creature
as part of sacrificial divination confers incredible intuitive
foresight, even invoking powerful premonitions that can
change the tide of events – a useful prospect in a war.
If egged on, Zagan might reveal that one interested party is
a Princely Envoy with delegates bidding on behalf of a grand
warlord waging holy war across distant worlds.

It is a small, nocturnal, scaly mammal that resembles an

anteater, with hardened, overlapping plate-like keratin
scales covering its skin.
It is less than a cubit in length and height and looks like a
pinecone with short legs and claws. The creature stands up
when seen, taking an inquisitive bipedal stance, sniffing the
air and – at the sight of the characters – begins to scratch
desperately at its cage.

Zagan will comment that this is not typical behaviour of the

Nadhir and perhaps the characters have upset it.

However, always willing to expound on his knowledge, he

will continue and relates that Nadhirs have an enhanced
sense of smell, and their tongues are incredibly long, perfect
features for a diet that consists mainly of small insects.

40
 The MENAGERIE
THE Menageri e
In a smaller garden set to the side of the tower and behind
another wall is the menagerie. This is used by Zagan and the
Purveyors to stock animals before sales.

Several trees provide shade for the caged creatures lurking

behind sturdy metal bars and stout wooden palisades.

The creatures are penned in different ways, depending on

what suits that particular species. Zagan will enthusiastically
show them off to the characters, describing each in detail.

3 The Arbiter can provide 2-3 facts about each as described

in the species section of the core rulebook or the scenario
1 bestiary. At least one of these facts should pertain to how
the creature acts when fighting as this is one of Zagan’s core
5 passions.

2 This lecture reveals valuable information

to the characters – to come in handy
4 6 later if the characters have to fight
any of them.

THE MENAGERIE STOCKS

1. Three Adaru are held in a metal cage, pacing back

and forth.
2. A Barast is held captive in a hole with a metal grill
cover.
3. A Mardkhora is kept inside a large reinforced crate
with only a small metal grill for viewing.
4. Two Muqais are held shackled to a large metal ring
in the wall.
5. A sloq is kept in a low, shaded cage preventing it
from rising to its full height.
6. Two Sorqs are anxiously skipping about in a small
enclosure.

41
 Tempers flare
Should the characters decide to assault as Zagan is acting
the congenial host, he is caught unawares at their audacity,
enabling the characters to easily surprise him.
Characters showing any signs of aggression towards Zagan
find his temper quickly flaring and his retorts turning to
threats rapidly.
Three perceived provocations is all he can manage to
swallow before he acts violently from the indignation.
Any outright refusal to collaborate and attempt to leave
will result in Zagan calling Asha and then attacking the
characters.
Fleeing the tower
Should the characters decide to flee, Zagan will try to stop
them before they leave the tower grounds, calling on his
Timaniém huntresses hiding in the garden to block their
path.
A string from the audience chamber connected to bells in
the Timaniém quarters can be used to alert the remaining
huntress who will give chase.
The huntresses are ordered to capture and return the
characters rather than outright kill them. While the Timaniém
think Zagan only wants to question and reprimand them, he
means to feed them to Asha.
Should the characters manage to get outside the gate and
walls, the huntresses will not follow them – as they are
under orders not to attract public attention near the
tower.
42
ATTACKING ZAGAN (ENCOUNTER)
Should the characters decide to attack Zagan, he
is caught unawares at their audacity, enabling the
characters to easily surprise him.
If Zagan is “hurt” – having lost more than ½ of his
Health – he will call to Asha and Fduliea continuously
each combat round. While Fduliea will not appear
– due to her shapeshifted state – Asha will hear her
father’s cries on a roll of 10+ and come to his aid.
A string from the audience chamber connected to bells
in the Timaniém quarters can be used to alert the single
remaining huntress and have her come running.
In case Zagan becomes “injured” – having lost more
than ¾ of his Health – he will flee using his aerial
capabilities as well as his powers of invisibility.
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Zagan
SECONDARY ADVERSARY: Su’tinn and/or Asha if
any of them are in the room.
LOCATION: Likely the audience chamber or
collection room, although the fight may proceed into
other areas of the tower.
ENVIRONMENT: The light is dim in the tower, and
the eerie glow from the stones causes odd shadows
and plays tricks with the eyes. Elevated areas in the
rooms, as well as staircases and furniture, may block
and impede movement. It is possible to jump into the
outdoors menagerie from the balcony – a height of 4
metres.
COMBAT CONDITIONS: The peculiar illumination
induce a -1 modifier to all combatants relying on vision
as their primary sense.
If the fight moves to other areas of the tower, the
combat conditions will change as the Arbiter sees fit.
Fighting on staircases offers higher ground in melee
combat (+1 modifier to attacks). Some hallways are
narrow enough to cause a -1 penalty for cramped
conditions.
POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: If the protagonists hired
Garhasha, he flies into a rage and attacks without
hesitation.
Daiwu and his contingent might barge in if they followed
the characters to the tower.
Zagan ’ s BEDROOM
ZAGAN’S Bedr oom 1.
2.
Landing
Zagan’s bedroom
3. Asha’s boudoir
This room is lavish. A large comfortable canopied 4. Stair to higher floors
bed with expensive down comforters dominates
the room.

A luxurious basin for washing stand in front

of a highly polished bronze mirror hanging
on the wall.
An upholstered bench, wardrobe, and
several chests hold his flamboyant and
expensive robes and other personal 2 4
belongings.
Several unusual plants stand in pots about
the room, and a desk is covered in tablets
and papyrus.
1
Zagan is wealthy and likes to display his
riches where he lives. Hence, the room holds a
multitude of valuable items such as ornamental
daggers, jewellery, loose gemstones and decorative
animal figurines. 3
If nicked, each item is easily worth up to 300 Dhins
but would be offloaded at significantly less in the Llyhn
underworld.

THE VORACIOUS GHULAH

(ARBITRARY ENCOUNTER)

Asha’sBOUDOIR
Boudoir
ASHA’S
Asha is free to roam the tower but usually stays in her room
unless called upon by her father.
The Ghulah’s bedroom is spacious, with a large canopied
bed, a small table and an ornate lantern adjacent.
She keeps a sizeable collection of miniature figurines,
featuring animals that fascinate her father.
There are also several musical instruments – a Ney, an Oud,
and a violin. She plays none of them, despite her father’s
insistence that she pursues and appreciate culture.
There is also an armoire, which likely looks out of place.
The floor is covered with a woven hemp mat. A small aviary
and several statues, plants and other frills adorn her room.
The room is impeccably clean at a glance, no bloodstains
anywhere, as she is a fastidious murderer. There will be
abundant evidence of her ravenous feasting in her room,
however.
The various chests, the armoire and other containers tell
the story as they are brimming with bones and complete
skeletons of sentient and rare species picked clean and
stashed away.
Should the characters barge into the boudoir by
accident or during their flight, Asha will be there in the
form of a stunning woman, acting as if she is helpless
and distressed by the racket.
She will use her seductive manner to split up the
characters, possibly leading some to the door and slam
it shut behind them, trapping one or two inside with
her. She will then revert to her hyena-like form and
assault the characters to feed upon them.
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Asha
SECONDARY ADVERSARY: Zagan or Su’tinn, should
they follow the characters.
LOCATION: Asha’s Boudoir
ENVIRONMENT: The light is dim in the tower, and
the eerie glow from the stones causes odd shadows and
plays tricks with the eyes. Furniture may block and
impede movement.
COMBAT CONDITIONS: The peculiar illumination
induce a -1 modifier to all combatants relying on vision
as their primary sense. If someone is caught on either
side of the door, it requires three successful strength
rolls [10] to smash it.

Unlike her father’s room, no overt wealth is found in this POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: If the characters are
room as her sole focus in life is on her feasting. fleeing Zagan, he will find them and join the fray.

43
 2
3

1
3

3
3

3
3

Upper FLOORS
UPPER Floors
Upstairs on the fourth floor are several rooms, including the 1. Yek’Seng’s room
private rooms of Su’tinn and Yek’Seng. 2. Su’tinn’s room
3. Timaniém room
The Timaniém Huntress troupe have several rooms 4. Fduliea’s bedroom
of their own on the fourth and fifth floor as well. Their
accommodations are austere and with very few amenities –
fitting their past primitive and tribal lifestyle.

Lastly, half of the fifth floor belongs to Zagan’s consort

Fduliea. She is a Djinn recluse, preferring to stay in her 3
room reading when not in the company of Zagan.
3
She has a distaste for Zagan’s roguish racketeering,
thinking it beneath their kind. Still, she is inferior to him
and fearful of his ire, should she question the wisdom
of his activities.
3
Fduliea is infatuated with learning about exotic
animals; an interest Zagan shares. She is not the
mother of Asha and actually despises the Ghulah.
She greatly resents Zagan for keeping his daughter
around. So she keeps to herself to avoid stumbling
upon the girl she believes to be an abomination.
4
Her room mirrors the infatuation with exotic animals 3
and contains several cages and aviaries.

Bookshelves hold myriad works about creatures large

and small while a worktable is covered with her papyrus
drawings of the species found around the room as well as
notes about their behaviour.

Several loungers, plants and cushions give the room

a salon feel. A large central dining table is clearly
used for studies and her incessant work with
animals.

44
 Scene
cene 55 ::
Fduli ea ’’ss surprise
surpr ise
S
Fduliea

Scene synopsis NPC’s

Yek’Seng, the Ba’waikh leader of the huntresses, soon Muawu: The Je’ehl proprietor of the Arijwani Tavern.
returns with his entourage of huntresses to the Shaded Souq
and learn about the protagonist’s meddling. Taveesh: A halfblood messenger from the human
The Arbiter may assume he arrives only after the protagonists commune.
escape the area and tower of Zagan.
Daiwu: The Je’ehl Ghurayb guild guard.
The characters escaping Zagan’s clutches changes the game
for the Djinn, the Ba’waikh and the Purveyors of the Hunt. YanWei: The Ghurayb guild trader.
Not only because Zagan confirmed his involvement in the
slaughter of YanWei’s stock, but because he likely revealed Aiusyr: A Variin sage and owner of the Dreaming
too much about his and the Purveyor’s dealings to the Gomor.
humans.
Fduliea: The Djinn consort of Zagan.
This means the Ghurayb Guard will soon know where they
are located, and that they are the ones running the auction Su’tinn: The Ka’Alum Purveyor trader.
for the creature sought after by the Warlord.

These revelations would likely rile the Ghurayb Guild into

a full offensive, motivating Yek’Seng to initiate a relentless
pursuit of the protagonists before they have a chance to
expose anything.

Meanwhile – behind the scenes – the Warlord’s envoy wins

the bidding war with his considerable resources and sends
his delegates to the Shaded Souq to claim the prize, the
Arboreal Nadhir.

If the creature was stolen by the characters and brought to

the guild it has grave implications for Yek’Seng and Zagan’s
future as the envoy is determined to get his hands on the
creature for his master.

If the characters did not take the creature, Su’tinn or

another involved member betrays his patron by stealing it
himself and running away after the protagonists escape the
tower.
He assumes their venture is exposed and hopes that by
bringing the creature to the established guild, he will be
forgiven for his involvement with the Purveyors and allowed
to sell the creature.

