702523-MZC1 The Maztica Campaign Guide Version 2
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David Fernandez702523-MZC1 The Maztica Campaign Guide Version 2
Uploaded by
David FernandezMAZTICA
Tezca ...............................................................................................38
Contents Watil ................................................................................................38
Zaltec ..............................................................................................38
History ..........................................................................................4 Other Deities ................................................................................ 38
Introduction .....................................................................................4 Character Options .........................................................39
History Overview ............................................................................4 Races and Subraces ....................................................................39
Historical Eras ................................................................................4 Humans ......................................................................................... 39
The Immortal Era .......................................................................4 Mazticans ...................................................................................39
The Golden Age of Payit ............................................................7 Kultakans ...................................................................................39
The Dawn of Nexal .....................................................................8 Payits .......................................................................................... 39
The Return .................................................................................10 Itzas .............................................................................................39
Maztican Timeline .......................................................................15 Dog People ................................................................................ 40
Other Happenings ....................................................................... 21 The Green Folk .........................................................................40
The Origin of the Little People ..............................................21 Dwarves .........................................................................................40
The Devastation of H'Calos ................................................... 21 Desert Dwarves ........................................................................ 40
Locations in Maztica ................................................... 22 Halflings ........................................................................................ 40
Huacli ..........................................................................................22 Little Folk ...................................................................................40
Kolan ...........................................................................................24 Quetzaldaun ..................................................................................40
Kultaka ....................................................................................... 24 Cliff Dwellers ............................................................................ 41
Nexal ........................................................................................... 25 Devout and Grateful ................................................................ 41
Payit .............................................................................................26 Quetzaldaun Names ................................................................ 41
Pezelac ....................................................................................... 26 Quetzaldaun Traits ...................................................................41
Far Payit ..................................................................................... 27 Tabaxi ............................................................................................. 42
Tukan .......................................................................................... 28 The Jaguar Folk ........................................................................ 42
The Dog People ........................................................................28 The Ocelot Folk (Ocēlōtl) ........................................................42
The Green Folk .........................................................................28 Tabaxi Traits .............................................................................. 42
The Little Folk ...........................................................................28 Classes ........................................................................................... 43
The Desert Dwarves ................................................................29 The Artisan of Maztica ............................................................... 44
The Tabaxi ................................................................................. 29 Talented Crafters ......................................................................44
The Quetzaldaun ......................................................................30 Devoted Guardians .................................................................. 44
Places of Interest ......................................................................... 30 Creating an Artisan ..................................................................44
Religion .....................................................................................33 Class Features ..............................................................................44
The Planes .................................................................................... 33 Spellcasting ...............................................................................45
Maztlan .......................................................................................33 Artisan Archetype .....................................................................45
Itzli ...............................................................................................33 Craft Talisman ...........................................................................45
Mictlan ........................................................................................33 Ranged Weapon Bonus ...........................................................46
Mayel ...........................................................................................34 Long Ranged Weapon Spell .................................................. 46
Xilen ............................................................................................ 34 Artisan Archetypes ...................................................................... 46
Tlalocan ......................................................................................34 Plumaweaver .............................................................................46
Tlatocalli .....................................................................................34 Hishnashaper ............................................................................47
Exbal Ken ...................................................................................34 Artisan Spells ............................................................................... 48
Zompantli ...................................................................................34 Pluma Spells ................................................................................ 48
Xipetlan ...................................................................................... 34 Hishna Spells ............................................................................... 48
Tochitl ......................................................................................... 34 Cleric Domain .............................................................................. 49
Xitonco ........................................................................................34 Maztican Shaman .................................................................... 49
Catlampa ....................................................................................34 Bonus Spells ............................................................................. 49
Tlaxcautli ....................................................................................34 Paladin Sacred Oath ...................................................................50
Xibalba ........................................................................................34 Oath of the Eagle Knight ........................................................ 50
Teotli Itic .....................................................................................35 Oath of the Jaguar Knight .......................................................51
Teotecan ..................................................................................... 35 Roguish Archetype ...................................................................... 52
Gods ................................................................................................36 The Pochteca ............................................................................ 52
Azul ..............................................................................................36 Sorcerous Origin ......................................................................... 52
Coatlicue .................................................................................... 36 Nahuālli ...................................................................................... 52
Eha .............................................................................................. 37 Warlock Patron ............................................................................ 53
Hoxitl ...........................................................................................37 The Obsidian Butterfly ............................................................53
Kiltzi ............................................................................................37 Wizard Arcane Traditions .......................................................... 54
Kukul ...........................................................................................37 The Plumacaster ......................................................................54
Maztica ....................................................................................... 37 The Hishnacaster .....................................................................55
Mictlāntēcutli and Mictecacihuatl .........................................37 New Feats ......................................................................................55
Nula .............................................................................................37 Ahtlatl Master ........................................................................... 55
Plutoq ..........................................................................................38 Feathered Familiar .................................................................. 55
Poshtli .........................................................................................38 Featherweaver .......................................................................... 55
Qotal ............................................................................................38 Mācuahuitl Master ................................................................... 55
Maztican Magic ........................................................................ 55
2
Sharpclaws ....................................................................................55
Talisman Wielder .........................................................................55 Credits
Magic and Equipment ...................................................56 Author
Pluma and Hishna .......................................................................56 Jon Hild
Spells ..............................................................................................56
Magic Items ...................................................................................66 Cover Art
Sentient Items and Artifacts ..................................................70 Dragos Jieanu
Weapons and Equipment ...........................................................72 https://www.deviantart.com/max4ever/gallery/
Armor ..........................................................................................72
Weapons .....................................................................................72 Cartography
Other Gear .................................................................................... 74 Phillip Wallace
Currency ........................................................................................ 75
Adventures ..............................................................................76 Interior Artists
Hooks and Rumors ......................................................................76 Doug Simon
The Thirteen Butterflies of Qotal ..........................................76 https://www.deviantart.com/dougdougmann/gallery/
The Men of Mud, wood and Gold ..........................................76
Princess Aliah of Far Payit .....................................................77 Sanjin Halimic
Camazotz ................................................................................... 77 http://indiron.deviantart.com/gallery/
Rumors from the South ..........................................................77
The Dark Mound ..........................................................................78 Carly Matlack
Crossroads .................................................................................79 http://ligernekoka.deviantart.com/gallery/
Dead End ................................................................................... 79
Fungus Farm ............................................................................. 79 Mariya Nikiforova
Queen's Chamber ..................................................................... 80 http://mariyanikiforova.deviantart.com/gallery/
Egg Chamber ............................................................................ 80
Mud Chamber ........................................................................... 80 Frank Granados
Conclusion .................................................................................80 http://granados602.deviantart.com/gallery/
Monsters ................................................................................... 81
Giant Fire Ants .............................................................................81 Kelly Del Rosso
Maztican Jaguar ........................................................................... 82 http://kellydelrosso.deviantart.com/gallery/
Azure Skies .............................................................................. 83 Jean-Baptiste Hinnebo
http://siegahertz.deviantart.com/gallery/
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3
History
T
he True World is a continent of unknown Since the land itself has recently returned from exile, the
cultures and strange magics that is teeming name has stuck for those who require such classifications.
with opportunities for adventure. Once Note that in this section, there are major spoilers for the
exploited by the Golden Legion of the Amnian Maztica Trilogy and it should not be perused if there is still an
general Cordell, recent trials and tribulations intention to read the novels.
have allowed its people a return to normalcy.
The Immortal Era
Introduction Long before mankind’s dominance in the True World, avatars
of the gods came to Toril in a flying pyramid of unimaginable
This netbook is designed to attract new players to the size known as the Great Skyhome. Having embarked from
Mesoamerican based setting known as Maztica. Maztica is a another world far from Toril, some of these deities took new
continent of the greater world of Toril from the Forgotten names upon themselves in an attempt to start fresh on this
Realms. It was originally introduced in 1990 with the novels beautiful blue-green world. When they came to Toril, many of
Ironhelm (1990), Viperhand (1990) and Feathered Dragon the deities scattered and fled to other lands, while a core
(1991); each written by Doug Niles. It was subsequently group remained.
followed up by a number of 2nd Edition gaming products, The journey itself was not easy on the gods, and one even
starting with the Maztica Boxed Set in 1991 (also by Doug perished for unknown reasons upon the ships’ landing. This
Niles) and followed by two adventures (FMA1 Fires of Zatal goddess, known as Cōātlīcue, is said to be resting uneasily in
by Jeff Grubb and Tim Beach, FMA2 Endless Armies by Jeff her underground tomb.
Grubb) and one accessory/adventure called FMQ1 City of It is also said that the gods were not the only ones who
Gold by John Nephew and Jonathan Tweet. came to Toril in the Great Skyhome. The demoness
In later editions of Dungeons and Dragons, with a few Itzapaplotl, who was also known as the Obsidian Butterfly,
minor exceptions, Maztica was summarily ignored or outright stowed away on the gargantuan ship. She fled from the gods
removed from the Forgotten Realms setting. With the advent soon after their arrival and she has plagued the True World
of 5e and the Dungeon Master’s Guild, Maztica is back once ever since.
again in the Realms! The eleven deities who remained were a close family of
powers and they would come to dominate the lands which
History Overview would one day be known as Maztica. The patron and matron
of this pantheon were known respectively as Kukul, the
Maztica has had a vibrant and eventful history that has left it ancient Father of the Gods, and Maztica, the Mother of Life.
disconnected to the continent of Faerûn for the majority of its Kukul and Maztica were accompanied by the greatest of
existence and its varied peoples have only made contact with their children, Qotal. This noble deity was alternatively called
the wider world in the past century and a half. During that the Feathered Dragon, the Plumed Father or the Plumed One
time, Maztica spent an entire century exiled to the twin world for his manifestations as a great golden dragon with colorful
of Abeir. So despite foreign influence, most of the continent's plumage. Close behind Qotal followed his cruel brother
primary cultures have managed to remain nearly untouched. Zaltec, whose name was often accompanied by the titles
While Cordell and his legionnaires might have conquered Bringer of War and the Eater of Hearts. Zaltec had a much
many of its nations and greatest warriors, during the exile, more human-like appearance than Qotal, but his anger and
much of its culture returned to what it once had been. After hatred were always readily apparent in his ever-snarling
now having returned for half a decade, those who seek to mouth of jaguar–like teeth.
plunder its riches once again might find the continent quite a The three remaining males shared much of Zaltec’s anger
bit more prepared. and vile appetites. Azul was the Giver of Rain and Taker of
This chapter first gives a narrative of Maztica's history, Breath and although his penchant for cruelty was great, his
beginning before recorded time, and then gives an actual domain was essential to the survival of the True World and its
timeline with the date of a number of major events. inhabitants.
Tezca was the Ruler of the Sun and Fire, though his father
Historical Eras was also often attributed dominion over the sun. Much as his
The history of the True World can be divided into different brother brought life with his rains, Tezca, despite his cruel
ages. Three of these ages, known as the Immortal Era, the nature, brought life-giving warmth to the world.
Golden Age of Payit, and the Dawn of Nexal represent the vast Plutoq was not quite as bloodthirsty as his three brothers,
majority of Maztica’s history. Recent major changes have nor was he as kind and compassionate as the eldest, but
occurred with such frequency, however, that it is difficult for certainly the Master of Earth and Stone was just as influential
Maztican historians to give this period a single fitting title. and powerful.
Although it might not accurately represent the plethora of As a general rule, the four sisters were not as demanding as
changes, the time after the Night of Wailing will from this their more ambitious brothers but their influence was no less
point forward be referred to as The Return. Qotal, the primary important to the True World. Kiltzi was the sister known as
influence for good and the source of the fabled pluma magic, the Giver of Health, Growth, Nourishment and Love. She was
did in fact return at this time from a self-imposed exile. a compassionate goddess who cared mostly for love,
happiness and the contentment of her people.
4
Kukul, as the Father of the Gods, knew far more than his
sons and daughters of the act of creation. In his wisdom,
Kukul severed the fingers of his hand. As they landed, each
finger found a life and breath of their own. These beings;
mankind in its infancy, grew to love, honor and fear the gods
and the powers rejoiced.
The gods enjoyed their new playthings greatly, and each
bestowed wonderful gifts upon their toys. Tezca and Azul gave
fire and water to help mankind survive the ravages of their
uncaring environment. Plutoq and his sisters Nula, Watil and
Eha worked to bring sustenance to mankind, though the life
they offered was seldom simple. Desire was also given in
many different forms. Desire to love from Kiltzi, to learn from
Qotal and even the desire to war was given by Zaltec. All of
these gifts caused mankind to expand and exalt in the worship
of their creators.
Of all of the gods, Maztica herself was raised above all
others in her role as the great Mother of Life. The eldest of
her children grew jealous of his mother’s position. Qotal
decided to bring himself to the forefront of human love, so he
gave them mayz. This grain was greater than all other gifts
because it allowed mankind to settle and focus more of their
time on worship and for honoring the gods. Their numbers
continued to expand and mankind became civilized.
Much like the eldest before him, Zaltec also grew jealous.
The Eater of Hearts harnessed the magic of claws, fangs,
talons and venom and gave it to his priests in the form of
magic known as hishna. This newfound power led to great
strife among the humans and warring soon increased tenfold,
all in the name of Zaltec. For a brief time, the darkest of the
brothers was ascendant and in their endless war, mankind
despaired.
Maztica and her son Qotal were infuriated with their cruel
brother. This was not how the gods intended to be worshiped!
Though Qotal could do nothing to counter his dark brother’s
will, Maztica, in her role as the Mother of Life, created the
magic of life and feathers known as pluma. She bestowed this
magic upon her son, who then passed it along to his own
priests and worshipers. Balance was once again found among
the gods’ playthings.
The weapon of choice among the gods; passed along to man
long ago, was the obsidian edged mācuahuitl (sometimes
called abbreviated as a “maca”). Zaltec’s mācuahuitl was
Eha was the Wind Sprite; a goddess whose powers were mighty indeed, and in his anger over his family’s perceived
said to bring the breath to a newborn child. betrayal, he beheaded his mother with a single blow from this
Finally there was Watil and Nula; the Guardian of Plants gargantuan weapon.
and Animals respectively. These sisters were responsible for Kukul, who had up until this point remained distant from
the well-being of the more natural aspects of the True World. the brewing conflicts within his family, despaired at the death
In the earliest of their days on Toril, the gods sought to find of his wife and the strife among his sons. It is not known if he
new playthings. They attempted to create man to both honor simply fled the world in disgust or took his own life, but what
and fear them, though they were less than satisfied with their is certain is that neither man nor god has felt his presence
earliest attempts. since.
The first man was made of mud, but their amorphous forms Itzapaplotl may have been the only one to understand that
were washed away and soon forgotten. Next, men of wood some remnant of Kukul remained in Toril’s great sun. She and
were created, and although they were not susceptible to the her star demon servitors could not plague the world with their
waters of great Azul, Tezca’s fire proved their downfall. The atrocities when the sun, who to them was known as the Eye of
third attempt was to create a man of gold. While remarkably Kukul, could gaze upon the world. Only when the Eye was
beautiful and immune to both the rains and fires, this man eclipsed could she visit her depredations on the lands of
had no tonalli (soul) of his own, and the gods were truly mankind.
disappointed. Some say that there are ancient survivors still After Maztica’s murder and Kukul’s disappearance, war
from each of these failed attempts, living somewhere in the erupted among Kukul’s children. The female goddesses
most forsaken and hidden regions of the True World. flocked to their brother Qotal and the males stood alongside
Forgotten and unloved by their creators, these outcasts hold their brother Zaltec.
no love for the ones who brought them life.
5
The war was to commence at the site of a great pyramid
created by mortal worshipers under the direction of their
deities. Hidden somewhere in the blistering sands of the
House of Tezca, this pyramid was known to be the greatest of
any with the exception of the Great Skyhome itself. The
people were blessed with food and water and toiled for
decades. They built the grand pyramid and a city surrounding
it which they named Tewahca, the City of the Gods. Upon the
steps of the great pyramid, the gods called for sacrifice.
Zaltec called to his warriors and ten-thousand gave up their
lives and cut out their hearts upon Tewahca’s grand steps.
Qotal too, required sacrifice, but the Plumed One need only
release thirteen beautiful butterflies from a gilded cage upon
its steps. Even in war, Qotal would not demand the hearts of
his faithful. Upon their release, the presence of the freed
butterflies wiped the blood clean from the steps and flowers
bloomed throughout the world wherever they passed. It is not
known what became of the butterflies, though it is thought
that they still carry the essence of the divine in their beautiful
forms.
The gods fought long and hard that day and the effects of
the battle were felt all across the True World. The land shook
as mountains crumbled and weather that was formerly
unknown in the True World appeared and just as quickly
dissipated. Eventually, it would be Qotal and his sisters who
would emerge victorious. Zaltec, weakened and humiliated,
shrunk into the shadows.
Watil, in her lordship over the flora of the True World knew
her charges could not flourish without Plutoq’s blessing so
she pleaded for mercy on his behalf. Eha the Wind Sprite
sought to spare her elemental brother Azul whom had
depended so long on her winds to deliver his life-bringing
rains. Likewise, the goddess Nula pleaded for Tezca even
though his fire often frightened the animals under her own
dominion.
Kiltzi, whose boundless love extended even to her dark
brother Zaltec, knew that to remove Zaltec from the world
would upset the balance that they had all fought so hard to
create and she requested he be spared as well.
Not since the days when mankind had first been given the
gift of mayz had they found such peace than in the years
following the Godswar. There was still conflict, but man
exalted their gods and held the ideals of Qotal as the greatest
of all. Qotal observed how they loved and laughed and once
again, he grew jealous.
Jealousy is a powerful emotion, and in Toril where the gods
of Maztica are not the only powers that be, such strong
emotion is liable to attract the attention of others. Shar, the
Lady of Loss and Mistress of the Night turned her eye towards
this distant land and sought to sow discord as she so often
does.
Posing as a beautiful mortal known only as Diamond Eyes,
Shar fooled Qotal into temporarily giving up part of his
divinity though he ironically reacquired it with the help of his
brother Zaltec. Qotal's jealousy had grown in this time and
Shar encouraged this dark emotion in the Feathered Dragon.
When he noticed that his sister Kiltzi resembled the human
woman he once loved, he soon after he took her against her
will.
Qotal slumbered long after his terrible deed and during his
sleep Kiltzi fled to her disgraced brother Zaltec. The most
heretical of rumors claim that Kiltzi was pregnant with Qotal’s
child , but what became of it is utterly unknown.
6
The people of Maztica suffered terribly during Qotal’s Pochteca, who were great traveling merchants, spread
absence. After hearing of their eldest brother’s betrayal, Nula, knowledge and normally unobtainable goods into every corner
Watil and Eha fled to Zaltec and with the absence of so many of the True World. In some cases, they spread far beyond the
gods, the world could no longer flourish. As the crops died normal boundaries of the better known lands and into the
and famine threatened the land, the people once again turned foreign lands of Anchôromé in the north and Lopango in the
to Zaltec. At first they tried to appease him with material gifts south.
but Zaltec payed these no mind. Then they tried to bring to While knowledge of the heavens, medicine and travel
him precious foods despite the fact that they were themselves flourished in Payit, other lands greatly expanded their own
starving, but this only worsened their condition. knowledge. Unlike Payit however, the lands of Kultaka and
The Bringer of War and his equally cruel brothers would Huacli developed their military tactics and weapons in ways
accept only one type of sacrifice and that was the hearts of the that had yet been seen. It was during this time that the
faithful! Soon afterwards, thousands upon thousands did Kultakans developed the very specialized atlatl. This “sling”
exactly what their god commanded and gave themselves to could be used to hurl spears to incredible distances. They also
the deities. Temporarily sated, the gods once again began perfected the use of the weapon of their gods, the mācuahuitl.
performing their sacred duties and though their lives had Though their god no longer answered their prayers, the
become all at once more brutal, the people would once again people of Payit continued to revere, at the very least, the
begin to expand under the divine commands of the gods. tenets that Qotal once held so dear. In other lands, temples to
Long overdue, Qotal eventually did wake from his slumber, Azul, Tezca and Zaltec continued to war and sacrifice upon
but he awoke to a world that he could barely recognize. The their bloodstained altars.
people had gone mad with bloodlust and his brother Zaltec In Payit, plumaweavers created great works of beauty and
had grown in power far beyond his own. In his weakened state power made of feathers while the others heightened their
Qotal attempted to punish mankind by taking away their very strength in the power of hishna and their hishnashapers.
speech! His attempt, however, was half-hearted and only his Perhaps the most beautiful princess ever known to Payit
remaining priests obeyed his call to silence. came to maturity during this time of plenty. Aliah by name,
Qotal decided to leave the land for a time and he departed she had been destined to marry her half-brother Xetl in the
from the shores of Maztica into the Trackless Sea. In capital city of Ulatos.
response to the faithfulness of his priests, Qotal bestowed on Prince Tacal of Far Payit’s own capital Tulom-Itzi grew jealous
them the Prophecy of the Cloak of One Plume in which he and desired Aliah for himself. The noble decided he would
stated: abduct her on the evening of her wedding but was caught in
the act and his entire retinue was slain to the man. Thinking
The couatl will come to let them know the way, them co-conspirators, even Tacal’s family and other nobles of
My feathered snake of wisdom and might; Far Payit were pushed to their deaths in response to the
My chosen daughter shall greet me on the shore, affront despite the fact that they were innocent guests of
Know her; she wears the Cloak of One Plume; Aliah’s wedding ceremony.
And the Ice of Summer, frozen under heat and fire, Seeing the slaughter of his family and people, Tacal flew
Will prepare the path to my door. into a fit of madness and beheaded the woman he had once
When he departed, Qotal’s faithful carved two magnificent sought to possess with his obsidian edged maca before being
heads, one male and one female, into the nearby cliff face to slain himself. It is often whispered that the spirits of the
mark the point of his departure which would forevermore be prince and princess are forever bound to the city of Ulatos and
known as the Twin Visages. will not move on until reparations are made for both, or until
both Payit and Far Payit are laid low.
At around the same time Qotal left the True World, the first Though it may not have been the direct cause, this terrible
people to actually call themselves Mazticans arose in the tragedy marked the beginning of a time of decline for Payit
north. They were a fierce and warlike people who only and Far Payit. They would no longer advance humanity’s
worshiped the deity Zaltec and their worship of the dark god cause with the rapidity they had shown in the years prior, and
was nothing short of fanatical. Zaltec began to plot for the most migrated from the great cities back into less civilized
Mazticans, his new chosen people. villages.
The Golden Age of Payit While Payit declined, the warlike folk of the west continued
to hone the skills of war and they became increasingly
With the departure of Qotal there was at least a temporary bloodthirsty at the behest of their darker gods.
end to the strife that had besieged both the unpredictable Around this time, though recorded history doesn’t have an
immortal world and the human world over which they lorded. exact date, one of the war chiefs of the distant Mazticans was
Mankind once again began to expand. Nearly every great city given a vision. This warrior, who was named Tecco, wandered
of men in Maztica was founded during this time (with the the desert for a year before finding a huge pillar of stone from
notable exception of Nexal). which his god Zaltec manifested.
The nation of Payit, and to a lesser extent Far Payit, led this Zaltec bid Tecco to return to the Mazticans and lead them
growth with advances in learning that have not been matched south to a new destiny. When he returned to his people with
to this day. Many roads and networks for travel were built the pillar of stone, they followed him on his journey. Soon
during this time, bringing trade to new heights that had never after, the Mazticans arrived in the Valley of Nexal knowing
been met in the past. only that Zaltec had chosen them.
7
The Dawn of Nexal He then attempted to attack the fearsome Kultakans but was
soundly defeated and decided to turn his wars westward. To
To the valley of Nexal this wave of immigrants flooded in from the west, he took a city state of the nation of Huacli known as
the north. Acting uncharacteristically peaceable, the Ixtal and captured over 5,000 warriors for sacrifice.
Mazticans took land that no others wanted and proceeded to Another Huacli city-state known as Pulco actually joined the
build homes and a temple to Zaltec. This pyramid would be invaders and helped Ipana III defeat three more in a ten year
added to over the years and one day it would become a campaign. A city-state known as Otomi managed to hold off
wonder to the world, but in its first days it was a humble place the Nexalans until the aggressors eventually had to give up.
of worship. Tolco, a great warrior and the grand-nephew of Ipana III
A city known as Tezat was at the time considered the most was to succeed Ipana III after his death of extreme old age.
powerful in the region. With two other great cities in close While he was personally a superb warrior, Tolco failed to
proximity (known as Azatl and Zokil) to form a balance of subjugate both the people of Kultaka and of Pezelac. Tolco
power however, Tezat never truly dominated the others. It was was slain in his last campaign against the Kultakans just as he
with this city that the Mazticans formed an alliance. thought there might finally be a chance at victory.
Under the influence of the bloodthirsty Mazticans, war and Tenoch II, a great-grandson of Ipana III, was crowned the
sacrifice grew to new heights. Tezat’s newfound allies helped sixth Revered Counselor after Tolco’s death. Tenoch II did not
upset the balance in the valley and the city grew to lead any truly grand wars during his twenty-one years as
prominence. Revered Counselor but the empire strengthened its grasp on
Unexpectedly, the Mazticans betrayed their allies in a battle the nations it had already conquered and many roads
against the combined forces of Azatl and Zokil and way stations were built to ease trade and
and the Mazticans took the city for themselves. travel.
Now it was the Mazticans’ turn to Pezelac did attempt to revolt at one
dominate the region, and as the point during Tenoch II’s reign but
chosen people of Zaltec, they the Nexalans reacted with such a
did so with ruthless efficiency. brutal and swift retaliation that
During their dominance, the all thoughts of rebellion quickly
Mazticans and their subjugated faded. Tenoch II’s son Chimal
cities began to refer to led the war effort and brought
themselves as the Nexala back thousands of slaves and
after the name of their valley. sacrifices. In celebration,
The war chiefs of the Zaltec’s temple was once
Mazticans also changed again rebuilt to an even
their title to the Revered greater height.
Counselors of Nexal, and Chimal took the title
an empire was born. of Revered Counselor after his
The first Revered Counselor father’s death and led only
of Nexal was named Ipana small skirmishes against the
and his reign began two-hundred Kultakans to capture more
forty years before the arrival of sacrifices for the hungry gods.
the Golden Legion. During Ipana’s He was also known to expand trade
reign, Azatl and Zokil were fully even further than any of the
subjugated and each city’s temple to Revered Counselors before him.
Zaltec was raised above all other gods. Chimal even opened trade with the distant
Oddly, only Tezat managed to maintain nations of Payit, Far Payit and Otomi.
any sense of independence from the empire The successful leadership and life of
during Ipana’s reign and this continued all Chimal was replaced with that of his weakling
through the second Revered Counselor son Totep. Totep partook of concubines and the
Tenoch’s reign as well. Throughout his entire fermented drink known as octal rather than
tenure, this grandson of Ipana attempted to finalize spend time governing the empire as the Revered Counselors
Tezat’s absorption but was never successful. It wasn’t until before him. The reign of this eighth Revered Counselor only
Ipana II’s reign, through the use of poison and treachery, that lasted a paltry six years before he was poisoned by his own
Tezat became a full part of the empire. war commanders.
It was Ipana III, the fourth Revered Counselor of Nexal, who Zomoc was next to rise to the title of Revered Counselor.
began to lead the expansion of the empire. At first, Ipana III His reign saw military victories previously unmatched. Across
held “Feathered Wars” among his own subjects where the dry lands and far to the southwest, Zomoc led a twenty year
only goal was to capture opposing warriors for later sacrifice military campaign against the people of Kolan. The Kolan
to the hunger of the gods. campaign was led by Zomoc’s own chief general Coyo. The
Ipana III led his own army in one particularly large Kolan fought long and hard, but Coyo eventually brought back
Feathered War and many of his warriors were captured. a vast line of prisoners back from across the desert.
Because of this humiliating defeat, he decided to end the Coyo was hailed as a great war-leader and his popularity
Feathered Wars and find his sacrifices elsewhere. Ipana III surpassed that of even the Revered Counselor. Zomoc feared
decided to take war beyond his borders. for his position so he fooled Coyo into offering his own heart
Ipana III immediately defeated two city-states to the east in sacrifice to Zaltec.
known as Cordotl and Palul.
8
Zomoc eventually went insane after Coyo’s death and spent A warrior named Takamal rallied his people and though they
his remaining years in debilitating paranoia. Some believe it suffered thousands of losses, the Kultakans still managed to
was Coyo’s tonalli returned from the very maw of Zaltec to hold their lands.
make Zomoc pay for his treachery. The Otomis did not fare as well against the Nexalans, but
After Zomoc’s tortured death exactly one hundred years they fled into the mountains rather than be subjugated.
before the Golden Legion’s arrival, Izco ascended as the tenth Chalco also sent numerous expeditions into distant lands to
Revered Counselor of Nexal. Izco and his son Izco II’s reign find evidence of the cultural roots of the Nexalans. The
were relatively peaceful times in Nexal, though tribute was Pyramid of the Gods known as Tehwaca was sought out, as
still taken in the form of sacrifice, slaves and wealth. was the cave where Tecco first found the pillar of stone in
The arts also flourished during this time and Zaltec’s which Zaltec manifested.
pyramid was raised yet again. When a paltry thousand hearts Even the legendary Great Skyhome was sought by some of
were given to Zaltec in celebration of the passing of the more adventurous Nexalans. These explorers were said to
leadership to Izco II, however, Zaltec grew angry and caused have worked alongside some of the dreaded sea devils known
Mount Zatal to erupt. as sahuagin in an attempt to find the Ship of the Gods.
The Feathered Wars were reinstated and this time ten- Very few of the explorers returned and those that did had
thousand hearts were offered to appease the Eater of Hearts. little to report. One group of a thousand strong literally
Pakli was selected to replace Izco II upon his death. Pakli disappeared altogether while searching for Tecco’s cave.
immediately enacted war once again throughout the True Chalco had his successes and failures. However, there is no
World. Unwisely, he spread his forces way too thin by disputing the fact that when he died and the title of Revered
simultaneously attacking both the Kultakans and the Otomi Counselor was passed onto his grandson Axalt, the empire
(while trying to maintain control in Pezelac) and his fourteen was truly at its peak.
years drained Nexal’s once vast wealth. Axalt fought relentlessly against the Kultakans but Takamal
Having suffered from frequent defeat, the Nexala elected was always able to outmaneuver the fourteenth Revered
another war leader named Chalco as the thirteenth Revered Counselor. During Axalt’s reign a great aqueduct was built
Counselor. This great war leader seemed to be the first who from Cicada Spring on Mount Popol all the way to the center
was truly up to the task of defeating the Kultakans. of the city. The Aqueduct of Axalt may very well have been the
In the first days of battle, thousands were captured and greatest accomplishment of his reign.
Chalco seemed poised to take the Kultakan capital. The
defenders, however, had a hero of their own.
9
The fifteenth and final Revered Counselor of Nexal was The fourth omen was reported by a hunter who claimed to
Axalt’s son Naltecona. Naltecona was a wise and brave see a deer with a plumed ring about its neck. The hunter said
military leader, but a new threat was soon to find its way to that the dear spoke to him and he emptied his mīcomitl quiver
the True World and Naltecona’s reign was only to last a paltry trying to slay it. The deer simply ignored each arrow
twelve years. according to the hunter, but Naltecona thought the man mad
and put him to death.
The Return On the fifth year, Naltecona himself dreamed of a great
Ten years before the coming of the Golden Legion, annual canoe arriving from the east and it was at this moment that he
omens set into motion the inevitable demise of the Nexalan began to suspect the omens were signs of the Return of Qotal.
Empire. Naltecona built a grand palace for himself and the The annual omens continued. On the sixth year, a great
empire seemed to be at relative peace, but then the omens sandstorm rose from the House of Tezca and took the form of
began. a great pyramid. Capitulating to Zaltec’s priests who sought
First, a great light appeared in the skies above Nexal for ever more sacrifices to appease the gods, Naltecona sent his
twenty days. At the very moment Naltecona witnessed the nephew Poshtli to attack the Kultakans and the young Eagle
lights, the temple of Zaltec suddenly burst into flames and a Knight saw much success.
great statue of Zaltec melted to a lump of molten rock. Tecco’s On the seventh year, the top of Mount Zatal turned a deep
stone pillar remained safe deep in the pyramid itself, but this crimson as if covered in blood. Naltecona’s child was born
event gave “proof” to the priests that the gods were dead on the day of the eighth omen and the child’s skin color
unsatisfied. The omen led Naltecona to order thousands more was a pale white not seen in the True World.
sacrifices and many captive Kultakans died upon Zaltec’s The ninth omen saw three of the four lakes near Mount
altars that year. Zatal erupt with steam. Only Lake Qotal remained calm.
The second omen came the following year. The sky turned a The final omen was the grandest of all. A wyvern-like
blood red color and it happened on the exact same day at the creature landed atop the pyramid of Zaltec, and on its chest
exact same time as the previous year’s omen. was a smoky black mirror. In this mirror, Naltecona saw the
On the third year, again at the same time and day, Mount coming of Cordell’s Golden Legion exactly one year before
Zatal began to belch steam and ash. This omen lasted for a their actual landfall. The creature flew off, never to be seen
full twelve days. again.
10
Cordell was a great military commander who was aided by his Cordell and his army entered Nexal and took all the treasure
lover, an elf mage (later discovered to be a drow) named they could find, but Naltecona was allowed to live. A period of
Darien. Cordell had defeated the great pirate army led by shaky peace was found but an attempt on Cordell’s life and
Akbet-Khrul for the Faerûnian nation of Amn and then set off the urgings of a high priest of Zaltec named Hoxitl increased
on an expedition to the True World with five-hundred men he tensions, leaving the standoff on the brink of violence.
now named his “Golden Legion.” Hoxitl led a growing cult of fanatics known as the Cult of
When they landed in Ulatos on the shores of Payit, Caxal, the Viperhand and their resentment of the foreign invaders
the Revered Counselor of Payit, did not quite know how to grew with each passing day. The cultists eventually did attack,
react. The daughter of the highest ranking cleric of Helm was and Naltecona was one of the first casualties. The savagery of
captured and cruelly sacrificed soon after landing. This event the cultists was on a level that the Golden Legion and their
precipitated a war, urged on by the young girl's father Bishou allies had not yet seen and many were slain or sacrificed on
Domincus, and the Payit lost to Cordell’s five-hundred men the altars of Zaltec.
rather easily. After his victory, Cordell established the fort of Helm’s cleric Bishou Domincus, like his daughter before
Helmsport nearby. him, was also sacrificed and upon his death the Night of
After tasting the riches of the Payit and hearing rumors of Wailing had begun. In the chaos that followed, Bishou
the fabulously rich Nexal to the west, Cordell set his sight on Domincus’ bloody corpse was seen disappearing into a mist
continuing Maztica's conquest. With the help of Darien, who that came at once from nowhere and everywhere.
killed Takamal with her magic, the Golden Legion defeated Mount Zatal erupted and the strange magics that were
the mighty Kultakans and subjugated their warriors in unleashed transformed the cult of the Viperhand into beasts
addition to the five-thousand or so Payit. formerly unknown in the True World. For the first time, orcs,
Though Naltecona originally considered a peaceful ogres, trolls, and a dreaded creature known as the jagre
welcome for the invaders, his advisors convinced him that war walked upon Maztica.
was the only route acceptable to the gods. Through treachery, Cordell’s one-time lover Darien eventually had her true
the Nexala attempted to end the war early, but the duplicity nature revealed. Darien, with the assistance of the Ancient
was discovered and any hopes of defeating the Golden Legion Ones (similarly disguised or hidden drow), was a driving force
were dashed. behind the strife that had fallen upon the Mazticans and the
Golden Legion.
On the Night of Wailing, the drow became driders, and they
too plagued the remaining humans. Those who managed to
escape fled into the sands of the House of Tezca.
When all hope had appeared to be lost, a far gentler god
made his presence known. Qotal had finally and truly
returned! His power froze a lake to allow far more humans to
escape than otherwise might have.
The Cloak of One Plume appeared in the hands of a woman
from Palul known as Erixitl as well. This woman had seen the
couatl, as the prophecy stated, and together all of the
conditions had been met for Qotal’s return. Aided by Qotal’s
intervention, the Mazticans and foreigners fled deep into the
House of Tezca.
During the march of these one-hundred thousand refugees
from Nexal with what was left of the Golden Legion, a number
of events occurred that would forever shape the future of the
True World. Many of these events occurred simultaneously
and included inhabitants of the continent that did not yet
know of what had occurred in Nexal.
The desert was home to a race of desert dwarves that had
arrived in the House of Tezca centuries prior. These dwarves
had been at war with the drow who would one day plague the
True World. In an event known as the Rockfire, they were
separated from their enemies and headed further through the
Maztican Underdark from which they eventually emerged into
the desolate sands of the deserts of Maztica. The dwarves had
not had an easy existence in the desert, but they did know a
relative peace. With the arrival of the beasts of the Viperhand,
there was now a distinct possibility that the peace would be
shattered.
The dwarves knew the location of the fabled city of
Tewahca and one of their chieftains, a warrior named Luskag,
discovered that the obsidian mined near the city had the
strength of steel. This fact would be important in the days to
come, but in the True World’s farther future, the founding of
this plumastone would prove world changing.
11
Now, with a material that could match the swords of the the jagre Hoxitl, the fierce defenders managed to turn back
invading Amnians, the Mazticans would no longer be at such a the horde of monsters.
blatant disadvantage. Gultec had also broken from the refugees and traveled back
Other outcroppings of plumastone were soon to be found in to Tulom-Itzi in Far Payit at the call of his master Zochimaloc.
the rest of the True World once the signs of its presence When he arrived in Far Payit, he saw vast swaths of
became fully understood. Luskag called to the other chieftains destruction in the jungle.
of the desert dwarves and brought them to the Sunstone. This The drow, who had been changed to driders by their cruel
magical lake of silver was found in the caldera of a volcano goddess Lolth and the magic of the Night of Wailing, led an
and could bring visions to those who stared into its waters army of giant ants within the jungle, though Gultec was not
during the suns rising. The chieftains all shared a similar yet aware. When he reached his master, Zochimaloc bid him
vision, and they were convinced that they could not sit out of to prepare the defense of Tulom-Itzi but the wise Jaguar
the coming battles. Knight knew that the peaceful defenders could not withstand
Poshtli, thought to have perished on the Night of Wailing, the drider and ant army.
also revealed himself to Erixitl and her Amnian husband Gultec advised fleeing into the jungle and Zochimaloc
Halloran. In the form of a great eagle nearly the size of a man, conceded. Under Gultec’s command, the Itza managed to slow
Poshtli became perhaps the most well-known and powerful the giant ants enough for their very young and very old to
Eagle Knight ever known. Gultec, an honorable Jaguar Knight, escape, though the loss in life was great. Finally, the Jaguar
also assisted the refugees in their march across the desert Knight decided to make a stand at a border ridgeline between
lands. Payit and Far Payit known as the Verdant Crest.
Poshtli, Erixitl, Halloran, a young scout named Jahtli, and a Erixitl, Halloran, the desert dwarves and the remainder of
dwarf legionnaire named Daggrande separated from the rest their companions began to head east to the sea and once
of the refugees and managed to locate the fabled City of the again north towards the jungles towards Ulatos and
Gods. Here, they discovered Erixitl’s father Lotil, a blind Helmsport. Separated from the others, Erixitl and Halloran
plumaweaver of legendary skill along with Coton, one of the were captured by savage halflings of the jungles who
most devout of Qotal’s silent priests. Trolls of the Viperhand attempted to feed them to their Cat God (a Jaguar Lord).
pursued the heroes to Tewahca while a battle raged between Halloran used what little magic he had to defeat the
Zaltec and Qotal in the great pyramid of Tewahca. creature and this unexpected victory convinced the halflings
Qotal was weak and not yet fully formed in this world, so that he was the big folk of a prophecy who would one day lead
Zaltec prevailed against the Plumed Dragon. In the midst of them out of the jungle. The growing army of humans, dwarves
the battle, the Cloak of One Plume was also thought and halflings continued northward.
destroyed, but this later proved to be untrue. Eagle Knights in Cordell’s army reported to him that more
The four companions eventually escaped Tewahca through men from Amn began to arrive in ships back in Ulatos and
hidden tunnels and were assisted by the ancient spirit Helmsport. Having now been away from their families for
wardens of the once great city. The trolls maintained a dogged more than a year, many in the Golden Legion celebrated the
pursuit and all was thought lost when they caught up to the news, but Cordell remained only hopefully optimistic.
heroes. With little hope of escape, Halloran and Daggrande At the time he did not know that the
made a last stand to protect his now many month pregnant army was led by Don Vaez and Bishou
wife and the rest of the companions. With no time to spare, Domincus’ apprentice Pryat Devane
the desert dwarves (known to who were determined to show that
Mazticans as the Hairy Men of the Cordell had in fact gone rogue. Their
Desert) led by Chief Luskag intentions were opportunistic,
managed to turn the trolls and they sought
away. to prove that
In the meantime, Cordell was no longer
the main army of the loyal to the crown of
beasts of the Amn.
Viperhand caught up When these men landed
to the refugees from in Payit, they imprisoned
Nexal. A powerful the few remaining
defense against warriors of the Golden
the horde was Legion who had
led by remained in
Cordell, a Helmsport.
veteran Don Vaez,
of the while
Eagle not
Knights generally
named liked by
Chical, his men
and Tokol, stood at
the son of the legendary the head
Kultakan leader Takamal. After of twenty
defeating charges of orcs and after five ships and far
gravely (but not fatally) wounding more men than Cordell.
12
The betrayal was eventually reported to Cordell by his Eagle As the monsters approached, Halloran sought to bring Erixitl
Knights, but despite knowing what awaited him Cordell to the Twin Visages thinking it the only place where her
decided to return to Payit. The monsters of the Viperhand mysterious curse could be broken.
were once again on the march. This time, the beasts were Led by the Zaltec monolith, the monsters arrived in
headed east towards Payit and were led by none other than Helmsport only days afterward. Cordell, while greatly
the titanic stony form of Zaltec himself! outnumbered, held strong against the horde while he sent
Gultec’s defense against the ants and driders was a truly Vaez’s ships to return to waiting Kultakan warriors that
valiant stand, and over a thousand ants had been slain. When Cordell had left behind.
all seemed lost, Zochimaloc sacrificed himself to channel the At the Twin Visages, Darien and her remaining driders
growing power of Qotal and collapse a mountain upon the assaulted a recently reawakened Erixitl, Halloran and their
marching insects. It is unknown if he has truly died, or in fact allies. All of the driders except Darien were slain by the
ascended to become something “different.” powerful pluma magic of Lotil, though he too perished. Qotal
Halloran, Erixitl and their diverse contingent of warriors also had finally returned to the True World as the Plumed
caught up to Gultec’s refugees shortly afterward and together Dragon and he and Zaltec commenced their epic battle!
they finished off what was left of the ant army. Cordell’s Kultakan reinforcements returned via Vaez’s ships
Defeated but not dead, Darien and her driders decided to and Hoxitl’s horde was finally turned back to Nexal. Cordell
turn to hishna magic. The target of her rage had become the was hailed as a hero by Amnians and Mazticans alike, though
chosen one of Qotal, Erixitl. the losses that had been suffered were great. The blood of
All armies and players in this great epic converged upon monsters, desert dwarves, Amnians, Kultakans, Payits, and
Helmsport and the Twin Visages where Qotal was even the halflings all commingled in the fields of Helmsport.
prophesized to return to the True World. While Qotal and Zaltec’s battle raged, the True World was
Cordell was at first captured and imprisoned by Don Vaez being torn asunder in this new godswar. The titanic battle was
when he reached Helmsport, but he eventually escaped with causing earthquakes, landslides and other cataclysmic events.
the help of former associates in Don Vaez’s employ. Coton, the silent and devoted high priest of Qotal finally had
Eventually, the men of Don Vaez’s expedition proved to be had enough of the gods’ treatment of their mortal worshipers
more loyal to Cordell and more trusting in him to lead against and he broke his vow of silence to admonish his own deity!
the oncoming monsters. Both Qotal and Zaltec stopped their battle momentarily to
Halloran and his retinue also arrived, though he was kill the man for his hubris, but before they could kill the
carrying a sick Erixitl who had fallen to a mysterious ailment blasphemer, Coton sacrificed himself and the still rampaging
in the last days of her pregnancy. They did not know the Darien.
cause, but Erixitl's condition was due to a hishna curse laid by
the drider Darien.
13
The mixture of hishna and pluma slammed the door shut to
the world that the gods had used to enter, and both Qotal and
Zaltec were forced to return to their otherworldly domains.
Maztica itself had a few decades of relative silence after the
huge shakeup that had occurred following Cordell’s arrival. A
connection had been established with the continent of Faerûn
that would actually only exist for a few decades of time before
the Spellplague tore Maztica from the world.
During this time, Faerûnians from realms other than Amn
began to visit the True World. Most notably, Waterdeep
founded their own colonies and even the folk of Lantan sent
colonists and traders. New cities and towns sprung up within
this time - locales such as Qoral, New Waterdeep, Trythosford
and Fort Flame.
The cruel treatment of the native Mazticans by Helm’s
clergy and worshipers caused rreparable damage in his faith
leading to a decline in the god’s power.
When the Spellplague came, the Mazticans were caught
completely unaware. The skies changed from the azure of
Toril to the metallic skies of Abeir. Earthquakes, similar to the
ones which occurred during Zaltec and Qotal’s battle decades
prior, once again tore the land apart.
Village elders thought the gods were angry with them and
many returned to the old ways of sacrifice. Thousands of
foreigners were expelled or offered for sacrifice though
sacrifice as a whole never quite returned to pre-Cordell levels
outside of Nexal.
In Nexal, the jagre Hoxitl still ruled with an iron fist and he
sought only to ever please the Bringer of War. New beasts
began to appear across Maztica.
Great lizards with terrible fangs and claws savaged the
humans and halflings of the jungles. Ancient evils, once
forgotten, began to appear on the continent.
Itzapaplotl, the dreaded Obsidian Butterfly, decimated
villages and tortured entire populations that had been
captured by her dreaded tzitzimitl. She no longer seemed
bounded by the rules of the gods that long ago curbed the
worst of her depredations.
The worst thing of all was that the gods no longer answered
the prayers of their faithful. On this new world and under a
new sky, the gods no longer existed and the Mazticans
despaired.
Born of the great god Kukul so many thousands of years
prior, however, mankind and the other races of the True World
did not give up on survival so easily.
The plumaweavers and hishnashapers of Payit and Far
Payit developed greater and more powerful magics to survive
in their newer, harsher world.
Jaguar and Eagle knights, bolstered in strength by the
discovery of plumastone, began to develop weaponry and
combat techniques unmatched even by the Kultakans and
Nexalans of old. The Faerûnians that remained had been cut
off from their homeland and without continuing immigration,
they began to naturalize in this once strange land.
A century passed and the True World not only survived, but
thrived.
Just as equilibrium took hold, the skies have changed yet
again. The few powerless priests who held onto the old ways
have heard something in their dreams and meditations.
If these whispers are correct, then the gods have once again
returned to the True World.
14
Maztican Timeline c. –31000 DR
I am sworn to silence by my station. I say nothing to the Aearee empires (avian creator race) dominate Faerûn and
mighty of Nexal. Instead, my tale becomes the Chronicle of the many migrate to Maztica. Interactions between the aearee
Waning. As my immortal master, the Silent Counselor, so and the primitive, young race of humans are rare due to their
wills, I observe and record, a witness but not a participant to geographical habitats, though when they do occur, they are
the unfolding of history. generally peaceful.
