Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Introduction ............................................................................................... 3
Setting Notes ........................................................................................... 4
A Brief History of the Earth......................................................................... 6
Origins: Myth and Legend ....................................................................... 6
The Lunarians: Exile ................................................................................. 6
The Rise of the Five Kingdoms ................................................................. 9
The Lunarians: Prelude to War .............................................................. 12
The War of the Crystals ......................................................................... 14
The Earths Geography ............................................................................. 15
The Kingdom of Baron ........................................................................... 15
The Kingdom of Damcyan ..................................................................... 22
The City-State of Fabul .......................................................................... 28
The City-State of Mysidia ...................................................................... 32
The Theocracy of Toroia ........................................................................ 35
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Perhaps more than any other game document a greater sense of realism and
bearing the Final Fantasy name, FF4 has continuity. Also, although the game itself
gone through several different versions would suggest that the lands shown in the
and translations that, at points, are game itself constitute the entire Earth, for
significantly different from one another. the purpose of this worldbook it is
Indeed, the version that is most familiar to assumed that these lands are merely a
an American audience, released as Final small part of a much larger, though
Fantasy Two on the SNES, was drastically otherwise unknown, world.
changed from the original Japanese version
in both difficulty and text, resulting in a Finally, I am greatly indebted to the
much poorer product according to most. ongoing efforts of paladin@paladin.5u.com
for his translations and compilations of
This worldbook, therefore, is various Japanese texts and game books
primary based not upon this lesser version relating to Final Fantasy Four that, as far as
but instead upon the original Japanese I know, are unavailable elsewhere and add
"hard-type" of the game, as presented in a wealth of knowledge to the information
Final Fantasy Chronicles or in the excellent presented within this worldbook.
translation script by J2E. However, as the -
original American version is better known,
the naming conventions of most proper This worldbook is based on the
nouns follow that of the lesser translation works of Gen Leon, one of the original
for the sake of clarity. Returners members, who wrote it for the
(at the time) upcoming FFRPG Third
In addition, the geography of the Edition. I would like to thank him
various landmasses that comprise the immensely for the quality work, as most of
Earth in the game itself seems somewhat my job was editing and converting the
simplistic and unrealistic. As such, although rules for the Fourth Edition ruleset.
the basic geography is kept intact, this
worldbook will make some necessary -
alterations in order to bring to this
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The lands that comprise the world of suspicion. Only in Mysidia are magicians
Final Fantasy Four consist of vast, truly given free rein to study and enhance
unexplored wilderness broken apart by their magical talents. Finally, in the
smaller regions of civilization. This section relatively unknown village of Mist, those
will include several important features of elite men and women known as Callers
the world that should be kept in mind by also practice magic, but do so in relative
any potential GM wishing to set a isolation from the rest of the world.
campaign in this rich, unique world. Although they excel in the unique magic of
Summoning, very few of these Callers
possess any other significant magical
power.
For much of the Earth's history, magic
was virtually unknown to its inhabitants.
Although the forerunners of both Mysidia
and Eblana developed basic arcane abilities For the most part, the technological
relatively early in their respective histories, level of Earth is similar to a standard
the isolation of both these peoples limited medieval culture. Few mechanical devices
magical knowledge to legend and myth. All exist, and most of those are fairly
that changed with the arrival of the simplistic. Travel is most-often by foot or
Lunarians. Those who came into contact chocobo-driven wagons, although those
with this advanced race marveled at their with coin to spend may also book passage
magical prowess and knowledge. Like so by ship. Most towns are surrounded by
much else, the Lunarians were only too high walls to repel raiders, whether human
willing to share their knowledge of all or monster, and are dependent upon well
things arcane, and thus the evolution of water for survival. Although gunpowder
magic took an amazing step forward in a has recently been discovered, it is still not
short period of time, particularly in the in widespread use, and most people who
kingdom of Baron and the city of Mysidia, know about it tend to view it as unreliable.
where the Lunarian influence was the Mechanical time-keeping devices have only
strongest. recently been perfected, but their novelty
and convenience have made them quite
At the onset of the War of the popular throughout the world. But, what is
Crystals, magic is far from commonplace. much less commonly known is that the
Of all the kingdoms of the Earth, only
dramatic influence of the Lunarians led to
Mysidia, Eblana, and Baron have any real several remarkable breakthroughs, which
magicians to speak of. In the latter two, include the steam engine, the telescope,
magic-use is strictly controlled by the the cannon, the hovercraft, and the airship.
monarchy, and most arcane ability is
Most of these advanced technologies,
limited to noble families. Thus in these two however, are carefully guarded secrets,
kingdoms magic still lies far outside the
and no doubt based upon knowledge that
experience of the commoner, many of exceeds the understanding of most of the
whom view magic with no little fear and inhabitants of the Earth.
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Although little formal history is Many stories and legends also seem to
presented within the game itself, the Earth have their origin within this otherwise
of Final Fantasy IV nonetheless contains obscure period in the history of the Earth.
many clues to the events that have Although some few such legends as simple
transpired in the past. This history section fabrications retold around the fires by
will present a fleshed-out reality to those starlight, many scholars believe that
clues and bring them together in an hidden within such tales are fragments of
organized, logical, and coherent manner. the truth, concealed within the
Although these divisions are mostly embellishments of countless retellings.
artificial and not clearly defined by a Some tell of amazing phenomena in the
specific event, these periods best night sky, as stars grew brighter in the
represent the events hinted at within the night sky and then suddenly disappeared.
game itself. Others tell of powerful, monstrous
creatures that wreaked havoc among the
people until valiantly slain by a celebrated
hero. Still others tell of feared individuals
Until fairly recent times, written possessing powers both mysterious and
records simply did not exist. As such, there mighty who lingered long after a natural
is practically nothing known concerning the lifespan in the darker places of the Earth.
origin of the peoples of the Earth. Indeed, But no doubt the most retold and well-
this very subject continues to be a point of known legend from this period speaks of
debate among the sages and scholars and a the appearance in the sky of a strange new
source of strange, exotic tales spun among moon, proclaimed by some to be the
bards everywhere. Even the wisdom herald of a new age to come..
passed down through oral tradition among
the various people of the Earth is of little
help, as it too varies widely from region to
region. Far removed from the Earth, across the
vast emptiness of space, there existed a
However, most scholars believe that planet situated between Mars and Jupiter.
some great event or disaster took place Although larger than the Earth, this planet
early in the history of the Earth, with the was otherwise remarkably similar,
result that the three races were scattered
possessing comparable levels of water,
across the face of the world, leading to vital elements, gases, and atmospheric
generations of development in relative conditions. This planet was also
isolation. It seems likely that at this point ecologically rich, with an abundance of life
most of the peoples of the Earth were comparable if not greater than that of
simple, nomadic hunters and fishers, Earth. The dominant species of this planet
absorbed entirely with the simple task of was a race of beings that possessed an
eking out a living within the vast, untamed uncanny physical resemblance to
wilderness of the Earth. humanity. These beings were highly
advanced, possessing technology and
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mental powers that far surpassed that of resources could easily be used to
those living upon the Earth. Long before eventually reconstruct the same level of
the people of Earth eked out basic survival technology that had dominated their home
through hunting and fishing, these beings world. However, these beings also
journeyed among the stars and studied the recognized that by doing so they would
very mysteries of life itself. And at the greatly interfere with the natural
center of their advanced technology was a progression of the native intelligent races
rare form of crystal that could store vast that lived upon the Earth. And so they
amounts of energy, which could then be watched these peoples, careful to remain
tapped for a wide variety of usage. concealed and keep the natives from
discovering their presence. Eventually, it
The name of this planet and its was decided by a significant majority that
advanced inhabitants will never be known, the risks involved in resettling their people
for those who came afterwards refused to upon this new world to the native
speak those words. For, as was later populations was simply too great, and with
revealed, this planet suffered a great sorrow and reluctance these beings
catastrophic disaster, culminating in the
returned to their ships.
complete annihilation of the planet itself.
Of the millions of the planet's inhabitants, Although the exact details will probably
only several thousand escaped the never be known, it would seem that
complete destruction of their homeland. following this decision there was great
These survivors fled their doomed planet debate as to what the next step of action
on a large space-faring ship, traveling should be. Many advocated simply
towards what had been identified as the resupplying their vessels and leaving their
most likely world to be suitable for their home galaxy entirely, searching for an
new home: a small, far-away planet known inhabitable planet based on the data they
only as the Blue Planet. Although the had gathered about the closest stars to this
distance was certainly not as great as galaxy. Others, weary of such travel,
traveling to even the next nearest star, the pressed instead for a smaller, long-term
vast space that separate their dying settlement either upon the Earth or upon
homeworld from the Blue Planet was one of its nearby planets or moons. But, by
great. Fortunately, these beings had long far the most disturbing proposal came
ago perfected a technology that would from one the most powerful, brilliant, and
allow them to sleep as they traveled across respected of these ancient beings who
space, awaking upon reaching their went by the name of Zemus. He declared
destination with little apparent aging that if they could not settle the Earth
despite the actual passing of years. And so without interfering with the natural
these survivors slept for many years as evolution of its native populations, then
their ship traveled across the galaxy, until those populations should simply be
finally awakening just as their ship entered eliminated, or at the very least enslaved.
into orbit around the Blue Planet. Nothing, he argued, was more important
than the survival and eventual prosperity
They discovered that Earth seemed the of their race now that their home world
perfect place to begin a new life. As was forever taken from them. Fortunately
previously mentioned, the planet was very
for the people of Earth, such a proposal
similar to their lost home, and its abundant
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was unthinkable to most of this ancient accept the coming of an advanced race to
race. Instead, they proposed a new plan. their world, it simply was not feasible for
By scrapping their large star-faring ship and the Lunarians to simply linger and die upon
supplementing these materials from those their new world awaiting such a day.
mined from the Earth's moon, these beings Instead, the Lunarians would return to
were able to create an artificial moon and sleep, waiting the day when the peoples of
set it in a similar trajectory as the Earth's two worlds could finally come together and
true moon. Upon this new home they share their hopes, their dreams, their
devised a great crystalline structure, built knowledge, and their fates. This plan was
from a rare mineral discovered deep within nearly unanimously approved, and
the core of the Earth's true moon. In immediately preparations began to put this
commemoration of completing this bold plan into action. Zemus, on the other
awesome task, these beings named their hand, absolutely refused to go along with
new home Lunar, calling themselves the decision of the Grand Council, and
Lunarians. instead withdrew further from his
brethren, and in his brooding solitude his
This new home, however, did not
hatred towards those of Earth continued to
satisfy Zemus' ambitions. Although he grow. Yet so great was his brilliance, so
stood alone among his brethren, he simply eloquent his speech, that Zemus managed
could not tolerate living in such a shell of a
to even convince some of his brethren to
world when such a perfect, unspoiled join him in withdrawing from the plans of
planet seemingly loomed so close. In time, the Grand Council, and instead plotting a
Zemus' bitterness and anger grew, as did more ambitious method to deal with the
his desire to destroy the peoples of Earth people of the Blue Planet.
who, he believed, had robbed his people of
their only hope for survival. In the In the end, Zemus and those who
meantime, the Lunarians continued to shared his vision decided upon a devious
study the peoples of Earth. Despite their plan. The actions of the Council left little
obvious simplicity, many of the Lunarians doubt that the Lunarians as a whole would
recognized the striking resemblances oppose any direct attack upon the peoples
between the two races, and indeed began of Earth themselves. So instead, Zemus
to look upon them with increasing dreamed of an alternative that would
fondness. Many dreamed of the day that instead give the peoples of Earth the
they would be able to communicate freely power to destroy themselves. Descending
with the natives of Earth and of the to the Blue Planet in secret, Zemus and his
marvels that the combined wisdom of their followers began construction of a gigantic
peoples might create. This dream, tower, which would stretch from deep
however, was tainted with sorrow, for within the core of the Earth to high above
many of the survivors of their dead home the tallest mountains. Delving into the ore-
world knew they probably would not live rich Khalisto Mountains, and utilizing key
long enough to see such a day. elements mined from the Earth's moon,
this great, towering monolith was
It was then that the Grand Council constructed.
presented a new plan to the people of
Lunar. Since it would be a very long time Although the Lunarians watched the
before the people of Earth were ready to construction of this massive tower with no
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little fear, it was believed by most that to undertake such an incredible task. Only
Zemus would not dare to assault the the combined power of eight of the rare
peoples of Earth. Indeed, many believed crystals the Lunarians had brought into
that Zemus and his followers had simply exile with them would be capable of
chosen to distance themselves from their unleashing such energy.
brethren and chose to live on the Blue
Planet, perhaps even to monitor the By this time, most of the Lunarians had
evolutionary development of the local begun their long sleep. Only a handful of
populations. But while the building of this Lunarians remained awake, watching over
monumental structure had been done the last members of their exiled race. In a
openly, the next step in Zemus' plan would bold stroke, Zemus and his followers took
be done in secret. advantage of the situation, returned to the
crystalline home of the Lunarians, stole
Deep within the core of the Lunar eight of the crystals, and immediately
moon, Zemus and his followers began to descended by ship to the surface of the
construct the ultimate weapon, which they Blue Planet. Zemus, however, had been
hoped would herald the destruction of all betrayed by one of his most trusted allies,
the peoples of the Earth, clearing the way who had alerted the Grand Council to his
for the Lunarians to settle the planet and plans. As Zemus and his followers reached
reconstitute their former homeworld. This the underground entrance to the tower, a
weapon was constructed with the greatest mighty force of Lunarians were there to
technological knowledge of the Lunarians, meet them. Almost no detail of this battle
and crafted into a vaguely humanoid form. is known, for the Lunarians refused to
Never before had the combined wisdom of speak of it. On that day, a millennia of
the Lunarian people been used to forge a peace among the race now known as
tool of destruction of this magnitude, and Lunarians was broken. What is known is
the result was powerful beyond imagining. that at the end of the battle Zemus and his
Upon activation, it was believed that this minions were defeated. They were forced
automated machine could single-handedly into a deep slumber, and sealed away
wipe out nearly every living creature on within the core of Lunar, there to sleep
the face of the Earth, and it was believed until the appointed time.
that nothing could stop it.
