It's finally done. After spending more time than anticipated getting it right, and ensuring that it meshes with Thorf's Wendar map, I've finished the first map of the nortern wildlands, set in the AC 1000 time period. Other maps, depicting frontiers in previous eras, will come when I have time. Anyhow, here it is:
Geoff
Håvard
Very nice Geoff!
Håvard
You made havard dance! You made havard dance! Yay!! :P
You made havard dance! You made havard dance! Yay!! :P
:heehee
Håvard
Could you repost it in this thread, please?
EDITED AT 12.50 CET: Forget the point, I can see the map clearly now
:embarrassOne question: isn't that the swamp symbol you used for the Moors of Chlyras?
Wow! Nice map, Geoff! I see you were busy while I was away last year. :D
One question: isn't that the swamp symbol you used for the Moors of Chlyras?
Thanks Thorf! This map certainly was a labour of love. In answer to your question, I used Hexmapper's swamp symbols because I didn't really like how the bog symbols showed up on my screen. I found it hard to read for some reason - but that was my old computer; it might have turned out differently otherwise.
What I was thinking, though, is that the Moors of Chlyras would probably be swampier where the rivers run, and moorish/boggy towards the fringes. It might make for a more interesting looking map, anyhow...
Geoff
Great map! Would you care to tell us which technique/software you used to make it?
Sure - I used Hexmapper to put it together, then fed it through Paint Shop Pro to crop the edges and save it in the appropriate format. The original file was about 19 MB (ouch!!).
Geoff
Sure - I used Hexmapper to put it together
HM!
Those hexes aren't the default HM hexes! I love them! Do you have them on the 'net somewhere to download or did you edit the hexes in PS after you made the map?--Ray.
HM!
--Ray.
I got them from Thibault Sarlat. I have the electronic version of the file, but it's quite large. I would suggest contacting him for a copy.
Geoff
***************
The Politics of the Northern Wildlands Community
While Nimbeth, Thalion, and other realms no longer exist, they live on in the hearts and minds of many Wendarian elves and humans. The vast majority of these people are descended from the former inhabitants, who managed to flee to the relative safety of what is now Wendar; but a small number are older elves who actually took part in the Great Northern Campaigns, or who were once residents of the lost territories. It is this latter group, in particular, that looks northward with longing, and a desire to reclaim what was lost.
Today, this community, which has called itself at various times “The Dispossessed”, “The Forgotten”, and “The Steadfast”, can largely be found in northern Wendar; they are generally reluctant to live far from the lands they consider to be their birthright. Many of the more powerful members of this group own estates and dominions right on the border, taking it upon themselves to defend the frontier, but also to make forays into their former lands to eliminate potential threats…and, they hope, to pave the way for their eventual return. Some particularly brave (some would say foolhardy) souls have even established heavily fortified outposts in the Northern Wildlands themselves, garrisoned by handfuls of warriors of the stoutest heart – or the deepest levels of fanaticism.
Although, to many outsiders, they appear to be a monolithic block of reactionaries, nothing could be further from the truth. Just as the fallen realms of the Northern Wildlands clashed with each other, so, too, do the various factions within the modern community. Broadly speaking, there are three factions within Wendar.
The Southern Lords: So named because their lands occupied the southern portion of the Northern Wildlands, the Southern Lords are the largest, and most divided, of the three factions. Almost every major family that controlled a dominion, and survived to the present day, is represented in this group – the most powerful of these are the Houses of Isiliath, Genalldain, Galdenath, Calardhon, Ardon, and Harenath. Lesser houses ally themselves with one, or another, major house as the need and opportunity arises – such allegiances are fluid, and change rapidly once it becomes apparent that one major house is ascendant. For the past 50 years, the houses of Isiliath and Calardhon have been the most powerful, and both can claim to have members serving as advisors to the king. The Southern Lords are also the most diverse faction; it comprises the most fanatical people, as well as the most pragmatic. House Isiliath, for example, is generally regarded as pragmatic, whereas House Ardon is widely regarded as being nearly delusional in its view of the political realities of the Northern Wildlands.
Regardless of their leanings, the Southern Lords are united on one matter – the eventual reclamation of their lost realms; where they differ is the manner in which they pursue this goal. Pragmatic houses try to use their political and economic connections to influence key decision makers, while those with more fanatical leanings march their own forces over the border to secure enough land to build an outpost, as the first stage of retaking their lands. The latter group does this with no official support from Wendar, and as such do not consider themselves beholden to the king. Should they ever succeed, the lands they regain will be for themselves, not for Wendar.
The House of Nimbeth: This faction is comprised of the direct and indirect descendants of Beldareth, and, while it is the smallest, it is the wealthiest, and considers itself the most important. This has caused no small measure of resentment over the centuries, particularly from the Southern Lords, who consider themselves to be the true standard-bearers of the cause, and who still have not completely forgiven the House of Nimbeth for its past actions, which many argue led to the loss of the Northern Wildlands.
It is divided into two competing factions. The largest group, composed almost entirely of elves, is led by Orendil, the son of Maeglin, Last King of Nimbeth. Due to his documented lineage, Orendil has won the grudging acceptance of most of the Southern Lords, and the House of Thalion, as the true heir to the throne of Nimbeth. The other faction, comprised largely of humans, is led by Arlon Tharalson, who claims to be descended from Ellareth’s secret human lover. Many of the more conservative elves within the Northern Wildlands community consider Arlon’s claim to be scandalous, but if it is indeed true, he could claim a direct, albeit illegitimate, line of descent from Beldareth, unlike Orendil, who is descended from Beldareth’s nephew, Arendyll. Despite this possibility, very few people have declared their support for Arlon, since he is not only human (many elves of Northern Wildlands descent do not hold humans in high regard), but also of unproven lineage. At the best of times, the two factions are coldly civil to each other, but often shouting matches and scuffles erupt when the two groups are in the same room for any length of time.
As with the Southern Lords, the House of Nimbeth is united in its desire to regain its ancestral lands, but each side believes it should govern. This has hampered any effort by the House of Nimbeth to pool its considerable resources in support of this goal.
The House of Thalion: Members of this house are descended from those elves who managed to flee the city of Thalion when it fell to the soldiers of the Third Great Northern Campaign in AC 337. This faction is the smallest one, and also the most pragmatic, as it saw firsthand how fanaticism and greed could harm the innocent. Given its history, its relations with the other factions are cool at best. Like the others, the House of Thalion dreams of regaining its ancestral home, but it seeks to do so almost exclusively through influencing key Wendarian decision makers and building broad public support. This faction knows that it will take many years to accomplish this, but they are patient.
