Dreams of Hope - User contributions [en]

Shadow Veil

2026-09-14T20:00:40Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "AKA "the Veil". Shadow wraps around the Mortal Plane, isolating it from direct contact with the other planes. But wrapping around the deeper layers of Shadow itself is the Border Shadow, acting as a planar lubricant. And Border Shadow itself has two meaningful layers--the Verge and the Deeps. The Veil is the "membrane" that separates the Verge from the Mortal Plane. It prevents mortal, physical entities from accidentally crossing over into the Verge..."

AKA "the Veil".

[[Shadow]] wraps around the [[Mortal Plane]], isolating it from direct contact with the other planes. But wrapping around the deeper layers of [[Shadow]] itself is the [[Border Shadow]], acting as a planar lubricant. And Border Shadow itself has two meaningful layers--the Verge and the Deeps.

The Veil is the "membrane" that separates the Verge from the [[Mortal Plane]]. It prevents mortal, physical entities from accidentally crossing over into the Verge, while also adding resistance to crossings in the reverse direction. Any teleportation or conjuration spell requires crossing the Veil, as does any ability to become ethereal. As does any manifestation of divine, demonic, devilish or angelic power in the Mortal more directly. Priests who petition their patrons, clerics awaiting promptings from their gods, and demon cults performing sacrifices all interact with the veil. Even incorporeal entities, such as the spirits of the dead, must pass through the veil to reach Shadow.

Pure aether, bereft of any consciousness, can pass almost entirely unhindered by the veil. As a result, spells and effects that move aether around, as well as worship, pass through the veil with only the most minimal of disturbances or resistance.

== Structure of the Veil ==
The veil itself is often thought of as a living organism--it changes and adapts to conditions and is self-healing against small wounds.

Some scholars suggest that the veil can be thought of as comprising multiple systems, including the Between (the medium in which everything else happens), micro-portals, macro-portals (the two differentiated by size and stability), and even an "immune system" of sorts, although this latter is exceedingly poorly attested.

== Passing through the Veil ==
Bodily passage of a tangible creature through the veil is difficult. It generally requires finding or creating a portal large enough to allow passage. Some of these, such as the [[Moonpath|Moonpaths]], are persistent. Others are ephemeral. Controlling where (and when) you arrive is also difficult. Most "normal" spells use workarounds.

=== Divine Guidance ===
Even something as simple as a cleric receiving guidance or power from their deity requires reaching through the veil. For the most part, the veil has minimal effects on this. However, it does cause ripples and, in areas where the veil is exceptionally thin, risks further damage. Greater manifestations (dreams, actual messengers) cause exponentially more disruption and have become quite scarce during the [[Time of Troubles]] to avoid cascading veil disruption.

=== Psychopomps and Incorporeal Creatures ===
The [[Catocracy]] has to patrol the Verge and Veil routinely to find lost souls. They do so by navigating micro-portal structures within the veil, often called "mouseholes". This they can do because cats are particularly flexible, both physically and metaphysically. These portals are purely ephemeral. Incorporeal creatures do the same. As a result, a particularly "thick" veil can impede souls from transiting into Shadow; this is used in several arcane workings to trap the disembodied.

=== Conjuration Spells ===
Most conjuration spells don't actually create large portals. Instead, they create or find a micro-portal, large enough to pass an incorporeal Name and then build a substitute body-shell out of aether at the destination. This also produces a beneficial side-effect--creatures conjured in this fashion do not die if their shell is destroyed; they are simply banished back to their home plane.

==== Demonic and Undead ====
These types of effects (summoning demons or creating undead) involve pulling jotnar through from the [[Abyss]]. This is inherently corrosive to the Veil and the tears formed in this process are slow to heal even under the best of conditions. As a result, every demon or undead summoned raises the likely-hood that more will leak through spontaneously. And as the veil reacts to form scar tissue, it raises the chances that any souls that die in that area will only find their way into the Waste to become prey for demons.

=== Short-range Teleportation ===
Spells such as ''misty step'' and other short-range teleportation (ie that that happens within a few dozen feet) don't actually pierce the veil. They simply skip the user along the surface of it, utilizing the leakage of Shadow's space-warping effect to bend space. As a result, this is only marginally affected by the [[Aether-flood|Aether Flood]] and is possible even where most planar movement is not possible.

=== Long-range Teleportation ===
Long-range teleportation (e.g. ''teleportation circle, teleport, etc)'' do require piercing the veil. Effectively, the spell creates a tunnel through the Verge, making a single step into a trip of arbitrary length. Tearing the veil in this fashion is both prone to disruption due to local aetheric conditions as well as damaging to the veil itself (although small amounts of travel don't cause lasting damage).

=== Plane Shift ===
Actually physically translating between planes is the largest form of veil breach. The spell by that name actually looks for existing portals leading to approximately the correct location and widens them instead of tearing new portals.

The only exceptions here are transits to demiplanes (which exist within Shadow itself) and summoned creatures (such as devils) voluntarily self-banishing, relinquishing their shell and returning home. These are fairly benign.

== Veil Thickness ==
The veil is not of constant thickness (ie resistance/durability) everywhere. It varies both with location (including down to small-scale effects) and with time. Both too thick (ie hardened by scar tissue or magic) and too thin (weakened by various forces) are problematic.
[[Category:Metaphysics]]
[[Category:Planes]]

Catocracy

2026-09-14T19:24:55Z

Admiralbenbo:

Ever wonder why cats stare at things you can't see? Cats have the ability to see Beyond, into the space between this world and [[Shadow]]. They can see the spirits that need assistance passing through the [[Shadow Veil|veil]], and assist [[Gleaner|gleaners]] in encouraging those who refuse to pass beyond to do so. Those cats that coordinate the efforts of the gleaners and maintain the feline information network are the Catocracy, a shadowy cabal of talking felines. Where their headquarters are is unknown, whether in the Mortal or in [[Shadow]]. It's said that they commune directly with the [[Watcher]], but that too is rumor. What is known is that is that they communicate via eek-mail, which involves a cat killing a mouse and attaching a message to its soul, which it delivers before passing onward. The reaction of unsuspecting mortals gives it its name--they wake up to find a dead mouse lying around and go "eek!".
[[Category:Organizations]]
[[Category:Shadow]]

Northern Badlands

2026-09-11T02:45:52Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "A broken region of gullies, ravines, steep hills, and other nasty terrain located south-east of Tal Elamor between there and the Shaanti Forest. The southern sea-shore is inhabited by the Kor Abantu, and the interior is inhabited by isolated groups of humans, orcs, and giant-kin. Most of them dislike outsiders and each other. This stands as a major barrier to land trade between Nirda/Tal Elamor and the rest of the continent; there are no permanent ro..."

A broken region of gullies, ravines, steep hills, and other nasty terrain located south-east of [[Tal Elamor]] between there and the [[Shaanti Forest]]. The southern sea-shore is inhabited by the [[Kor Abantu]], and the interior is inhabited by isolated groups of humans, orcs, and giant-kin. Most of them dislike outsiders and each other.

This stands as a major barrier to land trade between [[Nirda]]/[[Tal Elamor]] and the rest of the continent; there are no permanent roads through the badlands.

== Settlements ==

* Kavu. On the north shore of the Torvan Gulf. Population of roughly 3,000, including a significant Clan Mafan garrison protecting the local iron and copper mines.

[[Category:Regions]]
[[Category:Noefra]]

Noefra

2026-09-11T01:54:27Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Geographic Regions */

The north-eastern continent of Quartus, Noefra is the center of most campaigns to date. It was the site of the [[Cataclysm War]], as well as the original continent from which [[Oelfra]] and [[Soefra]] were split.

== Political Map ==
The image displays the political borders of Noefra as of 253 AC. Capitals are marked as black dots; white dots represent significant secondary cities (secondary capitals, for instance). Nations are named in white text; areas without overlays are populated by scattered groups without a cohesive government (usually nomadic or pastoral tribes that do not claim persistent territory). Most of the continent (other than the [[Northern Frostlands]]) are inhabited, but civilization and organized nations remain few and far between except in the central parts of the western side and the far east. The entire south-east portion, marked "Here there be dragons" is the [[Dragonreach]], which is home to various flights of [[dragons]], but they've asked me not to mark their territory. And as I do not wish to be eaten, I have complied. The far-eastern [[Zhanryu Island]] is marked with "Monsters" because truly, those are the rulers. Strange and terrible beasts found no where else, all of whom are hostile to outsiders...and each other.
[[File:Noefra-253AC-political.webp|none|thumb|800x800px]]
Nations Marked:

* [[Khaimal]]
* [[Auringon]]
* [[Tlalocana]]
* [[Wyrmhold]]
* [[Byssia]]
* [[Crisial Kingdom]]
* [[Horse Clans|Seraaja]]
* [[Duarchy of Kotimaa]]
* [[Windwalker Confederacy]]
* [[True Hold]]
* [[Rauviz]]
* [[Holy Kaelthian Republic]] (HKR)
* [[Sha'slar Autonomous Zone]]
* [[Asai'ka (Nation)|Asai'ka]]
* [[Serpent Dominion]]
* [[Tarad'am]]
* [[Oldhome]]
* [[Uulan Confederacy]] (aka [[Fuar Uulan]])
* [[Shinevog]]
* [[Bel's Kush]]
* [[Rol'tor Free State]]
* [[Shaadval]]
* [[Ocieli]]
* [[Shaanti]]
* [[Jinse Empire]]
* [[Abandoned Clans]]
* [[Tuura Adam]]
* [[Abantu]]
* [[Nirda]]

=== Nations as of 260 AC ===
[[File:Noefra-260AC-political.webp|none|thumb|800x800px]]
New nations:

* [[Sigani|Sigana]]
* [[Scalefoot]]
* [[Elfhame]] (formerly part of the [[Duarchy of Kotimaa]])
* [[Axeholm]] (formerly part of the [[Duarchy of Kotimaa]])
* [[Pactland]] (formerly part of the [[Duarchy of Kotimaa]])
* [[The Dales]] (formerly Dainland and part of [[Crisial Kingdom]])
* [[Breeland]] (formerly part of the [[Duarchy of Kotimaa]])
* [[Freeglas]] (formerly part of the [[Ungoverned Lands]])
* [[Eastwalk Dutchy|Eastwalk]] (formerly known as the Eastwalk Duchy)
* [[Merrydale]] (formerly part of the [[Ungoverned Lands]])
* [[Bolor Hold]] / [[Xhort]] / [[Nazorat]] (formerly the [[Abandoned Clans]])
* [[Mar'osh]]
* [[Glorious Waters]]

Nations that have vanished/broken up

* [[Duarchy of Kotimaa]] (broken up into a bunch of smaller nations)
* [[Asai'ka (Nation)|Asai'ka]] (absorbed by the [[Serpent Dominion]])
* [[Roark]] (now part of [[Lowbridge Republic]])
* [[Windwalker Confederacy]] (died in the [[Red Plague]])

== Geographic Regions ==
[[File:Noefra geographic.webp|frameless|800x800px]]

West to east, north to south:

* [[Frozen Coast]]
* [[Lost Coast]]
* [[Drowned Coast]]
* [[Nocthian Caldera]]
* [[Gap-tooth Bay]] / [[Byssia]]
* [[Fiach Wood]]
* [[Lupaus Plains]]
* [[Southshore]]
* [[Blood-thirst Wildlands]]
* [[Isle of Fire]]
* [[Kotimaa]]
* [[Lake Coy'in]]
* [[Dreamshore]]
* [[Sea of Grass]]
* [[Jungle of Fangs]]
* [[Sentinel Island]]
* [[Sea of Dreams]]
* [[Giant Spine Mountains]]
* [[Outer Barrier Range]]
* [[Moon's Vengeance]]
* [[Great Eastern Dustlands]]
* [[Dragonreach]]
* [[Northern Frostlands|Northern Frostlands (Northern Waste)]]
* [[Hagfen]]
* [[Shaanti Forest]]
* [[Golden Plains]]
* [[Northern Badlands]]
* [[Nery Forti]]
* [[Zhanryu Island]]
* [[Cerulean Desert]]

Bordering oceans:

* Westward Ocean
* [[Primal Sea]]
* Eastward Ocean
* Frostbound Sea

=== Region-specific Maps ===
[[File:North East Noefra v1.png|thumb|North-East Noefra Ca 260 AC]]
[[Category:Continents]]
[[Category:Quartus]]

File:North East Noefra v1.png

2026-09-11T01:53:08Z

Admiralbenbo:

Loose Geography and major political divisions of north-east Noefra ca 260 AC

Cragdale

2026-09-06T23:37:01Z

Admiralbenbo:

Cragdale is the 2nd city of the [[Axeholm]] nation as of 260 AC. It has grown significantly since its sleepy days a decade ago, and now acts as the channel for trade coming from the mountains and across the [[Sea of Dreams]] into the [[Sea of Grass]].

==Location==
At the foot of the [[Dreamwall Mountains]] along the [[Avon-Pact]] River, about 3 days north of [[Sheplyn]] and 2.5 days south of [[Honedaxe]].

==Demographics==
A medium-sized town of 2650 people.
{| class="wikitable"
|- style="font-weight:bold;"
! Race
! Population
|-
| Human
| 1103
|-
| Halfling
| 343
|-
| Half Elf (various)
| 590
|-
| Dwarf
| 380
|-
| Puun ihmisia
| 110
|-
|Other
|124
|}

==Tech Levels==

{| class="wikitable"
|- style="font-weight:bold;"
! Category
! Level (1-4)
|-
| Arcane
| 2
|-
| Crafting
| 3
|-
| Divine
| 2
|-
| Items
| 4
|-
| Lodging
| 3
|-
| Potions
| 2
|}

==NPCs==
{| class="wikitable"
|- style="font-weight:bold;"
! Name
! Demographics
! Profession
! Religious Habits
! Personality
|-
| Bronwyn sur Riain
| Old female sharp-ear
| Inn-keep
| Casual
| Conservative
|-
| Bardryn Alkh-Laav
| Old female dwarf
| Priest of the Four Seasons
| Devout
| Glamorous
|-
| Theren il Meliamne
| Middle-aged male puun ihmisia
| Smith
| Animist
| Grand
|-
| Elza Cooper
| Middle-aged earth-blood
| Headman/Cooper
| Casual
| Liberal
|-
| Emma the Crone
| Old human female
| Hedge Mage (T1 witch/herbalist)
| Casual
| Well-meaning
|-
| James Trader
| Young male human
| General Goods Merchant
| Devout
| Cheerful
|-
| Baron Jared Sumpter
| Young male human
| Count. The local lord over Cragdale
| Casual
| Driven and mercantile. Much better with things and money than with people.
|-
| Lady Eliza Sumpter
| Young female human
| Baron Sumpter's wife. Much younger (28 to his 40). They've been married 12 years.
| Devout
| Glamorous. Glad things are getting more "civilized", but still not fond of the small-town life
|}

==Services==
* Most goods and services.