Most scholars believe that the Misty Mountains, which was built at the
Westerlings mastered the refining of site of the Damcyan outpost, thus
copper into bronze sometime around the establishing what would one day become
late fourth century. Of the several the center of a major kingdom
competing human tribes living in the area encompassing much of the continent east
south of the Misty Mountains, it was the of the Misty Mountains.
small tribe of Baron who mastered the
forging of bronze weapons, allowing them Around the middle of the seventh
to dominate their neighbors through a century, the remnants of the largest tribe
series of brutal battles. In time, the Baron to escape the wrath of Baron began to
tribe established a permanent outpost settle in the fertile forests to the north and
near the terminus of the River Rushing. west of the Misty Mountains. Although
This fortified outpost eventually gave this their flight had at last led them to a place
tribe undisputed dominance of the region, of refuge, the brutal battles and harrowing
subjugating several other tribes and forcing journey through the mountains had
others to flee far to the north across the exacted a heavy toll on these people,
especially among the men. Perhaps for this
Misty Mountains, to hide deep within the
shelter of the mountains themselves, or to reason, it was the battered and war-weary
flee southward across the sea to the women who soon assumed leadership of
their people, eventually establishing
deserted isle of Eblana. Thus, by early
within the seventh century, this region was several villages along the Winding and
firmly controlled by the militaristic Baron Emerald Rivers. Although these villages
tribe, giving birth to the kingdom that were originally governed by local
would one day dominate the entire leadership, a series of sharp disputes
continent. during the mid-seventh century were
resolved by the establishing a new
Meanwhile, the scattered nomadic settlement in the north known as Toroia,
tribes known as the Eastlerings who lived from which the entire region would be
in and around the Great Desert began to governed by representatives from each of
establish small outposts near the valuable the villages. From this point on, these
fresh water sources throughout the region. peoples ascribed the name of this village to
The largest of these outposts, which was themselves, becoming the Toroians and
called Damcyan, was established at the establishing what would become the
northern end of the largest pass through largest kingdom in the entire region.
the Golden Mountains that divided the
Great Desert. Following a series of hard- Around the same time, the refugees
fought battles, the Muir tribe assumed who had fled south across the sea from the
complete control of this area, giving them militaristic power of Baron finally made
undisputed access to the coveted gold landfall upon the island of Eblana. Disease
mines within the nearby mountains. The and starvation took a heavy toll upon the
Muirs made wise use of this wealth, survivors, threatening to completely
exterminate the tribe. Yet, through a
exchanging it with tribes all across the
desert for much needed supplies as well as combination of determination and
luxuries. This, in turn, led to the creation of newfound mysticism, this fragmented tribe
constructed a new settlement in the
the first permanent settlement east of the
shelter of the Akhito Bay, which would
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grow and develop over the next three The refugees fled north and east from
hundred years in complete isolation from the Great Desert, eventually completing a
the rest of the world. harrowing summit of Mount Hobbs and
descending into a region virtually
By the early eighth century, the untouched by human habitation. Inspired
kingdoms of Baron, Toroia, and Damcyan by the fertile greenery, tranquil bays, and
were firmly established. As the years had natural beauty of the land, they eventually
passed, tribal identity among these various settled along the southern edge of the
groups had been replaced with a more Azure Bay. Freed from the religious
national identity, and limited contact and intolerance of their homeland, these
trade between the three kingdoms began people labored long and hard to construct
and increased slowly. Following a short but a magnificent temple complex upon the
fierce war with a small group of mysterious site, dedicating it to the Light and declaring
mages within the Misty Valley, Barons themselves a new people, united in their
control encompassed the entire region purpose and devotion. And thus was the
south of the Misty Mountains. Similarly, kingdom of Fabul established. Although
the kingdom of Toroia had undisputed
their isolation brought no small amount of
claim to the entire northwestern region of hardship and struggle, eventually this once-
the continent, although in truth their haggard people would forge a kingdom
influence at this point was directly
controlling all the lands east of Mount
primarily along the Winding and Emerald Hobbs.
Rivers. In contrast, Damcyan still controlled
only the northern half of the Great Desert By the middle of the ninth century, sea
as well as much of the Golden Mountains. travel had become common between these
Although many recognized the value of four kingdoms, driven especially by
uniting the region under a single banner, a merchant ships that sailed between them,
sizable minority firmly resisted this bringing with them goods from afar as well
unification. as news of the wider world. In time, these
merchant vessels also discovered the
Although historical sources are settlements of Agart and Silvara, bringing
somewhat sparse on this matter, it would much needed resources to these fledging
appear that in time this minority in civilizations. Around this same time, the
Damcyan came under increasing renowned samurai Kenji Wazai traveled
persecution. In addition to their resistance throughout the four kingdoms, bringing
to national unity, this group also rejected
with him tales of the exotic kingdom of
the traditional polytheism of the Damcyan Eblana. Yet, fearful of outside influence
people, insisting instead upon a upon his beloved homeland, its location
monotheistic faith. It was not long before remained a secret from the rest of the
this persecution gave rise to open conflict world until late in the ninth century.
between the two groups. In the end,
fearing a war that would devastate the Thus, by the end of the ninth century,
country, the minority instead chose to flee the five kingdoms of the world were firmly
far to the east to escape the oppression. established, with trade and contact
Not long afterwards, the entire northeast between them growing ever more
region of the continent soon came under frequent. Boundaries between the
the banner of Damcyan. kingdoms were firmly established, and the
P a g e | 12
married, and she bore him two sons who away what little strength remained to
were named Golbez and Cecil. Yet, after them along with their very flesh,
the second childs birth, those closest to transforming them into little more than evil
him remarked that a strange sorrow had souls who faded away with a great cry.
come over him. He spent a great deal of
time with both children despite their young Yet, the spell had also decimated the
age, and wrote a great deal in carefully remaining Lunarian forces, nearly slaying
sealed documents that were only to be them all to a man. His wounds mortal, Klu
opened following his own death. For, it had Yah channeled his last incantation, sealing
been revealed to him that the fate of both away the power of Meteor until its
the people of Lunar and the Earth were appointed time. And then he died. In the
inexplicably tied to the fates of his two end, only a young Mysidian mage by the
children. name of Pietros, thrown away from the
spells radius by mere happenstance,
Not long after their births, Klu Yah managed to survive. With the last ounce of
received word that the worst had occurred. his strength, he sent an urgent telepathic
Using their combined powers, four of message to Mysidia, urging them to come
Zemus most powerful minions had with all haste.
temporarily broken through the crystals
seal on the Core and escaped Lunar, taking The bodies of each of the fallen
with them the eight crystals with which Lunarians and wizards were recovered,
along with the eight crystals, and returned
Zemus had long ago taken to power the
to Mysidia. There, the sealed documents
Dimensional Elevator in the Tower of Babil.
Knowing time was short, Klu Yah written by Klu Yah prior to his death were
summoned the small group of Lunarians opened. It seemed that he had indeed
foreseen his death, and ordered that the
from the small observation platform
orbiting the Earth and, joined by several of eight crystals be scattered and hidden
across the face of the earth, that Zemus
the most powerful mages of Mysidia,
rushed to the Tower of Babil to defeat might never again attempt to destroy all
Zemus minions. life on Earth. In addition, the seer had left
specific instructions that his body was to be
Once again, the Tower of Babil beheld buried within a specially prepared
a cataclysmic battle between the crystalline chamber on a mountain known
Lunarians, as Klu Yah and his allies fought as Mount Ordeals, a place already revered
against the elemental magic of Zemus among the people of Mysidia. Most
mighty minions and their dark servants. puzzling of all, among his possessions was
Augmented by Zemus powerful mental an elegantly crafted sword that blazed with
prowess, the battle seemed hopeless. One holy power, with a mysterious legend
by one, many of the Lunarians and inscribed on the blade. This, too, was to be
Mysidian mages were slain, until only a placed within Klu Yahs tomb on Mount
handful remained. Despite grievous Ordeals.
wounds, the elemental lords then
combined their mystical powers, All these things were done in secret,
unleashing the most powerful spell of all, and soon few living upon the Earth knew
known as Meteor. But, they had badly anything concerning the fate of Klu Yah,
miscalculated, for this potent spell drained the elemental crystals, the mysterious
P a g e | 14
legend, or the strange individuals who had combat operations involving the fleet,
descended from the heavens to combat despite the peace that had reigned in the
the threat of unspeakable horror. And thus kingdom for many generations.
did the Lunarians, along with the space-
faring ship and the orbiting observation Around this time same time,
platform, all but pass out of knowledge of astronomers on the island of Agart began
those living upon the Earth. to observe a dramatic change in the color
of one of the two moons that orbited the
planet, changing from a pale white to
blood red. Powerful monsters began to stir
in the dark places of the Earth, and attacks
In the year 960, only seven years after from these malevolent creatures rose
the death of Klu Yah, the mechanical sharply. Travel became increasingly
genius Cid Pollendina, Master Engineer of dangerous, isolating the kingdoms from
Baron, unveiled before the reigning king one another. Many feared that dark days
the culmination of his lifes work: a cargo were ahead. They were right.
galleon retrofitted with a steam engine
powered propulsion system that enabled Just before midsummer in the year
the ship to sail through the sky. The King 970, Commander Cecil received orders
was greatly impressed by this craft that from the King to assault the town of
was dubbed an airship, and ordered that Mysidia with the Red Wings in order to
the kingdoms existing navy be converted locate and recover a rare magical artifact
into a fleet of these new craft. It took known as the Crystal of Water. Despite
another seven years of frenzied work by doubts and misgivings by his crew, the Red
Cid and his team of engineers, but on the Wings initiated a successful raid, striking
New Years Celebration of 968, the deep into the town, recovering the crystal,
kingdom of Baron officially commissioned and taking captive several mages from the
their new fleet of airships which were town for interrogation. Yet, shocked and
dubbed the Red Wings. dismayed at the audacity of the Kings
command, Cecil voiced his own doubts to
Command of the fleet was given to a the King following his return, and as a
young man by the name of Cecil Harvey, result was stripped of his command and
who despite his youth had distinguished ordered to personally deliver a sealed
himself in service to the crown, particularly package to the small village of Mist,
in his mastery of the arcane powers of the accompanied by his childhood friend Kain
Dark Knights, Barons small but elite Highwind. And thus began the War of the
military force. Under his command, the Crystals.
Red Wings immediately began to train for
P a g e | 15
amazing new device known as the steam room, and spacious quarters for Baron's
engine, which used boiled water to elite. It is also rumored that an extensive
generate power. This technology allowed network of secret passages can be
Baron to increase the speed of their naval accessed from various points throughout
vessels, giving them a significant edge in the fortress.
trade and a clear naval superiority. Over
the next eight years, this same engineer Underground Waterway - Around
enhanced this discovery further, using the midpoint of the seventh century, it was
these steam engines to give Baron's navy discovered that an underground river had
the power of flight through a concept formed a series of natural caverns. These
similar to a gyroplane. The King was existing passages under the city of Baron
awestruck at the potential of such airships, had been expanded at some point in the
and ordered most of the kingdom's navy past, but had since fallen into disuse. A
retrofitted immediately. The result was a tunnel was then excavated to run from
fleet of flying galleons that would be these passages up to the city itself, and the
dubbed the Red Wings. underground river became a makeshift
sewer system for the city. However, what is
Recently, dark rumors have begun virtually unknown to all but a privileged
surfacing within the town. The guard has few is that these same caverns were
been noticeably increased around the connected to the moat that surrounded
castle perimeter, and the King is often Castle Baron, creating a viable escape
closeted with his most trusted advisors. route should the need ever arise.
