THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

GILES PENFOLD
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Credits
Project Lead: Giles Penfold
Designers: Giles Penfold, Ryan Wyer
Writers: Giles Penfold, Ryan Wyer, Basil Wright, Brie Atienza, Muse en Lystrala
Editors: Sándor Gebei, Graeme Bloodworth, Rachel Smith

Cover Illustrator: Phill Berry

Interior Illustrators: Danny Pavlov, Edward Yorke, Biagio D’Alessandro, Edward Mattinian, Eric Belisle, Nicole Cardiff
Cardin Illustrator: Kate Whitmore
Additional Illustration Studios: Bad Moon Studios, Cold Beverage Studios
Layout Artist: Nathanaël Roux
Graphic Designers: Nathanaël Roux, Simon Meredith
Vynestra Brand Designer: Simon Meredith
Aldarin Provincial Map: Fernando Salvaterra, Sarah E. Davidson (TheSketchDragon)

Cultural Consultants: Klay Julianio Betten-Silva, Brie Atienza, Muse en Lystrala

Design Consultants: Graham Hill, Alex Waterman, Donovan Lever
Disability Consultant: Sal Couch
Latin Consultants: Basil Wright, Terry Walsh
LGBTQIA+ Consultants: Sebastian Yūe, Moss Fox, Lilith Bloodmoon, Rue Dickey
Marketing Consultants: Dina Ramse (Marketing With Dina), Morgan ‘Sol’ Howe, Radvile Libikaite
Sensitivity Consultants: Basil Wright, Brie Atienza, Muse en Lystrala
Trademark Consultant: Ben Evans

Music Composers: Jono Smithers, Silgor

Playtesters: Nicholas Jackson, Radvile Libikaite, Aila Frost, Robert Arnold, Jason Ware, Rachel Smith, Han Craigs, Josh
Rizzo, Amy Symonds, Doug Hewstone, Ashley Seal, Tasha Jade, Daniel Saunders, Simon Delves, Josh Chalfen, Imogen
Newenham, Maria Alfaro
Proofreaders: Radvile Libikaite, Joseph Gilkes, Daniel Whittaker, Jack Hardy, Hazel Dewsnap, Will Cahill
Special Thanks: Graham Penfold, Maria Penfold, Rika Paderes, Gerard Segura, Spencer Lancaster, Janice Sheen
(MisjayMaps), Katrina Waldman, Cassi Mothwin, Olga Drebas, Felix Ilsley, Dominic Knapper, Ruben Kamphuis, Flora
Kovacs, Philippa Moore, Jeremy Clark, Paul AKA Ampersand, William Round, Nathan Hutchinson, Daniel Whittaker,
Ceri Rowland, Evangelos Foskolos, Tim Hitchman, Ed Healy (Gamerati), the TTRPG Twitter community
Production Pets: Kimchi, Muffin, Daisy, Alma, Bella, Hero, Hogie, Morty, Lucy, Phoebe, Thor

Content License
© 2023 Vynestra
Vynestra and their associated logos are trademarks of Vynestra.
ISBN 978-1-7391546-2-2 (hardcover)
ISBN 978-1-7391546-3-9 (PDF)
Product Identity: The following items are hereby identified as Product Identity, as defined in the Open Gaming License version 1.0a,
Section 1(e), and are not Open Content: All trademarks, registered trademarks, proper names (characters, place names, building
names, etc.), adventures, dialogue, story elements, plots, characters, organisations, artwork, graphics, maps, sidebars, and trade dress.
(Elements that have previously been designated as Open Game Content are not included in this declaration.)
Open Game Content: The Open Content in this book includes: Monster names, monster abilities, monster statistics, spell names,
feat names, disease names, kinship names, and the ember system. No other portion of this work may be reproduced in any form
without permission.

2
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

A Letter from the Author Introduction

Introduction
Salve! Welcome to Vynestra, the creation of which has been an adven- to the
Aldarin
Empire
ture of love and hard work over almost eight years now. What started as Aldarin

a small homebrew game designed to bring life to a fantastical collective Names

of classical-inspired cultures has now grown into a fully fledged setting. Social Classes

Vynestra was initially intended to just be a simple city setting with a few Kinships in
the Empire
regions around it. As that grew, however, so too did the world that held it.
Vynestra expanded into not just a city, but a world setting, adventures, Festivals

monsters, and tons of rich lore, all brought to life by the collaboration of Sports

so many talented people. And here we are, many years on, at the end
of our first journey but at the start of many more. Thank you for being Religion

here with me as we release this title and those which accompany it. Politics

As I release Vynestra into the world, I know that this is not my

universe anymore. This is no longer a homebrew setting at my small
Military

table in the middle of the Norfolk countryside. This is our world as Commerce

players and game masters. A collective, ever-expanding creation. Crime and

These books are not here to tell you how to run your game nor how Punishment

to play your characters. They are here to provide you with as many Provinces of
Aldarin

tools, options, and ideas as they can for you to bring excitement to your Periods of
Aldarin

table. At the end of the day, it’s not about numbers and rules. It’s History

about stories, adventures, and moments which will stick with us for the Classes

rest of our lives. I hope that Vynestra will give you those memories and Backgrounds

I’m excited to hear what tales you weave with your friends.
Appendices

— Giles, Lead Designer

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Contents
Content Warnings 6 Plains Half-Orc...................................................30
Snow Half-Orcs..................................................30
Reading NPC Tags............................................... 7
Humans.................................................................30
Pronunciation Guide......................................... 8
Aldarins...............................................................30
Vynestra Pronunciation Guide........................... 8
Jyrden...................................................................30
Aldarin Pronunciation Guide............................. 8
Kishmarans..........................................................30
Introduction to the Aldarin Empire 9 Qutharians...........................................................30
Ravidanians.........................................................31
Culture.................................................................. 9
Rymish.................................................................31
Born of Gods.......................................................10
Skaaldblud...........................................................31
Citizenship or Nothing......................................10
Tak’huutans.........................................................31
Military Might.....................................................11
Orcs.......................................................................31
Attuned to the Arcane........................................12
Politics, Politics, Politics....................................12 Festivals 32
Emberblood.........................................................13
Festival Traditions..........................................32
Clothing...............................................................13
Holiday Descriptors.......................................32
Architecture.........................................................14
Date......................................................................32
Aldarin Names 15 Holiday Type.......................................................32
Associated Deities..............................................32
Aldarin Naming Conventions......................15
Given and Family Names..................................15 Sports 44
Personal Names..................................................15
Arcane Duelling..............................................44
Social Classes of Aldarin 17 Chariot Racing.................................................44
Gladiators..........................................................45
Determining Social Class.............................17
Harpastum...........................................................46
Wealth..................................................................17
Henestra..............................................................46
Ancestry...............................................................17
Jova........................................................................47
Social Renown.....................................................17
Divisio Imperium...............................................48
Aldarin Citizenship.........................................18
Rapida Racing....................................................48
The Social Classes...........................................19
Circum Aquatica...............................................49
Determining PC Social Class............................19
Religion 50
Kinships in the Empire 26
Religious Traditions.......................................50
Cambion...............................................................26
Animal Sacrifice..................................................51
Blood Eclipse Cambion.....................................26
Sport.....................................................................51
Catfolk................................................................26
Bloodletting.........................................................51
Dhampir...............................................................26
Religious Titles.................................................52
Dwarves...............................................................27
Pontifex (pl. Pontifices)......................................52
Delvar Dwarves..................................................27
Sovigal (pl. Sovigals)..........................................53
Earthbound Dwarves.........................................27
Sacerdos (pl. Sacerdotes)...................................53
Hill Dwarves.......................................................27
Religious Sects..................................................54
Elves......................................................................27
Order of the Quadrumvirate.............................54
Ashensworn.........................................................27
Ebyr’sol.................................................................55
High Elves............................................................27
Sand Elves............................................................28 Politics 57
Snow Elves...........................................................28
Wood Elves..........................................................28 The Emperor 57
Farborn................................................................28 The Imperial Lineage.......................................57
Gnomes.................................................................28 Imperials of the Modern Day.......................57
Frost-blistered Gnomes.....................................28 Symbolic Status...................................................57
Goblins.................................................................28 Today’s Emperor.................................................57
Halfings...............................................................29
The Consentium 59
Half-Dragons....................................................29
Membership........................................................59
Skyfarers...............................................................29
Novi Nobiles........................................................59
Half-Elves...........................................................29
Dressing for the Job............................................59
Half-Orcs...........................................................30

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Structure............................................................60 Nivinea.................................................................97
The Benches........................................................60 Province of Deveros.......................................98
Elected Roles.......................................................60 Salenti..................................................................98
Introduction
Unelected Roles..................................................63 The Pilkos Isles..................................................99
Becoming Law.....................................................63
Periods of Aldarin History 100 Introduction
Factions...............................................................64 to the
The Revitalists.....................................................64 Early Expansion..............................................100 Aldarin
Empire
The Reformists....................................................64 The Grain Wars...............................................101
The Capitans........................................................65 Post-Grain Reclamation.............................101 Aldarin
The White Plague...........................................102 Names
The Consentium Minor 65
The Low Period................................................103
Structure............................................................65
First Medial War............................................104
Opulatus (pl. Opulati)........................................65 Social Classes
Era of Exploration........................................105
Honorus (pl. Honori).........................................66
Second Medial War........................................107
Legatus (pl. Legati).............................................66
Anchor Nation Expansion...........................108 Kinships in
the Empire
Military 67 The First Renavic War......................................109
Acclesian Civil War......................................111
The Legions 67 The Gilded Period..........................................113 Festivals
Equipment...........................................................67 The Second Renavic War.................................114
Structure of a Legion.....................................68 The Dusk Revolution....................................115
Alternate Legion Types..................................69 The Third Renavic War....................................115 Sports
Basic Ranks.........................................................71 Fall of the Deverosian World Anchor............116
Special Ranks.....................................................73 The Fourth Renavic War..................................117
Legionary Assemblies......................................75 Religion
Classes 118
Military Decorations.....................................76
Military Celebrations....................................77 College of Five................................................118
Emotion Domain.............................................119 Politics
Concilium Arcanus Altus 79
Revelry Domain..............................................121
Structure............................................................79
Gryphon Rider.................................................122
Imperial Arcane Assembly................................80 Military
Legionarius.......................................................124
Deveros Arcane University..........................82
Formations........................................................125
Joining DAU........................................................83
Additional Feats................................................128
Semesters.............................................................83 Commerce
The Twinned Moons.......................................128
Running a DAU Campaign...............................83
Ranks....................................................................84 Backgrounds 131
Crime and
Commerce 87 Bloodbound.......................................................131 Punishment

Consensa............................................................131
Currency.............................................................87
Emissary............................................................133 Provinces of
Trade Partners..................................................88 Aldarin
Legionarius........................................................134
Anchor Nations...................................................88
Mercyr................................................................135
Elosian Nations...................................................89 Periods of
Premagus...........................................................136 Aldarin
Mørken League...................................................89
Publus.................................................................137 History
South Rymin.......................................................90
Refugee...............................................................138
Mistveil................................................................90
Classes
Appendix A: Thermae Baths 140
Crime and Punishment 91
Thermae Rest...................................................140
Policing................................................................91
Offering to Sulia................................................140 Backgrounds
Private Guilds......................................................91
Thermae Items..................................................140
Types of Crime....................................................91
Oils.....................................................................140
Punishment.........................................................91
Salts.....................................................................141 Appendices
Forms of Punishment........................................92
Strigils................................................................142
Provinces of Aldarin 94
Appendix B: The Medial Calendar 143
Alvia......................................................................94
Baldera................................................................95 Glossary of Terms 151
Borealia...............................................................95
Caerula................................................................96
OPEN GAME License Version 1.0a 160
Civaci....................................................................96

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Content Warnings
A F
Alcohol:..........................................................121, 122 Forced Labour:...........................................92, 93, 95
Animal Cruelty:...................................................... 46
G
Animal Sacrifice:....10, 32, 34, 36, 38, 39, 50, 51, 52
Gore:......................................................................... 97
Assassination:.................................34, 107, 111, 116
H
B
Hedonism:......................................................... 35, 41
Blood:....................................................................... 94
Bloodletting:...................................................51, 131 I
Burning:.........................................55, 56, 75, 93, 109 Inquisition:........................................................ 55, 56
C M
Child Labour:.......................................................... 24 Mass Death:...........................................................102
Classism:.. 10, 11, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 64, 72
P
Corporal Punisment:............................................. 93
Plague:......................................................34, 102, 103
Crime:...........................................................91, 92, 93
Prison:...................................................................... 92
Cultural Erasure:............................................. 94, 95,
Public Humilation:................................................ 92
98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109,
Punishment:...................................................... 91, 92
110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117
Cultural Persecution:...................................... 55, 56 R
Cultural Zealousness:........................... 9, 10, 18, 19, Religious Zealousness:....10, 50, 54, 55, 56, 87, 116
26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 43, 57, 64, 67, 78, 87, 90, 94,
S
95, 99, 100, 101, 102, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109,
Serial Murder:......................................................... 92
110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117
Sex:............................................................................ 35
D Social Ostracism:.................................................... 19
Dead Body:.............................................................. 94 Soul Corruption:......... 13, 56, 80, 85, 105, 107, 109
Dead Animals:........................................................ 94 Soul Destruction:.......................55, 56, 85, 105, 107
Death:...................... 35, 41, 42, 45, 46, 102, 103, 107 Swearing:.................................................................. 66
Debt:......................................................................... 25
T
Disease:....................................................34, 102, 103
Torture:.................................................................... 93
Drugs:....................................................................... 85
Drunkenness:................................................121, 122 W
War:................................11, 12, 57, 67, 75, 81, 95, 96,
E
97, 98, 100, 101, 102, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109,
Emotional Manipulation:...........................119, 120
110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 138
Execution:... 12, 18, 55, 56, 91, 93, 97, 101, 102, 107
War Hostages:.................................12, 100, 104, 115
Exile:......................................................................... 93

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Reading NPC Tags

Cardin the Cardinal
There are hundreds of thousands of Non-Player “Salve! I’m Cardin, and this ‘ere is my butterfly Introduction
Characters (NPCs) throughout the world of buddy, Al. We’re gonna be yer guides through
Vynestra, each with their own stories to tell. NPCs this preview document, sittin’ on yer shoulder
Introduction
come from all different walks of life, with a boun- the whole way through. Deveros is a tricksy to the
tiful spectrum of kinships and genders from the place to get around and yer gonna want some Aldarin
Empire
far corners of the Medial Plane and beyond. This eyes in the sky when findin’ yer way about.
section guides you through how NPCs are tagged Look for me peekin’ out around the book and Aldarin
in this book for simple recognition of their vari- I’ll squawk some fun facts at ye about the folk Names
‘round the city.
ous attributes.
Huh? Me armour? I’ve been around, y’know!
“...the stoic, elderly prophet Rameshi Tak’haal (LG he/ Flown with some of the finest gryphon legions Social Classes

him high elf sacerdos [Koshka] 9), who served Koshka in the empire, would ya believe? Sat on the
loyally…” shoulder of plenty of good Aldarin folk, and
some not so good folk too. There was this one Kinships in
the Empire
The above snippet introduces an NPC called gal, ye see, an Umbra crow. Well, she got wound
Rameshi Tak’haal of the The Fallen Emerald from up in some assassination plot or somethin’… Oh,
the Sala Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros. The name sorry! Yer not here to hear me life story. Let’s Festivals
of a NPC is always bolded when they are introduced get on with the book, eh? C’mon Al, let’s help
this fine reader out.”
in a section of the book, followed either by a number
of tags describing who they are in brackets or a page Sports
reference to their main block of information. There
Class. The final tag represents the class the NPC
are five types of tags: Alignment, Pronouns, Kin,
has trained into or the monster stat block they use
Class, and Additional Tags. Religion
for their statistics. The NPC’s level in their respective
Alignment. The first tag denotes the alignment
class follows the class tag. The NPC’s level modifies
of the NPC. There are nine main alignments in
how many hit dice they have. For example, a 12th
Vynestra, though many characters fall through the Politics
level sellsword will have 12d8 instead of the usual
cracks of these and sometimes border upon one or
8d8, as well as any additional health from their
more alignments. In the cases of NPCs, the predomi-
Constitution modifier. Modifying the hit points Military
nant alignment is described by one the following: CG
and hit dice of an NPC is optional and may be
(Chaotic Good), CN (Chaotic Neutral), CE (Chaotic
disregarded if needing to quickly run an NPC in
Evil), NG(Neutral Good), TN (True Neutral), LN
combat for the party. Commerce
(Lawful Neutral), LG (Lawful Good), LN (Lawful
Square Brackets. Some tags have a set of square
Neutral), LE (Lawful Evil).
brackets following them. This indicates their affilia-
Pronouns. The second tag represents the pronouns Crime and
tion to an entity or collective. There are many of these Punishment
of the character, which vary from NPC to NPC.
used across the book, though the most common are
Pronouns are used when referring to the NPC in
for religious NPCs, such as sacerdotes, where the
the third person. Some examples of pronouns used Provinces of
square brackets indicate the deity they worship and Aldarin
in this book are: He/Him, She/Her, They/Them,
for magi, with the square brackets indicating the
and Name. NPCs with the pronoun “Name” are
school of magic they specialise in. Periods of
referred to by their name alone. Some NPCs use Aldarin
Additional Tags. There are some additional tags
a combination of pronouns such as He/She/They. History
which may be used for special circumstances. The
In these cases, the GM should use all available pro-
dead tag is used to denote an NPC who is no longer
nouns for that NPC interchangeably and rotate them Classes
living, though their soul may still exist in some
during conversation. There are many more pronouns
capacity within the universe.
beyond those listed above, such as neopronouns (xe/
Looking back at Rameshi’s tags we therefore
xir) for example. If a NPC has [GF] following their Backgrounds
know the following about him: Rameshi is Lawful
pronouns, it means they are genderfluid and may
Good with pronouns of “he/him”. He is a high elf
shift between gender, and sometimes pronouns, over
who uses the sacerdos NPC class, dedicated to the
time. A [T] tag indicates that a NPC is transgender Appendices
deity Koshka, at 9th level. This should be enough
and a [NB] tag indicates a non-binary NPC.
information for a GM to roleplay a character using
Kin. This third tag represents the NPC’s biological
the surrounding information within the charac-
lineage, a kinship, also known as races in core mate-
ter’s location.
rials. Kinships derive exclusively from biological
lineages. There are dozens of kins and sub-kins
spanning across many different planes of existence.

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Pronunciation Guide Planes

Outfeir: Ouht-fee-ir Väedfel: Vuh-ehh-d-fehl
Outbrok: Ouht-brohk Vynestra: Veh-neh-strah
Outswel: Ouht-swehl Wysterwood:
Language of Vynestra Outwyn: Ouht-way-hn Wih-st-ehr-woohd
Vynestra is a British publisher based in
the United Kingdom. We take pride in the
differences of language across the world, Primordials
believing that it showcases a unique flavour Candor: Cahn-dor Enor: Ee-nor
to every form of writing. In our publications, Daîthar: Dye-thar Meveril: Meh-veh-ril
we use British English for the majority of
our writing. You may find words spelled
differently to how you’d expect them and Aldarin Pronunciation Guide
we hope that this does not confuse too
The Aldarin Empire uses a number of languages
many people. The only exception to this is
for content referenced under the OGL which
within it. One of the most common of these, outside
has been published using American English, of Common, is that of Aldarin. Aldarin loosely
where we instead use American English for derives from real world Latin. Because of this, some
those terms. ways of deriving words are slightly different to what
is seen in normal English. For example, there are a
number of nouns which end in -a, but whose plural
form is that of -ae instead of -s.
Vynestra Pronunciation Guide These are the most commonly used Aldarin noun
endings and their plural derivatives.
Vynestra has a large number of strange words for
varying creatures, locations, or objects within the Aldarin Nouns
universe. This is a guide on how to pronounce Singular Ending Plural Ending
some of them.
-us -i / -us
Continents -os -otes
Elos: Ee-lohs Panthéa: Pahn-th-eh-ah -a -ae
Hel: Hehl Ravidan: Rah-vee-dahn
Mana: Mah-nah Sel’Kildar: Sehl-kihl-dhar Pronouncing Aldarin
Nul’Kildar: Thul’dari: Th-uhl-dhar-ee If you are lucky enough to know Latin, you can
Nuhl-kihl-dhar substitute pure Latin for Aldarin speech and writing.
Do not feel the need to adhere to these pronunciation
Gods rules in speech if it is too much to keep track of.
Aether: Ee-th-her Loritel: Loh-rih-tehl Instead, slowly pick it up over time.
Celianthre: Meliam: Meh-lee-ahm Here are some tips on how to pronounce Aldarin
Sehl-ih-an-th-rhe Quor: Qw-ohr words like a true Aldarin:
Deos: Deh-ohs Rael: R-eye-ehl
• Instead of pronouncing V as it would typically
Gw’yth: Gwih-th Saleen: Sah-leen
be pronounced, use W instead. For example,
Hargrum: Har-ghrum Sovingar: Soh-vihn-ghar
“Octavia” would be pronounced “Octawia”.
Iora: Eye-or-ah Viker: Vuh-eye-kuhr
• Many Aldarin consonants are hard. C is always
Kistra: Kee-ss-trah Vys: Vihs
pronounced as if in “clasp”, more like a K than
Kylera: Kuh-eye-leh-rah Xithri: Zuh-ith-ree
a C as we would know it in English. G is always
Larveth: Lahr-veh-th Xyth: Zuh-ith
pronounced as if in “gate”. If you are able to, roll
your R’s as much as possible.
Groups
• Pronounce your I’s and J’s as Y’s. I and J are
Tredecima: Treh-deh-see-mah
considered the same letter. For example, when
pronouncing “Julius”, it would instead be “Iulius”,
Nations
which would in turn be pronounced “Yoo-lee-us”.
Aldarin: Ahl-dhar-in Menderin:
• You may come across various diphthongs. The
Dane: Daye-ne Mehn-dher-ihn
most common is “ae”. Pronounce this as you
Emondas: Ee-mohn-dhas Mistveil: Misst-veihl
would “eye”, for example, “consensae” would be
Fyndar: Fihn-dhar Peliox: Peh-lee-ox
pronounced “con-sens-eye” and “Caesar” would
Halthos: Hahl-th-ohs Rymin: R-eye-mihn
be pronounced “keye-sar”. Another common
Jordveil: Yho-rd-vehl Zygarde: Z-eye-garr-de
diphthong is “ei” which is pronounced “ay”.
Jykstrav: Yee-kh-strahv
Lildor: Lihl-dhor

8
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

Introduction to the Aldarin Empire Commerce

CW
“We, Aldarins, stand as a gleaming beacon of prosperity in the hurricane of barbarism which surrounds us.”
Crime and
— Primus Caesar Helios Aldarus giving a speech to his legion before the Battle of Fellen Gorge Punishment

The sprawling grasslands of the southwestern become terrifying figures of awe, rising as immensely Provinces of
Elosian continent thrive under the warming sunlight capable commanders, destructive magi, and skilled Aldarin
of Deos’s ward, tended to by his devoted descendants mercenaries — known as mercyrs.
of the Aldarins. Deep within the throes of deific Periods of
Aldarin
lineage, Aldarin finds itself the teeming epicentre of
modern technology, commerce, and military might. Culture History

Its populace spans a troublesome societal structure

Classes
from a bygone era, with private citizens perpetually The Aldarins represent a rich culture derived from
jostling for power and influence. that of the Roman Republic melded heavily with the
Seen by its citizens as a gilded mountain of fantastical setting of Vynestra. For readers familiar Backgrounds
bountiful culture, by its allies as a stalwart nation with Rome there will be a lot of familiarity in the
of unerring strength, and by its enemies as a devas- Aldarin way of life, though it’s important to remem-
tating war machine hellbent on expansion, Aldarin ber that Aldarin is not a one-to-one likeness of Rome Appendices
commands a powerful presence throughout the and many areas have been adapted to the Vynestra
Medial Plane. Its legions tear through the lands of setting. This culture can be used as a standalone set-
those deemed lesser than their own whilst its magi ting in Vynestra or to modify your own Roman-style
delve into the depths of ancient ruins, uncovering setting to be more magical and fantastical.
long-lost artefacts with which to further press its Politics lies at the core of the Aldarin Empire
arcane research. Aldarin-born emberblood — those alongside the three pillars of religious, military, and
who wield the deific powers of embers — grow to arcane pursuits. Aldarins are passionate about their

9
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

heritage and are immensely opinionated, spouting a Folk who have no direct line to a primordial, at least
wide breadth of viewpoints centred on how they one that may be proved by modern methods, are
think their nation should operate. In this section, we considered barbarus or “barbarian”. Barbarus have
cover the multiple formations of Aldarin culture been widely perceived as outsiders to the empire
alongside the societal structure of the people found throughout the majority of Aldarin history. However,
within the empire. some barbarus such as the Rymish, the Ravidanians,
and the Lildorians have proven themselves worthy of
respect in the eyes of the empire, attaining the status
Inspiration of libertus or “free person”. These free people are
The cultural theme of Aldarin is derived either regarded neutrally or similarly to the amicis
heavily from the Late Republican and Early depending on their people’s relations with Aldarin.
Empire eras of ancient Rome, melded The Rymish, for example, are held in just as high
with aspects of European culture found
regard as the Emondisians, whereas the Ravidanians
towards the tail end of the Age of Discovery.
Alongside many of the Anchor Nations — a
fall under a more neutral light.
collective of advanced allied nations within Religious officials, known as sacerdotes, tend CW
the Medial Plane — Aldarin is on the brink to shrines and temples across the nine provinces.
of a technological revolution. Dusk crystals These priests and priestesses are revered as the divine
— an energy source tapped from the souls followers of the Medial Pantheon, with it forbidden
of phoenixes — are fuelling ever-more to so much as touch a sacerdos without prior consent
industrious uses throughout dusktech on threat of exile or imprisonment. These sacerdotes
machinery, spurring advancements into perform ceremonial rites to the gods, such as enact-
crude yet powerful engines. Trains, airships,
ing animal sacrifice and orchestrating festivals, so
and sturdy seafaring vessels are beginning
to see light in both commercial and military
that the good will of the divine may be bestowed
applications, similar to our own Pre-Industrial upon the Aldarin people. It is within the interests
era with the usage of coal. While dusktech of the Aldarins to maintain the divine favour of as
advancements are an aspect of Vynestra’s many gods as they can under a concept known as
present age, the setting has been designed Pax Deorum or “peace of the gods”. Pax Deorum
in such a way that all dusktech objects and allows the Aldarins to call upon gods they have
vehicles may easily be adapted to Classical favour with, who help protect their empire against
era-friendly alternatives for a more authentic the hostile world which surrounds them. Certain
ancient-style campaign.
regions within Aldarin are blessed by the gods to
the point of becoming holy ground, such as the
Sacrimum of Deveros, where special religious laws
apply. These laws include the banishment of weapons
Born of Gods and magic, as well as the restriction of spilling blood.
CW
Hailing from the direct lineage of Deos, the god- The Aldarins themselves are highly superstitious,
child of Daîthar and Meveril, those born as Aldarins observing omens in everything from the pecking
hold themselves to the lofty heights of the gods as of gryphons to the misalignment of animal entrails.
sun-touched kin. As kindred of Deos, the Aldarins
cannot resist flaunting their wealth and culture Citizenship or Nothing
over those they encounter. While it is not always
Above all else, one’s social standing in the empire CW
in their best interests to do so, this attitude prevails
determines a lot about how one lives, both in quality
all the same, often plunging Aldarin diplomats and
of life and societal expectations. Obtaining citizen-
merchants into hot water with other well-established
ship is the prime focus of many migrants living in
civilisations.
Aldarin, for without citizenship, a vast number of
CW
Religious connections are immensely important
protections, rights, and laws are not granted. On
for social standing within the empire. Folk who
top of this, a general air of caution is given around
show faith from the imperially aligned gods (Deos,
a person should they not be known to the wider
Iora, Quor, and Gw’yth — the Quadrumvirate) find
Aldarin society.
themselves elevated to much higher regard than
Those who do obtain citizenship, however, find
those who do not. Kinships directly descended from
themselves on equal footing with those born Aldarin.
the lineages of primordials, such as the high elven
As such, the empire sees a diverse spread of kins who
Emondisians of Emondas, are considered amicis or
each call themselves “Aldarin”, despite their ancestral
“friends”, adjoined in extensive, millennia-long heri-
kinships stemming from vastly differing lineages.
tage alongside the Aldarins. These amicis are met on
People on the lower end of the social ladder find it
common terms with the Aldarins, seen as equals and
incredibly difficult to attain citizenship, becoming
granted consideration for alliance and citizenship.

10
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

locked in a never-ending cycle of injustice and

rejection from the upper echelons of Aldarin Languages
society. Foreign nationals with enough coinage to “Cheep! Cheep cheep cheep. ...Oh! Sorry, I was
Introduction
bribe their way through the system are observed just talking to my brother, Larken in Cardinese.
with contempt in the eyes of common families Did you know there are a load of different
Introduction
who have been attempting to attain citizenship for languages spoken in Aldarin?” to the
decades, or even centuries. Before the First Medial War, most nations Aldarin
Empire
CW
Typically, citizenship is reinforced through used to speak their own individual language.
word of mouth and social connections rather than The Jyrden spoke Jyrden, the Skaaldblud Aldarin
official documents. One might find themselves spoke Skaald, and the Aldarins spoke Names

eligible to become an Aldarin citizen should enough both Aldarin and Dalaskian. Dalaskian
high-standing citizens claim they are worthy. The is now more commonly referred to as
Old Aldarin and is inspired by real world Social Classes
more influential the allies backing the claim, the
Estruscan, with modern Aldarin serving as
more likely one is to be approved by the legal offices Latin. Old Common was spoken alongside
processing a citizenship application. Once one these languages, mostly by folk from the
Kinships in
the Empire
finds themselves granted status as a citizen, this too Underworld, and has since morphed over
spreads to their immediate family, granting them all time into Common.
the rights of an Aldarin: the Iusdecim (see page 18). Most people within Aldarin speak Festivals
In recent years, citizenship for new members of either Common or Aldarin on a daily
society has been reinforced through the addition of basis. Educated individuals and patricians
a gildum, a small golden coin worn around the neck, occasionally speak Old Aldarin when Sports
attempting to remain secretive or when
stamped with the seal of the imperial family, the
discussing law, as all Aldarins laws are written
person’s name, and dated with the year of citizenship in Old Aldarin. As such, establishments
being granted. This coin serves a dual purpose. seeking to appear upmarket tend to write
Religion

Firstly, it proves one’s standing as a citizen of the their shop names both in Aldarin and Old
empire. Secondly, it pays for the costs of basic funeral Aldarin, while those wishing to appeal to a
rights should one die. Despite the usage of gildum, wider audience will rebrand themselves into Politics

many patricians and prior citizens do not carry Common. Occasionally dialects of Elven and
them, seeing them as the mark of a young lineage Draconic can be heard from Emondisian and
rather than one of a long ancestral line which can be Zygardian visitors to the empire, which are Military
also learned by patricians so that they may
traced back through Aldarin history. Due to this,
formally greet their noble guests. Zygardian
some folk are able to claim false citizenship through Draconic, for example, has been said to Commerce
forgeries or deception, though the punishment for sound like the purring of a nasally dragon.
doing so is that of death. Below are some common phrases
Aldarins say. To sound like a proper Aldarin, Crime and
Military Might pronounce your “v”’s like “w”’s. Punishment

Ave/Salve “Hail!”. A common greeting by

CW
Aldarin didn’t become an empire (and subsequently many throughout the empire. Provinces of
an oligarchic imperial republic) through peaceful Aldarin
Vale “Farewell!”. A polite way to say
negotiations and mercantile ventures — though
goodbye to someone.
these aspects have helped on occasion. The nation Periods of
grew primarily off the back of its armies, expanding Res ad triarios venit “It’s come to the triarii.”. Aldarin
History
The triarii are the rearmost line of legionarii
into the territories of those around them and staking
on the battlefield: the most experienced
claim to foreign lands under the ideals of rightful soldiers of the army. If it’s come to the triarii, Classes
ownership. Aldarin is revered by some and feared it means things aren’t going too well.
by many more due to its legions, a collective of
Ad astra per aspera “To the stars through
loyal, well-armed, well-trained soldiers who operate
hardships.”. Often said when faced with a Backgrounds
throughout both the imperial provinces and abroad. seemingly insurmountable task or some
Almost all citizens are expected to serve some time great burden to overcome.
in the Legions, whether it be for a single military Appendices
Talis qualis “Such as it is.”. Said dismissively
campaign or a short stint in a provincial legion. In
in response to something unfortunate. It can
recent years, however, many of those born as citizens also mean “It is what it is.”.
find themselves able to get away without serving any
time at all, slipping under the net into other profes- Facta, non verba “Deeds, not words.”.
Shouted at politicians by crowds or
sions. This avoidance of military service is looked
used when inferring that a person is
down upon by ardent imperialists, such as those being disingenuous.
from the Revitalist faction, as a sign of cowardice.

11
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Aldarin’s legions do not stay mobilised all year a young age are ushered into further study by the
round. While some Aldarins do have full-time communities around them. It is the desire of every
careers in the Legions, such as guarding key settle- family to have a child study to become a magus at
ments or borders, most are simple farming folk who the prestigious Deveros Arcane University, or one
return to the fields after the campaigning season of its sibling universities throughout the Anchor
is over. Those who do stay in the Legions full time Nations. Better still, joining the Legions to assist
find faster progression through the ranks, typically as a signaler or healing sacerdos places even more
ending their careers either leading a cohort or an glory upon the social standing of an Aldarin family.
entire legion — if they are lucky. Such leadership Becoming not only a magus but also a legionarius
positions are usually exclusive to those of sancte is an extraordinary achievement and one which is
or patrician social status; although with enough readily celebrated. Those who rise as exceptional
work, skill (and a bit of luck), a legionarius from magi stream into the ranks of Aldarin’s imperial
the lower rungs of society may rise to become a arcane body, the Concilium Arcanus Altus, also
prolific commander. known as CAA, furthering both the offensive and
CW
Aldarin diplomats are notoriously terse when defensive strategies put in place to support Aldarin’s
dealing with foreign nations, especially those not military pursuits.
allied with Aldarin itself. There have been numerous Magic seeps into all corners of life within Aldarin.
occasions where a diplomat has walked fearlessly Be it idly enchanted glass ornaments hanging in
into the camp of a zealous opposing army to demand taberna shop fronts, unstable dusktech engines
their surrender. Introductions such as “Our legions powering light water craft, or immense flows
shall fill the baths of Quor’s realm with the blood of of arcane energy streaming through the plane’s
your people lest you fail to lay down arms by sun- waylines. Whatever the root school of magic, the
down!” are often declared shortly after their arrival. Aldarins have an interest in it. The nation observes
These diplomats are either executed on the spot or not only the largest number of magi living within its
laughed out of the camp, though the resulting fate borders out of any other nation on the Medial Plane,
of these armies is almost always the same. They are but it also has the most magical artefacts passing
cut down by the Aldarin legions without a second through its trade routes each year. Patricians hoard
thought and, if the diplomat was killed, then none are powerful enchanted relics in private collections,
spared. No adults, nor children, nor pack animals. As purchased through auctions or black market deals.
brutal as this methodology is, it is an effective form The Concilium Arcanus Altus imports vast quan-
of diplomacy in its own right, showing the abso- tities of spell components for the imperial magi so
lute power that Aldarin exerts. Regions which are that research may be conducted into all manners of
quick to step out of line the moment the provincial magic, perpetually pushing the bounds of knowledge
governor’s back is turned tend to think twice about in each of the arcane schools. Even areas such as
rebellion lest they bring the wrath of the Legions Void magic, which is banned for study across the
CW
upon them. War hostages are occasionally taken Anchor Nations, is researched in secret behind the
to ensure good behaviour from recently captured walls of the Deverosian World Anchor by a collective
territories, with these hostages brought up within of trusted, powerful magi.
Aldarin society to later serve as diplomats to peoples
of their birthplace. In recent years, however, such Politics, Politics, Politics
acts of war crime have seen a steep decline as wider
It is impossible to walk past a single taberna or shop
diplomatic treaties, such as the Anchor Nations, have
front in any Aldarin settlement without overhearing
taken hold across the Medial Plane. Despite this, the
the political gripes of a disgruntled citizen. Whether
Aldarin symbol of a gilded gryphon holding a sword
it be land reforms, grain doles, or legionarii move-
and an olive branch sparks both fear and anger in a
ments, the public has an opinion on everything
number of regions where Aldarin’s historic brutality
and will gladly share it with the world should the
has not been forgotten.
topic even be slightly hinted toward. For the casual
Aldarin, these conversations over political matters
Attuned to the Arcane form the pinnacle of culture. For those foreign
Talents in the field of magic, whether it be inherent, to the concepts of institutionalised daily politics,
gifted, or learned, are held as high blessings in the however, they can very rapidly devolve into over-
Aldarin Empire. Heads are tilted down in respect whelming boredom.
whenever a magus passes on the street. Resources The local politics of a province and its regional
for arcane learning are readily accessible to the governors are often dwarfed by the goings on of the
public, funded by patrician families such as the capital, where Aldarin’s two major political bodies
Baradinus’. Those who show magical aptitude at operate: the Consentium and Consentium Minor.

12
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

The Consentium represents the patrician and sancte even to help undermine it. Xythian emberblood, for
social classes — the ruling oligarchs — while the example, are regularly approached by the Umbra
Consentium Minor stands for all the other social Syndicate who seek to acquire the skills of those
Introduction
classes, forming the wider public perspective. more inclined towards shadow and darkness. The CW
While both play a role in the flow of Aldarin law, the Ebyr’sol seek out powerful Deosian cultists to fall
Introduction
Consentium Minor has final say over any bills passed into their ranks, with those who they deem loyal to the
into law. That is unless a state of emergency, known enough sent back to Quthar to be gifted an ember Aldarin
Empire
as Alerium Martius or martial law, comes into effect. by the corrupted Deosian demigods of the Xwar.
Should Alerium Martius occur, however, the passing Mantels — those who may act as vessels to the gods Aldarin
of new laws is likely the last topic on the minds of — are greater in number within Aldarin than in Names

the people for Aldarin itself would truly be teetering other nations, though are still few and far between,
upon the brink of collapse. primarily contained to the Province of Deveros Social Classes
Despite the term “empire” still lingering in where the Concilium Arcanus Altus can keep a close
Aldarin’s title, the imperial family plays little impor- eye on them.
tance in the running of the nation. It is simply the Kinships in

role of the emperor to stamp a seal of approval onto Clothing the Empire

all bills to be passed into law. Aldarin is realistically

It is widely believed by Aldarins that a sense of innate
ruled by the Consentium and Consentium Minor, Festivals
fashion courses through the veins of every true
with politicians falling into three distinct major
Aldarin, notably more so the higher up the social
factions: the Revitalists, the Reformists, and the
ladder one finds themselves. It is as if wealth and
Capitans. Where the Revitalists seek to reinstate the Sports
status themselves dictate an inherent eye for style.
position of the emperor and restore imperial rule
Hairstyles, jewellery, and makeup are pushed further
entirely, the Reformists instead strive to improve
into the extremes each decade by fashionable social-
the systems of power available to the public people. Religion
ites from all walks of life, inspired by the cultures of
These two factions clash on the regular, with their
tourists visiting the city. Generally, a greater variety
supporters commonly taking to the streets to fight
of colour upon one’s clothing denotes a wealthier
out their differing opinions. The Capitans are con- Politics
individual, with much of Aldarin’s social status
sidered by most Aldarins as somewhat of a joke,
relying on grand displays of wealth. The wealthier
filled with patrician troublemakers and party-goers,
you can appear, the more others wish to socialise Military
despite their sometimes reasonable suggestions
with you, and the higher status you are seen to be.
for improving welfare across the poorest regions
Even the most basic forms of clothing, such as tunics
of the empire.
and sandals, can be found adorned with small clasps, Commerce
fabric patterns, or minor wood and metal trinkets
Emberblood as their owners try to seem more flush with coin
Crime and
Embers are a sign of powerful deity-born lineages, than they actually are. As with most Aldarin fashion, Punishment
those who have inadvertently become blessed by the however, this custom of having trinkets woven into
gods, or those who have worked hard enough to be one’s clothes is stolen from that of another culture: Provinces of
granted a portion of the gods’ divine souls. In a world Jykstrav. Similarly, countless fabric patterns and Aldarin
in which the gods’ influence is waning, such gifts are modern fashions trends are extracted directly from
rare, well respected, and highly sought after. Aldarin South Rymin and the famed tailors of Longbreach, Periods of
Aldarin
is no exception in the plane-wide rat race to control with Aldarin tailors mimicking their iconic style. History
as many prolific emberblood as possible before the Shoulder capes, asymmetrical tunics, excessive
powers of the weakening gods above falter. A strong shoulder decorations, and feather-bound jewellery
Classes
nation needs emberblood to support it, lest it fall are all assimilated from other civilisations. These
behind the influence of its enemies. styles are repackaged as avant-garde and worn by
A sizable portion of Aldarin’s emberblood are those who can afford to keep up with the ever-shift- Backgrounds
centralised around mercyr guilds and the Legions: ing tide of the Deverosian vogue.
those who face life threatening danger on a regular The only true piece of clothing which has survived
basis. Due to the path of scattered soul threads unhindered by this warping tide of cultural theft is Appendices
following Duskfall and the Aldarin’s focal worship the toga — a long woollen sheet wrapped around
of the Quadrumvirate deities, the most common the body of the wearer. From the toga virilis, a basic
embers found within the empire are those associated white-grey toga worn by citizens of the empire, to
with Deos, Iora, Meliam, and Quor; though only the toga praetexta, a toga with a coloured border
by a small majority. Emberblood tied to specific signifying political allegiance, the toga stands as
deities are headhunted by organisations seeking to a cultural anchor of fashion for the Aldarins. The
utilise their talents for the benefit of the empire, or toga, along with tunics and stolas, are worn with

13
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

leather-strapped sandals which provide support ever-greater feats of architectural splendour. These
for the ankle when traversing treacherous terrain. minerals also allowed the formation of both decora-
While all these items of clothing provide the basis of tive and supporting pillars, which are now prevalent
fashion within Aldarin’s rural regions, the Aldarins within temples and major political structures.
of the more populated, well-connected settlements At the turn of the 6th Century, the mud brick
find their clothing varying more and more into a buildings had almost all been demolished — aside
blend of foreign cultures — especially in citizens from a select few cultural relics. In their place came
whose ancestry has stemmed from another nation. renovations laced with limestone and clay brick,
Those of Jyrden ancestry, for example, tend towards much sturdier building materials, alongside Aldarin
wearing decorated torcs and sewn trousers, while concrete — an incredibly hardy substance once dried
those of Mistvellian origin more commonly wear — and marble for the more extravagant structures
darker shades of dyes which are mistaken as owned by the wealthiest members of society. Oak
clothes of mourning by imperials. One such piece framing was used to form the foundations of more
is the toga pulla, a black toga typically only worn modern builds, which were then filled with whatever
during a period of mourning, but also donned by earthen material was deemed most appropriate and
wealthy Mistvellian merchants attempting to fit into affordable. These buildings are typically topped with
Aldarin culture. terracotta tiles or left flat roofed, with drainage sys-
tems allowing for water to flow from them with ease.
Architecture Windows are usually left open without glass, to be
closed only by wooden shutters. Those with enough
During the early Dalaskian era of Deveros’s history
coin to spare might elect for glass windows. This is
around the 1st Century, where the cultural identity
especially the case for upmarket storefronts along
of the new Aldarin people was still in its infancy,
the major commercial thoroughfares who wish to
primitive methods of construction were the go-to.
impress their customers. The technology to forge
Sun-dried mud bricks and crude wooden frames
glass has improved as the centuries have passed,
formed the prime feature of many-a-building, hastily
with the material becoming ever-more abundant.
constructed to grant shape to the dwellings of the
Amethyst glass — a method of weaving amethyst
capital’s early denizens. As time progressed, other
shards into molten glass — sits alongside stained
minerals such as marble, limestone, and clay became
glass as the ultimate show of opulence, readily seen
more readily available alongside advancements
throughout the richer northern districts. Typically,
in both mining and transportation technologies.
the further one strays from the provincial capitals,
Winches and wooden cranes assisted in the con-
the less traditionally “Aldarin” the architecture is.
struction of buildings, allowing the Aldarins to create

Modern Aldarin
Fashion

14
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Aldarin Names
strikes confusion when it comes to the political title
Aldarin Naming
Introduction
of “Primus” with some Aldarins inevitably holding
both the title “Primus” and the given name “Primus”, Introduction
Conventions becoming Primus Primus. to the
Aldarin
Empire
Aldarin names are formed of two to three compo- Personal Names Aldarin
nents: the given name (the praenomen), the family
The personal name is unique to Aldarin culture. Names
or clan name (the nomen), and the personal name
It represents a placard of self-promotion which an
(the cognomen). The given and family names are
Aldarin might give to themselves in the way of a
always present, with one or more personal names Social Classes
nickname they are enamoured with or to boast some
usually present.
achievement. This is the name they are most regu-
larly addressed as by people from outside their close
Given and Family Names friend group or family. A personal name is tagged
Kinships in
the Empire

The given name and family name are found in most on the end of the family name, and an Aldarin can
societies across Vynestra, for example: Lucius Nero. have as many personal names as they like, though Festivals
In Aldarin, these names identify the individual for convenience they rarely go beyond four. For
person and their related family. The given name example, one of the current primi, Caesar Helios
is only typically spoken by close friends or family, Aldarus (see page 64), was born to the Helios family, Sports
and a third personal name is used instead as a pub- taking on their name, but became so acclaimed
lic-facing nickname — though this has started to as a military leader that he changed his personal
fall out of fashion following Aldarin’s interactions name from “Hadrian” to “Aldarus” in honour of the Religion

with other cultures since the First Medial War. It was empire. An Aldarin might also acquire a personal
often tradition for children to take on their parent’s name when adopted by a family, a commonality in
given names, which led to confusion outside of the Aldarin culture. They may take on the given and Politics

family’s close social circles. This tradition too has family name of the adoptive family head, as well as
faded over the past two centuries, though some some traditional personal name associated with that
Military
patrician families still carry it on. family so that the family name may be carried on.
Some folk from lower classes are granted a noble
family’s name as their given name at birth, for exam-
Commerce
ple: Helios Nero. This is done to confuse and subvert
Adoption in Aldarin
expectations, sometimes tricking the unaware into
believing that this non-patrician person is actually “I was adopted, did ya know? Me full name is Crime and
‘Fluttero Helios Basiolum Cardin’. That’s right, Punishment
part of a patrician family, when in actuality they
I’m a Helios! If the family head ever dies off, I’ll
are not. Some children are named in order of be there to carry on the lineage.”
their birth, going from Primus, meaning “First”, to Provinces of

Secundus, Tertius, Quartius, etc. This occasionally Familial death is forever a looming threat to Aldarin
an Aldarin family, especially when it comes
to patricians. A family must carry on its name Periods of
and outlive history. All too many patrician Aldarin
History
houses have died through war, with the few
who remain turning to adoption to support
their lineage. Should a family line dwindle, Classes
the family head might search for adoptive
children who they can trust to carry on the
family name. These children are typically not Backgrounds
children at all, but fully grown adults who
share the ideals of the family head. They
are adopted into the ranks of the family as Appendices
the next heirs to the family line, granted
permission to hold the family insignia, and
are otherwise treated as full blood members
of the household. As the centuries have gone
by, this practice becomes more and more
common — not only by patrician households
but common households too.

15
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Common Given Names, Masculine

Acclesian, Aelius, Albus, Aldarus, Alserius, Altus,
Provincial Naming Traditions
Atilius, Augustus, Bestius, Blasius, Bradis, Brutus, Throughout the vast breadth of the Aldarin
Caecilius, Caesar, Caius, Calexius, Cassius, Cicero, Empire, one may stumble across dozens of
Decimus, Denari, Domitius, Fabinus, Felix, Flavius, unique naming traditions born from local
Gaius, Gnaeus, Hadrian, Havio, Herminus, Ivoris, customs of cultures absorbed into Aldarin
Janus, Julius, Kalenus, Kildarius, Leo, Loxis, Lucanos, culture over time.
Lucius, Marcellus, Marcus, Nonis, Octavius, Bullae A bulla (pl. bullae) is a small amulet,
Petronius, Publius, Quintus, Remus, Regulis, Rigoro, charm, or trinket given to a child born within
Rufus, Rysio, Septimus, Sextus, Spurius, Tacitus, the Province of Deveros upon reaching their
9th day of life. The bulla is gifted by the
Titus, Tullius, Valerian, Vincinus, Vospicus
parents to the child and the name of the
Common Given Names, Feminine child is engraved within the bulla. The bulla
Aelia, Aemilia, Alyssia, Augusta, Bestia, Blandina, is traditionally worn around the neck, carried
Caecilia, Calia, Camilla, Claudia, Cornelia, Decima, at all times, and serves similarly to a gildum
in that it can be used to identify an Aldarin
Divelana, Domitia, Drusilla, Fabrica, Favella, Flavia,
citizen. When the child eventually matures
Fulvia, Gaia, Gratiana, Helgaria, Hermina, Helvia, into an adult and seeks to become married,
Iliora, Iora, Ivora, Julia, Kalena, Kildaria, Livia, the bulla is gifted to a temple of a demigod
Lucilla, Lucretia, Marcella, Nerva, Nona, Octavia, and is blessed by that demigod. As such, it
Ophelia, Penelopa, Priscilla, Quintina, Rufina, is not uncommon to witness Aldarin-born
Rucia, Sabina, Septima, Sexta, Titiana, Tullia, Unica, demigods wearing bullae from their belts
Valeria, Vespia, Vynilla from those they have personally given
blessings to. This blessing is passed on to the
Common Given Names, Neutral marrying partners, protecting them from
Adrianos, Agrippa, Atheanas, Ausus, Berilus, harm and ensuring a happy and fulfilling
Ceruliam, Cuscua, Deviliam, Esmerian, Fausta, marriage for all involved.
Felicum, Gyros, Kestrus, Laelius, Lothus, Martina, Resentia Resentia (pl. resentiae) are small
Medrivius, Musania, Nello, Nindrea, Opiter, Sertor, tattoos given to children from a select
Servium, Sobrinus, Sovina, Tacitan, Tunilius, number of townships within the Baldera
Vexia, Vibius province. A resentia is traditionally placed
upon the skin of the left sole of the child
Family Names, Common by a sacerdos in their second month of life,
Adjutor, Alcarius, Alverni, Aquillus, Aurum, marking their name upon them permanently.
Austerius, Avantino, Brava, Caecillius, Cambrius, It is believed by these communities that the
Catulla, Claristra, Claudius, Craeus, Divestus, name is a powerful construct and to lose
Etrepsum, Fenestra, Fragala, Gaius, Gaeolus, one’s name is to lose oneself entirely. To
Gaverius, Gegania, Gordistrus, Horatius, Iorani, protect from nefarious entities who might
Labo, Lartia, Levico, Loritela, Lilicus, Listellus, attempt to steal one’s name, the name is
marked upon the body so that the soul
Maxima, Mestellian, Mestrius, Nalitum, Nautica,
of the child is forever bound to them and
Neos, Nero, Nitudus, Numicius, Opheren, Perecia, them alone. Such tactics have been used to
Petranus, Pinarius, Raela, Rosina, Sestius, Sulpicius, counter the tricks of fae, in particular those
Travestrum, Valentino, Valerius, Vencini, Verado, remaining within the forests of Baldera
Vetrian, Vetranius, Vitalum following the Second Medial War.
Family Names, Noble Demigod Naming Similarly to how Aldarins
Agracus, Alventius, Appian, Astentium, Averni, name their children after patrician families to
Baradinus, Branar, Catalina, Caesar, Conevitus, garner acclaim, some Aldarins from Salenti
take this one step further. The names of
Corsita, Deosia, Divestria, Eborius, Hastellian,
famed demigods are given to their child as
Helios, Kaecus, Laos, Laurelis, Mestrius, Orshari, their praenomen, believed to draw upon
Pernicus, Piso, Pius, Siccia, Trimestri, Vespillo, the powerful soul threads of that demigod,
Viator, Vorim, Vynestrus ushering in prosperity and positivity for the
child. Such soul connections to demigods
have yet to be proven true but this tradition
is upheld regardless.

16
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Social Classes of Aldarin

CW
Social class in the Aldarin Empire defines everything Individual Wealth. An individual can also amass
Introduction
about what you can do and how you are perceived wealth for themselves, which may be used to define
by others. How you present yourself, how you speak, their personal lifestyle and social standing. They may
Introduction
and with which individuals you socialise with takes rise to a higher social standing than their family if to the
centre stage when determining one’s position their individual wealth places them into a higher Aldarin
Empire
within Aldarin. social class when not combined with the familial
While kinship might gauge some form of initial wealth. Citizens who do not have families within the Aldarin
perspective, social status is what truly matters. empire may determine their social standing based on Names

This societal structure, whilst somewhat stable, has their individual wealth alone.
numerous flaws to it — notably the funnelling of Social Classes
wealth upwards to the upper classes and the difficulty Ancestry
of obtaining citizenship. Many find themselves stuck
Anyone who is born into a family of a social class
in the lower social classes, unable to ever break free Kinships in
automatically becomes a member of that social class. the Empire
from the shackles of societal oppression. As such,
For example, a child born into a sancte family will be
there has been a push to move away from the rigid
considered a sancte for life, unless the family itself
structure laid down by Aldarin’s ancestors, though Festivals
moves into a different social class or if the individual
many still cling fervently to the restrictions of
performs some major act of disorder to shift them
social class.
out of their social class. In this example, the indi-
Sports
vidual’s wealth has only a minor influence on their
Determining social class, allowing them to progress upwards more
readily than downwards. Religion

Social Class People born from outside of the empire may fall
into various social classes automatically based on
their position within their origin nation — if they
While social classes are defined blocks of people Politics
were a noble or not, for instance — and their nation’s
within Aldarin, the lines between each class is
present standing with Aldarin. For example, Anchor
somewhat blurred with many folk falling between
Nation members are treated as part of the artifex Military
the cracks of the system.
class whilst non-allied nationals are typically con-
There are three main aspects of defining what
sidered part of the otium class.
social class a person falls into: wealth, ancestry, and
Commerce
social renown. Not all these requirements must
be met to slip into a social class but provide good
Social Renown
guidelines as to who may or may not reach a certain Social renown is how one is perceived throughout Crime and
Punishment
standing within society. Aldarin society by those around them. A merchant
may be immensely wealthy and born into a high social
Wealth class but have a low social renown, which places them Provinces of
Aldarin
into a lower social class. Social renown is determined
Wealth is a major contributing factor when deter-
by the supporting words of those around you. If
mining the social class of an individual. This can Periods of
friends of a high social class claim someone to be of Aldarin
be calculated in one of two ways: familial wealth
good character and state how “Aldarin” they are, then History
and individual wealth. Wealth does not necessarily
they shall be considered by others as of reputable social
mean the exact sum of gold an individual or family
renown. Acting towards the benefits of the empire and Classes
owns, but instead the total sum of all their assets
engaging in traditionally Aldarin activities — such
as well as their apparent wealth — how opulent
as festivals, politics and wearing Aldarin clothing —
their lifestyle is. If someone lives in a large villa
shall garner one positive social renown. Going against Backgrounds
and sponsors public events, they would be seen as
social norms, hanging out with miscreants or crimi-
wealthier than someone who lives in a small insula
nals, and actively straying from Aldarin traditions will
and is conservative with their gold.
negatively impact one’s social renown. Appendices
Familial Wealth. Members of a family may pool
NPCs may treat PCs differently based on their
their wealth when determining their social class. This
social renown. PCs with a high social renown will be
pool of wealth must remain stable for the family to be
welcomed into shops and tabernae with a smile by
considered of that social class, often reflected by their
those of higher social classes. The GM may choose
lifestyle and expenses. For example, a family who
to track the party’s social renown behind the screen
comes into a large sum of gold does not immediately
by noting down the outcome of interactions with
rise in social class unless they can sustain their wealth
imperial officials and prolific members of society
and the lifestyle of a higher social class.
who may support them.
17
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Aldarin Citizenship There have been accounts of folk from foreign CW

nations wrangling their citizenship status by carefully
CW
Without the label of “Aldarin citizen” one is doomed manipulating the social circles of Aldarin society,
to toil within the realms of mediocrity. Aldarin citi- convincing increasingly higher status members
zenship is beholden as an all-encompassing gift to of their rights until it became all but official in the
inhabitants of the Aldarin Empire, with those born eyes of the people. Such transgressions are heavily
of Aldarin lineage, or simply a parent granted citi- punished should they be unearthed, however, with
zenship, blessed with its benefits. These benefits are culprits facing exile or even execution. In recent
known as the Iusdecim or the Ten Rights. With these years, citizenship has been more readily supported
rights, one can expect to be fully welcomed within through official documentation — though a number
Aldarin society, observed on equal footing as all of patrician families see themselves above such
others with citizenship of the same social class. It menial obligations and choose to go without.
matters not what ancestral kinship one comes from
as long as the status of citizen hovers above them. Obtaining Citizenship
To attain citizenship as a foreign national, as opposed CW
to through inheritance, one must meet certain criteria.
The Iusdecim
Vote The right to vote in the public
For many this is a stint of service in either the Legions
assemblies and to elect new leaders for the or within Concilium Arcanus Altus (the arcane branch
Consentium Minor. of Aldarin’s military), or serving under a patron for a
number of years. Service to the empire may also be
Stand for Office The right to stand for public
or civil office, such as in the Consentium performed through clerical work in a temple, mercyr
Minor or in any of the imperial offices. work in a mercyr guild, or other general services such
as working as a scribe, a lawyer, an actor, a bard, or a
Progression The right to be promoted in
personal assistant. The stint of time required in these
the ranks of the Legions beyond that of
a principa and in the ranks of Concilium roles vastly depends on the nation one is coming from,
Arcanus Altus beyond that of a magus. with those from libertus (free) nations typically seeing
around 5 years service, whilst those from barbarus
Immunity The right of immunity from certain
(hostile) nations seeing up to 25 years of service. At
laws and rules, such as choosing exile in
favour of execution. the end of this period, an official writ must be signed
by a consensa — a member of the Consentium — of
Property The right to own property and land
rank progildor or higher to grant the individual citizen
within the empire. Those without this right
may still rent.
status. This consensa is considered the citizen’s patron
for the next two years whilst they settle into the life of
Legality The right to a fair trial in court, a citizen in the empire if they do not already have a
to sue, to be sued, to represent oneself in
patron. Nobility, or those with vast swathes of wealth,
court, and to appeal decisions made by the
magistrates of the court. are able to pay themselves into citizenship instead,
skipping the required period of service. These tributes
Perpetuity The right to remain a citizen, even are paid directly into the Imperial Bank of Saleen in
if one moves outside of the empire.
Deveros and must be observed by one of the gildors
Family The right to grant effective managing the empire’s funds that year. New citizens
citizenship to one’s immediate family and to beyond 1010 PDS are also granted a gildum, a small
legally marry within the empire.
engraved gold coin used to prove identity and pay for
Humanity The right to be treated with funeral rights.
respect and dignity. There are three other forms of citizenship status
Death The right to a proper burial within beyond full citizenship: amicis, libertus, and barbarus.
ground consecrated by Estioc. Amicis (pl. Amici). Close friends or allies of
the empire, usually related to the descendants of
primordial deities. These folk are welcomed into
This inclusivity is supported both through written
the empire as equals to the Aldarins. The amici are
documents, such as seals, writs, gildum (stamped
granted all rights of the Iusdecim, apart from voting
coins), and official governmental letters, as well as
and standing for office. Full citizenship can typically
word of mouth. If other Aldarin citizens call you a
be claimed with ease by those seen as amici. First
citizen, then you are perceived as a citizen by those
generation amici may rise to the sancte social class,
around you. In particular, one may be taken under
though may not actively partake in Aldarin politics
the wing of another citizen, known as a patron,
without first obtaining citizenship.
who gives guidance and work in exchange for food,
Amicis Nations: Emondas, Zygarde, Kishradam
money, loyalty, and eventual citizenship.
(not Quthar)

18
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Libertus (pl. Liberti). Ranging from strong allies on familial heritage or service to the empire, gaining
to neutral parties, these folk are welcomed into the the same benefits as those born Aldarin. A Jyrden
empire warmly. Depending on the disposition of the travelling in from Jykstrav with no knowledge of the
Introduction
person’s origin nation, varying rights are granted. For Aldarin language would be considered a vagnata,
example, the Rymish are granted all rights bestowed for example. A cleric or paladin may not have a lot
Introduction
to the amicis, whilst folk from Dane see only the of wealth but will be respected within society with to the
rights of progression, humanity, and death — the a high social renown as a religious figure, so might Aldarin
Empire
three most fundamental rights. Citizenship can be start within the praesta class. A rogue or warlock
claimed by the liberti through service to the empire. may be tied to criminal groups or chthonic cults, Aldarin
First generation liberti may not rise beyond the finding themselves shunned into the otium or even Names

praestae social class. the vagnata classes. It is up to the GM to discuss with

Libertus Nations: Lildor, South Rymin, Jordveil their players where they believe the starting social Social Classes
Isle, Giraré, Vorien Empire, Mistveil, Qutharian class is for a PC, which may shift over the course of
Empire, Xhaolo, Tak’huut, Dane. a campaign. There is no hard ruling for where a PC
Barbarus (pl. Barbari). These nations are seen falls on the social ladder as it is highly subjective to Kinships in
the Empire
as “barbarians”: folk whose cultures drastically the context of their background and home nation.
differ from those of the Aldarins. Widely observed It is recommended that, for the first time playing
as unruly or troublesome due to their differing in Deveros, all PCs start in the artifex class for a Festivals
cultural mannerisms, barbari can come across as balanced experience and to not focus too heavily on
strange to those born in the heart of Aldarin. These social classes while both the players and the GM
folk are typically not granted any of the Iusdecim, familiarise themselves with the city. Sports
aside from the right to a proper burial, which is held
more out of superstition rather than honour. Some
barbari do see limited rights, such as a handful of CW
Boundaries and Inclusion Religion

sects belonging to the Fyndarians who are granted You may not wish to include the barbarus
the rights of death, humanity, progression, and standing in your campaign due to the
sometimes property. Citizenship can eventually be ostracised nature of gameplay that could Politics
transpire. To do so, move the nations listed
claimed by barbari through extended service to the
as barbarus to a libertus standing. It is
empire. First generation barbari may not rise beyond especially important to communicate to Military
the artifex social class. your players around these areas of the game
Barbarus Nations: Menderin, Jykstrav, Halthos, and to include ample safety tools, such
Fyndar, Peliox, North Rymin. as lines and veils. Should any players feel
Commerce
uncomfortable with this form of social bias it
is important to discuss this during a session
The Social Classes zero and to not include any form of social
ostracism unless all players at the table are
Crime and
Punishment
happy for it to be present.
Determining PC Social Class Provinces of
Aldarin
Players should keep track of their social class over the
CW
course of a campaign. To determine a PC’s starting Patrician (pl. Patricians)
Periods of
social class, look at their citizenship status, their Formed of Aldarin’s exclusive elite, the patricians are Aldarin
starting wealth, starting class, and background. the wealthiest and most affluent of all the empire’s History

A PC born Aldarin will automatically hold full cit- citizens. One is born a patrician, not made, with the
izenship and cannot dip lower than the otium class. sancte class being the highest a common family can Classes
Other kinships may have attained citizenship based hope to rise to under normal circumstances. The

Social Class Table Backgrounds

Name Common Name Individual Wealth Familial Wealth Monthly Living Costs Social Renown
Patrician Noble Over 50,000 gp Over 200,000 gp Over 1,000 gp Very High Appendices

Sancte Knight 25,000 – 49,999 gp 50,000 – 199,999 gp 500 – 999 gp High

Praesta Respected 1,000 – 24,999 gp 3,000 – 49,999 gp 50 – 499 gp Medium-High
Artifex Worker 10 – 999 gp 50 – 2999 gp 5 – 49 gp Medium
Otium Unskilled 1 – 9 gp 5 – 49 gp 1 – 4 gp Low
Vagnata Vagrant Fewer than 1 gp Fewer than 5 gp Fewer than 1 gp Very Low
Servus Nameless None None None Nonexistent

19
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

only way to slip into the patrician class is through

marriage, which is often looked upon unfavour-
ably by the elders of a patrician house. Whilst not
all patricians aspire to success, instead simply
upkeeping (or even dragging through the mud) the
reputations of their families, a large number take a
stand as politicians within the Consentium. These
patricians use their vast wealth to secure a solid
education for their children, commonly taught by
other experienced patricians who have served in
the Legions or Concilium Arcanus Altus, who then
go on to become the new leaders of the empire as
legitors or primi.
Almost all patrician families manage large
commercial enterprises of their own, provid-
ing growth to dozens of professions and
thousands of jobs to the lower classes.
These businesses operate loosely
within the law, with the patricians
slyly adjusting troublesome laws to
benefit either themselves or friends
within the upper echelons of society.
These social cliques gather under
high society clubs, secretive assem-
blies, and political guilds, working
cohesively to push some agenda or
mutual interest.
The patricians are a dwindling class
in the empire, with many of the older fam-
ilies having long passed into obscurity.
Families who straddled the precipice of
extinction following the bloody Second
Medial War have slowly met an end throughout
the last three centuries, with the deaths of their
children during the Acclesian and Renavic wars
marking a definitive end to their bloodline. For
this reason, most presently ruling patricians
seek to have as many children as possible — be
it through birth or adoption — so that they may
expand their bloodline out as far as they can,
simultaneously increasing their influence and
decreasing the risk of familial extinction. It
is not uncommon for patrician families to
hold numerous ancestral lines, each living in
separate houses within a city or spread out
across the provinces.
Patricians are formally educated by private
tutors within their villas and estates, with the
eldest child typically leaning into military
strategy, the second eldest into the arcane,
the third into religion, and all others
encouraged into commercial or military
pursuits. Those raised as patricians are
very literate, usually able to speak, read, and
write fluent Common and Old Aldarin, as
well as Elven and Draconic, the languages
of Aldarin’s closest allies.