[[Category: Cities]]

Hopeseed

2026-09-06T23:28:54Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Known Hopeseeds */

This refers to a class of relics, of which only one is known to exist as of 253 AC.

A Hopeseed is formed when a [[Hags|hag]] successfully redeems themselves from the bargain with the [[Mother Tree]], breaking loose the seed that replaced their heart from the control of that malignant entity. This is invariably fatal, for only in death through self-sacrifice can this connection be overloaded and severed. The seed, then, absorbs the remnants of the person's aether and intent, becoming purified and becoming [[fey]] in material aspects.

Hopeseeds have at least some amount of sentience, even if they don't have true personalities. They have desires, almost always formed around the goal of opposing the [[Mother Tree]].

Their exact properties are unknown, but it is believed that a Hopeseed can be used to purify other hags (invariably killing them) or can be planted to grow into a tree like, but utterly opposed to, the [[Mother Tree]]. Many hags believe that a Hopeseed can be used as an unwilling source of vitality, freeing them at least partially from the Mother Tree's control. As such, hags are known to desperately search for such artifacts.

== Known Hopeseeds ==

* One was buried dormant in a temple to a forgotten deity near [[Torpen Hill]] in the [[Ungoverned Lands]] until it was recovered (and saved from searching hags) in late summer 253 AC by the [[Repotaters]]. It was then planted in the center of the [[Blood-thirst Wildlands]], becoming [[Cobaith]].

[[Category:Artifacts]]

Rhiannon Songweaver

2026-08-31T01:49:13Z

Admiralbenbo:

{{NPCDemographics
| Birth Date = Approx. 3725 BC
| Birth-Place = Calon'hud, Aethertide Empire
| Residence = Jungle of Fangs
| Lineage = aelvar
| Description = A young (20s) aelvar woman of surpassing beauty. Spun-silver hair, eyes of sapphire. Height is 5'8".
| Gender = female
| Occupation = Refugee, bard
| other = Born as one of the many daughters of the last Aethertide Emperor (2nd age). Her identical twin [[Olwen of Dark Silence]] married her father and became one of the Empresses; she was betrayed, tortured, and sealed in lunar crystal, to be used for her ability to gather souls via song.
| name = Rhannon Songweaver
}}

In reality, she lived a peaceful life as a bardic healer and comforter, until shortly after [[Moon's Fall]], when her sister, at [[Emperor Lorcan]]'s behest, used demonic curses to puppet and corrupt her loyal guardian [[Theloman of the Steadfast Blade]]. He kidnapped her and the two of them tortured her until they could impose false memories of despair and loneliness, priming her to become Sister Sorrow, the Architect of Lamentation. Sealed in a shard of the Third Moon, broken off much earlier, she remained in the depths and her unique talent of creating shadow copies of herself was used to blight the landscape, consuming the life and souls out of anything caught in it.

In 261 AC, the [[Argentones]] infiltrated the Tower of Melodies where she was entombed, brought hope to her in her memories (stored in the form of books), and eventually faced her sister, now a lich, and the husk of Theloman at the apex, sending Olwen reeling back to her husband/father and ending Theloman's cursed existence, but not before he could beg forgiveness. They freed Rhiannon and are carrying her back out of the cursed waste at this writing.

The name Songweaver is a chosen last name; she has abandoned her birth name. Her friends call her Rhia.

== Mechanics ==
Mechanically, she's a fairly standard bard with a few unique properties: she can create a duplicate of herself that can speak and move, but can only interact physically in a limited fashion. When it rejoins her, she shares its memories. Second, she is the singer of a Song of Power, created in cooperation between her and [[Lark]] of the [[Argentones]]. What power this song holds is yet unknown, but it contains a fragment of the power of the [[Allsong]] within it.
[[Category:Notable People]]
[[Category:Gwerin]]

Rhiannon Songweaver

2026-08-31T01:48:15Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "{{NPCDemographics | Birth Date = Approx. 3725 BC | Birth-Place = Calon'hud, Aethertide Empire | Residence = Jungle of Fangs | Lineage = aelvar | Description = A young (20s) aelvar woman of surpassing beauty. Spun-silver hair, eyes of sapphire. Height is 5'8". | Gender = female | Occupation = Refugee, bard | other = Born as one of the many daughters of the last Aethertide Emperor (2nd age). Her identical twin Olwen of Dark Silence married her father and became one of..."

{{NPCDemographics
| Birth Date = Approx. 3725 BC
| Birth-Place = Calon'hud, Aethertide Empire
| Residence = Jungle of Fangs
| Lineage = aelvar
| Description = A young (20s) aelvar woman of surpassing beauty. Spun-silver hair, eyes of sapphire. Height is 5'8".
| Gender = female
| Occupation = Refugee, bard
| other = Born as one of the many daughters of the last Aethertide Emperor (2nd age). Her identical twin [[Olwen of Dark Silence]] married her father and became one of the Empresses; she was betrayed, tortured, and sealed in lunar crystal, to be used for her ability to gather souls via song.
| name = Rhannon Songweaver
}}

In reality, she lived a peaceful life as a bardic healer and comforter, until shortly after [[Moon's Fall]], when her sister, at [[Emperor Lorcan]]'s behest, used demonic curses to puppet and corrupt her loyal guardian [[Theloman of the Steadfast Blade]]. He kidnapped her and the two of them tortured her until they could impose false memories of despair and loneliness, priming her to become Sister Sorrow, the Architect of Lamentation. Sealed in a shard of the Third Moon, broken off much earlier, she remained in the depths and her unique talent of creating shadow copies of herself was used to blight the landscape, consuming the life and souls out of anything caught in it.

In 261 AC, the [[Argentones]] infiltrated the Tower of Melodies where she was entombed, brought hope to her in her memories (stored in the form of books), and eventually faced her sister, now a lich, and the husk of Theloman at the apex, sending Olwen reeling back to her husband/father and ending Theloman's cursed existence, but not before he could beg forgiveness. They freed Rhiannon and are carrying her back out of the cursed waste at this writing.

== Mechanics ==
Mechanically, she's a fairly standard bard with a few unique properties: she can create a duplicate of herself that can speak and move, but can only interact physically in a limited fashion. When it rejoins her, she shares its memories. Second, she is the singer of a Song of Power, created in cooperation between her and [[Lark]] of the [[Argentones]]. What power this song holds is yet unknown, but it contains a fragment of the power of the [[Allsong]] within it.
[[Category:Notable People]]
[[Category:Gwerin]]

Moon's Fall Vengeance

2026-08-31T01:33:20Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Terrain */

Once the center of the [[aelvar]] empire during the [[Ages of the World|Second Age]], the region known as Moon's Fall Vengeance (MFV) is a blasted, nigh uninhabitable peninsular wasteland of black glass storms, magic run amok, and twisted life.

==Location==
Considered the boundary between Eastern and Western [[Noefra]], the peninsula known as MFV is located south of the Ringwall mountains, east of the [[Jungle of Fangs]], and west of the enigmatic [[Dragonreach]]. Approachable overland via a narrow neck of volcanic ground, and with the western [[Moon Sea]] being known for treacherous currents and glass storms, very few have visited the area since the [[Cataclysm]].

==Terrain==
The surface of MFV is largely covered by sheets and fragments of black glass, formed ages ago at [[Moon's Fall]] by the interaction of the impact of the fallen moon and the arcane weapons used to attempt to deflect it. What life there is exists in the cracks, ravines, and underground caves. A few areas around the perimeter have healed, mainly due to the dedicated effort of [[goroesi]] groups. But their efforts are limited in scope. Further inland, the damage gets worse and only the deep caverns hold sane life. A spine of mountains and volcanoes extends down the center of the peninsula, and other volcanic areas dot the land

The whole area is heavily under the influence of the [[Plane of Lava]] as well as wild magic and extensive pockets of demonic influence.

Discovered by the [[Argentones]] in 261 AC:

The black glass is ''not'' ancient, as it was believed. Instead, it was formed by an intentional process, maintained over the millennia. The millions of aelvar and goblins who lived in the area were first killed by an enormous necromantic ritual that trapped them, body and soul, in a black sludge in Shadow. This sludge was the pumped into a tower (later called the Tower of Rain), tortured to produce excess aether, and then the gaseous remains emitted into the atmosphere, where it condenses and falls as boiling hot showers of black, soul-embedded glass. The liberated aether was then sent to the other Towers for use in their business. The Tower of Rain was destroyed by the Argentones in early 261 AC.

=== Towers and Banes ===
Each of the 4 secondary towers, the remnants of the ancient palace, houses the source of one "bane", one of the effects that plague the peninsula. The central tower emits the last bane, Oblivion, which shields the other towers. Notably, the banes cannot directly attack anything that is underground even by as much as an inch of stone. The goroesi believe it is the blessing of the Weaver (the [[Archon of Time]] as they worship it).

# '''Tower of Black Rain''': Mentioned above. This served as a main external power source for whatever is driving this whole mess. Formerly located to the south-west of the central spire. Note: destroyed in 261 AC by the [[Argentones]].
# '''Tower of Lamentation''': Source of the Lamentation, which manifests as planes are forcibly melded and an "angelic" figure descends, multiplying to form a roughly 1 mile-radius ring. These figures sing a song of ultimate sadness, paralyzing anything caught in the ring. The ring then sweeps inward, drawing out the soul (and in fact most of the aether from the body) of anything it touches, including the remnants of the souls in the black glass. This Lamentation manifests somewhat randomly--no pattern has been observed. It's believed to be at least in part a recycling mechanism for the souls trapped in the glass, as well as reaping new souls for the Soul Engine of the Tower of Rain. Also notably, the apex of this tower glows green, similar to the green of the fallen moon. Located to the south-east of the central spire. Note: Shut down in 261 AC by the [[Argentones]], who rescued the tortured soul at the core, [[Rhiannon Songweaver]].
# '''Tower of Monsters''': This tower hosts the Bane of Monsters, whereby hostile creatures are bred and teleported to the entrances of the caves and tunnels, to bedevil and harass anyone living inside. Not much else is known other than it resides in the north-east.
# '''Tower of Storms''': This tower produces the Shadowstorms that afflict areas at random, sweeping whatever is in their path into Shadow. Or dumping things from Shadow (including demons) into the Mortal. Not much else is known other than it occupies the north-west slot.
# '''Central Spire''': This tower, much larger than the others, was the residence of the emperor and the heart of his power. It is now the heart of the plagues that keep the peninsula a blasted waste. From it comes Oblivion, the field that surrounds the other towers. All planar travel through the boundaries of the tower is impossible (including teleportation) and any creature that touches the outside has its soul or animating force violently torn out and consumed. Any projectile launched at the outside of the tower has its magic drained or momentum nulled. This provides near-perfect protection for the towers, but, like the other banes, cannot extend underground. The towers' own reinforcing magics must protect it there.

==Notable Places==
; The MFV [[Tower of Trials]] : Located about a day from [[Yondar]] near the main tunnel route back toward [[Oldhome]].
; [[Yondar]] : An encampment/village of archonic [[goroesi]] on the north west coast, dedicated to healing the land.
; [[Zandak]] : A village of non-archonic [[goroesi]] on the north-western coast near the main spine. Known for being dedicated to strength and not belonging to the community of seers.
; [[Gor'ka]] : A colony of pirates located on the western shore.
; [[Oldhome]] : The central city of the archonic [[goroesi]], located deep under the central mountain range.

[[Category: Places]]

Voiced Nest

2026-08-30T22:15:05Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "A unique culture and lineage created by Misophis in about 150 AC. They are uplifted ants, reworked by fleshcrafting magic slowly into humanoid (but six-limbed) upright figures with free will and intelligence (as much as their creator disliked that first part). They have a single "city", the Nest itself, located a few miles north of Tal Elamor in the hills bordering the northern ocean. As of 254 AC, there are approximately 2000 of the Voiced. While capable of exp..."

A unique culture and lineage created by [[Misophis]] in about 150 AC. They are uplifted ants, reworked by fleshcrafting magic slowly into humanoid (but six-limbed) upright figures with free will and intelligence (as much as their creator disliked that first part). They have a single "city", the Nest itself, located a few miles north of [[Tal Elamor]] in the hills bordering the northern ocean.

As of 254 AC, there are approximately 2000 of the Voiced. While capable of explosive population growth, they are strongly resource constrained due to the poor conditions and effects of prolonged demonic exposure.

== Physiology ==
The Voiced are a varied people, as different strains were bred for different purposes. They all have chitinous exoskeletons, 4 arms, and insectoid heads. The warriors stand roughly 5'6" to 6'0" tall and weigh about 150 lbs, while the workers are smaller and the (few) thinkers are even smaller. They reproduce via breeder-caste females and males who are of minimal intelligence; all of the Voiced are effectively neuter. In coloration, they are mostly dark colors (black, brown, and red). They wear little to no clothing except tool harnesses and armor, and signify roles and duties via painted exoskeleton decorations.

Intellectually, they are extremely linear thinkers, with a very strong sense of duty and rightness, but do not adapt to changing circumstances effectively. A very few Thinkers break this limitation and are capable of thinking "new thoughts" as the rest say. It's not known whether this is a biological fact or merely an imposition of their creator on the generations.

They communicate with each other in a combination of vocalizations (in their own unique language) and pheromonal displays. They have tamed mutated giant beetles to serve as draft labor, hunting companions, and pets; these are controlled via hypersonic vibrations and pheromones.

Their generations are short as is their lifespan. Most rarely make it to 30 years, with 5-6 years between generations. Some scholars believe that this will change as the demonic influence fades.