Over the last few months, many have
remarked that the King seems a changed The Inn of Baron - Although Baron
man. Although renowned for his kindness, hosts several inns, the largest and most
frequented inn is simply known as the Inn
generosity, and honor as a knight, it is
whispered that the King is preparing for of Baron. Located near the North Gate
along the city wall, the Inn of Baron is one
war. The airship hangars resound day and
night with the sounds of construction, and of the largest and most distinctive buildings
all the weapon and armor smiths in town in all of Baron. A large sign, portraying a
have been closed to all non-military graceful female dancer, hangs near the
personnel. For the first time in its history, main entrance as the only needed
there is growing dissent against Baron's advertisement of its presence. Day and
powerful monarchy... night, the inn is a boisterous place, filled
with lively music, excellent food and drink,
and performances by the inn's renown
Castle Baron - Built during the dancers. Merchants and nobles frequent
military buildup following the War of the the inn as well, conducting the business of
Mists, Castle Baron is the center of the the kingdom as much here as in the
kingdom's political power. It is the largest Marketplace or within Castle Baron.
and most fortified castle in the world, and
one of Baron's greatest achievements. The The Marketplace - Located along
castle contains housing for all of Baron's the main thoroughfare between the two
armed forces, a large industrial workshop city gates and Castle Baron is a stretch of
connected to the underground airship several blocks simply known as the
hangars, an ornately designed throne Marketplace. Although not exclusive to this
P a g e | 18
section of the city, the majority of all His wisdom and honor brought him
commerce that takes place within the to the throne at an early age, and most
kingdom of Baron can be found here. would agree that the kingdom has
Second only to the bazaars of Damcyan, prospered under his leadership.
the Marketplace is the premiere shopping Throughout his reign, he has showed
experience, offering goods and uncommon compassion, taking a personal
merchandise from across the world. Once, interest in the lives of several young men
the arms and armor sold here was among who he believed were destined for
the most sought out in the world, but greatness. The King is an eloquent, well-
recent orders from the King have forbidden spoken man, and until recently beloved by
the sale of weapons or armor to anyone most in Baron.
except those in Baron's growing military
force.
seem to perpetually hang over this region. spoken of, few fail to mention its
It is speculated that this phenomena is the connection to mysterious magical powers,
result of an abundance of underground which are a favorite source of tales retold
springs and rivers. Other whisper that they by bards throughout the region. Still, those
are instead the result of dark magic few who have actually traveled to the small
wielded by the mysterious inhabitants of village speak of the relative simplicity of
the small village within the valley that the village and its inhabitants. Due to its
shares its name. Although the valley is diminutive size, most of its citizens are
open at its eastern terminus to the farmers, eking out a basic living from the
outskirts of the Great Desert, the valley is earth. Although very few of these villagers
virtually inaccessible from the kingdom of possess any of the material wealth that
Baron save for either a treacherous trek most would use to judge prosperity or
through several mountain passes or an success, they instead experience the
equally dangerous journey through a series tranquility of living within a peaceful,
of natural caverns that run from the simple, caring community. Neither walls
northwest border of Baron to the western nor weapons protect the people of Mist,
edge of the Misty Valley. relying instead upon the legends of their
mysterious powers and relative isolation
Of these two alternatives, it is the from the rest of the world to maintain their
caverns that pose the greatest danger. In
peaceful existence.
addition to a perpetual mist that fills them,
dangerous creatures inhabit these dark
tunnels. It is widely rumored that these What little is known of the history
creatures are bound in service to the of Mist comes from the accounts of the
mysterious mages of the village of Mist, War of the Mists that raged between the
and that only those who come at their kingdom of Baron and the people of Mist
bidding may pass safely through the during the early part of the eighth century.
treacherous depths. Not surprisingly, what At that time, it would appear that Mist was
little trade passes overland between Baron a prosperous and magnificent city,
and Mist travels through the mountain possessing an elegance and majesty
passes rather than chancing the dangers of brought about through the magic of its
these caverns. skilled artisans. But, this prosperity was
protected by a fierce distrust for outsiders,
turning back any who approached the
Size: Village (500) Misty Valley through an impressive show of
force. Tragically, this philosophy led to five
Government: Town Council
years of war initiated by Baron.
Affiliation: Independent
For the first three years of the war,
Trade & Industries: Agriculture, Mining the magnificent towered city of Mist was
virtually unaffected. Although
Crime Level: Very Low unaccustomed to utilizing their magical
Secluded deep within the Misty prowess in battle, the mages of Mist
Valley, the village of Mist is one of the inflicted heavy casualties upon the armies
smallest and most mysterious settlements of Baron, turning them back again and
anywhere in the known world. When again whenever any incursion into the
P a g e | 21
valley was discovered. Nonetheless, each never confirmed, and most simply believed
wizard slain in these battles was a terrible them to be nothing else but fanciful tales
loss to the people of Mist, and no doubt spun by bards.
much of their arcane lore was lost as the
mightiest of these arcane practitioners Over the next two hundred and
perished at the hands of Baron's military fifty years, little change came to the people
forces. In the end, Baron's resolve proved of Mist. Life settled into a dependable
to be the downfall of Mist, and with great routine. Both Baron and Mist abided by the
sorrow the remaining mages led their terms of their agreement, with very little
people into exile, deserting their beautiful conflict between the two peoples. Still,
city. Not long afterwards, Baron's forces outsiders were strongly discouraged from
reached the city, and proceeded to loot the settling anywhere within the Misty Valley,
city and burn it to the ground. and what little trade that passed through
the village of Mist was by those native to
Thus, five years after the War of the village. This isolation protected the
the Mists began, the remnant of Mist's people from the rest of the world, and
mages traveled to the city of Baron, what little change came to the people of
formally acknowledging their surrender Mist came very slowly.
and accepting the terms laid out by the
King. Never again could their people
The Tradepost - Known simply as
rebuild their beautiful city or wield their
the Tradepost, this building stands at the
powerful magic against any citizen of
center of the village. The largest building
Baron. Mist was also forbidden to
within the village, the Tradepost serves as
assemble a military force or to cut off any
Mist's only store and inn, serving a small
of the mountain passes between Baron and
clientele of merchants and travelers that
Mist. In return, the King of Baron promised
occasionally pass through the village.
to respect the isolation of the people of
However, only the most basic of wares are
Mist and allow them to govern their own
readily available for sale, with virtually no
affairs. Bitter indeed were such terms, but
arms or armor available anywhere within
in light of Baron's military might, there was
this humble village. The Tradepost is also a
little else to be done but accept.
good place to converse with the locals
After this, knowledge of the people after a long day in the fields, swapping
of Mist once again passed out of recorded tales and gossip over a well-earned drink.
history. Those who passed through the
The Manor - As the second largest
region spoke of a small village built upon
building in the village, the Manor is the
the still smoldering ruins of their city.
only other remarkable structure in Mist.
Farms were rebuilt, homes were
Dubbed the Manor by the local inhabitants,
reconstructed, and life returned to the
it is the home of the Timernda family, who
Misty Valley. But, by the end of the
provide leadership for the people of Mist.
seventh century, rumors began to circulate
The home is the only two-storied house
throughout the region of mysterious
within the village, with a spacious living
events involving the small village. Some
area and even a separate bedroom for the
even spoke of powerful monsters seen in
beloved only child of Micael and Lora
the region under the apparent control of
Timernda. The Manor also serves in the
mages from Mist. These rumors were
P a g e | 22
role of a town hall, hosting the seasonal and Kaipo almost any item known to man
councils where decisions for the upcoming can be found, along with merchants from
months are decided. all walks and trades of life. As the kingdom
itself is protected from any military threat
by the scorching desert that surrounds it,
Micael Timernda
Damcyan is a nation more interested in
Human male age 30 trade, luxuries, and information than
military might
Lora Timernda
the Great Desert, moving from place to from the nearby mountains and wood
place according to established traditions brought from the north to transform the
and occasionally warring among primitive fort into a much more modern
themselves. Eventually, these scattered city. Gradually, the people's tribal identity
tribes came into contact with those who was subsumed into their identity with the
would become the peoples of Mist and growing town, and eventually with the
Fabul. In time, these tribes began to act as concept of a national one. To this end, in
guides across the Great Desert, allowing the early ninth century, the von Muir
goods to travel across the desert for the family ascended the throne of the newly
first time in history. This, in turn, led these established kingdom known as Damcyan.
scattered nomads to establish tradeposts,
where each tribe could come together Over the next hundred and fifty
peacefully for trade and news of the wider years, the kingdom of Damcyan prospered
world. under six successive rulers from the von
Muir family, and grew to become the
The town, which would become wealthiest nation in the world through the
known as Damcyan, had just such an origin. control of the major trade routes across
A large oasis, fed by underground springs, the great central continent. Indeed, in the
made for an ideal location, as did its middle of the tenth century, Baron
proximity to the only major pass through approached the rulers of Damcyan hoping
the Golden Mountains that splits the Great to finance their growing military
Desert north and south. For the first few operations. After fierce negotiations,
years of the annual gathering at this oasis, Damcyan agreed to loan Baron the
no permanent structures existed. However, necessary funds in exchange for one of
by the middle of the seventh century, it Baron's technological marvels: the
would seem the Muir tribe settled into this blueprints for an amazing craft that
region, breaking with their long-established hovered over land and sea and Baron's
nomadic tradition. In time, their traditional only prototype. This vehicle, nicknamed
tents gave way to more permanent the Hovercraft, saw significant use among
structures, and soon the tribe began to the von Muir family, and eventually a
prosper under their increased control of limited number of similar vehicles were
the trade that passed through the region. constructed.
plaza with marvelous and exotic scents of repository for much of the collective songs
food and drink from nearly everywhere in and lore of bards throughout the world. A
the known world. But, of even greater council of masters maintains the Hall and
worth than these material things is the determines, on the basis of skill and
information that passes through the Bazaar knowledge, those who are worthy to enter
on a daily basis. Whether reclining near this place of great knowledge. Those who
one of the food vendors or resting in one are granted this privilege usually study
of the first-class inns that dot the plaza, within the Hall for many years, and several
peoples from all over converse, interact, upon their departure have gone on to
and swap gossip and stories. If it exists become famous throughout the world.
somewhere within the world, it is probably Needless to say, entrance into the Hall of
represented somewhere within this Bards is considered a great honor, and one
multicultural experience known as the to which almost every bard aspires.
Bazaar.
Important People
Damcyan Keep - At the center of
the town of Damcyan is a small stone keep King Gilbert von Muir
often referred to as simply the Keep. The Human male age 63
Keep is the result of years of gradually
enhancing the fortifications of the original Queen Kris von Muir
fort that was located here. Although
Human female age 59
smaller than most of the other castles in
the region, it nonetheless houses most of For several generations, the von
the royal von Muir family, the soldiers and Muir family has been renown in Damcyan
officers of Damcyan's military forces, as for their skill as bards, their knack for
well as apartments for several of the other commerce, and their wise leadership over
noble families of the kingdom. Although it the kingdom. Gilbert and Kris are the latest
has never been besieged, it is nonetheless rulers in this royal tradition.
well prepared for such an event.
Gilbert distinguished himself in his
What is general not known is that youth through admittance to the Hall of
the Keep also contains a magnificent Bards and later through his excellent grasp
crystalline chamber, built by visitors to of commerce. He did not assume
Damcyan around the middle of the tenth leadership of the kingdom until well into
century. At that time, the von Muir family his thirties, and only married after realizing
accepted a commission to safeguard a the need to produce an heir for the throne.
magical gem known as the Crystal of Fire.
Few know of its existence, and fewer still Although not as respected or as
know that it is secreted within Damcyan distinguished as her husband, Kris is well
Keep or how to reach the secret chamber liked by her subjects, and shares her
that holds it. husband's skill in commerce. Under their
reign, the kingdom of Damcyan has
The Hall of Bards - In addition to its continued to prosper. The royal couple has
wealth, Damcyan is also renown for its one son named Edward.
bardic tradition. Built around the turn of
the tenth century, the Hall of Bards is a
P a g e | 25
Prince Edward von Muir remarkable as the largest oasis within the
Great Desert and as a popular resting point
Human male age 24 along the trade route that stretches across
Born into prestige and wealth to the desert sands of the kingdom of
King Gilbert and Queen Kris, Edward's Damcyan. Like all of the towns located
childhood was marked by comfort and within the desert region, it is dependent
indulgence. He showed little talent or upon trade for food and other basic
interest in any martial pursuits, and instead supplies for survival. An elected town
followed after his father as a skilled orator, council, who in turn answer directly to the
singer, and musician. Unlike his parents, throne of Damcyan, oversees the town.
however, Edward showed little interest in With its steady influx of trade, the cooling
the trade and commerce that was so vital breezes off the oasis, and little criminal
to his kingdom's prosperity. His amazing activity, the small town of Kaipo is a
vocal skills, coupled with his grasp of pleasant place to live or visit.
history and lore, earned him a place within
the Hall of Bards as its youngest member in According to the oldest tales, the
history. Kaipo Oasis was the place of many battles
among the various nomadic tribes that at
Despite these achievements, Edward
one time roamed the Great Desert. Even
showed little interest in his future role as
after many of these tribes began to
ruler of Damcyan. Eventually, this
permanently settle the region, conflict over
discontent led him to secretly leave the city
who would control the oasis kept any long-
of Damcyan to wander about the region,
term settlement from being established.
disguising himself as a simple traveling
Indeed, for a time the merchants that
minstrel. In time, his wanderings led him to
passed through the Great Desert would
the oasis of Kaipo, where he fell in love
journey miles out of their way simply to
with a beautiful young woman named
avoid the conflict over this great oasis.
Anna. Edward currently resides in Kaipo,
trying to dissuade Anna's father to allow Eventually, the von Muir family
the two to wed while concealing his true personally involved themselves in the
identity. situation, and negotiated a truce among
the warring tribes. Fearing that any
continued conflict might permanently
Size: Small Town (4000)
disrupt the importance of the trade routes,
Government: Town Council it was declared that the oasis would be
shared among all the peoples of the region,
Affiliation: Kingdom of Damcyan and that no one clan would rule over it.
