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

3
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

4

Structure............................................................60
The Benches........................................................60
Elected Roles.......................................................60
Unelected Roles..................................................63
Becoming Law.....................................................63
Factions...............................................................64
The Revitalists.....................................................64
The Reformists....................................................64
The Capitans........................................................65
The Consentium Minor 65
Structure............................................................65
Opulatus (pl. Opulati)........................................65
Honorus (pl. Honori).........................................66
Legatus (pl. Legati).............................................66
Military 67
The Legions 67
Equipment...........................................................67
Structure of a Legion.....................................68
Alternate Legion Types..................................69
Basic Ranks.........................................................71
Special Ranks.....................................................73
Legionary Assemblies......................................75
Military Decorations.....................................76
Military Celebrations....................................77
Concilium Arcanus Altus 79
Structure............................................................79
Imperial Arcane Assembly................................80
Deveros Arcane University..........................82
Joining DAU........................................................83
Semesters.............................................................83
Running a DAU Campaign...............................83
Ranks....................................................................84
Commerce 87
Currency.............................................................87
Trade Partners..................................................88
Anchor Nations...................................................88
Elosian Nations...................................................89
Mørken League...................................................89
South Rymin.......................................................90
Mistveil................................................................90
Crime and Punishment 91
Policing................................................................91
Private Guilds......................................................91
Types of Crime....................................................91
Punishment.........................................................91
Forms of Punishment........................................92
Provinces of Aldarin 94
Alvia......................................................................94
Baldera................................................................95
Borealia...............................................................95
Caerula................................................................96
Civaci....................................................................96
5
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Nivinea.................................................................97
Province of Deveros.......................................98
Salenti..................................................................98
Introduction
The Pilkos Isles..................................................99
Periods of Aldarin History 100 Introduction
to the
Early Expansion..............................................100 Aldarin
Empire
The Grain Wars...............................................101
Post-Grain Reclamation.............................101 Aldarin
The White Plague...........................................102 Names
The Low Period................................................103
First Medial War............................................104
Social Classes
Era of Exploration........................................105
Second Medial War........................................107
Anchor Nation Expansion...........................108 Kinships in
the Empire
The First Renavic War......................................109
Acclesian Civil War......................................111
The Gilded Period..........................................113 Festivals
The Second Renavic War.................................114
The Dusk Revolution....................................115
The Third Renavic War....................................115 Sports
Fall of the Deverosian World Anchor............116
The Fourth Renavic War..................................117
Religion
Classes 118
College of Five................................................118
Emotion Domain.............................................119 Politics
Revelry Domain..............................................121
Gryphon Rider.................................................122
Military
Legionarius.......................................................124
Formations........................................................125
Additional Feats................................................128
Commerce
The Twinned Moons.......................................128
Backgrounds 131
Crime and
Bloodbound.......................................................131 Punishment
Consensa............................................................131
Emissary............................................................133 Provinces of
Aldarin
Legionarius........................................................134
Mercyr................................................................135
Periods of
Premagus...........................................................136 Aldarin
Publus.................................................................137 History
Refugee...............................................................138
Classes
Appendix A: Thermae Baths 140
Thermae Rest...................................................140
Offering to Sulia................................................140 Backgrounds
Thermae Items..................................................140
Oils.....................................................................140
Salts.....................................................................141 Appendices
Strigils................................................................142
Appendix B: The Medial Calendar 143
Glossary of Terms 151
OPEN GAME License Version 1.0a 160
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

6
 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.

7
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

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

9
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
heritage and are immensely opinionated, spouting a
wide breadth of viewpoints centred on how they
think their nation should operate. In this section, we
cover the multiple formations of Aldarin culture
alongside the societal structure of the people found
within the empire.
Inspiration
The cultural theme of Aldarin is derived
heavily from the Late Republican and Early
Empire eras of ancient Rome, melded
with aspects of European culture found
towards the tail end of the Age of Discovery.
Alongside many of the Anchor Nations — a
collective of advanced allied nations within
the Medial Plane — Aldarin is on the brink
of a technological revolution. Dusk crystals
— an energy source tapped from the souls
of phoenixes — are fuelling ever-more
industrious uses throughout dusktech
machinery, spurring advancements into
crude yet powerful engines. Trains, airships,
and sturdy seafaring vessels are beginning
to see light in both commercial and military
applications, similar to our own Pre-Industrial
era with the usage of coal. While dusktech
advancements are an aspect of Vynestra’s
present age, the setting has been designed
in such a way that all dusktech objects and
vehicles may easily be adapted to Classical
era-friendly alternatives for a more authentic
ancient-style campaign.
Born of Gods
CW
Hailing from the direct lineage of Deos, the god-
child of Daîthar and Meveril, those born as Aldarins
hold themselves to the lofty heights of the gods as
sun-touched kin. As kindred of Deos, the Aldarins
cannot resist flaunting their wealth and culture
over those they encounter. While it is not always
in their best interests to do so, this attitude prevails
all the same, often plunging Aldarin diplomats and
merchants into hot water with other well-established
civilisations.
CW
Religious connections are immensely important
for social standing within the empire. Folk who
show faith from the imperially aligned gods (Deos,
Iora, Quor, and Gw’yth — the Quadrumvirate) find
themselves elevated to much higher regard than
those who do not. Kinships directly descended from
the lineages of primordials, such as the high elven
Emondisians of Emondas, are considered amicis or
“friends”, adjoined in extensive, millennia-long heri-
tage alongside the Aldarins. These amicis are met on
common terms with the Aldarins, seen as equals and
granted consideration for alliance and citizenship.
10
Folk who have no direct line to a primordial, at least
one that may be proved by modern methods, are
considered barbarus or “barbarian”. Barbarus have
been widely perceived as outsiders to the empire
throughout the majority of Aldarin history. However,
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
of libertus or “free person”. These free people are
either regarded neutrally or similarly to the amicis
depending on their people’s relations with Aldarin.
The Rymish, for example, are held in just as high
regard as the Emondisians, whereas the Ravidanians
fall under a more neutral light.
Religious officials, known as sacerdotes, tend CW
to shrines and temples across the nine provinces.
These priests and priestesses are revered as the divine
followers of the Medial Pantheon, with it forbidden
to so much as touch a sacerdos without prior consent
on threat of exile or imprisonment. These sacerdotes
perform ceremonial rites to the gods, such as enact-
ing animal sacrifice and orchestrating festivals, so
that the good will of the divine may be bestowed
upon the Aldarin people. It is within the interests
of the Aldarins to maintain the divine favour of as
many gods as they can under a concept known as
Pax Deorum or “peace of the gods”. Pax Deorum
allows the Aldarins to call upon gods they have
favour with, who help protect their empire against
the hostile world which surrounds them. Certain
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
and magic, as well as the restriction of spilling blood.
The Aldarins themselves are highly superstitious,
observing omens in everything from the pecking
of gryphons to the misalignment of animal entrails.
Citizenship or Nothing
Above all else, one’s social standing in the empire CW
determines a lot about how one lives, both in quality
of life and societal expectations. Obtaining citizen-
ship is the prime focus of many migrants living in
Aldarin, for without citizenship, a vast number of
protections, rights, and laws are not granted. On
top of this, a general air of caution is given around
a person should they not be known to the wider
Aldarin society.
Those who do obtain citizenship, however, find
themselves on equal footing with those born Aldarin.
As such, the empire sees a diverse spread of kins who
each call themselves “Aldarin”, despite their ancestral
kinships stemming from vastly differing lineages.
People on the lower end of the social ladder find it
incredibly difficult to attain citizenship, becoming

locked in a never-ending cycle of injustice and
rejection from the upper echelons of Aldarin
society. Foreign nationals with enough coinage to
bribe their way through the system are observed
with contempt in the eyes of common families
who have been attempting to attain citizenship for
decades, or even centuries.
CW
Typically, citizenship is reinforced through
word of mouth and social connections rather than
official documents. One might find themselves
eligible to become an Aldarin citizen should enough
high-standing citizens claim they are worthy. The
more influential the allies backing the claim, the
more likely one is to be approved by the legal offices
processing a citizenship application. Once one
finds themselves granted status as a citizen, this too
spreads to their immediate family, granting them all
the rights of an Aldarin: the Iusdecim (see page 18).
In recent years, citizenship for new members of
society has been reinforced through the addition of
a gildum, a small golden coin worn around the neck,
stamped with the seal of the imperial family, the
person’s name, and dated with the year of citizenship
being granted. This coin serves a dual purpose.
Firstly, it proves one’s standing as a citizen of the
empire. Secondly, it pays for the costs of basic funeral
rights should one die. Despite the usage of gildum,
many patricians and prior citizens do not carry
them, seeing them as the mark of a young lineage
rather than one of a long ancestral line which can be
traced back through Aldarin history. Due to this,
some folk are able to claim false citizenship through
forgeries or deception, though the punishment for
doing so is that of death.
Military Might
CW
Aldarin didn’t become an empire (and subsequently
an oligarchic imperial republic) through peaceful
negotiations and mercantile ventures — though
these aspects have helped on occasion. The nation
grew primarily off the back of its armies, expanding
into the territories of those around them and staking
claim to foreign lands under the ideals of rightful
ownership. Aldarin is revered by some and feared
by many more due to its legions, a collective of
loyal, well-armed, well-trained soldiers who operate
throughout both the imperial provinces and abroad.
Almost all citizens are expected to serve some time
in the Legions, whether it be for a single military
campaign or a short stint in a provincial legion. In
recent years, however, many of those born as citizens
find themselves able to get away without serving any
time at all, slipping under the net into other profes-
sions. This avoidance of military service is looked
down upon by ardent imperialists, such as those
from the Revitalist faction, as a sign of cowardice.
11
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Languages
“Cheep! Cheep cheep cheep. ...Oh! Sorry, I was
Introduction
just talking to my brother, Larken in Cardinese.
Did you know there are a load of different
Introduction
languages spoken in Aldarin?” to the
Before the First Medial War, most nations Aldarin
Empire
used to speak their own individual language.
The Jyrden spoke Jyrden, the Skaaldblud Aldarin
spoke Skaald, and the Aldarins spoke Names
both Aldarin and Dalaskian. Dalaskian
is now more commonly referred to as
Old Aldarin and is inspired by real world Social Classes
Estruscan, with modern Aldarin serving as
Latin. Old Common was spoken alongside
these languages, mostly by folk from the
Kinships in
the Empire
Underworld, and has since morphed over
time into Common.
Most people within Aldarin speak Festivals
either Common or Aldarin on a daily
basis. Educated individuals and patricians
occasionally speak Old Aldarin when Sports
attempting to remain secretive or when
discussing law, as all Aldarins laws are written
in Old Aldarin. As such, establishments
seeking to appear upmarket tend to write
Religion
their shop names both in Aldarin and Old
Aldarin, while those wishing to appeal to a
wider audience will rebrand themselves into Politics
Common. Occasionally dialects of Elven and
Draconic can be heard from Emondisian and
Zygardian visitors to the empire, which are Military
also learned by patricians so that they may
formally greet their noble guests. Zygardian
Draconic, for example, has been said to Commerce
sound like the purring of a nasally dragon.
Below are some common phrases
Aldarins say. To sound like a proper Aldarin, Crime and
pronounce your “v”’s like “w”’s. Punishment
Ave/Salve “Hail!”. A common greeting by
many throughout the empire. Provinces of
Aldarin
Vale “Farewell!”. A polite way to say
goodbye to someone.
Periods of
Res ad triarios venit “It’s come to the triarii.”. Aldarin
History
The triarii are the rearmost line of legionarii
on the battlefield: the most experienced
soldiers of the army. If it’s come to the triarii, Classes
it means things aren’t going too well.
Ad astra per aspera “To the stars through
hardships.”. Often said when faced with a Backgrounds
seemingly insurmountable task or some
great burden to overcome.
Appendices
Talis qualis “Such as it is.”. Said dismissively
in response to something unfortunate. It can
also mean “It is what it is.”.
Facta, non verba “Deeds, not words.”.
Shouted at politicians by crowds or
used when inferring that a person is
being disingenuous.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
CW
Aldarin’s legions do not stay mobilised all year
round. While some Aldarins do have full-time
careers in the Legions, such as guarding key settle-
ments or borders, most are simple farming folk who
return to the fields after the campaigning season
is over. Those who do stay in the Legions full time
find faster progression through the ranks, typically
ending their careers either leading a cohort or an
entire legion — if they are lucky. Such leadership
positions are usually exclusive to those of sancte
or patrician social status; although with enough
work, skill (and a bit of luck), a legionarius from
the lower rungs of society may rise to become a
prolific commander.
CW
Aldarin diplomats are notoriously terse when
dealing with foreign nations, especially those not
allied with Aldarin itself. There have been numerous
occasions where a diplomat has walked fearlessly
into the camp of a zealous opposing army to demand
their surrender. Introductions such as “Our legions
shall fill the baths of Quor’s realm with the blood of
your people lest you fail to lay down arms by sun-
down!” are often declared shortly after their arrival.
These diplomats are either executed on the spot or
laughed out of the camp, though the resulting fate
of these armies is almost always the same. They are
cut down by the Aldarin legions without a second
thought and, if the diplomat was killed, then none are
spared. No adults, nor children, nor pack animals. As
brutal as this methodology is, it is an effective form
of diplomacy in its own right, showing the abso-
lute power that Aldarin exerts. Regions which are
quick to step out of line the moment the provincial
governor’s back is turned tend to think twice about
rebellion lest they bring the wrath of the Legions
CW
upon them. War hostages are occasionally taken
to ensure good behaviour from recently captured
territories, with these hostages brought up within
Aldarin society to later serve as diplomats to peoples
of their birthplace. In recent years, however, such
acts of war crime have seen a steep decline as wider
diplomatic treaties, such as the Anchor Nations, have
taken hold across the Medial Plane. Despite this, the
Aldarin symbol of a gilded gryphon holding a sword
and an olive branch sparks both fear and anger in a
number of regions where Aldarin’s historic brutality
has not been forgotten.
Attuned to the Arcane
Talents in the field of magic, whether it be inherent,
gifted, or learned, are held as high blessings in the
Aldarin Empire. Heads are tilted down in respect
whenever a magus passes on the street. Resources
for arcane learning are readily accessible to the
public, funded by patrician families such as the
Baradinus’. Those who show magical aptitude at
12
a young age are ushered into further study by the
communities around them. It is the desire of every
family to have a child study to become a magus at
the prestigious Deveros Arcane University, or one
of its sibling universities throughout the Anchor
Nations. Better still, joining the Legions to assist
as a signaler or healing sacerdos places even more
glory upon the social standing of an Aldarin family.
Becoming not only a magus but also a legionarius
is an extraordinary achievement and one which is
readily celebrated. Those who rise as exceptional
magi stream into the ranks of Aldarin’s imperial
arcane body, the Concilium Arcanus Altus, also
known as CAA, furthering both the offensive and
defensive strategies put in place to support Aldarin’s
military pursuits.
Magic seeps into all corners of life within Aldarin.
Be it idly enchanted glass ornaments hanging in
taberna shop fronts, unstable dusktech engines
powering light water craft, or immense flows
of arcane energy streaming through the plane’s
waylines. Whatever the root school of magic, the
Aldarins have an interest in it. The nation observes
not only the largest number of magi living within its
borders out of any other nation on the Medial Plane,
but it also has the most magical artefacts passing
through its trade routes each year. Patricians hoard
powerful enchanted relics in private collections,
purchased through auctions or black market deals.
The Concilium Arcanus Altus imports vast quan-
tities of spell components for the imperial magi so
that research may be conducted into all manners of
magic, perpetually pushing the bounds of knowledge
in each of the arcane schools. Even areas such as
Void magic, which is banned for study across the
Anchor Nations, is researched in secret behind the
walls of the Deverosian World Anchor by a collective
of trusted, powerful magi.
Politics, Politics, Politics
It is impossible to walk past a single taberna or shop
front in any Aldarin settlement without overhearing
the political gripes of a disgruntled citizen. Whether
it be land reforms, grain doles, or legionarii move-
ments, the public has an opinion on everything
and will gladly share it with the world should the
topic even be slightly hinted toward. For the casual
Aldarin, these conversations over political matters
form the pinnacle of culture. For those foreign
to the concepts of institutionalised daily politics,
however, they can very rapidly devolve into over-
whelming boredom.
The local politics of a province and its regional
governors are often dwarfed by the goings on of the
capital, where Aldarin’s two major political bodies
operate: the Consentium and Consentium Minor.