== Culture ==
The Voiced originally had three queens in rotating series: the Eldest had authority over the other queens and acted as the focus of the nest and Hand of the Voice (as they called Misophis). The Middle (who would become the Eldest once the previous Eldest died) had authority over the internal affairs--breeding, food production, etc. The Youngest had authority over the external security of the Nest. The last Eldest was killed when she sacrificed herself for Misophis. As of 254, it is unclear whether this pattern would continue. The queens had absolute telepathic power over any Voiced in their immediate vicinity, capable of making them do anything up to and including suicide.

Beyond the queens, each caste basically handled its own affairs. Conflicts were settled by ritual, negotiated competitions, often involving non-lethal combat.
[[Category:Nations]]
[[Category:Noefra]]
[[Category:Races]]

Misophis

2026-08-30T21:58:00Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "Originally summoned inside the Eternal Library as Broken Ingenuity and confined to a containment crystal, it was "liberated" by Twisted cultists searching for information on weak spots of Leviathan immediately before the Cataclysm. Those cultists made it as far as the hills north of the city before dying to the effects of the aether plague. The resulting amalgam entity spent the next 250 years mutating the local insect population, using the patterns o..."

Originally summoned inside the [[Eternal Library]] as Broken Ingenuity and confined to a containment crystal, it was "liberated" by [[Twisted]] cultists searching for information on weak spots of [[Leviathan]] immediately before the [[Cataclysm]]. Those cultists made it as far as the hills north of the city before dying to the effects of the [[aether plague]]. The resulting amalgam entity spent the next 250 years mutating the local insect population, using the patterns of the dead cultists, into the [[Voiced Nest|Voiced]].

It was destroyed in a showdown in early 254 AC with [[Three and a Half Women]] when the heroes used [[Bones of Leviathan|Apokalipsis]] successfully.

== Goals ==
Due to its hybrid nature, it had three, not-entirely-aligned goals

# Get back into the Library and consume everything there. This was the primary goal of the broken concept itself, with its utter hatred for the concept of independent thought.
# Build a submarine to strike at a nearby song nexus, one of the choke-points for [[Leviathan]]'s information flow. This was the primary goal of the cultists.
# Expand and consume everything. This came from the jotnar/aether plague itself.

== Tactics and Capabilities ==
Its own power was very limited. It relied on slow psychic manipulations and brainwashing more than direct force. Its direct radius of influence was limited to about 1/4 of a mile, but it built a repeater of sorts to influence the dockyard (about 3/4 of a mile away). Mostly it relied on crafting the information sphere and breeding the Voiced to reject independent thought and willingly surrender their agency.

It had to allow the Queens ''some'' agency, since they had to solve problems that weren't always in range. This led to its downfall when the younger two queens proved to be capable of following logic.
[[Category:Demons]]
[[Category:Historical Interest]]

Tal Elamor

2026-08-30T21:46:49Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Notable People */

[[File:Tal-elamor.webp|frameless|1024x1024px]]

The city of magic. The home of the [[Eternal Library]]. Oldest city on the planet. Myth. Legend. Does it still exist? Sages believe that it can never be truly destroyed. But no one from the west has been there (or at least has returned from there) since the [[Cataclysm]].

== Locations Ca 252 AC ==

# Mekanix Workshop. Does it need to be mechanical? They make it. Including a bunch of things that probably shouldn't be mechanical.
# Kaz Rodan Smithery. All things hammered.
# Arin Kao Telecommunications and Transportation. We can get it there or tell you about it. As long as you don't ''really'' need it to be in one piece...
# Assisted Thaumaturgics. For all your will-probably-blow-up experimentation needs, at least the ones made out of metal, crystal, or wood.
# Corpus Sanum. True power comes from within, mostly by lifting weights.
# Pan-aetheric Unity. All things are one thing, except when they're different things.
# Mentis. True power comes from within, mostly by thinking about moving things.
# Dualistics. All things are different things, except when they're the same things.
# Temple of Self. True divinity lies within, we just haven't managed to dig it out yet.
# Temple of Fur. True divinity lies within cats, and we can prove it. Formerly sponsored by Absurdism, Inc, until it turned out to be more true than an absurd hypothesis.
# Top Alembic Recreational. Duuuuuuuude.
# Warin's Mutagenics. Don't like how you look? We can help. May take several tries, side effects may apply.
# Alia's Medicinals. We fix you up after you blew yourself up.
# Parin Chemical Supply. For all your will-probably-blow-up experimentation needs, at least the ones made out of liquids, gasses, or violently-bubbling concoctions.
# Annex. Everyone who wishes entry to the [[Eternal Library]] must check in here and meet the Caretaker of that place.

== Population ==
Inside the city: ~3k

Outwall Farms: ~5k

== Notable People ==

# The Caretaker. An amalgam of the people who have gained borrowing privileges (and thus left a copy of their personalities and memories at the library). Not a real ensouled person, but is the personification of the [[Eternal Library]]. Considered to be as unkillable as the library itself. Pissing him off is a bad idea.
# Arni Black-egg. Ancient black [[Dragons|dragon]], nearly 500 years old. Has been resident in Tal Elamor most of that time. Prefers the shape of a 5'2", 100 lb black-haired woman who rules Corpus Sanum with an iron fist. Also a proficient mage, but prefers to lift weights.
# <s>[[Rhys]]. [[Undead|Lich]] and elemental mage. Unaligned, he doesn't belong to any of the factions.</s> Killed in early 253 AC.
# Gorgias Empiricus. Human male, 40s. Near archmage, leads Mentis. Strongly dislikes Arni.
# Haile Rastafa. Human female, 30s. Head of Tope Alembic Recreational.

== Recent Events ==
252 - early 253 AC:

* A consortium of artificers and mages made a prototype of a "device to end war"--a self-mobile, autonomous weapon designed to fire catastrophe bombs (effectively elemental resonance weapons capable of destroying a city) through the portal network at aggressors. This was co-opted by Black Rhys (as the self-aware [[jotnar]] that took over Rhys came to be known). It was destroyed, but only after causing much damage.
* This was part of Black Rhys's plan to consume the city and hijack all the ley lines, which was stopped by [[Ad Elementis]].
* The last remnants of the [[aether plague]] were rooted out by [[Ad Elementis]] and transformed by the phoenix into new life, freeing the Primal Woods from that threat.

255 AC:

* The Primal Woods and its therianthropic residents came under threat by the [[Voiced Nest]], at the instigation and manipulation of [[Misophis]], an amalgam of a [[Broken Concept]] and [[Twisted]]-cult demonic influence. This had plans both to infiltrate the Library via hidden backdoor (to consume it to stop the flow of new information) and to take ship in a submarine to attack [[Leviathan]]. This was stopped by [[Three and a Half Women]] using [[Bones of Leviathan|Apokalipsis]]. The Nest is now free from the influence of Misophis, but only time will tell how this evolves.

[[Category: Cities]]
[[Category: Noefra]]

Kerwin's Restoration

2026-08-30T00:56:11Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "''A song written and performed by Roh, aka, Hiroh Megasaki'' How many years she laid there, imprisoned in a tomb Alive and yet unable, to save her land from doom No respite, Her soul consumed The evening hour ‘tis raining. As it has for years long gone Four thousand and still counting, and yet no savior comes. Long since have her last vain hopes flown. Condemned to live, no freedom, taken by wizards vile. Yet Argentones ascend now, to open her crypt’s doo..."

''A song written and performed by Roh, aka, Hiroh Megasaki''

How many years she laid there, imprisoned in a tomb

Alive and yet unable, to save her land from doom

No respite, Her soul consumed

The evening hour ‘tis raining. As it has for years long gone

Four thousand and still counting, and yet no savior comes.

Long since have her last vain hopes flown.

Condemned to live, no freedom, taken by wizards vile.

Yet Argentones ascend now, to open her crypt’s door

Now her pains, will last no more

Set free by valor and pluck, her soul has flown far away

Beyond the cursed Moonfall,

To the refuge of the Fey
[[Category:Songs]]

Aerielara

2026-08-29T21:27:03Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Pre-Divine Status */

[[File:Aerielara.png|frameless]]

==== Pronunciation ====
air-EE-uh-LAH-rah

==== Other names ====
The Jeweled Lady, Lady of Beauty

====Usual depiction====
A [[gwerin]] woman of unsurpassed beauty, wearing little except strategically placed gemstones. Her hair color is iridescent and her pose is scandalous. Usually white marble or alabaster skin.

====Companions/Demigods====
[[Lyre-plucker T’a]], [[Mad Martigan]], The [[Dancer in the Dark]]

====Worship in Western Noefra====
Commonly worshiped by artists, musicians, bards, and prostitutes. Her clergy, both men and women, are always beautiful and charismatic. Her temples (which are many, especially among the [[gwerin]] and the rich) are beautifully decorated in rich materials. Youths are often tutored in sexual arts at these temples before they marry. For humans and [[gwerin]] there is very little stigma to patronizing one of her acolytes. The second-most worshiped deity in the [[Jungle of Fangs]], especially among the Isal classes. There the primary focus is dance and rhythmic music. In beauty hides thorns—her clergy often are also trained in poisons and unarmed self-defense.

=====Religious Precepts=====
Truth is found in beauty; ugliness is evil. Give in to passion—do what makes you happy without regard for the judgement of others. Spread beauty and pleasure, destroy ugliness and misery.

====Worship in Other Areas====
* [[Ikela]]: A minor part of the [[Ikelan Religion|CCU]]. Mainly worshiped in her role as patron of the arts rather than her more sensual aspects.
* [[Phoenix Empire]]: Worship of Aerielara is forbidden (yet very common in secret); other supposed ascendants such as the Eternal Emperor are worshiped in her place (openly anyway).

====Domain====
Lust. Sexuality. Beauty. Art/Music. Life, Trickery

====Personality====
Vain. The musician of the Gods. Beautiful and sensual. Deceptively intelligent.

====Home====
Estate on [[Mara]]. Part museum, exhibition area, theater, and brothel all in one.

====[[Divine Rank]]====
Congregant.

====Political affiliation====
Peace Faction

====Pre-Divine Status====
A [[gwerin]] noble from the [[Phoenix Empire]]. A bard of no uncommon skill as well as a dancer, she was notorious for breaking every taboo of that hidebound empire. It wasn't until the last days before the [[Cataclysm]], when she refused the wrong noble and fell from grace, leading to her assassination. As her soul departed, the [[Cataclysm]] took hold and the [[Great Mechanism]] chose her as one of the new Divine Congregation.

Her divine name is, like most of them, an assumed one. What is known is that she named herself after an ancestress of hers, and that her pre-divine family name was Uai'ten [Why-ten], which is also the name of a famous music school in the 2nd age, whose name has come down in fragmentary records.

[[Category: Gods]]
[[Category: Religion]]

Moon's Fall Vengeance

2026-08-23T16:51:37Z

Admiralbenbo:

Once the center of the [[aelvar]] empire during the [[Ages of the World|Second Age]], the region known as Moon's Fall Vengeance (MFV) is a blasted, nigh uninhabitable peninsular wasteland of black glass storms, magic run amok, and twisted life.

==Location==
Considered the boundary between Eastern and Western [[Noefra]], the peninsula known as MFV is located south of the Ringwall mountains, east of the [[Jungle of Fangs]], and west of the enigmatic [[Dragonreach]]. Approachable overland via a narrow neck of volcanic ground, and with the western [[Moon Sea]] being known for treacherous currents and glass storms, very few have visited the area since the [[Cataclysm]].

==Terrain==
The surface of MFV is largely covered by sheets and fragments of black glass, formed ages ago at [[Moon's Fall]] by the interaction of the impact of the fallen moon and the arcane weapons used to attempt to deflect it. What life there is exists in the cracks, ravines, and underground caves. A few areas around the perimeter have healed, mainly due to the dedicated effort of [[goroesi]] groups. But their efforts are limited in scope. Further inland, the damage gets worse and only the deep caverns hold sane life. A spine of mountains and volcanoes extends down the center of the peninsula, and other volcanic areas dot the land

The whole area is heavily under the influence of the [[Plane of Lava]] as well as wild magic and extensive pockets of demonic influence.

Discovered by the [[Argentones]] in 261 AC:

The black glass is ''not'' ancient, as it was believed. Instead, it was formed by an intentional process, maintained over the millennia. The millions of aelvar and goblins who lived in the area were first killed by an enormous necromantic ritual that trapped them, body and soul, in a black sludge in Shadow. This sludge was the pumped into a tower (later called the Tower of Rain), tortured to produce excess aether, and then the gaseous remains emitted into the atmosphere, where it condenses and falls as boiling hot showers of black, soul-embedded glass. The liberated aether was then sent to the other Towers for use in their business. The Tower of Rain was destroyed by the Argentones in early 261 AC.

=== Towers and Banes ===
Each of the 4 secondary towers, the remnants of the ancient palace, houses the source of one "bane", one of the effects that plague the peninsula. The central tower emits the last bane, Oblivion, which shields the other towers. Notably, the banes cannot directly attack anything that is underground even by as much as an inch of stone. The goroesi believe it is the blessing of the Weaver (the [[Archon of Time]] as they worship it).

# '''Tower of Black Rain''': Mentioned above. This served as a main external power source for whatever is driving this whole mess. Formerly located to the south-west of the central spire.
# '''Tower of Lamentation''': Source of the Lamentation, which manifests as planes are forcibly melded and an "angelic" figure descends, multiplying to form a roughly 1 mile-radius ring. These figures sing a song of ultimate sadness, paralyzing anything caught in the ring. The ring then sweeps inward, drawing out the soul (and in fact most of the aether from the body) of anything it touches, including the remnants of the souls in the black glass. This Lamentation manifests somewhat randomly--no pattern has been observed. It's believed to be at least in part a recycling mechanism for the souls trapped in the glass, as well as reaping new souls for the Soul Engine of the Tower of Rain. Also notably, the apex of this tower glows green, similar to the green of the fallen moon. Located to the south-east of the central spire.
# '''Tower of Monsters''': This tower hosts the Bane of Monsters, whereby hostile creatures are bred and teleported to the entrances of the caves and tunnels, to bedevil and harass anyone living inside. Not much else is known other than it resides in the north-east.
# '''Tower of Storms''': This tower produces the Shadowstorms that afflict areas at random, sweeping whatever is in their path into Shadow. Or dumping things from Shadow (including demons) into the Mortal. Not much else is known other than it occupies the north-west slot.
# '''Central Spire''': This tower, much larger than the others, was the residence of the emperor and the heart of his power. It is now the heart of the plagues that keep the peninsula a blasted waste. From it comes Oblivion, the field that surrounds the other towers. All planar travel through the boundaries of the tower is impossible (including teleportation) and any creature that touches the outside has its soul or animating force violently torn out and consumed. Any projectile launched at the outside of the tower has its magic drained or momentum nulled. This provides near-perfect protection for the towers, but, like the other banes, cannot extend underground. The towers' own reinforcing magics must protect it there.

