CONTENTS

CRANLEY HUWBERT’S ABRIDGED HISTORY EXCERPTS FROM BLACKWOOD’S BESTIARY

OF RIVELLON AS SEEN FROM ARX, UP TO
THE PRESENT DAY Forest Tiger.......................................................74
Shambling Oak.................................................75
The Creation......................................................1 Acid Toad..........................................................76
Divinity..............................................................6 Elven Stag.........................................................76
The Wars of Lucian...........................................8 Dwarf Nightmare..............................................77
A World Without Lucian......................... 12 White Death......................................................78
The Races.........................................................17 Sand Fox...........................................................79
Humanity.........................................................19 Dune Mantis.....................................................79
Lizards..............................................................23 Siren..................................................................80
Elves.................................................................29 Deep Dweller....................................................80
Dwarves...........................................................35 Kraken..............................................................81
People of the Shadows.....................................40 Blood elemental................................................82
Oil Mole............................................................82
PORTRAITS OF NOTABLE PERSONAGES Salamanders......................................................83
FROM ALL CLASSES AND RACES ACROSS Ice Rhino...........................................................84
THE REALM – IN EXCERPT FORM Ice Mammoth....................................................85
Lizard Nightmare.............................................86
Red Prince....................................................... 44 Drillworm.........................................................86
Beast..................................................................46 Hall of Echoes Creature...................................87
Lohse.................................................................48
Ifan ben-Mezd..................................................50 THE LOCAL LANDS TRAVEL
Sebille...............................................................52 GUIDE AND ATLAS
Meistr Siva........................................................54
Seeker Gareth..................................................55 Reaper’s Eye......................................................91
Malady..............................................................56 – Fort Joy............................................................ 92
Tarquin.............................................................57 – The Hollow Marshes........................................ 93
Stories Untold..................................................58 – A Lesson for Us All.......................................... 94
Reaper’s Coast..................................................95
A GUIDE TO MAGIC AND OTHER SKILLS – Driftwood......................................................... 96
FOR THE MODERATELY INTELLIGENT – Reaper’s Bluffs................................................. 97
– Paradise Downs............................................... 99
Aerotheurgy.....................................................62 – Stonegarden Cemetery................................... 100
Geomancy........................................................63 – The Blackpits..................................................101

WARNING THIS BOOK Pyrokinesis..................................................... 64

Hydrosophy.....................................................65
– The Cullwoods............................................... 103
– Bloodmoon Island.......................................... 104

MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS Necromancy.....................................................66

Metamorphosis................................................67
Roguery............................................................68
Stormdale.......................................................105
Arx..................................................................107
Hall of Echoes................................................109
READ AT YOUR OWN PERIL Ranging............................................................69
Summoning......................................................70 CONCLUSION 111
Warfare.............................................................71
CREDITS 112

©Copyright 2017 Larian Studios Games Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Modern Chronicles of Reaper’s Coast first printing August 2017 by
Larian Studios Games Ltd. Larian Studios, Divinity, all other Larian Studios Games Ltd. product names, and their respective logos
are trademarks of Larian Studios Ltd. in the USA and other countries. All characters and distinctive likenesses are property of Larian
Studios Games Ltd. This material is protected under the copyright laws of the Republic of Ireland. Any reproduction or unauthorized
use of the material or artwork contained herein is prohibited without the express written permission of Larian Studios Ltd.
I ©2017 Larian Studios. All rights reserved.
 

FOREWORD

Welcome, dear reader!

W
elcome to the world of Divinity: Original Sin 2!
To its heroes and vagabonds, its gods and
beasts, its lands and manifold histories.
Crafting this particular corner of Rivellon, we knew
that we wanted it to feel more grounded – to have a
darker edge than what we’d done before. We wanted a
story that takes you across the realm, gives you a peek
at divinity and, ultimately, leaves you with choices that
shape the world. More than that, we wanted a world
with the depth to support such an epic tale, while also
keeping the characteristic style that’s been a hallmark
of our games since Divine Divinity.
We wanted to create a world that reacts to you
as you play through it, but we actually found it
reacting to us as we wrote it. During development,
characters organically rose and fell (some disappearing
altogether) and the story started taking us places we
didn’t expect. New, interesting vistas appeared on the
horizon, and we happily raced towards them. Now we
can present you with a slice of the world of Divinity:
Original Sin 2. And we couldn’t be prouder to have
helped bring it to life.

Happy reading!
~
The Writing Team

Arhu

III
 CRANLEY HUWBERT’S
ABRIDGED HISTORY OF
RIVELLON AS SEEN FROM ARX,
UP TO THE PRESENT DAY

H
erein lies a compendium of knowledge Our fair region is filled with glories and
relating to Reaper’s Coast, one of the tragedies alike, but all must be documented
many great and storied regions of fair in equal measure, that future generations
Rivellon. We find ourselves in most interesting may fully appreciate the great bounty that
and challenging times, but this makes my was bestowed upon us by the Seven Gods.
reason for penning this volume all the more The greatest gift we can give to those who
pressing – we must not forget who we are, are yet to come is to record our experiences,
and from whence we came. From my humble so that they may learn from us.
academic chambers in the great city of Arx, I As a parting note, I must acknowledge
shall endeavour to convey a sense of the local that no single tome could possibly hope to
land most deeply affected by recent events, encapsulate the full complexity of our world.
and an understanding of those who inhabit it. I do hope, however, that my humble volume
will inspire readers to set out and experience
Rivellon for themselves.

~
Cranley Huwbert,
of the Historical Guild of Arx.
 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

THE CREATION

No volume relating to the wonders of Rivellon would be complete

without speaking of its creation and of the great powers that rule
over it. While none can ever proclaim the truth of these matters with
certainty, this is the tale of creation as recorded in our stories of old.

IN THE BEGINNING
WAS THE SOURCE Some believe that an all-powerful being,
yet unseen, must surely have presided over
B
efore the birth of the planes and the
worlds and all within them, there was
this union of great forces. We do not
nothing but pure, unharnessed energy know – indeed we cannot know – if such
– the creative raw material of life that we have a being watches over all from a plane of
come to know as Source. In opposition to it existence too rarefied for our mortal eyes
was the Void – destruction and nothingness.
These two great polar opposites came to exist
to witness. Or perhaps such a being is
in balance with one another. nothing more than a campfire fable, told
by the earliest beings to explain how their
forebears first came to draw breath.

There were different types of gods: young FROM OPPOSING FORCES CAME
and old; powerful and weak; remembered CREATION – GODS WERE BORN
and forgotten. These gods could not survive
W
here there was both balance and
without belief, and certainly could not grow friction, life took root. The universe
to dominate any pantheon. The power of was born. Then, much as the plants that
the gods would wax and wane with their bless our land seek light, Source found its way
to planes in which it could create. Likewise,
influence on the world, and the faith of the the Void migrated to planes of the universe
world’s inhabitants would grow or shrink in where it could hold sway. And on many of the
kind. For instance, the God of Thunder planes, Source and Void both sought the upper
grew more powerful thanks to storms, while hand. Where Source won, life blossomed.
Rivellon is one such world. Certain facets
the God of Water grew fat in times of of our realm gave rise to instances of Source
flooding. (Which, for certain gods, gave rise powerful enough to spontaneously conceive
to a lot of storms and a lot of flooding.) elemental deities – primitive beings of power, and
the first examples of what we know now as gods.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

THE SEVEN

THE BIRTH OF THE SEVEN

O
ver time, these gods grew and evolved,
or shrank and vanished, depending on
the instinctual behaviour of the beings
that they had created. Soon primal deities
emerged – gods of war and gods of love, for
example, who grew in strength as mortals
grew to know both bloodshed and intimacy.
As the gods grew, six of the nascent races
formalised this concentration of Source in a
practice we know as ‘worship’. Seven primary
gods emerged – one for each of the major races
(and one for wizards ). Each of the Seven took
the Source they received from their devotees in
worship, and used it to gain power – and with
their gods’ power, the races grew stronger, too.
Other deities could not compete, and so the
smaller gods vanished or were consumed.

If you insist on pointing out that the

Wizards are not a ‘race’ as such, then
I shall nod in understanding. I shall
also direct you to engage the nearest
wizard in conversation, and afterwards
I’m sure you’ll agree that historically,
culturally, sociologically, anthropologically,
and even linguistically, they belong in a
category all of their own.

RHALIC TIR-CENDELIUS DUNA

Rhalic, the first of the Seven, became the patron Tir-Cendelius, the Poet, made the woodlands Long of beard and stout of stature, Duna
of the humans, encouraging them to multiply, his domain and instilled in the elves his lyrical created the dwarves in his likeness and, for
to adapt, to become indispensable in commerce, love for the natural world. He blessed his race many centuries, dwelled alongside them as they
governance, and craftsmanship. He cared little with near-immortality, granting them the built an empire spanning much of the realm.
for brute physical strength and even less for the ability to concentrate generations of wisdom Dwarven hardiness and vigour made them
lofty detachment that accompanies long life. within individuals through the ritual of flesh- formidable warriors and builders, not to mention
No, Rhalic desired his people to be capable, tasting. As memories are passed through flesh, passionate leaders and diplomats. Though their
resilient, and thoroughly focused on the art the elves maintain the wisdom of centuries – empire has since declined, the might and fury
of surviving. His race – humanity – has long exactly according to Tir-Cendelius’ design. of Duna’s tenacious people has not.
enjoyed pre-eminence in the realm of Rivellon.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

THE SEVEN

ZORL-STISSA VROGIR XANTEZZA AMADIA

The goddess Zorl-Stissa wished to command a Renowned for his brutality and violence, The goddess of mirth and laughter, Xantezza The Goddess Amadia was an outsider,
proud and graceful warrior race, imbued with Vrogir became the father of the orcs. He sought a race of beings so intelligent they preferring to live in complete solitude. As the
her love of order, reason, and beauty. Her race, encouraged the values of pragmatic survival, might teach her more than she could teach millennia passed, the six races spread over
the lizards, are unmatched in their martial honesty, and communion with the body’s them. Her race of imps quickly became the the continent, and one day she had a dalliance
prowess, scientific aptitude, and flair for style impulses. While the other races typically view realm’s greatest engineers and inventors, with a wizard. This coupling resulted in the
and art. So many were the gifts that Zorl-Stissa orcs as uncivilised, Vrogir granted his people developing new technologies more quickly birth of several demigods. She granted her lover
granted to her people, that the lizards believe a great capacity for tenderness, humour, ritual, than all the other races put together. They pay immortality and decided that she would act
themselves most-blessed and most-deserving and respect – though these aspects of the tribute to their god with knowledge, which as the patron mother of all wizards. Although
among all the races. culture are rarely made manifest to outsiders. Xantezza accepts with great interest and pride. wizards are not considered a separate race,
many are proud to worship Amadia as the
mother of all magic.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

DIVINITY

THE AVATAR OF DIVINITY This is, at least, the official account.

Some suspect the truth goes deeper.
A
s the Seven’s power grew, so did their And so it happened – many times a Divine
propensity for conflict. None desired would rise and defeat the Void. The most
Over the years strange relics have been
to give ground to the others, and recent Divine to save the world was Lucian, found, often hidden deep underground.
their struggles were borne out by the races who fought the Void and won, and more They seem to have technological functions
themselves. Wars begat wars, and it seemed than once. But now Lucian is dead, and a beyond current Rivellonian understanding,
for some time that nothing could unite new Divine has yet to rise.
them… until the Void came. Though the This succession of champions always rose
and no-one is quite certain as to their
fabric of reality was robust, it was not perfect. from amongst the Godwoken – the descendants origins. Some claim they are gifts from
Periodically, the Void would find a chink and of mortal heroes who helped repel the Void in Amadia, or another God, while others
enter, threatening not only the races, but the the first Chaos War. Their bloodline allows the think they are demonic in nature. Some
gods themselves. Godwoken to see and manipulate the Source
The Seven, knowing that they must unite with a level of dexterity that is rare amongst
say that they are evidence of another lost
to stop the Void, created the Divine – a lone, mortals. Using these abilities, the Godwoken race, while others suggest they are a type
mortal champion to whom they would give are the only beings capable of receiving the of impish craftwork which has since been
their godly powers, a hero whom they could gift of the Gods: all of the combined powers lost to the world. Others still suggest they
elevate beyond mortality to become their of the Seven. Lucian the Divine was human,
avatar. This Divine would repel the Void; but Godwoken arise amongst all the races and
may have been left here by riftrunners
banishing it back into its own realm beyond the Source manifests itself in each person in a from other worlds. Whatever the truth
the veil of reality. different way. They all share the innate ability of these relics, there is no evidence of
to see and, if properly trained, absorb the their creators in Rivellon today.
Source, using it to accomplish incredible
feats of creation… and destruction.
 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

THE WARS OF LUCIAN 1233 AD

Lucian’s Sacrifice

1218 AD

L
Lucian and the Black Ring ucian confronted Damian and his forces
in the heart of the elven homelands.
There, he used a weapon of world-
changing power – a weapon known as the
Deathfog. When the Black Ring drew close

T
he exact genesis of the Black Ring is enough, Lucian triggered the Deathfog,
not clearly documented in surviving rendering the air itself lethal. The Black Ring
historical works. This wicked cabal was obliterated in the field.
drew outcasts, deviants, dark wizards and Damian was dead. The day was won, but
other practitioners of the forbidden arts to the the cost was great. The Divine Order suffered
tainted banner of the mysterious leader known terrible losses. The elves were decimated and
as the Lord of Chaos. The Ring proved itself to their homeland rendered uninhabitable.
be a vessel of the greatest destruction – one that And Lucian, it breaks my heart to say, also
had to be stopped lest the world fall to the Void. perished. The Divine sacrificed himself to save
The task of destroying the Black Ring was us all from the Black Ring and the eternal Void.
Lucian’s, and the Divine successfully cast them
down. But Lucian made an error which, while
understandable, would ultimately prove fatal:
In the moments after his victory, Lucian
came upon a child – an infant boy, whom
prophecy foretold would be incarnated as
the Lord of Chaos himself. Had the most
noble Divine chosen to take just one more
life at this point, then he would have sealed
the fate of the Black Ring.
1233 AD
Lucian let the child live.
The Chaos War

1233 AD
D
amian took his place as the head
of the resurgent Black Ring, and
Damian & Ygerna a cataclysmic war soon followed.
A final battle loomed, and the Divine
Order seemed doomed… but Lucian
plucked victory from the jaws of defeat.