The Consentium represents the patrician and sancte
social classes — the ruling oligarchs — while the
Consentium Minor stands for all the other social
classes, forming the wider public perspective.
While both play a role in the flow of Aldarin law, the
Consentium Minor has final say over any bills passed
into law. That is unless a state of emergency, known
as Alerium Martius or martial law, comes into effect.
Should Alerium Martius occur, however, the passing
of new laws is likely the last topic on the minds of
the people for Aldarin itself would truly be teetering
upon the brink of collapse.
Despite the term “empire” still lingering in
Aldarin’s title, the imperial family plays little impor-
tance in the running of the nation. It is simply the
role of the emperor to stamp a seal of approval onto
all bills to be passed into law. Aldarin is realistically
ruled by the Consentium and Consentium Minor,
with politicians falling into three distinct major
factions: the Revitalists, the Reformists, and the
Capitans. Where the Revitalists seek to reinstate the
position of the emperor and restore imperial rule
entirely, the Reformists instead strive to improve
the systems of power available to the public people.
These two factions clash on the regular, with their
supporters commonly taking to the streets to fight
out their differing opinions. The Capitans are con-
sidered by most Aldarins as somewhat of a joke,
filled with patrician troublemakers and party-goers,
despite their sometimes reasonable suggestions
for improving welfare across the poorest regions
of the empire.
Emberblood
Embers are a sign of powerful deity-born lineages,
those who have inadvertently become blessed by the
gods, or those who have worked hard enough to be
granted a portion of the gods’ divine souls. In a world
in which the gods’ influence is waning, such gifts are
rare, well respected, and highly sought after. Aldarin
is no exception in the plane-wide rat race to control
as many prolific emberblood as possible before the
powers of the weakening gods above falter. A strong
nation needs emberblood to support it, lest it fall
behind the influence of its enemies.
A sizable portion of Aldarin’s emberblood are
centralised around mercyr guilds and the Legions:
those who face life threatening danger on a regular
basis. Due to the path of scattered soul threads
following Duskfall and the Aldarin’s focal worship
of the Quadrumvirate deities, the most common
embers found within the empire are those associated
with Deos, Iora, Meliam, and Quor; though only
by a small majority. Emberblood tied to specific
deities are headhunted by organisations seeking to
utilise their talents for the benefit of the empire, or
13
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
even to help undermine it. Xythian emberblood, for
example, are regularly approached by the Umbra
Syndicate who seek to acquire the skills of those
Introduction
more inclined towards shadow and darkness. The CW
Ebyr’sol seek out powerful Deosian cultists to fall
Introduction
into their ranks, with those who they deem loyal to the
enough sent back to Quthar to be gifted an ember Aldarin
Empire
by the corrupted Deosian demigods of the Xwar.
Mantels — those who may act as vessels to the gods Aldarin
— are greater in number within Aldarin than in Names
other nations, though are still few and far between,
primarily contained to the Province of Deveros Social Classes
where the Concilium Arcanus Altus can keep a close
eye on them.
Kinships in
Clothing the Empire
It is widely believed by Aldarins that a sense of innate
Festivals
fashion courses through the veins of every true
Aldarin, notably more so the higher up the social
ladder one finds themselves. It is as if wealth and
Sports
status themselves dictate an inherent eye for style.
Hairstyles, jewellery, and makeup are pushed further
into the extremes each decade by fashionable social-
Religion
ites from all walks of life, inspired by the cultures of
tourists visiting the city. Generally, a greater variety
of colour upon one’s clothing denotes a wealthier
Politics
individual, with much of Aldarin’s social status
relying on grand displays of wealth. The wealthier
you can appear, the more others wish to socialise Military
with you, and the higher status you are seen to be.
Even the most basic forms of clothing, such as tunics
and sandals, can be found adorned with small clasps, Commerce
fabric patterns, or minor wood and metal trinkets
as their owners try to seem more flush with coin
Crime and
than they actually are. As with most Aldarin fashion, Punishment
however, this custom of having trinkets woven into
one’s clothes is stolen from that of another culture: Provinces of
Jykstrav. Similarly, countless fabric patterns and Aldarin
modern fashions trends are extracted directly from
South Rymin and the famed tailors of Longbreach, Periods of
Aldarin
with Aldarin tailors mimicking their iconic style. History
Shoulder capes, asymmetrical tunics, excessive
shoulder decorations, and feather-bound jewellery
Classes
are all assimilated from other civilisations. These
styles are repackaged as avant-garde and worn by
those who can afford to keep up with the ever-shift- Backgrounds
ing tide of the Deverosian vogue.
The only true piece of clothing which has survived
unhindered by this warping tide of cultural theft is Appendices
the toga — a long woollen sheet wrapped around
the body of the wearer. From the toga virilis, a basic
white-grey toga worn by citizens of the empire, to
the toga praetexta, a toga with a coloured border
signifying political allegiance, the toga stands as
a cultural anchor of fashion for the Aldarins. The
toga, along with tunics and stolas, are worn with
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
leather-strapped sandals which provide support
for the ankle when traversing treacherous terrain.
While all these items of clothing provide the basis of
fashion within Aldarin’s rural regions, the Aldarins
of the more populated, well-connected settlements
find their clothing varying more and more into a
blend of foreign cultures — especially in citizens
whose ancestry has stemmed from another nation.
Those of Jyrden ancestry, for example, tend towards
wearing decorated torcs and sewn trousers, while
those of Mistvellian origin more commonly wear
darker shades of dyes which are mistaken as
clothes of mourning by imperials. One such piece
is the toga pulla, a black toga typically only worn
during a period of mourning, but also donned by
wealthy Mistvellian merchants attempting to fit into
Aldarin culture.
Architecture
During the early Dalaskian era of Deveros’s history
around the 1st Century, where the cultural identity
of the new Aldarin people was still in its infancy,
primitive methods of construction were the go-to.
Sun-dried mud bricks and crude wooden frames
formed the prime feature of many-a-building, hastily
constructed to grant shape to the dwellings of the
capital’s early denizens. As time progressed, other
minerals such as marble, limestone, and clay became
more readily available alongside advancements
in both mining and transportation technologies.
Winches and wooden cranes assisted in the con-
struction of buildings, allowing the Aldarins to create
Modern Aldarin
Fashion
14
ever-greater feats of architectural splendour. These
minerals also allowed the formation of both decora-
tive and supporting pillars, which are now prevalent
within temples and major political structures.
At the turn of the 6th Century, the mud brick
buildings had almost all been demolished — aside
from a select few cultural relics. In their place came
renovations laced with limestone and clay brick,
much sturdier building materials, alongside Aldarin
concrete — an incredibly hardy substance once dried
— and marble for the more extravagant structures
owned by the wealthiest members of society. Oak
framing was used to form the foundations of more
modern builds, which were then filled with whatever
earthen material was deemed most appropriate and
affordable. These buildings are typically topped with
terracotta tiles or left flat roofed, with drainage sys-
tems allowing for water to flow from them with ease.
Windows are usually left open without glass, to be
closed only by wooden shutters. Those with enough
coin to spare might elect for glass windows. This is
especially the case for upmarket storefronts along
the major commercial thoroughfares who wish to
impress their customers. The technology to forge
glass has improved as the centuries have passed,
with the material becoming ever-more abundant.
Amethyst glass — a method of weaving amethyst
shards into molten glass — sits alongside stained
glass as the ultimate show of opulence, readily seen
throughout the richer northern districts. Typically,
the further one strays from the provincial capitals,
the less traditionally “Aldarin” the architecture is.

Aldarin Names
Aldarin Naming
Conventions
Aldarin names are formed of two to three compo-
nents: the given name (the praenomen), the family
or clan name (the nomen), and the personal name
(the cognomen). The given and family names are
always present, with one or more personal names
usually present.
Given and Family Names
The given name and family name are found in most
societies across Vynestra, for example: Lucius Nero.
In Aldarin, these names identify the individual
person and their related family. The given name
is only typically spoken by close friends or family,
and a third personal name is used instead as a pub-
lic-facing nickname — though this has started to
fall out of fashion following Aldarin’s interactions
with other cultures since the First Medial War. It was
often tradition for children to take on their parent’s
given names, which led to confusion outside of the
family’s close social circles. This tradition too has
faded over the past two centuries, though some
patrician families still carry it on.
Some folk from lower classes are granted a noble
family’s name as their given name at birth, for exam-
ple: Helios Nero. This is done to confuse and subvert
expectations, sometimes tricking the unaware into
believing that this non-patrician person is actually
part of a patrician family, when in actuality they
are not. Some children are named in order of
their birth, going from Primus, meaning “First”, to
Secundus, Tertius, Quartius, etc. This occasionally
15
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
strikes confusion when it comes to the political title
Introduction
of “Primus” with some Aldarins inevitably holding
both the title “Primus” and the given name “Primus”, Introduction
becoming Primus Primus. to the
Aldarin
Empire
Personal Names Aldarin
The personal name is unique to Aldarin culture. Names
It represents a placard of self-promotion which an
Aldarin might give to themselves in the way of a
Social Classes
nickname they are enamoured with or to boast some
achievement. This is the name they are most regu-
larly addressed as by people from outside their close
friend group or family. A personal name is tagged
Kinships in
the Empire
on the end of the family name, and an Aldarin can
have as many personal names as they like, though Festivals
for convenience they rarely go beyond four. For
example, one of the current primi, Caesar Helios
Aldarus (see page 64), was born to the Helios family, Sports
taking on their name, but became so acclaimed
as a military leader that he changed his personal
name from “Hadrian” to “Aldarus” in honour of the Religion
empire. An Aldarin might also acquire a personal
name when adopted by a family, a commonality in
Aldarin culture. They may take on the given and Politics
family name of the adoptive family head, as well as
some traditional personal name associated with that
Military
family so that the family name may be carried on.
Commerce
Adoption in Aldarin
“I was adopted, did ya know? Me full name is Crime and
‘Fluttero Helios Basiolum Cardin’. That’s right, Punishment
I’m a Helios! If the family head ever dies off, I’ll
be there to carry on the lineage.”
Provinces of
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.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Common Given Names, Masculine
Acclesian, Aelius, Albus, Aldarus, Alserius, Altus,
Atilius, Augustus, Bestius, Blasius, Bradis, Brutus,
Caecilius, Caesar, Caius, Calexius, Cassius, Cicero,
Decimus, Denari, Domitius, Fabinus, Felix, Flavius,
Gaius, Gnaeus, Hadrian, Havio, Herminus, Ivoris,
Janus, Julius, Kalenus, Kildarius, Leo, Loxis, Lucanos,
Lucius, Marcellus, Marcus, Nonis, Octavius,
Petronius, Publius, Quintus, Remus, Regulis, Rigoro,
Rufus, Rysio, Septimus, Sextus, Spurius, Tacitus,
Titus, Tullius, Valerian, Vincinus, Vospicus
Common Given Names, Feminine
Aelia, Aemilia, Alyssia, Augusta, Bestia, Blandina,
Caecilia, Calia, Camilla, Claudia, Cornelia, Decima,
Divelana, Domitia, Drusilla, Fabrica, Favella, Flavia,
Fulvia, Gaia, Gratiana, Helgaria, Hermina, Helvia,
Iliora, Iora, Ivora, Julia, Kalena, Kildaria, Livia,
Lucilla, Lucretia, Marcella, Nerva, Nona, Octavia,
Ophelia, Penelopa, Priscilla, Quintina, Rufina,
Rucia, Sabina, Septima, Sexta, Titiana, Tullia, Unica,
Valeria, Vespia, Vynilla
Common Given Names, Neutral
Adrianos, Agrippa, Atheanas, Ausus, Berilus,
Ceruliam, Cuscua, Deviliam, Esmerian, Fausta,
Felicum, Gyros, Kestrus, Laelius, Lothus, Martina,
Medrivius, Musania, Nello, Nindrea, Opiter, Sertor,
Servium, Sobrinus, Sovina, Tacitan, Tunilius,
Vexia, Vibius
Family Names, Common
Adjutor, Alcarius, Alverni, Aquillus, Aurum,
Austerius, Avantino, Brava, Caecillius, Cambrius,
Catulla, Claristra, Claudius, Craeus, Divestus,
Etrepsum, Fenestra, Fragala, Gaius, Gaeolus,
Gaverius, Gegania, Gordistrus, Horatius, Iorani,
Labo, Lartia, Levico, Loritela, Lilicus, Listellus,
Maxima, Mestellian, Mestrius, Nalitum, Nautica,
Neos, Nero, Nitudus, Numicius, Opheren, Perecia,
Petranus, Pinarius, Raela, Rosina, Sestius, Sulpicius,
Travestrum, Valentino, Valerius, Vencini, Verado,
Vetrian, Vetranius, Vitalum
Family Names, Noble
Agracus, Alventius, Appian, Astentium, Averni,
Baradinus, Branar, Catalina, Caesar, Conevitus,
Corsita, Deosia, Divestria, Eborius, Hastellian,
Helios, Kaecus, Laos, Laurelis, Mestrius, Orshari,
Pernicus, Piso, Pius, Siccia, Trimestri, Vespillo,
Viator, Vorim, Vynestrus
16
Provincial Naming Traditions
Throughout the vast breadth of the Aldarin
Empire, one may stumble across dozens of
unique naming traditions born from local
customs of cultures absorbed into Aldarin
culture over time.
Bullae A bulla (pl. bullae) is a small amulet,
charm, or trinket given to a child born within
the Province of Deveros upon reaching their
9th day of life. The bulla is gifted by the
parents to the child and the name of the
child is engraved within the bulla. The bulla
is traditionally worn around the neck, carried
at all times, and serves similarly to a gildum
in that it can be used to identify an Aldarin
citizen. When the child eventually matures
into an adult and seeks to become married,
the bulla is gifted to a temple of a demigod
and is blessed by that demigod. As such, it
is not uncommon to witness Aldarin-born
demigods wearing bullae from their belts
from those they have personally given
blessings to. This blessing is passed on to the
marrying partners, protecting them from
harm and ensuring a happy and fulfilling
marriage for all involved.
Resentia Resentia (pl. resentiae) are small
tattoos given to children from a select
number of townships within the Baldera
province. A resentia is traditionally placed
upon the skin of the left sole of the child
by a sacerdos in their second month of life,
marking their name upon them permanently.
It is believed by these communities that the
name is a powerful construct and to lose
one’s name is to lose oneself entirely. To
protect from nefarious entities who might
attempt to steal one’s name, the name is
marked upon the body so that the soul
of the child is forever bound to them and
them alone. Such tactics have been used to
counter the tricks of fae, in particular those
remaining within the forests of Baldera
following the Second Medial War.
Demigod Naming Similarly to how Aldarins
name their children after patrician families to
garner acclaim, some Aldarins from Salenti
take this one step further. The names of
famed demigods are given to their child as
their praenomen, believed to draw upon
the powerful soul threads of that demigod,
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.