Camazotz makes a second play for power among mankind
Coton, Silent Priest of Qotal and learns how to coopt the souls of female humans who die
Ironhelm Prologue in childbirth. These souls are sacred to all of the deities,
though it is the elemental brothers Plutoq, Azul, and Tezca
who issue their wrath upon the would-be-deity and his city
Maztica has a history as long and as eventful as Faerûn itself, known as Chacobben. Camazotz is thought slain and the city
beginning far back in the Days of Thunder when the gods first is buried in a great mudslide, effectively erasing it from
came to ground, through numerous cataclysms and all the history.
way to the modern day on Toril. Itzapaplotl’s duplicity is discovered in her resurrection of
This portion of the history chaptet attempts to catalogue Camazotz and she is beset upon by the brothers as well, this
major events both in the mortal and immortal world, and time including her former lover Zaltec. She uses much of her
presents them in chronological order for easy reference. All power to rip great swaths of land and casts the molten rock
dates are given in Dalreckoning (DR). into the sky. She escapes the god’s wrath by forming her Void
Kingdom of Tamoacha upon this floating stone and occupying
c. –32500 DR: The Immortal Era Begins it forever more. Itzapaplotl kidnaps shepherd spirits of the
Deities from Aztec, Mayan and Incan mythologies send the dead known as zizimime and slowly transforms them into her
greatest of their avatars to seek out a new world far from their subject star-demons. An edict is written where Itzapaplotl or
home on an enormous ship in the form of a pyramid. The ship her children may not come to ground as long as Kukul’s Eye
is given the name “The Great Skyhome.” (the sun) is upon the world.
c. –32000 DR c. –30000 DR
The gods arrive on Toril and land in the ocean far west of the As the Time of Dragons begins, the aearee empires collapse.
main continent of the lush world. Eventually, they occupy The pattern continues in Maztica due to conflicts with
lands in the west but upon their arrival, some avatars powerful green dragons. Qotal, also known as the Feathered
disappear for other lands, never to be seen or heard from Dragon, reaches out to a tribe of decimated aearee and
again. changes them into the fierce quetzaldaun, who are then able
Deep in the bowels of the Great Skyhome, the demoness to overcome the greatest of green dragon threats. The
Itzapaplotl emerges, having stowed away without the quetzaldaun never reach the heights of power once reached
knowledge of any of the deities. by the aearee, but they no longer have fear of extinction.
The goddess once known as Coatlicue perishes upon
arrival. Her massive bloated corpse disappears far c. –12000 DR
underground where it begins to spawn terrible abominations Due to generous gifts from the gods, mankind begins to
that haunt the underground ways. flourish and spread out. They advance from their primitive
state to become inquisitive, honorable and loving, but the gifts
c. –31900 DR also bring war and cruelty. Agriculture, particularly in the
Itzapaplotl makes her presence known only to Zaltec, who she cultivation of mayz, becomes a driving force behind
seeks out as a lover. He initially spurns her advances but humanity’s success. Many towns and great cities are built,
temporarily relents, until he discovers her desire to steal his most in honor of the firstborn of the goddess Maztica, Qotal.
divinity. The newfound piety is in part due to mankind’s appreciation
for his gift of mayz.
c. –31500 DR The sand elder giants arrive in the house of Tezca from a
After many centuries of a relatively lonely existence on their portal to an unknown desert plane or demiplane under
new home the gods attempt to create “new toys to play with” circumstances which they either do not remember or do not
and labor to create mankind. The gods are not satisfied with care to speak of.
their first attempts. Man created from mud, wood and gold are
all deemed failures before Kukul severs his own fingers. The c. –8500 DR
fingers wriggle to life to all the gods’ satisfaction and begin Zaltec creates the magic of fang, claw and venom known as
populating Maztica. Rumors persist to this day that not all of hishna and introduces it as his own gift to mankind. War and
the “failed attempts” have been destroyed. cruelty reach new heights among the toys of the gods.
The First Man to stand is named Camazotz. He is initially Hishnashapers begin to appear at this time in addition to a
favored amongst the gods (particularly Zaltec), but eventually breed of warriors known as jaguar knights.
deems himself greater than his creators and is subsequently
struck down by Zaltec. He is raised back from the dead into c. –8100 DR
unlife by the Zaltec’ Itzapaplotl and the First Man becomes After hundreds of years of never-ending war, the goddess
the First Vampire. Maztica gives her favored son Qotal the gift of pluma magic,
which he passes on to mankind. Plumaweavers and eagle
knights are seen for the first time.
15
-8051 DR
Zaltec senses the interests of his brother gods outside the
earthen walls of Mount Zatal. Their power manifests in the
four lakes that surround the growing mountain.
–2225 DR: Diamond Eyes
In the guise of a beautiful mortal woman known only as
“Diamond Eyes,” Shar tricks Qotal into giving away some of
his divinity. Qotal seeks aid from his hated brother Zaltec and
together they easily recover his stolen power. Once the battle
is over, the alliance ends as quickly as it began. Qotal is given
a vision of his sister Kiltzi in which he recognizes her
resemblance to Diamond Eyes and he lusts for her.
–1106 DR: Qotal’s Seduction
For more than a thousand years after his vision of Kiltzi, Qotal
observed mankind’s love and play and he grew increasingly
jealous. The seed of lust Shar had placed in his mind
germinated until he could no longer deny it. Against her
wishes, Qotal took his sister Kiltzi and proceeded to fall into a
deep slumber.
The darkest rumors claim that a child was born of this
union, but no evidence of the rumor’s veracity can be found.
–1105 DR
Kiltzi flees to her brother Zaltec in shame along with her
sisters Watil and Nula. Terrible droughts, plagues and natural
disasters decimate mankind as Qotal continues to slumber.
–1095 DR
–8060 DR: The War of the Gods A majority of the human race also turns to Zaltec who
In a fit of rage over Maztica and Qotal’s “betrayal,” Zaltec demands tens of thousands of sacrifices. The droughts and
murders his mother using a single blow from his darkness famine end as the gods once again begin performing their
edged mācuahuitl. The weapon shatters and shards from its duties.
obsidian edge lodge into her body, birthing the first
plumastone in the mortal realms of the True World. –812 DR: Departure of the Feathered Dragon
Zaltec takes Maztica’s heart and takes it with him to feed Qotal finally awakens after centuries of slumber to a land all
upon its energies to the current location of Mount Zatal. The but dominated by the worship of crueler gods. He attempts to
heart’s inherent life magic is corrupted, spawning the terrible punish mankind by taking their speech, but his power is no
energy known as the Darkfire (alternatively, Darkfyre). longer what it once was and only his few remaining priests
Kukul disappears in despair over the death of his wife and comply. Qotal begins a self-imposed exile, though he leaves
disgust over the behavior of his sons. the Prophecy of the Cloak of One Plume to indicate when he
There is war among the gods. All the male gods side with would return to the shores of the eastern land of Payit.
Zaltec while the females side with the enraged Qotal. Humans Two massive faces are carved into a rocky bluff where Qotal
create a great pyramid known as Tehwaca at the command of sets off on brightly feathered canoe by his remaining
their gods where the war is set to occur. worshipers. These faces become known as the Twin Visages.
Sacrifice, which is a practice already common among the
god’s worshipers, is brought to a new height as ten thousand c. 400 DR: Golden Age of the Payit
warriors give their hearts to Zaltec. Qotal responds with a Despite the absence of their patron deity Qotal, the nation of
sacrifice of his own by freeing thirteen beautiful caged Payit in Maztica sees six hundred years of great peace and
butterflies upon the pyramid. Qotal defeats Zaltec not long plenty beginning around this time. Ulatos, Tulom-Itzi, Pezel
after battle is commenced. and Kultaka are all founded during this period. Nexal as a
The mainland goddess Shar is drawn to the loss of the nation does not yet exist, but the Valley of Nexal is heavily
whole event and takes notice of Maztica. settled. Written language is developed in Payit.
As Payit progresses in the sciences and trade, more
-8059 DR westerly peoples become increasingly warlike. Many new
Zaltec feeds from the Heart of Maztica, but it regenerates as weapons and tactics for war are developed in these regions.
quickly as it can be consumed. Sea exploration which had begun in order to find greater
and safer trade routes lead to many deaths, but also the
-8055 DR populating of many of Maztica’s surrounding islands.
Zaltec encounters a sarruhk named Mixcoatl, also known as The science and magic of astronomy is further developed by
the Viper, who pledges his service to the dark god in guarding the Payit.
and maintaining the Darkfire. The mountain grows rapidly
and eventually becomes a volcano.
16
H’Calos the Star Worm falls to the world encased in an
enormous egg-like meteorite in the Vale of Ixtzul in Far Payit. 1038 DR Year of the Spreading Spring
The creature is discovered by a minor chieftain named Osctl The Maztican tribe settles in the Valley of Nexal and allies
Sleeping Turtle who is the first to be consumed by the great themselves with the city of Tezat. They are led on this journey
beast as H’Calos emerges from the egg and causes vast by Tecco’s grandson Cattl.
destruction. The creature eventually falls into a deep slumber.
1060 DR Year of the Fantastic Spectacle: The Dawn of
418 DR Year of the Eagle’s Flight Nexal
After years of migration, some aarakocra of Maztica arrive in Cattl is slain by his son Ipana and the truce with Tezat is
mainland Faerûn more than thirty thousand years after the fall broken in an act of great betrayal. Ipana raids the city and
of the progenitor aearee race disappears. The quetzaldaun destroys the temple of Tezca. He also returns to the Valley of
remain in the high places of Maztica with barely greater Nexal with many sacrifices for their bloodthirsty god.
numbers than at the time of their creation. Ipana changes the tribe’s name to the Nexala and its capital
A great road is built by the Payit that connects Ulatos to city, Nexal. Ipana becomes the first Revered Counselor of the
Tulom-Itzi as trade reaches its height. Nexala.
The cities of Azatl and Zokil are absorbed into the fledgling
429 DR Year of the Cat’s Eye Nexalan Empire. Tezat continues to resist.
The people of the Valley of Ixtzul bind the creature H’Calos to
his slumber, but also discover a means to control the creature 1095 DR Year of the Dawndance
for small periods of time. H’Calos makes an effective guardian Despite thirty-five years of warfare and attempted subjugation,
for Ixtzul. Tezat remains independent of Nexal. Ipana’s grandson Tenoch
becomes the Revered Counselor of Nexal upon the death of
431 DR The Year of the Hearth his grandfather, and is no more successful than his
After countless ages of clawing his way to the surface, grandfather in conquering Tezat.
Camazotz unburies himself and flees into the True World
night, thoroughly convinced that he is fated to grow beyond 1115 DR Year of the Haunted Herald
the gods. Tenoch’s son Ipana II takes the title of Revered Counselor of
Nexal after his father’s twenty year reign. Ipana II’s reign lasts
c. 600 DR The guardianship of the eternal slumber of twelve years.
H’Calos passed onto a magically created race of ant-men
known as the bacar, whose creation is sponsored by the last 1120 DR Year of the Perplexing Sphinx
evered Counselor of the valley, Greyst Seven Cloud. Humans A great banquet is held to celebrate the sixtieth year of Nexal’s
abandon the Valley of Ixtzul. might by Ipana II and within a year all representatives from
Cualli and Itzamna Manik, married plumaweavers of great Tezat who attended sicken and die. Nexal finally overtakes
power create the plumazotl in a grand act of powerful Tezat due to the lack of strong leadership.
plumaweaving. Tezca and Zaltec send xiuhcouatl to slay the
plumaweaver for her hubris. 1127 DR Year of the Luminar Procession: The Reign of
Ipana III
951 DR Year of the Empty Hourglass Ipana II is murdered by the same poison used to overcome
On her wedding day, the Princess Aliah of Ulatos is murdered Tezat by his own nephew. Ipana II’s son, Ipana III takes the
after a failed kidnapping attempt by Teacal, the young prince title Revered Counselor at only ten years of age.
of Tulom-Itzi. This event is said to mark the end of the Golden
Age of Payit. 1137 DR Year of the Falling Menhirs Ipana III’s reign is
credited with introducing the ceremony known as the
987: Year of the Flaming Dwarf: The Rockfire Disaster Feathered Wars, in which the armies of different cities would
Seeking fortune in the west, dwarves travel tunnels under the war simply to take captives for sacrifice to their hungry god
Sea of Swords. They are pursued by drow and battle follows Zaltec.
the dwarves throughout the long journey. Drow spells weaken
the unstable walls of the Underdark and both magma and 1138 DR Year of the Sharpened Teeth
ocean water fills the Underdark. Many on both sides are killed All of the captives are sacrificed and a second Feathered War
but others flee further west, trapped under Maztica. The is enacted. In this second war, many warriors of Ipana III’s
dwarves arrive in the Sands of Itzcala in Maztica while the own army are taken captive and sacrificed. This convinces him
drow travel farther south until they arrive in the foothills of the to seek war outside the Valley of Nexal to find suitable
Axapoztlan Range. sacrifices.
1008 DR Year of the Treacherous Path 1139 DR Year of Shining Waves
In a cave hidden in the Axapoztlan Range, the shaman known Nexal, led by Ipana III, easily overcomes the small city states
as Tecco is confronted by the god Zaltec. Zaltec commands of Cordotl and Palul and then heads northwest to battle the
the shaman to lead the Maztican people south to conquer all Otomi. The battle lasts three years until the Nexala abandon
the lands before them. Tecco carries the stone pillar from the campaign. The fierce warriors of Kultaka are also forced
which Zaltec formed his avatar back to the Mazticans. to hold off Nexal’s predations, and manage to do so for a full
two hundred years.
17
1142 DR Year of the Sword’s Oath 1260 DR Year of the Broken Blade
After his defeat, Ipana III moves westward to battle the Zomoc dies in his sleep after years of paranoid insanity. Izco,
isolated Huacli people, from which he takes the city of Ixtal. nephew of Coyo ascends as tenth Revered Counselor of Nexal.
Soon after, the other city-states of the Huacli fall and become The reign of both Izco and his son Izco II is marked by great
subjugated. The fresh flow of sacrifices comes annually from advances in the artistic and cultural growth of Nexal.
these city-states.
1272 DR Year of the Shrieker
1178 DR Year of the Secret Rider In order to celebrate the passing of the title of Revered
After a reign of fifty-one years, Ipana III dies of old age and his Counselor from Izco to his son and to consecrate further
grand-nephew Tolco takes the throne. construction upon the pyramid of Zaltec, one-thousand hearts
are offered to Zaltec. This paltry amount offends the god who
1179 DR Year of the Stalking Satyr awakens the Viper. The Viper uses the power of the darkfire
Tolco leads Nexal’s armies into a humiliating defeat with the to cause Mount Zatal to erupt and cause thousands of
Kultakans and turns to Pezelac. Slaves and sacrifices are additional deaths. A grand Feathered War is enacted and ten
taken, but the battles grind to a stalemate and Pezelac is not thousand hearts are offered to Zaltec as the temple is re-
subjugated. consecrated.
1190 DR Year of the Poisoned Quill 1288 DR Year of the Roaring Horn
Despite greater losses, the Kultakans repulse a second After the death of Izco II, the great and venerable warrior
invasion by Nexal’s forces when Tolco is slain. After their Pakli is chosen as the twelfth Revered Counselor. Pakli
Revered Counselor’s death, the Nexalan army abandons the immediately begins campaigns against the Otomi, the
field of battle. Tenoch II, great-grandson of Ipana III becomes Kultakans and even mounts expeditions to rein Payit under
the sixth Revered Counselor of Nexal. His reign lasts a full Nexal’s control. The wars drain Nexal’s treasuries and end in
twenty-one years and the Nexalans prosper under his rule. disaster. Revolts form in various city-states, Pezelac and Kolan
Many new roads are built and after a successful raid led by which Pakli spends his remaining years attempting to quench.
Tenoch II’s son Chimal; the pyramid of Zaltec was raised to
the highest in all the nations of Maztica. 1290 DR Year of the Whelm
The Kultakans elect the young warrior Takamal as War Chief.
1211 DR Year of the Crimson Crag
Tenoch II dies of natural causes and his son Chimal ascends 1302 DR Year of the Broken Helm
to become the seventh Revered Counselor of Nexal. His Chalco, a great warrior, is appointed thirteenth Revered
eighteen year reign is marked by an increase in trade, even Counselor of Nexal by nobles of the city with the hope that he
with nations as far as Payit for the first time in Nexal’s history. will bring military glory back to the empire after recent
humiliating defeats. Chalco attacks the Kultakans and sees far
1229 DR Year of the Carrion Crow more success than Nexal had in the past, but the capital city
Chimal is replaced by his weakling and disinterested son of Kultaka rallies around Takamal and once again fights the
Totep, whose reign as eighth Revered Counselor lasts a paltry invaders back.
six years.
1303 DR Year of the Evening Sun
1235 DR Year of the Black Horde Chalco begins a new campaign against the Otomis, bringing a
A solar eclipse occurs this year, and the tzitzimitl of huge army formed in part by Huacli subjugated states. Chalco
Itzapaplotl wreak havoc among mankind. Far Payit is hit razes the Otomi’s capital city despite heavy losses. Many
particularly hard in villages surrounding Tulom-Itzi. Otomi flee into the mountains, retuning only once Chalco has
Totep is poisoned and his death is rumored to have been departed.
caused by his own military leaders.
Zomoc, one of Totep’s generals, assumes the title of ninth 1306 DR Year of Thunder
Revered Counselor. Zomoc immediately sends his chief Chalco sends expeditions to find both the original cave from
general Coyo to begin a campaign of warfare against the which Tecco first encountered Zaltec and to find the fabled
Kolan tribes of the southwest coast across difficult terrain. City of the Gods, Tehwaca. The expeditions are not successful
and most do not return.
1255 DR Year of the Raging Flame
After twenty years of constant warfare and frustration, Coyo 1328 DR Year of the Adder
finally subjugates the Kolan people and leads a long line of Chalco dies and his young son Axalt ascends as fourteenth
slaves and sacrifices back across the desert to Nexal. Revered Counselor of Nexal. His reign is often considered the
peak of the Nexalan Empire. Nexal’s continued campaign
1256 DR Year of the Dusty Throne against the Kultakans fail due in large part to the cunning of
Fearing Coyo’s threat to his throne, Zomoc magically coerces Kultaka’s own War Chief and Revered Counselor, Takamal.
Coyo to offering his heart to Zaltec after a year of celebration
and feasting. 1345 DR Year of the Saddle
Axalt’s own son Naltecona leads the most successful forays
into Kultaka as Axalt builds an aqueduct and a grand palace.
Other than the Great Pyramid of Zaltec, the palace is the
grandest structure in the whole valley.
18
1350 DR Year of the Morningstar 1365 DR Year of the Sword
Naltecona ascends as the fifteenth Revered Counselor of Cordell refuses to allow trade ships from Waterdeep to dock
Nexal after his father dies at a relatively young age. This time at Helmsport. The ships continue north until they reach
marks the end of the Rise of Nexal. Maztapan Island and forms a colony inland known as New
Waterdeep off the jungle coast north of Mount Plutoq. New
1351 DR Year of the Crown Waterdeep forms a bond with their southerly Kultakan
Naltecona orders yet another failed invasion of Kultaka. The neighbors to Cordell’s displeasure.
first in a string of omens occurs this year which herald the The Cloak of One Plume is discovered to have survived the
coming of Cordell. Each year on the anniversary of the first, a Fall of Nexal and it is taken from the possession of the
new omen occurs, including the bursting into flames of tlalocoatl (rain dragon) that had been its guard.
Zaltec’s temple, the changing of the color of the sky to that of The Waterdhavian colony expands northward and forms a
blood, and a twelve day eruption of Mt. Zatal. second settlement known as Trythosford. The remaining
Waterdhavian ships head home, and even though three sink
1359 DR Year of the Serpent on the journey, the remaining ships (five of the original twelve)
Cordell defeats the pirate captain Akbet-Khrul, earning the dock in Waterdeep Harbor.
gratitude of the royal family of Amn. The Tlincalli scorpionfolk of Maztica’s underdark finish a
three year ritual in response to Cordell’s invasion transporting
1360 DR Year of the Turret over a thousand scorpionfolk to Amn. The colony burrows
As Cordell requests funding for an expedition to Kara-Tur that deep to find the abandoned dwarven kingdom of Xothaerin
eventually leads him to the True World, three out of the four and begin to modify the city for habitation. Once the city is
lakes in the Valley of Nexal begin to boil and emit steam. cleaned out of its resident elemental creatures, the new
settlement is dubbed Oaxaptupa.
1361 DR Year of Maidens: Discovery of the True World
The Amnian general Cordell sets off with his Golden Legion 1366 DR Year of the Staff
from Amn and “discovers” the continent of Maztica. The Tensions flare between Cordell and the colonies of New
Amnians defeat the native Payits and conquer the city of Waterdeep over weapon trade agreements with the
Ulatos. Helmsport is founded. Other Faerunian nations hear Kultakans.
rumors of the newly discovered land.
1368 DR Year of the Banner
1362 DR Year of the Helm: The Return of Qotal and The Trade increases as both New Amn and Waterdeep compete
Night of Wailing for the highest profits. Some suspect sabotage as ships from
In mighty Nexal itself, Cordell’s lieutenant Darien reveals New Waterdeep continue to sink en route.
herself to be drow and Cordell’s religious leader Bishou
Domincus is sacrificed by Zaltec’s high priest, Hoxitl. This 1369 DR Year of the Gauntlet
action and the will of both Zaltec and the spider goddess Lolth Kultakan invaders destroy New Waterdeep and force the
lead to the Night of Wailing. The dark magic of the darkfire survivors to flee north to Trythosford. Sahuagin attacks
transforms men and women who wear the mark of the prevent aid from reaching shore.
Viperhand into terrible and vicious humanoids such as orcs
and the new breed of shapechanging ogres known as jagres.
Naltecona is slain this year as well. The combined forces of
the Golden Legion and the remaining native Mazticans flee
into the Sands of Tezca. They are led by a former Golden
Legion commander known as Halloran, his wife and Chosen
of Qotal Erixitl and the Eagle Knight Poshtli.
The Prophecy of the Cloak of One Plume is fulfilled and
Qotal returns to the world to battle Zaltec in the newly
rediscovered city of the Gods, Tehwaca.
Tukan is founded by the fleeing humans.
Two battles between Zaltec and Qotal during this time,
cause earthquakes and other natural disasters throughout the
True World. There are many repercussions, one of which is
that Chacobben reveals the tops of a number of its structures.
One revealed temple is discovered by the cihuateteo and wife
of Camazotz known as Yolyamanitzin who converts it into a
tavern, which helps her feed her spawn.
1364 DR Year of the Wave
The Golden Legion opens a new colony further west in
Maztica known as Qoral. North of Kultaka, the Flaming Fist
mercenary company builds Fort Flame, though they do not
fare nearly as well as Cordell’s original mission.
19
1370 DR Year of the Tankard The initial days of the Abeiran Maztica are wrought with
An assassin is unsuccessful in murdering Cordell in his sleep. confusion and social chaos as priests of every deity known
The jaguar knight assassin disappears before being captured lose connection to their gods. Zaltec, Tezca, Azul and even
and is never found. Plutoq’s priests order formerly unheard of numbers of
Fort Tussin is founded by New Amn along its western sacrifices in order to appease what they think is simply the
frontier. anger of their hungry deities. The priests of Qotal and his
sisters do their best to stem the onslaught, but are rarely
1371 DR Year of the Unstrung Harp successful as they too are nearly powerless.
H’Calos the Star Worm is awakened by Mirandos of Helm and The brunt of the attacks is suffered by foreign born men and
it destroys Ixtzul, Maju, Coxl, and everything in between women as priests convince the general populace that it is their
before finally being confronted and defeated by the Golden presence that so angers the gods. New Waterdeep, Qoral, Fort
Legion in the city of Patil. Tussin and Trythosford are duly sacked, and the only
Alanza DaNosta, the acting captain of the Golden Legion in settlements which still retain a significant population of
its battle with H’Calos, founds a colony along the east coast of Faerunians are Helmsport-Ulatos, Fort Flame and Tukan to a
the Bay of Coxi. lesser extent.
The bacar guardians of the Star Worm, no longer being The famous Eagle Knight Poshtli disappears during the
needed, freely roam the world without direction other than to transition.
serve their queens.
1386 DR Year of the Halfling’s Lament
1373 DR Year of Rogue Dragons The demoness Itzapaplotl detects that the ancient edict that
New Waterdeep is resettled on Maztapan Island while the old binds her to her Void Kingdom of Tamoacha does not hold
site remains under Kultakan control. true on Abeir. She sends her dreaded star demons – the
tzitzimitl, down to the True World to torture and maim as they
1374 DR Year of Lightning Storms see fit. Star demons who capture folk for her own amusement
The tlincalli of Oaxaptupa raid Murann and the Trade Way. are particularly rewarded. All races, nations and regions are
They demand reparations for the plundering of Maztica as targeted equally and even the Viperhand of Nexal feel her
they perform all manner of atrocities. depredations.
A rare few folk make pacts with Itzapaplotl for power and
1376 DR Year of the Bent Blade become her warlocks.
Oaxaptupa is sacked by an uneasy truce of the Swordbelt
Alliance. The alliance first discovers that the tlincalli are 1388 DR Year of the Tanarukka
utilizing a portal to the Abyss for reinforcements from their Men and women who formerly had no training in either pluma
demonic patron Obox-Ob. Remaining tlincalli escape into the or hishna start to manifest spontaneous abilities. They
Underdark wilds, but Oaxaptupa as an independent city state become known as the nahuālli, and join Jaguar Knights and
is no more. Eagle Knights in fighting the tzitzimitl. Gultec, the current
leader of Tulom-Itzi in Far Payit organizes a battle that
1380 DR Year of the Blazing Hand delivers a blow to Itzapaplotl’s star demons that they never
A deadly plague kills the vast majority of horses that were fully recover from, but he dies in battle with the demoness
brought to the True World practically overnight. The lack of herself.
transportation allows for the rise of an ancient tradition in the With a lack of divine magic, the magic of hishnashapers and
True World known as the pochteca – which is the name of plumaweavers becomes more influential and the magic of
influential traveling merchants who spend the vast majority of pluma and hishna is expanded by many. Hishnacasters and
their lives going from settlement to settlement. plumacasters emerge with powers that rival the wizards of the
The pochteca make contact with distant lands all over the invading Amnians.
True World, interconnecting Maztica, Anchorome, Lopango
and even Katashaka in some rare cases. The leadership of 1389 DR Year of the Forgiven Foes
Kolan is given to the greatest of these merchants, known as The first instances of encounters with plumed thunderers
the Grand Pochteca. (dinosaurs) happens this year, mostly in the southern jungles
of Far Payit. For the most part, they either do not reach the
1385 DR Year of Blue Fire more populated regions or are turned back by heroes and
As the goddess of magic is murdered, the Weave that is the defenders. Hunters who travel deeper into the jungles alone,
source of all native magic on the planet of Toril unravels and however, often do not return.
one of the worst (if not the actual worst) upheavals in all
history known as the Spellplague occurs. 1487 DR Year of the Rune Lords Triumphant
Maztica, potentially due to the otherworldliness of the Maztica returns to Toril as the skies once again change back
magic of pluma and hishna, is spared most of the chaos that to bright azure and the sun returns to its golden yellow.
engulfs magic. However, tragically, the entire continent is The gods return and Zaltec is the first to awaken deep in
shunted to the twin planet known as Abeir and replaced with the lowest chambers beneath Mount Zatal. Itzapaplotl seeks
the primal realm of dragons known as Laerakond back on him out through one of her star demons known as the Runt.
Toril. Zaltec forms an agreement to sponsor Itzapaplotl’s rise to
Mazticans see the change as a shimmering of the blue sky divinity (though they never succeed).
which, after a few moments, becomes a steely gray. The
crossing causes a brief moment of nausea in all who observe
the change.
20
Anxelli, a young woman of Far Payit meets Cualli, the ages old The Devastation of H’Calos
plumaweaver who created the plumazotl. Cualli trains Anxelli
who becomes a powerful plumacaster and the Chosen of Over a millennia in the past, a great amber shard fell from the
Qotal. sjy to the Ixtzul Vale. People from all over the True World bore
Cualli gets to rejoin her husband Itzamna Manik in paradise witness to this event and even heard the violent screech it
as she is slain by a fiery minion of Tezca known as a made as it passed. A minor chief of the people of Ixtzul Vale
xiuhcouatl. named Osctl Sleeping Turtle was the first to find the object
Anxelli eventually destroys the xiuhcouatl and the Runt and and he saw that it was in fact a great egg. This egg cracked
indirectly causes Zaltec and Itzapaplotl to fight in her Void before him and he saw a great serpent or worm inside. A
Kingdom of Tamoacha. Zaltec, still weak from his recent wiser chief might have fled immediately, but Osctl approached
awakening, is gravely wounded, and Itzapaplotl is apparently the hatching creature in the hopes that somehow, it might
slain or at least thrust into the darkness of the void above increase his standing among the six other chieftains. For his
Toril. Anxelli obtains the fabled Cloak of One Plume from an curiosity, Osctl became the first meal of the great star worm
ancient tlalocouatl in Mount Zatal and becomes a great known as H’Calos.
heroine of her time. Luckily for the True World, H’Calos’ awakening was a short
Anxelli decides to travel from village to village to pass on lived one. After engorging himself on the inhabitants of nearby
the teachings of plumacasting. villages, the star worm settled into a great sleep underground
Though he has long remained somnolent in death, Hoxitl in the valley of Ixtzul. The people knew of the creature but
was resurrected by Zaltec shortly before his battle with considered it a guardian of their land and built a city atop the
Itzapaplotl. When Itzapaplotl was defeated, he somehow creature’s resting place. For two centuries, the creature
captured and absorbed her unutilized divine power and has slumbered and did not wake to feed.
become a deity in his own right. It is unknown if this was Some say the Revered Counselor of the city of Ixtzul
Zaltec’s intention and the gods have since become far more convinced the creature to settle as their guardian, others
distant from the affairs of men. claimed that the creature was defeated in battle before its
Hoxitl was revealed to not have been the only mortal who long rest. The truth became known many years later when it
has ascended to divine status as the eagle knight Poshtli came to light that the last Revered Counselor of Ixtzul named
presented himself to the citizens of Helmsport as a radiant Greyst Seven Cloud used a powerful staff to keep the creature
eagle nearly 60 feet tall that its citizens could barely look in a perpetual state of slumber.
upon. Hoxitl and Poshtli represent evil and good jaguar or H’Calos wasn’t the only threat to the valley however.
eagle knights respectively. Overpopulation destroyed the once fertile valley and it could
no longer support its people. Greyst Seven Cloud determined
1488 DR Year of Dwarvenkind Reborn that the valley was in fact doomed, yet it was his sacred duty to
Incidentally, a few Faerûnians discover that Maztica has prevent the valley’s guardian from awakening to threaten the
returned and their interest renews in trade. Mazticans as a whole of the True World in its great hunger.
whole, having been through centuries of upheavals however, Using the power of both hishna and pluma, Greyst forged
do not welcome any sort of mass migration. Trade is mostly great lines of magic that would keep the creature in its state of
shunned and only the occasional visitor is allowed. Heroes are slumber perpetually. With the people gone, he knew there
always welcome to help rid the True World of many of the would need to be guardians, however. When he looked upon
horrors that have plagued it. the ants at his feet he realized that they would be ideal and
thus he created the bacar to forever guard the star worm.
Other Happenings Mirandos of Helm, while burning Maztican scrolls in Maju,
came across a particular scroll penned by a Maztican scholar
The epic of Maztica is in not an exhaustive story nor does it eight decades prior. The scroll described the guardians and
cover every event of importance in the continent’s long history. the cursed city of Ixtzul in fine detail and Mirandos believed
In roughly chronological order other events of importance are she had found a road to great treasure and more importantly,
detailed below, yet even with these, the full story is not told. power.
Mirandos managed to enter the city and she enslaved the
The Origin of the Little People bacar guardians to her will using the staff looted from Greyst’s
When mankind first took shape, they were given forms that tomb. When the planet H’Catha (the rumored home of the star
pleased the more martial gods Qotal and Zaltec the most. worm) rose into the sky one evening, Mirandos performed a
Strong and imposing, humankind was practically bred for war. ritual which freed the creature from its long slumber. Greatly
Kiltzi and her sisters, however, sought smaller things to play miscalculating the power of the staff she attempted to use it to
with and thus they took the molds that gave mankind their control the great beast but it only shattered and the creature
shape and forged life of their own. They created these beings was loosed upon the True World.
in the shape of man, but far smaller - half sized in fact. They Mirandos, like Osctl in ages past, was eaten as a reward for
led their new playthings deep into the verdant jungles where her hubris, and the star worm proceeded to destroy what
neither their brothers, nor mankind would find them. In these remained of Ixtzul for a full month’s time. He then destroyed
jungles, the halflings of Maztica would remain hidden. Maju, Coxl, and everything in between before finally being
defeated by the Golden Legion.
Alanza DaNosta, the acting captain of the Golden Legion in
its battle with H’Calos, finally defeated the creature. She soon
after founded a colony along the east coast of the Bay of Coxi
once the battle was concluded.
21
Locations in Maztica
T
he True World of Maztica is a full continent for The inhabitants of Far Payit, the Desert Dwarves, the Green
players to explore. There are hundreds of Folk, the Tabaxi, the Dog People, and the Little Folk are all
locations, mysteries to be solved and years examples of populations that are simply too scattered to be
worth of adventures. This chapter goes into considered an actual nation, but whose numbers are
some depth for geographical locations in significant. Independent city states like Tukan, Tulom-Itzi,
Maztica, but it is by no means exhaustive. New Waterdeep, and Trythosford are also major players in the
True World, but do not have the territory of the greater
nations. The more well known regions of Maztica are
There is a huge variety of cultures across the True World. If described below.
one considers all of the humanoid races, the number actually
becomes staggering. Most folk never even come into contact Huacli
with members of other nations with the exception of the more The Huacli nation is a nation of mountain valleys on the west
cosmopolitan cities like Ulatos, Tulom-Itzi or Tukan. coast of Maztica. With one notable exception, this collection of
Nations tend to be less clearly defined in Maztica as they city-states was once firmly under the thumb of the Empire of
are in Faerûn. Borders are not as carefully delineated, nor Nexal. After the Night of Wailing, Nexal’s firm grip was broken
does every village identify with the country in which it is overnight.
located. For defensive purposes and the inevitable taxes that Prior to the Night of Wailing, however, Otomi was the only
such service incurs, there is at least a modicum of national city-state that maintained its independence. Most of the
identification. Nexal, Kultaka, Huacli, Kolan, Pezelac, and Huacli people were fierce warriors, but the Otomi in
Payit are the major regions to consider. particular stood out.
22
23
In the mountains closest to Otomi, there were massive Kolan
deposits of copper, which they (and to a lesser extent, the
other city-states) learned to smelt and forge weapons and Kolan is another nation on the west coast of Maztica and is
armor. The metal was soft, but still superior to the obsidian separated from the hot sands of the House of Tezca by the
blades and spears of the Nexala. Chimatepec Mountains. Within these mountains and
After gaining full independence, the chieftains formed an approaching the shores themselves lay fertile valleys. The four
alliance and a council with the Otomi at their head. major cities of Kolan are quite independent and can be self-
Ethnically, the Huacli are a mixed bunch, but there is a sufficient on their own. The climate and terrain of this
strong streak of an independent tribe that is not known southern nation is ideal for growing crops and the people
elsewhere in the True World. From these folk comes the generally have want for nothing.
language of the Huacli which is a mix of words and phrases Baya, Guatl, Kolatl, and Cabez are the four major cities
from Nexalan and Téenek, a language unknown elsewhere. which are cut deep into cliffs on the shore lines, with
Other than in rare ancient scrolls, Téenek is no longer dwellings accessible only through rope ladders, pulleys and
spoken in its pure form, and the new hybrid is known simply elevators. Kolatl for example, exists entirely in a grand cliff
as Huacli. Those who speak Nexalan can understand about overlooking the golden waters of the Bay of Kolan.
10% of Huacli, and the same is true in reverse. A large Kolan has flourished in the last century, with new
percentage of the Huacli ethnicity is also of the Dog People, settlements growing and expanding eastward into the House
particularly in the northern city-states. of Tezca. Much of this growth is due to increasing trade with
For most of their existence, the Huacli city-states have been the desert city of Tukan, of which Kolan has developed a fine,
independently governed by male chieftains. The chieftains but distant trade alliance. Ethnically, the Kolans are of both
pass their title on to their heirs upon death. If no heir is Green Folk and Maztican stock. Their language is also unique
apparent, a new chieftain is often selected through (known as Kolan), and it has more similarities to the
widespread popularity. languages of the Green Folk than it does actual Maztican.
In Otomi, the chieftain has evolved into a nationwide ruler Those who deal in trade with Tukan are typically bilingual.
and he has adopted the name used in the more easterly Though they might be more frequent in Huacli, Kolan is the
nations. Huasteco is currently the Revered Counselor of origin of the pochteca, and the closest thing the nation has to
Huacli, and he is in fact the first to use the title. a leader is the Grand Pochteca. This old traveling merchant is
Before the discovery of plumastone (and to a lesser extent known by no other name and is said to be welcome in almost
the magically created hishnahide), the Otomi kept a jealous every other nation. Forever enemies of Nexal and its terrible
guard over their stores of copper. Though their forged beasts, the Grand Pochteca is only not welcome among the
weapons have not become obsolete, they do not have the beasts of the Viperhand.
same value they once held in a time when most weapons Though it was once a terribly poor nation after years of
would shatter on contact with anything other than flesh. Nexalan abuse, Kolan has come far under the guidance of the
Copper is now freely traded throughout the True World and Grand Pochteca. Many lesser pochteca serve him as spies and
this has actually become somewhat of a boon to the Huacli. he knows more than most of major happenings throughout
There are also well known artisans in Huacli who produce art the True World.
that commands a high price elsewhere. For this reason alone, Sacrifice remained a common practice in Kolan for far
Huacli is a favored stopping point of various pochteca, despite longer than it had in other nations, mostly due to its isolation
the relative distance. from the foreign influence of Faerûnians. However, when
The Huacli worshiped all of the deities with equal fervor, Maztica became part of Abeir and the gods disappeared, the
but much of this faith was lost during Maztica’s exile on Abeir. need for sacrifice disappeared as well. The Grand Pochteca
Plutoq’s worship has become ascendant among chieftains and does not approve of the practice, but since the return of the
males since the Return, however and Nula and Eha have gods and their clerics, it has made a slow return in some
become popular among many of the women. parts.
In the first decades of the arrival of the newcomers, the
Huacli often mistook the newcomers as beasts of the Kultaka
Viperhand. Amnians and other Faerunians were slain on sight. Kultaka is as it has always been; a nation of warriors. Despite
There are few pureblooded Faerûnians remaining in the their proximity, Nexal’s grand empire had never fully
True World, but the Huacli have become a bit more conquered the Kultakans and without the Kultakan army,
cosmopolitan in recent years. Much of this has to do with the Cordell could never have defeated Nexal.
urgings of the pochteca, from which the chieftains often The land itself is a fertile coastal plain separated from the
accept advice. water by a vast salt marsh inhabited by lizardfolk, sahuagin,
Huacli has not always been occupied by its current and worse.
ethnicities and in ages past there was a people known as the The greatest threat to the nation is still in Nexal and
Zateca, whose ruined cities still dot the landscape. without the Kultakans; the beasts of the Viperhand would
Not much is known of this ancient culture, but occasionally surely plague the rest of Maztica in far greater numbers.
jade artifacts and ancient scrolls will appear in Otomi, Kultaka is eternally at war with these creatures, but they
discovered by the few who survive the horrors of their continue to control the upper hand and orc blood flows freely
crumbling ruins. upon its plains.
24
Kultaka is unusual in its form of leadership for the region in
that they are almost always under the command of a war
chief, rather than a Revered Counselor. Icnoyotl is the current
war chief and is a direct descendent of Takamal and Tokol,
said to be the greatest warriors ever seen in the True World.
Kultakans speak Kultakan, which is a harsher, deeper
sounding language related to Maztican. Typical Kultakans are
able to speak both languages despite the fact that the
Kultakans have limited contact with other nations.
Kultaka used to have a significant portion of their
population worship Zaltec. After the Night of Wailing,
centuries of conflict with the Viperhand, and the gods’
subsequent disappearance and reappearance, his worship is
has dropped dramatically. The other cruel gods such as Tezca
and Azul are still popular however and though sacrifice is
officially banned (a law left over from the days of Amnian
dominance), it still occurs in remote temples.
A century ago, large veins of gold were found in Kultaka’s
mountains. They have yet to run out and a community of
dwarves has sprung up within the mines. These dwarves
consider themselves natives of the True World but are in fact
nearly an equal mix of the ancestors of dwarves from Faerun
and desert dwarves who came from the Sands of Itzcala. The
dwarves consider Kultaka their home and defend it alongside
their human brethren in continuous war.
Hishna magic is ascendant in Kultaka, and some of the best
hishnashapers and hishnacasters in the True World are
known to reside here. The hishnahide spell was developed in
Kultaka before spreading to the world at large and the gold
from the mines is often used to power castings of this spell.
Kultakan warriors are outfitted better than any others in
Maztica.
Nexal
Once the greatest empire in the whole of the True World;
Nexal is now the dreaded domain of monsters.
Small streams of lava pour forth from Mount Zatal today,
but the dark slopes of the volcano stands as a reminder of the
devastation that occurred over a century ago, and whose
repercussions are still felt today.
Orcs are now the dominant species of Nexal; cruel and
violent, they have cut the hearts from hundreds of thousands
of captured Mazticans in the previous century. Though no
longer human, the orcs hold to the old ways of Maztica more
consistently than any other remaining nation in their love of
this cruel practice.
Troll and ogre overseers keep the unruly orcs in line, though
they themselves frequently have difficulty controlling their
base urges.
The trolls and ogres are commanded directly by powerful
shapeshifters known as jagres. The jagres are led by their
semi-divine immortal leader Hoxitl, who is Chosen by Zaltec.
Man is not welcome in Nexal. For a time, evil men and
scoundrels could at least eke out a pitiful existence among the
cruel beasts, but when the skies changed and Zaltec’s voice
grew silent, every last man and woman was brought to Mount
Zatal for sacrifice. Now, none remain – Nexal now solely the
land of the Viperhand.
Were it not for the common cause of war and raiding, Nexal
would implode in on itself, but as it stands, Hoxitl’s semi-
divine power is enough to keep the worst destructive impulses
in check.
25
Were they not so fecund, the population of Nexal might not The worship of the foreign god Helm was once growing in
have lasted as they have. The beasts are incessantly raiding Payit but it has since morphed into a cult known as the Cult of
nearby nations and war with Kultaka is perpetual. As it was Hunab-Kuum. Qotal and his sister Kiltzi officially have the
when Nexal was a human land, the Nexalans have yet to best most worshipers and the most beautiful temples, but the Cult
that nation of warriors. is growing in popularity. The leadership of the cult is now
Nexalan was once the common tongue of the True World firmly entrenched in Cordell’s old estate.
since the empire had spread so far. Since the empire’s
downfall, Nexalan itself has now come to be known as Pezelac
Maztican. Ironically, the current inhabitants of Nexal are Pezelac has always had difficulty finding its own identity in a
rarely literate in this language of their own origin. region surrounded by powerful and aggressive nations. There
Zaltec has and will always be ascendant in Nexal. The are few truly native folk of Pezelac, though there were a few
worship of no other gods is accepted or tolerated. Even during indigenous folk. Mostly, Pezelac is a conglomerate of all the
his silence, the beasts continued his rites. Hoxitl managed to surrounding nations such as the Payit, Kultakans and
convince an entire population that their god was angry with Nexalans that fled from their ruined homeland.
them, and this was the cause of his silence. The jagre’s With the growth in trade of the recent century, Pezelac has
immortality and power was a sure sign that he was the voice grown in wealth despite the barren nature of the land itself. Its
of Zaltec. Now that Zaltec has returned, “proof” has been capital city, also named Pezelac, has grown to rival Ulatos and
given. Tukan in its cosmopolitan nature. There are few goods sold in
Payit Maztica that cannot be found in the city’s marketplace. As in
Huacli and Kolan, the pochteca thrive here and even the Little
Payit is a great nation whose invasion by Amn nearly cost it its Folk and Desert Dwarves can be found in its markets.
identity, but has bounced back all the stronger for its trials. The common Maztican tongue (formally Nexalan) is the
There is intense national pride these days and the original primary language spoken in Pezelac, but particularly in the
invaders have mostly integrated or died off. capital city, all languages can be heard being spoken.
Today, Payit once again excels in leading the True World out Pezelac is not known for its fierce warriors but its close
of dark days with its research into pluma magic and the fine proximity to Nexal has forced it to find potent means of
talismans of pluma created by its artisans. protection. Pezelac’s newest Revered Counselor, the first
When Maztica was sent to Abeir, Itzapaplotl visited her woman to ever hold the title in fact, is an incredibly clever old
worst depredations on the Payit and the Faerunians who had sorceress named Tonatzin. She has reached out to the
once defiled it themselves. Without the plumaweavers, jaguar neighboring nations of Kultaka and Payit to petition for
and eagle knights of Ulatos, many more would have suffered. protection against the beasts of the Viperhand. In exchange
Helmsport and Cordell’s old estate still exists near Ulatos, for lucrative trading rights, both nations have responded with
but the only other obvious reminders that the Amnians settled significant contingents of warriors, including a thousand-
here is the skin coloration of the locals. Some Faerûnian strong atlatl-wielding unit from Kultaka and eagle knights
traditions remain, particularly in the celebration of some from Payit.
holidays and certain foods found nowhere else in Maztica.
Horses disappeared after a virus wiped out the majority of
their population and it was discovered that the creatures
known as hakuna favored horse flesh above all others. Attacks
on the trade roads by these creatures became all too frequent
and the use of horses as a pack animal or traveling companion
became more trouble than it was worth.
Outside of Helmsport and Ulatos, Payit itself is a mix of
patches of jungle, woodlands, grass plains, and vast swaths of
agricultural land. Trade routes can be found everywhere
leading into Kultaka and Pezelac.
Payit still has smatterings of the Faerûnian common speech
but it has been dying as a language with Payit and Maztican
becoming the more dominant languages. It is not unusual for
natives of Helmsport or Ulatos to in fact be fluent in all three.
While estates of the Amnian invaders once dotted the
countryside, Itzapaplotl’s raids and time itself has seen many
of these fall into ruin or disrepair. The locals do not seem to
care very much about that current state of affairs.
Payit is ruled by Coaxoch, a relatively young Revered
Counselor who some claim is the greatest plumaweaver alive.
Others claim that this is impossible given her young age and
the fact that many of her talismans were actually simply taken
from the treasury.
26
The nahuālli also first started appearing here in the
scrublands soon after the True World was brought to Abeir.
The beasts of the Viperhand have difficulty overcoming the
versatile magics of these spellcasters.
With the exception of Zaltec, the entire Maztican pantheon
is worshiped in Pezelac. There are also numerous less known
deities that are typically worshiped in small communities in
the countryside. Once a fervent nation, the silence of the gods
and the influx of wealth has tempered their devotion.
Far Payit
Far Payit once had great cities with pyramids that rivaled the
pyramid of Zaltec in Nexal during that nation’s heyday. These
pyramids had a slightly different architectural style than the
rest of Maztica and tended to be tall and narrow.
Most of these cities now lie in ruin. The jungle has crept
back into the structures and the eerie howls of beasts
permeate the old marketplaces. The people have long since
moved back into small villages within the jungles
It was and is still a jungle nation, only occasionally opening
into clearings set aside for the cultivation of mayz and other
crops. There are mountains as well, typically jutting straight
from the jungle floor and high above the canopy. These
mountains are said to hold many ancient secrets and very few
who enter their hidden tunnels come back out alive.
There is almost no military remaining in Far Payit, but the
villages typically have some well-known defenders or heroes.
Far Payit was hit the hardest when the True World was
brought to Abeir because great fanged, spiked and taloned
lizards began to show up in the jungles nearly over night.
Villages without powerful defenders were destroyed while
others had to remain in constant vigil. The situation got
continually worse until the skies changed yet again. Today, the
lizard threat has abated slightly.