In addition to the three factions outlined above, there is a fourth group of elves, largely unknown to the people of Wendar – the surviving elves of Forenath. Although the majority of Forenath’s elvish population had abandoned their homes by BC 880, a tiny handful remained, secure in their isolated villages deep in the ancient Mourning Wood. There, they lived largely undisturbed until former residents of Thalion fled increasing pressure from indigenous human clans in AC 285. Initial contacts were peaceful, but the Forenath elves had little desire to interact with the world beyond their forest, and once it became clear that other outsiders would soon follow, they migrated to the densest portions of the Girding Wood, near the Frost River. The former refugees from Thalion took over the abandoned villages, and they were soon discovered by the vanguard of the Third Great Northern Campaign. Most of those communities that escaped notice survive to the present day; although they have lost contact with the remnants of the original Forenath elves, who still inhabit their secluded villages. Neither group interacts with the elves of Wendar, and would likely resent any intrusion into their affairs.
-Beldareth's Grove
-Eredhon
-Isiliath
-Nimbeth
-Soreth
-Thalion
*************
Eredhon
Eredhon was founded circa BC 550 by human subjects of King Beldareth of Nimbeth, who sought new land to settle that was far away from the Mengul Range. The region remained a quiet backwater until the founding of Thalion in BC 500, after which Eredhon became a popular rest spot for the growing number of traders and craftsmen who travelled between the two elvish cities. At its height, the town boasted a population of almost 9,000 people, many of them human, and became the third largest settlement in the Kingdom of Nimbeth. Eredhon was particularly well known for its many inns, which brewed varieties of ale that were popular as far south as Oakwall.
In BC 454, the town was conquered by a joint force of humans and frogmen. The population was decimated during the attack, and the brutal occupation that followed. Eredhon was retaken by King Beldareth and his armies the following Spring, but the town was slow to recover. Eventually, trade with Thalion picked up once more, but as the western city began its slide into decadence by BC 200, fewer people came to the town. The decline accelerated once Nimbeth’s power began to falter a century later, as the land slowly grew more dangerous.
By BC 40, Denagothian warbands roamed the countryside freely, forcing many townspeople to flee southwards. Unable to secure aid from the often besieged capital, the people of Eredhon fought as best they could to protect their town, but ultimately lost in a raid during the Winter of BC 22. Those few who survived the attack fled to Nimbeth. During Nimbeth’s brief resurgence during the 3rd century AC, no effort was made to re-found Eredhon, as both King Ellareth and Queen Ancalimë were more concerned with threats arising from the east.
Not long after the founding of Nimbeth, Lord (later King) Beldareth sought a place where he could relax and find solitude. Many miles north of the growing city, he discovered a vibrant forest, filled with wildlife of all sorts. Knowing intuitively that he had found his home away from home, the king decreed that the forest would be his private domain. Thereafter, it was known informally as Beldareth’s Grove (it never had an official name), and those who lived in the region would occasionally see him riding alone to or from the forest.
As time passed, and the weight of his years grew upon him, Beldareth spent more time in his grove – sometimes for weeks at a time. Always, he would return refreshed, and seemingly many years younger. It was widely thought that the king had hidden a magic item of great power in the forest, which he used periodically to maintain his vigour, though no one could prove this.
Shortly after his 672nd birthday, in the Summer of BC 221, King Beldareth told his closest advisors (many of whom had campaigned with him for centuries) that the kingdom would soon face great challenges, and that his son, Geldarion, would be the one who would lead them. He then rode to his grove, and did not return for many weeks. Sensing one day that Beldareth had died, Queen Miriel sent a party to the grove to investigate, and they came back bearing the king’s body – he had been lying on a hill, seemingly asleep. The queen then declared that Beldareth’s Grove would remain inviolate – a decree that has been upheld by the House of Nimbeth to this day.
In the years that followed, Nimbeth began its slow decline, but as the countryside grew more dangerous as more enemies bypassed the kingdom’s faltering defences, the orcs and Denagothians sent to the forest were attacked by the wildlife and the trees, and many claimed to see King Beldareth on horseback, leading the defence. Thereafter, no creature of evil intent would willingly go near the forest. Some adventurers who visited the grove in recent memory have claimed seeing a lordly elf riding on horseback, who told them courteously that they were trespassing on his lands, and that they could stay for only one night. This is, in fact, the spirit of Beldareth, who had grown to love the grove so much that he could not bear to be parted from it. Those of good intent need not fear him, so long as they do not harm the forest, or overstay their welcome.
Nimbeth
Nimbeth was founded in BC 648, around a magical spring in the forested hills just west of the Mengul Range. Once news of the spring’s powers spread, the settlement’s population exploded as thousands flocked to the region, such that, by BC 500, it had become a walled city of almost 35,000 people. For the next 300 years, Nimbeth enjoyed a period of continued growth, and those living within its walls, and in the surrounding countryside, had no fear of invasion or strife. During this golden age, the city grew even more, as did the rest of the kingdom. By BC 250, a second wall had been built to encompass the new city that had arisen outside the original walls. At that time, Nimbeth was home to over 80,000 people. The city was also, at this time, the hub of a growing network of roads and trails that led to the lands of Genalleth to the south, and Thalion to the west.
By BC 100, the kingdom had begun to enter a period of decline, which only accelerated once Nimbeth’s many enemies realised that the king, Geldarion, was not the capable leader his father had been. As the countryside became increasingly dangerous, hundreds of people fled for the comparative safety of the city, but once it became clear that that the city would not remain a haven for long, much of the populace began to flee to Amoleth and other cities and towns in the south. By the time the city fell in AC 110 to a combined force of Denagothians and orcs, Nimbeth was a shadow of its former self; less than 20,000 people lived within its walls, and many of the uninhabited neighbourhoods were already falling into ruin.
During the city’s brief renaissance under the reigns of Ellareth and Ancalimë (AC 228 - 290), much of the old city was restored. Nevertheless, despite the allure of the city’s magical spring, and the bravery of those who defended the city, Nimbeth never fully regained its glory. At its peak, it boasted roughly 35,000 inhabitants; by the time it fell again in AC 293, its population had shrunk to less than 10,000.