Social Classes
CW
Social class in the Aldarin Empire defines everything
about what you can do and how you are perceived
by others. How you present yourself, how you speak,
and with which individuals you socialise with takes
centre stage when determining one’s position
within Aldarin.
While kinship might gauge some form of initial
perspective, social status is what truly matters.
This societal structure, whilst somewhat stable, has
numerous flaws to it — notably the funnelling of
wealth upwards to the upper classes and the difficulty
of obtaining citizenship. Many find themselves stuck
in the lower social classes, unable to ever break free
from the shackles of societal oppression. As such,
there has been a push to move away from the rigid
structure laid down by Aldarin’s ancestors, though
many still cling fervently to the restrictions of
social class.
Determining
Social Class
While social classes are defined blocks of people
within Aldarin, the lines between each class is
somewhat blurred with many folk falling between
the cracks of the system.
There are three main aspects of defining what
social class a person falls into: wealth, ancestry, and
social renown. Not all these requirements must
be met to slip into a social class but provide good
guidelines as to who may or may not reach a certain
standing within society.
Wealth
Wealth is a major contributing factor when deter-
mining the social class of an individual. This can
be calculated in one of two ways: familial wealth
and individual wealth. Wealth does not necessarily
mean the exact sum of gold an individual or family
owns, but instead the total sum of all their assets
as well as their apparent wealth — how opulent
their lifestyle is. If someone lives in a large villa
and sponsors public events, they would be seen as
wealthier than someone who lives in a small insula
and is conservative with their gold.
Familial Wealth. Members of a family may pool
their wealth when determining their social class. This
pool of wealth must remain stable for the family to be
considered of that social class, often reflected by their
lifestyle and expenses. For example, a family who
comes into a large sum of gold does not immediately
rise in social class unless they can sustain their wealth
and the lifestyle of a higher social class.
17
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
of Aldarin
Individual Wealth. An individual can also amass
Introduction
wealth for themselves, which may be used to define
their personal lifestyle and social standing. They may
Introduction
rise to a higher social standing than their family if to the
their individual wealth places them into a higher Aldarin
Empire
social class when not combined with the familial
wealth. Citizens who do not have families within the Aldarin
empire may determine their social standing based on Names
their individual wealth alone.
Social Classes
Ancestry
Anyone who is born into a family of a social class
Kinships in
automatically becomes a member of that social class. the Empire
For example, a child born into a sancte family will be
considered a sancte for life, unless the family itself
Festivals
moves into a different social class or if the individual
performs some major act of disorder to shift them
out of their social class. In this example, the indi-
Sports
vidual’s wealth has only a minor influence on their
social class, allowing them to progress upwards more
readily than downwards. Religion
People born from outside of the empire may fall
into various social classes automatically based on
their position within their origin nation — if they
Politics
were a noble or not, for instance — and their nation’s
present standing with Aldarin. For example, Anchor
Nation members are treated as part of the artifex Military
class whilst non-allied nationals are typically con-
sidered part of the otium class.
Commerce
Social Renown
Social renown is how one is perceived throughout Crime and
Punishment
Aldarin society by those around them. A merchant
may be immensely wealthy and born into a high social
class but have a low social renown, which places them Provinces of
Aldarin
into a lower social class. Social renown is determined
by the supporting words of those around you. If
Periods of
friends of a high social class claim someone to be of Aldarin
good character and state how “Aldarin” they are, then History
they shall be considered by others as of reputable social
renown. Acting towards the benefits of the empire and Classes
engaging in traditionally Aldarin activities — such
as festivals, politics and wearing Aldarin clothing —
shall garner one positive social renown. Going against Backgrounds
social norms, hanging out with miscreants or crimi-
nals, and actively straying from Aldarin traditions will
negatively impact one’s social renown. Appendices
NPCs may treat PCs differently based on their
social renown. PCs with a high social renown will be
welcomed into shops and tabernae with a smile by
those of higher social classes. The GM may choose
to track the party’s social renown behind the screen
by noting down the outcome of interactions with
imperial officials and prolific members of society
who may support them.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Aldarin Citizenship
CW
Without the label of “Aldarin citizen” one is doomed
to toil within the realms of mediocrity. Aldarin citi-
zenship is beholden as an all-encompassing gift to
inhabitants of the Aldarin Empire, with those born
of Aldarin lineage, or simply a parent granted citi-
zenship, blessed with its benefits. These benefits are
known as the Iusdecim or the Ten Rights. With these
rights, one can expect to be fully welcomed within
Aldarin society, observed on equal footing as all
others with citizenship of the same social class. It
matters not what ancestral kinship one comes from
as long as the status of citizen hovers above them.
The Iusdecim
Vote The right to vote in the public
assemblies and to elect new leaders for the
Consentium Minor.
Stand for Office The right to stand for public
or civil office, such as in the Consentium
Minor or in any of the imperial offices.
Progression The right to be promoted in
the ranks of the Legions beyond that of
a principa and in the ranks of Concilium
Arcanus Altus beyond that of a magus.
Immunity The right of immunity from certain
laws and rules, such as choosing exile in
favour of execution.
Property The right to own property and land
within the empire. Those without this right
may still rent.
Legality The right to a fair trial in court,
to sue, to be sued, to represent oneself in
court, and to appeal decisions made by the
magistrates of the court.
Perpetuity The right to remain a citizen, even
if one moves outside of the empire.
Family The right to grant effective
citizenship to one’s immediate family and to
legally marry within the empire.
Humanity The right to be treated with
respect and dignity.
Death The right to a proper burial within
ground consecrated by Estioc.
This inclusivity is supported both through written
documents, such as seals, writs, gildum (stamped
coins), and official governmental letters, as well as
word of mouth. If other Aldarin citizens call you a
citizen, then you are perceived as a citizen by those
around you. In particular, one may be taken under
the wing of another citizen, known as a patron,
who gives guidance and work in exchange for food,
money, loyalty, and eventual citizenship.
18
There have been accounts of folk from foreign CW
nations wrangling their citizenship status by carefully
manipulating the social circles of Aldarin society,
convincing increasingly higher status members
of their rights until it became all but official in the
eyes of the people. Such transgressions are heavily
punished should they be unearthed, however, with
culprits facing exile or even execution. In recent
years, citizenship has been more readily supported
through official documentation — though a number
of patrician families see themselves above such
menial obligations and choose to go without.
Obtaining Citizenship
To attain citizenship as a foreign national, as opposed CW
to through inheritance, one must meet certain criteria.
For many this is a stint of service in either the Legions
or within Concilium Arcanus Altus (the arcane branch
of Aldarin’s military), or serving under a patron for a
number of years. Service to the empire may also be
performed through clerical work in a temple, mercyr
work in a mercyr guild, or other general services such
as working as a scribe, a lawyer, an actor, a bard, or a
personal assistant. The stint of time required in these
roles vastly depends on the nation one is coming from,
with those from libertus (free) nations typically seeing
around 5 years service, whilst those from barbarus
(hostile) nations seeing up to 25 years of service. At
the end of this period, an official writ must be signed
by a consensa — a member of the Consentium — of
rank progildor or higher to grant the individual citizen
status. This consensa is considered the citizen’s patron
for the next two years whilst they settle into the life of
a citizen in the empire if they do not already have a
patron. Nobility, or those with vast swathes of wealth,
are able to pay themselves into citizenship instead,
skipping the required period of service. These tributes
are paid directly into the Imperial Bank of Saleen in
Deveros and must be observed by one of the gildors
managing the empire’s funds that year. New citizens
beyond 1010 PDS are also granted a gildum, a small
engraved gold coin used to prove identity and pay for
funeral rights.
There are three other forms of citizenship status
beyond full citizenship: amicis, libertus, and barbarus.
Amicis (pl. Amici). Close friends or allies of
the empire, usually related to the descendants of
primordial deities. These folk are welcomed into
the empire as equals to the Aldarins. The amici are
granted all rights of the Iusdecim, apart from voting
and standing for office. Full citizenship can typically
be claimed with ease by those seen as amici. First
generation amici may rise to the sancte social class,
though may not actively partake in Aldarin politics
without first obtaining citizenship.
Amicis Nations: Emondas, Zygarde, Kishradam
(not Quthar)
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

CW
Libertus (pl. Liberti). Ranging from strong allies
to neutral parties, these folk are welcomed into the
empire warmly. Depending on the disposition of the
person’s origin nation, varying rights are granted. For
example, the Rymish are granted all rights bestowed
to the amicis, whilst folk from Dane see only the
rights of progression, humanity, and death — the
three most fundamental rights. Citizenship can be
claimed by the liberti through service to the empire.
First generation liberti may not rise beyond the
on familial heritage or service to the empire, gaining
the same benefits as those born Aldarin. A Jyrden
travelling in from Jykstrav with no knowledge of the
Introduction
Aldarin language would be considered a vagnata,
for example. A cleric or paladin may not have a lot
Introduction
of wealth but will be respected within society with to the
a high social renown as a religious figure, so might Aldarin
Empire
start within the praesta class. A rogue or warlock
may be tied to criminal groups or chthonic cults, Aldarin
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
Isle, Giraré, Vorien Empire, Mistveil, Qutharian
Empire, Xhaolo, Tak’huut, Dane.
Barbarus (pl. Barbari). These nations are seen
as “barbarians”: folk whose cultures drastically
differ from those of the Aldarins. Widely observed
as unruly or troublesome due to their differing
cultural mannerisms, barbari can come across as
strange to those born in the heart of Aldarin. These
folk are typically not granted any of the Iusdecim,
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
their players where they believe the starting social Social Classes
class is for a PC, which may shift over the course of
a campaign. There is no hard ruling for where a PC
falls on the social ladder as it is highly subjective to Kinships in
the Empire
the context of their background and home nation.
It is recommended that, for the first time playing
in Deveros, all PCs start in the artifex class for a Festivals
balanced experience and to not focus too heavily on
social classes while both the players and the GM
familiarise themselves with the city. Sports
CW
Boundaries and Inclusion Religion

sects belonging to the Fyndarians who are granted
the rights of death, humanity, progression, and
sometimes property. Citizenship can eventually be
claimed by barbari through extended service to the
empire. First generation barbari may not rise beyond
the artifex social class.
Barbarus Nations: Menderin, Jykstrav, Halthos,
Fyndar, Peliox, North Rymin.
The Social Classes
Determining PC Social Class
Players should keep track of their social class over the
CW
course of a campaign. To determine a PC’s starting
social class, look at their citizenship status, their
starting wealth, starting class, and background.
You may not wish to include the barbarus
standing in your campaign due to the
ostracised nature of gameplay that could Politics
transpire. To do so, move the nations listed
as barbarus to a libertus standing. It is
especially important to communicate to Military
your players around these areas of the game
and to include ample safety tools, such
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
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.
Provinces of
Aldarin
Patrician (pl. Patricians)
Periods of
Formed of Aldarin’s exclusive elite, the patricians are Aldarin
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

CW
Sancte (pl. Sanctes)
The second class defined under “nobility” with the
ability to stand for office in the Consentium, sanctes
are highly respected magi, legionarii, or government
officials whose excellence in their field has granted
them great renown. One can either be born into
a sancte family or alternatively, one can become
elevated to the sancte class as a novus nobilis (new
noble) through acceptance by the Consentium (see
Novi Nobiles on page 57). Praesta who are popular
enough within Aldarin society may make an appli-
cation to stand for election in the Consentium, and
if this is approved, are automatically elevated as a
sancte. This status lasts for the duration of their elec-
tive period and, in the event of a successful election,
the status becomes permanent for the individual as
well as spreading to their immediate family.
Haruspex of Concilium Arcanus Altus and hydro-
photes of the Legions are two of the most common
military ranks to become elevated into sanctes,
though it is not unheard of for lesser ranks to reach
this height too. One such famous case was that of
Acclesian Alventius (see page 111), who stood as
a principa of the Legions and an opulatus in the
Consentium Minor. Historically the sancte class
referred to “knights” of the Aldarin Kingdom who
owned land on behalf of a patrician family and might
have led a small army.
Those who are born into the sancte class tend
to have a warped perspective on the lower classes,
seeing them as holding equal capability to succeed
within the empire as themselves — an observance
that is simply not true. Most sanctes hold an extensive
network of allies and business partners supporting
their ventures, with vast swathes of wealth arriving
into their coffers each year, something the lower
classes lack. Not only this, but the sancte class as a
whole owns a huge portion of the empire’s real estate,
renting it out to the lower classes in exchange for
labour or gold. Folk from lower classes tend to work
in the businesses of sanctes and patricians, seeking
to gain skills and wealth to allow them to progress
up the chain.
The sanctes are highly educated people, usually
versed in Common and Old Aldarin, as well as a
handful of foreign languages. This knowledge
extends outwards to military strategy, arcane lit-
erature, political affairs, and economic processes,
allowing them to influence regions of Aldarin
society where they are most well versed. Nobles
from other Anchor Nations, as well as the nobility
of South Rymin, Lildor, and Jordveil Isle, may easily
acquire sancte status following successful citizen-
ship approval.
21
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Praesta (pl. Praestae)
The praestae are typically well educated people,
affluent in their craft and heavily involved in the
Introduction
greater scope of Aldarin’s commercial, religious, and
military pursuits. Commonly found to be owners
Introduction
of profitable businesses or industrious ventures, to the
praestae provide artisanal jobs for the lower classes Aldarin
Empire
through these means. While a sizable chunk of
praestae are master artisans or wealthy merchants, Aldarin
others fall into higher military offices throughout the Names
Legions and Concilium Arcanus Altus, commanding
an air of respect around them. Some fall into the Social Classes
religious realm of sacerdotes and sovigals who seek
the betterment of the communities they support.
Any common family with an expertise in a Kinships in
the Empire
profitable specialist craft belongs to this social class,
with a handful grasping onto aspirations of elevating
themselves higher and involving themselves within Festivals
the political whirlwind that is Deverosian politics.
Many however seek to stay out of the clutches of
political life, not wishing to drag themselves in the Sports
problematic limelight that such duties cast upon
their families. There are no particular professions
tied to the praesta class, with families encompassed Religion
under its umbrella finding themselves as the most
affluent in their profession. This can range from
legendary map makers to wealthy farmers, from his- Politics
toric vintners to popular gladiators. The praestae are
predominantly literate in Common and Old Aldarin,
Military
being able to fluently speak both, though some may
lack the ability to read and write in Old Aldarin.
Artifex (pl. Artifex) Commerce
Non-specialist craftsmen, farmers, tailors, bakers,
and smiths are amongst a handful of professions
Crime and
found within the artifex class. Artifex typically hold Punishment
jobs involving some form of moderately skilled
manual craft and own small family houses some-
Provinces of
where within the empire, working arduously in their Aldarin
remit to make ends meet. The lucky few of the otium
class who gain an apprenticeship in a skill or craft Periods of
Aldarin
are eventually able to move up into the realms of
History
the artifex, seeing slightly improved quality of life
and better meals. The line between which crafts are
Classes
deemed more “praestae” and which are deemed more
“artifex” is a fine one, which varies from province
to province. For example, a talented smith may be
Backgrounds
seen as part of the praestae in Baldera, where skilled
smithies are a valuable asset to the Legions, but
only as part of the artifex in Deveros, where there
Appendices
are hundreds of smithies vying for renown within
the capital.
Numerous smaller merchants, courtesans, and
legionarii fall under the umbrella of artifex, com-
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
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