Tulom-Itzi and Maxal remain the only cities of note in Far
Payit, yet there are hundreds of small villages scattered
throughout the jungle. Tulom-Itzi is the cultural center of the
local people who are known as the Itzas, and great magics of
pluma and hishna have been developed within its walls. Maxal
was utterly destroyed by the great star worm H’Calos, though
it was subsequently rebuilt by the determined Itza. H’Calos’
hitherto unknown offspring known as H’Calans have plagued
any who dare enter Far Payit’s underdark.
The Itzas, despite their trials, are known to be some of the
kindest and gentlest folk in the True World. Sacrifice or
slavery is not permitted here and Zaltec’s worship is
practically unknown. Qotal is ascendant and remained so
even during his long bouts of silence. The Itzas speak Payit,
though most villages have at least one elder that can speak
Maztican as well.
The Itzas do not have revered counselors or even tribal
chieftains. Rather, they tend to follow the advice of the wisest
or occasionally the most powerful among their populations.
Far Payit is known for its incredible variety of beautiful
plumage which plumaweavers from all over Maztica send
pochteca to come and trade for. They will often bring
plumastone to assist Far Payits local heroes in defending their
villages.
27
The terrible lizards which populate the jungles also have The gods of the Dog People are generally not gods at all, but
fangs and claws that are highly prized by hishnashapers. Far rather local animal and ancestral spirits. They do not
Payit’s artisans in fact, are well known for their workmanship understand the concept of gods as actual divine beings.
and many unique talismans have been created here. Other The Dog People speak their own language, and
than this, the Itzas are not generally known for their trade occasionally Huacli.
goods. The people have all they need and are mostly entirely
self-sufficient. The Green Folk
Tukan South of the House of Tezca, before entering the strange and
mountainous land of Lopango lays the jungles of the Green
Tukan has remained a bastion of hope for the True World in Folk. Though their lands are not vast and their populations
the past century. It was founded out of desperation as Qotal are not great, their isolation has kept them safe from
led the refugees of the Night of Wailing across the desert to a aggression.
newly formed lake in the desert grand enough to support the The Green Folk lands are littered with ancient temples and
100,000 or so men and women. ruins that are complete mysteries. Not even the greatest of the
Tukan has a similar layout to Nexal. The inhabitants are Green Folk elders knows from where they came or who built
mixed but are mostly native Mazticans. Tukan is also unique them.
in that it has the largest population of desert dwarves known The Green Folk are not as cruel as the Dog People can be,
in the True World, and even a significant population of the but they too tend to kill trespassers. They have very little
Little Folk! magic, however, and are easily impressed by flashy displays.
Trade occurs mostly with Ulatos, but the distance and Magic with impressive optics can send entire villages running,
proximity to Nexal and its beasts have led Tukan and its or it could cause them to drop in awe of the caster. Even most
pochteca to seek trade elsewhere. There have been a number pluma and hishna magic is unknown to them.
of overtures made to Kolan in general and Otomi specifically. In the jungles, all that is needed is provided, and the Green
Tukan’s architecture is a blend of traditional Maztican Folk do not participate in trade. They speak their own
pyramids and Faerunian estates. The estates have fallen out language and ethnically do not appear similar to any other
of favor in recent years and few new ones are erected, but the Maztican humans. They tend to be exceptionally short when
ones which have already been built remain in good repair. compared to the average Maztican.
All of the gentler gods are worshiped in Tukan but Tezca The Green Folk worship what is thought to be the Maztican
and Azul also have a significant following. Human sacrifice is pantheon, but the names are wildly different. Calor, for
banned and those who ignore the ban are mercilessly hunted example, is the name given to a deity in the myths of the
down, even by members of their own faiths. Green Folk that appears quite similar to Azul.
The current Revered Counselor is an aged cleric of Qotal
named Tuahemoc. Tuahemoc is said to have been descended The Little Folk
directly from the famous eagle knight Poshtli. The Little Folk of Maztica are also known as jungle halflings
Tuahemoc was the first to claim that Poshtli had ascended or the Little People. They are a savage race of halflings with
to serve at the right hand of the Plumed Father, and he has a little similarities in culture to their Faerûnian counterparts.
number of shrines to his ancestor in addition to Qotal’s. The different tribes have many opposing origin stories but the
The Dog People general belief is that they were created by Kiltzi.
The Little Folk were once located only in the jungles of Far
The Dog People are a savage folk who live in the Sands of Payit, but have since spread to others, and they occasionally
Itzcala. They are semi-nomadic and generally live in small come into conflict with the Green Folk.
villages of 50-500 individuals in these northern wilds. One particularly large tribe of jungle halflings was led by
The Dog People are intolerant of most others with the Halloran into the war against the beasts of the Viperhand over
exception of the Otomi, whom they share some ancestry. For a hundred years ago. Halloran, the halflings claimed, had been
generations, the Dog People were captured and sacrificed by destined to lead them “out of the jungle,” and the prophecy
Mazticans and this has left them defensive and resentful. has since come true. Many halflings now live in Ulatos, Tukan
Trespassers in their lands are now generally caught and and even as far as Trythosford.
tortured. The majority of jungle halflings still live deep in Far Payit
Often, an individual will be bound and buried up to their along mountain bases and they rarely come into contact with
necks in sand and dirt near the mounds of a nasty breed of humans. Most still hold to their old ways and when humans
fire ant that inhabits this part of the True World. are captured (usually unlucky Itzas), they will sacrifice their
Occasionally, the Dog People will be suitably impressed by victim to some form of local “god.” Most commonly, the local
a person or group at which point they are accepted into the god is in fact a jaguar lord or other monstrosity which they
tribe. The Dog People are extremely loyal to their own kind keep in a pit in the village center.
and this extends to those who are so fortunate. The Little Folk are also known for their powerful poison
The Dog People have curious superstitions about the desert known as kurari. This is a highly effective paralyzing poison
dwarves which they share common lands, and though they are ideal for hunting and taking down “big folk.”
not allies, they tend to leave the dwarves alone. Conflicts and Jungle halflings who intermingle with humans speak their
misunderstandings do occur, however. own language and the language of whatever local culture they
The only people that the Dog People trade with are the have adopted. The tribes who follow the old ways generally
Otomi, and even this is rare. There is very little that they want only speak their own language.
or have to offer, but the occasional curious item is found in the
desert from civilizations far more ancient.
28
Chiefs rule their tribes with an iron fist and tolerate little
dissension. In fact, conflict usually leads to the offending party
being thrown into the pit of their god.
The Desert Dwarves
The Desert Dwarves are not a nation per se, but they have a
significant population and have become the dominant people
of the sizeable lands of both the House of Tezca and the
Sands of Itzcala.
The desert dwarves were once exploratory miners from
tunnels under the Moonshae Isles who were ambushed by
drow in the year 987 DR. The drow used powerful magics
which unleashed magma from below and ocean water from
above. This effectively cut both groups off from each other and
the pathways back to Faerun’s underdark.
This event came to be known alternatively as the Rockfire
Disaster or the Rockfire Cataclysm, and it stranded the
dwarves in Maztica.
The dwarves first emerged in the Sands of Itzcala but have
adapted well to their desert environment and have spread to
all the deserts of Maztica. Their greatest population is in fact
in the House of Tezca.
The desert dwarves tend to dwell in caves or crags in small
communities of no more than a few hundred. In the House of
Tezca their leaders are known as chieftains, and in the Sands
of Itzcala they are often referred to as cragwardens.
The Desert Dwarves of the Sands of Itzcala tend to remain
hidden and aloof when it comes to other Maztican nations.
They often come into conflict with the Dog People of the
wastes, but this dislike rarely leads to open warfare, and the
two races generally avoid each other.
When the dwarves encounter other humans, they react
accordingly to the given situation. An entire community of the
desert dwarves has moved into the gold-laden mines in The Tabaxi
Kultaka and joined their Faerunian cousins to form a newer, The jaguar men of Maztica populate the jungles and at one
larger, and far richer community. time had only fleeting encounters with mankind. When the
In the desert, the dwarves will secretly observe travelers for encounters did occur, they often erupted in violence,
many days before contact and will know a good bit about the particularly when the tabaxi were answering to a jaguar lord.
players’ tendencies. This branch of dwarves has also come The Green Folk have always known to avoid the tabaxi, but
into conflict with the scorpionfolk from lands beneath the the newer, more adventurous humans in Maztica are rarely so
sands. wise. The jaguar-folk have responded to the frequent
The desert dwarves from the House of Tezca were once trespasses by trespassing themselves, and it is not uncommon
known to other Mazticans as “The Hairy Men of the Desert,” to see tabaxi in the streets of the more cosmopolitan cities
but that old moniker is rarely used these days. these days.
Led by the great warrior Luskag, this branch fought The tabaxi occupy just about every known jungle in Maztica
valiantly against the beasts of the Viperhand at the conclusion but are typically located far from other settlements. They build
of battle for Helmsport. tree homes which they find easy to climb into, but aggressors
Though there are many chieftains, Luskag still lives, and he have severe difficulty locating.
is widely considered the “Chieftain among Chieftains.” Should There are three main groups of tabaxi. The tribes which
the dwarves ever make race-affecting decisions, they would interact with humans the most are powerful hunters, but
surely follow this charismatic leader’s direction. typically leave sentient species alone. They will trade for
Luskag’s clan also is credited with the discovery of weapons in the nations of men, usually bringing rare pelts
plumastone near the city of Tewahca and this has made him from the jungles. It is from this stock that most tabaxi who
popular and welcome everywhere but Nexal. have traveled to foreign lands comes.
Luskag’s clan still mines the material and though it has Jaguar lords rule over a large percentage of tribes and these
since been found elsewhere (as well as being magically jaguar men are both aggressive and cruel. They are more than
created), the plumastone of Tewahca is by far the most willing to eat manflesh, saving the choice parts for their lord.
popular. Lastly, there are the ocēlōtl. This enigmatic race is an
The desert dwarves are not particularly religious but have offshoot of the tabaxi, but has more in common with the
managed to merge the pantheons of Maztica and the dwarves. smallish cats known as ocelots than they do the proud
Dumathoin is popular, but Plutoq also seems to appeal to jaguars.
these stone loving people.
29
Qotal took pity on the bird-folk but he is not an
easy god who breeds complacency in those he
chooses. Qotal offered the aarakocra a choice;
he would equip them with the tools needed to
defeat the dragons if they would only worship
him forevermore. The aarakocra agreed and
were changed into the quetzaldaun, powerful
new bird-folk whose keen senses and powerful
forms were able to destroy the dragons that
plagued them.
It is because of the quetzaldaun that dragons are
almost nonexistent in the True World (the rain
dragons known as tlalocoatl tend to leave them alone),
and even during the days following the Spellplague
they had a major hand in keeping the powerful beasts
at bay.
Quetzaldaun have other enemies however, and many
have been forced to leave their homes and enter the
lands of mankind. The populations of hakuna exploded
when Maztica returned from Abeir, and the quetzaldaun
have recently lost many nests.
To this day, the pact with Qotal has stood even though the
god was silent when Maztica was on Abeir, but other deities
are making inroads. Whether or not this trend continues as
the quetzaldaun come into contact with other cultures or not
remains to be seen as does any repercussions from Qotal.
Places of Interest
Maztica has secrets and mysteries that remain unexplained
and in many cases unexplored. The following places of
interest make excellent locations for adventure and
exploration.
Azatl (Nexal). Azatl shares a similar history to Tezat in the
days since the Night of Wailing. Knowing that they are as
likely to be killed and eaten in Tezat by the trolls; the more
numerous orcs have taken this city as their own. Perhaps
because of the influence of Hoxitl and other jagre (who
maintain a strong presence in this city), the orcs are
surprisingly organized and can mobilize in case of a concerted
attack.
They are even more reclusive than the jaguar folk and only The Bay of Shoals (Pezelac). This shallow bay in Pezelac
rarely leave their hidden jungle domains. There are rumors has a great variety of wildlife and rare plants. It is known for
that the ocēlōtl command a strange magic unseen elsewhere its mangaroo trees which form mazes in the bay formed of
in Maztica. small islands. It is rumored that there is lost magic
Tabaxi worship the Maztican pantheon but do not use the somewhere in one of these mazes, but only from the writings
same names as mankind. of one of Cordell’s legionnaires who went mad shortly after
his return to Helmsport.
The Quetzaldaun Canoes are the only boats small enough to navigate the
Many believe it was to Maztica where the progenitor race of shoal, but the enormous crocodiles that live within the bay
bird men known as the aeree once fled. The aeree either keep traffic low.
became or created the aarakocra which populate Toril and The Caves of Far Payit (Far Payit). The underdark
can sometimes be found in Maztica, though it is said there are permeates the True World much as it does mainland Faerûn.
many more in Anchôromé to the north. Unlike Faerûn, the entrances are rare and only known to few.
The aarakocra have suffered the predations of dragons In Far Payit however, there is a system of caves with far more
throughout the world, driving them to extinction in some obvious connections. The cave system is remarkably intricate
areas. Such was the case for large tribes in the True World. and contains equal portions of underwater caverns.
Dragons followed the aarakocra from Faerûn and destroyed In general, these caverns are thought to be uninhabited by
their nests with a sadistic glee. intelligent races and remain ripe for exploration or even
Some aarakocra began to abandon their gods and seek a occupation.
new lord, one who would save them from the extinction
promised by the dragons and ironically, a draconic god
answered their plea.
30
The Fountain of the Gods (Far Payit). When the Little Folk Mount Zatal had gone relatively cold when the True World
first came out of the jungles they spoke of the legends of the became part of Abeir and to this day the mountain is avoided
Fountain of the Gods; an artifact created by the deities at the by all but the beasts of the Viperhand. It is said that a massive
dawn of mankind’s emergence as the dominant species of the complex lies underneath the mountain populated by fire
True World. The Little Folk claim that it was made to test the newts, orcs, and far worse. As the gods reawaken, rumor has
will of man and to reward bravery where it was deserved. it that Zaltec himself stirs beneath the mountain.
It is also a place of death, and friendly Little Folk know Nexal City (Nexal). Nexal is a ruin and has been so for well
better to go anywhere near it. The terrible lizards that have over a hundred years, but it is occupied. The orcs, trolls and
populated the jungles in the past century are particularly jagre still sit within dilapidated buildings worshiping their
active here. Also, the most savage and cruel of the Little Folk cruel god Zaltec who has only recently begun to answer their
guard the jungles within dozens of miles of the Fountain’s prayers once again.
hidden location. They are said to sacrifice all who approach – The homes and pyramids are unrecognizable from the days
even other Little Folk – to their enormous crocodilian god. of the height of the Nexalan Empire, and the fighting in its
The ruin in which the Fountain lies is also inhabited by five streets is nearly continuous. It is testament to the fecundity of
Jaguar Lords who are said to have been given immortality and the beasts of the Viperhand that they still survive in such great
a spark of the divine themselves. numbers.
In a hundred years of searching, not a single survivor has Nexal is ruled from the old Temple of Zaltec by the jagre-
ever returned from an expedition to the Fountain of the Gods. turned-demigod known as Hoxitl. This immortal being is said
Itzcatli (Bay of Cordell, Payit). Not much is known of this to share in the divinity of his dark god, and that without him,
underwater kingdom of sahuagin who are mostly by their the beasts would lose what little organization they have.
moniker “sea devils.” The sahuagin frequently raid the shores Great treasure is rumored to still lie in the depths of Nexal
near their kingdom in the Bay of Cordell and even further and it is unknown whether Hoxitl has recovered what was
north into the Bay of Balduran. buried on the Night of Wailing so many decades ago.
Itzcatli was responsible for nearly destroying Trythosford Olbi (Sands of Itzcala). The strange ruins of Olbi are
about 50 years ago, before a troupe of paladins wiped out the hidden in the desert known as the Sands of Itzcala. The Dog
invading forces. Though the sea devils were turned back, the People are said to know of its location, but they avoid it for
paladins were also killed nearly to a man and the order has fear of an unknown darkness that lingers within.
never recovered. The fabulous weapons and armor carried by The ruins are older than Tewahca and are a series of caves
the paladins were lost at sea. The sea devils also indirectly carved by unknown hands with very little resemblance to
prevented reinforcements from reaching New Waterdeep architecture found elsewhere in the True World. There are
when it was razed by Kultakan raiders over a century ago. images of Maztican gods throughout the caverns however and
In the distant north of Anchôromé, the sahuagin remain a rumors abound of powerful magic and plentiful gold.
relentless thorn in the side of the people of Fort Flame, which The Salt Marsh (Kultaka). The salt marsh of Kultaka is
makes it difficult to pinpoint where the actual kingdom has its teeming with horrors including numerous sahuagin from the
base and primary population center. Itzcala undersea kingdom. It is used as a training ground for
Kultaka City (Kultaka). The Kultakans are indisputably the new jaguar and eagle knights who often return with trophies
greatest warriors (as a whole) in Maztica and their capital city from these fell creatures.
is representative of this fact. The community sits on a steep The Sunstone (House of Tezca). The desert dwarves
rocky outcropping which is extremely difficult to climb. The know of a strange lake of silver located in the crater of a lone
city to this day has only fallen once to invasion despite volcano. The lake is over 600 feet in diameter from shore to
hundreds of attempts through the centuries of its existence. shore and looks like a massive circular mirror.
Lake Pezel (Pezelac). This shallow lake was discovered to The origin of the Sunstone is completely unknown but its
have a significant population of plesiosaurs that prey on powers are well documented. If one sits upon its shores and
boatman who stray too close to its center reaches. The lake is meditates on the lake as the sun crests the volcano’s caldera, a
excellent for fishing however, and most fishermen have found vision of things to come might be given to the seeker. If the
that they are left alone if they stay close to its shores. intelligence behind the Sunstone feels that the seeker’s
Maxal (Far Payit). Maxal is known to be one of the few motives are not pure, however, it might strike them dead on
Maztican cities with a “naval” presence. It is the second the spot or send them far away from its shore. Touching the
largest city in Far Payit, but it is better known for having the lake itself is assuming too much and one of these effects
highest population of the Itza people in the True World. always occurs should an offender attempt to do so.
The “ships” of Maxal are actually large canoes, but this Tewahca, The City of the Gods (House of Tezca). The city
mode of transportation is ideal for trade up and down a coast of Tewahca was built in the Immortal Era as a staging ground
where the jungles can be quite hostile. Maxal has gone so far for a planned battle of the gods. A city sprung up to assist in
as to occasionally trade with the far off Green Folk, but this express purpose in the middle of the desert and following
terrible sea lizards including vicious families of plesiosaurs, the battle, the people dispersed just as quickly.
have made this journey a difficult one. What remained was a wonder of the desert which had not
The city itself is located on a large cliff overlooking the sea, been found by man for many centuries. The desert dwarves
and is said to have one of the most pleasing views in all of the however knew of the city and its enormous Pyramid of the
True World. Gods. It was fully rediscovered by mankind preceding a
Mount Zatal (Nexal). The magic of the Night of Wailing second battle between Qotal and Zaltec.
spewed forth from Mount Zatal with the confluence of godly The city itself contains many hidden treasures from the
magics and the power of sacrifice. The transformative power Immortal Era and is guarded by undead known as the spirit
was spent but hot lava still poured from the mountain for wardens.
decades following that awful evening.
31
While not necessarily evil, the spirit wardens do not take The Ulatan Marsh (Far Payit). Across the bay from Maxal
kindly to intruders unless they are given an offering of magic. is a swamp of disease and decay which is sometimes known
There are various other undead creatures such as shadows in as the Great Salt Marsh. This dangerous place is known for
the crypts of the city as well and should the wardens be its diseases, massive crocodiles and another nation of
placated, they have even been known to protect travelers from sahuagin that may or may not be related to the Itzcatli. The
this evil. marsh frequently floods and the sahuagin use these times to
Not far from the city, massive outcroppings of a natural, red- hunt deep within the center of the marsh. For the most part,
hued plumastone can be found. The desert dwarves, led by these sahuagin stay clear of human kingdoms, but in the
their chieftain Luskag, mine the precious material. The marsh, all living beings are considered meat for consumption.
dwarves leave the dead alone and generally stay clear of the Ulatos (Payit). Ulatos and its satellite town of Helmsport
city. were the capital and center of the Amnian invasion of the True
Tezat (Nexal). Tezat, along with Zotil and Azatl, was one of World. Once, the city was bustling with folk of many
the four cities at the center of the Nexalan Empire before it all nationalities and sights that had never before been seen in
came down on the Night of Wailing. Briefly, the beasts of the Maztica. When Maztica became part of Abeir, its inhabitants
Viperhand allowed humans to enter Nexal and while still were abruptly cut off from the mainland. While terrible in
unsafe, many managed to eke out a violent existence in Tezat. many ways for the True World, the shift did bring about some
When Zaltec stopped answering prayers, however, Hoxitl positive change. Without a connection to their home, it was
declared that humans were naught but food for Zaltec, and the Amnians who began to naturalize. There are remnants of
every human remaining in Tezat was brought to Zatal to be those long ago days, but traces of Amnian (and to a lesser
sacrificed. extent some Waterdhavian and Calishite) culture have slowly
Now Tezat is the domain of trolls. There is barely a disappeared. Ulatos is now firmly back in the hands of the
remaining intact building in the whole of the city, and the Payit. Through interbreeding with the invaders, the Payit of
place smells of offal. There is little reason to attempt to enter Ulatos have coloration unknown elsewhere in the True World.
Tezat, but it is told that there are treasures here that remain Cordell’s old nearby estate has been kept up over the last
from the days of the Empire. century and now houses the young Revered Counselor of
Tulom-Itzi (Far Payit). The cultural center of the Itza Payit, Coaxoch.
people and the capital city of Far Payit, Tulom-Itzi is a truly Zotil (Nexal). On the Night of Wailing, the city of Zotil was
wondrous city. No other city in the whole of the True World submerged in lava that was spewed by the eruption of Mount
has such prominent displays of gardens, topiaries and Zatal. For many years the ruin sat quiet, but the dead no
beautifully carved architecture. longer sleep soundly. Zotil is avoided even by the beasts of the
The city itself is surrounded on all sides by jungle and there Viperhand.
are no roads which lead directly to it. People still brave the
jungles to visit the city however, whether for its abundance of
rare feathers for pluma magic, the kindhearted nature of its
native people, or just the sheer beauty of the city itself.
Once long ago, a road did travel directly to Ulatos, but that
road is long since disappeared.
The jungles around Tulom-Itzi are kept relatively safe for
travel by patrols that are often led by a plumaweaver or
plumacaster and numerous jaguar knights. The terrible
lizards of the southern jungles are only somewhat
active in the area.
Giant fire ants led by the powerful drider Darien once
destroyed the city, but it has recovered remarkably.
Remnants of these ants still live in the surrounding
forests and the Itzas cannot seem to eradicate
them once and for all.
The Twin Visages (Payit). Outside of Tehwaca,
the Twin Visages are considered perhaps the
greatest holy site for Qotal’s faithful. It was here
that Qotal battled Zaltec after returning to the
True World before he was betrayed by his high priest
Lotil. Some say that Qotal has since forgiven the tonalli of
Lotil, having not realized that the battle was causing so much
havoc elsewhere on the continent.
The Twin Visages take the form of two 30 foot high faces,
one male and one female on a 300 foot bluff overlooking a
beautiful lagoon full of coral.
The Twin Visages also stands as a symbol to the Mazticans.
It was here that Cordell first landed
before his plundering of the True World.
The Mazticans were conquered by so few because they did
not stand together that day, and the Twin Visages remind
natives what they cannot allow to occur once again.
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Religion
M
aztica, their gods, and the afterlife to W-SW NG (C) Xitonco The Beastlands
which they are connected is different
from the folk of mainland Faerûn. While W-NW NG (L) Catlampa Bytopia
the Outer Planes are the same,
particular metaphysical "regions" are Purely lawful good, lawful evil, chaotic evil or chaotic good
set aside for the True World's departed. tonalli are led directly to the corners of the great pyramid and
arrive in one of the following planes based on their alignment.
The Planes Direction Alignment Name Great Wheel Plane
Maztica’s planar cosmology is a part of the Great Wheel NW LG Tlaxcautli Mount Celestia
cosmology of greater Toril, but its locations stand apart from NE LE Xibalba The Nine Hells
these planes in remote regions that are difficult to reach.
The souls of Mazticans and those who worship the SE CE Teotli Itic The Abyss
Maztican deities are known as tonalli and upon the moment of SW CG Teotecan Arborea
death, they arrive in a grand temple. This temple lies atop a
pyramid that stretches beyond the range of vision. The skies Tonalli have no choice as to where they end up regardless of
are a sterile, pure white light that bathes the pyramid in a whom they claim to worship. There are many who paid lip
surreal glow. This makes it difficult to look beyond the edges service to Qotal in life but whose disposition led their souls to
of the pyramid, and even the immediate vicinity is given a hazy, the pits of Xibalba to their unpleasant surprise. The following
dreamlike quality. This pyramid is known as the Great descriptions give a brief overview of each planar region.
Pyramid, but is actually a part of the Outlands.
From the haze, spirit-beings known as zizimime come forth Maztlan
to guide the tonalli to a realm which better represents the
soul’s disposition in life. The gods themselves have multiple When the Great Pyramid fades and the zizimime leaves a
domains and worshipers of many alignments may come face neutral spirit to its fate, the tonalli sees a massive island
to face with their god as they spend eternity despite the plane surrounded on all sides by an endless sea. Seven caves dot
their tonalli resides. the landscape which are said to be the homes of all spirits
Tonalli who had a true neutral outlook in life are directed by before birth. A specter of the mother goddess Maztica is said
the zizimime to stay where they are as the temple slowly to inhabit the island as well.
changes around them to their permanent domain of rest in a
region of the Outlands known as Maztlan. Other souls that Itzli
have at least some tendency towards neutrality are led onto Itzli is a plane of endless outcroppings of obsidian and
the next platform which directionally corresponds to their plumastone. Spirits live here in echoes of their mortal
alignment. These platforms have the following names. existence. Regimented an organized wars between the tonalli
Direction Alignment Name Great Wheel Plane
are relatively common and those who break rank are said to
be devoured by some foul being of chaos as punishment.
N LN Itzli Mechanus Upon each new morning (a yellow-red sun rises and sets
E NE Mictlan Hades over the glassy fields), the souls are reborn, no matter their
fate on the previous day.
S CN Mayel Limbo
W NG Xilen Elysium Mictlan
Also known as the true “Land of the Dead,” Mictlan was long
Some spirits are then instructed to stay at which point their thought the final destination for all souls. It is a hell of nine
surroundings change, while others continue on further still. levels that must be traversed over many years of travel. The
The spirits who are instructed to continue moving go onto one levels range from fields with winds of flesh scraping knives to
of the following at the base of the Great Pyramid. rivers of blood packed with swimming jaguar-spirits. The first
level, however, is rather plain and only inhabited by spider and
Direction Alignment Name Great Wheel Plane owl-like beings.
N-NW LN (G) Tlalocan Arcadia It is unknown what becomes of tonalli who complete the
N-NE LN (E) Tlatocalli Acheron
journey, but a demon-being is known to occasionally assist
stranded spirits. This spirit is known by the name Xolotl.
E-NE NE (L) Exbal Ken Gehenna There is also said to be a king and queen of Mictlan known as
E-SE NE (C) Zompantli Carceri King Mictlantecuhtli ("Lord of the Underworld") and his wife,
Mictecacihuatl ("Lady of the Underworld").
S-SE CN (E) Xipetlan Pandemonium
S-SW CN (G) Tochitl Ysgard
33
Mayel Tezca is said to dwell here often when he is not attending
his duties. The lack of sun and fire discomforts him, but he is
Mayel is a plane of swirling winds and tempestuous storms. A said to reside here anyway in recompense for some long past
spirit can spend an eternity here being thrown around in transgression.
permanent cyclones that only rarely fluctuate in strength. Eha
maintains a zone of calm here where those faithful to her in Tochitl
life can spend eternity without fear of the powerful winds. This is the primary home of the goddess Nula and she enjoys
Mayel himself is the name of a once human consort of Eha her time here more than in any of the other planes. It is full of
who holds significant sway among the spirits. animals and the tonalli that come here eventually become
animals themselves, though they have the capabilities of
Xilen awakened beasts. There are many powerful predators here,
This heavenly paradise consists of endless fields of mayz on including giant sized versions of common creatures. When
an island of abundance. Children who have yet to form their she is here, Nula is tended by the largest of these specimens.
own morality before death end up here and are tended by
angelic zizimime known as Ihuilcacpatlani. Xilen has plant life Xitonco
seen nowhere else in the multiverse, some of it highly magical. Xitonco is a pure pastoral wilderness full of game and gentle
There are fruits that bear milk for the children and others weather. With the exception of the occasional roc, there is
that calm minds infected with madness. It is because of the little to fear on this plane. The spirits too are generous and
former that Xilen has also been given the name, “The Heaven welcoming. They are often blissfully unaware of their own
of Milk Trees.” existence as spirits and cannot be convinced otherwise,
despite evidence to the contrary.
Tlalocan
This heaven was oddly created by the cruel god Azul to please Catlampa
his wife before her name was lost to the ages and he became The most honored dead of the Maztican continent, even
bitter and cruel. The realm rains constantly, but it is a warm beyond the greatest of warriors, are women who die in
and gentle rain that often continues even when bright childbirth. Even the darker and cruel gods respect the
sunshine fills the sky. sacrifice they have given. By the decree of the entire pantheon,
Tonalli here rest well, but are eternally drenched by the women who pass in such a way may forgo their eternal fate
rains. and be brought to Catlampa.
Catlampa is a desert, but it is not barren, nor is it overly
Tlatocalli uncomfortable. In fact, massive lakes split the desert with
Tlatocalli could be confused for an obsidian-free extension of oases of pastoral heaven. The mothers and any other tonalli
Itzli for the endless wars that rage across its surface. The whose disposition earned them a place in this heaven are
battles here, however, tend to be crueler but no less organized. allowed to occupy the vast swaths of land alone. They are also
Spirits who slay their enemies here enjoy making them suffer given the powerful wings of an eagle so that they might fly the
beforehand. vast distances to greet their neighbors.
Frequent and powerful earthquakes are common and can
change the outcome of a battle in moments. Tlaxcautli
This favored home of Qotal stands as a massive pyramid of its
Exbal Ken own. Spirits who come here are often visited by angelic beings
This terrible plane is a realm of gore and sacrifice. Exbal Ken in the form of giant eagles. They enjoy frolicking with children
was in fact, the name of the first antihero to sacrifice another on the steps of the pyramid despite lawful and often
human being to placate the gods. Spirits here continue on regimented nature.
without their hearts and frequently without their heads, but There is eternal peace here among the masses and the
they feel the pain of their sacrifice eternally. spirits only ever show eternal love for each other.
When new spirits arrive on this hellish plane, they rarely
last a day without being brought to the altar. Xibalba
A massive ball game similar to the one popular among
Zompantli Mazticans is played here eternally by both spirits and the
This is a realm inhabited by as many evil undead as there are occasional deity. The penalty for failure is sacrifice and
tonalli. Walls, homes, and even the flora and fauna all seems eternal oblivion. Victors are consigned to one of ten demon
to be composed of disembodied skulls. Most are silent but lords who then hideously transform the victors.
many scream eternally or speak forever in maddening riddles. These unique creatures come in pairs and are known as
Xiquiripat (Flying Scab) and Cuchumaquic (Gathered Blood),
Xipetlan who sicken a tonalli’s blood; Ahalpuh (Pus Demon) and
Ahalgana (Jaundice Demon), who cause a tonalli’s body to
Also known as the Flayed Land, this realm is a desert which swell up; Chamiabac (Bone Staff) and Chamiaholom (Skull
lies in eternal darkness. Sandstorms powerful enough to rip Staff), who transform their spirits into skeletons; Ahalmez
the skin from flesh tear through the desert and give this realm (Sweepings Demon) and Ahaltocob (Stabbing Demon), who
its common moniker. repeatedly stab their spirits until they are naught but a bloody
mess.
34
Finally there is Xic (Wing) and Patan (Packstrap), who caused Teotecan
spirits to cough up blood for the remainder of eternity. Xibalba
is a terrible place of no hope. Teotecan is a vast mountain where Kiltzi, the goddess of love
frequently resides. It is a pleasant realm of gentle mountain
Teotli Itic forests, few predators, and little cruelty.
Similar to Mictlan, Teotli Itic consists of nine layers of hellish There are rumors of something terrible living in the forests
landscapes. Pits of fire, acid and burning blood are however; a devourer of souls that does not venture far from
unavoidable in a spirits eternal journey on this plane. Many the place where Qotal once violated his sister’s trust. Kiltzi
are grabbed by demonic zizimime and buried up to their herself does not speak of the darkness, but the spirits believe
necks while swarms of ants bite at their faces for years on it is a disease that can affect the whole of the plane if left
end. unchecked.
35
Gods
The main nine gods of the Maztican pantheon are described In addition, a number of lesser and dead gods are provided,
below with their given alignment, suggested domains and a though their worshipers are either few, or no longer exist.
description of their symbols. This list is by no means comprehensive and there are
countless local gods and racial gods that remain off this list.
Maztican Deities
Deity Alignment Domains Symbol(s)
Azul, giver of rain, taker of breath LE Death, Tempest Rain, Ice, Octal, Fish, Frog
Eha, wind sprite CN Life, Tempest Clouds, smoke, steam, wind, flutes and horns
Hoxitl, lord of the viperhand CE Death, War Snarling displacer beast
Kiltzi, giver of health, growth, nourishment, Flower buds, pregnant women, babies, rainbows,
CG Life
and Love the moon
Mictlāntēcutli and Mictecacihuatl, lords of
NE/LN Death Skeleton, bone throne, skull with headdress
Mictlan
Nula, guardian of animals CN Nature Jaguar, Hummingbird, Snake, Buzzard, Monkey
Knowledge, Mountain peaks, Obsidian, Copper, Adobe,
Plutoq, master of earth and stone LN
Nature Dust, Jade, Turquoise, Clay and Pottery
Poshtli, the great eagle LG Light An eagle with outstretched wings
Qotal, the feathered dragon, the plumed
LG Life, Light A plumed dragon or serpent
father
Flame, the Sun, Fireflies, Snakeskin, Lava, Smoke,
Tezca, ruler of sun and fire CE Light, War
Fire, Lizards
Watil, guardian of plants NG Nature Lily Mayz, Cactus, Leaf, Blossom
Hearts, Skulls, Macas, Knives, Bloody Hand,
Zaltec, bringer of war and eater of hearts CE Death, War
Talons, Fangs, Jaguars, Rattlesnakes
Dead Deities
Deity Alignment Domains Symbol(s)
Kukul, ancient father of the gods N Knowledge, Life, Shaman Stars, meteors, gold
Maztica, mother of life, the world N Life, Nature, Shaman Mountains, Soil, Silver
Cōātlīcue, the serpent mother CE Trickery, Death, Shaman Skirt made of snakes
Azul Cōātlīcue
Azul is a cruel deity whose existence is crucial to the survival Cōātlīcue has been a dead goddess since the very first days of
of the True World and the flourishing of its people. He is the the Immortal Era, yet somehow she maintains a small
god who commands the spirits such as the chac and the presence within the True World. She once appeared as a witch
tlalocoatl to bring the rains and if he stays his hand, it can or shaman who wore numerous fetishe, but her most defining
mean drought and famine. feature was her living skirt of terrible serpents.
He appears as a smiling cherub, yet the god holds an Cōātlīcue's corpse is said to lie somewhere deep under the
ancient shame and secret which has led him down the darker earth where no man has tread. The caverns for miles around
path. When foreign men came to Maztica they were nearly as are rumored to have a chittering sound that can be
horrified of Azul's priesthood as they were of Zaltec's because maddening and there are strange creatures known as the
Azul's preferred sacrifice was of innocent children who were koatlican which guard their goddess' corpse from all
often drowned in a ritualistic pool. trespassers.
36
Eha Kiltzi's flock focuses on healing the sick, performing wedding
ceremonies and welcoming children into the world. she
Eha is a smoky, insubstantial goddess of wind. Her impossibly herself is often depicted as a beautiful and pregnant woman.
long hair flows about her body and it is Eha who is said to All women who die in childbirth as ushered by her personally
bring breath to newborn children thus her role as a goddess of into Tlaxcautli, the most honored and finest of heavenly
life. realms.
Eha also has domain over the winds, but her control over
weather is considered more gentle than what Azul or Tezca Kukul
bring to the world. Eha is generally regarded as a gentle It is said that when Kukul left the world because of the death
goddess, despite the fact that she has sided both with Zaltec of his wife Maztica, he left behind his body as well in the form
and Qotal in their past battles. of the gold that can be found throughout the continent. He
was the creator of mankind, a god of the sun, and the father of
Hoxitl all other deities. He is now believed to reside within the sun
Hoxitl was once Chosen of Zaltec who maintained his faith itself, which is known today as the Eye of Kukul. The
and sacrifice from the days of Cordell and all the way through demoness Itzapaplotl cannot enter the realms of mankind as
the Spellplague, despite the fact that he could not hear the long as he stares upon the world, so Kukul certainly still
voice of his terrible deity. wields some bit of power.
Zaltec abuses his greatest servant and has both taken and As a "dead god", he no longer formally has any worshipers
returned his living heart in the past, but since Maztica's return and there is no sacrifice given in the name of Kukul, but
to Toril and Zaltec's awakening, the powerful jagre has Maztican elders, sages, chroniclers and users of magic still
ascended to a demigod of sorts. None worship Hoxitl alone, occasionally mutter a prayer to the great father long thought
yet he is accepted as the patron of the Beasts of the Viperhand dead.
and the mouth of Zaltec when the Eater of Hearts himself
does not choose to speak. Maztica
Maztica's death at the hands and mācuahuitl of her son Zaltec
Kiltzi was a terrible blow to the pantheon of the Maztican gods and
Kiltzi is the undisputed and beloved goddess of love and joy. the mortals of the living world. She, more than Eha, Kukul or
She is respected by all, and with perhaps the only exception of any of the other deities was the true mother of life and she
the Beasts of the Viperhand, she is respected by all beings. was beloved by all.
Even they admit she is a necessary part of the world and a Though the elder goddess is dead, she is said to live on
priestess of Kiltzi might be the only human that could find through the land itself, and a her spirit is still said to roam the
herself let be when attempting to cross the land of Nexal. Outlands realm of Maztlan. Her woship still exists on the
tongues of druidic folk and shamans of the more remote
tribes. Even the Dog People of the northern deserts are said
to revere her, though not always in name.
Mictlāntēcutli and Mictecacihuatl
While they once had much greater standing among men, the
married god and goddess of death have retreated into the
bowels of Mictlan and are not active among the people who
call them patrons. Instead, the god and goddess quietly deal
only in the matters of the dead and together they are said to
guide the skeletal spirits known as the zizimime.
The worshipers of the lords of Mictlan tend to quietly
collect the bodies of the dead and dispose of them in proper
ways so that they may enter the proper regions of the afterlife
whether that be a heaven or hell. They are also responsible for
making sure bodies do not pollute or spread disease among
the living folk.
Nula
Nula is the only deity that does not have a commonly depicted
anthropomorphic form other than the Plumed Dragon
himself. She has many depictions, but the most common by
far is that of a wise, long-limbed monkey.
Nula is wild and known for her hilarious antics, but she
does not afford the respect garnered by many other deities.
Mazticans in general are more reliant on plant life than
animal life for survival.
Coastal communities tend to sacrifice parts of their catch to
her and occasionally throw trinkets into the sea believing that
they end up in the hands of the goddess.
37
Plutoq Watil
Like Zaltec, Plutoq's form is gigantic and stony, but takes the Watil is the benign goddess of the flora of the True World. She
appearance more of an elemental than a titanic statue. Plutoq is often depicted as a lush and sensuous female that shares
is a powerful god who goes about his own way and has much in common with her sister Kiltzi, though her hair and
remained neutral in many of the conflicts of the gods in the face is typically framed in the white petals of a lily.
past. If one deity were to gain his abject approval, the scales of Watil refuses sacrifice, though she is often believed to be
balance would most certainly tip. beholden to her brother Azul, who has a demanding and
Plutoq is the lord of the earth and is particularly undisputed abusive relationship with his sister. Watil has never given up
among the mountains. He is a patron in Huacli and to a lesser on Azul, however and she maintains a quiet strength in the
extent Kolan, but he is universally respected elsewhere. face of the cruel god that is widely respected among other
The god is not bloodthirsty, nor does he refuse the deities.
occasional sacrifice to ensure his blessing. Watil is served by both druids and clerics who are always
the best horticulturalists. Some have developed plants with
Poshtli bizarre and useful powers and many have plant-like guardians
Poshtli was widely regarded as the greatest eagle knight of all that serve loyally.
time and his mighty abilities extended far beyond what a Zaltec
typical eagle knight was capable of. Secretly, and unknown
even to him, in the time before the Spellplague, Poshtli had Zaltec is a terrible and wholly evil god who hungers eternally
been made Chosen of Qotal in part to counter the power and for the sacrifice and consumption of the hearts of mankind.
influence of Hoxitl in the valley of Nexal. He is often depicted as a titanic stone statue with a bloody
Poshtli has ascended under Qotal's blessing and is now maw into which every heart ever given to him has been
himself the patron of eagle knights. Like Hoxitl to zaltec, he is thrown. This appearance has certainly been confirmed as the
thought to be the mouth of Qotal who has taken a step back in god himself has made appearances on the mortal world in the
his involvement in the world of mankind. past.
He is the eternal enemy of his brother Qotal and stands for
Qotal the diametric opposite of whatever his brother has stood for.
Qotal is the Plumed Father and Feathered Dragon. his Despite this abject hatred, they have had to work together on
appearance is reminiscent of the grandest of dragons, though occasion and will always do so should a foreign power
his frill of brightly colored plumage differentiates his attempt to make forays into the True World. Together, they
appearance from most other than the little known mirage have thwarted Shar, Lolth, and to a lesser extent even Helm
dragon of the Feywild. together.
More than any other deity, Qotal abhors sacrifice and his Zaltec is the slayer of the mother goddess Maztica and
priests work to eradicate it from the stubborn cultures of the patron of the Beasts of the Biperhand. Hoxitl sits at his right
True World as a holy mission. hand, but the god does not treat his greatest servant well. In
Qotal has not always been such an innocent god and he has the deepest caverns of Mount Zatal, his stony form is said to
done some terrible things in the past, but he is growing more brood where it has ultimate control over a power known as
aware of his own actions and learns with every mistake that the Darkfire.
he has made. Today, after the long silence while Maztica was Other Deities
confined to Abeir, Qotal listens carefully and intently to the
prayers of his faithful. Gone is the petty, jealous deity of ages There are literally dozens of other deities, most of them local,
past. among the people of the True World. Some of the more well
known beings that are worshiped (though it is unnown if they
Tezca are true deities) are the 400 Rabbits, said to be the patrons of
This titan of fire resides in a great pool of fire and magma in drinking and the drink known as octal. Priests of Azul dispute
the tunnels of the Flayed Land, Xipetlan. He is usually that claim and believe octal is in fact a gift from their own god.
depicted as being surrounded by his corrupted flame couatl An enigma among some of the folks of Helmsport and
servants known as the xiuhcouatl, though just as often, one is Ulatos is a phenomenon known as Hunab-Kuum. This "god"
depicted as being his actual weapon of choice. has a small cult-like following and his worship is believed to
Tezca, like his brother Azul, is believed to be an evil that is be an amalgamatin of a small local deity, along with tenets of
necessary to the survival of the True World, and thus he is Helm and even the great overpower Ao. There are vast
tolerated and placated even in the most holy bastions of the similarities between Hunab-Kuum and the cult of Ao which
more gentle gods. Tezca is believed to have taken over the one time held some popularity in the overseas city of
responsibilities afforded to the god of the sun when Kukul Waterdeep.
passed from the world. Without Tezca's blessing, its life giving Itzapaplotl has worshipers of her own, but mostly warlocks
warmth would not even be visited upon the world. take her as a patron and make pacts with the demoness. In
Tezca is not well received by Qotal or Zaltec and has been her ambitions to become a true goddess, she encourages
known to oppose both deities under differing circumstances. actual worship more often than not, and her dark desires are
His practices, however, share much in common with the on par with those of her one-time lover Zaltec.
darker brother.
38
Character Options
N
ew subraces, classes and subclasses are all Male Names. Acalan, Coatl, Naltecona, Nochehuatl, Tolco
part of what makes Maztica special. At one Female Names. Ahuiliztli, Erendira, Meztli, Teiuc
time, Mazticans did not have the sheer
power to stop the onslaught of a foreign Kultakans
invasion, but no more. Characters in The Kultakans share much in physical appearance with the
Maztica have as much power as their Mazticans, but are generally taller and more muscular. They
Faerûnian counterparts. are bred from birth to be warriors and for generations the
weakest were left to die in the wilds (not even being fit for
Races and Subraces sacrifice).
Humans might currently be the dominant race in Maztica, but Male Names. Acamapichtli, Takamal, Quautli
there are many others to choose from who interact with Female Names. Citlali, Citlalmina, Hutamana, Pochilli,
humans on a daily basis. The invasion of Amn made some Quixitl
significant changes in mankind’s culture and some parts of Payits
the True World have become more cosmopolitan. This is
particularly apparent in integrated cities like Tukan, Ulatos The Payits have similar skin tone and hair coloration to the
and Trythosford. Mazticans, but are generally softer in body. There is a high
Many of the more common races have subraces unique to frequency of light skin tones and eyes appearing due to
Maztica. The jungle halflings known as the little folk, the generations of interbreeding with Amnians and
fierce desert dwarves, the Jaguar and Ocēlōtl offshoots of the Waterdhavians.
tabaxi, the quetzaldaun aarakocra andeven the various human Male Names. Atl, Cuauhtémoc, Tetuahemoc, Xiupilli
cultures are described in this section. Female Names. Centehua, Erixitl, Hucilli, Quinapotl
Humans Itzas
Mankind is known for its ability to adapt and survive. In a The Itzas are the fun loving, gentle folk who live primarily in
world with beholders, dragons, and even the dreaded the jungles of Far Payit. Short and lean, they are generally
Tarrasque, the fact that humans can be found nearly self-sufficient and unassuming. It is still rare to find an Itza
everywhere gives testament to this extraordinary ability. outside of their small villages in the jungle.
Maztica is no different. There are many origin myths in the Male Names. Chimapopoca, Huitzilin, Itzli, Itzcoatl, Tochtli
different cultures but the most common one involves the Female Names. Chalchiuitl, Itzla, Teyacapan, Xilonen
wisdom of the great sun god Kukul. The gods failed in a
number of attempts to create beings to honor them. Men of
clay, wood and gold were created but each in turn
disappointed their creators.
Kukul, the Father of the Gods, understood their folly and
realized that if they were to create beings that would truly
worship them, it would require a sacrifice. So Kukul took his
great mācuahuitl and severed his own fingers. When the
fingers struck the earth, they began to wriggle and crawl;
eventually standing and honoring the gods from which they
were created.
While many share this origin story, every man or woman is
not the same in Maztica. There are many different ethnicities;
each with their own appearance, passions and culture.
Mazticans
Due to their predominance in the lands of Nexal prior to the
Night of Wailing, the Faerûnian newcomers to the True World
once believed there to be only two ethnicities of men in
Maztica, the Maztican and the Payit. The typical Maztican
man or woman has a rich brown skin tone and jet black, fine
hair.
Originally, these folk came from the northern wilds of the
True World, but were led to the valley of Nexal by their dark
god Zaltec. Since then, their language (Maztican, once known
as Nexalan), culture and outlook has spread all over the
continent. Maztican is the common tongue of the True World.
39
Dog People Halflings
The dog people are the savage folk of the northern wilds, Halflings originated in Maztica completely independent of
badlands and desert. Long haired and lean, their skin can be their origins elsewhere. There are some Faerûnian halflings in
described as having more of a coppery tone than brown. The Maztica but these are exceedingly rare. Far more populous
dog people were persecuted for centuries by Mazticans, and are the Little Folk; jungle-dwelling halflings who envenom
they rarely offer any kindness in return. There is also little their arrows with a powerful paralytic poison known as kurari.
variation in male and female names.