20
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Sancte (pl. Sanctes) Praesta (pl. Praestae)
The second class defined under “nobility” with the The praestae are typically well educated people,
ability to stand for office in the Consentium, sanctes affluent in their craft and heavily involved in the
Introduction
are highly respected magi, legionarii, or government greater scope of Aldarin’s commercial, religious, and
officials whose excellence in their field has granted military pursuits. Commonly found to be owners
Introduction
them great renown. One can either be born into of profitable businesses or industrious ventures, to the
a sancte family or alternatively, one can become praestae provide artisanal jobs for the lower classes Aldarin
Empire
elevated to the sancte class as a novus nobilis (new through these means. While a sizable chunk of
noble) through acceptance by the Consentium (see praestae are master artisans or wealthy merchants, Aldarin
Novi Nobiles on page 57). Praesta who are popular others fall into higher military offices throughout the Names

enough within Aldarin society may make an appli- Legions and Concilium Arcanus Altus, commanding
cation to stand for election in the Consentium, and an air of respect around them. Some fall into the Social Classes
if this is approved, are automatically elevated as a religious realm of sacerdotes and sovigals who seek
sancte. This status lasts for the duration of their elec- the betterment of the communities they support.
tive period and, in the event of a successful election, Any common family with an expertise in a Kinships in
the Empire
the status becomes permanent for the individual as profitable specialist craft belongs to this social class,
well as spreading to their immediate family. with a handful grasping onto aspirations of elevating
Haruspex of Concilium Arcanus Altus and hydro- themselves higher and involving themselves within Festivals
photes of the Legions are two of the most common the political whirlwind that is Deverosian politics.
military ranks to become elevated into sanctes, Many however seek to stay out of the clutches of
though it is not unheard of for lesser ranks to reach political life, not wishing to drag themselves in the Sports
this height too. One such famous case was that of problematic limelight that such duties cast upon
Acclesian Alventius (see page 111), who stood as their families. There are no particular professions
a principa of the Legions and an opulatus in the tied to the praesta class, with families encompassed Religion

Consentium Minor. Historically the sancte class under its umbrella finding themselves as the most
referred to “knights” of the Aldarin Kingdom who affluent in their profession. This can range from
owned land on behalf of a patrician family and might legendary map makers to wealthy farmers, from his- Politics

have led a small army. toric vintners to popular gladiators. The praestae are
Those who are born into the sancte class tend predominantly literate in Common and Old Aldarin,
Military
to have a warped perspective on the lower classes, being able to fluently speak both, though some may
seeing them as holding equal capability to succeed lack the ability to read and write in Old Aldarin.
within the empire as themselves — an observance
Artifex (pl. Artifex) Commerce
that is simply not true. Most sanctes hold an extensive
Non-specialist craftsmen, farmers, tailors, bakers,
network of allies and business partners supporting
and smiths are amongst a handful of professions
their ventures, with vast swathes of wealth arriving Crime and
found within the artifex class. Artifex typically hold Punishment
into their coffers each year, something the lower
jobs involving some form of moderately skilled
classes lack. Not only this, but the sancte class as a
manual craft and own small family houses some-
whole owns a huge portion of the empire’s real estate, Provinces of
where within the empire, working arduously in their Aldarin
renting it out to the lower classes in exchange for
remit to make ends meet. The lucky few of the otium
labour or gold. Folk from lower classes tend to work
class who gain an apprenticeship in a skill or craft Periods of
in the businesses of sanctes and patricians, seeking Aldarin
are eventually able to move up into the realms of
to gain skills and wealth to allow them to progress History
the artifex, seeing slightly improved quality of life
up the chain.
and better meals. The line between which crafts are
The sanctes are highly educated people, usually Classes
deemed more “praestae” and which are deemed more
versed in Common and Old Aldarin, as well as a
“artifex” is a fine one, which varies from province
handful of foreign languages. This knowledge
to province. For example, a talented smith may be
extends outwards to military strategy, arcane lit- Backgrounds
seen as part of the praestae in Baldera, where skilled
erature, political affairs, and economic processes,
smithies are a valuable asset to the Legions, but
allowing them to influence regions of Aldarin
only as part of the artifex in Deveros, where there
society where they are most well versed. Nobles Appendices
are hundreds of smithies vying for renown within
from other Anchor Nations, as well as the nobility
the capital.
of South Rymin, Lildor, and Jordveil Isle, may easily
Numerous smaller merchants, courtesans, and
acquire sancte status following successful citizen-
legionarii fall under the umbrella of artifex, com-
ship approval.
monly those who do not aspire to much outside of
their chosen profession and seek to simply support
their families. Artifex are almost always citizens of

21
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

the empire, owning some form of land or building, congregate under the piers of The Channelways
or renting when it comes to more densely crowded where the tide is unable to reach them, forming
regions such as the provincial capitals. Some highly pseudo-shelters and walkways of their own under
trained servants and labourers are observed under the boardwalks. These spiral further underground
this class, typically those who lead numerous otium into pseudo-settlements such as The Skagway
under the employ of a sancte or patrician. Artifex (U18). A handful of these makeshift shelters link to
are usually semiliterate, able to read and write basic the Crypt Stalls (U14), with vagnatae occasionally
Common. A few artifex would understand Old disappearing, kidnapped by a rogue slaver to be sold
Aldarin words and idioms, but would rarely be able as a servus on the black market. As war rages on in
to construct full sentences. the north, refugees find themselves travelling on
wagons southwards enroute to the capital. Here,
CW
Otium (pl. Otium)
they become lost in the sprawling metropolis with
Otium are often used as unskilled labour by busi-
nowhere else to turn as they are drowned in a ruth-
nesses around the empire: a cheaper alternative to
less social hierarchy of which they were never even
the more respected and trained artifex class. The
given a chance.
unloading of cargo, the dredging of sand and refuse,
While the majority of vagnatae have fallen into the
or the picking of grapes in the vineyards are some of
social class through misfortune or lack of support,
the many tasks the otium find themselves tasked with
others are cast unto it for the acts they perform
in exchange for pitiful pay and basic shelter. Brothel
upon society. Thieves and drug dealers fall under
workers, farm labourers, dock workers, servants,
the shadier realm of vagabond, seen as corrupters
wagoneers. All these fall under the class of otium,
of society and a hair’s breadth away from landing
offering a basic physical service of some kind.
in prison. Addicts too fall unto the vagnata class,
While otium are seen as barely above vagnatae,
those who have given in to the allures of opiates and
they serve a vastly more important role, forming
stimulants to the loss of all dignity, scrounging for
the core backbone to the economy of the Aldarin
coin on street corners. Deveros’s Sala Sel’Kildarak
Empire. Without the otium, warehouses would pile
and Solenta Minor districts especially see rampant
up with crates, as nothing could be transported.
drug use in cloistered drug dens filled with sorrowful
Fields would fallow, as crops would become under
souls bled dry of both money and life. Both gangs of
harvested. Aldarin relies heavily on its unskilled
the Yataal and Laedemus especially take advantage
labour for its economy to remain functional, which
of vagnatae, seeking to exploit them as their eyes and
is why the nobility are keen to keep many oppressed
ears to the city. Many beggars throughout Deveros
within these lower classes of social stature. As such,
find themselves tied in endless debt to the Yataal,
this social class is one of the largest, just under the
locked in a stasis of survival through food donations
scale of the artifex. This societal mentality pushed
in exchange for information.
down from above has formed an inescapable hole
for countless otium, never quite able to claw their Servus (pl. Servus)
way out of poverty, with some resorting to illegal The class of servus is one which has almost died
activities or grossly underpaid labour to stay alive. out entirely, originally thrust upon those who had
Otium can most commonly be found living in the been conquered by the Aldarin Empire. Servus held
poorer districts of settlements with the coin they very few rights and were mostly labourers who were
earn going directly towards sustaining their living. considered lucky if they had a place to sleep. The only
Few are able to leave the otium class, forever stuck official group to hold this class in modern Aldarin
as a cog in an ever-turning machine. Many otium is that of prisoners, finding themselves in service to
are illiterate, unable to read nor write Common or the empire for crimes they have committed. That
Old Aldarin. being said, a prisoner’s status and original social
class is restored upon re-entering into society. There
Vagnata (pl. Vagnatae)
are some, however, who are not so fortunate and
Not all who wander are lost, but they are most cer-
find themselves as servus through illegal means.
tainly seen as vagrants and outcasts by the Aldarins.
Whilst slavery is outlawed in Aldarin there are still
Those without shelter, work, or a place to call home,
many found in bondage throughout the empire’s
vagnatae are an impoverished group of people from
darkest corners. Illicit underground markets and
all walks of life. Orphans, homeless, refugees all fall
slaving rings litter the Aldarin coast like a creeping
under the cowl of vagnatae, perpetually seeking the
rot, importing captured peoples from the shores of
bare basic needs of shelter or food in the depths of
Jykstrav and Menderin, as well as the distant shores
the empire’s darkest crevices. Sewers and piles of
of Ravidan and Sel’Kildar. These people are stripped
refuse are scavenged for morsels of discarded food
of their names and identities to be sold to the high-
as passersby are hounded for enough coin to acquire
est bidder as courtesans, labourers, and servants.
some semblance of shelter. In Deveros, vagnatae

22
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Anyone found in ownership of slaves through such sitting around the age of 55, or even lower in the
means, however, are dragged through the imperial outreaches of rural communities, the common folk
justice system and end up within the depths of are not overly concerned with the futures of great
Introduction
Aldarin’s roughest prisons. The Capitan political great grandchildren who haven’t even been born
party has attempted to establish improved rights yet. They must focus on their livelihood first and
Introduction
for folk who have fallen foul of these illicit slavers, foremost, with survival for oneself and one’s family to the
granting those who have been freed better options being the primary driving factor in daily life. Due to Aldarin
Empire
for entering into Aldarin society should they wish to. this mindset of living in the moment, any chance to
CW
The one exception around servus is when it comes step outside of the perpetual mundane loop of secur- Aldarin
to hostages of war: typically high nobility or social- ing food supplies and practical household goods Names

ites from foreign lands whom Aldarin have warred is snatched without a moment’s notice. Festivals
with and negotiated peace. As part of these peace are a prime example of this, with the common folk Social Classes
treaties, certain prolific people are handed over into partying hard at the expense of the rich and wealthy,
Aldarin society, working as servants to the patrician who typically host such events. A handful of days
or sancte they have pledged to. These hostages serve each year spent not working, eating, drinking, and Kinships in
the Empire
a cruel double purpose. Firstly, as punishment for enjoying oneself is the height of what one wishes to
any retaliation caused by the foreign nation, these achieve in life — with thoughts of grandeur and fame
hostages are slain without second thought, typically seldom present in this mindset. Festivals
in a highly public manner such as to wound the ego It should come as no surprise that the elite of
of the offending nation. Secondly, to assimilate the Aldarin consider the poorer contingents of their
foreign nationals into Aldarin and its way of think- nation to be hyper fixated upon “bread and circuses”, Sports
ing. Children who become hostages or are born from and to some degree they would be correct. If there
hostages are taken from their parents and raised as is such a short time to be spent within this life, and
Aldarins, eventually to return to their true homeland mere survival takes more than enough of a toll on Religion

as an envoy of diplomacy in favour of the empire to a the body already, then why should one actively
people who see them as one of their own. While this seek out glory or to think in the long term? Living
tactic of diplomacy is heinous, the Aldarins — along in the here and now is what counts and decisions Politics

with many other nations — have seen great success of longevity should be left to those who can afford
in its use over the past millennia, causing once great to think about such matters. This is not to say that
Military
rivals to collapse at their feet. Over the past two all Aldarins of the middle and lower classes hold
centuries, however, this method of control has seen such a mindset, but it is certainly the most prevalent
a sharp decline and is now seldom ever used. The throughout the nation.
Commerce
Anchor Nations forbid the use of such methodology
in war and now move to make regulations against it. Labour
Crime and
Where one’s next meal is coming from is always the Punishment

Daily Life of the most important factor, followed by securing meals

for the coming weeks and months if possible. As Provinces of

Average Aldarin such, income grips upon the lifeblood of the typical
Aldarin household. To have a weak or unstable source
Aldarin

of income is to sentence one’s family to starvation, or Periods of

Life for the patrician and sancte elite should be Aldarin
even death. To avoid running into issues with income
considered the exception, not the norm, only History
streams, Aldarin families try to diversify themselves
covering about three percent of the total populace.
as much as possible, spreading income over multiple
Even further still, the lifestyles of wealthy merchants Classes
different sources. Younger family members might
and hard-working mercyrs can be discounted from
weave baskets or make pottery whilst older family
the typical day to day of an average Aldarin citizen.
members head out to work in hard labour. A child
The vast majority of Aldarins, especially those living Backgrounds
with a strong aptitude may be sent to work as an
outside of major settlements such as Deveros and the
apprentice for another family, both to earn income
provincial capitals, live a very different life to those
for the family but also to learn new skills that can
with wealth. Appendices
help diversify their talents and secure future income
outside of their apprenticeship. Coin may be stored
Bread and Circuses away for times of need, typically hidden somewhere
Contrary to the mindset of the elite, who are focused secure in the household itself, as few Aldarins can
on long term dynasty and succession, the a-typi- afford such luxuries as banks or Temples of Saleen.
cal Aldarin is primarily focused on the here and The reality of life for Aldarins living outside of
now. With the life expectancy of Aldarin humans stable income households is a dire one. Food is

23
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

prioritised for those who work in labouring jobs so is not uncommon for these begging gangs, espe-
that they may keep their strength and ensure that the cially those in larger cities with carefully calculated
household has some semblance of income. Children operations backing them, to utilise forms of illusion
and elderly members of the family who may not be magic to rough up their forms so as to better pull on
able to contribute much, if anything at all, to the the heartstrings of those they target.
familial wealth are often left with little food should In particularly bad times, a child or young adult
the money not be there to feed them. may be sold into adoption by a wealthier family
CW
Common forms of income earning labour include: of the upper classes who is struggling to produce
general labour, farm work, mining, lumbering, con- an heir. Such adoptions are not uncommon, with
struction, and basic skills such as weaving, sewing, numerous families competing to put their children
cleaning, taberna serving, and cooking. Such jobs are forward as the most intelligent and charismatic
left up to chance most of the time. For many it is a candidates to be raised into these positions of power.
matter of holding out a few more days until the next Further still, should a family be unable to secure any
major building project starts or until the next harvest of their children for adoption, they may instead pass
comes through so that food can be put on the table them into the service of a temple to be trained as a
again. Those who have undergone apprenticeships sacerdos. A small sum of gold is given by the temple
commonly find themselves working as masons, car- to the family for this, forming a harsh yet stable
penters, painters, sculptors, sculpture painters, and symbiotic relationship with the heavenly temples and
smiths, amongst other trained professions. Those the local populace. A family gains secured income
without the ability to perform work for pay instead for another year or two while the temple gains a new
support their household through sewing, spinning sacerdos, who may eventually be sent out to generate
wool, making clothes, cooking, raising children, income for the temple by performing clerical duties
teaching basic education, preparing for festivals, and in surrounding settlements.
general maintenance. While most children are taught to read and write
basic Common and the languages known by their
CW
The Role of Children parents (such as Aldarin), only those from higher
income households can afford to send their children
Children are widely seen as a blessing to any Aldarin
to seek formal education where they may learn Old
family, though not necessarily for benevolent, loving
Aldarin and other languages of importance for
reasons. Another child means another potential
engaging in trade. Local elections are especially
source of income for a family. It also means another
notable in this regard. Any Aldarin who understands
mouth to feed. As such, most Aldarin children are
Old Aldarin has a greater chance of becoming elected
put to work early in their life, from as soon as the
as a publus, and as such secures a vast income for
age of six in some cases. The sooner a child starts
their family over their time in office, setting them
working, the sooner they can make up the coin
up for years to come. Even better still, should a child
needed to feed themself. For some families, this may
show any form of aptitude for magic in the slightest,
be as simple as helping their parents with basic tasks
they will be pressured into pursuing that talent
around the house, freeing up an adult to head out to
relentlessly by their family and local community.
perform incoming generating labour. For others, this
To have a magus in the family is to have a chance
could involve being sent out to do the hard labour
at climbing the social ladder and securing a better
itself. In numerous Aldarin communities it is not
life for all around you. Families, and even entire
uncommon to see children working in the fields,
communities, have been known to fall deep into
lumber camps, or mines to support their families,
poverty to support a single child into attending an
as there is simply nobody else left to keep food on
arcane college in the hopes that they will eventually
the table. Other children may instead beg on the
earn enough money from practising magic to pay for
streets, becoming part of begging gangs who harass
a better life ahead for all.
merchants and patricians into giving them coin. It

“It is rather amusing, dear Celia, of how the Aldarins thrive in spreading propaganda about how inordinately
affluent and prosperous their ‘god-touched’ nation is. And yet, to this day, they still bicker in their forums
over grain doles and basic amenities while the plebeians sharpen their sickles.”
— Sif Selaine, Demigod of Adventure, on Aldarin culture.

24
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Relations
Not all means of survival stem from the immediate Common Aldarin Hand Gestures
family. Connections with other families, both from Gesture Denotation Introduction
the local community and beyond, are immensely Pinched fists Anger, disdain,
important to the existence of an Aldarin household. annoyance Introduction
One’s neighbour could stand as both a blessing and to the
Thumb pressed into one’s neck Untrustworthiness Aldarin
a curse — quite literally. Where it is common for Empire
Open hands, facing upwards Trustworthiness
communities to help each other out in times of
Open hands, facing downwards Meek, feeble, useless Aldarin
need, for instance providing food and support to a Names
family whose carpentry business has been struck by Pinched thumb with index and Capable, reliable
an infestation of wood-eating insects, it is equally middle fingers
common for sabotage and backstabbing to flare up Thumb pressed into the palm Trepidation, Social Classes

too. The fortune of one family typically means loss of the other hand uncertainty
to another, with members of the same profession Two fingers flicked horizontally Negative emotion Kinships in
competing against their peers to drum up the most sideways the Empire
business. Rivalry is rife throughout settlements of Two fingers flicked vertically Positive emotion
any size, with some families grasping at any means forwards
Festivals
necessary to get ahead, or to simply just stay afloat. Curled finger Cunning, guile,
Curses are placed on competing families, blighting intelligence
their crops, destroying their wares, or casting sick- Pinky and ring finger flicked Dismissal, Sports
ness upon their members. Where your neighbour forwards disapproval
could be your friend one day, the next they could be Hand flicked against chin Extreme contempt,
stealing from your grain supply or syphoning off your vulgar feelings Religion
business should they begin to fall under hard times. Thumb pinched between index Fertility, intimate
This is not to say that all Aldarins fall into these and middle finger relations
ruts of petty squabbling and sabotage. Many form Politics
strong bonds with other families, either through Debt CW

business partnership or marriage, which further

Over two thirds of the Aldarin populace is in debt of
diversifies income for both families. Should a Military
some sort. Be it through loans, mortgages, or busi-
member of the community seek to dismantle others
ness debts, the owing of money to another person,
through nefarious intent, they might themselves be
family, or business is a common occurrence. These
found on the wrong end of a curse, or worse still, Commerce
loans might be taken to support a child going to
their reputation torn to shreds. Graffiti is a common
arcane college, to help spark a new business venture,
way to drag someone’s reputation through the mud,
or to simply tide a family over until the next harvest. Crime and
left on the walls to their house or the street outside. Punishment
Over the centuries regulations around credit and
Such accusations, either truthful or falsified, might
debt have only tightened, so much so that in the
be along the lines of: “This person got me pregnant”,
modern day creditors hold immense legal sway Provinces of
“This person is a liar, a cheat, and a whoreson”, or Aldarin
over their debtors. If a debtor is unable to pay their
“This person brings misfortune from the gods”.
debts, they may be forced to sell their entire estate
Public shaming puts others into the eye of the com- Periods of
and belongings, even potentially facing prison time Aldarin
munity and might end up with them being shunned
to work off their debts through hard labour. Entire History
or even exiled from that community should their
businesses revolve around money lending, which
reputation sink low enough. As such, to engage in
is a fiercely competitive industry in its own right. Classes
gossip is to sit upon the pulse of Aldarin society.
Gangs are hired by creditors to threaten debtors into
Folk gather in local tabernae, popinae, and forums
paying back their debts or to seize assets, with the
to discuss the latest news and gossip from the capital.
sacerdotes of Saleen’s cult involved in the procure- Backgrounds
In these spaces, especially when involving politics,
ment of loan payments and the writing of contracts.
some might attempt the character assassination of
Saleen himself has even been known to place curses
their rivals in order to get ahead. These attempts
upon those who deliberately fail to repay their debts Appendices
are more often than not accompanied by personal
and to those who seek to cheat others out of their
gloating, advertising, and over-exaggeration of one’s
gold through tricksy contracts and modification to
own worth. There are specific regional hand gestures
prior agreements.
used by Aldarins to denote one’s feelings towards a
person and their character, which form an almost
subconscious level of communication between
Aldarin gossipers.

25
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Kinships in the Empire

CW
This section does its best to describe how various throw away these negative perceptions. Often these
Vynestran kinships (known as races in core 5th cambion harken to living alone or within small guilds
Edition) are perceived within the borders of the where they might find security, all whilst building up
Aldarin Empire. The capital of Deveros itself is host a trusted reputation throughout their local commu-
to almost all of these kins in some capacity, though nity and dispelling the horrid rumours of bygone
many more exist beyond its stone-clad walls. As a eras. More often than not, Adriosan cambion seek to
general rule of thumb, should someone speak basic serve within the Legions and mercyr guilds, where
Aldarin and observe the customs of the empire, they are respected for their martial prowess, whilst
the Aldarin people would be welcoming of them. Atheanan cambion garner similar respect within
Similarly to Roman culture, Aldarins are more the Imperial Arcane Assembly or a research guild.
accepting of those who embrace their values and Citizenship is most quickly gained through these
seek to become more traditionally “Aldarin”. It is routes, usually supported by strong social connec-
rare for those of Aldarin kinship to treat other kins tions forged during their time in service.
within their lands with open hostility, though a more
cautious approach may be taken towards folk from
a nation who has historically found itself locked in Catfolk
war with the empire.
Catfolk are few and far between in the Aldarin
Empire. No catfolk clans exist within the borders of
Cambion Aldarin, though there is a diminutive gathering of
catfolk from the Tzagi clan of southern Emondas in
Views of cambion are largely split throughout the Deveros. A few catfolk from Jordveil Isle also exist,
empire. The vast majority of citizens do not hold though these catfolk tend to stick towards the north-
much of an opinion of their kin, respecting cambion ern provinces. Most catfolk who settle in Aldarin
kind with general neutrality. Those within magical seek out citizenship and tend to find it through the
circles observe cambion with a position of elevated typical routes of legionary service, arcane speciali-
respect, regarded as powerful entities whose natural sation, or mercyr work.
inclination towards the arcane is seen as blessed by
the gods. A radical minority, however, fears their
presence following the daimon invasion of Luthor in Dhampir
1027 PDS, concerned that their kin serve as potential
spies for The Lesser Key. Such radicals are few and far Born of vampiric blood, dhampir are met with a
between, typically shunned by the wider populace as certain level of apprehension by a handful of people,
illogical conspiracy theorists. who fear the connotations of their sanguinous lin-
Cambion can most commonly be found as eage. Widely though, dhampir are greeted neutrally
merchants from Cel’drik or as magi serving under but may find themselves met with lingering trepida-
a mercyr guild or within Concilium Arcanus Altus. tion following major events of vampiric activity, such
Those who choose to stay within the empire almost as the discovery of illicit blood banks or the death of
always find citizenship simple to acquire, either a citizen by a vampiric entity. Dhampir from other
attained through vast wealth accumulated from trade nations generally do not find it difficult obtaining
or assisting the Legions as a magus. With the five year citizenship, commonly required to serve within the
course of magi training offered by the Deverosian Legions for a period of time before being granted it
Arcane University, which is commonly taken by — a regular occurrence across many kins seeking to
younger folk seeking to flex their magical muscles, live in Aldarin. Particularly unlucky dhampir might
a sizable number of cambion receive citizenship find themselves serving under the Siccia family, who
after graduating. governs Vampiric Order territory within Aldarin
from their villa in Deveros. It is not uncommon
Blood Eclipse Cambion for dhampir to actively avoid interactions with
the Siccias and their followers due to the nefarious
Feared for their association with the moons and
nature of the family’s intentions, opting instead to
creatures of the night, blood eclipse cambion are
live a peaceful life further afield in the throws of the
met with a pervasive stigma throughout the empire
imperial provinces.
perpetuated by the unknown factors of their lineage.
False rumours of lunar curses which can be spread
from the gaze of a blood eclipse cambion help little to

26
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Dwarves is not uncommon for hill dwarves to be pestered

into joining the Legions or the cults of one of the
CW
A large number of dwarves come from the snowy Tredecima due to this almost mythical level of
Introduction
lands of Halthos to the far north of the Aldarin reverence held for their kinship. Due to this, hill
Empire. Some, such as hill dwarves, instead hail from dwarves have no trouble finding citizen status. There
Introduction
the eastern lands of Menderin and South Rymin. have even been accounts of citizenship granted to hill to the
There are few indigenous dwarven folk from the dwarves immediately upon arrival into an Aldarin Aldarin
Empire
regions Aldarin inhabits, mostly limited to small hill settlement, accompanied by the vain hope that they
dwarven communities around mountainous regions will remain to serve imperial functions with their Aldarin
who find little to no trouble obtaining citizenship bountiful perceived talents. Hill dwarves do not tend Names

should they desire it. to reside within large settlements because of this,
either finding comfort as a soldier in the Legions Social Classes
Delvar Dwarves or in distant rural communities where they are less
likely to be bothered by starry-eyed Aldarins. Other
From the frost-bitten lands of Halthos to the far
hill dwarves elect to abuse this naive trust, operat- Kinships in
north of Elos, the delvar hail. Delvar from Halthos the Empire
ing illicit dealings in open sight knowing full well
seldom set foot upon imperial soil, seeing the
that they can charm their way out of any potential
Aldarins as expansionist barbarians and mindless
repercussions. Festivals
followers of a dying solar deity. Halthosian Delvar
who journey to Aldarin are often met with initial
reactions of intrigue, commonly mistaken for hill
dwarves at first sight. Those who do interact with
Elves Sports

citizens are regarded as an outspoken folk whose

There are numerous types of elves throughout
brash mannerisms are perceived as barbaric in
Vynestra, all of which may be found in some capacity Religion
nature and most unwelcoming. Delvar do not
within the Aldarin Empire.
actively seek citizenship, though those few who do
are denied it without first serving time within the
Legions. For this reason, very few delvar are found
Ashensworn Politics

in Aldarin. Those who do linger within imperial Views of ashensworn are split depending on who one
borders typically keep to themselves, living alone confers with. Many common folk see the ashensworn Military
in rural communities or serving as part of a private as a terse and matter-of-fact folk, appreciating the
army or workforce where they might find protection honesty conveyed in their concise verbiage and
through the position of their superiors. whose monotonous patterning of speech only Commerce
aids this candid visage further. Conversely, those
Earthbound Dwarves within economic circles perceive those from the
Crime and
lands of Mistveil with an air of disdain, upset at the Punishment
Perpetually put down by the societal struggles of
perpetual taxation enacted on Aldarin merchants by
Halthos, earthbound primarily coexist alongside
the Duskan League — Mistveil’s leading mercantile
the delvar in the Elosian north. Similarly to delvar Provinces of
guild. Ashensworn are more readily found living Aldarin
dwarves, earthbound are seldom seen throughout
within centralised commercial hubs, working either
the empire. Those who do exist in Aldarin have
as merchants or some artisanal profession tied to Periods of
more often than not escaped from the oppressions Aldarin
their lengthy lineage. Citizenship is rarely sought
of Halthos and have either traversed through the History
after by ashensworn, whose ties to their homeland
sprawling tunnels of the Underworld or the frigid
and their familial ancestry is vastly more important
colds of Jykstrav to flee delvar govern. Due to their Classes
than the acceptance of a strange, militaristic nation.
rocky appearance, which the folk of southern Elos
perceive to be the markings of the children of Enor,
the earthbound easily find work as public perform-
High Elves Backgrounds

ers, hardy mercyrs, or cultists to the gods. Due to Observed as an intellectual folk, high elves gener-
their perceived lineage from Enor, earthbound find ally find themselves met with civilised respect by
themselves granted citizenship with ease and are the Aldarin people. This is elevated to a warming Appendices

able to quickly form sturdy religious ties within embrace of immediate friendship for elven kin hail-
Aldarin society. ing from the ardently-allied nation of Emondas. High
elves from other nations garner a more default stance
Hill Dwarves of neutrality in the eyes of the masses, seen as neither
friend nor foe. Emondisians are openly welcomed
Hill dwarves garner an almost fantastical reputation
into citizenship by the Aldarins, whilst other high
as hard workers and fierce fighters, finding them-
elves have to jump through a number more hoops
selves met with a lofty respect by Aldarin folk. It
before being granted such protection under law. As
27
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

a kin, high elves are sighted throughout both major Farborn

and minor settlements, especially those revolving
around arcane research or spell reagent production. Farborn are folk born outside of the Medial Plane,
hailing from the outreaches of the Compass. Farborn
CW
Sand Elves folk are rarely seen throughout the Medial Plane,
let alone within the Aldarin Empire. Those who do
Viewed similarly to wood elves, sand elves find
exist typically have been issued permits of travel by
themselves approached with an air of curiosity due
the Anchor Nations, such as merchants, tourists,
to their differing mannerisms and clothing. The neu-
researchers, and diplomats. Sometimes criminals
tral stance of the Aldarins prevails here, welcoming
slip through the World Border undetected, either
sand elven folk with mutual respect. The music of
escaping the jurisdiction of the Inner Compass
the Sasemaani sand elves in particular is met with
or seeking to profit off of the wealth of the Medial
interest by the Aldarin people, granting Sasemaani
Plane. Farborn will not be granted citizenship by the
musicians passage to carve a powerful presence in
Aldarin Empire unless citizenship laws are changed
the bardic sways of imperial intrigue. Citizenship,
by the Consentium to consider kin from outside of
however, is seldom granted to first generation sand
the Medial Plane. The wake of the Second Medial
elves, requiring either military service or arcane
War is still fresh in the minds of many and this stance
research to seal the deal. Many sand elves find
is unlikely to shift anytime soon.
themselves lingering within the Sala Sel’Kildarak
district of Deveros, where citizenship is not needed
to live a fulfilling life, or along coastal settlements
which hold trade links with Sel’Kildar.
Gnomes
Gnomes of varying lineages are found across all
Snow Elves walks of the empire, from sprawling cities to the
Snow elves are seldom seen throughout Aldarin, most far-flung expanses of wooded forests and
tending towards the northern realms of Elos. mountainous camps. Seen generally as a joyous
Those who do find themselves in imperial lands folk, gnomes are met with an initial warm smile.
are regarded with curiosity and interest, with most The Pilkos gnomes of the Pilkos Isles province espe-
Aldarins only having heard tales of such folk through cially find themselves at home within the southern
legionarii returning from campaign. Citizenship empire, their kind already claiming free citizenship
would not readily be granted to snow elves without and influencing imperial politics more so than any
due reason, unless one can prove ancestry or adop- other representative kinship outside of the lineaged
tion from a person already standing as an acclaimed Aldarin. Gnomes from more distant lands might
Aldarin citizen. The typical route of imperial service find it harder to find citizenship without support of
would be the only other avenue of approach for those trusted friends or allies.
seeking to claim citizenship. The few snow elves who
do live within the empire are almost exclusively Frost-blistered Gnomes
found within the northern provinces, living in
Similarly to snow elves and snow half-orcs, frost-blis-
rural communities, working for mercyr guilds, or
tered gnomes are a rarity throughout the southern
travelling alone.
folds of the Elosian continent. Those who do elect to
traverse the industrious lands of the Aldarin Empire
Wood Elves are met with cocked eyebrows and curious gazes,
Wood elves are observed by the Aldarins as a reclu- though greeted with a warm welcome all the same.
sive folk. The traditions of Aluforod-born wood elves Frost-blistered gnomes see no more difficulty in
in particular tend towards a more natural and earth- attaining citizenship than any other foreign gnomish
bound domain, as opposed to that of the sun and folk, serving a few years of imperial service. Those
sky observed within the Aldarin Empire. Because of living within Aldarin can almost exclusively be found
these differences in cultural stance, such wood elves in the colder climate of the northern front or within
are regarded with an air of neutrality, neither lauded snowy mountainous settlements.
favourably nor looked down upon. The average wood
elf would not expect to receive expedited citizenship
without a tidy sum of coin to line the imperial cof- Goblins
fers or a close contact of reputable standing. Wood
elves exist in all walks of life throughout the empire It is not uncommon to see goblins thriving within
though are more commonly found in northern rural the Aldarin Empire. With so many wondrous
communities alongside Jyrden, snow half-orcs, and technologies and advancements sparking every
snow elves displaced by war. few months, there is more than enough to keep a

28
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

curious goblin interested. Even goblin clans who citizenship due to their status as close allies, though
elect not to integrate into Aldarin society find great those who migrate into the wealthier settlements
pleasure in stealing aspects of Aldarin culture and might choose to attain citizenship so that they may
Introduction
adopting them into their own daily rituals. Goblin participate in the local politics of the region. This
chiefs sporting togas and make-shift goblin legions citizenship is readily attainable in a similar vein to
Introduction
have been found in forested areas of Salenti and the the peoples of Emondas. to the
Province of Deveros, which has been met with both Aldarin
Empire
confusion and concern by the Legions. For now,
these clans seem to have no interest in rising up Half-Elves Aldarin
against the Aldarins, especially as they seem more Names

than happy to send recruits to join the Vintari, but a Half-elves of high elven origin are located all
close eye kept upon them just in case. throughout the empire, typically born from Aldarin Social Classes
and Emondisian parents, with half-elves of other
elven lines significantly less common. Half-elves do
CW
Halfings not typically find any issue attaining Aldarin citizen- Kinships in
the Empire
ship unless their lineage is known to be particularly
Halflings tend to scatter at the sight of imperial troublesome. Half-elves of Emondisian descent can
settlements, their built-up walls and bustling com- claim dual citizenship with Emondas, a right that Festivals
mercial districts sparking deep-seeded inhibitions is highly sought after due
to seek out more peaceful domains. Those who to the sway granted by
do brave the streets of the empire are greeted on both nations. Sports
neutral terms and may find themselves asked about
their adventures, with Aldarins openly curious as to
the lives lived by halfling folk. Citizenship is more Religion

easily claimed by a halfling than most other kinships,

should they choose to do so, notably due to their
perceived peaceful nature and willingness to adopt Politics

local customs into their own culture. Lildorian

halflings especially find ease in this process with
Military
their nation already tied to Aldarin in a defen-
sive alliance.
Commerce

Half-Dragons
Crime and
Punishment
Half-dragons, including those from outside of
Zygarde, are typically seen by Aldarins as heralds
of dragons and as such are regarded in high esteem. Provinces of
Aldarin
Blue half-dragons may find some unjust stigmas
held towards them due to the legacy of Ivora — the
Periods of
ancient dragon who held the lands of Deveros before Aldarin
they were claimed by the Aldarins — though these History

prejudices are kept by a closeted minority as opposed

to the greater populace. Non-skyfarer half-dragons Classes
encounter few obstacles obtaining citizenship,
though are usually asked to serve within the Legions
for a period of time beforehand. Half-dragons are Backgrounds

most often found living within the provincial cap-

itals or throughout mountainous regions, such as
southern Nivinea. Appendices

Skyfarers
Historic allies to the Aldarins and adjoined in a
treatise of defence under the Anchor Nations,
skyfarers of Zygarde are held in the utmost regard
by those of the empire. Skyfarers do not need to seek

29
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Half-Orcs peoples to inhabit the empire, found in majority
across almost all settlements and communities, aside
Half-orcs are commonplace in the outreaches of the from those bordering with other nations. Aldarins
empire, where Aldarin borders with the lands of are born with citizenship unless their family has been
Jykstrav and Menderin (where orcish communities banished from the empire.
thrive). Within the heartlands of Aldarin, however,
they are less common, though may still be seen Jyrden
wandering the streets of populated settlements.
The Jyrden hail from Jykstrav, a northern nation
perpetually locked in war with the Aldarin Empire.
Plains Half-Orc Jyrden who adopt aspects of Aldarin culture and
Plains half-orcs do not find initial perceptions of fashion find themselves readily embraced by Aldarin
their kinship to differ from that of a half-elf, generally citizens, more so than those simply passing through
observed with a welcoming attitude. Plains half- with a sight to observe Aldarin culture from a
orcs of varying cultural heritages exist across most distance. Merchants hailing from Jykstrav can be
regions in the empire, though are notably focused sighted throughout a number of major settlements
around eastern Civaci where ties to the diverse all the way down to the Pilkos Isles, though Jyrden
clanships of Menderin are strongest. They do not folk as a whole are generally more concentrated
typically find much difficulty in securing citizenship, towards the northernmost provinces. Many find
especially those whose families already have ties to it next to impossible to claim Aldarin citizenship
Aldarin society. without lengthy imperial service, especially during
present times of war between the two nations.
Snow Half-Orcs
Similarly to their cold climate brethren of frost-blis-
Kishmarans
tered gnomes and snow elves, snow half-orcs are not Kishmarans live within the heartland of Sel’Kildar, far
commonly found within the Aldarin Empire outside to the west of the Elosian continent.The Kishmarans
of a few small northern villages and the capital city are welcomed with open arms in the empire, standing
of Deveros. Snow half-orcs are viewed with an as long-lasting friends of the Aldarins and as historic
aspect of curiosity due to their striking features, as Anchor Nation allies before their world anchor was
compared to their plains-born cousins, though for claimed by Quthar. Kishmarans typically do not seek
the most part fall into the same camp of neutrality Aldarin citizenship, instead falling into the amicis
as many other kins. Snow half-orcs have historically role of citizenship where they are unofficially granted
had a slightly harder time obtaining citizenship as almost all rights of the Iusdecim. Kishmarans are
opposed to plains half-orcs, but cases of success far most often situated amongst concentrated familial
outnumber those of failure. groups within busy coastal cities such as Deveros and
Gordistra, though they can also be located within
the communities of smaller sea-facing settlements
Humans where Kishmaran nobles have elected to settle. The
Kishmarans who reside within the Aldarin Empire
There are plenty of human ethnic groups found maintain their ancestral training regime dedicated
across Vynestra, ranging from lofty imperial to their elite warriors, some of which serve in
lineages all the way to distant rural folk who have the highly respected Sel’Kildarak Legeshi of the
witnessed neither wagon nor ship. Below are some Aldarin Legions.
of the most common human groups found within
the Aldarin Empire. Qutharians
Qutharians hail from the expansionist Qutharian
Aldarins Empire in Sel’Kildar. Perceived as tenuous allies at
Aldarins are those born within the Aldarin Empire best, devout Qutharians are respected by those within
itself from the Dalaskian lineage. Held in the highest Aldarin for sharing Deos’s bloodline, though some
regard by those within the Aldarin Empire, the Aldarins view them as false claimants to his lineage.
Aldarins are the inheritors of Deos’s bloodline and, The views of the Ebyr’sol are seen as a threat to the
as such, are the children of gods. Whilst anyone with empire and its allies — most notably to the high elves
citizenship is considered equal, those born from this of Emondas — with those who avidly follow the cult
deific bloodline carry with them an air of respect and largely shunned from Aldarin-centric social circles.
authority which is perceived as borderline arrogant Qutharians generally have little interest in claiming
by some. Aldarins are by far the most common Aldarin citizenship, seeing themselves as the higher

30
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

children of Deos, though find appreciation in the by Aldarins as frightful allies and friends. The
Aldarins for their deep devotion to the Tredecima Skaaldblud have a strong relationship with the
deities. Their kinship can be found condensed within Aldarins, with a handful moving to the Aldarin
Introduction
the Sala Sal’kildarak district of Deveros as well as Empire to marry or seek work otherwise not found in
throughout the coastal trade hubs of Gordistra and their homeland. Due to their commonality with the
Introduction
Northwatch. Northwatch in particular has seen an Jyrden, Skaaldblud are often mistaken for Jyrden by to the
inquisition of Ebyr’sol over the past five years. This those who do not know them personally or who are Aldarin
Empire
surge of pressure has escalated to such a degree that not familiar with the Skaaldic dialect. Despite this,
the cultural traditions of both Quthar and northern they do not typically find much difficulty securing Aldarin
Aldarin are openly blended within the city. citizenship due to their nation’s strong political ties Names

with Aldarin’s Consentium. Skaaldblud are found

CW
Ravidanians sparsely scattered throughout Aldarin’s lands, Social Classes
typically located within colder rural communities
The term “Ravidanian” denotes any person from
closely resembling the lands of the home island or
the shores of the continent of Ravidan, of which
along coastal strips where fishing industries are Kinships in
there are many sub-groups of humans. Ravidanian the Empire
most plentiful.
humans are observed as a wildly foreign collective
possessing jovial social mannerisms and eccentric
clothing which stuns the average Aldarin upon
Tak’huutans Festivals

first meeting. Widely regarded as sage mystics and Tak’huutans come from the eastern shores of
purveyors of advanced technology, the Aldarin Nul’Kildar far to the west of Elos. As lucrative trade
Sports
people place the Ravidanians in a neutral territory partners to the empire, the folk of Tak’huut are
of mutual commerce and acceptance of each other’s observed as proud people from a wealthy foreign
vastly differing cultures. Ravidanians seldom seek nation whose diverse culture fascinates many-an Religion
citizenship within the empire, though those who do Aldarin. Interactions amongst Aldarins and
are commonly granted it given that a sizable sum Tak’huutans are performed with mutual respect
of gold is contributed to support their application. between the two civilisations, both acknowledging Politics
Of the few Ravidanians who live in the Aldarin their differences but seeing eye-to-eye on many
Empire, many keep to the capital of Deveros due to areas of politics and daily life. Few Tak’huutans
well-established ocean and airship links with major seek Aldarin citizenship but those who do find it Military
cities from their home continent. offered with little resistance, at least as long as there
is a notable lineage standing behind the individual
Rymish requesting it. Tak’huutans are seen existing within Commerce
closested communities throughout coastal cities
The Rymish come from South Rymin to the east of
and sea-sided trade hubs, where the flow of wealth
Aldarin, which is locked in war with its sibling nation Crime and
between the two nations is strongest. Punishment
of the now-split North Rymin. Respected as stalwart
allies, the Rymish are perceived as highly cultured
individuals whose ways have melded with those of
the Aldarins over the past century. The Rymish are
Orcs Provinces of
Aldarin

held as the closest in terms of ethnicity and fashion

Orcs of all lineages are few and far between within Periods of
to the Aldarins, with the Aldarins regularly stealing Aldarin
Aldarin. A tiny number of plains orcs have moved
cultural facets from the communities of South History
across from the border to Menderin in the east to
Rymin. Rymish tend to find themselves regarded as
settle within the borders of the empire, though even
if they had Aldarin citizenship, with many readily Classes
fewer are found towards the central and southern
able to claim true citizenship should they choose to
provinces. Similarly, due to Aldarin’s warm climate,
move within the empire. Rymish can be found all
snow orcs find Aldarin’s provinces difficult to live
across the imperial provinces, often arising as artists, Backgrounds
within for extended periods of time, preferring the
musicians, and skilled craftspeople, though they are
northern regions should they find a need to live in
particularly numerous within border settlements
Aldarin at all. A handful of orcs act as diplomats
near South Rymin. Appendices
for the Yun’stra clanships of Menderin within the
provincial capitals and Deveros itself, with others
Skaaldblud finding work as mercyrs, magi, or travelling mer-
Skaaldblud are the descendants of the demigod chants. If one is to encounter an orc, it would most
Skaald, hailing from Jordveil Isle to the northwest likely be on the road as a fellow traveller or wanderer
of the Aldarin Empire. Seen as fearsome warriors as opposed to within a built up settlement.
and prolific sailors, the Skaaldblud are regarded

31
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Festivals
The second is a dies fasti which denotes an
Festival Traditions “allowed day”. These holidays are less strict than the
dies festus, allowing for public business to go ahead
On several special days throughout the year, the should it be required. These are generally seen as
whirlpool of never-ending politics and bureaucracy optional holidays, though many still take time out
which forms the Aldarin Empire is temporarily of their day to partake in celebrations.
put on hold. These days are festival days, a time of
celebration where all might partake in wonderful Associated Deities
and bizarre traditions passed down from ancestor
Some holidays are tied towards certain deities, with CW
to ancestor. These merry holidays are of utmost
particular offerings or sacrifices paid towards said
importance to common folk and patricians alike,
deity and their temples. Not all gods are tied to a
not only due to their deeply religious sentiments but
specific holiday within the empire, however, with
also providing an easy excuse to place life on pause
some almost completely sidelined in favour of the
in favour of frivolous fun. In not partaking in cele-
more popular, imperially favoured deities such as
brations one might be seen as snobbish, offensive, or
Deos and Iora.
even seeking to spark the ire of the gods.
Typically the events at most public festivals include
endless drinking, gambling, games, sports, and com-
petitions, though each festival has its own unique
Anniculus
twist on each of these. Some holidays are celebrated
Date: 1st Winter’s Wane
only by certain groups or deific sects, whilst others
Holiday Type: Dies festus
revolve around specific cities or provinces within
Associated Deities: Gw’yth
the empire. Deveros, for example, has the largest
number of festivals compared to anywhere else in With another rotation around Sol completing, the
Aldarin — to the extent that there is at least a festival Anniculus festival ushers forth a new year upon the
every few weeks to prepare for. Medial Plane. Feasting, drinking, and fireworks are
common throughout numerous Elosian nations
during the prior night and ensuing festival day.
Holiday Descriptors The Aldarins start Anniculus off with a bang with
the magi of Concilium Arcanus Altus traditionally
There are a couple of descriptors to show when festi- blowing up a giant paper sun atop the Deverosian
vals are occurring and what type of festival they are. World Anchor, which scatters candies and small
coins across the rooftops of the surrounding districts.
Date Contained within this scattered bounty is a single
golden centa marked with the Concilium Arcanus
The date of the year this festival occurs at. Ths date
Altus’s seal called “The Annicula Centa”. Any pre-
might vary from province to province; however, the
magus of the Deveros Arcane University who brings
given dates here are the ones acknowledged within
this coin back to the university is able to claim a year’s
Deveros and most of the rest of the empire. Some
worth of tuition fees paid for by the Altus Magus.
festivals span multiple days, with the first and last
Drinking and feasting carries on long throughout
festival date given in these cases.
the day as numerous spells are cast into the arcane
waylines by magi and cultists alike to honour Gw’yth.
Holiday Type
There are two types of holidays in the Aldarin Empire.
The first is a dies festus which denotes a “public Fortuna
holiday”. These are usually tied to an important
historical event or tredecima deity. On such days no Date: 2nd–5th Winter’s Wane
public business may be undertaken, such as trade, Holiday Type: Dies fasti
services, or labour. Certain exclusions are made for Associated Deities: Uverthal
transport and hospitality services, who are allowed
Originally a two-day festival, Fortuna is celebrated
to operate if the festival requires it. An example of
solely by the Aldarins immediately following
this would be during the Deverosia festival where
Anniculus, giving everyone almost a week of public
transport is required by the public to access Crevana
holidays during the cold winter months. This friv-
or during Anniculus where tabernae are allowed to
olous festival involves bountiful gambling, racing,
serve food and drink.

32
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

and sports with a mind to appease Uverthal, God on the charioteer’s helmet, you are rewarded with a
of Good Fortune, in the hope that he will usher in warm embrace or kiss from the charioteer along with
a year of good luck for the empire. Stalls running a keg of the exclusive Winter’s Respite ale from the
Introduction
dubious games of chance flood the streets of major Shrine of Sonvingar.
settlements. Decorated wind chimes are blessed by
Introduction
temples and hung above entryways into households,
Renovaré
to the
believed to ward away evil spirits which might Aldarin
Empire
bring bad luck.
Date: 28th Winter’s Wane Aldarin
Holiday Type: Dies festus Names

Sovinvale Associated Deities: Iora

Held at the end of the first month of the year, Social Classes
Date: 23rd–28th Winter’s Wane
Renovaré is the day that all new public officials are
Holiday Type: Dies festus
sworn into duty within Aldarin. Overlapping with
Associated Deities: Sovingar Kinships in
Sovinvale, this festival is a day of celebration and the Empire
Sovinvale marks six exciting days of festivities introspection, with many attending public speeches
celebrating the winter solstice, an ancient tradition by the new consensae and publi about their plans for
Festivals
followed by numerous Elosian nations. Sovingar the coming year. A crowd typically gathers at dawn
is appeased during this festival with sacrifices of upon the crossroads between the Consentium and
food and ale being made to the deity in exchange the Consentium Minor in Deveros to witness the
Sports
for warm homes and gentle snowfall over the most new consensae and publi crossing paths, shaking
difficult months of the year. This is a time of sharing arms with each other in resolution of their roles,
and community, where patricians mingle with the before heading into the public houses for their very Religion
common folk and great feasts are held on the streets, first official meeting of the year. Legionary cohorts
contributed towards in some way by local businesses march through the city between the southernmost
and families. The main day of celebration always falls gate and the Sacrimum, chanting marching songs at Politics
on the 26th and is called Sovethré, the day Sovingar the top of their lungs to the sound of blaring cornu. It
ascended to become a god. Even if no other feasting is common for legionarii to sing rude lyrics along to
happens within a community over the festival the songs, making fun of politicians, their gryphotes, Military
period, it is on Sovethré that all come together for and the imperial family, much to the merriment
a huge banquet with the nobility sharing in bread of the crowds.
and wine with the common people. In Deveros, “Deverosa Altus Volare” is one such marching song Commerce
chariots are raced down Laos Street whilst the sung by the legions from the Province of Deveros.
charioteers are pelted with wooden rings engraved Each line is sung once by the pelitus of a cohort and
Crime and
with names. If a ring with your name upon it lands then echoed by the legionarii as they march. Punishment

Deverosa Altus Volare

Devero-sa! Devero-sa! Cepimus. Regimus. Devero-sa! Devero-sa! We conquer. Provinces of
Audi nostros fremitus! We rule. Hear us roar! Aldarin

Dei nobis adrident. The gods smile upon us.

Num vobis adrident? Do they smile upon you? Periods of
Aldarin
Dei nobis adrident. The gods smile upon us. History
Num vobis adrident? Do they smile upon you?
Devero-sa! Devero-sa! Cepimus. Regimus. Devero-sa! Devero-sa! We conquer. We rule.
Audi nostros fremitus! Hear us roar! Classes

Devero-sa! Devero-sa! Cepimus. Regimus. Devero-sa! Devero-sa! We conquer. We rule.

Audi nostros fremitus! Hear us roar!
Ad caelum animae nostrae. Our souls to the heavens. Backgrounds
Deverosa totum supervolat. Deverosa soars above all.
Ad caelum animae nostrae. Our souls to the heavens.
Deverosa totum supervolat. Deverosa soars above all. Appendices
Devero-sa! Devero-sa! Cepimus. Regimus. Devero-sa! Devero-sa! We conquer. We rule.
Audi nostros fremitus! Hear us roar!
Devero-sa! Devero-sa! Cepimus. Regimus. Devero-sa! Devero-sa! We conquer. We rule.
Audi nostros fremitus! Hear us roar!
Corda ad Quor dicata! We pledge our hearts to Quor!
Gryphones nemini cedunt. Our gryphons fall to none.
Corda ad Quor dicata! We pledge our hearts to Quor!
Gryphones nemini cedunt. Our gryphons fall to none.
Devero-sa! Devero-sa! Cepimus. Regimus. Devero-sa! Devero-sa! We conquer. We rule.
Audi nostros fremitus! Hear us roar!
33
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Estalia bound by magical displays and arcane spectacle.

Magi take to the streets of major settlements, flaunt-
Date: 4th Winter’s Dusk ing their ceremonial robes and showcasing fantasti-
Holiday Type: Dies fasti cal spells, much to the awe of the general public. The
Associated Deities: Primordials, Celianthre Higher Emeros of Concilium Arcanus Altus meet at
a gathering called The Summons, where new stu-
CW
Predominantly celebrated within far-flung rural
dents are selected from a pool of prospective candi-
farming communities, Estalia revolves around the
dates. Those who are successful have their names
ritualistic sacrifice of sheep and cattle to the Four
announced on the final day of the festival on the front
Primordials in exchange for protection against spirits
steps of the Deverosian World Anchor. It is tradition
and nefarious entities of the Väedfel and Outer
for gifts of research books and spell components to
Planes. While the primordials are no longer able to
be passed from the graduating students to new stu-
accept these sacrifices, Celianthre does so in their
dents, perpetuating century-old traditions of
stead, giving her blessings unto communities who
knowledge shared between kinsfolk.
follow the time-honoured tradition. Some hunters
and druids choose to instead believe they are appeas-
ing the unknown creatures of the wilds, granting CW
Ioras Assassination
protection to communities from supernatural threats The Ioras festival has seen heightened
from beyond the reaches of civilised land. security in recent years after an ex-imperial
magus, Dendra Alexus (NE she/her
frost-blistered gnome magus [illusion] 8),
Larvelia attempted an assassination on the Primus
Arcanus Davicia Baradinus Kyren (see page
Date: 6th Winter’s Dusk 79) during the premagi announcements of
Holiday Type: Dies fasti 1025 PDS. In the confusion, Dendra managed
to escape and has eluded the ordotes sent
Associated Deities: Larveth
after her to this day. Rumours have been
CW
Started not long after the devastating White Plague circulating that Dendra was an old friend of
struck the Elosian continent, Larvelia came to being Kyren, seeking revenge for some altercation
as an attempt to ward off plague and pestilence by in the past. It is believed that she is hiding
out somewhere in southern Jykstrav and is
appeasing Larveth. Sacerdotes and soothsayers
lending the clanships there her assistance in
perform animal sacrifices to the twisted goddess the Fourth Renavic War.
which are left for insects to devour whilst common
folk craft small carved stone charms smeared with
the bile of a goat, said to protect from plagues. These
stone charms are similar to those made by followers
of Meliam, sometimes serving a dual purpose as Adriam
warding against curses. Masks of birds, rats and other
plague-carrying creatures are adorned, with the Date: 8th–9th Spring’s Dawn
belief that diseases shall attach to the masks instead Holiday Type: Dies fasti
of the flesh. The masks are then ceremonially burned Associated Deities: Adriosa, Mornfel
with incense-fuelled flames as the sun sets, hoping
Adriam is a celebration of the Adriosan moon,
to rid the community of any disease.
alleged to grant boons of overwhelming strength
and courage to those who acknowledge them upon
Ioras this day. Lunar altars across Elos are visited by druids
of the wilds who make sacrifices to Adriosa in praise
of the moon’s power, receiving fervent blessings
Date: 17th–19th Winter’s Dusk
from the lunar entity. Rural communities pray to
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Adriosa asking that the wild creatures under the
Associated Deities: Iora, Gw’yth
moon’s domain may seek tranquillity in the follow-
Celebrating both Deveros Arcane University gradu- ing months, hoping that monster attacks on both
ates and the ushering in of new students attending people and farmstock be averted through appeasing
the prestigious arcane academy, Ioras is a festival Adriosa’s ego.

34
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Lusa Longbreach in South Rymin where the festival was

born, countless travellers from across the Medial
Date: 13th Spring’s Dawn Plane journey to Elos to partake. A celebration of
Introduction
Holiday Type: Dies festus culture, art, music, and pleasure, Masqué runs for
Associated Deities: Quor just a little over two weeks. Exciting new plays are
Introduction
premiered, extravagant masquerade parties are
CW
A festival of passion and love celebrated by to the
put on by wealthy patricians, and heavy drinking Aldarin
Kishmarans and Qutharians. Flowers and gifts are Empire
is indulged in by all. For the entire two weeks, the
given between families and friends, with old enemies
whole city of Longbreach is turned into an ongoing Aldarin
making peace through an exchange of alcohol —
party, with festivities never truly dying down. The Names
even between the age-old rivals of Kishradam and
Demigod of Song, Lilas (CG he/they high half-elf
Quthar. The streets of partaking settlements are filled
demigod), is known to attend the celebrations whilst
with flush floral processions and pompous parades Social Classes
leading his renowned troupe of bardic performers
showcasing dancers, fire breathers, and renowned
called “The Lilian Lyres” in jovial musical acts,
warriors. Behind closed doors, passionate orgies are
always enjoyed readily by the masses. Kinships in
held throughout some sects of society who seek to the Empire
Despite originating as a Rymish festival, Deveros
celebrate all throes of carnal pleasure and desire. In
has begun hosting its own Masqué celebrations
Elos, this festival was historically only celebrated
around the same time, featuring famous artists and Festivals
within the Sala Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros
performance acts from around the province within
but has since spread throughout Aldarin to other
Clamore (D13), the Perla Playhouse (D24), and
settlements out of the Aldarin people’s enjoyment
the Agrizzo Arena (Be3). These lively events are Sports
of the festivities and culture.
attended in droves by Aldarin’s higher classes, many
of whom have visited Longbreach to partake in the
Longbreach Collection original festival and wish to experience the same
delights again within the comfort of their own city.
Religion

Those not privy to the functions of the original

Date: 18th–25th Spring’s Dawn
Masqué find the cultural traditions of their conti- Politics
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
nental allies unfamiliar or even downright bizarre
Associated Deities: Torn
at times, confused as to why their kinsfolk would
Military
For a week in the early spring, all tailors and fashion bother with such ludicrous mimicry.
stores in Aldarin welcome in world-renowned tailors
from the continent’s cultural capital of Longbreach
in South Rymin. Vogue designs are showcased by Soultide Commerce

Aldarin and Rymish tailors alike, often competing

in eccentric fashion shows to acquire lucrative Date: 24th Spring’s Crest Crime and
Punishment
contracts from Aldarin patricians and sanctes who Holiday Type: Dies festus
wish to acquire fresh formal clothes. Competitions Associated Deities: Kistra, Estioc, Zephyr
are held within major tailors in Deveros, such as Provinces of
Soultide stands as a pillar of celebration and CW Aldarin
Gryphon’s Groove (Nb9) and Fascinatio (Jc1), with
remembrance for those who have been lost to
bountiful prizes of gold and refined fabrics for the
the afterlife. All across Aldarin, citizens gather at Periods of
winning tailors. At the end of the festival, all the Aldarin
temples of Estioc to spend time at the graves and
outfits and adornments are sold off to the highest History
tombs of deceased loved ones whilst eating meals
bidders, ushering in a new year of fashion trends
and conversing as if the deceased were still present.
within the empire as the Masqué festival looms on Classes
Portraits of the dead are kept nearby with local song
the horizon.
and dance accompanying the raucous revelry — a
celebration of both life and of what comes next. Backgrounds

Masqué Stories of the deceased are passed to close friends and

family, sharing the deeds of their ancestors in jovial
remembrance. Some patrician families go so far as to Appendices
Date: 1st–15th Spring’s Crest
put on full theatrical performances about the lives of
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
their most famous ancestors for their communities,
CW
The most grandiose festival to grace the Elosian sharing their histories with any who care to listen.
continent, emanating from the cultural epicentre of

35
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Asheri 1,000 years ago. Originally starting as a single-day

holiday, Deverosia had grown into a week-long
Date: 3rd–5th Spring’s Dusk festival by the 6th Century, with additional days
Holiday Type: Dies festus added by various emperors and empresses to garner
Associated Deities: Asher the favour of the people. Work grinds to an abrupt
halt as the clock strikes midnight on the first day of
Asheri is a modest celebration of the spring equinox
Deverosia, with perpetual street parties and feasting
where parcels of grain are offered to Asher. Families
erupting throughout the streets (which carry on for
abstain from eating rich foods such as meat and
the full extent of the festival). Countless sporting
cheese, instead only consuming oats and water for
events rage on within arenas and hippodromes,
the duration. Towering birch trees are felled to be
ranging from chariot riding to gladiatorial displays.
erected within the heart of communal plazas, their
The first provincial jova matches of the year kick
bark covered with freshly shaved fleeces of wool which
off within the Diviso Imperium with hundreds of
are dyed various vibrant colours. From their branches
thousands flocking to Quor’s Crucible (G26) to
are hung small wooden charms, wreaths of flowers
witness these games.
picked from the wilds, and cloistered candles within
The focal event of the festival is the Triumph Deos, CW
wicker baskets. Sacerdotes dress as symbolic entities
a grand parade throughout the Quintae Principalis
of winter and spring, fighting each other with bundles
district in a boastful celebration of Deos, mimicking
of lashed branches, before finally the spring entities
the triumphs of victorious commanders. Tens of
claim victory. There is an Aldarin tradition tied to
thousands of Aldarins flood the already crowded
this festival that on the final day of Asheri lighthearted
streets to witness the three legions of the city parade
pranks are pulled on family members and friends. As
alongside the sacerdotes of the Aedes Deos, firing
this day of merriment and joking comes to a close at
off fireworks accompanied by song and dance.
midnight, a feast is held within the family household,
Sacrifices of twelve cows and twelve goats are made
breaking the diet of water and oats.
in the atrium of the Aedes Deos (A7) by the Primus
Pontifex at the end of the triumph, signifying the
Flaming Flasks twenty-four resurrections performed after the Battle
of Ivora and the twenty-four original patrician fam-
ilies of the empire. The blood from these sacrifices
Date: 6th Spring’s Dusk
is smeared across the gates of the city as ancient
Holiday Type: Dies festus
abduration rituals are cast, granting Deveros and its
Associated Deities: Deos, Brimshaw, Talo
people some element of protection from nefarious
A time of preparation for the coming summer, entities throughout the coming year.
Flaming Flasks is celebrated exclusively by the
Aldarins who lay praise unto Deos with hopes of a
bountiful sun-filled year to come. This is a day filled Tormentide
with feasting where the mundane diet of Asheri is
broken and gifts of lovingly prepared food are passed Date: 26th Spring’s Dusk
between family and friends. Traditional displays of Holiday Type: Dies festus
fire breathing, dancing, and juggling with flaming Associated Deities: Torn
oil lanterns are commonplace amongst populated
This Rymish festival has slowly crept across into the
settlements, whilst smaller villages host communal
Aldarin Empire during the past two decades, being a
towering bonfires fuelled by birch trees from Asheri.
culturally driven celebration of crafting, sewing, and
Within Deveros specifically, the trees are instead
creativity. Markets hold open banquets and carnival
stacked tall within the Aeterflamma (Jc4) with the
games within participating towns with an aim to
colourful Asheri wool knitted into small toys for
attract folk into visiting the local craft stalls. Small
children by the sacerdotes of Deos and Talo.
theatrical troupes put on amateur performances
in preparation for next year’s Masqué. Priceless
Deverosia art pieces, designed over many years by notorious
artists, are commonly revealed during the festivities
with the central hubs for such celebrations focusing
Date: 16th–22nd Spring’s Dusk
around Longbreach in South Rymin and the Artisno
Holiday Type: Dies festus
district of Deveros.
Associated Deities: Deos

Celebrated solely in Deveros, Deverosia marks the

founding of the city on the 21st Spring’s Dusk almost

36
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sola Luna the morning with the Parade of Feathers, where the Sports
Legio Aerius Deverosia I marches through the main
Date: 1st–2nd Summer’s Dawn plazas of Deveros towards the Amethyst Acre. This is
Holiday Type: Dies festus followed by Emblemata, a lengthy ceremony where Religion

Associated Deities: Deos, Mornfel, Adriosa, Atheana each prospective legionarius grypho is greeted by the
emperor and Primus Legatus before officially receiv-
Mostly celebrated in the northern provinces of the
ing their rank. Additionally, any patrician or sancte Politics
Aldarin Empire, Sola Luna is an appreciation of the
legionarii gryphones who have distinguished them-
sun and the moons, with offerings of wine and bread
selves in the line of duty are awarded special medals
made to both Deos and Mornfel. Celebrations start Military
during this ceremony. As the sun begins to set over
at the crack of dawn with wrestling, sporting events,
the city, the Legio Aerius Deverosa I performs a flyby
and games of chance, which carry through until dusk
over Deveros, dropping small pouches of vibrant dye
the following day. During this time, light-shedding Commerce
onto revellers below. Legionarii gryphones fly from
spells are cast throughout the night whilst lunar-fo-
all across the empire to be sworn in to the Legions
cused spells are cast throughout the day in a blending
at the Grypho Probatio, with this mass migration in Crime and
of the two commonly opposed celestial bodies. It Punishment
the prior weeks forming its own unique spectacle
is tradition to gift gold and silver cutlery during
throughout the imperial provinces.
the festival, with entrepreneurial merchants selling Provinces of
especially decorated sets in the weeks running up to Aldarin
the festival period. Those who are unable to afford
the steep prices for such items choose instead to
Acclesiavesti Periods of
Aldarin
use more affordable alternatives such as pewter and History
Date: 5th Summer’s Crest
brass. Nobody knows where this tradition began but
Holiday Type: Dies festus
it has remained as a staple of the festival for centuries.
Classes
This festival marks the day that Acclesian Alventius
marched upon the capital and overthrew the impe-
Grypho Probatio rial rule of Aldarin. The festival involves the typical Backgrounds
Aldarin form of celebration with drinking and danc-
Date: 7th Summer’s Dawn ing in the streets. A number of characters dressed as
Holiday Type: Dies festus the emperor called Imperator Imperators run through Appendices
the streets shouting capricious commands at pass-
A Deverosian military festival showcasing the newly
ersby such as “Grovel before me!” and “Give me your
trained legionarii gryphones and their impressive
wine!”. These commands must be obeyed by the festi-
mounts as they are sworn into the Legions. It takes
val goers, turning the streets into a live performance.
several arduous years of training and dedication
A second set of characters called Liberator Liberators
to become a legionarius grypho, with the Grypho
search for the Imperator Imperators throughout
Probatio marking a monolithic milestone in a legion-
the streets, wielding cypress branches with which
arius’s life. The festival begins in the early hours of

37
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

to strike them. Whenever an Imperator Imperator partnerships, small clay amphorae called vinate are
shouts a command, a Liberator Liberator may shout specially crafted for distribution of samples of the
back “Imperator Imperator, we are free! Imperator last season’s wine within popular markets. These
Imperator, take a knee!” where upon the Imperator amphorae are then smashed after consumption with
Imperator must kneel or bow before running off the fragments of the clay marked with votes of which
to torment someone else. Eventually, the Liberator vineyard has served the best wine — winning them
Liberators chase the Imperator Imperators out of the various prizes funded by local patricians. Offerings
city, being hailed with wreaths of flowers and coins as of wine and ale are given at temples to Kistra and
they triumphantly stride back through the city gates. Brimshaw, asking for bountiful harvests in the
Votes for who plays the part of these characters are coming season.
taken in the weeks prior to the festival with famous
bards, actors, and even politicians competing in
the running. Alta Deosia
Date: 10th–12th Summer’s Dusk
Aestus Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Deos, Diviliana, Kistra
Date: 17th Summer’s Crest
Dedicated to Deos and Diviliana, Alta Deosia is CW
Holiday Type: Dies festus
a celebration of the summer solstice. In the days
Associated Deities: Rael
leading up to Alta Deosia, any who are betrothed
CW
A sea-bound festival widely celebrated by sailors, may enter into temples of Deos and Diviliana to
fishers, and dock workers wishing to appease the make offerings to the gods in exchange for good
wrath of Rael. Amongst events such as rapida racing weather on their wedding day. A handful of games
and the sharing of seared fish aboard sailing vessels, are held during Alta Deosia, notably a traditional
forty-nine cows are sacrificed to Rael upon the gladiatorial tournament called Semper Pugnamus
precipice of Pharos (Sa2) in Deveros by the devout where gladiators fight naked within Quor’s Crucible
sect of the Eridotes belonging to the Aedes Rael (G26) in Deveros using only shortswords and buck-
(A1). This number is symbolic of how many ships lers. The winner of the battle is bequeathed a golden
Rael allegedly sank during her first naval battle as a laurel wreath by one of the primi and a hefty sum
sea captain many millennia ago before her ascension of gold. While folk living in major imperial cities
as a deity. The meat is seared upon the divine fire of tend to offer only to Deos and Diviliana on this day,
Pharos and served as a feast to the seafaring mem- rural communities additionally perform sacrifices
bers of the Deverosian community as thanks for their of pheasants and chickens to Kistra in exchange for
work. This ritual is intended to appease the waves of the protection of crops during the harvest season.
the Gilded Ocean, calming the waters around the
Deverosian coast and bringing her sacerdotes closer
to the nautical community. Loritiea
Date: 23rd Summer’s Dusk
Vinalia Messis Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Loritel
Date: 19th Summer’s Crest
In the weeks leading up to Loritiea, the Legions
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
spend periods of time curing meats or holding back
Associated Deities: Kistra, Brimshaw
rations in order to celebrate this festival amongst
Vinalia Messis marks the first wine harvest of the their ranks. Each legion hosts a grand feast, wherever
year. Vineyards all across the empire host wine they might be, which commences at midday and
tasting events and auctions of rare previous vintages. ends at dusk, with plentiful alcohol and food to go
Folk from throughout rural regions of Aldarin gather around. Offerings of carved river stones dedicated to
at their nearest vineyard to assist in the picking of Loritel are placed into hand-woven wicker baskets
the grapes, wielding sickles in respect of Kistra’s before being floated downstream in the nearest river.
own deific weapon: Messis. The labour performed The stones commonly have wishes or aspirations
by these ad hoc workers is reciprocated in kind by that the legionarii wish to achieve in the coming
the vintners through a free meal of hearty bread, year placed upon them in the hope that Loritel
stew, cheese, and, of course, wine. Within larger will provide guidance in their path. This tradition
imperial settlements, day-long partnerships are is predominantly kept within the borders of the
formed between merchants and vineyards. In such empire, with legions on campaign abstaining from

38
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

participation out of fear of revealing their location to the festival, the triumphi are granted the same level
the enemy. It is common for private citizens, notably of protection as consensae due to their importance.
those related to a legionarius or with a legionarius It is tradition to attempt to throw coinage at the
Introduction
background, to partake in this tradition as well. As triumphi as they pass in the streets in the hopes that
such, the River Ivora always overflows with wicker they will do their job properly if given more money.
Introduction
baskets on the eve of the festival, causing chaos for to the
river boats and rapidari trying to keep to schedule. Aldarin

Precipa Empire

Aldarin
Grand Mercari Date: 4th Autumn’s Dawn Names

Holiday Type: Dies fasti

Date: 26th Summer’s Dusk – 11th Autumn’s Dawn Associated Deities: Aether, Loritel Social Classes
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Precipa is a small, relatively unknown festival CW
Associated Deities: Quor
acknowledged by rural farming communities in the Kinships in
Hosted within a different provincial capital every southern and eastern provinces of Aldarin stemming the Empire
two years, the Grand Mercari is a collective of com- from ancient Cilician culture. Sacrifices of sheep
petitive games spanning a two-week period where and lambs are made to Aether in exchange for rain
Festivals
challengers from the empire’s most renowned mercyr during the late summer months, when the climate
guilds are pitched head to head. Most of these games is most arid. Stone charms surrounded by twigs and
tend towards a friendlier nature. One such game chaff are crafted by children to be hung from barns,
Sports
is the jova competition, where mercyrs (who have meant to protect food stocks from flooding by nearby
commonly never played the sport before) are given rivers. Stories are told of ancestors, great wars, and
a quick introduction to jova before being let loose times of hardship so that the youth may be prepared Religion
in the arena to the merriment of all. Other games, for the future.
however, take on a more serious tone. These include
pitched battles involving large guilds and ruthless
Mercantus
Politics
gladiatorial bouts, where blood flows freely into the
sand beneath and sacerdotes sit on stand-by to cure
those grievously wounded. When hosted within Date: 15th–18th Autumn’s Dawn Military
Deveros, Quor’s Crucible is filled to capacity through Holiday Type: Dies fasti
each day of the festival, with gambling on each event Associated Deities: Saleen
commonplace amongst the spectators. Commerce
Within the Anchor Nations, Mercantus is celebrated
During the festival period, competitors from each
as four days of unrestricted trade and commerce,
guild are treated as celebrities throughout the host
which merchants from all walks of life eagerly look Crime and
city, receiving gifts of free food and equipment by Punishment
forward to each year. For the duration of the festival,
businesses seeking to earn their favour. Some are
all trade tax is lifted throughout markets and shops
approached by patricians or wealthy commercial
across major settlements of each nation, trickling an Provinces of
guilds seeking sponsorship and asked to wear certain Aldarin
immense sum of coin into the hands of mercantile
pieces of armour bearing the crest or emblem of
folk. Travellers come from all over the Medial Plane
their sponsor in exchange for weapons, magical Periods of
to sell their wares, with the Imperial Licensing Office Aldarin
items, and gold.
requiring extra workers in the weeks prior to the History
The most anticipated event of the tournament
festival to approve all new merchants for trade. This
is the team gladiatorial bracket. Two teams of four
influx of visitors into the provincial capitals espe- Classes
mercyrs are pitched in an arena bout, with the last
cially, seeking to both buy and sell, leads to all inns
team standing progressing on to the next round. The
within a ten-mile radius around the cities to become
winners of each event are awarded with a range of
booked out. Families with space to spare temporarily Backgrounds
prizes funded by local patricians seeking to enter into
rent out beds to earn some additional coin from the
the good graces of the guilds. These prizes commonly
festival, which is seen to be part of the commercial
include rare magical items, property in the empire,
spirit of the festivities. It is not uncommon for streets Appendices
gold, exclusive contract offers, and most important
to end up blocked by trade wagons jostling to find
of all: bragging rights. The Grand Mercari is refereed
a spot to set up shop, with the wiliest merchants
by legionarii consensae or retired mercyrs belonging
arriving several weeks before to secure themselves a
to the patrician and sancte class, known as triumphi.
place in the markets for the four-day stretch.
Triumphi can be spotted amongst the festival crowds
wearing resplendent purple-and-gold cloaks with
traditional amethyst-adorned laurel wreaths. During

39
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Wysta The Primus aspect of the festival pays mind to the

creation of the Compass by the Four Primordials and
Date: 1st Autumn’s Crest the birth of first life upon the Medial Plane. This event
Holiday Type: Dies festus is dated back to the 16th Autumn’s Crest by the elder
Associated Deities: Iora druids of what was once the Alvian Kingdom (though
the accuracy of this dating is questioned by sacerdotes
In a celebration of knowledge and literacy, scrolls
of Gw’yth). The social classes of Aldarin meld together
are gifted by friends and family across the Anchor
for the day with small token gifts often passed between
Nations during the day of Wysta. Those who never
the nobility and their servants. It is tradition for the
had the privilege of learning to read or write as part
head of a patrician house to prepare and serve a
of their education can attend free literacy classes at
cooked meal to the workers of their household, plac-
libraries and temples of Iora to be introduced to the
ing a gold coin into the food as they do. The person
written Common language. Special books are crafted
who finds the coin is said to become blessed with good
by sacerdotes of Iora just for the occasion, designed
luck in finding love over the following year. If they
to help teach a language to those unfamiliar with it
become betrothed before the next Primus Coperna,
through use of imagery and phonetics. This tradition
the head of house is expected to attend the wedding
was started in Zygarde by the Scholars of The Third
where they are returned the gold coin back as thanks
Flame as a means to encourage literacy across the
for their blessing. It is tradition for the head of house
nation, but soon spread to the other Anchor Nations
to deny the return of the coin and instead to hand an
as cultures slowly become interwoven.
additional gold coin to each of the marrying partners.
The Coperna segment of the festival specifically
Iset celebrates the birth of new life, with babies born on
the holiday being known as coperna (pl. copernae)
or “full ones”. A coperna is gifted with a special
Date: 9th–21st Autumn’s Crest
copper coin engraved with Kylera’s mark, also called
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
a coperna, which is strung into a necklace. These
Associated Deities: Kylera
children are said to be blessed by the Lotus Heart
A traditional holiday from Sel’Kildar celebrating life, themself with promising lives ahead of them.
Iset is upheld by Sel’Kildarian collectives across the Notable copernae include Prolegitor Cristanthum
empire. Families fast during the day, subsisting on Gaeolus Adriosa (LG she/they [GF] Aldarin
water alone, only eating a simple meal of bread and defender [Meliam] 13) of the Bulwark mercyr guild
water after the sun has set. Offerings of ash-covered and Empress Ophelia (see page 105) who slew the
lotuses and pots of crushed bone are gifted to Kylera at fae goddess Yhulhia during the Second Medial War.
their temples. Excess and indulgence is frowned upon The Aldarins see copernae as god-touched citizens,
during this time, with alcohol and activities of pleasure granting them unique privileges within the empire.
forbidden. The funds ordinarily used to buy food or to These include the right to stand for political office
indulge oneself are saved into a clay pot in the corner when coming of age, regardless of family background
of a family’s living space, which are then donated to or social standing, the waiving of student fees if join-
temples, orphanages, and other charitable causes on ing arcane college, and the right to marry together
the final day of the holiday. Upon breaking the fast, citizens despite not being a sacerdos of any cult.
many families celebrate with wine and fireworks, an
event greatly beloved by the local Aldarins who are
more than willing to join the raucous festivities. Flamus
Date: 25th Autumn’s Crest
Primus Coperna Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Tredecima
Date: 16th Autumn’s Crest
As leaves begin to fall and ochre tones sweep the land-
Holiday Type: Dies festus
scape, the people of Aldarin pay mind to those who
Associated Deities: Primordials, Kylera, Kistra
have sacrificed themselves for the protection of the
The festival of Primus Coperna originated from Medial Plane in centuries past. Wreaths of flowers are
two separate festivals, Primus and Coperna, each laid at war memorials across the empire, while tombs
celebrated by separate historical provinces of the of legionarii are decorated with artwork and offerings
Aldarin Empire. Over time, the two life-centric of home-cooked food and wine. Military parades are
festivals combined into one large-scale event which put on by the Legions, focused around militarised
is now observed by citizens and provincials alike districts of the provincial capitals, along with sweeping
across the breadth of Aldarin. aerial displays in the skies by the aerial legions.