L
ucian named the child Damian and
raised him as his first-born son, older
brother to his natural son Alexandar,
yet unborn. But when Damian became a young
man, he fell in love with a Black Ring witch
named Ygerna, who encouraged him to seize
his ‘true’ destiny. Determined to save his
beloved son, Lucian slew Ygerna. Damian,
enraged in his grief, swore vengeance.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

THE WARS OF LUCIAN 1235 AD

The Divine Order after Lucian

1234 AD

U
Lucian the Divine is dead nder Lucian, the Divine Order grew
large, and after his death it grew
fractious. Its core function remained –
to serve the Divine – but Lucian was no more.
Without a leader, the Order began to fracture.

I
n remembrance of his great deeds, an Without a Divine, the Order struggled to protect
annual feast day was declared. Each year, the people of the world from the Voidwoken.
pilgrims flock to the city of Arx as part of The hope brought by Lucian’s hard-won
the Lucian’s Day celebrations, there to pay their peace was soon replaced with despair amongst
respects at the tomb of their fallen saviour, and the people and tension within the Order.
recite the Endless Prayer. Resolving this conflict is one of the most
The popularity of this feast has only grown pressing issues for the Order’s new leader –
as the threat of the Void has resurged. It has Alexandar, Lucian’s only surviving son.
become a common belief that a new Divine will
rise while the previous one is being honoured.

1234 AD
The Voidwoken First Appear

1242 (today)
F
ew knew it at the time, and those who
did failed to understand its importance, The Rise of Alexandar
but the aftermath of the great battle in
which the Divine gave his life that we may be
saved brought more than just grief. Strange
creatures emerged from the Deathfog – tainted

E
and twisted versions of the fierce and beautiful ven under Alexandar’s leadership,
beasts with which this world is blessed. We call the Divine Order faced a huge
them Voidwoken and few across the world have challenge in defeating the Voidwoken.
been left unaffected by their plague. As time That is, until the Order made a discovery
has passed, Voidwoken stalk the land in greater that changed everything. Studying reports
and greater numbers. These vile creatures, from all corners of the land, they found
heralds of the end of existence itself, daily the appearance of the Voidwoken could be
threaten the ordinary people of Rivellon. connected to the use of Source.
In the moment at which we achieved peace, Sourcerers were causing the Voidwoken
we were presented with a new threat. And of attacks. Thus, Alexandar could protect the
Lucian the Divine, and all he brought to the world from Voidwoken by protecting the
world, only the Divine Order remained. world from Sourcerers.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

A WORLD WITHOUT LUCIAN

DALLIS THE HAMMER AND THE

SOLUTION OF FORT JOY

Lucian’s Remains
D
allis’ exploits in the great war against
the Black Ring gained her a reputation The debacle over the choice of custodian
for integrity and toughness – and
the nickname ‘The Hammer’, a moniker she
of Lucian’s mortal remains was an early
cherishes as testament to her determination indication of just how sour relations
and idealism. Dallis persuaded Alexandar to between the Paladins and Magisters
banish the Sourcerers to the ruins of Fort Joy would become. The Paladins, being the
on the island of Reaper’s Eye. This ancient
stronghold of the long-dead Source King and
older and more illustrious branch of the
renowned madman Braccus Rex became an Order, thought it only right that they be
internment camp for Sourcerers, where they the sole guardians of Lucian’s tomb. They
could be kept from the people until a cure was began construction on a cathedral in Arx
found for their – and our – affliction.
While the world rightly supports Alexandar’s
– notably using telekinetic Source power to
firm-but-gentle treatment of the Sourcerers, speed the process. However, the Magisters
division within the Divine Order continues felt that the role of guarding Lucian’s tomb
to intensify. Paladin traditionalists – should fall to them, as they were rapidly
warriors drawn from the noblest families
who regard themselves as the direct successors
becoming the dominant presence within the
of Lucian’s original warriors – see Sourcery Order. A confrontation within the holy
as a powerful weapon – a weapon granted to a city itself threatened to spill out of hand,
chosen few that they may better fight the Void. forcing Bishop Alexandar to intervene.
But the world has changed, and the Order
is now firmly in the grip of the Paladin’s
It was finally decided that Lucian’s
rival branch, the Magisters – causing much remains could indeed be placed in the
resentment among the Paladins. Recruited Paladins’ cathedral, but the Magisters
from all walks of life regardless of breeding, would be permitted to establish a new
social standing, or education, the Magisters
represent safety and security to the common
headquarters in the city of Arx.
folk. The Magisters, for their part, show
Alexandar – and Dallis – the utmost loyalty
(a valuable commodity in troubled times).
There is a widespread belief in some areas that
the Sourcerer danger must be dealt with firmly
– especially as some Sourcerers do not wish to
wear the collar that keeps them safe. In cases
like these, the Magisters have been nothing if
not firm with Sourcerers.

At Alexandar’s right hand stands Dallis,

the youngest general ever to serve in the Divine Order army.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

A WORLD WITHOUT LUCIAN

ALEXANDAR

T
he only true-born son of Lucian the
Divine, Alexandar was quick to assume
control of the Divine Order. Lacking
his father’s experience, he aimed to surround
himself with a talented group of counsellors.
Of those confidants, Dallis quickly became
his right hand, advising him in all things.
Such an approach would seem outwardly
laudable, but what of the policies it has given Source Collars
rise to? I confess to some disquiet at recent Extraordinary devices which prevent a
developments within the ranks of the Magisters
wherein humans are preferred over other races.
Sourcerer from using their powers to
Those who are called up to safeguard all the endanger themselves and those around
people of the land should surely be drawn from them. There is, to his eternal credit, one
all of the people of the land (even if humans are Sourcerer who volunteered to wear the
evidently superior to their dwarven, elven, and
lizard comrades). However, we must have faith
collar and provide a shining example to
that the Divine Order knows what is best. all: Alexandar himself. For few know the
After all, they lead our pursuit of divinity. truth – while the people recite the Eternal
Godwoken like his father before him, Prayer for the return of Lucian the
Alexandar will become the next Divine and
save the world from the encroaching Void.
Divine, Bishop Alexander of the Divine
But while Divine Order luminaries know the Order is, in fact, a Sourcerer. And more
fact of Alexandar’s ascent to divinity, they do than that, he is Rivellon’s greatest hope.
not know the how. His goal may be clear but,
without Lucian’s guidance, his path is not.
Alas, while Alexandar’s ascension now has
the full support of the Divine Order, they
did not always have such clarity of purpose. THE SEARCH FOR DIVINITY
There was a time when the Order was open

D
to, and even sought out, other Godwoken to etermined, capable, and committed to
compete in Alexandar’s quest for divinity. the Divine Order’s ideals, Dallis began
the search for the secret of divinity.
At first she worked with the Seekers – a unit
within the Magisters who had been tasked
with the search for Godwoken. But the Seekers
fell into disrepute following a disastrous error
that led to a… well, let’s say it led to bloody
This catastrophe is known, with remarkable catastrophe, and they were disbanded. Soon after,
understatement, as ‘the Mistake’. In truth, Dallis instituted a shift in the Divine Order’s core
beliefs – the search for Godwoken ended.
it was an unspeakable act of wanton It was declared that Alexandar would ascend.
barbarity. And because it was unspeakable, If rumours are to be believed, elements
I shall not speak of it. of the Seeker sect within the Order remain
determined to find Godwoken and aid them
in their ascent.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

THE RACES

W
ho stands to gain if Alexandar One can quickly infer, dear friends, that the
does not become the next Divine? lizards fear a coming war. Perhaps quite soon.
Elves? Dwarves? Lizards? Forever, Perhaps too soon, when one considers that so
it seems, these groups vie for power within many of us are still reeling from the effects of
our plane. Futile wars and reckless abuse of the last great all-consuming conflict. Consider
magic have troubled our lands since the the elves, who took staggering losses from
dawn of time. Now, as new and greater the Deathfog, and now wander our lands as
threats loom, these groups continue to be refugees, unable to return to their own.
consumed by selfish interests. On my darker days, I fear that Rivellon may
As long as can be remembered, the Divine well lose one of its majestic and intelligent
has been the chosen warrior of the gods, and races. The atrocities that befell the elves are
could count on the support of most, if not all, a warning to many. No race is invulnerable
of the races. Under Lucian the Divine, may to the Void; at any moment, we might any one
the Gods rest and receive his soul, the Divine or all of us be relegated to the dried and fading
Order achieved a closer co-operation and ink of history books. In the grim anticipation
mutual understanding than ever before. that such a dreaded day may still dawn, herein
Now, however, tension with the lizards of follows my account of each race – their culture,
the Ancient Empire runs high – they greatly physiology, and mysteries.
value Sourcery and find the Order’s approach
to the Voidwoken problem deeply suspicious.
The Dwarf Queen too is rumoured to be
unhappy with the direction the Order has
taken (although she would do well to keep her
thoughts to herself: the Dwarven Kingdom is
not what it once was).
Dwarves, it would seem, face a particularly
trying time in a world with no Divine. And so
too do the lizards. While I am no longer able to
correspond, even covertly, with my colleagues
in the Ancient Empire’s Forbidden City, various
missives reach me from an anonymous source
whose agenda I still cannot determine.

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Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

HUMANITY

Humans are Rivellon’s most populous

race and, since the advent of the Divine
Order, its most powerful, too. Versatile,
resourceful, and opportunistic, humanity has
spread across Rivellon, filling every niche
we find. Although we are the largest race
in the world, the Magisters’ recent attitude
toward the containment of Source has also
left us the most bitterly divided.

PHYSIOLOGY

W
hen compared with the other races of Rivellon, we
humans may seem like notably average creatures.
We are not the tallest, nor the strongest, and we
cannot claim to have the most generous of lifespans.
What humans may lack in vigour, we amply make up
for in ingenuity, adaptability, and cunning. Indeed, it
is these qualities that have catapulted humanity to
a position of undisputed pre-eminence in many of
Rivellon’s most notable regions.

GOVERNANCE

H
uman governmental structures have
varied widely across geography and
history, from the vast empires of the
era of the Dragon Wars, to the monarchies
of the Era of Source, to the modern-day rule
of the Divine Order.
More than any other race, humans have developed
a propensity towards cultural dominance rather than
physical colonialism. Their ubiquity through Rivellon
ensures that their standards of dress, religion, and
entertainment are quick to take root – even to the point
where they surpass once-dominant customs., The ways of
humans became so prevalent that it was possible for a strong
leader to rise from within their number and be met with
support from all corners of Rivellon. Thus, humans have been
able to hold sway over the land in a manner that the other
races could only dream of. Our dear, late Lucian the Divine
only serves to illustrate this point – it is this author’s humble
opinion that no lizard warlord or elf tribal leader could have
hoped to unite Rivellon in the same manner as Lucian did.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

HUMANITY

FAMILIES THE NEW ORDER

H F
umans tend towards tight-knit clans orward thinking and adaptability have
with a strong inclination towards long been bywords of the human race.
community values. Many humans live Change – sometimes drastic change –
in the same area for their whole lives, though has been a common feature throughout our
it is not unheard of for some to venture further history. Most see this facet of our people as a
afield in search of work when the need arises. positive force, but perhaps inevitably, some
For instance, often-times either the mother resist the march of progress. Recently, the
or father will leave the home for a number of Divine Order has eschewed its love of unity
months to perform seasonal work in order to for a decidedly human-centric focus. Some
support their family. Such families are often say that this new direction is born of natural
far more egalitarian and progressive than human superiority, but others (such as myself)
their dwarven or lizard counterparts, valuing fear that this division indulges inherent human
adaptivity over tradition. feelings of inferiority, and points towards
In other cases, overpopulation forces our decline. Humans rule the world – if we
successive generations to seek new lands that weaken, so too does our domain. To such
they can call home. Many say it is this flexible naysayers, I, your humble author implore you
aspect of their nature that makes it so easy to look to history: adapting to circumstances
for humans to flourish in a host of different has allowed humans to become the dominant
environs, under wildly varying circumstances. force that they are today.
They have managed to thrive amongst a variety Outsized claims of persecution against the
of races, extending their influence without the other races and those who practise magic have
host culture ever having cause for complaint. been held aloft as examples of a spreading
The human family is much like a hardy corruption within the Divine Order. While it
wildflower – it can take root and prosper in the may be true that some of the Order’s measures
unlikeliest of places. But turn your back for nary have a certain unsavoury quality, it is important
a moment and you may find it has taken over. that they be judged within their proper context
– the Divine Order’s hierarchy acts at a time
when Source magic is bringing great strife to
the land and the likes of the Ancient Empire
is widely believed to be preparing for war.
Standing idly by has not won the human race
the position of power that it enjoys today.
The measures may be harsh, but anecdotal
evidence suggests that they have also been a
success. The Order’s armies, so recently on
the back foot towards the end of the last great
war, have recovered admirably. Should Bishop
Alexandar now choose to mobilise them, he
would stand in command of one of the greatest
forces Rivellon has yet seen. It is this author’s
belief that the decline of the human race has
been prematurely forecast. All signs point to
a new golden age under Bishop Alexandar’s
stewardship of the Divine Order.

