Professional Documents
Culture Documents
The Palace of The Walls That Scream Beta v1.0
The Palace of The Walls That Scream Beta v1.0
Antefatto
Rumors
- The massacre was due to the House
Torelli, now living in Guastalla, as
revenge against the Este. House Torelli
was a powerful house of giants (same size
as ogres) in Ferrara that was driven out
of the city when the Este were called in
to support the House of Adelardi. After
the expulsion, the Este gradually absorbed
the House of Adelardi by establishing
their own government. This rumor is
false, but the premise is true.
- One of Niccolo’s many daughters has come
to collect her father’s inheritance (false).
- Extreme orgiastic tales paint Niccolò’s
rooms as a true nightmare (true)
- Artists were summoned by the Lord
of the House of Este, the Duke, a
great patron of the arts, to make the
palace even more sumptuous. Many of
the inner factions of the lineage wanted
Beginning of the ecumenical calendar, Spring to request moody enchantments on
The City the artworks, the artists will never say
of year 1.
T he God’s Truce has just ended, and armies which ones (at the GM’s discretion)
When the characters arrive in Ferrara, - Cosmè Tura in the winter months had
are on the move. Imperial delegations, deeply they will find the city awash with rumors
involved with the Este family, have arrived a remarkable change of style, creating
and superstitions, with preachers at street eerie and grotesque works (true)
to test their allegiance to the Empire. T he corners, mercenary companies hired for
Pax Dei and the Treuga Dei have come to - The Torelli are trying to get back into
the protection of the wealthy, and a the Emperor’s good graces by financing
a close, with emissaries and nobles flocking to brutal and repressive state enforced by
the palace. Street artists, including playwrights and sending soldiers and knights to
the Este and the Imperials. Fossalta, between Modena and Bologna,
and acrobats disguised from Modena, add to In this atmosphere, the characters can
the bustling atmosphere. T he palace overflows where a great battle is about to take place
seek information in inns, market squares, in the coming months. (true)
with art, commissioned by Ercole d’Este, and other places such as the shops of
showcasing the grandeur and cultural richness - Giulio d’Este has been missing from
dentists and barbers, who are particularly the court since his fight with his brother
of the era. busy treating the victims of the dreadful Ippolito (true)
night.
The premonitions of The imperial troops are especially
Floramonda The Palace
frightened; they do not speak the local
Floramonda has clairvoyant powers; her family In front of the palace wave the black and
dialects but the priests can communicate
has a past connected with the stars. T his gold banners of the empire, and the silver
in Latin. They wear Gothic armors and
ability of Floramonda made her an excellent and blue banners of the Este. Silver-
wear the yellow and gold colors of the
fighter on Mediterranean ships. Many of feathered eagles (new monster) patrol the
Empire.
the Malvasias have powers connected to the castle along the moats, while the beautiful
Este troops dress in white and blue robes,
stars, such as her powerful uncle Cornelius paladin Bradamante stands motionless day
speak the local dialect, and tend to be less
Malvasia (see OT00). Floramonda can and night in front of the gateway, her
suspicious than the Imperials. Living at
be an N PC in the adventure if not played armor and sacred silver sword in her fist.
court, some of them know hearsay about
as a PG. Before the adventure, she sees Bradamante’s husband, Ruggiero, is
the d’Este family.
bloodwraiths coming out of the Castle tapestries currently in the Holy Land, fighting
and catches a glimpse of a one-eyed man, for the Crusade against Agolant and
Giulio. the infidels. She has been categorically
5
The Imperial Domain of the House of Este
6
prevented by Niccolò from ever entering
the palace, for reasons that can be guessed.
Not only members of the imperial
delegation were lost in the night,
but also nobles and commoners.
Award px for each person recovered
who is in “salvageable” condition.
1) healthy
2) healthy, but in shock
3) apparently healthy but possessed by
an infraworld demon
4) severely injured, with glass, burning
embers, boiling liquids, or the claws tableau of perfectly manicured trees, their the bodies have been partially devoured
of a mirrorwraith, shattered psyche, branches frozen in time. in the softer parts, like the intestines.
unrecoverable It’s clear to the characters that a
5) severely wounded but spiritually The mirrorwraiths have chaed two collective madness seems to have struck
intact young paesant girls that were bought by the guests. The food consumed at the
6-10) slightly wounded, but will have Niccolò from a local farm to the south banquet varied, and it appears that some
perpetual nightmares close to the border with Ravenna. When substance added to the various sauces,
the chaos erupted in the palace, the girls which sizzle when hit with holy water,
1) Hall, remains of the managed to escape here in the well. The was responsible for the contamination.