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

22

Anyone found in ownership of slaves through such
means, however, are dragged through the imperial
justice system and end up within the depths of
Aldarin’s roughest prisons. The Capitan political
party has attempted to establish improved rights
for folk who have fallen foul of these illicit slavers,
granting those who have been freed better options
for entering into Aldarin society should they wish to.
CW
The one exception around servus is when it comes
to hostages of war: typically high nobility or social-
ites from foreign lands whom Aldarin have warred
with and negotiated peace. As part of these peace
treaties, certain prolific people are handed over into
Aldarin society, working as servants to the patrician
or sancte they have pledged to. These hostages serve
a cruel double purpose. Firstly, as punishment for
any retaliation caused by the foreign nation, these
hostages are slain without second thought, typically
in a highly public manner such as to wound the ego
of the offending nation. Secondly, to assimilate the
foreign nationals into Aldarin and its way of think-
ing. Children who become hostages or are born from
hostages are taken from their parents and raised as
Aldarins, eventually to return to their true homeland
as an envoy of diplomacy in favour of the empire to a
people who see them as one of their own. While this
tactic of diplomacy is heinous, the Aldarins — along
with many other nations — have seen great success
in its use over the past millennia, causing once great
rivals to collapse at their feet. Over the past two
centuries, however, this method of control has seen
a sharp decline and is now seldom ever used. The
Anchor Nations forbid the use of such methodology
in war and now move to make regulations against it.
Daily Life of the
Average Aldarin
Life for the patrician and sancte elite should be
considered the exception, not the norm, only
covering about three percent of the total populace.
Even further still, the lifestyles of wealthy merchants
and hard-working mercyrs can be discounted from
the typical day to day of an average Aldarin citizen.
The vast majority of Aldarins, especially those living
outside of major settlements such as Deveros and the
provincial capitals, live a very different life to those
with wealth.
Bread and Circuses
Contrary to the mindset of the elite, who are focused
on long term dynasty and succession, the a-typi-
cal Aldarin is primarily focused on the here and
now. With the life expectancy of Aldarin humans
23
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
sitting around the age of 55, or even lower in the
outreaches of rural communities, the common folk
are not overly concerned with the futures of great
Introduction
great grandchildren who haven’t even been born
yet. They must focus on their livelihood first and
Introduction
foremost, with survival for oneself and one’s family to the
being the primary driving factor in daily life. Due to Aldarin
Empire
this mindset of living in the moment, any chance to
step outside of the perpetual mundane loop of secur- Aldarin
ing food supplies and practical household goods Names
is snatched without a moment’s notice. Festivals
are a prime example of this, with the common folk Social Classes
partying hard at the expense of the rich and wealthy,
who typically host such events. A handful of days
each year spent not working, eating, drinking, and Kinships in
the Empire
enjoying oneself is the height of what one wishes to
achieve in life — with thoughts of grandeur and fame
seldom present in this mindset. Festivals
It should come as no surprise that the elite of
Aldarin consider the poorer contingents of their
nation to be hyper fixated upon “bread and circuses”, Sports
and to some degree they would be correct. If there
is such a short time to be spent within this life, and
mere survival takes more than enough of a toll on Religion
the body already, then why should one actively
seek out glory or to think in the long term? Living
in the here and now is what counts and decisions Politics
of longevity should be left to those who can afford
to think about such matters. This is not to say that
Military
all Aldarins of the middle and lower classes hold
such a mindset, but it is certainly the most prevalent
throughout the nation.
Commerce
Labour
Crime and
Where one’s next meal is coming from is always the Punishment
most important factor, followed by securing meals
for the coming weeks and months if possible. As Provinces of
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
Aldarin
even death. To avoid running into issues with income
History
streams, Aldarin families try to diversify themselves
as much as possible, spreading income over multiple
Classes
different sources. Younger family members might
weave baskets or make pottery whilst older family
members head out to work in hard labour. A child
Backgrounds
with a strong aptitude may be sent to work as an
apprentice for another family, both to earn income
for the family but also to learn new skills that can
Appendices
help diversify their talents and secure future income
outside of their apprenticeship. Coin may be stored
away for times of need, typically hidden somewhere
secure in the household itself, as few Aldarins can
afford such luxuries as banks or Temples of Saleen.
The reality of life for Aldarins living outside of
stable income households is a dire one. Food is
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
prioritised for those who work in labouring jobs so
that they may keep their strength and ensure that the
household has some semblance of income. Children
and elderly members of the family who may not be
able to contribute much, if anything at all, to the
familial wealth are often left with little food should
the money not be there to feed them.
CW
Common forms of income earning labour include:
general labour, farm work, mining, lumbering, con-
struction, and basic skills such as weaving, sewing,
cleaning, taberna serving, and cooking. Such jobs are
left up to chance most of the time. For many it is a
matter of holding out a few more days until the next
major building project starts or until the next harvest
comes through so that food can be put on the table
again. Those who have undergone apprenticeships
commonly find themselves working as masons, car-
penters, painters, sculptors, sculpture painters, and
smiths, amongst other trained professions. Those
without the ability to perform work for pay instead
support their household through sewing, spinning
wool, making clothes, cooking, raising children,
teaching basic education, preparing for festivals, and
general maintenance.
CW
The Role of Children
Children are widely seen as a blessing to any Aldarin
family, though not necessarily for benevolent, loving
reasons. Another child means another potential
source of income for a family. It also means another
mouth to feed. As such, most Aldarin children are
put to work early in their life, from as soon as the
age of six in some cases. The sooner a child starts
working, the sooner they can make up the coin
needed to feed themself. For some families, this may
be as simple as helping their parents with basic tasks
around the house, freeing up an adult to head out to
perform incoming generating labour. For others, this
could involve being sent out to do the hard labour
itself. In numerous Aldarin communities it is not
uncommon to see children working in the fields,
lumber camps, or mines to support their families,
as there is simply nobody else left to keep food on
the table. Other children may instead beg on the
streets, becoming part of begging gangs who harass
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
is not uncommon for these begging gangs, espe-
cially those in larger cities with carefully calculated
operations backing them, to utilise forms of illusion
magic to rough up their forms so as to better pull on
the heartstrings of those they target.
In particularly bad times, a child or young adult
may be sold into adoption by a wealthier family
of the upper classes who is struggling to produce
an heir. Such adoptions are not uncommon, with
numerous families competing to put their children
forward as the most intelligent and charismatic
candidates to be raised into these positions of power.
Further still, should a family be unable to secure any
of their children for adoption, they may instead pass
them into the service of a temple to be trained as a
sacerdos. A small sum of gold is given by the temple
to the family for this, forming a harsh yet stable
symbiotic relationship with the heavenly temples and
the local populace. A family gains secured income
for another year or two while the temple gains a new
sacerdos, who may eventually be sent out to generate
income for the temple by performing clerical duties
in surrounding settlements.
While most children are taught to read and write
basic Common and the languages known by their
parents (such as Aldarin), only those from higher
income households can afford to send their children
to seek formal education where they may learn Old
Aldarin and other languages of importance for
engaging in trade. Local elections are especially
notable in this regard. Any Aldarin who understands
Old Aldarin has a greater chance of becoming elected
as a publus, and as such secures a vast income for
their family over their time in office, setting them
up for years to come. Even better still, should a child
show any form of aptitude for magic in the slightest,
they will be pressured into pursuing that talent
relentlessly by their family and local community.
To have a magus in the family is to have a chance
at climbing the social ladder and securing a better
life for all around you. Families, and even entire
communities, have been known to fall deep into
poverty to support a single child into attending an
arcane college in the hopes that they will eventually
earn enough money from practising magic to pay for
a better life ahead for all.
 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
CW
This section does its best to describe how various
Vynestran kinships (known as races in core 5th
Edition) are perceived within the borders of the
Aldarin Empire. The capital of Deveros itself is host
to almost all of these kins in some capacity, though
many more exist beyond its stone-clad walls. As a
general rule of thumb, should someone speak basic
Aldarin and observe the customs of the empire,
the Aldarin people would be welcoming of them.
Similarly to Roman culture, Aldarins are more
accepting of those who embrace their values and
seek to become more traditionally “Aldarin”. It is
rare for those of Aldarin kinship to treat other kins
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
war with the empire.
Cambion
Views of cambion are largely split throughout the
empire. The vast majority of citizens do not hold
much of an opinion of their kin, respecting cambion
kind with general neutrality. Those within magical
circles observe cambion with a position of elevated
respect, regarded as powerful entities whose natural
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
1027 PDS, concerned that their kin serve as potential
spies for The Lesser Key. Such radicals are few and far
between, typically shunned by the wider populace as
illogical conspiracy theorists.
Cambion can most commonly be found as
merchants from Cel’drik or as magi serving under
a mercyr guild or within Concilium Arcanus Altus.
Those who choose to stay within the empire almost
always find citizenship simple to acquire, either
attained through vast wealth accumulated from trade
or assisting the Legions as a magus. With the five year
course of magi training offered by the Deverosian
Arcane University, which is commonly taken by
younger folk seeking to flex their magical muscles,
a sizable number of cambion receive citizenship
after graduating.
Blood Eclipse Cambion
Feared for their association with the moons and
creatures of the night, blood eclipse cambion are
met with a pervasive stigma throughout the empire
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
Empire
throw away these negative perceptions. Often these
cambion harken to living alone or within small guilds
where they might find security, all whilst building up
a trusted reputation throughout their local commu-
nity and dispelling the horrid rumours of bygone
eras. More often than not, Adriosan cambion seek to
serve within the Legions and mercyr guilds, where
they are respected for their martial prowess, whilst
Atheanan cambion garner similar respect within
the Imperial Arcane Assembly or a research guild.
Citizenship is most quickly gained through these
routes, usually supported by strong social connec-
tions forged during their time in service.
Catfolk
Catfolk are few and far between in the Aldarin
Empire. No catfolk clans exist within the borders of
Aldarin, though there is a diminutive gathering of
catfolk from the Tzagi clan of southern Emondas in
Deveros. A few catfolk from Jordveil Isle also exist,
though these catfolk tend to stick towards the north-
ern provinces. Most catfolk who settle in Aldarin
seek out citizenship and tend to find it through the
typical routes of legionary service, arcane speciali-
sation, or mercyr work.
Dhampir
Born of vampiric blood, dhampir are met with a
certain level of apprehension by a handful of people,
who fear the connotations of their sanguinous lin-
eage. Widely though, dhampir are greeted neutrally
but may find themselves met with lingering trepida-
tion following major events of vampiric activity, such
as the discovery of illicit blood banks or the death of
a citizen by a vampiric entity. Dhampir from other
nations generally do not find it difficult obtaining
citizenship, commonly required to serve within the
Legions for a period of time before being granted it
— a regular occurrence across many kins seeking to
live in Aldarin. Particularly unlucky dhampir might
find themselves serving under the Siccia family, who
governs Vampiric Order territory within Aldarin
from their villa in Deveros. It is not uncommon
for dhampir to actively avoid interactions with
the Siccias and their followers due to the nefarious
nature of the family’s intentions, opting instead to
live a peaceful life further afield in the throws of the
imperial provinces.

Dwarves
CW
A large number of dwarves come from the snowy
lands of Halthos to the far north of the Aldarin
Empire. Some, such as hill dwarves, instead hail from
the eastern lands of Menderin and South Rymin.
There are few indigenous dwarven folk from the
regions Aldarin inhabits, mostly limited to small hill
dwarven communities around mountainous regions
who find little to no trouble obtaining citizenship
should they desire it.
Delvar Dwarves
From the frost-bitten lands of Halthos to the far
north of Elos, the delvar hail. Delvar from Halthos
seldom set foot upon imperial soil, seeing the
Aldarins as expansionist barbarians and mindless
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
citizens are regarded as an outspoken folk whose
brash mannerisms are perceived as barbaric in
nature and most unwelcoming. Delvar do not
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
in Aldarin. Those who do linger within imperial
borders typically keep to themselves, living alone
in rural communities or serving as part of a private
army or workforce where they might find protection
through the position of their superiors.
Earthbound Dwarves
Perpetually put down by the societal struggles of
Halthos, earthbound primarily coexist alongside
the delvar in the Elosian north. Similarly to delvar
dwarves, earthbound are seldom seen throughout
the empire. Those who do exist in Aldarin have
more often than not escaped from the oppressions
of Halthos and have either traversed through the
sprawling tunnels of the Underworld or the frigid
colds of Jykstrav to flee delvar govern. Due to their
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-
ers, hardy mercyrs, or cultists to the gods. Due to
their perceived lineage from Enor, earthbound find
themselves granted citizenship with ease and are
able to quickly form sturdy religious ties within
Aldarin society.
Hill Dwarves
Hill dwarves garner an almost fantastical reputation
as hard workers and fierce fighters, finding them-
selves met with a lofty respect by Aldarin folk. It
27
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
is not uncommon for hill dwarves to be pestered
into joining the Legions or the cults of one of the
Tredecima due to this almost mythical level of
Introduction
reverence held for their kinship. Due to this, hill
dwarves have no trouble finding citizen status. There
Introduction
have even been accounts of citizenship granted to hill to the
dwarves immediately upon arrival into an Aldarin Aldarin
Empire
settlement, accompanied by the vain hope that they
will remain to serve imperial functions with their Aldarin
bountiful perceived talents. Hill dwarves do not tend Names
to reside within large settlements because of this,
either finding comfort as a soldier in the Legions Social Classes
or in distant rural communities where they are less
likely to be bothered by starry-eyed Aldarins. Other
hill dwarves elect to abuse this naive trust, operat- Kinships in
the Empire
ing illicit dealings in open sight knowing full well
that they can charm their way out of any potential
repercussions. Festivals
Elves Sports
There are numerous types of elves throughout
Vynestra, all of which may be found in some capacity Religion
within the Aldarin Empire.
Ashensworn Politics
Views of ashensworn are split depending on who one
confers with. Many common folk see the ashensworn Military
as a terse and matter-of-fact folk, appreciating the
honesty conveyed in their concise verbiage and
whose monotonous patterning of speech only Commerce
aids this candid visage further. Conversely, those
within economic circles perceive those from the
Crime and
lands of Mistveil with an air of disdain, upset at the Punishment
perpetual taxation enacted on Aldarin merchants by
the Duskan League — Mistveil’s leading mercantile
Provinces of
guild. Ashensworn are more readily found living Aldarin
within centralised commercial hubs, working either
as merchants or some artisanal profession tied to Periods of
Aldarin
their lengthy lineage. Citizenship is rarely sought
History
after by ashensworn, whose ties to their homeland
and their familial ancestry is vastly more important
Classes
than the acceptance of a strange, militaristic nation.
High Elves Backgrounds
Observed as an intellectual folk, high elves gener-
ally find themselves met with civilised respect by
the Aldarin people. This is elevated to a warming Appendices
embrace of immediate friendship for elven kin hail-
ing from the ardently-allied nation of Emondas. High
elves from other nations garner a more default stance
of neutrality in the eyes of the masses, seen as neither
friend nor foe. Emondisians are openly welcomed
into citizenship by the Aldarins, whilst other high
elves have to jump through a number more hoops
before being granted such protection under law. As
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
a kin, high elves are sighted throughout both major
and minor settlements, especially those revolving
around arcane research or spell reagent production.
CW
Sand Elves
Viewed similarly to wood elves, sand elves find
themselves approached with an air of curiosity due
to their differing mannerisms and clothing. The neu-
tral stance of the Aldarins prevails here, welcoming
sand elven folk with mutual respect. The music of
the Sasemaani sand elves in particular is met with
interest by the Aldarin people, granting Sasemaani
musicians passage to carve a powerful presence in
the bardic sways of imperial intrigue. Citizenship,
however, is seldom granted to first generation sand
elves, requiring either military service or arcane
research to seal the deal. Many sand elves find
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.
Snow Elves
Snow elves are seldom seen throughout Aldarin,
tending towards the northern realms of Elos.
Those who do find themselves in imperial lands
are regarded with curiosity and interest, with most
Aldarins only having heard tales of such folk through
legionarii returning from campaign. Citizenship
would not readily be granted to snow elves without
due reason, unless one can prove ancestry or adop-
tion from a person already standing as an acclaimed
Aldarin citizen. The typical route of imperial service
would be the only other avenue of approach for those
seeking to claim citizenship. The few snow elves who
do live within the empire are almost exclusively
found within the northern provinces, living in
rural communities, working for mercyr guilds, or
travelling alone.
Wood Elves
Wood elves are observed by the Aldarins as a reclu-
sive folk. The traditions of Aluforod-born wood elves
in particular tend towards a more natural and earth-
bound domain, as opposed to that of the sun and
sky observed within the Aldarin Empire. Because of
these differences in cultural stance, such wood elves
are regarded with an air of neutrality, neither lauded
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-
fers or a close contact of reputable standing. Wood
elves exist in all walks of life throughout the empire
though are more commonly found in northern rural
communities alongside Jyrden, snow half-orcs, and
snow elves displaced by war.
28
Farborn
Farborn are folk born outside of the Medial Plane,
hailing from the outreaches of the Compass. Farborn
folk are rarely seen throughout the Medial Plane,
let alone within the Aldarin Empire. Those who do
exist typically have been issued permits of travel by
the Anchor Nations, such as merchants, tourists,
researchers, and diplomats. Sometimes criminals
slip through the World Border undetected, either
escaping the jurisdiction of the Inner Compass
or seeking to profit off of the wealth of the Medial
Plane. Farborn will not be granted citizenship by the
Aldarin Empire unless citizenship laws are changed
by the Consentium to consider kin from outside of
the Medial Plane. The wake of the Second Medial
War is still fresh in the minds of many and this stance
is unlikely to shift anytime soon.
Gnomes
Gnomes of varying lineages are found across all
walks of the empire, from sprawling cities to the
most far-flung expanses of wooded forests and
mountainous camps. Seen generally as a joyous
folk, gnomes are met with an initial warm smile.
The Pilkos gnomes of the Pilkos Isles province espe-
cially find themselves at home within the southern
empire, their kind already claiming free citizenship
and influencing imperial politics more so than any
other representative kinship outside of the lineaged
Aldarin. Gnomes from more distant lands might
find it harder to find citizenship without support of
trusted friends or allies.
Frost-blistered Gnomes
Similarly to snow elves and snow half-orcs, frost-blis-
tered gnomes are a rarity throughout the southern
folds of the Elosian continent. Those who do elect to
traverse the industrious lands of the Aldarin Empire
are met with cocked eyebrows and curious gazes,
though greeted with a warm welcome all the same.
Frost-blistered gnomes see no more difficulty in
attaining citizenship than any other foreign gnomish
folk, serving a few years of imperial service. Those
living within Aldarin can almost exclusively be found
in the colder climate of the northern front or within
snowy mountainous settlements.
Goblins
It is not uncommon to see goblins thriving within
the Aldarin Empire. With so many wondrous
technologies and advancements sparking every
few months, there is more than enough to keep a
 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
Half-orcs are commonplace in the outreaches of the
empire, where Aldarin borders with the lands of
Jykstrav and Menderin (where orcish communities
thrive). Within the heartlands of Aldarin, however,
they are less common, though may still be seen
wandering the streets of populated settlements.
Plains Half-Orc
Plains half-orcs do not find initial perceptions of
their kinship to differ from that of a half-elf, generally
observed with a welcoming attitude. Plains half-
orcs of varying cultural heritages exist across most
regions in the empire, though are notably focused
around eastern Civaci where ties to the diverse
clanships of Menderin are strongest. They do not
typically find much difficulty in securing citizenship,
especially those whose families already have ties to
Aldarin society.
Snow Half-Orcs
Similarly to their cold climate brethren of frost-blis-
tered gnomes and snow elves, snow half-orcs are not
commonly found within the Aldarin Empire outside
of a few small northern villages and the capital city
of Deveros. Snow half-orcs are viewed with an
aspect of curiosity due to their striking features, as
compared to their plains-born cousins, though for
the most part fall into the same camp of neutrality
as many other kins. Snow half-orcs have historically
had a slightly harder time obtaining citizenship as
opposed to plains half-orcs, but cases of success far
outnumber those of failure.
Humans
There are plenty of human ethnic groups found
across Vynestra, ranging from lofty imperial
lineages all the way to distant rural folk who have
witnessed neither wagon nor ship. Below are some
of the most common human groups found within
the Aldarin Empire.
Aldarins
Aldarins are those born within the Aldarin Empire
itself from the Dalaskian lineage. Held in the highest
regard by those within the Aldarin Empire, the
Aldarins are the inheritors of Deos’s bloodline and,
as such, are the children of gods. Whilst anyone with
citizenship is considered equal, those born from this
deific bloodline carry with them an air of respect and
authority which is perceived as borderline arrogant
by some. Aldarins are by far the most common
30
peoples to inhabit the empire, found in majority
across almost all settlements and communities, aside
from those bordering with other nations. Aldarins
are born with citizenship unless their family has been
banished from the empire.
Jyrden
The Jyrden hail from Jykstrav, a northern nation
perpetually locked in war with the Aldarin Empire.
Jyrden who adopt aspects of Aldarin culture and
fashion find themselves readily embraced by Aldarin
citizens, more so than those simply passing through
with a sight to observe Aldarin culture from a
distance. Merchants hailing from Jykstrav can be
sighted throughout a number of major settlements
all the way down to the Pilkos Isles, though Jyrden
folk as a whole are generally more concentrated
towards the northernmost provinces. Many find
it next to impossible to claim Aldarin citizenship
without lengthy imperial service, especially during
present times of war between the two nations.
Kishmarans
Kishmarans live within the heartland of Sel’Kildar, far
to the west of the Elosian continent.The Kishmarans
are welcomed with open arms in the empire, standing
as long-lasting friends of the Aldarins and as historic
Anchor Nation allies before their world anchor was
claimed by Quthar. Kishmarans typically do not seek
Aldarin citizenship, instead falling into the amicis
role of citizenship where they are unofficially granted
almost all rights of the Iusdecim. Kishmarans are
most often situated amongst concentrated familial
groups within busy coastal cities such as Deveros and
Gordistra, though they can also be located within
the communities of smaller sea-facing settlements
where Kishmaran nobles have elected to settle. The
Kishmarans who reside within the Aldarin Empire
maintain their ancestral training regime dedicated
to their elite warriors, some of which serve in
the highly respected Sel’Kildarak Legeshi of the
Aldarin Legions.
Qutharians
Qutharians hail from the expansionist Qutharian
Empire in Sel’Kildar. Perceived as tenuous allies at
best, devout Qutharians are respected by those within
Aldarin for sharing Deos’s bloodline, though some
Aldarins view them as false claimants to his lineage.
The views of the Ebyr’sol are seen as a threat to the
empire and its allies — most notably to the high elves
of Emondas — with those who avidly follow the cult
largely shunned from Aldarin-centric social circles.
Qutharians generally have little interest in claiming
Aldarin citizenship, seeing themselves as the higher