40
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Memorials of both the First Medial War and Second to the vast foreign trade and imports passing through
Medial War flamines are adorned with flowers, these settlements, food shortages are less of a concern.
clothes, fresh food, and wine as sacerdotes perform Events such as chariot racing and jova matches take
Introduction
blessing rites upon them to ensure their sanctity. Any precedence over the traditional communal labour in
living mantels and demigods within the public eye such places, with the city-bound Aldarins taking any
Introduction
attend their nearest temples to commune with their excuse they can find to get drunk. to the
gods in private, asking for guidance over the coming Aldarin
Empire
year. It is not uncommon for powerful demigods
to request ascension to join the deific ranks during Communitas Aldarin
this time, though these requests are seldom granted. Names

Occasionally, a demigod might ascend to the divine Date: 1st–7th Winter’s Dawn
realm, their body crumbling to ashes in a blinding Holiday Type: Dies fasti Social Classes
light as their soul leaves the plane. Demigods who are Associated Deities: Sovingar, Gw’yth
granted ascension do not always do so immediately,
Celebrating the end of the arcane college exam
often finding a suitable place for the process to occur in Kinships in
season, students of the Deveros Arcane University the Empire
mind of where their first temple will likely be erected.
take to the streets of Deveros, helping common folk
Mantels too join in this deific bargaining, request-
with everyday tasks using their newfound magical
ing minor ascension into demigodhood during this Festivals
talents. Performing minor enchantments, teaching
autumnal festival. Prayers are sent to their devoted
children the wonders of magic, assisting with tasks
deity in hopes of becoming bestowed with gifts of the
requiring arcane assistance, and cataloguing books in
divine, embraced as children into their deific family. Sports
the local libraries are some such community-driven
Massive musical processions follow mantels towards
activities led by the Premagi Assembly during this
the Aedes Tredecima in Deveros, bolstering them with
festival. The evenings are commonly spent drinking
public support and offerings to their deity in the hope Religion
and feasting within the student halls as graduating
that their request is accepted. These requests are more
students spend time together preparing for their
often granted than the pleas for true ascension by the
next stages in life, with Ioras marking the close to
demigods, with a new demigod rising once every ten to Politics
this chapter of their journey in two months’ time.
twenty years. Whilst Deveros is not the only city with
aedes to the Tredecima, it is the only city on Elos to have
Military
such holy grounds. As such, both mortal and divine
travellers alike visit from all over the continent to par-
Vinalia Barus
take in the divine celebrations at this truly sacred place.
Date: 2nd Winter’s Dawn Commerce
Holiday Type: Dies festus

Tundae Associated Deities: Brimshaw

Crime and
Punishment
After a successful harvest season, new flavourful ales CW
Date: 17th–19th Autumn’s Dusk are brewed by farming communities and hospitality
Holiday Type: Dies fasti businesses across Aldarin in the weeks leading up Provinces of
Aldarin
Associated Deities: Tunder to the Vinalia Barus festival. As dawn rises, these
ales are poured from their kegs and shared with the
Preparations for the winter are made upon the Periods of
masses, with folk critiquing the flavours and giving Aldarin
autumnal equinox, where farming communities
feedback to the brewers. Older ales are served freely History
gather together to supply each other with wood and
from ale fountains crafted especially for the festival,
dried food rations in preparation for the hardsome
used to pour forth endless supplies of cheap booze. Classes
months. This is a time of community and friendship,
More refined beverages are served at a reduced price
with each person helping their neighbour with a job
from tabernae, taverns, and popinae throughout the
or task, as there is always something that needs doing.
provinces. Coins fly across tabernae in attempts to Backgrounds
Emergency stockpiles of grain, cured meat, and wine
land them into another’s drink, for if a coin falls into
are constructed by the Legions, ready to be distributed
a mug it must be downed immediately to gain the
to settlements in need throughout the winter. Woollen
favour of Brimshaw. This tradition more often than Appendices
cloaks are crafted by artisans and families and woven
not leads to a hail of coins flying around many estab-
with decorative beads, ready to be blessed by the sac-
lishments, with the bartenders and waiters profiting
erdotes of Tunder, so that they may provide protection
considerably from the resulting mess. By the end of
against the cutting winter gales. The festival ends with
the night, hordes of Aldarins retreat to the thermae
a modest communal feast of bread, nuts, and wine
to fend off the next day’s hangover where bread and
held in the central plaza of the nearest local settlement.
water are served by servants to the visiting revellers.
While mostly a rural tradition, the same festival has
Numerous folk fall asleep in the baths, jokingly called
spread to major cities in recent decades, though due
erubescens or “those with the red faces”.
41
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Gales Dea Veshmera

Date: 6th–8th Winter’s Dawn Date: 1st–3rd Winter’s Wax
Holiday Type: Dies festus Holiday Type: Dies festus (Sel’Kildarian
Associated Deities: Quor communities only)
Associated Deities: Alh’almaw (Kistra), Oshorin (Estioc),
Three bountiful days of appreciation for the open
Dedephi (Zephyr)
exploration of gender expression, Gales Dea is a cel-
ebration of the soul. Whilst not typically conformist In all kara-vaji (underground city-like tombs) across CW
to gendered clothing, the Aldarins go especially the plane, Sel’Kildarians gather during the days of
out of their way to wear whatever they wish on this Veshmara to spend precious time with the departed
holiday, with lovers traditionally wearing each other’s souls of loved ones. It is at this time of the year that the
clothes and celebrating the lives of their significant boundaries of the Medial Plane and Ethereal Expanse
others. Confessions of love are commonplace are most blurred, with spirits more commonly being
throughout the festival as well as the gifting of seen throughout the areas of kara-vaji where they
personal, handmade presents between friends and might not otherwise appear. Meals of salted fish and
lovers. Improvised theatrical comedies are put on dried root vegetables are prepared in the days prior
throughout the streets with bystanders rushing to the holiday, brought into the catacombs, and eaten
in to add to the running narrative as the city rises whilst sitting beside the spirits of deceased family
into a state of colour and laughter. Flower petals are members. Fragrant candles are lit throughout kara-
cast into the wind, covering the cobbled roads and vaji, dispelling the musty smell of the underground
terracotta rooftops. Doves are set free from temples chambers with pleasant scents of fruits and berries.
with small scrolls attached to their legs containing Ceremonial rituals of binding are carried out by sac-
wishes to the gods. There is rampant feasting and erdotes of Alh’almaw and Oshorin upon the va’veshi
drinking throughout the entire festival, with many gates leading into kara-vaji, ensuring that no spirits
partying until the final day comes to a close. Gales are able to pass back through into the Medial Plane.
Dea is a beloved festival by the Aldarins, celebrating Many Sel’Kildarians choose to cover themselves
love, sexuality, and personality above all else. in vibrant dyes, wear flamboyant outfits, and douse
their clothes in pungent fragrances in an effort to
arouse the senses of their ancestral spirits, which
Liberillia they believe have dulled past death. Some sacerdotes
dress up as their sworn deities, handing out offerings
Date: 14th Winter’s Dawn of food and silver to families unable to make spiritual
Holiday Type: Dies festus offerings during the festival period. Processions of
Associated Deities: The Liberi wind music and song move throughout kara-vaji
with revellers passing out shots of fine overproof
Liberillia arrives at the turn of the winter season,
spirits topped with flower petals to those who join
when the snow piles on thick and the fields are
in their song.
capped with ice. Heavenly cultists cook food in
their homes and whittle small charms out of wood,
which are taken to the various shrines and temples
throughout the empire dedicated to the lesser-known
Atheanius
gods of the Liberi. Sacerdotes from these diminutive
Date: 7th Winter’s Wax
shrines offer baked goods and warmed wine topped
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
with nutmeg in exchange for these offerings. All
Associated Deities: Atheana, Mornfel
the excess food within these shrines are donated to
local orphanages or gifted to homeless folk in the Atheanius celebrates the birth of the Atheanan
less fortunate areas of major settlements, or simply moon, whose calming moonlight sheds clarity and
shared with the community. As thanks for these peace upon the Medial Plane. Followers of Atheana
gifts, several Liberi offer boons to their most loyal attend lunar altars, making offerings of bread,
followers on this day, flexing their deific power to wine, literature, and spell components to the astral
their fullest extent — even if it is vastly weaker than pseudo-deity. Lycans bound to Atheana commonly
those of the Tredecima. attend temples of Mornfel in private, seeking to make
personal offerings of silver trinkets to their moon as
acceptance of their blessing. Many of these Atheanan
lycans choose to meditate in the moonlight should
it shine openly on this day, reverting to their true
forms whilst maintaining a sensation of calm
across their body.
42
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Vae Night emerge as champions are awarded with wreaths of

wheat or barley to be worn for the rest of the festival
Date: 18th Winter’s Wax and provided with free food and wine from partic-
Introduction
Holiday Type: Dies festus ipating tabernae.
Associated Deities: Tredecima As night falls, those who belong to the Daemon
Introduction
side roam the streets, scaring children inside with
CW
Vae Night is celebrated widely across the Medial to the
warnings of destruction as the Medial actors chase Aldarin
Plane as a victory against the Inner Compass and Empire
the “daemons” around, throwing pails of water and
Wysterwood who invaded during the First and
rotten vegetables. Despite the historical nature of the Aldarin
Second Medial Wars. Traditions vary from nation
festival celebrating victory over the Inner Compass’s Names
to nation, but within the Aldarin Empire, celebrants
invasions, many farborn see it as disrespectful to
enter into ballots in the weeks prior to the festival
their own kind, choosing not to participate in the
to determine their side: Medial or Daemon, which Social Classes
festivities. Due to this, several more open-minded
are then revealed a week before the festival. Half
communities (especially those who oppose the pres-
the celebrants dress as fae, devils, demons, and
ence of the World Border) have relabelled the two Kinships in
other daemons; and the other half dress as Aldarin the Empire
sides as “Day” and “Night”, dressing up as fantastical
ancestors and flamines of the Tredecima. Bountiful
creatures and glamorous heroes from Sif Selaine’s
games are held between the two sides, such as races,
famous books of wonder instead. Festivals
sporting events, and pitched battles. Those who

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

Commerce

Crime and
Punishment

Provinces of
Aldarin

Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices
Vae Masks

43
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Sports
The Aldarin people love sport of all kinds. Whether are still a select number of magi who avidly pursue
racing horses along dusty tracks, fighting to the the reinstatement of the age-old tradition.
death within sandy arenas, or charging gryphons at Arcane duelling is typically performed between
each other mid-flight, there is never a deficiency of two magi, though there are forms of duelling where
sporting events going on within the empire. Athletes multiple magi might work separately or in teams to
gather spectators and fans from across the reaches defeat the other side. In the traditional form of the
of the empire, with large swathes of wealth following sport, both magi enter into a small circular arena
them wherever they tread in the form of sponsorship where they would bow to each other before walking
and prize money. to their respective edges of the ring. A referee, called
the disceptator, would slap an olive branch onto the
floor to signify the start of the duel. The magi would
Arcane Duelling use whatever spells they have as their disposal to dis-
able or otherwise knock out their opponent. Certain
A mage steps back, narrowly dodging three consecutive schools of magic, such as enchantment or divination,
shards of ice which shatter against the wall. There is are frowned upon as cheap tricks and boring to
a billowing of ferocious orange energy from under his watch, whereas other schools, such as adjuration
robes. He points two fingers towards his opponent as a and evocation, are the expected norm, giving way
streak of fire screeches from them. The opponent goes to to spectacle and suspense. If the disceptator decides
deflect, summoning a shimmering purple shield before that one side has won, they may end the duel early by
them. The mage smiles. His fire splits in two, arching hitting the victor with their olive branch. In the event
around the hastily thrown-up barrier and striking that a magus does not adhere to the call of the dis-
into their chest. The opponent goes flying, landing on ceptator, the trained referee would be able to swiftly
their back, their chest smouldering. The mage bows in disable the unjust party through enchantments such
victory towards them, blowing smoke from his fingers. as the hold person and suggestion spells.
Whilst not strictly legal within Aldarin, outlawed
since the start of the 6th Century, arcane duelling
is a sport still practised by many magi behind the
Chariot Racing
cloistered walls of college dorms and deep within
Trails of coarse dust kick up from rapidly spinning
illicit popinae. The tradition began as a way for early
chariot wheels as two ornate chassis slam against
magi to practise their arcane talents whilst honing
one another. The crowd cheers as the leading chariot
in on combat casting skills, something not strictly
spins out of control, crumpling into a clustered mess
taught whilst learning the ways of the arcane. More
of wood, metal, and flesh. The victor raises their arms
commonly, duelling was used to resolve disputes or
high during their victory lap amidst a shower of coins
disagreements between magi, more often than not
and flowers from the stalls. Sacerdotes scurry towards
resulting in severe injury or even death. Over time,
the wreckage in search of survivors. Another day comes
the tradition transitioned into a sport for many, and
to a close at the Incircum hippodrome.
weekly duelling events took place throughout public
plazas within major settlements. These spectacles Chariot racing is Aldarin’s second most watched
of magical showboating never went too far, with sport after jova, showcasing up to a dozen charioteers
participants seldom becoming permanently harmed hurtling around a hippodrome in attempts to race
through participation. As magical knowledge pro- against or eliminate their competitors. Every major
gressed, however, duelling became deadlier, resulting settlement has a hippodrome which one may visit to
in a greater number of fatalities. This eventually came watch the races, though in smaller settlements these
to a head during the First Medial War, where several are replaced with open air dirt tracks with no direct
high-profile magi were killed in a series of duels seating. Chariot races are usually more expensive to
over disagreements relating to military magi place- watch as compared to gladiatorial matches and jova,
ments. The Primus Arcanus at the time, Quintilla with hippodromes having fewer seats for spectators.
Baradinus Jordveila (NG she/her Aldarin dead), A charioteer stands upon an elaborate chariot,
stepped in to stop the violence and decreed a ban on made of light wood and ornate metal filigree, com-
the practice until the war had finished. This ban was manding before them up to eight horses which pull
never repealed, though numerous bills attempted them along at terrifying speeds. Races can last from
to pass through The Consentium in attempts to a few minutes to well over half an hour. These range
reinstate the practice with additional laws and pro- from speed trials, where charioteers simply try to
tections in place. Now, almost five centuries on, there finish first, to task trials, where certain requirements

44
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

must be fulfilled such as collecting hanging fruit Gladiators

from baskets or destroying the opponents’ chariots.
Commerce
Charioteers earning themselves a name in the empire Swords flash as the cacophonous clatter of steel on steel
might find themselves sponsored by a patrician or rings out throughout the arena. A lightly armoured
sancte family, paying for horses, chariot repairs, gnome dashes back three steps, standing off against a Crime and
Punishment
clothing, accommodation, food, and alcohol. Those towering, bronze-plated half-dragon. There is a flurry
who can hold their ranking high enough above the as sand is kicked up from the floor. The half-dragon
others are able to easily sustain an almost patrician staggers back, holding her eyes as boos and hisses Provinces of
Aldarin
quality of life, owning villas, servants, and luxurious resonate from the crowd. A blur, two slashes. The
clothing whilst hosting frequent parties. half-dragon falls to the sand, blood pooling around
Periods of
her chest. The gnome strikes once more to finish the Aldarin
job and smiles to the crowd, lapping up the attention History

Health and Exercise of his infamy.

The Aldarin people are widely health Classes
conscious, taking it upon themselves to A spectacle attended by almost all Aldarins, gladia- CW
regularly undergo exercise and physical torial battles are the most common sporting events
training. Such activities as running, in Aldarin society. One or more lightly armoured Backgrounds
swimming, hurdling, wrestling, boxing, and fighters enter into an arena, stirring up the crowds
dicus are just a few light sports Aldarins are to garner support before fighting each other, either
regularly found partaking in within thermae unto death or until one is declared the victor. While Appendices
and small arenas. It is not uncommon to see professional gladiators are not usually killed in the
Aldarins running in groups down the streets
arena, instead simply ceding defeat to the winner, it is
or swimming in rivers for sport, with the
Legions using these methods for training
not uncommon for vast swathes of gold to be poured
their legionarii. into funding their resurrection so that a heroic death
can be witnessed first hand by the masses.
Gladiatorial battles range in variety from one-to-
one fights against bitter rivals to free-for-all matches

45
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

involving multiple gladiators at once. Gladiatorial usually a small leather or wooden object, and to keep
groups are the current trend in the arenas, with indi- it in their zone for as long as possible. The opposing
vidual gladiators teaming up to fight other teams of team must rush into the controlling team’s zone to
CW
blood-soaked warriors in the ring. These friendships wrestle control of the ball from them before throwing
are hyped up by the crowds, which only increases the it back into their own zone. This leads to plentiful
tension when they are dramatically broken through wrestling, dodging, and tackling with blood more
betrayal and backstabbing. Typically, these events often than not spilled onto the sand.
are all rigged, with the gladiators often aware of what Scores are tallied by two referees who each keep
is happening beforehand, even practising certain track of the time the ball has spent in each respective
moments together in the training arena so that they team’s zone. The game ends when a team reaches a
may give the best display to the crowds. predetermined score limit, decided by the teams
Minor tournaments take place in numerous arenas before play begins. A variation of harpastum is
throughout Aldarin each week, commonly ranging played within the Legions, called harpestos, and is
in participation from fledgling fighters all the way used to train the legionarii in breaching an enemy
to famous gladiators of the era. Championships line and securing a zone of influence. Players for
take place during important festival days, where harpestos are armed with scutum which they may
the best of the best fight it out amongst themselves use to charge or form a wall, with the objective being
for the glory of the people, commonly fitting some to hold the ball within the opponent’s zone rather
theme pertaining to the festival itself. The duty of than their own.
the gladiator is to provide entertainment first and to
win second, with the whole system almost entirely
predetermined from the start of most tournaments. Henestra
Some gladiators, however, choose to go against
the grain, riling up the crowd before breaking the Two young Aldarins sprint towards a gryphon, which
pre-set expectations of the organisers and choosing backs away, terrified. The quicker of the two makes
instead to go all out in their fights, throwing off a dive, rolling under the beast as she snatches a neck
the intended results. These gladiators usually find feather from behind its ruff. There is a deafening
themselves ousted from the arena by the organisers screech, a flapping of wings. The second Aldarin goes
or “accidentally” killed in one of their next fights. flying, smashing into a crate of feed. Blood trails down
from their chest, their clothes torn. They slowly raise
their hand, revealing a single feather, and are met with
Harpastum cheers from their friends. A noise from nearby. There
is shouting. The youths flee as two armoured vintari
Blood splatters across the sand as a dwarf charges turn the corner and begin to chase the group.
shoulder first into two defenders, knocking them flying.
Slated as an horrific practice and unnecessarily CW
The dwarf swings a punch at an Aldarin holding a
cruel by many in the empire, henestra is a favourite
small leather ball, who deftly dodges the first strike
pastime of young patricians with nothing better to do
but is unable to dodge the second. She recoils to the
with their time. The “sport” is typically played within
ground, dropping the ball, which is snatched by the
a gryphon pen. Competitors take turns attempting to
dwarf. More defenders encircle, ready to pounce. The
pluck feathers from the neck of the gryphon, com-
dwarf leaps into the air, hurling the ball towards the
monly met with ferocious beak and talon strikes by
other side of the field. It is caught by his teammates as
the angered creature. The first to pluck a feather from
the dwarf lands. He is swiftly bundled upon by a mass
the gryphon’s neck is considered the victor, attaining
of bodies. He cares not, for the ball is safe.
the prize of being the largest fool in the immediate
Harpastum is the most popular ball game across all vicinity. The practice started during the late 10th
forms of societal class in Aldarin. Bathhouses and Century when younger patricians and sanctes found
stables throughout the empire commonly reserve a themselves more readily able to afford gryphons
region of ground for the sport to be played, whether of their own through shifts in wealth and greater
it be inside or out. This region is typically laid with accessibility to the creatures across the empire.
sand to cushion players impacting the ground Due to the unnaturally cruel nature of the practice,
with force — a common occurrence. A ball game henestra has been attacked in the public forums by
involving wrestling and deft dodging of opponents, both the Capitans and Reformist political parties
harpastum is a fairly simple sport to play. Two teams who have proposed numerous bills to outlaw it.
are formed of between six and eighteen players, each Reformist opulatus Fulvia Caecillius (NG she/her
of which contain their own zone on the field. It is the Aldarin commoner 3) has slated the practice as a
objective of each team to maintain control of the ball, “disgraceful act of contempt and defilement of the

46
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

imperial insignia, bringing shame to Aldarin’s youth” Jova

in response to Revitalists who have vetoed these bills.
Despite the wide-flung outcries against henestra, it Two gryphons collide midair, a flurry of feathers and
Introduction
is still played by patrician youths throughout the talons. The crowd sits on the edge of their seats. There
empire, most notably those living far from the are only ten seconds left and both teams sit on 42
Introduction
Consentium’s govern, such as in Alvia and Borealia. points each. An iron ball drops from the fray as a blur to the
ripples underneath, catching it. Five seconds. The ball Aldarin
Empire
is thrown, gliding through the air. Two seconds. It
plunges through the hoop, slamming into the arena Aldarin
wall as the bell tolls. The crowd erupts to their feet as Names

the scoring gryphon rider raises her pole to the sky,

saluting her fans. The Solenta Sunbirds progress into Social Classes
the semi-finals.
The national sport of Aldarin, with dozens of teams Kinships in
and hundreds of thousands of followers avidly the Empire
flocking to witness the exciting aerial matches, jova
Commis reigns king over all other sports. A simple yet brutal
Festivals
“Pssttt… Listen, if ye’ve got a Calberion sport, derived from the intense training undergone
Ranger I’ll trade ye three Ebyr’sol Brandiers. by legionarii gryphones upon induction to the aerial
Been lookin’ for one for months to complete legions, jova showcases the finest talents in gryphon
Sports
me Fyndar set to get the bonus ‘gainst the riding and aerial coordination that the empire
Emondisians. Al’s got an Emondy army and I can has to offer.
never beat ‘im!” There are two teams in jova, with each side Religion
Sporting aside, Aldarins love a good game, sporting five jovarii. A single jovarius consists of
and the amethyst statuettes of The Helian a humanoid mounted upon a hastellian gryphon,
Collection (Ma9) have taken centre stage working together as a unit to soar through the Politics
in the past year. A tactical war game, not arena at blinding speed. Whilst the name “jovarius”
dissimilar to chess, called Commis has commonly refers to the pair, it can also be used to
inadvertently sparked an underground
describe the sole player. Jovarii wear nothing but Military
trading ring throughout the empire for those
seeking to attain all the rare figures. Players
a light white cloth covering their groin, playing
collect statuettes into armies, using wooden completely topless and often adorning themselves
or terracotta stand-ins if they do not have with paint or holy symbols. They are protected with Commerce

the special Helian amethyst ones, and battle a fitted brass helmet and small oval buckler, with
against each other in a one versus one war the gryphons often sporting brass chain barding.
Crime and
game of deceit and cunning. In higher leagues, gryphons also wear decorative Punishment
The more official Helian amethyst helmets adorned with the plumage of the team’s
statuettes one has in their army, the stronger colours. Jovarii wield long wooden poles, called
the army becomes. The armies are themed Provinces of
hastae, which are used to knock opposing players Aldarin
after real world collectives such as the
Aldarins, Ebyr’sol, Fyndarians, and numerous
from their mounts. These hastae are 6 feet in length,
other nations. Some statuettes are themed made of cypress wood, and are often decorated with Periods of
Aldarin
after real world individuals as well, such golden filigree and inlaid carvings. History
as Emperor Loxis III (see page 57), and A jova match consists of five rounds of ten to
grant bonuses while in play. A full army of fifteen minutes each. The objective of the game is
Classes
amethyst statuettes grants the player a set to score points by throwing balls through the oppo-
bonus — something which is highly sought nent’s rings. These rings, five for each team, hang
after, allowing the player to perform a unique elevated from two poles placed at opposite ends of
ability bespoke to that nation. Numerous Backgrounds
the arena. Once a ball has been thrown through a
tabernae have begun hosting Commis nights
where players gamble vast amounts of coin
ring, it is lifted up and becomes no longer scorable
against one another while trying to win in the current round. Once a team has lost all their Appendices
these highly coveted amethyst statuettes to rings or fifteen minutes have passed, the round ends.
add to their collections. Teams score points based on the number of rings
they manage to throw balls through. There are three
balls typically in play: two leather and one iron. The
leather balls score one point, and the iron ball scores
five points. The team with the most points after five
rounds wins the match, though additional rounds
may be played in the event of a draw.

47
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Whilst jova traditionally lends itself to those that

can afford a gryphon of their own (an expensive Famous Jova Teams
venture), there has been a surge in recent years of “I always make the journey to see the Caerula
publicly accessible jova academies and training Cardinals when they’re playin’ at the local
grounds. Citizens from the lower classes can attend arenas. Me cousin, Flavius, is even a mascot for
these venues to learn the sport without having to pay the team! Gets all the insider gossip; even gave
for their own gryphon. These training areas provide me some gryphon feathers from their front
access to the sport for all ages and are heavily funded gryphon once. Go Cardinals!”
by the Legions to encourage more people to develop Blue Hold Heralds Originating from the
an interest in becoming legionarii gryphones. rolling fields of Caerula are the lightning fast
jovarii of the Blue Hold Heralds who have
Divisio Imperium held the championship title of the Divisio
Imperium for the past four years. The Blue
It is every jova team’s dream to compete in the Hold Heralds are a fan favourite throughout
Divisio Imperium, the highest professional jova the empire, with the charismatic leader
league in Aldarin. This exclusive league hosts the Roxius Kexlain (CN he/they skyfarer half-
twelve finest jova teams from across all the Aldarin dragon [gold] defender [Quor] 5) winning
provinces, who regularly contend against each other the hearts of fans with their gleaming smile.
for points and sponsorship money. Matches are held Solenta Sunbirds From the districts of
every week on a regular schedule within Quor’s Solenta Major and Solenta Minor in Deveros,
Crucible in Deveros, featuring a morning match the scrappy youths of Aldarin’s lower classes
and an afternoon match. For a victory, a team scores are trained to become some of the best
jovarii in the empire. This rag-tag team of
three points; for a draw, they score two points; and
players are the main rivals to the Blue Hold
for a loss, they score one point. If a team does not Heralds and are expected to snatch the title
maintain a minimum of 16 points across the season, from under their wing this year.
which runs from Spring’s Dawn to Autumn’s Crest,
Arbeia Angels A collective of middle-class
then they are knocked out of the league and replaced
jovarii from the Deverosian district of Arbeia,
with another team. the Arbeia Angels were once a great jova
Jovarii who compete within the Divisio Imperium team who have fallen ever lower in the ranks
are some of the wealthiest and most famous people over the past decade. Now they sit along the
within Aldarin, commonly followed by a gaggle of bottom of the leadership, trying to scrape
fans wherever they tread. Not only are the players their way back into fame.
exceedingly popular, but the gryphons too hold great Caerula Cardinals Following a
fame. The finest of these are selected to breed the next fragmentation in the Blue Hold Heralds two
generation of hastellian gryphons, which can sell for years ago, a new team was born from the
upwards of 50,000 gold. The feathers of famous jova division of the original jovarii: the Caerula
gryphons, fallen through moulting or preening, are Cardinals. This group of young jovarii were
sold as souvenirs at each game with fans wearing unable to dethrone their rivals in the last
Divisio Imperium but are shooting up the
head-dresses made of these feathers.
ladder as they gain experience against
other teams.

Rapida Racing
Waves of water cascade upon the shoreline, drenching
the crowd who let out cheers as two rapidae whiz past.
The front-runner’s engine begins to splutter, sparks of
firey dusk energy arching upwards. The other rapida
rams into the failing engine, triggering an explosion of
vibrant orange arcane energy as both rapidari jump
from their vessels into the waters below. More rapidae
whiz past the burning wreckage, enroute for the finish
line. The crowd cheer and throw flower garlands
over the soaked rapidari as they pull themselves onto
the dock, joining the stands with the other failed
contestants. Thirty two vessels started the race, only
one will finish.

48
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

The racing of rapidae saw its origins only a few The Circum Aquatica started as a small event but
months after the first commercially available rapidae has grown over the past decade into one of the
coming to the market. Only those who could afford greatest sporting events across the empire, attracting
Introduction
the pricey Divestus engine were able to compete tourists from the far reaches of the provinces to come
in these speed-fuelled races around the Deveros and watch. Rapidari offer rides around the bay to
Introduction
Coast, with the new yet unstable technology often visitors in the days leading up to and following the to the
failing in grandiose displays of arcane spectacle. As event, with an influx of provincial citizens within Aldarin
Empire
the technology progressed, becoming ever more Deveros during this time. Many Deverosians gather
cheaper and accessible to the general public, greater upon the rooftops of their apartments and along the Aldarin
and greater numbers of rapidari found themselves shoreline simply to witness the cacophonous explo- Names

able to outfit their rapidae with the Divestus engine. sions as they occur.
This surge of new racers to the sport triggered the Social Classes
advent of officially licensed rapida racing events,
such as the Circum Aquatica, as opposed to the off- Smaller Sports
the-cuff races performed by wealthy folk on a joy ride The Aldarin people are well known for Kinships in
their love of sports and games, with almost the Empire
around the bay. These official races tend to fall into
two categories: speed and endurance. all forms of practical sport originally
derived from ancient religious rites or
Speed races are quite simply a matter of going Festivals
military training. There are a handful of
faster than your opponents and crossing the finish sports that are practised outside of the
line first. These races are most popular amongst the main cliques of grand arenas within small
numerous rapida companies throughout Deveros’s amphitheatres or thermae. Sports
coastal strip, who are keen to show off new advance- Trigona A relatively old and simple ball game
ments in rapida technology and to potentially acquire enjoyed by groups of children and young
new funding for their research. Whilst these events adults throughout the rural settlements of Religion

are well attended, their turnouts pale in comparison southern and eastern Aldarin. Three players
to the endurance races. Endurance racing does not stand in a triangle with two balls present.
Any player with a ball may throw it at a
require the best equipped rapida, nor the fastest, but Politics
player without a ball, and the target player
simply the technical know-how to keep your rapida must attempt to catch the ball or balls being
running for the longest period of time. Divestus thrown at them. Both hands must be used to Military
engines have a tendency to overheat when used catch and throw a ball, meaning that if two
extensively, so it is the job of the rapidari during these balls are thrown simultaneously at a player,
endurance races to stave off the inevitable explosion they must quickly catch and throw one ball
Commerce
of brimstone and dusktech magic for as long as before attempting to do so with the other.
possible. This must be done whilst also performing If a player drops a ball, they lose the game.
laps around the Deverosian Bay, with the rapida in Variations of trigona exist with more players Crime and
forming a circle and holding additional balls, Punishment
last place after each lap being knocked out of the
or with differing rules on catching with one
race. With the visceral explosions and high-intensity hand or holding multiple balls at once.
ramming, rapida endurance racing has accelerated Provinces of

to become one of the biggest spectacles in Aldarin Boxing The Aldarins love fighting just as Aldarin
much as any other culture, with Aldarin
sporting history over the past decade.
sports commonly involving violence or blood Periods of
shedding to some degree. Aldarin boxing is Aldarin
History
no different, fought with metal-plated gloves
Circum Aquatica called caestus. Two athletes adorn these
gloves and enter into an arena dressed in Classes
These popular annual rapida races take place within naught but a loincloth. The victor is whoever
the Deverosian Bay during the month of Summer’s knocks their opponent unconscious first
Dawn, consisting of eight consecutive endurance or renders them to surrender. In friendly Backgrounds

races followed by a grand finale. The grand finale competitions the head may not be targeted,
though in more serious fights there are no
features the eight victors of the previous races who
rules of engagement or striking. Boxing is
race one last time for the title of “Aquaticum Altus” a spectacle sport, with boxers riling up the
Appendices

or “The Highest of Waters”. The races start at dawn crowds to garner support, fame, and money.
and end at dusk, with the entire Deverosian Bay
closing down for the day to let the rapidae through.
The stretch of water between Crevana and Prisada
Navilia, which is commonly off-limits to civilian
vessels, is opened up for the grand finale to provide
a larger circuit.

49
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Religion
CW
Beholden to Deos, the Aldarins see themselves as his and Gw’yth, known as the Quadrumvirate. Others
blessed children stemming from the empyrean lean into the worship of gods who bear a greater
divinity of his lineage. Offerings of gold, food, and personal interest into the lives of their followers,
animal sacrifice are commonplace throughout the such as Meliam, Goddess of Protection, Warding,
empire, seen adorning the altars of bountiful temples and Curses, and Kylera, Goddess of Growth, Birth,
and shrines which are never far from any inhabited and Reincarnation.
settlement. Held regularly throughout the year, fes- Countless traditions are ardently maintained by
tivals honour the gods, whether they be of the the followers of the Medial Pantheon across the
Tredecima or the Liberi. Whilst the Liberi have much breadth of the entire plane, though a handful are
to thank Aldarin for, standing proud as the ascension uniquely practised within Aldarin alone. One such
grounds of countless Liberi, these lesser deities often example is the casting of a portion of food into fire
fall upon the wayside in the daily life of the average at the end of a communal meal, seen to be a minor
Aldarin, with the Tredecima taking precedence in offering of thanks for providing sustenance. Another
the minds of the people. more extreme example is the sacrosanct nature of
practising sacerdotes, the heavenly cultists of the
empire, especially those serving under one of the
Cults
The term “clergy” does not truly exist in
Tredecima. Religious officials are considered the
Aldarin. Instead, a group of organised extensions of the deities through divine blessing and
followers of a deity (or a collective of deities) law. It is deemed highly illegal to so much as touch a
is called a cult. Cults tend to the temples of religious official without their due consent whilst
their devoted gods, prepare festivals on their they are performing religious ceremonies or rites.
behalf, and perform rites relating to their This archaic law has seen abuse by many throughout
deities. The most common form of cult is history, notably the Laedemus gang of Deveros, who
that of a heavenly cult: a socially accepted argue that the act of theft in itself is a holy rite
cult, worshipped by those who contribute in
guarded by Viker’s dominion. As such, Vintari
a beneficial manner both to society and the
balance of the universe. Such cults would be
patrols are almost always joined by a clericus of the
that of the Tredecima and Quadrumvirate. Legions, as religious officials are the only people
Some cults, however, seek to undermine the permitted to lay hands upon other religious officials
wellbeing of society as well as the stability of in such instances. Only sacerdotes officially belong-
the universe, delving into deeply dark magics ing to a temple, and actively performing daily duties
such as that of Void. Such cults are called for that temple, may fall under the protections of this
chthonic cults, those of the underground, law. Travelling sacerdotes or those without ties to a
with such cultists looked down upon or temple tend to be selectively ignored by the Vintari
even ostracised by those in upstanding
when this law is brought to their attention.
society. The border between heavenly and
chthonic is perpetually blurred, with such
deities as Kistra and Larveth treading the line CW
Pax Deorum
between necessities of nature and wrongful Pax Deorum or “peace of the gods” is a
destruction, such as plague and death. concept held in the utmost regard by the
Aldarins. The Aldarins live in a hostile world
and know that they themselves cannot
fend off all the threats which surround
Religious Traditions them. Through the maintenance of divine
favour by worship and animal sacrifice, the
The Aldarins are a deeply religious people. The ple- Aldarins may harness the powers of the
gods to defend their realm. Whilst this divine
beian folk make offerings to multiple deities across
protection is not guaranteed, it is within the
a spectrum of domains throughout the calendar interests of the Aldarins to maintain a strong,
year, depending on their needs. During harvest positive relationship with as many deities as
time, for instance, offerings are made to Kistra to they can. This process even involves turning
ensure bountiful crops, whilst during the winter the eyes of a traditionally foreign deity
months, Sovingar is worshipped in hopes that he towards the Aldarins, thereby stealing their
shall kindle their hearths with warmth so that they favour from another nation, in a process
may better fend off the frigid cold of the Elosian called evocatio. For example, the Aldarins
low season. Charms and holy symbols are worn by may kidnap important deity-aligned cultists
of another nation to serve under the empire
almost all imperial citizens, commonly attributed
or offer vast quantities of sacrifice to turn the
to the main deities of the empire: Deos, Quor, Iora, eye of a deity towards them.

50
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Animal Sacrifice preparation for some upcoming event with which
the deity’s blessings are needed. A ludus is then held
The practice of animal sacrifice is a strongly held
in their honour, involving chariot racing, mock
tradition throughout the Aldarin Empire, dating Introduction
hunting, gladiatorial battles, jova matches, and any
back to pre-Dalaskian origins. Various breeds of
other form of sport the pontifices deems appropriate.
animal are bred especially for the purpose of sacri- Introduction
These events are widely loved by the populace, only
fice, sold for relatively inexpensive prices at temples to the
having grown more frequent and elaborate in the Aldarin
and shrines. The idea stems from the belief that the Empire
years since the empire’s golden age.
soul threads of an animal will tie unto those of the
Aldarin
deity upon death, reinforcing the deity’s soul and
nurturing it away from the ever-present decay that
Bloodletting CW Names

is inevitable in every soul. Whilst not untrue, the Countless Aldarins find themselves drawn to Quor,
morals of such acts are questioned by those who visit both as an idyllic figure of love and as a bastion of vast Social Classes

the empire, citing the practice as cruel for it prevents strength and bravery. Those who closely follow the
the animal a chance of reincarnation. teachings of Quor tend to appeal to the sanguinous Kinships in
The sacrifice of larger animals, such as bulls and side of their amorous deity, carrying with them small the Empire
sheep, are specially reserved for unique occasions basins used to let blood, which is then gifted as an
such as during festival events or in times of dire need, offering. In recent years, this practice has migrated
Festivals
such as war. Smaller animals however, such as chick- across into other cults, primarily those whose deities
ens, rabbits, and pheasants, are more readily available desire for devout servitude and unfaltering loyalty,
to the public, used as sacrifices during per- such as Xyth and Hargrum.
Sports
sonal worship. Bloodletting serves a dual purpose for some
dhampir and vampiric thralls, who seek to appease
the blood-bound patricians of the Siccias, the vam- Religion
Consumption of Meat piric family which imposes governorship of the
Historically, before Aldarin’s gentle Vampiric Order throughout the empire’s under-
integration of culture with those of the world. It is not uncommon to see legionarii or Politics
other Anchor Nations, several strict laws Quorian sacerdotes donating their blood to a temple,
guarded the consumption of meat. These
such as The Bloodkiln in Deveros (Nc11), which is
laws have faded during the past century,
though numerous Aldarins still follow these
secretly syphoned off by dhampir workers for distri- Military

time-honoured traditions. Such laws strictly bution to vampiric kin throughout the provinces.
forbid the consumption of meat which has
not been sourced from an animal sacrificed Commerce
to a deity, for doing so is seen as highly
sacrilegious. As such, butchers within Aldarin Folk Beliefs
must first utter a prayer before slaughtering Crime and
“There’s a road up Fluminis way that, if I don’t Punishment
an animal intended for consumption and hop between the cracks of the stone, I always
are themselves seen as semi-religious get a bad stomach afterwards. I now just avoid
officials in their own right. Even hunters and that road entirely!”
Provinces of
Aldarin
trappers must make blessings before an
arrow is loosed or a trap is set, lest the kill go Aldarins are a people who hold caution
unrecognised by the gods. towards even the most mundane Periods of
occurrences. From lightning strikes to Aldarin
History
comets, from counting gryphon pecks to
ritualised blood letting, every Aldarin is
Sport attuned into the subtleties of the divine Classes
world. Any strange omen or prophetic vision
Whilst almost all cultures across Vynestra host must be observed and broken down, lest
sporting events, where the public gather to watch it spell the fall of the empire or some great Backgrounds
individuals or teams compete against each other, planar tragedy. Gryphotes refuse to lead their
the Aldarins specifically dedicate a number of their legion into battle without the traditional
most popular sporting events in the name of specific sacrificial offering of a bull to Quor and magi Appendices
deities. These events are known as ludus (pl. ludi) and dare not remove books from any library
are held periodically throughout the year, with the without first cleansing their hands with Ioran
specifics of each ludus determined by the pontifices. holy water. Should one not partake in a dies
festus in some capacity they may expect to
These ludi come about when it is deemed by the
be spited by the festival’s dedicated deity in
Primus Pontifex that a specific deity requires appeas- the days following.
ing in some more-than-spectacular way, whether it
be as thanks for providing a military victory, or in

51
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Religious Titles of the few people allowed to carry weapons across the
Sacrimum, wielding staffs of cyprus wood wrapped
in golden leaves and fox furs, called a repeire.
Pontifex (pl. Pontifices)
Special Pontifex Titles
The most prestigious religious position attainable
Whilst the thirteen pontifices are generally viewed
in Deveros, the pontifices derive entirely from the
as equals, there are four pontifices in particular
patrician class, typically the third born child within
who hold additional powers over the others. One
a family’s main familial branch. The pontifices stand
of these titles is the Primus Pontifex (see page 63),
proud as the high priests and priestesses of the Aedes
attributed to the Pontifex Deos, granting immense
Tredecima in Deveros, simultaneously taking on
political power in line with the currently standing
deeply political and religious roles. Only one pon-
primi. The other three are those of the Pontifex
tifex exists within Aldarin for each of the Tredecima,
Martialis, Pontifex Arcanus Major, and Pontifex
who serve as the direct conduits of communication
Arcanus Minor.
between their deity and the Aldarin people. They
are capable of channelling immense divine power Pontifex Martialis CW

and granting their most powerful blessings to those The Pontifex Quor is additionally granted the title of
deemed worthy. As such, pontifices are typically Pontifex Martialis, providing guidance to the Legions and
empowered with a title pertaining to their deity, the Primus Legatus at the behest of the war deity. It is the
as opposed to their real name, for the duration of duty of the Pontifex Martialis to perform a sacrifice of cow
their appointment. For example, the pontifex of or sheep unto Quor for every new legion that is raised,
Loritel is simply called Pontifex Loritel during their granting them a blessing of bravery before heading
administration. Some still insist on the use of their onto campaign. It is considered a bad omen for this ritual
full name with their title prepended, typically those to not be performed before the legion has its first battle.
who are planning on standing for public office and Additionally, the Pontifex Martialis is expected to lead
wish to garner some form of support to their name. the opening ceremony of the Grand Mercari tournament
It is the duty of the pontifices to ensure the sacred and to coordinate the religious celebrations of the Gales
grounds of their deity’s temples and shrines are kept Dea, amongst a number of other important festivals.
consecrated, to administer rites of marriage and As opposed to the typical pontifex, who spends most
birth, to regulate religious festivities, and to ensure of their time within their aedes, the Pontifex Martialis
the virtues of their god are upheld by their cult. A spends a vast portion of their term visiting legions across
position of potent power, the pontifex of an aedes the empire, freely issuing blessings of Quor to soldiers,
serves for a maximum term of ten years before a new and performing healing upon injured legionarii. They are
pontifex is elected from the cult. If no suitable candi- also expected to swear in new clerici into the Legions, as
date is found, the previous pontifex may continue in well as ensuring that enough clerici are trained within
their role until one is elected, leading to dynasties of the Vintari to meet the needs of the Legions.
families handing down their title to their next of kin.
Pontifex Arcanus Major
These talented religious leaders are trained in
The Aldarins consider the ways of the magi to be more
both the ways of arcane spells and martial vigour.
aligned with the pursuit of knowledge and upholding
Pontifices are granted the right to exercise Alerium
of law than necessarily with the essence of the arcane
(the right to command a legion) should the need ever
itself. As bizarre as this may seem, it is an observance
arise. This right is seldom enacted by the pontifices
that has been held since the early Dalaskian Kingdom.
but has seen use historically, such as during the
As such, the Pontifex Iora takes on the title of Pontifex
Acclesian Civil War. Pontifices hold absolute power
Arcanus Major, guiding the Primus Arcanus in religious
over the aedes they govern, ignoring the traditional
matters whilst working alongside the Pontifex Arcanus
rule of the Consentium when within the walls of
Minor to ensure the smooth flow between imperial-
these temples. As such, the aedes may become sanc-
aligned religious and arcane pursuits.
tuaries for those fleeing the arm of the law should
It is the duty of the Pontifex Arcanus Major to lead the
the governing pontifex allow it, much to the ire of
political procession of the Renovaré festival through
the Vintari. When leaving the aedes, however, the
Consentiarus and to coordinate the distribution of
pontifices hold little power outside of their own cult,
Aldarin-centric books to temples across the Anchor
leading to many living almost entirely within their
Nations in the weeks leading up to the Wysta festival.
aedes for the duration of their appointment.
In the event of a hung jury within the Imperial Courts,
Pontifices dress in plain white togas whose man-
it is the Pontifex Arcanus Major who makes the final
tles partially cover the head and may be uniquely
decision as to the result of a trial. They are also to ensure
identified by a resplendent carved marble disc, called
the proper judicial procedure is followed by consensae
a convexum, upon which their deity’s symbol is
working as judges, issuing fines and punishments to
engraved, which hangs from their waist. They are one
consensae found abusing the power of the law.

52
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Pontifex Arcanus Minor and were responsible for the upkeep of his temples.
While Gw’yth is indeed the goddess of the arcane, When the term “sovigal” became more widely used
her cult’s role within the empire is shadowed by that across the empire, the sovigals of Sovingar renamed
Introduction
of the Ioran sacerdotes. Despite this, the pontifices themselves to “Sovigal Alti” meaning “High Sovigals”,
still acknowledge her importance in the grand denoting their historic lineage to Sovingar.
Introduction
machinations of the arcane, assigning the title of The duties of these sovigals are to oversee the to the
Pontifex Arcanus Minor to the Pontifex Gw’yth. This transportation and protection of Sovingar’s sacred Aldarin
Empire
position originally came to be after the Second Medial fire, gifted to the Aldarins upon the birth of Deveros.
War when the Pontifex Arcanus, originally a single role, This golden flame flickers bright at the heart of the Aldarin
was unable to resolve an argument with the Primus Shrine of Sovingar upon Mount Austellus, unable to Names

Arcanus. This argument specifically revolved around ever truly fade due to its divine nature, but desired
the pontifices’ involvement in Concilium Arcanus by many for its far-reaching light. Sovingar’s fire has Social Classes
Altus’s military operations, with the Pontifex Arcanus been stolen a number of times over the centuries,
stating that deific approval was required before with the sovigal alti tracking down the culprits. These
enacting Wyld inquisitions throughout temples and criminals are swiftly executed for theft from a god: a Kinships in
the Empire
shrines. The Pontifex Gw’yth was able to resolve the crime punishable by death.
matter, diplomatically negotiating an agreement One who holds the position as a sovigal altus is
between the two parties and was awarded the title of expected to clean and upkeep both the Deverosian Festivals
Pontifex Arcanus Minor for their efforts by the imperial Emberkiln (A14) and the Aeterflamma (Jc4), pre-
family. Since then, the Pontifex Gw’yth has operated paring them for their respective purposes. Sovigal
in the shadows as the prime communicator between alti are equipped with large shovels used to shift Sports
Concilium Arcanus Altus, the Primus Arcanus, and the ash and snow, often starting their lives as paladins
Aedes Tredecima. It is the duty of the Pontifex Arcanus under Sonvingar and trained in the ways of both
Minor to regulate the annual calendar, to predict the martial and divine. Religion

arrival of astral phenomena spawned by Gw’yth, and

Sovigal Maximus (pl. Sovigal Maximi)
to lead the celebrations of the Anniculus festival within
Temples of the Liberi do not have pontifices, with the Politics
the capital. The Pontifex Arcanus Minor additionally
highest ranking official within these cults therefore
is responsible for overseeing the upkeep of the Altus
falling to a sovigal. In order to maintain a semblance
Weave, Aldarin’s web of artificial waylines.
of structure within the cult, a sovigal unique to Military
Liberi sects is elected to communicate with the deity
Sovigal (pl. Sovigals) themself on a daily basis, guiding the path of their
The first sovigals were, and still are, high-order followers. This sovigal is known as the sovigal maxi- Commerce
members of Sovingar’s cult. Over time, however, the mus, typically elected through an empire-wide vote
term has spread outwards towards other temples and conducted by members of the cult’s innermost circle.
Crime and
aedes to represent any religious official who tends Some cults undergo different processes of election, Punishment
to the daily operations of a religious structure. The such as the sogivals of Uverthal who determine the
sovigals of the Aedes Tredecima, for example, see to position by a draw of straws, or the sovigals of Isseti Provinces of
the running of the aedes when the pontifex is away, who hold a month-long art competition to create the Aldarin
as well as coordinating the movements of sacerdotes most beautiful depiction of Isseti possible.
throughout their respective province of the empire. It is the duty of the sovigal maximus to oversee Periods of
Aldarin
There are usually up to three sovigals for each of the temples and shrines of their deity and to ensure History
the aedes, governing finance, festivals, and the duties the deific vows of the cult are upheld, similar to
of the sacerdotes respectively. Within smaller tem- the duties of the pontifices. These officials also
Classes
ples, however, there is only one sovigal whose duty oversee the running of Liberillia, with sovigals of
is akin to that of a high priest: overseeing the temple, the Tredecima deities strictly forbidden from direct
conducting festival rites, and following higher orders involvement in the festival planning. Sovigal maximi Backgrounds
from the aedes. The role of sovigal is seen as the are denoted by the gilded scroll they wield called a
second highest in the cult of the Tredecima, sitting volumen deii, containing the divine vows undertaken
just under that of the pontifex. As such, the role upon their promotion and the names of all sovigal Appendices
of Sovigal is highly competitive within populated maximi before them.
settlements where there are more sacerdotes to have
power over within a temple. Sacerdos (pl. Sacerdotes)
Sovigal Altus (pl. Sovigal Alti) Sacerdos is a common term referring to any member
Sovigal was originally a single term referring to those of a cult who is not of pontifex or sovigal rank,
who are now known as the sovigal alti, a unique sect typically referring to priests, priestesses, clerics,
of high order sacerdotes who worshipped Sovingar and paladins. These devout folk form the surging

53
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

masses of a heavenly cult: those who have taken vows seeing that they are trained to defend their holy
in servitude to a deity, working through their daily ground should the need arise. Sacerdotes maximi
lives whilst fulfilling duties under the watchful eyes are signified by a wooden or gold band around their
of their god. wrist, called a tenebrum, engraved with the holy
Sacerdotes are typically paid a living wage by symbol of their deity. It is through this band that
their temple, heading out into the depths of their they are able to channel their divine powers.
communities and performing the pious tasks which
are expected of them — the specifics of which vary
from cult to cult. The sacerdotes of Meliam, for Religious Sects
example, form the Meliamnan Watch, whose duty
it is to protect the common folk as a pseudo-police While the average citizen may seek boons from a
entity and to offer cheap warding from heinous wide selection of deities throughout the course of
magical curses. The cult of Larveth, conversely, their life, there are some who dedicate themselves
seeks to spread disease and plague, infecting any who more readily to a specific deity or a cluster of deities.
cross their path with vile sicknesses gifted by their This is not necessarily seen as a bad thing, especially
chittering deity. Sacerdotes such as these, who seek when it comes to the worship of Deos, who many
the destruction rather than the elevation of societies, throughout the empire uphold as the originator of
are almost always ousted from settlements, attacked the Deveros, and hence Aldarin, lineage.
by those who they have wronged, and sometimes
even killed for their devotion to less-than-desirable Order of the Quadrumvirate
entities. Such sacerdotes are sometimes called
Alignment: TN
“chthonic”, referring to their ties to the earth and
The Tredecima may be the primary focus of worship CW
the Underworld.
throughout Aldarin, though four deities in particular
It is not uncommon for a sacerdos to be placed
see heightened attention above the other nine. These
in governance of a shrine to their god, usually a
are the gods of the Quadrumvirate, the deities whose
humble structure within the outskirts of a settle-
powers ebb deep throughout the cultural folds of
ment or amongst diminutive rural communities,
Aldarin society: Deos, Gw’yth, Iora, and Quor. The
offering their services to a clustering of followers
Order of the Quadrumvirate is a unique cult of
who surround them. These sacerdotes tend towards
private Aldarin citizens containing select members
the imperial-aligned deities of Deos, Iora, and Quor,
from all throughout Aldarin society. These folk are
supporting far-flung communities with their divine
called quadrumvirs, who pay equal worship to the
magic and spreading imperial propaganda. The
four deities they serve. It is not enough to devote
placement of these sacerdotes varies from region to
oneself to just one of the Quadrumvirate. One must
region, with river-based settlements finding them-
fully embrace the teachings of all four, accepting
selves with Loritellian cults and seaside villages with
where their talents may overlap and bringing about
Raelan worshippers instead. Regardless of their deity,
a bolstered visage of religious power for the empire.
many sacerdotes are trained in the healing arts, both
through divine magic and medical methodologies. Life of a Quadrumvir
These services are offered to the public for a price, Quadrumvirs are both simultaneously secretive
with some even powerful enough to drag souls back and not. Their order is well-established within the
from the clutches of Fate themself. collective consciousness of the empire, something
of an urban legend spoken of in whispers by the
Sacerdos Maximus
masses. A secret organisation of Aldarin’s elite which
(pl. Sacerdotes Maximi)
melds with prolific citizens of the lower classes,
Some sacerdotes achieve acclaim in the eyes of the
forming a blend of representation in the eyes of the
pontifex or sovigal maximus, finding themselves ele-
Quadrumvirate.
vated to loftier heights of influence and duty. These
Members of the order assist each other both
sacerdotes are given the title of sacerdos maximus,
financially and socially, yet none ever speak of their
receiving increased pay and a portion of land within
membership openly, for to do so is the quickest way
the empire as reward for devout service to their deity.
to be cast from its ranks. It is highly uncommon
Sacerdotes maximi are expected to take the duties
for members to even speak to one another outside
of a sovigal under their wing should a temple require
of order meetings, unless they already are friends
it, as well as becoming responsible for the training of
outside of the order. Secret handshakes are instead
new sacerdotes in the cult. Lots of sacerdotes maximi
used to welcome brethren of the order, who gather in
govern over smaller temples or shrines throughout
hidden temples and underground chambers where
settlements where a sovigal is not needed, recruiting
they might organise feasts, events, and plot to assist
willing clerics and paladins into their ranks and
each other in various profitable ventures. There are

54
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

thousands of secret Quadrumvir temples across

Aldarin, with Deveros itself holding over 200 alone.
Ranks of the Order of
Curse tablets are used by the collective to bind the
the Quadrumvirate Introduction
souls of those who seek to go against them, typically Soldromus (Pl. Soldromi) Leaders of the
“evil” entities who the Quadrumvirate see as having order, the soldromi orchestrate meetings and Introduction
no place in formal society. have the final say in any matter discussed to the
Entry into the order is a precarious process, lead- within the collective. They traditionally Aldarin
Empire
ing through a number of highly-guarded initiation carry a whip and a four-headed torch,
rites. Before one may even get to this stage, however, signifying their allegiance to the sun and Aldarin
they must first be referred to a soldromus, a leader of the Quadrumvirate. Names

the order, by at least two present members who hold Astra (Pl. Astrae) The astrae are the local
a rank of miles or higher. Once these referrals have leaders of the order, typically the owners of a Social Classes
been accepted, they may start the eight initiation structure or building which is used to house
rites. The first seven take place upon consecutive meetings. They wear a sloped cap, dotted
nights of the first week of the present month, where with star-like silver studs, and carry a hooked Kinships in
sword by their side, showing their allegiance the Empire
the prospective member undergoes a series of trials,
to the astral realm.
with the final rite taking place on the last night of the
month. Should they complete all the rites, they are Iudex (Pl. Iudices) Senior members of the Festivals
inducted into the order and granted a single gold- order, the iudices are those who are allowed
to make decisions in the absence of a
coated leaf of an olive tree, which is worn as a
soldromus or astra. The iucies also govern
necklace under their tunic. From then on, they may over any internal trials and judgements made
Sports
access the ranks of the order and socialise with other by the order, forming a jury of eight when
members, forging strong social ties and securing for needed. They wear a plain laurel wreath and
themselves a successful future. hold a batillum — a small, iron shovel used Religion

for picking up ash.

Ebyr’sol Miles (Pl. Milites) The main collective of
Politics
the order, referred to as the “foot soldiers”
Alignment: LE
by the higher ranks, the milites comprises
CW
A devout chthonic cult of Deosian worshippers from
of members who have passed initiation
the Qutharian Empire in Sel’Kildar, the Ebyr’sol — and have remained active within the order Military
more commonly known in Elos as the Emberfire for at least three years. They typically wear
— has started to seep into the crevices of Aldarin’s a smooth brass helmet, a gladius, and a
coastal settlements like a choking rot. Where Deos’s clasped belt. Commerce
teachings traditionally lean towards enlightenment Lanterna (Pl. Lanternae) The newest
and health, the Ebyr’sol have taken the solar deity’s members who have spent three or fewer Crime and
domain down a more brutal path. One of sacrifice, years within the order. The lanternae are Punishment
punishment, and inquisition. The Ebyr’sol seek ret- treated similarly to the milites though are
ribution against fae-adjacent kin, whom they see as not able to refer other members into the
Provinces of
traitors in the wake of the Medial Wars. Kishmarans order until they ascend to the next rank. Aldarin
and Tak’huutans are also viewed as lesser kins due The lanternae carry clay oil lanterns on
the ends of poles, used to light the secret
to their connection to water, perceived as an enemy Periods of
meeting chambers. Aldarin
of fire and inherent in the path of decay. History
CW
The Ebyr’sol spread their vile vitriol throughout
the streets of Sala Sel’Kildarak in Deveros, where
Classes
they have a historic claim to exist outside the juris-
diction of the Aldarins. Sol kindlings are performed
as an extension of the law within Ebyr’sol settlements Backgrounds
whereupon the accused is placed upon a stake to
undergo a trial of fire. These trials are intended as
a way of judging whether a soul is considered to be Appendices
truthful in Deos’s eyes. If not, the soul is granted
release from the imbalance of sin within the burning
flames — a judgement of fire — whereupon they may
be reborn into a new life. In reality, this serves as a
brutal inquisition of those who dare stand against the
ideologies of the Ebyr’sol, especially those aligned
with water-bound gods who are perceived by the
Ebyr’sol as inciting rot and decay. This tactic of Ebyr’sol Seal

55
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

alleged purgation has spread to include Kishmarans, Burn Them To Ashes Major 3
Tak’huutans, and any others who do not conform to Requirements: You must have taken the Cinder Flesh
the laws of the Ebyr’sol, citing them either as conspir- ember ability and charred it to take this ability.
ators against the plane or fae tricksters in disguise. As an action, you rip a fragment of Deos’s corrupted
CW
While the Ebyr’sol are small in number throughout soul from your body, causing it to explode in a
Elos, the exertion of their power is immense. Hand- rippling tide of necrotic fire. All creatures within a
crafted embers are gifted to their members by a 20-foot-radius of you must succeed on a Dexterity
number of less-than-reputable demigods, known as saving throw or else take 5d10 fire damage and 5d10
the Xwar, who draw from the frayed soul threads of necrotic damage, as well as catching on fire as per
Deos cast away during the Medial Pantheon’s soul the charred effect of Cinder Flesh for one minute.
siphonings. Those who serve loyally are shipped Creatures who succeed their saving throw take half
across to Quthar to receive this ember-bound bless- damage and do not catch fire.
ing, returning to their homelands wielding vast When Charred. The damage dealt by this ability
power, invigorated to purge the Medial Plane of all increases to 10d10 fire damage and 10d10 necrotic
who seek to oppose them. These corrupted demigods damage. If a creature reaches 0 hit points from this
are those of Deos’s domain who have fallen upon the ability, it immediately dies, is turned to ash, and may
wayside since his disappearance following the not be resurrected as its soul is destroyed.
Second Medial War, their dwindling faith in their
solar leader driving them to empower their plane in
other ways. For now, the Ebyr’sol remains a diminu- Ranks of the Ebyr’sol
tive yet deadly threat within Aldarin, and one not to Xwar (Pl. Xwar) Demigods of Deos’s lineage
be taken lightly. who support the Ebyr’sol and govern over
provinces of the Qutharian Empire. These
Corrupted Embers powerful entities are capable of twisting
Deos’s soul into new embers, with some
Spiralling coils of Deos’s withered soul, the xwar going as far as to weave their own soul
thread corrupted embers into the souls of their threads in as well.
underlings, maiming them in exchange for immense High Flame (Pl. High Flames) Leaders of the
power. Below are some of these devastating Deosian Ebyr’sol. These are almost exclusively high
embers, which use the Deosian spellcasting mod- priests dedicated to Deos who take on roles
ifier and DC. as generals over Ebyr’sol armies and admirals
over Ebyr’sol fleets. The high flames work
Corrupted Core Passive 0 hand in hand with the xwar to coordinate
When a creature successfully hits you with a melee movements across the Medial Plane and
weapon attack, roll a d10. On a 10, the creature takes to govern the provincial regions of the
1d6 fire damage. Qutharian Empire.
When Charred. Corrupted Core now deals 2d4 Pyrion (Pl. Pyrions) Trusted commanders or
fire damage. high priests serving as second-in-commands
to a high flame. Pyrions may be sent to
Cinder Flesh Minor 1 regional locations to assert Ebyr’sol control
As a bonus action, you tear at the skin of another or take over command should a high flame
creature, stripping flesh from bone with intense, be unable to enact their duties.
scalding heat. The target creature must succeed on a Brazier (Pl. Braziers) Local sergeants or
Dexterity saving throw or else suffer 2d8 fire damage priests of the Ebyr’sol within a region,
and become permanently branded with a mark of typically commanding a small detachment of
your choosing. cinders who assist them in inquisitions and
When Charred. In addition, when a creature fails territorial control.
its saving throw against Cinder Flesh, it becomes Cinder (Pl. Cinders) A recruited member
cloaked in withering flames. The creature takes an of the Ebyr’sol who takes up arms to fight
additional 1d6 fire damage and 2d6 necrotic damage for the cause. Cinders may be drafted into
at the start of its turns for the next minute. It may groups and dispatched on tasks at the
attempt to extinguish the flames by taking an action behest of a brazier or pyrion.
to make a Dexterity saving throw against the effect. Supporter (Pl. Supporters) Someone who
believes in the Ebyr’sol religion and is
sympathetic to their cause, but does not
necessarily take up arms to join them.