Since that time, people have occasionally ventured to the ruined city in search of treasure, but those who returned, by and large, met with little success. It is known that the legendary silver domes are still partly intact, as is the palace; rumours abound that there is a secret treasure vault, possibly under the palace itself, that has escaped detection all these years. The legendary magical spring of Nimbeth still exists as well, uncorrupted, and sheltered beneath the domes. Beldareth’s tomb is also said to remain untouched, guarded as it is by powerful wards and other protective measures. The great houses of the most powerful families of Nimbeth are also said to still be standing, though what treasures remain within them is unknown.
Soreth was founded in BC 1200, by Forenath elves who believed that continued contact with the indigenous human population was undesirable. They established their city on a forested hill to the northeast, and their realm encompassed the lands bounded by the Frost and Forenmark Rivers, north to the Soreth Spur. From the beginning, the elves of Soreth rarely ventured beyond their borders, and would permit no human to enter their lands. Contact with Forenath was infrequent at best, although there were occasional exchanges with the elves of Lothenar.
By the early 9th century BC, it became clear to the elves of Soreth that Forenath’s racial tensions would likely tear it apart. They withdrew to their city, save for a handful of guards to watch the frontiers. As the situation deteriorated further, and orcish incursions from the north grew more common, the elves sought a means of protecting their realm from any imaginable threat.
[here’s the hard part – I have some ideas as to what happened, but other ideas are welcome. My idea is that the Soreth elves tried to devise a magical means of protecting their city – perhaps something that would make it invisible to outsiders. Such magic would have to have been very powerful, probably beyond their normal resources. Perhaps something went wrong, and the elves unbalanced the magical energies in their region, such that the entire population was consumed, or maybe something else happened that forced them to flee? My thought is that whatever destroyed them, or drove them away, wasn’t evil so much as fundamental – a possible consequence of playing with the balance of nature and the world itself. Afterwards, residual energies made the region frightening/uncomfortable/unwelcoming to normal life. Anyhow, that’s where my thinking was going…..]
The only recent expedition to Soreth was undertaken by King Beldareth of Nimbeth and his companions, in BC 300. They were the first to discover that the city was empty – though they never learned why – and none of them said a word publicly about their journey. For most people in Wendar, if they have ever heard of it, Soreth is a mythical place, a legendary elvish city far to the north that is more the subject of folktales than anything else.
Today, Soreth is a largely intact, dead city, appearing for the most part as though its inhabitants simply decided to leave en masse. There is no life whatsoever within its walls, and the surrounding lands originally claimed by the elves have a hushed aspect to them – sounds seem to be muted, and few animals live there. Visitors to this region would feel an air of vague fear descend on them, as well as a compulsion to leave as soon as possible.
Doubtless, there are many treasures to be found within Soreth’s walls, but its remoteness, and the silent menace that stalks the region, have so far deterred all but the bravest souls.
I have an idea for the lifelessness of Soreth that I'm sending you pm. for the rest of the crowd, this is something to tie together the Gaz-line for Wendar, Denagoth, and the Northern Wildlands.
-Old Dawg
Thalion was founded in BC 500 by elves of Nimbeth who sought new lands to settle. From the beginning, elves of a more artistic bent assumed leading roles within their growing community, and under their guidance Thalion became known throughout the region as a centre of aesthetic beauty and expert craftsmanship. During its heyday, traders and collectors would come from Nimbeth and major population centres in Genalleth to buy items made in Thalion – even today, Thalion-crafted goods, whenever they can be found, command high prices.
Although most of Thalion’s public buildings and grand boulevards were considered architectural marvels, its greatest treasure was its bridge, a massive, yet graceful structure that spanned the Thalion River and connected the city by road to Nimbeth. Completed in BC 382, the bridge was the work of many master artisans, and carved of the purest white marble in such a way that fantastic scenes, including an illustrated story of Ilsundal’s migration, were depicted along its sides. Aranael, the first (and only) king of Thalion, declared that, though the city should fall one day, its bridge would endure. During this golden age 25,000 elves lived within its walls.
Troubles with the surrounding human clans, who had been displaced by the elves centuries earlier, began around BC 300, culminating in the Battle of Thalion in BC 292, after which King Aranael’s disdain for humans developed into hatred, and he ordered the enslavement of any human captured by his armies. Thalion, propped up by human slaves, fell into decadence over the following decades, until a slave revolt in BC 184 forced much of the elvish population to flee.
Following the 1st Great Northern Campaign, a band of elves retook the city, and began to rebuild it. During its second heyday (AC 209 – 335), Thalion regained some of its stature as a place of beauty, and of learning, but the stigma associated with Aranael’s cruelty, and the dangers posed by roving human bands in the surrounding hills, prevented it from recovering its former glory. At its height, roughly 12,000 elves lived within its walls. Thalion again saw war in AC 337, when soldiers of the 3rd Great Northern Campaign, eager for glory, conquered the city, destroying much of it in doing so. Under their militaristic rule, Thalion remained an elvish stronghold until AC 413, when it was overwhelmed by a coalition of human clans.
Thalion, and its bridge, still stand today, although the once beautiful city is blackened and overgrown. Although the human clans did a thorough job of looting, it is widely thought that a number of artistic treasures – including a collection of original works by legendary elvish bards – remain untouched. Although it is more distant from Wendar than Nimbeth, a larger number of adventurers have journeyed here, and returned to tell the tale.
Founded in AC 196, Isiliath was one of several elvish settlements established by Genalleth elves in the southern regions of the Northern Wildlands, after the conclusion of the 1st Great Northern Campaign, which effectively eliminated the frogmen of the Moors of Chlyras as a military threat for many years. Having secured its borders, Isiliath grew quickly, and became a commercial centre for the dominions of the region, and having a population of almost 6,000. Nevertheless, other inhabitants of the Moors of Chlyras and the surrounding forests forced the realm to be in a state of constant readiness for battle, and skirmishes were commonplace.
Tensions increased after AC 217, when King Ellareth of Amoleth demanded the return of regained lands that historically belonged to Nimbeth. Several dominions were absorbed as a result, placing Isiliath closer to a potential foe. Events came to a head in AC 267, when Ellareth led his armies to war. As a member of the Wendarian League, Isiliath marched against Nimbeth, and thus became embroiled in a costly war while the elves’ enemies bided their time. After the conflict ended in AC 283, Isiliath was left with a seriously weakened army.
At the Battle of Isiliath (AC 292), a large force of frogmen took advantage of the situation, and routed the combined armies of Isiliath, Genalldain, Ardon, and Norieth. The town fell soon afterwards, and those who survived fled south to Genalleth. With Isiliath’s collapse, the surviving frontier dominions were suddenly open to frogman incursions from the east, and many could not bring their forces to bear in time. By AC 310, only a handful of dominions survived, largely cut off from Genalleth proper. These remaining strongholds fell to the frogmen over the following decades, with the last, Calardhon, succumbing in AC 398.