Trade & Industries: Brewing, Commerce, Instead, representatives from several tribes
Luxuries, Trade were chosen by the people to govern over
the oasis. With the restoration of trade
Crime Level: Low through the oasis permanent structures
finally began to spring up in the area,
The Kaipo Oasis is the largest of the
forming the foundation of what would
villages and small towns that slowly came
become the town of Kaipo.
to life over the past few hundred years. It is
P a g e | 26
lost his wife to disease not long after the by the jagged Golden Mountains, which
birth of their only daughter named Anna. form an impassable barrier save for the
As he grew older, Tellah spent considerable underground river that forms the Watery
time passing on his knowledge and skills to Pass. Scholars speculate that the origin of
the next generation of neophyte mages in the Great Desert may not be entirely
Mysidia before eventually leaving the city natural, as a desert of such vastness simply
to retire to the oasis of Kaipo. seems out of place, especially given the
Unfortunately, Tellah has been struck with abundance of underground water in the
a rare disease, greatly affecting his region.
memory and taking away much of his
former skill as a mage. Recently, Anna fell The Great Desert is an inhospitable
in love with a wandering bard by the name place to those who are unprepared for its
of Edward, who has repeated asked for her dangers, with scorching hot days and
hand in marriage. However, Tellah does nearly frigid nights. Although seemingly
not believe such a marriage is suitable for desolate, many creatures are native to the
his daughter, and has refused the young desert, adopting unique methods of finding
water and surviving the extreme
man's advances.
temperatures. Most of the caravans that
Quentin Altos travel through the Great Desert are guided
by native Damcyans, who know the safest
Human male age 71 routes, the location of each oasis, methods
Quentin Altos is one of the oldest of adapting to the heat and cold, and the
men in Kaipo. He lived in the oasis town all secret to finding water even in the middle
of his life, serving at the apothecary and of the desert sands. These merchant
treating all manner of injury and illness. caravans are also well escorted by alert
Now, in his old age, he continues to serve guardsmen, for both bandits and
the community in this manner, training dangerous creatures roam the desert,
others to follow in his footsteps. His preying upon those too weak to defend
specialty is in treating an ailment known as themselves.
Desert Fever, which afflicts many who end
up wandering in the desert. Although he is The Watery Pass is a series of
quite skilled in caring for those afflicted underground caverns through which an
with this disease, the only known cure is a otherwise nameless river passes
rare substance known as the Sand Ruby, underneath the Golden Mountains. For
the secret of which is carefully guarded by centuries, this has been the only land route
the royal family of Damcyan. through the Golden Mountains, and thus is
an integral part of the trade route that
stretches across the Great Desert,
The Great Desert, also known as
the Damcyan Desert, is the largest desert connecting the kingdom of Baron to the
cities of Damcyan and Fabul. Although the
in the known world. It encompasses nearly
caverns themselves are natural, they have
the entire northeast section of the greater
continent from the Misty Mountains nearly been expanded and enhanced over the
generations, allowing for much easier
to the famous Mount Hobbs. The desert is
passage for merchants passing through the
further split into a north and south section
region. The pass is actually divided into two
P a g e | 28
parts, emerging in the middle of the debilitating disease known as Desert Fever.
mountains into a small valley before Second, the chemicals within the
returning underground. This valley makes secretions somehow react with natural
for an ideal resting place for travelers, as mineral deposits, enhancing the formation
the nearby water creates a lush, pleasant of beautiful gems and precious stones.
environment and the isolation protects it Thus, the royal von Muir family has
from the other dangers of this desert meticulously cultivated the Antlion's Lair,
region. resulting in precious mineral deposits
unrivaled anywhere else in the known
The Watery Pass itself is not world. The cavern also doubles as a
without its own dangers, however. treasury for much of Damycan's wealth,
Although infrequent, dangerous creatures which is hidden throughout the depths.
do lurk within the depths, occasionally Needless to say, the cavern is guarded
attacking smaller groups of merchants or fiercely by soldiers of Damcyan, who allow
travelers. In addition, the pass is subject to only those of the royal family to enter.
flooding from time to time, especially
during the spring months. These floods
often damage some of the added Originally founded as a temple to
infrastructure within the pass, forcing the Light, Fabul enjoys a rich heritage as
travelers to temporarily brave the waters the center of a unique monastic order
in order to pass through a flooded section. known as the Monks of Fabul. Many
Fortunately, the people of Damcyan have potential students come from all across the
dotted the underground caverns with small region seeking to train their minds and
caches of supplies and medicines, allowing bodies in this unique order. The original
merchants a chance to wait for the temple complex was eventually expanded
floodwaters to subside before continuing to include castle walls and towers, and in
on their way. Thus, although the Watery time a small city grew up around the
Pass has its hazards, it is an important link temple, giving birth to the city of Fabul. In
in the trade routes, and most who begin addition to the monastic order itself, the
the journey complete it with little or no people of Fabul also have abundant fishing
incident. and agriculture, thanks to the rich arable
land and beautiful ocean waters that
surround the city. Fabul also supports a
The Antilion is a large insect-like
large fleet of naval vessels, although most
creature, with large, razor-sharp pincers
of these are simple fishing boats and
and jagged teeth. Although fearsome in
merchant trade-ships.
appearance, this creature has been tamed
by the kingdom of Damcyan, and dwells
within the deepest chamber of what is Size: City (16,500)
affectionately referred to as Antlion's Lair,
a large cavern to the east of the town of Government: Monarchy
Damcyan. As some point now lost in
Affiliation: City-State of Fabul
history, it was discovered that the Antlion
secreted an organic substance that had Trade & Industries: Agriculture, Fishing
two amazing features. First, when properly
distilled, it is the only known cure for the Crime Level: Low
P a g e | 29
was also this council that established the The Temple of the Light - The
name Fabul, the origin of which is Temple of the Light is the oldest and
otherwise unknown. And thus was the city- largest structure within Fabul, dating back
state of Fabul born. to the eighth century. Although still used in
its original function, expansion and
The temple complex was greatly fortification over the last three hundred
expanded in the early tenth century, years has transformed the temple
transforming it into a defensive structure significantly, allowing it to double as a
to protect the citizens of Fabul should the formidable fortress. Primarily, the temple
need ever arise. No doubt the town too serves as barracks for the ever growing
was upgraded around this time with the ranks of the Monks of Fabul, who train
addition of walls, fortifications, and limited under the combined leadership of the
infrastructure to support its continued Head Monk and the Sensei, the latter of
growth. Although certainly not wealthy, which serves as both teacher and
the abundance of arable land and marine commander while relying upon the
life in the region propelled the growth of leadership of the former. The temple also
the town, expanding it beyond the
includes small outdoor glades for
imaginations of its earliest settlers, meditation, personal quarters for the
resulting in one of the larger cities in the highest ranking monks, a closely-guarded
known world. But, even as the city
treasury, and a spacious and elegant
continues to grow, it also retains its dual audience chamber used by the Head Monk
nature as both a growing farming and for holding court and other important
fishing community and as a spiritual center assemblies.
for those seeking enlightenment within the
order of the Monks of Fabul. What is generally unknown is that
deep within the temple a magnificent
crystalline chamber is secreted, built by
The Inner District - The Inner
visitors to Fabul around the middle of the
District consists of most of the oldest
tenth century. At that time, the Head Monk
construction within the city of Fabul,
accepted a commission to safeguard a
including the temple itself and much of the
magical gem known as the Crystal of Air.
original construction around it. It primarily
Only the Head Monk, the Sensei, and two
houses the families of the Monks of Fabul,
other high-ranking officials even know of
but also includes a few inns, taverns, and
the gem's existence or its location within
shops that specifically cater to the
the temple.
inhabitants of the Inner District. Although
not the most wealthy of districts within the The Docks - The docks are located
city, it is considered an indicator of success in the northern district of the city along the
and good fortune to be located within the coastline of the Azure Bay. Ships of all sizes
Inner District. Not surprisingly, the and nationalities are always to be found
leadership of the temple administers this throughout the docks, as they are the
district carefully, usually requiring approval largest and most extensive in the known
from the temple before allowing new world. Much of the seafaring commerce
residents or merchants to relocate into the originates in Fabul, and virtually every
district. merchant ship docks within the city at
some point during the year. Due to Fabul's
P a g e | 31
extensive fishing industry, this district Akamiro now grooms his own protg,
always stinks of unwashed bodies and fish, Yang Lieden. He never married, and thus
mixed with the other foul-smelling trades treats Yang as his only son and heir, and
common to any large city. This district is looks forward to the day when he can step
also among the poorest and roughest down from the burden of leadership and
within Fabul, and most of the city's crime allow his successor to assume these duties.
transpires here. Still, even here the streets
are patrolled by the Monks of Fabul, and Yang Lieden
during daylight hours the district is Human male age 35
frequented by many of the citizens, seeking
goods and services available only within Miyaki Lieden
this district.
Human female age 32
The Golden Sail - Located just
Born and raised within Fabul, Yang
between the Docks and the Inner District,
Lieden's only ambition in live was to study
the Golden Sail is by far the most luxurious
with the Temple of the Light as one of the
and expensive inn within all of Fabul. Many
Monks of Fabul. His natural agility and
wealthy merchants, visiting nobles, and
good sense allowed him to realize his
rich travelers believe this is one of the
dream, and served him well as he began his
finest inns in the entire world, and
training. He showed remarkable aptitude,
frequent it whenever they are within the
and earned the admiration of both his
region. Although expensive beyond the
peers and teachers, allowing him to quickly
means of most, the inn serves food and
earn a place as a master. In time, he was
drink of unsurpassed quality and value, and
selected by the Head Monk himself to
furnishes the guest rooms with only the
assume the duties of their recently
most luxurious and expensive of decor. The
deceased Sensei, and since that time has
Golden Sail also employs its own guards,
personally trained with most of the current
who safeguard the lives and possessions of
monks. Unlike many of his peers, Yang
its clientele and deny entrance to those
chose to wed, and married early in life to a
judged unworthy.
young lady of common descent named
Miyaki. The two obviously love one
Akamiro Kirano another very much, but their love is
overshadowed by the discovery that Miyaki
Human male age 55
was unable to have children. Yang's
Born Akamiro Kirano, this prestigious position allows them to live
distinguished martial artist is now simply within the temple complex itself with a
known as the Head Monk. As the highest- spectacular view of the city around them.
ranking member of the Monks of Fabul, he
Kamitsu Zinwai
serves as the monarch of the city-state,
and is admired for his martial skills and his Human male age 45
wisdom. Prior to assuming leadership of
Fabul, Akamiro served as Sensei within the Kamitsu Zinwai is the current
order for several years and was groomed leader of the Town Council that oversees
for several years to assume leadership the day-to-day administrating of the city of
from the previous monarch, much as Fabul. Although neither the most skilled or
P a g e | 32
wisest among the town councilors, he is few even knew of this small town's
certainly the most eloquent, as has been existence. Only those who study and
instrumental in resolving conflicts among practice magic live within the city walls,
the leaders of Fabul. Although Kamitsu was making for a society unique from the rest
never accepted into the Monks of Fabul, he of the world. Like Baron, the people of
is a close and personal friend with Yang Mysidia benefited greatly from the
Lieden, and as such is well respected by influence of the Lunarians, who
most of the monks within the city. He has bequeathed them with legend, poetry, and
nearly finished his first two year term of arcane lore beyond their previous
office, and almost certainly will be allowed knowledge. The people of Mysidia place
to continue in his office for several years great value on knowledge, and perhaps the
year to come. greatest treasure of this small nation is its
expansive Great Library.
within Mysidia, for the town is both vital link for the exchange of limited goods
protected and carefully monitored through and services otherwise not available to the
the powerful magic of its citizens. people of Mysidia. In exchange, several of
the town's citizens agreed to share their
arcane knowledge with the kingdom of
Although this fact is known only to
Baron, and even allowed a few Mysidians
the wisest and most trusted mages within
to relocate to Baron in order to oversee
the town, Mysidia was established under
their fledgling magical orders.
the direct guidance of a mysterious
individual known only as Klu Yah early in Although no one now living knows
the tenth century. This remarkable of Klu Yah's origin or fate, his great efforts
individual, who always seemed ancient in creating and preserving the town
despite his youthful appearance, brought became a legacy to this mysterious
together many of the most powerful individual. For thirty years, he lived within
wizards from across the known world, and the town and daily served his growing
with their aid established Mysidia as a community. But, he disappeared suddenly
center for the study and preservation of one day, and was never seen or heard from
arcane knowledge, legends, history, and again.
lore.