Regardless of who takes the creature to the Ghurayb Guild,

a surprise awaits them all…

45

2
1 believed the humans innocent, is a friend of the human
Locations
THE GHURAYB GUILD DOMICILE (1): This grand
building is the beating heart of the guild and a tangible
symbol of their power and affluence.
Located adjacent to a major city gate, the guild domicile is
almost aglow with the pastel colours of the fossilised coral
it is built from. Three main wings connect into one massive
tiered structure dominated by a large central mosaicked
dome holding the guildhall.
The ground floor and cellars are veritable mazes of remarkable
stables, pens and cages constructed to accommodate the
variety of animals and creatures brought in by the guild
hunters and catchers.
The upper floors contain auction halls, offices and
accommodation for clients and staff while the top storeys,
pavilions and recreational areas are reserved for guild
members and their key staff.
THE DREAMING GOMOR (2): The renowned tea house
is located on a small peninsula in the Margidda river. The
full description can be found in the core rulebook page 280.
46
Choices
The protagonists have several choices. They have likely
realized that the Purveyors of the Hunt want them dead
before they have a chance to bring their discoveries to the
Ghurayb Guild.
Especially the knowledge concerning the shapeshifters’
involvement in framing them for crimes they did not
commit.
GOING TO THE GUILD: They may seek out the Ghurayb
Guild members, revealing that the Purveyor’s patron is a
shapeshifting family of Djann, which explains the attackers’
ability to masquerade as the humans.
This information confirms that they are undermining not
only the prices of the guild but the reputation of animal
traders in all of Khameeliya.
BACK TO THE TAVERN: Go back to the Arijwani Tavern
or wherever Muawu can be found – if she is still alive.
The protagonists would likely seek her out because she
commune and has influence over her brother, YanWei.
She will take them to YanWei herself to report on what they
have found.
FIND KANA’RA: Not wishing to take their chances with
the Ghurayb Guild’s good graces - especially if Muawu was
killed in the first event at the tavern - the protagonists try to
seek out Kana’ra Vorthaxa.
If they have the Nadhir in their possession after escaping
the tower, perhaps they aim to help the human commune
benefit from its sale or use it in trade for protection as they
present their case for exoneration of their alleged crimes.
The Ghurayb gui ld domi ci le
 The messenger
They cannot get access to Vorthaxa directly, as their
presence would bring undue attention to him.
They will eventually be contacted by Taveesh,
whenever and wherever the Arbiter deems it
appropriate. Taveesh is an easily noticeable
halfblood with a plumage of feathers and
strangely reflective eyes.
Taveesh will say in the introduction,
cryptically and with a wry smile;
“Be not it they who lie upon the
Taveesh
ground…”, which is the first half of
one of Kana’ra’s infamous quotes.
The characters know that to confirm their association, they
must finish the proverb: “…and let the dogs of death feast
upon their corpse.”
This obviously signals that the messenger is a member of
the commune. Once the characters have answered, Taveesh
assures them that Kana’ra’s has inferred – at least some of –
the character’s discoveries and has been in contact directly
with YanWei and his guild.
He tells the characters that Vorthaxa was working with the
guild to obtain the Nadhir and dispose of it because of the
grave danger its existence represents. Taveesh also explains
that the Ghurayb guild officials want to parlay and that
the characters should not fear a tribunal because truth and
ample evidence is on their side.
If they agree he leads them to YanWei to parley.
Meeting YanWei
Since the disaster at the Masque the Ghurayb Guard
officials learned that the protagonists were given a chance to
exonerate themselves. Should any Guild guard come across
the characters, they will attempt to persuade them to go
peacefully to the guild and YanWei.
Daiwu, the guild member guard who followed them into the
Shaded Souq with some of his errant followers, was feeling
less magnanimous, to say the least.
Still, he will not defy his guild’s express wishes to question
the humans before final judgement. If the protagonists are
confronted by Daiwu and show careful diplomacy, they will
be led to YanWei without overt hostility.
YanWei can be found inside the guild domicile, heavily
guarded by armed sentries, there to protect the exotic
animals and the guild members.
The guild council is not present in the audience chamber as
the characters are led before YanWei.
YanWei asks the characters to share their findings and
provide compelling testimony or proof or face guild justice.
This requires an extensive account of events and compelling
reiteration of the involvement of Zagan and the Ghulah as
well as Yek’Seng’s recklessness.
If YanWei can be satisfied by the characters’ explanations,
they are considered cleared in his eyes.
The Arbiter should note, that YanWei does not manage to
convey the characters’ vindication to the guild seniors at
this time, which may prove to be crucial to the characters if
he disappears or dies before doing so.
If convincingly persuaded, YanWei will state the following:
“Dealing this way with dangerous beasts and other creatures
they do not understand is outrageous. The evidence you
present today strongly points to the Purveyors of the Hunt
as being the real culprits of slaughtering my animals. Their
shape-shifting abilities and clear subsequent actions are
damning. Although it’s well known the Ghurayb Guild
deals in exotic animals, we would never have allowed what
happened at the Masque to occur. The guild would never
sanction the capture and sale of a beast like the Aigioma”.
The NADHIR
Nadhir
THE
What happens next depends on who has the Nadhir and
what they decide to do with it. If the protagonists have the
Nadhir and inform YanWei about this or present him with
the creature in its cage to him, he will recognise it.
Or, if the characters did not take the Nadhir, Su’tinn or
another Purveyor member will have done so and brings it to
YanWei seeking clemency.
Whoever the turncoat is, he is brought into the meeting,
accompanied by Ghurayb guards carrying the caged Nadhir.
Proceed to the REVELATIONS event.
If the characters have the Nadhir but decide to hide the
creature from everyone, proceed to the KEEPING SECRETS
event.
47
 Revelations

YanWei’s eyes widen with a sharp intake of breath, and he

nervously says: “You should not have brought that here.
That creature, if it is indeed the one Yek’Seng stupidly
auctioned under the auspices of the Shaded Souq, is very
dangerous to possess. This is a creature the guild pledged to
never bring into this city, lest we invite the attention of one
who truly desires its flesh”.

If Su’tinn is the one who brought the creature to the guild,

he will – quite lamely – mutter “too late”.
In response, he is swiftly and coldly cut down at YanWei’s
order, his body callously dragged away.

YanWei will not be cross with the protagonists for snatching

– and potentially bringing – the creature as they obviously
did so not knowing any better.

In any case, he tells them swift action must be taken to She adds, with a dry, sibilant
avoid utter disaster. “Whoever is behind the bidding on this tone inconsistent with her
creature may have done so because he desires it greatly words, “how very startling
but didn’t know where it was located. Now he probably and unusual this is”. Then
does know, and that is most dangerous as his supporters will she intones, in nearly
come looking for it!” a whisper, “One can
only wonder at the
If the characters tell YanWei that they heard a rumour events that spurred this
about Kana’ra Vorthaxa bidding on the creature himself, entrapment?”
YanWei will wince and say “that will be dealt with” but not
elaborate further. The characters may
have guessed that
The rumour is true, but YanWei was already aware because the metamorphic
he was covertly working with Vorthaxa to obtain the and trapped Djinn is
creature and dispose of it. the reclusive consort
However, as his suspicions grew about the implications and of Zagan, but they
nature of the power behind the Princely Envoy, he quickly cannot be certain.
got word to Vorthaxa to quit the involvement.
The Variin sees the
YanWei will say, “We must go to The Dreaming Gomor shapeshifter for what
and speak to Aiusyr about this. She will know what to do”. it is. Detecting that the
toxin is wearing off and
the Djinn’s powers quickly

The TEA
tea HOUSE
house Lore Master
THE LORE MASTER
As the guild begins to plan the best way to dismantle the
operations of Yek’Seng and Zagan, YanWei will accompany
the protagonists to the Dreaming Gomor tea house to speak
with the Variin named Aiusyr.
When the party arrives and presents the creature to Aiusyr,
she instantly takes them to a private room of the Gomor
tea house.
She stares at the Nadhir intently and after a moment, sighs
and says in a detached tone, “This creature in the cage is
not a Nadhir. It is a Djinn trapped in a form it assumed. It
is indeed the form a Nadhir, but the Djinn’s powers to
resume its former self are clearly stifled. Probably by
the toxin possessed by a real Nadhir”.
returning, her tone changes to one of alarm: “This being
is not of the true children of Mitu’Usemi’Ti, as I am, and
has been only temporarily subdued”, she warns, her voice
rising as she backs away from the cage that is beginning to
rattle and bounce off its platform (or out of the hands of
one who holds it).
The little pine-coned shaped creature begins to distort and
thrash within its cage. Then, with an annoyed edge to her
voice, Aiusyr adds, “This does serve as a good example of
why we do not serve as guides in the Void.”
The cage explodes, pieces of metal shooting in all directions
as a Djinn breaks free and manifests in the room, confused,
disoriented, and ready for fight or flight.
Nobody in the room will have any certainty that this is
indeed Fduliea, nor any idea of why or how she assumed
the form of a Nadhir and trapped herself in its cage.

48
A TRAPPED DJINN (ENCOUNTER)

Reverted back to her own form, Fduliea desperately

attempts to escape by any means possible and attacks
anyone getting in her way. Her powers are still limited
because of the Nadhir toxins, but her Daimonic aura
and ability to possess others have returned.
ARBITER’S NOTE
If she becomes cornered, she will attempt to possess
anyone failing their Fear roll [6]. Entering the person’s See Scene 4, The House of Zagan, “The Strange Plight
body, she will strive to escape once she has established of Fduliea” to understand how the Djinn ended up in
control over the possessed individual [see Djinn the cage in the form of the Arboreal Nadhir.
possession, page 358].

Should Fduliea be unable to gain control of the victim,

she will rematerialize in her own form, possibly even
more desperate than before. This occurrence is likely to cause disastrous consequences
for the protagonists as their exoneration has not been
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Fduliea. officially proclaimed to the guild by YanWei.

LOCATION: In a private room of the Dreaming
Gomor tea house.
ENVIRONMENT: A small, windowless space, its one
door leading to the Tea House kitchen.
COMBAT CONDITIONS: The cramped conditions
cause a -1 to actions.
POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: Aiusyr and YanWei will
instinctively allow the Djinn to escape and only attempt
to protect themselves but may succumb to Fear and be
prone to possession. In the unfortunate event YanWei
is possessed by Fduliea, she will try to flee and leave the
district in his body, never to be seen again.
Whether the characters are forced to kill the possessed
YanWei or if Fduliea flees and disappear with his body, their
already sullied repute prompts no clemency from the guild.
They are left with only Aiusyr to back their word of what
happened.
If Fduliea escapes, she is afraid to be confronted by Zagan
and leaves Llyhn.
Whether Fduliea is gone and a possible tribunal
concluded, the plot moves into the final event,
culminating with a confrontation between the guild
and the remnants of the Purveyors of the Hunt.

49
 ARBITRARY EVENT: GUILD TRIBUNAL

If YanWei disappears and the characters are caught by

the Guild guards or voluntarily opt to stand before the
guild seniors’ tribunal to clear their names they would
have to convince three out of five guild members of
their innocence.

The players are free to choose any applicable skill and

associated Trait in their attempts to persuade the guild
members.

One successful roll is required for each member, and

the Arbiter is advised to reward compelling arguments
with bonus modifiers.

Two guild members have an adverse [13] susceptibility,

two others are suspicious [10] while the last is impartial
[7]. If the characters can get Aiusyr to testify, they
receive a +3 modifier to their attempts. For each
persuaded member they get a +1 modifier to convince
the remaining.

If the exoneration is not unanimous, some senior guild

members still question their account, suspecting foul
play from already alleged delinquents. This will sow
mistrust and dissent within the guild, further confusing
the entire situation.