mirrorwraiths cannot reach the gilrls at Those who did not inflict injuries upon
imperial delegation the bottom. themselves instead tried to attack other
Mirrorwraiths (1-2): hp 45 each, use guests or the servants themselves. Only
Upon entering the castle, the PGs will statistics as wight. two servants had eaten the nobles’ food
encounter the remains of the imperial and are now found among the tables,
delegation and Duchy nobles who have
been trapped in the palace, wandering 3) The lemon grove writhing in madness. If forced to vomit,
blessed by a priest, and allowed to rest,
the corridors in an unconscious they can recount what happened. Severe
state. The deformed footprints Hidden within overgrown foliage and
obscured by mist, a mirrorwraith retreats damage to the yellow bile is permanent
of the Mirrorwraiths will give the after this effect.
PGs confirmation that something here, blending with the shadows cast by
otherworldly is afoot. exotic, twisted plants coming from far
corners of the world. Its presence is only 3) Kitchen, remains of the
betrayed by a subtle distortion in the banquet and Messisbugo
2) Orchards and gardens reflection of the glass panes.
Mirrorwraiths (1): hp 45 In this scenario the PGs meet the court
As you pass through the archway, the
Garden of the Palazzo dei Diamanti greets steward, Cristoforo di Messisbugo.
you with an almost surreal calm. T he sun 4) The Banquet Hall Cristoforo was corrupted by Giulio’s
hangs high in the sky, yet the garden exudes influence, who appeared in his dreams
an uncanny stillness. T he meticulously cut Dozens of bodies are strewn across the suggesting that particular herbs and
diamond-patterned walls of the palazzo cast floor in this grand hall. mushrooms be mixed into the banquet.
precise geometric shadows, lending the scene Many of them still have their eyes wide Christopher is still in the kitchen, intent
an unnatural, almost staged quality. open, many have disrobed, and others on assembling a huge tray of meats,
T he silence is absolute, as if sound itself fears have inflicted various degrees of injury vegetables, and fruit gelatines intermixed
to tread in this place. T he garden is an eerie upon their bodies, often with knives and with flaps of human skin, bones, and
fragments of glass or ceramics. Some of other remains of mirrorwraith victims.
6) Castle mirrors
7) Ippolito’s Quarters
9
11) The Wine Cellar evidently part of some dark ritual, linked gate from Palazzo Diamanti to the Este
to the madness that overtook those who Castle is located in this chamber.
Behind a hidden panel in the wine cellar, attended the banquet. The fight against Giulio is long and
a small, mirror-lined chamber serves as a The garden’s maidens vividly recall the exhausting as the creatures will protect
perfect hiding spot for the mirrorwraith, gaunt man covered in blood, moving the tapestry and will continue to our out
where it blends with the reflections of through Giulio’s chambers in the last of the mirrors. However, ripping the
dusty wine bottles. days, a room atop a high tower. Cosmè tapestry apart or burning it is enough to
had a room in the guest wing and would make the whole delirium stop.
return barefoot to his quarters wrapped The adventure is not over with the
12) Giulio’s Quarters
in a large white sheet, which he then had defeat of Giulio however, Bradamante
the maids wash. will pretend to know what happened
Evidence of Giulio’s transactions with
This particular room houses a large inside, and Niccolò III will quickly
Cosmè Tura can be unearthed in this
mirror with a tub of fresh water in front return to court, the girls in the garden
room. There are records of funds
of it and a vast, enigmatic tapestry that might need protection, and to top it off,
dispensed to the painter, along with
connects the room to the underworld. the Emperor will be extremely displeased
traces of toxic and cursed substances
Here, the characters will confront Giulio, about what happened and the characters
used to bring the artist under his control
a grand visage reflected in the mirror. A might be easy scapegoat for the deranged
initially, and others far more lethal,
House.