children of Deos, though find appreciation in the
Aldarins for their deep devotion to the Tredecima
deities. Their kinship can be found condensed within
the Sala Sal’kildarak district of Deveros as well as
throughout the coastal trade hubs of Gordistra and
Northwatch. Northwatch in particular has seen an
inquisition of Ebyr’sol over the past five years. This
surge of pressure has escalated to such a degree that
the cultural traditions of both Quthar and northern
Aldarin are openly blended within the city.
CW
Ravidanians
The term “Ravidanian” denotes any person from
the shores of the continent of Ravidan, of which
there are many sub-groups of humans. Ravidanian
humans are observed as a wildly foreign collective
possessing jovial social mannerisms and eccentric
clothing which stuns the average Aldarin upon
first meeting. Widely regarded as sage mystics and
purveyors of advanced technology, the Aldarin
people place the Ravidanians in a neutral territory
of mutual commerce and acceptance of each other’s
vastly differing cultures. Ravidanians seldom seek
citizenship within the empire, though those who do
are commonly granted it given that a sizable sum
of gold is contributed to support their application.
Of the few Ravidanians who live in the Aldarin
Empire, many keep to the capital of Deveros due to
well-established ocean and airship links with major
cities from their home continent.
Rymish
The Rymish come from South Rymin to the east of
Aldarin, which is locked in war with its sibling nation
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
held as the closest in terms of ethnicity and fashion
to the Aldarins, with the Aldarins regularly stealing
cultural facets from the communities of South
Rymin. Rymish tend to find themselves regarded as
if they had Aldarin citizenship, with many readily
able to claim true citizenship should they choose to
move within the empire. Rymish can be found all
across the imperial provinces, often arising as artists,
musicians, and skilled craftspeople, though they are
particularly numerous within border settlements
near South Rymin.
Skaaldblud
Skaaldblud are the descendants of the demigod
Skaald, hailing from Jordveil Isle to the northwest
of the Aldarin Empire. Seen as fearsome warriors
and prolific sailors, the Skaaldblud are regarded
31
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
by Aldarins as frightful allies and friends. The
Skaaldblud have a strong relationship with the
Aldarins, with a handful moving to the Aldarin
Introduction
Empire to marry or seek work otherwise not found in
their homeland. Due to their commonality with the
Introduction
Jyrden, Skaaldblud are often mistaken for Jyrden by to the
those who do not know them personally or who are Aldarin
Empire
not familiar with the Skaaldic dialect. Despite this,
they do not typically find much difficulty securing Aldarin
citizenship due to their nation’s strong political ties Names
with Aldarin’s Consentium. Skaaldblud are found
sparsely scattered throughout Aldarin’s lands, Social Classes
typically located within colder rural communities
closely resembling the lands of the home island or
along coastal strips where fishing industries are Kinships in
the Empire
most plentiful.
Tak’huutans Festivals
Tak’huutans come from the eastern shores of
Nul’Kildar far to the west of Elos. As lucrative trade
Sports
partners to the empire, the folk of Tak’huut are
observed as proud people from a wealthy foreign
nation whose diverse culture fascinates many-an Religion
Aldarin. Interactions amongst Aldarins and
Tak’huutans are performed with mutual respect
between the two civilisations, both acknowledging Politics
their differences but seeing eye-to-eye on many
areas of politics and daily life. Few Tak’huutans
seek Aldarin citizenship but those who do find it Military
offered with little resistance, at least as long as there
is a notable lineage standing behind the individual
requesting it. Tak’huutans are seen existing within Commerce
closested communities throughout coastal cities
and sea-sided trade hubs, where the flow of wealth
Crime and
between the two nations is strongest. Punishment
Orcs Provinces of
Aldarin
Orcs of all lineages are few and far between within Periods of
Aldarin
Aldarin. A tiny number of plains orcs have moved
History
across from the border to Menderin in the east to
settle within the borders of the empire, though even
Classes
fewer are found towards the central and southern
provinces. Similarly, due to Aldarin’s warm climate,
snow orcs find Aldarin’s provinces difficult to live
Backgrounds
within for extended periods of time, preferring the
northern regions should they find a need to live in
Aldarin at all. A handful of orcs act as diplomats
Appendices
for the Yun’stra clanships of Menderin within the
provincial capitals and Deveros itself, with others
finding work as mercyrs, magi, or travelling mer-
chants. If one is to encounter an orc, it would most
likely be on the road as a fellow traveller or wanderer
as opposed to within a built up settlement.
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

Date: 23rd–28th Winter’s Wane
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Sovingar
Sovinvale marks six exciting days of festivities
celebrating the winter solstice, an ancient tradition
followed by numerous Elosian nations. Sovingar
is appeased during this festival with sacrifices of
food and ale being made to the deity in exchange
for warm homes and gentle snowfall over the most
difficult months of the year. This is a time of sharing
and community, where patricians mingle with the
common folk and great feasts are held on the streets,
contributed towards in some way by local businesses
and families. The main day of celebration always falls
on the 26th and is called Sovethré, the day Sovingar
ascended to become a god. Even if no other feasting
happens within a community over the festival
period, it is on Sovethré that all come together for
a huge banquet with the nobility sharing in bread
and wine with the common people. In Deveros,
chariots are raced down Laos Street whilst the
charioteers are pelted with wooden rings engraved
with names. If a ring with your name upon it lands
Held at the end of the first month of the year, Social Classes
Renovaré is the day that all new public officials are
sworn into duty within Aldarin. Overlapping with
Kinships in
Sovinvale, this festival is a day of celebration and the Empire
introspection, with many attending public speeches
by the new consensae and publi about their plans for
Festivals
the coming year. A crowd typically gathers at dawn
upon the crossroads between the Consentium and
the Consentium Minor in Deveros to witness the
Sports
new consensae and publi crossing paths, shaking
arms with each other in resolution of their roles,
before heading into the public houses for their very Religion
first official meeting of the year. Legionary cohorts
march through the city between the southernmost
gate and the Sacrimum, chanting marching songs at Politics
the top of their lungs to the sound of blaring cornu. It
is common for legionarii to sing rude lyrics along to
the songs, making fun of politicians, their gryphotes, Military
and the imperial family, much to the merriment
of the crowds.
“Deverosa Altus Volare” is one such marching song Commerce
sung by the legions from the Province of Deveros.
Each line is sung once by the pelitus of a cohort and
Crime and
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
Date: 4th Winter’s Dusk
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Primordials, Celianthre
CW
Predominantly celebrated within far-flung rural
farming communities, Estalia revolves around the
ritualistic sacrifice of sheep and cattle to the Four
Primordials in exchange for protection against spirits
and nefarious entities of the Väedfel and Outer
Planes. While the primordials are no longer able to
accept these sacrifices, Celianthre does so in their
stead, giving her blessings unto communities who
follow the time-honoured tradition. Some hunters
and druids choose to instead believe they are appeas-
ing the unknown creatures of the wilds, granting
protection to communities from supernatural threats
from beyond the reaches of civilised land.
Larvelia
Date: 6th Winter’s Dusk
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Larveth
CW
Started not long after the devastating White Plague
struck the Elosian continent, Larvelia came to being
as an attempt to ward off plague and pestilence by
appeasing Larveth. Sacerdotes and soothsayers
perform animal sacrifices to the twisted goddess
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
warding against curses. Masks of birds, rats and other
plague-carrying creatures are adorned, with the
belief that diseases shall attach to the masks instead
of the flesh. The masks are then ceremonially burned
with incense-fuelled flames as the sun sets, hoping
to rid the community of any disease.
Ioras
Date: 17th–19th Winter’s Dusk
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Iora, Gw’yth
Celebrating both Deveros Arcane University gradu-
ates and the ushering in of new students attending
the prestigious arcane academy, Ioras is a festival
34
bound by magical displays and arcane spectacle.
Magi take to the streets of major settlements, flaunt-
ing their ceremonial robes and showcasing fantasti-
cal spells, much to the awe of the general public. The
Higher Emeros of Concilium Arcanus Altus meet at
a gathering called The Summons, where new stu-
dents are selected from a pool of prospective candi-
dates. Those who are successful have their names
announced on the final day of the festival on the front
steps of the Deverosian World Anchor. It is tradition
for gifts of research books and spell components to
be passed from the graduating students to new stu-
dents, perpetuating century-old traditions of
knowledge shared between kinsfolk.
CW
Ioras Assassination
The Ioras festival has seen heightened
security in recent years after an ex-imperial
magus, Dendra Alexus (NE she/her
frost-blistered gnome magus [illusion] 8),
attempted an assassination on the Primus
Arcanus Davicia Baradinus Kyren (see page
79) during the premagi announcements of
1025 PDS. In the confusion, Dendra managed
to escape and has eluded the ordotes sent
after her to this day. Rumours have been
circulating that Dendra was an old friend of
Kyren, seeking revenge for some altercation
in the past. It is believed that she is hiding
out somewhere in southern Jykstrav and is
lending the clanships there her assistance in
the Fourth Renavic War.
Adriam
Date: 8th–9th Spring’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Adriosa, Mornfel
Adriam is a celebration of the Adriosan moon,
alleged to grant boons of overwhelming strength
and courage to those who acknowledge them upon
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
from the lunar entity. Rural communities pray to
Adriosa asking that the wild creatures under the
moon’s domain may seek tranquillity in the follow-
ing months, hoping that monster attacks on both
people and farmstock be averted through appeasing
Adriosa’s ego.

Lusa
Date: 13th Spring’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Quor
CW
A festival of passion and love celebrated by
Kishmarans and Qutharians. Flowers and gifts are
given between families and friends, with old enemies
making peace through an exchange of alcohol —
even between the age-old rivals of Kishradam and
Quthar. The streets of partaking settlements are filled
with flush floral processions and pompous parades
showcasing dancers, fire breathers, and renowned
warriors. Behind closed doors, passionate orgies are
held throughout some sects of society who seek to
celebrate all throes of carnal pleasure and desire. In
Elos, this festival was historically only celebrated
within the Sala Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros
but has since spread throughout Aldarin to other
settlements out of the Aldarin people’s enjoyment
of the festivities and culture.
Longbreach Collection
Date: 18th–25th Spring’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Torn
For a week in the early spring, all tailors and fashion
stores in Aldarin welcome in world-renowned tailors
from the continent’s cultural capital of Longbreach
in South Rymin. Vogue designs are showcased by
Aldarin and Rymish tailors alike, often competing
in eccentric fashion shows to acquire lucrative
contracts from Aldarin patricians and sanctes who
wish to acquire fresh formal clothes. Competitions
are held within major tailors in Deveros, such as
Gryphon’s Groove (Nb9) and Fascinatio (Jc1), with
bountiful prizes of gold and refined fabrics for the
winning tailors. At the end of the festival, all the
outfits and adornments are sold off to the highest
bidders, ushering in a new year of fashion trends
within the empire as the Masqué festival looms on
the horizon.
Masqué
Date: 1st–15th Spring’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
CW
The most grandiose festival to grace the Elosian
continent, emanating from the cultural epicentre of
35
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Longbreach in South Rymin where the festival was
born, countless travellers from across the Medial
Plane journey to Elos to partake. A celebration of
Introduction
culture, art, music, and pleasure, Masqué runs for
just a little over two weeks. Exciting new plays are
Introduction
premiered, extravagant masquerade parties are
to the
put on by wealthy patricians, and heavy drinking Aldarin
Empire
is indulged in by all. For the entire two weeks, the
whole city of Longbreach is turned into an ongoing Aldarin
party, with festivities never truly dying down. The Names
Demigod of Song, Lilas (CG he/they high half-elf
demigod), is known to attend the celebrations whilst
Social Classes
leading his renowned troupe of bardic performers
called “The Lilian Lyres” in jovial musical acts,
always enjoyed readily by the masses. Kinships in
the Empire
Despite originating as a Rymish festival, Deveros
has begun hosting its own Masqué celebrations
around the same time, featuring famous artists and Festivals
performance acts from around the province within
Clamore (D13), the Perla Playhouse (D24), and
the Agrizzo Arena (Be3). These lively events are Sports
attended in droves by Aldarin’s higher classes, many
of whom have visited Longbreach to partake in the
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
Masqué find the cultural traditions of their conti- Politics
nental allies unfamiliar or even downright bizarre
at times, confused as to why their kinsfolk would
Military
bother with such ludicrous mimicry.
Soultide Commerce
Date: 24th Spring’s Crest Crime and
Punishment
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Kistra, Estioc, Zephyr
Provinces of
Soultide stands as a pillar of celebration and CW Aldarin
remembrance for those who have been lost to
the afterlife. All across Aldarin, citizens gather at Periods of
Aldarin
temples of Estioc to spend time at the graves and
History
tombs of deceased loved ones whilst eating meals
and conversing as if the deceased were still present.
Classes
Portraits of the dead are kept nearby with local song
and dance accompanying the raucous revelry — a
celebration of both life and of what comes next. Backgrounds
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
put on full theatrical performances about the lives of
their most famous ancestors for their communities,
sharing their histories with any who care to listen.
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
Mostly celebrated in the northern provinces of the
Aldarin Empire, Sola Luna is an appreciation of the
sun and the moons, with offerings of wine and bread
made to both Deos and Mornfel. Celebrations start
at the crack of dawn with wrestling, sporting events,
and games of chance, which carry through until dusk
the following day. During this time, light-shedding
spells are cast throughout the night whilst lunar-fo-
cused spells are cast throughout the day in a blending
of the two commonly opposed celestial bodies. It
is tradition to gift gold and silver cutlery during
the festival, with entrepreneurial merchants selling
especially decorated sets in the weeks running up to
the festival period. Those who are unable to afford
the steep prices for such items choose instead to
use more affordable alternatives such as pewter and
brass. Nobody knows where this tradition began but
it has remained as a staple of the festival for centuries.
Grypho Probatio
Date: 7th Summer’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies festus
A Deverosian military festival showcasing the newly
trained legionarii gryphones and their impressive
mounts as they are sworn into the Legions. It takes
several arduous years of training and dedication
to become a legionarius grypho, with the Grypho
Probatio marking a monolithic milestone in a legion-
arius’s life. The festival begins in the early hours of
each prospective legionarius grypho is greeted by the
emperor and Primus Legatus before officially receiv-
ing their rank. Additionally, any patrician or sancte Politics
legionarii gryphones who have distinguished them-
selves in the line of duty are awarded special medals
Military
during this ceremony. As the sun begins to set over
the city, the Legio Aerius Deverosa I performs a flyby
over Deveros, dropping small pouches of vibrant dye
Commerce
onto revellers below. Legionarii gryphones fly from
all across the empire to be sworn in to the Legions
at the Grypho Probatio, with this mass migration in Crime and
Punishment
the prior weeks forming its own unique spectacle
throughout the imperial provinces.
Provinces of
Aldarin
Acclesiavesti Periods of
Aldarin
History
Date: 5th Summer’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Classes
This festival marks the day that Acclesian Alventius
marched upon the capital and overthrew the impe-
rial rule of Aldarin. The festival involves the typical Backgrounds
Aldarin form of celebration with drinking and danc-
ing in the streets. A number of characters dressed as
the emperor called Imperator Imperators run through Appendices
the streets shouting capricious commands at pass-
ersby such as “Grovel before me!” and “Give me your
wine!”. These commands must be obeyed by the festi-
val goers, turning the streets into a live performance.
A second set of characters called Liberator Liberators
search for the Imperator Imperators throughout
the streets, wielding cypress branches with which