House Isiliath has tried on several occasions since then to reclaim its dominion, but has met with little lasting success, aside from recovering a handful of family treasures. Even so, it has never abandoned its dream. Although close to Wendar, the ruins of Isiliath are not very accessible (one must pass through monster-infested forests and moors to get there), but by all accounts much of it remains intact, due to the solidity of its construction. As such, many in northern Wendar think that it would be worthwhile to reclaim it, as it could help strengthen the realm’s defences.
Well, all of the major settlements have been described, but there are a number of other features needing attention. Ideas are welcome!
Forests
-Almarea Forest
-Darkling Wood
-Forest of Bounty (is the part north of Wendar any different?)
-Forest of Paradise
-The Girding Wood
-The Mourning Wood
Rivers, Etc.
-Forenmark
-Frost
-Fuin
-Lethirion
-Lothenar
-Moors of Chlyras
-Muil
-Shadow
-Silverflow
-Soreth Spur
-Sorrow
Geoff
“Retaking the lost provinces is not a matter of proving our strength, or even of enriching ourselves. It is, quite simply, a matter of claiming our birthright. Our family built Nimbeth, and I vow to you that nothing shall prevent us from rebuilding it.” (Orendil of House Nimbeth, speaking at a family gathering)
“Do not listen to those would turn their backs on our great heritage! It was not our own greed and ambition that cost us our homelands; it was the treachery of our cousins to the south! My friends, the elves of Genalleth rebuffed us just when we needed their aid the most, and by doing so, they expelled us from our homelands just as effectively as did our foes!” (spoken at a gathering of radical Southern Lords)
“The tragic tale of victory and loss, which is our own history, carries with it a message. That is, when we are divided, when we let our own petty interests blind us to the common good, we are weak at heart, and whatever we shall build, shall not long endure.” (spoken at a gathering of the House of Thalion)
Geoff
The question is, is there anyone else who should be on the list, especially modern folks? Ideas are welcome.
Here is the draft list (***UPDATED MAR. 16, 2006***)....
Ancalimë (BC 7 – AC 339)
Ancalimë was Ellareth’s only child, and was raised exclusively by her father – her mother, Neldiriel, having distanced herself from her husband once his affair became widely known. From an early age, Ancalimë was taught that her birthright was glorious, and that her rightful place was on Nimbeth’s throne. When Nimbeth was regained, she was surrounded by luxury, but her natural inclination towards studiousness led her to isolate herself and avoid attention. Thrust onto the throne upon her father’s death, Ancalimë used her considerable intellect, and her iron resolve, to defend Nimbeth, and later to lead its miraculous evacuation. Although she later distanced herself from her father’s policies, she never apologised for her family’s actions, claiming to the end that it was their right to protect what was theirs.
Aranael (BC 662 – BC 184)
Born in Sylvair, Aranael was descended from a long line of artisans, and approached his craft of woodcarving with a passion unmatched by many of his contemporaries. His unconventional approach was criticised soundly, and upon reaching adulthood, he went north to Nimbeth, hoping that the vibrant new realm would be more receptive to his artistic tastes. He quickly grew disillusioned once he realised that Nimbeth was, and would remain, a city designed primarily to be defensible, not pretty. Aranael came to the conclusion that Beldareth’s contact with humans “warped” his views, and resolved to lead like-minded elves to search for a new home – one that would be devoted purely to elvish aesthetic principles.
After the founding of Thalion, Aranael quickly became the leader of his new community, becoming king in BC 382. Although he was charismatic and creative, Aranael was not practical, and the city he designed was beautiful, but difficult to defend. During this time, his dislike of humans grew into hatred, with disastrous results. The establishment of a human slave caste allowed the elves, at Aranael’s encouragement, to indulge themselves in manners that were unthinkable beforehand. Aranael was the most decadent of his court, having become a depraved sensualist concerned only with his own pleasure. He met his end in BC 184, at the hands of one of his former playthings.
Arendyll (BC 347 – AC 103)
Arendyll was the only child of Beldareth’s younger brother, Eldarion, who helped found the realm of Nimbeth. As a youth, Arendyll proved himself at the Battle of Thalion in BC 292, and was made a prince by King Beldareth in recognition for his deeds. A very charismatic person, Arendyll had numerous lovers, many of them human (he found them exotic), throughout his life, and openly bragged about his exploits to his companions. For him, the thrill was in pursuing his quarry, and being victorious; his relationships lasted only until the next enticing maiden attracted his attention. This frequently got him into trouble with jealous husbands, but his reputation as a fighter dissuaded most from challenging him.
Arendyll’s undoing was his own ego. Convinced that he was the best at everything he did, he deluded himself into thinking he was Beldareth’s natural successor, but was aggrieved when the crown was passed to his son, Geldarion. For years, he plotted rebellion, even making overtures to Crown Prince Lerian, but ultimately decided to seize the throne for himself, all the while posing as a supportive cousin to King Geldarion. He rebelled in AC 103, and faced Lerian in a battle that ultimately cost him his life, and sapped much of Nimbeth’s might. For his treachery, Arendyll’s name was a struck from all public records, but his line persisted in obscurity, near Amoleth.
Beldareth (BC 893 – BC 221)
Beldareth was born in what is now southern Wendar, near the town of Oakwall. Minor lord, grew up in south, long sought a land of his own – a natural tactician with an easy manner
Ellareth (BC 234 – AC 287)
Geldarion’s second son, Ellareth was born in Nimbeth during the height of its power, and spent his formative years in the shadow of his grandfather, Beldareth, though he grew jealous of the attention paid to his brother, Lerian. After Beldareth’s death, Ellareth turned to the commanders of Nimbeth’s army, many of whom campaigned with his grandfather, for guidance, and he adopted their ways of thinking. Ever an impulsive man who was quick to anger, Ellareth grew outraged when the city fell in AC 110, and blamed his father for the loss. Thereafter, he spent his time building his power, and when Ellareth assumed the throne of Amoleth in AC 206, he immediately put his plans in action, earning him the hatred of many elves that persists to this day.
Aside from his single-minded drive to regain Nimbeth, Ellareth’s other passion was his human mistress – an unnamed woman who he described in his journals as his one true love. His affair was widely known during his reign, but none dared speak of it while he lived. It is known that he had at least two children by her, and her reputed descendants are sometimes called “Ellareth’s bastards” by Orendil’s faction of the House of Nimbeth.