10
Pregenerated Characters
Additional details on the PCs can be found on the website ofironandthorns.com
honor. She is stern and uncompromising, Mace. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit,
but is fair and just in her dealings. reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: (1d6 + 1)
Because of her rough ways she is often bludgeoning damage.
ill-tolerated by those who encounter her. Healing Word. A creature of Teobaldo’s
Due to her aristocratic background, she choice that can hear him within 30 feet
is accustomed to a certain standard of regains 1d4 + 3 hit points.
living and can be somewhat haughty at Equipment: Chain mail, mace, shield, holy
times. She is sanguine. symbol, 5 sticks of incense, vestments,
Tactics common clothes, belt pouch containing 10
Floramonda is a capable fighter, a skilled GP, Herbalism Kit.
tactician and is able to quickly assess a Features and Traits
situation and come up with a plan of Channel Divinity: Turn Undead. As
attack. She is mostly a first line fighter, an action, Teobaldo presents his holy
she likes camp life. symbol and speaks a prayer censuring the
Floramonda Malvasia History undead. Each undead that can see or hear
Medium humanoid (human), lawful good Floramonda has been trained in the art him within 30 feet of him must make a
Armor Class: 16 (splint mail, shield) of combat since she was a child, a career Wisdom saving throw. If the creature
Hit Points 35 (4d10 + 8) she wanted for herself, a born warrior. fails its saving throw, it is turned for 1
Speed: 30 ft. She was recently on a mission to Cyprus minute or until it takes damage.
| Str | Dex | Con | Int | Wis | Cha | to fight against the corsairs. Her house Healing Hands. As an action, Teobaldo
| 14(+2) | 12(+1) | 14(+2) | 10(+0) | 15(+2) | 8(-1) | became popular in Bononia, where they can touch a creature and cause it to regain
Skills: Athletics +4, Insight +4, were selling wines. a number of hit points equal to his level.
Intimidation +1, Perception +4 Personality. Teobaldo is a phlegmatic
Senses: passive Perception 14 man in the Galenic sense, calm and
Languages: Common unemotional. He has a deep knowledge
Sanctity tier: 1 of herbalism and medicine, and is always
Actions prepared with a variety of herbs and
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 cataplasms to treat various ailments. He
to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: (1d8 is not one to rush into action, preferring
+ 2) slashing damage. to carefully consider his options before
Javelin. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: acting. He is dedicated to his faith and to
+4 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 30/120 helping others, but can sometimes be seen
ft., one target. Hit: (1d6 + 2) piercing as distant or aloof due to his reserved
damage. nature.
Equipment: Splint mail, shield, longsword, Tactics
2 javelins, backpack, bedroll, mess kit, Teobaldo is a competent healer and
tinderbox, 10 torches, 10 days of rations, Father Teobaldo of Bononia support character, using his spells and
waterskin, 5 GP. Medium humanoid (human), lawful herbalism skills to keep his allies alive
Features and Traits neutral and healthy. He prefers to stay at range,
House Malvasia Heriloom. A gift of the Armor Class: 14 (chain mail) using his mace and spells to damage
blood of his household, Floramonda can Hit Points: 18 (3d8 + 3) enemies from a safe distance. He will use
predict ambushes by watching the sky Speed: 30 ft. his Channel Divinity to turn undead if
at night. Every starry night she can get | Str | Dex | Con | Int | Wis | Cha | he encounters them.
insight from the constellations and will | 8(-1) | 14(+2) | 12(+1) | 10(+0) | 16(+3) | 13(+1) History
gain a new chance on any roll that can Skills: Medicine +5, Religion +2, Herbalism Father Theobald is a deeply committed
benefit from foresight. Kit +5 and knowledgeable cleric of the Benedictine
Personality Senses: passive Perception 13 Order, specializing in demonology and
Floramonda was a dignified and esteemed Languages: Common, Celestial angelology. He is compassionate and
warrior during his career in the southern Sanctity tier: 0 wise, offering guidance and healing while
lands, with a strong sense of duty and Actions staunchly opposing heresy and darkness.
11
His extensive experience in the Church piercing, and slashing damage. The rage
has given him a profound understanding lasts for 1 minute and ends early if the Erasmus of Brixíllum
of the forces of holiness and damnation barbarian is knocked unconscious or if
within the Empire. He is adept at their turn ends and they haven’t attacked Medium humanoid (human), neutral
interpreting Enochian texts, making a hostile creature or taken damage since good
him a valuable ally in battles against their last turn. Armor Class: 10
supernatural entities. Ostracized from his Feral Instinct. The barbarian has Hit Points: 22 (3d8+3)
monastery for aiding Corio, a converted advantage on initiative rolls. Speed: 30 ft.