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Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

LIZARDS

The lizards, residing mostly in their

long-lived and highly esteemed Ancient
Empire, are a proud (some say arrogant)
race with an abundance of cultural and
capital wealth. Competitive, practical, and
traditional, lizards pride themselves on
excellence, from their bloodlines to their
dress, to their government, and to their god.

PHYSIOLOGY

T
all, lean, and generally hearty, lizards
expend much energy and expense on
the care and improvement of their
physical selves. Ranging from six to nearly
seven feet tall and weighing between 130 and
230 pounds, adult lizards will have typically
spent a lifetime carefully implementing a rigid
sport and nutrition regime intended to bring
their person to its pinnacle.
Lizards are cold-blooded and born
from eggs, though any comparison of
themselves to lesser beings (such as
common snakes or reptiles) will earn
you swift retribution.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

LIZARDS

Ancient Empire Society

Lizard pride stems from a culture that is rich and varied, and a social and
political system perhaps more advanced and stable than any in the realm.
Their success rests its framework on a solid foundation – the three-legged stool
formed by three main power-houses: the houses of War, Law, and Dreams.

THE HOUSE OF WAR HOUSE OF LAW

O I
ne might be forgiven in thinking that n theory, the House of Law is meant to
the lizards are an aggressive people, be the house supreme in the Empire, but
considering the influence and power in practice, it serves more as a counter-
wielded by their House of War. Despite the balance to the powerful House of War. This
nominative supremacy of the House of Law, it is house sits in never-ending session at the Capital
from within the intricate and intimate construct Court, where it enacts laws, amends them, and
of noble families that forms the House of War passes judgement on every conceivable infraction
that the empire finds its rulers. Their seat of committed in the Empire, no matter how minute.
power lies in the imposing Forbidden City: It falls to the House of Law to temper the House
a vast complex of palaces and fortresses from of War’s martial tendencies with a diplomatic
which they govern the Empire with benevolence hand– and it has, historically, done an excellent
and rigour. They stand ready to oppose any who job. The House of Law’s penchant for diplomacy
threaten the fundamental rights of the people to has long encouraged the flow of education and
live in peace, and will come down on aggressors trade – though it must be noted that in recent
with bloody, violent fury. years, this flow has been reduced to a trickle.
It must be said that these fundamental rights
are, within the Ancient Empire, privileged. HOUSE OF DREAMS
Not everyone has the right to live freely and

T
peacefully. In fact, the House of War has he House of Dreams is a semi-religious
a reputation across Rivellon as a bastion institution of Dreamers: mystics who can
of slavery – a practice that began with the travel the dream world at will. In this
conquest of ‘belligerent foreigners’ millennia strange realm, they chance upon future truths and
ago. While indentured servants are nominally return with them as prophecy. Many prominent
happier and no longer as severely abused as Dreamers serve as oracles of fortune, and many of
were their ancestors, they are still born into a minor talent run not-very-lucrative side-businesses
life of servitude, and die with all the rights (or in fortune-telling. It is said some Dreamers even
lack thereof) of any other possession. A lizard venture into the dark realm of nightmares,
may tell you that slavery is no longer practiced but this is considered by many in the House of
in the House of War, but what they mean is that Dreams to be foolhardy in the extreme. Such
lizards are no longer enslaved. Other races are exploration could indeed result in otherworldly
still ‘fair game’. boons, but also increases the risk that the Dreamer
will succumb to madness or death.
Dreamers make fascinating dinner guests,
but they tend to live solitary lives. Partnership
with a Dreamer offers little in monetary
value and even less in terms of fulfillment.

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Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

LIZARDS

FAMILIES

W
hen it comes time for a lizard
to choose a mate, qualities
such as attractiveness,
fitness, position, and diplomacy, are
paramount. Willingness is considered a
bonus. Sub-conscious passions and intoxicating
attractions are treated by most as an impediment
to reason, although general desirability informed by
the aforementioned factors can be packaged and sold
to the more romantic lizard under the name ‘Love’.
The family is the primary unit within the Ancient
Empire, particularly as a means of preserving the primacy
of each progenitor’s lineage. Physical, mental or emotional
flaws are considered hugely shameful. Some parents will
go so far as to murder a ‘strange’ child rather than have
it poison their reputation and muddy the bloodline.
The ideal of perfection may begin with blood, but
it extends into every aspect of the lizard family.
Parents push their children to excel physically,
intellectually, and socially, and the cost of failure
can be high. Thus, the Ancient Empire produces
some of the finest athletes, warriors, scholars,
and artists in the realm, while also producing
an inordinate number of exiles and disinherited
castaways. The competitive zeal within lizard
society very often leads to high-profile,
sometimes bloody rivalries, many of which
end up resolved temporarily by the House of
Law or permanently by the House of War.

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Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

ELVES

The last great war wrought devastation on

all the races, but no-one suffered more than
that most mysterious of peoples – the elves.

PHYSIOLOGY

S
lender, elegant, and tall (taller even
than a lizard drawn to full height) elves
are also renowned for their unmatched
fortitude. This, coupled with their tendency to
keep themselves hidden away in their ancestral
forests, has allowed them to live inordinately
long lives. Many generations of men, dwarves,
and lizards may pass before an elven lifetime
has run its course – if ever it does. Some even
say the elves are immortal and will not die
unless they are killed. And of killing elves
we shall speak more, anon.

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Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

ELVES

SOCIETY

E
lven society is centered not around the
family, but the tribe. Elves live in tight-knit
units knotted throughout their forests,
where they carefully cultivate a reputation for
cruelty toward outsiders. A wanderer in the
forests, innocent or not, may find themselves
honoured by the elves in ancient ritual and
invited to partake in the tribe’s’ most sacred
of meals. Unfortunately, the foreigner will
not remember this great honour, as the
meal the elves prepare and eat with the
greatest of solemnity and respect shall be
the unsuspecting traveller themselves.
These acts are performed not out of any true
baseness, but because elves give birth very
rarely, and thus each life is dearly cherished
and protected. Elves hope that by discouraging
outsiders from meddling in their affairs, they
will avoid bloody conflicts that could lead to
losses to huge to recover from. Elves value
connection to the natural world, stories and art,
ritual, and community. Conflicts within the tribe
are always solved diplomatically, and crime is
nearly unheard-of within elvish society.
Some elves do choose to leave the tribal unit
and venture into cosmopolitan regions, where their
linguistic and cultural differences may keep them
from many traditional professionals. In such cases,
it is not unheard-of for such elves to resort to
criminality in order to survive.

MEMORY AND LANGUAGE

A
s long-lived creatures, elves value
their collective memory most highly.
They see the forests as spiritual
repositories of their ancestors’ memories
and eat the flesh of friends and foes, so that
valuable stories do not die and can again be
retold. They are keepers of recall, guardians
of wisdom, collectors of recollection.

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Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

ELVES

BURIAL CULTURE

D
eath in elven society is relatively
rare and marked with great and
sombre ritual. In their world, flesh
is paramount, the vessel of life and memory.
Body and blood are treated with utmost dignity
– the heart consumed, and the corpse is cast
into a pit of blood, there to take root and
become a tree. In this way, the elves surround
themselves with their ancestors – the forest
is their home, but it is also their history.
While death may have been something of a
rarity for most of the elves’ history, in recent
times it has hit this noble population with a
thorough and deadly force.

DEVASTATION

T
he last great confrontation of our
most recent war had as its theatre the
homeland of the elves. With his Divine
Order at its weakest, Lucian lured the Black
Ring armies into the forests, where Damian
expected to administer the last great crushing
blow that would destroy his father and end
the war. But as the Black Ring surrounded the
elven capital Lucian’s agents unleashed a great
and terrifying weapon – a diabolical fog that
brought death to all it touched. The Deathfog
washed over the Black Ring and killed them all,
and the Great War was ended. But elves too died
in the fog in multitudes, and the once-lush elven
homelands became the Bane Lands. The bodies
of the elves lie there still, unburied.
Now, the elves teeter on the brink of
extinction, wandering the world, their culture
lost. Small pockets of forest remain, but they
are dwindling fast. The elves are disappearing,
and none of the other races seems to have the
will to save them.
Reports suggest that some bands of elves may
be regrouping, gathering their remaining forces
to fight for their very future. Whispers call the
elves to lift their heads and fight.

A single word, carried on the wind:

“Scion.”

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Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

DWARVES

Their kingdom has been brought to ruin

by a proud and feckless queen, many of
their best citizens are working in the lands
of other races, and what territory they do
hold feels threatened by an increasingly-
aggressive Divine Order. You may not
think it to speak to them, but the dwarves
are a people on the brink.

PHYSIOLOGY

A
lthough they may be smaller than all
other races (barring imps, of course)
do not think that a dwarf is any less
physically capable than a lizard or an elf
(until, perhaps, it comes to fetching an
item from the highest shelf.) Each dwarf
packs plenty of power into their short,
stocky frames. They are generally
between four and (rarely) five foot
tall, but often weigh between 150
and 250 pounds.
Over the years, dwarves have
proved themselves to be fine
soldiers, delivering heavy blows
in melee combat and able to apply
fearsome strength to the most
recalcitrant drawstring of the
bulkiest of bows. What they are
less known for, and do not widely
advertise, is their lightness of step.
You would not think it to look at this
stout people, but when they have a mind,
even the most leaden-footed dwarf can move
quietly through a room. Alas, this talent has given
some of their race a taste for criminality.

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 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

DWARVES

KINGDOM SOCIETY

T W
he history of the Dwarven Kingdom ith a kingdom comes the noble classes
is a source of both pride and shame – – those dwarven families whose names
although dwarves are quick to expound are synonymous with wealth and
upon the former and reluctant to admit the power, and have been for generations. With
latter. When garrulous, which is often, they the noble classes come the common classes:
are keen to boast that their beloved god Duna labourers and traders whose family names
once lived amongst them, and that their royals mean nothing outside of their respective trades.
come from a long, unbroken line dating back Alongside the commoners come the criminal
to Tenax, their first king. They are less keen classes – thieves, smugglers, extortionists, and
to boast that Tenax was a slave, as were all pirates whose names are spoken in hushed
dwarves of his time. That those slaves fought tones in the dark corners of taverns (where
for, and won, their freedom, should perhaps the beer is probably over-priced due to the
be a source of pride. But the stain of slavery landlord’s ever-increasing ‘protection’ fees).
lingers long on this proud and imperious The dwarven class structure is rigid, and
people. That their kingdom grew to stand movement between the classes is almost
alongside that of any of the most powerful unheard of. This distinction can be heard
races is a more preferable historical focus most clearly in their accents, where those
for dwarves than was the slaves’ rebellion from from noble classes speak in clearly enunciated
which it was born – and there were indeed and reserved tones, while the more common
times when the dwarves rivalled the Ancient dwarves are known for more casual, sometimes
Empire in power, wealth, and glory. even bawdy, speech.
But those times are long past. Justinia, For all this emphasis on nobility, the dwarves
the current Dwarf Queen, is not the ruler highly value their trade. They are certainly
her ancestors were – a string of humiliating the most business-minded of the races, and
military defeats has left the dwarven ‘kingdom’ while their political kingdom may be ever-
little more than a city state. Although the smaller, some dwarves can still boast powerful
dwarves are still fiercely loyal to queen and mercantile empires. We have yet to see how a
kingdom, many feel the very existence of the powerful class of traders will interact with an
realm is teetering on the edge of an axe-blade. increasingly powerless noble class.

36
 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

DWARVES

REBELLION

A
lthough, it must be said; not all nobles
are powerless. In response to the
increasingly-worrying situation in
the kingdom, some members of the dwarven
gentry are believed to have formed a cabal
to overthrow their queen, breaking the royal
line for perhaps the first time in history, the
better to install their own ruler and ‘save the
kingdom’. Alas for them, the rebellion was a
failure and all but one of their leaders executed.
(The survivor, as a particular punishment, was
exiled somewhere deeply awful.)

EMIGRATION

P
erhaps it is no surprise that many
dwarves have left home in search of
opportunity in other lands. Given the
choice between starving at home and working
abroad, many have left to labour in the lands of
humans. They work the jobs that many humans
are not willing to, providing a cheap source of
skilled manual labour, while still pining for the
kingdom they have left behind.
Others have found prosperity, even wealth.
While this wave of emigration is seen as deeply
humiliating to many, some dwarves have, as
dwarves are wont to do, set up networks for
more clandestine business. These criminals
play a constant game of cat-and-mouse with
local authorities, but any magister investigating
one of these offenders will be met with a wall
of silence as soon as they enter any dwarven
establishment. The dwarves protect their own.