56
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Politics
Aldarin politics is considered by visitors as one of the capacity for control. The Consentium comes next,
Introduction
most unnecessarily complicated systems of govern- representing the patricians and social elite. Beneath
ment upon the continent. Those that do understand this is the Consentium Minor, which grants every-
Introduction
the nuances of the Aldarin political system either day common citizens access to the political ladder. to the
perpetually call for its reform or seek to exploit the Together, these three dubiously oiled cogs operate Aldarin
Empire
flagrant flaws the system holds. In the current era, the machine that is the Aldarin Empire, each rely-
the system is divided into three political bodies: the ing upon the other’s functions to provide the most Aldarin
Emperor, the Consentium, and the Consentium widespread coverage of justice and law throughout Names

Minor. The emperor is symbolically placed at the the empire’s several provinces.
top, a figurehead of the empire but with no official Social Classes

The Emperor Kinships in

the Empire

governance, the Aldarin Empire is still referred to as

Festivals
The Imperial Lineage an empire to this day, despite no longer being led by
the imperial family in any official capacity.
In 257 PDS, after the annexation of the Byldøri tribes Sports
into the Aldarin Kingdom, King Venesti II (see
page 100), who was known for his rampant ego
Imperials of the
and expansionist mindset, declared the Aldarin
Kingdom had ascended into an empire. This concept
Modern Day Religion

of imperialism had already been at the forefront of

the minds of the people, with a number of kingdoms Symbolic Status Politics

falling under Aldarin control in the years prior. The

The symbolic emperor of modern Aldarin serves
word of Venesti II was all that was needed to take
an important dual purpose. Firstly, a figurehead to Military
it that one step further. Little did he know that this
the empire, flaunting the wealth-bound culture and
would set his nation on the path to become one of the
colourful history of Aldarin while standing as the
most prolific empires in the Medial Plane’s history.
direct line of Deos himself. The imperial line survives Commerce
CW
The Aldarin Empire has waxed and waned over
primarily for this purpose, lest the Aldarins incur
the centuries, never quite settling into a state of
Deos’s wrath for displacing his bloodline. This is the
stability. It has been dragged through countless Crime and
prime embodiment of Pax Deorum or “peace of the Punishment
wars, hundreds of battles, and a bloody civil war
gods”, wherein the Aldarins seek to keep peace with
which pushed it to the very brink of collapse. As
the divine so that they may call upon their aid during
centuries progressed, political power has slowly Provinces of
times of need. Secondly, the emperor must write the Aldarin
shifted downwards into the hands of the people
terminal signature upon any bills passed through the
and away from the imperial family. This was first
Consentium. All legislatures must, by law, be signed Periods of
with the construction of the Consentium, granting Aldarin
off by the emperor, even if this act is solely a sym-
influence to the patrician social class. Then came the History
bolic gesture. Only one exception stands to this law:
Consentium Minor, opening the floodgates of voting
Alerium Martius. The passing of Alerium Martius
to the common people. Finally, in 892 PDS, Emperor Classes
through the Consentium declares a state of national
Fabinus (see page 108) succeeded his role as direct
emergency, thrusting supreme control directly into
ruler of the empire following the aftermath of the
the hands of the two primi, enacting martial law.
Acclesian Civil War. In one fell swoop, the empire Backgrounds
This has only occurred a handful of times in recent
had collapsed into a constitutional crowned imperial
history, typically through the advent of war.
republic. This shift in power placed the emperor as
a symbolic figurehead of the empire, rather than Appendices

the overarching ruler, with the Consentium taking

Today’s Emperor
supreme command of all political dealings. This In the present year of 1029 PDS the symbolic standing
transition was not an immediate shift — far from emperor of the empire is none other than Emperor
it. Aldarin had been silently creeping towards Loxis Gaius Deveros Jykstravius III (CG he/
Consentium control during the century prior to the they Aldarin defender [Deos] 16), son of Empress
war, with Acclesian’s rebellion driving the final nail Iliandra Julia Iora Deveros III (CG she/her Aldarin
into the coffin of imperial reign. Despite this shift in dead). Loxis III is well beloved by the common folk

57
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

for his party-boy attitude and displays of keen- freedom and expression of opinion — something
minded military prowess within the Gryphon the imperial family of bygone eras was sorely lack-
Legions, particularly during the on-going Fourth ing. Countless Reformist and Capitan consensae
Renavic War against Jykstrav. have passed forward invitations to the bright-eyed
Loxis serves as gryphos of the Legio Aerius I emperor requesting his attendance at public forum
Deverosa, which began during his role as primus events, during which he is encouraged to speak out
imperator five years previously. Throughout his in favour of agrarian land reforms and redistribution
successful campaigns Loxis has claimed numerous of wealth to the working classes, much to the ire of
ovati and secured a place in the hearts of countless the Revitalists. With a twinkle in his eye Loxis agrees
legionnaires, not unlike Acclesian several centuries to give such speeches, knowing it’ll only fuel the fires
prior. Due to this, Loxis is looked upon with an air of frustration more amongst the political parties for
of caution by the Reformist political party, worried which he cares little about.
that he might attempt to snatch control of the empire
from the hands of the Consentium once more.
Loxis, however, seems to have no such desire,
rolling in the limelight of his outward-facing military
campaigns too much to consider reinstating imperial
rule. The extroverted emperor’s triumphal parades
are infamous for breaking the expected norm, with
handfuls of silver and gold thrown from chariots into
the crowds while Loxis dismounts from his horse
to celebrate with his plebeian compatriots — an act
frowned upon within patrician social circles. The
reality is that Loxis has no desire to rule an empire,
just to reap the benefits of his position and to have
fun while doing so.
After his appointment as emperor following the
death of his beloved mother, Loxis was forbidden
by law to serve in the military; a rule set in place
to prevent the imperial family gathering too much
influence within the Legions. A rule which Loxis
has fervently ignored. To this day, the keen-minded
emperor retains command of his legion and regularly
assists on northern campaigns against Jykstrav, with
the Consentium too afraid of public backlash to deny
him otherwise.
Only a year has passed since Loxis has risen
to his imperial position and, despite his lack of
official power, the charming emperor is already
stirring up an ever-expanding divide between the
political factions of the empire. A beloved figure
to the masses, and a bastion of envy for many of
the nobility, Loxis III is known to spend more
time with the lower classes, socialising, drinking,
holding feasts and parties, than he does with the
patricians. Thanks to this many patrician families,
especially those of Revitalist alignment, mourned
the loss of Empress Iliandra III even more. In an
uncharacteristic turn of position, dozens of the these
Revitalist consensae have disparaged Loxis as a pure- Emperor Loxis III
blooded Reformist, calling for his younger sister,
Primus Imperator Aurelia Deveros Iora (NG she/
he/they Aldarin magus [abjuration] 14), to take the
position of empress instead. Contrary to this, despite
their worries of Loxis’s charismatic grip upon the
hearts of the people driving back imperial rule, the
Reformist faction sees Loxis as a shining beacon of

58
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

The Consentium
The Consentium is the lifeblood of politics within Novi Nobiles
Introduction
the Aldarin Empire, where the highest profile nobles
Novi nobiles, also known as ‘new nobles’, are
furiously debate provincial relations, pass bills, and
esteemed Aldarin citizens of the praestae class Introduction
govern campaigns during war-time. The Consentium
who have achieved such great feats of arcane or to the
consists of roughly 500 members who are called Aldarin
military prowess in the eyes of the empire that they Empire
consensa (singular) or consensae (plural), the pre-
are elevated into a higher social class — the sancte
cise number of which fluctuates year on year. These Aldarin
class. These so-called ‘new nobles’ are the first of the
consensae are elected from the upper two classes of Names
family to be granted permission to run for election
Aldarin society: the patricians and the sanctes. The
on the Consentium, potentially bringing the rest of
role of an elected consensa is a highly influential
their relatives up into the sancte class as well. To be Social Classes
one, giving direct power over certain aspects in the
granted the status of novus nobilis is a great honour
daily running of imperial life. This ranges from the
for any Aldarin citizen, with expectations set sky-
management of governmental offices to governing Kinships in
high for establishing a successful political career. the Empire
large towns, cities, and even provinces. Even after
There is not any formal process in place to determine
one’s term in office is finished, opinions may still be
when someone has risen into the sancte class aside
given and votes cast during assemblies hosted by the Festivals
from their general acceptance by other patricians
Consentium, effectively making one a member for
and sanctes accompanied by the encouragement for
life. Whilst the Consentium’s assembly itself has no
their running of office in the Consentium.
power to enforce the law, only to enact legislation, Sports
its members hold high-ranking positions such as
commanders, judges, and public officials who are
Dressing for the Job
able to push judgement into action. Consensae traditionally wear white, red, purple, Religion

and gold togas, though in recent years most have

Membership begun to only wear this garb for ceremonial occa-
sions. Within heightened imports from North & Politics
To be elected into the Consentium, one must first
South Kildar, Emondas, Ravidan, and Longbreach,
belong to one of the many patrician or sancte fami-
the clothing of the consensae has changed notably
lies of the empire, either by birth or by marriage, or Military
in the past century towards more extravagant and
become a novus nobilis (a ‘new noble’). Secondly,
outlandish fashion trends, including shoulder capes,
one must have spent a minimum of 5 years serving
asymmetrical decorations, and garish headwear. One
within the Legions or within Concilium Arcanus Commerce
item that has stayed the same, however, is the pichera
Altus, though exceptions have been made in the past
— a blunted ceremonial dagger made of gold-plated
for mercyrs and prolific publi from the Consentium
copper or brass which hangs from the shoulder by Crime and
Minor. Whilst the Consentium is a full time job for Punishment
a gilded braid. A pichera is traditionally given to a
any elected official, many consensae retain their
consensa by their family upon entering office for
positions within other imperial bodies and remain
the first time, marking them as an official member Provinces of
part of active service outside of their political life. Aldarin
of the Consentium.
Thirdly, one must renounce any public title, such as
governor of a province or gryphos of a legion, before Periods of
Aldarin
announcing their candidacy for an active seat. History
If one meets these three prerequisites, they may Pichera
then stand for election for an active seat. These
Classes
elections happen every two years, with new con-
sensae taking office during the Renovaré festival on
28th of Winter’s Wane. Prospective consensae who Backgrounds
have not served in the Consentium before must run
for election into one of the forty available midnus
positions, the lowest position in the assembly. These Appendices
positions are highly competitive due to being the
only entry level positions. Attaining this position,
however, allows a young noble a tenacious foothold
onto the highest rung of Aldarin politics and lifetime
membership to the elite of the elite. After a three
month political campaign, and with enough luck,
bribery, and backstabbing, one might finally achieve
their first Consentium role.

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Structure Elected Roles

To understand how Aldarin politics works, it is Midnus (pl. Midni)
important to first understand the structure of the Positions: 40
Consentium itself. The building, and by proxy the Prerequisite: five years in imperial service or three
members, are split into two groups: the lower benches scrolls of recommendation, one of which must be
and the upper benches. Despite the connotation of from a patrician
the name, the lower benches are the more important
This position involves endless low-level bureaucratic
of the two positions. They are situated closest to the
tasks that many nobles would be all-too familiar
front of the chamber where discussions take place,
with by the time they enter into the Consentium.
giving a consensa easier access to the floor and to
Management of the treasury, conducting of judicial
voice their opinion.
proceedings within the minor courts, assuming com-
mand over a legionary cohort as either a hydrophos
The Benches or a regitorus, and conferring with the publis honori
The lower benches form the active roles within the of the Consentium Minor about public affairs. Midni
Consentium: members who are currently serving mainly serve as civil servants and bureaucrats, often
in office. Within the lower benches, there are four assigned to shadow a legitor. During this time they
elected roles: midnus; gildor; legitor; primus, as well would take on various roles such as quartermasters,
as four unelected roles: Primus Imperator, Primus tax collectors, and recruiting officers on the behalf
Legatus, Primus Arcanus, Primus Pontifex. The of their legitor, effectively acting as their right hand.
elected roles are obtained through political cam- As such, when a legitor is not present, their deputy
paigning and experience, and become open for office midnus is expected to stand in on their behalf, even
every two years. The unelected roles are granted to staying behind to keep watch over the legitor’s land
special members belonging to esteemed imperial when they are on campaign or commanding a legion
organisations. during war. Two midni are held back each year to
The upper benches form the inactive roles, which serve as shadows to the primi, often running as
are positions that a consensa “retires” to after leaving their secretaries: a very prestigious and competitive
active office. The title they gain is their highest served role. Another four midni are assigned exclusively to
lower bench role preceded by “pro”. For example, a the treasury of Deveros, ensuring that no money is
consensa spends two years in office as a midnus in embezzled and working alongside the Imperial Bank
the lower bench. After their term in office is up, they of Saleen to manage imperial coffers.
gain the title “promidnus” and move to the upper Many consensae stop an active career in politics
bench. Here they can choose to either remain for the after the highly stressful time spent in office as a
rest of their career or attempt to gain another active midnus. These consensae settle into serving as
role, potentially progressing up the Consentium promidni, a far more inactive position within the
hierarchy into higher positions. Upper benches are Consentium, maintaining some voice towards
not allowed to bring new bills into discussion and the direction of the empire without any real
are only allowed to vote and discuss present political effort being made.
matters brought forward by lower benches.
Gildor (pl. Gildors)
Consentium Benches Positions: 21
Lower Bench Upper Bench Prerequisite: one term as midnus
Primus Proprimus While the other roles within the Consentium are
Legitor Prolegitor usually considered honourable roles, dealing with
Gildor Progildor economic, judicial, and military matters, the role of
gildor is no less important. The position of gildor is
Midnus Promidnus
best suited to those who enjoy bureaucracy over all
else. Two gildors are placed in bureaucratic gover-
nance of each provincial capital, expected to oversee
the daily operations of the city, whilst five gildors
oversee the running of Deveros. This position deals
with the organisation of public holidays and festi-
vals, as well as the maintenance of public buildings,
thermae, public services, operation of the Vintari,
and distribution of grain. Gildors are given personal
command over a cohort of peltors, a group of special

60
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

public servants dressed in white robes and wielding

a plank-like weapon, called the pavlax. With their
cohort of peltors, the gildors are able to police the
city, enact justice, and act upon judicial orders issued
Peltors Introduction

by the Imperial Courts where the Vintari may fail to “I got slapped by a pavlax once… I’m tellin’ ya,
take action. do NOT get in a peltor’s way! My wing’s been Introduction
to the
crooked ever since.”
The five Deverosian gildors hold unique roles Aldarin
Empire
within the capital. One is entrusted with the safety of A peltor is a specialised form of vintarus,
the consensae and the protection of the Consentium, trained for at least two years in a Vintari Aldarin
as well as issuing out bodyguards for consensae academy and having served at least five Names
years within a legion. Peltors are known both
during public events. The second is entrusted with
for their exceptional strength and perceptive
the protection of the Consentium Minor and the abilities, commonly selected from either Social Classes
publi. The third is entrusted with the protection of the speculatores or the exploratores of a
the Imperial Courts and the Amethyst Acre, working legion. It is the duty of a peltor to accompany
closely with both the Hetariae and the Bulwark elected consensae and publi throughout Kinships in
the Empire
mercyrs in their respective zones of influence. The the city, defending them from crowds and
fourth oversees various governmental offices, such potential assassins.
as the Imperial Sanitation Office (Cc6) and the Peltors are one of the many exceptions Festivals
Imperial Postal Exchange (Cb11), ensuring the made to the Sacrimum Script, which
forbids weapons to be carried within the
smooth functioning of these public services. The fifth
Sacrimum of Deveros. Historically, peltors
is responsible for the protection of the Imperial used to only carry a pavlax: a wooden plank
Sports
Bank of Saleen (Na16) and the Maximo Commutare engraved with the imperial gryphon. It
(Ec2), working alongside the four elected midni to has two handles on one side and is lined
prevent embezzlement. Each of these gildors share around the edges with slate or iron, used for Religion

responsibility for the smooth running of the capital, shoving back crowds and, in a fight, hacking
as they would in any other city. Despite their highly at attackers. Utilising these weapons,
important roles during office, gildors gain no further the peltors are able to form a defensive Politics

benefits after becoming progildors, receiving the perimeter around an official. Nowadays,
peltors have been granted allowance to carry
same benefits as promidni. Due to this, many con-
riveted truncheons under their white robes, Military
sensae elect to skip serving as a gildor during their which come out should a situation grow dire.
second term in favour of serving again as a midnus.
Some years, the empire finds it difficult to even fill all
Commerce
gildor roles, with only one gildor heading out to a
(pl. praesides). Whilst this may seem unusual, many
provincial capital instead of two, further perpetuat-
praesides find themselves working well together,
ing the problem. Crime and
either through agreement of rule or through Punishment
Legitor (pl. Legitors) competitiveness in attempts to out-do each other.
Positions: 20 This governorship has been known to extend up to Provinces of
Prerequisite: two terms as midnus or one term as gildor 10 years in some cases, typically caused either by Aldarin
praeses becoming locked in war, through exceptional
Legitor is the first Consentium rank to officially
governance, or simply through no new prolegitors Periods of
exercise Alerium, the “right to command”, granting Aldarin
wishing to take over the province. As there are only
permission to retain control over up to eight military History
eight provincial holds within the empire outside of
legions with instruction of the Consentium. This role
the Province of Deveros, at least four prolegitors
also grants the legitor the powers of a magistrate, Classes
are assigned to command of naval legions for the
combining the judicial powers of a midnus with the
same two year period, though this number can
executive powers of a gildor. Legitors serve primarily
be higher depending on if provincial governance
as legionary gryphotes during their term in office, Backgrounds
is turned down. At least two prolegitors also serve
often spending more time out of the capital than
as censor (pl. censors), who govern the judicial
within it, either on active campaigns or maintaining
functioning of the Imperial Courts under the eye of
peace within a province. Whilst not all legitors go on Appendices
the Pontifex Iora.
campaign during their term, they are still expected
If a prolegitor takes on a post-office role, they
to keep their legions active and available to answer
cannot be elected to a lower bench position again
the call of the Consentium at any point.
until their assignment is finished. This has caused
After their term is over, a prolegitor is paired with
instances of prolegitors becoming deliberately locked
another prolegitor leaving office and issued joint
in an undesirable provincial governorship by the
governorship of a province within the empire for
Consentium due to worries about their political
two additional years, taking on the title of praeses

61
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

influence in the capital. The most famous case of conferring with the Consentium. This act must be
this type of tactic was that of Acclesian Alventus voted through the Consentium before being issued
(see page 111), the prolegitor responsible for the and lasts for a period of three months before it either
collapse of the imperial family’s rule, spending 10 ends or is renewed through another vote.
years locked as a praeses in governorship of Borealia. The elections for primi are held before all the other
roles are allowed to begin campaigning, and must
Primus (pl. Primi)
first be accepted by the Consentium Minor and the
Positions: 2
Primus Imperator. When running for the position
Prerequisite: one term as legitor
of primus, candidates may begin campaigning on
The highest elected position attainable by a consensa the 2nd of Summer’s Dawn in the second year of
and the most powerful position across the entire the current office. They are limited to one month
empire. Two primi are elected every two years, of active campaigning, which ends on the 3rd of
becoming the official governors of the empire during Summer’s Crest. They may give speeches, rally
their term. While in office, the primi are considered supporters, and do whatever they see fit within the
the physical embodiment of the empire and as such law to gain support for their run as primus. As these
have absolute legal immunity. Bringing legal claims elections are heavily scrutinised, any prospective
against a primus would be the same as bringing them primus using illicit tactics to swing the election is
against the empire itself. This does not mean, how- typically swiftly caught and exiled.
ever, that a primus cannot be held accountable for On the 3rd of Summer’s Crest, the consensae vote
their actions — it is just that one must wait until they between the candidates until a majority vote rises.
leave office, once again becoming a private citizen, to This candidate becomes the first elective candidate
bring these claims against the individual. and has their status passed through the Consentium
Primi hold several authoritative powers not readily Minor, who must agree that the candidate is suitable
accessible to other roles. These include the power to call for office. If they agree, votes are run again for the
the Consentium into assembly, to dismiss the assem- second most popular candidate and the process is
bly, and most importantly of all: the power of veto. repeated. If they disagree, however, the Consentium
Veto may be used to immediately dismiss a proposed must choose another candidate. Once two candi-
bill, regardless of reason, or to dismiss a consensa from dates have been approved by both the Consentium
the assembly if the primus deems them obstructive to and the Consentium Minor, they are given writs of
the current proceedings. This has often been used by intent by the Primus Imperator. With these writs in
political rivals to dismiss their opponents; however, hand, the candidates meet with the emperor in the
misuse of this power might garner the primus legal Imperial Palace, who signs the writs declaring that
issues after they have left office. Due to the importance the candidates be allowed into office. The primi then
of the role, one primus must remain within Deveros have just over six months to prepare for their term in
to ensure proper conduct within the Consentium. In office to begin and to organise the elections for all the
practice, this rarely occurs, with both primii often other lower bench positions for their term.
heading out on military campaigns for the majority of On the 28th Winter’s Wane, the day of the
their term to attain as much dignitas — honour — as Renovaré festival, the emperor officially welcomes
they possibly can while they have the power to do so. the new primi into office and the two current primi
In the event of the death of a primus, a legitor may step down into the position of proprimi. The primus
be elected through the Consentium and granted an who had the most votes during election holds vita-
honorary role as primus to fill in the position. lum, which allows them to propose bills, alternating
Primi have the exclusive right to exercise Alerium each month between the primi. There is often an
Ultimum, the “right to ultimate command”, allowing agreement made on the first day of office that each
them to lead more than eight legions at once, greater primus will not veto the bills of the primus that holds
than the amount allowed to legitors, prolegitors, vitalum, though this is rarely the case in practice.
and proprimi. In times of war, two additional primi After leaving office, proprimi lose all of the special
may be elected from the ranks of the legitors by the powers they once had as primi. Some are given
Consentium to lead large movements of legions absolute governorship of a province instead of two
against a threat. These primi are given Alerium prolegitors under the title of praeses ultimum (pl.
Ultimum, but whilst they remain within Deveros praesides ultimum), which is usually granted in five
they hold no extra power. As such, they are known year terms. Less enthusiastic proprimi, however,
as a primi minor. Primi may also be empowered by retire to the upper benches, having achieved the
the Consentium during times of emergency with highest point in their career and wishing to take a
Alerium Martius, the right of martial law, which step back from the limelight. After serving in office
gives a primus the power to do whatever they as a primus, one cannot serve as primus again until
deem necessary to protect the empire without first at least four years have passed.

62
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

The two leading primi of the current year are the upon the consensa who sits at this rank. As the
Revitalist Primus Yunila Averni Quinta and the Altus Magus changes every five years, so does the
Reformist Primus Caesar Helios Aldarus. role of Primus Arcanus. The Primus Arcanus’s duty
Introduction
is to represent Concilium Arcanus Altus’s political
Unelected Roles interests whilst protecting their sanctity, ensuring
Introduction
proper funding towards the imperial magi and
These following roles are given to specific members to the
upkeep of the Deverosian World Anchor. The Primus Aldarin
of the Aldarin Empire. Despite the title of primus, Empire
Arcanus is also expected to provide logistical arcane
they do not hold any of the powers of a primus and
knowledge and guidance for improvements in the Aldarin
are merely symbolic. It is often the case that these
magical defences of the empire when required. It is Names
primi are too busy to attend Consentium assemblies
typical for the Primus Arcanus to sit to the left side
with proceedings usually operating without them.
of the Primus Imperator. Primus Arcanus Davicia Social Classes
Primus Imperator Baradinus Kyren (see page 79) is the current stand-
Reserved for the oldest child of the current ruling ing Primus Arcanus.
emperor, Primus Imperator is the first of the unelected Kinships in
Primus Pontifex the Empire
roles, allowed to attend Consentium assemblies from
The Primus Pontifex is a special title attributed to the
the age of 25. The Primus Imperator serves as an
Pontifex Deos who is allowed to sit to the right side of
ear for the emperor in the daily assemblies, allowed Festivals
the Primus Imperator, representing the deities as well
to input their opinion into current proceedings on
as the will of Deos in the Consentium. The Pontifex
behalf of the imperial family. They may also act on
Deos is the most sought after role within religious
behalf of the emperor in signing new bills and pass- Sports
circles, with many patrician families seeking to push
ing them into law. The primus imperator typically
their sons or daughters into the role. Not only does it
sits between the two current acting primi, flanked
provide exceptional power within the cult of Deos, it
by the Primus Legatus, the Primus Pontifex, and the Religion
grants access to the ear of the Primus Imperator and
Primus Arcanus, forming six total seats. If there is
the imperial family, who are more than willing to
no child to take the mantle, then the next in line to
listen to the words of Deos’s pontifex. It is the duty of
the crown takes this position. Primus Imperator Politics
the Primus Pontifex to report to the Consentium on
Aurelia Deveros Iora (see page 58) is the current
all matters religious, providing details on upcoming
standing Primus Imperator.
festivals and reciting the words of the Tredecima Military
Primus Legatus spoken to the other pontifices. Primus Pontifex
Issued to the gryphos of the Legio Terra I Deverosa, Domitia Astentium Lucius (NG she/they [GF]
Deveros’s resident land legion, Primus Legatus is an Aldarin sovigal [Deos] 15) is the current standing Commerce
honorific title bestowed upon the consensa who sits Primus Pontifex.
at this rank. It is usually the case that the Primus
Legatus is already a proprimus or prolegitor with a Becoming Law Crime and
Punishment
bountiful political history and is capable of providing
For any change to pass into law, it must first be
well thought-out military advice. The role of Primus
proposed during an assembly of the Consentium by Provinces of
Legatus will often stay with one consensa for a long Aldarin
one of the lower bench consensae. The Consentium
period of time due to the Legio Terra I Deverosa
then debates this change, eventually reaching some
electing their gryphos through the Legion Assembly, Periods of
agreement settled upon by the primi and forming Aldarin
rather than the Consentium, of which the Primus
a bill. This proposed bill then is placed within the History
Legatus then takes charge. It is the duty of the Primus
Consentium Minor in writing, where it stands for
Legatus to present the opinions of the Legions from
seven days — though in times of war, this timeframe Classes
the Legion Assembly to the Consentium on any
is often overlooked. The bill may be accepted or
given topic. It is typical for the Primus Legatus to
rejected before the seven days are over by the publi of
stand to the right side of the Primus Imperator,
the Consentium Minor. If no agreement is reached, it Backgrounds
positioned one step down to denote the Primus
is automatically rejected once the seven days are up.
Imperator as the higher power. Primus Legatus
Accepted bills head to the Imperial Palace where they
Regalia Helios Tunestra Victoria (LN she/her
are signed by the emperor, the Primus Imperator, Appendices
high half-elf legionarius principa 18) is the current
or a designated representative, passing into law.
standing Primus Legatus.
Rejected bills are sent back to the Consentium for
Primus Arcanus amendment and further debate. This is the basic flow
Issued to the Altus Magus of Concilium Arcanus of law-making within the empire.
Altus, Primus Arcanus is an honorific title bestowed

63
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Factions bencher who seeks to stop any more of the lazily

written land reforms passing from the Reformists.
Within the Consentium, there are a number of sizable Legitor Laurentius Helios Julius Borealus (LE he/
political factions which stand for various values, tra- him Aldarin vampire [inquisitor]). An intelligent,
ditions, and ideas across the empire. The two largest up-and-coming consensa who has defeated many
and most notable of these are the Revitalists and the Reformist bills before they have gained traction.
Reformists which were both formed in 258 PDS in
response to a number of reforms brought in by King The Reformists
Venesti II (see page 100). Ever since, both of these
Alternate Names: Populares, Popularists
factions have locked horns on various matters over the
Political Colour: Blue
course of the empire’s existence, serving as represen-
Geared towards bringing power to the common
tatives for the nobility and the people respectively. A
people and stealing it from the grasp of the tenacious
smaller political party known as the Capitans arrived
noble families, the Reformists are a deft opponent on
onto the scene in the early 11th Century, growing
the forum floors. It is their desire to see the empire
rapidly in size over two decades to begin rivalling that
officially renamed to that of a republic, something
of the big two. Started as a mockery of the state of 11th
which many Reformists believe should have hap-
Century Aldarin politics, the party advertises itself
pened at the fall of Emperor Fabinus (see page 108),
as the true representatives of the people, taking jabs
for too long has the imperial family lingered over the
at how bureaucratic the whole process has become.
heritage of Aldarin. Led by the quick-witted Primus
Caesar Helios Aldarus, who created quite a stir in
The Revitalists his term as prolegitor when governing over Gordistra
Alternate Names: Optimates, Imperialists by cracking down on the illegal labour used by the
Political Colour: Green noble-owned berry farms, the Reformists stand
CW
Currently led by Proprimus Helgaria Astentium starkly against the values of the Revitalist faction.
Menderica, a wealthy and pompous aristocrat in They wish to see the redistribution of land that has
her late 60’s, the Revitalists see the current state of been promised to veterans of the Legions, as well
the empire as too popularist and open to the whims as to the farming families that the land has been
of the lower classes. Many Revitalists seek to grow taken from in centuries prior. They believe strongly
the wealth of the aristocracy and to fund lucrative in the power of the people, wishing to give those who
commercial ventures with the empire’s closest trade work hard to support the empire the recognition
partners. Expansionist in nature, Revitalists actively they deserve, such as the legionarii, farmers, and
push for the increase of funding towards military dock workers. Because of this stance, numerous
campaigns against the empire’s rivals: Jykstrav and bills leaving the Consentium from the Reformist
Menderin. In recent years, the Revitalists have faction pass through the Consentium Minor with
managed to push through numerous bills to raise ease unless they are vetoed by a Revitalist honorus.
additional legions to bolster forts along the northern
Notable Reformists
border against Jykstrav. Many Deverosian citizens
Primus Caesar Helios Aldarus (CG he/him
have argued that these aggressive bills are what
Aldarin veteran 9). The level-headed faction
caused the Fourth Renavic War to spark: a hotly
leader, with a keen mind and razor wit. Aldarus is
debated topic in the local tabernae and thermae.
a renowned legionary commander and respected
Some Revitalists even go as far as suggesting the
across the empire.
abolishment of the Consentium Minor and the rein-
Proprimus Nivos Palikos (LG he/she/they [GF]
statement of the emperor as the ruling body, which is
gnome consensa 8). Provincial governor of the
always met with angry backlash from the public. This
Pilkos Isles, Proprimus Nivos is a well-renowned
has led to countless Revitalist bills dying a swift death
veteran of the Gryphon Legions and advocate of
on the floor of the Consentium Minor at the hands
humanitarian rights.
of the honori, though their party retains a hardcore
Prolegitor Nindrea Laos Felicis (NG she/her
following throughout the middle and upper classes.
Aldarin magus [abjuration] 7). Esteemed member
Notable Revitalists of the Laos family, who has a strong grasp on the
Proprimus Helgaria Astentium Menderica (LG desires of the public markets within Deveros.
she/her Aldarin magus [divination] 7). The uppity Prolegitor Dwa’hlin Deosia (TN she/they [NB]
Revitalist faction leader, never seen without her pet half high elf consensa 7). An inspirational young
daschund, Ripper. noble of Emondasian and Aldarin descent who
Primus Yunila Averni Quinta (LN they/them has captured the hearts and minds of the citi-
[NB] Aldarin consensa 8). A stern, yet fair, lower zens of Deveros.

64
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

The Capitans systematically opposing the bureaucratic red tape

that surrounds Aldarin politics in places that the
Alternate Names: Socialares, Socialites
Reformists seem to be lacking.
Political Colour: Yellow Introduction
A minor party of miscreant socialites stemming Notable Capitans
from the high society club of Capitola, the Capitans Legitor Favella Trimestri Publius (CG she/xir Introduction
proudly stand for exuberant carnal activities: festi- [GF] Aldarin consensa 5). Political leader of the to the
Aldarin
vals, alcohol, drugs, brothels, fireworks, and feasting. Capitans and a staunch opposition to the current Empire
These topics are seldom at the forefront of Aldarin Reformist party, who has been systematically tearing
Aldarin
politics, and it is the goal of the Capitans to bring the down their relatively lacklustre bills to the glee of the Names
vices of debauchery and revelry into the limelight. general public.
Increased funding for festivals, upscaled production Promidnus Benedectus Laos Caerulicus (CN he/
of wine and mead, imperial welfare for brothel work- him Aldarin consensa 3). Notorious drunkard and Social Classes

ers, and loosened restrictions on imported drugs troublemaker, Benedectus is better known for his
from Sel’Kildar and Ravidan. These, amongst many raunchy parties and ability to down entire kegs of Kinships in
other proposed bills, have been shot down time and wine than for his slurred political ramblings. the Empire
time again by the other political parties, despite the Gildor Rigoro Deosia (CG he/they [T] Aldarin
morally just equality that would be brought about to consensa 6). The currently elected gildor in charge
Festivals
certain minority sectors of the lower classes. Despite of organising protection for the Consentium Minor,
their tarnished reputation as head-in-the-clouds who spends more time drinking with the publi than
troublemakers, the Capitans are well regarded by the protecting them.
Sports
public as progressors of thought and social welfare,

Religion

The Consentium Minor

Even though the Consentium forms the centralised the Consentium Minor, there is less disagreement Politics

decision making of the Aldarin Empire, the born of personal desire and a greater sense of com-
Consentium Minor is the backbone which supports radery in the name of the empire during assemblies.
Military
it. No bill can pass into law without the eyes of That is not to say, however, that the publi do not
the Consentium Minor first overlooking it. The have disputes. Whilst many publi start their terms
Consentium Minor consists of over 200 members. as upstanding citizens, seeking to do the best for the
Commerce
102 of these seats are for public citizens of the empire, empire, the tendrils of innumerable patrician fam-
spanning from each of the provincial regions. The ilies soon infiltrate their coffers with bolstered coin
remaining number of seats changes depending on in exchange for supporting a certain political party. Crime and
Punishment
how many legions are active at one time. A member
of the Consentium Minor is called a publus (pl. Opulatus (pl. Opulati)
publi): a public official. Patricians and sanctes are Provinces of
Positions: 91 Aldarin
exclusively barred from entry to the Consentium
The opulati form the core group of publi in the
Minor, regardless of their prevalence (though some
Consentium Minor. They are the open voices of the Periods of
manage to slip between the cracks by marrying into Aldarin
public from across the imperial provinces, repre-
plebeian families). This law is designed to protect History
senting all walks of life from labourers to merchants.
the sanctity of speech given to the common people
To become an opulatus, one must first take part in
of Aldarin without influence from the ruling social Classes
local elections, which are held within each major
classes. Unlike the Consentium, being a publus does
provincial settlement over the months of Autumn’s
not give you lifetime access to the political sphere,
Crest and Autumn’s Dusk. A single opulatus is
with publi heading back to normal life after serv- Backgrounds
selected for each elective zone, of which there are
ing their term.
102, and represents that zone over the following two
years. These opulati are expected to move to Deveros Appendices

Structure before the end of the month of Winter’s Dawn, where

they live within the Atrivia, the official Imperial
accommodation for publi. On the 2nd of Winter’s
The Consentium Minor is generally more well
Wane, when the new consensae come into office, the
attended as compared to the Consentium, notably
new publi also come into office. When voting on a
due to the publi being paid a full wage of 10 gold
bill, the opulati are always the first to cast their votes.
a week, which is an excessive sum of coin for the
regular citizen. Thanks to this equality of pay within

65
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Honorus (pl. Honori) or more publi. One such event was when a political
assassin belonging to the Umbra Syndicate entered
Positions: 11
into the Atrivia in 1018 PDS, intent on murdering a
A honorus is an extremely powerful position within
Revitalist-aligned honorus, and was slain by Legatus
the empire, standing shoulder to shoulder with the
Atticus Balekan (NG he/they plains half-orc fighter
primi in terms of political gravitas. This is thanks to
5), legatus of the Legio Terra IX Caerula.
their right of veto. Any of the eleven elected honori
may veto a bill that is seen to be against the interests Notable Publi
of the empire and its people. Due to this power, many Honorus Felicia Krystola (NG she/her [GF] high
bills are stopped upon reaching the honori, who are half-elf commoner 4). An incredibly vocal puppet for
the last to vote out of the three publi groups. Whilst the Revitalists, who stands avidly for the reinstate-
this is a common occurrence, it is within the interests ment of the imperial family’s rule.
of the honori to keep the empire running efficiently. Legatus Iona Tursten Agravata (LG she/her
If any honorus is considered to be deliberately block- Aldarin sellsword 5). A surly legionarius who has
ing the legislative process in contempt, they may be physically assaulted multiple publi whilst standing
dismissed from the session until the following day to voice her opinion.
through an unanimous vote of the other honori. Opulatus Leo Craeus Noctus (NE he/him Aldarin
On the 1st Winter’s Wax, the new opulati meet umbra crow). Manipulative and deceptive, Leo is
for the first time and must spend the next month said to be part of the Umbra Syndicate, and has
discussing in private which of the eleven members bribed other publi to swing the favour of certain bills
will stand as honori. It is up to the opulati to decide to loosen the restrictions on certain illicit substances.
how they make this decision, with various bizarre Opulatus Revian Magnis (LN he/him [T] high
methods cropping up over the years. Ventricus half-elf commoner 3). A popular, silver-tongued
Pavluvus (CG he/they Aldarin commoner 3, a nota- fellow from the elven region of Lornfell Creek in
ble honorus from 998 PDS, was famously chosen after northern Alvia, who seeks to loosen immigration
successfully throwing a pomcloud mushroom into laws between Fyndar and the empire.
the empress’s crown as she rode past on a chariot.
Regardless of how the choices are made, if the honori
have not been elected by the 28th Winter’s Wax, the
legati are allowed to elect representatives from the
remaining opulati.

Legatus (pl. Legati)

CW Political Insults
Positions: Varies
Honorus Fel“If ye want to really tear down
Legati are members of the Legions who have been a political rival in the Consentium, try
elected to stand in the Consentium Minor by the throwin’ out one of these at ‘em! Though
Legion Assembly. They serve the vital purpose of don’t let my mother know that I told ye
protecting the interests of the Legions within the about them…”
public assembly. The legati are the second to cast These are real insults found in literature from
their vote after the opulati have come to agreement. ancient Roman authors such as Catullus,
Whilst these legionarii do not have the right of veto, Ovid, and Cicero.
they can often be found as a prime sticking point for Nemo aspicit, quin ingemescat “Nobody lays
bills, primarily due to the overly critical nature of eyes upon you without groaning.”
many legionarii when it comes to law making. This Odiosus mihis “To me, you are but
stems from the concept of furto within the Legions, a bad smell.”
which is the name given to the collective, almost
Quod mare conceptum spumantibus expuit
innate sense of agreement between members of a undis “What sea hurled you, creature, from
legion. Despite furto being incredibly helpful while out of its foamy waves?”
on campaign, it is a common trigger for political
Tune etiam, immanissum ac foedissimum
bubbles to form amongst the legati, with legionarii monstrum “You are an immensely
aligning more readily with those from their own loathsome monster.”
provincial region. The legati also have a duty to
Permites! “Leech!”
protect the publi if the need might arise and are
one of the few allowed to carry weapons across the Impurae matris prolapsus ab alvo! “You
Sacrimum in Deveros. Whilst occurrences for the slimy son of a bitch!”
need of protection are rare, there have been several
occasions that a legatus has saved the lives of one

66
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Military
“An Empire stands upon the shoulders of its military and is nourished by the reaping of its economy.”
Introduction
— Emperor Venesti II, first Emperor of the Aldarin Empire
It is well known throughout Elos and beyond that respected. Over the years Aldarin’s military has Introduction
the Aldarin Empire has the largest standing military expanded and adapted, taking in new technology to the
Aldarin
on the continent. Its soldiers are not only mere to further bolster its legions. Where magic may be Empire
militia, as with most other armies throughout the forgotten in the military units of other nations, it is
Aldarin
Elosian nations, but a well-oiled machine. Aldarin’s embraced in Aldarin’s legions and used in tandem Names
legionarii are highly trained, full-time fighters forged with physical might.
under the harshest conditions to be both feared and
Social Classes

The Legions Kinships in

the Empire
Before the Aldarin Empire rose into existence, the with each province leaning towards unique patterns
Aldarin Kingdom functioned through the use of attributed to their region. Upon the top right of the
Festivals
small private armies levied at a moments notice scutum, the legion’s numeral is engraved upon a
from patrician-owned land. These rabbles of rag- small bronze disc. Legionarii often engrave their
tag soldiers were unreliable, costly, and more often name and cohort onto their scutum as a form of
Sports
than not, inexperienced. This all changed in the 3rd identification to other legions. Some scutum have
Century, however, with the declaration of the Legata rounded edges while others have a distinctly rect-
Ordato Probatia by King Venesti II. This defining angular form. The gladius, the traditional weapon Religion
document outlined the formal structure of the used by the Legions whilst in close quarters combat,
Kingdom’s military, raising multiple standing armies is akin to a short sword, made of steel and used for
and securing a living wage for their soldiers, known thrusting while in formation. Politics
as legionarii. It defined a set of ranks, training, and In addition to their weapons and armour, a legion-
payment scaling for legionarii, as well as rules on arius carries a full pack of camp equipment: tent,
who was allowed to join. This opened up a whole bedroll, cutlery, plates, bowls, a jug, a flint and steel, Military
new career path within society and gave many young pocket knife, lumbering axe, spade, hand mill for
people a chance to fight on the behalf of their home, grinding wheat, as well as any personal possessions
gaining glory and honour on the battlefield against that they might wish to take with them. While Commerce
their so-called barbaric neighbours. With this legionarii do not regularly cook their own meals,
decree, the Legions were born, which have grown with hired servants doing most of this work for them,
Crime and
into one of the most notoriously effective fighting they are expected to carry all the equipment required Punishment
units in all of Elos. to do so in the event of separation from their legion.
The cost of all this equipment is deducted from the Provinces of
monthly pay of a legionarius until it has been repaid Aldarin
Equipment back in full.
Periods of
Aldarin
Equipped with heavy bronze armour, gladius, History
scutum, four javelins, and dagger, the legionarii are
well suited to handle most opponents they face, with
Classes
the legionarii gryphones additionally wielding spears
used for charging the enemy. Some legions fighting
in the north of the empire have begun trading out the Backgrounds
traditional javelins with crossbows, to notable effect
against the more well-armoured Jyrden clanships.
Legionarius armour is typically made of bronze, Appendices
although steel has started to see more prevalence in
recent years with those who can afford it, providing
superior protection. The scutum, an elongated shield
covering most of the body, bears patterning adjacent
to imperial symbology such as gryphons, olive
branches, lions, eagles, and sunrays. The colouring
and design of each shield depends on the legion,

67
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Parma At the most fundamental level, a legion consists

of roughly 5,200 soldiers established within 10
While regular legionarii wield scutum, other ranks—
cohorts, as well as around 2,400 supporting units
such as the hydrophotes, gryphotes, cavalry, and
such as blacksmiths, cooks, personal servants, and
legionarii gryphones — wield the parma. A light-
entertainers. Sometimes legions grow up to twice
weight square or circular shield fitting over the user’s
the size of a regular legion whilst on campaign,
forearm, effective at redirecting incoming blows. The
usually through the merging of two legions due to
parma can be used with ease whilst wielding a lance,
lack of commanding officers. During particularly
spear, or hydra, hence its popularity with such units.
difficult campaigns, legions might drop to fewer
than 1,000 soldiers due to loss in battle and famine.
Structure of a Legion During times of peace, legions — especially those
stationed within cities — see their numbers reduced
even lower, sometimes to fewer than 500 legionarii.
A legion is a complex structure of hierarchical
Some legions might have extra cohorts of supporting
ranks, interleaved with its own internal political
units, such as servants who tend to the gryphons
assemblies. This structure persists across the three
of an aerial legion or trained builders to assist the
most common types of legion: land, aerial, and naval.
legion in the construction of forts. Others might
Whilst almost all legions march under the banner
be supplemented by auxiliaries — units from allied
of Deveros, many find themselves named after the
nations or levied from the provinces — which take
province they were raised and from where most of
the form of cavalry units, scouts, and archers. The
their legionarii originate. These legions are called
lower level order of a legion, however, is more uni-
provincial legions, which tend to remain within
formly organised, with the membership of cohorts
their province unless taken on active campaign by
and centuries rarely changing over the course of a
their gryphos. Such examples would be “Legio Terra
legion’s lifespan.
V Deverosa” denoting the 5th Land Legion of the
Province of Deveros and “Legio Aerius IX Alvia”
denoting the 9th Aerial Legion of Alvia.

68
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Decima (pl. Decimae) are the most experienced legionarii in a cohort

and are veteran soldiers who have been part of the
The lowest collective unit within a legion is that of a
Legions the longest out of everyone else. When the
decima, consisting of eight legionarii and two skilled Introduction
triarii are ordered to move to the front and engage
labourers. The legionarii eat, sleep, wash, relax, and
the opponent, the legion is considered to be in dire
fight together, and are usually very closely knit — Introduction
straits. There are usually eight infantry cohorts and
often consisting of friends from before the legion to the
two equestrian cohorts within a land legion, though Aldarin
or from a specific vintari academy. Whilst in battle, Empire
numbers fluctuate based on location and tribula-
the decima forms a single line of soldiers standing
tions in war. The equestrian cohorts are sometimes Aldarin
shield to shield. At least one legionarius within a
replaced with legionarii gryphones depending on Names
decima is expected to have clerical training, knowing
where the campaign is headed and the availability of
a small number of healing spells, and is called the
gryphons at the time of forming the legion.
clericus. The two labourers are expected to help with Social Classes

the upkeep of armour, cooking, setting up camp,

hunting, foraging, repairing of equipment, and any
other form of non-combatant work.
Alternate Legion Types Kinships in
the Empire

There are a couple of different variations in legions

Century (pl. Centuries) seen throughout the empire and with its allies. Festivals
The next collective within a legion is the century,
consisting of 10 decimae, or 80 legionarii and 20 Aerial Legions
skilled labourers. The legionarii of a century would Sports
The Aerial Legions, sometimes called the Gryphon
camp in the same area, share meals amongst deci-
Legions, Legio Aerius, or the Legio Gryphones in
mae, and take turns keeping watch. When deployed
Aldarin, function slightly differently to the land and
on the battlefield, a century has five rows with two Religion
naval legions. They are much smaller in scale, typ-
decimae per row. Members of a century typically
ically only consisting of 1,200 legionarii gryphones
consider themselves as an extended family, with most
as well as 1,200 supporting units, such as archers or
legionarii forming close bonds and even marrying Politics
magi, who ride facing backwards on the gryphons.
within their century. Legionarii in a century interact
The Aerial Legions are split into decimae, centuries,
casually with those of other centuries within their
and cohorts as per the normal formation of a legion, Military
cohort, forming a sense of comradery and rivalry
often flying in a column formation. When in battle,
between certain groups. A century is also the lowest
each century acts independently of each other
structure in a legion to be assigned a number, for
within a cohort, and each cohort acts upon their Commerce
example Century IV of Cohort VII. Members of a
own volition from the rest of the legion. Due to the
century would be considered “veterans” of a cohort
complex nature in which the Aerial Legions operate,
if their century’s number is lower, with Century I of a Crime and
it generally takes twice as long to train to become a Punishment
cohort being the most experienced and battle hardy
legionarius grypho, requiring more time and effort
of the legionarii. Some centuries even grow to form
in maintaining the upkeep of a gryphon and learning
a unique reputation amongst the legions, such as the Provinces of
of complex aerial formations. Aldarin
3rd Century, 4th Cohort of Legio Terra II Alvia who
The gryphons sourced for the Legions are raised
are renowned specialists in sapping.
by numerous gryphon farmers in Caerula, Nivinea, Periods of
Aldarin
and the Province of Deveros who are governed by
Cohort (pl. Cohorts) the Feldarium (Cb13) — an imperial governmental
History

A cohort is the next largest collective within a legion, body whose job is to oversee the empire’s gryphon
Classes
formed of 6 centuries equalling a total of 480 soldiers population. These gryphons are typically hastellian
and 120 skilled labourers. This is true for all cohorts gryphons, a breed local to the Province of Deveros.
apart from a legion’s 1st Cohort, which is doubled in They are named after the famous Dalaskian general, Backgrounds
strength at 960 soldiers and 240 labourers. Cohorts Alveria Hastellian (NG she/her Aldarin dead),
often act independently of each other whilst on the whose scouting party located the hill upon which
march, following the orders of their hydrophos, but Deveros was founded, and who first trained the Appendices
may be grouped together to form larger formations gryphons of the region for war. Hastellian gryphons
when on the battlefield. The normal formation of are smaller in stature than the average gryphon, more
a cohort is with two centuries at the front and two akin in size to a small horse or pony. With a shorter
centuries in the middle, which will swap positions wingspan, they have much greater manoeuvrabil-
throughout a battle, giving the front line soldiers ity, which is key to their use on the battlefield. The
time to rest and recover. The final two blocks of much rarer imperial gryphons are also given to the
centuries, called the triarii, sit at the back. These gryphotes of a legion, which are much larger and are

69
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

used to strike fear into the hearts of the enemy. These Upon retirement from the Gentan, the legionarius
imperial gryphons are raised by the imperially sanc- is granted a sizable sum of coin, animals, and a plot of
tioned gryphon breeders, the Kaleon family, and are land somewhere within the empire. The animals and
protected under law by the imperial family — loaned land are traditionally gifted by the Primus Legatus,
out to commanders at the behest of the emperor. whilst the gold is gifted by the Ivory Halls. The legion
also has its own form of vintari called hashuul, mean-
Silver Legions ing “protector of the people”, who operate exclusively
within the Sala Sel’Kildarak district.
Most legions carry a standard of the Aldarin Empire,
formed in the shape of a Hastellian gryphon holding
a sword and an olive branch crafted of pure gold.
Hetaria (pl. Hetariae)
However, there are nations which are technically A hetaria is a private citizen of Deveros who has
not part of the empire, such as the nation of South served in the Legions for at least 20 years and has
Rymin, who still have legions and follow the struc- been put forward by the Primus Legatus to guard The
ture outlined in the Legata Ordato Probatia. These Amethyst Acre — the district holding the imperial
are called the Silver Legions, whose standards bear family. Hetariae can be seen throughout this district
the emblem of the representative country, made of Deveros in elaborate gilded armour, riding atop
out of silver and oak. It is deemed illegal for any imperial gryphons whilst patrolling or standing
country other than Aldarin to own or carry a golden guard at one of the many historic structures. Hetariae
standard, with a small number of wars historically are expected to be capable legionarii gryphones
having been fought over this law. The most notable of and exert notable skill in the sword, spear, hydra,
these were against Jykstrav, who still hold the legion and bow. Hetariae are one of the few military units
banners belonging to the legions commanded by allowed to carry weapons within the Sacrimum,
Empress Iliandra I (see page 103), who fell against typically wielding the famous hydra glaive used by
the Nordvær clans during the 5th Century. the hydrophotes of the Legions and ornate parmae
bearing the imperial crest. Hetariae are infamous
The Sel’Kildarak Legeshi for shouting at any who get too close, giving the
strict, single-word warning of “Abi!” meaning “Go
This specialised legion serves in the east of the
away!”. Those who disobey the command either find
empire, holding the Ophelian Wall against Menderin.
themselves shoved back with the hetaria’s parma or
It is feared as one of the most coordinated and deadly
struck with the hydra. Attacking a hetaria is consid-
legions the empire has at its disposal. Composed
ered an offence punishable by death, which has been
of legionarii of Kildaran origin, the Sel’Kildarak
enforced numerous times over the centuries.
Legeshi is an exclusive legion born of agreements
Unlike every other military structure in the
between Tak’huutan and Kishmaran refugees during
empire, the Hetariae have no formal command, with
the 5th Century. Despite the legionarii of this legion
each hetaria seen as equal to the next. There are, how-
stemming from both Nul’Kildarian and Sel’Kildarian
ever, special roles within the Hetariae: the Sepulcriae,
origin, the legion actually derives its name from the
who guard the Sepulchre (R1); the Astoriae, who
Sala Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros from which
guard the statues of Memoria Imperium (R5) and
many of its members originate. Other legionarii
the Imperiae, who guard the Imperial Palace (R4).
might join from Kishmaran or Tak’huutan populated
Usually, a hetaria will not have membership to these
coastal settlements found along the westernmost
sub-groups upon joining, instead learning the lay
coast of Aldarin.
of The Amethyst Acre and guarding the main gate-
After completing their 25 years of service, a excel-
house. After two years, they may then transfer into
lent legionarius of the Sel’Kildarak Legeshi may be
one of these unique groups if there is a free space, or
lucky enough to become honoured with the title of
if another hetaria agrees to exchange.
gentan meaning “gifted one”, joining the ranks of the
The Hetariae are considered to be the private
Gentan where they then serve for another 10 years
army of the imperial family and do not answer to
protecting the Ivory Halls of Sala Sel’Kildarak. These
the Consentium under any circumstances. This has
elite warriors are solely chosen from members of
led to a number of interesting conflicts between
joint Tak’huutan and Qutharian birth, though some
the Vintari and the Hetariae, such as during the
sand elves have also been selected for membership as
demon-led invasion of Deveros in 1027 PDS. During
well. Gentan are expertly trained in the ways of the
this invasion, Empress Iliandra III (see page 57)
chakram, the symbolic weapon of Tak’huut, and the
commanded the Hetariae to defend the palace and
shamshir, the regional weapon of Kishradam and the
the servants. The Consentium, however, decreed
Qutharian Empire, in the years prior to their selection.
that all capable fighters should converge upon the
A gentan is expected to control each of these symbolic
Deverosian World Anchor to drive back the demonic
weapons with expert precision and finesse.

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

forces, an order which was ignored by the Hetariae. however. A legionarius would be expected to tend
Shortly after the invasion had resolved, this led to an to their gear, perform duties around camp, forage
outburst by the Reformist faction who pointed to the for food, source water, train, and assist the locals
Introduction
law that stated no private armies are allowed within with harvests. Legionarii who form the soldiers of
the empire. This was swiftly shot down by Revitalist an equestrian or gryphones cohort would also be
Introduction
leader, Proprimus Helgaria Astentium Menderica expected to tend to the needs of their animals and to the
(see page 64), who defended the imperial family’s to work alongside the auxiliaries and exploratores to Aldarin
Empire
ability to protect itself as a traditional right from assist with foraging and scouting.
time immemorial. The typical legionarius is paid a monthly salary, Aldarin
which is usually sent back to their family after Names

deductions are made for equipment and supplies.

Basic Ranks They are allocated a small pocket of land within Social Classes
the empire and a retirement bonus after reaching
The ranks of the Legions stay the same across land, 25 years of service, though many legionarii leave
naval, and aerial units. Each of the officer ranks wear active service before this time. Some legionarii Kinships in
the Empire
a plumage atop their helmet with which they can be only stay for five years, the minimum required to
identified quickly, while the normal legionarius does attain citizenship, though the average number of
not wear any plumage. years served by legionarii is between five and ten. Festivals
Legionarii who are honourably discharged from
Legionarius (pl. Legionarii) duty due to injury are paid this retirement bonus
early. The empire is proud of its legions, with the Sports
Plumage: None
modern-day Consentium ensuring that they are
Roman Equivalent: Legionarius
funded adequately and rewarded generously for
The basic rank-and-file soldier of the Aldarin
their service. Religion
legions, the legionarius is a tough fighting machine,
both on their own and within a group. After gradu-
ating from a vintari academy, a legionarius is allowed Politics
to join either a new legion or a pre-existing legion
which is about to go on active campaign, forming a
new cohort with the other vintari they Military
trained with. This is not always the
case, however, with many legionarii
finding themselves levied from Commerce
the masses in times of war and
given little formal training.
Crime and
Campaigning season usually Punishment
runs from the months of Spring’s Dawn
through to Autumn’s Dusk, during which the Provinces of
legion is placed under the command of a legi- Aldarin
tor, prolegitor, or proprimus. Their purpose
is twofold: to stabilise provincial regions within Periods of
Aldarin
the empire or to expand the imperial borders History
outwards. When not on campaign, the
legion holds territory in its home prov-
Classes
ince and defends it from outside threats.
When in battle, a legionarius is expected
to fight with their century and to obey Backgrounds
the orders of their principa and
secunda. Depending on allegiance to
the legion’s gryphos and the empire, Appendices
a legionarius might also be asked
to become one of the speculatores,
a legionary spy or bodyguard,
Half-Dragon
or one of the exploratores, a
Legionarius
military scout.
The general day-to-day life
of a legionarius is not fighting,

71
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Secunda (pl. Secundae) It is the duty of the regitorus to listen to the orders of
their hydrophos and to pass them along the forma-
Plumage: Green
tion to the next hydrophos, similar to the role of the
Roman Equivalent: Optio
secunda within the century formations.
The secunda is the second in command of a century
Outside of battle, regitori are expected to orga-
and stands on the rightmost position of the front
nise celebrations for the cohort on festival days, to
row in battle. When arranged with a cohort, the
issue payments to the legionarii from the treasury,
secunda will stand to the left of the principa of the
to arrange funeral rites for their legionarii, and to
next century along in the formation. When com-
manage the food supply for the cohort. Regitori are
mands are issued through the legion, they are passed
also expected to back up their hydrophos within
along the front row of the formation from secunda
the Cohort Assembly, though it is not uncommon
to principa. While not in battle, the secundae act as
for them to voice differing opinions when the views
quartermasters and ensure the wellbeing of all the
of the legionarii differ from that of the hydrophos.
legionarii within their century is taken care of. They
are additionally responsible for reporting any issues
or concerns for their companions to the principa and
Hydrophos (pl. Hydrophotes)
to guide the clerici towards those who are in need of Plumage: Dark blue
healing. A secunda is chosen by the principa after Roman Equivalent: Pilus Prior
they have been assigned to the century, commonly The primary soldier in charge of a cohort, the hydro-
a close friend or trusted ally. phos stands proud at the front-leftmost point of the
cohort’s formation.Tasked with issuing orders to the
Principa (pl. Principae) cohort through their pelitus, a hydrophos is expected
to have an innate sense for military strategy, able
Plumage: Red
to act independently of their gryphos if required.
Roman Equivalent: Centurio
Hydrophotes are hand selected by the gryphos,
The principa is the first in command of a century
typically coming from the cohort they are expected
and typically stands on the leftmost position of the
to lead, though sometimes being brought in from
front row. The principa represents their century
other legions as close friends of the gryphos (though
within a legion, voicing the communal opinions
such decisions are commonly met with anger from
of their legionarii to the Cohort Assembly. The
the resident legionarii). The title derives from the
principa listens to the orders broadcast by their
weapon traditionally wielded by the hydrophotes:
pelitus and issues them to the rest of the century.
the hydra — a glaive with a number of parallel blades
Principae are chosen by the hydrophos of the cohort
which may be adjusted to form either a spear or a
and are usually already members of the centuries
glaive. Hydrophotes undergo training with this
they are designated to lead. They are responsible for
specialised weapon upon becoming promoted to the
disciplining the legionarii within their century and
rank and are expected to wield it proficiently upon
for recruiting new legionarii when needed, whether
the battlefield while also using a parma.
from the locals of a region or through connections to
When out of battle, the hydrophos’ duty is to tend CW
vintari academies across the empire. The principae
to the needs of the cohort, organising the location
are traditionally hardened veterans, having served
of their camp, securing land, and arranging rotas for
under a particular gryphos for a long time and
chores and guard duty. It is also their duty to voice the
showing devoted loyalty in the face of adversity. If
opinion of the cohort in the Cohort Assembly and
a new legion is formed, principae will primarily be
to negotiate the splitting of money, usually attained
veteran legionarii or secundae from other legions
from looting enemy settlements, for their legionarii
brought in to train the new recruits in the field and
after a campaign has ended. The hydrophos of the
to learn how to lead a century.
1st Cohort goes by the title of Hydrophos Altus, and
holds a similar position to that of the Roman primus
Regitorus (pl. Regitori) pilus. The Hydrophos Altus is the third in command
Plumage: Orange of the legion after the Hydrophos Laticlavius, the
Roman Equivalent: Pilus Posterior second in command — a young patrician (usually
A regitorus stands as second in command of a cohort, a midnus) placed in a position of authority by the
elected by the centuries of that cohort to represent Consentium as an understudy to the gryphos, similar
their voice in the legion. The term originally derived in role to the Roman tribunus laticlavius. It is up to
from the early Aldarin Kingdom, where the regitorus the Hydrophos Altus and Hydrophos Laticlavius to
of an army would be a captain appointed by the help the gryphos plan strategies for battle as well as
ruling monarch. When in battle, regitori typically to decide upon the final design for the ovatum of the
stand to the rightmost position of the cohort, next campaign (see Ovatum).
to the hydrophos of the next cohort in the formation.

72
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Gryphos (pl. Gryphotes)

Plumage: Purple
Roman Equivalent: Legatus Legionis Introduction
The commander of a legion, typically a legitor from Other Roles
the Consentium, the gryphos stands at the front-left- “There’s a lotta other roles in the Legions apart Introduction
most side of their legion in battle, giving orders and from just these, y’know! One cardinal I knew was to the
Aldarin
evaluating the progress of the battle. It is common for a pretty good cornicen. And by pretty good I Empire
mean he wouldn’t shut it! Used to toot his cornu
the gryphos to ride an imperial gryphon, regardless
nonstop. Endless horn blowin’, day in, day out.” Aldarin
of whether the legion is an aerial legion or not, which Names
gives them elevated height above their legionarii and There are several additional roles that one
the enemy. Some gryphotes, however, choose to fly might find in an Aldarin legion. These can
range from servants to musicians to cooks
above their legion, giving them enchanted visibility Social Classes
to messengers. Here are some of the more
of the battlefield whilst their significatus rides upon unique roles:
the back of the gryphon, issuing orders from the sky. Legionarius Grypho (pl. Legionarii Kinships in
When out of battle, gryphotes have an endless Gryphones) A legionary who is trained to the Empire
supply of other duties they are supposed to fulfil. This fly, take care of, and ride into battle with a
ranges from overseeing the wellbeing of their legion, Hastellian gryphon. These legionarii form
the aerial legions of the empire. They are Festivals
making sure food and water supplies are well stocked,
planning and strategizing the movements of the sometimes simply called “gryphon riders”
legion, and keeping open communication with the by the common folk, a term used to refer to
anyone mounted upon a gryphon. Sports
Legion Assembly and the Consentium. Gryphotes
are not expected to attend Consentium assemblies Ala (pl. Alae) A legionary mounted upon
whilst on campaign, but are required to give a full horseback belonging to a small group of
Religion
informative summary of the campaign once they equestrian units. These have fallen out of
fashion in recent years as the training and
return. Therefore, many gryphotes keep campaign
breeding of gryphons has improved.
logs called Campanus Libertae to track the legion’s Politics
movements, funding, and interactions with the Cornicen (pl. Cornicines) A horn blower
who uses a cornu to attract the attention
enemy over the course of a single campaign. When
of the legionarii and works closely
a gryphos returns to Deveros after a campaign, they alongside a pelitus. Military
must rescind their title as legion commander, once
again becoming a private citizen before entering past Discens (pl. Discentis) A clericus in training,
usually a young sacerdos who has yet to
the Sacrimum — the sacred barrier around the Commerce
undergo military training.
northern city. The only exception to this is when the
gryphos is granted a “triumph” by the Consentium Tirones (pl. Tironis) A legionarius who
— a celebration of extraordinary military success has been recruited without the required Crime and
Punishment
vintarus training. These are most commonly
(see Triumph).
found within rapidly raised legions during
times of war where formal training cannot Provinces of
be undertaken. Aldarin
Special Ranks Praefectus Castrorum The camp prefect,
Periods of
typically a veteran who has many years of Aldarin
There are a number of unique ranks in the Legions experience under their belt and is chosen History
which do not fall under the typical rank-and-file by the gryphos. Considered to be fourth in
structure of a legion. command after the Hydrophos Altus and
Classes
Hydrophos Laticlavius, they are responsible
Vintarus (pl. Vintari) for securing the supply lines for the entire
legion. The praefectus is also responsible for
Plumage: None ensuring there is no disorder amongst the Backgrounds

Roman Equivalent: Legionarii of ranks and that no mutinies are brewing.

the Cohortes Urbanae
Tribunus Angusticlavius (pl. Tribuni
The Vintari is a special sect of the Legions which Angusticlavii) These are five junior
Appendices

does not go on active campaign, serving instead consensae or patricians who sit upon the
as trainee legionarii and city guards to the many gryphos’ war council. They serve both as
larger settlements of the empire. These vintari usu- administrators of a legion and as delegative
ally consist of the newest members to the Legions, commanders during engagements.
though they have their own command structure of
centuries, cohorts, and decimae with the officers
consisting of veteran legionarii. A legionarius will

73
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

serve as a vintarus for the first one to three years of Significatus (pl. Significati)
their time in the Legions, acting under a gildor or
Plumage: Gold, bronze gryphon
hydrophos within one of the imperial cities. Each
claws upon both shoulders
vintarus is paired with a senior vintarus, whose duty
Roman Equivalent: Aquilifer
it is to teach them the ropes. During this time, these
Almost all legionarii would argue that the significatus
fledgling legionarii live within one of the numerous
is the most important role within the entire legion,
vintari academies, specialist forts geared towards the
hence the name given to the title. One of the few
training of vintari.
arcane-based ranks, the significatus bears the legion’s
The role of the Vintari is to allow a young legion-
standard, the praecelsa: a long pole of oak wood
arius to acclimatise to following orders, give them
bearing a golden gryphon and the flag of the Aldarin
fundamental military training, and allow them to
Empire. The significati are powerful magi from the
establish public relations with the denizens of the
Imperial Arcane Assembly — ordinarily a haruspex
city they are stationed in. Vintari act as civil servants
trained especially for this role — and are able to assist
and policing units within their city, and will usually
the legion with powerful arcane spellcasting. Their
graduate into the role of a legionarius after an aver-
duty whilst in battle is to hold the praecelsa high,
age of two years. It is not uncommon, however, for
used to rally the legionarii and to signal orders from
vintari to stay out of active service and to become a
the gryphos using arcane glyphs which appear above
vintari principa: one of the higher up civil officers of
the standard. It is common for the significatus to ride
a town or district. Numerous legionarii retire from
upon the back of the gryphos’s imperial gryphon,
active duty in the Legions into the Vintari, serving
facing towards the legion so that they may see the
as veteran guards or vintari principae within the
current state of the formation. Whilst out of battle,
province that their family resides. This provides a
the significatus is entrusted with the cleaning and
stable guard force across the empire as well as readily
protection of the praecelsa, signalling orders from
available legionarii who can be raised in times of war.
the gryphos whilst on the march, and linking the
legion to the Legion Assembly through evocation
Clericus (pl. Clerici) and conjuration magic.
Plumage: None
Roman Equivalent: Immunes Pelitus (pl. Peliti)
Clerici are often sacerdotes of one of the four major
Plumage: Silver, bronze gryphon
deities worshipped within Aldarin: Deos, Quor,
claw upon left shoulder
Gw’yth, and Iora. These specially trained sacerdotes
Roman Equivalent: Signifer
go through the same training as other legionarii,
Similar to the signifcatus, the peliti are the signallers
though they are also educated in the ways of clerical
of the legion, representing the banner of each indi-
healing during combat. Each decima has at least
vidual cohort. It is their duty to broadcast the orders
one clericus, though sometimes there may be more
of their hydrophos to the cohort, delivering messages
depending on availability. These clerici are expected
from their hydrophos to the gryphos using the
to ensure the wellbeing of their decima and to tend
message spell, and to communicate any legion-wide
to any wounds which might arise, both during and
orders from the significatus using unique patterns of
outside of battle. The Vintari sometimes recruit
light through the dancing lights spell. The peliti are
clerici who are otherwise unable to join the Legions,
imperial magi, often significati in training, who can
though this is quite a rare occurrence.
perform various minor arcane spells to assist the

74
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

cohort. It is not uncommon for the peliti to reign Legionary Assemblies

fireballs upon enemy ranks during a charge or to turn
scouts invisible before heading out to investigate
enemy positions. During battle, the peliti protect
Century Assembly Introduction

themselves with abjuration magic and avoid fighting Each legionarius is given a voice within the legion
Introduction
directly on the front lines unless strictly necessary. which can be exercised by talking to their principa to the
It is not uncommon for the peliti to utilise cantrips or secunda, being able to raise any issue or concern Aldarin
Empire
to target specific hostiles from afar, indicating high they might have. The Century Assembly of a cohort
profile targets in the enemy ranks for the cohort to gathers each week to discuss any issues from within Aldarin
focus their attention onto. itself: the six principa and the regitorus are expected Names

to attend the meeting, and optionally the hydrophos

for immensely important matters. Once a topic has Social Classes
CW
Story of the Cindersong Cohort been discussed, the decision can then be passed back
“A carpet of fire bolts cloakin’ the sky like a down to the legionarii. If an issue needs to be taken
swarm of cardinals fluttering off to find food. higher, it is discussed between the hydrophos and the Kinships in
the Empire
We get hungry, okay? And it’s safer to go regitorus in private, who then bring it to the Cohort
in numbers…” Assembly. The Century Assembly is somewhat more
One famous pelitus from Cohort VIII of of a social affair compared to the other legionary Festivals
Legio Terra VII Deverosa, Daedelia Tulius assemblies, commonly involving drinking and
(CG she/her Aldarin magus [evocation] 7), gambling between the officers with light chit chat
is well known for going against the grain, and discussion about plans for the coming weeks. Sports
utilising the destructive forces of evocation
magic to assist her cohort. Daedelia has Cohort Assembly
been so influential on the battlefield during Religion
the Fourth Renavic War that a number of The Cohort Assembly is the weekly gathering of the
legionarii within her cohort have asked to ten hydrophotes, the ten regitori, and the gryphos
learn minor evocation cantrips from her, used to discuss important matters within the legion Politics
which she has readily taught them. Cohort and plans for what the legion is to do next. When on
VIII has since garnered the nickname campaign, the Cohort Assembly meets much more
“Cindersong” from the whistling of fire bolts
regularly, usually every one to two days, to discuss Military
fired off by Daedelia’s protégés. This in turn
has inspired other peliti to start teaching plans for upcoming battles and to strategize the
their cohorts minor cantrips to those movements of the legion whilst in enemy territory.
inclined to learn, which has strengthened Issues from one of the Century Assemblies may be Commerce
the otherwise tenuous relationship between brought to the Cohort Assembly on the behest of a
the Imperial Arcane Academy and the hydrophos if a matter is deemed important enough to
Crime and
Legions. Daedelia has been awarded the raise. There is sometimes the rare case that a matter Punishment
Altus Moventur, an accolade given by the needs to be elevated higher to the Legion Assembly,
Consentium to those who have made in which case it is the duty of the gryphos to bring
notable impact whilst in service, and seeks Provinces of
it forward. This meeting is a more formal affair as Aldarin
to be promoted to the rank of significatus
backed with the full support of the compared to the Century Assemblies, commonly
Cindersong Cohort. taking place within the tent of the gryphos whilst Periods of
Aldarin
on campaign or within the legionary fort’s war room History
whilst off campaign.

Legion Assembly Classes

Once a month the gryphos of each legion, the Primus

Legatus, and the Pontifex Martialis meet in their Backgrounds

own special assembly. This cannot usually be done

physically, due to the placement of each legion, and
so it is instead held within a small demiplanar pocket Appendices

constructed by the Imperial Arcane Assembly and

hosted within the Upper Sanctum of the Deverosian
World Anchor. It is the duty of the significatus to tele-
port the gryphos safely to and from this demiplanar
pocket for the meeting and to protect the demiplane
if it were to come under attack.