Personality | Str | Dex | Con | Int | Wis | Cha |
Celt, he joined Floramonda Malvasia’s
Corio is a melancholic and introverted | 10(+0) | 10(+0) | 12(+1) | 16(+3) | 14(+2) |
company, contributing his scholarly and
individual, with a primal and feral nature. 10(+0)|
spiritual expertise to their efforts against
supernatural threats. Floramonda, advised He is fiercely independent and self- Skills: Medicine +4, Arcana +5, History
by the premonitory powers of her house, sufficient, relying on his instincts and +5, Calligraphy Kit +5
welcomed Father Theobald and Corio, his connection to the natural world to Senses: passive Perception 12
a decision she has not regretted so far. survive. He is not particularly social, but Languages: Common, Celestial, Elvish
can be fiercely protective of his allies and Challenge: 2 (450 XP)
Actions
his territory. Due to his simian traits, he
can be seen as primitive and devolved by Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon
other races. He is a cannibal. Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range
Tactics 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: (1d4) piercing
Corio possesses a primal instinct and as damage.
such can sometimes be unpredictable even Equipment: Dagger, calligraphy kit,
in battle. common clothes, belt pouch containing 10
History GP.
Corio’s life changed when the Papal Features and Traits
forces strengthened their military in Polymath. Erasmo is a scholar of many
the Bologna hills. Father Theobald, fields, with knowledge in a wide variety
then a young initiate, was among those of subjects. Erasmo has knowledge of
deployed. Corio, serving as a lookout astrology and can interpret astrological
during a Celtic attack, prevented a charts and omens.
Corio massacre by not disclosing the location of Painting Activation. Erasmo has the
Medium humanoid (celt), chaotic neutral survivors. Subsequently, Theobald saved ability to activate paintings of Barnaba
Armor Class: 14 (hide armor) him by requesting him as a laborer for in Fanano.
Hit Points: 35 (6d8 + 6) the diocese. Corio, having survived the Personality
Speed: 40 ft., climb 30 ft. plague, worked as a monatto hiding in the Erasmo is a curious and inquisitive man,
| Str | Dex | Con | Int | Wis | Cha | shadows. After the Night of Screams, with a thirst for knowledge and a desire
| 16(+3) | 14(+2) | 12(+1) | 8(-1) | 12(+1) | 8(-1) Corio, being unbaptzed and vulnerabile to to understand the world around him.
Skills: Athletics +5, Nature +3, Perception possession, became demonically possessed He is a skilled medic, astrologer, and
+3, Survival +3 but was later freed by Father Theobald. calligrapher, and takes great pride in his
Senses: passive Perception 13 Lady Floramonda’s return to Bologna work.
Tactics
Languages: Common, Sylvan marked another turn in his life, as she
Erasmo is not a combatant, and prefers
Challenge: 3 (700 XP) decided to include Corio and Theobald
to avoid conflict whenever possible. He
Actions in her company, leading them to leave
will use his knowledge of medicine and
Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to Bologna to serve God’s will.
astrology to help his allies.
hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: (1d12 + History
3) slashing damage. Erasmus, born into a prestigious family
Javelin. Melee or Ranged Weapon known for academic achievements, spent
Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range his early life in a Benedictine monastery in
30/120 ft., one target. Hit: (1d6 + 3) Brixíllum, receiving a rigorous education
piercing damage. that fueled his passion for learning.
Equipment Hide armor, greataxe, 2 Excelling in various subjects, he attended
javelins, backpack, bedroll, mess kit, the University of Ferrara, where he stood
tinderbox, 10 torches, 10 days of rations, out academically and explored areas like
waterskin, 5 GP. magic, alchemy, and arts. At 30, Erasmus
Features and Traits chose a life of adventure over a religious
Rage. As a bonus action, the barbarian career, joining a mercenary company.
can enter a rage, gaining advantage on Now aged 65, he battles numerous health
Strength checks and saving throws, issues, relying on his knowledge of herbs,
dealing extra damage with melee weapons, pagan remedies, amulets, and alchemical
and gaining resistance to bludgeoning, mixtures to manage his ailments.
12
Non-Player Characters Cosmè Tura
CN polymath 10
Age: 38
responsive but not immune to these Background: Cosmè is a telented artist
suggestions. See spell suggestion, characters whose paintings has influenced everyone
with at least one level of sanctity enjoy else in the court of the Estes. His art
advantage on saving throws. is textural and mournful, and since
Giulio can also summon a mirrorwraith residing in the palace it has taken on a
in defense of the tapestry in his tower, macabre and disturbing note, particularly
at the rate of one every 3 rounds. in recent months. Cosmè possesses the
fluids of all the members of the House
Bradamante of Este, and he safeguards them together
LG Paladin Saint of the 3rd Era with the court physician and sometimes
Age: 500+ the dispensary Cristofo di Messisbugo.