Geldarion (BC 595 – AC 206)
The only child of Beldareth, Geldarion grew up in the shadow of his almost legendary father, and under pressure to be strong enough to inherit the throne. It soon became apparent that Geldarion was more of a diplomat than a fighter, whose talents had more of an artistic than a military bent. Despite his perceived lack of fortitude, he was very eloquent and charismatic, and became just as well known for his landscape paintings (some of which exist today in private collections) as for his speeches. As king, Geldarion faced obstacles both outside and within the realm; although he proved his leadership skills on many occasions, he simply was not the king Nimbeth needed at that time, and under his reign the realm faltered. After the fall of Nimbeth, Geldarion lapsed into depression, blaming himself for the loss and rarely leaving his chambers. Rejected by his younger son, Ellareth, he died a lonely man. Some within the House of Nimbeth feel that, had he been king a few centuries later, he could have defused the tensions that led to the Second Great Northern Campaigns, which ultimately weakened elvish strength in the north.
Gwindor (BC 68 – AC 344)
Gwindor was the only son of Crown Prince Lerian and his wife, Laurië. Although much loved by his soldiers, Lerian was an emotionally distant man who had little time for his family. Unwilling to live in the dangerous land that Lerian’s Tower occupied, Laurië relocated to Amoleth with Gwindor, and he spent his youth in the city, and on the idyllic family estates north of it. As the years passed, Laurië grew ill from depression, and became a recluse. Left on his own, Gwindor spent much time in the libraries of Amoleth, and became a respected scholar in his own right. After Ancalimë’s assassination, Gwindor was convinced by his scholarly companions to make a bid for the throne, and bring about an enlightened renaissance. Although he garnered considerable support initially due to his strong claim to the throne, his opponent, Voronwil, was shrewd in the ways of politics, and stole away much of his support. Gwindor died in a hunting accident in the forests north of Amoleth, which struck those who knew him as odd, because he disdained hunting. Many suspected Voronwil of having something to do with it, but there was never any proof.
Lerian (BC 291 – AC 428)
Geldarion’s eldest son. Considered an elf in Beldareth’s image – renounced his claim to the throne after the Battle of King’s Sorrow. Refused to take the throne when it was offered as it would be breaking his word (conspirators plotted to depose Ellareth, they later openly questioned his loyalty) – remained steadfast in his duties until the end.
Maeglin (AC 164 – AC 806)
Maeglin was the eldest of Voronwil’s two sons, and was schooled from an early age to be a cunning politician in his father’s image. He readily absorbed these lessons, but his passion was tempered by the wise counsel of his mother, Ilyrriel, whose roots went back to Thalion, and so knew the consequences of unbridled ambition and impulsiveness. Thus, Maeglin learned to rein in his ambition, and focus on making small, easily retainable gains – campaigns led by him were among the most successful, and cost the fewest lives. Even so, the loss of Amoleth, and his father, dealt him a blow from which he never fully recovered. He devoted his remaining years to cleansing the name of the House of Nimbeth, declaring himself the Last King of Amoleth to sever all ties with the past. His numerous gestures of goodwill in his later years did much to rehabilitate his family in the eyes of many, but he died knowing that his family’s honour was still stained.
Miriel (BC 858 – BC 194)
Was the lively foil to Beldareth’s generally quiet disposition
Orendil (AC 431)
Born in Amoleth, grew up with an air of disgrace – rebelled against it. Dreams of recovering homeland
Voronwil (BC 79 – AC 433)
Voronwil, the grandson of Arendyll, was born on his family’s modest estate east of Amoleth. Although his grandfather had been erased from public memory, his family lived modestly, fearful that their shameful past would be revealed. This enraged Voronwil to no end, and he grew to think that his family had been robbed of its rightful place in society. Longing for the glory of Beldareth’s time, he schooled himself in the arts of war and politics, and studied Nimbeth’s history avidly, to learn from the mistakes of past leaders. Ultimately, years of political manoeuvring paid off, and he ascended to the throne of Amoleth in AC 344, but this was not good enough; he longed to sit on the empty throne of Nimbeth. A realist, Voronwil knew that he needed allies, and so approached elvish houses that might be sympathetic to him, and sought to convince others that the House of Nimbeth could be trusted once more. His efforts bore fruit, and under his rule much territory was regained. His ruthless ambition, a trait said by many to afflict the House of Nimbeth, was his undoing, as he sought impulsively to drive Felzuumath from Nimbeth. Beaten back to Amoleth, he led a brave defence, but died during its fall.
Geoff
Just as a note, any feedback on what I've posted (especially suggestions for other NPCs, magic items, and other goodies) would be much appreciated. I'm giving some thought to magic items, and have a few sketched out - the more the merrier!
Geoff
A certain Tolkienesque feel has been present in your work for a long time, but now you have managed to find a home for those ideas in Mystara, and to make them more Mystaran. Wonderful work, indeed.
You asked for ideas on Soreth. OldDawg already must have had good suggestions - and a tie-in of two comprehensive projects is of course nice. But in case you still need ideas, here's something that popped to my mind while drinking my coffee and having a break from 18th century:
What if the elves of Soreth tried to employ the power of Dreams? The Nightmare dimension and the Dreamlands (in Glantri Gazetteer, one of the Circles) are what I have in mind. The elves of Soreth, isolationist and focused on the problems of historical duration, tried to find a durable haven in Dreams.
Leaving their mortal shells behind, they would have existed outside normal perception of time, keeping their culture alive perhaps for all eternity. No matter if the real Soreth fell in ruin, the traces of memory would keep the walls sturdy and the gardens fertile.
But dreams and nightmares have thin boundaries - or those boundaries are a matter of perception. Instead of realising a reverie, the Sorethians were lost in endless mazes of illusion. Perhaps they are in earthly Soreth still, lost in the boundaries between worlds awake and asleep? Perhaps the sleep of reason really called forth mosters unknown?
Finding a way to contact this dreamy people might be an interesting adventure hook. Instead of a problem of magic one would face a conundrum of dream logic. How can one communicate with spirits lost in an alien world with its own changing rules? Imagine adventuring in a City beyond the City, without any of your former capabilities, having to discover new ones.
(This of course would allow you to employ another of your loves, Lovecraftian atmosphere.)
I translated an old adventure of mine into the Vaults (Deamon with a Saddened Countenance), and it employed some of these notions, although in a rudimentary and pretty predictable form. But maybe there are some useful bits?