Keeping secrets

Should the characters decide not to reveal that they have

the Nadhir, they will discover its true nature soon enough.
Because of their secrecy, they cannot rely on outside help
or advice when dealing with the ensuing danger of the
reverted Djinn. FDULIEA’S ESCAPE (ENCOUNTER)

At some point soon after the characters are absolved by
YanWei, the toxins wear off, and Fduliea reverts back from
her Nadhir form.
Read or paraphrase the following when convenient: “The
little pine-coned shaped creature begins to distort and
thrash. If still inside its cage, the cage explodes, pieces
of metal shooting in all directions as the female Djinn
manifests and breaks free in the room. Clearly frightened
and desperate, the Djinn stares at you with confused and
disoriented eyes.”
Fduliea attempts to escape by any means possible. Her
powers will be limited by the toxins still in her system,
and she will be unable to turn invisible or become aerial.
Should Fduliea manage to escape, she does not return,
fearful of Zagan’s ire.
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Fduliea.
LOCATION: Anywhere

Once Fduliea is defeated or escapes, the characters are left
without knowing what happened to the Nadhir.
They may mention the occurrence to the guild and get an
explanation from YanWei about what a Nadhir is. He will,
however, not be able to explain the presence of the Djinn.
Subsequently, events begin culminating and a battle between
the guild and the remnants of the Purveyors of the
Hunt trying to escape the district ensues.
ENVIRONMENT: Depends on the location.
COMBAT CONDITIONS: As determined by the
Arbiter.
POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: Irrespective of where the
confrontation occurs, it is unlikely that any outsiders
would get involved with a Djinn desperately seeking to
flee.

50
 Scene
cene 66 ::
Roam ingbeasts
Beasts
S
Roaming
Scene synopsis All entrances to the human commune are all secreted inside
the abode, and members are forbidden from entering the
mansion uninvited, lest they are spotted by passers-by.
After the escape or demise of Fduliea, the Princely Envoy
eventually learns of the disappearance of the Nadhir. His
anger and fear of his master is unbridled when he learns that
the creature he was sent to retrieve – staking wealth and
effort upon – is gone.

While the protagonists are otherwise engaged, the envoy

goes to Zagan’s tower with his soldiers to reclaim his
payment and ruin the offending Zagan and his Purveyors
of the Hunt.

The tower is partially shattered and scorched, with looters

quickly scouring the rubble after the assailants left. The
2
exotic and dangerous creatures kept in the menagerie
escape in the tumult and the surrounding area is soon in
bloody chaos because of the unfettered beasts.

The protagonists may get involved with the guild guards in

containing the onslaught of the escaped creatures running
amok or in Kana’ra’s efforts to keep his mansion safe from
the rampaging beasts.
1
Zagan and Yek’Seng escape the clutches of the envoy and
seek revenge on the protagonists before fleeing the district.

NPC’s

Taveesh: The characters human commune contact.

Locations

THE SHADED SOUQ (1): The large souq located on Asru

Square is a horizontal maze of walkways, bridges and towers
crammed with plazas, vendors, entertainers and visitants.

KANA’RA VORTHAXA MANSION (2): This minor

mansion borders one of the main boulevards of the
Khameeliya district, but has no gate opening towards the
busy thoroughfare.

The main abode is encircled by a rather low stone wall

only partially obscuring the outside view of the well-pruned
estate used by Kana’ra and his guests for frivolous pastime
activities.

51
 Requests
Soon after the strange and precarious encounter with
Fduliea, the characters learn of a ruinous attack on Zagan’s
tower by foreign soldiers led by some abhorrently powerful
being.
The assault was so massive and implicative in its oddity that
it got the attention of the Jinassar, who quartered off the
area – a most extraordinary occurrence.
Gossip flourishes about the tower’s menagerie of deadly
beasts escaping from their cages during the attack – now
roaming the surrounding streets and venturing into the
nearby Shaded Souq, wreaking havoc.
If the characters have exonerated themselves, the Ghurayb
Guild may request their services to aid in the capture of the
beasts as a last act of goodwill.
Accepting and succeeding in this task will grant Wastah
and payment from the guild. Should the characters show
no interest in the guild’s proposal, the guild seniors will
consider their dealings with the characters ended.
If the characters are still “persona non grata” with the guild,
Kana’ra Vorthaxa will send Taveesh to request that they
defend his nearby mansion from the roaming beasts.
Accepting this task and successfully slaying one or more
beasts entering the mansion grounds will earn them the
appreciation of Kana’ra Vorthaxa.
Should the characters refuse the request of Kana’ra, he
immediately bans them from the commune for rejecting
his authority.
He is, however, courteous enough to send a messenger
informing the characters that they may consider themselves
excommunicated. A warning follows; to stay away from the
commune territory and about divulging any information –
on pain of death.
52
The Arbiter may
gauge to what degree
the characters would want
to involve themselves in
this aspect of the story,
making it a brief encounter or
an extended sequence depending on
the interest of the players.
The characters may have a gist about what
they are facing from the information
given by Zagan as they perused the
menagerie earlier. If they did
not view the menagerie with
Zagan, they likely have no
knowledge about the
beasts.
G ui ldASSIGNMENTS
GUILD assignm ents
To make up for lost revenue and to retain their repute in
the district the guild wants the creatures captured as quickly
as possible.
As most of the guild’s hunters are away on assignments and
the guild guard are not trained hunters the protagonists are
offered wages if they capture and bring the roaming beasts
back to the guild domicile.
The price for each is negotiable and ranges from 50 to 200
Dhin depending on the creature. The guild wants them alive
but will accede to pay ¼ price for a killed beast as their
reputation is at stake and they desperately need them off
the streets.
The characters are asked to remain at the domicile and
await a sighting before being sent out. To gauge their
task, the guild elders ask them which beasts they saw in
the menagerie. They can then brief them on the various
monsters accordingly.
The Arbiter can relay critical aspects from the “combat
behaviour” of the mentioned creatures to the characters as
part of this briefing.
Once a creature has been spotted, the guild provides the
characters with cages, nets, chains or other useful tools to
aid in their endeavour and sends them off to capture it.
The Arbiter determines which beast is spotted, where and
if there are any extraordinary circumstances to take into
consideration depending on the behaviour of the chased
creature.

4 dispose of it.
4
2 unprepared as they scamper to
1 save the lives of the fleeing guests
4 and keep the beast out of the
3 mansion.
1. Main villa
2. Secondary villa
3. Mansion Park
4. Gates
Consequently, each hunt has its own predicaments reliant
on whether they pursue an elusive creature on the run or
fight for dear life against a ravenous killer on the prowl.
These assignments are made even more challenging as the
guild insists that the characters avoid causing harm to the
creatures if at all possible, to retain a high re-sell value.
Kana’ ra’s MANSION
Mansion
KANA’RA’S
At Kana’ra’s orders, the characters are placed at a gate to
the mansion to intercept any approaching beasts. Kana’ra
simply wants his property defended and cares nothing about
how the creatures are disposed of, so unless the characters
actively request equipment or assistance, they only have
their own kit and weapons.
Introducing the roving beasts can be done in several ways,
each presenting a distinct challenge and encounter possibility.
The Arbiter can come up with further approaches as he or
she sees fit.
One approach is that Kana’ra’s lookouts have spotted an
approaching creature nearby and order the characters
to drive it off or kill it. The lookouts have gotten a look
at the creature and determined its species to relay some
information about it to the characters.
The Arbiter can reveal one combat fact about the
approaching creature to the players. The beast is found
roaming in a side alley or in the grove across the street.
Another approach is that the characters hear screams and
cries from inside the garden as a beast has jumped over the
low wall surrounding the mansion.
As they hurry inside it seems the
creature is unable to find its way
out and the servants scream at
them to chase it off or otherwise
This way, the characters do not get
any prior information about the
creature and are likely completely
BEAST HUNTING (ENCOUNTER)
Following either of these objectives, the Arbiter may
choose or randomly determine beasts encountered and
fought by the characters – referring to the table of
beasts escaped from the menagerie.
ROAMING BEASTS:
1. Adaru
2. Barast
3. Mardkhora
4. Muqai
5. Sloq
6. Sorq
Arbiters should refer to the core rulebook or the
scenario bestiary for stat blocks.
Because the menagerie beasts were all caught in the
wild, the stress and trauma of their prolonged captivity
have made them anxious and frantic. To reflect their
erratic disposition, the Arbiter rolls on the following
table to determine their behaviour when confronted by
the protagonists.
1: HEADLESS FLIGHT – The beast will flee at the
sight of the characters, potentially attack others in its
way as it bolts. If engaged, it will frantically attack to
break free and flee at any given opportunity.
2-4: SLINKING AWAY – The beast is in no mood for
a fight and will withdraw as it realises the characters are
a potential threat.
If cornered or otherwise trapped, the creature seeks to
drive off the attackers and then retreat again.
5-8: ROVING BEAST – The beast will maintain its
roaming and only engage the characters if they cross its
path. If the characters do not engage or interfere, it will
ignore them. If “injured” the beast flees.
9-12: FRENZIED PREDATOR – Driven by hunger or
franticness, the beast charges at the characters as soon
as it spots them. Because of its frenetic distress, it will
continue its attack until dead or otherwise incapacitated.
53
 Scene
cene77 ::
The
The Fug itive D jinn
S
fugitive Djinn
Scene synopsis NPC’s

Zagan is still at large after the assault on his tower, and – Zagan: The vengeful Djinn.
hell-bent on retaliation – he is hunting for the characters.
Ironically, there are significantly more parties pursuing Yek’Seng: Possessed former patron of the Purveyors
him concurrently, including the Cowl, the Ghurayb Guild, of the Hunt.
Kana’ra Vorthaxa and – most likely – the characters.
Asha: The rancorous Ghulah daughter of Zagan.
Kana’ra Vorthaxa means to get his hands on the Djinn
because it implicated his nascent empire and imperilled its
existence by potential exposure.
He is deploying his spies and covertly utilising his aristocratic
connections to gather information about the possible
whereabouts of Zagan and his underlings.

The Ghurayb Guild is very much interested in bringing

Zagan to justice and have the blessing of the Civic guards
in doing so because his endeavours disrupted trade and
therefore the flow of tithe.
Although the Civic guard does not get actively involved,
they may indicate that the Cowl – the spies of the Unseen
Rulers – are hunting the Djinn.
Whether the characters are participating in the subdual
of the escaped beasts in the area or not, they are likely
interested in catching Zagan, who caused them so much
distress.
The Cowl is actively hunting for both Zagan and the
mysterious Princely Envoy whose troops assaulted the
tower.
They act clandestinely, but well-connected or streetwise
characters are prone to detect their presence if they go
looking.
Locations
THE SCORCHED TOWER (1): The scorched remnants of
Zagan’s tower now ruined and looted.
THE GATE AREA (2): The area surrounding the sunset
gate and guild domicile is crowded with travellers entering
and leaving the city, locals perusing shops and traders and
merchants going about their business.
THE GROVE (3): This tranquil grove lies away from all
the major thoroughfares of the district. Its central location
between Asru Square and the Sunset Gate makes its adjacent
plaza an often-frequented place for visitants and travellers
looking for respite and leisure.

1
2

54
 Plotting and scheming

Zagan has possessed Yek’Seng after the attack on his

tower and uses the Ba’Waikh as a host to avoid discovery
while scouting and gathering information regarding the
whereabouts of the characters.

The only reason he remains in Llyhn is that he blames the

characters for his downfall and intends to destroy them
before leaving the city.

The destruction of his tower and the following scrutiny from

the Jinassar and Cowl have him greatly vexed as well as
leaving him with few immediate resources to draw upon.

However, the Timanièm huntresses under Yek’Seng’s

employ arrived back from activities in the jungles with
Yek’Seng right before the attack on the tower.
About ten of them survived and fled with Yek’Seng as parts
of the tower tumbled to the ground in flames.

They are loyal to Yek’Seng, so when Zagan possessed

his body, unbeknownst to the huntresses, he managed to
convince them to aid in an attack on the humans and their
guild allies. As part of his deal, he promised them asylum
in an encampment deeper in the jungles and another job
hunting Adaru for an emeritus warlord named Z’truk.
They have found temporary refuge in a substantial grove
midway between the guild domicile and the Shaded Souq.
From here they scout and gather information, waiting for
the right moment to strike.
Depending on how they progress, the Arbiter can let them
hear rumours about Timaniém hiding in a grove - proceed
to THE CHARACTERS FIND ZAGAN.
If the characters are not actively searching for Zagan, the
Arbiter is can let the Djinn find them – proceed to ZAGAN
FINDS THE CHARACTERS.