==Notable Places==
; The MFV [[Tower of Trials]] : Located about a day from [[Yondar]] near the main tunnel route back toward [[Oldhome]].
; [[Yondar]] : An encampment/village of archonic [[goroesi]] on the north west coast, dedicated to healing the land.
; [[Zandak]] : A village of non-archonic [[goroesi]] on the north-western coast near the main spine. Known for being dedicated to strength and not belonging to the community of seers.
; [[Gor'ka]] : A colony of pirates located on the western shore.
; [[Oldhome]] : The central city of the archonic [[goroesi]], located deep under the central mountain range.

[[Category: Places]]

Repotaters

2026-08-05T01:04:00Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Events */

Start: Midsummer 253, in [[Bradford]], Duarchy. Real Time: Q1 2025

Characters:

* Valeri (scaled human female swashbuckler) -- left party in Tarad’am
* Rodrick ( wb human male moon druid)
* Ydris (gwerin male warlock, patron is the Goddess of the Harvest)
* Quecha (female dwarf cleric of Lon Ka)
* Boris (male red dragonborn draconic sorcerer)

Starter: escort wayfinding caravan across Ungoverned Lands toward UC.

== Events ==

# Caravan/Pathfinding ([[Sea of Grass]])
## Discovered a small faction of the [[Imperial Sons]] near [[Hero's Rest]]. Defeated them and rescued some children.
## Defeated "bandits" led by [[Holy Hands]] agents preying on aid caravans between Merrybranch (capital of [[County Tsun]]) and [[Alford]].
## Assisted [[Alford]] and [[Glass Junction]] in moving toward unity and mutual aid after fixing the [[Glass Junction]] ferry.
## Made friends with [[Anvar]], an elderly hill giant who is returning home to the high country.
## Assisted the Frog-creek halfling clan, who had been reduced to sub-subsistence living and were on the edge of extinction.
## Defeated Aurich Wood-woad, a botanist/primalist who had become ensnared in the [[Mother Tree]]'s machinations and become a hybrid tree person...and who was converting others. His tower had been [[Concept bomb|concept bombed]] sometime between the [[War of Souls]] and the [[Cataclysm]], and returned near the village of [[Redhawk]] in the [[Ungoverned Lands]].
## Freed the town of [[Torpen Hill]] from hag influence and acquired a [[Hopeseed]].
## Negotiated with the leader of [[Meadowbrook]] for safe passage. Dealt with a [[Barbed Circle]] micro-cult.
## Discovered a group of dwarves practicing extreme BBQ.
## Arrived safely outside [[Fuar Uulan]]
# Planting the seed ([[Blood-thirst Wildlands]])
## Traveled via [[Portal Network]] to [[Kel'al'ar]] and then to [[Tarad'am]], taking ship to [[Fuhino]]
## Cleansed a lingering demonic remnant corrupting flora and fauna.
## Encountered [[Illgira]], aka Spite, a fey who knew Roderick. With his help, defeated Covra (aka Gossip), another fey who was attempting to bring Roderick to "her".
## Entered a [[Moonpath]].
### Defeated some demons attempting to burn it.
### Blessed by a toad spirit.
### Were chased out by a spirit turtle the size of a hill, carrying a fortress. This is strongly connected to Roderick's fiancee--they were taken by a fey and she was put to sleep so the fey could try to control Roderick.
## Encountered the One Horn tribe of [[Shifters|bovine shifters]]. Assisted them to deal with the Broke Tusk tribe (porcine shifters), who are under the control of a wereboar from [[Byssia]].
## Attempted to retrieve a "soul cage" amulet from an ancient ruin to the east of the central blasted lands
### Black stone aelvar mega structure (300 ft on a side, 150 ft high, ziggurat style)
### Elder chimera (3 independent heads) nesting on top, bribed with food
### repaired top level
### negotiated with guardian. did not retrieve soul cage (as it wasn’t as advertised).
## Went to the partner ruin to the south. Discovered exiled tribe of insectile warped creatures. Got (grudging) permission to explore the inside.
### Discovered that it had been a biological research station immediately before the 2nd Wish.
### Destroyed an overgrown plant creature.
### Discovered some drama around the time leading up to Moon's Fall.
### Liberated some humanoid hybrids (and a stray winged, grey-skinned telepathic aelf from an unknown land) who had been kept in stasis.
### Set the souls of the "discarded" experiments to rest, gained a favor from them.
## Headed into the center, carefully avoiding all the nasty flora/fauna hybrids.
### Discovered that the center temple was an [[Ley Lines|aetheric font of Life]], but was currently being contaminated by a remnant of the [[Twisted]], cut off when he attacked the [[Catalysts]], tended by three clone beings named Malignance, Metastasis, and Metamorphosis, each in mental control of the bug folk (from which the exiles came).
### Reached an accord with Metamorphosis, keeper of the breeding farms, who wanted to change things.
### Gathered allies from the One Horn, the Broke Tusk, the exile clade, and even managed to bribe the chimera to help.
### Allies caused massive distraction. Party attacked Metastasis. Big fight ensued.
### Metastasis forced the remnant/core to tear a hole into Shadow, where the [[Twisted]] tried to re-acquire the core. The party gave the [[Hopeseed]] to the core, blasting them back and planting the seed.
### Rapid conversion of core and area into shadow-rooted [[Cobaith|Cobaith (Tree of Hope)]].
# Seeds of hope for the [[Sena'ka]]
## Hired to help [[Crow]] and [[Phoenix Princess Leina|Leina]] deliver stabilization packages to the three creches of the [[Ship Folk]]: one on [[Sentinel Island]], one on Vil'ath, and the last at Vrol'ath.
## Had to resolve some worker disputes on Sentinel Island to persuade the creche guardians to accept it. This involved scamming a local landlord and slaver out of his estate via cheating at gambling. He was so pissed off that he died of an aneurism.
## Took passage aboard the Primal Star (a merchant ship), working security as it island hopped towards the south.
## Were attacked by warped [[Ika-ika]] near an uninhabited rock spire; defeated them and went inside to find an enslaved colony and a worshiper of the Twisted (or its agents). Killed him, freed the people.
## Landed at a larger island in the chain for resupply. While there, port attacked by two pirate ships. Killed the leader, took the ship. Now renamed the [[Hot Totty]].
## Traveled to [[Pal'ath]], the largest port city (and floating city) in the [[Halfway Islands]] to try to get official status to run the ship without interference from the Fleets.
## Discovered that an ancient dragon turtle (later discovered to be named "Robert") was sitting in the only real passage through the Deadman's Gulf, sinking ships as they came by.
## Parlayed with Robert, found out he was mad that another ship folk ship had stolen a replica of [[Bones of Leviathan|Lapat Afa]]. Parked on one of the two "cursed" islands in that passage.
## Turns out it was the Azure Seeker, the ''other'' ship they could have taken passage on (with a skeevy captain). Turns out he'd gone full evil and become a [[mkhulu]] in service to a demon-spider-crab entity that was filling the ship with necrotic soul-devouring toxin to try to take Robert's soul and puppet his body. The theft was just a ruse to draw him in for the kill.
## They sunk the Azure Seeker, drew out the crab and fled back into open waters so Robert could fight the crab and kill it without the tricks. They then recovered the replica shield and returned it to Robert, which satisfied him.
## They were made officially honorary Sena'ka and given 2nd Fleet charter.
## Traveled toward Vil'ath, escorting the Primal Star.
## Encountered a fey couple masquerading as a horned whale and an old crusty sailor. Impressed them and gained their help (an answer to a question and 3 wishes)
## Arrived at Vil'ath. Valesa (sp?) went to go persuade the [[Creche Council]] to allow them to present their solution. Heard about a "Doctor Thorax" that was already working on that tack.
## While waiting, helped re-institute proper rites for the kami at a brewery.
## Ship was attacked by a dual force of thugs belonging to Adran of the council (or rather one of his lieutenants) and [[chaudeekar]] agents who had been told that they were harboring something foul. Made common cause with the chaudeekar agent and killed the lieutenant, who turned out to be partially transformed into a mkhulu (mind flayer) and who was dominating the thugs.
## Set out to convince the Council of the threat.
### Made friends with [[Chief Guardian Morrolon]].
### With his help, invaded Adran's party.
### Made friends with Captain ________ of the Council.
### Set off to the local creche, where the ominously-named doctor awaits.
[[Category:Noefra]]
[[Category:Repotaters]]

Icefall

2026-06-23T01:17:52Z

Admiralbenbo:

Located north of the where the glacier caused by the [[Hungering Frost]]'s grip on the [[Nocthian Caldera]] tumbled to the north sea, this expanse of broken badlands, moraines, canyons, and scrubland still hasn't healed. Two significant rivers flow through here, and only along their banks does life flourish

== Climate ==
The grip of Ice still holds sway here. The summers are short and cool, with snow often lingering in patches until nearly High Summer. The winters are brutal, with heavy snow, howling winds, and pitch darkness all starting as early as Autumn Dying.

Only hardy plant life grows here--resilient grasses in clumps, small scrubby trees with deep roots into the rock, etc. Wildlife too is sparse, and mostly limited to small animals (and their predators).

== Inhabitants ==
There are no native Spoken inhabitants of Icefall. One small settlement, the remnant of [[Errak the Beastmaster]]'s vain dream of a nation worshiping him as a god, now liberated, remains where the two rivers join in a sheltered hollow.
[[Category:Geography]]
[[Category:Noefra]]

Icefall

2026-06-23T01:17:37Z

Admiralbenbo:

Located north of the where the glaci er caused by the [[Hungering Frost]]'s grip on the [[Nocthian Caldera]] tumbled to the north sea, this expanse of broken badlands, moraines, canyons, and scrubland still hasn't healed. Two significant rivers flow through here, and only along their banks does life flourish

== Climate ==
The grip of Ice still holds sway here. The summers are short and cool, with snow often lingering in patches until nearly High Summer. The winters are brutal, with heavy snow, howling winds, and pitch darkness all starting as early as Autumn Dying.

Only hardy plant life grows here--resilient grasses in clumps, small scrubby trees with deep roots into the rock, etc. Wildlife too is sparse, and mostly limited to small animals (and their predators).

== Inhabitants ==
There are no native Spoken inhabitants of Icefall. One small settlement, the remnant of [[Errak the Beastmaster]]'s vain dream of a nation worshiping him as a god, now liberated, remains where the two rivers join in a sheltered hollow.
[[Category:Geography]]
[[Category:Noefra]]

Coiled Ones

2026-06-21T04:45:56Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Destruction(?) */

A group of entities. Only known information
* they like snakes
* worshipped/feared by [[ophidian]]s
* have some connection to the [[Jungle of Fangs]], especially isal families.
* connected with "green eyes" and sociopathic behavior. They supposedly "watch" from behind green eyes.

==Known Names==
; Cold Mother : Symbol is Oroborus encircling a pyramid of circles.
; Night Hunter : Symbol is Oroborus encircling stylized fangs.
; Faceless: Symbol is Oroborus encircling a blank oval.

==Antagonist==
; The Rainbow Serpent : Said to be a heretic/under-cutting force.

== Discoveries (250 AC by Enigma) ==
The Coiled Ones (and the Rainbow Serpent) are all that remains of the nobles of the [[Fanged Kingdom]], who cut a deal with the [[White Skull]] for the secret to apotheosis, to ascension to godhood. But the ritual failed (in part because they didn't read the deal closely and didn't realize something was missing). Instead, all the [[gwerin]] ended up in a lightless oubliette of a demi-plane, a prison in the [[Astral]]. There they subsisted on each other's Names (which had replaced their souls), merging until only four remained. Three desired power and dominance, the last wanted freedom and independence.

The baleful trio emerged about 200 years ago, in the aftermath of the [[Cataclysm]], but kept their presence secret. They started to build a worship base among their creations, the [[ophidian]]<nowiki/>s of the [[Jungle of Fangs]] as well as among others in the mountains to the north of the [[Great Rift]]. They also delt with [[Awakener]], channeling the energy from the planes themselves, granting them much more power than their relatively meagre, unenthusiastic worship base would suggest. This was destroyed, and their power substantially weakened, by [[Enigma]] in late 250 AC. The Rainbow Serpent operates in secret from [[Aaru]], although she has joined forces recently with the [[Queen Ascendant]] and come out of the shadows since the weakening of her arch-rivals (who sought to destroy her).

== Destruction(?) ==
In late 260 AC, the tribe of worshipers north of the [[Great Rift]] were obliterated by [[Gozh]] as revenge for meddling with his protected area. Their cults had been nearly eliminated by the [[Argentones]] and other faithful, leaving them greatly weakened (down to the level of 1st-rank or minor ascendants, not much more than just powerful mortals, except harder to keep dead).

On 4 Winter Dying 260 AC, the [[Argentones]] allied with an organization of like-minded individuals known as the Opal Scale (aided by the Rainbow Serpent) to trap and destroy the weakened Coiled Ones permanently. In that battle, which took place at the center of the Grand Temple in [[Ar Salem Dolem]]), the Night Hunter and the Faceless were trapped inside orbs of magicite after being defeated, and the Cold Mother appealed to an unknown greater demon (vaguely spider-form in appearance) and transformed. She was destroyed and confirmed dead, her Name being eaten by jotnar in the [[Abyss]]. The current whereabouts of the orbs containing the essence of the other two are unknown at this point.
[[Category: Gods]]

Coiled Ones

2026-06-21T04:42:28Z

Admiralbenbo:

A group of entities. Only known information
* they like snakes
* worshipped/feared by [[ophidian]]s
* have some connection to the [[Jungle of Fangs]], especially isal families.
* connected with "green eyes" and sociopathic behavior. They supposedly "watch" from behind green eyes.