37
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
to strike them. Whenever an Imperator Imperator
shouts a command, a Liberator Liberator may shout
back “Imperator Imperator, we are free! Imperator
Imperator, take a knee!” where upon the Imperator
Imperator must kneel or bow before running off
to torment someone else. Eventually, the Liberator
Liberators chase the Imperator Imperators out of the
city, being hailed with wreaths of flowers and coins as
they triumphantly stride back through the city gates.
Votes for who plays the part of these characters are
taken in the weeks prior to the festival with famous
bards, actors, and even politicians competing in
the running.
Aestus
Date: 17th Summer’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Rael
CW
A sea-bound festival widely celebrated by sailors,
fishers, and dock workers wishing to appease the
wrath of Rael. Amongst events such as rapida racing
and the sharing of seared fish aboard sailing vessels,
forty-nine cows are sacrificed to Rael upon the
precipice of Pharos (Sa2) in Deveros by the devout
sect of the Eridotes belonging to the Aedes Rael
(A1). This number is symbolic of how many ships
Rael allegedly sank during her first naval battle as a
sea captain many millennia ago before her ascension
as a deity. The meat is seared upon the divine fire of
Pharos and served as a feast to the seafaring mem-
bers of the Deverosian community as thanks for their
work. This ritual is intended to appease the waves of
the Gilded Ocean, calming the waters around the
Deverosian coast and bringing her sacerdotes closer
to the nautical community.
Vinalia Messis
Date: 19th Summer’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Kistra, Brimshaw
Vinalia Messis marks the first wine harvest of the
year. Vineyards all across the empire host wine
tasting events and auctions of rare previous vintages.
Folk from throughout rural regions of Aldarin gather
at their nearest vineyard to assist in the picking of
the grapes, wielding sickles in respect of Kistra’s
own deific weapon: Messis. The labour performed
by these ad hoc workers is reciprocated in kind by
the vintners through a free meal of hearty bread,
stew, cheese, and, of course, wine. Within larger
imperial settlements, day-long partnerships are
formed between merchants and vineyards. In such
38
partnerships, small clay amphorae called vinate are
specially crafted for distribution of samples of the
last season’s wine within popular markets. These
amphorae are then smashed after consumption with
the fragments of the clay marked with votes of which
vineyard has served the best wine — winning them
various prizes funded by local patricians. Offerings
of wine and ale are given at temples to Kistra and
Brimshaw, asking for bountiful harvests in the
coming season.
Alta Deosia
Date: 10th–12th Summer’s Dusk
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Deos, Diviliana, Kistra
Dedicated to Deos and Diviliana, Alta Deosia is CW
a celebration of the summer solstice. In the days
leading up to Alta Deosia, any who are betrothed
may enter into temples of Deos and Diviliana to
make offerings to the gods in exchange for good
weather on their wedding day. A handful of games
are held during Alta Deosia, notably a traditional
gladiatorial tournament called Semper Pugnamus
where gladiators fight naked within Quor’s Crucible
(G26) in Deveros using only shortswords and buck-
lers. The winner of the battle is bequeathed a golden
laurel wreath by one of the primi and a hefty sum
of gold. While folk living in major imperial cities
tend to offer only to Deos and Diviliana on this day,
rural communities additionally perform sacrifices
of pheasants and chickens to Kistra in exchange for
the protection of crops during the harvest season.
Loritiea
Date: 23rd Summer’s Dusk
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Loritel
In the weeks leading up to Loritiea, the Legions
spend periods of time curing meats or holding back
rations in order to celebrate this festival amongst
their ranks. Each legion hosts a grand feast, wherever
they might be, which commences at midday and
ends at dusk, with plentiful alcohol and food to go
around. Offerings of carved river stones dedicated to
Loritel are placed into hand-woven wicker baskets
before being floated downstream in the nearest river.
The stones commonly have wishes or aspirations
that the legionarii wish to achieve in the coming
year placed upon them in the hope that Loritel
will provide guidance in their path. This tradition
is predominantly kept within the borders of the
empire, with legions on campaign abstaining from

participation out of fear of revealing their location to
the enemy. It is common for private citizens, notably
those related to a legionarius or with a legionarius
background, to partake in this tradition as well. As
such, the River Ivora always overflows with wicker
baskets on the eve of the festival, causing chaos for
river boats and rapidari trying to keep to schedule.
Grand Mercari
Date: 26th Summer’s Dusk – 11th Autumn’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Quor
Hosted within a different provincial capital every
two years, the Grand Mercari is a collective of com-
petitive games spanning a two-week period where
challengers from the empire’s most renowned mercyr
guilds are pitched head to head. Most of these games
tend towards a friendlier nature. One such game
is the jova competition, where mercyrs (who have
commonly never played the sport before) are given
a quick introduction to jova before being let loose
in the arena to the merriment of all. Other games,
however, take on a more serious tone. These include
pitched battles involving large guilds and ruthless
gladiatorial bouts, where blood flows freely into the
sand beneath and sacerdotes sit on stand-by to cure
those grievously wounded. When hosted within
Deveros, Quor’s Crucible is filled to capacity through
each day of the festival, with gambling on each event
commonplace amongst the spectators.
During the festival period, competitors from each
guild are treated as celebrities throughout the host
city, receiving gifts of free food and equipment by
businesses seeking to earn their favour. Some are
approached by patricians or wealthy commercial
guilds seeking sponsorship and asked to wear certain
pieces of armour bearing the crest or emblem of
their sponsor in exchange for weapons, magical
items, and gold.
The most anticipated event of the tournament
is the team gladiatorial bracket. Two teams of four
mercyrs are pitched in an arena bout, with the last
team standing progressing on to the next round. The
winners of each event are awarded with a range of
prizes funded by local patricians seeking to enter into
the good graces of the guilds. These prizes commonly
include rare magical items, property in the empire,
gold, exclusive contract offers, and most important
of all: bragging rights. The Grand Mercari is refereed
by legionarii consensae or retired mercyrs belonging
to the patrician and sancte class, known as triumphi.
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
the festival, the triumphi are granted the same level
of protection as consensae due to their importance.
It is tradition to attempt to throw coinage at the
Introduction
triumphi as they pass in the streets in the hopes that
they will do their job properly if given more money.
Introduction
to the
Aldarin
Precipa Empire
Aldarin
Date: 4th Autumn’s Dawn Names
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Aether, Loritel Social Classes
Precipa is a small, relatively unknown festival CW
acknowledged by rural farming communities in the Kinships in
southern and eastern provinces of Aldarin stemming the Empire
from ancient Cilician culture. Sacrifices of sheep
and lambs are made to Aether in exchange for rain
Festivals
during the late summer months, when the climate
is most arid. Stone charms surrounded by twigs and
chaff are crafted by children to be hung from barns,
Sports
meant to protect food stocks from flooding by nearby
rivers. Stories are told of ancestors, great wars, and
times of hardship so that the youth may be prepared Religion
for the future.
Mercantus
Politics
Date: 15th–18th Autumn’s Dawn Military
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Saleen
Commerce
Within the Anchor Nations, Mercantus is celebrated
as four days of unrestricted trade and commerce,
which merchants from all walks of life eagerly look Crime and
Punishment
forward to each year. For the duration of the festival,
all trade tax is lifted throughout markets and shops
across major settlements of each nation, trickling an Provinces of
Aldarin
immense sum of coin into the hands of mercantile
folk. Travellers come from all over the Medial Plane
Periods of
to sell their wares, with the Imperial Licensing Office Aldarin
requiring extra workers in the weeks prior to the History
festival to approve all new merchants for trade. This
influx of visitors into the provincial capitals espe- Classes
cially, seeking to both buy and sell, leads to all inns
within a ten-mile radius around the cities to become
booked out. Families with space to spare temporarily Backgrounds
rent out beds to earn some additional coin from the
festival, which is seen to be part of the commercial
spirit of the festivities. It is not uncommon for streets Appendices
to end up blocked by trade wagons jostling to find
a spot to set up shop, with the wiliest merchants
arriving several weeks before to secure themselves a
place in the markets for the four-day stretch.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Wysta
Date: 1st Autumn’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Iora
In a celebration of knowledge and literacy, scrolls
are gifted by friends and family across the Anchor
Nations during the day of Wysta. Those who never
had the privilege of learning to read or write as part
of their education can attend free literacy classes at
libraries and temples of Iora to be introduced to the
written Common language. Special books are crafted
by sacerdotes of Iora just for the occasion, designed
to help teach a language to those unfamiliar with it
through use of imagery and phonetics. This tradition
was started in Zygarde by the Scholars of The Third
Flame as a means to encourage literacy across the
nation, but soon spread to the other Anchor Nations
as cultures slowly become interwoven.
Iset
Date: 9th–21st Autumn’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Kylera
A traditional holiday from Sel’Kildar celebrating life,
Iset is upheld by Sel’Kildarian collectives across the
empire. Families fast during the day, subsisting on
water alone, only eating a simple meal of bread and
water after the sun has set. Offerings of ash-covered
lotuses and pots of crushed bone are gifted to Kylera at
their temples. Excess and indulgence is frowned upon
during this time, with alcohol and activities of pleasure
forbidden. The funds ordinarily used to buy food or to
indulge oneself are saved into a clay pot in the corner
of a family’s living space, which are then donated to
temples, orphanages, and other charitable causes on
the final day of the holiday. Upon breaking the fast,
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.
Primus Coperna
Date: 16th Autumn’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Primordials, Kylera, Kistra
The festival of Primus Coperna originated from
two separate festivals, Primus and Coperna, each
celebrated by separate historical provinces of the
Aldarin Empire. Over time, the two life-centric
festivals combined into one large-scale event which
is now observed by citizens and provincials alike
across the breadth of Aldarin.
40
The Primus aspect of the festival pays mind to the
creation of the Compass by the Four Primordials and
the birth of first life upon the Medial Plane. This event
is dated back to the 16th Autumn’s Crest by the elder
druids of what was once the Alvian Kingdom (though
the accuracy of this dating is questioned by sacerdotes
of Gw’yth). The social classes of Aldarin meld together
for the day with small token gifts often passed between
the nobility and their servants. It is tradition for the
head of a patrician house to prepare and serve a
cooked meal to the workers of their household, plac-
ing a gold coin into the food as they do. The person
who finds the coin is said to become blessed with good
luck in finding love over the following year. If they
become betrothed before the next Primus Coperna,
the head of house is expected to attend the wedding
where they are returned the gold coin back as thanks
for their blessing. It is tradition for the head of house
to deny the return of the coin and instead to hand an
additional gold coin to each of the marrying partners.
The Coperna segment of the festival specifically
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
copper coin engraved with Kylera’s mark, also called
a coperna, which is strung into a necklace. These
children are said to be blessed by the Lotus Heart
themself with promising lives ahead of them.
Notable copernae include Prolegitor Cristanthum
Gaeolus Adriosa (LG she/they [GF] Aldarin
defender [Meliam] 13) of the Bulwark mercyr guild
and Empress Ophelia (see page 105) who slew the
fae goddess Yhulhia during the Second Medial War.
The Aldarins see copernae as god-touched citizens,
granting them unique privileges within the empire.
These include the right to stand for political office
when coming of age, regardless of family background
or social standing, the waiving of student fees if join-
ing arcane college, and the right to marry together
citizens despite not being a sacerdos of any cult.
Flamus
Date: 25th Autumn’s Crest
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Tredecima
As leaves begin to fall and ochre tones sweep the land-
scape, the people of Aldarin pay mind to those who
have sacrificed themselves for the protection of the
Medial Plane in centuries past. Wreaths of flowers are
laid at war memorials across the empire, while tombs
of legionarii are decorated with artwork and offerings
of home-cooked food and wine. Military parades are
put on by the Legions, focused around militarised
districts of the provincial capitals, along with sweeping
aerial displays in the skies by the aerial legions.