Whether by their own volition or urged by Kana’ra, the Either way, the characters may learn rumours about what
Ghurayb guild or someone else, the characters probably happened at Zagan’s tower and they may want to revisit the
instigate their search for Zagan during or soon after the site looking for leads or useful remains.
escaped beasts have been captured or killed.

RUMOURS

• Rumours have it that the Cowl are hunting the

Djinn and his cronies.
• The chatter on the street is that a foreign power
was behind the attack on the tower in Khameeliya,
prompting the Jinassar to get involved. However,
they have been unable to identify or catch the
offending perpetrator.
• Someone saw strange soldiers in hideously spiked
maroon armour march into the tower. If pressed,
they can also describe what the leader looked
like: A lanky outlandish being with strange garb
and what looked like a large horned and masked
helmet. It had a graceful gait and never spoke a
word as it directed its brutal troops.

55

The scorched ruin
If the characters return to the ruins of Zagan’s tower when
the Jinassar have gone, they will see looters picking through
the rubble and the mutilated, dead bodies of a score of
Timanièm huntresses.
At night the glowing stones still imbedded in the walls bathe
the scene in an eerie, ghostly light.
While there, they will stumble upon the symbol of the
darkened sun etched into the wood of what was once
Zagan’s audience room door laying on the ground.
56
THE PROWLING GHULAH (ENCOUNTER)
If they linger there until dusk, they may encounter
Asha – injured and angry – prowling the burned-out
grounds. The characters can attempt to engage with
her to try and learn the whereabouts of her father. She
will be at half Health but be fanatically bent on killing
them.
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Asha
LOCATION: The smouldering remains of Zagan’s
tower.
ENVIRONMENT: The outer walls still stand – shielding
the combatants from prying eyes.
COMBAT CONDITIONS: Scattered charred furniture
and fallen scorched tree trunks litter the ground
providing hiding places and obstacles.
As the tower is in ruins and in places still burning, it
is riddled with hidden hazards. Massive branches may
fall from smouldering trees, floors in the tower may
collapse, and walls crumble if combat mishaps occur.
POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: Looters or runaway beasts
from the menagerie may be spooked by combatants
and attack whoever comes near.
 The characters find Zagan

As the characters search for information about the escaped

Zagan various informants and other sources report that a
group of Timaniém have recently made camp in a grove
sunsetwards of the Shaded Souq.

It may come to the attention of the characters that a

Ba’Waikh has been spotted amongst them frequently,
further verifying that these are the Purveyor huntresses.

If the characters spy on the Timaniém it will become evident

that they are scouting the area around the guild domicile as
well as Kana’ra’s mansion.

If the characters confront the huntresses and Ba’Waikh,

Zagan will leave Yek’Seng’s body and confront them in his
own form.
Assuming his natural form immediately re-establishes his
fear-inducing aura [6] affecting anyone looking at him.

Finally faced with his nemesis, Zagan spouts his grievances

about the characters in self-righteous anger and pomposity.
He whines and bellows that they caused him to lose the
Nadhir, earning the fury of that wrathful Princely Envoy
who destroyed his home and hopes of resurgence in reprisal.

He wails that he watched his dearest daughter get slaughtered

(which may or may not be true), and he has no idea where
Fduliea has gone. All for which the characters will now pay
with their lives!

He will dramatically pause, expecting the characters to

plead for their lives or beg for forgiveness before he means
to rip them to shreds.

Should the characters decide to prostrate and subjugate

themselves, Zagan will listen to their pleas. If convinced that
they intend to serve and submit to him for their affronts, he
will hold back and possibly resolve the conflict peaceably.

This is also an opportunity for the characters to reveal

that the Nadhir was actually Fduliea in another form and
perhaps disclose what happened to her. This revelation will
confound Zagan, giving the characters the chance to grab
the initiative and act first.

57
 THE RAGING DJINN (ENCOUNTER)

If the encounter turns violent, Zagan wants to kill the

characters himself. Depending on whether they came
alone or brought aid, he will order the Timaniém to
either hold off or attack whomever the characters
brought along. After issuing his orders, he will furiously
charge the characters.

PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Zagan.

SECONDARY ADVERSARIES: The Timaniém

huntresses

LOCATION: The grove and adjacent plaza.

ENVIRONMENT: The grove is well-tended with large

flowery trees and decorative bushes planted at regular
intervals.

COMBAT CONDITIONS: The foliage is thick enough

to obscure the skies, enabling the Timaniém to hide
among the branches and make surprise attacks on
combatants on the ground.
Timaniém attacking from the foliage gain +1 for higher
ground, are in cover and can make swooping attacks as
they swing from low branches.

On the ground, the bushes and other vegetation

obscure the view, making it challenging to use ranged
weapons efficiently, causing a -3 cover penalty.

POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: Yek’Seng is left shaken and

distraught after the Djinn possession. As he regains his
wits, he begins to yell counter-orders to the huntresses
in an attempt to retaliate against the Djinn; causing the
Timaniém to become confused.

If the characters have advised Kana’ra before the

confrontation, he has provided a group of fighters to
support them. The Ghurayb Guild will likewise send a
contingent of their guard and Daiwu if alerted before
the altercation.

THE JINASSAR INTERCEDE (ARBITRARY EVENT)

Should the fight drag on for more than 10 minutes a

squadron of Jinassar supported by civic guard troops
emerges on the plaza to apprehend Zagan.

They do, however, not distinguish between combatants

as they advance upon the Djinn and will cut down
anyone who gets in their path.

The Jinassar eventually subdue the raging Djinn and

drag him off to an unknown fate, leaving the characters
standing in the grove surrounded by whichever
combatants are still alive and present.

With the main instigator gone, no one is in the mood

to continue the fight, and they all depart soon after the
Jinassar leave.

58
 Zagan finds the characters
At the Arbiter’s discretion, the Djinn’s diligence pays off,
and he manages to catch the characters unaware in an
isolated place. This could be his own abandoned tower.
Zagan approaches in the guise of Yek’Seng. Calling to
the characters, he claims to be hunted by the Djinn who
had previously possessed him, causing him to do all these
terrible acts of sedition.
He insists that he wants to redeem himself and counter all
the harm he helped cause. As he talks and pleads, he slowly
moves closer to get within striking distance.
Should the characters – for whatever reason – not allow him
to get close, he will become agitated and more aggressive in
his manner and push forward.
ARBITER’S NOTE
Although Zagan has Void Gleam and can dampen the
Void aura he exudes, characters that can sense Void
or otherwise distinguish esoteric powers, will be able to
detect that the Ba’Waikh before them is glowing with
an aura not his own.
If the characters somehow manage to keep Yek’Seng at a
distance, the Ba’Waikh’s voice will change as Zagan chuckles
and abandons the body.
Zagan reveals his true form but does not cause Fear as he
means to berate the characters for all his misery.
He begins to spew out his grievances, griping and roaring
that they caused him to lose the Nadhir, in turn causing the
fury of that wrathful patron who destroyed his home and
future in reprisal.
He cries that he watched his dearest daughter get butchered
(which may or may not be accurate), and he has no clue
where Fduliea is because of them! And now they will pay
with their lives!
This vulgar and pretentious emotive display either allows
the characters to grab the initiative and act before the Djinn
launches his assault on them.
Or, alternatively, they may grab this opportunity and
choose to grovel, humbling themselves, hoping that Zagan
will heed their pleas.
At such a display, the Djinn will - if satisfied that the
characters will serve and submit to him for their offences -
hold back, settling the conflict without bloodshed.
THE VENGEFUL DJINN (ENCOUNTER)
If the characters allow Yek’Seng to get close, Zagan
will abandon the Ba’Waikh’s body, bursting into his
own form, leaving the stunned Yek’Seng prone on the
ground.
Unsuspecting characters are caught by surprise, while
anyone with relevant abilities or players who expressed
apprehension are allowed a roll to avoid being surprised.
Also, as Zagan assumes his own terrible form, his aura is
activated, inducing a Fear roll [6] from the characters.
The irate Djinn will immediately attack the nearest
character furiously.
PRIMARY ADVERSARY: Zagan.
SECONDARY ADVERSARIES: The Timaniém
huntresses and perhaps Yek’Seng.
LOCATION: Any isolated area that the characters find
themselves in.
ENVIRONMENT: The environment depends on the
location. It must, however, be a deserted place as
Zagan would not approach the characters otherwise.
COMBAT CONDITIONS: Any conditions depend on
the environment and time of the attack.
POTENTIAL PARTAKERS: Yek’Seng will be confused
and disturbed at what has happened. Albeit he longs
for retribution against the Djinn that abused him, he is
also very much afraid and will flee unless he spots the
hiding Timaniém.
Zagan has brought several Timaniém huntresses as
backup in case he needs them. They remain hidden
at a distance unless the Djinn appears to be in trouble
or Yek’Seng awakens, in which case they will reveal
themselves and approach. They might not confront the
characters as they are not convinced about who the real
enemy is anymore.
Should the characters opt to flee and manage to get to
an area with people, Zagan will not follow for fear of the
Jinassar or other agents of the Unseen Rulers.
If this is the case, he will give up his pursuit of vengeance
and leave Llyhn; possibly to return to Mount Qaf in
disgrace.
The characters now have a sworn enemy who might
rear his ugly head should they ever decide to venture
outside the Eternal City.
59
 Conclusi
C on
onclusion
With the defeat of Zagan and the Purveyors of the Hunt,
the guild regains its solid foothold in the exotic animal trade
in Khameeliya.
As the characters were working under the auspices of
Kana’ra Vorthaxa when they got involved in helping the
guild regain its monopoly, he is invited to join the guild in
their animal trade activities – reaping the lion’s share of the
rewards.
The protagonists, however, are informed that they
are welcome to work for both the guild and the human
commune going forward.
Should the characters decide to retain their collaboration
with Kana’ra, his ambitions and lust for control might
eventually lead them on paths dangerous not only to
themselves but perhaps to the aspirations of the other
human enclaves in the city.
Advancem ent
ADVANCEMENT
While the Arbiter is free to grant experience and rewards
as well as applicable Wastah after each session, the below
allocations should be considered:
EXPERIENCE POINTS
It is recommended that characters are awarded 1-3
experience points per completed scene or sitting, depending
on their progress in the overall storyline.
Also, individual accomplishments or notable collective
achievements, such as being subjected to a guild tribunal
and talking their way out of it, should be awarded.
ENLIGHTENMENT
Opportunities for enlightenment are not inherently proposed
in this scenario, given the lack of Void entity encounters
and the fact that the entire chain of events occurs in Llyhn
without exposure to other worlds.
Arbiters are free to add elements enabling enlightenment if
they should feel so inclined.
60
WASTAH
Dealing with influential individuals and factions in Llyhn
enables the characters to obtain Wastah in a variety of ways
throughout the scenario.
Although the Arbiter is free to add prospective Wastah
accumulation, below are the integral opportunities for
characters to gain Wastah in the scenario.
• Unprompted participating in the defeat of the Aigioma
grants one (1) point of Wastah with the Ghurayb guild.
• Saving YanWei from possession or from being killed by
Fduliea grants one (1) point of Wastah with him.
• Unprompted aiding Kana’ra Vorthaxa in his bid for
power grants one (1) point of Wastah with him.
• Aiding YanWei and the Ghurayb guild in the exposure
and capture of Zagan grants up to two (2) points of
Wastah with the guild.
• Substantially strengthening the alliance between the
guild and the human commune, induces a point of
Wastah with either or both factions.
R ew ards
REWARDS
In addition to any items, exotic animals and valuables
the characters may have filched in the scenario, the main
factions will also offer them rewards for their involvement –
depending on their conduct and achievements.
The protagonists are rewarded by the guild with an offer
to learn from their hunters and trainers. Becoming further
associated with the guild would allow the characters some
access to the assets and resources of the guild while on
official guild endeavours. Such an association will also
induce payment for services rendered.
If the characters did not get excommunicated by Kana’ra
during the scenario, he rewards them for taking action
that allowed him to come out of hiding and makes them
full members of the commune. He promises them the full
benefits of being associated with his faction in return for
fealty.
Such an allegiance will prompt assignments in both the
underworld as well as amongst the upper classes of
Khameeliya and the promise of significant wealth and
power, should they be successful.
Appendix
Appendix

61
 Antagoni sts, , aallies
lli es &
nota b l e people
p eo p le
Antagonists &
notable

This section details the non-player characters (NPC’s) in the forms of antagonists, allies, adversaries and other notable
personages the protagonists may come across during the scenario. Some behind-the-scenes individuals that remain obscure
to the characters but are vital to the progression of the story are also detailed.