==Known Names==
; Cold Mother : Symbol is Oroborus encircling a pyramid of circles.
; Night Hunter : Symbol is Oroborus encircling stylized fangs.
; Faceless: Symbol is Oroborus encircling a blank oval.

==Antagonist==
; The Rainbow Serpent : Said to be a heretic/under-cutting force.

== Discoveries (250 AC by Enigma) ==
The Coiled Ones (and the Rainbow Serpent) are all that remains of the nobles of the [[Fanged Kingdom]], who cut a deal with the [[White Skull]] for the secret to apotheosis, to ascension to godhood. But the ritual failed (in part because they didn't read the deal closely and didn't realize something was missing). Instead, all the [[gwerin]] ended up in a lightless oubliette of a demi-plane, a prison in the [[Astral]]. There they subsisted on each other's Names (which had replaced their souls), merging until only four remained. Three desired power and dominance, the last wanted freedom and independence.

The baleful trio emerged about 200 years ago, in the aftermath of the [[Cataclysm]], but kept their presence secret. They started to build a worship base among their creations, the [[ophidian]]<nowiki/>s of the [[Jungle of Fangs]] as well as among others in the mountains to the north of the [[Great Rift]]. They also delt with [[Awakener]], channeling the energy from the planes themselves, granting them much more power than their relatively meagre, unenthusiastic worship base would suggest. This was destroyed, and their power substantially weakened, by [[Enigma]] in late 250 AC. The Rainbow Serpent operates in secret from [[Aaru]], although she has joined forces recently with the [[Queen Ascendant]] and come out of the shadows since the weakening of her arch-rivals (who sought to destroy her).

== Destruction(?) ==
On 4 Winter Dying 260 AC, the [[Argentones]] allied with an organization of like-minded individuals known as the Opal Scale (aided by the Rainbow Serpent) to trap and destroy the Coiled Ones. In that battle, the Night Hunter and the Faceless were trapped inside orbs of magicite after being defeated, and the Cold Mother appealed to an unknown greater demon (vaguely spider-form in appearance) and transformed. She was destroyed and confirmed dead, her Name being eaten by jotnar in the [[Abyss]]. The current whereabouts of the orbs containing the essence of the other two are unknown at this point.
[[Category: Gods]]

File:Noefra-260-geographic.webp

2026-05-25T02:47:14Z

Admiralbenbo: Geographic regions of Noefra, v2.

== Summary ==
Geographic regions of Noefra, v2.

Three and a Half Women

2026-05-11T00:38:30Z

Admiralbenbo:

An adventuring group during the Growing Tensions era. First adventure started early Winter 253 AC (late spring 2025 real-time).

== Characters ==

* Finnian : a female [[halfling]] paladin, formerly an acolyte of [[Peor-fala]]. Left the [[Holy Kaelthian Republic]] as it transitioned to theocratic tyranny under the [[Prophet of Law Unveiled]]. Wandered south through the [[Jungle of Fangs]] until she came to [[Tarad'am]].
* Saraya Sea-cove : a female [[Goroesi|archonic goroesi]] druid. Originally of [[Yondar]], she left home idolizing [[Dilligas Husty]], which led her to [[Tarad'am]].
* Eilonwy Stormbringer : a female [[Goroesi|archonic goroesi]] sorcerer. Originally of the nation under the [[Riftwall Mountains|Riftwall]], she was touched by the events at the end of the [[Adversary]] at [[Charn]]. Magical gifts awoken by exposure to [[Anzu]]'s influence. She wandered north roughly following [[Tempus Machina]], eventually taking ship and being captured/enslaved by the [[Ship Folk]], who brought her north, ending up free at [[Tarad'am]].
* Ekeino (meaning "that one") : a female-presenting [[Soul-forged|bark-skin soul-forged]], originally awakened in about 250 AC in the highlands of [[Byssia]] after serving as a shrine guardian at an obscure, mostly abandoned kami shrine for a long (indeterminate) time. Wandered east and south where the wind blew, ending up in [[Tarad'am]].

== Adventures ==

* Took ship with the [[Byssian Expedition]], a trio of ships belonging to [[:Category:Pearl Fleet|Dil's Pearl Fleet]] bound for [[Byssia]] around Cape Dread, serving as adventurers.
** After stopping for final fit-out and supply at [[Aladport]], they acquired charts for the region between the eastern shore of the [[Blood-thirst Wildlands]] and [[Sentinel Island]]. They also found charts for an old tower in the southern [[Serpent Sea]].
** They explored the tower and defeated the undead calling it home.
** They also freed ____, a serpent-kin arcanist who had been "captive" to a group of [[ika-ika]] on the mainland--they had been worshiping him as a god after his small boat was shipwrecked there. They convinced the tribe to worship his boat instead.
** After reaching [[Glorious Waters]], they cleaned out the south-west tower so it could be used as a lighthouse.
*** Discovered records written by the previous owner, a [[mkhulu]] researcher (and sexual deviant) pointing to someone experimenting on [[sena'ka]] to the west.
*** Also befriended a small nest of crimson drakes (larger, tougher than pseudodragons, with limited telepathy and the ability to track anyone they've met over large distances). One became a "friend" (not quite a familiar) to Saraya.
** Recovered an odd artifact from a ghost ship.
** Up the coast, they helped a group of goblins who had been raided by shark-kin (mutated shark/human hybrids).
** Made common cause with a military outpost of [[kalasaa]] against the shark-kin city, nicknamed Blood-coral Reef, located in the sargasso "area of no return" that block(ed) the entrance to [[Gap-tooth Bay]]. Lured in some raiders and took their bio-magical guides, which allow ships to ignore the magical/illusion effect of the sargasso.
** Late Silence 253: With the kalasaa, raided Blood-coral Reef. Freed slaves (who had been forced to work on the fortifications and also been transformed into shark-kin), destroyed the psychic projectors that created the sargasso effect, and defeated the queen of the shark-kin. Prevented the kalasaa from killing the reef-builders, twisted folks mutated by the previous resident (a [[Twisted]]-worshiping [[Comiedai|comiedar]], absent for unknown reasons for several years) into sculptors of the living coral that gives the city its name.
* [[Tal Elamor]] adventures
** Traveled to [[Tal Elamor]] via portal just before the [[Aether-flood]]. Got trapped there.
** Removed a fungal plague in the sewers, befriending the only ooze cleric of [[Tor Elan]], named him "Huee" (pronounced Gooey).
** Looked for info on the artifact. Met a [[kalasaa]] warrior also looking for evidence about a similar artifact. Found out about the [[Bones of Leviathan]]. Discovered that they probably have Apokalypsis...the real version.
** Helped four researchers explore a temple to Sophis, the [[Old Gods|Old God]] of puzzles and esoteric knowledge in search of a magical meditation aid (aka a lava lamp). Found it, also found documents pointing to a ''floating-disk'' based transport mechanism under development.
** Tentatively joined forces with Mechanical Autonomy, a political group championing unionism and collectivism and rights for mechanicals (awakened or not). Led by an awakened automaton named Dzugas VI Lee.
** Raided the Steelborn Butcher's chop shop. Discovered horrors. Rescued Clara and Jake; Clara is ~10 and is a mechanical savant, Jake is about 12 and looking for purpose. Killed the Butcher and his allies for extreme child abuse, demonic involvement, and general bad vibes.
** Tasked with taking a prepared chunk of magicite north to a life-aspected pool to aid in the planting/growing efforts in early spring.
*** Encountered the Dark Fur tribe of therians in the way. Not very kind.
*** The Utkena tribe of therians (right around the pool) asked for aid with quieting the spirits of the forest. That led them to discover the Vocate Nest, a demonically-influenced group of anthropomorphic insects starting to clear-cut the northern forest at the command of their "Queens" and "The Voice".
*** Gave challenge according to Nest law; in one month (beginning of Spring Dying), there will be a negotiated challenge.
*** Traveled back to town to gather allies. Currently working with the [[Eternal Library]]'s Curator to investigate who the demon might be. On data search, there were "traps" in the archives that led to memory corruption. Party is tasked with resolving those manually.

[[Category:Adventuring Parties]]

Halfway Islands

2026-05-10T23:05:08Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "An archipelago of islands located north of the western side of the Barrier-Tooth Islands and south of Sentinel Island. Nominally under the control of the 2nd Fleet of the Ship Folk, but mostly lawless. Thankfully fairly sleepy. Inhabited by a mix of ika-ika, humans, and goblins, there is local trade and (increasing amounts of) trade to the south. It makes a decent resupply area for ships heading between Soefra and No..."

An archipelago of islands located north of the western side of the [[Barrier-Tooth|Barrier-Tooth Islands]] and south of [[Sentinel Island]]. Nominally under the control of the [[Ship Folk|2nd Fleet of the Ship Folk]], but mostly lawless. Thankfully fairly sleepy.

Inhabited by a mix of [[ika-ika]], [[humans]], and [[goblins]], there is local trade and (increasing amounts of) trade to the south. It makes a decent resupply area for ships heading between [[Soefra]] and [[Noefra]].

The only major settlement (and only place the [[Ship Folk]] really control) is at [[Pal'ath]].
[[Category:Places]]
[[Category:Sena'ka]]

Hot Totty

2026-05-10T23:01:49Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "A two-masted caravel and former pirate ship, now under the control of the Repotaters who vanquished the former captain. Category:Ships Category:Repotaters"

A two-masted caravel and former pirate ship, now under the control of the [[Repotaters]] who vanquished the former captain.
[[Category:Ships]]
[[Category:Repotaters]]

Repotaters

2026-05-10T23:01:05Z

Admiralbenbo:

Start: Midsummer 253, in [[Bradford]], Duarchy. Real Time: Q1 2025

Characters:

* Valeri (scaled human female swashbuckler) -- left party in Tarad’am
* Rodrick ( wb human male moon druid)
* Ydris (gwerin male warlock, patron is the Goddess of the Harvest)
* Quecha (female dwarf cleric of Lon Ka)
* Boris (male red dragonborn draconic sorcerer)

Starter: escort wayfinding caravan across Ungoverned Lands toward UC.

== Events ==

# Caravan/Pathfinding ([[Sea of Grass]])
## Discovered a small faction of the [[Imperial Sons]] near [[Hero's Rest]]. Defeated them and rescued some children.
## Defeated "bandits" led by [[Holy Hands]] agents preying on aid caravans between Merrybranch (capital of [[County Tsun]]) and [[Alford]].
## Assisted [[Alford]] and [[Glass Junction]] in moving toward unity and mutual aid after fixing the [[Glass Junction]] ferry.
## Made friends with [[Anvar]], an elderly hill giant who is returning home to the high country.
## Assisted the Frog-creek halfling clan, who had been reduced to sub-subsistence living and were on the edge of extinction.
## Defeated Aurich Wood-woad, a botanist/primalist who had become ensnared in the [[Mother Tree]]'s machinations and become a hybrid tree person...and who was converting others. His tower had been [[Concept bomb|concept bombed]] sometime between the [[War of Souls]] and the [[Cataclysm]], and returned near the village of [[Redhawk]] in the [[Ungoverned Lands]].
## Freed the town of [[Torpen Hill]] from hag influence and acquired a [[Hopeseed]].
## Negotiated with the leader of [[Meadowbrook]] for safe passage. Dealt with a [[Barbed Circle]] micro-cult.
## Discovered a group of dwarves practicing extreme BBQ.
## Arrived safely outside [[Fuar Uulan]]
# Planting the seed ([[Blood-thirst Wildlands]])
## Traveled via [[Portal Network]] to [[Kel'al'ar]] and then to [[Tarad'am]], taking ship to [[Fuhino]]
## Cleansed a lingering demonic remnant corrupting flora and fauna.
## Encountered [[Illgira]], aka Spite, a fey who knew Roderick. With his help, defeated Covra (aka Gossip), another fey who was attempting to bring Roderick to "her".
## Entered a [[Moonpath]].
### Defeated some demons attempting to burn it.
### Blessed by a toad spirit.
### Were chased out by a spirit turtle the size of a hill, carrying a fortress. This is strongly connected to Roderick's fiancee--they were taken by a fey and she was put to sleep so the fey could try to control Roderick.
## Encountered the One Horn tribe of [[Shifters|bovine shifters]]. Assisted them to deal with the Broke Tusk tribe (porcine shifters), who are under the control of a wereboar from [[Byssia]].
## Attempted to retrieve a "soul cage" amulet from an ancient ruin to the east of the central blasted lands
### Black stone aelvar mega structure (300 ft on a side, 150 ft high, ziggurat style)
### Elder chimera (3 independent heads) nesting on top, bribed with food
### repaired top level
### negotiated with guardian. did not retrieve soul cage (as it wasn’t as advertised).
## Went to the partner ruin to the south. Discovered exiled tribe of insectile warped creatures. Got (grudging) permission to explore the inside.
### Discovered that it had been a biological research station immediately before the 2nd Wish.
### Destroyed an overgrown plant creature.
### Discovered some drama around the time leading up to Moon's Fall.
### Liberated some humanoid hybrids (and a stray winged, grey-skinned telepathic aelf from an unknown land) who had been kept in stasis.
### Set the souls of the "discarded" experiments to rest, gained a favor from them.
## Headed into the center, carefully avoiding all the nasty flora/fauna hybrids.
### Discovered that the center temple was an [[Ley Lines|aetheric font of Life]], but was currently being contaminated by a remnant of the [[Twisted]], cut off when he attacked the [[Catalysts]], tended by three clone beings named Malignance, Metastasis, and Metamorphosis, each in mental control of the bug folk (from which the exiles came).
### Reached an accord with Metamorphosis, keeper of the breeding farms, who wanted to change things.
### Gathered allies from the One Horn, the Broke Tusk, the exile clade, and even managed to bribe the chimera to help.
### Allies caused massive distraction. Party attacked Metastasis. Big fight ensued.
### Metastasis forced the remnant/core to tear a hole into Shadow, where the [[Twisted]] tried to re-acquire the core. The party gave the [[Hopeseed]] to the core, blasting them back and planting the seed.
### Rapid conversion of core and area into shadow-rooted [[Cobaith|Cobaith (Tree of Hope)]].
# Seeds of hope for the [[Sena'ka]]
## Hired to help [[Crow]] and [[Phoenix Princess Leina|Leina]] deliver stabilization packages to the three creches of the [[Ship Folk]]: one on [[Sentinel Island]], one on Vil'ath, and the last at Vrol'ath.
## Had to resolve some worker disputes on Sentinel Island to persuade the creche guardians to accept it. This involved scamming a local landlord and slaver out of his estate via cheating at gambling. He was so pissed off that he died of an aneurism.
## Took passage aboard the Primal Voyager (a merchant ship), working security as it island hopped towards the south.
## Were attacked by warped [[Ika-ika]] near an uninhabited rock spire; defeated them and went inside to find an enslaved colony and a worshiper of the Twisted (or its agents). Killed him, freed the people.
## Landed at a larger island in the chain for resupply. While there, port attacked by two pirate ships. Killed the leader, took the ship. Now renamed the [[Hot Totty]].
## Traveled to [[Pal'ath]], the largest port city (and floating city) in the [[Halfway Islands]] to try to get official status to run the ship without interference from the Fleets.
## Discovered that an ancient dragon turtle (later discovered to be named "Robert") was sitting in the only real passage through the Deadman's Gulf, sinking ships as they came by.
## Parlayed with Robert, found out he was mad that another ship folk ship had stolen a replica of [[Bones of Leviathan|Lapat Afa]]. Parked on one of the two "cursed" islands in that passage.
## Turns out it was the Azure Seeker, the ''other'' ship they could have taken passage on (with a skeevy captain). Turns out he'd gone full evil and become a [[mkhulu]] in service to a demon-spider-crab entity that was filling the ship with necrotic soul-devouring toxin to try to take Robert's soul and puppet his body. The theft was just a ruse to draw him in for the kill.
## They sunk the Azure Seeker, drew out the crab and fled back into open waters so Robert could fight the crab and kill it without the tricks. They then recovered the replica shield and returned it to Robert, which satisfied him.
[[Category:Noefra]]
[[Category:Repotaters]]