Dog People Names. Achak, Adohi, Apiatan, Little Folk
Bemidii, Edensaw, Enyeto, Gaagii, Hakan, Igasho, Moab,
Mojag, Nahele, Niyol, Onida, Pilan, Sani, T'iis, Viho, The little folk of Maztica live deep in the jungles throughout
Wakiza, Zyanya Maztica and with the exception of a few tribes, are generally
hostile to outsiders. They are said to have been created by the
The Green Folk goddess Kiltzi in the Imoortal Era of the True World.
The green folk live in the far southern jungles of Maztica, Little Folk Traits
though some of their physical traits can be found in the nation Short Ones have all the standard halfling traits plus the
of Kolan. They are a tall jungle folk, often adorned in earthy following.
tones and paints. Their skin tone is brown, but not nearly as Ability Score Increase. Your Constitution increases by 1.
dark as their northern neighbors. The Green Folk are easily Short One Fortitude. You receive advantage on all saving
recognizable on the rare occasions that they enter cities like throws against poisons and natural diseases.
Tukan.
Male Names. Chicomecoatl, Matlal, Tlaloc, Tototl
Female Names. Centehua, Cozamalotl, Tlacotl Quetzaldaun
The hakuna were particularly ornery this time of year and
Dwarves Huitzi knew she would need to be vigilant in defense of her
Since Cordell’s invasion of the True World, dwarves have nest. Twice before had the dragon-horse come to steal and eat
become relatively commonplace. There are both shield and her precious eggs and twice she hurled the creature’s broken
gold dwarf communities (particularly near gold mines), but no bodies to the rocks below.
type of dwarf is more populous than Maztica’s own subrace of Huitzi had found her home a few moons past following the
desert dwarves. death of her husband. Now the last of his offspring was set to
hatch and the growing boys in her nest had yet to find their
Desert Dwarves first flight.
Huitzi scanned the horizon and saw the glint of the sun off
Desert dwarves are descended from clans of shield dwarves of many golden scales. Three hakuna approached and she
that were exploring for new veins of gold ore but were was certain that she couldn’t handle the odds. Huitzi turned to
ambushed by drow and trapped underneath the True World. prepare her children but then the two eldest emerged from
When they emerged, they did so in the great deserts of the cave. Oh, how Aaracotl and Xiatem resembled their father!
Maztica and despite their hardships, they managed to thrive in With a look of grim determination in their eyes and a spear
their new home. embedded with razor sharp obsidian, her children spoke
The desert dwarves are very similar in appearance to the nearly in unison. “Mother, we stand ready to fight beside you.
shield dwarves of northern Faerûn, but their skin has the Do not fear for us.”
appearance of being perpetually sunburned. This condition In the highest mountains and cliffs of the True World dwells
has no detrimental effects, however and is simply an a race of bird like humanoids that have been practically
adaptation to their sunbaked environment. unknown for generations. Similar in many ways to aarakocra,
Desert dwarves have all the standard dwarven traits plus yet also different in not so subtle ways, these bird folk are
the following. more akin to eagles than to parrots. They are the quetzaldaun.
The eagle folk claim that they indeed were once of the
Desert Dwarf Traits progenitor race of creatures from which the aarakocra were
Desert dwarves have all the standard dwarven traits plus the created, but the god Qotal blessed them long ago with their
following. current powerful forms.
Ability Score Increase. Your Constitution increases by 1. The quetzaldaun avoided humanity for untold generations
Extra Language. You can speak, read and write one other but recent events have left many without a home. Harboring
language of whatever group is closest to you geographically. an intense hatred for all dragonkind, these humanoids have
Enhanced Desert Stamina You can ignore the detrimental found that mankind can be excellent allies in the quest to
effects of the first two levels of Exhaustion, but levels are still preserve what is left of their once proud culture.
gained and you suffer the effects of levels 1, 2 and 3 once you Whether they are an offshoot or whole separate species to
reach the 3rd level of Exhaustion. the aarakocra now is left to sages to debate. However, a
Desert Dwarf Metabolism Your body retains water better complete set of character statistics is included on the
than most and you are able to survive on half as much water following page so that the quetzaldaun are a playable race.
as normal.
Desert Dwarf Vision You lose your darkvision, but gain
advantage on all Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on
sight in bright light conditions only.
40
Alignment. Quetzaldaun follow the edicts of their god Qotal
strictly and even eagle folk who are raised outside of a
Aarakocra Playable Race quetzaldaun family feel the deity’s pull. Therefore, most tend
towards an inherent goodness and maintain a generally lawful
Original statistics for aarakocra as a playable race outlook. There are certainly exceptions to this tendency.
can be found here. Size. Quetzaldaun are tall but light. A typical adult stands
anywhere from 6 to 7 feet tall, yet might only weigh 120 lb.
https://media.wizards.com/2015/downloads/dnd/ The weight is mostly attributed to their hollow bone structure
EE_PlayersCompanion.pdf as the eagle folk in no way appear frail.
Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet.
Flight. You may fly at 40 feet, To use this speed, you can’t be
Cliff Dwellers wearing medium or heavy armor.
Eagle Eyes. Quetzaldaun vision is outstanding. They can
The quetzaldaun have managed to remain hidden from see three times the distance of humans in near perfect detail.
mankind for so long because they lair in the most remote They also gain advantage on Wisdom (Perception) rolls based
reaches of the highest mountains. Deep tunnels are often dug on sight.
into the sides of the steepest cliffs where only those with the Fear Resistance. Quetzaldaun have advantage on any
ability to fly can reach. Climbing in such regions is far too saving throw against a fear effect.
treacherous. Dragon Foes. Quetzaldaun gain advantage on all Wisdom
Unlike aarakocra who tend to dwell in large communities (Survival) checks when attempting to track a dragon or any
(or “rookeries”), the quetzaldaun are fairly independent and dragon kin, as well as Intelligence checks to recall information
live in smaller, tight families. Elders claim this is a survival about them.
adaptation from ancient days when dragons wiped out entire Talons. You are proficient with your unarmed strikes, which
communities of their predecessors, the aeree. deal 1d4 slashing damage on a hit.
Language. You can speak, read, and write Maztican, Auran
Devout and Grateful and Draconic.
The quetzaldaun were saved from extinction and changed into
their current forms ages ago by the Plumed God Qotal. This
part of their history is well known and passed down through
the generations. Quetzaldaun pray thanks to the god in daily
observances and it is a rare eagle folk that does not worship
the Feathered Dragon.
It is ironic to many that the quetzaldaun are so fanatical in
their devotion to this draconic god considering that in all other
cases, dragons and their kin are the sworn enemies of the
quetzaldaun.
Quetzaldaun Names
The quetzaldaun have names similar to other humanoids in
the True World, but each has a root or single syllable that
means “eagle” in one of the local languages. Family names are
generally similar to both male and female first names with the
syllables quet- or qot- appended to the front. For example,
Quetaquitl is the name of a well-known (and rather large)
family.
Male Names. Arascotl, Aquitl, Arvidotl, Cuauhtemoc,
Ethonitl, Mokotl, Orelipochtli, Xiatem
Female Names. Akilina, Arnaudl, Aquilitil, Delinipactli,
Quetzaldaun Traits
Your quetzaldaun character has the following traits in
common with all other quetzaldaun.
Ability Score Increase. Your Dexterity score increases by
2, and your Wisdom also increases by 1.
Age. Quetzaldaun are not known to live terribly long lives.
They are considered to have reached maturity at a very young
age. Anywhere from 6-8 years old a quetzaldaun attempts its
“first flight” and is forever after considered an adult. In rare
instances a young quetzaldaun fails to be ready and can end
up dead or severely injured. Quetzaldaun can live to 60 years
but rarely go beyond that limit.
41
These tabaxi are the consummate hunters. Their greatest
Tabaxi warriors are able to take down prey many times their size,
His maca had long since been lost, but with his powerful sometimes using only what the gods have given them. These
claws, Ichtaca felt no fear. In fact, using the weapons of man proud creatures are willing to work in groups or alone, but
made him feel less feral, less tabaxi! His quarry passed they rarely, if ever shy away from a challenge. It is a great
beneath him, a great taloned lizard of the deep jungles. Its mark of shame for tabaxi to run from a threat and doing so
pack had preyed on his clan too long so he and seven other has a tendency to make them quite ornery.
warriors set out to hunt the hunters. All but he had been slain, Brave does not mean stupid, however, and tabaxi will
and the lizard pack had been reduced to this last, the largest sometimes take days to plan a hunt correctly. Their natural
of them all. camouflage, senses, cunning and weaponry makes them
In perfect silence he stalked his prey from the trees. Silence generally the mostsuccessful predators in their territory.
was not enough, however, as the wind turned and the predator Jaguar Folk Names
suddenly began to sniff vigorously. With a snarl it turned in Tabaxi have their own language that incorporates numerous
Ichtaca’s direction. growls which are difficult for others to pronounce. Clan
In the deepest jungles of Maztica, a race of cat folk has kept names always use specialized syllables that require practice
mostly to themselves and their territory. Devotees to the life of to speak and are impossible to record.
a predator, these tree-dwelling folk have perfected the art of The younger, adventurous tabaxi typically adapt names
hunting, but do not often extend their predations into human similar to their newer companions.
lands. In their wisdom, the shamans of the tabaxi have
advised their charges to keep far from the other intelligent Male Names. Igrrtaca, Mirrintic, Otrri, Patrrli,
races of the True World. Tezcacoatl, Tlacelel, Tupac, Yorrotl, Zarrtic
For ages, the tabaxi followed their advice, but when Female Names. Cuarritl, Citlarri, Eztlii, Izerr,
mankind made himself known to them and started to appear Nene, Patrri, Tlarri, Yarretzi, Zuma, Zyanya
in tabaxi lands, traditional wisdom began to change. Many
tabaxi have since begun to abhor the worship of their old gods The Ocelot Folk (Ocēlōtl)
and have traded their feral nature in for a more civilized
existence. Most of these tabaxi have fled to the east to the The ocelot folk are a smaller, gentler subrace of tabaxi that
foreign land of Faerûn, where they live amongst humans even are known to be the most reclusive of all. The race as a whole
more strange than those they have encountered in the true remains hidden from the eyes of humanity, with the exception
world. of some of the Green Folk in the southern jungles.
Yet some of the cat-folk have chosen to remain, and those Ocēlōtl are known for their strange powers as well, and are
are the cat-folk described here. These subspecies are still known to use the magical powers of psionics. They are are a
found almost exclusively in the jungles of Maztica and remain contemplative creature that sees no reason to ever leave its
unknown to foreign folk. The two subraces in question are the jungle homes. Only the rarest individual develops a
fierce jaguar folk and the contemplative ocēlōtl. wanderlust, and these are generally looked down upon by
their elders. They are never welcomed back, particularly if
they bring groups of humans with them.
Tabaxi Traits
Tabaxi in Faerûn Your tabaxi character has the following racial traits.
Ability Score Increase. Your Dexterity increases by 2.
Volo's Guide to Monsters has given statistics for the Age. Tabaxi have lifespans equivalent to humans.
playable race of tabaxi. The tabaxi indicated here
have the same base statistics, with notable changes
Size. Tabaxi are taller on average than humans and
specific to the jaguar folk and the ocēlōtl. The
relatively slender. Your size is Medium.
differences represent different subspecies of tabaxi Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet.
that have remained behind while many tabaxi have Darkvision. You have a cat's keen senses, especially in the
traveled abroad to greater Faerûn. dark. You can see in dim light within 60 feet as if you were in
Tabaxi, as they appear in VGtM are also located in bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can't
Maztica, but in lesser numbers these days. discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
Feline Agility. Your reflexes and agility allow you to move
with a burst of speed. When you move on your turn in combat,
you can double your speed until the end of the turn. Once you
use this trait, you can't use it again until you move 0 feet on
The Jaguar Folk one of your turns.
The jaguar folk of Maztica thrive in harsh conditions where Cat's Claws. Because of your claws, you have a climb speed
nearly everything that moves must eat or be eaten. Typically of 20 feet. In addition, your claws are natural weapons, which
led by either wise elder shamans or at their most debased by you can use to make unarmed strikes. If you hit with them,
cruel jaguar lords, the tabaxi are almost always loyal to their you deal slashing damage equal to 1d4 + your Strength
clan. Laws are almost unnecessary, but should a tabaxi sin modifier, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal for an
against his own, the punishment is almost always fatal. unarmed strike.
42
Alignment. Jaguar folk tend towards chaos though they can
be quite loyal to their clans and its fairly well defined
hierarchy. Their concerns are rarely similar to the petty
obsessions of man, but clans ruled by a jaguar lord often sink
into the depths of evil.
Increased Claw Damage. Your claws deal slashing damage
equal to 1d6 + your Strength modifier instead of the standard
1d4 + your Strength modifier.
Jungle Camouflage. When hiding in a jungle surroundings,
you are proficient on your Dexterity (Stealth) check.
Ocēlōtl Traits
The Ocēlōtl are known for their sharp wit and maneuverability
in the treetops.
Ability Score Increase. Your Intelligence increases by 1.
Alignment. As the kinder of the tabaxi subspecies, you tend
more towards good than the others.
Quick Climber. Your climb speed increase to 30 feet.
Classes
Maztica and the True World were once fully ignorant of the
powers that resided in the larger planet of which they were a
part. When Cordell and his Golden Legion landed on the
shores of Payit over a century past, they were wholly
unprepared for the raw power of the Faerûnian wizards and in
particular the drow wizard Darien.
The destruction she wrought, and the visible might of the
many that followed had been a terrible bane for the True
World at the time, but the lessons she inadvertently taught the
people might have prevented even greater catastrophe in
hindsight.
As always, the great artisans known as plumaweavers and
hishnashapers have kept Maztica’s unique culture thriving.
They practice a form of magic that has grown greatly in power
due to necessity and the desire to avoid a repeat of Darien’s
devastation. If Darien were alive to this day, she would not be
pleased with her legacy.
The growth of magic did not stop with the artisans,
however. When the skies changed and Maztica became part of
the unknown world of Abeir, the gods stopped answering the
Cat Folk Traits calls of their faithful. The void in power needed to be filled to
The following additional traits are afforded standard cat folk stop the new threats that plagued the world. Using techniques
tabaxi as they appear in Volo's Guide to Monsters. mimicked from Faerûnian wizards, plumaweavers and
Ability Score Increase. Your Charisma increases by 1. hishnashapers began to record their magical workings into
Alignment. Tabaxi tend toward chaotic alignments, as they great feather quilts or to etch them into the bones of various
let impulse and fancy guide their decisions. They are rarely predatory animals.
evil,with most of them driven by curiosity rather than greed or Research and experimentation became a part of the life of
other dark impulses. these new native wizards and soon they became known as the
Cat's Talent. You have proficiency in the Perception and plumacasters and hishnacasters of the True World.
Stealth skills. As always, the brave eagle and jaguar knights continued to
Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common and protect their charges, though they no longer retained the close
one other language of your choice. connection to Qotal and Zaltec that they once had. The gods
had disappeared and instead of guarding the temples of their
Jaguar Folk Traits demanding deities, they began to find other reasons for the
The following additional traits are specific to the jaguar folk existence of their respective lodges. The first true Maztican
tabaxi. As one of the jaguar folk, you tend to be stronger than “adventurers” came from this brand of warrior, and like the
other tabaxi. artisans, they too learned new techniques and grew in power.
Ability Score Increase. Your Strength increases by 1. Finally a whole new type of Maztican caster arose once the
True World touched upon the world of Abeir. These
spontaneous casters were able to touch upon a world of
spirits and find animal-like mirrors of themselves whom they
could bring back to the world of mortals.
43
The animal spirits were known as the nahuālli, and so too Creating an Artisan
were the casters who brought them from the Spirit World. In
addition to their spirit companions, nahuālli were the only Though many artisans feel perfectly content to remain in their
casters known who could call upon the powers of both pluma home villages or cities, there are many reasons for one to
and hishna, though they would not master either. become an adventurer. You need to decide for your character
Out of the Maztican culture also grew a rogue that had long exactly what this reason is. Is she motivated by increasing her
been known in the True World, but had never been able to power? Does she believe that they are serving their
fend for themselves quite like they were now. These traveling community better by exploring the world? Perhaps there is a
traders were known as pochteca, and they became a force in specific threat which they want to end?
their own right. Perhaps they could not stand toe to toe with Many artisan adventurers quest to find inspiration in their
an eagle or jaguar knight, but their clever minds would more craft and some even do so to collect rare feathers
often than not compensate for their lack in physicality. (plumaweavers) or the fangs and talons of terrible beasts
Now that the gods have returned and the sky is once again (hishnashapers).
the clear blue of Toril, so too have the priests of these gods. In
Nexal, where the beasts of the Viperhand endured, the Quick Build
strongest and most intelligent of the creatures maintained the You can make an artisan quickly by following these
old traditions of sacrifice and slavery. The clerics of the suggestions. First, Wisdom should be your highest ability
brighter deities took an oath of silence in honor of their score, followed by Dexterity. Choose the hermit background
missing patrons and patronesses, which they continue to whether you are a plumaweaver or a hishnashaper. As a
honor despite the Return. plumaweaver, choose the cantrips featherweaving, ray of frost,
A common saying throughout the True World has always tickle and the first level spells bird charm and feather darts.
been that, “the people shall endure.” As a hishnashaper, choose jaguar claw, net, shocking grasp
Necessity in the ever-changing world has driven Mazticans and the 1st level spells cat charm and obsidian shards.
to adapt and they are more capable than ever. The Golden
Legion would have barely made it past the shores of the Twin Class Features
Visages had they arrived in the modern Maztica.
As an artisan of Maztica, you have the following class features.
The Artisan of Maztica Hit Points
The wise old man holds his most recent weaving aloft in front Hit Dice. 1d8 per artisan level
of the rampaging orcs. He turns the blanket of finely spun Hit Points at 1st Level. 8 + your Constitution modifier
feathers in his hand and colors pour forth. The foul beasts of Hit Points at Higher Levels. 1d8 (or 5) + your Constitution
the Viperhand are no match for his powerful magic and every modifier per artisan level after 1st
one of them stand transfixed by the display.
The tzitzimitl smiled in wicked glee when naught but a Proficiencies
single female stood between it and the group of human Armor. Light Armor
children. They would make fine tribute to his mother Weapons. Simple weapons, tlahhuītōlli (plumaweaver) or
Itzapaplotl. The female raised a staff adorned with various ahtlatl (hishnashaper)
fetishes and multiple jaguars appeared as if summoned from Tools. Artisan’s bag
thin air. Too late this star demon realized its folly. Saving Throws. Dexterity, Wisdom
Sometimes feared, sometimes loved, the Maztican artisan is Skills. Choose four from Animal Handling, Arcana, History,
almost always appreciated for the protection they afford. Wise Medicine, Nature, Insight, Perception, Sleight of Hand,
and powerful, the artisans give hope to the common man in a Survival
dangerous world.
Talented Crafters
As their name implies, artisans are crafters with many
similarities to to the artificers of other realms. The typical
artisan spends the vast majority of their downtime developing
great talismans of pluma or hishna magic.
When battle eventually comes and the enemy does not fall
to a barrage of arrows or stones, these items can turn the tide
of battle.
Devoted Guardians
Though many live as hermits outside of the major centers of
population, the artisans almost always chose a community
which they feel is under their protection. The size of the
community is not generally proportional to the power of the
artisan and woe to the attacker who believes a small jungle
village to be easy plunder.
44
Equipment Spellcasting Focus
You start with the following equipment in addition to the You can use your artisan's bag as your spellcasting focus for
equipment granted by your background. your artisan spells.
• (a) An ahtlatl with 20 yāōmītl or (b) a tlahhuītōlli with 20
arrows Artisan Archetype
• A component pouch Choose an artisan archetype, which describes the source of
• An artisan’s bag your power and the type of crafting you will undertake.
Choose either plumaweaver or hishnashaper. Both are
Spellcasting detailed at the end of this class description.
The talented and dexterous fingers that allow you to create Your choice grants you features when you choose it at 1st
such amazing talismans also allow you to manipulate the level and again at 7th, 11th and 15th level.
powerful forces of pluma or hishna.
Craft Talisman
Cantrips Crafting talismans of pluma and hishna are the main abilities
At 1st level, you know three cantrips of your choice from the of artisans and their great works are known throughout the
artisan spell list. You learn additional artisan cantrips at True World. There are four levels of ability for crafting
higher levels as shown in the Cantrips Known column of the talismans. At 2nd level an artisan may craft a minor talisman,
Artisan table. If you are a plumaweaver, you may not choose a at 9th level they may craft normal talismans, at 17th level,
cantrip with a hishna tag, and if you are a hishnashaper, you major talismans can be crafted and finally at 20th level, the
may not choose a cantrip with a pluma tag. artisan may make a legendary talisman.
Spell Slots Minor talismans are one shot items, which have a single use
The Artisan table shows how many spells you have to cast for and then become inert. Such magical items may emulate a
spells of 1st level and higher. To cast one of these artisan spell of levels 1 or 2 which is on the artisan's spell list. As long
spells, you must expend a spell slot of the spell’s level or as the crafter has an artisan’s bag, the cost in making the item
higher. is negligible. A crafter may have no more than five minor
You regain all expended spell slots when you finish a long talismans crafted at any given time.
rest. When the artisan reaches 9th level he is able to craft
normal talismans which are similar to common, uncommon
Spells Known of 1st Level and Higher or rare magic items. Common items take a day, uncommon
You know two 1st-level spells of your choice from the artisan items take a week, and rare items take a month to craft.
spell list. The Spells Known column in the Artisan of Maztica Normal talismans cost half the amount to craft as a normal
table shows you when you learn more artisan spells of your magic item. There is no limit to the number of normal
choice. talismans the artisan can craft, but each uncommon or rare
Each of these spells must be of a level for which you have talisman must have attunement as a requirement. The artisan
spell slots. When you gain a level in this class, you can choose may also attune to one additional item as long as one is a
to replace one of the artisan spells you know with another on talisman.
the artisan spell list. This spell must also be of a level for At 17th level, the artisan can now create items similar to
which you have spell slots. very rare magic items. The items take three full months to
If you are a plumaweaver, you may never choose any spells craft but cost one-half the normal amount to do so. There is
with the hishna tag, and if you are a hishnashaper, you may no limit to the number of major talismans the artisan can
never choose any spells with a pluma tag. craft, but each major talisman must have attunement as a
requirement.
Spellcasting Ability At 20th level, the artisan may spend a full year crafting an
Wisdom is the spellcasting ability for your artisan spells item of such magnificence, that it will be spoken of in legends
because the power in your magic relies on you to weave magic for years to come. The Cloak of One Plume, for example, was
into the world using your devotion to your craft. You use your an act of legendary plumaweaving said to have been created
Wisdom whenever a spell refers to your spellcasting ability. by Qotal himself. Using this ability is the crowning
In addition, you use your Wisdom modifier for setting the achievement of an artisan’s lifetime and can only be done
saving throw DC for an artisan spell you cast and when once. A price cannot be put on the actual construction as the
making an attack roll with one. artisan must gather the rarest of feathers from the most
magical of creatures (for a plumaweaver), or the fangs, claws
and venom of the most terrible beasts (for a hishnashaper).
Spell Save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + Artisans may continually craft even while adventuring. In
your Wisdom modifier brief moments of peace between encounters, the hands of an
artisan continually work to create their marvelous items.
Spell attack modifier = your proficiency bonus + Artisans do not need to continually focus on the task in order
your Wisdom modifier to craft.
Crafting talismans is actually therapeutic to an artisan and
when one is in the process of creation, the artisan gains
advantage on any save against psychic damage or to recover
from any type of magical or nonmagical disease.
45
The Artisan of Maztica
Level Proficiency Bonus Features Cantrips Known Spells Known 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
1st +2 Spellcasting, Artisan Archetype 3 2 1 — — — —
2nd +2 Craft Minor Talisman 3 3 2 — — — —
3rd +2 Ranged Weapon Bonus +1 3 3 2 1 — — —
4th +2 Ability Score Improvement 3 4 3 1 — — —
5th +3 — 3 4 3 2 — — —
6th +3 Long Ranged Weapon Spell 3 4 3 2 — — —
7th +3 Artisan Archetype Feature 3 5 4 2 — — —
8th +3 Ability Score Improvement 4 6 4 3 — — —
9th +4 Craft Talisman 4 6 4 3 1 — —
10th +4 — 4 7 4 3 2 — —
11th +4 Artisan Archetype feature 4 8 4 3 3 — —
12th +4 Ability Score Improvement 4 8 4 3 3 1 —
13th +5 Ranged Weapon Bonus +2 4 9 4 4 3 1 —
14th +5 — 4 10 4 4 3 1 —
15th +5 Artisan Archetype Feature 4 10 4 4 4 1 —
16th +5 Ability Score Improvement 4 11 4 4 4 2 —
17th +6 Craft Major Talisman 4 11 4 4 4 2 —
18th +6 — 4 11 4 4 4 2 1
19th +6 Ability Score Improvement 4 12 4 4 4 3 1
20th +6 Craft Legendary Talisman 4 13 4 4 4 3 2
Ranged Weapon Bonus Artisan Archetypes
As part of their training, both plumaweavers and Upon creation of an artisan, the source of the artisan’s power
hishnashapers become excellent marksmen with specific must be decided. The two brands of magic are wholly different
ranged weapons. Plumaweavers train in the use of the and determine the majority of abilities. The ranged weapon
Maztican war bow known as the tlahhuītōlli. At 3rd level bonus, the long ranged weapon spell, the types of talismans
plumaweavers receive a +1 bonus to hit when attacking with they can create, and the spells on their spell list are all
one of these weapons. At 13th level, this bonus increases to affected by this initial choice.
+2. In addition, the artisan has the following abilities based on
Similarly, the hishnashaper receives the same bonus when which archetype is chosen.
using an ahtlatl.
Long Ranged Weapon Spell Plumaweaver
At 6th level an artisan gains a spell which increases the range Artisans who choose to become plumaweavers revel in the
of their preferred weapon. Plumaweavers can cast arrowflight soft down and secret power of life that resides within feathers.
once in between short or long rests without using a spell slot. They are consummate weavers and their hands are constantly
Hishnashapers receive all the same benefits with the spell working. After a time, the fingers of a plumaweaver become
spearflight. calloused and thick skinned.
46
Bird Charmer Typically, they wear such small fetishes all about their person
At 7th level a plumaweaver gains becomes attuned to the as decoration, but on many occasions, the fetish is actually an
natural world of avians and can communicate with all such item of true power.
creatures. Bird calls become entirely understandable to the Virulence
plumaweaver and the avians can understand the plumaweaver At 7th level, the hishnashaper can add poison to the damage
as well. In addition, any attempt to charm a bird or bird-like caused by the cantrip jaguar claws. This is an additional 2d4
creature (determined by DM) has advantage. poison damage, but a successful Constitution save (against
Devoted Guardians the hishnashaper’s spell DC) will only amount to half damage.
At 11th level a plumaweaver is immune to all fear affects This damage increases to 4d4 poison damage at level 11 and
when acting in defense of his home, community or friends. 6d4 poison damage at level 15.
Incubator Fearsome Appearance
At 15th level, a plumaweaver is under the effect of the spell At 11th level, a hishnashaper’s features change subtly to
incubator. This may only be used once per year, and the become more predatory. All normal beasts must make a
incubation chamber must be created as described in the Wisdom save (DC 8 + the hishnashaper’s Wisdom bonus), or
spell’s description at full cost. they will suffer disadvantage when attacking the
hishnashaper.
The Hishnashaper Natural Poison immunity
Hishnashapers draw power from claws, fangs, talons, stingers At 15th level a hishnashaper is immune to all poisons which
and other natural attack forms given to a variety of creatures. are derived from the natural venoms of creatures. They gain
advantage on saving throws against all other poisons as well.
47
Artisan Spells
Cantrips (0 Level) Featherweaving [pluma] Light Net [hishna]
Dancing Lights Jaguar Claws [hishna] Message Ray of Frost
Shocking Grasp Scrollsee [hishna] Path of the Pochteca [pluma] 9th Level
Tickle [pluma] Slashing Plumage [pluma] Passwall Avatar of the Plumed Dragon
True Strike Stonefall [hishna] Plutoq's Strength [hishna]
1st Level 3rd Level Seeming Hishna Spells
Ambush [hishna]
Animal Friendship
Bafflement [pluma]
Bestow Curse
Pluma Spells Cantrips (0 Level)
Jaguar Claws
Animal Senses [hishna] Blossom [pluma] Cantrips (0 Level) Net
Arrowflight [pluma] Breath of Qotal [pluma] Featherweaving
Bird Charm [pluma] Exhausting Wave [hishna] Tickle
1st Level
Cat Charm [hishna] Eyes of the Jaguar Lord Ambush
1st Level Animal Senses
Color Spray [hishna]
Arrowflight Cat Charm
Cool [pluma] Feign Death
Bird Charm Hishnahide
Create or Destroy Water Gaseous Form
Cool Jaguar Pounce
Elevate [pluma] Haste
Elevate Obsidian Shards
Expeditious Retreat Hypnotic Pattern
Feather Darts Snake Charm
False Life Hypnosis [hishna]
Fisher's Luck Spearflight
Feather Darts [pluma] Magnificant Headdress
Plumastone Talonblade
Feather Fall [pluma]
Stoneflight Tezca's Touch
Fisher's Luck [pluma] Nondetection
Stonefoot Venomblade
Hishnahide [hishna] Protection from Hishna
Warmth
Identify [pluma] 2nd Level
Jaguar Pounce [hishna] Protection from Pluma 2nd Level Heartsense
Longstrider [hishna] Breathsense Huntsman's Call
Obsidian Shards [hishna] Remove Curse Eagle Flyby Scalesnare
Plumastone [pluma] Sending Guardian Owls Scrollsee
Snake Charm [hishna] Slow Kiltzi's Love Stonefall
Speak with Animals Water Breathing Slashing Plumage
Spearflight [hishna] Water Walk
3rd Level
3rd Level Exhausting Wave
Stoneflight [pluma] Windrider [pluma]
Bafflement Eyes of the Jaguar Lord
Stonefoot [pluma] Zaltec's Fury [hishna]
Blossom Hypnosis
Talonblade [hishna]
4th Level Breath of Qotal Protection from Pluma
Tezca's Touch [hishna]
Blight Magnificant Headdress Zaltec's Fury
Venomblade [hishna]
Confusion Protection from Hishna
Warmth [pluma]
Control Water Protection from Pluma
4th Level
2nd Level Fabricate Windrider Pestilence
Animal Messenger Giant Eagle [pluma]
4th Level 5th Level
Barkskin Greater Invisibility Omen
Giant Eagle
Breathsense [pluma] Hallucinatory Terrain Plutoq's Strength
Continual Flame Locate Creature 5th Level
Eagle Flyby [pluma] Pestilence [hishna] Breathweird
6th Level
Gentle Repose Stoneskin Swarm Form
Path of the Pochteca
Guardian Owls [pluma]
5th Level 6th Level 7th Level
Gust of Wind Heartripper
Awaken Great Screech
Heartsense [hishna] Obsidian Tomb
Breathweird [pluma] Incubation
Hold Person
Huntsman's Call [hishna]
Creation Mayz of the Plumed Dragon 8th Level
Dream Soulmerge
Kiltzi's Love [pluma]
Geas
7th Level
Locate Animals or Plants
Hold Monster
Power Word Blind 9th Level
Magic Weapon Ward of Esmeralda Avatar of Azul
Insect Plague
Mirror Image Hishna Curse
Legend Lore 8th Level
Scalesnare [hishna]
Omen [hishna] Wind Warrior of Eha
48
Cleric Domain Spirit Companion
The clerics of the True World choose a wide variety of Small or medium fey, unaligned
domains with the most common being War (Zaltec) and Life
(Qotal). The Maztican Shaman however is a new domain
which is used primarily by some of the more savage clerics, Armor Class 13 (natural armor)
Hit Points 12 +3 hp per level beyond 3rd
particularly the tabaxi and the Dog People. Speed 30 ft.
Maztican Shaman
Rather than worship a specific god, you revere the spirits of STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
your ancestors or the spiritual energy of the world itself. The 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0)
spirits are your close, trusted friends and you can see them
wherever you go, even if others cannot. Saving Throws Add your proficiency bonus to Dex
Shamans are usually prominent members of a tribe, but and Wis saves
sometimes they take to the road and become loners, or are Damage Immunities Poison
adopted into another group. Your connection to the Spirit Condition Immunities Poisoned
Realm allows you to summon a spirit companion to the Senses passive Perception 12
physical world that aids you in your endeavors. As the need Languages Same as yours
arises, you can call on other spirits for assistance and each Challenge 0 (0 XP or 10 XP if it does damage)
has its own personality and abilities.
Incorporeal Movement. The spirit companion can
Bonus Spells move through other creatures and objects as if they
were difficult terrain. It takes 5 (1d10) force damage
When you choose this domain at 1st level, you gain the if it ends its turn inside an object.
druidcraft cantrip if you don’t already know it. In addition, you
receive bonus spells noted on the Maztican Shaman Domain Animal Specific Trait. Spirit companions have the
Spells Table. following traits based on their form:
Bear: +1 AC, +1 HP per level, proficient in
Maztican Shaman Domain Spells Athletics
Spell Boar/Wolverine: Resists all damage, proficient in
Level Spell Names Constitution saves
Cougar/Lion/Panther/Tiger: Speed 40 ft.,
1st cure wounds, speak with animals darkvision 30 ft., proficient in Acrobatics,
animal messenger (takes form of spirit companion), Athletics, Stealth, reduce falling distance by 20 ft.
3rd Coyote/Wolf: +2 AC, proficient in Perception,
locate animals or plants, see invisibility
Survival, can track by scent as a 1st-level ranger.
revivify, speak with plants (speaks to spirits which Eagle/Hawk: +2 AC, Speed 5 ft., fly speed 60 ft.,
5th
inhabit plants), spirit guardians proficient in Perception.
7th death ward, locate creature Monkey: +2 AC, climb speed 30 ft., proficient in
Sleight of Hand.
9th commune with nature, mass cure wounds Owl: Speed of 5 ft., fly speed 50 ft., darkvision
120 ft., proficient in Perception.
Spirit Companion Snake: +5 initiative, darkvision 30 ft., proficient in
You have an animal spirit companion chosen from this list: Perception.
Vulture: Speed 5 ft., fly speed 40 ft., proficient in
Bear, Boar, Cougar, Coyote, Eagle, Lion, Monkey, Owl, Perception, Survival, can track by scent like a 1st
Panther, Snake, Tiger, Vulture, Wolf, or Wolverine (Work with level ranger.
your DM to create other spirit types, if desired). your spirit
companion has the statistics shown along with the following
qualities.
Your spirit companion cannot be healed. When it drops to 0 While you are within 120 feet of your companion, you can
hit points it disappears, leaving behind no physical form. communicate with it telepathically. Additionally, as an action,
During a short rest you can perform a brief ritual that restores you can see through your companion’s eyes and hear what it
all the spirit’s hit points or causes it to manifest again at full hears until the start of your next turn, gaining the benefits of
hit points. During a long rest, you can dismiss your current any special senses it has. During this time you are deaf and
companion and choose a different one. blind with regard to your own senses.
Your companion acts independently of you, but it always Finally, when you cast a spell with a range of touch, your
obeys your commands. In combat, it rolls its own initiative companion can deliver the spell as if it had cast the spell. Your
and takes its own actions on its own turn. It can use the companion must be within 120 feet of you, and it must use its
following actions: Dash, Disengage, Dodge, Hide, and Search. reaction to deliver the spell when you cast it. If the spell
requires an attack roll, you use your attack modifier for the
roll.
49
Spirit Boon
Choose one of the following spirit boons. You can select a
different spirit boon any time you are allowed to choose a
different spirit companion. If your companion takes the Dodge
action, you lose access to the spirit boon until it is no longer
dodging.
Guardian Spirit. Your spirit companion can use its
reaction to take half the damage of an attack or spell that
damages a creature adjacent to it.
Harrier Spirit. Your spirit companion can use its reaction
to cause an adjacent opponent to have disadvantage on an
attack roll.
Protecting Spirit. When you damage a creature with an
attack or spell, your spirit companion can use its reaction to
grant temporary hit points equal to your Constitution bonus to
a creature adjacent to it.
Assisting Spirit. Your spirit companion can use the Help
action.
Watcher Spirit. Your spirit companion functions as if it had
the see invisibility spell active at all times.
Channel Divinity: Calm Undead
You lose the Turn Undead ability and gain Calm Undead. As
an action, you present your symbol and invite the undead
spirits to return to the Spirit Realm where their ancestors
await them. It is identical to Turn Undead except that undead
creatures that fail the saving throw are stunned for 1 minute
or until they take damage. While stunned, the creature
ponders its past life and its current actions.
Shaman of 5th level or higher gain the Destroy Undead
feature as normal, however the spirits of undead destroyed by
a shaman depart peacefully for the afterlife.
Channel Divinity: Call Spirit Companion Paladin Sacred Oath
As your action, you dismiss your current spirit companion (if When Maztica was invaded long ago by the forces of Amn, it
present) and summon a different spirit companion anywhere was the brave eagle and jaguar knights that had nearly turned
within 30 feet. It can be the same type and grant the same the tides of battle in favor of the natives.
boon, or you can change one or both. These paladin sacred oaths produce the most well known
Healing Spirit
and exclusive True World warriors. All know to fear the
Mazticans wearing their famous armor.
Beginning at 6th level, your healing spells are echoed by your
spirit companion. Whenever you cast a spell of 1st level or Oath of the Eagle Knight
higher that restores hit points, your spirit companion or
another creature of your choice adjacent to it regains hit Once associated exclusively with the temples of Qotal, upon
points equal to 2 + the spell’s level. his disappearance (for a second time), the eagles branched out
and became far more secular. They still hold to their ancient
Vicious Spirit traditions however, and much of the power afforded the class
Beginning at 8th level, your spirit companion can use its is still granted by Qotal. Joining the eagle lodge is one of the
action to make a melee attack. Its attack modifier is equal to highest honors given to a Maztican warrior.
your Wisdom bonus plus your proficiency bonus. On a hit, it Poshtli, a hero of the past centuries, was widely known as
deals damage equal to your Wisdom bonus. the greatest eagle knight of all time and when he flew off into
If you are good or neutral, the damage is radiant. If you are the sky never to be seen again in mortal form as Qotal
evil, the damage is necrotic. sponsored his rise to divinity.
Spirit Realm Ambassador Eagle Armor
Beginning at 17th level, you and your spirit companion resist At 3rd level an eagle knight is given his eagle armor from the
necrotic damage. You always function as if you had the artisans of his lodge. This armor will be the focus of many of
sanctuary spell active, however it only affects undead. If your his future powers and is always the eagle knight's most valued
actions end the sanctuary effect, it is reinstated at the end of a possession.
short rest. Should the armor be lost, the eagle knight can petition his
Finally, once per day you can use the etherealness spell as a lodge for a new set. However, this is a huge embarrassment
ritual, affecting only yourself and your spirit companion. regardless of the surrounding circumstances and the lodge
will always require the eagle knight to complete a major task
before replacing the eagle armor.
50
Oath Spells Oath of the Jaguar Knight
You gain oath spells at the paladin levels listed. Jaguar knights were once the primary defenders of temples to
Paladin Level Spells the evil god Zaltec, but their dedication has always been
circumspect at best. In fact, despite the enmity of their
3rd bird charm, cool respective deities, jaguar knights have always had a healthy
5th eagle flyby, animal messenger (bird) respect for their eagle knight counterparts.
9th breath of Qotal, protection from hishna
When the gods disappeared and the skies changed, the
jaguar knights split almost completely from their roots with
13th giant eagle, greater invisibility the Eater of Hearts and only a few (particularly the beasts in
17th breathweird, hold monster Nexal) continue the old ways, but Zaltec continues to supply
the divine power necessary for many of their abilities.
Channel Divinity
Like Poshtli of the eagles, Gultec is a legend among the
jaguar knights. They aspire to the levels of greatness and
When you take this oath at 3rd level, you gain the following heroism shown by this greatest of all jaguars.
two Channel Divinity options.
Resistant Armor. As an action, you can imbue your armor Jaguar Armor
with the resilience of the Plumed Dragon, giving it extra At 3rd level an jaguar knight is given his jaguar armor from
ability to protect you from harm. Your armor gives you the artisans of his lodge. This armor will be the focus of many
resistance to one damage type of your choice for 10 minutes. of his future powers and is always the jaguar knight's most
Retaliatory Armor. As an action, you imbue your armor valued possession.
with the will of Qotal which seeks to defeat your enemies. The Should the armor be lost, the jaguar knight can petition his
first time you are hit by a melee weapon attack, your armor lodge for a new set. However, this is a huge embarrassment
sends forth a wave of force as a reaction in a 10 foot radius regardless of the surrounding circumstances and the lodge
doing 10 (3d6) force damage to all enemies in range. will always require the jaguar knight to complete a major task
before replacing the jaguar armor.
Eagle Shape
At 7th level you may use an action to assume the shape of a Oath Spells
giant eagle once between every short and long rest. The eagle You gain oath spells at the paladin levels listed.
knight may only transform while wearing his eagle armor.
This ability lasts a number of hours equal to one half of your Paladin Level Spells
eagle knight level rounded down. Your statistics are replaced 3rd cat charm, obsidian shards
with the statistics of the giant eagle except you retain your
personality, alignment, Intelligence, Wisdom and Charisma. 5th animal messenger (cat), scalesnare
You also assume the hit points and Hit Dice of the giant eagle, 9th Zaltec's fury, protection from pluma
but if you fall to 0 hit points, you revert to your human form
(possibly resulting in falling damage). Any excess damage is 13th greater invisibility, pestilence
subtracted from your hit point total. 17th hold monster, insect plague
Any other benefits of your class are kept except you also
assume the senses of the giant eagle. You cannot cast spells in Channel Divinity
this form, and your equipment merges with your giant eagle When you take this oath at 3rd level, you gain the following
form. two Channel Divinity options.
You may not cast spells in your giant eagle form or use your Supple Armor. As an action, your armor become supple
Channel Divinity ability, but active spells remain. and aids your movement. Your walking speed increases by 10
Your eagle armor gains a +1 bonus at this level when you and you gain advantage on Dexterity saving throws for 10
are wearing it. minutes.
Armor Dancing Fearsome Armor. As an action, you imbue your armor with
At 15th level you may choose to perform a ritualistic dance the will the fearsome countenance of Zaltec. The first time an
once between short and long rests. This ability is a reaction to enemy makes a spell or melee attack against you it must make
taking weapon damage and halves the damage of the attack a Wisdom saving throw (against your spell DC) or freeze with
against you. When you assumes the form of a giant eagle at fear, ruining the spell or attack.
this level, you provoke no attack of opportunity when flying out Jaguar Shape
of enemy reach. At 7th level you may use an action to assume the shape of a
Your eagle armor gets a +2 bonus when you are wearing it. Maztican jaguar once between every short and long rest. The
Countenance of Qotal jaguar knight may only transform while wearing his jaguar
At 20th level you can use the great screech spell once between armor.
long rests with a duration of 2 minutes. The superimposed This ability lasts a number of hours equal to one half of your
eagle head in the spell description takes on more of the jaguar knight level rounded down. Your statistics are replaced
features of a dragon if you are in eagle form and the sound with the statistics of the Maztican jaguar except you retain
that emanates is as much a roar as it is a screech. your personality, alignment, Intelligence, Wisdom and
Your armor gets a +3 bonus at this level when you are Charisma.
wearing it.
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You also assume the hit points and Hit Dice of the Maztican Expert Traveler
jaguar, but if you fall to 0 hit points, you revert to your human At 9th level you gain blindsight out to a range equal to your
form (possibly resulting in falling damage). Any excess normal sight. You do not require light in order to be perfectly
damage is subtracted from your hit point total. aware of your surroundings. You also learn two new
Any other benefits of your class are kept except you also languages due to all the time spent in foreign lands.
assume the senses of the Maztican jaguar. You cannot cast
spells in this form, and your equipment merges with your Built for Speed
Maztican jaguar form. You can dash as a bonus action for your turn when you reach
You may not cast spells in your Maztican jaguar form or use 13th level. Also, difficult terrain no longer affects your
your Channel Divinity ability, but active spells remain. movement.
Your jaguar armor gains a +1 bonus at this level when you
are wearing it. Uncanny Awareness
At 17th level, you can no longer be surprised and you have
Armor Dancing advantage when rolling for initiative.
At 15th level you may choose to perform a ritualistic dance
once between short and long rests. This ability is a reaction to Sorcerous Origin
taking weapon damage and halves the damage of the attack
against you. When you assume the form of a Maztican jaguar Sorcerers have not always been known in Maztica and few
at this level, you provoke no attack of opportunity when have had the bloodlines to allow for the manifestation of that
moving out of enemy reach. kind of power. As in many instances, however, the True World
Your jaguar armor gets a +2 bonus when you are wearing it. has changed greatly in the previous few centuries.
Claws of Zaltec Nahuālli
At 20th level you can use the heart ripper spell once between When Maztica was torn from Toril over a century ago, the
long rests. Your hands have a ghostly set of bloody claws pervasive magics of pluma and hishna divided and combined
superimposed over them. in unpredictable ways.
Your armor gets a +3 bonus at this level when you are Most of the raw, unleashed magic was lost into the ether,
wearing it. but some found its way deeper into the world of spirits and
from there into the souls of unborn children. These children
Roguish Archetype found that they could tap into the powers of both magics.
Even the kindliest of the nations and regions in Maztica have Their tonalli also twinned, forming an animal-like spirit-half
strict, if not brutal punishments for crime. It is not unusual to which are also known as nahuālli (but is usually referred to as
find a thief sentenced to death by hanging or stoning on the a “spirit twin”). Generations of these sorcerous men and
spot when convicted. The native Mazticans rarely use prisons women have now come and gone and no one can predict
so punishment must be swift and efficient. when or where these blessed folk might appear.
Because of this deterrent, thievery has always been kept to Pluma and Hishna Practitioners
a minimum, with notable exceptions among foreigners. Nahuālli are identified early by their uncanny ability to
However, the skills of a rogue have certainly found importance manipulate the forces of both pluma and hishna. A nahuālli
elsewhere in the True World. may choose spells or cantrips from either the pluma or hishna
The Pochteca tag to add to their spells known at each level.
The pochteca are traveling merchants of the True World. They Spirit Twin
trade their goods from one side of the continent to the other At 1st level, you travel into your dreams to the world of spirits
and a venerable pochteca has seen more of the True World and meets your spirit twin. You coaxes this being to
than any other dozen folk combined. accompany you to the land of mortals in order to serve you.
Pochteca are also consummate spies and are greatly valued This early connection is very similar to the connection a
by Revered Counselors and other rulers. Typically, a pochteca caster may have with a familiar from the find familiar spell.
has a standing just below most nobles in Maztican society and The spirit twin can appear in the form of a bat, tapir,
harassing one is often punished with swift death. constrictor snake, mastiff, jaguar, poisonous snake or wolf.
Natural explorers, the pochteca are ideal for an adventuring The spirit twin may only choose one of these forms but
party. otherwise acts the same as a familiar. Thus, it always obeys
your commands; it can communicate telepathically with you
Direction Sense within 100 feet, and can temporarily be dismissed or recalled
At 3rd level, you always inherently know which directions are from the Spirit Realm with a bonus action.
north, south, east or west. You also gain advantage when Your spirit twin may also deliver touch spells of as if you had
making a Wisdom (Survival) check in order to not become cast them. The spirit twin is either a celestial, fey or a fiend
lost and to forage while doing so. and cannot be slain. If the spirit twin would otherwise have
been killed by an attack it is banished to the Spirit World
Tool Use where you may once again summon it in your dreams during a
You gain proficiency in the use of a disguise kit and herbalism long rest.
kit when you reach 3rd level. Having a spirit twin does not prevent you from also having a
familiar.
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The spirit twin may travel whatever distance from you that you Shared Soul
wish on the same plane, however, it does not generally like to Beginning at 18th level, your spirit twin becomes so in tune
do so. with your own spirit that the two of you almost become one.