Background: Bradamante is a quasi- Cosmè is the one who has the final say
goddess, she was originally responsible on which humor to use in whatever
for the foundation of the House of Este situation. He planned and united all the
under the blessing of the First Emperor Delights of the Duchy with the blood of
Charlemagne. An high-tier saint of the household. Today a hostage of Giulio,
Giulio d’Este the Church, she is so distant and aloof his mind has degenerated but he will
CE Watcher of the Tapestries today, but at the same time so powerful, recover once Giulio’s tapestry is destroyed
Age: 27 that she is one of the main reasons the Personality: Cosmè is a passionate but
Background: a bastard son of the house, Ducal City of Ferrara has never been rather stern man, dedicated to his art
Giulio, whose instincts were perhaps directly attacked, nor its authority never and the knowledge of things materal
amplified by the palace’s lugubrious lust- put to question. She was present at the and not. Since he has been completely
fueled air, often gave vent to irrepressible beginning of the Fourth Era and the dominated by Giulio, he has a glassy,
desires that led him into escalating crowning of the First Emperor. His dumbfounded look on his face, and walks
conflicts with his half-brother Ippolito. bethroted husband, Ruggiero, previously around the halls of the palace naked
Perhaps under charm from the artist bard an infidel, is nowadays taking part in the covered in blood, sometimes his own.
Rainaldo Da Sassulo, he became morbidly Crusades in the Holy Lands. Bradamante
obsessed with a court lady in the service is one of the Three Paladin Protectors of Lodovico Ariosto
of the household. Ippolito then tried to the House of Este. She commands and N bard 13
assassinate Julius, who had taken refuge can communicate with the Silver Eagles Age: 40 (current body)
in Brexillum, a small town in the Duchy. (new monster). Her stat are not given Background: Ludovico is a court bard
Exploiting the magic of the tapestries, here but, if needed, consider her a 15th of the House of Este, at the service of
Julius though half-breed reaches the palace level paladin with the powers of a deva. Ippolito, Giulio’s half-brother. He knows
of the Diamonds where rendered insane Personality: Bradamante has seen it all. most of the secrets of the family but
by the demons of Infraworld, he will She has fought along Roland and Charles wisely remains distant from the power
sacrifice his eye to uniquely bind the Martel against the infidels and the struggle. He could not deny speaking to
canvases to himself. satanic armies of Agolant the Undead Bradamante, and he acts as her eyes since
Personality: Giulio is now shapeless, Sultan. Her silences are such that people Niccolò prohibited her from entering the
incorporeal and has lost self-perception believe she is mute; in fact she can be halls. His situation is’nt easy at all but he
in the sanguinous tapestries of Cosmè seen conversing, albeit rarely, only with is really a talented poet, being protected
Tura. He can appear as a naked human Lodovico Ariosto, the famous bard. by Bradamante he is also a protected of
covered in blood, one eye removed Bradamante will not enter the palace in the Empire. No one in his right mind
from its socket. He is now condemned this scenario, as she has been subject to dares to harm him. he was chosen by the
to remain in his tower within the Este a binding by Marquis Niccolo III, who House several centuries ago as the eternal
Castle forever. did not want the patroness to know of chronicler, meaning he will not be allowed
Statistics for the current state of Giulio her descent into the hell of perversion. to die even when his corrent body is
will not be given, he is not able to directy Bradamante is forced to protect the going to fail. Necromancers will keep his
influence reality besides whispering in the household no matter what, but the release body intact and his brain transferred to
ears of the visitors of the palace and of the two garden girls could lead to a new form, to celebrate the greatness of
showing side reflections of things that very serious consequences when Niccolo the house until the end of times.
don’t exist in the mirrors. The GM returns to the city. How to continue this Personality: surprisingly easygoing and
should feel free to use these abilities to adventure thread is left in the hands of merry, Ludovico accepts the current
leverage the characters’ desire. Demons the GM. state of things with stoicism, enjoying
of the Infraworld allow Julius to sense his privileges to make the most of his
the will and weakness of castle guests. life. He’s an unparalleled historian in the
Characters with levels of sanctity are court, but he mostly writes poetry.
13
enhanced by his extraordinary abilities.
Niccolò III D’Este His rapid descent into eroticism and lust
Sovereign of Satanic Carnality, Preist of Lust, Scion of the House of Este caught the attention of the malign, who
saw in him, a vain person in a significant
position of power, a potential champion
in his fight against God and the Order
of Things. In Niccolò, Satan sees a key
ally in the upcoming battle for dominion
over creation, right in the heart of the
Empire.