CW
Memorials of both the First Medial War and Second
Medial War flamines are adorned with flowers,
clothes, fresh food, and wine as sacerdotes perform
blessing rites upon them to ensure their sanctity. Any
living mantels and demigods within the public eye
attend their nearest temples to commune with their
gods in private, asking for guidance over the coming
year. It is not uncommon for powerful demigods
to request ascension to join the deific ranks during
this time, though these requests are seldom granted.
Occasionally, a demigod might ascend to the divine
realm, their body crumbling to ashes in a blinding
light as their soul leaves the plane. Demigods who are
granted ascension do not always do so immediately,
often finding a suitable place for the process to occur in
mind of where their first temple will likely be erected.
Mantels too join in this deific bargaining, request-
ing minor ascension into demigodhood during this
autumnal festival. Prayers are sent to their devoted
deity in hopes of becoming bestowed with gifts of the
divine, embraced as children into their deific family.
Massive musical processions follow mantels towards
the Aedes Tredecima in Deveros, bolstering them with
public support and offerings to their deity in the hope
that their request is accepted. These requests are more
often granted than the pleas for true ascension by the
demigods, with a new demigod rising once every ten to
twenty years. Whilst Deveros is not the only city with
aedes to the Tredecima, it is the only city on Elos to have
such holy grounds. As such, both mortal and divine
travellers alike visit from all over the continent to par-
take in the divine celebrations at this truly sacred place.
Tundae
Date: 17th–19th Autumn’s Dusk
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Tunder
Preparations for the winter are made upon the
autumnal equinox, where farming communities
gather together to supply each other with wood and
dried food rations in preparation for the hardsome
months. This is a time of community and friendship,
with each person helping their neighbour with a job
or task, as there is always something that needs doing.
Emergency stockpiles of grain, cured meat, and wine
are constructed by the Legions, ready to be distributed
to settlements in need throughout the winter. Woollen
cloaks are crafted by artisans and families and woven
with decorative beads, ready to be blessed by the sac-
erdotes of Tunder, so that they may provide protection
against the cutting winter gales. The festival ends with
a modest communal feast of bread, nuts, and wine
held in the central plaza of the nearest local settlement.
While mostly a rural tradition, the same festival has
spread to major cities in recent decades, though due
41
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
to the vast foreign trade and imports passing through
these settlements, food shortages are less of a concern.
Events such as chariot racing and jova matches take
Introduction
precedence over the traditional communal labour in
such places, with the city-bound Aldarins taking any
Introduction
excuse they can find to get drunk. to the
Aldarin
Empire
Communitas Aldarin
Names
Date: 1st–7th Winter’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies fasti Social Classes
Associated Deities: Sovingar, Gw’yth
Celebrating the end of the arcane college exam
Kinships in
season, students of the Deveros Arcane University the Empire
take to the streets of Deveros, helping common folk
with everyday tasks using their newfound magical
Festivals
talents. Performing minor enchantments, teaching
children the wonders of magic, assisting with tasks
requiring arcane assistance, and cataloguing books in
Sports
the local libraries are some such community-driven
activities led by the Premagi Assembly during this
festival. The evenings are commonly spent drinking
Religion
and feasting within the student halls as graduating
students spend time together preparing for their
next stages in life, with Ioras marking the close to
Politics
this chapter of their journey in two months’ time.
Military
Vinalia Barus
Date: 2nd Winter’s Dawn Commerce
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Brimshaw
Crime and
Punishment
After a successful harvest season, new flavourful ales CW
are brewed by farming communities and hospitality
businesses across Aldarin in the weeks leading up Provinces of
Aldarin
to the Vinalia Barus festival. As dawn rises, these
ales are poured from their kegs and shared with the
Periods of
masses, with folk critiquing the flavours and giving Aldarin
feedback to the brewers. Older ales are served freely History
from ale fountains crafted especially for the festival,
used to pour forth endless supplies of cheap booze. Classes
More refined beverages are served at a reduced price
from tabernae, taverns, and popinae throughout the
provinces. Coins fly across tabernae in attempts to Backgrounds
land them into another’s drink, for if a coin falls into
a mug it must be downed immediately to gain the
favour of Brimshaw. This tradition more often than Appendices
not leads to a hail of coins flying around many estab-
lishments, with the bartenders and waiters profiting
considerably from the resulting mess. By the end of
the night, hordes of Aldarins retreat to the thermae
to fend off the next day’s hangover where bread and
water are served by servants to the visiting revellers.
Numerous folk fall asleep in the baths, jokingly called
erubescens or “those with the red faces”.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Gales Dea
Date: 6th–8th Winter’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: Quor
Three bountiful days of appreciation for the open
exploration of gender expression, Gales Dea is a cel-
ebration of the soul. Whilst not typically conformist
to gendered clothing, the Aldarins go especially
out of their way to wear whatever they wish on this
holiday, with lovers traditionally wearing each other’s
clothes and celebrating the lives of their significant
others. Confessions of love are commonplace
throughout the festival as well as the gifting of
personal, handmade presents between friends and
lovers. Improvised theatrical comedies are put on
throughout the streets with bystanders rushing
in to add to the running narrative as the city rises
into a state of colour and laughter. Flower petals are
cast into the wind, covering the cobbled roads and
terracotta rooftops. Doves are set free from temples
with small scrolls attached to their legs containing
wishes to the gods. There is rampant feasting and
drinking throughout the entire festival, with many
partying until the final day comes to a close. Gales
Dea is a beloved festival by the Aldarins, celebrating
love, sexuality, and personality above all else.
Liberillia
Date: 14th Winter’s Dawn
Holiday Type: Dies festus
Associated Deities: The Liberi
Liberillia arrives at the turn of the winter season,
when the snow piles on thick and the fields are
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
gods of the Liberi. Sacerdotes from these diminutive
shrines offer baked goods and warmed wine topped
with nutmeg in exchange for these offerings. All
the excess food within these shrines are donated to
local orphanages or gifted to homeless folk in the
less fortunate areas of major settlements, or simply
shared with the community. As thanks for these
gifts, several Liberi offer boons to their most loyal
followers on this day, flexing their deific power to
their fullest extent — even if it is vastly weaker than
those of the Tredecima.
42
Veshmera
Date: 1st–3rd Winter’s Wax
Holiday Type: Dies festus (Sel’Kildarian
communities only)
Associated Deities: Alh’almaw (Kistra), Oshorin (Estioc),
Dedephi (Zephyr)
In all kara-vaji (underground city-like tombs) across CW
the plane, Sel’Kildarians gather during the days of
Veshmara to spend precious time with the departed
souls of loved ones. It is at this time of the year that the
boundaries of the Medial Plane and Ethereal Expanse
are most blurred, with spirits more commonly being
seen throughout the areas of kara-vaji where they
might not otherwise appear. Meals of salted fish and
dried root vegetables are prepared in the days prior
to the holiday, brought into the catacombs, and eaten
whilst sitting beside the spirits of deceased family
members. Fragrant candles are lit throughout kara-
vaji, dispelling the musty smell of the underground
chambers with pleasant scents of fruits and berries.
Ceremonial rituals of binding are carried out by sac-
erdotes of Alh’almaw and Oshorin upon the va’veshi
gates leading into kara-vaji, ensuring that no spirits
are able to pass back through into the Medial Plane.
Many Sel’Kildarians choose to cover themselves
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
they believe have dulled past death. Some sacerdotes
dress up as their sworn deities, handing out offerings
of food and silver to families unable to make spiritual
offerings during the festival period. Processions of
wind music and song move throughout kara-vaji
with revellers passing out shots of fine overproof
spirits topped with flower petals to those who join
in their song.
Atheanius
Date: 7th Winter’s Wax
Holiday Type: Dies fasti
Associated Deities: Atheana, Mornfel
Atheanius celebrates the birth of the Atheanan
moon, whose calming moonlight sheds clarity and
peace upon the Medial Plane. Followers of Atheana
attend lunar altars, making offerings of bread,
wine, literature, and spell components to the astral
pseudo-deity. Lycans bound to Atheana commonly
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.
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

Vae Night emerge as champions are awarded with wreaths of

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

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
racing horses along dusty tracks, fighting to the
death within sandy arenas, or charging gryphons at
each other mid-flight, there is never a deficiency of
sporting events going on within the empire. Athletes
gather spectators and fans from across the reaches
of the empire, with large swathes of wealth following
them wherever they tread in the form of sponsorship
and prize money.
Arcane Duelling
A mage steps back, narrowly dodging three consecutive
shards of ice which shatter against the wall. There is
a billowing of ferocious orange energy from under his
robes. He points two fingers towards his opponent as a
streak of fire screeches from them. The opponent goes to
deflect, summoning a shimmering purple shield before
them. The mage smiles. His fire splits in two, arching
around the hastily thrown-up barrier and striking
into their chest. The opponent goes flying, landing on
their back, their chest smouldering. The mage bows in
victory towards them, blowing smoke from his fingers.
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
cloistered walls of college dorms and deep within
illicit popinae. The tradition began as a way for early
magi to practise their arcane talents whilst honing
in on combat casting skills, something not strictly
taught whilst learning the ways of the arcane. More
commonly, duelling was used to resolve disputes or
disagreements between magi, more often than not
resulting in severe injury or even death. Over time,
the tradition transitioned into a sport for many, and
weekly duelling events took place throughout public
plazas within major settlements. These spectacles
of magical showboating never went too far, with
participants seldom becoming permanently harmed
through participation. As magical knowledge pro-
gressed, however, duelling became deadlier, resulting
in a greater number of fatalities. This eventually came
to a head during the First Medial War, where several
high-profile magi were killed in a series of duels
over disagreements relating to military magi place-
ments. The Primus Arcanus at the time, Quintilla
Baradinus Jordveila (NG she/her Aldarin dead),
stepped in to stop the violence and decreed a ban on
the practice until the war had finished. This ban was
never repealed, though numerous bills attempted
to pass through The Consentium in attempts to
reinstate the practice with additional laws and pro-
tections in place. Now, almost five centuries on, there
44
are still a select number of magi who avidly pursue
the reinstatement of the age-old tradition.
Arcane duelling is typically performed between
two magi, though there are forms of duelling where
multiple magi might work separately or in teams to
defeat the other side. In the traditional form of the
sport, both magi enter into a small circular arena
where they would bow to each other before walking
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
use whatever spells they have as their disposal to dis-
able or otherwise knock out their opponent. Certain
schools of magic, such as enchantment or divination,
are frowned upon as cheap tricks and boring to
watch, whereas other schools, such as adjuration
and evocation, are the expected norm, giving way
to spectacle and suspense. If the disceptator decides
that one side has won, they may end the duel early by
hitting the victor with their olive branch. In the event
that a magus does not adhere to the call of the dis-
ceptator, the trained referee would be able to swiftly
disable the unjust party through enchantments such
as the hold person and suggestion spells.
Chariot Racing
Trails of coarse dust kick up from rapidly spinning
chariot wheels as two ornate chassis slam against
one another. The crowd cheers as the leading chariot
spins out of control, crumpling into a clustered mess
of wood, metal, and flesh. The victor raises their arms
high during their victory lap amidst a shower of coins
and flowers from the stalls. Sacerdotes scurry towards
the wreckage in search of survivors. Another day comes
to a close at the Incircum hippodrome.
Chariot racing is Aldarin’s second most watched
sport after jova, showcasing up to a dozen charioteers
hurtling around a hippodrome in attempts to race
against or eliminate their competitors. Every major
settlement has a hippodrome which one may visit to
watch the races, though in smaller settlements these
are replaced with open air dirt tracks with no direct
seating. Chariot races are usually more expensive to
watch as compared to gladiatorial matches and jova,
with hippodromes having fewer seats for spectators.
A charioteer stands upon an elaborate chariot,
made of light wood and ornate metal filigree, com-
manding before them up to eight horses which pull
them along at terrifying speeds. Races can last from
a few minutes to well over half an hour. These range
from speed trials, where charioteers simply try to
finish first, to task trials, where certain requirements
 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.
Charioteers earning themselves a name in the empire
might find themselves sponsored by a patrician or
sancte family, paying for horses, chariot repairs,
clothing, accommodation, food, and alcohol. Those
who can hold their ranking high enough above the
others are able to easily sustain an almost patrician
quality of life, owning villas, servants, and luxurious
clothing whilst hosting frequent parties.
Commerce
Swords flash as the cacophonous clatter of steel on steel
rings out throughout the arena. A lightly armoured
gnome dashes back three steps, standing off against a Crime and
Punishment
towering, bronze-plated half-dragon. There is a flurry
as sand is kicked up from the floor. The half-dragon
staggers back, holding her eyes as boos and hisses Provinces of
Aldarin
resonate from the crowd. A blur, two slashes. The
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
conscious, taking it upon themselves to
regularly undergo exercise and physical
training. Such activities as running,
swimming, hurdling, wrestling, boxing, and
dicus are just a few light sports Aldarins are
regularly found partaking in within thermae
and small arenas. It is not uncommon to see
Aldarins running in groups down the streets
or swimming in rivers for sport, with the
Legions using these methods for training
their legionarii.
Classes
A spectacle attended by almost all Aldarins, gladia- CW
torial battles are the most common sporting events
in Aldarin society. One or more lightly armoured Backgrounds
fighters enter into an arena, stirring up the crowds
to garner support before fighting each other, either
unto death or until one is declared the victor. While Appendices
professional gladiators are not usually killed in the
arena, instead simply ceding defeat to the winner, it is
not uncommon for vast swathes of gold to be poured
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
groups are the current trend in the arenas, with indi-
vidual gladiators teaming up to fight other teams of
CW
blood-soaked warriors in the ring. These friendships
are hyped up by the crowds, which only increases the
tension when they are dramatically broken through
betrayal and backstabbing. Typically, these events
are all rigged, with the gladiators often aware of what
is happening beforehand, even practising certain
moments together in the training arena so that they
may give the best display to the crowds.
Minor tournaments take place in numerous arenas
throughout Aldarin each week, commonly ranging
in participation from fledgling fighters all the way
to famous gladiators of the era. Championships
take place during important festival days, where
the best of the best fight it out amongst themselves
for the glory of the people, commonly fitting some
theme pertaining to the festival itself. The duty of
the gladiator is to provide entertainment first and to
win second, with the whole system almost entirely
predetermined from the start of most tournaments.
Some gladiators, however, choose to go against
the grain, riling up the crowd before breaking the
pre-set expectations of the organisers and choosing
instead to go all out in their fights, throwing off
the intended results. These gladiators usually find
themselves ousted from the arena by the organisers
or “accidentally” killed in one of their next fights.
Harpastum
Blood splatters across the sand as a dwarf charges
shoulder first into two defenders, knocking them flying.
The dwarf swings a punch at an Aldarin holding a
small leather ball, who deftly dodges the first strike
but is unable to dodge the second. She recoils to the
ground, dropping the ball, which is snatched by the
dwarf. More defenders encircle, ready to pounce. The
dwarf leaps into the air, hurling the ball towards the
other side of the field. It is caught by his teammates as
the dwarf lands. He is swiftly bundled upon by a mass
of bodies. He cares not, for the ball is safe.
Harpastum is the most popular ball game across all
forms of societal class in Aldarin. Bathhouses and
stables throughout the empire commonly reserve a
region of ground for the sport to be played, whether
it be inside or out. This region is typically laid with
sand to cushion players impacting the ground
with force — a common occurrence. A ball game
involving wrestling and deft dodging of opponents,
harpastum is a fairly simple sport to play. Two teams
are formed of between six and eighteen players, each
of which contain their own zone on the field. It is the
objective of each team to maintain control of the ball,
46
usually a small leather or wooden object, and to keep
it in their zone for as long as possible. The opposing
team must rush into the controlling team’s zone to
wrestle control of the ball from them before throwing
it back into their own zone. This leads to plentiful
wrestling, dodging, and tackling with blood more
often than not spilled onto the sand.
Scores are tallied by two referees who each keep
track of the time the ball has spent in each respective
team’s zone. The game ends when a team reaches a
predetermined score limit, decided by the teams
before play begins. A variation of harpastum is
played within the Legions, called harpestos, and is
used to train the legionarii in breaching an enemy
line and securing a zone of influence. Players for
harpestos are armed with scutum which they may
use to charge or form a wall, with the objective being
to hold the ball within the opponent’s zone rather
than their own.
Henestra
Two young Aldarins sprint towards a gryphon, which
backs away, terrified. The quicker of the two makes
a dive, rolling under the beast as she snatches a neck
feather from behind its ruff. There is a deafening
screech, a flapping of wings. The second Aldarin goes
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
cheers from their friends. A noise from nearby. There
is shouting. The youths flee as two armoured vintari
turn the corner and begin to chase the group.
Slated as an horrific practice and unnecessarily CW
cruel by many in the empire, henestra is a favourite
pastime of young patricians with nothing better to do
with their time. The “sport” is typically played within
a gryphon pen. Competitors take turns attempting to
pluck feathers from the neck of the gryphon, com-
monly met with ferocious beak and talon strikes by
the angered creature. The first to pluck a feather from
the gryphon’s neck is considered the victor, attaining
the prize of being the largest fool in the immediate
vicinity. The practice started during the late 10th
Century when younger patricians and sanctes found
themselves more readily able to afford gryphons
of their own through shifts in wealth and greater
accessibility to the creatures across the empire.
Due to the unnaturally cruel nature of the practice,
henestra has been attacked in the public forums by
both the Capitans and Reformist political parties
who have proposed numerous bills to outlaw it.
Reformist opulatus Fulvia Caecillius (NG she/her
Aldarin commoner 3) has slated the practice as a
“disgraceful act of contempt and defilement of the