Spirit Twin Shapechanger Add the hit points of your spirit twin (based off of whatever
Starting at 6th level, your spirit twin can shapechange as a form it is currently using) to your own and then divide the
bonus action on any round into one of the shapes listed under resulting hit points among the two of you.
Spirit Twin above. If the spirit twin changes shape, adjust the hit points
It may also change into the form of a brown bear, dire wolf, accordingly. An extra hit point from an odd total goes to the
giant eagle, giant spider or reef shark. sorcerer. The spirit twin however, is now resistant to all forms
of magical damage and therefore any spell damage other than
Advanced Spirit Twin piercing, slashing or bludgeoning made against it by a spell. As
Starting at 14th level, choose one of your known spells. You a reaction when you take damage, you can dismiss the spirit
may transfer the ability to cast this spell to your spirit twin. If twin to transfer all of its remaining hit points to yourself. If
it does cast the spell, the spirit twin uses one of your spell this reaction is used, however, the spirit twin may not be
slots just as if you had cast the spell yourself and as long as summoned again until after a long rest.
the spirit twin has this ability you are incapable of casting the
transferred spell yourself. Warlock Patron
The spirit twin does not need to use verbal or somatic Warlocks have long existed in Maztica but with the rise of
components to cast a spell, but material components must be their patron, have recently played a far more prominent role.
in the possession of the sorcerer. If the spell description
indicates the components are consumed, they disappear from The Obsidian Butterfly
you possession as if you had cast the spell yourself.
Your spirit twin may not summon a familiar of its own. After The demoness, goddess, or completely unique entity known
a long rest you may swap the transferred spell for another as Itzapaplotl has long granted power to those who make a
which you know. At this point, the spirit twin is also better at pact with her. This being, who is alternatively known as the
keeping itself alive and can become invisible as an action on Obsidian Butterfly, has unknown motivations and the depths
its turn. If it then takes an attack action, the invisibility is of her evil is uncertain.
dropped. It must use an additional action to become invisible Warlocks who make a pact with the Obsidian Butterfly are
once again. given great power, but her dark plans are sure to one day
involve those who make a pact with her.
Expanded Spell List
The Obsidian Butterfly lets you choose from an expanded
spell list when you learn a warlock spell. The following spells
are added to the warlock spell list for you.
Obsidian Butterfly Expanded Spells
The Obsidian Butterfly lets you choose from an expanded list
of Spells when you learn a Warlock spell. The following Spells
are added to the Warlock spell list for you.
Spell Level Spells
1st jaguar pounce, talonblade
2nd scalesnare, stonefall
3rd * exhausting wave, eyes of the jaguar lord*
4th fire shield, pestilence
5th breathweird, flamestrike
Mark of the Obsidian Butterfly
Starting at 1st level, Itzapaplotl makes her presence known by
emblazoning her symbol permanently on your forehead. This
symbol forever brands you as an outcast but also causes all
within sight of the brand to fear you.
All creatures in sight of the brand must make a Wisdom
save against your warlock spell DC or become frightened by
you.
They may attempt to save again at the start of each of their
turns and once they have successfully saved they do not need
to again for a full day.
You are not able to suppress this ability, but the mark can be
covered with a simple hood or hat.
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Vision of Tamoacha
The torture chambers of the void realm of Tamoacha are
horrors than few minds can accept. Starting at 14th level, as
an action you may project a vision of this hellish location to
any creature that can see your mark.
This creature takes 8d10 psychic damage and must make a
Wisdom save against your warlock spell DC or become
paralyzed. The creature remains paralyzed until it is
successful on the Wisdom save which it may attempt once at
the start of each of its turns. This ability can be used once
between short and long rests.
Wizard Arcane Traditions
At one point the artisan was the prominent caster of Maztica.
There is no denying their power or contribution to culture in
the True World, but magic for magic’s sake was never their
sole purpose.
When the Golden Legion came, the practice of recording
spells in tomes and scrolls of papyrus was introduced.
Research into the inner nuances of pluma and hishna magic
grew as well, and with it so did the level of power involved.
Soon, plumaweavers and hishnashapers had to begin
devoting all their time to the study of magic and actual
crafting fell by the wayside. Within a few short decades, the
plumacasters and hishnacasters were born.
The Plumacaster
Pluma magic is the magic of feathers created by the goddess
Maztica herself and bestowed upon mankind by her son Qotal.
You are trained as a wizard in the ways of the foreigners who
arrived long ago, but you have managed to stay true to the
native magics of your homeland. All spells with the pluma tag
are added to your class spell list.
The magic you command is of a level not seen in previous
generations and many of your fellow Mazticans look upon you
in awe. As a pioneer in your craft, you also forever seek to
develop new spells and find magic in the most hidden corners
of the True World.
Pluma Magic Savant
Beginning when you select this type of magic at 2nd level, the
Star Fire gold and time you must spend to copy a spell with the pluma
Starting at 6th level you may enact a wreath of bright white tag is halved.
and blue flames around yourself as a reaction to taking
damage. These flames shed bright light in a 10-foot radius and Variant Familiar
lasts for 10 minutes or until you use an action to dismiss At 2nd level, you add the find familiar spell to your spellbook if
them. it is not there already. When you cast find familiar, you may
The flames erupt with a bright flash from the damage and choose to summon a plumazotl bird or a corollax in lieu of the
cause 2d8 fire damage to your attacker. other choices given in the spell description.
This ability can only be used once between short and long
rests. Light as a Feather
At 6th level, you can cast feather fall as a reaction to falling 30
Conjure Tzitzimitl feet or more without using a spell slot. You may also add the
Starting at 10th level, you may call forth a star demon of spell to your spellbook if you do not already have it. This use
Itzapaplotl to serve you which materializes in a space adjacent of the spell, however, has a range of self only.
to you. The tzitzimitl serves your wishes as long as your
concentration isn't broken or until an hour has expired at Avian Conjuration
which point the creature disappears in a puff of smoke. At 10th level, you can double the number of bird or bird like
The tzitzimitl is not generally friendly to you but it must creatures you conjure when you cast a conjuration. This
follow your commands explicitly. Careless commands can cannot be used on spells with an instantaneous duration, such
allow the tzitzimitl to betray you if not worded properly. This as find familiar.
ability can only be used once between long rests.
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Bird Wings Increase your Strength score by 1.
At 14th level, you gain the ability to sprout the colorful wings When using an ahtlatl with a tlacochtli dart, your range
of a parrot from your back. You gain a flying speed equal to increases to 80/150.
your current walking speed and you can create these wings as When using an ahtlatl with a yāōmītl arrow, you increase
a bonus action on your turn. You may keep these wings the damage to 1d10 piercing.
indefinitely until you dismiss them as a bonus action on your Feathered Familiar
turn.
You may not wear armor while your wings are manifested Prerequisite: Ability to cast the find familiar spell
and clothes worn on the back are typically ruined if worn
while the wings sprout. You have an attunement to the special creatures of the True
This ability may only be used once between long rests. World. You gain the following benefits:
You increase any of your ability scores by 1.
The Hishnacaster When you cast the find familiar spell your familiar may
The magic of talons, claws and venom was a gift given to take the form of a corollax or chickcharnee.
mankind by the god Zaltec, the Eater of Hearts. Like the Your telepathic connection to your familiar, including the
practitioners of pluma, you have learned much from the ability to use its senses, extends to 150 feet.
invading Faerûnians, but have incorporated the power of the
True World. Featherweaver
Your magic is often violent and unforgiving, but such is the Prerequisite: Wisdom 13 or higher
necessity when living in a cruel land. You constantly seek to
find and create new spells to add to your repertoire. The level While you do not boast the same skills as a plumaweaver, you
of power you command was once nonexistent among your have picked up some of their tricks. You may use the cantrip
people. featherweaving at will.
You also may identify any pluma talisman as if you had cast
Hishna Magic Savant the spell.
When you select this type of magic at 2nd level, the gold and
time you must spend to copy a spell with the hishna tag is Mācuahuitl Master
halved. All spells with the hishna tag are added to your class Prerequisite: Proficiency with martial weapons
spell list.
Mighty Leaper
You have mastered the difficult balance in wielding a
mācuahuitl one handed. You may wield a mācuahuitl with one
At 6th level, on your turn as a bonus action, you may cast the hand and still use its two-handed damage (1d10).
spell jump on yourself without using a spell slot. For the
duration, your appearance becomes noticeably cat-like and Maztican Magic
your skin becomes spotted like that of a jaguar. You also add
the spell jump to your spellbook for free. Trained in the ways of Maztican spellcasters, you can use one
form of their potent magics. You gain the following benefits:
Feline Conjuration
At 10th level, you can double the number of cats or cat like Increase your Intelligence, Wisdom or Charisma score by
creatures you conjure when you cast a conjuration. This 1, to a maximum of 20.
cannot be used on spells with an instantaneous duration, such You choose a form of Maztican magic, either pluma or
as find familiar. hishna, and add spells with that tag to to your class spell
list.
Hishna Striker You add the Maztican language to your known languages.
When you reach 14th level and cast a spell which requires a Sharpclaws
successful attack roll, you may add your Intelligence modifier
to the amount of damage caused. You also gain advantage on Prerequisite: You must have a claw attack either as a natural
the attack roll. You may use this ability once between short attack or a feature from a spell or class.
and long rests.
Your claws harden and dig deeper wounds. You deal an
additional 1d4 slashing damage to any damage you do with
New Feats claws. At 4th level and every four character levels thereafter
A number of new feats can be taken by natives of Maztica or you deal +1 additional hit point of slashing damage..
characters that are trained by a Maztican.
Talisman Wielder
Ahtlatl Master You have a special connection to the magical talismans
Prerequisite: Proficiency with martial weapons created by plumaweavers and hishnashapers. You increase
the number of magical items you may attune to by one if one
You master the use of an ahtlatl, allowing you to utilize the of those items is a Maztican talisman created by pluma or
best qualities of both types of ammunition no matter which hishna magic.
you use. You gain the following benefits:
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Magic and Equipment
S
ome new equipment, special items, magic items A willing target of this spell is granted the senses of the wild
and even spells are found in the True World and world. For the duration of the spell, the target has advantage
nowhere else. Pluma and hishna magic in on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing, sight and
particular permeate the continent. The magic of smell.
feathers and fangs, claws or talons are both
prevalent in the great land of Maztica. Arrowflight
1st-level transmutation [pluma]
Casting Time: 1 action
Pluma and Hishna Range: Touch
Components: V, S
In the Immortal Era, the gods vied for the attention of the Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour
mortals that were their worshipers. They created pluma and
hishna so that mankind could better honor them. You touch a tlahhuītōlli. Until the spell ends, the weapon's
Zaltec, the Bringer of War and Eater of Hearts, brought ranges are doubled. The tlahhuītōlli cannot be shared from
together the essences of talons, claws, teeth and venom that one person to another, otherwise the spell immediately ends.
form the magic of hishna and bequeathed their power to his At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
mortal worshipers. slot of 3rd of 4th level, the ranges increase by a factor of 2.5.
The magic became the purview of both his priests and With a spell slot of 5th level or higher, the ranges of the
powerful new artisans who became known as the weapon are tripled.
hishnashapers. Hishnashaper continually worked the fetishes
of this new magic day and night, and before long, Zaltec was Avatar of Azul
the most honored among the gods. Sacrifice flowed freely and 9th-level conjuration [hishna]
mankind rejoiced in their newfound, yet often cruel power. Casting Time: 1 minute
Qotal observed the carnage and imbalance that his brother Range: 90 feet
had wrought but it was his mother Maztica, the Goddess of Components: V, S, M (a gift of gems, jewelry or works of art
Life and matron of all the True World who created the magic worth 1000 gp or more; items made of hishna magic can
of feathers known as pluma. cost half that in price to the summoned dragon)
She passed this knowledge to Qotal who then taught it to Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour
his own priests. Overnight, the plumaweaver was born and You summon a young tlalocouatl which appears in an
like his brother Zaltec, Qotal became ascendant among unoccupied space that you can see within range. The dragon
mortals. Once again balance was found in the True World and disappears when it drops to 0 hit points, is dismissed, you lose
ever since the two magics have worked in tandem to advance concentration, or the spell’s duration ends.
the lives of mankind. The dragon is friendly to you and your companions for the
duration. Roll initiative for the dragon, which has its own
Spells turns and it obeys verbal commands.
The following new spells all have the [pluma] or [hishna] tag Avatar of the Plumed Dragon
and are used by a variety of classes and subclasses within the 9th-level conjuration [pluma]
True world.
Casting Time: 1 minute
Ambush Range: 90 feet
1st-level illusion [hishna] Components: V, S, M (a gift of gems, jewelry or works of art
Casting Time: 1 action worth 1000 gp or more; items made of pluma magic can
Range: Touch cost half that in price to the summoned dragon)
Components: S Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour
Duration: Concentration, up to 10 minutes You summon a young mirage dragon which appears in an
When you cast this spell you touch a willing creature. That unoccupied space that you can see within range. The dragon
creature and all its allies within a 30 foot radius gain disappears when it drops to 0 hit points, is dismissed, you lose
advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks as long as they concentration, or the spell’s duration ends.
remain within range. The dragon is friendly to you and your companions for the
The spell is based on a subtle camouflage illusion so any duration. Roll initiative for the dragon, which has its own
actions that draw attention end the effect. turns and it obeys verbal commands.
Animal Senses Bafflement
1st-level transmutation [hishna] 3rd-level enchantment [pluma]
Casting Time: 1 action Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Touch Range: 30 feet
Components: V, S Components: V
Duration: 1 hour Duration: Instantaneous
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You lace your words with pluma magic. A creature of your You inhale the gold dust. As you exhale, blinding bolts of light
choice within range that can hear you becomes disoriented. shoot from your mouth in a line 80ft. long and 5ft. wide. Each
The creature must make a successful Wisdom saving throw creature in the line must make a Dexterity saving throw. A
or it drops any weapons and equipment it is holding and creature takes 8d6 radiant damage on a failed save and is
cannot take an action or reaction until the start of your next blinded until the end of its next turn. A creature takes half
turn. damage and avoid being blinded on a successful save.
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
slot of 5th or higher, the duration is Concentration up to 1 slot of 4th level or higher, the damage increases by 1d6 for
minute, and the target cannot take an action or reaction until each slot level above 3rd.
the spell is dismissed, your Concentration breaks, or the
spell’s duration ends. Breathsense
2nd-level divination [pluma]
Bird Charm Casting Time: 1 action
1st-level conjuration [pluma] Range: Self
Casting Time: 1 action Components: V
Range: 30 feet Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
Components: V, S, M (a small coral or jade whistle worth at When you cast this spell, you are able to sense the breath of
least 10 gp) all living creatures within 120 feet for the duration of the spell.
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour The area of effect moves with you and is centered on you. It
You blow into the whistle, and summon one to three birds. also cannot be blocked by obstructions such as walls. You
Typical birds summoned include parrots, hummingbirds, or cannot detect creatures with no breath.
even eagles. The birds are under your control, and can With this knowledge, you know the number, type, size, and
understand simple commands such as Attack or Retrieve as general distance to each creature.
long as they can hear you. The birds use your initiative.
The type of bird that you can summon is up to the DM’s Breathweird
discretion, though they must be a beast with CR 0. 5th-level conjuration [pluma]
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell Casting Time: 1 action
slot of 4th or 5th level, you may summon birds that are beasts Range: 30 feet
or monstrosities with CR 1/2 or less. When you use a spell Components: V, S, M (a small quaff of water)
slot of 6th level or higher, you may summon birds that are Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
beasts or monstrosities with CR 2 or less.
You vomit forth a line of water five feet wide and any length up
Blossom to the maximum range of the spell. The water does 2d8
3rd-level transmutation [pluma] bludgeoning damage to the first target it hits, though the
Casting Time: 1 action target may make a Dexterity save to take half damage.
Range: 150 feet The water then animates into a water weird (Monster
Components: V, S, M (an ear of mayz and a skin of water) Manual, pg 299) under the mental control of the caster. The
Duration: 1 hour water weird remains animated until the caster dismisses it,
loses concentration, or the duration expires.
Blossom channels life energy into plants within an area. If
there are no plants within the range of the spell, this spell has Cat Charm
no effect and the spell is wasted. 1st-level conjuration [hishna]
All plant life within a 100 foot radius of a point within range Casting Time: 1 action
becomes more robust and any flowering plants Range: 30 feet
instantaneously bloom. Components: V, S, M (a turquoise studded collar worth 75
All creatures hostile to the caster within the area are gp)
subjected to the overwhelming calming smell of the blooming Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour
flowers. This forces them to make a Charisma saving throw
and if they fail, they become indifferent to the caster while in You raise the collar toward a point within range. One to three
the zone affected by blossom. cats spring from the ether. The cats can understand simple
At the end of each of their turns they may once again make commands such as Attack or Retrieve as long as they are able
a Charisma save to shake off the effect. If they are attacked to hear you. The cats use your initiative.
during this time, the indifference also breaks. The type of cat that you can summon is up to the DM’s
discretion, though they must be a beast with CR 0.
Breath of Qotal At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
3rd-level evocation [pluma] slot of 4th or 5th level, you may summon cats that are beasts
Casting Time: 1 action or monstrosities with CR 1/2 or less. When you use a spell
Range: Self slot of 6th level or higher, you may summon cats that are
Components: V, S, M (a handful of gold dust worth at least 20 beasts or monstrosities with CR 2 or less.
gp)
Duration: Instantaneous
57
Cool The victims fall unconscious until the spell ends, the victim
1st-level abjuration [pluma] takes damage, or someone uses an action to awaken them. In
addition, the caster has darkvision within 30 feet.
Casting Time: 1 action Undead and other creatures that do not sleep are immune
Range: Touch to this spell.
Components: V, S, M (a duck down feather)
Duration: Concentration, up to 24 hours Feather Darts
You touch one willing creature. That creature has advantage 1st-level evocation [pluma]
on all Constitution checks required due to oppressive heat. Casting Time: 1 action
You do not gain resistance to fire damage. Range: 120 feet
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell Components: V, S
slot of 2nd level or higher, you may choose to cast this spell on Duration: Instantaneous
up to 5 willing creatures. You conjure three darts of bright energy that fly from your
Eagle Flyby fingertips to strike creatures of your choice. The feathers all
2nd-level transmutation [pluma] strike simultaneously and can strike a single or multiple
targets based on the desires of the caster. Each dart causes
Casting Time: 1 action 1d4+1 radiant damage.
Range: 60 feet At Higher Levels. When casting this spell using a spell slot
Components: V, S, M (a wing feather from a bird of prey) of 2nd level or higher, the spell creates one additional feather
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute for each slot above 1st.
You choose on willing creature that has a flying speed, that Featherweaving
you can see, and is within range. For the duration of the spell,
the target does not provoke attacks of opportunity when they Evocation cantrip [pluma]
fly out of an enemy’s range. Casting Time: Special
Range: Self
Elevate Components: S
1st-level transmutation [pluma] Duration: Concentration
Casting Time: 1 action A caster who knows the cantrip featherweaving can heal him
Range: Touch or herself when creating talismans or even simple nonmagical
Components: V, S items of art.
Duration: Concentration The caster may cast this spell as long as he or she is not
You touch a nonliving object weighing put to 200lbs. and make engaged in battle or otherwise breaking concentration.
it as weightless as a feather. Left unattended, such objects will At the end of each consistent and unbroken hour of
remain in place or will move with even the gentlest of wind. featherweaving, the plumaweaver regains 1d4+1 hit points.
Exhausting Wave Fisher's Luck
3rd-level evocation [hishna] 2nd-level enchantment [pluma]
Casting Time: 1 action Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Self Range: 60 feet
Components: V, S, M (a handful of sand) Components: V, S, M (golden fish scale worth 100 gp)
Duration: Instantaneous Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
You raise your hands and a shimmering wave of heat You choose a point anywhere within 60 feet of you. Any fish or
emanates from you in a 30 foot cone. Creatures in the area fish-like creature (including creatures like sahuagin, at the
must make a successful Constitution saving throw or suffer determination of the DM) within a 30 foot sphere must make
the effects of 1 level of exhaustion. a Wisdom saving throw or be drawn to that point and remain
Multiple castings can lead to stacked levels of exhaustion, as close as they are physically able for the duration of the
to a maximum of 5. spell.
At the end of each of their turns, affected creatures can
Eyes of the Jaguar Lord make another Wisdom saving throw to breakthe effect.
3rd-level illusion [hishna] Noncombatant regular fish do not receive a saving throw
Casting Time: 1 action (fish worth 0 XP only).
Range: Self Giant Eagle
Components: V, S, M (a cat’s eyeball, which is consumed in 4th-level transmutation [pluma]
casting, or a cat’s eye gemstone, which is not)
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute Casting Time: 1 action
You either smush the eyeball, or palm the gemstone. Your eyes Range: 90 feet
change to resemble a jaguar’s. Each creature in a 30 foot cone Components: V, S
must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or immediately fall Duration: Concentration, up to 10 minutes
into a deep slumber for the remainder of the duration.
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You choose one to three eagles. They are transformed into Heartsense
giant eagles. The giant eagles obey all verbal commands as 2nd-level divination [hishna]
long as they can hear you but otherwise act independently and Casting Time: 1 action
are friendly to you. Range: Self
The eagles remain in this form until they drop to 0 hit Components: V
points, you dismiss the spell, break your Concentration or the Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
duration ends.
When you cast this spell, you are able to sense the heartbeat
Great Screech of all living creatures within a 120 foot radius for the duration
6th-level evocation [pluma] of the spell. The area of effect moves with you and is centered
Casting Time: 1 action on you. It also cannot be blocked by obstructions such as
Range: Self walls. You cannot detect creatures with no heartbeat.
Components: V With this knowledge, you know the number, type, size, and
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute general distance to each creature.
You open your mouth and let forth an ear-piercing screech. Hishna Curse
The ghostly image of a great eagle is superimposed over your 9th-level abjuration [hishna]
head while the spell is in effect. Each creature that starts its Casting Time: 1 minute
turn in a 60 foot cone in front of you must make a successful Range: 100 miles
Dexterity save or take 6d8 thunder damage and be deafened Components: V, S, M (flesh, hair, or other material from the
deafened until the start of your next turn. target creature mixed in a hollow clay effigy shaped like the
On a successful save, the creature takes half damage and target with exotic ingredients and oils costing 500 gp per
avoids being deafened. Hit Die of the target creature)
You can redirect the cone as your action on any turn until Duration: Until dispelled or ended by the caster
the spell ends. The spell continues until you use another
action or reaction, dismiss the spell, break your Concentration You spend a few days carving a small effigy of a creature. You
or the duration ends. fill it with a piece of the creature's body and other exotics
elements, and cast this spell. A long as the target creature is
Guardian Owls within 100 miles of you, it must make a Wisdom saving throw
2nd-level abjuration (ritual) [pluma] or it falls comatose. If it makes the save, the effigy melts in
Casting Time: 1 minute your hands and must be recreated.
Range: 30 feet While they are comatose, the target does not need to eat,
Components: V, S, M (owl beak wired with silver worth 10 drink, or breathe, and does not age. You may then choose to
gp) keep the victim in this state indefinitely or cause 10d10
Duration: 8 hours damage once of a damage type of your choice (burning the
effigy causes fire damage, throwing it off a cliff causes
Choose an area within range that is no larger than a 30 foot bludgeoning, putting it on a raft in a thunderstorm causes
cube. Until the spell ends, the sounds of screeching owls alert lighting, etc.)
you whenever a creature of Tiny or larger size enters the area. Once the victim suffers damage, the spell ends, they awaken
If you are sleeping the sounds will awaken you. In addition, from their coma, and cannot be affected by you casting this
1d4+1 spectral owls (treat as owls from PHB) are summoned spell again for a year.
if the invading creatures have hostile intentions and attack. The spell can be ended if the victim’s overcomes your Spell
The owls last until destroyed or until the invading creatures DC in the casting of a successful dispel magic.
are otherwise engaged by you or an ally. At that point, the
spectral owls simply disappear. Hishnahide
1st-level transmutation (ritual) [hishna]
Heart Ripper
7th-level necromancy (ritual) [hishna] Casting Time: 1 hour
Range: Touch
Casting Time: 1 action Components: V, S, M (see below)
Range: Touch Duration: Instantaneous
Components: V, S
Duration: Instantaneous Animal hides can be permanently transformed into the highly
durable material known as hishnahide. This spell increases
Make a melee spell attack against a creature you can reach. A the strength and protective abilities of hide armor, but also
hit on a creature that has a heart and 100 hp or less causes stiffens the hide and greatly increases its weight. Enough hide
the creatures heart to instantly burst from its chest and into for one set of armor can be created using this spell.
the hands of the caster. The hide in all ways retains its original appearance, but in
The spell has no effect on creatures without a living heart all ways is now considered heavy armor. Casting this spell can
such as undead, no heart such as most constructs, or change the effective AC and weight of the hishnahide to match
creatures with more than 100 hp. Affected creatures die either ring mail, chain mail, splint or even plate. The wearer of
instantly. This spell can be cast as a ritual only upon a victim the hishnahide is subject to stealth disadvantage while
who is incapacitated for the entire duration of the ritual. wearing hishnahide and it has the same strength
Typically, this use of the spell occurs during sacrifices to requirements for the equivalent armor.
Zaltec with a bound or drugged victim.
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The material components for this spell are costly. In addition The infant grows to full age within an additional hour and it
to the cost of the hide armor, the spell requires special oils has full hit points, is cured of any diseases and poisons, and
derived from the venom of rare animals worth 50 gp (for ring returns any missing body parts. Magical curses like
mail), 100 gp (for chain mail), 500 gp (for splint) or 2,000 gp lycanthropy remain.
(for plate).
Jaguar Claws
Huntsman's Call Transmutation cantrip [hishna]
2nd-level enchantment [hishna] Casting Time: 1 action
Casting Time: 1 action Range: Touch
Range: 60 feet Components: V, S
Components: V, S, M (golden tapir statuette worth 100 gp) Duration: Instantaneous
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute Your hand briefly become the claws of a jaguar. Make a melee
You concentrate a point within range. Any beast or weapon attack against a target. On a hit, the target takes 1d8
monstrosity within a 30 foot radius must make a Wisdom slashing damage.
saving throw or be drawn to that point, using all their The spell’s damage increases when you reach higher levels;
movement to get and remain as close as they are physically 2d8 at 5th level, 3d8 at 11th level, and 4d8 at 17th level.
able for the duration of the spell.
At the end of each of its turns, the target can make another Jaguar Pounce
saving throw to break the effect. Beasts and monstrosities 2nd-level transmutation [hishna]
with CR 0 automatically fail their saving throw. Casting Time: 1 action
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell Range: 30 feet
slot of 3rd or 4th level, beasts and monstrosities with CR 1 Components: V, S, M (sinew from a great cat)
automatically fail their saving throw. The CR increases by 1 Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
for every 2 slots above 4th.
You choose a willing creature that you can see within range.
Hypnosis For the duration of the spell, if the recipient moves at least 20
3rd-level enchantment [hishna] feet straight toward a creature and hits it with an attack, the
Casting Time: 1 action recipient’s target must make a successful Strength saving
Range: 30 feet throw or be knocked prone.
Components: V, S If the recipient’s target is knocked prone, the recipient may
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour take a bonus action to make an additional attack against it
with one of its attacks.
When you cast this spell, you attempt to charm a humanoid
within the spell’s range that you can see and that can also see Kiltzi's Love
you. It must make a Wisdom saving throw and if it fails it will 2nd-level enchantment [pluma]
mindlessly follow all of you commands. Casting Time: 1 action
This effect ends if the victim is harmed to attempts to harm Range: 30 feet
itself. Components: V, S, M (a small piece of chocolate)
During the time that the creature is under you influence, Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
you may command it to take a single action, as per the spell
suggestion, which may take up to one week to manifest. You outstretch your hands towards 5 creatures within range
When the spell ends, the victim has no recollection of what who are already friendly towards you. They develop strong
occurred, what they did, or why they did it, during the time feelings towards you.
they were under your influence. They are immune to fear effects if you are in danger and
will protect you even if doing so puts them in mortal danger. If
Incubation you attack any of the targets, the spell is dispelled.
6th-level necromancy [pluma] Magnificent Headdress
Casting Time: 1 hour 3rd-level illusion [pluma]
Range: Touch
Components: V, S, M (a 3ft. by 3ft. gold foil and feather Casting Time: 1 action
embroidered stone chamber worth 3,000 gp total which is Range: Self
consumed in the casting) Components: V, S, M (the feather of any beast, fey, or
Duration: Instantaneous monstrosity that has a magical power)
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
You can cast this spell on a creature of no larger than Huge
size that has died within 24 hours. Their body collapses into a The phantasmal image of a vibrantly plumed headdress
pile of feathers. If the feathers are searched, you will find an adorns your head and glows with multicolored light. Each
egg. The size may vary, depending on the size of the creature, creature in a 30 foot radius that can see you must succeed on
from the size of an apple for a Small creature to the size of a a Charisma saving throw or fall to their knees and remain
plump pumpkin for a Huge creature. prone for the remainder of the duration.
If the egg is brought to the specially prepared chamber, the The headdress provides bright light within the radius and
egg will finish incubating after a full 24 hours and the creature dim light for another 30 feet.
will be reborn as an infant. The prone creature cannot attack you, but can choose to
attack other targets.
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Mayz of the Plumed Father Net
6th-level conjuration [pluma] Conjuration cantrip [hishna]
Casting Time: 1 day Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 30 feet Range: 30 feet
Components: V, S, M (ten to fifteen topaz gemstones worth Components: V, S
100 gp each) Duration: Instantaneous
Duration: Instantaneous You conjure a rope net from you outstretched hand and fire it
You plant the topaz gems into soft ground. For a full day you in the direction of a creature. You can make a ranged spell
must nurture the crop, watering and keeping pests away. You attack against a Large or smaller creature.
cannot move more than 100 feet from the crop or they will not If successful, the creature is restrained until freed or the net
grow. dissipates. The net has no effect on creatures that are
The crop will mature in 24 hours and produce one full ear formless or larger than Large.
of golden mayz per gem planted. If the mays is not picked and A creature can make a Strength (Athletics) check against
eaten within an hour, it will wither and become useless. your spell DC to free itself. Dealing 5 slashing damage to the
Anyone who eats one entire ear, prepared in any manner, net will destroy it and the net dissipates by itself after 1 hour.
will recover full hit points, is affected by a remove curse, and
receives the benefits of the bless spell for the next hour.
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Obsidian Shards Components: V, S, M (gold dust worth 10 gp per mile which
1st-level evocation [hishna] is consumed in the casting)
Duration: 1 year
Casting Time: 1 action In order to cast this spell the caster must embark on a journey
Range: 120 feet by foot. The distance of the journey is up to the caster and is
Components: V, S only limited by the amount of gold dust used in the casting.
Duration: Instantaneous
This gold dust is sprinkled all along the path traveled. For a
You conjure three shards of dark energy from your fingertips. full year following the trip the caster may then use the teleport
The shards strike single or multiple targets of your choice that spell to end up anywhere along the path once resulting in no
you can see within range. Each dart causes 1d4+1 necrotic chance of mishap and always ending up on target.
damage. A caster may have only one path of the pochteca active at a
*At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell time.
slot of 2nd or higher, the spell creates on additional shard for
each slot above 1st. Pestilence
4th-level conjuration [hishna]
Obsidian Tomb
7th-level evocation [hishna] Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 150 feet
Casting Time: 1 action Components: V, S, M (a piece of rotting mayz)
Range: 100 feet Duration: Concentration, up to 10 minutes
Components: V, S, M (a miniature carved obsidian cage
worth 1000 gp) You conjure thousands of tiny crawling insects at a point
Duration: Instantaneous within range. These tiny biting vermin fill an area within a 60
foot radius of the point.
A cocoon-like shell encases the target of this spell who you Hostile creatures that enter the radius suffer 1d4+1 points
choose within its range. An encased creature cannot move or of damage per round. In addition, the maddening itching
speak and immediately begins to suffocate. forces spellcasters who enter the area to make a Wisdom
They can however make a Strength check each round. One saving throw or lose their Concentration if they have it.
successful check damages the shell enough so that the victim Finally, hostile creature have disadvantage on all Dexterity
can begin to breath, and a second successful check allows the checks made within the spell’s area due to constant itching
creature to escape, effectively ending the spell. and scratching.
The target must be medium sized or the obsidian tomb will This spell’s effects last for its duration, until it is dismissed,
not fully entrap the creature. or until concentration is broken.
At Higher Levels. If an 8th level spell slot is used to cast At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
this spell, large creatures can be affected. Using a 9th level slot slot of 6th or 7th level, the damage per round increases to
can affect creatures of any size. 2d4+2. When you use a spell slot of 8th level or higher, the
damage per round increases to 3d4+3.
Omen
5th-level divination (ritual) [hishna] Plumastone
Casting Time: 1 day 1st-level transmutation (ritual) [pluma]
Range: Self Casting Time: 1 hour
Components: V, S, M (the caster must cover his skin in gold Range: Touch
powder worth at least 50 gp, the powder is consumed in the Components: V, S, M (100 gp in alchemical ingredients
casting) which are consumed in the casting)
Duration: Instantaneous Duration: Instantaneous
You cast this spell which causes an event in the local This spell can transmute up to 1 cubic foot of obsidian, flint or
environment. This event might be as simple as a bright chert into a material known as plumastone. Plumastone
shooting star or as fantastic as the change in color of a snow maintains the appearance of the original stone type, but is as
capped mountain to that of blood. The effect is never hard and durable as normal steel.
permanent, but can last for hours at the discretion of the DM.
This environmental change can then be read by the caster Plutoq's Strength
to determine a cryptic understanding of major events in the 5th-level transmutation [hishna]
following year. For example, "dark death on wings of fire" Casting Time: 1 action
might be read indicating a dragon attack. Range: Self
This spell may only be cast once until such time as the Components: V, S
actual event to which it refers occurs. Using the above Duration: Instantaneous
example, immediately after the dragon attacks, the spell may
be cast again. Your arms turn into massive limbs made of stone until the end
of your next turn. Until the spell ends, melee unarmed attacks
Path of the Pochteca made by you have reach 15ft. and do 2d12 bludgeoning
5th-level conjuration (ritual) [pluma] damage. In addition, your Strength is increased to 20.
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Unlimited
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Power Word Blind Casting this spell only requires a word and a blank scroll in
7th-level enchantment [pluma] your possession. The scroll then records whatever you see
and hear for a full minute. At any point from there on, the
Casting Time: 1 action scrollsee can be commanded to play its recorded
Range: 60 feet observations. It can only be played once, at which point the
Components: V scrollsee crumbles to dust.
Duration: Instantaneous In some libraries (such as in Tulom-Itzi), hishnashapers
You speak a single word of power which causes a single target have figured out how to make them permanent, though at a
you can see within range to lose its sight. If the target has 150 great expense.
hit points or less, it is blinded. Scrollsees otherwise last as long as the parchment, and due
It may still “see” if it has blindsense, but both regular sight to the fact that this is an ancient spell, it is not uncommon to
and darkvision do not function. find crumbling scrolls hundreds of years old with still
A blinded target may make a Constitution saving throw at functioning magic.
the end of each of its turns in order to end the effect. Slashing Plumage
Protection from Hishna 2nd-level conjuration [pluma]
3rd-level abjuration [pluma] Casting Time: 1 action
Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self
Range: Touch Components: V, S, M (an eagle feather)
Components: V, S Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour The air surrounding you in a 30 foot radius is filled with
For the duration of the spell, a willing creature you touch has spinning feathers with hardened, sharp edges. A creature
advantage on all saving throws against hishna, including takes 2d8 slashing damage when it enters the spell's area for
spells, magic items, and hishna talismans. the first time on a turn or if it starts it's turn there.
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
Protection from Pluma slot of 3rd level or higher, the damage increases by 1d8 for
3rd-level abjuration [hishna] each slot level above 2nd.
Casting Time: 1 action Snake Charm
Range: Touch 1st-level conjuration [hishna]
Components: V, S
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 30 feet
For the duration of the spell, a willing creature you touch has Components: V, S, M (a miniature golden snake statue worth
advantage on all saving throws against pluma, including 100 gp)
spells, magic items, and pluma talismans. Duration: Concentration, up to one hour
Scalesnare You summon and control the actions of 1-3 poisonous snakes.
2nd-level transmutation [hishna] The snakes can understand simple commands such as Attack
Casting Time: 1 action or Retrieve, but no mental connection is formed to the caster
Range: Touch so the snakes need to be able to hear commands in order to
Components: V, S, M (shed skin of a snake) follow them.
Duration: Instantaneous At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
slot of 4th or 5th level, you may summon snakes that are
This spell transforms the discarded skin of a snake into a beasts or monstrosities with CR 1/2 or less. When you use a
grasping tentacle. You use it to make a melee spell attack on a spell slot of 6th level or higher, you may summon snakes that
Large or smaller creature. are beasts or monstrosities with CR 2 or less.
On a successful hit, the target creature is restrained and
remains restrained until is makes a successful Strength Soulmerge
saving throw against your spell save DC. In addition, the 8th-level necromancy [hishna]
target drops any objects or equipment it is holding. Casting Time: 1 action
You must make the spell attack on the same turn that Range: 30 feet
scalesnare is cast. Components: V, S, M (a chunk of coal which you crumble in
your hands)
Scrollsee Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour
2nd-level illusion [hishna]
Casting this spell allows you to briefly transform into black
Casting Time: 1 action smoke which then seeks out a humanoid target within range.
Range: 30 feet The target must make a Charisma saving throw or your tonalli
Components: V, M (one blank scroll of expensive parchment (soul) merges with its body. Though the humanoid is
worth at least 20 gp) completely under your control, you share the body with the
Duration: 1 minute humanoid and you can hear one another’s thoughts clearly.
63
You now have all of the targets physical characteristics Range: Touch
including their Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, hit points Components: V, S, M (a sling stone)
and Hit Die, but you retain your Intelligence, Wisdom, Duration: 1 minute
Charisma, personality, alignment and class abilities. You touch a sling stone. For the next minute, if the stone is
You do not gain any of the target’s class abilities but you can used as ammunition to make a ranged weapon attack with a
use available racial abilities. The humanoid still retains its tēmātlatl or a sling and the attack hits, the target of the attack
turn and at the end of every turn it may attempt to cast you out has a walking speed of 0 feet on its next turn.
of its body by making another Charisma saving throw. If it
succeeds, you are expelled through its mouth and reform in an Swarm Form
available adjacent space. 6th-level transmutation [hishna]
Damage you incur while in possession of the body does not
carry over to you when you reform your body, but if the Casting Time: 1 action
possessed humanoid is killed, you immediately reform and Range: Self
suffer 10d10 psychic damage. Components: V, S, M (a golden bracelet with charms of each
creature whose form you wish to assume worth 500 gp per
Spearflight creature type)
1st-level transmutation [hishna] Duration: 10 minutes
Casting Time: 1 bonus action You assume the form of one of the swarms listed on pages
Range: Touch 337-339 of the Monster Manual. You gain the swarm’s physical
Components: V, S statistics but your alignment, Intelligence, Wisdom and
Duration: Concentration, up to one hour Charisma are retained.
You touch a ahtlatl. Until the spell ends, the weapon's ranges Though you assume the hit points and Hit Dice of your new
are doubled. The tlahhuītōlli cannot be shared from one form, you gain a bonus of 1 hit point per your caster level. You
person to another, otherwise the spell immediately ends. also retain the benefits of any features of your character class,
race, or other source, and can use them provided you are
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell physically capable of doing so.
slot of 3rd of 4th level, the ranges increase by a factor of 2.5. This spell does not require that you maintain concentration,
With a spell slot of 5th level or higher, the ranges of the and you may continue to cast spells in your swarm form, even
weapon are tripled. if they require components (as long as you had the material
Stonefall components in your possession when you transformed).
2nd-level abjuration [hishna] Any equipment you carried with you when you transformed
either merges with your form or falls to the ground (your
Casting Time: 1 action choice), but either way, you do not receive their benefits. If you
Range: Touch are reduced to 0 hit points in your swarm form, you revert to
Components: V, S, M (a sling stone) your original form, and any damage you have received is
Duration: 1 minute subtracted from your normal total.
You touch a sling stone. For the next minute, if the stone is Talonblade
used as ammunition to make a ranged weapon attack with a 1st-level evocation [hishna]
tēmātlatl or a sling and the attack hits, the target creature of
the attack has a flying speed of 0 on its next turn and unless it Casting Time: 1 action
can hover, it falls. Range: Self
As per the rules of falling, the creature takes 1d6 Components: V
bludgeoning damage for every 10 feet that it falls. Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
Stoneflight After you cast this spell your weapon grows talon-like
1st-level transmutation [pluma] protrusions. If you strike an enemy with that weapon, it
causes an additional 1d6 points of necrotic damage. In
Casting Time: 1 bonus action addition, at the start of every one of the target’s turns, it must
Range: Touch make a Constitution saving throw or suffer an additional 1d4
Components: V, S points of necrotic damage as the wound bleeds out.
Duration: Concentration, up to one hour The effect ends on the first successful save, a break in
You touch a tēmātlatl. Until the spell ends, the range of the concentration, or when the spells duration ends.
ammunition fired from the tēmātlatl (both normal and long) is At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
doubled. Tēmātlatl cannot be shared from one person to slot of 2nd level or higher, the necrotic damage increases by
another; otherwise the magic immediately ends. 1d6 for each level above 1st.
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell Tezca’s Touch
slot of 3rd or 4th level, the range increases by a factor of 2.5.
With a spell slot of 5th level or higher, the range of the 1st-level evocation [hishna]
ammunition is tripled. Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Touch
Stonefoot Components: V, S, M (small bit of rock sulphur)
1st-level abjuration [pluma] Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
Casting Time: 1 action
64
Your hands glow with the fire of the god Tezca. You can make Warmth
a touch attack and if it succeeds you cause 2d6 fire damage to 1st-level abjuration [pluma]
the target. If the target fails a Dexterity save, it is set on fire
and must take an additional 1d6 points of fire damage at the Casting Time: 1 action
beginning of each of its turns until the fire is put out or the Range: Touch
spell’s duration ends. Components: V, S, M (goose down)
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell Duration: Concentration, up to one day
slot of 2nd level or higher, the additional fire damage You touch one willing creature. The target has advantage on
increases by 1d6 for each level above 1st. all Constitution checks required due to a cold environment.
Tickle At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
Conjuration cantrip [pluma] slot of 2nd level or higher, you may cast this spell on up to 5
willing participants.
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 60 feet Wind Warrior of Eha
Components: V, S 8th-level transmutation [pluma]
Duration: Instantaneous Casting Time: 1 action
A small animated feather appears near a target of your choice Range: Self
and can be used to attempt to break concentration by tickling Components: V, S, M (a golden bracelet with charms of each
the target. creature whose form you wish to assume worth 500 gp per
The target must make a Constitution saving throw in order creature type)
to maintain concentration while casting a spell. Targets with Duration: 10 minutes
natural armor cannot be affected by this spell. You assume the form of an air elemental. You gain the
Venomblade
elementals statistics but your alignment, Intelligence, Wisdom
and Charisma are retained. You can use any of the elemental’s
1st-level evocation [hishna] special abilities for the duration of the spell. You also retain
Casting Time: 1 action the benefits of any features of your character class, race, or
Range: Self other source, and can use them provided you are physically
Components: V capable of doing so.
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute Any equipment you carried with you when you transformed
After you cast this spell your slashing or piercing weapon either merges with your form or falls to the ground (your
begins to seep a green sticky poison. If you strike an enemy choice), but either way, you do not receive their benefits. If you
with it, the weapon causes an additional 1d6 points of poison are reduced to 0 hit points in your elemental form, you revert
damage and causes the target to become poisoned. to your original form, and any damage you have received is
At the start of each of its turns until the spell ends, the subtracted from your hit point total.
target must then make a Constitution saving throw to end the Windrider
condition. At the conclusion of the spells duration, the poison 3rd-level transmutation [pluma]
disappears from the victim’s bloodstream and the effect ends.
Casting Time: 1 action
Ward of Esmeralda Range: 60 feet
7th-level abjuration [pluma] Components: V, S, M (a gold quill worth 10 gp, which is
Casting Time: 1 action consumed in the casting)
Range: Self Duration: Concentration, up to 10 minutes
Components: V, S, M (an emerald worth at least 100 gp) This spell can be cast on any nonliving object which weighs
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute 1,000 pounds or less that is within range of the spell. The
When you cast this spell, a shimmering emerald globe object then flies at the will of the caster with a speed of 30
surrounds you in a 30 foot radius. In this area, spells of 5th feet. Should the caster lose concentration or prematurely end
level or lower cannot affect you or allied creatures. Spells of the spell, the object gently floats to the ground.
these levels can target creatures or objects within the globe, At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
but cannot affect them. Similarly, area effects from such spells slot of 4th level, the duration is extended to 1 hour while
cannot extend into the globe, though they can flow around it. maintaining concentration. If a spell slot of 5th level or higher
Finally, for everyone except the caster or those he is used, the duration becomes a full day while maintaining
designates as allies, magic items that are of common, concentration.
uncommon, or rare in frequency are suppressed. Such items Zaltec’s Fury
do not function within the globe’s radius. 3rd-level evocation [hishna]
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell
slot of 8th level, spells of 6th level or lower are blocked and Casting Time: 1 action
items that are considered very rare are suppressed. If a 9th Range: 150 feet
level slot is used, 7th level spells are blocked and even Components: V, S, M (the fang of a poisonous serpent or
legendary items are suppressed within the globe. lizard)
Duration: Instantaneous
65
A small fang of a serpent flies from your hand continuously Cloak of One Plume
growing until it reaches a point within the range of your spell. Wondrous item, legendary (requires attunement) [pluma]
Once it reaches its destination it explodes into needle-like
shards in a 20-foot-radius sphere centered on that point. Each The cloak of one plume grants its attuned wearer the
creature located within the sphere must make a Dexterity following. Great Charisma. When the cloak is worn and the
saving throw. A target takes 8d6 poison damage damage on a wearer is attuned to it, the wearer has a
failed saving throw, or half damage on a successful one. Increase Charisma Your Charisma score becomes 19. If
The shards do not necessarily fly in straight lines and you already have a Charisma of 19 or higher, this ability has
ricochet off of non-living material so damage from the spell no affect.
can spread around corners easily. Magnificence. Once between each short and long rest, you
At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell may cast the spell magnificent headdress once between long
slot of 4th level or higher, the damage increases by 1d6 for rests, but the spell effect emanates from the cloak instead of
each slot level above 3rd. an illusionary headdress.
Flight. The attuned wearer of the cloak of one plume may
Magic Items fly at 30 feet. If the wearer already has a flying speed greater
The vast majority of magic items in Maztica were carefully than the one granted by the cloak, this ability has no effect.
crafted by an artisan. These items, known as talismans of Fire Resistance. Despite its feather composition, the cloak
hishna or pluma, act similarly to magic items described in the of one plume is immune to fire and it grants fire resistance to
Dungeon Master's Guide. you when it is being worn. This ability may be extended to
another individual of the same size as you or smaller if they
The tags “hishna” and “pluma” will be added to such items are in an adjacent square. You (or any whom you chooses to
in their descriptions below, and lore specific to Maztica is extend protection to) do not need to be attuned for this
provided for each item as well. protection.
Bands of Might Lore. The cloak of one plume is a legendary item that has
Wondrous item, varies (requires attunement) [pluma] disappeared and resurfaced many times through Maztica’s
history. It is formed of one giant feather and is said to be the
Small woven bands of feathers that seem innocuous enough, creation of the god Qotal himself. Its powers and current
but are capable of greatly enhancing a warriors strength. whereabouts remain unknown. It was last lost when Maztica
There are three versions of the band of might available. One became part of Abeir, though with the return to Toril, rumors
raises the wearers Strength to 18 (uncommon), another to 19 of its sighting have spread once again.