75
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

The Legion Assembly meets to discuss the overall within imperial settlements. A corona aurea is also
movements of the Legions across the empire, coordi- traditionally gifted to a gryphos by their province
nating wars against nations, and bringing any major of birth in expectation of a triumph, which is then
concerns of a whole legion to the attention of the worn by the gryphos during the first half of their
other legions. Here the gryphotes may bring issues triumphal celebration.
to the attention of the Primus Legatus to raise at the
Consentium, such as matters of pay or worries about Corona Navilia
ongoing wars.
The corona navilia or “naval crown” is awarded to the
first legionarius to board an enemy ship during battle
Military Decorations and to plant the flag of their century upon the bow.
This crown signifies bravery and courage, with many
legionarii dying during the struggle of attaining a
The Aldarin Empire has numerous military deco-
foothold upon an enemy vessel. This award is a
rations which it bestows upon its legionarii, as well
crown made of silver oak leaves featuring the bows
as any other members of the Legions who meet the
of Aldarin galleons on either side. A miniature flag
requirements of attaining the decoration. These
of the legionarius’ century hangs from the central
decorations are more than just a show, granting the
portion of the crown. Legionarii who enter into any
owner special privileges within imperial settlements
taberna wearing this crown are immediately given
and respect from the masses whilst attending formal
free amphorae of wine and a loaf of bread, which is
events and festivals. All awards are traditionally worn
traditionally broken across the head of the nearest
during festivals, triumphs, and ovations, with the
naval officer. It is believed this tradition started as
owners often gifted free food and alcohol by the
a joke between naval legionarii who disapproved of
public as thanks for their service.
their cowardly officers — who should have been the
ones to plant the flag — and has since long continued.
Altus Moventur
The altus moventur or “high mover” is an award Corona Civica
bestowed upon a legionarius by the Consentium,
The corona civica or “civic crown” is the second
praising them for revolutionary thinking and
highest decoration attainable within the Aldarin
inspiring progressiveness within the Legions. Few
Empire, not exclusive to the Legions, and is awarded
legionarii have received this award, with those who
for acts of great valour resulting in the saving of
have being remembered as some of the most famous
lives of numerous Aldarin citizens. This crown is
legionarii in Aldarin history. This award is symbol-
represented by a crown formed of the oak leaves of
ised by a pair of ornate golden pauldrons engraved
three separate families of oak tree worn upon the
with legionarii riding atop Hastellian gryphons who
head. Those who are awarded with this crown are
in turn hold the Aldarin flag. These legionarii are also
reserved seats next to the lower bench consensae
granted the option to join the Hetariae should they
during all public holidays and sporting events in the
choose to take it, as well as a sizable package of land
capital. Additionally, the citizen and all immediate
within the Province of Deveros.
family members are excluded from public burdens,
such as jury duty and the setting up of festivals.
Corona Aurea
The corona aurea or “golden crown” is awarded to Corona Graminea
legionarii who display feats of exceptional bravery
The corona graminea or “grass crown” is the highest
in the face of adversity whilst in battle. This award
decoration attainable within the Aldarin Empire
is commonly given by the gryphos of a legion to a
and rarest of all military decorations. It is awarded
legionarius who has slain a notable enemy in combat
through an agreement of all officers of a legion within
or taken the initiative to undergo some task which
the Cohort Assembly to a gryphos who has achieved
saved the lives of other legionarii in their century.
a feat of excellence during their time in service. This
This award takes the form of a crown of golden oak
can range from breaking a siege to saving the lives
leaves worn upon the head, though it has also been
of the entire legion. It is most commonly given to
given as a purple cloth wrap worn around the shoul-
a commander who has led the legion through hell
ders. The gryphos traditionally takes a feather from
and high water, emerging victorious on the other
the plumage of their helmet and twines it within
side. The crown is constructed of flowers, grass, and
the crown or wrap, denoting their appreciation
leaves located upon the battlefield upon which the
of the legionarius’ actions. This award grants the
event took place, which are permanently preserved
legionarius special consideration for promotions
through arcane means by the significatus of the
within the Legions and free entry to bath houses

76
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

legion. Any gryphos wearing the corona graminea Military Celebrations

is granted the benefits of the corona civica, as well
as the unfaltering respect of legionarii across the There are many ways for a legion to celebrate their
Introduction
empire. It is a symbol of appreciation and sincere successes, ranging from the drinking dry of tabernae
thanks from a legion to one they respect highly, a when returning home to inter-cohort sporting events
Introduction
gesture which brings great pride to the gryphos and hosted by the gryphos. These unofficial celebrations to the
their family. are certainly fun, but nothing is more desirable than Aldarin
Empire
an imperially sanctioned celebration in honour of a
Ovatum (Pl. Ovati) legion’s success during a campaign. There are only Aldarin
two such celebrations, the triumph and the ovation, Names
Ovatum are ornate, circular brass discs that are inlaid
which each great gryphos strives to achieve at the
into each legionarius’ chestplate. These represent the
height of their military career. These celebrations are
campaigns that the legionarius has been on, and are Social Classes
requested by the gryphos when returning to Deveros
usually representative of an in-joke from the cam-
and must be approved in advance by the Consentium
paign in some way. Designs vary wildly from cam-
before taking place. Kinships in
paign to campaign, with the imperial blacksmith of the Empire
the Ironworks in Deveros spearheading production
of ovati for distribution to legionarii throughout
Ovation
Festivals
the empire. An ovation is a form of minor celebration to repre-
sent success of a legion, usually against an inferior
enemy and with little danger to the legion itself. The
Sports
gryphos of the legion rides in through the gates of
Deveros upon a white horse, holding a golden olive
branch in one hand and a gilded sword in the other. Religion
Behind them is a procession of their officers from the
Cohort Assembly of their legion, as well as thirteen
The Balderan Skull Ovatum bulls, one for each of the Tredecima deities. The gry- Politics

“Oh oh oh, this story is a goodun! Sounds like the phos first heads to the Aedes Tredecima, where they
gryphos was a complete worm-wrangler. That’s are met by the pontifices. A bull is sacrificed here to
what we call cardinals who spend too long caring each deity, with the Primus Pontifex awarding the Military
about the finer details of pluckin’ worms from celebrating gryphos with a wreath of silver oak leaves
the ground.” mixed with myrtle and amethysts. The gryphos then
A notable example of an in-joke ovatum travels to the Sacrimum, laying down their arms and Commerce

design is that of the Legio Terra III Baldera rescinding their control of the legion, before entering
and their ovatum for the Second Renavic the Consentium as a private citizen to give a speech
Crime and
War. The ovatum of this campaign features about their success. Punishment
a skull with a single tooth, referencing the Ovations are a smaller affair as compared to
Cohort V who found an unidentified skull triumphs, with less fanfare and no specific festival
sitting in the middle of the road during a Provinces of
day set aside to celebrate them. A gryphos is still Aldarin
march. The skull had no teeth apart from
expected to step down as a private citizen during
one golden tooth upon its jawbone. Seeing
this as a good omen from the gods, the the course of the celebration and their legion is not Periods of
Aldarin
legionarii nicknamed the skull “Gryphos allowed to enter the city until they have finished History
Difficilis” after their legion’s gryphos, who their speech. On average, there is an ovation once
was renowned for having a bad temper and every couple of years, with many stopping their daily
Classes
flying into a rage most evenings after setting business to witness the event.
up camp. The skull became a companion to
the Cohort V and the legionarii took turns
looking after it, barking pretend orders
Triumph Backgrounds

through it to other cohorts, with some A triumph is the greatest accolade attainable by a
loyally following whatever the skull said. The gryphos and commander of one or more legions.
original skull now resides in the domus of These huge celebrations are day-long events, Appendices
the hydrophos of the Legio Terra III Baldera, announced weeks in advance, with a festival day
Damascus Lena (CG he/him high elf veteran
being set aside for all within the capital to partake in
7), with the joke perpetuating through the
the festivities. They are awarded to gryphotes who
campaign’s ovatum.
have led the legions of the empire in a foreign war
and achieved success in their ventures.
At the dawn of the triumph, the gryphos rides to
the gates of Deveros upon a grand chariot led by up

77
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

to eight great white horses. They are dressed in an the city — and renounce their legionarius status,
all-red toga, trimmed with gold and purple filigree, once again becoming private citizens. The gryphos
and woven with amethysts called the “toga picta” then marches with their legions to the steps of the
(one of the few toga designs restricted by law for tri- Consentium, where they enter, flanked by their
umphal gryphotes only). The full legions who served officers. Within the Consentium, the gryphos gives a
the gryphos during the campaign follow them into speech announcing their successful campaign, listing
the city, processing with bountiful, exotic treasures their victories to the consensae before eventually
claimed from distant lands. This is accompanied offering their crown to the Primus Imperator, who
by the singing of marching songs by the legionarii, takes it from them before placing it back upon their
often making fun of their gryphos light-heartedly head, symbolising the imperial family’s acknowl-
whilst dancing and throwing the spoils of war to edgement of the triumph. The gryphos then exits
CW
civilians in the streets. Twenty-six bulls are led the Consentium, publicly placing down their sword
behind the legions, which are taken to the Aedes at the door in renouncement of their military
Tredecima and sacrificed to the thirteen deities by leadership in the full view of their legions before
the pontifices — similarly to an ovation. After the proclaiming to Deos: “Ave Deos! Nomen tuum
sacrifices, the gryphos makes a speech to the crowds duco.” meaning “Praise Deos! I lead in your name.”.
gathered to watch, exclaiming their successes and At this point, the legions and the crowd burst into
telling embellished stories of their experiences in celebration, with the festivities truly beginning and
these distant nations of barbarians and monsters. The lasting well into the night.
gryphos is then gifted a crown of golden oak leaves, The triumph is the end goal of every aspiring gry-
laurel leaves, and amethysts by the Primus Pontifex phos, with few actually achieving one during their
which is traditionally rejected thrice, implying the military careers. There have only been a handful of
unwillingness to accept the crown which would triumphs in Aldarin history, with one coming around
attribute oneself to being an emperor. The crown is every ten to twenty years. Gryphotes who celebrate a
then (not so) begrudgingly accepted by the gryphos triumph are commemorated in the Consentium and
on the fourth offer and worn during their ride to the Consentium Minor, with their names engraved
the Sacrimum, where they are allowed to cross as a alongside those of their officers within bronze tablets
military commander. Their legions, however, must inlaid within the walls of both buildings.
lay down their arms — usually done before entering

Ovati

78
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Concilium Arcanus Altus

The Concilium Arcanus Altus, sometimes referred
to as CAA, is the prestigious organisation which Structure Introduction

handles all matters pertaining to the arcane and

Introduction
the magical within the Aldarin Empire. From the Under the curtain of this gargantuan commission to the
regulation of interplanar travel, to arcane criminal one finds two smaller institutions: the Imperial Aldarin
Empire
investigation, to the protection of key political Arcane Assembly and Deveros Arcane University,
officials and structures, the imperial magi of the which both fall under the same leadership of Primus Aldarin
Concilium Arcanus Altus keep no end of heroic tales Arcanus Davicia Baradinus Kyren (CG she/her Names

under their belts. Aldarin archmage 17). This twinned structure

Originally a council of ten magi founded during of governmental body and college is common Social Classes
the 2nd Century, the now sprawling organisation amongst the other world anchors of the Medial
spans over 5,000 members ranging from powerful Plane, allowing them to serve a multifunctional
magi to fresh acolytes. The Concilium Arcanus Altus purpose in education, research, and military. Due Kinships in
the Empire
underwent massive reform during the 8th and 9th to the Deverosian World Anchor being one of the
Century after an insurgency by Wyld operatives only teleportation access points through the World
from the Wysterwood, eventually merging with the Border into the rest of the Compass, magi within the Festivals
Deveros Arcane University. empire wishing to teleport across the planar border
Imperial magi can be seen dotted throughout the must first register themselves with the Concilium
Prisada Arcana district of Deveros, adorned in their Arcanus Altus and acquire the respective interplanar Sports
distinctive gilded purple robes as they stride through licences. The Imperial Arcane Assembly is known
the sea of merchants and tourists enroute towards the to be the most ruthless out of the Anchor Nations
Deverosian World Anchor. This is the living heart when dealing with illegal teleportation to and from Religion

of the CAA, where multitudes of various magical the Medial Plane, going as far as branding repeat
disciplines from each of the vibrant arcane schools offenders with arcane glyphs so as to track their
train and research together. The imperial magi, movements throughout the planes. Politics

both young and old, are expected to uphold a level

of decorum while wearing their robes, representing
Military
both the empire and the centuries of tradition sym-
bolised by their organisation.
Commerce

Crime and
Punishment

Provinces of
Aldarin

Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

79
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Imperial Arcane Assembly master of their chosen school of magic. The first
eight quaesons stem into each of the well-known
The Imperial Arcane Assembly is the first of the two
arcane schools: abjuration, conjuration, divination,
major organisations which inhabit the Deverosian
enchantment, evocation, illusion, necromancy,
World Anchor. A collective of battle-ready mages
and transmutation. Magi find themselves allocated
who actively serve the empire in duty, both within
into at least one of these quaesons depending on
the Legions as soldiers and as ambassadors, advisors,
their abilities. Each quaeson offers advanced arcane
and diplomats in other countries. The Imperial Arcane
tutelage under senior magi relating to the governing
Assembly is a highly reputable assembly known for
school of magic, and members will work with other
its ruthless efficiency. Imperial magi candidates go
quaesons in researching new, powerful spells. It is
through intensive arcane training, similar in vein to
not uncommon for magi to float between quaesons
the military training of the Legion’s vintari, before
relative to their interests, specialising in multiple
being granted permission to join the ranks of the
schools of magic at once.
assembly itself. This comes in the form of a five-year
Beyond the basic eight, there are then two elite
course at DAU followed by further examinations
quaesons of which only the organisation’s most
post-graduation. Imperial magi are expected to speak
trusted members are granted membership. The
a multitude of languages fluently, both of nations
first of these is the Dusk Quaeson, the pride of the
within the Medial Plane and of the Compass, and are
CAA’s research department. The Dusk Quaeson
especially trained in the folds of diplomacy.
leads research into embers and the lingering magic
The Imperial Arcane Assembly is divided into a
of the Dusk Shroud, known as dusk magic, whilst
number of research groups called quaesons, each
attempting to understand how the soul threads of the
focused around a specific school of magic. These
deities interweave with the natural world. This highly
groups not only collect and investigate old magic but
dangerous form of magic is known to be volatile
also strive to flourish new forms of magic the Anchor
and wild in nature when in its pure form, and the
Nations can utilise. Each of these quaesons has a
magi of the Dusk Quaeson are trained especially
vested interest in the research of embers — which
in trapping and sealing latent dusk magic. Further
have grown more prevalent throughout the general
secretive research is being undertaken by the quae-
populace over the past few centuries — wishing to
son into the creation, destruction, and transferral
understand the inner workings of the soul-bound
of embers within humanoids as well as the practical
constructs. Due to the military benefits and pres-
applications of dusk crystals, known as dusktech. A
tige these forms of research provide, the assembly
number of Sanguesta (see D:TAC) dhampir from the
finds itself increasingly more well-funded by the
Vampiric Order have been tasked with unveiling the
Consentium, with almost all consensae agreeing on
secrets of the Dusk Quaeson, given their orders by
the organisation’s benefit to the empire as a whole.
Tullius Appian Caesar (NE he/they Aldarin vampire
Whilst the primary purpose of the Imperial
[haruspex]). This is due to the Order’s obsession
Arcane Assembly is research, the imperial magi are
with attaining embers for their undead kin, which
additionally trained in combat, occasionally used
they ever-so-strongly seek to acquire for themselves.
as specialist rapid response units called ordotes.
The tenth quaeson is known solely to the Higher CW
Ordotes are a deadly tool when utilised properly,
Emeros — not even the Consentium nor the
able to teleport accurately to a location to perform
other Anchor Nations are aware of its existence.
some dangerous task on behalf of the empire. Whilst
Only immensely intelligent and trusted magi may
they are rarely deployed, these response units can
become members of the elite sect known as the Void
serve as emergency backup to a Legion in peril or
Quaeson, bound by curse magic to never speak of
in taking down powerful foes. One such example of
their involvement. Arguably the most dangerous
this was with the attempted assassination of Empress
form of magic in existence, stemming from the end-
Iliandra III (see page 64) in 1027 PDS, shortly before
less abyss beyond the planes, Void magic eats away
the fall of the Deverosian World Anchor, whose
at the soul threads of life, only sought on destroying
assassins were quickly located and killed by multiple
and consuming. Use of Void magic is forbidden in
ordotes. Unlike the Legions, however, the struc-
almost all cultures across the Compass, with few
ture of quaesons and ordotes are fluid, with magi
holding knowledge of its true nature and power.
regularly transferring between groups to suit their
The magi of the Void Quaeson have been especially
interests and the needs of the Concilium Arcanus
chosen to locate, isolate, and seal Void magic across
Altus as a whole.
the plane which has somehow seeped in through
Quaeson (pl. Quaesons) the Veil and into the Compass. These dangerous
The Imperial Arcane Assembly is split into ten entities, whether they be sentient or otherwise, are
quaesons, which form the fundamental specialist then brought back to the Deverosian World Anchor
areas of the organisation. Each quaeson is led by to be researched and eventually destroyed.
a quaestor — a veteran magus considered to be a
80
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Ordos (pl. Ordotes) emeros additionally allows haruspices to coordinate

Contained within each quaeson are multiple ordotes: research efforts between ordotes and to plan for the
concentrated groups of specialist magi trained ever-changing whims of the quaestors. Originally,
Introduction
in a specific niche of their school of magic. An emerotes did not exist, with ordotes serving as
ordos typically contains up to ten magi and is led entirely free flowing collectives across the quaesons.
Introduction
by a haruspex — an elite magus of refined arcane After the Concilium Arcanus Altus insurgency of to the
prowess. New ordotes are frequently constructed 790 PDS, however, Altus Magus Geliora Astentium Aldarin
Empire
and dissolved by the leading quaestors depending on Bruta (LG she/her Aldarin dead) ruled for mass
current research goals set by the assembly. Magi also reforms within the Imperial Arcane Assembly, which Aldarin
often shift themselves around ordotes to optimise brought numerous structural concepts across from Names

their skills and talents. Whilst membership to an the Legions. The emerotes were one such byproduct
ordos is relatively fluid, the haruspex will remain as of these reforms, now serving as a fundamental cog Social Classes
the leader of an ordos until the quaestor sees fit to in the ever-spinning machine of assembly politics.
remove them from their position, until they leave
Higher Emeros
the organisation, or until they retire. Whilst many Kinships in
Stemming from the same reforms as the emerotes, the Empire
ordotes morph in membership on a yearly basis, it
the Higher Emeros is the collective of all quaestors
is not uncommon for students who trained together
within the Imperial Arcane Assembly who meet
in their time as premagi to join together within the Festivals
with the Altus Magus to discuss the direction of the
same ordos and to remain together for extended
Concilium Arcanus Altus as a whole. This council
periods of time.
is held within the secretive Upper Sanctum at the
Ordotes serve a dual purpose, both bolstering the Sports
pinnacle of the Deverosian World Anchor, the same
arcane research output of the empire and serving as
demiplanar room where the gryphotes hold the
rapid response units for emergencies across Elos,
Legion Assembly.
often working in conjunction with their equivalent Religion
Due to the busy nature of the quaestors, it is
allied Anchor Nation counterparts of the Gilded
common for the council to be sparsely attended, with
Hand in Emondas and the Scholars of the Third
any important opinions or proposals often delegated
Flame in Zygarde. It is not uncommon for an ordos Politics
to another quaestor known to be attending, or even
to be formed entirely for the purpose of one of
to a trusted haruspex. The one exclusion to this is
these missions, with magi selected especially for
The Summons — an annual discussion between the Military
their proficiency with certain spells in a school of
quaestors and Altus Magus to decide upon which
magic. These units are unofficially referred to as
applicants are to be allowed into the Deveros Arcane
“thunder strikes” within the Anchor Nations due to
University that year. All quaestors are expected to Commerce
the deafening crackles of noise the magi make when
be in attendance, with heavy sanctions placed upon
teleporting in unison as well as the destruction often
their quaeson by the Consentium if they fail to
left in their wake. Crime and
show. This harsh punishment is in part due to the Punishment
Emeros (pl. Emerotes) importance of tradition held by the empire, with The
CW
The haruspex of each ordos form a minor assembly Summons forming a focal part of the Ioras festival Provinces of
within their quaeson called an emeros. This collec- each winter, celebrating cultural achievement and Aldarin
tive serves a similar purpose to the cohort assemblies arcane prosperity.
of the Legions, with the haruspices communicating Periods of
Aldarin
the desires and concerns of magi within their ordotes History
to each other and to their governing quaestor. The
Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

81
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Premagi Assembly
A recent addition to the Deveros Arcane University,
the Premagi Assembly was the brainchild of enig-
matic 4th year representative Helia Syrinthi (LG she/
her high elf premagus [enchantment] 4), an inspiring
public speaker and winner of hearts amongst the
Deverosian public. Working together with Helia,
Primus Arcanus Davicia Baradinus Kyren arranged
the creation of a new demi planar pocket within the
DAU sector of the Deverosian World Anchor called
the Academic Sanctum, which was to host the newly
formed Premagi Assembly.
This assembly functions as a council for the
students, intended to give them a platform to raise Deveros Arcane
issues with the Altus Magus directly, with repre-
sentatives from each year of the premagi courses University
allowed to attend. Numerous improvements have
already been brought forward by the students, such The Deveros Arcane University, or DAU, is one of
as renovations to decrepit accommodation buildings the few magical colleges on the continent of Elos
and the introduction of Communitas, a week where and by far the most expensive to attend. Whether
the students celebrate the end of exam season and one’s magical talents are learned, innate, gifted, or
help out in the community around Deveros. earned, the university seeks to hone in on these skills
and to help each and every student flourish. Premagi
Rise of the Premagi Assembly of the university are not only taught the ways of the
arcane but history, politics, and interplanar law,
“I’m glad the premagi are gettin’ a voice,
y’know? As a young cardinal in the cardinal setting them up to become the plane’s most talented
Vintari academies we didn’t get much of a say in diplomats and agents.
anythin’ at all. ‘Eat the worm!’. ‘Fly over there!’. Accepting only applicants who display keen mental
‘Poop on that soldier!’. It was hard going!” acumen and a deep arcane potential, the quaestors of
Helia Syrinthi took it upon herself to the Imperial Arcane Assembly spend the entirety of
spearhead a campaign to grant premagi a the Ioras festival choosing these candidates during
voice within the Concilium Arcanus Altus a meeting called The Summons. At the end of The
following numerous students speaking out Summons, as the clock strikes midnight under the
about the dangerous misconduct of the vibrant blue glow of the Deverosian World Anchor,
Evocation Quaeson’s previous quaestor, the Higher Emeros publicly announces the names
Remus Alerius (CN he/him Aldarin magus of the new students who will be attending DAU that
[evocation] 12). This campaign struck a chord year. These students are formally handed their robes
with the locality of Prisada Arcana, who
and are bestowed with the title of premagus.
allowed Helia’s campaigners to place fliers
and hold gatherings in the local tabernae Annual fees stand at around 450 gold a year, with
and temples. students spending at least five years at the university.
Remus’s careless spellcasting in lectures These fees are more than the average fledgling mage
and the training arenas had resulted in might be able to afford, even through several years
a number of students becoming scarred of work. As such, there are numerous scholarships
with fire magic, with heightened outcries hosted by patrician families and charitable funds
from the premagi body for his removal. This across the three Elosian Anchor Nations of Aldarin,
culminated in a seven-day protest within Emondas, and Zygarde. One such scholarship is
the Anchor Pendant, which surrounds the
that of the Enlightened Gem, run by Primus Arcanus
Deverosian World Anchor (Ja17), finally
culminating in the resignation of Remus Davicia Baradinus Kyren herself at her family home
as quaestor and ensuing his banishment of Baradinus Estate (Ia17) in Deveros. These
from the empire. Primus Arcanus Davicia scholarships are geared towards assisting talented
Baradinus Kyren publicly apologised to budding magi in attending both DAU and her sister
the premagi and Deverosian public for universities of the Blooming Lily in Emondas and the
not addressing the issue sooner, citing University of the Third Flame in Zygarde.
miscommunication within Concilium Premagi traditionally undergo a five-year pro-
Arcanus Altus. Not long after, the Premagi gramme at DAU, granted the exciting opportunity to
Assembly was formed to prevent such
learn a bounty of spells and techniques from across
travesties occuring again.
all schools of magic. In the second year, a premagus

82
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

specialises into one school, taking training under research tasks under the guidance of a magus, who is
magi of that school’s quaeson. Lectures are held their mentor over their five years at DAU. During this
daily within the Prisada Arcana, not only by highly time, they will be expected to both spark and hone
Introduction
renowned imperial magi but also by researchers their embers, learning to control the tempestuous
and mages from throughout the Anchor Nations. magic held within them whilst embracing the arcane
Introduction
These lecturers give talks on a multitude of topics teachings DAU has to provide. to the
ranging from the ancient Vilorian Empire to the Aldarin

mysterious dusk magic behind embers. After the Semesters Empire

normal five-year course, premagi graduate during Aldarin

There are three semesters each year: Spring, lasting
the Ioras festival, traditionally handing their books Names
from early Spring’s Dawn through to early Summer’s
over to the new students who are sworn in at the end
Dawn; Summer, lasting from late Summer’s Dawn
of the festival. Once graduated, some premagi choose
through to early Autumn’s Dawn; and Autumn, Social Classes
to go on and take further exams, becoming imperial
lasting from late Autumn’s Dawn through to late
magi within the Imperial Arcane Assembly whilst
Autumn’s Dusk. Each semester has a 2–3 week
carrying on important research from their time at Kinships in
break in between, with the winter seasons left for the Empire
DAU. Others use their qualifications to seek well-
students to travel home and visit family. Semesters
paid work with patricians of the empire or within
typically cost around 150 gold each, which may be
one of the many prestigious mercyr guilds situated Festivals
paid at the start of the semester. A 25 gold discount is
across Elos.
given per semester for a full year’s payment upfront.
This cost includes the expenses of basic accommo-
Joining DAU dation, robes, spell components worth less than 2
Sports

In order to join DAU, an applicant must first have sp, lectures, three meals a day, and non-magical
attained at least one level in any of the following books. Any additional costs must be funded by the Religion
traditional arcane classes: Bard, Wizard, Sorcerer, student or their beneficiaries. An additional 50 gold
Warlock. An application is to be made, containing is reduced from the price if the student already has
the applicant’s name, age, talents, accommodation accommodation. Politics
requirements, referees, and any letters of referral. The Autumn semester marks exam season for the
This must be signed by the applicant before being university, a stressful time for many premagi. If one
addressed and sent to the Higher Emeros of the is to pass the autumn exams, they graduate on to the Military
Imperial Arcane Assembly between the months of next year, gaining one level in their chosen arcane
Autumn’s Crest and Winter’s Wane. If an applicant class. If a premagus is to fail the exams, however,
is selected to attend the university, they are informed they may be held back a year or even expelled from Commerce
either during the final day of Ioras, where they may the university. The exams typically range from
receive their robes in person, or are sent an accep- theory to practical, with the 2nd and 4th year exams
Crime and
tance letter through the Imperial Postal Service with including field contracts where students join with a Punishment
instructions on accommodation and robe collection. mercyr guild or research team to complete an official
From this point onwards, they are known as a prema- imperial mercyr contract. Provinces of
gus of DAU and are expected to act with decorum. Aldarin
Students who request accommodation are Running a DAU Campaign
typically assigned to one of the three student halls: Periods of
DAU is the perfect setting for an arcane-focused Aldarin
Helian, Byrandos, and Verdant. This designation is
party starting at 1st level, giving players an insight History
usually random, though applicants can request to be
into the arcane aspects of Aldarin society and
placed into certain halls given availability. Students
introducing them to the concepts of how magic fits Classes
who do not request accommodation are assumed
into the wider world of Vynestra. Player characters
to have their own arrangements within or around
have a wide range of options when graduating as
Deveros. Helians and Bryans have an ongoing rivalry
premagi from DAU at 6th level, with the title of Backgrounds
against each other, perpetuated to the younger years
“DAU alumnus” that will carve a lucrative path for
by the senior premagi. Both dislike Verdants with
them within the empire. They could join a mercyr
a passion, who are seen as the snooty heirs of aris-
guild, progress upwards into the Concilium Arcanus Appendices
tocratic families. Premagi are assigned to learning
Altus, join Magnatus or another research society, or
groups which mimic the ordotes of Concilium
venture out to other cities in the empire to seek fame
Arcanus Altus, ranging in size anywhere from three
and fortune.
to ten students. Premagi within these groups are
randomly chosen and may come from any of the
three halls or beyond. These groups are expected to
work together on assignments and co-operate on

83
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Ranks Arcana at the start of their first year. This accommo-

dation is commonly shared with another premagus
Premagus (pl. Premagi) from one of the higher years, who serves as a mentor.
Pauldron: None This senior premagus is expected to help familiarise
Premagi form the main body of the Concilium the freshmen with the typical daily routine of a pre-
Arcanus Altus, consisting of over 3,000 of the 5,000 magus, to show them how to get around the city, and
total members. That being said, the drop out rate of to offer assistance where needed on spellcasting and
students in the first year of DAU is over sixty percent, any other issues they might face. As the years go on,
with only the most hardened progressing through to the senior premagus eventually graduates and their
graduation. Whilst still just students, premagi are junior premagus takes their place, entrusted with
held with exceptionally high regard by the guiding another newly joining freshman. Because
Deverosian community, with numerous tabernae of this system, a lot of traditions are passed down,
giving discounts to premagi wearing their robes. particularly through the student houses.
Auspicious business owners have jumped onto the
Magus (pl. Magi)
perception that the presence of imperial magi regu-
Pauldron: Silver feathers on both shoulders
lars portrays an establishment as trustworthy and
Usually mages who have graduated from one of the
reputable, which in turn attracts a well-pay-
Anchor Nation universities around Elos, magi form
ing clientele.
the first official rank within the Imperial Arcane
Assembly. This is a prestigious role marking some-
one as holding enough previous arcane experience
to research experimental magics and to serve the
Aldarin Empire’s arcane pursuits. Traditionally
“Hey. HEY! Totally not true! Premagi are the
scourge of the city after the sun goes down. upon becoming a magus, one would be awarded
They’re even rowdier than the students of the a pauldron formed of silver gryphon feathers,
Vintari academies! My worm hunting buddy, a denoting one’s rank. Whilst a magus can belong to
sparrow called Crimshaw. He hangs out in Sala multiple quaesons at once, they usually specialise
Sel’Kildarak. He said that The Garzag’s Tail towards a single school of magic. This would be their
caught fire last week after… Guess what? A main quaeson and dictates which ordotes they find
rogue firebolt. Fired off by some premagus themselves a part of on a daily basis.
attempting to warm up their puls! Talk about Seen as orderly officials of the empire by the public
‘reputable’, right?”
of Deveros, magi are held in the highest regard,
symbolising the prosperity of Aldarin. Some less
reputable magi choose to abuse this power by wran-
These young students are put through gruelling gling discounts from merchants, boasting their
training during their time at DAU, learning how to positions for public favour, or even smuggling illicit
defend themselves as trained mages. Weekly training goods through the World Border. With the recent
sessions are held in arenas within the Deverosian reforms of the Imperial Arcane Assembly, in tandem
World Anchor to test the students in their practical with the progress made by the Premagi Assembly,
prowess. They are expected to perform extensive this type of activity has been cracked down on in
research into the history of the Medial Plane, arcane recent years by the haruspices and quaestors. Any
waylines, soul threads, and all other aspects of magic, magus who is found to be abusing their power
which they are then quizzed on during exams. against the goodwill of the people risks having their
Premagi can be spotted throughout Deveros wear- position stripped from them, as well as serving jail
ing the traditional purple and white robes, though time in Carcer Opero on Crevana.
without any of the symbolic pauldrons that would Alongside their research, magi are sometimes
commonly be worn by the imperial magi. Some expected to assist the haruspices and quaestors in
students seek to embellish their robes further than training the premagi of DAU, as well as overseeing
the standard clothing, commissioning additional premagus insulae. If a premagus has any concerns
designs or adornments from high class tailors such that cannot be answered by the senior premagus, they
as The Gryphon’s Groove (Nb9). Due to recent would be expected to reach out to their supervising
fashion trends sweeping across the empire from residential magus for assistance. Many of the magi
the continent’s cultural capital of Longbreach, short who did not attend DAU have complained about
shoulder capes with braided tassels is the current this role, stating that they are part of the assembly
trending look amongst premagi. to research, not to babysit. Conversely, graduates
Premagi are assigned accommodation within of DAU who end up becoming magi tend to speak
one of the many student insulae within the Prisada more fondly of the position as it allows them to pass

84
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

revolves around both leadership for the junior

Soul Salt magi and spearheading research projects into
CW “Did you know? Shortly after a bird’s nest full complex magical formulations, such as studies
Introduction
of rules came into play in an attempt to crack on the arcane waylines. A haruspex must sit as the
down on smugglin’ rings, a number of naughty lead magus of an ordos, expected to drive forward
Introduction
magi from the Divination Quaeson left the city any research goals or objectives the ordos has been to the
in quite a hurry. Sounds pretty suspicious, asked to complete and to report to their quaestor Aldarin
Empire
right? The imperial magi discovered that they’d about any progress or issues. Certain haruspices
been smugglin’ soul salt, some illegal substance train especially to become significati within the Aldarin
made from the remnants of frayed soul threads
Legions or to lead thunder strike missions on the Names
or something weird like that. Crazy, right?!
empire’s foes.
They were even sellin’ the soul stuff on The
Slipways (see D:TAC). Apparently, or so Al tells Quaestor (pl. Quaestors) Social Classes
me, thanks to their specialisation in the spooky Pauldron: Golden feathers on both shoulders
divine magics, these rogue magi were able to
Each quaeson within the Imperial Arcane Assembly Kinships in
avoid detection for over ten years. Ten whole
is led by a quaestor: an elite magus who wields the the Empire
blinkin’ years! They were led by some fella who
migrated all the way from Halthos called Vexan immense power of their quaeson’s school of magic
Heligram (NE he/him earthbound dwarf magus with absolute control. It is the duty of the quaestors
Festivals
[divination] 4). Al says Vexan’s fled to Jykstrav to organise the membership of the ordotes, to rec-
since one of his rook buddies followed him during ommend forward haruspices and magi as significati
one of ‘is migrations. Shame the magi don’t just and peliti for the Legions, and to lead the research
Sports
ask us city birds about these things. We’d solve directives of the quaeson as a whole. Quaestors
these crimes in no time!” are additionally expected to coordinate training
sessions for premagi and to give focused lectures Religion
on their chosen school of magic for DAU, with the
on their knowledge of the Concilium Arcanus Altus
Deverosian World Anchor hosting a multitude of
to the next generation. These graduate magi are well
lecture halls and training rooms to suit these needs.
known within the student body for hosting extrav- Politics
It is down to the Altus Magus to find suitable
agant parties and for mingling with the premagi.
haruspices to fill the roles of quaestors. Once chosen,
This has led to a handful of dubious relationships
a quaestor usually stays within their position until Military
springing up within the organisation between
they choose to step down or are replaced by order
senior magi and premagi, relationships which are
of the Altus Magus. A quaestor is easily identified
generally looked down upon by the Imperial Arcane
by the golden gryphon feather pauldron stretched Commerce
Assembly as a whole.
across both their shoulders, accompanied by a
Haruspex (pl. Haruspices) toga or sash featuring the colour attributed to
Crime and
Pauldron: Golden feathers on right shoulder their school of magic. Whilst not all quaestors are Punishment
By the turn of the 9th Century, the Concilium consensae of the Consentium, their word still holds
Arcanus Altus had grown from its humble begin- a heavy political weight within Deveros due to the Provinces of
nings as a council of elders and arcane experts into a respect garnered by the Concilium Arcanus Altus Aldarin
sprawling organisation. By recruiting plentiful talent amongst the public people. It is not uncommon to
into its ranks, the organisation provided necessary witness quaestors orating within the public forums, Periods of
Aldarin
magical support across the length of the empire. advocating for the greater spread of arcane-inclined History
As numbers grew within the organisation, greater knowledge or encouraging folk to support relations
structure needed to be defined. The Altus Magus with Aldarin’s closest geographical allies, such as
Classes
at the time, Geliora Astentium Bruta (LN she/her Lildor and South Rymin.
Aldarin dead), saw it prudent to introduce a more Quaestors usually arrange their own accommoda-
fixed role of leadership for the floating ordotes of tion within the Prisada Arcana district or elsewhere Backgrounds
the organisation. These defined leaders, known as within the capital of Deveros. Fluminis is one such
haruspices, allowed for better focused research goals popular district for the quaestors with easy rapida
from each of the ordotes as well as specialised inter- access to both Prisada Arcana and Consentarius. Appendices
nal training by the assembly’s most esteemed magi. This is also due to the spacious domus which are
Haruspices are denoted by the plumage of golden found throughout the district, allowing the quaestors
gryphon feathers upon the right shoulder, similar to escape the hustle and bustle of the World Anchor
in style to that of the magi. A haruspex is generally in their downtime without the worry of premagi
considered to be a well-respected magus from knocking on their door asking for extensions on
within the Anchor Nations with a fine control over their assignments.
the magic of their specialised school. Their role

85
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Altus Magus (pl. Alti Magi) Elections for the Altus Magus are held within
Pauldron: Golden gryphon claw and feathers on left the Higher Emeros every five years, traditionally
shoulder; Gold and amethyst laurel wreath on head announced in early Summer’s Crest alongside the
The Altus Magus, known as the Primus Arcanus in new primi for the following year. Over the course of
Aldarin’s political sphere, is the highest rank attain- the next six months following this announcement,
able by any imperial magus. Holding responsibility the new Altus Magus works closely alongside the
for the daily running of Concilium Arcanus Altus current in a transitional period. On the 2nd Winter’s
and both its child organisations, an Altus Magus is Wane, the new Altus Magus formally takes command
expected to not only be a brilliantly talented mage over CAA and begins their five year stint as Aldarin’s
but also a keen military tactician, politician, teacher, Primus Arcanus.
and leader. The Altus Magus is required to ensure
that the cogs of the ever-shifting CAA are spinning
smoothly, also whilst attending regular Consentium Magic and Mystery
assemblies, hosting public events, giving speeches, To the average Aldarin, magic is something
and coordinating military movements with the of a wondrous mystery. An element of the
Legions to provide arcane-centric logistical support. world to be both respected and feared. Even
something as simple as a levitating potion
Whilst some of these duties can be pawned off to the
bottle or a magical orb of light is enough
quaestors, the Altus Magus stands to uphold their to inspire awe in the common folk of the
reputation as the figurehead of CAA and is generally empire, especially for those far flung from the
expected to handle each of these areas personally. settlements of esteemed arcane colleges. As
The current Altus Magus, Primus Arcanus such, to be born with magic, to learn magic,
Davicia Baradinus Kyren (see page 79), is widely or to be gifted with magic is considered
considered to be the most acclaimed Aldarin-born to be an honour held high above all else.
magus of the current century, holding an immensely Those who can manipulate this lifeblood
powerful Rank 0 Devotion ember and standing as a of the Compass, who can understand its
twisting machinations, find themselves
proud mantel of Iora. Conversely, her predecessor,
propelled into the upper echelons of Aldarin
Talio Lucaros Garos (NE he/they Aldarin dead), society. Craftsfolk may work for decades to
was executed for conspiring with Jykstrav in attempts secure enough gold so that their child may
to sabotage Aldarin legionary forts stationed near apprentice under a magus, if just enough to
the River Nystra in the years prior to the Fourth learn the basics of magic.
Renavic War. Kyren has served for four years out To be a magus in a society where one is
of her five year term and has overseen numerous ogled as a manipulator of existence itself is
improvements to CAA in this time, such as the to incite the attention of any and all folk who
introduction of the Premagi Assembly. Rumours pass you by. From the local smithy asking you
to mend his anvil to a patrician presuming it
are circulating that the next in line to be elected as
is within your skillset to cook a fine feast with
Altus Magus is Vopiscus Korvo Alistair (NG he/ but a flick of your hand. These expectations
they Aldarin magus [Abjuration] 15), quaestor of of arcane service to the wider populace held
the Abjuration Quaeson. Alistair is seen to be an by the non-magical majority are conflated by
excellent successor to Kyren, as the two see eye to many magi who lean into such propositions.
eye on many areas. Additionally, Alistair’s husband, These money-minded magi charge for their
Prolegitor Damascus Korvo Pilkos (CG he/him services at a heightened cost to outweigh
Rymish veteran 10), serves as the headmaster of whatever inconvenience performing these
High Rock Imperial, an academy specialised in spells causes them. As such, magi have
garnered a reputation amongst poorer rural
streamlining the very best talent into DAU, with
communities for being tight with their coin
strong desires voiced by consensae to more formally and thieves of opportunity, willing to take
join the two schools. a widows inheritance to allow her to see an
illusion of her lost partner again.

86
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Commerce
“Consentium Populusque Deverosa”
Introduction
— The Consentium and People of Deveros, a common engraving
seen across Aldarin coinage and official documents.
Introduction
to the
craftsmanship but has become a standard of interna- Aldarin

Currency tional trade across the Anchor Nations and beyond.

Empire

Historically, the coinage of the empire changed CW Aldarin

Thriving as one of the most lucrative empires upon with every new emperor or empress. Their portrait Names

the Medial Plane, Aldarin holds a resolute under- was emblazoned upon the mint as a means of
standing for the importance of coinage, using it both informing those in far-flung lands as to who held Social Classes
as a currency and a form of propaganda. Those who the seat of absolute power. As the empire shifted
exchange this magically minted coinage witness governmental state into that of a republic, so too did
stunning views of the empire emblazoned across the its coinage reflect this newfound freedom. Whilst Kinships in
the Empire
glimmering gold, finding themselves enticed by the the single gold coin — the unum — stayed the same,
calls of the wealth-filled nation. Sparkling amethysts representing the current symbolic ruler of Aldarin,
embedded within Aldarin’s higher-value coins boasts the more sizable values of coinage shifted to show Festivals
an excessive splendour otherwise lacking throughout the boastful aspects of living within the empire.
smaller, less opulent countries. Engravings such as Stunning vistas, bountiful wine, powerful legionarii
“Deos’s radiance blesses us” ensures that all across gryphones, all blessed by the rays of Deos who Sports
the plane know that the Aldarins are blessed by the watches over Aldarin and its people.
gods, voyagers of Deos’s sun-touched bloodline. A Embedded into all forms of Aldarin coinage
sense of ridiculousness lies in these messages, how- are the initials of C.P.Q.D., otherwise meaning Religion

ever, for they are written primarily in Old Aldarin Consentium Populusque Deverosa or “The
— a language now only learnt by Aldarin’s patricians Consentium and People of Deveros”. This phrase
and not widely understood outside of the empire’s is used across the empire as a signifier of Deveros’s Politics

borders. Regardless, Aldarin’s coinage has not only absolute rule over its lands as well as a reminder of
earned itself a name for its refined, arcane-forged what the Aldarin people stand for and the republic
Military
they serve to protect.

Currency
Commerce
Estimated Real
Coin Value World Value (USD) Heads Tails
Aeris 1 copper $1 “Caelestes nos vigilant” — The “Consentium Populusque Crime and
Punishment
gods watch over us. A form of Deverosa” — The Consentium and
Aldarin propaganda People of Deveros
Argentum 1 silver $10 A repeating pattern of the A repeating pattern of the Provinces of
Aldarin
Deveros Coast which may be Deveros Coast which may be
interlinked with the tails side interlinked with the heads side
Periods of
Unum 1 gold $100 The bust of Emperor Loxis Gaius A gryphon with an olive branch Aldarin
Deveros Jykstravius III and sword, symbol of the History
Aldarin Empire
Quinta 5 gold $500 The Imperial Palace. “Deos lux nos Gryphons sit under Deos’s Classes
benedicit” — The light of Deos light. “Consentium Populusque
blesses us Deverosa” — The Consentium and
People of Deveros
Backgrounds
Decima 10 gold $1,000 A legionarii shield. “Si vis pacem, The Consentium and Consentium
para bellum” — If you wish for Minor connected by the
peace, prepare for war Catena road
Appendices
Medicenta 50 gold $5,000 Clay jugs of wine pouring Scales balance wine jugs
outwards. “In vino veritas” — In with coins
wine, there is truth
Centa 100 gold $10,000 Ten swords pierce the central The solar rays of Deos shine
amethyst. The top sword outwards from the sun upon the
represents Acclesian uniting provinces of Aldarin
the other nine, the provinces of
Aldarin, against the imperial family

87
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Whilst copper, silver, and gold are in abundance

across Aldarin, used readily in its coinage, platinum
finds itself in scarcity throughout not only Aldarin
but the entirety of Elos as a continent. This highly
coveted metal is observed as too precious for use in
something as simple as coinage, instead seeing use
in crowns, diadems, and other shows of opulence. To
indicate higher value, Aldarin instead uses cut ame-
thysts embedded within gold. Amethysts, conversely
Aeris to platinum, have a healthier abundance throughout
the southwestern coasts of Elos and are a definitive
signifier of elevated wealth. Each coin above the
unum is embedded with an amethyst, denoting its
higher sum whilst simultaneously retaining the same
size as a regular coin.

Trade Partners
Bustling trade routes span across both land and
Argentum sea, supplying the commercially driven Aldarin
Empire with an ever-flowing stream of gold and
exotic imports. These lucrative trade links bolster
not only the coffers of the patrician elite but also the
livelihood of countless merchants and labourers who
work tirelessly to distribute goods throughout the
imperial provinces. Numerous nations from across
the Medial Plane tie into this supply chain, either
purchasing cultural goods forged within the heart-
land of Aldarin or selling foreign interests within the
Unum markets of imperial settlements.
Aldarin’s major exports include marble, lead, ame-
thysts, corn, glassware, iron, steel, perfume, timber,
silver, gold, olive oil, art, parchment, textiles, pottery,
wool, fish, wheat, wine, weaponry, barrels, copper,
and farm animals. Many more goods are exported
from the empire, though a vast number of industries
focus around these goods specifically due to their
high demand elsewhere throughout the plane.
Quinta Anchor Nations
Of all the nations Aldarin trades with, trade routes
Rise of Merchants formed between the powerful Anchor Nations are by
I heard that the Aldarin Empire used to be pretty far the most lucrative and stable. As the initial
resistant to exportin’ too many goods for fear designers and architects of the world anchors,
of shortages within the empire itself. They were Aldarin holds a capital monopoly throughout the
already wealthy enough so who could blame ‘em
Anchor Nations for the upkeep of these grandiose
really? This was at least until after the First
Medial War when some clever cookie realised
structures, exporting not only material goods but
that they could make a lotta money by flogging talent and knowledge as well. Imports too are made
off stuff gathering dust in their warehouse. in vast quantities, such as black powder from the
Loads of families made their names sellin’ distant nation of Xhaolo and dusk crystals from
random wares during the Age of Exploration. My Giraré in Ravidan.
great great great great great great great great
grandmother used to hop between trade ships
along the coast and steal food from the sailors.
What a time to be alive!

88
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Anchor Nations Table

Anchor Nation Import Introduction

Emondas, Elos Mustard, salt, malachite, honey,

spirits, spell components, salt Introduction
to the
pork, clothes, potions. Aldarin
Zygarde, Elos Adamantine, mithril, tin, Empire

basalt, steel, armour,

Aldarin
coal, platinum, spirits. Names
Qutharian Empire, Spices, cotton, silk, Decima
Sel’Kildar saffron, fireworks, salt, figs,
turmeric, clothing, lumber, Social Classes
emeralds, rubies.
Tak’huut, Nul’Kildar Chocolate, pelts, salt, mithril,
Kinships in
mint, pottery, art, sapphires, the Empire
exotic pets, rice, dyes, musical
instruments.
Giraré, Ravidan Dusk crystals, bananas, sugar, Festivals
coconuts, wax, lumber, spirits,
vanilla, spell components,
arcane research. Medicenta Sports
Vorien Empire, Sugar, bananas, nickel, exotic
Ravidan feathers, coffee beans, textiles,
dyes, inks, tools. Religion
Xhaolo, Panthéa Silk, spices, black powder,
porcelain, sugar, ivory, salt,
tobacco, rice, fireworks, art, Politics
historical artefacts.

Elosian Nations Military

The Aldarin Empire holds a number of gold-churn-

ing trade routes throughout the sweeping meadows
Commerce
and coastal fronts of southern Elos. Coastal routes
are heavily guarded by the galleys of Aurmerce pri-
vateers and naval legions, ensuring safe transport for Crime and
Punishment
merchants passing along these stretches of sea. Land
routes are less heavily guarded, though any bandits
found raiding supply wagons or trade caravans Provinces of
Aldarin
are likely to meet a gruesome fate at the end of a
mercyr’s sword.
Periods of
Aldarin
Mørken League History

Formed of an alliance between Aldarin, Lildor, and Centa Classes

Jordveil Isle, the Mørken League is one of trade
and defence. Serving to protect each other from
the hostility of pirates along the Jyvstrav coast, Backgrounds
these three nations form a mutual respect for each
other’s people and cultures — even if they differ
vastly from one another. One of the most powerful Appendices
naval nations on the Medial Plane despite its size,
Jordveil Isle exports the famed skrvyn wood to its
allies, which is used in the construction of warships.
Alongside this, the Skaaldblud send out their finest
sailors and navigators to train those of the other two
nations, whose naval prowess is vastly inferior to
that of Jordveil. Lildor exports pearls and iron, as

89
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

well as wheat and fish, to its allies. Whilst not the

most lucrative of nations, Lildor forms a strategic
Strange Forbidden Imports
location for countering Jyrden naval threats and as The Aldarin Empire has banned a number
such is bolstered through injections of gold, wood, of goods from being imported into the
and wool by the two more powerful nations. nation over the past few centuries. Some of
these, such as harmful drugs and dangerous
South Rymin weaponry, would make sense to the
common visitor however there are some
Land connections travel onwards from central banned goods that often catch travelling
Aldarin into the luscious vineyards and rolling merchants off guard.
plains of South Rymin where a breadth of culture is Beer Specifically non-Aldarin brewed ale
shared between the two nations. Art, textiles, music, and beer are banned for import into Aldarin
dyes, and countless other expensive goods pass along following a sizable amount of lobbying and
the bustling thoroughfares connecting the South bribery from imperial ale brewers. Any beer
Rymish capital of Longbreach and the provincial caught through import checks by the Vintari
is confiscated and either disposed of or sent
capital of Liceric in Civaci. Under the watchful eye
to the Legions to be drunk. Despite this,
of the Rymish Silver Legions, these trade routes are most vintari are willing to overlook the ban
protected from raiders along the border, though on the imported goods for a few gold unum
sometimes see issue with bandits ambushing car- and a small crate of free ale, with numerous
avans through Civaci’s easternmost forests. Aldarin merchants still dealing in the alcoholic good
streams a steady supply of armour, weaponry, siege decades after the ban was imposed.
equipment, and troops into South Rymin, bolstering Gryphons It is illegal to import any form of
their legions against the ever-encroaching necropolis gryphon that is not native to Aldarin into
state of North Rymin. the empire. This restriction has been in place
since the 3rd Century and the Consentium
Mistveil refuses to budge on the matter, claiming that
any threat to Aldarin’s indigenous gryphon
CW
Whilst Aldarin holds prime position upon the west- population shall be summarily disposed of.
ern coast of Elos for trade with the Kildars, Mistveil A number of black market traders are able
holds the same for trade with Ravidan and Panthéa to bypass these restrictions through use of
upon the easternmost shores. Mistveil’s mercantile powerful teleportation magic or demiplanes,
presence is vast, spanning numerous fleets which sail though such traders may be counted on one
along well-established ocean routes to their far-flung hand. Due to this restriction, a handful of
patricians and wealthy collectors take great
trade partners. These efforts are coordinated by the
pride in showcasing gryphons from other
Duskan League, Mistveil’s controlling mercantile parts of the Medial Plane in their private
faction, who are perpetually at loggerheads with the collections due to their exclusivity.
Aldarin Mercantile League over trade tax. The pair
Pearlberries Pearlberries are a white, sweet,
of nations served a reasonable amount of trade to
pearlescent berry found growing in the
each other in centuries past, though relations have northern forests of Jykstrav and the southern
soured in the last decade with heavier and heavier mountains of Halthos, commonly mixed
duties placed on goods arriving from either side. with drinks to grant a pleasant aroma. Not to
This rivalry has culminated in an outright ban of be confused with the jewelberry of eastern
Mistvellian goods entering into the Aldarin Empire, Elos, pearlberries were a popular import
shortly followed by a surge of black markets and for Jyrden merchants up until their ban by
smuggling routes to pick up these now banned Empress Aurelia I in the 8th Century. This ban
goods. The Aldarin Mercantile League stands strong was imposed without any real given reason
but the commonly accepted theory is that
on its stance against Mistveil, awaiting the Duskan
Aurelia was sick of the berries appearing
League to reduce taxes targeting Aldarin merchants. in her food platters and ordered for a
Until then, the ban remains firmly in place. blanket ban on the goods. To this day, the
Consentium has yet to repeal the ban, much
to the ire of Jyrden travellers.

90
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Crime and Punishment
Operating as a highly militarised nation in the party. Should the criminal be proven guilty, however,
Introduction
devotion of Iora, the Aldarin Empire is swift to serve the costs then fall to them alongside any punishment
justice to the populace should they fall out of line, which might be mandated by the judge.
Introduction
ensuring that the ideals of the empire itself is upheld. to the
The Aldarins perceive themselves as the harbingers Aldarin

of justice and order in an otherwise lawless universe. Types of Crime Empire

Laws are rigidly adhered to by the majority of citi- Aldarin

zens, lest the ire of the Vintari — Aldarin’s militarised There are a number of different types of crime which Names

police force — be drawn. Some, however, flagrantly may be committed within the empire, which are split
elect to dance upon the century-old rules cast down into categories for ease of reference by GMs. These Social Classes
by ancient rulers, exploiting loopholes for their own are defined in the Crime Table below.
personal gain. Further still, a small few delve deep
Crime Table
underneath the surface of the law itself, operating Kinships in

out of sight of the imperial guards and profiteering Crime Severity Crime the Empire

from illicit activities. Very Low Trespass, possession of tools

to commit forgery, possession Festivals
of tools to commit crime,
Policing Low
public disturbance
Petty theft (<10 gp), forgery, Sports
criminal damage, obstruction of
The official police of Aldarin come in the form of justice, attempted escape from
the Vintari, typically legionarii in training or those prison, unlawful gathering, breach
who have chosen to take on life as a city guard. The of the Sacrimum Script (see D:TAC) Religion

Vintari are present throughout almost all major Medium Theft (<100 gp), theft of vehicle,
settlements in the empire, patrolling the streets and distribution of illicit drugs,
ensuring that order is upheld. Along interconnecting burglary, assault (no weapon), Politics

thoroughfares between settlements vintari might be unarmed robbery, smuggling

seen upon horseback, lanterns in hand, serving as of illicit goods, escaping prison,
fencing stolen goods Military
both couriers and protectors of the empire’s roads.
The Vintari primarily serve to protect the interests Medium-High Sizable theft (<1000 gp), arson
(minor damage), assault (weapon),
of the empire itself, ensuring that political officials armed robbery, manslaughter, Commerce
are protected, governmental buildings and roads go touching a religious official without
undamaged, and that allied foreign merchants are consent, knowing spread of
guarded when passing through. Due to this distinct disease Crime and
Punishment
lack of personal protection from the imperial guards, High Grand theft (>1000 gp),
citizens resort to the use of private guilds to resolve arson(major damage), murder,
criminal affairs on their behalf. kidnapping, sexual assault, political Provinces of
sabotage, petty treason, piracy Aldarin

Private Guilds Very High High treason, desertion, divulging

Periods of
imperial secrets to enemy states
Aldarin
Unless crimes directly affect the empire, the Legions, History
or any governmental operations, the Vintari do
not tend to get involved unless the criminal acts
are occurring right before their eyes. The pursuit
Punishment Classes

of justice is placed directly upon the shoulders of

When caught committing a crime, one shall find
the wronged party, who may hire private guilds
punishment enacted swiftly upon them. The severity Backgrounds
such as mercyrs — licensed mercenaries — or the
of the punishment is dependent on what the crime
Permadecio organisation — a highly trained private
was, who was the target of the crime, and both the
military — to solve their problems for them. These
social class and citizenship status of the criminal. Appendices
guilds, albeit expensive, provide extensive protection
Those who are of higher social standing tend to
for their clients including but not limited to: private
receive reduced sentences as opposed to those of
guards, firefighting, emergency clerical services,
lower social classes or non-citizens. Further still,
emergency rescue services, private detective work,
one might find themselves beholden to differing laws
and debt collection. Once a criminal has been caught,
dependent on where in the empire they are prose-
they may be brought to trial in the Imperial Courts,
cuted. Each province holds separate local rulings
with the cost of a trial falling again upon the wronged
derived from the law of the capital. For example,

91
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

political corruption is struck with harsher penalties Forms of Punishment CW

in the Province of Deveros as opposed to Civaci,

Those caught breaking the law might undergo imme-
whereas theft is less strictly punished in the capital
diate punishment by the Vintari arresting them,
as opposed to the northern provinces.
such as fines or corporal punishment. Otherwise
Separated from the core laws of Aldarin are the
they will typically be brought to trial in front of the
political bubbles of both Northwatch and the Sala
Imperial Courts before being sentenced. Torture and
Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros, who find themselves
interrogation are both commonly used practices by
partially governed under the sway of the Ebyr’sol. As
the Vintari for extracting information, in which they
such, breach of crimes which do not even exist in the
receive special training. Some players may not be
Aldarin Empire — such as affiliation to or harbour-
comfortable with such brutal methods being used on
ing of fae creatures — is possible throughout these
either PCs, NPCs, or both, so make sure you have the
imperial regions with punishments potentially
consent of your players before doing so.
leading to death.
Humiliation
Crime Severity: Very low, low
Humiliation is the lowest form of punishment issued
by the empire. It typically comes in the form of a
wooden neck brace worn by criminals with their
crimes etched into them. These braces are designed
to make it difficult to sleep, with the wooden brace
positioned just wider than the cusp of the head.
CW Servant of Caecillius Criminals may be required to wear the brace for a
“This was before me time livin’ in Deveros but period of time before having it removed. For more
back in the 8th Century there was some real severe crimes, a brand might be marked upon the
weird stuff goin’ on. Chthonic stuff, ya’know. criminal’s face or arm, labelling them a criminal for
Not that there’s not chthonic cult stuff goin’ on the rest of their life.
now, that is! Al and me ‘ave a harpastum meet This type of punishment is utilised to lower the
up every Wir.” social standing of the criminal whilst not removing
In the mid 8th Century a serial killer, who them from society altogether. Wealthier criminals
became known as the Servant of Caecillius, may pay for sacerdotes to remove their branding
swept the city. This servant left letters through use of magic.
addressed to the imperial family and
Consentium, slandering them for exerting Fines
too much control over the people. This Crime Severity: All but very high
Servant of Caecillius murdered over two Fines can be found issued for almost all forms of
dozen citizens over the course of three years, crime, even all the way up to murder and political
causing a panic in the streets of Deveros. Folk sabotage. Those caught committing a crime may be
refused to leave their homes after dark while
issued a fine by the courts. Should the criminal not
the Vintari and Legions scoured the streets
under order from the Consentium, only to be
be able to pay the sum, whatever it might be, they
made a fool of when the killer next struck. would find themselves cast into the cells of one of the
After precisely three years to the day, the empire’s prisons so that they may pay off their debt
murders ceased. Many believe that the serial to the empire through physical labour.
killer had taken their own life. The last victim
of the spree, a Veritus Caledoni Libo (CN he/
Prison
him Aldarin dead) who had indeed worked Crime Severity: All
as a servant under a sancte called Caecillius Either through inability to meet a fine or through
Lucius Prima (TN he/they Aldarin dead), was sentencing of a court, a criminal may be placed into
pinned as the murderer. Others believe that prison to serve time working for the empire as a
these were the machinations of a chthonic physical labourer. This may involve the construction
cult formed under Prima due to eyewitness of roads, buildings, or other public spaces, or to be
reports recalling different renditions of the contracted out to wealthy landowners to work their
killer’s face, some of which looked nothing
fields, vineyards, or properties. In doing so, one
like Libo. To this day, the mystery of the
Servant of Caecillius remains unsolved in the
is temporarily stripped of one’s name and status,
eyes of the public, despite the Vintari’s claim instead becoming a servus in service to the empire.
that Libo was to blame.