Over the next fifteen years, the
Construction of the town occurred town of Mysidia continued to grow, as the
rapidly, aided by subtle yet powerful third and fourth generation of citizens
magic. The Great Library was one of the began to take their place within the
first projects to begin, and was the last community. Although uncommon,
major structure to be completed. The individuals from across the known world
needs of this growing community began to seek out this magical town,
prompted the leaders to make contact with hoping for the chance to wield the arcane
friends and relatives across the world, powers possessed by Mysidia's most elite
entreating them to relocate to the mages. Although one of the smallest and
peninsula upon which the town was least known towns in the known world,
founded and farm the land to produce Mysidia is perhaps the most unique
desperately needed food and goods. settlement ever established, and is well-
Although some were fearful and suspicious loved by its equally unique citizens.
of this unique magical community, many
others recognized the value of such an
enterprise, and accepted the commission The Emporium - Despite the simple
to join the growing numbers of citizens of name by which it is known by the locals,
this new settlement. the Emporium is the only shop of its kind
anywhere in the known world. Here, all
Twenty years after Mysidia was sorts of merchandise related to arcane
established, a magical portal was studies are bought and sold, including
constructed according to a design created simple magic staves, rods, potions, exotic
and overseen by Klu Yah himself. This components, and a large assorted of books
magical portal, which was named the of lore are all for sale. Curiously, the
Serpent Road, created a link between Emporium also carries an odd assortment
Mysidia and the city of Baron, creating a of other equipment, no doubt exchanged
P a g e | 34
in barter for more of the shop's standard The Tower of Wishes - The Tower
goods. Like most things in the town, the of Wishes is a tall circular tower that sits
Emporium is overseen by one of the atop the Great Library and is accessed
Council, who carefully monitors the through a narrow, winding stairwell from
exchange of the shop's more powerful the second floor of the library. This
merchandise. stairwell is guarded day and night by at
least two capable mages, who ensure that
The Green Dragon - The Green only members of the Council are allowed
Dragon is the only tavern and inn within to make the ascent. The reason for their
the town of Mysidia, and is frequented by caution is that the lower level of the tower
mage and non-mage alike. The proprietor, is comprised of a magnificent crystalline
a jovial giant of a man takes a dim view to chamber that contains the town's most
anyone wielding magic within his treasured possessions, including a rare
establishment, and has the power to gem, known only as the Crystal of Water,
enforce this preference. The Green Dragon which was entrusted to the Council in the
serves a wide variety of food and drink, mid tenth century.
including exotic fares not to be found
anywhere else in the world and rumored to At the top of the tower is a large
be somewhat magical in nature. Still, platform open to the air that affords a
otherwise the inn is fairly unremarkable, magnificent view of the town and the
and similar to other establishments found surrounding geography. This is also where
elsewhere in the world. the Council convenes its secret meetings,
and where it is rumored that the Elder
The Great Library - The first comes to pray for the needs of his
structure most visitors are naturally drawn community. Since only a select few have
towards is a large building in the northern
ever been allowed into the tower, little
part of the town. This building dwarfs else is known about it.
every other structure in Mysidia, and
houses the world's largest single collection
of books. Known as the Great Library, this Elder Laciss Kalamon
otherwise simply structure features two
Human male age 64
floors of long shelves of carefully
catalogued books, scrolls, and parchment Known only as the Elder, Laciss
covering a wide variety of subjects. The Kalamon is the current leader of the
Great Library also houses each of the Council that governs all aspects of life
members of the Council, as well as serving within the town of Mysidia. Although
as a school and dormitory for the few neither the oldest nor most powerful mage
otherwise homeless magic students taken of the Council, Laciss is by far the wisest
under the wing of the Elder. Only longtime and most respected man to have ever held
and trusted residents of the town are the position of Elder. In addition to his
allowed to make use of the library's magical aptitude, he is also an expert on
facilities, although these librarians are legends and obscure knowledge. He rose to
often willing to assist those in search of his position from humble origins as a
knowledge. penniless orphan, who excelled in both his
studies and his mastery of magic. Perhaps
because of his childhood, the Elder has a
P a g e | 35
soft spot for troubled youth, and this lone peak is the source of a great deal
throughout his tenure on the Council has of legend and folktales, and generally is
repeated took such young people under his revered as a holy, sacred mountain. Its
wing, housing them within the Great name is derived from the difficult task to
Library and teaching them as much as they ascend its summit, both because of the
will learn. The latest such youths are two treacherous terrain and the undead
twins named Palom and Porom, who were creatures that inhabit the mountain. Some
abandoned by their mother shortly after scholars believe these undead spirits are
being born and were adopted by the Elder actually fallen heroes of yore, who defend
and eventually enrolled as students. the mountain against trespassers who
would defile its sacred holiness. Whether
Rylan Silmonra such tales are true or merely fanciful
Human male age 32 wishes is shrouded in mystery, as none has
ever survived the ascent to the summit of
Rylan Silmonra is the proprietor of the Mountain of Ordeals and returned to
the Green Dragon, the only inn and tavern tell the tale.
in the town of Mysidia. He is a longtime
resident of the town, having made the
naval voyage from Baron in his early teens Separated from its neighbors by a vast
in order to study under the town's expanse of snow-capped peaks and lush
renowned mages. Although he showed forests, Toroia is arguably the most
promise in the arcane arts, he lacked the beautiful land in all the Earth. Despite the
focus to excel, and instead began pursuing inherent dangers of traveling, many people
his other passion: money. Eventually, he make the trek from all across the Earth to
took over the management of the town's visit the incredible natural beauty of
only inn, and his success allowed him to Toroia. Unlike the other nations of the
buy out the former owner and make world, Toroia has no portage on the ocean,
several changes that transformed the and exists independently with very little
modest business into a highly successful trade passing in or out of the region. But
venture. Rylan takes great pride in his perhaps most unique about this nation is
accomplishments, but often comes off as its rule by a group of powerful women
slightly pompous and overbearing to those known only as the Clerics of Toroia.
who frequent his establishment. Rumors abound that it is through the
wisdom and mystical powers of these eight
clerics that gives the region its stunning
Far to the east of the town of beauty. Finally, although men are not
Mysidia, a large forest dominates the treated as secondary citizens, no man is
geography of the smaller southeastern allowed to hold any form of political
continent. Near the center of this forest, a leadership within Toroia.
solitary mountain juts out from the terrain,
rising to a magnificent peak far above the
forest floor. It is unknown how this Size: City (26,000)
mountain was formed in the midst of the
Government: Theocracy
forest, and some suspect supernatural
origins. Known as the Mountain of Ordeals, Affiliation: Theocracy of Toroia
P a g e | 36
Trade & Industries: Agriculture, Chocobo Interestingly enough, it would also appear
Breeding, Tourism that these small villages were matriarchal
in character, with the most important
Crime Level: Moderate figure in each community the Wise Woman
The city of Toroia is a thriving city who served as leader and spiritual advisor.
gently embracing the eastern shores of the
Around the early part of the
Emerald Lake, a large body of water in the seventh century, disputes began to arise
far northwest of the large central over the regions surrounding both the
continent. The city sits just north of the Winding River and the Emerald River,
Winding River, which flows generally east
which were naturally the most suitable for
and serves as a major avenue for those agriculture and livestock. Although the
traveling to the city on either business or leaders of the scattered villages tried to
pleasure. Almost everyone who first sets resolve the matter, it soon became evident
site upon the city remarks about the that some sort of central leadership would
incredible natural beauty of the area, and be needed to permanently oversee the
the manner in which the city seems to situation. After much discussion, it was
enhance its surroundings rather than decided that the leaders from each of the
detracting from them. Even the
eight largest villages would serve as the
farmsteads, which are so vital to the leadership for the entire region, leaving
continued existence of the city, seem to behind their identity with a particular
blend elegantly with the surrounding
village and instead pursuing the interests
forests. In the same way, the citizens of
of all the peoples living along the
this remarkable city seem blessed with the riverbanks of the Green Forest. To
same grace as the nature around them, a accomplish this task, it was eventually
fact repeated often by the young men who
decided that a new community would be
come to the city for no other reason than built whose primary task was to house and
to see first- hand the renowned loveliness
care for their newly elected leadership.
of Toroian women. They named the community Toroia, a
name that apparently was taken from a
Unlike the pattern followed in popular folktale concerning a mythical
much of the world, the earliest records of kingdom of beautiful women.
the peoples in this region indicate that they
As the community of Toroia was
did not follow a nomadic lifestyle, but
built, more and more people from the
formed isolated villages throughout the
surrounding region decided to relocate and
region, living off the land and protecting
settle in the fledgling city. For, it became
the pristine beauty of the wilderness from
widely believed that to live in the vicinity of
any who would bring harm to it. It would
eight Wise Women was to bring great luck
also seem that these early peoples avoided
and fortune upon that family. Thus, rather
the conflict that seemed to grip much of
than simply establishing a small village, the
the world during the years when most of
sheer number of families suggested that
the world's kingdoms were emerging. Once
the community of Toroia might soon
again, it is believed that this lack of conflict
become larger than any other settlement
was the direct result of these people's love
in the entire region. Thus, the community
for the natural world around them.
continued to grow over the next two
P a g e | 37
hundred years, serving as a home for the three of the Wise Women thrust the
reigning eight Wise Women and the ever- kingdom into turmoil. For the first time in
increasing population. generations, open dispute emerged as to
who would assume the vacant leadership
Early in the ninth century, roles for Toroia. Many of the townsfolk
explorers from Fabul first made contact argued that the original eight villages were
with the villages in the region as they no longer the prominent settlements they
traveled along the Winding River. once had been, and thus their leaders were
Recognizing the great benefits of trade to not necessarily qualified to assume the
improve the lives of those living in the authority for the entire kingdom. Although
Green Forest, the leaders were quick to the citizens of the city were divided in
establish trade with the kingdom of Fabul, whom they thought should fill the
bringing a wealth of new goods and wares vacancies, they nonetheless believed that
into the region as well as a broader change was needed to ensure a blessed
perspective on the world around them. future. Yet, the solution came instead from
Although protected from their neighbors a group of young women who called
by the Misty Mountains to the south and
themselves the Eight Sisters. Each of these
the ocean to the east, the eight Wise eight women had, at one time or another,
Women decided to formally declare the served as Wise Women, but had
entire northwestern region of the central
renounced their positions in order to
continent as the nation of Toroia, to be pursue their spiritual devotion without
ruled from its existing capital city. outside distractions. But, in the face of the
By the end of the ninth century, growing turmoil, they believed that they
continued growth in the city of Toroia had could provide the new leadership and
exceeded all expectations, causing concern direction until a more permanent solution
that the swell in population would have an was agreed upon.
adverse effect on the city's surroundings.
Eventually, the Eight Sisters did
The Wise Women decided to carefully indeed get their wishes. It also became
control and monitor the growth of the city, increasingly clear that their combined
and actively discouraging those who wisdom and magical power far exceeded
wished to move into the city limits. About any who had previously served in their new
this same time, it was also decided that an role. As such, the issue of how the future
elegant structure would be constructed in leadership of the kingdom of Toroia would
the center of the city as a testament to the
be decided gradually faded away, replaced
loveliness and wonder of their kingdom. To with a fierce loyalty to the eight women
this end, plans for the Castle Toroia were who seemed poised to take the kingdom to
quickly developed, and construction began greater prominence than ever before. And
within a months. Although the entire indeed, over the past twenty years the
project took well over fifteen years to Eight Sisters have ruled Toroia with a firm
complete, the result was a spectacular yet gentle hand, and in that time the
castle keep whose design lent itself more
kingdom has indeed prospered.
to aesthetic beauty than defense.
crowning achievement of the city. Visitors often, and indeed are recognized and
to the city are seemingly inevitably drawn greeted by name upon arrival. Security is
towards it, starring in awe of its elegance, carefully controlled within the restricted
grace, and remarkable design. The castle is areas of the Silver Swan, and those who
primarily constructed of white marble choose to harm the employees or steal
quarried far to the south and transported from its clients are fined, roughly removed
at no little price to the city, and greatly from the premises, and banned from ever
contributes to its overall appearance. The returning.
interior of the castle is equally stunning,
with expensive tapestries and carpets, Emerald Lake - Emerald Lake, a
elegant sculptures, and golden gilt large fresh body of water that is nestled
highlights. In addition to housing the Eight against the city of Toroia, gets its name
Sisters, the castle contains personal from the crystal clear water that shines a
quarters for the kingdom's limited armed brilliant green in the sunlight. The water is
forces, small private gardens, a carefully frequented by the local citizens, who frolic
guarded treasury, a spacious audience and relax throughout the year in its waters
due to the warm springs that feed into the
chamber, and one of the world's only
hospitals. lake. Many of the wealthy citizens build
their homes along the banks of the lake,
Secreted behind the audience with the wealthiest even incorporating the
chamber is a magnificent crystalline waters into the interior of their homes. The
chamber, built by visitors to Toroia around quality of the water is carefully monitored
the middle of the tenth century. These by the Eight Sisters, and polluting the
visitors entrusted the Eight Sisters with a waters in any way is considered a very
dark secret, charging them to protect a serious crime indeed.
rare gem known only as the Crystal of
Earth. The existence of this precious The Chocobo Farm - On the
northern outskirts of the city, just outside
treasure is a closely guarded secret.
the city walls, is a large farm marked off by
The Silver Swan - These words are high, stout fences and several large barns.
spoken almost in awe by many of the men The farm is also distinguished by the
in Toroia. On simple observation, the Silver unusual, sharp aroma that locals
Swan appears to be little more than a immediately associate with the rare breed
highly prosperous inn within one of the of chocobo raised at this farm. Although
nicer districts of the city. The food and the yellow-plumed bird-like creatures are
drink are delicious and plentiful, the found throughout the world, a rare black-
service is prompt, and the furnishings are plumed variety of chocobo dwells only in
elegant and nearly luxurious. But, for those the abundant Green Forest in Toroia. The
with the necessary wealth or prestige, the Chocobo Farm is maintained by a
proper words spoken in the right ear committed group of naturalists, who
admits one past a wary-looking guard into carefully study and tend nearly a hundred
several chambers of a more intimate domesticated black chocobos. Children
variety. Here, some of the most beautiful from the city love to come and watch these
women anywhere await the desires of their beautiful creatures, marveling at their
privileged clientele. Not surprisingly, those speed and interactions with one another.
who are able frequent the Silver Swan Unfortunately, in the process of
P a g e | 39
domestication, these black chocobos lost Prime Mistress of the kingdom of Toroia.
their ability to fly that hallmarks the black- She directly serves under the Eight, and is
feathered variety of chocobo. This issue responsible for many of the smaller, day-
has been carefully studied at the Chocobo to-day tasks that are deemed too
Farm, and it is hoped that this problem insignificant to bring to the attention of the
may be eliminated in the years ahead. sisters. She also must approve anyone who
wishes to speak to the Eight Sisters, often
denying the supplicant such a privilege and
The Eight Sisters
handling the matter herself. She is a wise
Human females age 40 (approximately) and competent leader, and is well
respected in the kingdom and invaluable to
The Eight Sisters are the current the Eight Sisters, freeing them to spend
rulers of the kingdom of Toroia. Each of more of their time on their spiritual
them grew up in the scattered villages of devotions and less on the routine affairs of
the region, and each served as the spiritual the administering Toroia. Floia tends to be
leader for their hometown for a brief time a somewhat gruff woman, and seems to
before resigning the position in order to have little patience for young men, whom
pursue their spiritual devotion without she deems too immature and emotional to
distraction. These eight young women be worth her time.