38
 Chapter I: Cranley Huwbert’s Abridged History of Rivellon

PEOPLE OF THE SHADOWS

W
e have long known that the dead do (Perhaps you have heard the scandal of the
not always lie still. The armies of Duke of Ferol? That he disappeared for days,
Braccus Rex, and more recently the only to return cold and uncaring to his wife
foul Black Ring, took great pleasure in raising and children? For several months he remained
their fallen – and their victims – to fight again. locked in his library, obsessively searching
The screams of horror emitted on the sight his books, before burning the library to the
of friends, family, and loved ones lurching ground and disappearing forever. Some say
towards you on the command of a foul he eloped with his mistress, others that he lost
necromancer still echo through the generations. his mind, others still that he was murdered
Many terrified villagers claim to have seen by dwarves to whom he owed money. His
rampaging hordes of skeletons pillaging and scullery maid tells a different tale.
burning farms across Rivellon. These raiders She explains that the Duchess confronted him
seed terror throughout the land, and are often – attacked him – and revealed him to be nothing
the vanguard of much larger armies. But is it more than a skeletal undead creature wearing
not a terrifying thought that the dead may be her husband’s aspect. She swears that she saw a
more than just puppets on a string? mask torn from his face, revealing his true form:
There are tales of living skeletons hiding he wore the bone-white visage of death, and
out in the wilds. Creatures said to possess the carried an eternal smile.
ability to speak, to think, to feel the horror at If the dead may walk, then we may be
what they have become. Rumour says that they doomed – or yet there may be hope. Perhaps,
have driven themselves into exile out of fear however, it would be better for a new Divine to
that society will reject them. This may be true rise. I pray that a woman or a man shall rise to
– or it may be complete fantasy – but there are become the new Divine. Although I’d settle for
other rumours, more worrying still. a dwarf or an elf – or even a lizard – if they can
do what needs to be done.
All our fates depend on it. And so ends my
recitation of the story up to now, as best as I
can know it, and as best as I can tell. History
records the great deeds done to make this world
what it is today. May history record the greater
deeds yet to come, that this world may live.

40
 PORTRAITS OF NOTABLE
PERSONAGES FROM ALL
CLASSES AND RACES
ACROSS THE REALM
—IN EXCERPT FORM—

O
f course, it is all well and good to Instead, I have looked through my notes and
examine times past, but what of the found records of those people who seem most
world today? And what is a world but noteworthy. One might expect this to be
the people that move through it, breathing nothing but a list of Rivellon’s highest nobles,
life into palaces and taverns alike? Every but while they may shape history, it is the
prince and pauper, every merchant and ordinary people of this land that must live it.
mercenary, has left their mark on Rivellon. As such, I have tried to take a sample from
How I wish I could record each and every all walks of life, to give you a more complete
one of their stories for posterity, but such portrait of the people that I have shared this
a census would take centuries. world with. Many of them have enriched my
life for the better, and I hope you will find
similar riches as you traverse Rivellon.
 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

RED PRINCE

It would be negligent of me to begin a

tale of Rivellon’s most fascinating figures
with anyone other than the Red Prince.
Although he may be little known outside of
the Ancient Empire, within the right circles
his name is synonymous with mystery, with
victory, with glamour, and – most of all –
with disgrace.

D
espite its ending, his story began with great promise.
The only red lizard in history, raised in a sealed,
forbidden city – it was surely the stuff of legend!
Born into the royal family within the House of War,
this young prince seemed destined to lead his empire
to greatness. He lived his entire life in the sealed-off
Forbidden City, a vast complex of palaces home to the
royal family of his house. He excelled at everything
he tried – could name any star in the sky, take on the
Empire’s best in duels, and give a judgement on any
conflict. It was oft said that he could make fire and
water settle their differences, had he a mind to.
Even the House of Law was forced to swallow their
pride and admit he was as insightful as he was bold.
But of course, he was perhaps best known for his
battles. Many of them will ring in the annals of
history for generations – the Ambush at Dragon’s
Spine, the Battle of Ferol Fields, the Hiberheim
Invasion. Once upon a time, ‘Red Prince’ was
a byword for victory – doubly so because he
never set foot on a battlefield. After all, what
need he with tents and mud when his generals
could come to him with maps, describe the
terrain, and have him tell them how best to
win from the comfort of his own throne room.
His victories (often against impossible odds)
are as legendary as they are bloody. As such,
his fame is as great as his infamy.
“Some say he made a blood pact with
So where did it all go wrong? Oh, how I wish a demon, others that he had a part to
I knew. There are stories of murder, affairs, or
dangerous Sourcery. Sometimes all three! Some say he
play in the death of blessed Lucian.”
made a blood pact with a demon, others that he had a
part to play in the death of blessed Lucian. All I can say
for sure is that he lost his throne and was chased from his
Empire. Perhaps someday we will know the truth, but for
now his secrets are kept well.

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 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

BEAST

B
efore he was the Beast, he was a noble of
good-standing within dwarven society.
Though I haven’t met him myself, and Though doubts about his parentage were
do not know his real name, the stories many, even his detractors could not deny that he
surrounding the so-called Beast have was a man of strong moral character.
painted a picture far more vibrant than But trying times were soon to fall. Sandwiched
between the Ancient Empire and rapidly expanding
the typical tete-a-tete is likely to offer. Divine Order territories, the queen grew reckless and
Here is what we know for certain: began ordering ill-fated military manoeuvres during
which countless civilian lives were unnecessarily lost.
The commoners, led by our hero himself, marched
upon the palace and demanded the queen’s abdication.
But her loyalists were many, the rebellion was quickly
quelled, and the man not-yet-named Beast was cast
to the Isle of Mists.
We don’t know for sure how long he spent upon
the island. But we do know one thing: He survived.
After some time, he commandeered a royal ship
moored upon the isle, helped by the one-time
rebels who crewed it.
Reports say his comrades hardly recognised him,
so scarred and dirty was his face, so regardless had
his hair grown, so starkly evident was the work of the
wilds upon him. But one change, they say, stood out
from the rest: He had grown a great beard, coiled and
oiled, lustrous and long, laced with shining sea shells,
silver dollars, and flecks of micah.
He explained it so: ‘When you enter the wild,
you must find something that the wild can’t take
from you. You may play the part of the beast, but
your spirit is still your own.’
Thus the Beast and crew took to the high seas,
exacting revenge upon the royal fleet and Magister
warships alike. But freedom would be short-lived.
While evading a Magister warship, Beast’s command of
the wind revealed him to be a Sourcerer. So chaotic
was this unexpected power that his ship
buckled; his crew was lost; and he was
fished out of the churning seas
by the Magisters themselves.
While reports have yet
to be confirmed, one can
only imagine he was
“When you enter the wild, you killed outright… or sent
straight to Fort Joy.
must find something that the
wild can’t take from you.”

46
 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

LOHSE

It would be impossible to discuss the

popular arts without acknowledging
the mononymous Lohse.

S
ome describe her music as jarring, too disorienting be
enjoyed. But her fans say that her music moves them
outside of themselves – past the realm of listening
and into the realm of, as they describe it, being beyond.
There have been rumours that Lohse’s talents may
stem from sources unsavoury– perhaps even otherworldly.
My curiosity was piqued, so I arranged a meeting with the
young star, intent on getting to the heart of the matter.
As it happened, the day of our interview – Lucian’s
Day of last year – would be the last Lohse would
appear in public. I met her just prior to the fateful
event. She was taller than I expected, dark-eyed,
and crowned with a great mass of audaciously
unwashed hair. I began with a simple question:
How had she drawn such a devoted following?
‘People like my music because it’s real’ she
said. ‘It’s a direct translation of what I hear
in my head. Like anything worth making –
love, art, noise – you shouldn’t hold back.’
As for the aforementioned rumours,
Lohse answered readily: ‘Yes, it’s true: I’m
a host. Always have been. Sprites, spirits,
demons… they’ve been visiting me since I
was a kid. Much of what I do comes from the
conversations I have behind my eyes.’
During the evening’s performance, as the crowd
moved in time to the music, something came over
them. Lohse’s Source had, presumably by accident,
manifested during the performance, and they began
to claw at each other like beasts, friend against friend,
lover against lover. Luckily, it ended soon after it had
begun and no serious injuries were reported. She was
hauled away to Fort Joy directly afterward.
“Like anything worth making – love, Her fans remain hopeful, however, that we haven’t
seen the last of this rising star. As one bandaged
art, noise – you shouldn’t hold back.” concert-goer told me after the arrest: ‘She’ll be
back. Someone like that doesn’t just go away.’

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 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

IFAN BEN-MEZD

I had always heard that treasure

could be found along the coast, but
never paid it heed. And yet, I found
a true prize hunkered on a beach near
Driftwood, staring out to sea. His
name? Ifan ben-Mezd.

L
ike everyone, I had heard tales of this man
– of the war hero who smashed the Black
Ring as part of Lucian’s army, of the devout
crusader who pledged his life to protect the Divine.
That, however, was not the man I met…
When I greeted him with his old title, he
laughed grimly. When I asked if he now served
Lucian’s son – Bishop Alexandar – he laughed again,
this time with a full-bellied bark. It appears that ben-
Mezd now operates as a mercenary, running with the
infamous Lone Wolves. Let me tell you, the tales I’ve
heard of them are not hearty tales for tavern firesides,
but fearful ones to tell a campfire guard right before
his watch. Stories of marked men who empty their
own veins the day they hear the ‘Silver Claw’ is
after them. Of a mercenary who tracks his prey
like an animal. Of a spectral wolf carrying out
impossible assassinations.
Try as I might, I could not get the green-eyed
man I met to confirm or deny any of these tales.
He simply bared his canines and told me that
every man has his price.
Thinking back, I do not know why I felt no
“I had heard tales of this man – of fear on that windswept beach. I was, I know now
without a doubt, pestering one of the most dangerous
the war hero who smashed the Black men in the land. Perhaps I felt there was still a sense
Ring as part of Lucian’s army.” of honour within him. Or perhaps I knew there was
no-one in the world willing to pay the bounty the
Silver Claw would demand for my life.
We spoke for some time, I trying to draw him on
his past (or his future), he deflecting my questions
with skill. He told me very little, and yet, there was a
fierce animation in his eyes as he spoke. A sense that
he disliked having to hold back. That perhaps, were
circumstances different, his story could be told.

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 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

SEBILLE

I admit, the elves have always been

something of a mystery to me. I admire
them, of course! They are such an odd
mix of things: beautiful and brutal,
charming and aloof, strong and fragile.

T
he last elf I met was at a market in Cyseal, a young-
looking lady named Sebille. I saw that she bore a curious
tattoo on her face and tried to use that as an excuse to
draw her into conversation. It was something of a… frosty
start, but she was eventually willing to speak to me about
her memories of growing up in the ancestral woods of her
homeland. Indeed, she seemed to be somewhat – dare I say
– obsessive about her memories. Of recalling them with
perfect accuracy and ensuring that nothing was forgotten.
She told me that she reluctantly left her home to be
brought to the Ancient Empire, where she worked for one
of the lesser-known houses. I had heard of the lizards’
fondness for slaves, of course, so I pressed no further.
I explained that I was glad to hear that she was now
wandering the land and had no further business with
any lizards. ‘Oh no,’ she corrected me. ‘There is still
business to be resolved.’ At this point she was twirling
a rather large needle between her fingers, so I thought
it best to let the conversation move on.
We talked for quite some time, and eventually “I saw that she bore a curious
I noticed that she had another tattoo, a man’s
name, just visible beneath the hem of her robe.
tattoo on her face and tried to
Our repartee was starting to flow quite naturally, use that as an excuse to draw
so I felt comfortable enough to joke what a lucky
man he was to merit such an honour. I was about
her into conversation.”
to pull up my sleeve to show her a tattoo of my
own beloved’s name, but she turned and walked
away without saying a word.
And that is an elf through and through.