Notable and major NPC’s have expanded descriptions including personal profiles and abilities, while minor NPC’s have
fundamental descriptions and usually adhere to the standard profile for that given species. Standard profiles can be found
either in the Black Void core rulebook or in the scenario bestiary.

If the NPC’s personal possessions and equipment are not noted in their profile, the Arbiter may adhere to the following
guideline for carried items and wealth. Each caste tier adds D12 copper Dhin to their carried wealth either in coins or items
of equivalent value. A souq constable would supposedly be Shahrvah caste and – corresponding to this being the third caste
tier – carry 3D12 copper Dhin of values on his person in addition to indicated weapons and armour.

Aiusyr
This learned Variin is the proprietor of the Dreaming Gomor
and an old associate of YanWei. She has vast knowledge
about a great many things in the Cosmos, and YanWei
occasionally relies on her wisdom when making decisions or
needing obscure information.

Aiusyr uses the ordinary characteristics of the Variin and

additional details about the Dreaming Gomor can be
found respectively on page 362 and 280 in the core
rulebook.

62
 COMBAT: Asha finds pleasure in violence and will
habitually change into her hyena-hybrid form when engaged
in fighting. Her favoured combat manoeuvres comprise
called attack (no penalty), dodge (+5), furious charge, all-
out attack and crushing blow.

Asha profile
AGILITY 5 HEALTH 28
AWARENESS 6 SIZE Medium
STAMINA 4 MOVE 8
STRENGTH 6 WEAPON Claws (+6)
Fangs (+4)
INTELLECT 4 REACH Close
PERSUASION 6 ATT SPEED +3
PRESENCE 5 DMG D6+3/D4+3
WILLPOWER 4 DV 9
PROTECTION 0

TALENTS/ Charmer, fast reflexes and perfect

FLAWS: liar.
Asha ATTRIBUTES: Claws and fangs (fur, tail and
digitigrade legs).
POWERS: Void sensitivity, Void cognisance,
Her peculiar relationship with Zagan makes her different lesser changeling, aura [Fear] and
to most Ghuls. The majority of her kind live solitarily in Touch of the Djinn.
remote locations, shunning civilisation, but Asha loves her
PRIMARY Unarmed [4 / dirty fighting], dodge
father Zagan and has adapted to city-life and wishes to
SKILLS: [3], socialize [4] and subterfuge [5].
please him as long as he continues to prove he loves her.
SPECIAL: Ignore injury penalties and
His affection is mostly expressed by regularly providing her psychological effects.
with sentient slaves for her to play with and feed upon. She EQUIPMENT: Asha is adorned with jewellery
has little regard for Zagan’s consort Fduliea and sees her as made from ivory or bones set with
competition for her father’s affection. gemstones (worth 500+ Dhins).

SPECIES: Ghulah.

APPEARANCE: Asha often appears as a beautiful female

by the standards of the species she emulates. Sometimes,
especially in combat, she takes on the form of a vicious Daiwu
hyena-hybrid.

GOALS: Asha is content living with her father and will
fervently protect him and his interests.
GARB: What she wears differs depending on who she stalks,
but it is usually suggestive and scant.
ALLIES/HELPERS: Zagan is the sole support she has.
DOMAIN: Her boudoir in Zagan’s tower.
QUIRKS: Unusually cooperative and congenial with those
who Zagan deems off-limits to feast upon. She is somewhat
easily, if temporarily, dissuaded from killing one of interest
when faced with politeness.
Daiwu is a Je’ehl pariah and part of the Ghurayb guild
guard and a friend of Muawu and her brother YanWei.
He is deeply devoted to the guild, almost to the point of
obsession.
He does not quite understand his friends’ openness to others
nor what he considers their disregard for the guild’s interests.
His lack of perspective combined with his impetuousness is
the main reason that he has not risen further in the ranks
of the guard.
To quell his frustration at not advancing Daiwu has a
habit of drinking the intoxicating Sanké tea.
SPECIES: Je’ehl

63
 APPEARANCE: Daiwu is impeccable in his uniform. His
tabard and breeches are immaculate, the laminated leather
armour is well-cared for along with his mace and shortsword.

GOALS: Daiwu’s impetus is to further the interests of the

guild, even if his interpretation goes against the formal
policy.

GARB: Traditional Ghurayb guild guard uniform of long Fduliea

breeches, tabard, laminated leather armour, helmet and
shield.
ALLIES/HELPERS: Daiwu has a following of several
Ghurayb guild guards who share his sentiments.
This patrician Djinn lady is the consort of Zagan. Because
of Zagan’s adultery and subsequent reluctance to cast out
Asha, she forced him to leave Mount Qaf.

DOMAIN: The Guild domicile.
QUIRKS: Quick-tempered and battling the self-indulgent
tendencies of his species.
COMBAT: Daiwu is not tactically proficient, but he is an
exceedingly competent warrior. Unlike the habitual guard
style, Daiwu tends towards a more aggressive approach,
utilising called attacks and crushing blows at regular intervals.
Albeit she still loves him, her pride keeps her from tolerating
his actions and the presence of his daughter, so, for the
most part, she isolates herself to brood in her room.
If confronted, Fduliea uses regular Djinn characteristics [see
page 357 in the core rulebook].
Throughout most of the scenario, Fduliea has inadvertently
gotten herself trapped in the form of the Arboreal Nadhir.

Daiwu profile
AGILITY 3 HEALTH 32
AWARENESS 4 SIZE Medium
STAMINA 4 MOVE 7
STRENGTH 5 WEAPON Mace (+5) /
Short sword
(+2)
INTELLECT 3 REACH Adjacent
PERSUASION 6 ATT SPEED 0
PRESENCE 5 DMG D12+2
(knockdown)
/ D6+2
WILLPOWER 3 DV 9 (10)
PROTECTION 4

TALENTS/ Bad temper (mild) and Specious.

FLAWS:
ATTRIBUTES: Small horns.
PRIMARY Blunt weapons [5 / formation
SKILLS: fighting], blade weapons [2], defence
[1] and shield [3].
EQUIPMENT: Laminated leather armour (3), small
shield (DV+1) and leather helmet
(1), 23 Dhins, a few personal items
and a pouch containing Sanké tea
leaves (worth 75+ Dhins).

64
 Garhasha Garhasha profile
AGILITY 3 HEALTH 40
GARHASHA
This Talath is working for Samang as his prime Beastmaster, AWARENESS 2 SIZE Large
training and handling the wild and exotic creatures used in STAMINA 5 MOVE 7
the staged acts.
STRENGTH 7 WEAPON 2 x Battleaxe
(+5 / +3)
Garhasha enjoys physical struggles and violence as much
as any Talath but is remarkably formidable when facing INTELLECT 3 REACH Adjacent
daunting monsters and beasts. PERSUASION 3 ATT SPEED 0

More ingenious and cunning than the average Talath, PRESENCE 4 DMG D12+5 /
Gahasha has a knack for understanding behaviour, habits D12+4
and urges of the sort of creatures most would avoid at all WILLPOWER 3 DV 6
costs. PROTECTION 3
This makes him able to predict the behaviour of beasts and
take measures to counter potential hazardous encounters. TALENTS/ Explosive force and bad temper
FLAWS: (moderate).
SPECIES: Talath ATTRIBUTES: Tough hide and digitigrade legs
PRIMARY Axes [5 / quick-draw], dual-wielding
APPEARANCE: Garhasha’s skin is more brown than red SKILLS: [3], animal handling [5], athletics
– something of a rarity among Talath. Additionally, he [4] and innate formation fighting.
is easily discernible by his ostentatious mohawk and twin
battle axes hanging from his belt. EQUIPMENT: Extra padded metal lamellar
pauldrons, saw edged battleaxe (+1
GOALS: Garhasha likes working with wild creatures and dmg/parry), perfectly balanced
animals. They are uncomplicated and honest in their battleaxe (+1 to-hit), several small
savagery, unlike the so-called civilised peoples of the blades, 15 Dhins and tribal teeth
Cosmos. charms.

GARB: Garhasha wears utilitarian clothes with lamellar

pauldrons to absorb any bites, stings or headbutts from his
charges.

ALLIES/HELPERS: Garhasha has two

ordinary Talath beast handlers working
with him and temporarily the cousins
of Samang to deal with the Aigioma.

DOMAIN: Garhasha sleeps and

spends most of his time in the allocated
dormitories of the Masque or the rented
pens used for training.

QUIRKS: To Garhasha, it is proving

strength to subdue and tame a dangerous
beast, whereas merely slaughtering it
proves nothing.

COMBAT: Garhasha is cunning

and relies on manoeuvring more
than his feral brethren. Garhasha
has a preference for all-out attack,
called attack, knockdown, parry, stun and counter-
attack. Garhasha innately has the formation-fighting
specialisation.

65
 Muawu
This female Je’ehl pariah is the owner of the Arijwani
Tavern in Khameeliya.

She is atypically unbiased for a Je’ehl. This is endorsed

by her brother YanWei, a successful beast trader in the
Ghurayb guild, who advocates that speciesism should not
stand in the way of enterprise.

Because of her brother’s venture with Kana’ra Vorthaxa she

has also gotten somewhat involved with the hidden human
commune in Khameeliya.

Characteristics for Muawu are the same as for regular Je’ehl

[see page 332 in the core rulebook].

Naehi
This elderly Oord is a member of the Princely Envoy’s
delegation to Llyhn.
Sada
The legation is tasked with securing war beasts and – in
particular – an Arboreal Nadhir for the war efforts of their
This stalwart woman is one of Kana’ra Vorthaxa’s several
absent warlord.
wives and one of the few human companions he keeps.
Naehi’s current assignment is gathering information and
Sada is an active member of the human commune, where
being a messenger for the Princely Envoy.
she – amongst other things – works as a messenger and
recruiter for the burgeoning empire.
Naehi adheres to the common Oord characteristics found
in the core rulebook on page 337.

Princely Envoy
Although the Princely Envoy is not meant
to be encountered, his presence will
be well-known to the characters as he
instigates some of the incidents affecting
them.
Samang
Samang is a showman at heart. His great interest lies in
bringing knowledge of the myriad creatures of the Cosmos
to Llyhn. He does so by staging carefully controlled animal
and beast acts at The Masque.
His obsession with one-upmanship over the other “boring”
impresarios and showmen is doomed to be his undoing.

The envoy generally keeps to a massive SPECIES: Oord

yacht at anchor in the Margidda river.
From here he commands his two APPEARANCE: Samang is heavily tattooed with
delegates, the Oord Naehi and a Qhu iconography from the worlds he has travelled to, most
“spokesperson”. recently with Yek’Seng on missions to catch exotic creatures.

On board are also a squad of the
warlord’s soldiers.
The Qhu participates in various auctions,
placing bids on beasts of war and
eventually on the Nadhir to secure
these for the envoy and the Oord
is acting primarily as informant
and messenger.
GOALS: Samang’s ambition is equally divided between
educating the public, a hunger for wealth and achieving his
dream of staging the greatest creature act the Cosmos has
ever seen.
GARB: Flamboyant and vibrant red, orange and green
attire.
ALLIES/HELPERS: He has allied himself with Yek’Seng

66
to aid his team of Timaniém to carry out missions bringing
back the most bizarre and “entertaining” creatures possible.
For Samang, entertaining means dangerous, especially when
occasionally bringing his most prized hazardous creatures to
the gladiators in the arenas of the Eternal City.