Category:Plants

2026-05-04T02:52:51Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "Category:Quartus"

[[Category:Quartus]]

Luminous starbloom

2026-05-04T02:52:32Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "A rare flower native to the northern Jungle of Fangs. Does not grow in captivity. Extremely valued for its fertility/life-sustaining powers. Physically, it's a large, lotus-flower-like white bloom that glows in the dark and sheds small "sparks" (not hot). Category:Plants"

A rare flower native to the northern [[Jungle of Fangs]]. Does not grow in captivity. Extremely valued for its fertility/life-sustaining powers.

Physically, it's a large, lotus-flower-like white bloom that glows in the dark and sheds small "sparks" (not hot).
[[Category:Plants]]

Argentones

2026-05-04T02:50:45Z

Admiralbenbo:

An adventuring group adventuring in the [[Jungle of Fangs]] during the [[Time of Troubles]]. In-universe, started late spring 260 AC.

== People ==

* Lark
* Hiroh Megasaki
* Ren Tashiro (retired as of the end of High Summer 260 AC)
* Alfred Madgwick (retired as of 16 High Summer 260 AC)
* Kazado "Wordcarver" Uguna
* Jin Kanagi

== Adventures ==

=== Sraasa Saat Adventures ===

* Gathered to discover who was behind a series of bizarre thefts from the local distillery.
* Thwarted attempts by a rival distillery to steal the real recipe, but the ''real'' culprits were [[Mope and Private Eyeguana]], stealing bits of things to make a nest for a little girl (Ma'li) that they had rescued. Mope is near death due to several decades of hard living in the wild.
* Assisted them.
* Did a job for an alchemist to gather [[luminous starbloom]].
* Hired to explore a [[Fanged Kingdom]] ruin. Were in competition with Aiko and Apsalar, who turned out to be [[Coiled Ones]] agents. The ruin collapsed, nearly killing them.
* Hired to scout a bandit camp that had captured a large contingent of local soldiers sent to root it out.
** Made a deal with the local cannibal [[Halflings|halfling]] tribe for safe passage
** Rescued a number of slaves working in a iron mine on the Kaelthian border.
** With some of the slaves, they raided the camp and defeated them, suffering heavy losses from among the slaves.
** One of the slaves was Ma-li's mom (Katelyn), a "barbarian" from the western mountains who had slept with a fang-kin noble. Ma-li's mom has it going on.
* Reunion of Ma-li with her mom.
* Discovering that Ma-li's dad is the son of Lord [[Kato]]. Happy reunions and turns out G'pa is a softie for kids.

=== Sha'slar Family ===

* Roh's family is from [[Sha'slar]], and Ren's sister (and daughter) have moved there to escape scrutiny.
* Songs and concerts go well.
* Meet an exemplary dancer and her dwarven priest attendant.
* Dude from before (Aiko) shows up on his own business, looking for Ren's daughter.
* Managed to evade him and get family safe to Kato, where she's hired as a servant.

=== Asai'ka & Golems ===

* Standing song stone teaches Lark a bit of a song
* Dealing with sex cult/demon cult. Violently.
* Reach Asai'ka.
* Investigating some murders, thefts, and other stuff.
* Hired by Sapori family under false pretenses to help with a party (Lark and Roh singing)
* ...still more to write.

[[Category:Adventuring Parties]]
[[Category:Time of Troubles]]

Aerielara

2026-02-23T04:16:44Z

Admiralbenbo:

File:Aerielara.png

2026-02-23T04:16:27Z

Admiralbenbo:

Holy Symbol for Aerielara

Selesurala

2026-02-23T04:15:43Z

Admiralbenbo:

[[File:Selesurala-holy.png|frameless]]

====Other Names====
Mistress of Storms, Storm Serpent, Pitiless One.
====Domain====
Oceans. Cold. Storms. ''Nature, Tempest''
====Personality====
Changeable, with a temper. No pity for the weak. Not particularly subtle.

====Usual Depiction====
A serpentine dragon/sea serpent, scales glitter metallic blue-grey. When painted, she is usually depicted rising from the sea in the middle of a storm.

====Companions/Demigods====
[[Perkunos]] and [[Tatsuryuu]]

====Worship in Western Noefra====
Not worshiped, only propitiated. Propitiated during storm season in the Stone Throne. Feared and hated in [[Wyrmhold]], where they talk of “a serpent up the back” for a bad feeling or curse with “Sele’s shed scales.” This causes much friction with Stone Throne dwellers. Propitiated with blood sacrifice, and not token. Always an animal, preferably a predator.

=====Religious Precepts=====
The ocean is inscrutable. Do not advertise your plans. The chill of the ice is implacable. Keep pressing forward until you have ground your enemies underfoot. All men are equal before the storm. No inherent respect for tradition or authority.

==== Worship in Other Areas====

* [[Ikela]]: Considered the pre-eminent deity by the [[Ikelan Religion|Stormqueen's Wake]] cult. Worshiped heavily throughout the area. Oddly, she's seen as much more approachable there, where she's known as the "World-serpent" or the "Storm Queen", worshiped mainly as a goddess governing ''weather'', including the seasonal rains on which the agriculture depends.
* [[Ship Folk]]: She is the Divine One, seen as THE goddess for the ship folk. But it is not a relationship of love--rather it's one of fear and emulation. They seek to be just as cold and merciless and strong as she is. The Wave Priests of the Fleets wield her wrath (or so they say) on all that oppose the Fleets. 

====Pre-Divine Status====
Selesurala was [[Tatsuryuu]]'s child and regent of the Plane of Water before the [[Cataclysm]]. Neutral during the [[Titan-Wyrm War|Titan-Wyrm Wars]], she apotheosized relatively early. She did ''not'' appreciate being "promoted" to divine rank.
[[Category: Gods]]

File:Selesurala-holy.png

2026-02-23T04:14:20Z

Admiralbenbo:

Holy symbol for selesurala

Korokonolkom

2026-02-23T04:13:24Z

Admiralbenbo:

;[[File:Korokonolkolm-holy.png|none|thumb|Holy Symbol]]
;Other Names: The King Below, Lord of Silence
;Domain: Mountains. The earth. Patron of the Dwarves. Knowledge, War
;Personality: Mostly quiet with volcanic temper if angered. Does not forget or forgive easily. Strong sense of honor.
;Usual depiction: A larger-than-life hairless, muscled humanoid ([[jazuu]]? Giant?), head bowed and fists pressed together. Usually covered in painted “runes” (usually nonsense) and wearing a loincloth. Usually made out of a dark stone.

;Companions/Demigods: The Lovers (a pair of dwarves),

;Worship: Korokonolkom is dominantly worshiped among the dwarves of the Council. His worship is especially strong in and around Fuar Uulan.

;Traditional dwarves: A deep hole is bored at the base of the statue. Worshipers arrive, write their prayers on pieces of flat slate and silently hand their written prayers to the officiant, who holds them up to the statue and then drops them down the hole. When the hole is filled (which can take decades), a new hole is bored. No words are ever spoken in the shrine. To do so is sacrilege.

;Heretics: There are heretic groups (mostly dwarven but this is spreading to the local human communities as well) that practice tests of endurance including self-flagellation. A worshiper’s status is determined by how long they can go without making a noise or flinching while being subjected to discomfort or pain.

;Religious Precepts: Endure whatever comes. Face it head-on and refuse to bend. Be slow to trust new people or ideas. Remember offenses against self and clan and repay them with interest. Sacrifice self for clan and honor. Honor your written word—lying in writing is a cardinal sin.

;Pre-Divine Stories: Korokonolkom was once one of the ruling [[titans]] and ruler of the Plane of Earth. He dissented from the construction of the [[Orb of All Might]] and the destruction attendant there-to.

[[Category: Gods]]

File:Korokonolkolm-holy.png

2026-02-23T04:11:56Z

Admiralbenbo:

Holy Symbol for Koro

Primal Sea

2026-02-20T20:36:55Z

Admiralbenbo:

The equatorial sea that separates [[Noefra]] from [[Soefra]]. Littered with islands, mostly belonging to the [[Ship People]]. Prone to hurricanes during the summer and fall.

== Map ==
[[File:Primal-sea.v2.webp|border|800x800px]]

'''Legend:'''

* Black symbols are [[Ship Folk]] dominated, while white belong to other nations.
* Stars are national capitals
* Circles with dots in the center are major port cities.
* Plain circles are smaller port cities.
* Red arrows represent warm currents, blue cold currents.
* white-bordered regions represent changes in average depth of at least 500 ft.

== Major Regions (water) ==

* [[Gap-tooth Bay]]
* [[Serpent Sea]]
* [[Moon Sea]]
* [[Ikela|Gulf of Ikela]]
* Benthic Trench: This region is home to [[Kalasaa]] who particularly dislike surfacers.
* Leviathan Deep: This region is home to sea-folk particularly devoted to the [[Leviathan]]. The solitary island here is a volcano caldera home to a single gigantic statue dating back to the [[aelvar]] of the second age that acts as a colossal lighthouse. Its beacon stands nearly 5 thousand feet and is visible for 100 miles, burning with an everlasting magical flame.

== Major Islands ==

* [[Sentinel Island]]
* Ei Ala
* Sai'ath
* Halfway Isles
* Vrol'ath
* [[Barrier-Tooth|Barrier-Tooth Islands]]

[[Category:Geography]]

Ship Folk

2026-02-20T19:59:06Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Ship Hierarchy */

*marine-heavy culture (live most of their lives on ships where possible), ship-dwellers have higher status
*Slave owners
*Rule by strength, but respect intellectual strength and deviousness.
*Little institutional loyalty--every person for themselves. Generally cold-bloodedly honest--they rarely blatantly break their promises. But when they do, they'll let you know in advance. Unless the other path is safer and more advantageous. Prefer to reinterpret terms and conditions more favorably to themselves instead of actually violating the agreement. Work by the letter of the law/agreements, not the spirit.
*Organized into a Grand Fleet made of smaller Fleets, each led by an Admiral. 7 total fleets
**2x Advance Fleets (raiders and explorers)
**2x Supply Fleets (merchants and civilian supply, also handle much of the land-dwelling)
**1x Home Fleet (guards of the settled islands, also primary invasion forces)
**1x Creche Guardians (protect and maintain the creche where new [[sena'ka]] are born)
**1x Reserve Fleet (penal fleet, does scut work)
* Cruelty, arrogance, infighting.
* Mental discipline (because showing weakness in front of others is a risk for death).
* Rational--will surrender rather than die. Inter-fleet squabbles usually end with ransomed losers & payments.
* Don't breed fast (breed only in a few creches, artificially), so are loath to lose their own people. Reckless with the lives of slaves, however.
* Mostly have raided local settlements in the [[Great Rift]] area. Recently (~205 AC) established a foothold on [[Sentinel Island]]. Admiral I'kor'lai (admiral of the First Advance Fleet) has set out from there and very recently established a beach-head on the Noefran continent. Founded the city of [[Tarad'am]] at the southern tip of the [[Jungle of Fangs]].
* Racial dance is twerking

==Hierarchy==
* Grand Admiral [[Ath'l'Poarl'la]] (mediates disputes, decides inter-fleet promotions).
** Admiralty Board (oversees Fleet operations, designates hunting grounds, sets taxes on captures and sales)
*** Advance Fleet 1
**** Currently (250+ AC) led by Admiral Saris Ath'l. In 257, it enters open rebellion against the Admiralty Board and declares itself (and Sentinel Island) a new nation called the Free Fleet.
*** Advance Fleet 2
*** Home Fleet
** Land Council (sets policy for landborne operations, slave auctions, new births of [[sena'ka]], fleet assignments & food allocations)
*** Reserve Fleet (lowest status, construction/penal fleet)
*** Creche Guardians (tiny elite force who handle births, chosen for life)
*** Landsmen (including land-slaves, the very lowest status possible)
*Each fleet has a Fleet Admiral, who oversees divisions of 3-5 ships (or a city and its surrounding for the Landsmen, or a creche for the guardians). Each division has a Division Head who works with the captains of the ships or local heads as appropriate.
Technically, all non-[[sena'ka]] are slaves--they don't acknowledge any other status (and sena'ka cannot be made slave). However, there are slaves and then slaves. And meritorious slaves can be made honorary sena'ka, gaining freed status. There are even honorary sena'ka captains (but not admirals or fleet commanders).