By the way, if anyone is interested in dream adventures, check out an indie game called "Lacuna".
Updated the personalities - now you can read about Aranael, Arendyll, Geldarion, Gwindor, Maeglin, and Voronwil. More to come!
Geoff
The Land
The region encompassed by the Northern Wildlands can in many ways be considered an extension of the Genalleth Valley, bordered to the east by the slopes of the Mengul Range, and to the southwest by the northern extent of the Adri Varma Plateau, which stretches northwards as a gentle slope. To the north, barren hills project westwards from the Soreth Spur, an outgrowth of the Mengul Range.
Aside from a few hilly regions, the general topography of the Northern Wildlands is that of a bowl, with the Moors of Chlyras forming the bottom, at roughly 700 feet above sea level. The descent of the land towards the moors is very gradual, falling by roughly 200 feet; although the difference is more extreme from the east, where the Mengul Range dominates.
Compared to Wendar, the Northern Wildlands are well irrigated, with the major rivers eventually converging in the Moors of Chlyras. Where there is open land, luxuriant expanses of wildflowers predominate; although only the lands south of the Muil and Lothenar Rivers have soils suitable for farming. In many ways, the Muil River serves as a dividing line for the region, with the lands north of it being far more rugged and forbidding.
Mountains and Hills
The eastern and northeastern margins of the Northern Wildlands are bordered by the Mengul Range, which runs roughly north-south at this point. Towards the south, near Wendar, the range is approximately 10,000 feet above sea level, and its peaks are snow-capped year round. Towards the north, the mountains decrease in height, and are only 6,500 feet above sea level near the ruins of Soreth. The Soreth Spur is much smaller than the main part of the range, being 3,500 feet above sea level on average. Aside from a handful of trails around the Fuin River Gorge, and in the Soreth Spur, the mountains are impassable to all but foot traffic.
Other significant uplifts in the region include the gently sloping hills of the Mourning Wood, some of which actually become mountains towering 2,500 feet above sea level, and the windswept Emyn Lethir (“the unwanted hills”), which lie west of the Mourning Wood at the source of the Lethirion River. Many of the latter are quite steep, averaging 700 feet in height; one of them is a small mountain in its own right at 1,500 feet above sea level.
Forests
The Northern Wildlands, like Wendar, are heavily forested. Overall, the vegetation is denser towards the east, with conifers predominating. Towards the Adri Varma Plateau and the dusty plains north of it, the trees quickly give way to shrubs, and then long grasses. Even so, a number of areas in the west are quite barren, such as the Emyn Lethir, which sport stunted grasses, and the grassy plains that serve as a transition zone between the lush wildlands and the dry wasteland further west.
The largest and densest forest in the region is the Mourning Wood, which encompasses much of the territory of the lost realm of Forenath. Varieties of pine predominate, interspersed with stands of maple and oak. Particularly large specimens of each are present in the hills. With the exception of the fringes, the majority of the Mourning Wood is very dim, as the intertwined branches of the trees block out almost all sunlight. Nevertheless, hardy shrubs of holly, as well as common herbs and strawberries, can be found. Where the trees are less dense, ground coverage is lusher. Animal life is very diverse, with some magical and gargantuan varieties also being present.
The Almarea Forest clings tenaciously to the steep foothills of the Mengul Range and up into the Fuin River Gorge, and is comprised almost entirely of varieties of hardy pine and spruce. Where it descends into the valley, it becomes denser, but never quite as imposing as the Mourning Wood. Healthy undergrowth can be found throughout. Although the Almarea Forest is home to a wide variety of fauna, its upper reaches – especially in the gorge - are almost devoid of life, even insects. There are rumours that the Fuin River Gorge is home to restless spirits and other forms of undead, but this has never been proven.
The Darkling Wood, separated from the Almarea Forest by the Shadow and Lothernar Rivers, has very similar characteristics to its northern neighbour. Unlike the Almarea Forest, however, its upper reaches are not largely empty of life. Tales told by the elves of Nimbeth and their descendants assert that the Darkling Wood is inhabited by a faerie court that, while not evil, is not well disposed towards mortals, either.
The Girding Wood, so named because it was used as a natural wall against the humanoid tribes to the north, is sparse in comparison with other forests. It is comprised almost entirely of pine in its densest portions, where the reclusive elves of fallen Forenath can now be found, but stands of poplar grow towards the fringes. Compared to the much of the region, there are few waterways here, save for a few minor streams that feed into the Forenmark River. The region is also notable for the profusion of wildflowers that grow here, particularly on the open land separating the Girding and Mourning Woods. The local fauna is plentiful, and healthy, thanks to the stewardship of the elves.
The Forest of Paradise, which lies between the Muil River and the Moors of Chlyras, is blessed with unusually rich soils and is largely comprised of maples, oaks, and spruce. Enough sunlight filters through the canopy to sustain a vibrant undergrowth of herbs, berries, and junipers. Likewise, the local fauna is varied and healthy.
The Forest of Bounty and the Dark Woods of Baamor, whose northern reaches extend into the wildlands, are largely unchanged beyond the borders of Wendar. The vegetation is dark and knotted, and the local animal life has a greater tendency towards aggressiveness than in other regions. It is widely believed that a group of gakaraks, as well as treants with an intense dislike of humans and elves, inhabits these forests.
Waterways
A number of long, winding rivers dominate the countryside. The greatest and best known river is the Muil, which has its source in a tiny verdant oasis on the sloping plains north of the Adri Varma Plateau. As it progresses, the Muil River gathers strength, widening and deepening where it is joined by the Lethirion River, and by the Sorrow and Forenmark Rivers further east. By the time it joins the Moors of Chlyras, the Muil River is almost choked with silt and other debris, and is very shallow due to the solid bedrock underneath. It is fordable south of its confluence with the Forenmark River, and before it loops north after being joined by the Lethirion River. Between those two points, it is fast moving and treacherous.
The second major river system is that of the Forenmark River and its tributaries. Starting high up in the Mengul Range, the Forenmark River drops roughly 400 feet down into the wildlands in a broad waterfall, passing the ruins of Soreth and finally being joined by the slow-flowing Fuin River. There, it picks up speed, and cuts a deeper channel into the rock, dropping further into the valley where it meets the ice cold Frost River. There, it flows more gently and is fordable in many places up to the point where it is joined by the deep and swift flowing Lothenar River. From there, the Forenmark River broadens and slows considerably, until it joins the Muil River.