With Satan whispering in his ear, Niccolò
is nigh-invincble, having conquered lands
and courts through military force and
a devious silver tongue. His greatest
accomplishment so far has been taking
the Duke Ercole out of the game slowly
but steadily convincing him to follow his
megalomaniac impulses of expanding the
Este territories inspired by the classical
literature of greek heroes and olympian
gods.
As an agent of Blasphemy, his sanctity
tier is reverse, he is a 7th-tier agent of
Satan on Earth. As such, he is not bond
by the Truce of God and has taken part
in several assassionations in the Empire
to consolidate his power now that the
winter season is over. His deformities
are not visible at a naked eye, but his
soul is utterly corrupted. He is immortal
and cann0t die of old age.
Niccolò III, Fighter 10 Being an agent of Evil has some side Niccolò currently resides in his palace in
Medium humanoid (human), CE effects. Niccolo cannot set foot on sacred Sassuolo, close to Modena, where he is
Impiety tier: 7 ground, and his lust is such that he can directing his armies against rebel houses
blow up a very important deal if he is of Frignano, the region of Modena that
seized by desire. His appetite is such that rules the mountains. He is threading
Special Abilities
he could ignore any common sense and very carefully not to anger the House of
strategy to indulge his urges. He had Montecuccoli, rulers of Frignano, as their
House Powers: as a high-ranking noble
no qualms about killing his own son to champion Raimondo Montecuccoli (LN
of the House, Marquis Niccolò III has
possess his bride. human male fighter 20), is the general of
a permanent true sight that enables him
to see anything, invisible or otherwise, History and Personality the Empire and an invincible foe even he
discern lies, at any distance. He can Niccolò has not always been this way, is deadly scared to face.
understand a person’s intent and feelings but since his youth, he has stood out In combat, he wears an ornate, silver
and lie and twist words accordingly with an exceptional personality. A tactical plated paladin armor with a blue cloak.
without being detected as an agent of genius with sharp intuition, he began at
Satan. Niccolo uses these powers to an early age to use his family’s powers
sense the greatest terror in his victims, in unconventional ways. Niccolò has
conveying psychological and physical always had the courage to confront even
oppression and torture where it inflicts the Duke, Ercole, wisely concluding
the greatest consequences. Ending up in discussions before they escalated. Beyond
his hands is an experience few forget. being a strategic genius in battle and
Secular powers: Besides blood abilities, notoriously ruthless, his true mastery
the position of Niccolò as a titled noble lies in undermining the confidence of his
of the Ducal House at the service of enemies. Currently, Niccolò is engaged in
the Empire, he can give orders to the mountains of the Modenese Apennines
Bradamante and the paladin protectors to the south, where he is planning a
of the House. He also has access to a siege on a monastery for still mysterious
virtually limitless wealth. purposes. Niccolò has always harbored
Weaknesses
a great passion for eccentric eroticism,
14
Appendix A: Inspirations and Appendix B: The Three
events of Italian history Paladin Protectors of the
House of Este:
The Palazzo dei Diamanti is indeed
a real building located in the heart of Bradamante, Marfisia and Fiordispina
Ferrara, Italy. Its name derives from are paladins and saints of the
the diamond-shaped marble blocks that Third Era, three patronesses of
decorate its exterior walls. These blocks Modena, Ferrara and Reggio Emilia.
are positioned to maximize the light Marfisia was the sister of Ruggiero,
reflected off the building, creating a formerly an infidel of the Blasphemy of
visually striking effect. the Sands converted to the One Faith. A
Cosmè Tura did contribute to the powerful woman, dark of complexion, she
decorations of the incredible Palazzo is an educated warrior of vast knowledge.
Schifanoia, another of the so-called Fiordispina is a tragic character, to
THE HOUSE OF ESTE
‘delizie estensi’ (Estense delights), which atone for the temptation of sodomy
Motto: Aquila non captat muscas
were pleasure palaces for the Este family. against Bradamante she met in battle,
Palazzo Schifanoia is renowned for its she voluntarily lost her sight as an
The House of Este is one of the oldest
allegorical frescoes. These frescoes present expiation. She is a gigantic woman
and most powerful families in Italy, related
a cycle of the months as an allegorical seven feet tall, ruthless in battle.
to popes and great rulers for centuries.
pageant, with each month presided over
Its dominion extends over the entire
by an Olympian god and associated Appendix C: The Four
western part of the Emilia-Romagna
zodiac constellations. Humors and Humoral Magic
region and includes the territories of
Regarding the story of Niccolò III d’Este’s More on humoral magic will be expanded
Ferrara, Modena, and Reggio Emilia.
alleged luxuriance, it is documented that in future publications. In the meantime
The lineage was founded by Ruggiero
in 1425, he executed both his wife, consider all characters to have a
and Bradamante, paladins in the service
Parisina, and his illegitimate son, Ugo, predominant trait associated to black bile,
of Charlemagne, during the transition to
on charges of adultery. Additionally, yellow bile, blood and phlegm. Damage
the Fourth Age. The heroes of that time
Niccolò decreed that all women within after battle can influence the status of
still protect the Duchy conferred by the
his domains found guilty of adultery these humors that in turn require specific
Emperor and the Pope on the lineage.
were to be put to death, though he forms of healing.