Skilled slaves can own other slaves (who themselves can own other slaves). Damaging someone else's slave is an offense, considered equal to stealing from the one harmed. This is generally enforced by the offended slave's ultimate master, as it's considered an attack against them. However, slaves have very few protections against their own (free) masters. By custom, ship-borne slaves have much the same allowances as any sena'ka of their equivalent station/role. The only difference in practice is that slaves can be killed without ''massive'' retribution, and tend to be sent in as front-line fodder while the sena'ka hang back, as sena'ka rarely kill each other and killing a sena'ka is the worst offense a slave can commit.

==Ship Hierarchy==
Most ships only have a handful of sena'ka aboard. The captain and his key officers (the ship's mage and the sub-captains, of which there is always at least one, but the large ships have one per watch) are almost always sena'ka; the senior armsman is usually sena'ka. The ship's master (who handles the sailors) is much more mixed.
* Captain -- sena'ka
** Ship's Mage -- sena'ka, although many are honorary
** Sub-Captain(s) -- usually sena'ka, although many are honorary
*** Master -- mixed. Sometimes slave, sometimes sena'ka (especially on major ships)
**** Ratings (1st and 2nd) -- mostly slaves
*** Senior Armsman -- usually sena'ka, often honorary
**** Armsmen (1st and 2nd) -- if present, sena'ka
**** Armed Slaves

[[Category:Cultures]]

Ship Folk

2026-02-20T19:52:46Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Hierarchy */

*marine-heavy culture (live most of their lives on ships where possible), ship-dwellers have higher status
*Slave owners
*Rule by strength, but respect intellectual strength and deviousness.
*Little institutional loyalty--every person for themselves. Generally cold-bloodedly honest--they rarely blatantly break their promises. But when they do, they'll let you know in advance. Unless the other path is safer and more advantageous. Prefer to reinterpret terms and conditions more favorably to themselves instead of actually violating the agreement. Work by the letter of the law/agreements, not the spirit.
*Organized into a Grand Fleet made of smaller Fleets, each led by an Admiral. 7 total fleets
**2x Advance Fleets (raiders and explorers)
**2x Supply Fleets (merchants and civilian supply, also handle much of the land-dwelling)
**1x Home Fleet (guards of the settled islands, also primary invasion forces)
**1x Creche Guardians (protect and maintain the creche where new [[sena'ka]] are born)
**1x Reserve Fleet (penal fleet, does scut work)
* Cruelty, arrogance, infighting.
* Mental discipline (because showing weakness in front of others is a risk for death).
* Rational--will surrender rather than die. Inter-fleet squabbles usually end with ransomed losers & payments.
* Don't breed fast (breed only in a few creches, artificially), so are loath to lose their own people. Reckless with the lives of slaves, however.
* Mostly have raided local settlements in the [[Great Rift]] area. Recently (~205 AC) established a foothold on [[Sentinel Island]]. Admiral I'kor'lai (admiral of the First Advance Fleet) has set out from there and very recently established a beach-head on the Noefran continent. Founded the city of [[Tarad'am]] at the southern tip of the [[Jungle of Fangs]].
* Racial dance is twerking

==Hierarchy==
* Grand Admiral [[Ath'l'Poarl'la]] (mediates disputes, decides inter-fleet promotions).
** Admiralty Board (oversees Fleet operations, designates hunting grounds, sets taxes on captures and sales)
*** Advance Fleet 1
**** Currently (250+ AC) led by Admiral Saris Ath'l. In 257, it enters open rebellion against the Admiralty Board and declares itself (and Sentinel Island) a new nation called the Free Fleet.
*** Advance Fleet 2
*** Home Fleet
** Land Council (sets policy for landborne operations, slave auctions, new births of [[sena'ka]], fleet assignments & food allocations)
*** Reserve Fleet (lowest status, construction/penal fleet)
*** Creche Guardians (tiny elite force who handle births, chosen for life)
*** Landsmen (including land-slaves, the very lowest status possible)
*Each fleet has a Fleet Admiral, who oversees divisions of 3-5 ships (or a city and its surrounding for the Landsmen, or a creche for the guardians). Each division has a Division Head who works with the captains of the ships or local heads as appropriate.
Technically, all non-[[sena'ka]] are slaves--they don't acknowledge any other status (and sena'ka cannot be made slave). However, there are slaves and then slaves. And meritorious slaves can be made honorary sena'ka, gaining freed status. There are even honorary sena'ka captains (but not admirals or fleet commanders).

Skilled slaves can own other slaves (who themselves can own other slaves). Damaging someone else's slave is an offense, considered equal to stealing from the one harmed. This is generally enforced by the offended slave's ultimate master, as it's considered an attack against them. However, slaves have very few protections against their own (free) masters. By custom, ship-borne slaves have much the same allowances as any sena'ka of their equivalent station/role. The only difference in practice is that slaves can be killed without ''massive'' retribution, and tend to be sent in as front-line fodder while the sena'ka hang back, as sena'ka rarely kill each other and killing a sena'ka is the worst offense a slave can commit.

==Ship Hierarchy==
* Captain
** Ship's Mage
** Sub-Captain(s)
*** Master
**** Ratings (1st and 2nd)
*** Senior Armsman
**** Armsmen (1st and 2nd)
**** Armed Slaves

[[Category:Cultures]]

Ship Folk

2026-02-20T19:47:58Z

Admiralbenbo:

*marine-heavy culture (live most of their lives on ships where possible), ship-dwellers have higher status
*Slave owners
*Rule by strength, but respect intellectual strength and deviousness.
*Little institutional loyalty--every person for themselves. Generally cold-bloodedly honest--they rarely blatantly break their promises. But when they do, they'll let you know in advance. Unless the other path is safer and more advantageous. Prefer to reinterpret terms and conditions more favorably to themselves instead of actually violating the agreement. Work by the letter of the law/agreements, not the spirit.
*Organized into a Grand Fleet made of smaller Fleets, each led by an Admiral. 7 total fleets
**2x Advance Fleets (raiders and explorers)
**2x Supply Fleets (merchants and civilian supply, also handle much of the land-dwelling)
**1x Home Fleet (guards of the settled islands, also primary invasion forces)
**1x Creche Guardians (protect and maintain the creche where new [[sena'ka]] are born)
**1x Reserve Fleet (penal fleet, does scut work)
* Cruelty, arrogance, infighting.
* Mental discipline (because showing weakness in front of others is a risk for death).
* Rational--will surrender rather than die. Inter-fleet squabbles usually end with ransomed losers & payments.
* Don't breed fast (breed only in a few creches, artificially), so are loath to lose their own people. Reckless with the lives of slaves, however.
* Mostly have raided local settlements in the [[Great Rift]] area. Recently (~205 AC) established a foothold on [[Sentinel Island]]. Admiral I'kor'lai (admiral of the First Advance Fleet) has set out from there and very recently established a beach-head on the Noefran continent. Founded the city of [[Tarad'am]] at the southern tip of the [[Jungle of Fangs]].
* Racial dance is twerking

==Hierarchy==
* Grand Admiral [[Ath'l'Poarl'la]] (mediates disputes, decides inter-fleet promotions).
** Admiralty Board (oversees Fleet operations, designates hunting grounds, sets taxes on captures and sales)
*** Advance Fleet 1
**** Currently (250+ AC) led by Admiral Saris Ath'l.
*** Advance Fleet 2
*** Home Fleet
** Land Council (sets policy for landborne operations, slave auctions, new births of [[sena'ka]], fleet assignments & food allocations)
*** Reserve Fleet (lowest status, construction/penal fleet)
*** Creche Guardians (tiny elite force who handle births, chosen for life)
*** Landsmen (including land-slaves, the very lowest status possible)
Technically, all non-[[sena'ka]] are slaves--they don't acknowledge any other status (and sena'ka cannot be made slave). However, there are slaves and then slaves. And meritorious slaves can be made honorary sena'ka, gaining freed status. There are even honorary sena'ka captains (but not admirals or fleet commanders).

Skilled slaves can own other slaves (who themselves can own other slaves). Damaging someone else's slave is an offense, considered equal to stealing from the one harmed. This is generally enforced by the offended slave's ultimate master, as it's considered an attack against them. However, slaves have very few protections against their own (free) masters. By custom, ship-borne slaves have much the same allowances as any sena'ka of their equivalent station/role. The only difference in practice is that slaves can be killed without ''massive'' retribution, and tend to be sent in as front-line fodder while the sena'ka hang back, as sena'ka rarely kill each other and killing a sena'ka is the worst offense a slave can commit.

==Ship Hierarchy==
* Captain
** Ship's Mage
** Sub-Captain(s)
*** Master
**** Ratings (1st and 2nd)
*** Senior Armsman
**** Armsmen (1st and 2nd)
**** Armed Slaves

[[Category:Cultures]]

Ship Folk

2026-02-20T19:36:22Z

Admiralbenbo:

*marine-heavy culture (live most of their lives on ships where possible), ship-dwellers have higher status
*Slave owners
*Rule by strength
*Little institutional loyalty--every person for themselves
*Organized into a Grand Fleet made of smaller Fleets, each led by an Admiral. 7 total fleets
**2x Advance Fleets (raiders and explorers)
**2x Supply Fleets (merchants and civilian supply, also handle much of the land-dwelling)
**1x Home Fleet (guards of the settled islands, also primary invasion forces)
**1x Creche Guardians (protect and maintain the creche where new [[sena'ka]] are born)
**1x Reserve Fleet (penal fleet, does scut work)
* Cruelty, arrogance, infighting.
* Mental discipline (because showing weakness in front of others is a risk for death).
* Rational--will surrender rather than die. Inter-fleet squabbles usually end with ransomed losers & payments.
* Don't breed fast (breed only in a few creches, artificially), so are loath to lose their own people. Reckless with the lives of slaves, however.
* Mostly have raided local settlements in the [[Great Rift]] area. Recently (~205 AC) established a foothold on [[Sentinel Island]]. Admiral I'kor'lai (admiral of the First Advance Fleet) has set out from there and very recently established a beach-head on the Noefran continent. Founded the city of [[Tarad'am]] at the southern tip of the [[Jungle of Fangs]].
* Racial dance is twerking

==Hierarchy==
* Grand Admiral [[Ath'l'Poarl'la]] (mediates disputes, decides inter-fleet promotions).
** Admiralty Board (oversees Fleet operations, designates hunting grounds, sets taxes on captures and sales)
*** Advance Fleet 1
**** Currently (250+ AC) led by Admiral Saris Ath'l.
*** Advance Fleet 2
*** Home Fleet
** Land Council (sets policy for landborne operations, slave auctions, new births of [[sena'ka]], fleet assignments & food allocations)
*** Reserve Fleet (lowest status, construction/penal fleet)
*** Creche Guardians (tiny elite force who handle births, chosen for life)
*** Landsmen (including land-slaves, the very lowest status possible)

==Ship Hierarchy==
* Captain
** Ship's Mage
** Sub-Captain(s)
*** Master
**** Ratings (1st and 2nd)
*** Senior Armsman
**** Armsmen (1st and 2nd)
**** Armed Slaves

[[Category:Cultures]]

Player's Guide--Character Creation

2026-02-19T23:56:34Z

Admiralbenbo:

==== Races ====
The playable races of the setting are (sub-races are included unless specifically excluded):

;[[Humans]]4: Most common race by far. Major populations exist in all nations except [[Wyrmhold]].

;[[Dwarves]]: Common in the [[Holy Kaelthian Republic]], [[Shinevog]], and [[Zhapai Karmap]]. Uncommon but not unknown in the [[Serpent Dominion]]. Rare otherwise.

;Elves : [[Puun Ihmisia]] (pronounced poohn ih-ME-si-a, commonly shortened to imisi, aka wood elves) are common in [[Byssia]], the [[Duarchy]], and [[Zhapai Karmap]]. [[Gwerin]] (GOOER-in), aka high elves are only common in the [[Crisial Kingdom]]. As of mid-summer 250 AC, [[goroesi]] (gor-o-ES-i, dark elves) are available for play. All goroesi come through the [[Serpent Dominion]] and must use the statistics noted in that article. Second note: Metsae (wood elven) and [[Yonwach]] (high elven) are different languages. Choose one if you choose Elven as a language.

;[[Halflings]] : Only common in the [[Holy Kaelthian Republic]], but present in the [[Crisial Kingdom]] and the [[Sha'slar Autonomous Zone]] as well, especially in agricultural areas. Rare. Strongly matriarchal society--men are comparatively rare.

;[[Half-elves]]4 : Common in [[Byssia]] and all 3 of the nations of the former [[Stone Throne]]. Present in all 5 of the [[Council Lands]] [[Successor States]] but not common.

;[[Orcs|Half-orcs]]4: Full-blooded orcs use these stats; half-orcs ''per se'' don't exist. Very common in [[Wyrmhold]] and the [[Duarchy]]. Uncommon or rare elsewhere.

;[[Dragonborn]] (all colors4): Rare but more common as adventurers. Very common (dominant, in fact) in [[Wyrmhold]]. Not found elsewhere. Mostly related to one another (small, clannish population). Add Darkvision (60 ft) and can choose either +2 DEX or +2 STR. Breath weapon is a bonus action.

;[[Plane-touched]] (Homebrew1): Elemental plane-touched are mostly from [[Byssia]], although others are starting to pop up elsewhere. Astral plane-touched are rare and most common in the [[Successor States]].

;[[Ophidian]]s (Homebrew2): Humanoids with snake-like influences. Only present in the nations of the [[Jungle of Fangs]]. 2nd-class citizens in [[Asai'ka]].

;[[Soul-forged]] (Homebrew) : Present in southern [[Wyrmhold]] or [[Byssia]]. Very new race, may get startled reactions elsewhere.

;[[Jazuu]] [JAZZ-oo] (Homebrew2): Large, competitive, mountain people related to giants. From [[Zhapai Karmap]] or [[Wyrmhold]].

If you use the [[Player Option--Variant Races| variant race]] option for applicable races (marked with 4), you may choose an extended background from [[Player Option--Regional Backgrounds]].

[1]: Acceptable alternate stats for the astral plane-touched are found in published books; alternate stat blocks for elemental plane-touched are found in a free official pdf.

[2]: Acceptable alternate stats for these races are found in various published books.

[3]: Acceptable alternate stats for this race are found in various published books.

[4]: Main stats are found in the [[Player Option--Variant Races]] document.

==== Classes and Archetypes ====
To learn more about the role of the classes (and their NPC equivalents) in Dreams of Hope, see [[Classes and Quartus]]. For a list of allowed classes and archetypes, talk to the DM.