DOMAIN: The Masque, Samang’s guest quarters.

QUIRKS: Oddly strong voice and unnaturally gifted orator

for his species.

COMBAT: Samang has many talents, but fighting is not

one of them. If faced with violence, he will employ his
Mystic capabilities but quickly surrender rather than risk
injury. Garhasha, his Talath beastmaster, is usually nearby
to deal with any physical altercations. Because Oord are
Void entities [3], he is highly resilient to any Mystic or
Void powers used against him.

Samang profile
AGILITY 2 HEALTH 18
AWARENESS 9 SIZE Small
STAMINA 3 MOVE 2 Su’tinn
STRENGTH 2 WEAPON Cane (-1)
INTELLECT 5 REACH Adjacent
Su’tinn is the right hand of Yek’Seng and manages the
PERSUASION 4 ATT SPEED -1 Purveyors of the Hunt when the Ba’Waikh is out with the
PRESENCE 4 DMG D6-1 huntresses.
WILLPOWER 3 DV 7 How a Ka’Alum accepts being subordinate to a Ba’Waikh
PROTECTION 0 is puzzling, but Su’tinn has his own agenda and will betray
Yek’Seng if it is necessary.
TALENTS/ Direction sense, born performer
FLAWS: (showman) and sluggish. SPECIES: Ka’Alum

ATTRIBUTES: Short legs. APPEARANCE: Su’tinn is a rather large specimen of

POWERS: Void sensitivity, Void cognisance, Ka’Alum and wearing a draped scarf of a violet hue.
Void erudite, Void navigator (and all
earlier tiers) GOALS: Su’tinn prepares to set up his own venture with
Gnostic Mysticism [5] capturing exotic animals in the future and is learning the
Sphere of Mind [4] ropes and biding his time working with Yek’Seng and Zagan.
Sphere of Void [5]
GARB: Fine clothes, a violet scarf and a beak adornment.
SPECIAL: Void entity [3], comprehends
multiple languages and innate Void
ALLIES/HELPERS: The Timaniém Huntresses will follow his
navigator
orders. Zagan and Yek’Seng will aid him as long as their own
EQUIPMENT: Fine garish clothes, an ornate cane lives are not put at risk.
(club), a decorative dagger, 46 Dhins
in a pouch, rings and other jewellery DOMAIN: The Shaded Souq and Zagan’s Tower.
(worth 300+ Dhins).
QUIRKS: Su’tinn speaks with a hoarse voice and often
coughs due to an old throat injury.

COMBAT: Su’tinn prefers conversation and Mysticism

to fighting but is a capable warrior if pressed. His
combat style is very defensive, and his preferred
manoeuvres are parry and knockdown.

67
 Su’tinn profile
AGILITY 4 HEALTH 29
AWARENESS 5 SIZE Large
STAMINA 4 MOVE 8
STRENGTH 3 WEAPON Staff (+7)
INTELLECT 6 REACH Near
PERSUASION 5 ATT SPEED +1
PRESENCE 3 DMG D6
(Knockdown)
WILLPOWER 4 DV 7
the Warlord
PROTECTION 3
This enigmatic Warlord is waging holy war on faraway
TALENTS/ Quick thinker worlds and is the power behind the delegation led by the
FLAWS: Princely Envoy.

ATTRIBUTES: Long digitigrade legs, peripheral
vision, small claws, and tail.
POWERS: Mysticism (Mind) [2] - preferring
Charm and Influence phenomena.
PRIMARY Polearms [3 / proficient], Commerce
SKILLS: [4], Languages [2] and Socialize [3].
EQUIPMENT: Perfectly balanced (+1) and
reinforced shaft (parry) staff,
hardened leather armour (3),
He has somehow learned about the Arboreal Nadhir and
is bent on acquiring it to be used in blood rituals to secure
victories for his armies.
The Warlord’s icon is a twelve-pointed sun, which characters
that have gone through the events of the “Those who would
be Gods” campaign are familiar with.
Although no explanation about this is offered in the scenario,
the fact that the symbol is still in use and that agents bearing
it are active in Llyhn is an indication of grander schemes
unfolding.

Taveesh
This halfblood acts as a messenger for Kana’ra and becomes
the designated contact between the characters and the
hidden commune after Sada.
Although his overall physique is completely human, he
is easily noticeable because he has a plumage of feathers
instead of hair and strangely reflective eyes. His clothes are
ordinary for Khameeliya, and his demeanour reveals his
pride in being part of the burgeoning empire of Kana’ra
Vorthaxa, a man he has the utmost respect and admiration
for.
He wants to propagate the artistry and talents of humanity
in the Cosmos, and he fervently believes that his actions and
dedication are contributing to this lofty goal.
Taveesh is devoted to seeing the characters join the
commune and will ardently help them to achieve this.
Should the characters waver or refuse the requests or
patronage of Kana’ra, Taveesh will go to great lengths
trying to revert them.
YanWei
A Je’ehl pariah who has made a fortune catching, buying
and selling exotic animals to the high-castes and affluent
residents of Llyhn. He is an influential member – although
not a senior one – of the Ghurayb guild; the current cartel
of the exotic beast trade in Khameeliya.
YanWei was the one responsible for rejecting the Ba’waikh’s
appeal to the guild. He suspected Yek’Seng’s group were the
ones trying to undermine their competitors by frequently
stealing captured animals hunted by the others.
His refusal to work with Yek’Seng spurred the slaughter of
his animal stocks by Zagan, his daughter and hired cronies,
implicating the characters and setting in motion a chain of
events with far-reaching consequences.
YanWei had earlier formed a preliminary alliance with
Kana’ra Vorthaxa under the assumption that they could be
mutually beneficial to each other. YanWei is the brother of
Muawu, the proprietor of the Arijwani Tavern.
For YanWei characteristics use the regular Je’ehl description
found in the core rulebook on page 332.

68
 Yek’Seng Yek’Seng profile
AGILITY 4 HEALTH 24
Yek’Seng has founded and organized the Purveyors of the
Hunt, leads the huntresses in the field and oversees capture AWARENESS 4 SIZE Medium
and sales of exotic animals. He administers all activity near STAMINA 3 MOVE 3
the Shaded Souq; from the tower owned by Zagan.
STRENGTH 2 WEAPON Dagger (+3)
Yek’Seng feels he is better suited to overseeing and INTELLECT 5 REACH Close
negotiating the capture and sales of exotic animals than PERSUASION 3 ATT SPEED +1
those most known for it now.
PRESENCE 4 DMG D4-1 [1]
When he attempted to get involved in the Ghurayb guild he WILLPOWER 2 DV 8
was rejected and threatened by a Je’ehl named YanWei who PROTECTION None (0)
feared his own market share lessening.

Few species can be as conniving as a spurned Ba’waikh, and TALENTS/ Quick Learner.
so Yek’Seng learned of a powerful Djinn named Zagan from FLAWS:
an Im’zu chatter-broker, one known to buy from YanWei. ATTRIBUTES: Night vision / Light sensitivity.
Zagan was willing to help him usurp YanWei’s business if PRIMARY Small bladed weapons [2],
that meant he would get his pick of exotic beasts to collect. SKILLS: Commerce [6], Enquiry [4] and
Lore, scholastic [6] beasts.
SPECIES: Ba’Waikh
EQUIPMENT: Needle-point dagger [1], fine clothes
APPEARANCE: A short, slender Ba’Waikh with blue- and turban, rings and other jewellery
green skin. His left hand is mangled, nearly bitten off by (worth 200+ Dhins).
an Aigioma.

GOALS: Although not of high-caste, the karmic creed of

his species drives him, and he believes he is destined for
greatness.

GARB: Traditional but superb quality Ba’Wiakh

attire with a high turban.

ALLIES/HELPERS: Zagan, Su’tinn, the

Timanièm hunters and until the disaster at the
Masque Samang.

DOMAIN: The Shaded Souq and Zagan’s tower.

QUIRKS: Yek’Seng has a particular obsessive need

for a special seaweed cultivated from the Shaauru
colonies.

COMBAT: Yek’Seng is not a fighter

and prefers to negotiate his way
out of trouble. He does not mind
bloodshed but prefers not to be
directly involved. His preeminent
manoeuvres are defensive stance,
dodge and calculated strike.

69
 Zagan
Zagan is of the Ma’Alu caste, and once possessed vast
wealth, much of it gained from his consort Fduliea. They
met and lived in the border world of Mount Qaf before
arriving in The Eternal City. But his fortune and status were
threatened when he fell for the charms of an ancient Ghulah
while travelling afar. She seduced and tricked him, and then
she bore him a child, who she named Asha.
ALLIES/HELPERS: Yek’Seng and the rest of the Purveyors
of the Hunt. Asha is devoted to him, and if he is threatened,
Fduliea will lay down her life for him.
DOMAIN: His tower in Khameeliya.
QUIRKS: Zagan is an arrogant braggart who loves to
recount his achievements.

Ignorant of having impregnated the Ghulah, he was horrified
when she showed up and put the young girl in his arms
years later. Realising he had been tricked, Zagan killed the
Ghulah. He could not, however, bring himself to harm or
turn out his daughter.
COMBAT: Zagan is ill-tempered and quick to resort to
violence. He fights using his heavy shamshir in one hand
and his – always worn – claw in the other. His favoured
combat manoeuvres include devastating blow (+1 dmg),
furious charge, all-out attack and wild swing.

Fduliea was devastated and enraged and forced them to As is often the case with Djinn, there is no finesse to his style.
abscond Mount Qaf. Still in love with Zagan, she broods in He utilises a barrage of blows to kill or maim his opponent
her room and has severed Zagan from her wealth until the quickly. If the tide is turning against him; however, he is no
day he disposes of Asha. Zagan has refused and proclaimed fool and will use his esoteric abilities to escape.
he will redeem himself by building a new empire from selling
exotic animals, which is an obsession they share. Fduliea
acceded but remained distant.

Zagan approached Yek’Seng, a specialist in rare creatures, Zagan profile

who was building an illicit team of hunters to rival those of
the prominent Ghurayb Guild. AGILITY 5 HEALTH 30
When Zagan learned Yek’Seng’s group was rejected by the AWARENESS 6 SIZE Medium
guild, he took on the Purveyors of the Hunt as their patron,
providing funds, accommodation and a place to consolidate STAMINA 5 MOVE 6 / 12 (flying)
operations carried out mostly through the Shaded Souq. STRENGTH 4 WEAPON Shamshir (+6)
/ Claws (+3)
His aim is to destabilise the existing guild, undermining their
INTELLECT 4 REACH Adjacent
alliances, poaching or outright killing their captured animals
until they disintegrate as a cartel or become vassals to him. PERSUASION 5 ATT SPEED +2
PRESENCE 7 DMG D12+2 /
Zagan harbours and accommodates Asha because she is D4+2 [1]
his daughter from the prior ill-fated liaison. Even though
WILLPOWER 4 DV 9
he finds her diet rather distasteful, he dotes upon her by
feeding her slaves bought from the aptly named “Feast of PROTECTION 0
Flesh” slave market in the district. In turn, he benefits from
her devotion and can rely on her deadly capabilities and TALENTS/ Ambidexterity and brawny.
shapeshifting powers if need be. FLAWS:

SPECIES: Djann ATTRIBUTES: Aerial, night vision and possession.