What a truly strange people…

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 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

MEISTR SIVA SEEKER GARETH

I O
had the distinct displeasure of meeting the Meistr outside Arx nce, I came upon a broken-down wagon carrying
Cathedral. On asking if she would grace me with her company Lucian’s Day supplies to the cathedral here in
so I may record her tale, she wondered if I’d taken a vow of Arx. A Paladin lay upon on the ground, his white It is not often that you meet someone
chastity. I said no, rather taken aback, and she suggested, in that cloak covered in mud, helping to fix the axle as the who leaves you feeling like the world
case, that I should feel free to go… do unspeakable acts to myself. resting driver looked on. Imagine my surprise upon
It seems I’m not the only one to experience the sharp end of her discovering that the Paladin was one of the highest-
is a better place for having them in it.
tongue. Much of what I know of this lizard comes from talking to ranking Seekers in the Divine Order! He introduced
people she’s insulted, demeaned, or berated. However, these himself as Gareth and even had the gall to apologise
accounts do paint an interesting picture. for his appearance as he tried to clean the dirt from his
It seems her story began in the House of Dreams, where I gather cloak. Just a few months later the Seekers’ name was
she was a gifted student. However, she tired of her studies and left similarly dragged through the dirt, while Gareth
the empire to join the Divine in his fight against the Black Ring. would be one of the few to come out clean.
It wasn’t long before she earned a reputation for cold, He is known to be both pious and courageous
calculating intelligence and a brutality which, admittedly, (as well as being quite handsome, I dare say!).
seemed to save more lives than it cost. In time, Lucian had He is willing to use his blade when he believes
her promoted to the rank of Meistr: a wizard sage. his cause is righteous, and is renowned amongst
With the war done, the Black Ring scattered to the wind his peers for his strength of sword and spirit.
and, alas, with Divine Lucian gone to the Hall of Echoes, I was grateful to have a chance to break
Meistr Siva took to politics with the same cutting intellect bread with the man, wherein he told me
and uncompromising attitude that had marked her time of how he joined the Seekers and poured
in the army. It is fair to say that this approach did not his soul into finding and protecting
win her many friends. (In fact, my sources insist it Godwoken. He fed them, clothed them,
would be fairer still to say that she grated upon the guided them, and trusted them. I can only
nerves of nearly everyone in power and took immense imagine how devastated he was when the
pleasure in doing so.) Mistake rose from the flock he tended.
With Lucian dead, it seems that other Godwoken I tried to find him once again when the
may have presented themselves, at which point Siva took chaos of the Mistake had died down, but I
charge of a small, secretive group called the ‘Seekers’. was too late. His Paladin brothers tell me
She set out to find, protect and teach these potential he left Arx with Meistr Siva, and no-one
Divines (encouraged, no doubt, by those who thought had heard from him since.
her leaving Arx to wander Rivellon was a wonderful Wherever he is, whatever he is doing
idea). This all changed with the Godwoken that is most – I am grateful to share a world with this
commonly known as ‘the Mistake’. The Seekers were man. I have no doubt that he still travels
disbanded and Siva disgraced. Rivellon doing what he can to help those
I wish I could say I knew what had happened to this “She suggested, in that case, less fortunate than himself.
sharp-tongued pariah, but she seems to have all but If you are lucky enough to ever come
vanished. Wherever she is, I do hope living in disgrace
that I should feel free to go… do across him, his cloak may be stained but
with nothing but the memories of her failings for unspeakable acts to myself.” his soul is spotless.
company suits her.
“I have no doubt that he still travels
Rivellon doing what he can to help
Once the head of the famed Seekers, those less fortunate than himself.”
Meistr Siva’s fall from power has been
meteoric. (That is to say: rapid and rather
devastating for everything nearby.)

54 55
 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

MALADY TARQUIN

T
ake the story of Tarquin, for example, According
to his old tutors (who can be quite talkative after
It is rare to meet a person who exudes But not all stories are good. Of course, their second glass of Dragon’s Brew ale), Tarquin
charm, wit, beauty, and unfathomable they all have value: some are inspirational, was one of the brightest pupils to enter the Guilds for
danger all at the same time, but the elf some aspirational, but others? They serve generations. He came from a poor background, beset
by ill-health, and was, in academic achievement, utterly
Malady does so with grace and aplomb. only as a warning of the paths to avoid. incredible. He seemed to be self-educated, but he still
gained entry by passing an examination normally
reserved for senior tutors. It was assumed that he
was destined for great things, to say the least.
While he excelled in his studies, he did develop

I
met her in Arx, soon after the Seekers were disbanded. something of a reputation for overstepping boundaries.
She told me that she was there to meet a friend and conduct He was caught on multiple nights breaking into the
some business. She intrigued me as few people do – she is guild halls to conduct experiments that he himself
clearly an elf, but there was something about her that seemed so had designed. Only his formidable academic prowess
different from any elf I’ve ever met. Her speech flowed easily with saved him from expulsion. Emboldened, he delved
none of the awkwardness one sometimes noticed with her kind, further, exploring more perverse realms of science
and while her smile was captivating, her teeth seemed unnaturally and magic. He was finally banished from the Guild
sharp. She wore a mask covering half of her face, but refused to be when it was discovered he was trying to summon
drawn on what had happened to her. ‘Birth defect’ and a wave of her demonic entities and regenerate dead flesh.
hand was my only answer. Dabbling in such profane arts would usually see
Her style was distinctive; her conversation could be as civilised the culprit cast into a dungeon. Instead, perhaps
as that of any lady of court, but she wore a ferocious-looking two- as one last gesture of respect towards his skills,
pronged spear slung across her back. I could tell that she had seen Tarquin was allowed to leave. As the doors
battle, but she refused to be drawn on where. Or with whom. slammed shut behind him, he was warned
The most she would reveal was to grin and tell me ‘war is hell’. never to darken the halls of academia again.
Or – …at least I believe that is what she said. My memory Indeed, it seems this young man revelled
was somewhat hazy the next morning. Perhaps we should in squandering his promise, and continued
not have opened that fourth bottle of Dwarven Red. to meddle with forbidden knowledge. My
Her wit was sharp as any dagger and her laugh more research into him has unearthed reports of
intoxicating than any wine. We spent a long evening blood magic and necromancy from several
drinking and telling tales. I know that she spoke local authorities across Rivellon. One Magister
at length. She told me story after story, each arrested him for ‘deviant interference in the
fascinating and entertaining in equal local graveyard’. The interrogation that followed
measure. And yet, for all that oration, was documented in detail, giving a glimpse into
I could not shake the feeling that the mind of a tragic young man overcome by dark
she had pulled every secret ambitions and heretical thoughts:
I have from my chest ‘Do you not see that all things of worth in this
while remaining a world are the works of mortals? The Gods merely
complete and utter feed upon our achievements like carrion birds.
mystery to me. All they have is this promise of a so-called afterlife.
Once I rid the world of death, those charlatans
“The Gods merely feed upon our won’t have anything to use against us.’
“Her wit was sharp as any achievements like carrion birds.” Soon after those words were recorded,
Tarquin escaped custody under most unusual
dagger and her laugh more circumstances. What has come of him since is
intoxicating than any wine.” not known. So let this sorry tale stand as a
warning to all: even Rivellon’s best and brightest
are vulnerable to corruption.

56 57
 Chapter II: Portraits of Notable Personages

STORIES UNTOLD

O
f course, there are many stories that we will
simply never hear. I mourn the dead, not because
they have left this world, but because they have
taken the tales of their lives with them. It is a bitter-
tasting potion indeed to drink, to see the weave of all the
myriad stories of the world, and know that the greatest
number of these threads shall forever remain untold.
Take, for example, the story of one young… I shall
say ‘gentleman’ – for reasons that will soon be apparent,
I know not what else to call him. I exchanged a scant
few words with this young… man… in passing, one
rainy afternoon as I ate in a roadside tavern. I say he
was a man for I heard it in his voice, and I say he was
young because he moved with speed and grace, but
in truth he wore a cowl of a most distinctive style and
his countenance was deep in shadow. When I pressed
him for his name, he gave it in a word: ‘Fane’. I invited
him to join me for food, conversation, and libation, but
he despite his all-too-slender build he did not seem to
have an appetite. I pressed once more, and he turned
his head to me – and for the first time I glimpsed
a man’s face beneath the cowl. At least I believe
that’s what it was. A part of me would have
it that the face was that of a dwarf,
while another would say that he
was, in fact, elven – a memory,
surely faulty, for which I blame
the wine. Curiously, I also have
a clear and definite memory of
a lizard’s snout beneath the cowl
– and as preposterous as that must
sound to you, be assured that I was there
and it sounds doubly absurd to me. The only
thing of which I am sure is that there was not
the slightest hint of emotion from the stranger
– as if, in fact, he wore a mask.
He was polite, this creature of uncertain
origin, but his desire to be alone was clear.
I left him to himself. “He introduced himself as Fane and
I confess I was, and remain, intrigued. I sorely
wish that I had heard Fane’s story. I ached to learn
wore a cowl of a most distinctive
the truth of this most elusive of characters. But style, hiding his face entirely.”
alas, he denied my quill the opportunity to record
his tale for the ages. Little does the poor boy know
how close he came to immortality.

58
 A GUIDE TO MAGIC
AND OTHER SKILLS
FOR THE MODERATELY
INTELLIGENT

W
hile we do have a nigh-complete and Naturally, there will be no attempt to teach you
thorough understanding of the natural how to cast the spells themselves, as this can
world, there is still much about the take years of training at the hands of a skilled
supernatural world which puzzles us. We know master, and could be supremely dangerous in
that all magic flows from divine entities, but the the hands of an unsupervised novice.
study of such things is still shrouded in mystery For those without the wit for wizardry,
for many of the common people. I have also included several non-magical skill
This guide describes each of the major sets. Although mundane to the magically-
schools of magic, giving all readers a more inclined, these skills will let you learn abilities
complete understanding of what is possible far beyond that of the average citizen.
with these magics. Within these pages you will find no
mention of Source, for that is a power that
cannot be taught. It can only be lived.
 Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills

AEROTHEURGY GEOMANCY

A T
ir may seem like a benign force when you But for a master of this magic its uses he rock may feel solid beneath your feet, Geomancers can be found all over the world,
hear it rustling through the trees or feel it extend far beyond combat. Why wade but to a well-trained Geomancer it can flow in all walks of life. Some farmers will even try
tousling your hair; but in the hands of a through a river when you can just like water or fly like the wind. Geomancy their hand at this world of magic at one point or
skilled aerotheurge, it can be as deadly as any inferno. teleport to the other side? Why risk takes the power of earth and bends it to its master’s another, thinking they can trick nature into
When the wind blows and your roof trembles, you falling on a frozen path when you can will. Geomancers will hurl boulders through the air serving their crop without going through the
may wonder if the world is tearing at your house, summon a gust and scatter the ice to the as if throwing a ball for a dog, will cover their bodies proper agricultural training. The fortunate can
or if there is an aerotheurge at work. four winds? Why walk when the air can with rock to form thick, sturdy armour, and will often be found endeavouring to tend to poisoned
The aerotheurge is a master of control and lift and carry you? reach deep underground to draw up the fields – the unfortunate are never found at all.
movement. They can lock their opponents in place It can take many years of training before a person liquids resting below. While rigid stone True masters of geomancy are extremely rare,
with bursts of electricity or hurl them back and forth can begin to control the air about them, but it is said forms the backbone of any geomancer’s and will often live in exquisitely-designed caves,
across the battlefield with deft teleportation. And that you cannot be called a true aerotheurge until you spellbook, oil and putrid poison pulled where they can be surrounded by the element
when their enemies are able to move in close, many throw yourself from the highest cliff and the wind, from the earth’s depths are the ink that gives them strength and security.
will struggle to land a blow on these ethereal wizards. unbidden, reaches out to catch you. on the pages.

t m a h u t
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A e r o t h e u r g y G e o m a n c y
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 Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills

PYROKINESIS HYDROSOPHY

T W
he fire-masters claim that they Pyrokinetics can send jets of flame shooting across ater is an element that is one part life-giving This diversity of skill has meant that many armies
learned their craft from the a battlefield, summon powerful fire whips to lash elixir and one part destructive force of have sought out hydrosophists to act as warrior-
dragons themselves, that these their enemies, and blind those that get in their way. nature. The hydrosophists that walk this medics: equally capable of getting wounded soldiers
great beasts once saw such promise in However, there is debate as to whether any land are some of the most prized healers in the back on their feet and striking down their enemies.
the lesser races that they graced them pyrokinetic, no matter how powerful, can ever truly world, but they can be just as skilled when it Training in this skill is not simple, and many of its
with their greatest gift – the power to master the flames. Fire is guided, urged, and directed comes to inflicting wounds. greatest masters can be found living deep in swamps,
guide the one element that defies all towards a purpose, but no pyrokinetic can fully With mastery of water and ice, a well-trained in frozen mountain castles, or simply
authority and discipline. This is the only control what happens once the flames have been hydrosophist can heal the injured, cover strolling across the ocean. Practitioners
explanation available, but it does seem unlikely. unleashed. Indeed, there are stories of wizards that themselves in a thick armour of frost, and call study for years to acquire this art, but
If you have ever seen a fire tear through a home, saw madness in the fire and let the blaze control down razor-sharp ice on their enemies. they return to their communities
then you will know that this element is wild and them. These invariably become the stories of lauded as heroes, capable of calming
strong-willed, but an experienced pyrokinetic can towns wiped out, leaving nothing but charred ferocious storms or diverting
harness and direct its power. husks and the laughter of a lunatic. devastating floods.

s e m
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w f e f
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a m e t t a w

P y r o k i n e s i s H y d r o s o p h y
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 Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills

NECROMANCY METAMORPHOSIS

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lot has been written about the ‘dark arts.’ In fact, they’ll say whatever you want them to… he ability to change from one form to another There are stories of Sourcerers that
About magic designed to bring back the dead, A necromancer has the power to make a has been the stuff of myth and legend for as could grow wings and soar to the
to inflict egregious pain, and to be one with corpse leap to its feet and to make the living rot long as people have told stories. There are heavens, that grew snakes from their
the shadows. To many, this is unspeakable evil and before their time. They have power over life, tales of the gods walking amongst us disguised scalp and gained the power to petrify
dangerously close to the powers of the Void. But there death, and much in between. They can reflect as animals, of part-man-part-wolves, of powerful their enemies, that could swap their
are those that think such magic has its place. their own pain back on their attackers, rejuvenate Sourcerers that can turn their enemies to a very skin for another.
After all, what is a body but a themselves with life drawn from their enemies, squawking pile of feathers with a flick of their Some say that these Sourcerers were
tool for the living? And they argue and bring the fallen back to continue their fight. wrist. But what is the truth of these tales? heretics – that the Gods gave us shape and
that once the soul has vacated a This magic may be reviled by many, but do the Some wizards say that it is possible. They say that insist that it is not our place to undo their
body, why should that body not be ends justify the means? If you could stop evil by matter is not fixed, but transmutable. That you need will. Others think they are simply frauds. But
animated as a tool for another? The calling the dead to fight for you, would you? not be limited by the body you have – only by the there are a few that believe, and rumours abound
skeletons don’t mind. Ask them, extent of your power. of the marvellous powers that they have unlocked.
they’ll tell you.