Another major river is the Silverflow, which was its source deep in the Mengul Range. Where it emerges from the mountains, it descends almost 700 feet in a series of cataracts, and flows swift and bitterly cold towards the moors. The other major river of the Northern Wildlands is the Thalion River, which flows down from a series of hills into a broad valley, and finally seeps into the moors.
Surrounding Lands
The Mengul Range has already been discussed, and information about the Realm of Wendar to the south can be found in that nation’s Gazetteer. To the west and north lie the dusty plains and barren lands that comprise what some consider the “true” northern wildlands. This region is a nearly inhospitable, rocky wasteland that is baked in the summer and frozen in the winter, populated by humanoids and other forms of life suited to such an unforgiving place.
Climate and Environmental Notes
Unlike Wendar, the Northern Wildlands is not boxed in by mountain ranges. As a result, the local climate is more in line with what would be expected at this latitude – that is, a cold continental climate. Winter in the wildlands tends to be slightly colder than in Wendar, on average being -25°C to -5°C (-13 to 23 Fahrenheit), but is roughly the same length. The arctic jet stream that dumps snow on Wendar passes over the wildlands first, expending a fair portion of its fury in the process. The lands north and west of the Forest of Mourning, in particular, suffer more severe cold snaps and storms than regions to the south; but even this pales in comparison to what happens on the dusty plains and badlands even further north, where bone-chilling temperatures are common. On average, the wildlands receives roughly 20 cm of snow per month (8 in.) during the winter months, but northern regions receive more.
The same air masses that bring winter storms in winter also bring rain in the spring and summer; although much of their moisture is lost by the time they reach the Emyn Lethir. Over the course of the summer months, evaporation from the many rivers, as well as the Moors of Chlyras, produces enough moisture that heavy fogs and late summer thundershowers are rare, but not unknown. As during the winter months, much of nature’s fury is expended by the time air masses reach Wendar. Average monthly rainfall is roughly 65 mm (2.5 in.) during the spring and 30 mm (1.2 in.) during the summer. Temperatures range from 12°C to 30°C (54 to 95 Fahrenheit). Fall is much like the spring.
As with Wendar, the Northern Wildlands is located in a region that is moderately tectonically active. Minor earthquakes have been known to occur in the Mengul Range, and there is said to be one active volcano in the region, but there have been no recorded eruptions for centuries.
I finished up the last ones - I thought I'd post them here rather than add them to the older post, which is now buried in the thread...
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Beldareth (BC 893 – BC 221)
Beldareth was born in what is now southern Wendar, near the town of Oakwall. As the second son, Beldareth knew he would not one day lead his house, and so took up a life of adventuring. It was through his contacts that he learned of the discovery of a magical spring in the north, and, spurred by an impulse he could not identify, he led a party of companions north in search of it. His expedition bore fruit, and over the following decades learned that he had a knack for strategies and tactics; under his leadership, the newly formed realm of Nimbeth became a force to be reckoned with on the field.
His talent as a war leader was also matched in the realm of politics. Although he hated wheeling and dealing, his naturally easy, likeable manner disarmed many potential opponents, and he was careful to keep his friends close, and his enemies closer. He is also remembered among many humans for his tendency to judge people based on their capabilities - under his rule, many humans were granted lordships in recognition for their deeds. Although often preoccupied with affairs of state, Beldareth always made time for his wife, Miriel, his son Geldarion, and later his two grandsons. It is said that in his final years, he foresaw that his realm would not long outlive him, and so consoled himself with frequent visits to his private grove, and with his wife.
Lerian (BC 291 – AC 428)
Lerian was the eldest of Geldarion’s two sons, and was considered by many to be an elf in Beldareth’s image, both in terms of appearance and demeanour. He spent much of his youth and young adulthood with his grandfather, Beldareth, and from him learned the fundamentals of military tactics. Before long, Lerian acquired a reputation for being a brilliant leader in battle, and it was widely anticipated that his reign would be glorious. Aggrieved over the sheer loss of life during the Battle of King’s Sorrow in AC 103, Lerian renounced his claim to the throne, and vowed to dedicate the rest of his life to protecting the realm. So steadfast was he in his responsibilities to his troops and his post that, during the worst years of Ellareth’s reign, he turned down secret offers of support should he decide to depose his younger brother. Those would-be supporters later denounced Lerian at every opportunity, but he would not be goaded.
Even during the turbulent years following the second fall of Nimbeth, Lerian never deserted his tower or his troops, and ensured that the Gap of Tears would never fall to any enemy. During the darkest times, Lerian’s Tower was known as a safe haven. His passing marked the end of an era, as he was one of the few remaining elves who remembered Nimbeth, or King Beldareth. Even today, Lerian’s Tower has a certain mystique to it – assignments to its garrison are coveted, and Lerian himself is beloved by many Wendarian soldiers.
Miriel (BC 858 – BC 194)
Miriel was born in the Forest of Bounty to a family of elves who served as its stewards for generations. Despite having an idyllic childhood, Miriel longed to see the world beyond, and ventured to the town of Oakwall as soon as she was able. There, she met a young, ambitious elf named Beldareth, and their friendship soon turned into love. Miriel followed him north, and in later years ruled Nimbeth as a partner, relying on her talent for reading people’s emotions and surface thoughts – an ability shared by her younger sister and her descendants – to aid her husband in governing the realm. During her time as queen, she was well known as a lively, witty conversationalist who could set almost anyone at ease, and who brought much joy to the court at Nimbeth.
During Nimbeth’s heyday, Miriel planted a wondrous garden within the old city walls, the remnants of which exist to this day. It was here that she planted cuttings and seeds taken from the Forest of Bounty, to remind her of the home she left behind. After Beldareth’s death, Miriel withdrew from public life for a number of years, and finally returned to the Forest of Bounty to be with her sister, who was dying. After her death, Miriel fell ill, and died within a week. Her retainers then bore her body in a sombre procession back to Nimbeth, where she was entombed in her garden.
Orendil (AC 431)
Orendil, the only child of Maeglin, was born in Amoleth shortly before its fall. He grew up in Wendar with his extended family, surrounded by tales of his ancestors’ exploits and under a pall of self-imposed disgrace over the loss of one of the last remnants of Nimbeth – the city of Amoleth. He eventually rebelled against his father, who, he thought, was mounting a futile effort at cleansing the name of the House of Nimbeth. In his view, no act of contrition would ever appease his family’s detractors; thus, he became determined to recapture his family’s lost glory by re-establishing the Kingdom of Nimbeth. After his father’s death, Orendil assumed leadership over the House of Nimbeth, but the presence of another faction within the family, comprised of Ellareth’s putative human descendants, has vexed him to no end. He fears that Arlon Tharalson and his followers may indeed have a more direct claim to the throne of Nimbeth, and this has driven him deeper into the camp of elvish reactionaries, those who openly disdain humans and denounce any deviation from tradition.