POWERS: Void sensitivity, Void cognisance,
APPEARANCE: Zagan has a muscular build, purplish skin, Void acuity, Void gleam, lesser
glowing eyes, pointy ears and neatly trimmed beard. He changeling, aura [Awe/Fear],
occasionally takes the form of a Ba’Waikh while working invisibility, flight and Touch of the
with Yek’Seng to conceal his identity from others. Djinn.
PRIMARY Blade weapons [4 / devastating
GOALS: He seeks to build an empire from selling exotic SKILLS: blow], Unarmed combat [4].
animals to regain his affluence and retain both his consort
and daughter. SPECIAL: Invisibility and touch of the Djinn.
EQUIPMENT: Heavy (+1 dmg & size) and
GARB: Zagan favours sleeveless dressing gowns that show tempered blade (+1 to exc hits),
off his physical endowments, and he adorns himself with needle-point claws [1], fine quality
flamboyant jewellery to emit regal authority. On his right dressing gown, necklaces, armrings,
hand, he has several pale green metal-claws that earrings and hair pins (worth 1000+
function both as ornamentation and a weapon. Dhins).

70
 Groups
Groups && factions
Factions

This section profiles the various adversary groups and factions the protagonists may encounter during the scenario. These
profiles do not include Trait scores and individual capabilities as such is mostly unnecessary for their use. If needed, the
Arbiter can reference the corresponding species profile or determine fitting capabilities if no species is denoted.

Albeit the various groupings regularly include an officer who would be more proficient or differently armed than a regular
member, the profile does not reflect this. An officer profile has an additional +1 to combat skills, a combat skill specialisation
and a customised weapon or enhanced armour to reflect his superior capabilities.

Ghurayb guard profile Ghurayb guild guards

WEAPONS Mace (+4) / Short sword (+2)
This highly trained troupe of guards work exclusively for the
REACH Adjacent
Ghurayb guild, a cartel of exotic beast traders.
ATT SPEED 0
DMG D12+1 (knockdown) / D6+1 Their principal task is protecting the interests and property
of the guild. As such they are armed with maces and
HEALTH 26 generally adopt a defensive style in confrontations unless
DV 9 (10) seriously threatened.
PROTECTION 4
They are versed in formation fighting and gain +1 to attack-
rolls and Defence Value when fighting as a unit.
PRIMARY Blunt weapons [4 / formation
SKILLS: fighting], blade weapons [2], defence Manoeuvres routinely employed by guards in action include
[1] and shield [3]. block, counter-attack, push back, stun and knockdown.
SPECIAL: None
EQUIPMENT: Laminated leather armour (3), small
shield (DV+1) and leather helmet
(1), D12 Dhins and a few personal
items (worth 15+ Dhins).

71
 Jinassar Squadron Civic patrol

Following the attack on Zagan’s tower the Jinassar have been Khameeliya civic guards are armed fighters, trained in
dispatched to deal with the recent incidents in Khameeliya. security, quelling riots, subduing lawbreakers and the like.

If encountered, a Squadron counts eight regulars and one A customary patrol of Civic guards typically comprises four
officer. regular constables, two archer constables and an officer.

All Jinassars are armed with a halberd and have a crowbill as
their secondary weapon for close-quarters fighting.
They are naturally resistant to Mysticism and Void powers,
adding three (3) to the difficulty of any power directed at
them.
Authorised to use deadly force as deemed necessary, the
civic guards rarely hold back when dealing with anyone less
than the aristocracy.
Manoeuvres typically employed by Civic guardsmen include
standard attack, calculated strike and defensive stance.

Jinassar are an adaptive fighting force, employing whichever

manoeuvres will give them the advantage in any given
encounter.
Guardsman profile
WEAPONS Glaive (+4) / short sword (+3)

Jinassar profile REACH Near / adjacent

ATT SPEED 0
WEAPONS Halberd (+8) / Crowbill (+8) DMG 2D6+1 / D6+1
REACH Near / adjacent HEALTH 24
ATT SPEED +4 / +4 DV 8 (9)
DMG 2D6+6 /+5[1] or D12+4 PROTECTION 6
HEALTH 50
DV 10 (11) PRIMARY Polearms [4 / formation fighting],
SKILLS: blade weapons [3] and defence [1].
PROTECTION 11
SPECIAL: None
PRIMARY Polearms [8 / formation fighting / EQUIPMENT: Glaive, short sword, torso metal scale
SKILLS: weapon master], pick axes [7 / quick armour and metal helmet.
draw / onslaught] and defence [3].
SPECIAL: Void resistance [3]
EQUIPMENT: Halberd, crowbill, dagger, full plate
and scale armour and visor helmet.
Archer profile
WEAPONS Composite short bow (+4) / short
sword (+3)
REACH 40/80/120 or adjacent
ATT SPEED -3 / 0
DMG D12+1 [3] / D6+1
HEALTH 24
DV 7
PROTECTION 6

PRIMARY Bows [4] and blade weapons [3].

SKILLS:
SPECIAL: None
EQUIPMENT: Composite short bow, short sword,
torso metal scale armour and metal
helmet.

72
 Souq constables Huntress profile
WEAPONS Spear (+6) / Bow (+6)
These constables are mainly trained to catch pick pockets
and for crowd control. REACH Near or 50/75/100
ATT SPEED +3 / 0
While they are armed with customised, reinforced clubs
making them able to parry incoming blows, they are largely DMG D12+1 [1] / D6+1 [2]
inept at dealing with trained, heavily equipped warriors. HEALTH 27
DV 9
A constable patrol habitually counts five members of which
one is a runner charged with fetching reinforcements if PROTECTION 1
needed.
Constables habitually use manoeuvres such as parry, push PRIMARY Animal handling [2], athletics [4],
back, stun and knockdown. SKILLS: bows [3 / precise shot], polearms
[3].
SPECIAL: Climbs at regular speed and inverted
movement.
Constable profile EQUIPMENT: Spear, leather pauldrons (1), bow and
arrows, sparse clothing, hunting gear,
tribal amulets and stone dagger.
WEAPONS Club (+3 / parry) / Short sword (+2)
REACH Adjacent
ATT SPEED 0/0
Being hunters, the Timaniém generally seek to avoid a
DMG D6 (knockdown) / D6
straight-up fight.
HEALTH 21
DV 7 Preferring to utilise their often superior dexterity and ability
to climb trees and other elevated objects with ease to stay
PROTECTION 4 out of range of attackers, the huntresses employ their own
long-range weaponry of spears and bows.
PRIMARY Blunt weapons [3] and blade weapons
SKILLS: [2]. Their favoured manoeuvres include lunge, sneak attack,
SPECIAL: None swift strike and swooping attack while swinging from tree
branches or similar.
EQUIPMENT: Strapped and reinforced club, studded
leather, leather helmet and leather
bracers.

Timaniém huntresses

This tribe of Timaniém huntresses have accepted

employment from Yek’Seng and act as his hunting posse for
catching beasts and monsters.

They double as protectors for Yek’Seng, Su’tinn and Zagan

when they are not out on the trail. Although not a fighting
force as such, their innate abilities and savage traditions
make them formidable adversaries.

They are fiercely loyal to each other and hold Yek’Seng in

high esteem.
They have little devotion towards Zagan or Su’tinn but will
serve them at the direction of Yek’Seng.

73
 Beasts
B e a sts
Muqai
DESCRIPTION: Muqai is a large brute species easily
recognisable by their snouted faces covered in bony plates
with jagged protrusions giving them a fearsome and savage
look. Even though they possess rudimentary cunning and
limited cognitive capabilities, they are considered savage
animals by most civilised species.
Muqai are exceedingly strong and can move their brawny
bodies with surprising speed. Their massive forelimbs are
used for propulsion as well as functioning as their primary
appendages, making them able to run as a quadruped but
manipulate objects similarly to primates.
Four disproportionally small eyes grant them peripheral
although extremely near-sighted vision. They cannot discern
anything other than blurry shapes beyond a twenty cubit
distance. Their large ears enable them to detect faint sounds
across long distances, making them aware beyond their
limited field of vision.
74
Muqai can be indoctrinated and trained into reasonably
reliable labourers if they are kept content. Anecdotes of
warlords taking advantage of their innate territorial and
aggressive nature to deploy them as beast soldiers thrive.
Any such appliance of Muqai requires a handler to direct
and control them.
LIFECYCLE: Muqai females give birth to a single muqlet at
irregular intervals and ween them for a short period until
they are independent and can forage and hunt themselves.
It is uncertain how old Muqai can get, but an estimate is set
at about 60 Llyhn seasons.
HABITAT: Muqai live in herds of up to several dozen
individuals and have rather intricate social structures
considering their limited cognitive capabilities.
The groupings are unpredictable and transient, with
members continuously joining and leaving herds depending
on food availability and social factors.
While Muqai in no way can be considered civilised, they are
not mere beasts either – as is evident in the clear hierarchies
and social patterns displayed within herds.
A dominant bull is an alpha with multiple lesser
males acting as his deputies within
the herd. Larger herds have been
known to split up into smaller
segments while still controlled
by the alpha bull and remaining
within the territory.
For unknown reasons multiple
herds will intermittently merge
into an immense herd and move
across continents, migrating
vast numbers of Muqai
from one landmass to
another.
 Herds tend to attack en masse – a rampaging flurry of teeth,
talons and jagged bony protrusions swarming towards the
perceived threat.

Whether an individual or as a group, the Muqai will

ferociously trample an opponent if given enough space to
do so. If the threat is still standing after this, they will attack
with wild swings, all-out attacks and crushing blows using
talons, head-butts and teeth.
Such events are rare, but when they occur, they vastly upset
the natural ecology of wherever the great herd eventually
settles.

OCCURRENCE: Muqai are common on their homeworld

Muqai
and exceedingly rare anywhere else. AGILITY 2 HEALTH 54
AWARENESS 3 SIZE Large
BEHAVIOUR: The species is highly territorial and will
STAMINA 6 MOVE 14
engage in prolonged skirmishes with other herds over good
hunting and foraging grounds. They are also known to attack STRENGTH 7 WEAPON Talons / head-
presumed threats such as predators or sentient species that butt
unwittingly wander into their area. INTELLECT 1 REACH Near / adjacent

The social structure of Muqai is most consistent during the PERSUASION 0 ATT MOD +5 / +3
autumn birthing period. During this time, Alpha bulls have PRESENCE 5 ATT SPEED 0 / -1
firmly established their territories and are focused on the
WILLPOWER 3 DMG D6+5 / 2D6+5
birthing females of their respective herds.
DV 5
Should anyone encroach upon the birthing grounds during PROTECTION 3
this period, they will immediately be set upon by the alpha
bull and his deputies.
TALENTS/ Brawny, Vigilant, High Pain Threshold /
FLAWS Impaired vision (mild)
DIET: Muqai are omnivores, hunting and foraging in equal
measure. Depending on the size of a herd, the grounds ATTRIBUTES Medium claws, Massive knobbly horns
required to sustain it may be vast. (DR1), Large, Long arms, tough scaly
skin (DR2).
ENCOUNTERS: Being somewhat intelligent, Muqai can be SPECIAL Ferocious trample.
placated and primitive communication established, although
any interaction is tenuous at best.

In their native habitat, Muqai will instinctively react

aggressively towards any outsider perceived as a threat
against the herd or encroaching upon the territory.
Muqai are social creatures and will act in unison in most
circumstances. If trust is established between a Muqai and
someone, that individual is considered as part of the herd.
The remaining herd will protect and treat the individual as
an equal.
If provoked or threatened, a Muqai will posture and try
to intimidate the agitator into relenting. Overt displays of
aggression such as throwing boulders and boisterous braying
are typically employed to achieve this.
Although a charging herd of Muqai is daunting, it is
relatively easy to outwit them. An enraged Muqai will be
solely focused on its immediate target – largely unaware
of anything else going on around them – giving opponents
adept at exploiting terrain and applying tactics a distinct
advantage.
FEROCIOUS TRAMPLE: A charging Muqai will overrun an
opponent, striking with its knobbly head or pounding with
its fists adding a further +3 modifier to its attack, causing
3D6+3 dmg and knockdown [size difference +3].