The borders of the Duchy are watched
had to rescind this order to avoid Humors are mentioned in this adventure
by the Silver Eagles and a powerful army
depopulating Ferrara. as indispensable components of the
of professional soldiers including war
The story of Giulio d’Este is somewhat magical art, where they are used and
wizards, automatons, and steel plated
different. After 53 years in prison, he mixed with marble dust, dyes, inks for
knights. Tension is arising against the
was freed by his grandnephew Alfonso writing songs, and so on.
border with Romagna to the East after
II d’Este at the age of 81. Giulio’s
the Night of Screams, but an even more
imprisonment was notable as he managed
insidious battle front might be aflame
to maintain his charm and an erect Appendix D: The Luciferian
soon on the north-western border with
posture despite his long incarceration, Infraworld
the Dragon Lords of Milan.
and he dressed in the fashion of 50 years The demonic infraworld generated
The most powerful gift of the house by pain and lust is one of the many
prior when he returned to the streets.
bestowed to its members is that of true
Ludovico Ariosto, the renowned dimensions of the un-created, emanations
sight, described in the character sheet of
poet, was indeed under the patronage from the unraveling of reality that occur
Niccolò III D’Este.
of Cardinal Ippolito d’Este. Despite through the seven deadly sins and
Currently, the most important members
his literary talent, Ariosto was poorly turning away from God. Satan resides
of the house apart from Niccolò, Ercole,
compensated by the cardinal for his at the bottom of Hell ruling over that
Ippolito and Giulio mentioned earlier are:
efforts. The only reward he received for which-is-not. In the context of the
- Borso, the inept son of Niccolò
his epic poem “Orlando Furioso,” which adventure, the infraworld is particularly
III, resides in Modena and holds
was dedicated to Ippolito, was a question fragile in Niccolò’s palace, damaged by
sway over the family in the province.
about the source of his stories. Ariosto the pain of its victims of war and love.
An obese boy terrified of events;
later expressed his frustration with the Niccolo’s ancestor, Alberto Azzo, still
- Alberto Azzo, an ancient steward of
cardinal, noting that if he received any resides in this limbo, haunting the palace
the Carolingian lineage, lives in stasis
pension, it was not for his poetry, which for generations. This is also where
in the palace’s Inframundus, seeking
the prelate despised, but for his role as Giulio hides, but he can use mirrors
a method to become corporeal again; and tapestries to communicate with the
a messenger.
- Lucrezia Borgia, related to the Este, material world. Finally, there are demons
lives at court and is the only one who has of the underworld that can use mirrors as
understood all about Niccolo’s schemes. well, the mirrorwraiths described below.
15
Mirrorwraith (New Monster)
Medium fiend, CE
Gaunt and grotesque, the creature that emerges from the mirror embodies the essence of a nightmare. Its elongated, sinewy
limbs contort and twist through joints that defy natural law, creating a horrifying, fluid motion. Blood and phlogiston ooze
from its form, pooling into chilling puddles of viscous mucus below. Though vaguely humanoid in shape, it is a grotesque
distortion of anything human: resembling a skeletal frame grotesquely enveloped in a macabre collage of teeth, fur, skin, and
tangible dread. This abomination, with its nightmarish anatomy, seems as if it were conjured from the deepest, darkest fears
of the human psyche.
16
OPEN GAME LICENSE Version 1.0a
The following text is the property of Wizards of the Coast, Inc. and is Copyright 2000 Wizards of the Coast, Inc
(“Wizards”). All Rights Reserved.