==== Technology and Magic Levels ====
Magic is common, but permanent magic items are rare. There is no general ability to purchase most permanent magical items, although some organizations facilitate purchase of items for their members in good standing (generally limited to Uncommon and Common items). Potions and other consumable magical items are purchasable in the larger cities.

'''Note''': There are no chemical explosives (although there are magical aether-based devices that create similar effects) and especially no firearms. This is an aesthetic choice more than anything.

Tool uses from Xanathar's Guide are in play, as are downtime rules.

==== Expectations ====
* Formal alignment is not in force—this goes for NPCs as well. Not all orcs are evil; neither are chromatic dragons (by default anyway).
* Don’t be a jerk. Repeated evil behavior will get your character exiled or killed.
* Build characters that have a reason to be with the group. This is a group game and there is no room for unhelpful loners.
* Keep things PG. Profanity is discouraged. Sexual content will never be explicit (fade-to-black). Violence should never be graphically described.
* PvP actions are forbidden and will not be allowed. This includes passive-aggressive actions and (non-consensual) theft from party members. The only exception is if both people agree to it out of character as well as rules that will be followed and consequences. Either side can say no at any time which vetos that action.

==== House Rules ====
See [[Default Houserules]].

==== Languages ====
Most citizens of the [[Federated Nations]] area speak [[Common]] of one dialect or another. This does not include most goblins or orcs not from [[Wyrmhold]]. All characters start with proficiency in Common. For Elven, choose either high elven or wood elven. For more information, see [[Languages of Western Noefra]]. Note: language is important. I'm fine with people that have a "any language of your choice" feature holding that choice until it's needed (and then locked in once made).

==== Quick Cosmology Guide ====
See [[Quick Planar Cosmology Guide]]

==== Gods and Religions Guide ====
See [[Player's Guide--Nations and Cultures]].

== Area Map ==
[[File:Noefra-253AC-political.webp|alt=Noefra Political Map|600x600px|West Noefra Political Map]]

Pronunciation guide (capitalization indicates primary emphasis):

* Noefra: NO-fra
* Crisial: CRIS-i-al
* Kaelthia: KALE-thi-a
* Uulan: OO-lan (technically double-length on that oo, but...)
* Asai'ka: ahs-eye KA
* Sena'ka: sen-ah KA
* Puun Ihmisia: poohn eem-EES-i-a
* Shinevog: SHIN-uh-vog
* Tuura Adam: TOOH-rah AD-am
* Rauviz: RAUW-viz
* Khaimal: KHI-mal (very gutteral KH, similar to the russian X sound)
* Zhapai Karmap: ZHAP-eye car-MAHP

[[Category:Dawn of Hope]]
[[Category:Player's Guide]]

Repotaters

2026-02-06T21:30:11Z

Admiralbenbo:

Cobaith

2026-02-06T21:29:46Z

Admiralbenbo:

A positive-emotion, life-bound counterpart to the [[Mother Tree]], planted at the center of the [[Blood-thirst Wildlands]] by [[Repotaters]] in late 253. Rooted in [[Shadow]], it accepts the weird and broken. Not ''hostile'' to civilization, but definitely an entity of the wilds, of Life Rampant (albeit infused with both the aberrant nature of tamed Outside influence and the warped legacy of demonic influence).

The name is a distorted version of a phrase meaning "tree of hope" from [[Yonwach]].
[[Category:Fey]]
[[Category:Repotaters]]
[[Category:Blood-thirst Wildlands]]

Category:Repotaters

2026-02-06T21:29:07Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "Category:Adventuring Parties"

[[Category:Adventuring Parties]]

Cobaith

2026-02-06T21:28:52Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "A positive-emotion, life-bound counterpart to the Mother Tree, planted at the center of the Blood-thirst Wildlands by Repotaters in late 253. Rooted in Shadow, it accepts the weird and broken. Not ''hostile'' to civilization, but definitely an entity of the wilds, of Life Rampant (albeit infused with both the aberrant nature of tamed Outside influence and the warped legacy of demonic influence). Category:Fey Category:Repotaters Category:Blood-th..."

A positive-emotion, life-bound counterpart to the [[Mother Tree]], planted at the center of the [[Blood-thirst Wildlands]] by [[Repotaters]] in late 253. Rooted in [[Shadow]], it accepts the weird and broken. Not ''hostile'' to civilization, but definitely an entity of the wilds, of Life Rampant (albeit infused with both the aberrant nature of tamed Outside influence and the warped legacy of demonic influence).
[[Category:Fey]]
[[Category:Repotaters]]
[[Category:Blood-thirst Wildlands]]

Repotaters

2026-02-06T21:26:13Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Events */

Thoraz

2026-01-19T02:45:05Z

Admiralbenbo: Created page with "One of the five Lucian Territories (metaphysical spheres of influence) in the Astral. Known as builders and guardians, their duty is almost entirely bound up in the Astral. They work closely with the Angelic Host, from whom they receive most of their support. Rarely summoned to the mortal, they tend to be the most "lawful", preferring well-structured contracts with defensive or engineering tasks over pure combat or other tasks. The families of Thoraz a..."

One of the five Lucian Territories (metaphysical spheres of influence) in the [[Astral]]. Known as builders and guardians, their duty is almost entirely bound up in the [[Astral]]. They work closely with the [[Angels|Angelic Host]], from whom they receive most of their support. Rarely summoned to the mortal, they tend to be the most "lawful", preferring well-structured contracts with defensive or engineering tasks over pure combat or other tasks. The families of Thoraz are some of the most bitter enemies of [[demons]] and the [[undead]], considering the entropy spirits that power them to be abhorrent.

== Families ==

; Ala (NE)
: Known for driving hard bargains. Greedy, he works his subordinates hard and rewards ambition, as long as that ambition doesn't threaten him.
; Barong (NG)
: Associated with lions; her Family specializes in anti-demon operations.
; Charun (LN)
: Dour and quiet, specializes in anti-undead operations
; Culsu (N)
: Known as the Doorwarden, this Family controls passage from the astral into Shadow. They work closely with the [[Watcher]] and the [[Catocracy]].
; Grigori (N)
: This family specializes in scrying and spying on creatures. Led by an imp whose desire for information has given him lots of blackmail material. Unlike most of the territory, they're neutral like arms-dealers are neutral--they supply all sides with information.
; Malphas (LN)
: This family specializes in construction and is dominantly involved in maintenance of the Celestial City. Only rarely summoned to the mortal plane.
; Marchosias (LG)
: Judge of fair battles and duels. Considered stick-in-the-muds by others.
; Pelesit (N)
: Specializes in defensive operations, provides combat troops for mortal-plane operations.
; Valac (CN)
: Finder of Treasures (even other people's treasures). Experts at scrying for objects.

Barong, Charun, and Pelesit are most commonly allied with the Host outside of the Astral.
[[Category:Devils]]

Diabolical Families

2026-01-19T02:43:29Z

Admiralbenbo: /* Families */

[[Infernals]] are grouped into 45 families, organized into 5 territories. Most families are named for the arch-devil that occupies the role of Don; exceptions include the Grigori and the Hinn. The territories and their constituent families are described below.

==Thoraz==
They mainly work for the angels; only the weaker ranks interact with mortals. Heavily involved in elemental planes. Politically conservative. Based in the [[Machinarium]] of the [[Celestial City]].

===Families===
;Ala (NE): Known for driving hard bargains. Greedy, he works his subordinates hard and rewards ambition, as long as that ambition doesn't threaten him.
;Barong (NG): Associated with lions; her Family specializes in anti-demon operations.
;Charun (LN): Dour and quiet, specializes in anti-undead operations
;Culsu (N): Known as the Doorwarden, this Family controls passage from the astral into Shadow.
;Grigori (N): This family specializes in scrying and spying on creatures. Led by an imp whose desire for information has given him lots of blackmail material. Unlike most of the territory, they're neutral like arms-dealers are neutral--they supply both sides with information.
;Malphas (LN): This family specializes in construction and is dominantly involved in maintenance of the Celestial City. Only rarely summoned to the mortal plane.
;Marchosias (LG): Judge of fair battles and duels. Considered stick-in-the-muds by others.
;Pelesit (N): Specializes in defensive operations, provides combat troops for mortal-plane operations.
;Valac (CN): Finder of Treasures (even other people's treasures). Experts at scrying for objects.

==Mara-deva==
Many succubi/incubi. 2nd-most-commonly summoned. Corruption/seduction/deception over brute force. Politically progressive. Based in [[Mara]].

===Families===
;Akvan (CN): Foremost fashion experts in the Astral Plane, for when you need to look devilishly good.
;Abyoza (CE): Often summoned to track down rivals or to lay curses on adulterous spouses. Also summoned to engineer the fall of political or economic rivals.
;Bakasura (LE): The most militant of the Mara-deva families, Bakasura is there for you when you need your enemies crushed with style.
;Drekavac (NE): When you need someone scared to death (literally or figuratively), Drekavac has a nice installment plan that will fit any soul's budget.
;Forneus (LE): Spin-meisters supreme. If you need someone to write a great speech (especially if the raw truth won't work), they're your devils.
;Ipos (NG): An Ipos imp on your shoulder will feed you all the right lines to cut your sparring partner down to size and the courage to deliver them. The courage tends to be that of the wine-cup, however.
;Lempo (CG): A two-edged sword--romance is their forte, but so is rather unpredictable behavior. You may end up proposing to the wrong sister (or their cow!) if you fall under Lempo's influence.
;Pruflas (CE): When there's nothing you like more than causing a ruckus, Pruflas has you covered. Ranging from practical jokes to impersonations designed to make your target see red, provocation is their wheelhouse.
;Shax (CE): Need something that isn't yours? Call Shax. Keep a firm grasp on your soul, or they'll steal that too.

==Chou==
Most often called for combat. Straight-forward and brutal. Respect strength. Politically conservative. Not fond of mortals (or anything they consider weak). Based in [[Ghenna]].

===Families===
;Aeshema (CE): Kill! Crush! Rage against chains!
;Angra Manyu (CE): All that exists must be destroyed. All returns to non-existence, to be reborn.
;Aseg (LE): The stones of the earth are my army; all foes will break against their bulwark. Beauty is for those weak fools in Mara-deva. Our looks are another weapon.
;Gualichu (NE): What I have, I keep. That includes the bodies I possess. Like a puppet master, I manipulate them all.
;Hinn (N): Cry havoc and let slip the (flaming) dogs of war! Who's a good hell-hound? You're a good hell-hound.
;[[Kroni]] (CE): Kill, kill, kill, annihilate, kill...
;Kumbhakarna (LN): Come! Let us test our might against each other.
;O Tokata (NE): The dead do not lie quiet. As soon you will know when you join them.
;[[Zagan]] (LE): I am the only king! All will bend the knee to my majesty!

==Leiutis==
Least warlike, most likely to form familiar pacts or Warlock pacts. Frequent users of blackmail. Politically progressive. Based in [[Aaru]]. Smallest territory in numbers.

===Families===
;Abraxas (LN): Want to know about the planes beyond the Material? We can help with that...for a price, of course.
;Allocer (N): The arcane arts are our stock in trade. What do you want to know? It's all available, if you can pay the price, of course.
;[[Beleth]] (CG): The harmonies of the celestial spheres will flow into you...once the golden ring of your anima sounds in our ears.
;Danjal (CN): Need someone taught a skill? Taught how to fight? We provide drill masters. Bulk rates available!
;Orobas (CN): The truth is out there...and we can find it for you.
;Phenex (NE): We make sure that the truth isn't out there, even against Orobas.
;Puloman (N): What happens when you mix this and that? We can tell you before you blow your fingers off!
;Ravan (N): Want to know how to appease that angry deity or kami? Need to know the right prayers to activate that temple? Call Ravan!
;Ukobach (N): All the best recipes, all in one place. Subscription plans available, cheap!

==Ka-Kola==
Not cohesive. Each family is independent. Wide variation. Politics as marked. Based in [[Naga Padoha]], but present all over.

===Families===
;Anzu (CN): The Mother of Monsters aids those that create monsters in Her name. Unaligned (apathetic)
;Arunasura (CE): Those that fight the gods are our allies. Unaligned (kill them all)
;Bukavac (N): Ours is the azure watch, over oceans and those that live within. Unaligned (apathetic)
;Boruta (N): We guard the green forests; the trees are our sheep. Unaligned/Conservative
;Dzoavits (CN): Burn! Burn in the fires of the deep earth! Raise up islands and mountains! Unaligned (kill them all)
;Leyak (CN): We guard all those whose ancestors were of the Races of Man, yet are created at the hands of the Races of Man. Progressive
;Namtar (N): Disease and medicine are opposite sides of the same coin; one without the other does not exist. Progressive
;Surgat (CN): All that is closed must be opened/as soon as Culu closes a door, we open a window. Conservative
;Toyol (NE): Who better to break that curse than the ones who laid it? Progressive

[[Category: Devils]]

Baile Duchas

2026-01-19T02:37:41Z

Admiralbenbo:

The northern region of [[Wyrmhold]], covering the traditionally orcish [[Fiach Wood]] lands north of [[Safehold]] and bordering the [[Kairen Mountains]] to the west. Populated mostly by orcs.

<note: the below isn't true anymore>. Need to fix it.>

[[File: NorthDynasty.png | 800px | Baile Duchas]]

==Major Settlements==
* [[Gor'osh]]
* [[Tinae'osh]]
* [[Coil'arch]]
* [[Fearg'arch]]
* [[Anam'arch]]

[[Category: Geography]]
[[Category: Wyrmhold]]

Frostfall

2026-01-19T02:33:21Z

Admiralbenbo:

The region of [[Noefra]] north of the [[Nocthian Caldera]], bounded by the [[Frozen Coast]] to the west and [[Fiach Wood]] to the west. Bleak with the still-unhealed scars from glacial entombment, it's carved into valleys and hills, badlands with sparse trees. Two rivers are the main loci of life in the region, which unite near the only known settlement, [[Nuvak Tuq]].

Inhabited by monsters. Some areas are still poisoned by [[Anoral]]'s presence (killed in late 253 AC, but with long-lasting consequences for the region). Ankheg and other tunneling, insectoid monsters are particularly prevalent.
[[Category:Regions]]
[[Category:Noefra]]