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Corporal Punishment shall bring the sentenced closer to Deos in death.
Crime Severity: All This act is performed not only as a punishment but
A common form of punishment used readily on the as a reminder to the masses as to who is in charge.
Introduction
streets by the Vintari, as well as by the Hashuul and
Ebyr’sol of Sala Sel’Kildarak, corporal punishment is
Evolution of Aldarin Justice Introduction
the most widely used means of discipline in Aldarin. For a long span of time, right up until the to the
This may range from the perpetrator being whipped turn of the 11th Century, Aldarin’s judicial
Aldarin
Empire
to the removal of a body part, as deemed reasonable system was brutal at best and downright
to fit the crime committed. The Genere of Laos Street cruel at worst. Below are some of the Aldarin
in Deveros, for example, are prone to whipping those more recent evolutions in Aldarin’s judicial Names

who do not uphold the decorum of the historic alley methodologies compared to how they were
whilst market guards may threaten to remove the used centuries prior.
Social Classes
hand of a habitual thief. Prison In bygone eras of Aldarin law, prior
to the signing of the Anchor Nation Treaty
Exile and Aldarin’s integration of culture with
Kinships in
Crime Severity: High, very high other prolific civilisations of the Medial Plane, the Empire
Exile is an allowance given solely to citizens of the prison was used exclusively as a holding
empire should they be sentenced to death. Instead place for those awaiting trial. The concept of
using a prison as a form of punishment was Festivals
of death, they may opt to be exiled from Aldarin
not in the minds of the Aldarin people until
altogether, typically travelling with their families very recently, a method which was taken
to some allied nation such as Emondas, Jordveil across from Zygardian culture. Now, prisons Sports
Isle, or South Rymin. Exile may last from anywhere are used to enact sentences of servitude to
between ten years to a lifetime, though it may also Aldarin in the repayment of debts through
be pardoned should laws ever change or by a primus. manual or skilled labour. Religion
Typically those who are exiled retain their citizenship Courts Historically, citizens and non-citizens
and property, looked after by some benefactor in were tried in different courts with separate
their absence, though for the most serious offences laws, judges, and trials. These were often Politics
these are stripped from them as well. weighted heavily in the favour of citizens.
While there is still a sizable disparity in the
Death punishments given to non-citizens over Military
Crime Severity: Medium-high, high, very high citizens, as well as questionable bias seen in
A punishment liberally granted by the courts, death trials directed against non-citizens, there is
is the ultimate end to one’s existence, utilised for at least now unity in the courts and judges
Commerce
immensely destructive or high profile crimes. Death used across all trials. Legitors and midni
may be issued in a number of ways. Those who are now oversee all judicial proceedings within
lucky are beheaded or cast from a high place, known Aldarin, regardless of whether this be in Crime and
Deveros or throughout the provinces. Punishment
as an execution stone, such as the infamous Sunset
Rock a few miles south of Deveros. Others may be put Policing The Vintari were not always utilised
to the sword or bundled into sacks and cast to the sea. as a police force within Aldarin’s larger Provinces of

Those who are not so lucky go on to suffer linger- settlements. This, in fact, is only a recent Aldarin
development seen throughout the 8th and 9th
ing deaths, which could last for weeks or months.
centuries. The Vintari were originally just newly Periods of
Sometimes this is through the stripping of one’s rights, recruited legionarii on their way to becoming Aldarin
with the criminal cast unto the mines owned by some fully fledged soldiers, with policing of the
History

guild or wealthy landowner where they are worked to provinces left to either the local legionarii
death. Others are sentenced to serve as penal gladi- or the denizens of a settlement. Nowadays, Classes
ators in the empire’s arenas, fighting against other all vintari (except those drafted for service
criminals, professional gladiators, or monsters for the in times of war) are expected to go through
enjoyment of the masses. This is typically a quicker training in the policing of Aldarin, with some Backgrounds

death than the mines, though a penal gladiator might remaining with the Vintari organisation to act
as permanent policing units.
gain enough popularity with the masses that they are
set free through a chorus of “Free them!”. It is not Torture Before its outlawing by Acclesian Appendices

uncommon to see penal gladiators return to living a Alventius, torture was common practice
within the prisons of Aldarin, used to extract
life in the empire after serving for a time in the arenas.
information from criminals. Torture is now
Those who find themselves at the behest of the
exclusively only used for the crimes of treason
Ebyr’sol — an extremist religious collective of and high treason. Despite this, there are still
Deosian followers — have a far worse fate in store for some prisons that operate outside of the books
them. Known as sol kindlings, the Ebyr’sol habitually and still frequently use it for lesser crimes.
burn their criminals alive on the streets, believing
that the purgation of the soul in Meveril’s flames
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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Provinces of Aldarin
Alvia does not strike joy into those sent to govern it
Alvia from the imperial capital of Deveros. Fish from Lake
Jvaske, truffles from the low-land forests of Nyflae,
Original Name: Alvian Kingdom and silver from the mines along the snowcapped,
Provincial Capital: Jester giant-infested mountains to the north are the only
CW
The windswept birthplace of the Alvians: a tall, red- real exports the province has to offer. A moderate
headed folk whose history of war with the Aldarins offering, though hardly the exports seen from the
spanned throughout the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Centuries wealthier provinces of Nivinea, Caerula, and Civaci.
before the eventual collapse of their warrior king- The sultry tundra-blighted landscape and sparse,
dom at the hand of Empress Iliandra I (see page frosted farmsteads, whose summer lingers barely
103). Alvia was mostly left to its own devices in the long enough to be acknowledged by the months of
centuries following its annexation into the empire, its name, do not form an appealing province for any
forming a rough history of brutal wars and rebellion governor to take command over. So much so that the
not uncommon with the northern provinces. What praesides who do end up stuck with Alvia as their
fragments of clans were not killed during Iliandra’s territory of dominion are nicknamed “Jesters” after
expansion incited uprising after uprising against the unruly provincial capital. This, accompanied with
their Aldarin oppressors before they too were a meagre command of only four provincial legions,
either absorbed or killed. The Alvians themselves makes the province a dull region to oversee with
have somewhat faded into obscurity, their genetics the only excitement stemming from the occasional
interwoven with the swathes of other northern clans Jyrden raiding parties pushing over the border to
annexed during the same era. A fragment of the cause havoc. Many in the southern provinces call
original clanship remains, living shattered between Alvia the “Jykstrav of the South”, hinting at its bleak
ancient family homesteads in Jester and the Nyflae landscape, frequent blizzards, and resistance to
forests where they thrive, away from the grasp of Aldarin culture throughout a sizable number of its
imperial culture. northernmost settlements. CW

94
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Baldera Borealia
Original Name: Byldøsk Original Name: Nordvær
Introduction
Provincial Capital: Helvekium Provincial Capital: Northwatch
CW
One of three Aldarin provinces which borders along The gentle, lifegiving streams of the River Nystra CW
Introduction
the edge of Jykstrav, Baldera once belonged to the intersect with the Nordvær Forest at the north- to the
Byldøri clanship, a clustering of Jyrden folk who ernmost point of what the Aldarins consider Aldarin
Empire
all eventually succumbed to Aldarin rule over the “civilised land”, dividing the border between the
course of several centuries. Nowadays Baldera is allegedly barbarous clanships of southern Jykstrav Aldarin
one of the empire’s most heavily fortified provinces. with Aldarin’s notoriously rebellious province of Names

This is in part due to the copious iron mines scat- Borealia. Originally the territory inhabited by the
tered within its borders, which form the backbone immensely powerful Nordvær clan, Borealia was Social Classes
of legionary industry. This sizable fortification is annexed into the grasp of the empire during the 5th
primarily due to the ever-present threat of Jyrden Century by Empress Iliandra I (see page 103), with
invasion from the north, however. Governed by the inhabitants of the province resisting imperial Kinships in
the Empire
the odd town or village whose way of living has control every step of the way. Even to this day, five
changed little since its founding, the rugged hills centuries on from the massacre of the Nordvær clan,
of the province’s southern region are flooded with the people of Borealia harbour a seething resentment Festivals
sheep and cattle. Twisting roads wind through these against the empire for the treatment of their ances-
sparse hills in attempts to connect the snow-blighted tors — many of whom laboured in the iron mines
northern border with the legionary forts of Caerula, for meagre pay and even fewer rights. Countless Sports
allowing rapid access to the province both in and out rebellions have sparked from the province over the
of campaigning season. The further north one gets, years, the most famous of which was the Acclesian
the more inhospitable the climate becomes for the Civil War which culminated in the overthrowing of Religion

sun-loving Aldarins, whose aversion to the cold has direct imperial rule over Aldarin. Borealia is host
been one of the contributing factors to their delayed to the largest number of legionary forts in Aldarin,
expansion into southern Jykstrav. Fragmented walls most of which are situated along the River Nystra Politics

adjoin wartorn legionary forts at the precipice of in expectation of Jyrden warbands crossing to raid
the Nyflvaerr valley cluster, an endless stretch of and pillage — a common occurrence in the daily
Military
densely forested no-man’s land between the borders life of northern Borealians. Turmoil stirs within
of Jykstrav and Aldarin. Here the faceless live in the province at every turn, whether from Jykstrav
diminutive, woodland communities: a folk whose to the north, the encroaching Ebry’sol inquisition
Commerce
citizenship falls to neither nation and wishes no part which spreads seeds of corruption within the heart
in the on-going hostilities. of the provincial capital, or even from Borealia’s own
CW
The snowcapped provincial capital of Helvekium people who crave freedom from the vice-like grip of Crime and
Punishment
resides upon the cusp of Helvek Hill. A fortified Aldarin dominion.
hillfort–turned–settlement after the prolonged Despite the province teetering on the edge of war
legionarii presence in the area morphed into even- all year round, the lands of Borealia themselves are Provinces of
Aldarin
tual occupation. The frost-scorched ground around some of the most fertile in the northern empire.
the northern region makes it tricky for any form This is thanks to the teeming off-shoots of the River
Periods of
of building to be properly founded, with the city Nystra, some natural, some man-made, which pro- Aldarin
undergoing constant repairs due to lack of resources, vides sustenance to the stepped fields of the central History

perpetual raids from Jyrden clanships, and the province. Countless more streams flow deep under-
unforgiving blizzards which sweep through weekly. ground, forming twisting, water-logged caverns and Classes
A dense smog lingers above the city as raw iron is cave systems linking to the Underworld — perfect
smelted in the hundreds of forges around its outer for foreign spies and deep creatures to slink through,
walls, providing some semblance of coal-choked avoiding the legionary forts entirely. These systems Backgrounds

warmth against the frigid cold. Those who live here are prone to collapse, however, opening up into
either do so out of necessity or a drive to prove underground lakes and mineral-rich mines which
themselves, with the provincial legions of Baldera local entrepreneurs are quick to take advantage of. Appendices

being the most active out of the rest of the empire. A handful of industrious guilds have sprung up over
Campaign season never truly ends in Baldera, where the past decade to capitalise upon these untapped
the threat of Jyrden invasion is ever-present and a resources, plenty of whom form their own private
handful of war-driven clans from across the River armies with which to protect their vantages. Whilst
Nystra are perpetually hungering for a chance to these armies have not grown large enough to yet
spill Aldarin blood. spark concern from the Legions, their commanding
officers have enough control over local communities

95
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

to disrupt political influence stemming from the gemstones but underground passage in and out of
governing praesides. Villages, and even entire towns, the city, guarded by the Blue Legion — Blue Hold’s
have fallen prey to the influence of these guilds, city guard. These passageways are connected to a
which some locals consider to be for the better given handful of well-fortified settlements throughout the
the gold readily pouring into their pockets. province, with both tunnels and bridges primed to
collapse at the mere utterance of war. Blue Hold is
the empire’s last stand, capable of housing hundreds
Caerula of thousands of people within its sublevels should
it need to, with arcane-protected stockpiles large
Original Name: None enough to last decades.
Provincial Capital: Blue Hold
Arguably Aldarin’s oldest province, a territory held
by Princess Lyrica (see page 100) a full decade before Civaci
the settlement of Deveros, Caerula is a small region
to the north of the Province of Deveros, bordering Original Name: Cilicera
with all provinces apart from Civaci and The Pilkos Provincial Capital: Liceric
Isles. Due to its location underneath the more trou- One of the empire’s larger provinces, Civaci expands CW
blesome northern provinces, Caerula is somewhat outwards towards the eastern border of Aldarin’s
of an agricultural and military powerhouse. Refined influence, touching upon the boundaries of South
over the centuries, Caerula’s expansive infrastructure Rymin and Menderin. Vast swathes of woodland
is designed with interconnected road networks and cover the central portions of this industrious region,
legionary forts in mind, streamlining travel for providing lumber and skilled artisans who construct
supply wagons and legions alike. Nestled between siege equipment, forts, and armaments for use by the
these hubs of legionarii activity are plentiful well-es- Legions. This equipment is a necessity for Civaci in
tablished farming settlements, whose architecture particular, whose border also hosts the Ophelian
boasts a notably Deverosian design of clay brick and Wall: an expansive clay-brick wall stemming from
marble, but whose people are the most diverse out the edge of South Rymin all the way to the Gilded
of all the empire. This is in part due to the strong Ocean, designed to hold back the Yun’stra clanships
trade links with Salenti, Nivinea, and Deveros with of Menderin. Raids upon the wall are commonplace,
ready access to all the major trade hubs by direct usually driven by armies seeking to exploit a weak-
road or budding railway. The stability of the region ness in the border defences with desire to pillage the
can also be attributed to the even distribution of land settlements beyond. These raids are mostly rebuffed
between the populace, with no one family or patri- by the half a dozen provincial legions stationed
cian owning more than two hectares thanks to land within the wall’s numerous border forts, though it
reforms passed by the Reformists not one century is not unheard of for one or more to slip through
ago. Caerula is not necessarily the most luscious every few years — especially those utilising giant
nor extravagant province, but it offers a stable life tundra mammoths. It is common for the Civacian
for those within it. Surrounded by sweeping fields of provincial legions to march towards South Rymin
grain and sheep, accompanied by the warming rays in the winter months to support the on-going war
of Deos’s ward, are all that most need to find comfort. against North Rymin or to train alongside the Silver
One cannot talk about Caerula without mention Legions situated there.
of Blue Hold, the resplendent provincial capital. A Conversely, the western wealds of the province are
fantastical floating fortress upon the rippling waters vastly more tame in nature than the border-bound
of Lake Sapphire and an exceptional feat of archi- east, boasting resplendent vineyards and rolling
tectural prowess, Blue Hold has been built upon by fields of wheat and barley, mostly owned by ex-le-
many centuries of renowned architects from the four gionarii and a handful of wealthy agrarian families.
corners of the empire. Situated several miles into the The provincial capital of Liceric is situated at the very
lake itself, the city is connected to land by three grand heart of the province along the edge of Lake Helikos,
bridges adorned with gilded statues of the Tredecima serving as a connecting point between Nivinea’s
deities. Gleaming walls of polished marble, inter- provincial capital of Altario Regitum and the cultural
woven with inlaid golden swirls and windows of heart of South Rymin: Longbreach. Whilst Civaci is
amethyst glass tower around the circular city form- not as wealthy as Nivinea, it is certainly one of the
ing a multi-tiered cylindrical structure. Blue Hold more well-off provinces, housing a great number of
is as industrious as it is beautiful, with the sublevels industrially and commercially driven settlements
of the city home to Aldarin’s most profitable mines within its borders. It is common practice for the
which connect deep into the Underworld. These praesides of Civaci to split their duties, with one
deep mines provide not only bountiful minerals and taking ownership over the province’s industrial

96
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

operations whilst the other oversees the defences social and political landscape of Altario Regitum.
along the Ophelian Wall and maintains open rela- On the one end, there are the political elite of the
tions with the empire’s ally of South Rymin to the empire, seeking to maximise their influence and
Introduction
north east. wealth whilst supporting mercantile ventures in the
city. On the other, there are the artifex and praestae,
Introduction
many of whom have served the empire loyally in
Nivinea
to the
some aspect and wish to establish a stable life for Aldarin
Empire
their families in the years to come that is void of
Original Name: Niviské overbearing patrician governance. Local political Aldarin
Provincial Capital: Altario Regitum elections are nothing short of a bloodbath, with Names

Renowned as the wine capital of Aldarin, Nivinea backstabbing, corruption, bribery, and assassination
spawls outwards into the heart of the empire. all at play in the daily operations of urban Nivinean Social Classes
Luscious vineyards and wealthy townships are found life. Those who elect to choose no side in this war of
densely packed within its borders. One of the first intrigue are deemed ignorant, for failing to defend
imperial provinces, Nivinea borders the Province of oneself simply stands as the mark of a weak target. Kinships in
the Empire
Deveros, acting as a key supplier of goods into the Politics aside, Nivinea is regarded as Aldarin’s most
imperial capital. Countless droves of trade caravans stunning province, as officially stated by Emperor
and supply wagons stream downwards from Altario Loxis II (see page 101) during their visit to Altario Festivals
Regitum, the provincial capital, which in turn acts as Regitum. The endless rolling hills of greenery, dotted
a centralised hub for commerce heading eastwards to with remote illustrious villas and minor settlements,
Alvia, Caerula, and South Rymin. One would not be is nothing short of breathtaking for those visiting this Sports
a true patrician if they did not own some swathe of region. Only the finest quality alcohol is produced
vineyard-swept hill land within the heart of Nivinea. from the grapes of the Nivinean vines, with plentiful
Noble families from Deveros hold expensive second vintners finding fame and fortune in the sun-blessed Religion

homes in the region, typically used as staging posts yards of central Aldarin. Life outside of the provin-
for commercial ventures or holiday homes away cial capital is peaceful, far flung from the endless
from the bustle of Deveros. As such, a majority of wars upon the northern borders or the bustling port Politics

the land within the province is held by the nobility, towns of the southern provinces. To many, settling
though with recent land reforms passed by the in the breadths of rural Nivinea is a dream come
Military
Reformist party, sizable chunks have been carved true: close enough to Deveros to enjoy its perks, far
out of these to be awarded to retiring legionarii and enough away to ignore its troubles, and enough wine
magi. As such, there is somewhat of a divide in the and sunshine to last a lifetime.
Commerce
CW

The Ophelian
Wall Crime and
Punishment

Provinces of
Aldarin

Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

97
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Province of Deveros Holstratum woodlands to the northwest, to the

holistic halfling tribes of the snowcapped Milevian
Original Name: None Mountains to the east, who integrated and embraced
Provincial Capital: Deveros Aldarin culture many centuries prior while sharing
Birthplace of the Deverosian people, inheritors portions of their own. These cultures, along with
of Deos’s lineage; the thriving religious epicentre many others, all form the traditional backbone of
of the continent; the beating heart of the Aldarin what has now become Aldarin society. Not stemming
Empire: the Province of Deveros is the original from one kin or group, but from many.
territory claimed by the Dalaskians during the
Age of Reclamation. Bathed in a wealth of history
and culture, this expansive provincial region is the Salenti
bustling core of Aldarin society. Heavily fortified
and densely populated, the Province of Deveros is Original Name: Sasmian Kingdom
where both the imperial family and the Consentium Provincial Capital: Gordistra
reside, respectively forming the symbolic and func- Upon the westernmost front of Elos, bolstered CW
tioning bodies which govern over the entirety of the against the raging waves of the Gilded Ocean, rests
Aldarin Empire. These lands are rich with vineyards, the massive province of Salenti. Salenti is one of
amethyst mines, gold mines, marble quarries, wheat the empire’s oldest territorial claims, whose origin
farms, fishing settlements, and countless other spans back to the collapse of the Sasmian Kingdom
sources of agricultural and industrial commodities. in the early 2nd Century. Dense forests intermingle
Easily the busiest of the provinces, seeing passage with the northernmost mountainous regions of the
from endless seafaring vessels, trade caravans, and province, providing a never-ending supply of lumber
the Del Umbra railway, the Province of Deveros and stone to the industrious coastal settlements of
is very much the commercial heart of Aldarin, the fragmented southern shores. Sprawling wheat
exporting goods from some of the continent’s oldest and pig farms dot the landscape between, bound
and most renowned artisanal families. Despite the to sparse farming communities whose grasp of
numerous buffer provinces between Deveros and imperial politics is far-flung from the socialites of the
its enemies, this province has the second largest well-connected towns and cities. Merchant caravans
number of standing legions after Borealia. This is protected by heavily armed mercyr groups are a
also in part due to the Consentium’s fear of another common sight along the Lyrican Mile, the coastal
internal insurrection led by a popularist politician or road connecting Salenti’s capital of Gordistra to the
influential patrician, something which has happened imperial capital of Deveros, with the recent addition
one too many times for the empire to be comfortable of the Del Umbra railroad alongside it only increas-
with. Legionary forts are stationed along all major ing connectivity between the two commercial hubs.
thoroughfares, designed in such a way that they Salenti’s most impressive feat is undoubtedly its
may hold back attacking forces until reinforcements streamlined shipwright industry which operates
arrive to relieve them. along the breadth of its coastal front. With count-
Whilst patricians would have everyone believe less tonnes of lumber cut from the northern forests
that these lands were gifted to their ancestors by sent in daily deliveries to these coastal settlements,
Deos themself, the reality could not be further from Salenti’s shipwrights thrive as new seafaring vessels
the truth. During the first two centuries of the Age of are born each day. These range from small sloops
Reclamation there were in fact numerous other clans and fishing craft to impressive war galleys designed
and cultures outside of the Aldarins who presided to withstand the Medial Plane’s tempestuous oceans.
over this coastal territory. Wood elves, cambion, Being the closest imperial city to the Kildars,
halflings, countless other human settlements, all Gordistra serves as the busiest imperial trade hub
of which laid a stake to the coastal strokes of the when dealing with both the Tak’huut and Qutharian
southern continent. These clans were all eventually empires and, thanks to this, is host to a diverse popu-
annexed under Aldarin control, a large number lation of Kildarian peoples and cultures. Numerous
wiped from existence entirely, with the few left travellers from across the Gilded Ocean and beyond
surviving either through integration or tentative have fallen in love with Salenti’s sweeping shores,
alliance. To this day, one can still find settlements soft sea breeze, and idyllic coastal vistas. So much so
with families tracing lineage back to these clans, that settlements along its ocean borders continue to
though almost all now fall under the singular title of expand daily as wealthy immigrants from the four
“Aldarin”. The people of this province are immensely corners of the Compass stake their claim within
diverse, with cultural traditions originating from the province.
these long-deceased clans. From the fierce lycans
and druidic wood elves who shelter within the

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

The Pilkos Isles

Pilkish Cultural Traditions
Original Name: None “I’m not Pilkish, I’m a bird! But I always, ALWAYS
Introduction
Provincial Capital: Dynvara tap me claws together before I head into any
CW
Cresting along the southernmost point of the conti- kitchen window to steal… uhh… to take some
Introduction
nent are the Pilkos Isles, a clustering of fragmented seeds that are rightfully mine.” to the
islands linking together in an arching chain in a The Pilkish gnomes of The Pilkos Isles hold
Aldarin
Empire
western heading. Over time, the province of the dear to them a number of cultural relics from
Pilkos Isles has expanded its control northwards their assimilation into the Adlarin Empire Aldarin
into the province of Civaci, with the governors of many centuries ago. These traditions are Names

both regions commonly locked in heated debate passed down through familial household
over the true borders of their provinces. This is in teachings, taught from parent to child.
Social Classes
part due to the rich, fertile lands to the south of the Whistling While not a tradition per se, this
habit can be found within rural villages
Milevian Mountains, which forms the current-day
throughout the northern and western
natural border between the two provinces. Civaci regions of The Pilkos Isles. When a Pilk from
Kinships in
the Empire
has long laid claim to these industrious farmlands, these regions finds themself alone and
which are frequently rebuffed by imperial decrees fearful, they might start to whistle a jaunty
stemming all the way back to the 8th Century. These tune known as “The Lost Sparrow”, which tells Festivals
fertile fields are, for now, held firmly by the Pilkos the story of a young sparrow, fallen from its
Isles. Travelling further southwards, one would cross nest, trying to find its way home. The tune is
countless valleys teeming with life, birthed from the often sung to Pilkish babies to lull them into Sports
independent rural settlements found within. These sleep by their parents. Numerous Pilks find
the tune comforting to hum or whistle along
settlements have embraced many aspects of Aldarin
to in times of stress or fear. Other such tunes
society into their own, with Aldarins from the are whistled as well, often small folk songs
Religion

northern provinces visiting these idyllic locations to from around other regions of The Pilkos Isles,
escape the perpetual warring and blizzards. Thermae with each isle having its own distinct pitch
sourced from tactically placed aqueducts are situated and melody of various songs. It is said that Politics

throughout the region, providing travellers with Pilks can sometimes identify the exact region
resting points both within and between settlements. another Pilk is from through their whistle.
Military
Those with gold-lined pockets might instead utilise Tapping Toes It is considered to bring bad
the province’s gryphon carrier services, used to luck upon a household to enter within it
transport both items and people across the lofty without first tapping the tops of one’s feet
Commerce
mountain peaks. together before crossing the threshold.
At the very tip of the Pilkos Isles, arching wide This came about when an old chancellor of
into the clutches of the Gilded Ocean, is the Velesti Dynvara invited a visiting diplomat from a
Crime and
neighbouring nation into his homestead. Punishment
Peninsula, home to the Pilkish gnomes who hold
The chancellor paid mind to his feet and
dominion over the provincial capital of Dynvara. The stepped over the threshold of the doorway,
Pilks, as they are known, were the original inhabi- knowing it to be slightly elevated, whereas Provinces of
Aldarin
tants of these lands many centuries ago before the the diplomat behind him did not, who then
Aldarins asserted control over the region. They were tripped and fell. In the fall, the diplomat
Periods of
also the first of numerous peoples to be freed from struck a stool with her head and was killed. Aldarin
Aldarin’s old class system and were the prime insti- A war eventually broke out between the History

gators in the push towards the eventual abolishment two nations, with this event pinned as the
of many archaic class restrictions within the empire pushing factor. The tradition of tapping Classes
one’s feet grew from this story, to force the
during the 7th Century. Whilst the Pilks do not
visitor to check their footing before crossing
consider themselves Aldarin, tenaciously grasping into the household. To this day, numerous
on to their own identity, they are held in high regard domus within Dynvara have small mosaic Backgrounds

by the widespread Aldarin populace. Some Pilks lean feet embedded in the ground just before the
into this respected visage, rising to become influ- threshold of the house to remind people to
ential local politicians and even consensae within tap their toes together before entering. Appendices

the Consentium to further their personal growth.

Dynvara is a prime example of Pilkish independence:
notoriously Pilkish in architectural design and teem-
ing with its own political councils, which operate
independently from direct Consentium governance.
For this reason, visiting Aldarins find themselves as a
fish out of water, wrapped in an overwhelming sense
of curiosity about the Pilkish culture exhibited here.
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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Periods of Aldarin History
Shortly after the Age of Dusk came to an end, the The Aldarin Kingdom took several years to recover
Dalaskian people settled upon the southern shores from the Sasmian Wars, only regaining traction in its
of Elos. These folk took on a new name stemming expansion towards the mid-2nd Century. The allied
from the ancestral Vilorian word “aldaros’’ meaning clans of the Cilicians to the south-eastern valleys
“to begin anew”. With the founding of the city of found themselves invaded by the gnomish Pilks of
Deveros, the Aldarin Kingdom was born. The reso- the Pilkos Isles, situated upon the very southern crest
lute King Loxis Regitorus Deveros I (CG he/they of the continent. Joined in arms with the Aldarin
Aldarin dead) was at its mantle, son of the ascended legionarii gryphones, the Cilicians all but erased the
demigod Deos. Loxis endeavoured to provide his Pilkish civilisation from history over the course of
young, vibrant nation with a fruitful beginning in the next 30 years. The Pilkos Isles were split between
this new age of discovery, going down in the annals the Aldarins and the Cilicians through the Pilkos
as Aldarin’s wisest king (“rex”). Appeasement of 187 PDS, with the dwindling Pilkish
populace placed upon the lowest rungs of the Aldarin
class system. As with many peoples absorbed into the
Early Expansion Aldarin Empire at the time, the Pilks were unable to
climb higher than the otium social class until reforms
Period: 29–272 PDS came along many centuries later. Only three years
Notable Rulers: King Loxis I, Queen Lucina I (LN she/ later, Cilicera fell into a troublesome internal war
her Aldarin dead), The Lost Prince (NE unknown through clan disagreements. The Aldarins stepped in
[they/them] Aldarin dead), King Venesti I (LN he/him to side with the leading Baradinus clan, annexing the
Aldarin dead), Emperor Venesti II (NG he/they [GF] nation in the process and claiming a new province
Aldarin dead) for their ever-growing kingdom. Cilicera became the
province of Civaci, with any clans who chose to swear
For almost 250 years, the Aldarin Kingdom saw
fealty to the Aldarin Kingdom allowed to retain
bountiful growth and economic strength under the
their land, and some even granted status as nobility.
Deveros lineage. Extensive early expansion provided
Those who did not were eventually destroyed, either
the fledgling kingdom with vast swathes of land and
by the Aldarins or their old clan allies, with most
wealth paired with resistant rebellions. Overall, the
falling to the binds of thralldom or problematic class
continent of Elos was in a state of turmoil as nations
structures under the heel of their neighbours.
scrambled to maintain dominion over the unfamil-
Peace reigned for a while across the kingdom, CW
iar lands of their ancestors. The Aldarins took this
but as King Venesti II took the crown, expansion
in their stride, first establishing governance over
was again on the mind of the regency. The north-
Caerula to the north, where King Loxis I’s daughter,
ern Byldøri tribes of Byldøsk, who had recently
Princess Lyrica Deveros (NG she/her Aldarin
fragmented from the chaotic folds of the Jyksvyne
dead), had been left to rule. Next came the fall of the
Alliance (later to become Jykstrav), had been con-
Niviskén Matriarchs, a collective of wood elves and
ducting regular raids upon the provinces of Civaci
humans who had settled within the luscious wealds
and Caerula, sacking and burning the crops of rural
to the north east, becoming the province of Nivinea.
settlements. Venesti set his sights on vengeance
The expansionist Sasmian Kingdom to the west, a
against the Byldøri, taking his newly formed legions
splintered nation of the old Dalaskian Kingdom,
to war against the troublesome tribes. These fresh
sought to annex Aldarin into its own realm. A dev-
legions did not fare well against the rampant guerilla
astating war was waged between the two kingdoms
tactics of Byldøsk’s southernmost clans, unfamiliar
over many decades with numerous minor nations
with the hilly and heavily forested terrain. The
flattened in the crossfire. Aldarin teetered upon the
Legions saw defeat after defeat, with Venesti himself
precipice of defeat on countless occasions during
eventually taking up command and marching into
this bloody war. The most notable was the betrayal
central Byldøsk. Through a handful of lucky battles
of The Lost Prince, the firstborn of Queen Lucina
within the dense forests, the Aldarins gained a
I, who defected to the Sasmian side and has since
foothold and were able to leverage a peace deal with
been erased from Aldarin history books. Eventually,
the more diplomatic of the Byldøri tribes, taking war
the Sasmians were defeated by the Aldarins and
hostages in settlement.
their capital of Gordistra was sacked, becoming the
The tribes who did not wish to seek agreement
province of Salenti. This sowed the seeds of deep
with the Aldarins instead fled northwards. Some
hatred towards the Deveros lineage within Salenti
begrudgingly rejoined the Jyksvyne Alliance, whilst
that would birth many future rebellions.
others settled within the neighbouring Nordvær
territory. Standing atop this new province of

100
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

the Aldarin Kingdom, Venesti named it Baldera. the neighbouring province of Caerula. Numerous
Baldera’s annexation into the kingdom marked a skirmishes were fought between the Deverosian
notable shift in the mindset of the Aldarins. They legions and the rebel Salenti legions over the follow-
Introduction
were powerful. Stronger than all those around them. ing two decades, the Salenti slowly pushing further
They were more than a mere kingdom. Upon return- into the Province of Deveros with each passing year.
Introduction
ing to Deveros with news of his success in the north, Despite the well defended territory of Deos’s kin to the
King Venesti II proclaimed that Aldarin had grown resisting capture for so long, Deveros eventually fell Aldarin
Empire
unto new heights in the eye of Deos. He stated that in 321 PDS to a gargantuan army led by renowned
in his dreams, Venesti had spoken unto Deos who Salenti commander and powerful mantel of Rael Aldarin
had in turn blessed his glorious realm as an empire. Aedissima Fretavi (CN they/them Salenti dead). Names

And so, in 272 PDS, the Aldarin Empire was born, with Emperor Nito was executed in the Imperial Palace
Emperor Venesti II at its helm. However, it did not (R4) with Nito’s youngest daughter, Lyrica II, escap- Social Classes
take long for this new empire to begin showing signs ing through a rowboat under nightfall alongside two
of internal fracture. palace guards. She fled to Caerula where the imperial
family still had loyal followers. Kinships in
the Empire

CW
The Grain Wars
Post-Grain Reclamation Festivals
Period: 273–321 PDS
Notable Rulers: Empress Lyrica I (LG she/her Aldarin Period: 322–384 PDS
dead), Emperor Nito (NE name Aldarin dead) Notable Rulers: Empress Lyrica II (CG she/they Aldarin Sports
dead), Emperor Loxis II (LN they/them Aldarin dead)
Following legislation by the infamous Emperor Nito,
which hiked the tax on grain across the imperial The capital was lost. For a time, the empire was Religion
provinces, the already disgruntled provincials from considered to have fallen, but imperial support
regions such as Civaci, Salenti and Baldera began still remained throughout the province of Caerula.
to rebel. These uprisings started within a collective Within the lake-fortress of Blue Hold an urgent Politics
of minor farming settlements in northern Civaci summons was made by Lyrica II for all loyal legions
whose Cilician labourers had risen up against to come to her aid. The remaining imperial legions
the clans who had oppressed them. Killing their quickly marched to Caerula in the days following Military
oppressors and burning the estates upon which Deveros’s fall, somehow defending the province in
they had been expected to toil, these rag-tag armies the face of defeat from a simultaneous invasion by
stormed southwards towards the provincial capital the Salenti to the east and the Byldøri to the north. Commerce
of Liceric. Legions were dispatched by Nito to put Over the coming years, the tactically minded Lyrica
down the revolt. The month-long pillaging was was able to stabilise the neighbouring province of
Crime and
swiftly ended in a bloodsoaked massacre in southern Civaci with assistance from the loyal magi of the Punishment
Civaci, culminating in a defiant last stand by the Baradinus clan, putting any who stood against her to
workers known as the Battle of the Bleeding River. death. This war took a heavy toll on her armies. With Provinces of
As the years passed, smaller disagreements between her legions weakened and the Salenti encroaching Aldarin
provincial inhabitants and Aldarins sparked relating from the southwest, Lyrica could not fight another
to the infamous tax, commonly ending in fines or pitched battle. She instead had a long wall built along Periods of
Aldarin
even banishment — though nothing major rose the southern border of the province over a period History
until twelve years later. The seeds of rebellion sown of three weeks — a feat hailed to this day as one of
within the minds of the Sasmians had finally come the most impressive in Aldarin history. Whilst the
Classes
to fruition as another major uprising quaked the Lyrican Wall defended against the Salenti, manned
foundations of the empire. Imperial caravans and by a fraction of her forces, Lyrica took the remaining
trade wagons were sacked. Aldarin citizens living legions and marched north to Baldera to face the Backgrounds
within Salenti were put to the sword. A handful of Byldøri. Through cunning use of illusion magic
provincial legions defected from Aldarin rule as stemming from the Baradinus clan and their embers
Salenti declared independence from the empire. In — a rarity at the time — the Aldarins were able to Appendices
the same month the Byldøri tribes, who had retreated repel the Byldøri. Tales to this day are told of fabri-
into Nordvær many years prior, finally returned to cated dragons flying above the Legions, terrifying the
reclaim their homeland. Peace had rapidly devolved Byldøri back across the border which bought Lyrica
into turmoil. enough time to refortify the province. As thanks for
CW
The empire was fighting a war on two fronts and their loyalty, the once-Cilician Baradinus clan was
was soon overwhelmed. Three legions were lost awarded full Aldarin citizenship and welcomed into
defending Baldera, slain in battle by the Byldøri who the arms of the patrician elite.
eventually reclaimed their home and began raiding

101
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Not long after recapturing Baldera, Lyrica II to one of nature. By the time news of the plague had
passed away after being struck by a poisoned arrow reached Aldarin, it was already too late.
whilst fighting against the Salenti during the Battle On the morning of 21st Winter’s Wax 384 PDS, only
of Fabisko Hill. Despite best efforts to resurrect her, a week before the Anniculus festival, two trade ves-
Lyrica’s soul became lost to the afterlife. Her child, sels arrived from Sel’Kildar at the port of Gordistra
Loxis II, just 13 years of age, came to the throne. And carrying sailors infected with the deadly infection.
so followed a period of relative calm in the war, with The white plague quickly spread throughout the city,
neither the Aldarins nor the Salenti claiming any centralised around tabernae and brothels where
overwhelming victories. contact with other folk was closest. Before long,
CW
Eventually, through deft sabotages orchestrated by settlements within Salenti were showing signs of
an organisation of ex-legionarii spies and assassins infection, and the Consentium issued an edict to
called the Umbra Syndicate, the Aldarins made blockade the province. Any who were caught cross-
a push into the Province of Deveros, recapturing ing the border were to be executed on sight by the
numerous forts over a period of three years. In 373 Legions. Sacerdotes of Deos were dispatched from
PDS
, they were able to reclaim their capital from the the Aedes Deos (A7) in Deveros to stem the flow of
grip of the Salenti with Loxis now officially crowned the plague, to little effect.
as Emperor Loxis II. In their victory speech, Loxis Meanwhile, the two lone trade routes linking
proclaimed that they were the reborn soul of Deos Sel’Kildar and Nul’Kildar to Elos were halted. Any
in mortal form and shall lead the empire to victory arriving ships found themselves diverted away from
as Aldarin’s god-emperor. Only four years later did imperial ports under threat of death. This did not
Loxis hold true to these words. Following a streak of stop the plague for long, however. By the end of
overwhelming military victories, the self-proclaimed 385 PDS, it had entangled its destructive roots across
god-emperor led the Legions into Salenti and sacked the Province of Deveros, Caerula, Civaci, Baldera,
Gordistra, ending the Grain Wars once and for all. and Nivinea. The Pilkos Isles remained relatively
Over 380 Salenti nobles were put to death, alongside untouched by the blighted infection thanks to a quick
nearly 7,000 military insurgents and magi who had response by the local patricians who closed down
defected. A handful of these managed to escape sailing routes in and out of the region. Deaths across
in the days before the executions, fleeing across to the empire soared into the hundreds of thousands as
the distant continent of Sel’Kildar or into the Inner the populace was brought to its knees. Mass graves
Compass. Whilst this was a time of bitter celebration overflowed with pale-skinned bodies. The deceased
for the Aldarins, unbeknownst to any in the empire, a decayed in the streets for days, or even weeks, before
much more terrifying threat loomed on the horizon. being collected for burial. Due to the troublesome
A threat that not even Loxis II could defeat. nature of the plague, many who caught it and sur-
vived were permanently blinded. This crippled the
economy further as commerce and labour all but
CW
The White Plague halted. The Aldarin Empire was not the only nation
to face surmounting death tolls. Almost all regions
Period: 385–389 PDS across Elos suffered heavy casualties in the uphill
Notable Rulers: Emperor Loxis II war against the white plague, as desperate skirmishes
were fought over dwindling food supplies.
Victory had rung through the empire. The provinces
The white plague slowly faded over time as immu-
were re-established under the hold of the imperial
nity built up, with clerics bringing the arcane-fuelled
family with the all-powerful Emperor Loxis II at the
infection under control by the end of 389 PDS. Over
helm. As 385 PDS ticked around, however, catastrophe
thirty percent of Elos’s populace had died during the
struck the continent. Unbeknownst to many in
plague, with a further twenty-five percent becoming
Elos, the people of Sel’Kildar and Nul’Kildar had
blinded for life. After a long period of war, followed
recently experienced outbreaks of a deadly disease
by the ravaging destruction of the white plague,
known as The White Plague, ravaging seaside ports
the Aldarin Empire was teetering on the edge of
and communities across the twinned continents.
collapse once more. The source of the plague was
The plague was pneumonic, affecting the lungs and
eventually traced back to the ascension of a deity
respiratory system of the host, whilst additionally
in north-western Sel’Kildar: Larveth, Goddess of
causing blindness and pale white lesions across the
Disease, Insects, and Decay. Upon her ascension,
skin, from which it garnered its name. Survival was a
the cruel deity’s first nefarious act was to ensure that
coin toss, and entire settlements were left eradicated
all mortals knew their place under her foot. Larveth
in its wake. None had yet managed to track down
had curated the deadly infection for many decades
how the white plague was spread, with educated cler-
prior, finally unleashing it upon the Medial Plane
ics indicating towards an arcane source as opposed
in her defining moment of glorious deification. To

102
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

this day, Larveth is still feared by the common folk Meanwhile, the clans of the Jyksvyne Alliance in
CW
of the Compass. The festival of Larvelia is celebrated the north were making their own movements against
as a means to appease the vile goddess in the hopes the empire. The Byldøri, who had been repelled in the
Introduction
of preventing another deadly epidemic. As the years prior to the plague, once again gathered their
white plague faded into history, a withered husk of fragmented clanship at the empire’s northernmost
Introduction
a continent was left behind. The empire took almost border. The fearsome Nordvær clan stood at their to the
a hundred years to fully recover from its rampant side, fielding over 2,000 war mammoths to bolster Aldarin
Empire
destruction. their sizable army. The two clans had formed a tenu-
ous truce with a goal to reclaim their ancestral lands Aldarin
of Baldera and to punish the Aldarins for daring to Names
CW
The Low Period take their warriors hostage.
Historical documents count over 300,000 warriors Social Classes
Period: 390–498 PDS crossing the River Nystra during the late summer of
Notable Rulers: Emperor Loxis II, Emperor Serperian 456 PDS. Swiftly capturing Baldera, the army flattened
(CN he/him Aldarin dead), Empress Sorilla (LN she/ the defending provincial legions before moving on to Kinships in
the Empire
her Aldarin dead), Empress Iliandra I (LG xe/they northern Caerula, razing settlements and indiscrim-
[GF] Aldarin dead), Empress Lyrica III (NG she/her inately killing all who stood in their path.
Aldarin dead) The Caerulian provincial legions were pushed Festivals
back to Blue Hold, where a siege was laid by the
Severely disrupted by the fallout of the white plague,
allied clans. Before reinforcements could arrive
the empire entered into a nebulous state of decay.
from Deveros, however, the clans fell into an internal Sports
Famine swept the provinces with countless citizens
disagreement. An argument had sparked between
dying of starvation in the years following the plague.
clan leaders about looting rights of the city once it
Fields went fallow as any form of physical labour
had been taken. This argument turned into violence, Religion
became difficult to find, with many folk weakened
and soon the camp of the invading army was ablaze,
from the plague’s lingering effects. Four long, ardu-
its warriors at each other’s throats. Tens of thousands
ous decades passed which crept towards an eventual
were slain under nightfall as the Aldarins simply Politics
growth of the populace once more, bolstering both
watched from the walls in shock. Only adding to
the Legions and rural communities which had been
the chaos, several of the war mammoths became
ravaged most. Military
spooked by the fires which had begun to lick the
As the continent gradually rose back to its feet, so
encampment. They rampaged through the tents,
too did the senseless warring begin. At first it was just
demolishing several of the exterior fortifications and
minor border disputes. Disagreements over plots of Commerce
crushing countless Jyrden underfoot. The Aldarins
land. Spats with once friendly nations who had toiled
knew better than to interrupt their enemy whilst
through the plague together. The most predominant
they were making a mistake, simply firing their Crime and
of these nations was that of the Alvian Kingdom Punishment
arrows from the walls in attempts to further stoke the
to the north-eastern border of the empire. Alvian
madness below. By dawn, the clans had dispersed.
trade caravans had kept the empire’s settlements
Some Jyrden stuck around within the province for Provinces of
fed during the early months of the plague, with Aldarin
a few weeks, half-heartedly pillaging and looting
the Aldarins returning the gesture after Alvia was
before being driven back by the reinforcing legions.
struck with famine. These friendly trade caravans Periods of
Others headed straight home, enroute to burn the Aldarin
began to see heightened taxes. A couple of wagons
villages of the opposing clan they had once consid- History
were raided by Alvian mercenaries, leading to angry
ered an ally. The Consentium came to the decision
letters from the Consentium. These minor disputes
that the Byldøri and Nordvær must be dealt with. Classes
eventually escalated into scrappy fights between the
Preparations began as the Aldarins vowed to bring
provincial border settlements of Aldarin and their
destruction upon these troublesome clanships in the
Alvian neighbours. Before long, the two nations were
following year. Backgrounds
at war. The provinces of Nivinea and Baldera saw
As the campaigning season began, twelve legions
pillaging and raids throughout their lands over the
crossed River Nystra into Nordvær led by Empress
ensuing twelve-year war. After a pyrrhic victory by
Iliandra I alongside 2,000 mercenary units loaned Appendices
the Aldarin legions at the Battle of Holstead, the cap-
from the nearby kingdom of Crimesa. The empress
ital of Alvia, Jester, was sacked and burnt. The Alvian
was an acclaimed leader, having dragged the
ruler, Queen Gisella VI (LG she/her Alvian dead),
empire out of recession by the scruff of its neck and
fell upon her own sword rather than being taken alive
obtaining numerous victories against the Alvians
by the Aldarins. In a matter of months, after rampant
during the prior war. The army eventually split into
pillaging and looting by the legions, the region was
two, with Iliandra taking charge of four legions and
annexed into the empire as the province of Alvia.
the Crimesan mercenaries, heading north into the

103
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
heart of Byldøri territory. The renowned Gryphos First Medial War
Secunda Astentium Julia (CG she/he/they Aldarin
dead) led the remaining eight legions westwards Period: 499–522 PDS
into Nordvær to begin razing their villages. Not Notable Rulers: Emperor Venesti III (NG they/them
long after the split, an ambush coordinated by the [NB] Aldarin dead), Empress Lyrica IV (LN she/her
renowned Byldøri warchief Veletonika (NG he/ Aldarin dead)
him Jyrden dead), working together with a minor
Whilst the First Medial War had begun in 499 PDS
clanship Nordvær cavalry, caught Ilidandra’s legions
with an invasion of the Le’Tutto Republic of Ravidan
by surprise, sparking the infamous Battle of Kalysis.
— now known as the Vorien Empire — by the air-
Ilidandra’s forces were destroyed. The bodies of the
born soldiers of Zwys, the Aldarin Empire was not
empress and the legionarii were never recovered.
drawn into the war until the turn of the 6th Century.
This marked one of the greatest military tragedies
Aldarin was blissfully unaware of the haphazard
in Aldarin history and is still deeply mourned in the
interplanar invasion until a small fleet of warships
current era, over 500 years later. The remnants of the
arrived to Deveros during late Winter’s Wax of 499
Byldøri-Nordvær clanship eventually fell to Julia’s PDS
. These vessels bore false Zygardian flags, a fledg-
forces after reinforcements from Caerula arrived
ling half-dragon nation from eastern Elos whose
CW
two months later. The conquered land was turned
relations with Aldarin were that of commerce alone.
into the northern province of Borealia. Countless
The sight of over a hundred warships sparked panic
defeated clan members were taken as war hostages
in the citizens of the imperial capital, which further
or fled north towards their allies within the Jyksvyne
devolved into chaos as the fleet began to blockade
Alliance, who were already preparing defences for
the Deverosian Bay. Destructive tornadoes whipped
further Aldarin invasion. With another province
through the port, destroying dozens of Aldarin mil-
claimed, the legions returned victorious to Deveros
itary galleys and damaging hundreds more, adding
with a triumph granted to Julia for her commend-
to the mayhem. The youthful Emperor Venesti III
able leadership.
kept a level head, hurriedly assembling a collective
CW
Towards the end of the era, the Aldarin economy
of imperial magi who were instructed to teleport to
was once again thriving. Increased commerce stem-
Zygarde — a dangerous form of magic at the time
ming from their naval trade partners had bolstered
— and to engage in diplomatic negotiations. These
the standing of the empire’s harbours with their gold-
magi learnt that a newly constructed, ocean-faring
flushed allies. As the empire expanded, the Reformist
Zygardian fleet had gone missing enroute to Ravidan
party made the first steps towards restructuring its
during a naval exercise. The Five Flames, the dra-
troublesome class system. The Pilkish gnomes of the
conic rulers of Zygarde, had searched the Herove
Pilklos Isles were finally granted elevation through-
Ocean high and low for the fleet to no avail.
out this system alongside citizenship, even if it was
As news came through from scouts about airborn
almost 300 years too late. Many Pilks moved back to
soldiers manning the ships, the blockade found itself
their homeland, reclaiming old settlements as their
wrongly attributed to an unstable rebel army defect-
own whilst others wandered to distant lands desiring
ing from Zwys into the Medial Plane. It was swiftly
to escape the clutches of the Aldarins entirely. Despite
destroyed by three supporting naval legions sent
this progressive step towards equality, numerous folk
from Gordistra by the provincial governor, Caerulia
remained as war hostages to patrician families. It was
Succinus Kylera (LG she/her Aldarin dead), who
not until the 7th Century that rights of the Iusdecim
responded immediately to the cry for help from the
were finally granted to all peoples conquered by the
capital. Zygarde and Aldarin later learnt that this
empire: though to many this was still bittersweet, for
ramshackle blockade was a deliberate act of war by
their cultures had been crushed and all but erased
the Zwysians, orchestrated by Ethwylei, the juvenile
by the Aldarins. Despite this positive upturn, peace
Inner Pantheon Goddess of Tornadoes with a thirst
would not last. The untimely death of much-beloved
for power. The attack on Deveros was an attempt
Empress Lyrica III marked the first tragedy of many
to establish a foothold in Elos before the earthborn
in a gradual downturn for the Aldarins.
Korkuntaar armies of the Inner Earth Plane could
make their move against Zwys through the planar
bridges. Only a few days after the blockade, as
Zygarde and Aldarin were gathering intelligence
about what had happened, a great meteor shower
fell upon Elos — typically a sign of good omens to
come. Unfortunately, these signalled the very oppo-
site. Unbeknownst to the Aldarins and their allies,
these meteors were earthborn Korkuntaar mages

104
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

teleporting along the waylines into Elos, enroute she/they high elf dead), who had taken charge of
to capture Elosian land in preparation to wage war high elven nations Jivastiá and Emondas, as well as
against Zwys. The Medial Plane was slowly devolving the half-dragon realm of Zygarde.
Introduction
into the battleground of these two farborn nations. As naval technology advanced over the course CW
CW
On the 12th of Winter’s Wane in 500 PDS, the of the war, secure ocean connections were forged
Introduction
empire’s stance shifted drastically. News of inter- between the continents of the Medial Plane, with to the
planar invasions breaking out throughout the Giraré in Ravidan, Tak’huut in Nul’Kildar, and the Aldarin
Empire
continent had reached the ears of the Consentium. Kishmar Kingdom in Sel’Kildar forming a tentative
The Zygardians reported sightings of earthborn alliance with Aldarin, Emondas, and Zygarde. This Aldarin
troops marching through their homeland as the alliance became known as the Allied Medial Nations, Names

high elves of Emondas sent word of frightening which would later turn into the immensely powerful
Zwysian cloud fortresses teleporting into strategic Anchor Treaty Nations. This alliance was formed in Social Classes
locations upon their shores. Before a response could an aim to eliminate the troublesome Zwysian cloud
be made, the flames of the Emberkilns flared in a fortresses and aerial fleets controlling the waves from
vibrant chorus of colour, spiralling streaks of divine above the Herove and Gilded oceans, who were being Kinships in
the Empire
energy high into the sky. Planar war had officially aided by a handful of power-hungry deities from the
been declared by the Medial Pantheon. The Elosian Inner Pantheon. Deities from both sides of the planar
mantels, the prospective deific vessels, were called fold clashed, fighting fiercely over the territory of the Festivals
forth to the Emberkiln of the Aedes in Deveros. The Medial Plane. The farborn armies continued their
Duodecima1 chose which vessel they would embody rampage in attempts to secure a foothold, supported
as the souls of gods and mortals melded. These by their own pantheon of gods. The war would come Sports
chosen vessels of immense soul energy, known as to an abrupt and unexpected close following the
the flamines, took their first steps upon mortal soil. death of the Inner Patheon goddess and instigator of
Empowered with the divine strength of the gods, the war, Ethwylei. As the wind-bound goddess fell, Religion

they would defend the plane against her enemies. the Zwysian forces whom she had been supporting
Deos’s flamen, Licenus (CG he/they Aldarin dead), turned tail and fled back to the Inner Wind Plane.
remained in Aldarin and assumed control of the The Korkuntaar too fell shortly after, their own gods Politics

Aldarin Empire as the other flamines scattered to the unable to fight against the combined attention of the
winds to confront the invading forces. In a historic Duodecima. The death of Licenus and subsequent
Military
speech, known as “Licenus’s Vow”, Deos elucidated sealing of the planar border marked a definitive end
the gravitas of the war to the Consentium and the to the planar invasion, with any lingering farborn
people of the empire. It was not long before reports of slain at the hands of the Medial Plane’s forces.
Commerce
skirmishes against warring Korkuntaar and Zwysian Through the chaos of interplanar war, the Aldarins
forces began streaming in from the north as Aldarin had stumbled upon firm new allies with which to
fleets clashed with Zwysian cloud fortresses upon secure lasting connections. Allies not just from Elos Crime and
Punishment
the empire’s southernmost shores. Aldarin was once but from far-flung continents across the plane joined
again at war. And this time, it threatened more than together in unity by the Duodecima twelve and their
just the empire. It threatened the entire Medial Plane. heroic flamines. Provinces of
Aldarin
Licenus lost no time taking charge of the Legions
and marched northwards to repel the clashing
farborn armies who had chosen the lands of Era of Exploration Periods of
Aldarin
the Jyksvyne Alliance as their warring grounds. History

Aldarin legionarii fought side by side with Jyrden Period: 523–782 PDS
warriors — a rare moment of unity between the Notable Rulers: Empress Lyrica IV, Empress Ophelia Classes
two age-old rivals — as they drove invading farborn (CG she/her [T] Aldarin dead), Emperor Venesti
from their homesteads. Whilst the Aldarins were IV (CG he/him Aldarin dead), Emperor Trilium (CG
able to maintain a strong defence against the invad- he/him Aldarin dead), Emperor Deosa (LN he/him Backgrounds

ing forces, others were not so lucky. The luscious Aldarin dead), Empress Aurelia I (CG she/they [GF]
plains of the Milithic Clans, known in the present Aldarin demigod)
day as Menderin, were obliterated by Korkuntaar Appendices
As the First Medial War came to a close, several
elementals, with almost all of the south-eastern
nations across the Medial Plane breathed a collec-
continent falling to the invading earthborn nation.
tive sigh of relief. The interplanar borders had been
The Aldarins spent the next two decades waging war
secured by Licenus’s sacrifice — for now at least —
against the Korkuntaar and Zwys in these regions,
and the Aldarin Empire had seen mortals and gods
working closely with Gw’yth’s flamen, Caellione (CN
alike fall at their sandal-clad feet. It did not take long
1) The Duodecima did not become the Tredecima until after the First Medial War.

105
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

for alliances to solidify between powerful nations in Tribes. A once small collective of power-hungry
the wake of the war, with Emondas and Zygarde to warmongers, whose hatred for the Aldarins exceeded
the east forging a treaty-bound alliance with Aldarin that of even the Jyrden, the Yun’stran had grown
due to the bonds of Licenus and Caellione. Through strong in recent years. With their once verdant
these far-flung friendships, advanced naval technol- fields reduced to desolate scrubland by the earth
ogies emerged to support necessary connections. A elementals of the Korkuntaar, the Yun’stran Tribes
desire to forge stable trade routes with the distant saw an opportunity to lay claim upon the luscious
lands of Ravidan, Kildar, and Panthéa too were born, fields of Aldarin to the west. In the spring of 681
with ocean-faring quinqueremes becoming the new PDS
, two separate Yun’stran armies crossed into the
norm. Within five years, fresh Elosian fleets bound province of Civaci, totalling over 250,000 soldiers.
the waves of the Herove and Gilded oceans, primed The Aldarins were taken completely by surprise. The
to secure lucrative connections with these distant Civacian provincial legions were busy campaigning
continental powers. in the northern empire against lingering remnants
CW
The Aldarin Empire jumped aboard this pio- of the Rhulati clan, one of many Jyrden tribes
neering bandwagon, constructing hundreds of attempting to reclaim the province of Borealia for
quinqueremes within the industrious docks of the Jyksvyne Alliance.
Deveros and Gordistra. Some were privately owned, Hearing news of the invasion, Empress Ophelia
funded by wealthy patricians seeking to establish leapt into action. Raising seven legions from the
profitable trade routes to bolster the profits of their surrounding provinces of Caerula, Nivinea, and
own private enterprises. Others saw funding from western Civaci, Ophelia marched east to cut off the
the imperial treasury, loaned out to notable trusted Yun’stran armies before they would reach central
citizens as diplomats of the empire and guarded by Civaci. These greenhorn legions were partially
the naval legions. Before long, a steady stream of formed of Cilicians who were given the promise
quinqueremes were gliding across the sprawling of full citizenship should the Yun’stran forces be
oceans, connecting the sparse continents of the repelled. Now fighting for not only their own lives
Medial Plane in thriving commerce and culture. but those of their future descendants, these legionarii
As the decades trundled on, a great number of were out for the blood of the Yun’stran and fought
trade routes saw permanent establishment between like starved wolves. Ophelia campaigned solidly for
foreign countries. The Vorien Empire slowly fought six long years, driving the invading clanships back
its way into existence towards the end of the 6th into their own territory. She did not stop there. The
Century. The Aldarins found in them a reliable trade eager young empress followed the routing armies
partner across the seas as the Voriens constructed across the border into their homeland, giving them
trading posts along the provincial shores of Civaci no chance to regroup. Settlements were razed, and
and the Pilkos Isles. The Aldarins too spread out into what little fertile land remained was salted. A direct
Ravidan, establishing colonies along the Lotus Ring warning. A threat to not even consider touching the
and forging treaties with the fledgling nations of land of Deos’s children.
Giraré and La’Mysté, whose technological advances Peace was eventually negotiated. To prevent future
matched those of their newfound Elosian allies. troubles, Ophelia utilised the overflowing coffers of
Cultural colonies eventually formed along the shores the imperial treasury to fund construction of the
of Sel’Kildar and Nul’Kildar, blending the cultures of Ophelian Wall: a monolithic clay brick barrier with
distant nations with those of the Kildarian people. dozens of towering in-built legionary forts spanning
Despite the initial success of these budding Kildarian from the Gilded Ocean to the Rymish border. This
ports, almost all eventually saw collapse towards the great wall still stands today, an impressive feat of
end of the 7th Century due to the countless blood- Aldarin engineering. As promised, Ophelia granted
soaked conflicts between Kishradam, Tak’huut, and citizenship to the Cilicians who had served loyally
the Jzarni kingdoms. within her legions, granting them sizable plots of
Aldarin’s coffers were fit to bursting at the seams land in southern Civaci and allowing their deferment
as they hoarded cascades of gold, ancient magical from any future military service. Thanks to this
artefacts, and a wealth of arcane knowledge. The interaction between Ophelia and her people, with a
patricians were raking in vast swathes of foreign sizable push from prolific Pilkish politicians within
funding which rivalled even the treasury of the the provincial capitals, was Aldarin’s class system
imperial family. Whilst the empire had been blessed overhauled once again. The servus class all but fell
with tides of commercial success, there was trouble out of use, with any who found themselves engulfed
stirring in the east. The Milithic Clans, a collective of by the Aldarin Empire granted the possibility of
orcish and dwarven clanships who had been all but upwards trajectory regardless of whether they were
destroyed during the First Medial War, had reformed born “Aldarin” or not.
under a new banner. The banner of the Yun’stran

106
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
As Aldarin’s economy waxed and waned over this The Concilium Arcanus Altus, Aldarin’s relatively
period, it eventually struck a low point during the small collective of experienced magi, was itself
late-8th Century, falling into a crippling economic infiltrated by the Wyld, triggering an insurgency. The
depression. Recession swept the empire in the fallout leading Altus Magus at the time, Vetalia Milenius Introduction

of Emperor Trilium’s disastrous reign, culminating (TN they/them Aldarin dead), was assassinated by
Introduction
in his assassination and the rapid enstatement of the Jojin (CE he/they/it satyr dead), a satyr demigod to the
child empress, Empress Aurelia I. With little true who desired to consume their soul. Jojin, along with Aldarin
Empire
guidance from the imperial family, the Consentium six other daimons, devoured an unknown number
was left to its own devices, leading to further in-fight- of souls belonging to powerful magi across the Aldarin
ing and inner turmoil. This could not have come at continent before their deceptions were unveiled. Names

a worse time, as the divine seal of the planar borders Through a purge of the organisation, the trickster
laid down by Licenus was growing weaker with every daimons who were unable to escape, alongside a Social Classes
passing day. The Inner Pantheon sought revenge number of Aldarin traitors who had joined them
against Deos and his kin for daring to restrain them in their pursuit of power, were arrested and swiftly
and would stop at nothing to attain it. executed. Jojin was one of the few to escape capture, Kinships in
the Empire
believed to still be at large within the Medial Plane
today. After this catastrophe, the Concilium Arcanus
Second Medial War Altus underwent vital reforms with a sizable number Festivals
of traitorous magi purged from its ranks.
Period: 783–802 PDS Towards the later years of the war, a decisive CW
Notable Rulers: Empress Aurelia I battle, known as the Battle of Blue Hold, was fought Sports
within Caerula’s provincial capital. This clash of
War erupted almost immediately, and Empress
armies was in defence of an immensely powerful
Aurelia I, now of age to govern, took the helm of
artefact known as the Maxim. This ancient tome of Religion
the empire in a desperate attempt to coordinate its
dangerous spellcraft, forbidden for research by the
haphazard defence. Numerous civilians fled from
imperial magi in centuries prior, was being utilised to
major settlements into the Underworld, seeking
isolate and eliminate fae impostors within the ranks Politics
to protect themselves from the encroaching Inner
of Aldarin’s military. Vanicus Helios Julius (NG he/
Compass armies landing from the planar bridges.
him Aldarin dead), a prolific general during the war,
Deveros was beset upon by a 120,000-strong army Military
fought to defend the city’s walls and inner sanctum
belonging to the fireborn Skorbrak, who burnt all in
where the tome was being held. Meanwhile Levola,
their path to ash. The Aldarins barely grasped onto
Loritel’s flamen, held the skies of Blue Hold at the
the clutches of victory thanks to the timely arrival Commerce
helm of her dedicated aerial legions. It was during
of the Mysh’lae Kingdom and their frightening
this battle that Levola was slain by an unknown
Gwylmerin deep angels, who had journeyed from
daimon commander wielding the god-killing bow, Crime and
the Inner Water Plane to protect the Medial Plane Punishment
Cromær. It is believed that this commander was
from their elemental cousins. Aurelia, blessed with
actually one of the Inner Pantheon gods in disguise,
the radiance of Deos, fielded alongside the seaborn
who was attempting to destroy Loritel’s soul. Whilst Provinces of
Gwylmerin to drive back the Skorbrak into their Aldarin
Loritel just barely survived, her soul ejecting to her
magmatic tunnel systems. Not even before the
demiplane, Levola did not, falling from her gryphon
last Skorbrak soldier had left sight of the city walls Periods of
into Lake Sapphire where she succumbed from her Aldarin
were the Emberkilns lit for a second time in Medial
injuries. Despite the fall of Levola, Vanicus was able History
history. Two Aldarin-born mantels were quick to
to repel the invading army alongside his brother,
step forth to answer the call. Levola (LN she/they
Osterio Helios Deverosa (LG he/him Aldarin dead), Classes
Aldarin dead), Loritel’s daughter and demigod under
who used the spells within the Maxim to eradicate
her mother’s ward, and Estia (NG she/her Aldarin
the remaining fae from the city. Levola’s body was
dead), a devoted paladin of Deos, were chosen as
recovered from the depths of the lake shortly after Backgrounds
flamines. The Duodecima descended to the plane
and was sent to Deveros for burial. As her body
unto their new vessels, prepared to drive back the
reached the city, processed by a parade of gold-clad
Inner Pantheon once more.
hetariae, a mournful triumph was held in her honour. Appendices
CW
The fighting over the next two decades was fierce
Levola’s untimely death was mourned heavily by the
and ruthless. Countless Aldarins fell in battle against
empire. The joyous demigod had become beloved
the forces of the Inner Planes and the Wysterwood.
throughout the land as a wise yet caring individual
Wyld operatives, minor fae-born daimon deities
whose love for her people transcended her divine
from the Wysterwood, seeped into every crack and
duties. Cromær was also recovered from the battle-
crevice of the empire, seeding confusion and distrust
field and delivered to the capital, but was later stolen
throughout the already turbulent political landscape.
by the Umbra Syndicate for reasons unknown.

107
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Not long after the Battle of Blue Hold ended did Anchor Nation
the war grind to an abrupt halt. Under Xyth’s nefar-
ious command, Estia sacrificed her sun-bound soul Expansion
to seal shut the planar border once again. Deos fled
to his demiplane, never to be seen again. The war Period: 803–884 PDS
was finally over. Notable Rulers: Empress Aurelia I, Emperor Venesti V
Aldarin was quick to summon counsel with (NG he/him Aldarin dead), Empress Iestia (CG she/
other trusted, arcane-inclined Medial nations who they Aldarin dead), Emperor Fabinus (CG he/him
had found themselves heavily impacted by the Aldarin dead)
war. Alongside these nations, the imperial magi
As implementation of the World Border went under-
spearheaded the design of the World Border with
way, Aldarin was put under immense pressure by the
assistance from Emondas and Giraré. The famous
other Anchor Nations to assist in world anchor con-
Anchor Treaty was signed and the stout alliance of
struction across the plane. Not only did the imperial
the Anchor Nations was born. It was not known how
magi pioneer the initial design for the world anchors,
long the second divine seal would hold, and so the
they were the only mages with enough insight into
clock was ticking for the world anchors to become
threading such complex glyphs of abjuration magic
operational.
together without risk of levelling the nations they
intended to protect.

108
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
The first world anchor constructed was the destruction and fire in its wake. As this was occur-
Deverosian World Anchor, situated within the ring, Julia Verikos (NG she/her [T] Ravidanian
empire itself, taking a gruelling 25 years of hard dead), a talented Ravidanian magus who had joined
Introduction
labour from the placing of the first brick to eventual Concilium Arcanus Altus to share arcane insight
completion. The construction itself put a massive across the Anchor Nations, happened to be travelling
Introduction
strain on the Aldarin economy, drawing resources northwards to visit her cousin in Helvekium. Seeing to the
from the far edges of the empire to ensure the the terrifying threat scorching its path through the Aldarin
Empire
monolithic entity was finished on time. Even with plains, Julia utilised her ember to entrap the phoenix
all the pooled resources of the empire, several thou- in a spiralling cascade of water, dowsing its intense Aldarin
sand workers died over the course of the project. flames for just long enough to cast sending for assis- Names

Hundreds of these deaths can be attributed to the tance at the world anchor. Imperial magi teleported
horrific Anchor Blaze of 821 PDS following an explo- to Julia’s location almost immediately and together, Social Classes
sion of alchemist’s fire, which was used to temper through combined use of their embers, they were
the special basalt forming the shell of the building. able to obliterate the phoenix.
By the time the structure was finally finished, the Its ashes were quickly gathered and contained Kinships in
the Empire
mood of local Deverosians had soured considerably by Concilium Arcanus Altus for study whilst the
in regards to the world anchor, with many believing nearest legion was contacted to assist in tending to
that the gargantuan obelisk of blackened basalt was the wounded. Julia was granted a military ovation Festivals
a blight upon the otherwise picturesque landscape by Emperor Venesti V upon her return to Deveros,
of the Deverosian Coast. Furthermore, the persistent something unheard of for someone outside of the
hum of the anchor eye, the condensed souls of fallen Legions, especially one from a foreign nation. This, Sports
gods responsible for powering the World Border, was however, was very much in line with what was to
triggering insomnia in those who lived nearby. This be expected from Venesti, whose reign had been
incessant hum was eventually muffled through the described as “bumbling” and “crowd-pleasing” by Religion

crude covering of the crystal in a thick layer of wool. the consensae of the era. Disinterested in the con-
Despite these modifications, the wonder of modern struction of the world anchors and planar affairs as
architecture was anything but easy on the eyes. a whole, the emperor was more concerned with the Politics

Following the completion of the Deverosian World building of gardens, parks, and hunting grounds.
Anchor, Aldarin began exporting its findings from This was born of a desire to bring a greater wealth of
Military
the construction process, adapting their designs for greenery to the settlements of Aldarin following the
the other Anchor Nations and assisting them with gloom of the Second Medial War. Grand swathes of
the troublesome construction of their own anchors. the treasury were poured into these herculean proj-
Commerce
Each anchor was modified slightly depending on ects. Extravagant amphitheatres and hippodromes
the available resources at each location, but for the were established too, providing regular entertain-
most part, these obelisk-like monoliths of condensed ment to the people. Grand games were held on a Crime and
Punishment
arcane energy remained consistent across the plane. weekly basis, further pandering to public approval.
CW
Aldarin encountered numerous issues during These acts of charity all went down well with the
the following decades whilst supporting the other masses, whose minds were focused on the past and Provinces of
Aldarin
nations. During the excavation of an ancient mine present, enjoying the escapism the festivities pro-
in southern Baldera during the spring of 838 PDS, vided. Meanwhile, the advisors to the emperor were
Periods of
intended to provide vast swathes of iron to Emondas concerned for the future of the plane, the empire, Aldarin
to assist in the construction of their world anchor, and their newfound allies. Not only was the trea- History

a bizarre discovery was made. Within a seething sury penniless, but the lack of funding towards the
sphere of dusk crystals, a cindering collective of empire’s arcane defence and military pursuits was at Classes
condensed ashes was unearthed. After smashing an all-time low. This rampant spending on bread and
apart the dusk crystal encasement against the better circuses could not come at a worse time, for a fierce
judgement of the mine’s supervisors, the horrifying war was about to spark across two separate fronts. Backgrounds

visage of a phoenix — a long-lost entity corrupted

by Meveril’s decaying soul — rose from within. All The First Renavic War
creatures in a two-kilometre radius around the mine Appendices
Towards the latter end of the 9th Century, as the
were immediately disintegrated by the phoenix’s
world anchors were completing construction, two
devastating burst of corrupted flame. This abomi-
notable politicians began to rise into the public eye.
nation of Meveril’s essence had somehow survived
The first of these was a young provincial governor, a
the cataclysm of the Dusk Shroud and was reborn
proprimus by the name of Acclesian Alventius (see
as its ashes were exposed to sunlight. Dozens of
page 111), referred to today as simply Acclesian.
villages and farms were reduced to ash as the phoenix
Acclesian was bright and tactically minded. A
rampaged across the northern empire, leaving only

109
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

politician at heart, he was strongly intertwined with from the provincial towns and nearby clanships. It
the Revitalist faction, a popularist group that sought was evident that Acclesian had been waiting for such
to bolster rights for soldiers and Deverosian citizens an event to occur, for he not only proceeded to crush
whilst increasing corn dole for the families of those the Ivericii warband in a decisive victory at the Battle
on active campaign. The second of these politicians of Fengolan’s Ford but continued to press onwards
was the notable Revitalist politician and long-time into Lovi and Ivericii territory, sparking a full-scale
rival of Acclesian, Justian Averni Julius (see page invasion of southern Jykstrav. War had begun on the
111). Justian was considered a lapdog for the empire’s northern front.
emperor, pushing for increased taxation of the public Meanwhile, along the eastern edge of the empire,
to better fund the emperor’s pet projects. Justian the Ophelian Wall had come under assault from the
and Acclesian had both served as primi during the overwhelming forces of the Yun’stran Tribes from
same term, effectively leading the empire together Menderin. Justian, who was in charge of the defence,
under the eye of the emperor. During this time, led four legions to meet with the clans in a pitched
the pair were locked in perpetual argument during battle. Despite all the odds being stacked against
Consentium assemblies, vetoing each other’s bills Justian, he was able to repel the Yun’stran back into
and preventing each other from performing their the heart of Menderin, receiving only minimal
respective duties. Their relationship was anything casualties. Hearing news of what was occurring on
but friendly. As their terms in office came to an end, the northern front, Justian wished to outshine his
the pair of proprimi were sent to opposite corners age-old rival of Acclesian. Summoning his remaining
of the empire by the Emperor Venesti V, who had six legions, the keen commander pushed forwards
grown weary of their perpetual bickering. Acclesian into Menderin with an aim to conquer new lands in
was granted governorship of Borealia for a five year the name of the emperor, wishing to dampen the vic-
term, whilst Justian was given charge of Civaci for tories he assumed Acclesian would soon be gaining.
the same period. Over a two-year period, Justian carved new territory
CW
Acclesian sought every opportunity possible to for the empire in preparations for the settling of a
claim further fame in the eyes of his countrymen, and new province. At the end of his governorship Justian
after two years of successful governorship, a chance would face disaster, however, when the clanships
to elevate himself into the lofty heights of Aldarin of the Orvuk and Celeci tribes formed together in
history was offered to him upon a gilded platter. A a last-ditch defence against the invading legions.
prolegitor by the name Secundus Renavare Odricus Out-manoeuvring the Aldarins with their horse
(CN he/they Aldarin dead), one of several under archers and earthen druids, the tribes systematically
Acclesian’s charge, was leading his legion, the Legio dismantled Justian’s settlements, pushing back his
Terra VI Borealia, on a routine exercise alongside the army in a matter of months. Justian was repelled
banks of the River Nystra — the border of the empire all the way back to the wall, losing almost half his
and the Jyksvyne Alliance. During this exercise, two forces in the retreat. He ended his governorship in
cohorts were ordered to cross the river by Odricus to shame, heading back to the imperial capital with
comb the forests along the northern banks in what his head hung low, all whilst Acclesian triumphed
was an alleged training mission. Despite protests again and again.
from Odric’s advisors, the cohorts followed through Over the next decade, the northern expansion
with his orders. Scouts from the leading cohort was seeing greater success. Acclesian, whose
quickly spotted a small number of Ivericii warriors governorship had been extended to allow for the
stationed upon a hill just north of the river, who had conquest to continue, led his legions throughout
been watching the Aldarins curiously. A detachment southern Jykstrav on two separate campaigns, allying
was sent to investigate, who were quickly set upon himself with a handful of clans whilst obliterating
by a sizable Ivericii warband of 20,000 soldiers who several others. A new province was formed from
poured out of the forests. This warband had been these conquests, Jorverica, which Acclesian assumed
moving to raid their rivals of the Lovi to the east governorship over as well. His local rule of Borealia
when their scouts had spotted Odric’s cohorts cross- was extended indefinitely to allow for completion of
ing the river. The remainder of the legion rushed the already successful campaigns. The true reason for
across the river to defend their compatriots though this extension was not out of the successes Acclesian
were eventually forced to retreat behind the walls was seeing, however, but instead out of fear. Emperor
of their fort, where they were besieged by the war- Venesti had been watching Acclesian’s popularity
band. Urgent requests for aid flew out from the fort mount with increased worry, believing that Acclesian
to all settlements within range. Acclesian, picking would eventually dethrone him as emperor. Venesti
up on the distress call, spared no time in rousing wished for Acclesian to be out of sight of the imperial
his numerous resting legions from throughout the capital for as long as possible in the hopes that he
province, and four legions were raised to his side might be slain whilst on campaign, much to the

110
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

disapproval of the Consentium. In actuality, the He had cut funding of legionarii equipment, dis-
CW
inverse was occuring. Thanks to Odric’s mishap, mantled many of the public tax reliefs put in place in
Acclesian had unknowingly been given the chance to the century prior, and disbanded numerous legions
Introduction
flex his tactical prowess, attaining swathes of military throughout the southern provinces, causing thou-
victories and increasing his public opinion across sands of legionarii to lose out on retirement benefits.
Introduction
the empire to even loftier heights. Before long, the Tensions were high between the Imperial Palace and to the
public was chanting Acclesian’s name in the streets the Consentium, with the empire held inches away Aldarin
Empire
of the capital, calling out the callous fear of Emperor from full scale rebellion by a rapidly fraying thread.
Venesti. They joked that Acclesian, a plebeian who Upon Acclesian’s victorious return from the Aldarin
had risen to the ranks of the aristocracy through hard second Jorverican campaign of 884 PDS, the eager Names

work and dedication, had done more for the empire commander established himself twenty miles
during his life than the emperor, who spent most northwards of the capital of Deveros alongside his Social Classes
of his time gardening in the Imperial Palace. These six legions. It was tradition for a victorious return-
two campaigns would be jokingly known as the ing commander, especially one who had claimed
First Renavic War, with Secundus Renavare Odricus a new province, to be granted a triumph — an Kinships in
the Empire
going down in Aldarin history as the blunderous official celebration provided by the imperial family.
commander who sparked the empire on the path Furthermore, Acclesian’s legions had served under
of civil war. him loyally for several decades and were due for Festivals
retirement, along with the sizable amount of gold and
land which came with it. Acclesian sent a message
Acclesian Civil War ahead of time to the emperor requesting the triumph, Sports
though received no reply. And so Acclesian waited.
Period: 884–892 PDS After three weeks of patience, Acclesian eventually
Notable Rulers: Emperor Fabinus, Acclesian Alventius received a response. His request for a triumph had Religion