N e c r o m a nc y M e t a m o rp h o s i s
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 Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills

ROGUERY RANGING

s b e s m a
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T S
here are some skills that exist The skills of rogues and vagabonds are some of urvival is king for those who travel the They have brought the use of a bow (or crossbow
only in the shadows: only in the oldest tricks in the tattered, ratty book. wilderness. The hunters and rangers that live in some cases) to an art form and are able to snipe
worlds of cut-purses and cut- In most cases they are nothing more magical their lives far from the hearths and comforts of targets from afar, ricochet arrows off multiple marks,
throats. No good, honest folk need to than a well-sharpened dagger and a quiet footstep, home have honed their skills over generations of hard and even produce rapid-fire barrages that leave their
know how to throw a knife across a but they can take years to master. There are living. They have mastered essential skills like how enemies diving for cover.
room with amazing accuracy. No good, precious few young experts of these arts, but there to quickly bind a wound in the heat of battle and how But just because a hunter only requires a simple
honest folk need to know how to knock are absolutely no elderly novices. You either learn to retreat from a dangerous situation – but their main bow, do not think these are simple feats.
a person out with a chemistry-soaked these skills quickly when you’re young or you don’t tool is the bow. They are honed over a lifetime
rag or a well-executed stranglehold. No good, honest grow old. When you walk in the shadows, the world A hunter’s bow is as vital to their survival as the of survival in some of the most
folk need to know how to step from the shadows and rarely gives you second chances. arm that holds it, and they’re as likely to leave one dangerous parts of the world.
slit a throat. But of course there are plenty of folk out behind in a fight as the other. Lucky for these master rangers,
there who are neither good nor honest. there is rarely much in the forest
as dangerous than they are.

R o g u e r y R a n g i n g
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 Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills Chapter IIi: A Guide to Magic and Other Skills

SUMMONING WARFARE

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here is a long history of summoning creatures If you wish for a demon… heavens help you. ince man first tied rocks to Some learned their art in noble halls, surrounded
in Rivellon. Witches have their companions, However, you can offer some of the source within sticks, the races of Rivellon by well-paid instructors; others learned it in
demonologists have their hell beasts, and yourself and summon a demon to give you its have been striving to find alleyways, on street corners, or knee-deep in gore
shamans have their totems. Although each of these strength. One can even give the elements life, better ways to kill each other. Any on a wasted battlefield, surrounded by people who
are unique in their own way, they all pull from the creating an incarnate elemental fool with a hand can be taught how were trying to kill them.
same well of magic, and all transform the world to creature to stand by your side. to swing a sword, but those who have To be a master at martial warfare is to know how
bring forth creatures that did not exist before. Although practitioners of this learned the intricacies of martial combat to fight in any situation. Whether you are rushing
If you wish for an animal companion, you can magic can be found all over Rivellon, are a class all unto themselves. across the battlefield to engage with the enemy,
draw from the power within yourself to summon there are precious few who have These warriors, with a shield in one hand taunting a foe to draw them away from a friend, or
one. If you wish to bring for an elemental totem, mastered it in all its forms. and a melee weapon hefted in the other, have been simply having the power to rain a flurry of blows
you can draw from the elements around you to taught from childhood how to parry, thrust, and kill. down on your opponents, you will always be well-
bring one forth. prepared for whatever the world throws at you.

S u m m o n i n g W a r f a r e
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 EXCERPTS FROM
BLACKWOOD’S
BESTIARY

W
hile searching through what passes Appended were etchings of some of the most
for a library in the once-great dwarven horrific creatures I have ever seen depicted:
capital, I was surprised to find a rather Voidwoken! With this nascent Voidwoken
interesting book. Its binding was rough, its bestiary, I have come to understand much
pages torn, and the cover badly singed, but more about their nature, and I am pleased
contained within was material as magical as and honoured to include some of that
any grimoire: a nigh-complete description of knowledge here.
every creature in the land! While we still live in a world where terror
Although I cannot hope to include the entire of the Voidwoken grows by the day, I pray
list, I have taken some of the more unusual that someday these accounts will be nothing
entries (paying particular attention to those more than notes of historical interest.
belonging to our local landscape) and have Let this knowledge forewarn you that you
included excerpts here for your perusal. must set forth on your travels fully armed.
When I brought this book of great fauna We may yet know little of how these creatures
to the librarian to request its loan, he may be defeated, but if you do meet Voidwoken
motioned for me to wait. He rummaged in along the road, it may at least offer you a little
a chest for some time before presenting me comfort to put a name upon the cause of your
with a loose collection of notes written in certain demise.
the librarian’s own hand.
 Chapter IV: Excerpts from Blackwood’s Bestiary Chapter IV: Excerpts from Blackwood’s Bestiary

FOREST TIGER

T
he elves hung wards to protect their young from They could kill a lesser man with a single blow, and even
being snatched in the night, but even trained elven the greatest warrior would struggle to overcome their
hunters could be dragged into the shadows if caught ferocious nature. No-one can say if any of these tigers
unawares. Many lost travellers met their end when they survived the Deathfog which engulfed the elven forests,
looked up and saw those cold, white eyes staring back. and no-one has dared step into their territory to see.
The tigers of the elven forests stalked their prey from Regardless, this majestic beast stood as a lesson to us
the thick forest foliage that was their home. They were all. There is great beauty in nature, but only a fool would
beautiful, elegant, and terrifying. ignore its claws.

SHAMBLING OAK

W
hen walking through the woods, be careful of Some blame the elves and the exodus from their
where you make camp. An old, gnarled tree can ruined homeland for the appearance of these creatures
make a fine shelter from the rain – but gods help (if creatures they are?) in our woods. Others say it is
you if you pick firewood from the wrong pile of sticks. a sign of growing Void power. Whatever the truth,
Mounds of bark and vegetation can be found roaming be wary. These beasts may be slow, but their limbs
the forests of Rivellon. Although legends of such things have a thousand years of power behind them.
stretch back throughout history, it is only in recent
years that loggers have found that the forest bites back
against their axes.

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 Chapter IV: Excerpts from Blackwood’s Bestiary

ELVEN STAG

Y
ou have never seen a place like the elven
forests. And now that they have been
wiped from this world by Deathfog you
may never have the chance.
As I walked through the forest, I heard the
trees reach down and whisper dreams in my
ear. And the wildlife? It was unlike anything
else. Stags that once looked like any other found
themselves clad in beautiful organic armour.
Was it elven craftsmanship, or simply the forest’s
magic, working to protect the animals in its kingdom?
I saw elves ride these creatures, but it was no
domination of elf over beast. They accepted their
passengers as a father would scoop up a sleeping child,
and carried them with just as much care. As fierce as the
elves can be, I felt love in that forest. I weep at the thought
that I will never feel it again.

ACID TOAD

I
f you should chance upon any cave near
Fort Joy, inspect it most thoroughly
or perish most painfully. The foul
magic of Braccus Rex, once Source King of
that land, still lingers and still produces
creatures as foul and wretched as he.
This acidic toad is monstrous and
devious, and can be found dwelling
deep in coastal caves. Unlike any other
creature I have ever seen, this beast uses
acid and poison to form its lair.
This sketch is based on reports from DWARF NIGHTMARE
people living along Reaper’s Coast, as I was

W
fortunate enough not to see these toads myself. hen the rain is bad, it has become my habit to Its long claws were almost dragging along the wet ground,
I did, however, find a webbed footprint. It was sleep in trees rather than on the sodden ground. but it moved with an easy power. Duna help its prey when
imprinted onto solid rock and seemed to be sizzling. One dark night I slumbered in the branches and that beast hunts.
suffered the worst of nightmares. I dreamt that I looked If not for the rain’s cover, I am certain it would have
down from my perch and saw an abomination pass by. caught my scent on the tree and scrambled up to pluck
Its eyes were yellow, its shape half-man, half-wolf, me from my perch. But of course, it was only a nightmare.
and it was clad all over in the skins of its kin. I… I’m almost sure it was only a nightmare…

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 Chapter IV: Excerpts from Blackwood’s Bestiary Chapter IV: Excerpts from Blackwood’s Bestiary

SAND FOX

F
or years I had heard that the Sand Fox
of the eastern deserts was a shy,
reclusive creature – that precious few
people had ever caught sight of it. But they
had it wrong. Few people have seen it and
lived to tell the tale.
The sand fox features in many of the local
legends of its homeland. In some it is a trickster
spirit, leading desperate souls deeper and
deeper into the desert, far from water and
further from rescue. In other tales it is a vicious
opportunist, preying off the weak. Whatever
the truth of its nature, it is surely not a creature
to be underestimated.
I would like to say that I saw this creature on
my travels, but would that be true? I had spent
days in the desert, walking in circles following
faded tracks. One day, as my water was running
low and a sand storm raging, I saw something
flit past. Was it the fox, or was it my heat-
addled brain? I will never know. Perhaps,
given the creature’s nature, that is for the best. DUNE MANTIS

H
alfway to the top of a gigantic sand dune, I heard
a great whirring sound unlike any other. Over my
head flew the most vile insect I have ever seen.
I find myself sweating even now, thinking of its grasping
jaws and spiny limbs.
I have seen smaller creatures that bear some
resemblance, but nothing as large as this. At most, its
smaller cousins could challenge a mouse – these beasts
would tear an orc in half and think nothing of it.
All through Rivellon I have heard tales of
‘Voidwoken’ – of creatures not of this world,
brought here by the Void to destroy us all or
serve some other dark purpose. I have seen
WHITE DEATH many things which could be such creatures,
but I believe that with this monstrosity I

T
he legends of my people talk of the White Death: The last alleged sighting was back in the time of Tenax, have surely found a true Voidwoken!
a creature that hides in the deepest mines. Pale as first king of the Dwarves. Legend says he slew the White It flew holding its head high, never once
alabaster and thrice as tough, this beast was said Death and set free the miners held in its thrall. It is a fine looking down: a fact for which I will be
to be armed with claws that can cleave through flesh, tale without a shred of evidence to back it up. forever grateful. I would almost say that it
bone, and armour. So why bring it up here? Because rumours have moved with intelligence: that it was flying
There were even stories of whole mining parties started to spread again. Rumours that the White Death with some purpose in mind, rather than
disappearing. Some say they were lured away, deep into stalks the shadows once more. I am sure it is as empty a simply prowling for its next meal.
the darkness, by some enchanting force. Others think tale now as it was in King Tenax’s time, but I have met I tried to find out more, but the locals say
they simply abandoned their posts and fled in terror. miners’ widows that swear their husbands heard only ‘Those who know it, know death’. I do not
something stirring deep in the darkness… think I will tarry in these dunes too long.

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 Chapter IV: Excerpts from Blackwood’s Bestiary Chapter IV: Excerpts from Blackwood’s Bestiary

DEEP DWELLER

S
wamps have many dangers: sinkholes, foul gases,
poisonous plants – but none of these come close to the
threat posed by these monsters. The men that share their
swamps with these creatures compare them to the fair merfolk
of the sea, (how I wish I could be sketching those beauties,
rather than these beasts) but I am not convinced. There are
stories of them dragging lost travellers into the mire and then
feeding off their Source. This matches what I have heard of
the ‘Voidwoken’ rumours. A fascinating prospect…
There are even those that say they have even heard them speak.
They say they have seen the black magic these dwellers are
capable of, but refuse to tell me what they know, lest they
call the demons to their own doors. I cannot say I blame
them. These beasts slither as fast as a snakebite, and
their claws sink just as deep. You may find these beasts
near water: the more putrid, the better.
All I could glean is they are called ‘Deep Dwellers’
in the crude tongue of the swamp people, who believe
the swamp’s sinkholes are tunnels to the underworld.
They whisper that the ‘Dwellers’ are the guard dogs of
hell, and drag sinners screaming into the depths.

KRAKEN

H
ave you ever seen a
boat drifting, ragged
and abandoned? Will
you approach out of compassion or
greed? What will you think as the boat
SIREN turns towards you and barbed tentacles start to
creep up the side of your ship?
Just as we lure fish with a worm on a hook, the Kraken lures sailors

Y
ou know the tales of the siren, I’m sure. You know
the stories of how she lures away fishermen from with the craft upon its back. And once its long tentacles are near,
their nets – from their ships – and takes them those poor souls are doomed as any flounder on a line.
down to live with her beneath the waves. You may For years I was sceptical that it existed. Indeed, that it even could
know the tales, but I know her song. exist. No fish grows a boat from its back and no sea beast reaches
I heard the siren’s hymn three moons ago, but the the size the old sailors swear it to be. But one night I was standing
memory remains as if it were yesterday. Watching from a on the deck, watching a passing ship by moonlight. I saw a small
nearby beach, I saw a beautiful maiden call to a group of boat approach it, moving against the wind. A cloud passed, blocking
fishermen off Reaper’s Coast. She was gliding above the the moon, but in the darkness I heard the snap of timber and the
water, her song lured the men closer. They sailed right to screams of dying men. Minutes later, when the sky cleared and I
their doom. As their ship approached her, the maiden rose could see again, the sea was empty. There was no sign of either boat
from the sea and revealed her full, terrifying form. Demonic or the sailors whose screams I had heard. I will forever curse, and be
in shape and ferocious in power, this terrible beast tore the grateful to, that passing cloud.
ship apart and consumed every soul on board.