(rare) and a third to 20 (very rare). Earplugs of Pahtli
If your Strength score is already equivalent to or greater Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement) [pluma]
than the strength given by the bands, the bands have no effect
on you. The earplugs of Pahtli are bone plugs an inch in diameter that
Lore. Halloran, a member of the Golden Legion, hero of the are worn as earrings. They magically extend normal ear
conquest of Maztica, and husband of Qotal's Chosen Erixitl piercings to accommodate their size. Earplugs of Pahtli
was known to have used the most powerful version of these function as a ring of protection and also give the wearer
items. resistance to damage that has thunder as a descriptor. The
attuned wearer can also use an action to listen in on any
Claw of Grasping verbal conversations that are in the range of sight and all
Weapon (claw), uncommon [hishna] languages are automatically understood.
A claw of grasping appears to be a two foot wooden pole with Lore. Pahtli was a pochteca that spied for the Revered
a large raptor talon fused into one of its ends. Counselor of Nexal, Naltecona. As a merchant, he was
The claw can be used as a weapon when open causing 6 welcome almost anywhere, and would use these earplugs to
(1d10+1) slashing damage on a successful hit and it receives a gather information for the Empire of Nexal.
+1 bonus to hit. Feather Darts
It may also be commanded to close tightly as an action (at Weapon (dart), uncommon [pluma]
which point its damage becomes 4 (1d6 +1) bludgeoning
damage, but once closed it is very difficult for others to force These red feather fletched wooden darts can be thrown as an
open. This action can clasp a door shut (DC 20 Strength action. Once used, they multiply and behave exactly like the
check to remove) at its hinges so that it can’t be opened, or it feather darts spell cast at 5th level. Each dart can only be used
may serve as a wall mount to anchor a rope. The claw can once and packs are typically found containing a dozen.
grasp onto any substance including stone. Lore. Feather darts were created centuries ago by the
As a bonus action, the owner can cause the claw to release famed plumaweaver Itzamna Manik who is also known for
from a range of 120 ft. and it can hold up to 1000 lb. without creating the race of beings known as the plumazotl (and
releasing its grip. subsequently being punished by the gods for doing so).
The claw has an effective Strength score of 25. The darts were his weapon of choice and he was said to
Lore. Created by hishnashapers as a weapon, clever users have killed over a dozen xiuhcouatl with them before finally
have found the claw of grasping to have a multitude of other succumbing to their attacks. Some plumazotl still pass on the
purposes. Creative players may figure out other uses for its secret of feather dart creation.
powerful grip.
66
Feathertoken Heartseeker
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attunement) [pluma] Weapon (tepoztōpīlli), legendary, requires attunement [hishna]
This is a powerful talisman that offers the holder who is One of the deadliest and most famous weapons in Maztica,
attuned and any allies within 10 feet advantage on saving the heartseeker is a tepoztōpīlli spear with a deadly ability. If
throws against spells of one particular school of magic. It you are not attuned to this weapon you may still use it, though
might also function against hishna magic instead of a school. it simply gives a +1 attack and damage roll bonus with an
The feathertoken also affords you a +1 bonus to your AC and additional 1d6 in necrotic damage.
allows you to cast feather fall on yourself only without the The spear gives you the following advantages when you are
need of a material component at will as a reaction to falling. attuned to it:
Lore. Feathertokens have existed since the earliest days Increased Potency. Heartseeker's bonus on attack and
when Qotal taught the way of the plumaweaver to his damage rolls is +2. It also deals an extra 2d6 in necrotic
worshipers. It is typically one of the first items created by a damage.
plumaweaver when they are capable of creating such an item Seek the Heart. If a creature with a heart is struck by
and usually they feathertokens which protect against hishna heartseeker on a natural attack roll of 20, the target is
magic are created. automatically brought to 0 hit points. This does not work on
creatures without hearts of those with more than 100 hit
Gizzard of Enotepec points. On creatures with more than 100 hit points,
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attunement) [hishna] heartseeker causes an additional 10d10 necrotic damage
This bladder like device can be worn like a small pouch or instead of 2d6 when this occurs.
bag. As an action, you can command it to miniaturize and Lore Heartseeker is the legendary weapon given to the
store a full set of armor or clothing. From that point forward greatest war chieftain of Kultaka. It is a badge of honor and a
the wearer may switch their current armor or clothing with reminder that the Kultakans are not to be trifled with.
the set stored in the gizzard as a bonus action. This can be Hishnacoils
done once between short and long rests. Wondrous item, rare [hishna]
Lore. Enotepec was a child of both Amn and the Payit. He
was raised in Payit by his native born mother and did not A hishnacoil is a 5 inch living ball of tiny snakes that
know his father. For years he admired the set of shining armor intertwine and squirm incessantly.
his father had left behind and eventually became proficient You can use an action to speak a command word and throw
with its use. In the heat of the jungles, this armor was the hishnacoils at a huge or smaller creature that you can see
impractical to wear. within 60 feet of you. If you make a successful ranged attack
Eventually he commissioned a hishnashaper to create this roll (using your Dexterity modifier plus your proficiency
magical storage device so that he could call upon his father’s bonus), the coils unwind and grow, wrapping around your
armor when needed. It was forged from the gizzard of a target and restraining it.
Maztican ahuizotl that he had slain. Since those early days, Six snake heads appear among the coils threatening and
the item has been copied numerous times. hissing at the restrained creature. Once restrained the
hishnacoils may automatically bite the creature for 2 (1d4)
Headdress of Awe piecing damage and an additional 5 (2d4) poison damage as a
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attunement) [pluma] bonus action on each of your turns. The hishnacoils only
The headdress of awe is comprised of the long and attack on your command and you may speak the command
magnificent feathers of unknown birds and creatures. When word again at any time to release the restrained creature as a
worn and attuned to its wearer, it raises the owners Charisma bonus action.
to 20, unless the wearer already has a Charisma of 20 or Once released, the hishnacoils returns to its original form. A
higher. It also gives the owner advantage on all Charisma creature, including the one restrained, can use an action to
based skill checks. make a DC 20 Strength check to break the hishnacoils. On a
Finally, once between long rests, the owner may use an success, the item is destroyed and the restrained creature is
action to cause the headdress to glow brightly (bright light in freed. If the check fails, the coils tighten and any further
30 foot radius, dim for an additional 30 feet) for 1 minute. attempts made by the creature automatically fail until 24
During this time, any humanoid who can see the headdress hours have elapsed.
must make a DC 15 Charisma saving throw or fall to their Once the hishnacoils are used, they can’t be used again until
knees in awe for the duration of the effect. Creatures on their the next dawn.
knees are considered prone. Lore. Hishnacoils were created by a powerful hishnashaper
Lore. These headdresses are sought after by Revered from Far Payit who enjoyed capturing his enemies before
Counselors and war chieftains across the True World. Beyond killing them in order to torture them as he pleased.
being a badge of leadership, it is difficult to resist commands Kiltzi's Rings of Eternal Love
from one who wears one of these items. Ring, rare (requires attunement) [pluma]
It is believed that only two exist and their whereabouts are
unknown. Their creation is also a mystery but the existence of These featherwoven rings always come in pairs.
these items has been rumored since the time of the first
Revered Counselors of Nexal.
67
They are typically used as to symbolize eternal devotion This small token is made of tightly woven feathers and has a
between two married humans. When a wearer is attuned to tiny, but recognizable image of the goddess Maztica on one
the ring they receive a bonus of +2 to their Charisma scores side.
(with a maximum of 20) and gain advantage on all saves that Once each week, A character can mutter a small prayer as a
are Charisma based. bonus action to Maztica at which point the character will be
Finally, once between each short and long rest, the wearer granted inspiration.
may cast Kiltzi’s love as a spellcaster of their class level. If the character has inspiration already the token will not
Lore. These wedding bands were first created by the little work and its use will be wasted for the week.
folk and only their plumaweavers knew the magic necessary Lore. Maztica’s druids work in tandem with plumaweavers
to create such items. Even wearing mundane bands was an to create these tokens and spread their goddess’ influence in
unknown practice among human Mazticans. Since the the True World despite her current condition as a dead
founding of Tukan, however, the practice has spread goddess. They are typically given to heroes who perform some
throughout the True World. great task for the goddess or for her worshipers.
Kultakan Death Whistle Obsidian Chunk (Ioun Stone)
Wondrous item, common [hishna] Wondrous item, rarity varies (requires attunement)
The Kultakan death whistle is carved from wood and has an Obsidian chunks come in a variety of irregular shapes and
image vaguely reminiscent of a human skull. Its sound is types, typically no more than an inch wide. They follow the
horrifying and can strike fear into opposing warriors. same rules as the Ioun stones found on page 176 in the
The whistle can be blown as bonus action and affects all Dungeon Master’s Guide. Different forms of obsidian chunks
creatures hostile to the blower within a 30 foot radius of the confer different abilities.
whistler who fail a DC 12 Wisdom save. Affected creatures Fire Resistance (rare, hishna). This snowflake obsidian
suffer disadvantage on their next attack roll. chunk gives you resistance to fire.
A creature may only be affected by a death whistle once in a Absorption (very rare, pluma). This rainbow obsidian
24 hour period. chunk will negate one spell of each type of magic (abjuration,
Lore. Kultakan death whistles are carved from wood found conjuration, divination, enchantment, evocation, illusion,
only in Mictlan. When at war, regiments of Kultakan warriors necromancy, transmutation, pluma and hishna) of 6th level or
typically have at least one who is using a death whistle as they below as either a reaction or action. For each spell canceled it
march into battle. will lose a bit of its coloration before becoming dull gray when
completely used up.
Moccasins of Free Movement Ablation (very rare, pluma). Made from plumastone, this
Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement) [pluma] reddish/black Ioun stone absorbs 50% of weapon damage that
is bludgeoning, piercing or slashing) as a reaction for a
Wearers of moccasins of free movement have advantage on all maximum of 20 hit points each day.
Dexterity (Stealth) checks while wearing the moccasins if they Lore. Obsidian chunk Ioun stones are occasionally found
are attuned. Also, the wearer is effectively weightless when naturally in obsidian and plumastone quarries. Where the
crossing liquid surfaces such as water, tar or even lava magic comes from is generally unknown, but assumed to be a
(though the wearer would be affected by the heat of the lava). result of the goddess Maztica’s life force that permeates the
Lore. Moccasins of free movement were originally made by entirety of the continent.
a hermetical plumaweaver whose abilities were often sought
after by folks from local villages. These moccasins helped him Octli of Strength
avoid such pests as he typically walked across the lake near Potion, rare [hishna]
his hut after sneaking away. Those who have copied his
techniques have found far greater uses for the item. Octli is an alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of
the agave plant. Octli of Strength is an enchanted version
Moccasins of the Pochteca known to be both a blessing and a curse. It typically comes in
Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement) [pluma] sealed clay containers with 1d4 doses.
When you wear these moccasins your walking speed becomes One dose of Octli of Strength gives its imbiber advantage on
40 feet, unless your walking speed is already higher. Your all Strength and Constitution based saving throws and skill
carrying capacity is also measured as if you were one size checks and disadvantage on all Dexterity and Wisdom based
category larger. saving throws and skill checks for 1 hour. It also functions as a
potion of hill giant strength giving its drinker 21 Strength for
In addition, in your travels, you may designate a location as the hour.
a “point of return” to which you may teleport to unerringly Lore. Octli of strength was created by the Kultakans for
once between long rests. The return point, once designated, special regiments that like to overwhelm enemies quickly. In
cannot be changed unless you reattune. Kultaka, it is a serious offense for any but these warriors to
Lore. The pochteca are the famed traveling merchants of imbibe or even own such an elixir.
the True World. The Grand Pochteca, merchant lord of Kolan,
is said to have created the first of these moccasins personally
and grants them to those who have performed tasks for him.
Mother's Token
Wondrous item, uncommon [pluma]
68
Plumadressing/Hishnadressing When a snake is grabbed it immediately stiffens and takes
Wondrous item, rare [pluma/hishna] the appearance of a tlacochtli dart. The dart can then be
launched from an ahtlatl normally. These darts do an
Plumadressing consists of leather straps decorated with blue additional 7 (2d6) poison damage to victims who are struck by
feathers that can be wrapped or tied around other objects. the dart. A Constitution save can be made with a DC of 12 to
Hishnadressing is similar, but made of sinew and decorated half the poison damage.
with a variety of animal fangs. The darts remain in dart form but can be retrieved by the
A magic item that is bound in plumadressing or owner; at which time they revert into snakes. If the owner is
hishnadressing does not count against the limit of magical killed before a dart is retrieved it may be retrieved by anyone
items that a character may be attuned to. A character may who claims ownership of the bag.
only receive the benefits of one plumadressed or one Lore. These enchanted serpents are used by the greatest
hishnadressed item, effectively raising the maximum number ahtlatl wielding warriors of the Kultakan armies.
of attuned items to four. This cannot be stacked with abilities
gained from character classes (such as the artisan). Skin of Pouring
Lore. Plumaweavers and hishnashapers are known for Wondrous item, uncommon [pluma]
their creation of powerful items at higher levels and their This waterskin is formed of tightly interwoven feathers. It is
ability to use more than the usual amount. These items were always full of sweet tasting water and can pour water at the
developed to allow allies to emulate that ability. rate of 5 gallons each minute.
During Maztica’s exile on Abeir artisans of both forms of
magic worked together to develop these charms in order to Sandals of Speed
help combat the horrors of that foreign world. Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement) [hishna] These
Plumalitter sandals allow you to increase your movement by 10 feet. You
Wondrous item, uncommon [pluma] also may travel an additional 6 hours per day without danger
of suffering the effects of exhaustion.
This large blanket of interwoven feathers is approximately 6 Lore. Another favorite of pochteca, sandals of speed are in
feet wide, 10 feet long, 1 foot thick and can hold up to 750 lb. many cases responsible for the efficiency of the traveling
while still allowing its magic to function. A plumalitter hovers merchants.
approximately 5 feet above the ground when a command Spiderwalker
word is spoken and can move up to 30 feet per round in any
direction including upwards. Wondrous item, rare [hishna]
Lore. The plumalitter is one of the most common items What initially appears to be the dried husk of a dead tarantula
created by plumaweavers which many use to sleep upon in spider is in fact an item of hishna magic.
addition to assisting with carrying and movement. When activated, the spiderwalker grows and becomes a
Scale of the Xiuhcoatl living giant spider (though its type is a construct). The spider
Wondrous Item, rare (requires attunement, see below) obeys the commands of the one who activated it and control
[hishna] cannot be turned to another. The spiderwalker can be
deactivated but then cannot be reactivated until the following
A scale of the xiuhcouatl appears to be a fiery red/orange evening. This is also true if the spider is slain.
serpent scale about an inch in diameter. It is always warm to Talon of Zaltec
the touch.
As a bonus action, the owner of the scale can force it to Weapon (claw), rare [hishna]
merge into any melee weapon. For an hour each day, the This weapon is fashioned from a desiccated jaguar claw at the
weapon then has the flame tongue property from page 170 of end of a small wooden stick. It causes 1d6+1 slashing
the **Dungeon Master's Guide. After the hour is up, the scale damage, has a bonus of +1 to hit, and contains a virulent
emerges from the weapon and is inert until the following poison which does 2d6 poison damage (Constitution save DC
morning. 13 for half damage) and gives the poisoned condition for 1
The scale requires attunement normally, but if it is added to minute on a failed Constitution save.
a weapon that the wielder is already attuned to, this The user may forego a claw attack to spray powder from the
requirement is negated. claw's palm in a ten foot cone that causes victims who fail a
Lore. Tezca is said to create these scales personally and DC 13 Constitution save to be blinded for 1d6 hours. There is
pass them on to the greatest of his clerics and warriors. They enough powder for 3 uses of this ability each day.
are said to all come from his most favored servant - an actual Lore. Clerics of Zaltec favor this weapon both as an
xiuhcouatl of gargantuan size. offensive and defensive device. The white powdery substance
Serpent Tlalochtli is said to be a gift from Zaltec himself, who demands a dozen
Weapon (tlacochtli), uncommon [hishna] sacrifices every time the powder is used. He has personally
caused this magic to fail in the past with clerics that do not
These darts are enchanted snakes carried in a burlap sack maintain his quota.
which typically holds 2d6 of the snakes. The snakes are
deadly poisonous but do not attack those in possession of the
bag.
69
Sentient Items and Artifacts It has the following additional properties:
The following items are powerful artifacts and a sentient Immunity. Whenever you wield Onotlatlatzin, you are
weapon thought to be one of, if not the most powerful weapon immune to lightning damage and resistant to thunder
in the True World. damage.
Call Lightning (Recharge 6). As a bonus action, you may
Onotlatlatzin call lightning if you are under an open sky to infuse the
Weapon (tepoztōpīlli), legendary (requires attunement) spear with the ability to cause an extra 10 (3d6) damage
[hishna] when you strike a creature.
Once owned by the legendary warrior Necalli, Onotlatlatzin is Sentience. Onotlatlatzin is a sentient lawful neutral
a sentient spear that glows as if made of lightning when weapon with an Intelligence of 13, a Wisdom of 10 and a
wielded in battle. You gain a +3 bonus to attack and damage Charisma of 17. It has hearing and darkvision out to range
rolls made with this weapon. of 120 feet. The weapon can speak, read and understand
Maztican.
70
Personality. Onotlatlatzin is bombastic and aggressive but
is usually protective of its owner. It wants glory for itself
and its name and believes that by properly serving its
master, it will achieve these things. It loudly encourages its
owner to take on challenges of increasing difficulty, but it is
not suicidal. The only way to incur a conflict with the spear
is to truly behave cowardly – typically by fleeing from a
weaker foe.
Lore. It is unknown where the great Necalli obtained this
weapon, but he is well known to have wielded it for many
years. A warrior of the far off land of Kolan, long before the
Empire of Nexal invaded, Necalli is legendary in his
destruction of many terrible creatures. It is said that he once
slew an enormous scaled serpent with the six heads of a The butterfly has only 4 hit points with an AC of 10 and can
jaguar. The spear’s whereabouts are currently unknown. easily be destroyed (at which point it dissipates as if used).
The Thirteen Butterflies of Qotal This butterfly is said to have been activated just over a century
Wondrous items, artifact (requires attunement) [pluma] ago to help guide the refugees of Nexal in order to found
Tukan.
The thirteen butterflies of Qotal appear to be exquisitely Resurrection. This butterfly can resurrect a hero from ages
crafted golden butterflies encrusted with gemstones. Each is past with unlimited time between his or her death and the
just under 6 inches in length but are so perfectly crafted that current age as long as some remnant of the hero is used (a
they might fetch up to 20,000 gp each just for their beauty and body part as small as a fingernail clipping may be used). Prior
materials alone. Anyone who holds one of the butterflies may to the resurrection, the butterfly’s user is permitted to speak
cast commune once between long rests, but only to contact to the hero’s tonalli (spirit) and convince it to return. If the
Qotal. hero chooses not to (DMs discretion), the butterfly dissipates
Each individual butterfly has two minor beneficial and the hero is not resurrected.
properties from page 219 of the Dungeon Master’s Guide. In Transformation. This butterfly can be used to permanently
addition, the thirteen butterflies each has a unique special change the nature of hundreds of creatures in some subtle
ability. Once this ability is used the power of the butterfly is ways. A hero of Qotal was said to have used this butterfly to
temporarily drained and the butterfly dissipates into a golden transform the dinosaurs of Abeir into the plumed behemoths
mist. After the passing of a century, the butterfly of Qotal that protected mankind during the first days of Maztica’s exile.
reforms somewhere elsewhere in Maztica. Love. This butterfly is encrusted with rubies and can fully
The butterflies are sought out in times of great need. They cause one creature to fall in love with the owner. This love can
are hidden by Qotal himself, and cannot be found without his cut across species and affects creatures up to CR17 without a
express will. In order to acquire one, Qotal requires that a save. If it is used to lead to actions that will cause the affected
potential owner undertakes a great adventure and typically creatures death, the charm is broken. Otherwise it is real,
places the butterflies at the bottom of great ruin or ancient permanent and cannot be dispelled.
sites where none will ever be found accidentally. Celestial Motion. This butterfly can temporarily affect the
The individual butterflies and their powers are listed below. motion of a celestial object. For example, it could be used to
Summon Gargantuan Butterfly. An attuned owner of this prevent an eclipse, or draw Selûne momentarily closer to
butterfly can cause it to titanic proportions and come alive. Toril. An impending asteroid collision could also be averted.
The massive creature has 800 hp but has no form of attack. Weather Control. The lapis and turquoise inlaid golden
Up to 1,000 Medium sized creatures can fit upon its back. butterfly can alter weather patterns for up to a year. A drought
This butterfly can be found if a large village or small city is in can be ended and famine could easily be averted using this
need of evacuation. power. The range of the ability is up to the DM and depends
Part Waters. An attuned owner of the second butterfly may on need, but the power of the effect dilutes as the radius
part entire seas for up to a tenday of travel. Much like the first increases.
butterfly, this one can be found when a population must be Divine Audience. This butterfly can be used to have a face
relocated. However, this butterfly is more often found when to face audience with the Plumed Dragon himself. Typically,
environmental threats are occuring. Qotal will be amenable to one request made by its user if the
Imprisonment. This butterfly can be used to imprison a butterfly was earned. Otherwise, Qotal will seek to destroy the
creature of up to CR25 in a deep slumber many miles below hubristic trespasser.
the surface of Toril. The creature is not allowed a save, but Instant Ziggurat. Much like a Daern’s instant fortress, this
each time it is used on a new creature, the prior is freed. Its butterfly can cause a structure to spring into being. However,
use might unfortunately replace one threat with another. It is the ziggurat is massive, and can be used to house or defend
rumored that this butterfly was sought out by Cordell’s men to hundreds.
combat the star worm H’Calos, but it was never found. Dragon Polymorph. The user of this red tinged golden
Lifespring. This butterfly can come to life and fly towards a butterfly can polymorph into a dragon that has the statistics of
specific location up to a thousand miles away. Anywhere the an ancient red dragon but appears much like Qotal himself.
butterfly passes in its flight becomes verdant and life Unknown Ability. The last butterfly is left for the DM to
supporting. decide, but should only appear to combat a specific threat to
the whole of the continent of Maztica.
71
The Mazticans refused to adapt to the metallurgy of the
Weapons and Equipment newcomers, however, and rarely do they wear even stolen
The following weapons, armor and miscellaneous gear or metal armor. A recent development in hishna magic has given
items can be found exclusively in the True World land of the Mazticans an alternative. Hishnahide (see the hishnahide
Maztica. spell) has greatly improved protection without significantly
altering the appearance or traditions of Maztican warriors.
Armor The great eagle and jaguar knights, the most elite of
Maztican warriors of course use their own armor which are
Maztican armor holds a great importance to the people and not inherently magical by themselves, but do channel the
their culture. Cordell’s metallic “skins” were obviously more magic of the knight's powers.
protective than the hide and cotton Mazticans typically wore. What is given below are a few types of armor that do not
Warriors would frequently find out that obsidian weapons use hide and are still in common use in the True World.
would shatter on contact.
Maztican Armor
Name Cost Armor Class Strength Stealth Weight
Light Armor
Ichcahuīpīlli 20 gp 12 + Dex modifier — — 10 lb.
Medium Armor
Ēhuatl 50 gp 13 + Dex modifier (max 2) — — 20 lb.
Eagle/Jaguar Armor — 14 + Dex modifier (max 2) — — 12 lb.
Shield
Chīmalli 15 gp +2 — — 5 lb.
Chīmalli. These are the shields of the Maztican warrior Weapons
almost exclusively. They are made with different materials, but
most often with the cane of mayz. Often, these shields are Much has changed in Maztica since the Night of Wailing, and
decorated with bright feathers. Some of the most beautiful are the weaponry of the True World has improved tremendously.
not used for war but rather only decoration. If the Golden Legion were to invade Maztica today, the war
These chīmalli are known as māhuizzoh, offer no bonus to would end up far differently than it had just over a century
AC, and are worth anywhere from 100-500 gp. ago.
Ichcahuīpīlli. This armor is made of quilted cotton which is The Faerûnians brought knowledge of metallurgy previously
then soaked in salt water brine and left to dry. The salt unknown in the True World, yet even still, this new knowledge
crystallizes and strengthens the cotton so that it becomes has been all but abandoned in favor of the working of
quite resistant to damage. plumastone. This wondrous variant of obsidian is the material
Ē huatl. This tunic is worn by noble warriors and bears the of choice for Mazticans across the continent, and almost every
motif of the warrior’s station. Under the tunic, cotton armor weapon incorporates its use.
known as tlahuiztli is typically worn. On its own the tlahuiztli Mazticans use many of the weapons found on other parts of
weighs 10 lb. and offers the protection of typical padded Toril (nets in particular), but it is far more common to find the
armor. weapons described below. In many cases, even the
Eagle/Jaguar Armor. This is the exclusive armor of the descendants of the invaders have adjusted to the native
eagle and jaguar Knight lodges. To be caught with this armor weaponry.
without earning the right (by becoming a respected member Cuahuitl. This simple baton was often made of some form
of the lodges) is punishable by immediate death, even among of hardwood and given the shape of an agave plant's leaves.
the most peaceful folk. This is considered to be a crime as Tepoztōpīlli. After the mācuahuitl, this spear-like weapon is
terrible as murder in Maztica. the most commonly used among Maztican warriors. Its head
The armor itself is flawlessly crafted. It is made from had a very broad edge and all along the edge of the head were
treated hide, but generally includes a coif from which the only imbedded plumastone shards.
the face of the wearer is exposed. The face is positioned so Cuauholōlli. In appearance this weapon is very similar to a
that it appears to come from the eagle or jaguar's mouth. The mace and was quite simple to make, yet it could also be quite
means of crafting this armor is known only to artisans who effective. The handle was made out of wood and capped with
work closely with the respective lodges and the secrets have a stone, wood, or copper sphere.
never otherwise been made available.
72
Maztican Weapons
Name Cost Damage Weight Properties
Simple Melee Weapons
Cuahuitl 1 gp 1d6 bludgeoning 2 lb. Light
Tepoztōpīlli 2 gp 1d8 piercing 4 lb. Thrown (range 20/60), two-handed
Cuauholōlli 3 gp 1d6 bludgeoning 4 lb. —
Huitzauhqui 4 sp 1d8 bludgeoning 8 lb. Two-handed
Tecpatl 20 gp 1d6 piercing 2 lb. Finesse, light, thrown (range 20/60)
Simple Ranged Weapons
Tēmātlatl 1 sp 1d4 slashing — Ammunition (range 30/120)
Martial Melee Weapons
Mācuahuitl (Maca) 10 gp 1d8 slashing 5 lb. Versatile (1d10)
Itztōpīlli 4 gp 1d8 slashing 3 lb. Special
Mācuāhuitzōctli 4 gp 1d8 slashing 5 lb. Special
Martial Ranged Weapons
Ahtlatl (with Tlacochtli) 10 gp 1d10 piercing 2 lb. Ammunition (range 60/120), loading
Ahtlatl (with Yāōmītl) 10 gp 1d8 piercing 2 lb. Ammunition (range 80/150), loading
Tlacalhuazcuahuitl 1 gp 1 piercing 1 lb. Ammunition (range 25/100), loading
Tlahhuītōlli 35 gp 1d8 piercing 2 lb. Ammunition (range 150/600), loading, heavy, two-handed
Tecpatl. This long double sided plumastone blade has an Ahtlatl. This weapon is known among Faerûnians as the
elaborate stone or wooden handle, seven to nine inches “Maztican Dart-Thrower,” but in the Maztican tongue it
overall in length. The weapon is used most commonly in literally means “Extended Arm.” Typically, this weapon is used
sacrifice and is a favorite of the beasts of Nexal for their foul to hurl darts called "tlacochtli" with greater force and from
ceremonies. greater range than they could be thrown by hand. It can also
Tēmātlatl. A sling made from maguey fiber. The Mazticans be used to hurl arrows known as yāōmītl. The people of
use hand molded clay balls filled with jagged chunks of Tulom-Itzi developed this weapon shortly after Darien’s army
obsidian as ammunition. When the clay balls shatter, the of marching ants decimated their city, but its use has spread
obsidian does actual slashing damage rather than a normal to all corners of the True World, particularly in Kultaka.
sling's bludgeoning damage. Tlacochtli. These are the darts that are typicallylaunched
Mācuahuitl (Maca). This is the most common weapon used from an ahtlatl. In actuality, these darts are more similar in
in the True World and its use is unbounded by cultures and size to a spear (at nearly 6 feet long). The darts are typically
even races. Among the gods, Zaltec is known for his great tipped with plumastone heads.
black mācuahuitl which he used to behead his mother Yāōmītl: These are the versatile war arrows that can be
Maztica. thrown from an atlatl or launched by a tlahhuītōlli. They are
It is also claimed that he taught mankind the secrets of its barbed with plumastone and typically fletched with turkey or
creation and design. The maca is essentially a flat, wide duck feathers.
wooden sword with sharp plumastone blades embedded into Tlacalhuazcuahuitl. This blowgun is made of a hollow reed
its sides. When wielded using two hands, it is said that a blow and it almost always uses a poisoned dart as ammunition. The
from this weapon could decapitate a fire lizard. darts themselves are made of sharpened wood fletched with
Itztōpīlli. This weapon was similar in design to a standard cotton. This is a favored weapon of the halfling tribes of
axe, but one side had a blunt protrusion rather than a second Maztica.
blade. Generally, the sharp edge is used in battle, but if the
wielder chooses, the blunt edge could be used for 1d6
bludgeoning damage instead of the normal 1d8 slashing.
Mācuāhuitzōctli. Generally, this weapon was used as a club
and was slightly over one and a half feet long. Four knobs and
a pointed tip protrude from its end and the tip could be used
to deal 1d6 piercing damage rather than the normal 1d8
slashing if the wielder so chooses.
73
Tlahhuītōlli. This weapon is the most commonly used
Maztican war bow. It is made from extremely flexible wood Other Gear
and is approximately five feet long stringed with animal sinew. Item Cost Weight
Artisan’s Bag 25 gp 2 lb.
Other Gear Axayacatl 1 cp —
These items found in Maztica consist of various foods, Blood Salt (dose) 150 gp —
adventuring gear, trade items and tools. This list does not
include items that Mazticans may use that appear in the Chicle 1 sp —
Player's Handbook. Chocolate 10 gp —
In addition to these, items such as cloaks, gems, feathers,
animal skins, beans, cotton, shells, building materials, and Kurari (dose) 200 gp —
stones are also traded and sold. Fire Peppers (dose) 150 gp —
Artisan’s Bag. This relatively small hide bag contains all
the materials necessary for a Maztican artisan to continually Mīcomitl 1 gp 1 lb.
work his craft. It also holds many material components for Nezca (dose) 10 gp —
spells much like a wizard’s component pouch. Octli (cup) 4 cp —
For plumaweavers, the bag typically holds a variety of
mundane feathers, while a hishnashaper’s contains various Tarqa Root (dose) 200 gp —
small teeth and talons. Uictli 5 sp 5 lb.
Axayacatl. This is the primary food of the beasts of the
Viperhand and perhaps is the sole reason the creatures have Xocoatl 25 gp —
remained populous even in their barren land. The axayacatl is
a water bug that is harvested in the thousands.
74
They are often dried in the sun and ground into dough. After Xocoatl. This is a spicy and hot chocolate drink popular
being cooked in lime water they are wrapped in cone shaped with the rich and nobility. It is made from a mix of cocoa
mayz husks and eaten. beans, flour from mayz, water and fire peppers.
Blood Salt. Near mineral deposits in the House of Tezca, a
red salt can be found which causes severe nausea if imbibed. Currency
For up to an hour after ingesting the salt, the imbiber is
poisoned (Constitution check DC 12 to avoid). It only requires The standard in currency has been in flux for a long time in
small amounts of the salt to have this effect and when the True World. Originally, most of the exchange in Maztica
dissolved in water it can easily go unnoticed. was done using a barter system that included goods and
Chicle. This product is the hardened sap of the evergreen services as much as precious metals, stones and artwork. Due
tree known as sapodilla. It is chewed rather than eaten mostly in part to the pochteca, a standard was needed to
outright. represent the high value of foreign goods from all parts of the
Chocolate. Made from sugar and the cocoa bean, chocolate continent.
is considered a true delicacy in the True World and beyond. The “cocoa bean” (cb) eventually came to represent the
The relatively high value of the cocoa bean is in fact due to basic unit of currency and is roughly the equivalent of a
this demand. Faerûnian copper piece. In areas where the crop was more
Kurari. Typically held in coconut containers, kurari poison common, the cocoa bean could be worth far less, worthless in
is a powerful paralytic poison created from plant sap that is fact – except in large quantities.
primarily used by the jungle halflings. Kurari is a viscous Yet in other regions a cocoa bean could be exchanged for up
yellow/green liquid and anyone hit by a slashing or piercing to an entire silver piece. Around the time of Cordell,
weapon to which it is applied must make a Constitution save Faerûnians found the bean to be delicious (and profitable for
(DC 13) unless they are immune to poison. If they fail the save exchange merchants) so they fetched a much higher average
they are paralyzed for 1 minute. At the start of every one of price in Ulatos, Trythosford and New Waterdeep.
their turns, the paralyzed creature can save again to shake off In the larger cities, other forms of currency were used
the effects. including ears of mayz, coral buds, copper blades, quills filled
One coconut full holds anywhere from 20-50 doses (and is with gold dust (gq), and sizeable chunks of uncut turquoise or
priced accordingly). A single dose can coat one weapon for a jade.
single attack, but up to three arrows each, which it is typically Since the time of the Golden Legion, most of the True
used for. Unlike basic poisons, the viscous material does not World has adopted the foreigners’ system of minting coins.
dry up quickly and can remain potent up to an hour. The first gold coins were printed with Cordell’s face on one
Fire Peppers. Far more powerful than normal spices, with side and an eagle on the other which was rumored to
a successful attack, fire peppers could be used to blind one represent Cordell’s eagle knight ally Poshtli. Apparently,
creature for 1 minute. Also, if a creature ingests at least one Cordell’s narcissism didn’t go over well with the lords and
entire fire pepper, it must make a Constitution save (DC 10 + ladies of Amn, so this coin was only in print for a few years.
number of fire peppers consumed beyond the first) or become Collectors are now willing to pay up to ten times the actual
incapacitated. This spice is popular as a foodstuff among the gold value for such rare coins.
Far Payits who appear to be resistant to its negative effects Coins have since been printed with popular Revered
(advantage on the Constitution saving throw). Counselors and the eagle backside has been kept. A jaguar
Mīcomitl. This is the name of the typical Maztican quiver representing the great jaguar knight Gultec has also been
and is usually made of animal hide. It could hold up to twenty used regularly. When found, treasure in the True World could
arrows. contain any version or mix of the currencies given, but
Nezca. The mushroom known as nezca grows in the typically the older the horde, the less likely each will be found.
shadows of jungle trees in the foothills and mountains. The Older hordes typically find most of their value in pure
Dog People sometimes foray into these areas outside of their precious metals, stones and artwork.
desert homes to find the fungus in order to induce visions and
“commune” with their ancestral spirits. The effects that it has Average Exchange Rates
are not in fact magical, but chemical. When eaten the imbiber Currency cp sp ep gp pp
must make a Constitution save (DC 10) or become Cocoa Bean (cb) 1 1/10 1/50 1/100 1/1000
incapacitated for 1d4 hours, though the save can be
intentionally failed. The “visions” continue for days but do not Ear of Mayz 1 1/10 1/50 1/100 1/1000
otherwise have any game effects. Copper Blade 10 1 1/5 1/10 1/100
Octli. This milk-colored, viscous liquid produces light foam.
It is made by fermenting the sap of certain types of maguey Coral Bud 50 5 1 1⁄2 1/20
plants and is an alcoholic beverage. Quill of Gold Dust (gq) 500 50 10 5 1/2
Tarqa Root. The tarqa plant has deep woody roots from Uncut Jade 1000 100 20 10 1
which a poisonous white powder can be extracted. If inhaled,
this powder causes debilitating seizures if a Constitution save Uncut Turquoise 5000 500 100 50 5
(DC 12) is failed. The root does 2d4 poison damage and
causes the creature to act as if stunned for one round.
Uictli. Wooden digging sticks used by farmers and other
commoners. Uictli bear some resemblance to a spear and a
character proficient in the use of spears could gain their
proficiency bonus when using the uictli as an improvised
weapon (yet still only doing 1d4 damage).
75
Adventures
A
dventuring in Maztica is a unique challenge and This priestess was given a vision during her sleep that she
experience for both players and DMs. It is a was flying through the jungles at a great speed. After what
fantastical approach to cultures that might not may have been moments or hours, as time was
be familiar to either. The following sections can incomprehensible in her vision, the priestess came upon a
be used to spark adventures (or used in their sheer cliff in the jungle. A narrow cleft in the rock, only large
entirety) for years to come. enough for travelers to pass one at a time became visible
under thick vines and foliage. High above the cleft, she noticed
a symbol. Her eyes, or rather her awareness, could not focus
Hooks and Rumors on the image to begin with, but soon the symbol began to
It cannot be forgotten that Maztica is in fact a continent, and glow, beckoning her deeper into the cleft. The now golden
the possibilities for adventure are virtually limitless. The image was unmistakably in the form of a beautiful butterfly.
novels and to a lesser extent the 2nd Edition boxed set define Perhaps the very ones that Qotal had so long ago unleashed
an adventure of epic scope, but there are many more than upon the world!
what can be covered in just those few pages. As the priestess forced her consciousness into the cleft, a
The following section is devoted to a few additional rumors new feeling fell upon her; this one was of menace and
and adventure hooks that the DM could easily expand upon. darkness. Before she could go much further, the feeling
Some are specific to locations while others are easily placed became overwhelming and the last thing she could remember
anywhere within the True World. was the feeling of teeth and the smell of rank breath
surrounding her.
The Thirteen Butterflies of Qotal
The Men of Mud, Wood and Gold
In ancient days the gods commanded their worshipers to build
them a pyramid of such splendor that none like it had ever When the gods first came to the True World they sought to
been known before in the True World. The gods directed them create man to worship and honor them. First, they created
to build this pyramid deep in the desolation of the House of men from the mud of the great riverbanks. At first, these men
Tezca, where the gods could battle within its gargantuan pleased the gods, but when Azul's first rains came, the men
temple. Qotal and Zaltec provided for their devoted in the were washed away and the first playthings of the gods were
desert and soon a city formed with numerous homes, palaces lost to them. Next, the gods attempted to make man of wood.
and additional places of worship. This City of the Gods was The rains came and the wooden man could withstand even
known as Tewahca and before the battle was to commence, the greatest deluge. The gods were pleased until the lightning
the gods demanded sacrifice. of Tezca set the wooden man on fire, and once again the gods
Zaltec called to his throngs of warriors and soon ten- had failed. They then forged a man of gold. While these beings
thousand strong offered their hearts upon the pyramid's blood were immune to both the rains and fire, they had no true
soaked steps. Qotal, ever the gentler of the brothers, brought tonalli to speak of and the gods were not satisfied with their
only a gilded cage of thirteen butterflies for his own sacrifice. worship. The gold man was soon discarded and the gods
As he released the butterflies, they flew from the cage and all despaired.
signs of Zaltec's gory deeds were cleared. Zaltec roared his Finally, the Father of the Gods, great Kukul - took his
rage and battle commenced between the siblings. macuahuitl and severed his own fingers. The fingers fell to the
To the delight of his devout, Qotal emerged victorious that world and wriggled until they stood and mankind as we know
day. it was born. The gods were finally pleased.
After the battle, the desert began to once again dry up and There have been stories handed down from the greatest
soon after, the human inhabitants fled to other lands. Tewahca plumaweavers that not all of these men perished in those
was lost to the sands of time and remained hidden for ancient days. The legends hold that those that survived felt
centuries (though in more recent events it has been found!). abandoned by their creators and hold no love for their gods, or
Qotal's butterflies too, had never been seen again, though it is for their favored creations...
said that wherever they flew, the most verdant and colorful In a remote part of the True World, these proto-men do still
regions of the True World were born. In Far Payit, blight has survive. The men of mud (lutum), wood (evil treants) and gold
affected the lush jungles. Slowly, vast swaths of the wooded (golems) still survive in hidden valleys far from major human
realm have turned pale and lifeless. Elders of Tulom-Itzi have population centers. Perhaps one of these hidden enclaves is
determined that this destruction has been caused by the found and the creatures vent their rage on the interlopers.
smallest of creatures. After tasting a small bit of revenge, perhaps they seek more
This insect, known to the white skinned immigrants as a and begin terrorizing local villages and towns. Can the
"beetle" is not an enemy that can be defeated with maca or adventurers stop them? Perhaps the gods themselves could be
magic. It seems as if the forests and jungles are doomed and convinced to accept their long lost creations? Kiltzi as the
only the gods themselves could save Far Payit now. Watil, goddess of love, for one, might favor acceptance and
Maztica's goddess of plants and nature, has provided one of forgiveness, but do these "original men" even want to be
her highest priestesses with knowledge of a possible solution. accepted?
76
Princess Aliah of Far Payit Though they share a moniker with another dark being, the
"obsidian butterflies" of the True World (bats, to Faerûnians)
The tragedy of Princess Aliah is a well known story are said to heed his every command and when a child is found
throughout Maztica which is used by elders to teach the evils pale and bloodless on a morning after particularly starless
that might come from unhealthy obsessions. Though it might nights, they are said to have fed the god. Children are not the
not have been the direct cause of the end of the Golden Age of only victims of the god's deprived appetite and many careless
Payit, it certainly heralded the beginning of the end. men and women have disappeared in the jungles only to be
During the Golden Age of Payit, mankind had moved into found days later, completely drained. The disappearances have
grand cities and advanced in the arts, astronomy and trade occurred much more frequently as of late.
like at no other time in history. A young princess of Ulatos While Camazotz might be the name of a true deity, the
known as Aliah was said to have been the most beautiful being who takes that name in Maztica is nothing of the sort,
woman in the land and many suitors sought her hand. She yet he is no less horrifying. Camazotz was one of the first men
was betrothed to her half-brother Xetl when she came of age of Maztica, possibly one of the actual fingers of Kukul that
and men across many nations despaired. The proud prince first wriggled to life in untold ages past. He was the first to
Tacal of Far Payit, however, would not accept anyone but worship Zaltec as his dark patron, though before long he
himself as her rightful husband. developed his own taste for blood and the hearts of sacrifice.
Tacal believed himself to be the only one suited to marry Camazotz began to believe himself greater than his deity
such a bright jewel and with a small group of conspirators, he and more worthy of sacrifice than the Eater of Hearts himself.
formulated a plan to take her. On the evening of her wedding His powerful personality convinced more than a few
to Xetl, Tacal and his allies infiltrated the grand ceremony. sycophants of his claims and they were forced to build
When the time was right, he signaled his men and before she temples to the man-god. It is said that Zaltec himself slew the
could make her vows she was bound, gagged, and whisked pretender upon the summit of one of his own blasphemous
away to the edge of the temple. The eagle and jaguar Knights temple-pyramids and with that the time of Camazotz was
of Ulatos were too persistent and canny to be outmaneuvered thought to be over.
and Tacal was soon caught. His retinue was slain to the man. Itzapaplotl, the true Obsidian Butterfly and demoness of the
Tacal was a prince of the city of Tulom-Itzi in Far Payit and Maztican pantheon was at the time a lover to Zaltec. Their
his whole family had been invited to the ceremony. They too "relationship" as it was, was fraught with jealousy and grabs
were slain in the chance that they might be in league with the for power, and in Camazotz she saw a way to hurt her dark
abductor. When Tacal saw his plans foiled and his entire bed mate. She raised Camazotz as the undead; one who
family thrown from the edges of the temple, his mind was forever depended on blood and would forever take what he
shattered. With an obsidian dagger he cut the throat of Aliah could grab from the mouth of Zaltec himself. Knowing that
and murdered the object of his obsession. Though war never Zaltec would seek his demise, Camazotz stuck to the dark
blossomed between Payit and Far Payit, something certainly places of the world and hid.
changed in the True World after the tragedy. Over the centuries he grew in power and fed from the lost
Trade diminished, art and learning no longer flourished, and and the unwanted. This ancient Maztican vampire now has
soon the families began to move back into the jungle and the followers hidden in all parts of the True World and he still
much smaller villages. Civilization, it seemed, was to take a plots to one day take the divinity that he rightfully deserves.
step backwards.
Recently, apparitions have been seen in modern Ulatos and Rumors from the South
even in nearby Helmsport. It is said that the spirits of both One of the survivors of Cordell’s original invasion and
Aliah and her tormentor have never quite rested fully. In truth, attempted subjugation of Nexal was a soldier named Jalimar
Aliah has moved on to her just reward in the afterlife, but the Trollslayer. He was a greedy man who cared all too much for
rumors are true about Tacal. His jealousy and betrayal have the gold that the expedition sought after and he was not well-
caused him to arise as a powerful mictlanec, and he forever liked by the natives for this reason.
seeks his "betrothed." However, Jalimar was a brave soldier in battle and he was
Tacal has remained buried in his unmarked grave for awarded a large tract of land by Cordell which became a
centuries but was released after recent construction in the plantation. Jalimar in his lust for gold was never satisfied in
outskirts of Ulatos. He has since located his former co- his role as a plantation owner and he eventually sold the land
conspirators and they serve him again as shadows. Now, Tacal to a petty noble from man from Memnon known as Drakosa.
searches in the darkest hours for Aliah and he is more than Jalimar set forth on an expedition of his own, following
happy to enact revenge on the people of Ulatos during his rumors of vast amounts of wealth far to the south. Along with
search. him, he brought ten other Amnites and fifty native Payits. Not
Camazotz a single member of this large expedition was ever seen again.
The story of Jalimar Trollslayer was a deterrent to others who
The name Camazotz has been spoken in stories both ancient might have sought wealth of their own in the south. For
and new. A "boogeyman" as the white men of Faerûn would decades, the only knowledge of these far lands has remained
say, or a god that only a tortured soul would honor. As dark its name – Lopango.
Zaltec eats the hearts of his worshipers, this divine being is
said to drink the blood spilled both in sacrifice and on the
fields of war.
77
Jalimar’s standard was recently found in the possession of a
pochteca and identified by a scholar of Tukan. Emblazoned on As long as you stay close and cover each other’s backs, you
a golden disk, the sign of a trolls skull split by a broadsword should be able to get to the queen’s chamber and slay her. Or
and emblazoned with a motif of fire was unmistakable. What at least, you hope you can.
was even more surprising, was the fact that the coin had been
printed with a date, and that date was only two years ago!
Once the PCs have entered the mound, they will have to
navigate a lair of dozens, if not hundreds of chambers.
The interior is pitch black and there is little sound except
Product Note for the slight sounds of movement from elsewhere in the
This hook is developed off of the description of mound.
Plantation Drakosa from page 7 of FMA1 Fires of Random Encounters. The players will have to search the
Zatal. In addition, it is designed to give a reason for interior of the ant colony for 1d8 full hours in order to have
sending players to the southern continent of the encounter in each of the named chambers. During their
Lopango. exploration, they will have to roll every four times (every 15
minutes or so) to determine if they have a random encounter.
You may decide how long it takes to travel between each
named chamber, but they should come in relatively rapid
The Dark Mound succession towards the end of the search.
Dark Mound is a short series of encounters designed for new Some of these encounters occur within the tunnels
characters in the setting of Maztica. By the end of the themselves in which case the PCs will have to fight in single
adventure, depending on the PCs actions and the number of file from a prone position.
encounters that occur, the players should have gained a few Roll 1d20 and check the following table to determine if an
levels. It is designed to begin at 2nd level for four players. encounter occurs, and under which conditions.