corresponded extensively during these
years, and more and more came to be Lissa Leon
regarded with great respect by those that
Human female age 25
knew them. When the question of the
succession of the leadership of the Lissa Leon is the Head Matron of
kingdom came into question, the Eight the Silver Swan, serving as not only the
Sisters joined together and presented proprietor of the prosperous inn but also
themselves as an interim solution. as a mentor and a surrogate mother for the
However, the kingdom flourished under other young women who work within the
their combined wisdom, and their establishment. Although her beauty is
appointment as the reigning authority admired by many of the patrons on the
became permanent. Although these Silver Swan, she is quick to flourish her
women are not in actuality related, their golden wedding band, and does not offer
similar experiences, common devotion, her services to any of the inn's clients. She
and nearly identical appearance makes is greatly admired by most of the young
these eight women difficult to tell apart, women who work at the inn, and is quick
and thus are simply known as the Eight to intervene in any situation where she
Sisters to most within the kingdom. feels one of her employees is in distress or
danger. Not surprisingly, Lissa is also
Prime Mistress Floria Starlet
almost revered by many of the men in
Human female age 68 Toroia, who are quite willing to do almost
anything to avoid upsetting her, knowing
Floria Starlet was a friend and that earning her wrath would virtually
mentor for two of the Eight Sisters, and close the doors of the Silver Swan to them.
upon their ascension as the spiritual Lissa is generally a kind, gracious young
leaders of Toroia, Floria was chosen as the lady, always ready with a smile on her face,
P a g e | 40
and well qualified to run one of the most objects are attracted to this magnetic field,
successful businesses in the region. making them difficult to move or use
properly. To make matters worse, this
strange cavern seems to house an
The Green Forest is the largest
unusually high number of monsters, which
forest in all of the known world, occupying
continually prey upon the miners in the
most of the northwest of the greater
region. Thus, after repeated attacks and
central continent. The forest is quite
deaths, most of the mining operations on
diverse in the abundance of fauna and flora
the island have been abandoned.
that can be found within its borders, and is
carefully protected by most of the Unbeknownst to any still living
intelligent peoples that live in and around upon the Earth, a crystalline chamber was
it. In addition to the humans which occupy forged at great cost in the mid tenth
the many villages of the kingdom of Toroia, century, and a rare gem known as the
the Green Forest is rumored to be the only Crystal of Moon was hidden deep within
known home of the reclusive elves, who this cavern.
are whispered to hide themselves within
the deepest and wildest parts of the forest.
In addition, the forest is home to a wide Although the origin of its name is
variety of species found nowhere else in unknown, the Tower of Zot is a large
orbital station constructed by the
the world, including the famous Black
Chocobos, who tend to favor the more Lunarians to monitor human activity in the
northern reaches of the forest. Despite the large central continent and the other small
fact that some of the forest's other continents to the northeast, northwest,
denizens pose some threat to travelers and southeast. It is a marvel of Lunarian
through the region, attacks upon humans construction and ingenuity, utilizing
are only infrequent, although these have technology to keep the station suspended
increased mysteriously as of late. high above the Earth that most likely will
never be fully understood. It was built by
Klu Yah, along with the assistance of
To the north and east of the city of several other Lunarians, late in the ninth
Toroia, across a small bay of water, is an century, but was virtually abandon
island of rugged mountains and sparse following his death at the hands of Zemus'
evergreen trees. Although no settlements minions. Due to its location high above the
have ever been established upon the isle, it Earth over a remote region of the Green
was discovered in the early tenth century Forest, its existence is completely unknown
that these mountains were geologically by anyone upon the Earth.
rich with precious ores and minerals. Thus,
this isle has attracted several small mining
expeditions, most of whom have returned Far from the other kingdoms of the
with a wealth of gold, silver, and gems. Earth lies a small, isolated continent that is
However, the richest deposits have been home to the kingdom of Eblana. Although
found within a seemingly natural cavern the people of Eblana freely trade with the
known as Cave Magnes for the strange rest of the world, they are by choice a
magnetic field that hangs heavy over the secretive people, set apart from the rest of
entire cavern. For some reason, metallic the Earth. What little is known about this
P a g e | 41
kingdom speaks of their two unique refined, and either traded or utilized in the
warrior orders, known as the ninja and creation of Eblanas unique weapons and
samurai. These legendary warriors are armor, which are highly prized across the
reputed to be able to disappear into the known world.
shadows, wield powerful elemental magics,
and fight with strangely crafted blades
Little is known of the earliest
known as katanas. The kingdom also exists
history of this isolated kingdom. Many
under the shadow of the Tower of Babil, an
scholars believe that the people of Eblana
incredible towering structure that arises
are not native to this windswept island, but
from deep within the mountains and
instead crossed the ocean long ago and,
seems to stretch to the heavens.
perhaps out of necessity, created this
mysterious kingdom. In any case, the
Size: Small Town (4500) current reigning dynasty can trace it roots
back as far as the middle of the ninth
Government: Monarchy century, when a powerful samurai by the
name of Wazai Geraldine, won a decisive
Affiliation: Kingdom of Eblana
victory against several rival clans. In honor
Trade & Industries: Mining, Trade, and recognition of this feat, he was
Weapons, Armor elevated as the new Emperor of Eblana,
replacing the mistrusted and politically
Crime Level: Low compromised Shinwanzai dynasty. This
South and east of the great new dynasty of monarchs, believed by
Khalisto Mountains, along the southern much of the populace to reign by divine
reaches of the Akhito Bay, is the capital city right, survived through many dangers to
of the isolated, mysterious kingdom of the present day.
Eblana. While fierce storms and ferocious Although Emperor Wazai was
wind and wave batter much of this region, highly revered, much more is known of his
the limited protection offered by this small son Kenji. As strange as it seems, it would
cove creates an ideal location for the town. appear Kenji traveled across much of the
While naturally suspicious of outsiders, the world during his early adulthood, including
families of this town have lived within the a prolonged sojourn in both Baron and
region for generations, creating an Fabul. It would seem that in his travels, this
apparent sense of community and young man developed a perspective
continuity among the populace. This unique from most of his subjects. Although
familiarity also discourages crime far more he became renown as one of the most
effectively than even the ever-present valiant and skilled samurai of all time, he
guardsmen. The town itself is arranged into also greatly disdained the constant warfare
four separate quarters, with the small yet and bloodshed that seemed to constantly
formidable Eblan Keep in the center. envelope his people. Upon his return to
Outside of limited agricultural interest Eblana following his fathers death, Kenji
around the town, much of the populace forged a lasting peace within the kingdom
supports itself through the abundance of through a mix of cunning, diplomacy, and
iron, copper, and other metals and skilled negotiation. To inaugurate this
precious minerals. These are locally peace, he commissioned the construction
P a g e | 42
of the Eblan Keep, apparently building Through no little skill and fortune, Aliani
upon the foundations of a much older had slain the clans master and assumed
building that had been razed in one of the undisputed control of the entire clan. Now,
countless wars that overshadow much of the young man offered the services of
this regions history. these ninjas to the kingdom, to serve the
emperor alone on missions demanding the
Kenjis peaceful reign, however, unique skills of this clan. Thus, under the
was interrupted by profound tragedy. Just command of Aliani Wazai, second Emperor
eight years into his reign, mysterious of Eblana, the elite military forces of the
assailants garbed in black attacked his kingdom were composed of the strong,
residence. With incredible skill, they fought chivalrous samurai and the mysterious,
past the defending samurais, captured the stealthy ninjas.
emperors eldest son Aliani and vanished
from the residence almost as quickly as During the late ninth and early
they had come. Naturally outraged, Kenji tenth centuries, the kingdom of Eblana
began a concentrated search of his entire continued to thrive and prosper. The ranks
kingdom, desperately searching for any of both the samurai and the ninja
news or word on the fate of his beloved continued to grow, as did their mastery of
son. Sadly, as days turned to weeks and these two military traditions. As the
weeks to month, no word ever came to the population continued to swell, several
emperor concerning either the fate of his smaller villages sprung up in the region,
son or even the identity of the mysterious providing much needed agriculture to
kidnappers. Finally, after more than two support the growing number of mouths to
years of fruitless effort, the search ended, feed. Nonetheless, the hostile climate of
and the kingdom of Eblana mourned the their native home always worked against
passing of its former heir. these efforts, nearly ensuring that this
kingdom would never rise to the
Then, ten years later, a mysterious
prominence of the other major kingdoms
figure appeared at the gates of Eblan Keep, of the world.
demanding to see the emperor. Although
initially rebuffed, the shadowy figure Recently, contact has been
claimed to have knowledge of the reestablished between Eblana and the
emperors long lost son, and was therefore other kingdoms of the world, allowing
immediately ushered into the throne room, limited trade to pass through this
albeit under extremely close watch. As the otherwise isolated kingdom. Much of this
figure entered the throne room, he swept trade consists of the sale of specialized
of his mask and cloak, dropped several arms and armor, which are highly prized
weapons to the floor, ran to the foot of the for their unique design and craftsmanship.
throne, and threw himself towards the This, in turn, has allowed Eblana to expand
emperor, crying out Father! At long last, its mining facilities, which extract valuable
when all hope was gone, the heir of the ores and precious minerals from the
kingdom of Eblana returned home. nearby Khalisto Mountains. The current
monarchs, Emperor Mirugi Wazai and
According to his tale, the young lad Empress Tari Wazai, are credited with this
had been captured by a band of skilled recent prosperity, which has done much to
warriors known as the Shadow Ninjas. ease the daily life of the kingdoms citizens.
P a g e | 43
However, dark tidings have also begun Boasting several open-air markets as well
circulating among the populace, speaking as more permanent shops, the Merchants
of mysterious activity within the Quarter bustles throughout the day with
mysterious Tower of Babil as well as a merchants and shoppers of all sorts,
growing threat from the evil creatures that including no few foreigners. Several
dwell within its shadow. excellent weapon and armor shops are
scattered through this quarter, most of
which profit considerably from the recent
Eblan Keep Constructed around
increase in demand for their wares. Not
the middle of the ninth century, Eblan
surprisingly, the Merchants Quarter is also
Keep has a long, rich history as the cultural
heavily patrolled by guardsmen, who
and political center of the kingdom.
strictly observe the laws of the kingdom
Although smaller than those found
and ensure the peace and safety of this
elsewhere, the keep is a stunning showcase
important commercial center.
of Eblan culture and craftsmanship,
resplendent with its expensive tapestries,
elegant furnishings, and vibrant colors that Emperor Mirugi Wazai
dazzle the eye. Despite this beauty, Eblan
Keep also serves as the final defense Human male age 49
against any threat to the kingdom, with Empress Tari Wazai
strong fortifications and stockpiles to
withstand any siege. It is also rumored that Human female age 42
the keep is honeycombed with secret
Descendent from the esteemed
passages, providing not only unhindered
Wazai clan, Emperor Mirugi and Empress
escape for the royal family but also
Tari are the beloved monarchs of the
protecting its most valuable treasures.
kingdom of Eblana. In their youth, both
The Shadowed Quarter Although Mirugi and Tari were respected warriors,
appearing as the most unremarkable of the serving among the samurai and ninjas
four quarters of the city, the Shadowed respectively. Although their marriage was
Quarter derives its name from the arranged just prior to Mirugi assuming the
secretive Shadow Ninjas who maintain throne, both partners grew to love each
several bases of operation and residences other deeply.
within the district. Despite the alliance
But, to their profound sorrow, for
between this infamous group and the royal
many years it was believed that Tari was
family, an aura of suspicion and fear
barren. However, with the aid of the
surrounds those who live and work within
kingdoms most skilled healers, the couple
the district. It is also rumored that what
eventually had their first and only child,
little criminal activity exists within the
whom they named Edward Geraldine.
kingdom is centered here, with all manner
Although widely respected for their
of illegal services available for the right
wisdom, diplomacy, and leadership,
word and price.
increasing irritation with their arrogant,
The Merchants Quarter Although headstrong, and unruly son has marked
not exclusive, nearly all of the commerce of their otherwise prosperous reign.
the city is located within this district.
P a g e | 44
plants that could grow in the rocky soil or even see features of the Earth's two
even deep underground. Fishing moons.
supplemented this unusual fare, as did the
occasional bird. At some point within this The Ancient Well - Near the center
period, it would appear that the people of of town is what appears to be a small park,
Agart made contact with a merchant vessel walled off from the surrounding area. The
out of Baron blown off course by a fierce park contains elegantly designed fountains
storm. This, in time, would provide the and pools along with carefully maintained
growing community with much-needed landscaping, and is a popular place for
foodstuffs and resources that simply could couples to find a few moments of privacy.
not be produced locally. The park also holds an old looking well.