(NG he/they Aldarin dead), Justian Averni Julius (LN been refused by the emperor. Fabinus had grown to
he/him Aldarin dead) despise Acclesian, jealous of his success, and was
terrified at what might happen should he be allowed Politics
CW
Following the aftermath of the First Renavic War, a
entry to the capital. A rebellion or even a coup were
civil conflict loomed upon the horizon. The reign of
within the realms of possibility. Furthermore, the
Emperor Venesti V had been disastrous for foreign Military
treasury was unable to award Acclesian’s legionarii
perception, broadcasting the once-tumultuous
with their retirement funds. Unbeknownst to all
nation as a weakened entity to its power-hungry
apart from the gildors of the city, the imperial cof-
neighbours. The swift assassination of his eldest Commerce
fers had been run dry. Emperor Fabinus’s rampant
child, Empress Iestia, after a mere thirteen days
spending on luxury villas and expensive magical
upon the throne, followed by the lacklustre rule of his
artefacts had bled gold like a flowing wound from Crime and
son, Emperor Fabinus, did not do much to aid this Punishment
the empire’s funds. Fabinus expected Acclesian to
deteriorating visage. The imperial family had begun
hand down his command as a loyal consensa of
to churn the economy into the throes of a depression.
the empire and to enter into the city as a private Provinces of
In these dark times, Acclesian stood ardently as a Aldarin
citizen without his triumph. Acclesian, however,
figurehead for the people. Countless Aldarin citizens
had other ideas. He delivered a rousing speech to
looked up to the man, who had risen from the ranks Periods of
his tired troops, stating resolutely how he would Aldarin
of a humble public official into the lofty heights of
stand beside them not as a commander but as an History
the Consentium as a novus nobilis, a new noble of
Aldarin citizen. That he would fight for what they
the empire. Now hailed as a public hero in the wake
were truly owed, whether it be by force or otherwise. Classes
of his recent conquest of Jorverica, Acclesian was
A famous line from this speech commonly quoted by
the centre of imperial attention. Jorverica was not
Aldarins today reads: “Let not the full-grown fields
Acclesian’s first notable conquest either. Far from
of lineage wither, nor run dry the dutiful soil which Backgrounds
it. Acclesian had claimed countless accolades under
sources countless bounties, lest all fall fallow at ye
his belt whilst serving in the Civacian legions during
feet.” indicating Fabinus’s unwillingness to fund the
his youth in the military. The apotheosis of his early
welfare of his veteran legionarii and their families. As Appendices
career was elevation into the role of legion gryphos
the speech ended, a deafening cheer rippled through
in the stead of his recently deceased commanding
the rolling hills of the province, said to reach the
legitor, even though he was only a mere midnus at
walls of the capital many miles south. With that,
the time. Acclesian stood as a pinnacle of Aldarin
Acclesian ordered his legions to tear down camp as
progression. A public figure to aspire to. Conversely,
he marched on Deveros.
Emperor Fabinus had done little to aid the Legions
In a panic, Emperor Fabinus beseeched the patri-
or the public in the decade since his appointment.
cians of the Consentium to hand over their own land

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
to appease the veterans. This only incited further eye as that of a cowering dog circling the heels of
uproar, spiralling the Consentium into a frenzy. the imperial family, blindly lashing out at any who
Many consensae fled the city, fearing for their lives. drew too close. Furthermore, he was unwilling to
The Revitalists who remained slated Acclesian as a relinquish the alerium martius granted to him by the
traitor in a vain attempt to remain loyal to the impe- Consentium, becoming the very thing he had sought
rial family, whilst the Reformists begged Fabinus to protect the empire from: a tyrant.
to cede over his own land to appease Acclesian Almost ten years after the war had begun,
and the Legions. Justian Averni Julius, Acclesian’s Acclesian had all but the Province of Deveros on
arch-nemesis in politics, stole the attention of the his side. Jorverica had been lost during this time,
consensae during this scattered assembly, stating that left under the governance of the foolish Secundus
the city was under attack by a turncoat tyrant whose Renavare Odricus, who was eventually slain after
self interests were superseding those of the empire. a shattering defeat at the hands of an invading Lovi
In his speech, Justian convinced the Consentium into warband. Despite this, Acclesian’s eyes were set
handing him alerium martius, the right of martial firmly upon the imperial capital of Deveros. Seeing
command. This act placed an elected consensa in the overwhelming odds stacked against him, Justian
full command of the empire, albeit temporarily, only lost his nerve. He fled the capital under cover of
to be used when the Consentium issued a vote of no night, alongside dozens of other Reformist patricians
confidence in the ruler to lead during a time of crisis. who feared for the worst. Justian would eventually
With this power, Justian took charge of the four take his own life, along with that of his wife and two
legions stationed within Deveros and met Acclesian daughters, upon the infamous Sunset Rock — an
in a pitched battle upon the Agrarian Hill just east of execution site for traitors and murderers — to the
Agrizzo. Acclesian’s legions held their own but were south of the Deveros Coast. In his final letter to his
eventually ordered to fall back by Acclesian’s trusted brother, Apian, Justian wrote: “Life cannot thrive in
right-hand commander, Metella Dicenus Licena these blighted lands where tyranny rises from every
(CG she/her Aldarin dead), who saw that Justian had crevice. Deos forgive me for your legacy has fallen.”
the high ground upon the hill and would soon over- Acclesian, accompanied by his legions, marched in
run them. Justian returned to the city and prepared through the gates of Deveros and occupied the city.
fortifications, sending missives to his contacts across Upon the sheer marble stairs to the Consentium, he
the empire in an effort to raise additional legions and gave a vitriolic speech denouncing Emperor Fabinus
to bring them to Deveros at once. for his leeching of wealth from the masses into the
Acclesian retreated north to Borealia where he pockets of the patricians. From here, Acclesian and
was still governor, calling the provincial legions of his legions, accompanied by multitudes of Aldarin
Caerula to his side along the way, and began writing citizens, stormed the Imperial Palace where Emperor
letters to his own far-flung allies. After six months, Fabinus was hiding. The hetariae betrayed Fabinus,
he had raised an additional eight legions as well as opening up the gate of The Amethyst Acre for
several mercenary armies from Fyndar, whom he Acclesian to pass through. The emperor, who had
had formed strong connections with during his time failed to poison himself with hemlock, was forced
warring in Jykstrav. Three additional legions soon to sit upon the floor of the palace at the base of
defected over from Justian, fearful for the outcome his throne, upon which Acclesian placed an olive
of their own retirement. In letters to his mother, branch and a sword — representing the free people
Acclesian writes: “My hand has been forced, mater. of Aldarin. A lengthy scripture was drafted called the
I seek peace within the pastures of my homeland, Volumen Libertatum or The Scroll of Freedom, which
freedom for the plebes who fight and die for her — Fabinus was forced to sign, officially handing over
yet how can there be peace amongst our kinsfolk the right of rule to the people of the empire. Whilst
when corruption puppets the strings.” this had been a long time coming, with the influence
Over the next decade — a tumultuous period of of the imperial family somewhat waning over the
history warranting its own annals — brutal battles past two centuries in favour of a Consentium-driven
waged between the two kinsfolk saw Acclesian governance, it was a refreshing change for the masses.
gaining a greater foothold across the empire, with The signing of the Volumen Libertatum brought
settlements welcoming the wayward gryphos with in numerous additional laws and rights for those
open arms. Justian, in contrast, was vastly less living in the provinces of the empire, most notably
experienced a commander to Acclesian, prone to the expansion of Aldarin citizenship to hundreds of
fits of rage and endless ramblings. Public opinion of thousands of provincial citizens outside of the
the man had soured even further over the final years Province of Deveros — a topic which had almost
of his leadership due to his marriage to Emperor sparked its own war several decades prior. The
Fabinus’s cousin, tying him even closer to a decaying Volumen Libertatum was copied numerous times
imperial rule. Justian was perceived in the public and sent to all major settlements across the empire

112
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

CW
where rampant celebration ensued. From this point The Gilded Period Commerce
onwards, the empire was no longer ruled by one
person but many. It had evolved from a stagnating Period: 893–985 PDS
empire into a radiant republic, dead-set upon Notable Rulers: Primus Iliandra Alventius Aldarus (NG Crime and
Punishment
making the most of their newfound freedom. Due to she/her Aldarin dead), Primus Marvello Hastellian
the lingering presence of the imperial family as Julius (CN he/him Aldarin dead), Primus Gisella
symbolic rulers and their vital importance in the Helios Jykstravica (LG she/her Aldarin dead), Empress Provinces of
Aldarin
lineage of Deos, the empire retained its name as Iliandra II (NG she/her Aldarin dead)
such for now.
As the dust clouds of civil war began to settle upon Periods of
Aldarin
the realm of Aldarin, a new vibrant era of prosperity History
Acclesian After the War sprouted anew. Growth started slowly at first, the
Many had feared that Acclesian would snatch new structure of republican governance taking time
Classes
the throne for himself following the civil to find its feet, but before long the Aldarins were
war. The world-weary commander had no accelerating industrial production and military
desire to do so, however. He instead sought
activity. Lucrative trade links were established with
retirement shortly after the revolution, Backgrounds
purchasing a vineyard in western Caerula
Ravidan and Sel’Kildar, fastidiously operated by the
where he lived out the rest of his days in Laos patrician family whose mercantile network had
relative peace. That was aside from when he singlehandedly supported the backbone of Aldarin Appendices
was called back to action by the Consentium commerce for well over two centuries. Cities and
to command half a dozen legions against an towns rapidly expanded as an economic boom struck
invading warband from Menderin. Acclesian the nation. Advanced new infrastructure was laid
performed this task dutifully at the ripe down, bolstering trade and connectivity even further.
age of 82 before returning to his vineyard Whilst the economy was thriving, so too were
following his final successful campaign as a
the Legions. It was during this time that Aldarin’s
legionary gryphos.
military began to see heightened activity too, not

113
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

only along the historically troublesome northern at their camp before nightfall. Additionally, they had
and eastern borders, but also abroad in both Lildor no visibility on the slowly encroaching warband until
CW
and Jordveil Isle. Swathes of naval legions had begun it was too late. All four legions were destroyed over a
to dominate the western shores of Elos, disrupting gruelling two-day slaughter, known as the infamous
Jyrden transport into Jordveil, who wished to claim Battle of Raeokbor Creek.
independence from the archaic Jyksvyne Alliance. This warband, which was heading westwards to
Lildor too, a sizable region of land to the western wage war against the clanship of the Ivericii, belonged
edge of Jykstrav, sought freedom from the grasp to the infamous Lovi clan, a fierce Jyrden tribe whose
of the fragile alliance, and so with the assistance of relations with the Aldarins posed them as nothing
Emondisian and Zygardian magi, Aldarin was able short of despised villains. The Lovi had historically
to assist these Jyrden nations in independence. This executed all who dared associate themselves with the
was not necessarily done out of charity, however. empire, hanging these alleged traitors from the trees
Aldarin had been seeking to gain a foothold along of the Nobristra Forest at the edge of their territory
the length of the western coast for many centuries. as a warning. The warchief of this army, Bucellia
With their legions now stationed as supporting Oloyvn (NG she/her Jyrden dead), believed that
armies in both these countries for the foreseeable more legions were enroute to occupy the southern
future, they had achieved their goal, with control clanships. Within two weeks, she had rallied another
only growing stronger as relations improved. Whilst 80,000 loyal warriors from the surrounding settle-
all was well with foreign affairs, there was unfinished ments. Her ever-growing warband crossed the River
business to be dealt with much closer to home. Nystra, the head of Didella poised high upon a spear,
sparking what is known as the Second Renavic War.
The Second Renavic War Settlements were pillaged indiscriminately as
the sparsely scattered provincial legions who had
Having become thrown onto the back foot during
been left behind to defend the province scrabbled
the civil war, with a handful of the more auspicious
to defend their forts. Aldarus, catching word of
southern Jyrden clans invading and occupying the
what was occuring, reversed her legions back to the
northernmost lands of Baldera and Borealia during
river as fast as she could, where they prepared to
this time, the empire sought to reclaim what was
cross. During this crossing, they were set upon by a
theirs. The praesides ultimum of Borealia and great
second warband who had been waiting for them in
granddaughter of Acclesian, Proprimus Iliandra
the swampland nearby. Aldarus had sourced intel
Alventius Aldarus, issued an order for all provincial
from her gryphon-bound scouting parties about
legions to join her at the edge of the River Nystra. She
this second warband, however, luring them into a
was met by twelve battle-hardened legions: ten land
deadly trap laid by a collective of imperial magi.
and two aerial.
As the warband went to cut off the legions, over
Four such legions were led by Prolegitor Petulia
two hundred water elementals rose from the river,
Renavare Didella, the granddaughter of the
wreaking havoc throughout the warband’s lines
infamous legion commander Secundus Renavare
and triggering a panicked rout within a matter of
Odricus (see page 110) who had instigated the
hours. This became known as the decisive Battle of
First Renavic War just over 80 years prior. Seeking
Fengolan’s Ford.
to reclaim the honour of her family, Didella was
With one warband eliminated, Aldarus gathered
the first to command her legions across the River
her weary legions and headed south, encamping at
Nystra, massacring Jyrden warriors with reckless
the city of Novistrum along the cusp of the Verliaine
abandon. As the other legions swept out behind her,
Valley. From here, Aldarus commanded Aldarin
storming settlements and burning hill forts, Didella
movements over the course of the next year. The
pressed northwards into the land that had once been
keen-minded gryphos systematically began to dis-
the province of Jorverica. The land that her great
mantle Lovi hill forts throughout the winter months,
grandfather had foolishly lost. Against direct orders
a time when the Lovi felt they were safest holed up
from Aldarus, the hot-headed sancte split from the
behind their defences. She simultaneously repelled
main army, enroute to establish a foothold within the
further invading clans who sought to aid the Lovi
old provincial capital of Duovericum. This brazen
back across the river. Numerous skirmishes were
idea of conquest did not go to plan, however. Didella
fought with almost all falling to Aldarin victory.
and her four legions were caught off-guard whilst
As the second year of the war came into Spring’s
on the march through the bog-ridden swamplands
Dawn, a final push was made from Aldarus’s legions.
of the Livealio Valley by a colossal Jyrden warband
She was accompanied by eight Caerulian legions
totalling 50,000 warriors and 600 mammoth riders.
led by notable popularist politician Legitor Junipus
Due to a fierce blizzard which had swept during the
Laos Licillia (NG he/they [NB] Aldarin dead).
night, the legions were unable to fully set up defences
Junipus had been aiding Aldarus to the best of his

114
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

ability, actively raising legions from throughout the The Aldarins were naturally the first to weaponise
local province during the months of winter and the crystals, attaching them to the bolts of multi-shot
early spring, all whilst preventing the pillaging from ballistae and imbuing them with various tracking
Introduction
seeping into his home province of Caerula. The two spells. These fearsome siege weapons became known
respected military commanders would later marry as prometheans and were rapidly produced and
Introduction
after the war, having grown close during their time mounted onto every ship and city wall throughout to the
working together, and retire to Junipus’s sizable villa the empire. The imperial magi also discovered that, Aldarin
Empire
in southern Caerula. when ground into a fine powder and mixed with
CW
As the two leaders coordinated their legions sulphur, these crystals could propel projectiles at Aldarin
effectively throughout the following year, the final blinding speeds. They had unearthed a form of Names

Lovi hill fort south of the River Nystra fell in the unstable gunpowder, similar to the rudimentary
monumental Battle of Gyvileae, where a surrounded Panthéan black powder, though one which could be Social Classes
Bucellia fought bravely to the death upon the back imbued with spells to craft elemental shot.
of her war mammoth. The Lovi leader’s head was Alongside inventors from Zygarde, Giraré, and
presented to the Consentium not three weeks later Emondas, multitudes of dusk engines were born, Kinships in
the Empire
by Aldarus and Junipus as they entered Deveros originating from early Ravidanian designs. Whilst
with a joint triumph, hailed as the reclaimers of Giraré sought to propel flying vessels with this tech-
Borealia. Aldarus would return the next summer nology, known as airships, Aldarin and Zygarde took Festivals
to lead another successful campaign against the these inventions to land. Dusk trains saw the light of
Lovi in their own territory, dismantling a number day, capable of shifting enormous amounts of cargo
of settlements and executing several local leaders as and people at once. Next came the Divestus engine, Sports
a show of superiority. War hostages were taken in a used within Aldarin to rapidly propel movement
peace agreement with the Lovi, though they would of light coastal craft, with plans to develop greater
never forgive the Aldarins for what they did. Almost variants for larger ships. As more and more uses for Religion

as quickly as it had started, the Second Renavic War dusk crystals come to fruition, the Dusk Revolution
ended. The war earned its name through Didella’s continues to sweep the empire to the present day.
overconfidence, with the Renavare family falling Politics

further unto the dark side of Aldarin history. Despite The Third Renavic War
future wars with Jykstrav having nothing to do with
Whilst these technological advances had begun to Military
the Renavare family, they would all bear the family
propel the empire to new heights, war still lingered
name as a mark of lingering shame. In a letter to her
upon its borders. The newly formed nation of
cousin, Didella’s daughter wrote: “Cursed as Ivora
Jykstrav, born of the old Jyksvyne Alliance, had set- Commerce
was to fall, Deos’s rays cast shadows upon our home.”
tled into a state of relative peace as the 10th Century
came to a close. Whilst the clanships had operated
Crime and
The Dusk Revolution under the term of “Jykstrav” previously to indicate
the general geographic area north of Aldarin, it had
Punishment

now solidified into a true government. This new

Period: 986–1029 PDS (Present Day) Provinces of
overarching order, called the Gathering of the Many, Aldarin
Notable Rulers: Primus Lucullus Cicero Caesar (CG he/
held a firm grasp over the actions of the clanships
him Aldarin dead), Primus Caesar Helios Aldarus (see
with raids along the border into Aldarin becoming Periods of
page 64), Primus Helgaria Astentium Menderica (see Aldarin
less frequent as a result of improved diplomatic History
page 64), Empress Iliandra III (see page 57)
relations. A rare semblance of unity formed between
Aldarin’s progressive golden age has yet to end. A Jyrden and Aldarin border settlements, whose
Classes
sizable boom of dusk-born technology towards residents had become sick of the perpetual toing
the tail end of the 10th Century had thrown the and froing. Despite this mutual peace between local
empire into an industrious new era. The Girarén citizens of both nations, Aldarin once again found Backgrounds
magi of the Spiral Queens and fellow members of itself at loggerheads with its age-old rival.
the Anchor Nations had been delving into the use of Stories of how the war started vary from account
dusk crystals — remnants of phoenix souls coalesced to account, but the general tale is as follows: A band Appendices
into dense dusk magic over many millennia. It was of Aldarin mercyrs from the fledgling guild of Kari’s
eventually discovered that with precise applications Initiative had travelled to the Jykstrav-sided town of
of evocation magic, these dusk crystals could be trig- Kist Ver’haal to complete a lycan hunting contract.
gered to explode, causing a surge of energy. Before Some drunken altercation arose over incorrect
long, this information had spread throughout the payment for the stabling of horses at the local tavern,
Anchor Nations, becoming integrated into new and leading to a brawl and the eventual death of the mer-
exciting technologies. cyrs at the hand of the town guard. The Consentium
quickly caught wind of what had happened, issuing

115
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

a demand for reparations for the wrongful death of Regardless, Aldarin found itself with no choice but
Aldarin citizens. In reply, the Gathering of the Many to settle for peace with Jykstrav, signing the Nystran
sent a single copper piece. Treaty along the banks of the River Nystra. For a
CW
Heated debates passed between the Revitalist and while, the empire was at peace, able to focus on
Reformist politicians during Consentium assem- its commercial and industrial ventures instead of
blies for months following this act of blatant scorn. handling the tricky politics of its unruly neighbours.
Eventually, a cohort of legionarii were ordered across
the border to Kist Ver’haal by Primus Helgaria
Astentium Menderica, putting to death five of the
Fall of the Deverosian
town guards in blood payment for the five dead World Anchor
mercyrs. A week later, two dozen separate Jyrden
For many centuries, the World Border had stood as a
warbands were spotted by legionary forts spanning
defining arcane legacy of Medial brilliance. Despite
the length of the River Nystra. Before they could call
its controversial nature due to the limitation of
for reinforcements, the warbands crossed the river
interplanar travel it had enacted, the World Border
and began pillaging Borealia. This time, however,
had done its job in keeping the Inner Pantheon from
they were coordinated. Organised. Cohesively work-
invading once more. That was until 1027 PDS where
ing together to combat the responding provincial
cracks in the design of the border’s old abjuration
legions. Northwatch, the capital of Borealia, fell two
magic would begin to show. Through a flaw in the
weeks later as the province was cast into disarray.
initial design of the world anchors, there was a small
Multiple attempts were made over the course of
gap in the World Border which had gone unnoticed
the year to reclaim the northern realm, with legions
for the duration of its life cycle. A gap so minute that
pulled from Caerula, Deveros, and Nivinea to assist.
no entity could possibly hope to squeeze through it.
All ended in failure. It took two years, with help from
A spell, on the other hand, could.
the allied nations of Lildor and Jordveil, to finally
This crack was discovered by scouts of Verhlm, a
reclaim Northwatch. This culminated in a historic
demonic empire of the Inner Fire Plane which had
naval battle, known as the Battle of Yvernin, fought
taken over the land of the fireborn Skorbrak along-
during a blistering blizzard with next-to-no visibility.
side numerous Wyld nations the past two centuries.
Under the guise of the blizzard, the Aldarins were
These scouts reported this crack in secret to their
able to slip a number of ships through Northwatch’s
commander, who in turn spoke with the demonic
naval defences disguised as Jyrden trade vessels and
emperor of Verhlm, one of the demon princes of the
set fire to the Jyrden fleet from within.
Lesser Key: Luthor, Lord of Corruption. Keeping
CW
Following the betrayal of a number of Umbra
this information to the Verhlm, Luthor began to
Syndicate nests into Jyrden bribery, known infa-
orchestrate his own invasion of the Medial Plane,
mously as the Night of the Red Ivora, whereupon
wishing to secure a landfall and to destroy the Elosian
several dozen consensae and publi were assassinated,
Emberkilns of Deveros where the previous flamines
the Aldarins had finally had enough. The Aldarin
of Deos had risen before. His belief was that with
naval legions supported their aerial and land coun-
these Emberkilns destroyed, the Medial Pantheon
terparts in a push northwards, pressing the warbands
would struggle to gather a defence before becoming
back across the border and deep into Jyrden terri-
overrun, and any seals they might attempt would not
tory. A defence was held but swiftly defeated at the
be possible due to no flamines being chosen. And
Battle of the Two Valleys in 999 PDS. The southern
so Luthor and his kin did what they do best. They
lands, known by the Aldarins as the old province
sowed corruption.
of Jorverica, were salted and burned. Kist Ver’haal
Demonic infiltrators slipped through the tiny
was razed to the ground, alongside countless other
planar crack with the use of altered teleportation
settlements, its inhabitants put to the sword.
magic, landing them directly in the heart of the
CW
The Gathering of the Many was eventually forced
Aldarin Empire. Politicians were executed by hired
into signing a peace treaty by the Aldarins, who
devil assassins, who then assumed the guise of these
themselves were pushed into drafting this agreement
leaders and continued on with their lives, slowly
by the other Anchor Nations. Many of the Anchor
seeding the roots of decay into the political order.
Nations disapproved of the overly violent retaliation
As the year of 1027 PDS came around, upon the eve
conducted by the Aldarins against Jysktrav, seeking
of the Sovinvale Festival, all the dominoes had been
to bring a swift end to the conflict. The irony of this
set to fall. A meteor shower was cast through the
request was laudable, for the Emondisians readily
planar gap, first striking awe into the celebrating
enacted genocide against their neighbours in Fyndar,
Deverosians which quickly devolved into panic as
and the Ebyr’sol of the Qutharian Empire had been
the Deverosian World Anchor was struck by the
executing a blood-soaked religious inquisition
cascading, fiery rocks.
of its lands for the better part of the last century.

116
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
As the world anchor crumbled, its crystal destroyed, remained were slain at the hands of the Anchor
a sizable tear shredded through the World Border. Nations. Over the course of the next month, the
Within moments, planar gates began to appear world anchor was rebuilt up through the tactical
Introduction
throughout the streets of the city. Demonic forces, use of embers and magic by the three Elosian Anchor
who had been waiting on the other side, charged Nation collectives whilst supported by their distant
Introduction
through led by Luthor himself, indiscriminately allies on other continents. Emperor Loxis III rose to to the
slaughtering all in their path. Taken by surprise during the throne, vowing to carry on his mother’s legacy Aldarin
Empire
a time of peace, the city was wholly unprepared. The as a much-beloved and respected symbol of Aldarin
city’s three legions swarmed to the Prisada Arcana to pride. The World Border was soon reformed and the Aldarin
rescue magi trapped within the rubble of the world crack in the planar membrane was quickly discov- Names

anchor as Prince Loxis III assembled what few legion- ered and dealt with. The Medial Plane was once again
arii gryphones he could find, mounting a precarious safe from exterior threats. Social Classes
defence of the district. Night fell upon Deveros as
flames illuminated the landscape. Thousands were The Fourth Renavic War
slaughtered by the minute, and those who remained Kinships in
Still ongoing in the current year of 1029 PDS, the the Empire
clambered behind the interior walls of the Prisada
Fourth Renavic War is where the Aldarin Empire
Arcana, defended by the remaining legions and a
currently finds itself. For the last thirty years, rela-
handful of mercyr guilds. As countless lay dead upon Festivals
tions with Jykstrav have been tenuous at best. Minor
the streets, the capital all but fallen, Empress Iliandra
incursions along the border have threatened war on
III stepped into a secluded corner the Anchor Plaza,
several occasions; however, the ever-present pressure
sending a quiet prayer to Deos in a plea to save her Sports
of peace pressed upon a handful of non-involved
people. Her ember flared with divine radiance as her
Anchor Nations has kept Aldarin tempers under
form became wreathed in intense white flame, her
control. The intermingling of cultures was a nota-
pure soul burning bright, illuminating the district. As Religion
ble aid to the peace as well, with large collectives
Iliandra’s soul was consumed, the souls of each and
of Jyrden moving to live within the empire and
every fallen Aldarin across the city returned to their
commercial-invested Aldarin socialites moving to
body as a mass resurrection, the likes of which had Politics
Jykstrav’s capital of Val’dyrak. This manufactured
never been seen before, took place.
peace was unfortunately not set to last.
As the dead rose from the ground, Prince Loxis
Still resentful at the loss of the Jorverican province Military
III flared his own ember, summoning forth spectral
many centuries ago, an area which holds great com-
figures of Aldarin legionarii who rose alongside
mercial interest to the empire, the Aldarins prepared
them. Invigorated by their empress’s sacrifice
for invasion. As the campaigning season began upon Commerce
and their now-bolstered numbers, the exhausted
1028 PDS, fifteen Aldarin legions crossed into Jykstrav,
legions pushed through the streets in a historic
led by the hot-headed Emperor Loxis III who had
battle known as the Battle of Sovinvale Night. As Crime and
outright ignored Consentium ruling which forbade Punishment
this push began, the legions were met with further
the imperial family leading an army. These legions,
surprise, as cracks of magic tore through the night.
eager to regain the historic province of the famed
Their Elosian Anchor Nation allies had arrived, Provinces of
Acclesian, swiftly reached Duovericum and began to Aldarin
teleporting in across the expansive rooftops of the
lay siege. The operation was coordinated flawlessly
city. The Gilded Hand of Emondas and the Scholars
alongside the fearsome skaaldblud navy of Jordveil Periods of
of the Third Flame of Zygarde, two of the powerful Aldarin
Isle, who assisted the Aldarins in securing naval
mage collectives on the continent, summoned History
supply lines whilst simultaneously blocking Jyrden
forth wreaths of ice and snow which battered the
fleets from crossing southwards.
demonic armies, driving them back through their Classes
To this day, the siege of Duovericum continues,
planar gates. The immense form of the ancient brass
a double-sided wall formed around both the city
dragon, Pel’thadrak, led skyfarer forces alongside
and the legionary camps protecting the legions from
Aldarin legionarii gryphones in a defining moment Backgrounds
both internal and external attacks. Numerous other
of unity between Zygarde and Aldarin. One which
legions have splintered from the central siege to
would never be forgotten.
claim strategic locations within old Jorverica and to
As swiftly as it had started, the Battle of Sovinvale Appendices
secure supply routes to the sea. These detachments
Night ended. Luthor, who had taken residence in the
are constantly skirmishing with Jyrden warbands,
Imperial Palace, was slain by Pel’thadrak after being
abetted by their mammoth riders, who move to delay
dropped from high above the city. His hulking form
the Aldarin’s progress whilst the Gathering of the
fell onto the tip of the Sunspear, a monumental spear
Many slowly assembles her armies. With the second
belonging to Deos which rested upon the southern
year of the war looming, both nations are gearing
banks of the River Ivora. With Luthor’s defeat, the
towards a gruelling, bloodsoaked summer.
remaining Verhlmic forces retreated. Those who

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Classes
Instrument Summoning
College of Five 3rd-level College of Five feature

Bardic College As an action, you may summon the spectral form of

any one of the five instruments from the Instrument
Aldarin has a long history of theatre and music
Table. Summoned instruments last for 10 minutes
stemming back to the Dalaskian Kingdom. The
and you may not have more than one instrument
College of Five is the culmination of Aldarin’s musi-
summoned at a time.
cal prowess, introducing the five major instruments
When you play one of these instruments to give
of the empire’s most famous bards: the lute, the lyre,
Bardic Inspiration, the target gains additional bene-
the tibia, the timpani, and the cornu. Those taught
fits based on the instrument played when using their
under the College of Five learn to summon spectral
bardic inspiration die.
instruments which may be used to sway the flow
You may use this feature a number of times equal
of a crowd — or opponents on a battlefield, should
to your proficiency bonus. You regain all uses of this
it come to it.
feature after finishing a long rest.
Bonus Proficiencies
Instrument Table
3rd-level College of Five feature
Instrument Effect
You gain proficiency in performance and in the
Lute The creature heals hit points equal to
following instruments: the lute, the lyre, the tibia, the value rolled on the inspiration die.
the timpani, and the cornu. If you already have
Lyre The creature’s speed increases by 10
proficiency in performance, you may choose any feet until the end of their next turn.
other skill to gain proficiency in instead.
Timpani The creature’s weapon attacks deal
additional fire damage equal to your
proficiency bonus until the end of their
next turn.
Tibia The creature’s cantrips with a range of
30 feet or greater increase in range by
an additional 30 feet until the end of
their next turn.
Cornu The creature is immune to the
frightened condition until the end of
their next turn. If the creature is under
the effects of a condition causing them
to be frightened, they may repeat their
saving throw to resist the effect.

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Evoking Melodies
6th-level College of Five feature
Domain Spells
When wielding a summoned instrument from the Cleric Introduction
Instrument Table, you gain access to a unique cantrip Level Spells
and spell based on the instrument. 1st charm person, sleep Introduction
to the
Evoking Melodies 3rd lesser restoration, calm emotions Aldarin
Empire
Instrument Spells 5th dispel magic, hypnotic pattern
7th dominate beast, compulsion Aldarin
Lute sol’s sunray, celebrate Names
Lyre prestidigitation, misty step 9th greater restoration, modify memory
Timpani firebolt, burning hands Bonus Proficiency Social Classes
Tibia chill touch, phantom limb 1st-level Emotion Domain feature
Cornu message, magic mouth When you choose this domain at 1st level, you gain Kinships in
The non-cantrip spell is cast at 3rd-level. You may proficiency in the persuasion, insight or deception the Empire
cast the non-cantrip once without expending a spell skill (your choice).
slot. Once you have cast this non-cantrip spell, you
Share Burden Festivals
may not cast any more non-cantrip spells from this
1st-level Emotion Domain feature
feature until you finish a long rest.
Spells belonging to this feature are cast as a You meld your mind with that of another, sharing
Sports
4th-level spell at 10th level in this class, a 5th-level in their pains and lightening their burdens. As an
spell at 14th level, and a 6th-level spell at 18th level. action, you may choose any willing creature within
30 feet of you that you can see. Choose one condition
Performance of the Five Religion
that is currently affecting the target creature from the
14th-level College of Five feature
following: Blinded, Charmed, Deafened, Frightened,
As an action, you summon all five spectral instru- Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Restrained, Stunned. Politics
ments from the Instrument Table and enact a That condition is transferred to you
fantastical performance. Select up to five creatures and ends on the target creature.
who can hear your performance within 60 feet of If the condition is caused Military
you. Each creature gains the benefits of the five by a spell or ability, you
summoned instruments, each rolling a separate die are treated as the target
equivalent to your bardic inspiration die for the lute. instead. When you Commerce
These instruments last for 10 minutes and float in an use this ability,
arc around you. you may imme-
Crime and
Once you use this feature, you cannot use it again diately make a Punishment
until you have finished a long rest.
Provinces of
Aldarin
CW
Emotion Domain
Periods of
Cleric Domain Aldarin
History
The common Aldarin is no stranger to masked
theatre, though cultists who follow the Emotion
Classes
domain are a unique oddity of Aldarin’s theatrical
circles. These clerics may don clay theatre masks
which incite extraordinary emotional reactions from Backgrounds
those around them. They may push overwhelming
feelings of sorrow or anger onto foes, or encourage
their allies with spirited sensations. To those who are Appendices
suffering, they may share in the burdens of their pain
and let all emotion flow freely.

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

saving throw, if applicable, to end the condition. may attempt to succeed on a Charisma saving throw
If there is no viable saving throw against the spell, to resist the emotion.
ability, or condition, no saving throw is made and You can use this feature a number of times equal to
you retain the condition. your proficiency bonus. You regain all expended uses
You may additionally use this ability to transfer of this feature when you finish a long rest.
up to two exhaustion points from another creature Upon reaching 10th level, when using this feature
within 30 feet of you onto yourself. When you finish you may instead expend a spell slot of 3rd-level or
a long rest, you may expend a use of this ability to higher to apply the effects of greater restoration.
remove two exhaustion points instead of one.
Potent Spellcasting
You can use this feature a number of times equal to
8th-level Emotion Domain feature
your proficiency bonus. You regain all expended uses
of this feature when you finish a long rest. Starting at 8th level, you add your Wisdom modifier
to the damage you deal with any cleric cantrip.
CW
Channel Divinity: Overwhelm Emotion
2nd-level Emotion Domain feature Intense Feelings
17th-level Emotion Domain feature
You may use your Channel Divinity to make others
around you become overwhelmed with emotion. The effects of your Overwhelm Emotion increase
As an action, you present your holy symbol and in potency with each emotion coalescing into an
recall experiences of your past which summon forth intense manifestation of themselves. At the start
powerful feelings of deep, lingering emotion. Each of your next turn following the use of Overwhelm
creature of your choice that can see you within 30 Emotion, the emotions evolve into their heightened
feet of you must succeed on a Charisma saving throw form. While in their heightened form, the original
or become filled with intense emotion for 1 minute. effects still apply unless otherwise stated.
The creature may repeat their saving throw at the
Heightened Emotion Table
end of its turns to end the effect. A creature who
is willing automatically fails its saving throw. You Base Heightened
Emotion Emotion Effect
choose the emotion upon use of this ability from the
Emotion Table. Sadness Depression The creature’s
movement speed
Emotion Table decreases by an
Emotion Effect additional 10 feet.

Sadness The creature’s movement speed is Anger Fury The emotion no longer
reduced by 10 feet. ends after making
a successful attack,
Anger The creature uses its turn to move to instead ending at the
the nearest creature and attack it. Once end of the turn after a
the creature has made a successful successful attack has
attack, this emotion immediately ends been made.
on the creature.
Joy Elation The creature’s
Joy The creature’s movement speed movement speed
increases by 10 feet. increases by an
Fear The creature becomes frightened additional 10 feet.
of you. Fear Terror While the creature has
Disgust The creature makes attack rolls with a sight of you, it takes
−2 penalty. 2d4 psychic damage
at the start of each of
Nervousness The creature gains advantage on its turns.
Wisdom (Perception) and Intelligence
(Investigation) checks. Disgust Revulsion Instead of taking a −2
penalty, the creature
Foster Hope makes attack rolls with
6th-level Emotion Domain feature disadvantage.
Nervousness Anxiety The creature cannot
When you cast a healing spell on a creature, you may be caught by surprise
additionally apply the effects of the lesser restoration and gains advantage
spell on the creature at the same time for free. When on Dexterity
you do so, you may additionally apply the effect of an saving throws.
emotion from the Emotion Table onto them, which
lasts for 1d4 rounds. If the creature is unwilling, it

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Bonus Proficiency
1st-level Revelry Domain feature

When you choose this domain at 1st level, you gain Introduction
proficiency in Charisma (Performance), brewer’s
supplies, and one musical instrument of your choice. Introduction
to the
Infuse The Booze Aldarin
Empire
1st-level Revelry Domain feature
Aldarin
You are able to imbue your spells into drinks, Names
forming potent cocktails of arcane booze. When
casting a spell of 1st-level or higher with a casting
time of an action or bonus action, you may instead Social Classes

choose to imbue it into a drink you are holding.

Any creature who uses their action to consume the Kinships in
drink immediately casts the spell as if they had cast the Empire
it, replacing their spellcasting modifier and spell
save DC with your own. After doing so, they must
Festivals
make a Constitution saving throw of DC 10 +
the spell’s level. On a failed saving throw, they
become magically drunk until the end of their
Sports
next turn. The spell remains infused in the drink
for 8 hours, after which it becomes inert. A drink
cannot contain more than one spell. Religion
You can use this feature a number of times equal
to your proficiency bonus. You regain all expended
uses of this feature when you finish a long rest. Politics

CW
Condition: Drunk Military
A drunk creature suffers from the
following effects:
• Disadvantage on ability checks which Commerce
require sight or precise movement, such
as lockpicking, catching objects, or playing
Revelry Domain an instrument. Crime and
• Advantage on ability checks to interact Punishment
Cleric Domain socially with other creatures.
Whether it be wine, ale, or spirits, the Aldarins know • A drunk creature moving more than half Provinces of
their movement speed must succeed a DC Aldarin
how to drink themselves under the table. Tabernae 13 Dexterity saving throw or fall prone.
serve booze on every street corner and wine is drunk • Attack rolls against a drunk creature receive Periods of
with every meal, without fail. That is why, when a a +2 bonus, and attack rolls made by a drunk Aldarin
cultist of the Revelry domain steps into town, small creature receive a −2 bonus. History

time celebrations break out into raucous cheer. These

clerics may mix potent spells into their brews, pass- Classes
ing them around for all to try, or may cause those
around them to erupt into a drunken stupor without Channel Divinity: Celebration
even having to touch a cup to their mouth. 2nd-level Revelry Domain feature Backgrounds

Domain Spells You may use your Channel Divinity to make others
Cleric around you revel. As an action, you present your holy Appendices
Level Spells symbol and call tidings of mirth and merriment.
1st water to wine, celebrate Each creature of your choice that can hear you and
understands you within 30 feet must succeed on a
3rd lesser restoration, magic mouth
Charisma saving throw or become magically drunk
5th haste, create food and water until the end of your next turn.
7th freedom of movement, compulsion
9th greater restoration, animate objects

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Heart of the Party Gryphon Rider

6th-level Revelry Domain feature
Fighter Subclass
You begin to dance, inspiring others to join you in
Gryphons stream throughout the skies of the Aldarin
revelry and song. As your action, you may begin an
Empire, delivering important messages and carrying
unhinged, chaotic dance which strikes fear into the
heavily armoured legionarii into battle. Whatever
hearts of your foes and spreads joy to your allies. A
one’s reason is for taking up the companionship
creature that you can see within 30 feet must succeed
of a gryphon, they are certain to have a stalwart
on a Charisma saving throw or become frightened
friend by their side for the rest of their life. Gryphon
of you for the next minute. As long as you use your
riders rear a young gryphon from birth, training
bonus action to continue dancing on your consec-
alongside it until it becomes an adult. Swooping in
utive turns, the creature remains frightened of you.
to strike foes from above or carrying allies to safety, a
If you fail to continue the dance on your turn, the
gryphon rider and their feathered friend are reliable
creature may repeat their saving throw at the start
companions in any scenario.
of their next turn.
CW
In addition, when you start a dance, any allied Gryphon Companion
creature that can see you within 30 feet can use 3rd-level Gryphon Rider feature
their reaction to join the dance, targeting a differ-
When you take this archetype at 3rd level, you form
ent creature from the one you targeted within 30
a strong magical bond with a gryphon. This gryphon
feet of them. The target creature must succeed on
uses the juvenile gryphon stat block and follows you
a Charisma saving throw against your DC as well
loyally on your adventures as you train it.
or become frightened of the allied creature for the
Creating Your Gryphon. To create your gryphon
next minute. The allied creature’s dance follows the
companion, you will modify the juvenile gryphon
same rules as your dance. If you stop dancing for any
stat block below. You may allocate up to 12 additional
reason, allied creatures may not continue their dance
ability score points between the gryphon’s Strength,
until you start dancing again.
Dexterity, Constitution, Charisma, and Wisdom
You can use this feature a number of times equal
ability scores, adjusting the gryphon’s maximum
to your Wisdom modifier (minimum of once). You
hitpoints, attacks, damage, and skills accordingly. An
regain all expended uses when you finish a long rest.
ability score cannot be increased above 15 in this
Divine Strike way. The gryphon gains two skill proficiencies from
8th-level Revelry Domain feature the following list: Acrobatics, Athletics, Insight,
Intimidation, Perception, Performance, Stealth,
At 8th level, you gain the ability to infuse your
Survival. The gryphon’s proficiency bonus is equal to
weapon strikes with divine energy. Once on each of
your proficiency bonus.
your turns when you hit a creature with a weapon
attack, you can cause the attack to deal an extra 1d8
poison damage to the target. When you reach 14th
level, the extra damage increases to 2d8. Juvenile Gryphon
Small monstrosity, unaligned
Drunken Stupor
17th-level Revelry Domain feature Armor Class 9
The effects of your Celebration feature last for 1 Hit Points 16 (3d10)
Speed 30ft.
minute and it now affects creatures who are not
able to understand you. Affected creatures are able
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
to repeat their saving throw to end the effect at the 8 (−1) 8 (−1) 8 (−1) 2 (−4) 8 (−1) 8 (−1)
end of each of your turns following the turn the
feature was used. Skills Chosen Skill One, Chosen Skill Two
Additionally, when you use your Divine Strike Senses Darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 9
Languages —
on a drunk creature, you deal an additional 1d8
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP) Proficiency Bonus +2
poison damage and the creature must succeed
on a Charisma saving throw or become poisoned Keen Sight. The juvenile gryphon has advantage
for 1 minute. on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.
Actions
Beak. Melee Weapon Attack: +1 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 2 (1d6 − 1) piercing damage.
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +1 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (2d4 − 1) slashing damage.

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

Commerce
You may buy barding for your gryphon, increas- from their rider which they may respond to, such as
ing their AC. This barding is eight times the cost knowing when to step between the rider and a threat
of Medium humanoid armour of the same type. or when to give their rider comfort. Crime and
Punishment
The gryphon may glide with its wings but cannot
Gryphon Quirks
fly until it reaches maturity. The gryphon shares
your alignment. d10 Quirk Provinces of
Aldarin
Levelling Your Gryphon. As the bond between 1 I’m overly defensive of my rider and won’t let
the gryphon and the rider grows, so too does the anyone I don’t know get close to them.
Periods of
gryphon. When you gain a fighter level, the gryphon 2 I am swiftly defeated by tummy scratches. Aldarin
gains a Hit Die and increases its maximum hit points. 3 I am a lap gryphon and have no concept of
History

When you gain the Ability Score Improvement class personal space.
feature, the gryphon’s ability scores also increase. 4 If there is a bug or small rodent nearby, I will Classes
The gryphon may increase any ability score other drop everything to chase it.
than Intelligence by 2 points or two separate ability 5 My claws are often dull and I like to sharpen
scores by 1. When you gain a Feat which increases them on whatever is nearby. Backgrounds

an ability score, as long as the ability score is not 6 I constantly moult my feathers. Everywhere.
Intelligence, the gryphon also increases the same
7 Barding is uncomfortable. I make a huge fuss
ability score by the same amount. The gryphon when it’s put onto me.
Appendices

cannot increase an ability score beyond 20. The

8 I do not get on well with other gryphons. I fluff
gryphon can spend Hit Dice during a short rest to my feathers up when I‘m around them to make
regain hit points and regains Hit Dice during a long myself look intimidating.
rest, as a creature would.
9 Loud noises startle me. I am difficult to handle
Each gryphon’s personality is different. Either when startled and take a while to calm down.
choose or randomly decide on a personality quirk
10 My farts will stink out the entire room.
from the table below. The gryphon is able to pick
up on emotional changes and small movements
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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

During combat, the gryphon acts on your initiative feet. In addition, as a reaction to either a rider or
and may be commanded by you using either gestures itself being targeted by a ranged attack, the gryphon
or verbal orders, requiring no action on your behalf. may perform an evasive manoeuvre granting +2 AC
If not commanded, it defends you to the best of its against the attack but reducing its movement speed
ability. A gryphon who has not yet formed a strong by 20 feet until the end of its next turn.
bond with its rider, or whose rider is regularly push-
Side Saddle
ing the gryphon to do things it otherwise does not
18th-level Gryphon Rider feature
wish to do, might disobey orders.
If your gryphon dies, you may obtain a new At 18th level, the gryphon is able to hold two riders
juvenile gryphon by purchasing one for 250 gold without over encumbering itself. When the second
or through bonding with one in the wilds over a rider is targeted with an attack, you may use your
period of 24 hours. If you have gained the Maturity reaction to make yourself the target of the attack
class ability, the new gryphon takes two months to instead, gaining a +2 to your AC against the attack. In
fully mature through the magical bond made with its addition, the second rider gains the ability to perform
rider. This time may be halved by spending at least 4 a charging attack as a reaction to your charging attack
hours each day training with the gryphon.
Maturity
7th-level Gryphon Rider feature
Legionarius
Fighter Subclass
Your gryphon matures into a young adult gryphon.
It grows to Large in size and you may now mount You have undergone training in the Aldarin Legions
it. The gryphon gains a fly speed of 60 feet, which at some point in your life, studying hard to learn all
decreases to 30 feet when you are mounting it. The the tactical elements at their disposal. While not as
damage die of the gryphon’s beak attack increases to effective as on a battlefield with thousands of other
a d8 and the claws to a d6. legionarii, you are able to apply these principles of
stratagem to small skirmishes, granting your allies
Charging Attack
benefits from joining you in military formations.
7th-level Gryphon Rider feature
When times are tough, you may let out a battlecry
You can now make charging attacks whilst mounted to rally those around you to continue fighting or to
on the gryphon. You may make a charge attack as an terrify your foes into fleeing.
action as long as the gryphon has moved in a direct
Strategic Positioning
line of at least 20 feet towards a target creature. Make
3rd-level Legionarius feature
a melee weapon attack roll against the target creature.
On a successful hit, the creature takes an additional You have come into battlefield knowledge utilised by
2d8 bludgeoning damage in addition to the normal the Aldarin Legions. When you choose this archetype
damage dealt by the weapon. Additionally, if the at 3rd level, you learn a number of formations with
creature is size Large or smaller, it must succeed on which to better position yourself on the battlefield
a Strength saving throw of DC 8 + your proficiency to grant yourself and your allies an advantage. You
bonus + your Strength modifier or else be pushed may start a formation as a bonus action by issuing
back 10 feet. You can use this feature a number of a command, granting passive benefits to those who
times equal to your Constitution modifier (a mini- end their turn within it. A formation lasts for 1
mum of once). You regain all expended uses when minute or until you choose to break it for free at the
you finish a long rest. start of your turn.
Formations are the tactical positioning of multiple
Swift Wings
allied units on a battlefield. A formation has a maxi-
10th-level Gryphon Rider feature
mum and minimum number of participants who can
At 10th level, the gryphon no longer suffers a pen- receive the benefits from a single legionarius. These
alty to its fly speed when mounted. In addition, the minimum and maximum participant requirements
gryphon gains the bonus action Zoom, which it may include the legionarius. Multiple legionarii can set up
use three times a day. separate formations or extend an existing formation
Zoom (3/Day). As a bonus action, the gryphon of another legionarius. The benefits of a formation
triples its fly speed until the end of the round. cannot be stacked across multiple formations and a
creature can only be part of one formation at a time.
Aerial Training
Any bonuses given from a formation come from the
15th-level Gryphon Rider feature
legionarius who initiated the formation.
At 15th level, your gryphon matures further into a You and your allies receive the benefits of a forma-
full adult. The gryphon’s fly speed increases to 90 tion as long as the minimum participant requirement

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

is met and as long as they are not incapacitated. If the Formations

minimum participant requirement is not met, no
creatures may receive benefits from the formation. Adorimur
Introduction
All creatures who choose to be within the formation Minimum Participants: 2
move at half their movement speed. Additionally, Maximum Participants: 5
Introduction
they may use their move action to instead prepare You form a vertical line designed to slice a hole to the
to move on your turn as long as they stay within through through enemy lines. You must be at the Aldarin
Empire
the formation or are changing positions within the front of the line. When you make a successful melee
formation. If a creature breaks formation through weapon attack against a target creature of size Large Aldarin
movement on your turn, they immediately lose or smaller, an allied creature in the formation may Names

the benefits of the formation and stop moving. A use their reaction to shove the line forward. The
creature is considered to be in a formation if it is target creature is pushed back 5 feet and each Social Classes
standing within 10 feet of another creature currently creature in the line moves forwards 5 feet towards
within the formation and in a position that is valid the target creature.
for the current formation. Kinships in
the Empire
As a reaction to you issuing a command, any
creatures of your choosing within 30 feet of you
may use their reaction to move up to half their Festivals
movement speed to move into a position which is
valid for the current formation. If the formation then
meets the minimum participant requirement, all Sports
creatures within the formation immediately gain the
benefits of the formation. If a creature is unable to
move into a valid position, they end their movement Religion

immediately.
Commands. You have two commands. When you
start a formation, a command is expended. When Politics

your formation ends, you may use your reaction to

expend a command to begin a new formation. You
Military
regain all your expended commands when you finish
a long rest.
You gain an additional command at 9th and
Commerce
14th levels.
Allargate
Formations. You learn three formations of
Minimum Participants: 2
your choice. You may only have one formation Crime and
Maximum Participants: 5 Punishment
active at a time.
You form a scattered horizontal line, standing 5 feet
You learn an additional formation at 7th, 10th, and
apart from your allies to increase evasiveness. A
15th level. Each time you learn a new formation, you Provinces of
creature must instead be within 10 feet of another Aldarin
may also replace one formation you already know
creature in this formation to become part of this for-
with a different one.
mation. Creatures in the formation have advantage Periods of
Threat Range. Some effects trigger on a creature Aldarin
on Dexterity saving throws against effects that they
entering a formation’s threat range. A formation’s History
can see, such as traps and spells.
threat range is treated as the combined threat ranges
of all creatures inside the formation. Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Disperges
Minimum Participants: 2
Maximum Participants: 5
You form a scattered horizontal line, standing 5 feet
apart from your allies to allow a defensive retreat. A
creature must instead be within 10 feet of another
creature in this formation to become part of this
formation. When you take the disengage action on
your turn and then move, any creature in the
formation may use their reaction to gain the benefits
of the disengage action as well, moving up to half
their speed as long as they remain in formation.
Formate
Minimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 5
You form a wedge shape facing your opponent
designed to rapidly approach and breach enemy
lines. You must be at the front position of the wedge.
When you move on your turn, you and all other crea-
tures within the formation move at full movement
speed instead of half.
Additionally as an action you may initiate a charge,
moving up to your full movement speed and making
a melee attack roll against a target within reach of
your weapon. Any creature in the formation may use
their reaction to partake in the charge, moving up to
their full movement speed and making a melee attack
roll against a target within reach of them. Once a
charge has occurred, the formation immediately ends.
Iacite Pila
Minimum Participants: 2
Maximum Participants: 5
You form a horizontal line facing your opponent,
directing allies towards openings in the enemy
ranks. All creatures in the formation gain a bonus to
their ranged weapon attack rolls equal to half your
proficiency bonus rounded down.
Repellere
Minimum Participants: 2
Maximum Participants: 5
You form a horizontal line facing your opponent in
preparation against a charge. When a target creature
enters into the formation’s threat range, the closest
creature within the formation to the target may use
their reaction to make a single melee weapon attack
against the target creature.
Orbem
Minimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 9
You form a line, circle, or square surrounding
another creature in an attempt to defend them. The
target creature must be at the centre of the formation.
When the target creature becomes the target of an
attack, a creature in the formation may use its reac-
tion to grant the target creature a +1 bonus to its AC

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

against the triggering attack. This may be performed

by multiple creatures within the formation against a
single attack, granting a higher total bonus.
Introduction
Testudo
Minimum Participants: 4 Introduction
Maximum Participants: 9 to the
Aldarin
You form a shielded rectangular block which is excel- Empire
lent at repelling incoming attacks. Creatures who are
Aldarin
part of this formation must be wielding a shield to Names
gain its benefits. Creatures within the formation gain
three quarters cover but may only move a maximum
of 10 feet per round and have disadvantage on ranged Social Classes

and melee attack rolls.

Vestra Sponte Kinships in
the Empire
Minimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 5
You form a jagged horizontal line facing your oppo- Festivals
nent allowing you to attack engaged enemies more
freely. All creatures in the formation gain a bonus to
their melee weapon attack rolls equal to half your Sports
proficiency bonus rounded down.
Form The Line Religion
7th-level Legionarius feature

Whenever a creature joins your formation for the

first time, they gain 1d4 + your Constitution mod- Politics

ifier as temporary hit points. These hit points last

until the formation is broken or until they leave the
Military
formation. If you create a new formation, creatures
who previously benefited from this feature may
do so again.
Commerce
The dice rolled turns into a d6 at 12th level and a
d8 at 18th level.
Crime and
Barritus Punishment
10th-level Legionarius feature
You may use your action to lead a bellowing warcry Provinces of
Aldarin
which strikes fear into the hearts of your enemies.
You must be part of a formation which meets its
Periods of
minimum participant requirement to perform this Aldarin
action. All hostile creatures within 30 feet of the History

formation who can hear you must make a Wisdom

saving throw of DC 8 + your proficiency bonus + Classes
your Charisma or Strength modifier (your choice).
On a failed save, the target creature is frightened
of you and all other creatures in the formation Backgrounds

until the end of your next turn as long as the for-

mation remains above the minimum participant
requirement. Appendices

You can use this feature a number of times equal to

your Constitution modifier (minimum of once), and
regain all expended uses when you finish a long rest.

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

It’s Come To The Triarii disagree with your actions, voice their own opin-
15th-level Legionarius feature ions, or even actively go against your orders should
they disagree with you strongly. A follower will not
When you use your bonus action to trigger your
usually follow orders that directly lead to its death
Second Wind ability, you may call out a rallying
unless there is no other option and otherwise acts as
cry encouraging your formation to hold its ground
a sentient creature.
against the enemy. Any creatures who are part of
The follower uses the vintarus stat block (see
your formation may use their reaction to join the
SGttCoD) and has health equal to 5 times your char-
rallying cry, regaining hit points equal to 1d10 +
acter level. When you reach 12th Level, you may pay
your fighter level.
50 gp for additional training to evolve your follower’s
Once you use this feature, you must finish a short
stat block into a vintarus principa stat block (see
or long rest before you can use it again.
SGttCoD), and when you reach 18th Level, as long
Chain of Command as your follower is a vintarus principa, you may
18th-level Legionarius feature pay 100 gp to evolve your follower’s stat block into a
legionarius stat block (see SGttCoD). This may only
As a bonus action you may reissue orders to change
be done in an Aldarin settlement with a legionary
your current formation into any other formation you
fort or outpost. When a follower’s stat block evolves,
currently know without expending a command. All
their legionary rank increases to the relevant rank
creatures who are part of the current formation may
and they keep any equipment you have given them
use their reaction to move up to half their movement
previously. You are responsible for buying the follow-
speed into the positioning of a new formation and
er’s equipment, as well as ensuring they have food,
immediately gain its benefits. Due to the unpredict-
water, clothing, ample space to live, and any other
able nature of reformation, attacks of opportunity
necessities. Should the follower’s needs not be met or
against these creatures are made at disadvantage.
should they face persistent disagreements with you,
Once you use this feature, you must finish a short
they may elect to leave your company. A follower
or long rest before you can use it again.
who leaves on bad terms may publicly denounce
you, making followers less likely to wish to join you
Additional Feats in the future and, in the event of illegal activity being
Legionary Training reported, legal repercussions against you.
You have undergone legionary training and gain the Should your follower die or leave your company,
following benefits: you may attempt to acquire a new follower at the
nearest Aldarin settlement. The process of doing
• You learn two formations from those available in
so costs 100 gp for a vintarus, 150 gp for a vintarus
the Legionary archetype in the fighter class.
principa, and 250 gp for a legionarius in upfront costs
• You gain one command. You may expend your
for equipment and legionary fees. You may only hire
command to activate one of your formations,
a vintarus principa when you reach 12th Level and a
which functions as per the Strategic Positioning
legionarius when you reach 18th Level, who own the
ability from the Legionary archetype in the fighter
given equipment in their stat blocks.
class. You regain use of your command after fin-
You may take this feat a number of times equal
ishing a long rest.
to half your proficiency bonus, rounding down.
Each time you take this feat, you gain one addi-
Private Guard
tional follower.
Prerequisite: Level 6, Legionarius background
or Legionarius fighter subclass
Through your connections to the Legions, you
acquire a loyal follower who has recently joined the
The Twinned Moons
Vintari in training for the Legions. This follower Warlock Patron
could be a member of your own family, a member
You have made a pact with one of the twinned moons
of a friend’s family, or someone you have chosen to
of the Medial Plane: Adriosa or Atheana. These lunar
take under your mentorship. The follower may be
demigods have their own agendas surrounding the
of any gender, sexuality, or kinship. The follower’s
domain of the night, locked in perpetual war against
alignment is within one step of your own alignment.
each other. These powerful entities bestow upon
For example, if your alignment is Lawful Good, your
their kindred the blessings of lycanthropy, or in a
follower may have either a Lawful Good, Lawful
warlock’s case, the means to mimic it. These loyal
Neutral, or Neutral Good alignment. The follower
servants stream forth into the night, locking claws
obeys your commands, acting on your turn during
over territory in never ending conflict.
combat and doing their best to support you as long
as your requests are reasonable. The follower may

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Expanded Spell List Lunar Allegiance

1st-level The Twinned Moons feature 1st-level The Twinned Moons feature

The Twinned Moons let you choose from an You choose which lunar demigod to make a pact Introduction
expanded list of spells when you learn a warlock with: Adriosa or Atheana. When under the moon-
spell. The following spells are added to the warlock light of your chosen moon, you gain darkvision Introduction
spell list for you. to a range of 120 feet. Additionally, your abilities to the
Aldarin
granted by this archetype deal a different type of Empire
Expanded Spell List
damage based on your chosen demigod, called
Spell lunar damage. If you choose Adriosa, your abilities Aldarin
Names
Level Spells
deal necrotic damage. If you choose Atheana, your
1st animal friendship, speak with animals abilities deal radiant damage. When an ability does
2nd animal messenger, moonbeam lunar damage, replace it with the type granted by Social Classes

3rd bestow curse, conjure animals your chosen demigod.

4th dominate beast, polymorph Servant of the Moons Kinships in
the Empire
5th commune with nature, planar binding 1st-level The Twinned Moons feature

Your patron bestows upon you the ability to tempo-

Festivals
rarily embody the spectral form of their most devout
servants: a lycan. The markings of your lycan visage
depends on the moon you have made a pact with.
Sports
Adriosan lycans have crescent markings which face
away from the head while Atheanan lycans have
crescent markings which face towards the head. Religion
As a bonus action, you shift into the spectral
visage of a lycan for 1 minute. This visage appears
as a glimmering, spectral shroud which man- Politics
ifests across your body. After you shift, you
gain temporary hit points equal to 1d8 + your
Constitution modifier + your warlock level. Military
While shifted your walking speed increases by
10 feet, though you may not cast spells. You may
otherwise talk normally and perform normal Commerce
actions. If you are reduced to 0 hit points or
are knocked unconscious, you change back to
Crime and
your original form. You may choose to Punishment
change back to your original form as a
bonus action. After using this ability, Provinces of
you may not use it again until you have Aldarin
completed a short or long rest.
While shifted, you additionally Periods of
Aldarin
gain the following abilities: History
Claws. As an action, you
make a melee attack roll against
Classes
a target creature. On a hit, you
deal 2d6 + your Strength modifier
lunar damage. Backgrounds
Bite. As an action, you
make a melee attack roll
against a target crea- Appendices
ture. On a hit, you deal
1d8 + your Strength
modifier lunar damage
and, if the creature
is of size Large or
smaller, may choose
to begin grappling it.

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Night-Bound Resilience
6th-level The Twinned Moons feature Lunar Requisitions
To make a pact with the moons is to enter
You gain resistance to the type of lunar damage into an ongoing contract with these great
that you deal. lunar demigods. One does not simply take
Additionally, when you cast a spell or use an ember from Adriosa and Atheana without paying
ability which deals a damage type equal to your lunar back in kind. As such, those who find
damage type, the spell deals extra damage of this type themselves entering into a pact with one
equal to half your warlock level. of the twinned moons may find themselves
requested to embark upon quests for their
Deft Claws patron every so often, to fulfil their end of
10th-level The Twinned Moons feature the bargain. These quests are known as
luna sagire (pl. lunae sagire) with those who
The number of temporary hit points gained when undertake them granted the nickname of
you shift into your lycan form increases to 2d8 + your sagires — one who seeks with their scent
Constitution modifier + your warlock level. — by the devotees of the moons. Sagires
Additionally, while shifted into your lycan form, are seen by lycans and other nightkin as
you gain the following abilities: powerful and revered entities, diplomats
Multiattack. As an action, you may attack once of the moons, who seek to restore balance
with your claws and once with your bite. upon the Medial Plane where creatures of
the night have fallen away from the natural
Howl. As an action, you let out a terrifying howl
order. As such, most nightkin are hesitant to
which rattles the bones of creatures around you. attack, or even engage with, sagires lest they
All creatures of your choosing within 30 feet of fall prey to the ire of the lunar demigods and
you who can hear the howl must make a Wisdom their whims. Sagires carry with them a faint
saving throw of DC 8 + your proficiency bonus + scent of burnt sandalwood and moss which
your Charisma modifier. On a failed save, a creature may immediately be picked up by nightkin
becomes frightened of you for 1d4 rounds. Once a from many miles away and is exceptionally
creature has been targeted by this ability, it cannot be difficult to hide.
affected by your Howl again for 24 hours. This unique status as a sagires only last
for the duration of the luna sagire. Upon its
Wolf Pack completion, the sagires might receive some
14th-level The Twinned Moons feature additional reward from their chosen moon
as thanks for executing their wishes in a
As an action, you may magically call four spectral timely or concise manner. After completion,
wolves to you. The wolves act as an ally to you and the sagires once again becomes a normal
obey your spoken commands. The wolves remain creature and loses the sagires scent. It is
for 1 hour, until you fall unconscious, or until you not uncommon for multiple sagires to be
dismiss them as a bonus action. recruited at once to achieve some greater
Instead of dealing physical damage, the wolves’ goal, such as eliminating a troublesome
lycan encampment or executing a vampire
attacks deal the same type of damage as your lunar
who has corrupted their own soul in search
damage. Additionally, while you are shifted into your of an ember. Travelling to any temple of
lycan form, you gain the benefits of the wolves’ Pack Mornfel one may find sagires gathering,
Tactics ability when standing within 5 feet of one or preparing to embark upon some grand
more of the wolves. journey in appeasement of the lunar bodies
After using this ability, you may not do so again above, guided by a sacerdos of Mornfel in
until you have finished a long rest. their stead. Failure to complete one’s luna
sagire may result in the removal of one’s
warlock pact features until such a time that
the luna sagire has been completed or some
additional pact has been made with the
chosen moon.

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Backgrounds
CW
Bloodbound Ideals Introduction

Requires Citizenship: No d6 Ideal Introduction

The ties you bear to vampiric families are not a thing to the
1 Aid. I will always help those in need, even to
to be taken lightly. You began life impoverished and my own detriment. (Good)
Aldarin
Empire
on the streets but found that through the donation
2 Might. I will destroy all who stand in my way
of your own blood you could become so much more. to the top. (Evil) Aldarin
You worked your way up the social ladder, with Names
3 Blood. Vampires must be fed and kept alive,
mysterious, pale-skinned cultists of Quor gratefully they are the true rulers of these lands. (Neutral)
accepting your sanguinous offerings, bestowing Social Classes
4 Work. We must abide by the laws of the land,
boons upon you which you used to attain status. even if it means labouring away for the rest of
Now you have all you can ask for, only for the small our lives. (Lawful)
price of a few drops of blood. While you have no Kinships in
5 Social. I flit from group to group, trying to get the Empire
knowledge who the shadowy figures which abetted to know everyone and anyone. (Chaotic)
your path are, you feel a deep sense of thanks for
6 Peace. I wish to attain enough wealth to live a
their patronage. Maybe they may call upon you one peaceful life. (Any) Festivals
day to serve?
Skill Proficiencies: Deception, Insight Bonds
Sports
Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set, disguise kit d6 Bond
Equipment: A ritual knife for bloodletting, a blood 1 A dhampir from Sanguesta once saved my life.
basin, a holy symbol of Quor, a set of common clothes, Now I owe them in blood.
Religion
and a pouch containing 10 gp 2 Quor watches my every step, I know they must
be proud of what I do.
Feature: Paint the Town Red 3 I owe a great debt to the family who pulled me Politics
When making a blood sacrifice to Quor, you only from the street.
need half the required amount to attain their bless- 4 I have been entrusted with a horrific secret
ing. You are able to offer your blood to dhampir that I must not divulge to anyone. Military
and vampires through temples of Quor, such as The 5 I stole a page from my temple’s ledger
Bloodkiln (Nc11), who might give you gold, shelter, containing a powerful ritual. Now I am hunted
or knowledge in exchange for your offering. by those seeking to get it back. Commerce

Personality Traits 6 My sibling has fallen on hard times and I do

what I can to keep them off the streets.
d8 Personality Trait Crime and
Punishment
1 Those who talk to me learn that I am an Flaws
extroverted person. d6 Flaw Provinces of
2 I like to know all the gossip, even if it doesn’t 1 I am addicted to bloodletting and ritually Aldarin
involve me. perform it everyday.
3 The sight of blood makes me excited. 2 I cannot say no to a charming smile.
Periods of
Aldarin
4 I have sugar cravings all the time. 3 I wish to serve monsters rather than slay them. History

5 I am overly trusting of those who I spend 4 I am far too welcoming to strangers, going
time with. out of my way to help anyone who asks me Classes
6 I dislike vampires and dhampir for what they for anything.
did to me. 5 I believe I am a vampire, even if nobody else
7 I enjoy drinking red wine whilst pretending I’m believes me. Backgrounds
a vampire. 6 I love the taste of blood.
8 I don’t know my own worth.
Consensa Appendices

Requires Citizenship: Yes

You were born into one of the wealthiest families in
the Aldarin Empire, destined for greatness from the
second your feet touched the ground. You spent your
younger years learning bureaucracy and the political
processes of your people, aspiring to become a great

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

politician one day — a goal which you achieved. Feature: Political Allies
You have spoken passionately within the halls of the You are familiar with other consensae in your
Consentium, attended meetings with the emperor, chosen political party, their businesses, and their
and have made a name for yourself in the higher families. They will readily share news with you about
echelons of society. people from the other political parties. They might
Your family name belongs amongst the ranks of also be willing to lend you some money or do you
the patricians and sanctes. Everyone from the empire a favour. Additionally, you know your way around
who hears it tilts their head slightly downwards in Deveros like the back of your hand, having grown
respect. Maybe this makes you feel strange, or maybe up in the city.
you bask in the limelight, holding your toga proudly
Personality Traits
as you stride along the streets of Deveros.
You are familiar with the location of all the temples d8 Personality Trait
in the city, and regularly attend sacrifices and feasts 1 I follow the latest fashion trends from
dedicated to the gods. The deities have a large sway Longbreach. Shoulder capes are so in
this season.
upon the wellbeing of the people and you know it.
You are able to perform any of the rituals needed for 2 My booming voice garners me a lot of
a festival in the absence of a sacerdos, something attention.
which was drilled into you from a young age. 3 Those of the lower classes are beneath my
When you became a consensa, you had to choose a splendour. I am special and they should
know it.
side. Was it the imperial aligned party of law-abiding
Revitalists, the popularist party of the Reformists 4 Aldarins are my people and I will fight for
their honour.
who are always looking out for the people, or maybe
the eccentric yet enigmatic party of the Capitans who 5 I am all bark but no bite. I wouldn’t harm a fly.
are seen as a joke by many of your colleagues. That 6 I am beloved by shopkeepers and business
choice is yours to make. owners across the empire for my generosity
When taking this background, you automat- towards them.
ically gain Aldarin citizenship and become part 7 Despite living in a spacious villa, I prefer the
of either the Sancte or Patrician social class (see confines of the small cramped streets in the
depths of the lower city.
Social Classes).
8 I am a great orator and can enchant the
Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion, Religion masses with my speeches.
Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set
Languages: Aldarin, Old Aldarin, and one of your choice Ideals
Equipment: An elegant toga trimmed with the colours d6 Ideal
of your political party, a pichera (an ornamental
1 Righteous. I uphold the laws of both mortals
dagger) bearing the crest of your family, a set of noble and gods. (Lawful)
clothes, a pouch containing 25 gp
2 People. The common folk are the lifeblood of
our great empire. (Good)
Political Party
3 Wealth. My family’s business is all that
Choose or randomly determine one of the matters. (Evil)
three political parties in the Aldarin Empire to
4 Strife. I support the street gangs of my
become aligned to. political party and the trouble they cause.
Political Parties (Chaotic)

d6 Political Party 5 Culture. Sometimes I stride through the

streets of Consentarius and bask in the
1-2 Reformist (Populares) wondrous culture of our people. (Any)
3-4 Revitalist (Optimates) 6 Politics. I seek to engage in the betterment of
5-6 The Capitans (Hooliganistic Populares) the empire in any way I can. (Any)

132
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Feature: Home Away from Home

You are able to find lodging and basic supplies within
Bonds
the embassy or chancery of your home nation while
d6 Bond within a foreign country. Those within this institu- Introduction

1 My political allies are my closest friends. I tion will provide you with information relating to the
would do anything for them. Introduction
nation you are in, will send messages on your behalf, to the
2 Another consensa supported me in my first and will help arrange secure transport for you, which Aldarin
year in office. They are a strong ally and a Empire
you must still pay for.
close friend.
Aldarin
3 I was born a coperna upon the festival of Personality Traits Names
Primus Coperna. I know I must strive to do d8 Personality Trait
great things for that is the path Fate has
1 I like to get involved in business that is not
granted me. Social Classes
my own.
4 I am a devout quadrumvir and serve the Order
2 My nation always has a word for something
of the Quadrumvirate loyally, having passed
obscure when the word does not exist Kinships in
the secretive initiation rites.
in Common. the Empire
5 My service to Aldarin and her people is
3 I am overly generous with my coin. I’ll always
infallible.
be the first to buy a round of drinks.
Festivals
6 I am deeply in love with someone of a lower
4 I am enthralled with the concept of Aldarin
social standing.
culture. It is all I talk about.