Should the rival refuse to yield from the display, the

Muqai will eventually charge, using its immense bulk and
remarkable natural weaponry to tear the agitator limb from
limb.

COMBAT: Once committed to violence, incensed Muqai

are unrelenting until the perceived threat is eliminated or
they themselves draw their last breath.

75
 ENCOUNTERS: Coming across a Nadhir is exceedingly
Nadhir unusual as they are rare, reticent, small and blend remarkably
well with their surroundings.

DESCRIPTION: Arboreal Nadhirs are small, nocturnal
mammals, less than a cubit in length and height, with
hardened, overlapping plate-like keratin scales covering their
skin. They have short legs, and sharp claws for climbing and
burrowing into insect mounds.
They have an enhanced sense of smell, and their tongues are
incredibly long, perfect features for a diet that consists of
mainly ants and termites. Observers often say it resembles
a pinecone. These creatures are sometimes harvested
for traditional medicine on their homeworld, their scales
believed to have medicinal properties.
Those encountering the Nadhir speak of an almost irresistible
urge to stare at it, touch it despite the sharp scales, and its
presence is such that some monastic orders cage it and use
it as the focus of meditations.
Their meat is considered a delicacy, and it is widely
believed that consuming Nadhir grants prophetic visions.
It is rumoured among blood ritualists that the creature
consumed as part of sacrificial divination confers incredible
intuitive foresight, even invoking portents and premonitions.
Should a lucky Voidfarer ever happen upon one, it is
likely to stand and curiously observe the intruder before
scampering off into the undergrowth or up a trunk into the
protective foliage.
COMBAT: A Nadhir has no inclination to fight and will
always attempt to flee. If flight is not an option the Nadhir
curls up into a ball, tucking its face under its tail, its sharp
scales acting as armour. It can emit a pheromone – resisted
by Willpower [4] – which seems to affect most sentient
species, compelling them to draw close and touch it.
This effect may seem counter-intuitive for the purpose of
self-protection, but the creature has an ability to determine
intent upon touch, along the spectrum of hostility to
innocuousness.
If it detects hostility, it secretes a poison through glands
between its scales. The liquid oozes along its sharp plates
and absorbs quickly through bare skin upon touch. The
Poison takes effect within D4 minutes after which the victim
feels dazed (see delirium page 148 of the core rulebook),
lasting for D12 minutes.

LIFECYCLE: Nadhirs are solitary animals, mating rarely,
their litters only one to three offspring.
HABITAT: The species live exclusively in the vast pine
forests of their homeworld, spending their days in the
treetop foliage of the giant blue pines.
Anyone affected by the poison will be unable to use their
esoteric powers or abilities for D3 days – roll separately for
each possessed power and ability.
Additionally, the sharp edges along the scales cut for D2
damage upon touch.

They only come down to the ground for nightly

foraging and feeding. Nadhirs tend to live in
solitude, only congregating during mating
season and if accidentally crossing
paths.

OCCURRENCE: The Arboreal

Nadhir is unique to their native
homeworld and is extremely rare
even there.

BEHAVIOUR: The species is rarely focused on

anything but foraging. They often stand erect on
their hind legs to survey their surroundings, looking
for food or danger.

They tend to spend most of the daylight hours

high in the treetops away from danger and most
predators. At sunset, they descend to the forest
floor to rummage through the undergrowth
looking for food.

DIET: The Arboreal Nadhir feed mainly upon small

insects and occasionally larvae found either on the
ground or in the bark of the giant blue pines they live in.

76
ABILITIES: For inexplicable reasons, the blood of an
Arboreal Nadhir is exceedingly potent when used in Blood Sorq
rituals.

In sacrificial divination the Nadhir blood grants a +4 roll DESCRIPTION: This bipedal sprinter varies in height from
modifier and in Bloodletting rituals it counts as potency 25, small specimens of about two cubits tall to giant varieties
but with a +4 boon modifier. Furthermore, an exceptional standing up to four cubits.
success is achieved on a roll of 11+ in any blood ritual
involving a Nadhir. The species has strangely overlapping layered skin ranging
from pinkish yellow to deep brown. Its limbs are relatively
If the Nadhir’s toxin can be obtained it can be used to thin for its somewhat bulbous body, but they can run and
suppress esoteric abilities, powers and influence when sprint exceedingly fast for their size.
ingested.
A long whipping tail with sail-like membranes helps them
keep balance and steer during sprinting. If Sorqs are trapped
or injured, long claws on the front limbs can cause nasty
Nadhir cuts dissuading predators from coming close.
AGILITY 3 HEALTH 12
Sorq meat is a delicacy across many worlds for its rich
AWARENESS 5 SIZE Little flavour and difficulty in obtaining. It is alleged that the
STAMINA 2 MOVE 4 gizzard found in a fleshy pouch between the creatures’
STRENGTH 1 WEAPON - legs have remedial or aphrodisiacal properties if prepared
correctly.
INTELLECT 0 REACH -
PERSUASION 0 ATT MOD - SUBSPECIES: Several subspecies varying in height and
colour exist.
PRESENCE 6 ATT SPEED D2 (sharp scales)
WILLPOWER 0 DMG 7
DV 3
PROTECTION 3

ATTRIBUTES Small claws, keratin scaly skin (DR3)

and tail.
SPECIAL Pheromones, toxins and enhanced blood
potency

77
 LIFECYCLE: Sorq calves are on their feet very shortly after
being born and can keep pace with their parent in less than Sorq
half a day after birth. AGILITY 4 HEALTH 12
Sorq have relatively short lives, rarely living more than 15 AWARENESS 4 SIZE Small to medium
Llyhn seasons. Old, weak or injured individuals get left STAMINA 2 MOVE 7 / 21 / 35
behind if they are unable to keep up with the herd.
STRENGTH 2 WEAPON Claws
HABITAT: Sorqs are placid herbivores only found on open INTELLECT 0 REACH Adjacent
plains and savannahs where they can utilise their speed to PERSUASION 0 ATT MOD +2
get away from predators and hunters.
PRESENCE 0 ATT SPEED +2
They tend to live in small herds of no more than seven WILLPOWER 0 DMG D4
individuals and are quite skittish, running away at the mere
DV 9
hint of danger.
PROTECTION 0
OCCURRENCE: In their home ranges, Sorq are quite
plentiful but rarely seen as they usually bolt well before TALENTS/ Fast reflexes, Fleet of foot, Acute sight
being spotted. FLAWS and Alertness.
ATTRIBUTES Claws.
The species can be found in abundance on the Ka’Alum
federation world of Ren’Sur as well as multiple former
Je’ehl empire worlds. Which world they originate from is
unknown.

BEHAVIOUR: Sorq are very skittish and shy, even towards
other herbivorous wildlife. They keep to their herd for
their entire life unless the flock grows too big and splits into
smaller herds.
The small herd size enables the creatures to avert detection
and allows them to swiftly and efficiently disappear into the
low brush or similar hiding places where large flocks could
not hide.
DIET: Sorq eat a variety of grasses and leaves, depending on
which world they are found on. It was recently discovered
that if fed fresh Mima leaves a Sorq becomes frantic and
aggressive for a brief period.
While the species can be hunted efficiently with traps and
snares, an ensnared Sorq lashing out with its claws can be
dangerous if approached.
COMBAT: Sorqs will only ever attack if panicked, such as
if its young are threatened, or evidently if fed Mima leaves.
In such a case, the creature will frenetically pace about,
striking swiftly and viciously at anyone coming close.
Sorq have been known to claw at predators or hunters faces,
clearly recognising that attacking can act as a deterrence - as
such, the species can only utilise standard, swooping and
called attacks.

ENCOUNTERS: Sorq are so wary and skittish that unless

they are actively stalked, they are unlikely to be spotted
even if nearby.

78
 Maps
Maps
Khameeliya

400 cubits / 200 metres

79
 Arijwani Tavern

12 cubits / 6 metres

80
 The Masque

28 cubits / 14 metres

The stage

12 cubit
s / 6 metres

81
 The Shaded Souq

44 cubits / 22 metres

82
 Zagan’s Tower

Ground f loor

6 cubits / 3 metres

83
 Zagan’s Tower

2nd f loor

6 cubits / 3 metres

3rd f loor

84
 Zagan’s Tower

4th f loor

6 cubit
s / 3 metres

5th f loor

85
 Ghurayb guild domicile

60 cubits / 30 metres

86
Kana’ra’s mansion

32 cubits / 16 metres

87
AN ESOTERIC ROLE-PLAYING GAME ABOUT
THE FALL AND RESURGENCE OF HUMANITY.

The 424 page full-colour hardback core book

contains all rules and content needed to play
and run the dark esoteric role-playing game
BLACK VOID.

Testimonials
“Black Void is probably one of the most
interesting and unique fantasy settings out there,
where the players take on the roles of human
survivors in a dark world, heavily influenced by
Arabian Nights, cosmic horrors and Lovecraft.”
– Thorsteinn Mar, Yawningportal.org

“If I could present an award for Best New Setting of

2019, Black Void would take home the gold. [...] as a prominent fan
of dark fantasy, and other horror-influenced setting, I love the approach
taken by this RPG… in multiple aspects.“ - roleplayerschronicle.com

“Genuinely unique fantasy setting - Black Void is a beautifully realized rpg setting and
perfectly workable ruleset. The art is high quality and the book is laid out in a way that
makes sense.” - Amazon user review

“Black Void is a fantastically dark RPG with a unique twist on the genre. As a huge fan of
dark fantasy, I find myself continually drawn to the easy-play nature of this game which
makes it a great game to introduce beginners to.” - Will Jones, Encounterroleply

“Deep game with simple mechanics. […] Have a go at this wonderfully

illustrated and written game!” – Modiphius.net review

Find all BLACK VOID releases and products in the webshop,

other online stores or ask your friendly local gaming store.

• BLACK VOID: CORE RULE BOOK

• BLACK VOID: ARBITER’S SCREEN
• BLACK VOID: THOSE WHO WOULD BE GODS (CAMPAIGN)
• BLACK VOID: D12, D6 & D4 DICE

More release to come...

FREE DOWNLOADS

• BLACK VOID: THE FLIGHT FROM SALVATION SQUARE (DOWNLOAD)

• BLACK VOID: PRE-GENERATED CHARACTERS (DOWNLOAD)

WWW.BLACKVOIDGAMES.COM
 dark dealings

Shaded
in the

Souq
While establishing contact with a burgeoning human commune in the
Khameeliya district, the protagonists find themselves framed for massacring a
batch of exotic animals belonging to the powerful Ghurayb guild.

Incriminated in a virulent conspiracy and seeking to exonerate themselves

before vigilante justice catches up to them, they unwittingly stumble across a
plot with implications far beyond the Eternal City.

The protagonists have to use whatever guile, diplomacy and martial prowess
they can muster to survive the intricate manoeuvrings of traders, esoteric
beings and callous killers alike.

Dark dealings in the Shaded Souq takes the protagonists on an exhilarating

adventure, introducing the characters to the intrigue and viciousness hidden
beneath the pristine facades and gilded domes of the Khameeliya district.

“Dark dealings in the Shaded Souq” is the first in a series of Black Void
scenarios that can be played separately or readily integrated into ongoing
campaigns. The exciting storyline is self-contained but encompasses events tied
to the grand campaign, making it a must-have accessory for the discerning
Black Void player and Arbiter.

The scenario is ideally suited for four to six characters,

each in the 65-75 character points range.

IN THE UNKNOWN | BEYOND THE HORIZON | WHAT IS HUMANITY

WWW.BLACKVOIDGAMES.COM
Print-friendly character sheet and other resources available for download

ISBN 978-87-93781-07-8

TM

W W W . M O D I P H I U S . N E T BVG016D / MUH052118-PDF