Dubbed the Ancient Well by the locals, it
Today, the town of Agart continues dates back to the original construction of
much as it has in past generations. Other the town, and is no longer functional.
than the town's mining operations that However, it is rumored that the well is
produce large quantities of iron ore and its bottomless, and that anyone unfortunate
research of the night sky, the town has enough to fall into it would descend into
little to offer to outsiders. A few bards, the fiery core of the Earth and perish.
however, can often be found within the Fortunately, the well is so small that it
town, gathering stories from the locals that would be almost impossible for anyone to
come from a very different oral tradition actually accomplish such a feat.
than those found in other parts of the
The Fireside Inn - As the only inn
world.
and tavern within the town of Agart, the
Fireside Inn is a popular place among the
Astronomer's Tower - The locals to swap idle gossip and news of the
Astonomer's Tower is the most distinctive wider world. In relation to the size of the
building in the small town. It is quite town, the inn is actually quite large, and is
evident from the exterior that the able to accommodate many more guests
structure was originally a common house than have ever visited Agart at one time.
that was later enlarged by building The inn also serves as an infirmary for
upwards. Now, the tower's slender spire those citizens who are too old to properly
reaches high into the sky, and is visible care for themselves any longer. In return
from anywhere on the island. The lowest for this care, these elders spend several
level has been converted into a small evenings each week telling stories from a
library, where scholars can be found most seemingly inexhaustible store of legend
days comparing notes and observations and lore. On such nights, almost every
concerning their chief study: astronomy. A table at the Fireside Inn is full, and in
small dormitory occupies the next level, nearly complete silence the patrons strain
with a sturdy ladder leading up to the to hear each word as stories are told and
highest level, which is dominated by a retold.
large, long, circular tube running most of
the way up the tower's spire. Dubbed a
telescope by its inventor, this unique Corillo "Kory" Duncan
instrument creates an enhanced view of Human male age 53
the night sky and enables the observer to
P a g e | 47
discovered by sailors exploring the seas humanoid pigs must have been
south of Fabul. These explorers were transformed by some form of powerful
amazed at the unusual nature of the magic or curse, but that in the centuries
island's inhabitants, and astounded at the since that time the changes had become
abundance of rich minerals and ores that permanent, in effect creating three
the natives regarded as commonplace. completely new races. As for the
Trade agreements were quickly drafted inhabitants themselves, they would only
between the two, and soon merchant shrug when pressed with questions and
vessels were a common sight throughout simply reply that things had always been
much of the Eastern Archipelago. that way.
However, it was not until late that Today, the town of Silvara remains
same century that mithril was discovered a small, unwalled settlement upon an
on the neighboring island, prompting a otherwise unnamed island in the midst of
frenzy of mining activity on the otherwise the Eastern Archipelago. Mithril continues
insignificant island. Although this new to be mined in small quantities from the
metal was at first mistaken for silver, it was neighboring island, and exports of the
discovered to have many unique town's weapons and armors travel by
properties, including resistance to heat, merchant ship all across the known world.
unusual durability, light weight, and a In addition, it is rumored that even more
magnificent gleam when properly finished. exotic ores may have recently been
Although the metal was widely sought discovered, but are being carefully tested
after for many different projects, the most and concealed by the natives. Whether
common use of this unusual metal was in such tales are truth or merely fancy has yet
the forging of arms and armor, a craft that to be discovered.
the people of Silvara soon excelled in. As
word of the discovery spread across the
The Silvara Armory - The Silvara
region, the town of Silvara agreed to freely
Armory is one of the largest buildings in
trade with each of the interested
town, second only to the inn in size and
kingdoms, in return for a pledge to never
importance. Day and night, the armory
attack or invade their small island home,
resounds with the sound of metal being
which the other nations quickly assented
stored, refined, and forged into a wide
to.
variety of useful wares. The armory is
In the mid ninth century, a small operated by a seemingly unorganized
group of scholars traveled from Mysidia to group of frogs and tiny humans, the former
Silvara in order to study the unusual busily refining the metals brought in by the
characteristics of its inhabitants. Although pigs from the mountains while the latter
they discovered that the shapes of the happily forge the refined metals as needed.
natives were similar to those caused by Most of the time, merchants from across
some of the more powerful magical curses, the world are haggling over prices of a
the bodies of the inhabitants were shipment or commissioning a special
completely resistant to magical means of weapon or piece of armor from the skilled
curing these sorts of curses. Eventually, craftsmen. For their part, the locals happily
these scholars decided that the ancestors chat with their customers, whistling or
of these tiny frogs, tiny humans, and humming to themselves as they work and
P a g e | 49
clearly enjoying every moment of their decisions with little prompting from their
busy lives. leaders. Still, Thom greatly enjoys the
prestige of his position, and most days can
The Silvara Inn - The Silvara Inn is be found strolling about the town, greeting
the only building of any size or significance the people by name and inquiring about
within the small town, serving as a popular the details of their everyday lives. In fact,
hangout for the locals and catering to the the only real annoyance in Thom's life is his
many travelers that have business upon beautiful daughter, who currently is being
the small island. The inn's food and lodging courted by at least a dozen different
can accommodate both locals and visitors, youths within the community. Although he
although prices for food and drink for the rarely works anymore, Thom is also quite
town's larger guests tend to be more skilled as a smith and a tradesman.
expensive than other places, as the lack of
significant agriculture on the island means Master Frederick Follansbee
that these must be imported from
elsewhere. Like the rest of the town, the Tiny frog male age 34
locals happily chat with whomever will Frederick Follansbee, or Fred as he
listen to them, and carry on with obvious is more generally known, has served for
happiness and contentment. several years as the overseer for the Silvara
Armory, providing guidance and direction
Mayor Thom Thorpe for the tiny humans, frogs, and humanoid
pigs that labor in the gathering, refining,
Tiny human male age 45 and forging of the metals that are the
lifeblood of the small community. Frederick
Thom Thorpe is the current mayor
also loves to accept especially difficult
of the town of Silvara, serving as the head
commissions or requests, and as of yet has
of the small town council that meets once
never found a job that he was unable to
a year to discuss issues relevant to the
complete with perfection. He is well
whole community. In reality, these councils
respected within the community, and one
are almost unnecessary, as the hard-
of the few inhabitants whose name is
working and good-sensed locals generally
known outside of the small island.
work for the greater good and make wise
P a g e | 50
Deep beneath the surface of the Earth Affiliation: The Dwarven Underworld
exists an entire other world, shaped by the
Trade & Industries: Agriculture, Armor,
ever consuming Sea of Magma and
bounded by mountain ranges that Mining, Technology, Weapons
overshadow any found upon the surface of Crime Level: Low
the Earth. Generally known as the
Underworld, this subterranean land is The Dwarven Castle, commonly
home to the resilient people known as the known by the dwarves as the Stone
dwarves, who somehow thrive in the midst Fortress, is the permanent residence of the
of an environment that would overwhelm Ironforge clan, whose current patriarch
those who dwell upon the surface. Contact Giott Ironforge serves as the king of the
between the dwarves and the surface entire dwarven people of the Underworld.
world is nearly non-existent, each with Since the disaster that destroyed the
tales of the other limited to legends and nearby settlement and forced the
childrens tales. Nonetheless, the dwarves relocation of most of the region's dwarves,
have forged a remarkable civilization, one the Dwarven Castle is very isolated from
which rivals even the greatest kingdoms the other dwarves. As such, the castle's
upon the Earth in several ways. inhabitants have long labored to achieve
self-sufficiency, expanding their
underground tunnels to include extensive
Size: Small Town (1000) agriculture, dwellings, and several large
workshops capable of handling the
Government: Monarchy
dwarves' most famous invention: their
steam powered, cannon armed tanks.
P a g e | 51
but watch in horror as their surroundings their subterranean home. Still, even this
were annihilated by the erupting magma. accomplishment could not compare to the
The lava continued to spew forth from the joy that came when explorers from the city
mountain, and quake after quake of Tomra brought word that so many of the
eventually reduced the Great Thane dwarves that had fled south and west had
Mountain and the surrounding hills to little survived and reestablished the city of
more than a magma-filled crater. Most of Tomra. And thus were the two branches of
the survivors managed to flee far to the the dwarven race reunited.
south and to the west across the Plains of
Ash, leaving only a small population of Recently, there is growing concern
dwarves sheltered by the once-magnificent about the sudden activity within the Tower
stone fortress. of Babil. The magnificent monolith had
long been believed to be simply an
Thus, for the next four hundred abandoned artifact from a long vanished
years the dwarves had a separate past. But, dwarven scouts now report that
existence, with the majority of the the tower has suddenly sprung back to life,
surviving population dwelling in the south as evidenced from the strange sounds and
in a newly established dwarven settlement. lights that often emanate from the tower.
Much of the Ironforge Clan survived the Believed by some to be a harbinger of the
disaster, and remained firmly in control of doom to come, the king has ordered an
the remnant of dwarves living in and extensive exploration of the tower and its
beneath the Dwarven Castle. Hardy and surroundings, hoping to solve the mystery
resilient, within a single generation much of the ancient tower.
of the damage to the stone fortress had
been repaired. The underground caverns
The Fungus Caverns - The Fungus
and workshops had been left almost
Caverns are an extensive network of large
completely undamaged, and the food
caverns, accessed through the myriad of
supply provided by the unusual fungus
tunnels that honeycomb Stone Mountain
proved more than ample for the remaining
upon which the castle was constructed.
population. Eventually, their mining and
Within these caverns, skilled dwarven
scientific research was resumed, and once
workers farm a unique breed of fungus
again the dwarves began to thrive.
that emits an eerie fluorescent glow and
Perhaps their greatest also is remarkably nutritious. This fungus is
accomplishment came near the end of the the main staple of the dwarven diet,
ninth century, when one of the leading supplemented by meats from various
dwarven inventors unveiled a large, boxy, Underworld beasts. Although the fungus
steam-powered vehicle armed with promotes excellent health, outsiders are
projectile weapons propelled by quick to point out that the fungus is also
gunpowder. These new inventions were tasteless and quite disgusting.
dubbed tanks, and after only a single
The Infirmary - In one of the few
demonstration orders were given to
chambers in the castle to emit light is a
construct at least a dozen such vehicles.
large room commonly referred to as the
The power and maneuverability of these
Infirmary. This room is staffed day and
tanks revolutionized warfare, and made
night with knowledgeable doctors and
the dwarves the undisputed masters of
P a g e | 53
assistants to care for sickness and injury. As winding tunnels provide housing beyond
life in the Underworld is fraught with the limited quarters provided by the
danger, it is not unusual to see half a dozen fortress itself. Although the layout was
or more dwarves in the Infirmary, usually specifically designed for easy access from
under close watch by the staff to ensure both the castle and the deeper caverns,
they don't sneak away before their injuries most outsiders would find these winding
are fully treated. This reluctance for tunnels hopelessly confusing. It is rumored
extended stays is no doubt the result of the that the Warrens also access several secret
staff's insistence upon serving only the passages that lead to the surface.
nutritious fungus to promote good health
and a quick recovery. The Workshops - Deep beneath
the castle, protected from magma and
The Throne Room - The Throne tremors by the layers of hard earth and
Room of the Ironforge Kings is the largest stone, are large-scale workshops utilized by
single chamber in the entire fortress the dwarves for their ingenious inventions.
complex. The chamber was magnificently Each of the workshops can be individually
crafted by skilled dwarven craftsmen to sealed in order to isolate the chamber in
impress and awe those who enter. Unlike the event of a catastrophic accident. Day
human monarchs, any dwarf may approach and night, these workshops are filled with
the king without invitation or preamble. As master dwarven craftsmen, inventors, and
such, King Giott spends much of his time their apprentices, experimenting, repairing,
within this single chamber, planning with and constructing the mechanisms and
his advisors, dispensing justice, and settling gadgets that have become the hallmark of
disputes among his people. It is rumored the dwarven culture. Naturally, the largest
that there are secret passages behind the workshops are given over to the repair of
throne room, which guard the most the dwarves famed steam tanks, which
valuable treasures of the Underworld despite their great power tend to be
dwarves. somewhat fragile and in need of constant
maintenance.
The truth, however, is known to
only a handful of the king's most trusted
advisors. Secreted behind the audience King Giott Ironforge
chamber is a magnificent crystalline
Dwarf male age 76
chamber, built by strange human visitors
around the middle of the tenth century. Giott Ironforge is the youngest in a
These visitors entrusted the king with a long line of dwarven monarchs from the
dark secret, charging them to protect a Ironforge clan, whose prominence can be
rare gem known only as the Crystal of traced back all the way to the great
Lightning. dwarven victory around the turn of the
fourth century. Like most dwarven males of
The Warrens - The Warrens are the
his clan, Giott was born and raised for
common name of a series of connected
combat, and before assuming the kingship
tunnels that run directly beneath the
of his people was the veteran of dozens of
Dwarven Castle and through which the
battles and skirmishes with the numerous
other underground caverns are accessed.
denizens of the Underworld. Wise, yet
Built after the devastating disaster, these
gruff and strong, Giott is well respected by
P a g e | 54
the dwarves, and especially by his own time the inventor devoted himself to
clan. In addition to his physical prowess, refining and perfecting its design. Not
Giott also has a strange love of history, as surprisingly, this devotion eventually led
well as remarkable skill in operating the him to become the chief engineer at the
dwarven steam tanks. He married young Dwarven Castle, whose primarily
for a dwarf, but lost his beloved only a few responsibility is the maintenance, repair,
weeks after the birth of his only child, a and enhancement of the tanks. Thus,
beautiful dwarven lass by the name of Theon is perhaps the most influential and
Luka. respected dwarf in the entire region,
second only to King Giott himself.