Background Random Encounters
Tulom-Itzi was once decimated by thousands of marching Roll 1d20 Encounter Conditions
giant ants spurred on by Lolth’s dark magic and the bidding of 1-11 None None
the albino drider Darien well over a hundred years ago. The
ants were eventually killed and Tulom-Itzi was rebuilt, but the 12-13 1d4 Worker Giant Fire Ants None
ant threat never truly disappeared. 14-15 1d4 Worker Giant Fire Ants Must fight Prone
Some ants, led on by pure instinct, founded their own new
colonies and new queens were born in their dark tunnels. The 16-17 1d4 Male Giant Fire Ants None
Itza inhabitants of Far Payit are not old enough to have been 18-19 1d4 Male Giant Fire Ants Must fight Prone
alive when this horror occurred. However, they have been 20 1d4 Males + 1d4 Workers None
taught by their parents and their parents’ parents to eradicate
colonies whenever they should pop up, lest the terror of a Rewards. In each ant encounter listed above ants, there is a
century past come again. possibility that one of the ants is dragging a corpse of some
Set Up unfortunate human (an Itza man or woman) to the mushroom
In Far Payit, the Itza people are always on the lookout for new farm or directly to the larva chamber. Roll 1d8 at the
folk to help guard the numerous jungle villages. Even Tulom- completion of each encounter. Each of the following can only
Itzi itself, the great capital city of the jungle realm, has need of be rewarded once. If a result is repeated, treat it as if the
heroes and the party looks like just the bunch. A village elder result was “none.”
attempts to hire the party to eradicate a colony of fire ants. Rewards
This is not just any colony, however, and the party is in for
quite a surprise if they believe themselves above killing simple Roll
ants. 1d8 Reward
In fact, the colony in question is of deadly giant fire ants! 1-4 None
The elder in question, a doddering old plumaweaver names A bag with five uncut pieces of jade and 2 uncut
Atl, will offer the party a princely sum of 30 gold quills should 5
pieces of turquoise (150 gp total)
they slay the colony queen and bring back evidence of her
demise. With their queen destroyed, the individual ants will 6
A belt with a gold buckle (50 gp) and a potions of
likely disperse or sicken and die on their own. Either way, they healing
will no longer be an impending threat. 7 A featherwoven +1 ring of protection
Entrance. Read the following description to the PCs as they
approach the entrance to the anthill. 8 A +1 tēmātlatl and 10 quills of gold dust (50 gp)
Chambers. Though there are hundreds of tunnels and
This is by far the most massive anthill you have ever seen.
chambers in the ant colony, the true heart lies deep in the
Rising twenty five feet or so into the air you can only imagine lowest chambers. The named areas are the only keyed
the size of the ants that live within. You have agreed to your encounters but the DM may want to develop others to expand
quest however, and no time is as good as now to begin. the adventure. E
78
Crossroads
The party is entering the heart of the dark mound and this is
the area with the highest traffic. Roll once on the random
encounters table when the party first enters these chambers,
then again after each five minutes.
Dead End
Years ago a curious myconid and some myconid adults broke
through to this portion of the ant colony. They were quickly
overwhelmed by the ants and all were slain but the king. The
ants instinctually collapsed the majority of the tunnel but if the
DM chooses to allow it, the players could dig here and find the
entrance to the underdark.
The digging would take two hours, requiring a roll on the
random encounters table every 15 minutes. The uncovered
tunnels then lead into areas outside the scope of this
adventure.
There is something else of interest in the room. Read the
following to the PCs when they enter.
As your light reaches the back of the chamber, you notice
something that all adventurers like to see. A wooden chest sits
in the center of the chamber. It is closed, but you can only
imagine what treasures lie within!
When things appear to be too good to be true, they likely are.
The moment the first PC comes within striking range, the
chest will reveal itself to be a mimic. The mimic did not
expect to see humans in its current location but it had no use
in fooling the ants, so it has remained in its chest shape
indefinitely.
Fungus Farm
The fire ants are perfectly willing to eat raw meat, but the vast
majority of their food comes from fungus that is carefully
cultivated by the ants. This is a particularly large fungus farm
that is used primarily to feed the queen and her larvae. When
the party enters read the following.
You have just entered the largest chamber you have yet to see
within the dark mound. Your light source shows that from end
to end, the chamber is probably over 200 feet in diameter. The
ceiling also looms about 50 feet above you.
As you look inside, you notice a white fungus covers nearly
the entire chamber. When you walk, you find yourself ankle
deep in the material. Protruding from the rot are dozens of
human, halfling, jaguar and other less easily recognizable
corpses.
There are no ants here at the moment but when you peer
into the back of the chamber you notice some brown and red
hued fungi as well. The fungi begin to move in your direction!
The ants might not be intelligent but their instincts are
incredible when it comes to the design and well-being of their
home.
79
The ants have trapped a myconid sovereign here that came If the queen has been slain the message will already have
in through the Dead End before that exit to the underdark was been relayed to these workers through chemical means and
closed off. they will be berserk. This causes the ants to behave erratically
The ants, perhaps due to the effects of eating the strange and at the start of every one of their turns, roll a 1d4. If a 4 is
fungus that grows here, seem immune to all of his spore rolled, one of the ants begins to attack another ant rather than
attacks. They have left the creature here alone in the farm, but the PCs.
whenever the myconid attempts to escape it is torn apart by
male and worker ants. They always leave the myconid just Mud Chamber
clinging to life. The ant mound is truly a wonder of architecture, particularly
The myconid’s presence here encourages the growth of the for creatures that are supposedly unintelligent. Whenever
fungi which the ant queen seems to understand. Its sad heavy rain falls, excess water flows into this chamber. Without
situation bears a stunning resemblance to imprisonment. it, some of the nastier weather might otherwise cause the ants
Unfortunately, long years of solitude have driven the to drown.
myconid sovereign to insanity. It is now effectively a chaotic It has not rained severely in months so the bottom is
creature and will attack anyone entering the farm on sight actually just a mud pit that PCs must make a Dexterity
(with the exception of the ants). It will begin its attack with (Acrobatics) check with a DC of 13 to prevent themselves
hallucination spores. from getting stuck each turn they use movement in the
The corpses are all in varying states of decay, and a grand chamber (the character is restrained, requiring a successful
total of 300 gp in small items of jewelry and loose coins can Strength check with a DC of 13 to escape).
be found. However, it takes a full hour to search the room The mud also acts as difficult terrain for movement
completely and the random encounter table should be purposes. What’s worse yet, is that a quintet of mud mephits
consulted once again every 15 minutes (ignore the prone have made this pit their home. The ants leave these planar
condition). nuisances be as they don’t even appear as living beings to the
ants senses.
Queen’s Chamber The mephitis will wait until one or more PCs is stuck in the
The giant fire ant queen lairs in this chamber and she is mud to attack. They have collected small trinkets from the
continually attended by 4 male giant fire ants. The queen is victims of the ants over the year, most of them worthless, but a
in the process of laying eggs and is not actually mobile at the DC 13 Wisdom (Perception) check will uncover a skin of
moment. She is, however, capable of using her acid spray pouring hidden in the muck.
attack and will do so whenever it is available and there are
PCs in range. Conclusion
If the males are slain, she can easily be picked off with Exiting the mound once the queen is dead will be a much
ranged attacks. There is no treasure in the room, but the PCs simpler ordeal than entering as the ants will be in a state of
should remove a mandible or some other form of proof that confusion. If they have had an easy time at it, perhaps the PCs
the queen has been slain should they wish to collect their can have a few more battles coming their way.
reward in Tulom-Itzi. In Tulom-Itzi, Atl gives them their due reward if they present
Egg Chamber proof of the queen's demise. The PCs could easily be
contacted in the future now that word has gotten around
Five worker giant fire ants continually attend the larva and about their bravery.
eggs that occupy this chamber. There are currently close to
100 wriggling larva (noncombatant) and over 200 eggs!
80
Monsters
T
here are familiar enemies like the displacer
beast and trolls waiting to challenge and kill
upstart heroes in the True World, but there are
also many creatures that are virtually unknown
in Faerûn or anywhere else in the world. This
collection is just a small sample of those
creatures.
Giant Fire Ants
Giant fire ants are terrible and aggressive beasts that once
decimated the city of Tulom-Itzi and have since plagued the
nearby jungles.
Unlike most giant ant species which tend to bite and spit
acid into a wound, giant fire ants actually use their mandibles
mostly just to grasp at prey and position themselves while
they sting with their abdomens, injecting a venom that has a
powerful burning pain, thus giving the ant their common
moniker.
Giant ants are broken up into three different "castes" with
different duties. The workers can defend a nest but are more
useful for basic maintenance, tending to grubs and farming.
Males are primarily for defense and inseminating the queen,
and a single queen spends most of her existence eating and
laying eggs. Queens are incapable of moving while
reproducing but they do have an acidic spray which they can
use to defend themselves.
81
Maztican Jaguar
Slightly larger and more powerful than its relatives in other
parts of Toril, the legendary Maztican jaguar is not a beast to
be trifled with.
For thousands of years, mankind has emulated the creature
to learn stealth, how to hunt and even gain fighting tactics. It
is largely considered a sacred animal and some villages find it
taboo to kill one, even in self defense. Others think it a right of
passage for young hunting parties to find and kill their first
Maztican jaguar.
Maztican jaguars are the totem creature for the jaguar
knights and it is not entirely unknown for a particular lodge to
keep a few as guards or allies.
82
AZURE SKIES
83
Azure Skies
A
t one time, Mazticans might not have understood
or accepted the speed at which the world around
them changed. But in the past century and a half, Dedication
world-shaking events are occurring at least once
a generation. The Sundering was no exception, This story is dedicated to my mother.
where once again the skies returned to azure.
Her name can be found in the hero Anxelli, and her
Azure Skies is a short narrative showing how the native folk loving wisdom in the soul of Cualli.
of the continent of Maztica experienced the worldwide event
known as the Sundering.
Prologue
Anxelli was running through the jungle, ignoring the brush For the remainder of her existence, she had been forced to
scratching at her face. Famous in the northern reaches of live with virtually no discernible face. Her eyes remained, but
Payit for her exceptional speed, the village elders knew that her once beautiful lips, nose and ears had been literally
she was perhaps the only one capable of surviving this task. melted from her face so that only the gaps in her pink skin
Anxelli however, knew that even the fastest of humans couldn't remained. As if to torture her more fully, the xiuhcouatl left
outrun the raptors which pursued her. The bird-like lizards her senses intact, thinking that she would suffer more as she
rarely needed a reason to hunt but the fact that she carried an experienced her disfigured form. Her lasting suffering in truth
entire clutch of their eggs in a feathered sack gave them a came only from the loss of her husband. Even after hundreds
sense of purpose uncommon for such creatures. of years, the death of Itzamna Manik still felt like a fresh
Even in her panic and state of mortal danger, Anxelli's wound that no scars could ever seal.
thoughts went to the remarkable calls of the hunting bird- The chieftain of the plumazotl, a favorite of hers who went
lizards. by the name Makuatua, approached and her pride swelled.
Similar in some ways to the calls of jungle birds, the hoots The existence of these beautiful beings was the reward for her
and whistles were actually quite beautiful. The startling endurance. Composed entirely of beautiful feathers sculpted
variety and inflection gave her the impression that the raptors into the shapes of birds or men, they were a wonder to behold.
might communicate just as effectively as man with his Despite her emotional pain and the sacrifices she made,
language. She knew that if this was so, their words could only Cualli knew that if she had to do it all over again her choice
mean, "We have her now." would be no different.
As the calls got closer, she heard the approach from all =======
sides. The raptors were surrounding her. It would not be long
before she ran headlong into the one whose calls now came In her stone palace deep in the rocky sky kingdom Tamoacha,
from her front. As she ran, Anxelli removed the obsidian knife Itzapaplotl scratched her taloned feet on the still squirming
from her belt pouch, knowing full well it would not be enough pale white bodies beside her throne. Itzapaplotl, who had also
to protect her from these powerful predators. She thought been known across the ages as the Obsidian Butterfly, found
that she might be able to take one of the beasts with her as herself above all things bored. Only a month ago her star
she prepared herself to enter whatever world might come demons (or tzitzimitl) captured an entire clutch of the parrot-
next. like humanoids known as aarakocra for her sadistic pleasure.
Since the gods had disappeared over a century past, her
minions have been able to raid the world below at their
======= leisure.
Under her feathered headdress, Cualli, smiled at her In the first days long before the changing of the sky – Kukul,
“children” as she had for the past eight centuries. They were the Father of the Gods, decreed that Itzapaplotl could not prey
beings of impossible beauty, yet the plumazotl never showed upon his creation as long as his eye was turned toward the
even the slightest hint of trepidation when addressing her world. Only occasionally would the The Eye of Kukul be
horribly disfigured form. In a time long past she and her obscured from the world’s view by Toril’s satellite – and during
husband Itzamna Manik created them in what many consider these eclipses, she could do as she pleased.
the greatest feat of plumaweaving ever performed by a mortal In a joyous turn of events just over a century ago the entire
or possibly even immortal being. planet below disappeared and was replaced with a new steel
Cualli and Itzamna suffered terribly for that act. They were skied version of the original. The lands of the True World
tortured and burned for decades under the ministrations of somehow remained, but on this new world no god was present
the xiuhcouatl; flame-like perversions of her deity’s own most to hold her to Kukul’s ancient dictate. This century had
favored creations; the couatl. The terrible flame serpents had allowed her to slaughter at whim!
been sent by both the deity of fire Tezca and the murderous
god Zaltec for what they deemed was an act of unsurpassed
hubris. Itzamna eventually succumbed to the flames but Cualli
lingered on.
84
There had been less fortunate changes as well. No longer On her way down Anxelli saw that one of the raptors caught
dependent on their gods, mankind began to grow significantly the thrown bag in a remarkably delicate manner. “Good for
and rapidly in strength. Their magic of hishna and pluma was them,” she thought. Anxelli was satisfied knowing she hadn’t
not as weak as it once was and tempered by a more primitive taken the lives of so many unborn along with her own. In her
and brutal world, human warriors had grown more fearsome. last moments, she regretted taking the eggs and believed the
Mankind had even turned back her tzitzimitl on occasion. She creatures didn’t deserve what her elders had planned for
cared for her creations only as tools for her depredations, but them. Her village’s hishnashapers believed that they could call
still this turn of events drove her into fits of rage. upon the power of hishna to make alterations in each egg.
Itzapaplotl was nearly lost in her own musings when to her They hoped to create guardian creatures against the
pleasant surprise she found a single feather on the still living, depredations of the dreaded star demons that had decimated
but mostly unconscious aarakocra that lay to the right of her her home. The desperate experiment had been made before,
throne. She took pleasure in violently removing it, knowing once in days long past. This first attempt, before the skies
that the creature still had a little suffering left to endure. changed from azure to steel, was a legendary disaster. Terrible
creatures had been birthed, but they were as savage as their
======= forebears and uncontrollable. The resulting magical
Though she could detect the faint odor of rotting meat as if monstrosities certainly were no boon to the safety of mankind.
the breath of a raptor was upon her, Anxelli found a reason to Three clutches of eggs had been captured recently at the
hope. She heard the sound of running water and believed it to expense of dozens of lives of good jaguar and eagle knights.
be that of a nearby river. Though Anxelli was not entirely sure These experiments too had been for naught as every altered
how effective raptors were as swimmers, she was certain that raptor that hatched died within minutes. Anxelli questioned
she stood at least a better chance entering a swift stream if why she accepted the mission to begin with.
only she could make it in time. Hope renewed her On the way down, Anxelli felt the pain in her belly subside.
determination and Anxelli ran faster than she ever had before. After what seemed like an eternity but was in reality only a
The calls of the raptors grew faint as the sounds of running few seconds, all went black.
water intensified. For a brief moment she thought she might =======
make it, but then a trio of raptors stepped directly into her
path. The Obsidian Butterfly never named her tzitzimitl despite
They had herded Anxelli like the fowl she once ran down their unique personalities, but she recognized the particularly
with her childhood playmates. The river also proved to be a scrawny specimen that stood before her. Of all her pets, this
false hope. It lay far below a cliff face she now approached and one was perhaps her favorite since its cruelty was a near
even if she could get by the raptors, she doubted the match to her own. When this particular star demon brought
possibility of her survival with a jump. The three stood her captives, they were rarely in good enough shape to live
blocking the cliff face and more could be seen arriving to her more than a day or two under her own ministrations.
left and right. Clever creatures, it was obvious that the raptors Normally, such greed among her minions would drive her to
behind her now had her completely trapped. destroy the offender, but she saw so much of herself in the
Acting purely on instinct, Anxelli ran towards the closest of runt that she let him sneak his tortures. When the star demon
the plumed lizards and slashed her blade. She stabbed at it blamed others of his kind for each victim’s sorry state she
hard and scored a direct hit to its fanged mouth, but if it felt usually destroyed the accused to sate her own bloodlust
the slight wound she caused in its front shoulder it certainly despite her awareness of the truth.
did not react as such. “Runt, what is it you wish from your queen and your
The raptor bit at her but she managed to use her mother? Speak quickly or I will put out your star fire and leave
momentum to slide under the beast. Not that it mattered, but your undying bones to float in the void for eternity!”
her obsidian blade had fallen from her hand when it struck In a humble voice, the Runt responded, “Dear Queen and
and now she was left utterly weaponless. All three raptors Mother, I bring news from the True World. The sky changes
charged her as she stumbled back to the very edge of the cliff. once again! As it did a century ago, there is reason to believe
Anxelli had to decide at this moment if it would be teeth or the that once again the worlds are sundering.”
jagged rocks below that would end her life. “And why do you bother me with such trivial news? What
Perhaps there was another way? In desperation she does this mean to an eternal such as me? If my playthings hail
removed the pack full of eggs and held them before the from one world or another what should it matter to me?”
raptors. Anxelli held the eggs high; making it obvious her The star demon shifted, showing some fear in continuing,
intentions to smash them should the creatures make a move. but it held its ground and Itzapaplotl admired its bravery.
Their intelligence was obvious so Anxelli knew the raptors “Forgive me, Queen and Mother, I know your evil is all
would understand her intentions. For a brief moment her plan powerful and independent of the world itself, but would it not
seemed as if it might work and the raptors hesitated. Then, in cause you some consternation should the gods return and
blatant defiance of her bluff, a raptor with blue-green plumage reclaim their ancient edict?”
struck out at Anxelli’s belly with its vicious talon. Obsidian Butterfly blasted the creature with fire, knocking it
The wound was deep and the pain caused her to nearly backwards but causing no real damage. “How dare you
faint. Instead of dropping the eggs, in one last desperate assume the gods had such a hold over my fate? They are
attempt, she threw them high into the air to cause a nothing to me now and could not possibly have the power to
distraction before she jumped to her doom. enforce the terms of such an unfair contract. Go from my sight
now before my decision to keep you as my living servant
changes!”
85
Itzapaplotl managed to keep herself from appearing any less “Calm yourself child. I often forget how disconcerting my
than the ultimate power her servants thought her to be, but in appearance can be, but I am no foul being of Xibalba come to
truth, the Runt had struck a chord. She noticed what had been take your soul into the eternal pits of despair. I witnessed your
occurring below but thought nothing of it. Itzapaplotl was fall and protected you as best I could, but your tonalli had
many millennia old and change had come before but this is nearly fled by the time Makuatua was able to reach you.”
the first time she actually feared the change. What if the gods Anxelli soon realized that the woman was horribly
returned? Would she be able to continue down her current disfigured, but otherwise human. Embarrassed, she hoped
path with her lofty plans? that she did not offend the one who had in fact saved her life.
None but the Obsidian Butterfly knew the true reason “What is a Makuatua, fair lady? My apologies if I offended
behind the endless murder and torture. When the gods you. The pain has me delirious and I did not…”
disappeared and her presence in the world was no longer “Easy child, do not bother yourself with concern. You meant
limited, Itzapaplotl learned that she derived power from her no offense and there is none taken. My name is Cualli and this
depredations. Each corpse that lay rotting in her filth pits gave is ‘a’ Makuatua.” The disfigured woman gestured to what
some part of its tonalli to her. She fed upon this raw soul initially appeared to be no more than a large pile of feathers.
power and felt herself changing into something greater. The Anxelli thought the woman mad until the pile stirred and what
spark of true divinity had at one time been an unreachable once might have seemed formless took a very manlike shape.
goal but now she thought it a distinct possibility. “Greetings princess, I am Makuatua and I am at your
The steel skied world had its own obscenely powerful service.”
beings but these primordial creatures worried little over the “Princess?”
True World’s inhabitants or the ambitions of the Obsidian As if anticipating her confusion, Cualli held her hand up and
Butterfly. It was true that the mortal denizens of the True said, “Child, there is much more about you than you know, and
World had grown in power but they were still no real threat to I will tell you all in good time. For now, you must rest.”
her might. Itzapaplotl feared that her perfect world and Anxelli closed her eyes and fell into a comforting slumber.
perfect plans might soon come to a screeching halt. The suggestion was more of a command than she would ever
======= know, and the power of pluma magic was behind those words.
In the depths of Mount Zatal a great stone form stirred. A =======
century of rest after his attempt at fratricide was not nearly Cualli let the young princess sleep and as she looked upon
enough for the god to recover from his wounds, but he would Anxelli’s still form she felt relief in her ancient bones. When
awaken regardless. He could feel his brothers and sisters the azure skies returned, she could feel the march of time
begin to stir as well but he was unable to take advantage of once again.
the weakness he sensed in them. Right now it would be The couatl, a servant of her god Qotal, once long ago came
challenge enough for Zaltec to simply remove himself from to her with a request. Burned and disfigured, Cualli felt as if
the tomb from which he awoke. she had no reason to live on that day centuries ago. The
======= couatl, however, offered her a choice. She could serve her god
and find purpose in her life once again if only she would
accept his gift of an undying body. Cualli, who had only
Chapter 1 wanted to die and join her husband initially refused. The
“Hold child, and be still. Your bandages are strong and couatl said that Qotal would not beg, but what he offered was
enchanted to heal your broken body, but there is no need for more than just a long lifespan. She would be able to look after
you to endure any more pain than you have already suffered.” her plumazotl children and with her care they would truly be
Anxelli’s head spun. Though she could not yet make out the blessed by the god himself. In addition, in a time of great need,
face of her healer, the words rang true. Every movement the couatl told her that she could pass on her gift and be
caused her back to explode in pain that nearly caused her to allowed to rest at last. He assured her that Cualli would then
vomit. join her husband in the heavenly tenemo Tlaxcautli for
“Water, please.” eternity, if only she could be patient for a time.
Her two word request was even too much for Anxelli’s body After close to eight centuries Cualli rejoiced at the
to take as she emptied the contents of her stomach onto the knowledge that she would soon see Itzamna Manik once
plush feather bed that she lay upon. again. In all that time she never once forgot the love of her
“Not very much of a listener are you? That can change in husband.
time. Bodies can be mended, worlds can depart. Even as the The girl who lay before Cualli did not know she was the
macaw can be taught to repeat the words of humans, mankind descendent of the heroes Erixitl of Palul and Halloran of the
can always be taught change.” interloper god Helm, but that was not the only surprise the
Anxelli did not know the meaning of the words, but they girl would soon face. Equal parts honor and burden, the girl
were somehow soothing. Were she not in so much pain, she would soon find out that she too had in fact become…Chosen.
would have thought her tonalli had begun its journey in the =======
Afterlife. Her recent fall and encounter with the raptors
should have sent her screaming into one of the seventeen
tenemos of Maztican myth. Instead, she slowly opened her
eyes. Ready to thank her savior, Anxelli’s eyes focused on a
smiling face of horror.
=======
86
“Hearts and blood, sacrifice and devotion!” Zaltec hungered as A flash of movement from the corner of her eye grabbed her
the fresh flow had gone silent for well over a century. Zaltec attention and the tzitzimitl thought to investigate. While it
was the Eater of Hearts and Bringer of War, yet his thirst had could have been nothing but a shadow, or even one of those
not been slaked for far too long. Zaltec felt the debris fall from vile small canines the humans were so fond of, the child she
his stony body and he called to some of the greatest of his had murdered left her wanting more. Why couldn’t she
children. indulge her own pleasures before she captured a suitable
“So few now to bring me nourishment!” The deity’s anger plaything for her queen?
was felt in the world above when Mount Zatal erupted, much The tzitzimitl turned a corner looking for her prize but was
as it had done long ago on the Night of Wailing. He knew that disappointed to see nothing worth her time. Then the star
his remaining children rejoiced at his return, but all he cared demon heard the sound from the dark places surrounding her.
for now was his hunger. The throaty growl brought an emotion that she had herself
It wasn’t long before the god tasted the first heart, and more invoked many times, but never truly felt herself. Fear was
came soon after, but in his immortal knowledge he knew it unknown to the tzitzimitl until now.
would never be enough. All she saw was a spotted flash of yellow and black.
Whatever it was, its movements were fast enough that she
======= could barely follow. Then the pain came, the star demon
The Obsidian Butterfly watched the blue flamed forms of a looked down at its skeletal body and noticed there an entire
dozen of her tzitzimitl streak towards the True World from her leg had gone missing. Balancing temporarily on her remaining
scrying bowl. She smiled at the fear that the sight of them leg she saw her tormenter. It was a jaguar, but bigger than
must be causing in every village, town and city within miles of most of the basic animals that roamed the jungles of the True
their approach. World. Adorned with jewelry and carrying her flickering leg in
The thrill of capturing, torturing and eventually murdering its mouth, she knew that her life had been stolen by a jaguar
the aarakocra had faded and now it was time to feed her knight; one of the elite human warriors who had given himself
divinity with some human suffering. completely to the power of hishna. Before her light was fully
She watched as the tzitzimitl dropped into what was likely extinguished, she saw more; perhaps dozens more come from
the village marketplace. The bright softness of pluma adorned the wood beyond the village. Itzapaplotl would not have her
this central square, but the vast majority of the village’s playthings this eve.
decoration was of the darker hishna. =======
Talons, claws, and even skulls of what could only be the
great lizards of the deeper jungles adorned almost every “Coward! Fool!” Itzapaplotl screamed in anger at the sole
household. Each household also had a steam room known as survivor of her latest raiding party. She raked at her servants
a temazcalli built somewhere nearby. In these buildings, face, neatly removing a fleshy blue orb that served as the
Itzapaplotl knew the humans would place a fire against the otherwise skeletal creature’s eye.
wall, and then water was poured on the hot wall creating the “Mother, please!”
steam. Itzapaplotl thought the humans were clever creatures “How dare you call to me even now! There is no curse, no
at times, occasionally worthy of a minimal amount of respect. torment your feeble mind can invent that will even compare to
The nation of which this village was a part was called Kultaka what your imminent future holds. Even the endless void will
and in the past its warriors had lasted longer under torture not give you succor!”
than those of any other nation. The tzitzimitl’s flames went dim, a subconscious choice that
There was a temple, but its size was in proportion to the the star demons could control, but usually reflected their
village itself. Itzapaplotl did not know to what god it belonged, mood. The creature knew it was doomed, and rightfully so, but
but it certainly looked as if it had been used recently. it reserved its greatest fear for the torments it would surely
A small black altar adorned the clearing in front of the endure before oblivion.
temple, and it was stained with copious amounts of blood. “Come to me, and accept the punishment for your
When the gods disappeared, the need to perform sacrifices cowardice.”
had gone with it, but now this obvious display only increased The one-eyed tzitzimitl approached its queen as slowly as it
her agitation. could without further angering her. An obsidian dagger he
“Oh my lover, if you truly are back, I will take from you what knew to be enchanted lay on a dais only a hands-width from
is rightfully mine. You were not strong enough when the world her throne. The star demon grabbed at it before Itzapaplotl
changed and yet I remain eternal. It is not you that deserves could react and stuck it deep within his own throat. The shock
the power you once held.” Itzapaplotl wondered if Zaltec was of its open defiance reverberated through the throne room
aware enough to hear her mock him, but she did not care. For and the hundreds other tzitzimitl lowered their eyes.
at this moment, she planned only to enjoy the carnage that “Be gone from my sight! All of you! All except you, Runt.
was about to ensue. Come to your queen. I have a task for you. An old
acquaintance of mine stirs, and I require an emissary.”
=======
=======
The first tzitzimitl to land was a fine specimen. Faster than
the others and certainly more powerful, she always sought out “You must not force the magic. It is in all living things already,
the greatest warriors to bring home to her queen. She heard you need only release it. The pale skinned folk see power only
the others land behind her and the screaming commenced in their steel because it is hard and solid. The spirits care
almost immediately. The powerful star demon was also nothing for solidity or weight. Life is magic Anxelli, and the
patient and after burning just a single human child with her weightless feather carries more in its beautiful form than you
starfire, she waited. could ever imagine.”
87
“Thank you, Mother Cualli.” Anxelli replied as she attempted The Runt let his starfire flare, illuminating his skeletal form
to befriend the corollax using her newest pluma spell. Anxelli in electric blue light. Zaltec’s chamber was lit by the glow of
had been told of many wonders from the lessons of her elders small streams of fire and molten rock. The volcano known as
in Payit, but she never heard of a corollax until she met Cualli. Mount Zatal in which he lay once again began to awake
Mere months after her near death experience with the raptors around him.
and she had already learned more than in her previous Zaltec laughed, “Ah, so I have before me one of the
seventeen years. Obsidian Butterfly’s star demons. No matter, I would gladly
Cualli continued, “You are not to be the bird’s master, accept your heart as well if your wretched form could only
remember – such coercion reeks of the taint of hishna. Rather, supply one.” What is it that my old slave seeks of me? Speak
you must understand that you are reaching out to its tonalli quickly, for I grow curious about other parts I might seek to
and asking it to join your own. This is not an easy decision, feast upon.”
even for what you see to be only a bird. Be patient with him.” “Bringer of War, my master only desires to once again serve
In appearance, the bird looked like a simple red parrot you. She has grown greatly in power, and with your help…”
(albeit a beautiful one), but Anxelli had seen firsthand the “Divinity!” Zaltec roared. “The bitch wants me to sponsor
effects of startling the creature. Twice before when attempting her ascension! So predictable.” His massive form shed rubble
her spell, the bird released a splash of colors that were quite and his excitement caused the mountain around him to
beautiful but left her stunned and blinded for a time. The tremble.
throbbing in her head she suffered afterwards reminded her The star demon shook and responded with what he
of the aftereffects of imbibing too much octli. In years before suspected might be his last words, “That is correct, Hungry
her responsibilities truly began, Anxelli often stole cups full of One.”
this fermented nectar of the maguey plant from the elders. “I will help.”
The thought made her snicker. The Runt was not expecting the quick response.
“Focus princess or you will lose him! This magic was not “Yes. Why not? I don’t care for her useless cruelties but they
intended for creatures such as this – yet I sense you may yet do not slow the flow of fresh sacrifice. Foolish men will likely
succeed should you only open your tonalli.” feed me more as they beseech my assistance. Tell her I will
Anxelli heard the words of her mentor and obeyed. The sponsor her ascension if she truly has the power you claim,
corollax became aware of her presence and through her and if you – as her representative, complete one small task for
pluma magic; her tonalli had touched upon its own. me.”
She could feel the creatures life in a way that she could And there was the catch. The Runt knew it was all too easy
never fully comprehend, much less explain. The corollax had up until this point.
become part of her and she had become part of it. Their life Zaltec reached out with his stony hand and presented a
forces had intermingled and Anxelli felt a profound beating heart to the tzitzimitl.
connection to the creature. “This is the still-living heart of the greatest of my servants.
“Blessed by Plumed Father! Do you realize what you have Hoxitl served me well in life, but ultimately proved to be a
accomplished?” failure. This, I could not accept so he serves me still.”
Cualli had been training Anxelli for months now in the ways As he uttered the last word, the heart collapsed in a mass of
of the plumacaster, and today she thought to help her wriggling worms and filth. As the worms dispersed a smaller,
apprentice find herself a familiar. As a creature of magic, the desiccated heart emerged on a braided string of leather.
corollax should not have answered the call, but Anxelli “Take the Heart of Hoxitl and find me the last descendant of
insisted she saw this in a vision during the night. the Queen Erixitl and her fool outlander husband, Halloran.
Makuatua, ever vigilant and sensing the commotion from Great power lies in her bloodline and her sacrifice, here at the
nearby rushed in after a particularly loud squawk from the Heart of the True World, will give your master the divinity she
magical bird. seeks. The end of that accursed bloodline will also weaken my
“No Mak! Look out!” Anxelli shouted. But it was too late; brother – the fool entrusted too much of himself in it and now
from its perch above, the corollax released the contents of its it is ripe for the taking.”
bowels atop the feather-man’s head. The Runt bowed his head in thanks and asked, “Great One,
“A good luck omen” Cualli chuckled. Makuatua sighed. my thanks and surely the gratitude of my master shall be
With a face as red as the corollax’s plumage Anxelli unending, but what am I to do with the heart?”
repeated, “Yes, good luck indeed. Maohtli” “It is an item of great hishna and it has much power. For
She spoke the word for good luck in the language of the now, all you need to know is that it can change your form so
Payit. “That shall be his name.” that you may travel undetected among man. Its hatred for the
======= blood of Erixitl is great as well, and in its presence, the heart
will beat fiercely once again. Now be gone from my sight, I
hunger.”
Chapter 2 The Runt smiled as his features shifted. The star fire faded
“There is no sacrifice, no more nourishing a heart, than one and flesh knitted itself into his skeletal body. He looked at his
offered willingly. Welcome to my tomb, human, your offer is hands in a brief moment of wonder and strung the talisman
accepted.” around his new fleshy neck. It was time to commune with
“Hold, oh Eater of Hearts, I can think of no greater honor Mother, who he might one day soon call goddess.
but I already serve another master and I am certainly no =======
human.”
88
“My dear, I am fine. I have lived for centuries and it will take As a hunter, Huitzilin and his party were no strangers to
far more than a clumsy trip to lay me low.” death or gore, but what he saw when he pushed the brush
“Then why do you not heal?” aside turned his stomach. Blood was splashed everywhere
Anxelli was no fool and she knew that Cualli was dying, but and entrails hung from low hanging branches like vines.
the ancient plumaweaver only seemed to relish the thought. The source was not hard to find. Two black jaguar corpses –
Whenever Anxelli, Makuatua or the hundreds of plumazotl barely recognizable, lie next to the bodies of three young
who paid their respects to Cualli showed any sort of concern, kittens. Two were missing their heads and another, just its
the woman would stare off into the sky as if she could see the eyes, tongue and entrails. All five bodies were scorched as
tonalli of her long lost Itzamna. well, and the smell of burnt hair caused the hunter to gag.
“It is not fair, my training is not done. How will you teach The last of the kittens still squirmed in the arms of a
me if you cannot even stand?” Anxelli, seeing that simple smallish man, who seemed prepared to plunge an obsidian
concern would do her no good, attempted to appeal to guilt. dagger into the kitten’s belly and did not yet notice the hunter.
Cualli giggled like a child. “Oh, Anxelli – you know full well Even as a halfling, Huitzilin thought the human a runt. Still
that I can teach you nothing more. You are ready, and I am taller than a halfling, but his frame was nowhere near as
also ready.” strong, almost as if he had only recently recovered from some
Anxelli began to sob. long sickness.
“You must return to your people.” Cualli said more “Fiend!”
forcefully than she intended. “I have sent my plumazotl to The halfling fired a dart laced with kurari poison and it
check on them and they are well, but they have not given up struck the runt directly in the neck. The shapechanged star
the search for you.” demon stumbled for a moment, but pressed onwards towards
“I know, mother. And I shall return to them soon, but can I Huitzilin. At that moment, at least six more darts flew by the
not wait until at least your leg has mended?” hunter’s ear as the rest of his hunting party arrived. The man
“No child, it is time. But I want you to take Makuatua with finally collapsed at Huitzilin’s foot.
you. Your journey will be long, but with your power and his =======
strength and cunning...”
Maohtli squawked. The Runt awoke in a massive dirt pit with earthen walls too
“...and of course your brave companion, you can return tall to jump and impossible to climb. As his senses returned,
home having fulfilled the quest in ways your elders could not he realized that he still maintained his human form with the
have guessed. You will protect your people, and you must go Heart of Hoxitl in his possession. The star demon realized
now. As the skies changed, the gods have reawakened.” what a fool he was for letting his base desires get the best of
Anxelli thought of the star demons and the horrors they him. He would not fail the Obsidian Butterfly simply to satisfy
have brought to Payit. Though she was very young, she his sadism.
remembered the day when sixteen streaking blue stars fell In his natural form, the tzitzimitl could easily fly out of this
from the sky and took the lives of dozens from her village. Her prison, but he didn’t want to reveal his true self to the crowd of
mother and father fought the creatures bravely, managing to halflings and humans that had gathered above just yet. Earlier,
slay a few of the beasts. She found their burned forms the while torturing the jaguars, he noticed that the Heart of Hoxitl
next morning, still smoking from the dreaded star fire. would fail him while he used his innate powers, and his
Cualli had spent the last few years training Anxelli as a skeletal structure would glow from within the sack of meat he
plumacaster. Though feather magic had been known in the inhabited. Perhaps it was a trick of Zaltec’s to ensure his
True World since the days Qotal first bestowed it to man, failure?
plumacasting was a relatively new and powerful take on what From the corner of the pit, he heard a growl that had it not
had come before. Unlike Cualli, Anxelli could record her been so harsh, could have been mistaken for a bird call.
spells through woven featherwork, and prepare a selection to He turned towards the sound but was a moment too late. A
suit her daily needs each morning. plumed lizard twice the size of a man leaped from the shadow
She thought to travel the villages of Payit and bestow this and pinned him to a corner between the dusty floor and
knowledge to the worthy so that no longer would the tzitzimitl earthen wall. He felt sharp talons pierce his false flesh,
encounter the unprepared. Soon, Cualli had explained, when seeking out a vital organ that the star demon did not possess.
the gods had fully awakened, the tzitzimitl would only be able Up above, the gathered humans and halflings gasped for what
to return to Toril in the event of a solar eclipse; but Anxelli they thought was a certain kill, and had he truly been human –
wanted her people prepared nevertheless. the crowd would not have been disappointed.
The young plumacaster packed her spells, a sack of The Runt knew that he could withstand far more damage
supplies with enough fruits and nuts to keep Maohtli at least than his form suggested, but the raptor was a fearsome foe
temporarily satisfied, and left the next morning with the stoic and would soon kill him if he did not act. The star demon
Makuatua by her side. feared he would either have to use his formidable powers and
reveal himself, or he would perish.
=======
Huitzilin heard the mewling coming from the brush. He
silenced his hunting party with an upraised palm, and
approached the sound cautiously. The crying was piteous and
he was certain he approached a creature that was wounded
and in distress. Halflings of Payit appreciated the natural
world around them, but his clan needed to eat. Perhaps he
could both end the creature’s suffering and return with a feast.
89
The raptor bit down hard on the tzitzimitl’s shoulder and the Only the jaguar kitten, who growled mightily for one so
Runt lost all feeling in his arm. The skeletal frame that was small, remained hostile to the disguised tzitzimitl.
his true body cracked under the power of those jaws. The elder who cast the spell and performed the
In desperation, the star demon used his considerable interrogation was a cleric of that vile snake Qotal named Olin.
strength to shove the raptor back to the opposite wall. The When finally satisfied, he offered the Runt a chance at
bird-lizard was momentarily dazed and the Runt saw an freedom if only he would swear to search for a young girl
opportunity. The cavity from whence the raptor came was just named “Anxelli” in the jungles to the south and west.
out of sight of the crowd above, if he could only get there in Of all the luck the star demon could have, Anxelli was the
time. last true descendant of Erixitl – exactly the one Zaltec had
The raptor renewed its attack, this time clamping down tasked him to return! The cleric, of course, did not share such
fully on the Runt’s already disabled arm. It shook its powerful an important secret willingly, but the tzitzimitl’s superior
neck violently and the star demon was thrown across the pit – hearing heard this and more from a private conversation
directly where he had intended in the first place. between Olin and the halfling hunter.
The tzitzimitl was slipping from consciousness for the “Anxelli.”
second time this day as the raptor closed on him in the The star demon spoke her name aloud and the Heart of
darkened corner. With Itzapaplotl’s name on his lips he Hoxitl squirmed on his neck.
released more star-fire than he had ever attempted in the past.
The Runt’s last thoughts before slipping into darkness were =======
of how much he enjoyed the sense of smell; something his
natural form was incapable of. Never before did he have the
olfactory capability of enjoying death.
Chapter 3
“Those calls – they are here, trust me.” Anxelli said to
======= Makuatua who stood by silently and nodded.
“There is great power in that man, he can help us!” “Danger!” Maohtli squawked.
Huitzilin looked at the human is disbelief and responded “Be silent bird! Raptors from the very heart of the jungle
“Did you not hear my description of the wood and the evil he must know our location now,” Anxelli whispered angrily. She
has brought?” started to regret teaching her familiar so many words of the
human tongue.
The surviving black jaguar kitten rubbed against the Makuatua held his tepoztōpīlli before him; a broad tipped
halfling’s leg and began to purr. spear with incredibly sharp plumastone embedded all along
“What difference does it make? They were animals. She is its edges. Plumastone was commonplace for warriors these
the last of her blood! We must find her – the seers claim the days; obsidian so hard and unbreakable that it easily rivaled
fate of the True World may lie in her hands!” the steel weapons still sometimes forged in New Amn.
Huitzilin laughed, “Then why did you send her on such a The man of feathers and pluma magic stepped forward into
treacherous journey to begin with, you fools.” the brush and thrust his tepoztōpīlli into what Anxelli thought
The human’s grip on his mācuahuitl tightened. The halflings was simply vegetation. The spear struck a small raptor
lifted their blowguns and spears. directly between its eyes, and the creature wailed for but a
“Calm down, all of you.” moment before it dropped dead to the jungle floor.
Huitzilin recognized the more sensible human; an elder and The brush on all sides exploded with commotion as an
cleric of Qotal the Plumed Dragon. entire pack leaped from their camouflaged positions and
“We sent the girl because we were told to in a vision by howled at the trio. Maohtli, following his instincts and
Qotal himself. I have always felt the presence of the Plumed Anxelli’s instantaneous mental commands, let forth a splash
Father in her, even when the gods refused our call and the of colors that at least temporarily halted the raptors’ advance.
heavens were of steel. Now that the azure skies have once Anxelli and Makuatua, having trained with the corollax, knew
again returned, I hear his voice – and his first command was to keep their eyes covered and remained unaffected.
to set her on her way. You do know who her ancestors are of Anxelli noted the blue-green plumage of the largest of the
course?” beasts and thought to herself, “I remember you.”
Huitzilin conceded the point, but that did not make him The corollax had given them an opportunity, but the effects
trust the sickly little man any more than he already did. of the color spray would wear off momentarily. Anxelli readied
“Elder, you have the power to discern the truths and a spell, pulling its gold dust component from a pouch in her
falsehoods of a man’s tongue do you not?” pocket.
Huitzilin realized he had discerned the solution. As if the raptors could sense the danger, two charged her
“Yes, of course. If he submits to my magic, I will know if he with their fangs bared.
can assist us. Well done, halfling.” Anxelli opened her mouth and a blinding bolt of light
======= streamed forth. The closest of the charging raptors wailed
piteously and collapsed but the second managed to avoid the
“What fools!” The Runt thought to himself. Centuries of deadly radiance. It leaped at Anxelli who was for the moment
surviving in Tamoacha alongside the Obsidian Butterfly made defenseless.
all tzitzimitl, and the Runt in particular, masters of half-truths.
Having willingly accepted the effects of a spell of truth
telling, the star demon still managed to avoid explaining his
actions in the jungle, convince the humans and halflings to
heal him, and turn the interrogation to his advantage.
90
With practiced grace, the plumazotl placed himself and his A runt of a man stepped from the woods and began to
spear directly in the raptor’s path. It impaled itself, driving the speak.
spear fully through its body. Makuatua, almost as if he was “Ease yourself Anxelli, I was sent here by your elders – and
dancing with the dying beast, released the spear and spun some rather unpleasant halflings, to rescue you.”
around its body before it could crush him under its weight. He could feel the Heart of Hoxitl beating on his neck and
Continuing his motion, the plumazotl grabbed the tepoztōpīlli hoped the sound was not audible to others.
just below its plumastone head and yanked the remainder of Anxelli let the words of her spell die on her tongue, but the
the shaft through the raptors body. urge to annihilate the runt hardly abated.
Three more raptors charged; one of them being the blue- “What is wrong with you? Did you not see the plumed
green plumed beast. lizards halted their attack?”
Maohtli, courageous for one so small, swooped in from “So what?” the Runt replied.
above and released a second spray of color. By getting so Makuatua returned to the ground with his tepoztōpīlli held
close, the corollax managed to blind two of the beasts, but the ready. The corollax squawked on a tree branch above.
blue-green raptor was unaffected and turned toward the bird. “So what? So what if I leave your unconscious body lying
The lizard leaped as the corollax sped for the safety of the sky here on the jungle floor as an offering to its brood?”
and with a snap like a crocodile; its jaws caught the feathers “Oh, come now. You were in danger and I reacted, the elders
of Maohtli’s tail. The bird screeched and Anxelli gasped. She were very clear on just how important you are, princess – and
smiled just a bit when the bird communicated through its I wasn’t about to let my promised reward slip away.”
thoughts that it was not badly hurt. The Runt smirked at his own cleverness. Even though he
The raptor looked almost comical with its mouth full of was under no truth spell, every single word he uttered had
bright red tail feathers. remained so – yet the reward he sought was certainly not
“Makuatua, take the blinded beasts, I will finish this one.” from some backwater village. Itzapaplotl would have admired
The plumazotl took to the air and called on one of its innate his twist in intent.
abilities. Three bolts of bright energy resembling feather- “Princess? The elders know? They told you? Who exactly
fletched darts flew from his fingertips and struck a raptor that are you anyway, I do not remember your face and where did
had shaken off the effects of the color spray. The creature you come to wield such power?”
stumbled, and was temporarily out of the fight. Its pack mate Still on his game, the Runt showed Anxelli the Heart of
sniffed the air, cleverly attempting to discern the plumazotl’s Hoxitl and said, “Much of my power comes from this.”
location with senses other than sight. “Hishna, I should have known,” she hissed.
Anxelli prepared to cast another spell, this one taught to her Satisfied that he had successfully explained his presence
by the plumazotl himself. She took the feather of an eagle and that of the Heart, the Runt continued to press his ability
from her pouch and spun it while muttering arcane syllables. to speak half-truths, “I have been sent not only to find you, but
The feather floated from her hand, visibly stiffened, and began to escort you to the Heart of Mount Zatal.”
to circle her body of its own volition. Within moments it was “Why?”
joined by others of its kind and together they formed a barrier The Runt responded, “Your hold great power which is
of slashing plumage that the beast could not pass without sought by many. The gods awaken, and you could be either the
taking significant damage. key to a new Night of Wailing, or its prevention.”
The blue-green plumed raptor and Anxelli stood facing each “So I am to trust you? I have known you for mere moments
other in a standoff, but neither rushed to make the next move. and already I despise you.”
Anxelli looked to Makuatua who had just put his spear clean “And that is your right, but it doesn’t make what I say any
through yet another raptor and was headed for the last. less true. Use your magic if you must to confirm my words,
She sighed, “It does not have to be like this.” but I assure you it is no falsehood.”
The raptor bared its teeth, but still did not approach the Anxelli didn’t need to test the truth of the small man’s
whirlwind that encircled Anxelli. The corollax approached, words. In her bones, she knew it was so. Cualli had said much
likely ready for another spray of color, but Anxelli waved him the same to her long ago in their training, just not when or
off. Makuatua, sensing Anxelli’s hesitation, took to the sky where her destiny would take her. She would accompany the
again rather than finish off the blinded bird-lizard. stranger, but like he said – she didn’t have to like it.
“Why is it that you still burden me, beast? I have done
nothing to you, the eggs were returned!” =======
The raptor barked, and the blinded lizard followed the
sound to stand by its side. It stood near, but behind the blue- Chapter 4
green plumed raptor – confirming Anxelli’s belief that he was
a leader of this pack. In the darkened desert of the tenemo of Xipetlan, also known
Anxelli’s spell only had moments left in duration for her as the Flayed Land – the fire god Tezca stirred in his vast pool
slashing plumage, but she did not begin preparing another of magma and fire. His glowing realm held little respite from
spell. The plumacaster did not want to slay this marvelous the darkness and raging sandstorms for the tonalli who
beast and felt a sickening guilt for what had already occurred. earned this afterlife.