1. Definitions: (a)”Contributors” means the copyright and/or trademark owners who have contributed Open Game Content;
(b)”Derivative Material” means copyrighted material including derivative works and translations (including into other computer
languages), potation, modification, correction, addition, extension, upgrade, improvement, compilation, abridgment or other
form in which an existing work may be recast, transformed or adapted; (c) “Distribute” means to reproduce, license, rent,
lease, sell, broadcast, publicly display, transmit or otherwise distribute; (d)”Open Game Content” means the game mechanic and
includes the methods, procedures, processes and routines to the extent such content does not embody the Product Identity and
is an enhancement over the prior art and any additional content clearly identified as Open Game Content by the Contributor,
and means any work covered by this License, including translations and derivative works under copyright law, but specifically
excludes Product Identity. (e) “Product Identity” means product and product line names, logos and identifying marks including
trade dress; artifacts; creatures characters; stories, storylines, plots, thematic elements, dialogue, incidents, language, artwork,
symbols, designs, depictions, likenesses, formats, poses, concepts, themes and graphic, photographic and other visual or audio
representations; names and descriptions of characters, spells, enchantments, personalities, teams, personas, likenesses and special
abilities; places, locations, environments, creatures, equipment, magical or supernatural abilities or effects, logos, symbols, or
graphic designs; and any other trademark or registered trademark clearly identified as Product identity by the owner of the
Product Identity, and which specifically excludes the Open Game Content; (f) “Trademark” means the logos, names, mark,
sign, motto, designs that are used by a Contributor to identify itself or its products or the associated products contributed
to the Open Game License by the Contributor (g) “Use”, “Used” or “Using” means to use, Distribute, copy, edit, format,
modify, translate and otherwise create Derivative Material of Open Game Content. (h) “You” or “Your” means the licensee
in terms of this agreement.
2. The License: This License applies to any Open Game Content that contains a notice indicating that the Open Game Content
may only be Used under and in terms of this License. You must affix such a notice to any Open Game Content that you
Use. No terms may be added to or subtracted from this License except as described by the License itself. No other terms
or conditions may be applied to any Open Game Content distributed using this License.
3. Offer and Acceptance: By Using the Open Game Content You indicate Your acceptance of the terms of this License.
4. Grant and Consideration: In consideration for agreeing to use this License, the Contributors grant You a perpetual,
worldwide, royalty-free, non-exclusive license with the exact terms of this License to Use, the Open Game Content.
5.Representation of Authority to Contribute: If You are contributing original material as Open Game Content, You represent
that Your Contributions are Your original creation and/or You have sufficient rights to grant the rights conveyed by this
License.
6.Notice of License Copyright: You must update the COPYRIGHT NOTICE portion of this License to include the exact
text of the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any Open Game Content You are copying, modifying or distributing, and You must
add the title, the copyright date, and the copyright holder’s name to the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any original Open
Game Content you Distribute.
7. Use of Product Identity: You agree not to Use any Product Identity, including as an indication as to compatibility, except as
expressly licensed in another, independent Agreement with the owner of each element of that Product Identity. You agree not
to indicate compatibility or co-adaptability with any Trademark or Registered Trademark in conjunction with a work containing
Open Game Content except as expressly licensed in another, independent Agreement with the owner of such Trademark
or Registered Trademark. The use of any Product Identity in Open Game Content does not constitute a challenge to the
ownership of that Product Identity. The owner of any Product Identity used in Open Game Content shall retain all rights,
title and interest in and to that Product Identity.
8. Identification: If you distribute Open Game Content You must clearly indicate which portions of the work that you are
distributing are Open Game Content.
9. Updating the License: Wizards or its designated Agents may publish updated versions of this License. You may use any
authorized version of this License to copy, modify and distribute any Open Game Content originally distributed under any
version of this License.
10. Copy of this License: You MUST include a copy of this License with every copy of the Open Game Content You
17
Distribute.
11. Use of Contributor Credits: You may not market or advertise the Open Game Content using the name of any Contributor
unless You have written permission from the Contributor to do so.
12. Inability to Comply: If it is impossible for You to comply with any of the terms of this License with respect to some or
all of the Open Game Content due to statute, judicial order, or governmental regulation then You may not Use any Open
Game Material so affected.
13. Termination: This License will terminate automatically if You fail to comply with all terms herein and fail to cure such breach
within 30 days of becoming aware of the breach. All sublicenses shall survive the termination of this License.
14. Reformation: If any provision of this License is held to be unenforceable, such provision shall be reformed only to the
extent necessary to make it enforceable.
15. COPYRIGHT NOTICE Open Game License v 1.0a Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.
System Reference Document Copyright 2000-2003, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip
Williams, Rich Baker, Andy Collins, David Noonan, Rich Redman, Bruce R. Cordell, John D. Rateliff, Thomas Reid, James
Wyatt, based on original material by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson.
END OF LICENSE
18