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BLOOD ELEMENTAL

I
thought there was nothing worse
than seeing blood spilled. Than seeing
it flow and pool around a corpse. I was
wrong. By the Gods, was I wrong.
I cannot say whether this creature (should
it be called a creature at all) was wrought
by impish ingenuity or demonic forces, but
this foul emanation is not content to lie still.
What begins as a pool of gore can sometimes
take another form.
Seeing blood drip to the floor is grim, but
to see it raise from the ground and take shape
before you – that is true horror. The beast leapt
for my throat and I only barely managed to fight
it off, covered in cuts and scratches.
As I fled I saw it standing over splashes of my
blood, left on the floor as I ran. I do not know if
the foul beast feeds on the blood of others, but
it certainly seems to relish it.

SALAMANDERS

S
ome lizards dream that they, and they
OIL MOLE alone, are the descendants of the dragons
of old – but what of the salamanders?

Y
ou know of black gold, I presume? Well it attracts just Just as dragons of fire and ice once roamed the
as much trouble as the glittering kind. The Blackpits skies of Rivellon, you will find salamanders
oilfields have drawn to them black creatures: mole-like living on the slopes of volcanoes, at the feet
monstrosities which seem to spread the Void wherever they of glaciers, and in the lightning-filled tropics.
go. Slow, but powerful, these oil moles burrow through They are creatures of the elements, and you
the ground, bursting to the surface when they feel will often find themselves taking on the
movement above them. elemental natures of their surroundings.
Armed with long, ferocious claws and tough Alas, I am told that some of those living in
armour, these beasts have been known to roll the darker parts of this land have taken the
into a ball to move quickly across the surface. Void as their element, becoming twisted and
Their star-noses can be extended to shoot long jets dark as their surroundings.
of oil. In fact, these creatures spread oil everywhere They are also tough fighters, while as the
they go, so be mindful of your torch. One stray lizard folk may have the wit and refinement
spark could spell disaster. of long-gone dragons, the salamanders have
No-one is quite sure from where these their brute power.
beasts come – some say they have always But that is not to say that these creatures
been with us, but have now been driven to do not have their uses. I’m told that some
the surface by mining. Others think they have lizards keep them as pets, seeing them as
only recently appeared and are the results of far more worthy of respect than a dog or
wicked Void magic. cat. While many put this down to the
lizards’ usual snobbery, I’ve yet to see
a moggy that can spit fire.

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ICE RHINO

W
hile trekking through a mountain pass I To see this beast rushing towards you would freeze
looked down and saw this creature on the the blood in your veins, if it were not frozen already.
glacier below. I swear, there was murder in its The Ice Rhino has a single large, glittering horn;
baleful eyes. Had there not been a cliff betwixt it and I, two tusks; innumerable razor-sharp ice shards
you would surely find my bones in some icy crevasse. coating its body; and a temper of pure fire.
I escaped those mountains with naught but
mild frostbite and a chill in my gut, but if you
ever hear its cry echoing across the frozen wastes
– well, I pray the cold takes you before it does.

ICE MAMMOTH

L
eave your swords and bows if you should face I hear tell of villages that proudly boast of homes made from
an ice mammoth. Leave your daggers and the skin of these beasts, but I have never seen it myself.
slings. Leave everything you have and run. What I have seen are hamlets and camps left in ruins,
In the frozen north, legends tell of the mountain that trampled underfoot by herds of these terrifying creatures.
kills. Of giants that will impale you on their teeth and I wish I had some solace for the hunter that would go
glaciers that will rise up to charge you. I firmly believe up against these beasts, but I do not. The ice that covers
that the ice mammoth is the root of these legends. It is a this creature’s hide will turn away many a blade, and its
truly monstrous creature which stands tall as a tree and tusks will carve you in pieces. I have been asked what
is armed with tusks that put the finest spears to shame. weapon I would recommend for anyone that wished to
take on such a creature. My response has always been
‘perhaps a siege engine?’
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LIZARD NIGHTMARE

N
ot all sleep is pleasant and restful. Betimes,
oozing from the darkness of your mind, a
terrifying nightmare will arise. That may not
be any great trial for you or I – it is enough to wake
up in a cold sweat and shake off the fear that haunted
you in the dark. Not so for the Lizard Dreamers.
These mystics are said to safeguard the Ancient
Empire. It is rumoured that they walk in dreams and
do things while sleeping that no other person could
do awake. But it is a dangerous path they walk. If their
dreams should turn dark – if their minds should
weaken – any manner of beast may emerge.
This hideous creature is said to haunt the dreams of
the lizard folk, but it is all too real for their Dreamers.
To become trapped in your own mind, hunted by a
nightmare like this? It may be a fate worse than death.
If you should ever sleep and find yourself faced with a
creature such as this, be warned: whatever else happens,
remember to wake up.

DRILLWORM

I
have felt the earth tremble. Worse, I have
seen the beasts that cause it: burrowing
monstrosities in the shallow earth of our fair
land. Their lives are shrouded in darkness in all areas
but one – and there I saw them feed.
Can you imagine the horror of the ground cracking
and their maw appearing ‘neath your boots? There is
no escape – no rescue from the jaws that will snatch
you from the sun’s light and drag you deep into
the darkness below. Such is the fate of the
Drillworm’s prey. HALL OF ECHOES CREATURE
Some form of these beasts can be found

I
anywhere, but there is an especially monstrous cannot tell you if I truly saw this creature. Its ribs and skull seemed solid enough, but within
example that seems to be drawn to places where I was sick, at death’s door, but while I slept I saw it was filled with the beautiful glow of Source.
Source is used in abundance. it floating through a landscape of unnatural rock. I will never know this was something from the next
As I have travelled through Rivellon I have It passed above my head without seeing me. In fact, world or just a fever dream, but it felt real. It felt more
started to hear tales of ‘Voidwoken’: monsters I’m not sure if it sees anything at all. I could not spy any real than this quill in my hand…
that are drawn to Source. They seem to be eyes in its head, but it drifted between columns of rock
spreading. Could this be one such creature? with a slow, elegant grace, so it must have some sense of
the world it moves through.

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 THE LOCAL LANDS
TRAVEL GUIDE AND ATLAS

T
here is a world beyond your hearth, As such, I have done my best to capture the
reader. Beyond whatever library you essence of our region and distil it through
have made your own to read this text. these pages, serving you a fine snapshot of
And that world is wide, fascinating, and – at the world outside the safety of your fireside.
times – absolutely deadly. Should you wish to travel, perhaps this book
With Voidwoken stalking the land, the will serve as a guide to the very best parts of
various nations at the brink of war, and this land. Or – even more valuably – a warning
ungodly rumours flying through the air, of the lands you had best avoid.
there hasn’t been a more dangerous time
to travel since the Great War.
 Chapter V: The Local Lands Travel Guide and Atlas

THE HISTORY OF BRACCUS REX,

THE LAST SOURCE KING REAPER’S EYE
T
o understand the horror of what he did in Fort Joy, one
must understand Braccus Rex himself. In Rivellon’s earlier
days, Sourcerer monarchs performed great deeds across
the lands, and in his first days, Braccus was one such noble
ruler. But in time, as is true of so many things, he became
increasingly corrupted by Source.
He had a twin, Cassandra, with whom he crafted a
soul forge: a powerful spell that bound his soul to hers
and hers to his. Alas, this was done more out of greed
than love. Once the soul forge was complete, Braccus
turned her to an undead lich so that she, and thus he,
might live forever.
As his reign continued, Braccus became
increasingly tyrannical and began searching
for ways to consolidate his power. He found and
developed ancient magic and technology most
had forgotten and few understood, and used it
to keep his domain in an ever-tighter iron grip.
But resistance against Braccus was growing,
led by the newly founded Order of the Source
Hunters. These brave soldiers had one goal
in mind: to depose the Source King. They
would then ensure that the Source scourge be
removed from Rivellon. One day, at last, the
Source Hunters stormed Fort Joy and dragged
Braccus back to the mainland for trial.
He was found guilty of crimes against
humanity, hanged, and thrown into a well
in the port city of Cyseal. Alas for Rivellon,
his disciples found his body and gave it a
proper burial in the Church to the Seven
in the Cyseal hinterlands.
Much later, a group calling themselves
the Cult of the Immaculates emerged, and
one of their order, by the name of Leandra,
commanded that Braccus Rex be resurrected
so that she might learn the secrets of the soul

F
forge. Braccus Rex returned, but was again ar offshore from the world of the good By contrast, the inner heart of the island is
laid low by a lone pair of Source Hunters. and sane lies the island of Reaper’s Eye. comprised of a lush and vibrant marsh. At least,
(See Tales from the King Crab Inn by C. Unforgettable to all her visitors – though it was once. Now the swamps are a decaying,
Huwbert for more.) rarely in a good way – this island has seen fetid mess – the scars of an abused past.
Though his reign is long over, Braccus more than its share of misery, pain, and terror Abandoned by all but the cursed and the
Rex’s legacy can still be felt throughout through the ages. insane, bypassed by the ships that ply the High
Rivellon – the remains of his monuments While the waters that surround this isle are Seas, the island had been left to rot for
still dot the landscape, but thankfully clear and pristine, the coast of the island itself a thousand years. Until recently.
his foul research is now lost. boasts aggressive, wind-blasted rock. The Now the isle is home to Sourcerers, brought
Indeed, from the ashes of his evil we may only vegetation that grows on its bare beaches there by the Divine Order for their safety and
be able to find some good. Many years after are ragged trees and tough scrub. The rocks the safety of all Rivellon. There they wait as the
its master was thwarted, Fort Joy has become themselves seem to warn away people of good Divine Order works tirelessly to cure them of
invaluable to the Divine Order. Its remote sense, jutting sharply into the air as if daring the Source magic that makes them such a threat
location has made it the perfect place to the Gods themselves to come down and try to the rest of the world.
quarantine a dangerous population, and to tame it.
the swamps that surround it make escape
all but impossible.

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REAPER’S EYE
FORT JOY THE HOLLOW MARSHES

T
oday, this fort stands as a symbol of hope for
Rivellon. It is the base from which the Divine
Order conducts its research into Sourcerers
and the Voidwoken threat. It is strictly off limits
to civilians, but I have been told by the highest
authorities that it is a place where the Divine
Order and Sourcerers work together for the
betterment of Rivellon.
Under the watchful eyes of Bishop Alexandar
and his right hand, Dallis, the Magisters of
the Divine Order have already developed
several new technologies and treatments
to help manage the danger Sourcerers
pose to themselves and others. I am
told that Fort Joy was the birthplace
of the ‘Source Collar’, an unobtrusive
neckpiece that limits the dangerous
Source some people exude, thus
lessening the chance that they will
draw Voidwoken to them.
A useful temporary solution while
Bishop Alexandar works tirelessly to
find a true ‘cure’ that will rid the world
of Source once and for all.
Of course, Fort Joy has a long history
of Source research, although not all of it
was as honourable as the Divine Order’s

T
recent endeavours – long before collared he forbidding swamps that lie beyond
and powerless Sourcerers roamed its the fort are known to all as the Hollow
courtyards, Fort Joy was the base of research Marshes. Many who have tried to explore
for the most notorious Sourcerer of them all: and document these swamps have not returned,
Braccus Rex. and those that have came crying tales of ghosts
Upon this isle of horrors, Braccus researched and monsters. There is nothing but blood,
magics ancient and unseen and harnessed death and madness to be found in these rotting
them into devices he could use to dominate wastes. No sane person will willingly find
and control the Sourcerers who defied him. themselves walking these marshes, but if you
It is said he made staves that could were ever to find yourself there you should flee
purge Source from the powerful – and for the safety of Fort Joy as quickly as your legs
kill the powerless. Leashes that could will carry you. If you still have your legs.
dominate utterly those he collared.
Orbs and jars that could house a
person’s very Source, chaining their
soul to one location for an eternity.

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REAPER’S EYE REAPER’S COAST

A LESSON FOR US ALL

T
he lush and fruitful lands between
the High Sea shore to the east, the
Dragon’s Spine Mountains to the west,
and the forbidding Bane Lands to the north,
has long been known as Reaper’s Coast. Even
through the upheavals and the dangers and
the Voidwoken attacks, the people of the
region struggle on, scratching out a living in
the ancient trades of sea-faring, agriculture,
industry, and criminality. Once upon a
time, in the not-too-distant past, humans
and dwarves, and their occasional elven and
lizard neighbours too, mixed freely here in
friendship and enterprise, while gently stealing
from each other whenever the opportunity
presented itself. Now, as the Voidwoken break

S
o why does the story of Braccus Rex and And the arrogance to think that one could through the veil of reality and everyone suffers
Fort Joy matter? Why does his tale belong control such a monster drove Leandra and the consequences – sickness, starvation,
in these pages? I tell the tale of Braccus the Immaculates to bring him back to violent death – the fault-lines between these
Rex not only because it is a gripping part of this threaten the world once more. communities are beginning to open.
land’s history, but because it serves as a lesson This story reminds us all to be humble Driftwood, the region’s central town, is
for today. This story stands as a monument to when we face the challenges of the world a haven of relative mundanity in a hotbed
the arrogance of people. today. There are those that argue we can trust of supernatural uncertainty. The nearby
The arrogance to think that one can live Sourcerers not to be corrupted by their power. Bloodmoon Island and Stonegarden cemetery
forever drove Braccus’s obsessive search for There are others that say we could even harness have earned quite the illustrious reputations
immortality, and lead to experimentation on his this power, or use it to control the Voidwoken among the frightful campfire tales of the locals.
own people in Fort Joy. It lead to the foul taint that threaten us. They are wrong. Source has I myself have yet to verify the rumours, nor
that still blights the Hollow Marshes today. brought us nothing but pain and suffering. have I met anyone who claimed to have survived
a visit to either location.