The barrier disappeared in a puff, and the raptors remained Hundreds of xiuhcouatl – cruel and fiery corruptions of his
silent and still. Anxelli was contemplating her next move when brother Qotal’s favored serpent emissaries, swam lazily
a huge blast of bluish fire incinerated both raptors, leaving through the molten pool.
only smoking corpses behind.
Anxelli jumped and the words to a spell immediately came
to her tongue.
91
Tezca thought of his brothers. He was the first of his family to With her last words, Cualli smiled and gently closed her
awaken from a century of slumber, and when Qotal and Zaltec eyes. The xiuhcouatl advanced with fires raging and fangs
awoke soon after, he knew they would begin their meddling bared, but Cualli’s body disappeared and her blanket of
once again in the affairs of men. feathers gently fell to the floor. The xiuhcouatl manifested
“So Zaltec has sought to sponsor the ascension of his their anger with a burst of fire hot enough to ignite the wood
whore?” he said to no one in particular. outside the hut.
Ages ago, a human man and woman sought to create life as Xiatemoc turned to his mate, “We find the Chosen, and we
only the gods were meant to do. They succeeded, and Tezca find her now.” Kitilli nodded in agreement as they set off into
and Zaltec punished them for their act of hubris. Qotal the torched wood.
favored these humans, however and one has survived the long =======
centuries to pass her knowledge onto the key to Zaltec’s
current endeavor. Tezca did not approve. “Ahhh my Runt, you have done well!”
“Xiatemoc, Kitilli, come to me my servants.” The tzitzimitl could commune with their mother should she
Two xiuhcouatl surfaced in front of the terrible deity. seek out an audience. He was glad that his companions slept,
“How may we serve you lord Tezca?” because her voice caused great pain inside his head and he
“An old enemy has played her hand. You are to burn her and cried out. He knew the torment was intentional and it
all that she loves. Do not fail me in this.” aggravated him.
======= “Thank you mother,” he thought back. Having communed
with her shortly before finding Anxelli, she knew the whole of
Cualli could smell the smoke in the air long before their his quest and Zaltec’s promise.
arrival. She sent away the dozens of bird and human shaped “There is an alteration in my wishes, and you are to obey
plumazotl that had attended her so lovingly in her final weeks. me.”
Her hut was simple, it kept the elements from making her The Runt remained obedient but could not understand why
uncomfortable, but the only item of any remark that remained she would offer a change so close to their goal. They were
was her plush bed of plumage. Cualli did have a small vice for scant days from Nexal and he was on the verge of delivering
comfort throughout her long existence. Zaltec’s prize and key to her divinity. The star demon’s head
“Tezca seeks his due! You have violated the edicts of the throbbed.
gods and for this you will suffer!” The two flame serpents “A great magic of old lies within the mountain. It is a magic
burst through the door of reeds and the thatch roof caught of pluma, and it too contains the essence of the Plumed
flame instantaneously. Dragon. With its destruction, and the heart of Qotal’s chosen,
Cualli responded, “I have suffered, and I have rejoiced. I I will rise above Zaltec himself! The gods will bow to me, and I
have created and I have destroyed, but mostly I have loved – will feast on their suffering.”
and this, not even your lord of fire can take from me.” The Runt thought her insane – intoxicated with the promise
“Platitudes! You face the fires of the Burning One and that of power. In his ages of existence, for the first time he doubted
is all you have to offer?” hissed the male xiuhcouatl known as her wisdom. Unfortunately she sensed it.
Xiatemoc. The pain was excruciating, even for one who had felt her
“Perhaps when you remove what is left of her face, she will ministrations in the past.
show our lord respect,” added the female. “You disapprove?” Itzapaplotl asked with sibilance in her
Xiatemoc turned to face Cualli, who still hadn’t moved from voice.
her pluma bed and said, “No, when we burn all that she holds “Mother, I obey as always. I have always followed your
dear to ash and pain – then she will understand.” orders to the word.” Again, he avoided lying.
Cualli began a fit of coughing, mostly from the smoke that “Of course you obey. You must obey; you are my star demon,
now began to fill the hut, but also from the sickness that my precious little Runt.” With her last word she sent a shock
permeated her ancient body. The xiuhcouatl let her continue – into his head that nearly knocked him unconscious. Her
whether it was to let her suffer or as a modicum of respect she power had undoubtedly grown. “It is no matter, for you are
did not know or care. nothing to me. Seek the Cloak of One Plume in the Mountain
Cualli’s fit slowly changed to laughter. The xiuhcouatl who of Fire. In the fires of Zatal, you will recover this relic of the
thought their adversary thoroughly intimidated expressed foul serpent Qotal. Bring it to me before you deliver the child. I
shock on their serpentine faces. will use it first to ensure the Eater of Hearts keeps his
“You are too late. Tell your master you have failed! I wish I promise to me.”
could be there with you, in the very Flayed Lands themselves The Runt seethed for half the evening. This cursed form
– just to see how you bring that bit of news to your lord.” required that he sleep like a human, and he greatly resented
“What do you mean?” Kitilli responded with a hint of panic that part of his transformation. He was tired, and drifted off to
in her sibilant voice. the sounds of the nocturnal life that surrounded their camp
Cualli continued, “The one you seek is already prepared – here in the mountains of Kultaka.
you cannot stop, or even slow her destiny. And as for me? Your =======
lord will never mete out his punishment, I am so sorry to
disappoint him. I go now to see his brother and my own “They are the jaguar knights of Kultaka and we are in their
husband in Tlaxcautli; a reunion that I have too long been lands, perhaps they could help us?” Anxelli said to Makuatua.
denied.” She generally avoided talking to the Runt directly, but she
knew he heard, and would undoubtedly voice his unwanted
opinion soon enough.
92
“We don’t need any help,” the Runt responded on cue. “Yes! It is the item of legend once wielded by your ancestor.
The four unlikely companions stood on a massive cliff Zaltec hates the Cloak – he indeed fears its power! Qotal has
where both the nations of Kultaka and Nexal could be seen. placed much of his own essence within the Cloak and it can
Many great battles between the two powerful nations had prevent all but the weakest of the gods’ manifestations on the
been fought in this very spot, but of the companions; only the True World. You must find the cloak before the beasts of the
star demon was aware of the history. Viperhand, for even now Zaltec searches to corrupt its magic.”
In the distance, Makuatua and Maohtli had spotted a pack =======
of jaguar knights headed in their direction. Nexal had long ago
become a nation of monsters collectively known as the
Viperhand, and the jaguar knights likely were patrolling their Chapter 5
borders. The Runt had decided to play an enormously dangerous
Anxelli finally addressed the disguised tzitzimitl directly, game. No tzitzimitl had ever betrayed the Obsidian Butterfly
“We are close enough to fiery Zatal to see her glow in the in the past, and now he was planning on betraying both her
night and yet sometimes I cannot tell if you wish to guide me and a deity! The star demon had not seen the possibility
on this mission or make it more difficult. In fact, I still hardly earlier, but as he gave the truth to Anxelli, he realized that
know what it is I am to do. Tell me now or I will go no further. with the Cloak of One Plume he could be the one to ascend! A
I have been a fool following you blindly for too long as it new god of the star demons – Itzapaplotl would have to suffer
stands.” for him!
The Runt had given Anxelli just enough to get her to follow The tzitzimitl’s musings were interrupted when the jaguar
him, but he knew the clever girl suspected that he was in fact knights crested the ridge. After he disclosed the significance
no ally. Perhaps he could gain some trust by giving her a bit of their quest to Anxelli, she demanded they signal the
more of the truth. warriors from their vantage. Three came in human form and
The Runt asked Anxelli, “You know of course the tale of the one in the shape of a jaguar; the knights did not arrive
coming of the pale skinned men? “ seeming overly hostile or agitated.
Anxelli nodded. A jaguar knight in human form addressed Anxelli in
“The Night of Wailing that they brought upon the True Maztican, but with a harsh and guttural accent that she had
World was the first time the creatures known as orcs, ogres some difficulty understanding. “Strangers, why are you in our
and jagres had even been seen in the True World; though all lands. Under the orders of Icnoyotl, War Chief of Kultaka and
but the latter are known well in other parts of the world. descendant of Takamal, explain yourselves or surrender.” The
These beasts have been the scourge of the True World for over jaguar knights didn’t quite know what to make of Makuatua
a century now.” and eyed the man of feathers warily.
The Runt went on to explain how Mount Zatal had erupted Anxelli responded, “We seek to enter the heart of Nexal and
on that evening so long ago, and the faithful to Zaltec were only cross through your lands inadvertently. We did not mean
transformed by its strange energies into all manner of beasts. to trespass, but have little to offer as recompense. Know that
Hoxitl, the greatest of the jagre, led these creatures in an our mission is of great importance to the whole of the True
assault on the remaining humans who would never had World, and we could use the assistance of mighty Kultaka!”
escaped had it not been for the actions of a few heroes and the The jaguar knights stood down just a bit, but remained
nearly direct intervention of the divine. Those very people vigilant. “The beasts of the Viperhand have emptied from their
went on to found the desert city and oasis known as Tukan. decaying cities and have all but opened a path to the mountain
“I appreciate the history lesson,” Anxelli responded. “Yet I of fire. Do not be fooled into thinking such an event good
still do not see my place in all of this.” She was growing fortune! Though the great Eater of Hearts protects us from
frustrated with the discussion. the evils of the star demons, it would not be in the interest of
The star demon continued, “Your ancestor, Erixitl of Palul, Kultaka to find him once again manifest on the True World.
was chosen by Qotal and it was her actions following the You no doubt step into a trap. ”
Night of Wailing that halted Zaltec’s strength in the True When the jaguar knight spoke of the star demons, he
World. You still carry her power in your bloodline – and with gestured to his waist where the fanged skull of one of the
the loss of your father, you are the last. This gift of your birth creatures hung upon a hemp rope. The Runt looked to the
is what makes them call you ‘princess’ and it is said that you Kultakan and snarled. Each knight – even the one in jaguar
are destined to either rule in the True World – or help destroy form, displayed some sort of fetish from the corpse of a
it.” tzitzimitl.
Cualli had explained to Anxelli that she had been chosen, “Lies! You seek the power in the mountain for yourself!”
yet she had simply assumed this was a mantle the ancient The Runt screamed his accusation at the knights, two of
plumaweaver had passed on to her. She did not know that it whom readied their mācuahuitl and one shapechanged to join
had actually been a part of her all along. his growling brother. The powerful weapons of the Kultakans’
Anxelli knew that the Runt could not be trusted, but were a staple of a True World warrior – each a flat wooden
Makuatua, who stood by listening to the conversation, board ridged with razor sharp plumastone; they were
confirmed the truth in the story. prepared to wet them with blood.
“Tell me what it is that I must do when we arrive at the “Stand down!” Anxelli commanded with a powerful voice
mountain,” Anxelli commanded. for one so young, but it was too late.
“There is an item of great power that had been returned to
Zatal many years ago,” the tzitzimitl explained.
“The Cloak of One Plume,” Anxelli interrupted.
93
No longer caring if he exposed his true self, the Runt let Makuatua was the first to make contact with the larger
starfire loose upon the jaguar knights. The two who were in snake and his spear stabbed at the scaly one’s chest. It left a
jaguar form evaded the flames unharmed, but one in human large gash in the snakes hide, but the man made of feathers
form was badly burned on the left part of his torso and arm. was particularly vulnerable to the snake’s intense heat. Anxelli
Makuatua stood between Anxelli and the fourth of the could see his form begin to char – yet he battled on. Over the
jaguar knights, tepoztōpīlli in hand. The jaguar knight swung years, she had grown to love this honorable and brave
his mighty maca at the feather-man with a swing that could creature. She thought of him more as family than as a simple
easily have beheaded the plumazotl. Skillfully, Makuatua used bodyguard.
the shaft of his spear to deflect the blow, but the maca Makuatua struck again but this time he only managed to
shattered the plumastone edge of his weapon. Makuatua make contact with the dulled edge of his tepoztōpīlli and it
surmised that the maca was enchanted to have exactly this hardly had an effect. The fire snake smiled an evil grin and bit
effect. down on the plumazotl’s weapon arm. The snake began to
Anxelli once again began to cast her protective slashing glow brighter and his flames intensified. Anxelli screamed as
plumage, and it was nearly complete when a jaguar collided she witnessed the death of her truest friend.
with her exposed flank. She was amazed by the knight’s Anxelli did not even notice the no longer blind jaguar night
incredible speed and ability to remain unseen. step beside her as she lost herself in sorrow. The knight
She cursed the Runt as the jaguar once again closed in on placed his hand on her shoulder and said, “He fought with the
her prone form. When he displayed his power, Anxelli saw him spirit of a Kultakan and the story of the man of feathers will
for what he truly was. All along she had followed the word of be told among my people. This I swear to you.”
one of Itzapaplotl’s own. The Runt was a star demon, and she Anxelli kept her sight on Xiatemoc and released her Breath
was a fool! of Qotal. The radiance seared the wound already inflicted by
The jaguar knight prepared to bite down on Anxelli, but Makuatua and the snake roared in pain.
Maohtli released a spray of color directly into the knight’s face The two jaguar shaped knights pounced on Kitilli and bit
and he fell blinded to the ground. deeply into her side.
More flames – this time from behind a nearby crest Wailing, the xiuhcouatl intensified its flames instinctually –
mirrored a flash from the star demon and the red and blue but these were warriors of Kultaka! They did not release nor
reflections intermingled. The unknown assailant represented relent their grip, and systematically they began to tear chunks
a third party who had now entered the fray. of flesh from the serpent. In one last desperate attempt, the
Two great and fiery snakes fought independently – one servant of Tezca flung itself from the cliff, taking the two brave
facing Runt and the other against the jaguar knight who had knights with it. They did not release the xiuhcouatl until the
been burned at the battle’s onset. The larger of the snakes bit ground below stole all three of their lives.
down on the jaguar knight and tossed his screaming body Anxelli and the jaguar knight squared themselves to
from the cliff. It was engulfed in fire as it fell far to the rocks Xiatemoc, emboldened by the bravery of their fallen
below. companions. The plumacaster launched a barrage of feather
The snake looked directly at Anxelli and smiled with a vile darts from her outstretched hands – far more than the spell
toothy grin and she heard its voice in her head. typically allowed. Each struck unerringly as the jaguar knight
“Greetings princess, I am Xiatemoc and this is my mate closed the distance and the creature grimaced in pain.
Kitilli. The Lord of Fire sends his regards and like your The xiuhcouatl, using innate magic of its own, put up a wall
master Cualli, you too shall suffer in the flames of Tezca for of fire between itself and the knight. The wall was angled so
eternity – the Flayed Lands await you!” that the knight had become trapped between the cliff and the
Anxelli recognized the creatures from Cualli’s lessons. deadly flames. The serpent headed towards Anxelli seeking to
These were the dreaded xiuhcouatl of the flame god Tezca – a rip out her throat and fulfilling his promise to his lord Tezca.
brother to Zaltec and her own lord Qotal. They were the With only inches separating her from the xiuhcouatl’s
instruments of Cualli’s suffering and she welcomed the snapping jaws, Anxelli managed to raise a barrier of slashing
chance to avenge her mentor. She did not believe the foul plumage. The serpent raised the flames that naturally
creature’s lies about Cualli but she was enraged regardless. surrounded it and Anxelli felt her face start to redden. With
Makuatua charged the flame snake. The Runt, sensing that her magic nearly depleted and the temperature rising, she
he stood between the remaining jaguars and the plumazotl, knew her remaining spells needed to count.
took to the sky and fully dropped his disguise. His skeletal She looked to the wall of flames that surrounded the jaguar
form crackled with bluish flames and the coward disappeared knight and reached into the tendrils of magic that gave it
beyond the cliff edge. power. Her dispelling was successful and the jaguar knight
Three jaguar knights remained, though the one in human bounded from the flames before they had even fully died
form still rubbed his eyes in an attempt to gain back his sight. down.
The two in jaguar form charged the xiuhcouatl named Kitilli. Brandishing his enchanted mācuahuitl, the jaguar knight
Maohtli released a spray of color, but the attack had no closed the distance to Xiatemoc within moments. Before the
effect on the xiuhcouatl. serpent could even react, the mighty maca cleanly removed its
head from its body. Xiatemoc’s head rolled to within inches of
Anxelli’s feet.
The jaguar knight, though burned and bruised, looked up to
Anxelli and smiled.
From above, Maohtli suddenly cried out a warning.
Realizing its inability to affect the xiuhcouatl, Anxelli had
mentally informed her familiar to keep away early in the fight,
but the corollax was not the only missing combatant.
94
The Runt, fully ablaze in blue starfire flew up from the cover Her memories came back in a flood and she suddenly
that the cliff face offered him and released his starfire on the noticed the hut was in flames. Fire rose up all around her,
jaguar knight. The flames engulfed the knight and when they leaving only a single path to the hut’s door. She grabbed the
passed, only a smoking husk remained. egg and fled towards the door but the image of a giant ghostly
“Ah, dear Anxelli – why is it that every time you find yourself snake’s head manifested before it. Flames came from the
a new friend, they end up dead? Your parents, Cualli, apparition’s mouth and it barred her exit with its toothy maw.
Makuatua, and now this unnamed warrior all have fallen to Having no choice but to go forward, Anxelli barreled right
defend you – I simply don’t understand the waste.” through the spectral image and when she passed she found
Anxelli cast her final feather dart spell at the tzitzimitl who herself once again in the calm quiet jungle.
took the full brunt of the spell in his chest. A rib from his Cualli put her hand on Anxelli who was startled, but quickly
skeletal form, still glowing blue, fell from his body and down settled at the calming touch of her mentor. She noticed that
to the jagged rocks far below. the hut had not truly been on fire, and it was likely only part of
“I am going to miss that. Oh well, I have eleven more where a terrible dream.
it came from.” “Not all your friends have left you my dear. Though I have
Anxelli could still hurl the weakest of her magics at the star passed on to be with my husband, I love you still and will
demon and was willing to take him apart one bone at a time. never truly leave your side.” As she spoke her words, Cualli’s
The tzitzimitl – despite its bravado, wisely moved itself out of face grew the features of a beautiful and youthful woman,
her range. erasing the tortures of the xiuhcouatl almost casually. A
Anxelli swore. smiling man stepped from the jungle and called to Cualli.
The star demon flew further from Anxelli and headed “Itzamna doesn’t like it when I am gone from his side for
directly for the glow of Mount Zatal. “I will see you at the too long, the fool can’t even wait just a few simple minutes.”
mountain, yes? There we can finish this. Good luck princess, When Anxelli’s thought of the couple’s age long separation,
and get some rest – you will need it for the challenges to she found great irony in Cualli’s words.
come!” “I leave you with these parting words, daughter. While it is
Maohtli landed on Anxelli’s shoulder as the young woman true that I can no longer spend my days physically by your
surveyed the wreckage and wept. There was truth in the Star side, one you thought lost is not truly gone at all. He is right
Demon’s words. Always did that vile creature speak the there in the palm of your hands.”
horrible truth! Anxelli looked down at her hands and they were still
The battle had left her exhausted and night had come just holding the egg that she found in the gold-feathered chamber.
as the battle had drawn to a conclusion. It was already well When she looked back up, Cualli and her husband, the hut,
past those early evening hours, and she realized she must rest the macaws and everything else was gone; replaced by the still
if she intended to continue. Mount Zatal rumbled in the smoking cliff face on the Nexal/Kultaka border where she had
distance and this evening its glow seemed ever more ominous. lost so much.
Anxelli drifted off into slumber. She kneeled in the exact spot where Makuatua had been
laid low by the flames of the xiuhcouatl, having somehow
======= walked there in her sleep. She found her hands resting in the
Anxelli awoke to the sound of Cualli’s cooking as she so often charred pile of feathers that had been Makuatua’s body and as
did. She smelled the delicate aroma of jungle fruits and she shifted the pile she found a melon sized egg – the same
berries, and heard the soothing sounds of water boiling in a multicolored oval from her vision. Anxelli felt a feeling of
steel pot – a relic the pale faced men brought to the True intense relief – this was the way to bring Makuatua back; she
World that Cualli found ever so useful. knew it to be so! It appeared that Cualli had come to her in
“Good morning, child. I am glad you have rested – you her sleep to teach her still in the ways of pluma magic, though
seemed so very tired last night. Perhaps your studies keep you the realization of her passing was bittersweet.
up too late into the evening hours?” As if the instructions had been written directly into her
Anxelli looked to her mentor confused and she responded, mind, Anxelli knew she could build the chamber that she
“Well, yes, that must be it. I was just tired. What have you committed to memory once this whole quest was over. Having
prepared this morning and how may I assist you?” gained full knowledge of this powerful new spell, she knew
“Eggs, fruit and berries – all of your favorites in fact, dear. that Makuatua would be born again as the same noble warrior
And yes, I would like your help please if you do not mind. that had given his life for her.
Would you fetch the eggs for me? My old legs ache and do not Anxelli felt reinvigorated and her magic came back;
wish to go all the way to the hut.” stronger than it had been just a day ago. She was ready for the
“Of course, mentor.” Runt, and set off for the fires of Zatal with hopeful
determination as she sought out the artifact of her god and
Anxelli went to her mentor’s hut admiring the beautiful day ancestors.
and smiling at the dozens of macaws she spotted high up in
the jungle boughs. =======
When she entered the hut she found the basket of eggs
sitting next to a gold foil and feather-embroidered box that she
had never seen in Cualli’s possession before. Cualli studied
the box – more of a chamber really, and she committed its
design and construction to memory; not knowing exactly why
she felt the need to do so. Anxelli opened the chamber and
found a multihued egg whose coloration reminded her of…a
friend?
95
She allowed herself a moment to look at the vile corpse and
Chapter 6 remember Cualli’s teachings. She believed the creature was
If she had doubted the jaguar knight’s description of the Valley called a grimlock who were at one time the human
of Nexal before, she certainly did not do so now. The cities of inhabitants of the valley. Cualli told her that evil men once
Azatl, Tezat and even Nexal itself had all been thoroughly thrived alongside the beasts of the Viperhand and they were
abandoned by their foul inhabitants. It was a not-so-subtle tolerated – for a time. When the skies turned to steel and
invitation by Zaltec, this Anxelli knew; a trap that she willingly Zaltec ceased answering the prayers of the faithful, Hoxitl and
stepped into. the other jagres ordered the orcs, ogres and trolls to round up
the humans and bring them to Zatal in hopes that the sheer
She thought of all the players in this cosmic game. Zaltec, number of sacrifices would awaken their god. Hoxitl brought
Tezca, the star demons and their queen – she wondered if the humans to the mountain, but he was beset upon by a great
there were any true alliances among these awful beings. The two headed dragon known as a tlalocouatl. The humans
clever girl figured that on some level, they would all escaped into the underground caverns and lava tubes of Zatal
undermine each other, hopefully to her own benefit. and were never heard from again. The confluence of their evil
Though obviously abandoned, ominous sounds still came natures, the act of betrayal, and strange mystical energies of
from each city; Nexal in particular. She gave them a wide the Heart of the Mountain eventually transformed these
berth when it was possible and used her considerable speed piteous humans into the creature she now saw before her.
to run through areas she could not avoid. Beyond foul Nexal, The footsteps grew louder, and she muttered a prayer to
she finally stood at the base of Mount Zatal. Qotal.
Long ago, the lakes that surrounded the mountain teemed The horde first arrived from behind and she turned to run.
with life and were a true bounty to one of the greatest Unfortunately a second group of the blind creatures turned a
population centers in the whole of the True World. On the corner and she was effectively trapped with nowhere to turn.
Night of Wailing, the lakes had fouled, though somehow the Anxelli unleashed the Breath of Qotal upon the first group
Viperhand still finds sustenance within its low waters and and in its radiance; nearly a dozen of the creatures were laid
mud flats. low. She turned to face the second horde but was struck with
The volcano itself was massive. Its base was nearly twenty a bone club before she could even finish the motion. Anxelli
miles wide and it reached so high into the sky that it could saw stars, felt a few more blows, and lost consciousness.
easily been seen from leagues away. The caldera itself was
relatively small, but it continually belched forth plumes of =======
smoke and hot ash. The glow of lava had become a permanent
sight since the mountain reawakened. Anxelli woke with a pounding headache and found herself
Maohtli flew up the mountain side and searched for some bound and gagged with filthy rags that smelled and tasted of
kind of opening but had been unsuccessful. Anxelli followed blood. She opened her eyes to see an enormous chamber and
her familiar slowly, as the terrain became jagged and barren. a slow moving lake of magma. The flow came from under the
Further up, strange fiery lizards came into view, but they were rear wall and out once again in a spot uncomfortably close to
easily avoided and did not seem overtly hostile. Anxelli prayed her position; the heat made her sweat uncontrollably.
to Qotal to guide her steps. Dozens of the foul grimlocks pushed, shoved and bit at each
After a full day of traveling, Anxelli set up camp and rested. other to claim small morsels of food. They were notorious
The next morning she continued ever upwards on the cannibals, and she had no desire to see what awful meal they
mountain until the heat grew and the mountain grumbled. fought over.
Maohtli had just disappeared over boulders of basalt when For the moment, none had noticed the plumacaster’s
the ground disappeared from underneath Anxelli’s feet. She awakening. She thought to cast one of her spells, but without
jumped to grab hold of a ledge but could not get a grip on the the use of her voice or hands it was impossible. Anxelli
crumbling earth. attempted to summon Maohtli to her side as well, but this too
She fell for hundreds of feet into the darkness, but managed could not be done. Somehow she had lost contact with the
to quickly mouth the words of a spell – allowing her to float to corollax when she first entered the mountain.
the earth like a feather. Effectively helpless; how long would it be before the
“And so it begins,” Anxelli said silently grimlocks fought over small pieces of her?
Alone in the unbearable heat and dark; Anxelli heard =======
dozens of footfalls coming from both directions. She grabbed
a fallen basalt stone and cast a spell; enchanting the stone to Minutes passed but they seemed like hours and Anxelli grew
light her way. As she lifted the glowing rock, she was startled desperate. She could think of no avenue of escape that would
by the eyeless face of a pale skinned humanoid that stood only lead to her survival and she gave up any sense of hope. If only
a few feet from her. The creature raised its club of bone and she had not lost her obsidian dagger in the jungle against the
swung violently but the Chosen of Qotal narrowly dodged the raptors!
blow. The sounds of footsteps grew louder and she realized As an act of defiance, the Chosen of Qotal decided that she
she needed to finish off the creature immediately. Anxelli cast would be the one to decide the way she would die. The
her feather darts at the humanoid and felled it instantly. magma river was only a few feet from where she lay and she
found herself able to roll slowly even though her hands and
feet were bound to each other. She began to turn end over end
in order to bring herself to the molten rock. A quick death by
incineration was better than being eaten one piece at a time.
96
A portly grimlock stopped gnawing on a femur in order to turn Finally the tlalocouatl came upon a massive stone disk
in her direction. It called the attention of grimlocks who stood carved with ancient engravings that blocked any further travel.
closer to Anxelli’s position and they headed towards her in a Anxelli could not recognize most of the engravings, but they
sprint. included many of the typical depictions of Azul and the motifs
The room shock violently and the grimlocks were knocked all dealt with rain, clouds, lakes or rivers. One in particular
to their knees from the thunderous boom. The creatures and grabbed her attention – a carving of what was undoubtedly a
Anxelli both looked confused – could it be that the volcano great flood. Humans and many beasts she did not recognize
was becoming active once again? fled the deluge. Though she did not have a chance to look for
No, a second boom was definitively not the rumbling of an long, she thought she noticed a strange man-scorpion hybrid
earthquake. A crack appeared in the wall behind the river of within the group.
fire as if something was breaking through and the grimlocks For the first time, the heads spoke – answering Anxelli’s
began to scatter. The one who first noticed Anxelli’s attempt at unspoken question to whether or not they (it?) were capable.
suicidal defiance fell into the magma along with half a dozen The words it spoke were mystical and in perfect unison – the
others. effect was almost melodic, and the stone disk began to slide
A third boom sent shards of jagged rock and a cloud of dust into the cavern walls of its own volition.
billowing into the room and Anxelli felt the unlikely comfort of A great chamber opened up beyond the disk and Anxelli
a cool, misty breeze. was gently dropped near a pool that smelled of morning dew.
The massive head of a great serpent came through the mist The dragon spoke more mystical words and Anxelli felt what
and grabbed a panicked grimlock; swallowing the creature she initially thought was a breeze. Wispy hands formed in the
whole. Three of the vile humanoids actually attacked the wind and removed her gag and bindings.
serpent’s head with their bone clubs. A second head then The walls of the chamber were tiled, forming a vast mosaic
appeared through the mist, but this one had the features of a of blue and green designs – many of which resembled the
jaguar of massive proportions. It opened its jaws and released carvings on the stone disk. A dragon sized cavity in the ceiling
a cloud of scalding steam that caused the grimlock’s skin to allowed sunlight to filter down from far above, illuminating
boil and slide off the bone. the entirety of the chamber. Likely, it also served as an exit for
Anxelli realized that the two heads that had destroyed the the tlalocouatl.
cavern were not from separate creatures. Rather, both the The jaguar head spoke a single word to Anxelli.
serpent and jaguar heads belonged to a tlalocouatl – a dragon “Drink.”
in service to the rain god Azul and possibly the very creature After her ordeal with the magma, Anxelli was terribly
that drove the grimlocks underground a century ago. The dehydrated. She feared the dragon and did not yet know its
room shook with every movement of its serpentine body and intentions, but she obliged its command more than willingly.
the river of lava began to creep slowly outside its normal path. The tlalocouatl waited patiently for her to finish. A dragon
Only inches from Anxelli now, the heat became unbearable; of its size was likely quite ancient and surely had developed
and she could not escape the burn. remarkable patience in its long existence.
Just as the magma began to redden her skin, Anxelli felt a When she finished, Anxelli looked into the dragon’s eyes –
billowing cloud of cool mist encompass her. The molten rock all four stared at her intently.
whistled and sputtered, but its orange and red glow dampened “Chosen of Qotal, you stand in the chamber of Quiyahui;
within moments. The tlalocouatl – a servant of a deity no less servant of Azul and Architect of the Great Flood. My master
cruel than the fire lord Tezca had saved her from certain bid me assist you and to give you this gift.”
death! The jaguar head came through the steam and lifted the The dragon’s words once again became the voice of magic –
bound Anxelli in its powerful jaws. It bit down gently on her and the waters of the pool began to recede. Dry and
garments and lifted her much as a true jaguar would carry its untouched by the sweet smelling waters, a carved pillar stood
kittens from danger. within the depths. Atop the pillar lay the grandest feather
The tlalocoatl exited with Anxelli back towards the cracked Anxelli had ever seen.
rock face. Magma flowed in front of the fissure now and she Multicolored and glowing with power, Anxelli understood
noticed a large lava tube leading deeper into the mountain. she was in the presence of the Cloak of One Plume. It had
The serpent head reared back and let forth a cone of ice always been an item of great power; a pluma talisman that
crystals that halted the remainder of the magma flow – the some say had been crafted by Qotal himself. Cualli once
room became pleasantly cool. explained to her that Qotal sensed a calamity before the gods
======= went silent and he invested much of his power and divinity
into the cloak.
The rain dragon raced through endless tunnels deep into the “Though our patrons do not always see eye to eye, they now
mountain. It made dozens of turns, sometimes even upward honor a pact made long before the sky turned to steel.”
or downward. Anxelli knew there would be no way for her to Anxelli only nodded. She had accepted her destiny long ago,
find her way back but it didn’t really matter; she had long ago but the presence of the divine was overwhelming.
become lost in her encounter with the grimlocks. The tlalocouatl continued, “Among all the gods, my lord has
The tunnels were tubes carved by lava long ago, but they grown weary of Zaltec and Qotal’s incessant interventions in
were so moist that small pools formed in depressions. Some the world of men. Qotal has agreed to leave mankind to his
of the deeper pools stirred with life, but nothing dared own devices, should Azul and the other gods hold dark Zaltec
challenge the two-headed serpent. Anxelli lost her light stone, to the same standard. Only fiery Tezca has abandoned his
but luminescent lichen covered the walls of the lava tubes, family to find his own way.”
giving the whole underground region the ambiance of a lunar
evening in the jungles of Far Payit.
97
Anxelli spoke for the first time, “I understand great one, but if Yet here he was in front of her; Zaltec, the Bringer of War
I may ask – what is my role in this?” and Eater of Hearts. He approached with his mācuahuitl
“Your blood is the catalyst that can return the divinity that raised high, intent on battle. Perhaps if he would not assist
Qotal relinquished. You need only don the Cloak of One Plume her in her ascension, she would have to take it from him!
and will it to be so. There are many others who sought to Itzapaplotl grew to a size which matched the stone titan
either steal its power for themselves, or destroy it outright. that was Zaltec. Their forms collided and the sky kingdom
You have done admirably well in following your destiny.” shook.
Anxelli stepped onto the pillar and took the cloak in her Magics were unleashed which, had they been on the surface
hand. She thought she would be consumed by the immense of the True World, would have torched the forests and laid
power she felt within the item, but by the time she wrapped it mountains low.
about her shoulders, she grew accustomed to the sensation. The Obsidian Butterfly was no match for the Bringer of
“Now, release the power to your lord.” War. Her claws and magic ripped great chunks of stone from
Anxelli somehow knew exactly what to do. The divine glow his flesh, but the Eater of Hearts scored hit after hit with his
in the Cloak of One Plume intensified and visibly seeped into terrible mācuahuitl.
her hands. The multicolored energy flowed up her arms as Hundreds, if not thousands or tzitzimitl came to the aid of
slowly as the molten rock in the mountain. It eventually their mother; each unleashing torrents of star fire. They too
passed into her heart and upwards towards her mouth. She were crushed by the dozen with every swing of Zaltec’s maca,
tilted her head upwards to the cavity in the ceiling and opened but their starfire began to weaken him.
her mouth to the sky and experienced a brief moment of Temporarily ignoring the star demons, Zaltec thrust his fist
silence as time stopped within the room – droplets of water into the prone Itzapaplotl’s chest and ripped out her beating
from the moist air hung suspended in tiny globules. The heart. He swallowed it whole and threw her still living body
silence grew to a roar as a beam exploded from Anxelli’s deep into the void. The Obsidian Butterfly’s scream was silent,
mouth straight up into the sky above. Somewhere, she heard but her face remained twisted in pain long after her form was
the approving roar of a dragon far greater even than that of no longer visible.
Quiyahui. Witnessing the likely death of their queen and mother, the
======= star demons released their fire simultaneously on Zaltec. The
light was so bright that the mortal inhabitants of the True
“Betrayed!” World thought that a star had burst – many saw it as a
Zaltec did not have to say much more, his fury spoke ten powerful omen. When the blue flame subsided nothing
thousand words. remained. Zaltec, the tzitzimitl and Itzapaplotl were all gone
“Divinity? Sponsorship? No, the only gift I will bring her is and the void kingdom of Tamoacha floated silently.
the gift of oblivion!” =======
Mount Zatal had always been sacred to Zaltec, but even the
greatest of his priests could not understand why the Bringer When Zaltec feasted on the heart of his mother, an
of War took such an interest in the Mountain of Fire. The earthquake struck the cavern of the tlalocouatl. Boulder sized
inhabitants of the True World spoke of the heart of the stone began to fall from the ceiling, ruining the beautifully
mountain as a metaphor; something dark emanated from engraved mosaic.
within its depths for certain. But among the faithful, only Anxelli was quick to avoid the worst of the falling rock, but
Hoxitl knew there was a tangible – literal translation. When small stones pelted her on her back and shoulders and she
Zaltec beheaded Maztica; his mother and the mother of the cried out in pain.
whole of the True World, he ripped her still beating heart from The shaking subsided, but a particularly large rock fell from
her chest and brought it to reside below the mountain. Its above and Anxelli did not have time to evade it.
power of life was corrupted and it is the source of the dark The serpent head of the dragon thrust itself between her
energy that emanates from the mountain and brought the and the falling rock and it struck with great force. The serpent
Night of Wailing. head grew silent but the jaguar wailed and spoke, “Go now!
Zaltec entered the Chamber of the Heart and looked at his You command the power of the Cloak of One Plume. Return
prize. Blackened with rot, the heart grew tendrils like veins to your people and tell them that Azul has brought them
into the surrounding stone – which held it aloft like the pulp in succor!”
an open gourd. The Cloak imparted its abilities on Anxelli and she knew
The heart occasionally beat, which caused the mountain to one of its greatest was the gift of flight. Stones still fell in the
shake and rumble. Even as far as Kultaka, its irregular beat chamber and the large body of the dragon took hit after hit.
could be heard. “Go!!!” The dragon screamed.
Zaltec stepped close to his mother’s heart and bit deeply. Its Faster than Makuatua or Maohtli ever could, Anxelli
magic infused him and he felt his stony form crumble, only to launched herself into the air with hardly a thought. She
reform in the void kingdom of the Mother of the Star Demons. spared one last glance on the dragon and muttered a word of
======= sincere thankfulness. She was concerned that the majestic
serpent could not fly without both heads being conscious, but
In eons of existence, Itzapaplotl’s kingdom of Tamoacha had she needed to leave the chamber before it was too late.
remained inviolate. Far above the world in the airless reaches
of the void – she reigned without question.
98
She flew upwards into the cavity in the ceiling. The dragon The silence was unbearable. A small village such as this
must have carried her upwards in their escape from the should be teeming with the sounds of children playing – but
grimlock cavern; because they were she realized they were they too had fallen victim to whatever cruel force was
surprisingly close to the surface. Anxelli burst out into the responsible.
open air once again – finally free from the oppressive She heard a faint growl from the edge of the jungle. Though
mountain. she was cautious, it seemed more of a warning than the
prelude to an attack. She looked into the foliage and a small
Chapter 7 black jaguar stepped out and flattened its ears. Anxelli walked
towards the animal and it rolled onto its backside in a sign of
Anxelli marveled at the Cloak of One Plume and its powers, submission.
but she did not particularly feel like celebrating. Maohtli was “So there has been a survivor,” Anxelli said wistfully. In the
not just some stupid bird to her, he was her familiar – and midst of the horror, it was a small victory, but the cat made her
since that day long ago with Cualli, she had felt a persistent smile.
connection to the corollax. When she entered Zatal, Anxelli “I wish you could tell me what happened here little beastie.”
thought the evil energy of the mountain itself had somehow The young jaguar rubbed up against her leg lovingly. She
suppressed her connection, but now she had flown far beyond bent over to pet it and it suddenly growled.
the mountain and still there was nothing. Anxelli was slapped in the face with a cold wet object that
She had temporarily returned to the mountain and did not hurt overly much but certainly startled her. The jaguar
searched for days for her brave little friend, but there was no bounded into the woods.
sign of him to be found. Eventually she was forced to move on. “Oh my, I told you that you were a poison for your friends;
Anxelli worried that he might have fallen victim to some look at what you have caused.”
predator on the mountain, perhaps one of the fiery lizards that She knew that voice and she wanted to lash out at it. Above
wandered its surface. In her recent search she had come into her, the skeletal runt of a star demon hovered; still fleshless,
conflict with a few of the beasts and found to her delight that but wearing a cloak of his own draped about his body. She
the Cloak also gave her resistance to its fiery breath. looked down at the object that had struck her face and she
A familiar, once slain, could be recalled with a ritual similar gagged for the second time today.
to when she first bonded with the bird – but she couldn’t bear “Yes, do you recognize your friend? His bright plumage
the thought of yet another of her friends suffering because of bothered my eyes so I plucked them from him one at a time.
her. The Runt’ old accusations echoed in her mind. Oh wait – I don’t have any eyes, foolish me!”
Through her ordeal, Anxelli managed to maintain Anxelli screamed, “No!” and the Cloak of One Plume flared
possession of the egg that was Makuatua; hiding it in a small with scintillating colors and a ghostly image of the Plumed
feathered pouch that had been a gift from Cualli. The pouch Dragon roared above her head. Anxelli stood tall in its naked
was itself a talisman of plumamagic that could fit far more on power.
its inside than its size would suggest, yet it was nondescript Maohtli’s corpse disappeared in a puff, having finally been
and easily ignored. released from whatever magic the Runt used to keep the
She decided she would see to her friends first. She would familiar bound.
build the chamber whose design Cualli had brought to her in The tzitzimitl was taken aback by the girl’s display of power
her dreams first. Her knowledge of this spell – incubation, as and nearly fell prone, but he quickly recovered.
it was called, would “hatch” her old friend so that he could “It pleases me that the Cloak of One Plume has retained
once again stand by her side. She missed the warrior’s silent some of its might; I will gladly take it from you momentarily –
company. but first understand that I too have drunk from the divine!”
The familiar ritual would soon follow – and if the corollax As he uttered his last word, the Runt opened his cloak to
had been slain, he would return to her. At the very least, this Anxelli and revealed his skeletal chest. Within his ribcage, she
awful occurrence would explain his disappearance. could see a black beating heart – undoubtedly the Heart of
Anxelli flew each day and rested only scant hours each Hoxitl, but far more alive. The hishna talisman had become a
evening; first through Nexal, then fierce Kultaka and idyllic dark mirror of the Cloak of One Plume; perhaps absorbing
Pezelac. When she first entered the jungles of Payit she felt a some of the divine energy released in Zaltec’s battle. It had
wave of nostalgia and realized how much she had missed become a part of the Runt and the two sworn enemies stood
home. on equal ground.
Far off on the horizon she spotted black smoke rising in the Anxelli used the flying power of the Cloak to reach eye level
jungle. She knew very well the region – it was the home of a with the Runt. Before her eyes, the star demon began to grow
mixed community of Payit and jungle halflings who had until his feet touched the ground. The Heart had always
become unlikely allies in the preceding century. Even from her allowed its wielder to transform, but it was no longer
distance she could see the damage was extensive. constrained by size or strength. Anxelli saw the irony in the
The smell of burst flesh was overpowering when she came Runt’s new stature.
upon the village, but the smell wasn’t the only thing that would “How will you face me now, Chosen? My power is far too
give Anxelli nightmares for years to come. great.”
The men and halflings who had been incinerated were The tzitzimitl released a great blast of starfire that engulfed
perhaps the luckiest of the inhabitants. Entrails were Anxelli. What remained of the village behind her was instantly
everywhere – it was gore unlike Anxelli could ever imagine. incinerated, leaving hardly a trace that there had ever been a
This was not the clean kills of sacrifice which the priests of settlement.
the dark gods performed, but rather an act of pure malice. She
had to duck to avoid the hanging corpses and the plumacaster
vomited.
99
The flames died out and Anxelli stood untouched; the power
of the Cloak had protected her and now it was her turn. Epilogue
Anxelli preferred her spells of pluma, but they were not all Long after the battle with Runt Anxelli visited her third village
she carried in her arsenal. Using the breath of the great with Makuatua, Maohtli and her Beastie beside her. She never
Quiyahui as inspiration, she released a blue ray of terrible cold felt that the title “princess” fit, and she certainly did not accept
from her fingertips that struck the giant star demon it when they had called her “queen.” Anxelli chose instead to
unerringly. Frost formed over his shoulder and he grunted in honor her teacher Cualli by passing the great gift of
pain. plumamagic throughout Payit. In each town she visited,
“Not so cocky now, demon,” Anxelli quipped. Anxelli found an apprentice to whom she passed along her
The star demon’s skeletal hand struck Anxelli and knocked knowledge.
her out of the sky. She knew her right arm was broken, but Never again would cruel beings like the Obsidian Butterfly
was surprised the attack hadn’t killed her. or her star demon minions find the peaceful folk unprepared.
She responded with the Breath of Qotal and the radiance The tonalli of Cualli occasionally looked in on the one she
struck the tzitzimitl. The star demon had continued growing considered a daughter and she smiled.
throughout the battle, however, and the damage she incurred
was not enough to stop him. =======
The star demon’s fist struck down at Anxelli but she
narrowly evaded the attack. Though her magic was strong she Exbal Ken is the tenemo of the torturers and priests of the
did not know if she could defeat him. cruel gods after passing from the mortal world. The tonalli
Having now grown taller than the trees, the star demon here have a choice to either continue to suffer or cause
grabbed at Anxelli and she could not escape him this time. He suffering. It is difficult to find a being that still retains its heart
held her tightly and began to squeeze. Her broken arm was within its chest in the whole of the eternal plane.
pinned in the skeletal grasp and the pain was unbearable; she Zaltec brooded among the carnage and called to his
knew that she would soon be crushed in his grasp. greatest servant.
The tzitzimitl abruptly stopped and looked down at his feet. “Hoxitl, come to me my slave.”
The young black jaguar had returned from the jungle and was The massive jagre appeared instantly in the presence of his
tearing at the star demon’s leg with all its might. master.
“Beastie!” Anxelli yelled out. “Yes, my lord. What is it that you wish of me, Bringer of
The jaguar’s attack could not truly hurt the giant, but the War.”
momentary distraction was all that Anxelli needed. She “There is one who has defied me and I wish to feast upon
mouthed the words and made the motions with her free arm her heart. Bring her to me.”
to summon a small spectral hand within the star demon’s From his maw, Zaltec produced a blackened heart that beat
chest. A simple spell really, she more often used it to assist in furiously in Hoxitl’s presence. He thrust the heart forward and
chores when she resided with Cualli. The hand clamped on veins like tendrils reached to a gap in the jagre’s chest. As if it
the beating Heart of Hoxitl and pulled it through the gap were a burrowing lizard in the House of Tezca, the heart
formed by the missing rib in the star demon’s chest. crawled into the empty cavity and the wound closed over
Instantly, the star demon shrunk back to a pathetic runt. instantly.
Anxelli dropped hard to the earth but she rose once again Hoxitl smiled a toothy grin.
before the weakened tzitzimitl could react. The jaguar stood
beside her.
This time, when the Breath of Qotal struck the tzitzimitl it
did not recover. It’s smoking form lay amidst the devastation it
had wrought, having left this world with hardly a whimper. THE END
=======
100
The Maztica Campaign
This netbook is designed to attract new players to
the Mesoamerican based setting known as
Welcome to the Maztica.
Maztica is a region of the greater world of Toril
from the Forgotten Realms. It was originally
introduced in 1990 with the novels Ironhelm
(1990), Viperhand (1990) and Feathered Dragon
True World! (1991); each written by Doug Niles. It was
subsequently followed up by a number of 2nd
Edition gaming products, starting with the
Maztica Boxed Set in 1991 (also by Doug Niles)
and followed by two adventures (FMA1 Fires of
Zatal by Jeff Grubb and Tim Beach, FMA2
Maztica is back once again, literally and Endless Armies by Jeff Grubb) and one
accessory/adventure (FMQ1 City of Gold by John
figuratively! After a century of exile on the twin Nephew and Jonathan Tweet).
planet of Abeir, Maztica returned during the In later editions of Dungeons and Dragons, with
a few minor exceptions, Maztica was summarily
miraculous event known as the Sundering. ignored or outright removed from the Forgotten
Realms setting. With the advent of 5e and the
Dungeon Master’s Guild, Maztica is back once
So what exactly has come back from the savage again in the Realms!
world with strangely colored skies? A New, New Edition!
The first time I started writing for Maztica was
way back in the latter days of the 3rd Edition.
What are the Mazticans like today and have they Floating out there on the internet somewhere
there is a nightmarish early version of this book
ever fully recovered from the invasion only a few which I highly recommend you avoid!
short decades before the Blue Breath of Change? But time passed and with dozens of additional
books written, I have tried to hone both my writing
skills and game knowledge to eventually come
Qotal had returned, but then the gods were left back to my first love. While loaded with errors, I
believe the first version of this book was headed in
behind once again. With so much trauma and so the right direction. But now, with the advent of
wonderful programs like GmBinder, it was time for
many changes, it is a wonder that civilizations did a new update. If you have the first version (which
not collapse. is also available here for download) you'll notice
some major differences, beyond even the rules
clarifications.
Well they didn't, and the Mazticans have proven
the old adage many times over that what doesn't
kill you, only makes you stronger.
Cover Art: "The Shaman"
Dragos Jieanu
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