Luka Ironforge
the Dwarven Castle was built around the glow. Some of the smaller dwarven clans
beginning of the fourth century. Few began to resettle some distance from the
records tell of these times, however, as the settlement, forming smaller communities
entire settlement was annihilated by the devoted either to mining or to
eruption of the Great Thane Mountain subterranean agriculture, which included
during the mid-sixth century. Most of the several varieties of fungus and exotic
dwarves that survived the initial fauna.
conflagration fled southwest, moving just
ahead of the seemingly unstoppable But by far their most important
magma. For several weeks these hardy accomplishment was when a small team of
souls traveled across the rocky plains, dwarven explorers passed through the
always hoping that at last the magma Shining Mountains, across the Shattered
would begin to recede. Eventually, the Plains, and over the Eastern Mountains to a
survivors reached the foothills of the small finger of rocky earth that allowed
Shining Mountains, and in their sheltering them to cross over to the Plains of Ash and
heights at last found an end to their travel south to Stone Mountain. Great was
their joy when it was discovered that so
desperate exile.
many dwarves had survived the disaster in
Although the disaster exerted a the north, and were thriving in and around
heavy toll upon the dwarves, their resilient the repaired Dwarven Castle. When word
nature proved the stronger, and within finally returned to Tomra, the southern
only a few weeks a new site was chosen dwarves were quick to renew their
upon which to rebuild their lost allegiance to the Ironforge clan, reuniting
settlement. Those dwarves who had the two sundered dwarven branches after
sought shelter from the disaster within four hundred years of separation.
Stone Mountain were presumed dead, thus
making their situation all the more Little has changed since that time.
The dwarves of Tomra continue to delve
desperate. The survivors dedicated
themselves to revitalizing their people, and deeper into the Shining Mountains,
devoted themselves to the task of a new discovered new veins of their beloved
start for the scattered clans. metals and gems. Recently, trade was
established between the city and the
For the next two hundred years, Dwarven Castle, bringing many of the
the settlement of Tomra was reborn and technological wonders of their northern
prospered. The city grew dramatically, brethren to the city. Yet, other than the
bolstered by the tenacity of the dwarven occasional raid by goblins and other
clans and their passion to rebuild all that denizens of the Underworld, life in the city
had been lost. Rich deposits of metals and of Tomra continues much as it has for
precious gems were discovered in the many years, isolated from the events of the
nearby Shining Mountains, including an rest of the Underworld by the incredible
amazingly rich vein of diamonds, which the expanse of magma that dominates the
dwarves prized above all other gems. city's landscape.
These shining jewels were skillfully
incorporated into the city's buildings,
The Smithy - The Smith is one of
giving much of the city a rich and brilliant
the larger and more elegant structures
luster from the reflection of the magma's
P a g e | 56
within the city of Tomra. The Smithy from the ravages of the local monster
resounds with the sounds of refining and population, before a particularly fierce
forging metal all-but continuously, as combat left him with permanently crippled
expert dwarven craftsmen and their in his left leg. Since that time, he has
assistants convert the raw ores from the devoted himself to perfecting his craft as a
nearby mountains into tools, weapons, smith. He also discovered a particular
armor, and other useful items. The Smithy knack for teaching and diplomacy, and as
also has a wide variety of precious gems on such is sometimes called upon to settle
display for sale or to incorporate into their disputes between the citizens of Tomra
work, and does a fair amount of business and assisting the never-ending task of
among the locals in the jewelry trade. passing on his skills to the next generation
Among such wares, none are more in of dwarven craftsmen.
demand than the excellent diamonds
extracted from the nearby Shining Allard Stoneheart
Mountains. Dwarf male age 43
The Apothecary - Like most of the Even from his youth, Allard
buildings within Tomra, the Apothecary is a Stoneheart was considered strange by
magnificent example of dwarven most of the community for his love of
craftsmanship, resplendent with precious alchemy and healing. Even more unusual,
stones built into the structure. While it is Allard showed little regard for any kind of
certainly not a large building, it serves a martial skill or physical activity, preferring
vital role to the community, providing to spend his hours in study and reading.
potions and elixirs of all sorts for healing Although these unusual qualities earned
and the treatment of various illnesses, him no little ridicule from his peers, they
afflictions, and magical curses. Dwarven also allowed him to develop into a healer
advances in the field of medicine provide without peer among all the dwarves of the
for a selection and supply of these Underworld. His research with various
miraculous medicines beyond anything else underworld substances resulting in
found in the known world. The staff of the previously undiscovered cures for a variety
Apothecary are overseen by Allard of magical curses and ailments, and today
Stoneheart, who is renowned among the is considered one of the most highly
dwarves for his research and skill in the regarded citizens of Tomra.
area of herbology and healing.
any dwarven settlement in order to devote the Lunarians highly advanced technology.
himself to the perfection of his craft. His Although it served for a time as a Lunarian
only companions were a small handful of base of operations, its purpose became
apprentices, chosen from among all the much more sinister. For, if a powerful
dwarves for their remarkable potential as enough energy source was placed within
smiths. Although the outpost was the highest chamber, a weapon of
established with great success, recently incredible destruction would be unleashed
Kokol has grown discouraged with his own upon the Earth. Fortunately for them, the
work, believing the traditional metals of dwarves were never considered in this
the Underworld greatly limit his plot, and as such have never been tempted
remarkable talents. Indeed, it is now to harness such power.
rumored in Tomra that this once great
smith has fallen into a great depression,
abandoning all pretenses of his work. Deep beneath the surface of the
Unwilling to return to Tomra, and hostile to Earth, accessible only through a small
any visitors, at the present time there passage surrounded by magma, is a large
seems little hope for this once master network of caves that lead deeper and
craftsman. deeper into the core of the planet. Further,
this network of caverns is home to some of
the most dangerous and vicious monsters
Northwest of the Plains of Ash, ever encountered, which feed upon one
nestled within the sheer cliff-wall of the another in a seemingly never-ending cycle.
Underground, is a massive monolith that In addition, the very rocks within the
stretches upward as far as the eye can see. caverns themselves pulse with strange
It is a mysterious and wholly alien arcane energy, draining the vitality of
structure, composed of a strangely anyone exposed to the strange energy.
luminous, metallic stone and refining with However, should a person possess the
such skill that no dwarven craftsman could strength, fortitude, and wisdom to access
ever create. Whether this tower is an the small island deep within the
artifact from a long extinct civilization or Underworld, survive the exposure to the
something more sinister has never been caverns sapping energy, and to fight their
determined, for none have ever been able way past the caverns monstrous
to enter, through either cunning or force. inhabitants, such a person would find
For the most part, the dwarves have been themselves amidst a civilization unlike any
content to ignore it, for there has never other. Although any true name this
been any sign of activity or inhabitants. civilization possesses is not known, those
few who guess at its existence have
Unbeknownst to any living upon dubbed it the Land of the Summoned
the Earth, this strange monolith was Monsters.
constructed by the ancient race known as
the Lunarians from ores mined from the These creatures, known by various
Khalisto Mountains and enhanced with names and legends across the world, dwell
elements refined from the Earths moon. within a strange plane that seems to exist
Named for an ancient tower of legend, the outside of the normal time and space of
Tower of Babil is a sprawling complex the Earth. Ruled by a legendary King and
shielded from the outside world through Queen whose very names are unknown,
P a g e | 58
Visible in the night sky among the the numerous caverns which honeycomb
myriad of stars are two moons that the entirety of the artificial moon. This, in
endlessly circle the Earth throughout the turn, has also allowed some of the
seasons. Of these, it is the smaller that at monstrous creatures that have
times seems to glow with an eerie red hue, mysteriously emerged from these
resulting in various speculations from subterranean caverns to survive upon the
observers on Earth. The truth of the surface, creating a potential hazard for
matter, however, is that this second moon anyone traveling upon the moons surface.
is not truly a moon of Earth at all, but
instead a massive artificial satellite
constructed by an ancient race of beings Rising above the moons surface is
seeking to begin anew after the disastrous a stunning crystalline palace that glows
destruction of their home world. brightly in the fierce sunlight of the Lunar
days and glistens softly throughout the
Although its massive crater valleys, Lunar night. Constructed by the Lunarians
jagged mountain ranges, and pockets of as their new home on the Lunar Moon, the
impact craters create a very similar Crystal Palace is a beautiful, towering,
appearance to the Earths true moon, this elegant, and wholly alien structure, rising
artificial moon actually contains an from the midst of the jagged mountains.
atmosphere similar to that of the Earth, Although no human eye has ever seen
maintained through a special process them, the Crystal Palace contains the living
known only to the Lunarians. Thus, quarters of the entire Lunarian race,
although the surface of the Lunar Moon is including large agricultural domes, several
still a fairly hostile environment to life, amphitheaters for larger gatherings, open
natives of both Earth and the Lunar Moon park areas for relaxation, a library storing
can easily breathe and survive both upon information through the magic of
the surface of the moon as well as within electronics, as well as a medical center
P a g e | 60
with facilities capable of placing most of the inhabitants of the Earth by his massive
the Lunarian race into a state of perfect weapon known as the Giant of Babil, he
stasis, a technology which allowed this was captured and forced into a deep sleep.
people to survive the long space-flight However, so great was Zemus powers that
from their dead home world to Earth. In many feared that even in sleep he might
essence, the technological wonders that still have great influence among not only
are a normal part of everyday life for the the Lunarians, but also the peoples of
Lunarian people are so advanced as to be Earth. Therefore, at great cost of time and
absolutely indescribable to the people of effort, the Lunarians constructed a massive
Earth, and for that reason will probably multi-level complex that came to be known
forever remain outside of their knowledge. as the Core. Forged out of a special
crystalline alloy, it was believed that the
unique properties of the Core would
Deep beneath the surface of the Lunar repress Zemus psychic abilities. Thus, he
Moon are a long, complex series of tunnels and all his followers were sealed deep
and caverns that run from the lower levels within the Core, there to dream for
of the Crystal Palace all the way down to centuries until his fate might be decided.
the Core. Originally, these tunnels were
shaped as the Lunarians delved deep into
newly created home, mining the depths for At some point following the arrival
the raw materials needed to construct the of the Lunarians and the subsequent
sprawling Crystal Palace. Following Zemus construction of the Lunar Moon, the
uprising and subsequent capture, these ancient creature known as Bahamut must
tunnels were expanded to reach nearly to have come to dwell deep within an
the very center of the Lunar Moon, where otherwise unknown cavern. While his
the Core was eventually constructed. origins are unknown, it is speculated that
Throughout the caverns, the Lunarians perhaps this Emperor of the Summoned
have hidden away various powerful Monsters was attracted to the wisdom and
artifacts from their homeworld, storing knowledge of the Lunarians, and from
them against the day they might again be them learned the peril that Zemus
needed. Like the Core, the Lunar threatened against both races. In any case,
Subterranean has been sealed off to it is within this lunar cavern that Bahamut
prevent the escape of Zemus or his dwells, watching over the affairs of his
followers. people and awaiting the prophesied
coming of those who would earn his aid
and finally defeat the power of Zemus.
Following Zemus failed plot to
activate the Tower of Babil and wipe out
P a g e | 61
With a
humanoid body
annd octopus-like
These new summoned monsters are head, Mind Flayer
designed to be used with the Druid class. have four tentacles
They add new low-to-mid level options for around a lamprey-
Summoners representing monsters iconic like mouth, and
for either the original SNES version or the eat the brains of
Nintendo DS remake. sentient creatures
P a g e | 63
as part of his diet. When snaring a living (Mental) status to all allies until the end of
creature in all four of its tentacles, he can the next round.
extract and devour its living brain. His eyes
are pale white, and can see perfectly well Greater Call: Minimum Level: 54th. MP
in both darkness and light. Cost: 100. Roll Fire vs Water, difficulty 0. If
successful, deal Ice-elemental magical
Basic Call: Minimum Level: 14th. MP damage equal to 500 or your current HP,
Cost: 20. Roll Fire vs Water, difficulty 0. If whichever is lower, to a group.
successful, deal 7 x Fire level Puncture-
elemental magical damage to a target. The Summon: Gain the Blink status until
the end of the round.
target loses the Shell and Reflect statuses.
Also, if your roll overcomes difficulty 80,
inflict the Weaken (Mental) status on the
target until the end of the next round. This
Spell ignores the status Reflect. A recurring theme in Final Fantasy
IV is the bonds between the cast of
Greater Call: Minimum level: 34th. MP characters. Many times, this was
Cost: 55. Roll Fire vs Water, difficulty 0. If represented by the characters using
successful, deal 12 x Fire level Puncture- powers beyond their own skills by relying
elemental magical damage to a target. on that bond. Two prime examples of this
Also, if your roll overcomes difficulty 80, are Palom and Poroms Twin and the W
inflict the Immobilize and Poison statuses Meteo.
on the target until the end of the next
round. Two characters may cast two Spells
and combine their power. They need to act
Summon: It has no extra effect with in the same Phase and the Spells become a
!Summon. Slow (1) action. If combining two identical
Spell, generate the effect of the next
higher level Spell (for example, two Fira
turn into a Firaga). If you cast two different
A giant dragon Spells, you generate the effect of the lower
made of mist, this MP cost Spell (Casting Scan and Immobilize
creature can together creates the effect of Scan in the
control its own Group). Use the single target damage if the
body shape, Spell deals reduced damage to groups. The
changing between characters involved must spend MP equal
dragon and cloud to the cost of the effect generated (When
forms at will. Its icy breath destroys the two mages combine the Meteorite Spell,
summoners enemies while his mists the enemy is subject to Comets effects
protect his allies. and the mages must spend 41 MP each).
Basic Call: Minimum Level: 24th. MP Summons and Twincast may not be
Cost: 35. Roll Fire vs Water, difficulty 0. If used with this rule. At GMs discretion,
successful, choose one: either you deal 8 x some Spells may not be combined. Special
Fire level Ice-elemental magical damage to cases may be examined individually by the
a group or you grant the Strenghten GM and cause unique effects.
P a g e | 64
Earth 152 Air 142 Fire 112 Water 102 60th level Beast Elite
HP 1000 MP 650 ARM 145 MARM 80
Initiative 3 die