Flaws 5 I have a prickly personality and find it difficult Sports

to get along with others.
d6 Flaw
6 I completely misinterpret what others are
1 Those close to me are simply trying to benefit saying, which often gets me into trouble. Religion
from my wealth and success. I am the only
person I can trust. 7 I hum old marching songs from my nation’s
military when I’m thinking.
2 If I see someone from another political party, I Politics
can’t help but stir up trouble. 8 I like to ask prying questions into the lives of
others, purely for curiosity’s sake.
3 I am gullible, falling prey to cons and buttered
words all too easily. Ideals Military
4 I once forged papers incriminating a political
d6 Ideal
opponent who was sentenced to prison time
in Carcer Opero. The guilt I bear is crippling. 1 Stalwart. I stand up to injustice when I see Commerce
it, even if I do not understand the laws of the
5 If even the slightest speck of dirt lands on my
land. (Good)
clothing, I fly into a rage.
2 Curious. I stick my nose into absolutely Crime and
6 The Aldarin Empire and its people are the Punishment
everything. (Chaotic)
true kin of Deos. All others are barbarus and
beneath our radiance. 3 Proud. I am proud of my nation and its
achievements. (Neutral) Provinces of
Aldarin
Emissary 4 Brash. I enjoy letting my anger fly and have
made many enemies because of it. (Evil)
Periods of
Requires Citizenship: No 5 Diplomacy. I wish for peace between all Aldarin
You have been sent to Aldarin as a diplomatic rep- nations and peoples. (Lawful) History

resentative from your nation, seeking to keep the 6 Craft. I am passionate about my craft, one
peace with the Aldarin Empire. You bear the icon of bespoke to my own nation, and wish to share Classes
your nation proudly, even if you might get strange it with others. (Any)
glances thrown at you on the streets. You seek to
spread the culture of your own nation and to learn Backgrounds

of the culture of the Aldarins so that you may better

understand their ways.
Appendices
Skill Proficiencies: Insight, Persuasion
Languages: Two of your choice
Equipment: Travel documents providing right of
passage into Aldarin, a badge bearing the crest of
another nation, a set of common clothes, and a pouch
containing 15 gp

133
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Skill Proficiencies: Athletics, Perception

Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set,
Bonds
vehicles (land)
d6 Bond Languages: Aldarin and one of your choice
1 A kind merchant allowed me lodging in his Equipment: The ovatum from your campaigns, a
wagon enroute to Aldarin. I wish to repay the coloured feather from your old legionarius helmet, a
debt some day.
set of common clothes, and a pouch containing 10 gp
2 I am deeply devoted to my god. I perform
rituals to them daily.
Legion Rank
3 The moons shine upon me with a welcoming Choose or randomly determine which legionary
warmth that others seem not to feel. role you attained during your time serving in the
4 I was cast out by my family and all I have to Legions. Read more about legionary ranks and
remember them by is a small trinket. roles on page 71.
5 Those who walk these foreign roads beside me
are my closest friends. Legion Ranks
6 I have a letter from an Aldarin friend who went d8 Legion Rank
missing shortly after sending it. I wish to track 1 Vintarus
them down.
2 Legionarius
Flaws 3 Secunda

d6 Flaw 4 Principa

1 I am overly trusting of strangers. 5 Regitorus

2 I am hesitant to sample the cultures of other 6 Hydrophos

people for what I do not understand I am 7 Speculator (Spy)
fearful of.
8 Explorator (Scout)
3 My way is the right way.
4 My manners are lacking. I speak with my Legion Type
mouth full of food and spit when I talk. Choose or randomly determine which type of legion
5 I am overly eager to start a fight. you were a part of.
6 I look down on those who have less wealth Legion Types
than I do.
d6 Legion Type
1 Vintari (City Guard)
Legionarius 2 Land Legion
Requires Citizenship: No 3 Aerial Legion
You’ve served your time in the Legions and have
4 Naval Legion
looked death in the face every day of your life. You’re
familiar with the tactics and strategies used by the 5 Silver Legion
Legions and are all too aware of the sheer power 6 Sel’Kildarak Legeshi
the Aldarin Empire can bring to the table during
Feature: Legion Support
war. There is strong respect and admiration for your
You are recognised by others from the legion with
legionarii fellows, both those encamped in forts and
which you served, who treat you as a close friend.
on active campaign. They put their lives on the line
Your status as a legionarius is respected by other
so everyone inside the empire’s borders can live a
legionarii, and you are able to gain access into any
comfortable life. You try not to think too much about
legionary fort within the Aldarin Empire where you
the other nations who are being crushed under the
would be given food, a bed, and a small number of
foot of Aldarin, though nightmares of war and the
supplies for the road. Whilst in a fort, others will
faces of those you have killed haunt your dreams.
recognise your authority if they are of lower rank
and perform minor tasks given by you to the best
of their ability.

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Personality Traits Flaws

d8 Personality Trait d6 Flaw Introduction

1 I tend to bark like I’m giving orders when I talk. 1 In wine I trust.
Introduction
2 When faced with death, it blinks first. 2 I am a devoted bloodbound and preach avidly to the
3 Those who stand beside me in times of need, about the benefits of bloodletting. Aldarin
Empire
find me at their side during their own. 3 If you do not follow orders, you may as well
4 I’m kind and gentle to those around me. be dead. Aldarin
Names
5 I cannot forget the savagery of war and 4 The law must be upheld, regardless of the
experience frequent nightmares. outcome.

6 I always have a story to tell about my time in 5 I have an unhealthy attachment to my armour Social Classes

The Legions. and weapons.

7 Everything must be done with due care and 6 I will lash out at those who do not give me
my space. Kinships in
diligence, even in the face of peril. the Empire

8 You are either with me or against me. There is

no middle ground.
Mercyr
Festivals
Requires Citizenship: No
Ideals You’ve spent your life on the road working contract
d6 Ideal after contract for one or more mercyr guilds. You’ve
Sports
1 Home. I defend my home and my family faced bandits, dragons, and everything in between,
above all else. (Good) but have somehow always survived. Familiar with the
2 Order. When given orders, I follow them to the politics of modern day society, you’re able to navigate Religion
letter. (Lawful) through the bureaucratic nature of processing con-
3 Peace. I’ve seen enough war, I just wish for
tracts to acquire payment for your work. You know
calm. (Good) the intricacies of dealing with the wider people of Politics
Vynestra when it comes to trouble brewing on the
4 Respect. I don’t ask for much, just that I am
respected. (Neutral) horizon, aware of how to prepare appropriately.
Maybe you belonged to one of the more renowned Military
5 Aldarin. We are the greatest nation to ever
live. (Any) mercyr guilds, having claimed wealth, fame, and
maybe even a celebrity nickname from serving in
6 Power. You will fall at my feet and grovel for
your life. (Evil)
their ranks. Maybe you stuck to the smaller leagues, Commerce
working with a handful of mercyrs unknown to the
Bonds masses whilst seeking a better life for yourself and
Crime and
those around you. Punishment
d6 Bond
1 My best friend is a gryphon. Skill Proficiencies: Survival, Persuasion
2 I serve my legion first and everyone Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set Provinces of
Aldarin
else second. Languages: One of your choice
3 My ovatum tell my story.
Equipment: A tabard, medallion, or brooch bearing
Periods of
the crest of your former guild, two wax tablets, a Aldarin
4 My old gryphos is the kindest person alive. I History
gaming set of your choice, a set of common clothes,
will follow them to the ends of the earth.
a coin pouch containing a sum of gold from your last
5 My best friend is still in the legion and I wish I
contract (10 gp) Classes
could see them more.
6 Those who fight against us deserve respect. Feature: Nose for Trouble
You are always able to sniff out contract work, Backgrounds

wherever it might be lurking. You may spend a day

investigating leads in any city, town, or rural region
and locate someone willing to make a contract with Appendices

you to achieve some form of work. This work might

be dealing with rodents or hunting a nearby monster
which has been plaguing the lands. The work doesn’t
necessarily pay well but is enough for you to live
a comfortable lifestyle through your profession
alongside a group of up to four others working
alongside you.

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Personality Traits Flaws

d8 Personality Trait d6 Flaw
1 I am brave and courageous in the face of 1 You don’t know what I’ve seen. Alcohol
danger. and drugs keep the memories behind a
2 My tales of monster hunting make me feel mental wall.
powerful. 2 My closest friend died whilst on a contract and
3 The coin I earn only fuels my greed further. I can never forgive myself for what happened. I
still have night terrors.
4 I wish to set all free from fearing the night and
its terrors. 3 I am hard headed and do not listen to the
opinions of others.
5 If you look at me the wrong way, you’ll get a
fist in your face. 4 Once I have accepted a contract, I see it
through to the bitter end, even if I must die to
6 I am brash, rushing into a fight without a get it done.
second thought.
5 Everyone is a potential monster in disguise. I
7 Death looms over me and it strikes fear into trust nobody, even those close to me.
my core.
6 My anger flies out of control very quickly.
8 I enjoy spending my free time making new
allies. Everyone who crosses my path is a
potential new best friend.
Premagus
Requires Citizenship: No
Ideals Trained in the ways of the arcane, you have attended
d6 Ideal the Deveros Arcane University or another Anchor
1 Community. I wish to see my community safe Nation arcane university for some period of time.
from those who might wish to do it harm. Maybe you have just finished your first year. Maybe
(Good) you have recently graduated with flying colours.
2 Fear. I cannot see my brethren slain by Or did you drop you before your first year was up?
creatures of the night and as much as they You have formed strong bonds with many people
terrify me, I wish them all dead. (Any) throughout the Prisada Arcana district, both citizens
3 Duty. When I swear I’ll do something, I’ll of the city and other premagi. You have also made
uphold that vow to my last dying breath. a few enemies from the perpetual rivalries with the
(Lawful) opposing student houses. There are always parties to
4 Power. I grow stronger every day and shall attend or study groups to be a part of, but you have
dominate my foes. (Evil) your priorities set and have headed out into the wide
5 Solitude. I have seen many die and wish for it world to seek something more.
no longer. I simply wish to be alone. (Neutral)
Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, Insight
6 Patience. I will wait until the time is right to
Languages: Two of your choice
enact my plans. (Neutral)
Equipment: A set of premagus robes, a library pass for
Bonds Deveros’s libraries, a quill, three scrolls of parchment, a
vial of ink, a wax tablet, and a pouch containing 10 gp
d6 Bond
1 I do what I can to sustain my family. Whatever Student House
it takes to keep them fed.
Choose or randomly determine which one of the
2 My loyalty falls to the mercyr guild I served. I three student houses within the Prisada Arcana you
will assist them at a moment’s notice.
belonged to.
3 I will uphold my nation’s image at all costs.
Student Houses
4 I’ll never forget the kind mercyr who
comforted me after my first contract d6 Student House
went awry. 1-2 Helian Halls
5 I met a wonderful person through a contract 3-4 Byrandos Halls
and we keep in regular communication
through letters. 5-6 The Verdant Plains

6 I hold the brooch of my old guild leader Feature: University Access

who died protecting me. They shall not be You know a number of premagi and magi who
forgotten.
belonged to your student house. They would
be willing to offer you guidance and could cast a

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

handful of low level spells for you. You have full

access to the DAU section of the Deverosian World
Flaws
Anchor, including lecture halls, libraries, tabernae,
and private study rooms. d6 Flaw Introduction

1 I have a habit of setting off spells when I

Personality Traits get bored. Introduction
to the
d8 Personality Trait 2 Scrolls and spell components tend to go Aldarin
missing from my colleague’s rooms into my Empire
1 I am rather shy.
ownership.
2 I enjoy flaunting my wealth. Aldarin
3 When I get invited to a party, I drink until The Names
3 I am spiteful towards those in other
Void consumes me.
student houses.
4 Nobody can sing better than me. Nobody.
4 I enjoy crushing things with powerful spells. Social Classes
5 I write everything back to front, even my
5 I flirt with everyone, including my professors.
spellbooks.
6 My friends think I’m lazy. Kinships in
6 I have little respect for those who do not
the Empire
7 I cannot stop talking about how cool magic is. understand the arcane.
8 I’ll never turn down a free drink.
Publus Festivals
Ideals
Requires Citizenship: Yes
d6 Ideal You were always drawn to the politics of your people
Sports
1 Studious. I must study so that I can improve and eventually saw a chance to represent the region
myself. (Good) you were born in within the capital of Deveros.
2 Spiteful. I’ll go out of my way to cause others Maybe you were part of a legion and were elected Religion
grief. (Evil) to stand on their behalf. Maybe the settlement you
3 Apathy. I don’t really care about anything came from in the outreaches of the empire found
anymore. (Neutral) nobody better to represent them. Either way, you Politics
4 Fire. I just really REALLY like setting things on served your time as a government official, speaking
fire. (Chaotic) your mind and winning the hearts of the people. You
5 Companionship. I seek to surround myself blocked bills passing through the Consentium Minor Military
with those who hold similar views. (Any) which you disagreed with, making both friends and
6 Gentle. A soft smile warms the hearts of those enemies along the way.
I talk to. (Good) You finished your time as a publus — a public Commerce
representative of the plebeians — but that history
Bonds never left you. You feel strongly still about the way
Crime and
d6 Bond the empire is run and wish to see change still. Are Punishment
1 My life revolves around my books and you trying to run for office again? Maybe you have
my studies. connections to the street gangs of your party and are Provinces of
2 I must graduate and make my family proud. lobbying for a cause? Do you care much about your Aldarin
political party or are they simply a means to an end?
3 Deveros Arcane University is the best place on
earth. I never want to leave. When taking this background, you automatically Periods of
Aldarin
gain Aldarin citizenship and become part of either History
4 A quaestor gave me their arcane focus and I
am never letting it go.
the Artifex or Praesta social class (see Social Classes).
5 I found an ancient book talking about the old Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion, Insight Classes
gods and I read it every evening before bed. Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set
6 I wish to become the best magus in the empire Languages: Aldarin and one of your choice
and serve loyally in Concilium Arcanus Altus. Equipment: A ring bearing the insignia of the Aldarin Backgrounds

Empire, coloured wax, a set of common clothes, and

a pouch containing 10 gp
Appendices

Political Party
Choose or randomly determine one of the
three political parties in the Aldarin Empire to
become aligned to.

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Political Parties Bonds

d6 Political Party d6 Bond
1-2 Reformist (Populares) 1 My ring shows my standing as a visionary who
3-4 Revitalist (Optimates) once led the people

5-6 The Capitans (Hooliganistic Populares) 2 Deveros is my home, even if I did not grow
up here.
Feature: Ally of the People 3 The street gangs of my party have kept me
You are familiar with other publi in your chosen safe all these years.
political party as well as families living within the 4 My purpose is to serve the people and the
lower city who support your party’s cause. They will people alone.
be willing to help you out within reason if you ask 5 I miss the people of my home region dearly.
for it. You personally know the leader of the street 6 I stole a pichera (a ceremonial dagger
gang aligned to your cause and they might lend you belonging to a consensa) and wish I could be
a couple of street thugs in return for a favour. one of the consensae.

Personality Traits Flaws

d8 Personality Trait d6 Flaw
1 The people of my home region have a 1 I speak far too loudly about my political
bleaker outlook on things compared to opinions.
within the capital.
2 I fail to see the problem with executing
2 I’ve fought in the Legions and respond well refugees from Jykstrav.
to orders.
3 I can’t help but cause trouble for people with
3 I take the initiative where others falter. differing views to my own.
4 I can speak for hours about nothing in 4 Once I am set on doing something, I must
particular. achieve it before moving on.
5 People tend to enjoy being around me 5 The carnal pulls of the lower city tempt
because of my bouncy energy. me daily.
6 I start fights for fun and then slip away. 6 I was destined for greatness and will stop at
7 I will see reform in this empire. For the people! nothing to achieve fame.
8 I talk endlessly about how great the imperial
family is. Refugee CW

Ideals Requires Citizenship: No

You have fled your home nation due to war, famine,
d6 Ideal
or some other form of trouble. You seek to start a
1 Quality of Life. Everyone should live a new life in another nation, though your traumatic
comfortable life, regardless of who they are.
(Good)
past still follows you like a shadow. You slip from
settlement to settlement, seeking a place where you
2 Desire. I wish for what I cannot have and strive
to take it from others. (Evil)
might call home. None truly feel like your true home,
however. You form friendships quickly but also know
3 Rebellion. I enjoy stirring up trouble for those
when to slip away for your own safety. You know how
around me. (Chaotic)
to rely on the land to survive. One day you wish to
4 Refined. My status places me at the forefront return to your home nation and to restore it to its
of the law. (Lawful)
former glory.
5 Tradition. The practices of our people must be
kept in the highest regard. (Any) Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion, Survival
6 Politics. I seek to engage in the betterment of Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set
the empire in any way I can. (Any) Languages: One of your choice
Equipment: A sack of grain, a hoe, a trinket from your
home nation, a set of common clothes, and a pouch
containing 10 gp

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Feature: Comradery
You may find temporary lodging, basic supplies,
Bonds
food, and water with those from your home nation.
They may provide you with guidance on where is safe d6 Bond Introduction

to go within the current region and which contacts 1 I have a sibling who I have sworn to keep safe.
Introduction
may be trusted. 2 Those who harm animals are scum. I will to the
protect creatures who are treated poorly. Aldarin
Personality Traits Empire
3 I long to return to my home settlement. I have
d8 Personality Trait many friends and family there. Aldarin
1 I enjoy travelling, I always need to be Names
4 My weapon is what keeps me safe. Without it, I
on the move. would be dead.
2 When I make a promise, I keep it. 5 There are others who have fled my home out Social Classes
3 I always rest with my weapon in hand. I never there. I must find them and make sure they
know who can be trusted. are safe.
6 A soldier stole all that I had as I escaped. I shall Kinships in
4 I actively seek out odd jobs to bring in some the Empire
extra coin. reclaim what is mine.
5 I embrace everyone I meet with a big hug as if
greeting an old friend. Flaws Festivals

6 I hate it when people gossip. It is vile. d6 Flaw

7 I am wary of strangers, especially those who 1 I stick to my way of doing things, even if other
are overly friendly. ways are more efficient. Sports

8 I share everything I have with those 2 I drink to forget what has happened.
around me. 3 I have a hatred of those who caused me
Religion
to leave my nation which drives me to
Ideals uncontrollable rage.
d6 Ideal 4 If I can’t fix something, I break it further until Politics
nobody can.
1 Guardian. I protect those around me against
the evils of the world. (Good) 5 I smoke heavily and have little concern for the
personal space of others.
2 Friendship. Those I call ‘friend’ I stand beside, Military
no matter what. (Good) 6 I have a habit of doing jobs with as little effort
as possible just to get the job done.
3 Revenge. I am spiteful and actively seek
revenge against those who wrong me. (Evil) Commerce

4 Change. I wish to see progress in the world.

Things must change from what they are now.
Crime and
(Neutral) Punishment
5 Honour. I never stand down from a fight when
it is my respect on the line. (Lawful)
Provinces of
6 Escapism. I wish to get away from my past life Aldarin
and find a new start elsewhere. (Any)
Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Appendix A: Thermae Baths

Player characters may take a new form of rest, called Offering to Sulia
a thermae rest, when within a bath house. This allows
Sulia is the deity who oversees bathing and self
them to truly relax and to gain the benefits of the
cleansing. Bathhouses throughout the Aldarin
herbal baths around them.
Empire are dedicated to Sulia in some minor way,
typically through the presence of a statuette or mural
Thermae Rest in a corner of the structure. Offerings are made to
these icons.
The quality of a bathhouse determines the max-
A thermae rest is a form of short rest that lasts
imum blessing which may be granted, regardless
between 1 and 4 hours, during which a character
of how much gold and oil is offered to Sulia. For
spends time relaxing in a bathhouse. The character
example, a decrepit therma with dirty bathwater
gains the benefits of a short rest after 1 hour plus
might only grant a diminished blessing of Sulia,
additional hit dice, called Thermae Dice. Thermae
while an illustrious, gilded therma would allow for
Dice are rolled at the end of both their first and
much grander blessings to be imparted. A bathhouse
fourth hours of rest. The number of Thermae Dice
can, however, grant all blessings equal to and below
rolled are determined by one’s dedication to Sulia,
its quality level.
God of Bathing during the thermae rest. By making
an offering of gold and bath oil to this shrine, one
may attain additional healing from the baths while
taking a thermae rest, called a Blessing of Sulia (see
Thermae Items
Offering to Sulia below). The quantity of Thermae
Dice rolled during a thermae rest is determined by Oils
how generous the offering made to Sulia is (see Table:
Oils are commonly applied to the body before
Blessings of Sulia).
bathing and scraped off using a strigil. These oils are
If the character leaves the thermae at any point,
made of a base of olive oil which may be infused with
the rest ends. If the character receives benefits at the
various ingredients to either bring forth pleasing
end of a short rest, they may instead choose to gain
fragrances or to provide benefits to health. There
them either at the end of the first or fourth hour of
are numerous types of oils, each providing their
the thermae rest.
own unique effects, with Rymish oil being the most
expensive of these. Application and removal of oil
may be performed for 1 hour during a thermae
Thermae Boons
Player characters may receive additional
rest, to be done before taking a bath using a strigil.
benefits after taking a thermae rest, Certain oils will not impart their thermae boons
called “thermae boons”, by using unique unless a strigil of a specific metal is used.
consumable items within the baths such as
oils and salts during their rest. These items
may only be used in a thermae. A creature
may only benefit from one thermae boon
per thermae rest and may only have a single
thermae boon active at one time.

Blessings of Sulia Oils

Offering Thermae Dice
Therma Quality Required Granted Rarity of Bathhouse Items Sold
No Shrine None None None
Derelict 1 gp 1d4 Common
Basic 5 gp 2d4 Uncommon
Comfortable 20 gp 3d4 Rare
Refined 50 gp 4d4 Very Rare
Luxurious 100 gp 5d4 Legendary

140
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Basic Oil Salts

Rarity: Common
A cultural phenomenon brought across from the
A jug of basic olive oil with no added ingredients.
Kildars, where salt gathered from the shores are Introduction
Used by the masses as a cheap oil for clean-
crushed with varying substances providing an
ing themselves.
aromatic blend which may be mixed with bath Introduction
Thermae Boon: None.
water. This gives the baths a pleasant fragrance as to the
Aldarin
Olive Blend well as assisting in soothing the muscles. Salts may Empire
Rarity: Common be added to a bath during a thermae rest with up to
Aldarin
A clear yellow-gold oil made of various different four creatures gaining the benefits of the salts after 1 Names
olive types. hour spent within the baths.
Thermae Boon: You gain 1d4 + 1 temporary hit points
Light Herbal Blend
which last for 8 hours. Social Classes
Rarity: Common
Caerulan Red Silky green salts mixed with a handful of gentle
Rarity: Uncommon medicinal herbs. Kinships in
the Empire
A thick crimson oil made of Caerulan red olives. Thermae Boon: You regain 2d6 + 2 hit points at the end
Thermae Boon: You gain 2d4 + 2 temporary hit points of your thermae rest.
which last for 8 hours. Festivals
Touch of the Orchid
Rymish Valeco Rarity: Common
Rarity: Rare A purple and azure salt, blended with orchids and
Sports
A smooth purple oil, scented with laven- various other flowers from western Aldarin.
der and lemons. Thermae Boon: You lose one point of exhaustion at the
Thermae Boon: You gain 3d4 + 3 temporary hit points end of your thermae rest. Religion
which last for 8 hours.
Sasemaani Pywheia
Imperial Velvet Rarity: Common
Rarity: Very Rare Deep orange salts mixed with cactus flowers and Politics

A rich gold oil speckled with amethyst dust which sand. Served only in Sixth Pass Baths (Oa11) and
makes the skin glimmer a soft purple under sunlight. Neiwhetti Apothecary (Oa13) in Deveros.
Military
Thermae Boon: You gain 4d4 + 4 temporary hit points Thermae Boon: You emit a sweet smelling odour,
which last for 8 hours. granting you a +2 bonus to Charisma (Persuasion)
checks for the next hour.
Rymish Noir Commerce
Rarity: Very Rare Mountain’s Blessing
An expensive black oil, blended with fragrant floral Rarity: Uncommon
Crime and
aromas and a slightly warming feel. A fine cerulean powder infused with powdered ice Punishment
Thermae Boon: You gain 5d4 + 5 temporary hit points troll glands and juniper berries.
which last for 8 hours. Thermae Boon: You gain resistance to fire damage for
Provinces of
24 hours and do not feel the effects of hot weather up Aldarin
Dragon’s Blood
to 150 degrees Fahrenheit for the duration.
Rarity: Legendary
Periods of
A viscous red oil mixed with drops of blood from an Cinderdust Aldarin
ancient dragon. Rarity: Uncommon History

Thermae Boon: You gain 6d4 + 6 temporary hit points A coarse bath salt sold at Hyetiah’s Halls (Oa18) in
which last for 8 hours. Deveros, blended with the ashes of fire imps. Classes
Thermae Boon: You gain resistance to cold damage for
24 hours and do not feel the effects of cold weather up
to -50 degrees Fahrenheit for the duration. Backgrounds

Moderate Herbal Blend

Rarity: Uncommon Appendices
Silky green salts mixed with a number of strong
medicinal herbs.
Thermae Boon: You regain 4d6 + 4 hit points at the end
of your thermae rest.

Bath Salts

141
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Fragments of Quthar Crystals of Quthar

Rarity: Rare Rarity: Legendary
Rich blue salt crystal fragments found in deep, Rich blue salt crystals found in deep, seaside caverns
seaside caverns containing strong earthy minerals. containing strong earthy minerals.
Thermae Boon: You regain 1d4 + 1 spell slots of 3rd Thermae Boon: You regain 1d4 + 1 spell slots of 9th
Level or lower. Level or lower.

Weak Dusk Mash Epic Herbal Blend

Rarity: Rare Rarity: Legendary
A blending of purified dusk crystals and salt which Silky green salts mixed with dozens of incredibly
emits a strong magical aura. potent medicinal herbs.
Thermae Boon: You regain 2d4 Ember Points. Thermae Boon: You regain 8d6 + 8 hit points at the end
of your thermae rest.
Shards of Quthar
Rarity: Very Rare
Rich blue salt crystals shards found in deep, seaside
Strigils
caverns containing strong earthy minerals. Long curved pieces of metal, often ornate in design,
Thermae Boon: You regain 1d4 + 1 spell slots of 6th with a firm handle of bone, ivory, or wood. Strigils
Level or lower. are designed to access the hard to reach places on
the body, such as the back, and are used to scrape oil
Feather Flash
from the skin after it has been applied. This process
Rarity: Very Rare
removes much of the gunk that gathers upon the skin
A rare green salt from the shores of Lildor mixed
during the day, which may be washed away.
with powdered harpy feathers and crystallised honey.
Strigils may also be used as clubs, using the same
Thermae Boon: You gain a fly speed of 30 feet
statistics as a club.
for 4 hours.
Strigils
Potent Herbal Blend
Rarity: Very Rare Strigil Oil Rarity Cost
Silky green salts mixed with several potent Bronze Common 2 sp
medicinal herbs. Iron Common 4 sp
Thermae Boon: You regain 6d6 + 6 hit points at the end Steel Uncommon 5 gp
of your thermae rest.
Silver Rare 30 gp
Strong Dusk Mash Gold Rare 50 gp
Rarity: Legendary
Mithril Very Rare 150 gp
A refined mixture of potent purified dusk crystals
Adamantine Legendary 500 gp
and salt which emits an overwhelming magical aura.
Thermae Boon: You regain 4d4 Ember Points.

Strigil

142
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Appendix B: The Medial Calendar

The Medial Calendar spans thirteen months, with
each month lasting exactly twenty eight days for a Reading the Introduction

total 364 days in a medial year. The lunar cycles of

Adriosa (red) and Atheana (blue) slowly drift out of Medial Calendar Introduction
to the
sync with one another, before re-aligning every few Aldarin
Empire
years. Adriosa has a cycle of 26 days and Atheana a
cycle of 28 days. Moon Phases Aldarin
Below is the version of the Medial Calendar used Names
Adriosa Atheana
within the Aldarin Empire, with each of Aldarin’s
most popular festivals listed across their respective New Moon New Moon Social Classes
dates. While these festival days are mostly set, it
Waxing Crescent Waxing Crescent
is not uncommon for primi to extend festivals to
gain favour with the public. As such, festival days First Quarter First Quarter Kinships in
the Empire
may change from year to year depending on who is
Waxing Gibbous Waxing Gibbous
leading the empire at any given time and how much
they are in need of placating public opinion. Full Moon Full Moon Festivals
The concept of “weekend” and “weekday” are alien
Waning Gibbous Waning Gibbous
to the people of Aldarin. While there are days that are
considered to involve less labour, primarily Sul and Third Quarter Third Quarter Sports
Sar, all days of the week are working days. If you can
Waning Crescent Waning Crescent
afford to take a day off working, you are considered to
be incredibly lucky. As such, Aldarins almost exclu- Religion

sively rely on festivals as their major official periods

Holiday Types
of “time off ” from work. Even still, some still labour Dies festus are in red
through these days, either as a matter of necessity or Dies fasti are in blue Politics

through supporting the festivals themselves.

Military

Commerce

Crime and
Punishment

Provinces of
Aldarin

Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

143
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

144
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

Commerce

Crime and
Punishment

Provinces of
Aldarin

Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

145
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

146
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

Commerce

Crime and
Punishment

Provinces of
Aldarin

Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

147
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

148
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Introduction

Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Empire

Aldarin
Names

Social Classes

Kinships in
the Empire

Festivals

Sports

Religion

Politics

Military

Commerce

Crime and
Punishment

Provinces of
Aldarin

Periods of
Aldarin
History

Classes

Backgrounds

Appendices

149
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Aldarin Provincial Map

150
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Glossary of Terms
Acclesian: Also known as Acclesian Alventius, a Arcane Blight: A horrific affliction which thrives
famous Aldarin who overthrew the imperial on the consumption of arcane energy and soul
family and handed ownership of the Aldarin threads, arcane blight slowly gnaws away at the
Empire to the people. souls of emberblood and magi, endlessly consum-
Acclesian Civil War: The civil war fought between ing until there is nothing left.
Acclesian and the Aldarin Empire in the Arcane Wayline: Rivers of arcane energy which flow
9th Century. throughout The Compass on set routes.
Acclesiavesti: A festival celebrating the overthrowing Argentum (pl. Argentum): Aldarin currency
of Aldarin’s imperial rule by Acclesian Alventius. representing a silver piece.
Adriam: A festival celebrating the moon Adriosa. Artifex (pl. Artifex): An Aldarin social class rep-
Adriosa: One of the twinned moons of The Compass. resenting those who work in non-specialist or
Adriosa’s Pride: A troublesome collective of lycans moderately skilled professions.
in Deveros aligned to Adriosa. Asher: Medial Plane deity of spring.
Aerial Legion: An Aldarin legion composed entirely Asheri: A festival celebration of the spring equinox.
of gryphon riders. Astra (pl. Astrae): Local minor leaders of the
Aeris (pl. Aeri): Aldarin currency representing a Quadrumvirate.
copper piece. Astral Chaos: A transitive plane on the top side of
Aestus: A festival celebrating Rael and the seas. The Compass, through which new souls woven by
Aether: The Medial Pantheon deity of travel, clouds, Fate travel to their destinations.
and the sky. Atheana: One of the twinned moons of The Compass.
Al: Cardin’s butterfly companion. Atheanius: A festival celebrating the moon Atheana.
Ala (pl. Alae): A legionarius mounted on horseback. Aurmerce: A collective of freelance privateers who
Aldarin: A person who has citizenship within the operate around the Gilded Ocean.
Aldarin Empire. Also a kinship of humans who Autumn’s Crest: The tenth month of the
descended from Dalaskian heritage. Medial Calendar.
Aldarin (Nation): See Aldarin Empire. Autumn’s Dawn: The ninth month of the
Aldarin Empire: A militaristic nation living in the Medial Calendar.
south-western region of Elos. Autumn’s Dusk: The eleventh month of the
Aldarin Republic: The lesser-used, yet proper name Medial Calendar.
for the present era of the Aldarin Empire. Baldera: A northern province of Aldarin border-
Alserius: The flamen of Rael during the ing Jykstrav.
Second Medial War. Barbarus (pl. Barbari): Aldarin term for those who
Alta Deosia: A festival celebrating the come from cultures vastly differing to that of the
summer solstice. Aldarin Empire.
Altus Moventur: An Aldarin military award Batilia: The flamen of Iora during the
bestowed for revolutionary thinking and First Medial War.
progressiveness. Bloodbound: A specific sect of Quor’s cult, typi-
Altus Weave: An artificial weave of arcane waylines cally legionarii, who ritualistically offer their
which spans across southwestern Elos, owned by blood to Quor.
the Aldarin Empire. Blood Rot: A vile disease which slowly rots the
Aluforod: The immense snow-clad forest which blood, causing it to turn blackened and sludge-
covers most of Fyndar and western Emondas. like. Vampires and dhampir are immune to the
Alvia: A north-eastern province of Aldarin border- symptoms of the disease but may still carry it and
ing Jykstrav. pass it on to others.
Amakro: The flamen of Vys during the Blueglades: A gang of smash-and-grab thieves and
First Medial War. pickpockets in Deveros.
Amicis (pl. Amici): Aldarin term for allies to the Brazier (pl. Braziers): Minor local leaders of
Aldarin Empire. the Ebyr’sol.
Anchor Nations: The eight nations who uphold the Brimshaw: Medial Plane deity of alcohol.
World Border and are host to the World Anchors. Brivane Pirates: A sizable collective of pirates who
Anchor Treaty: See Anchor Nations. operate around the Deveros Coast, typically
Anchor Week: The time frame of one week used by working to protect the local fishing population
calendars in the Anchor Nations. of illicit fishers.
Anniculus: A festival celebrating the new year. Bodystone: A magical stone which acts as a magi-
cal prosthetic.

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Borealia: A northern province of Aldarin border- Circum Aquatica: An annual rapida race around
ing Jykstrav. the Deveros bay.
Bulla (pl. Bullae): A charm given to Deverosians Civaci: The easternmost province of Aldarin border-
on their 9th day after being born which functions ing South Rymin and Menderin.
similarly to a gildum. Clericus (Clerici): A sacerdos who is also a legion-
Bunê: The capital city of Menderin. arius, responsible for administering healing on
Caellione: The flamen of Gw’yth during the the battlefield.
First Medial War. Cohort (pl. Cohorts): The largest unit in an Aldarin
Caerula: The central and oldest province of Aldarin. legion, outside of the legion itself, consisting of
Calceus (pl. calcei): Leather boots worn by higher anywhere between six to twelve centuries.
class Aldarins. Cohort Assembly: A gathering where the hydropho-
Caliga (pl. Caligae): Leather sandals worn by tes and regitori of a legion may raise any concerns
Aldarins and legionarii. with their gryphos.
Cambion: A common kinship of half daimons on Communitas: An Aldarin festival celebrating the
the Medial Plane. end of exam season for arcane university students
Cambion, Blood Eclipse: A rare kinship of half focusing around helping the community.
daimons born of the twinned moons on the Concilium Arcanus Altus: The organisation which
Medial Plane. oversees all magic and arcane functions within the
Candor: The primordial of wind created by Fate. Aldarin Empire.
Cardin: Vynestra’s mascot, an iridescent cardinal in Consensa (pl. Consensae): High profile politicians
Aldarin legionarius armour. who are members of Aldarin’s Consentium.
Capitola: A high society club in Deveros. See also: Consentium: Aldarin’s highest political forum,
The Capitans. reserved exclusively for patricians and sanctes.
Catfolk: A common kinship of feline people on the Consentium Minor: Aldarin’s public political
Medial Plane. forum, reserved for all but patricians and sanctes.
Cel’drik: One of the twinned capital cities of Peliox. Cornicen (pl. Cornicines): A horn blower within
Celeres: A gang of youths in Deveros practising the the Aldarin Legions.
soon-to-be-banned sport of henestra. Corona Aurea: An Aldarin military award bestowed
Celianthre: The Medial Pantheon deity of nature, for feats of exceptional bravery in the face
glades, and trees. of adversity.
Censor (pl. Censors): A prolegitor who governs Corona Civica: An Aldarin civic award bestowed
the judicial functioning of the Imperial Courts for acts of great valour resulting in the saving of
alongside another prolegitor and the Pontifex numerous Aldarin lives.
Arcanus Major. Corona Graminea: An Aldarin military award
Centa (pl. Centae): Aldarin currency representing bestowed to a gryphos by their legion repre-
one hundred gold pieces. senting feats of excellence and the approval of
Century (pl. Centuries): The second largest unit in their legionarii.
an Aldarin legion consisting of ten decimae. Corona Navilia: An Aldarin military award
Century Assembly: A gathering where principae bestowed to the first legionarius to board a ship
may raise any concerns with their hydrophos during battle.
or regitorus. Culina: A kitchen.
Charring: The process of giving an ember access to Cult: A collective of worshippers or followers of a
more of your soul in exchange for greater power. deity or demigod.
Children of Ivora: A group of cultists dedicated to Daimon: A creature not from the Medial Plane.
the ancient blue dragon, Ivora. Daîthar: The primordial of water created by Fate.
Chitinskin: The slow descent into becoming a Dalask: An underground city formed during the Age
chitina begins with the laying of chitin eggs into of Dusk. Now lost to time.
one’s flesh by a chitin beetle, forming a hard chi- Dalaskian: An old human kin during the
tin-like layer to the skin. Eventually the infected Age of Dusk.
becomes a withered husk, controlled completely Dane: A well-defended city state situated in the
by the chitin beetles living within them. heart of Elos.
Chthonic: Something pertaining to the Decima (pl. Decimae) (Legion): The lowest unit in a
Underworld, typically implying nefarious or legion consisting of eight legionarii and two skilled
unsettling intentions. labourers. For the coinage see Decima (Currency).
Cinder (pl. Cinders): The rank-and-file cultists of Decima (pl. Decimae) (Currency): Aldarin cur-
the Ebyr’sol. rency representing ten gold pieces.

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De’Leyé: The flamen of Kylera during the Elf, High: A common kinship of elves on the
First Medial War. Medial Plane found mostly centralised around
Demigod: A half-deity or child of a deity. arcane waylines.
Deos: The Medial Pantheon deity of healing, the sun, Elf, Sand: A common kinship of elves on the Medial
and the divine. Plane found mostly in hot climates.
Deveros: The capital city of the Aldarin Empire. Elf, Snow: A common kinship of elves on the Medial
Deveros Arcane University: A sub-sect of Plane found mostly in cold climates.
Concilium Arcanus Altus used to train premagi Elf, Wood: A common kinship of elves on the Medial
into becoming fully fledged magi. Plane found mostly in woodland regions.
Deverosia: An Aldarin festival celebrating the Elais: An old term for Elos. See also: Elos.
founding of the city of Deveros. Elos: A densely populated continent at the heart of
Deverosian: An Aldarin who lives in Deveros. the Medial Plane.
Dhampir: A common kinship of half vampires Enor: The primordial of earth created by Fate.
found on the Medial Plane. Ember: A powerful mark on the soul caused by the
Discens (pl. Discentis): A clericus in training. combination of normal soul threads and deific
Diviliana: Medial Plane deity of summer. soul threads. Embers grant those who have them
Divisio Imperium: The highest bracket of the jova powerful abilities akin to those of demigods.
sport where all the best teams of the Aldarin Emberblood: Someone with an ember.
Empire compete against one another. Emberfire: The Common tongue version of Ebyr’sol.
Dreamscape: A plane which cloaks The Compass, Emberkiln: A brazier which alights when the Medial
where the collective dreams of all creatures adjoin Plane is in grave peril.
in bubble-like formations. Emondas: A nation primarily composed of high
Dorok: The flamen of Hargrum during the elves from northeastern Elos.
First Medial War. Erothir: One of the Inner Pantheon deities of war.
Duodecima: The twelve original demigods who set Esmere: Medial Plane deity of fate. See also: Fate.
out to destroy the Dusk Shroud. Estalia: A festival celebrated in rural communities
Dusk Crystals: Concentrated phoenix souls melded in worship to the Four Primordials.
with the soul threads of Meveril, which may be Estia: The flamen of Deos and Xyth during the
used to produce extreme amounts of energy. Second Medial War.
Duskfall: The destruction of the Dusk Shroud by Estioc: Medial Plane deity of burial.
the Duodecima. Ethereal Expanse: A transitive plane on the bottom
Dusk Magic: Another term for the corrupted soul side of The Compass, through which deceased
threads of Meveril. souls take passage to Väedfel.
Dusk Rot: A deadly disease obtained through Ethwylei: The Inner Pantheon deity of tornados
prolonged exposure to dusk magic. Far: The sixth day of the Anchor Week.
Dusk Shroud: A cataclysmic event caused by the Farborn: A term used by Medial Plane dwellers to
destruction of Meveril’s soul. The Dusk Shroud describe sapient daimons.
caused a haze across the Medial Plane that inflicted Fate: A mysterious entity which controls the path
any who walked within it with dusk rot. of all souls.
Dusktech: Technology which uses the magic of dusk Felgarde: The capital city of North Rymin.
crystals to be powered. Flamus: A festival looking at the memory of the First
Dust: One of the twinned capital cities of Peliox. and Second Medial Wars, where powerful ember-
Duthwellyn: The flamen of Meliam during the blood and demigods attempt to become mantels
First Medial War. to deities or to even ascend as gods themselves.
Dwarf, Delvar: A common kinship of dwarves on Flamen: A flaming soul: a mantel who has been
the Medial Plane found deep underground. chosen to become a vessel of a god, destined to
Dwarf, Earthbound: A common kinship of dwarves eventually perish as their soul becomes overcome
on the Medial Plane found in mountainous regions by the soul of their god.
and underground. Flaming Flasks: An Aldarin festival celebrating the
Dwarf, Hill: A common kinship of dwarves on the upcoming summer in an attempt to appease Deos.
Medial Plane found mostly in hilly regions. Flora: Medial Plane deity of flowers and wells.
Ebyr’sol: A collective of Deosian worshippers who Fortuna: A festival celebrating Uverthal, meant to
believe that daimons, and those descended from usher in good luck.
them, are causing the collapse of The Compass. Fyndar: A snow-covered, heavily wooded nation to
Elf, Ashensworn: A common kinship of elves on the north of Elos.
the Medial Plane found mostly centralised around Gales Dea: An Aldarin festival celebrating gender
volcanic regions. fluidity and embracing oneself.

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Gathering of the Many: Jykstrav’s oligarchic council Henestra: A cruel sport played by Aldarin youths
consisting of representatives from each of its involving the plucking of feathers from gryphons.
clanships and families. Herove Ocean: The ocean dividing the north-
Gilded Ocean: The ocean between the ern segment of the Medial Plane from the
Kildars and Elos. southern segment.
Gildum: A small coin worn around the neck signi- Hetaria (pl. Hetariae): A veteran legionarius who
fying Aldarin citizenship. has undergone special training and now protects
Gildor (pl. Gildors): The third highest ranking the imperial family and the Amethyst Acre dis-
elected member of Aldarin’s Consentium, typically trict of Deveros.
responsible for clerical work and finances. High Flame (pl. High Flames): Leaders of
Giraré: A nation of trade ports in Ravidan owned by the Ebyr’sol.
the Spiral Queens. Honorus (pl. Honori): One of eleven elected publi
Glismara: Medial Plane deity of nectar and bees. of the Consentium Minor with the ability to veto
Gnome: A common kinship in the Medial Plane. any bill passing through: a very powerful position.
Gnome, Frost-blistered: A common kinship in the Human: A common kinship in the Medial Plane.
Medial Plane, typically found in cold climates. Hydra: A multi-bladed spear used by the hydropho-
Goblin: A common kinship in the Medial Plane. tes of the Aldarin Legions.
Grand Mercari: A festival and set of games where Hydrophos (pl. Hydrophotes): The first in com-
famous mercyr guilds compete against one mand of a cohort, named after the “hydra”, the
another for glory. weapon their wield.
Gryphos (pl. Gryphotes): The commander of a Hyperuranion Sovereigns: A collective of interpla-
legion, typically a legitor. nar deities who govern the Dreamscape.
Grypho Probatio: A Deverosian festival celebrating Imperial Arcane Assembly: A sub-sect of Concilium
Aldarin’s military might and the swearing in of Arcanus Altus which acts for military and research
new gryphon riders into the Legions. purposes to the benefit of the Aldarin Empire and
Gryphon Giggles: It is unknown how the gryphon the Anchor Nations.
giggles spread, nor where they originated, but Inner Compass: The region of The Compass
this peculiar and infectious plague has existed for between the Wysterwood and Väedfel ring planes.
countless centuries — long before the events of the Inner Pantheon: A fragmented collective of deities
recent millennia and Duskfall. When an infected who govern the Inner Compass.
creature interacts with anything gryphon related, Ioke: Medial Plane deity of beauty.
they cannot help but burst into uncontrollable fits Iora: The Medial Pantheon deity of knowledge,
of laughter. scripture, and law.
Gryphon Rider: See Legionarius Grypho. Ioras: A festival celebrated in Deveros, ushering in
Gw’yth: The Medial Pantheon deity of stars, the the new premagi of the Deveros Arcane University.
astral, and the arcane. Iset: A Sel’Kildarian festival celebrating
Halfling: A common kinship in the Medial Plane. life and family.
Half-Dragon: A kinship of half humans, Isseti: Medial Plane deity of artistry.
half dragons. Itheli: The flamen of Saleen during the
Half-Dragon, Skyfarer: A kinship of half-dragons First Medial War.
with wings from eastern Elos. Iudex (pl. Iudices): Senior members of the
Half-Elf: A kinship melding one kin with Quadrumvirate.
that of an elf. Ivora: An ancient blue dragon slain upon the found-
Half-Orc, Plains: A kinship melding one kin with ing of Deveros, prophesied to return 1000 years
that of a plains orc. after her death.
Half-Orc, Snow: A kinship melding one kin with Jordveil Isle: A small nation of warrior sailors off the
that of a snow orc. west coast of Elos.
Halthos: A mountainous, snowy nation Jova: A popular sport in Aldarin involving teams
within the north-western corner of Elos. flying upon gryphons and throwing balls through
Hargrum: The Medial Pantheon deity of forges, hanging hoops.
architecture, and creation. Juella: Medial Plane deity of wind.
Harpastum: A violent sport where a ball is thrown Jykstrav: A snow-blighted nation in western Elos
between two teams. Whoever keeps the ball for formed of hundreds of splintered clanships.
the longest wins. Jyrden: A person from Jykstrav. Also a kin-
Hel: A strange island in the Gilded Ocean known to ship of humans.
be the domain of Xithri. Kara-vaji: An underground necropolis and city
traditionally utilised by Sel’Kildarian cultures.

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Kestanova: Medial Plane deity of the ethereal. Liórne: The capital city of Fyndar at the heart of
Kil’thweiél: The flamen of Quor during the the Aluforod.
First Medial War. Longbreach: The capital city of South Rymin, widely
Kishmar Kingdom: A now collapsed kingdom in considered to be the cultural capital of Elos.
Sel’Kildar, occupied by the Qutharian Empire. Longbreach Collection: A festival and fashion show
Kishmaran: A person from the Kishmar Kingdom of the newest fashion from Longbreach.
and a kinship of humans. Loritiea: A festival celebrated by Aldarin legionarii
Kistra: The Medial Pantheon deity of harvests, souls, where offerings are made to Loritel.
and the dead. Loritel: The Medial Pantheon deity of strategy,
Korkuntaar: A collective of earthen farborn from rivers, and serenity.
the Inner Compass. Lusa: A Sel’Kildarian festival celebrating love and
Koshka: Medial Plane deity of diplomacy. passion, dedicated to Quor.
Kylera: The Medial Pantheon deity of growth, birth, Magnos: The capital city of Mistveil.
and reincarnation. Magus (pl. Magi): Someone who is capable of cast-
Laedemus: A gang of thugs in Deveros, renowned ing spells, typically from a studied arcane-centric
for kidnapping, extortion, and blackmail. background such as that of a wizard.
Lanterna (pl. Lanternae): The newest members of Mana: A mysterious island surrounded by the
the Quadrumvirate. continent of Panthéa.
Larvelia: A festival celebrated as a means to Mantel: A powerful demigod or emberblood who
appease Larveth. has entered into a pact with a deity to become their
Larveth: The Medial Pantheon deity of disease, vessel should the need arise.
insects, and decay. Masqué: A festival celebrated in Longbreach and
Last Dusk Expedition: The expedition undertaken other major cities involving masquerade balls
by the Duodecima to rid the Medial Plane of the and feasting.
Dusk Shroud. Medial Pantheon: The collective of deities who
Legatus (pl. Legati): Legionarii representatives for oversee the Medial Plane.
the Legions who serve as additional publi within Medial Plane: The central plane of The Compass.
the Consentium Minor. Medicenta (pl. Medicentae): Aldarin currency
Legion: A single cohesive army functioning within representing fifty gold pieces.
the wider realm of Aldarin’s military. Meliam: The Medial Pantheon deity of protection,
Legion Assembly: A gathering where all gryphotes warding, and curses.
of all Aldarin legions gather with the Primus Melsina: The flamen of Kistra during the
Legatus and Pontifex Martialis to discuss empire- Second Medial War.
wide matters. Menderin: An expanse of plains and shrubland
Legionarius (pl. Legionarii): A rank-and-file along the south-central coast of Elos.
soldier in the Aldarin Legions. Mercantus: An Anchor Nation festival in which sales
Legionarius Grypho (pl. Legionarii Gryphotes): tax is temporarily lifted.
A legionarius trained to ride a hastellian gryphon. Mercyr: A licensed adventurer or troubleshooter,
Legitor (pl. Legitors): The second highest ranking often part of a guild of other like minded
elected member of Aldarin’s Consentium, typically mercyrs who take on contracts together. See:
responsible for the upkeep of the Legions and the Mercyr Contract.
Imperial Courts. Mercyr Contract: A legally binding agreement
Leitaai: A collective of minor nations in west- signed by a mercyr (or group of mercyrs) to com-
ern Nul’Kildar. plete a specific task, typically with some reward
Levola: The flamen of Loritel during the upon completion of the task.
Second Medial War. Methindril: The capital city of Emondas.
Liberi: Minor deities of the Medial Plane, typically Meveril: The primordial of fire created by Fate.
those not within the Tredecima. Midnus (pl. Midni): The lowest ranking elected
Liberillia: A festival celebrating the Liberi. member of Aldarin’s Consentium.
Libertus (pl. Liberti): Aldarin term for a wide range Mik’ael: Medial Plane deity of ash.
of folk, ranging from strong allies to neutral parties Miles (pl. Milites): The rank-and-file members of
in relation to the Aldarin Empire. the Quadrumvirate.
Licenus: The flamen of Deos and Xyth during the Milithic Clans: The original clanships which inhab-
First Medial War. ited the lands of Menderin.
Lildor: A river-riddled nation in north-western Mistveil: A volcanic nation inhabited mostly by
Elos, blocked off from the rest of the continent by ashensworn in the south-eastern reaches of Elos.
mountain ranges.

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Moneta: The flamen of Rael during the Pax Deorum: Peace of the Gods. A belief held by the
First Medial War. Aldarins that it is best to keep a strong relationship
Mørken League: A commercial and defensive with the gods to help fend off bad omens.
alliance between Aldarin, Lildor, and Jordveil Isle. Peliox: A dust-ridden nation to the east of Elos.
Mornfel: The Medial Pantheon deity of moons, Pelitus (pl. Peliti): Junior magi who work alongside
prophecies, and the night. the significati of an Aldarin legion.
Mul: The second day of the Anchor Week. Peltor (pl. Peltors): The guards of Aldarin’s consen-
Mysh’lae Kingdom: A collective of powerful deep sae and Consentium.
angels from outside the Medial Plane. Pichera: A ceremonial dagger granted to each of the
Nerithal: Medial Plane deity of resurrection. consensae of Aldarin’s Consentium.
Nhu Zho: The flamen of Gw’yth during the Pontifex (pl. Pontifices): The highest position
Second Medial War. attainable in an Aldarin cult belonging to one of
Nisa: The flamen of Loritel during the the Tredecima deities.
First Medial War. Pontifex Arcanus Major: The pontifex of Iora’s cult.
Nivinea: One of Aldarin’s central and wealthi- Pontifex Arcanus Minor: The pontifex of
est provinces. Gw’yth’s cult.
North Rymin: A necropolis state run by a lich in Pontifex Martialis: The pontifex of Quor’s cult.
central Elos. Praecelsa (pl. Praecelsae): A pole of wood with
Novus Nibilis (pl. Novi Nobiles): New nobles. the Aldarin flag and a golden gryphon attached,
Aldarin citizens who have become elevated to the wielded by a significatus.
status of sancte within their lifetime. Praefectus Castrorum: The camp prefect of an
Nul’Kildar: A sizable continent on the Medial Plane, Aldarin Legion, responsible for securing supply
adjoined with Sel’Kildar. lines and keeping order amongst the ranks.
Nuscilla: The flamen of Meliam during the Praeses (pl. Praesides): A prolegitor who has taken
Second Medial War. on governorship of one of Aldarin’s provinces
Old Rymin: A nation in central Elos which collapsed alongside another prolegitor.
following the uprising of a lich, splitting into North Praeses Ultimum (pl. Praesides Ultimum): A
Rymin and South Rymin. proprimus who has taken on governorship of one
Ophelian Wall: The wall that marks the border of the of Aldarin’s provinces in place of two prolegitors.
Aldarin Empire with Menderin in the east. Praesta (pl. Praestae): An Aldarin social class rep-
Opulatus (pl. Opulati): The core group of rank-and- resenting those who work in specialist or highly
file publi within the Consentium Minor. skilled professions.
Orc, Plains: A common kinship of orcs on the Precipa: A small rural festival asking for blessings of
Medial Plane found mostly in temperate climates. rain for the upcoming harvest season.
Orc, Snow: A common kinship of orcs on the Medial Premagus (pl. Premagi): A student magus.
Plane found mostly in cold climates. Primordial: A powerful entity created by Fate to
Otium (pl. Otium): An Aldarin social class repre- govern one of the four prime elements of fire,
senting those who work in unskilled labour. water, wind, and earth.
Outbrok: The Outer Earth plane of The Compass. Primus Coperna: An Aldarin festival celebrating
Outer Compass: The region of The Compass outside the Four Primordials and the creation of The
of the Väedfel ring plane. Compass, as well as celebrating new life.
Outfeir: The Outer Fire plane of The Compass. Primus (pl. Primi): The highest elected political
Outswel: The Outer Water plane of The Compass. position in the Aldarin Empire, responsible for
Outwyn: The Outer Wind plane of The Compass. leading the empire alongside another primus.
Ovation: A minor parade of celebration granted to Primus Arcanus: A title issued to the Altus Magus
a gryphos who has achieved reasonable success of the Concilium Arcanus Altus allowing them to
whilst on campaign. speak in the Consentium on behalf of Aldarin’s
Ovatum (pl. Ovati): Aldarin military cam- imperial magi.
paign medals. Primus Imperator: The oldest child of the currently
Panthéa: A crescent shaped continent on the Medial ruling emperor or empress who may voice their
Plane, teeming with commerce. opinion on the behalf of the imperial family in
Parma: A small shield used by Aldarin gryphon the Consentium.
riders and cavalry. Primus Legatus: A title issued to the gryphos of the
Patrician (pl. Patricians): An Aldarin social class Legio Terra I Deverosia allowing them to speak in
of the higher nobility, those from the original the Consentium on behalf of the Legions.
founding families of Deveros. Primus Pontifex: The pontifex of Deos’s cult and the
religious leader of the Aldarin Empire.

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Principa (pl. Principae): The first in command Resentia (pl. Resentiae): Tattoos marking the name
of a century. of a person upon their body, preventing theft of
Progildor (pl. Progildors): Consensae who have their name by fae.
previously served as gildors as their highest rank Revitalists: A right-wing Aldarin political party
in Aldarin’s Consentium. seeking to reinstate the imperial family into rule.
Prolegitor (pl. Prolegitors): Consensae who have Ring Plane: A ring-shaped plane within
previously served as legitors as their highest rank The Compass. The inner ring plane forms
in Aldarin’s Consentium. the Wysterwood and the outer ring plane
Promidnus (pl. Promidni): Consensae who have forms Väedfel.
previously served as midni as their highest rank Rymish: A human kin from either North or
in Aldarin’s Consentium. South Rymin.
Proprimus (pl. Proprimi): Consensae who have Sacerdos (pl. Sacerdotes): A religious member of a
previously served as primi as their highest rank cult, such as a priest, priestess, cleric, or paladin.
in Aldarin’s Consentium. Sacerdos Maximus (pl. Sacerdos Maximi): A
Province of Deveros: The Aldarin province along local religious cult leader, typically found in rural
the southern shore of Elos which holds its capi- temples and shrines.
tal: Deveros. Saleen: The Medial Pantheon deity of trade, pros-
Publus (pl. Publi): Elected members of Aldarin’s perity, and greed.
Consentium Minor. Salenti: Aldarin’s westernmost province overlooking
Pyrion (pl. Pyrions): High priests and commanders the Gilded Ocean.
of the Ebyr’sol. Sancte (pl. Sanctes): An Aldarin social class of the
Qenna: The flamen of Saleen during the lower nobility.
Second Medial War. Sar: The seventh day of the Anchor Week.
Quadrumvirate: A religious cult of Aldarins dedi- Scutum: A rectangular shield used by Aldarin’s
cated to Deos, Quor, Iora, and Gw’yth. legionarii, designed to cover most of the body.
Quadrumvir: A member of the Quadrumvirate. Secunda (pl. Secundae): The second in command
Quinta (pl. Quintae): Aldarin currency represent- of a century.
ing five gold pieces. Sel’Kildar: A sprawling continent filled with oases,
Quor: The Medial Pantheon deity of love, pas- jungles, and deserts found just south of Nul’Kildar.
sion, and war. Sel’Kildarak Legeshi: A specialised legion com-
Qutharian Empire: A powerful empire spanning the posed of members from Deveros’s Sala Sel’Kildarak
breadth of Sel’Kildar, controlled by the Ebyr’sol. district which helps hold the Ophelian Wall to the
Qutharian: A person from the Qutharian east of the Aldarin Empire.
Empire and a kinship of humans. Servilla: Medial Plane deity of finance.
Rael: The Medial Pantheon deity of seas, Servus (pl. Servus): An Aldarin social class
oceans, and storms. representing those without a name, those
Rahil: The flamen of Quor during the unknown to society.
Second Medial War. Significatus (pl. Significati): A magus, typically a
Rapida (pl. Rapidae): A dusk engine-fuelled light haruspex, who functions as a signaller and magic
watercraft common in Deveros and around the user for an Aldarin legion. They wield a praecelsa.
Deveros Coast. Silver Legion: A legion typically from an allied state
Ravidan: An archipelago continent within the to Aldarin that uses the Aldarin legion structure.
Medial Plane. Skaald: Demigod of frost.
Ravidanian: A human kin from Ravidan. Skaaldblud: A kinship of humans descended
Reformists: A left-wing Aldarin political party from Skaald.
seeking to further empower the people. Skorbrak: An empire from the Inner Fire Plane.
Regitorus (pl. Regitori): The second in command Sola Luna: An Aldarin festival celebrating the sun
of a cohort. and the moons.
Renavic Wars: A series of four wars spanning several Soldromus (pl. Soldromi): Major leaders of the
centuries waged between Jykstrav and Aldarin. Quadrumvirate.
The current on-going war is that of the Fourth Soul: A collective of soul threads forming the life
Renavic War. of a creature.
Renovaré: A festival celebrated in the Aldarin Soul Thread: The most basic structure of a soul,
Empire, celebrating the new public officials being representing a single path one may take in life.
ushered into office. Also known as a Thread of Fate.

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Soultide: A festival celebrating those who have The Lesser Key: The all-powerful ruling lineage of
passed away, dedicated primarily to Estioc and seventy two daimons who govern vast swathes of
The Palid Clasp. the Outer Fire Plane.
South Rymin: A farming nation found in The Palid Clasp: A sect of death gods led by Kistra.
central Elos. The Pilkos Isles: A fragmented island province of
Sovigal (pl. Sovigals): A high order member of a Aldarins along Elos’s southernmost shores.
religious cult. The Second Medial War: The second great inter-
Sovigal Altus (pl. Sovigal Alti): A unique type of planar war between the planes of The Compass.
sovigal specific to Sovingar’s cult who upkeep The Torporus: Sometimes the eggs of vine moths are
Sovingar’s sacred flames. mistaken for grapes and crushed into batches of
Sovigal Maximus (pl. Sovigal Maximi): The wine, causing them to become infested with vine
leader of a cult whose deity is not one of the moth larvae residue. Those who drink this residue
Tredecima deities. become afflicted with feelings of lethargy and the
Sovingar: The Medial Pantheon deity of winter, strong desire to be left alone.
hearths, and shelter. The White Plague: This vile plague born of Larveth
Sovinvale: A festival celebrating Sovingar. causes respiratory issues, white lesions on the skin,
Spiral Queens: A collective of powerful pirate and eventually blindness. It is rare in modern day
captains who lead a lot of modern day dusk- Vynestra but has still been known to strike in small
tech research. clusters throughout the plane
Spring’s Crest: The fourth month of the Thermae (pl. Thermae): Baths used by the Aldarins
Medial Calendar. to cleanse themselves.
Spring’s Dawn: The third month of the Thermae Oils: Oils used within thermae which are
Medial Calendar. rubbed on the body and scraped off to remove
Spring’s Dusk: The fifth month of the impurities in the skin.
Medial Calendar. Thul’dari: A continent within the Herove Ocean
Strigil: A scraping tool used in a thermae to remove which stands as a single mountain. It once
oil from the skin. was a sprawling continent that was destroyed
Sul -The first day of the Anchor Week. during Duskfall.
Sulia: Medial Plane deity of bathing. Tianlán Ocean: The ocean between the Kildars
Summer’s Crest: The seventh month of the and Panthéa.
Medial Calendar. Tirones (pl. Tironis): A green horn legionarius who
Summer’s Dawn: The sixth month of the has not untaken the typical two years training
Medial Calendar. provided to a vintarus.
Summer’s Dusk: The eighth month of the Toga: A long, draping piece of cloth commonly worn
Medial Calendar. by Aldarins.
Takel: The language spoken within the Tormentide: A Rymish festival celebrating creativity
Tak’huut Dynasty. and crafting.
Tak-huut: Capital of the Tak’huut Dynasty. Torn: Medial Plane deity of crafts.
Tak’huut Dynasty: A sizable empire which spans Tredecima: The thirteen leading deities of the
across the eastern breadth of Nul’Kildar. Medial Pantheon.
Tak’huutan: A person who hails from the Tribunus Angusticlavius (pl. Tribuni
Tak’huut Dynasty. Angusticlavii): Five junior members of the
Talo: Medial Plane deity of celebration. Consentium or well-known patricians who sit as
Thaikos: The flamen of Hargrum during the advisors to a gryphos’ war council.
Second Medial War. Trigona: A ball game played between children.
The Capitans: An Aldarin political group based Triumph: A major parade of celebration granted to
from the high society club of Capitola whose bills a gryphos who has achieved exceptional success
tread the line between liberal social reform and whilst on campaign.
hooliganism. Tundae: A festival celebrating the autumn equinox
The Compass: The physical construct of planes and preparations for the winter.
created by Fate out of The Void during Emergence. Tunder: Medial Plane deity of Autumn.
The Deity: The first vampire, leader of the Tunica: A long shirt, commonly tied at the waist with
Vampiric Order. a belt, worn by Aldarins.
The First Medial War: The first great interplanar war Umbra Crow: A member of the Umbra Syndicate,
between the planes of The Compass. also known simply as a “crow”.
The Iusdecim: The ten basic rights granted to Umbra Syndicate: A secret organisation of assassins,
Aldarin citizens. information brokers, and saboteurs working for

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 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

the Aldarin Empire. Members are known as of sparkling warts which look akin to the meld of
Umbra Crows. the Astral Chaos.
Underworld: The underground realm of the Medial Wir -The fourth day of the Anchor Week.
Plane, filled with immense seas, caverns, and Winter’s Dawn: The twelfth month of the
tunnel systems. Medial Calendar.
Unum (pl. Unum): Aldarin currency representing Winter’s Dusk: The second month of the
a gold piece. Medial Calendar.
Uverthal: Medial Plane deity of good for- Winter’s Wane: The first month of the
tune and luck. Medial Calendar.
Vae Night: A festival to ward off fae and nefar- Winter’s Wax: The thirteenth month of the
ious spirits. Medial Calendar.
Väedfel: The outer ring plane of The Compass, where World Anchor: A monolithic wonder of the Medial
souls go after they have passed on. Plane, used to house arcane universities and to
Vagnata (pl. Vagnatae): An Aldarin social class uphold the World Border.
relating to drifters or vagrants with no real home. World Border: The arcane barrier around the
Va Hyleuu: The flamen of Vys during the Medial Plane, powered by the World Anchors of
Second Medial War. the Anchor Nations, which regulates interplanar
Vampiric Order: A Medial Plane-wide collective of travel to and from the plane.
powerful vampires who work together to tilt the Wyld: A collective of powerful minor fae deities
flow of global politics to their benefit. from the Wysterwood.
Veket: A collective of clanships from the Wysta: An Anchor Nation festival celebrating liter-
Inner Fire Plane. acy with the gifting of books and scrolls.
Veshmera: A Sel’Kildarian festival of the dead. Wysterwood: The inner ring plane of The Compass,
Vigilant: The capital city of Halthos. where fae daimons exist.
Viker: The Medial Pantheon deity of thieves, hunt- Xephyr: Medial Plane deity of passing.
ing, and the wilds. Xhaolo Republic: A militaristic seafaring nation
Vinalia Barus: A festival celebrating successful found on Panthéa.
barley harvests and the first ale production Xin Quao: The flamen of Iora during the
of the year. Second Medial War.
Vinalia Barus: A festival celebrating successful Xithri: The Medial Pantheon deity of emotions,
grape harvests where many help in harvesting the theatre, and dreams.
grapes of local vineyards. Xwar (pl. Xwar): Demigods aligned to the cause of
Vintari: The collective of trainee legionarii and the Ebyr’sol who have corrupted Deos’s soul to
guards across the Aldarin Empire. turn it into embers for their followers.
Vintarus (pl. Vintari): A trainee legionarius or Xyth: The Medial Pantheon deity of shadows, decep-
guard within the Aldarin Empire. tion, and corruption.
Vista: The flamen of Kistra during the Yakareb: The flamen of Kylera during the
First Medial War. Second Medial War.
Void (Magic): A cold, dark magic stemming from Yataal: A collective of five powerful families based
The Void (Plane) which negates that which exists. within the Sala Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros,
Void (Plane): Anything outside of The Compass, renowned for their power over the district and
where the unknown exists. criminal operations.
Void Blight: Creatures who interact with the Void, Zephyr: See Xephyr.
whether it be willingly or unwillingly, may con- Zhurak-a-Baz: The desert spanning the breadth of
tract a horrendous affliction called Void Blight. central Sel’Kildar.
Dark tendrils of anti-material magic slowly break Zol: The third day of the Anchor Week.
down the fabric of one’s true self, leaving behind a Zor: The fifth day of the Anchor Week.
husk of nothingness in its wake. Yrrdenheim: The capital city of Jordveil Isle.
Vorien Empire: A seafaring nation of privateers and Zaiyi Federation: A commercially oriented seafar-
merchants found in Ravidan. ing nation found on Panthéa.
Voruthal: The capital city of Zygarde. Zwys: A nation of farborn from the Inner Wind Plane.
Vynestra: The universe of the Vynestra setting. Zygarde: A mountainous nation filled with
Vys: The Medial Pantheon deity of illusion, curiosity, half-dragons and kobolds to the east of Elos.
and mischief.
Warp Warts: Those who have warped through
planar folds sometimes find their body reacting
badly to the experience, breaking out in a series

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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

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160
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Notes

161
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Notes

162
Ave, friend!
Delve into a lore-filled world teeming with devious deities,
sprawling civilisations, blood-soaked wars, and immense
magical powers born of one’s very fate itself.
The Aldarin Empire introduces you to the capricious civil-
isation of the Aldarins, inspired by ancient Rome. Cavort
with gallant gryphons, soak in rejuvenating baths, and come
toe-to-toe with the fearsome legions within this in-depth
5th Edition civilisation supplement, where political intrigue
and rampant chaos flourishes into a cornucopia of adventure.
Some of the exciting bounties you shall find within this
tome include:
• A detailed guide to the Aldarin Empire, giving insight into the
political, cultural, religious, military, and arcane lore of the
Aldarin people inspired by the culture of the Roman Republic.
• New Aldarin-centric subclasses, backgrounds, and feats com-
patible with 5th Edition.
• Explore the exciting bounty of festivals and sports celebrated by
the Aldarins.

ISBN 978-1-7391546-3-9

www.vynestra.com 5E
COMPATIBLE 9 781739 154639