Geoff
Here are some points to mull over:
1) Idris is the ultimate baddie of the region, who is/are the local baddies of the Wildlands? (ex Baamor fiends)
2) name three to 6 goals for characters hailing outside/inside the wildlands to complete. (ex reclaim Thalion, Nimbeth if you are Wendarian)
3) what population groups do we have, and where? (ex Hagommer humans north of the Soreth spur as shown on Denagoth map)
4) what is the special wrinkle that this gaz could provide (ex frogman racial class)
-OldDawg
1) Who is/are the local baddies of the Wildlands? (ex Baamor fiends)
-Moors of Chlyras is home to an evil, ancient gakarak, who was perhaps corrupted by a greater evil presence in the Moors. This is possibly another reason why the elves have had a hard time securing the area. This evil presence could be a powerful elemental or nature spirit, the psychic manifestation of the acts committed here, an exalted being worshipped by the frogmen, or something far more primal.
-the faeries of the Darkling Wood could be considered baddies, depending on who the PCs are
-a powerful orcish warlord mustering his armies in the former lands of Nimbeth
-frogmen, depending on your point of view
-particularly crazy Southern Lords and their followers (there’s nothing like an extremist to make local politics interesting!)
-a powerful undead lord in the Fuin River Gorge (I’m thinking about a rogue lord of Nimbeth, who made a pact with evil powers in a misguided bid to preserve the realm. He was driven away, but is now obsessed with rebuilding his vision of Nimbeth – which would be a realm of nightmares)
2) name three to 6 goals for characters hailing outside/inside the wildlands to complete.
-recover lost treasures (some to be listed soon)
-solve the mystery of Soreth (once discovered)
-secure the passes in the northern Mengul Range to make the land safer from Denagothian incursions
-investigate possible source of evil in the Moors of Chlyras/deal with the Gakarak
-secure the silver mines of Nimbeth
-locate and explore sites considered holy to the elves
-cleanse the name of the House of Nimbeth through heroic deeds
3) what population groups do we have, and where?
-Forenath elves in Girding Wood
-Thalion expatriates in Mourning Wood
-Some Southern Lords have re-established footholds just over the Wendarian border
-Faeries in Darkling Wood
-scattered pockets of humanity in western wildlands (descended from humans of Forenath and valley of Thalion)
-Gakaraks and treants in Moors of Chlyras and surrounding woods
-frogmen in moors
-orcs in Mengul Range and lands of old Nimbeth, as well as badlands west and north of wildlands
-Many, many restless spirits (e.g., elvish ghosts) and other undead (especially in the Moors of Chlyas, northern Nimbeth, valley of Thalion, Mourning Wood)
4) what is the special wrinkle that this gaz could provide
-possible sub-class for elves (and some humans) – basically a modified ranger with specific skills and other abilities (perhaps gained through magic or rituals), combined with political ideology – would need something special to make it workable/unique
-may be debatable, but for roleplayers there is the opportunity to have a political campaign, as well as the opportunity to play PCs with very conflicted backgrounds – perhaps playing a descendent of one of the northern houses who must overcome his/her prejudices in an adventuring party
-idea for frogmen (like this idea, BTW): basically a flexible race, where PCs could be fighters, thieves, shamans (perhaps more druidic than anything else) – of course they aren’t necessarily evil, just a different culture, with justifiable reasons for not wanting elvish incursions in their lands. A secondary thought – for those who wish to turn up the Lovecraftian quotient, there is always scope to have the frogmen live in a divided society, with one faction following conventional Immortals (or perhaps their own), and another worshipping Outer Beings. PC frogmen would have to fight this internal menace to their society.
Work continues...here are some magic items for the region - more possibly to come:
Aranael’s Crown
Shortly after making himself king of Thalion, Aranael had a crown of exquisite beauty crafted, both to strengthen his rule and to awe outsiders. So enamoured was he of his creation that he never parted with it, and it is said that his former slaves refused to take it as booty after their revolt, for it had become so heavily associated with him and his reign. It is widely thought that the crown rests somewhere in or near the ruins of Thalion, but none have found it. The golden crown resembles a delicate laurel of maple and holly leaves, and glows subtly in darkness. Designed to enhance its wearer’s presence, Aranael’s Crown will increase the wearer’s Charisma by four, up to a maximum of 18, so long as it is worn; and the wearer may also create an aura of glamour, twice per day, merely by wishing to do so. This effect lasts 1d6 hours, and anyone within 50 feet of the wearer must make a save vs. Spells, or become convinced for the duration that the wearer is almost divine in every respect (treat those affected as being charmed).
Sword of Nimbeth
This sword, forged by his grandfather, was wielded by Beldareth as he was establishing the realm of Nimbeth. It rarely left his side, but was lost during his campaign to retake Eredhon. Despite years of searching, Beldareth was never able to find his treasured blade. The Sword of Nimbeth is an ordinary-looking normal sword; the only adornment is a small ruby in the pommel, carved into the shape of a four-pointed star. When used in combat, it will become readily apparent to the wielder that the sword is magical, being a +3 blade. In addition, by uttering a command word (which makes itself known once the sword is first wielded), the sword has the ability to increase the wielder’s Strength to 18 three times per day, for a duration of six turns.
Vials of Nimbeth
These are vials of water taken from the magical spring located in the ruined city of Nimbeth. During the city’s heyday, caretakers collected a limited amount of water at set times during the year, which were then blessed and placed into specially prepared vials. Some of these vials survive to the present day, and can be found in treasure hoards. Drinking from a vial of Nimbeth will convey the same benefits as consuming a potion of cureall. In all cases, a person must consume the entire contents to be healed.
Who Should Use This Book
Although this book is intended for the DM, considerable portions of the text will prove very useful to players interested in the region, which includes Wendar and Denagoth. Herein, players will find material that will help them create characters whose origins lie in the lost realms of the Northern Wildlands. This book will also aid in the creation of characters from the wildlands themselves – both in the modern (AC 1000) era, and during the so-called “golden ages” of Nimbeth and Thalion (BC 650 – BC 100).