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REAPER’S COAST
DRIFTWOOD REAPER’S BLUFFS

T
he cliffs along the coast from Driftwood
offer the traveller beautiful views all
the way to the horizon across the
sparkling seas. They also offer the unwary a
quick death at the point of a dagger, the butt of
a skull-sized rock, or other implement, sharp
or blunt or both. The rocky coast is strewn
with wrecks, many of which, one suspects,
were enthusiastically plundered. Survivors of
these wrecks are few and far between, but they
have on rare occasion burst into the Black Bull
tavern in Driftwood, dripping wet, shivering,
and telling outlandish tales of mysterious
lights, murder and shadowy figures.
The Divine Order has, of course, tried to assert
its control over the area. On occasion, troops of
local Magisters will venture out along the bluffs
in search of miscreants but when they return (if
they return), they report having found nothing
more than burned-out campfires and empty
treasure chests.

T
he beating heart of Reaper’s Coast is
the town of Driftwood. Here the dwarves
have long worked hand-in-hand with
humans catching fish, processing fish, and shipping
fish. The town has long been a loyal Divine Order
stronghold with a rotating battalion of Magisters stationed
permanently within the town walls. Until recent times, the
Magisters exerted little overt control over the town’s affairs –
as long as peace and prosperity reigned, and crime levels didn’t
cut into food budgets, the denizens of the town were happy to
handle their own governance and the Order was happy to leave
them to it. However, now the Voidwoken attacks, the anti-
Sourcerer pogrom, and the destruction of local fish stocks have
sent the locals into something of a downward spiral. The good
and honest people of Driftwood try their best, but as the times
get harder, one can’t help but feel that there are fewer and fewer
good and honest people.

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REAPER’S COAST
PARADISE DOWNS

F
armers have been cultivating the
meadows of Paradise Downs for countless
generations, producing the carrots,
potatoes, and tomatoes without which the
denizens of Driftwood would eat little more
than fish and seaweed. (Not that this would
make them unhappy.) The downs are a peaceful
place where farmhouses cluster, smoke curling
from their chimneys, and the sun shines down
on long and satisfying days tilling the fields.
The people of Paradise Downs love their little
corner of the world, and are rightfully proud of
its place as the humble yet beautiful producer
of much of the region’s best food.
We have yet to see how these farmers will deal
with an ever-more dangerous world, but for now
there are fields to till and harvests to celebrate.

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REAPER’S COAST
STONEGARDEN CEMETERY THE BLACKPITS

The only permanent residents, bar

the dead of course, are an elven
gravekeeper and those that help him in
his work. I have never met him myself,
but perhaps this is just as well. I am
told that he much prefers the company
of animals to that of people.

D
eath, they say, is the leveller of the You will likely see the dwarves’ burial rite before
races. All stand equally tall when you see the cemetery. As any visitor approaches
they lie in repose. The Stonegarden they will first see the a ring of birds circling in
has never discriminated in receiving the dead the sky. Then the dwarf tower will slowly come
of the Reaper’s Coast, and each section of the into view, standing high above the rest of the

L
cemetery shows itself to be a fine study in the graves. Atop this tower the dwarves leave their iquid midnight… black honey… crude tea:
cultural differences between the civilised races. dead to be picked clean by the birds of the air. oil. Grease for the machines of the world and
While humans are content to be placed in Approach the lizards’ area and you may for the palms of their owners too. In Reaper’s
a box and buried beneath the earth, the other hear a roar, but do not fear – there are only Coast, the primordial caverns beneath the land are
races have burial rites that seem quite odd (or simulated beasts here. The lizards prefer to known as the Blackpits – the prime source of oil for
even barbaric) to outside eyes. return to the fire they say sustains them in life, the region, from sea to sea. What was once an incredibly
and are incinerated by great stone dragons. lucrative industry has dwindled in time, but this has
The elves, if they do die, prefer to butcher remained one of the few trades to continue to turn a
their corpses in rituals that, I freely admit, I profit in Reaper’s Coast. Even as Voidwoken attacks
will never understand. I have been told that increase, the derricks pump on.
they hope to return as trees and live amongst The Magisters are keen to keep both works and
their ancestors. machinery safe from all threats, so it is one of the few
Whatever tribe you belong to, Stonegarden relatively secure spots in the land. If you want to see
was long renowned as a place of peace and the tenacity of the Magisters in their efforts to protect this
tranquility where one could while away an industry, then travel to the Blackpits and observe their security
hour or two, quiet reflecting on the lives of forces operating like a well-oiled machine indeed.
those who have passed. Recently, I’ve heard tell that a suspicious eye has been cast
Alas, that is less true today. Now the Void even on the pits’ workers, and a great number have been made
corrupts even the dirt, and most living souls steer redundant in favour of Divine Order replacements. Such is the
clear if at all possible. Those that have ventured value of the area: the Divine Order can brook no risk of the
in report sounds of movement. The creaking of region’s productivity being compromised by spies or saboteurs.
unoiled hinges… and long-dead bones.

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REAPER’S COAST
THE CULLWOODS

T
he ancient homeland of the Elves nestles
in the north like a hibernating winter
shrub. It was not always thus. The ancestor
forests once spread far and wide across the
lands, a patchwork green blanket from coast to
coast. And here, cradled between the peaks of
the Dragon’s Spine mountains and the shores of
Bloodmoon Lake, lay one of the most ancient
forests. So dense and dark was its canopy, so
disorienting its depths, that none but an elf, who
could commune with the trees themselves, could
find their way from one frontier to the next.
As a repository for elven culture and wisdom,
the sacred livewood trees were left untouched
by the other races for many long centuries out of
a powerful combination of respect and fear. The
thrall of elven legend lasted long, and few were
the men who would dare risk it all for lumber.
But now, with the elves’ power decimated,
the legends hold no sway against expediency.
The ancient livewood has been harvested for
ships, for arrows, for trinkets to adorn the
décolletage of revered noblewomen. The woods
have been culled. The leaves rustle secrets no
more. Little remains but a barren reminder of
how far the elves have fallen.

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 Chapter V: The Local Lands Travel Guide and Atlas Chapter V: The Local Lands Travel Guide and Atlas

REAPER’S COAST STORMDALE

BLOODMOON ISLAND

N
o-one goes to Bloodmoon Island.
Or, at least, if they do they never

B
return. Long-renowned as a place of etween the Dragon’s Spine mountains and the gates
darkness, I pray this guide serves as warning of the holy city of Arx lie the withered hinterlands
to never travel here. If you dare to ask the of Stormdale, which provide the great metropolis
locals about this location, you’ll hear stories with far fewer of its daily needs than you might expect.
of hauntings, possession, and ungodly rituals. After years of over-farming, Stormdale now serves but
Once, long ago, this island played host to separate the dwellers of Arx from whatever snuffling
to an esteemed order of priests who, horrors dwell within the mountains.
according to what few records remain, Like all such liminal spaces, the activities which
devoted themselves to the dangerous take place in Stormdale’s twilight expanses are none
holy duty of exorcism. It is uncertain too savoury. But every city needs a place for its
why or how this order failed, and why bandits to hide and a wild garden in which its
and how the island has since become a citizens may roam, ready to be murdered for their
hotbed of horrors – whatever the truth, its purse. Or their clothes. Or even their skin.
history has long since become overshadowed Indeed, on this very blood-flecked soil, many’s the
by the alarming present. keen-eyed Lucian’s Day pilgrim whose last sight
On occasion, travellers’ interest in the region’s was the faraway and uncaring gaze of the great
mysteries will seize their better judgment. I know statues guarding the gates of Arx. But traveller
not what they might have found there, but I do know beware: those stony ears are deaf to any pleas for
that none who have asked me seriously about this place aid. The only howl that matters out here is the
have returned to tell me what they found there. wind’s own warning of inclement weather to come.

104 105
 Chapter V: The Local Lands Travel Guide and Atlas

ARX

A
rx has become the centre of power for
the Divine Order and the base for the
Paladins, whose devotion to Lucian and
Lucian’s way remains unwavering. It is also a
centre of pilgrimage for many all across Rivellon.
From every corner of the world people flock to
the great cathedral to take part in the Eternal
Prayer. Indeed, many of these foreigners settle in
the city – you will find humans, dwarves, elves,
and lizards all peacefully living side-by-side in
the glow of Lucian’s grace. Such is the influx that
the elders of the city brought forth Lucian’s Day,
a celebration of the Divine, his history, and all
the good he has done for the world. It is a day of
prayer, but also feasting, theatre, and music. Alas,
this year’s Lucian’s Day celebrations were marred
by a riot during one of the musical performances,
but leaders have assured pilgrims that future
Lucian’s Day celebrations will see the Magisters
and Paladins of the city working together to
ensure such a blasphemous display is never
again seen on this most holy of days.
While much of the skyline is dominated
by the cathedral, the city is so much more
than just a place of pilgrimage. It is a centre
of commerce, boasting some of the finest
docks and canals in the land. It is a centre of
learning, with a fine library that is open to all.
And of course, it is a centre of politics, where
representatives of all nations can come together
to discuss the issues of the world in the spirit of
peace and cooperation.

THE ETERNAL PRAYER

E
ver since the death of Lucian and the
interment of his sacred remains in the
To many, this holy city is the centre of crypt of Arx Cathedral, people have
the world. Certainly it contains the most prayed without pause for his return to life and
important figure of our time, for it is in divinity. It began with a gathering of a handful of
devout souls that would keep vigil day and night
Arx that you will find the final resting without end. While some slept, the others prayed,
place of Lucian the Divine, interred there and vice versa. They would often be joined by
after he fell at the end of Great War. other pilgrims, and as Lucian Day bloomed
from local fair into a realm-wide phenomenon,
so did the Eternal Prayer become an institution
as inseparable from Lucian’s worship as the
cathedral that spawned it, and indeed became
a permanent fixture of the city of Arx.

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HALL OF ECHOES

W
hile you may never travel to many of the
places described in these pages, there
is one destination that lies ahead of
us all: the Hall of Echoes. I wish I could write
about this land with as much honesty as I’ve
described the other places I have visited, but
I have yet to meet the person who has walked
through the Hall and returned to tell of it. Even
so, I feel no travel guide would be complete if it
excluded this most final of destinations.
Most imagine the Hall as a sort of afterlife–
a place where souls lost to each other in the
mortal realm can reunite in death. It is said that
these souls may enter into the Forge, where
they will be reborn and re-integrated into the
world of the living, or into the Void, where they
will be lost forever. Whispers of ‘Until the Hall’
abound at funerals and wakes – a reassurance
that the lost are not lost forever.
Sceptics, as they are wont to do, declare
this to be nought but the purest fantasy. They
insist the Hall of Echoes is one of two things:
a figment of the collective imagination, or a
misunderstood realm not so unlike our own.
Still others describe it as the realm of the gods,
from which they gaze down at the mortal realm
and take stock of their creations. But as the
debate rages on, it seems that the only fact we
know for sure is that we have absolutely no idea
what the truth is. Fact or fiction, the Hall of
Echoes is the source of great comfort and even
greater imagination for the denizens of Rivellon.
What truly waits within the Hall? The memories
of loved ones? Undiscovered lands? The gods
themselves? Whatever your view – believer or
sceptic – we’ll all learn the truth one day.

“Most imagine the Hall as a sort of afterlife – a place where souls

lost to each other in the mortal realm can reunite in death.”

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 CONCLUSION

A
nd thus, I have presented this land as I have
found it. Reaper’s Coast is, without question,
a fascinating place to live (and a rather common
place to die). It has seen history unfold around it.
Indeed, today it seems to be making history itself.
Should you ever visit the regions described in this
book (although I hope you can avoid the worst of
the beasts therein) you may find yourself touched,
troubled, or both. The places I have travelled, the
people I have met, and the things I have seen have
profoundly affected me. I have felt the full breadth
of emotions that this land can inspire – from fear to
exaltation, love to hate, sorrow to endless mirth and
the deepest, darkest despair.
I have drafted this tome to illuminate the past and
to illustrate the present day, but I can say nothing of
the future. We live in a world where Voidwoken stalk
the lands, the races watch each other with increasing
suspicion, and there are rumours of new Godwoken
stepping into the light.
Alas, I am a historian, not a clairvoyant. I cannot
tell you what comes next for Reaper’s Coast (or,
indeed, for Rivellon), but I can promise you that
future generations will have some astounding
stories to tell.
~
Cranley Huwbert,
of the Historical Guild of Arx.

111
CREDITS

DIRECTOR

Swen Vincke

WRITING DIRECTOR

Jan Van Dosselaer

LEAD WRITER

Sarah Baylus

WRITERS

Charlene Putney
Devin Doyle
John Corcoran
Kevin VanOrd
Stephen Rooney

ART DIRECTOR

Joachim Vleminckx

CONCEPT ARTISTS

Tania Bureau-Civil
Jeroen Devriendt
Dan Iorgulescu
Maxime Ponslet
Cliff Laureys
Koen Van Mierlo
Evgeniya Katsubo

BOOK PRODUCER

Kieron Kelly

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Gary Nicholson

SPECIAL THANKS TO

Chris Avellone
TAKEOFF UK
The Larian Publishing Team

112 ©2017 Larian Studios. All rights reserved.