imperial insignia, bringing shame to Aldarin’s youth”
in response to Revitalists who have vetoed these bills.
Despite the wide-flung outcries against henestra, it
is still played by patrician youths throughout the
empire, most notably those living far from the
Consentium’s govern, such as in Alvia and Borealia.
Commis
“Pssttt… Listen, if ye’ve got a Calberion
Ranger I’ll trade ye three Ebyr’sol Brandiers.
Been lookin’ for one for months to complete
me Fyndar set to get the bonus ‘gainst the
Emondisians. Al’s got an Emondy army and I can
never beat ‘im!”
Sporting aside, Aldarins love a good game,
and the amethyst statuettes of The Helian
Collection (Ma9) have taken centre stage
in the past year. A tactical war game, not
dissimilar to chess, called Commis has
inadvertently sparked an underground
trading ring throughout the empire for those
seeking to attain all the rare figures. Players
collect statuettes into armies, using wooden
or terracotta stand-ins if they do not have
the special Helian amethyst ones, and battle
against each other in a one versus one war
game of deceit and cunning.
The more official Helian amethyst
statuettes one has in their army, the stronger
the army becomes. The armies are themed
after real world collectives such as the
Aldarins, Ebyr’sol, Fyndarians, and numerous
other nations. Some statuettes are themed
after real world individuals as well, such
as Emperor Loxis III (see page 57), and
grant bonuses while in play. A full army of
amethyst statuettes grants the player a set
bonus — something which is highly sought
after, allowing the player to perform a unique
ability bespoke to that nation. Numerous
tabernae have begun hosting Commis nights
where players gamble vast amounts of coin
against one another while trying to win
these highly coveted amethyst statuettes to
add to their collections.
47
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Jova
Two gryphons collide midair, a flurry of feathers and
Introduction
talons. The crowd sits on the edge of their seats. There
are only ten seconds left and both teams sit on 42
Introduction
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
reigns king over all other sports. A simple yet brutal
Festivals
sport, derived from the intense training undergone
by legionarii gryphones upon induction to the aerial
legions, jova showcases the finest talents in gryphon
Sports
riding and aerial coordination that the empire
has to offer.
There are two teams in jova, with each side Religion
sporting five jovarii. A single jovarius consists of
a humanoid mounted upon a hastellian gryphon,
working together as a unit to soar through the Politics
arena at blinding speed. Whilst the name “jovarius”
commonly refers to the pair, it can also be used to
describe the sole player. Jovarii wear nothing but Military
a light white cloth covering their groin, playing
completely topless and often adorning themselves
with paint or holy symbols. They are protected with Commerce
a fitted brass helmet and small oval buckler, with
the gryphons often sporting brass chain barding.
Crime and
In higher leagues, gryphons also wear decorative Punishment
helmets adorned with the plumage of the team’s
colours. Jovarii wield long wooden poles, called
Provinces of
hastae, which are used to knock opposing players Aldarin
from their mounts. These hastae are 6 feet in length,
made of cypress wood, and are often decorated with Periods of
Aldarin
golden filigree and inlaid carvings. History
A jova match consists of five rounds of ten to
fifteen minutes each. The objective of the game is
Classes
to score points by throwing balls through the oppo-
nent’s rings. These rings, five for each team, hang
elevated from two poles placed at opposite ends of
Backgrounds
the arena. Once a ball has been thrown through a
ring, it is lifted up and becomes no longer scorable
in the current round. Once a team has lost all their Appendices
rings or fifteen minutes have passed, the round ends.
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.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Whilst jova traditionally lends itself to those that
can afford a gryphon of their own (an expensive
venture), there has been a surge in recent years of
publicly accessible jova academies and training
grounds. Citizens from the lower classes can attend
these venues to learn the sport without having to pay
for their own gryphon. These training areas provide
access to the sport for all ages and are heavily funded
by the Legions to encourage more people to develop
an interest in becoming legionarii gryphones.
Divisio Imperium
It is every jova team’s dream to compete in the
Divisio Imperium, the highest professional jova
league in Aldarin. This exclusive league hosts the
twelve finest jova teams from across all the Aldarin
provinces, who regularly contend against each other
for points and sponsorship money. Matches are held
every week on a regular schedule within Quor’s
Crucible in Deveros, featuring a morning match
and an afternoon match. For a victory, a team scores
three points; for a draw, they score two points; and
for a loss, they score one point. If a team does not
maintain a minimum of 16 points across the season,
which runs from Spring’s Dawn to Autumn’s Crest,
then they are knocked out of the league and replaced
with another team.
Jovarii who compete within the Divisio Imperium
are some of the wealthiest and most famous people
within Aldarin, commonly followed by a gaggle of
fans wherever they tread. Not only are the players
exceedingly popular, but the gryphons too hold great
fame. The finest of these are selected to breed the next
generation of hastellian gryphons, which can sell for
upwards of 50,000 gold. The feathers of famous jova
gryphons, fallen through moulting or preening, are
sold as souvenirs at each game with fans wearing
head-dresses made of these feathers.
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
Famous Jova Teams
“I always make the journey to see the Caerula
Cardinals when they’re playin’ at the local
arenas. Me cousin, Flavius, is even a mascot for
the team! Gets all the insider gossip; even gave
me some gryphon feathers from their front
gryphon once. Go Cardinals!”
Blue Hold Heralds Originating from the
rolling fields of Caerula are the lightning fast
jovarii of the Blue Hold Heralds who have
held the championship title of the Divisio
Imperium for the past four years. The Blue
Hold Heralds are a fan favourite throughout
the empire, with the charismatic leader
Roxius Kexlain (CN he/they skyfarer half-
dragon [gold] defender [Quor] 5) winning
the hearts of fans with their gleaming smile.
Solenta Sunbirds From the districts of
Solenta Major and Solenta Minor in Deveros,
the scrappy youths of Aldarin’s lower classes
are trained to become some of the best
jovarii in the empire. This rag-tag team of
players are the main rivals to the Blue Hold
Heralds and are expected to snatch the title
from under their wing this year.
Arbeia Angels A collective of middle-class
jovarii from the Deverosian district of Arbeia,
the Arbeia Angels were once a great jova
team who have fallen ever lower in the ranks
over the past decade. Now they sit along the
bottom of the leadership, trying to scrape
their way back into fame.
Caerula Cardinals Following a
fragmentation in the Blue Hold Heralds two
years ago, a new team was born from the
division of the original jovarii: the Caerula
Cardinals. This group of young jovarii were
unable to dethrone their rivals in the last
Divisio Imperium but are shooting up the
ladder as they gain experience against
other teams.

The racing of rapidae saw its origins only a few
months after the first commercially available rapidae
coming to the market. Only those who could afford
the pricey Divestus engine were able to compete
in these speed-fuelled races around the Deveros
Coast, with the new yet unstable technology often
failing in grandiose displays of arcane spectacle. As
the technology progressed, becoming ever more
cheaper and accessible to the general public, greater
and greater numbers of rapidari found themselves
able to outfit their rapidae with the Divestus engine.
This surge of new racers to the sport triggered the
advent of officially licensed rapida racing events,
such as the Circum Aquatica, as opposed to the off-
the-cuff races performed by wealthy folk on a joy ride
around the bay. These official races tend to fall into
two categories: speed and endurance.
Speed races are quite simply a matter of going
faster than your opponents and crossing the finish
line first. These races are most popular amongst the
numerous rapida companies throughout Deveros’s
coastal strip, who are keen to show off new advance-
ments in rapida technology and to potentially acquire
new funding for their research. Whilst these events
are well attended, their turnouts pale in comparison
to the endurance races. Endurance racing does not
require the best equipped rapida, nor the fastest, but
simply the technical know-how to keep your rapida
running for the longest period of time. Divestus
engines have a tendency to overheat when used
extensively, so it is the job of the rapidari during these
endurance races to stave off the inevitable explosion
of brimstone and dusktech magic for as long as
possible. This must be done whilst also performing
laps around the Deverosian Bay, with the rapida in
last place after each lap being knocked out of the
race. With the visceral explosions and high-intensity
ramming, rapida endurance racing has accelerated
to become one of the biggest spectacles in Aldarin
sporting history over the past decade.
Circum Aquatica
These popular annual rapida races take place within
the Deverosian Bay during the month of Summer’s
Dawn, consisting of eight consecutive endurance
races followed by a grand finale. The grand finale
features the eight victors of the previous races who
race one last time for the title of “Aquaticum Altus”
or “The Highest of Waters”. The races start at dawn
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
The Circum Aquatica started as a small event but
has grown over the past decade into one of the
greatest sporting events across the empire, attracting
Introduction
tourists from the far reaches of the provinces to come
and watch. Rapidari offer rides around the bay to
Introduction
visitors in the days leading up to and following the to the
event, with an influx of provincial citizens within Aldarin
Empire
Deveros during this time. Many Deverosians gather
upon the rooftops of their apartments and along the Aldarin
shoreline simply to witness the cacophonous explo- Names
sions as they occur.
Social Classes
Smaller Sports
The Aldarin people are well known for Kinships in
their love of sports and games, with almost the Empire
all forms of practical sport originally
derived from ancient religious rites or
Festivals
military training. There are a handful of
sports that are practised outside of the
main cliques of grand arenas within small
amphitheatres or thermae. Sports
Trigona A relatively old and simple ball game
enjoyed by groups of children and young
adults throughout the rural settlements of Religion
southern and eastern Aldarin. Three players
stand in a triangle with two balls present.
Any player with a ball may throw it at a
Politics
player without a ball, and the target player
must attempt to catch the ball or balls being
thrown at them. Both hands must be used to Military
catch and throw a ball, meaning that if two
balls are thrown simultaneously at a player,
they must quickly catch and throw one ball
Commerce
before attempting to do so with the other.
If a player drops a ball, they lose the game.
Variations of trigona exist with more players Crime and
forming a circle and holding additional balls, Punishment
or with differing rules on catching with one
hand or holding multiple balls at once.
Provinces of
Boxing The Aldarins love fighting just as Aldarin
much as any other culture, with Aldarin
sports commonly involving violence or blood Periods of
shedding to some degree. Aldarin boxing is Aldarin
History
no different, fought with metal-plated gloves
called caestus. Two athletes adorn these
gloves and enter into an arena dressed in Classes
naught but a loincloth. The victor is whoever
knocks their opponent unconscious first
or renders them to surrender. In friendly Backgrounds
competitions the head may not be targeted,
though in more serious fights there are no
rules of engagement or striking. Boxing is
a spectacle sport, with boxers riling up the
Appendices
crowds to garner support, fame, and money.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
CW
Religion
CW
Beholden to Deos, the Aldarins see themselves as his
blessed children stemming from the empyrean
divinity of his lineage. Offerings of gold, food, and
animal sacrifice are commonplace throughout the
empire, seen adorning the altars of bountiful temples
and shrines which are never far from any inhabited
settlement. Held regularly throughout the year, fes-
tivals honour the gods, whether they be of the
Tredecima or the Liberi. Whilst the Liberi have much
to thank Aldarin for, standing proud as the ascension
grounds of countless Liberi, these lesser deities often
fall upon the wayside in the daily life of the average
Aldarin, with the Tredecima taking precedence in
the minds of the people.
Cults
The term “clergy” does not truly exist in
Aldarin. Instead, a group of organised
followers of a deity (or a collective of deities)
is called a cult. Cults tend to the temples of
their devoted gods, prepare festivals on their
behalf, and perform rites relating to their
deities. The most common form of cult is
that of a heavenly cult: a socially accepted
cult, worshipped by those who contribute in
a beneficial manner both to society and the
balance of the universe. Such cults would be
that of the Tredecima and Quadrumvirate.
Some cults, however, seek to undermine the
wellbeing of society as well as the stability of
the universe, delving into deeply dark magics
such as that of Void. Such cults are called
chthonic cults, those of the underground,
with such cultists looked down upon or
even ostracised by those in upstanding
society. The border between heavenly and
chthonic is perpetually blurred, with such
deities as Kistra and Larveth treading the line
between necessities of nature and wrongful
destruction, such as plague and death.
Religious Traditions
The Aldarins are a deeply religious people. The ple-
beian folk make offerings to multiple deities across
a spectrum of domains throughout the calendar
year, depending on their needs. During harvest
time, for instance, offerings are made to Kistra to
ensure bountiful crops, whilst during the winter
months, Sovingar is worshipped in hopes that he
shall kindle their hearths with warmth so that they
may better fend off the frigid cold of the Elosian
low season. Charms and holy symbols are worn by
almost all imperial citizens, commonly attributed
to the main deities of the empire: Deos, Quor, Iora,
50
and Gw’yth, known as the Quadrumvirate. Others
lean into the worship of gods who bear a greater
personal interest into the lives of their followers,
such as Meliam, Goddess of Protection, Warding,
and Curses, and Kylera, Goddess of Growth, Birth,
and Reincarnation.
Countless traditions are ardently maintained by
the followers of the Medial Pantheon across the
breadth of the entire plane, though a handful are
uniquely practised within Aldarin alone. One such
example is the casting of a portion of food into fire
at the end of a communal meal, seen to be a minor
offering of thanks for providing sustenance. Another
more extreme example is the sacrosanct nature of
practising sacerdotes, the heavenly cultists of the
empire, especially those serving under one of the
Tredecima. Religious officials are considered the
extensions of the deities through divine blessing and
law. It is deemed highly illegal to so much as touch a
religious official without their due consent whilst
they are performing religious ceremonies or rites.
This archaic law has seen abuse by many throughout
history, notably the Laedemus gang of Deveros, who
argue that the act of theft in itself is a holy rite
guarded by Viker’s dominion. As such, Vintari
patrols are almost always joined by a clericus of the
Legions, as religious officials are the only people
permitted to lay hands upon other religious officials
in such instances. Only sacerdotes officially belong-
ing to a temple, and actively performing daily duties
for that temple, may fall under the protections of this
law. Travelling sacerdotes or those without ties to a
temple tend to be selectively ignored by the Vintari
when this law is brought to their attention.
CW
Pax Deorum
Pax Deorum or “peace of the gods” is a
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
them. Through the maintenance of divine
favour by worship and animal sacrifice, the
Aldarins may harness the powers of the
gods to defend their realm. Whilst this divine
protection is not guaranteed, it is within the
interests of the Aldarins to maintain a strong,
positive relationship with as many deities as
they can. This process even involves turning
the eyes of a traditionally foreign deity
towards the Aldarins, thereby stealing their
favour from another nation, in a process
called evocatio. For example, the Aldarins
may kidnap important deity-aligned cultists
of another nation to serve under the empire
or offer vast quantities of sacrifice to turn the
eye of a deity towards them.

CW
Animal Sacrifice
The practice of animal sacrifice is a strongly held
tradition throughout the Aldarin Empire, dating
back to pre-Dalaskian origins. Various breeds of
animal are bred especially for the purpose of sacri-
fice, sold for relatively inexpensive prices at temples
and shrines. The idea stems from the belief that the
soul threads of an animal will tie unto those of the
deity upon death, reinforcing the deity’s soul and
nurturing it away from the ever-present decay that
is inevitable in every soul. Whilst not untrue, the
morals of such acts are questioned by those who visit
the empire, citing the practice as cruel for it prevents
the animal a chance of reincarnation.
The sacrifice of larger animals, such as bulls and
sheep, are specially reserved for unique occasions
such as during festival events or in times of dire need,
such as war. Smaller animals however, such as chick-
ens, rabbits, and pheasants, are more readily available
to the public, used as sacrifices during per-
sonal worship.
Consumption of Meat
Historically, before Aldarin’s gentle
integration of culture with those of the
other Anchor Nations, several strict laws
guarded the consumption of meat. These
laws have faded during the past century,
though numerous Aldarins still follow these
time-honoured traditions. Such laws strictly
forbid the consumption of meat which has
not been sourced from an animal sacrificed
to a deity, for doing so is seen as highly
sacrilegious. As such, butchers within Aldarin
must first utter a prayer before slaughtering
an animal intended for consumption and
are themselves seen as semi-religious
officials in their own right. Even hunters and
trappers must make blessings before an
arrow is loosed or a trap is set, lest the kill go
unrecognised by the gods.
Sport
Whilst almost all cultures across Vynestra host
sporting events, where the public gather to watch
individuals or teams compete against each other,
the Aldarins specifically dedicate a number of their
most popular sporting events in the name of specific
deities. These events are known as ludus (pl. ludi) and
are held periodically throughout the year, with the
specifics of each ludus determined by the pontifices.
These ludi come about when it is deemed by the
Primus Pontifex that a specific deity requires appeas-
ing in some more-than-spectacular way, whether it
be as thanks for providing a military victory, or in
51
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
preparation for some upcoming event with which
the deity’s blessings are needed. A ludus is then held
in their honour, involving chariot racing, mock
Introduction
hunting, gladiatorial battles, jova matches, and any
other form of sport the pontifices deems appropriate.
Introduction
These events are widely loved by the populace, only
to the
having grown more frequent and elaborate in the Aldarin
Empire
years since the empire’s golden age.
Aldarin
Bloodletting CW Names
Countless Aldarins find themselves drawn to Quor,
both as an idyllic figure of love and as a bastion of vast Social Classes
strength and bravery. Those who closely follow the
teachings of Quor tend to appeal to the sanguinous Kinships in
side of their amorous deity, carrying with them small the Empire
basins used to let blood, which is then gifted as an
offering. In recent years, this practice has migrated
Festivals
across into other cults, primarily those whose deities
desire for devout servitude and unfaltering loyalty,
such as Xyth and Hargrum.
Sports
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
piric family which imposes governorship of the
Vampiric Order throughout the empire’s under-
world. It is not uncommon to see legionarii or Politics
Quorian sacerdotes donating their blood to a temple,
such as The Bloodkiln in Deveros (Nc11), which is
secretly syphoned off by dhampir workers for distri- Military
bution to vampiric kin throughout the provinces.
Commerce
Folk Beliefs
Crime and
“There’s a road up Fluminis way that, if I don’t Punishment
hop between the cracks of the stone, I always
get a bad stomach afterwards. I now just avoid
that road entirely!”
Provinces of
Aldarin
Aldarins are a people who hold caution
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
attuned into the subtleties of the divine Classes
world. Any strange omen or prophetic vision
must be observed and broken down, lest
it spell the fall of the empire or some great Backgrounds
planar tragedy. Gryphotes refuse to lead their
legion into battle without the traditional
sacrificial offering of a bull to Quor and magi Appendices
dare not remove books from any library
without first cleansing their hands with Ioran
holy water. Should one not partake in a dies
festus in some capacity they may expect to
be spited by the festival’s dedicated deity in
the days following.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Religious Titles
Pontifex (pl. Pontifices)
The most prestigious religious position attainable
in Deveros, the pontifices derive entirely from the
patrician class, typically the third born child within
a family’s main familial branch. The pontifices stand
proud as the high priests and priestesses of the Aedes
Tredecima in Deveros, simultaneously taking on
deeply political and religious roles. Only one pon-
tifex exists within Aldarin for each of the Tredecima,
who serve as the direct conduits of communication
between their deity and the Aldarin people. They
are capable of channelling immense divine power
and granting their most powerful blessings to those
deemed worthy. As such, pontifices are typically
empowered with a title pertaining to their deity,
as opposed to their real name, for the duration of
their appointment. For example, the pontifex of
Loritel is simply called Pontifex Loritel during their
administration. Some still insist on the use of their
full name with their title prepended, typically those
who are planning on standing for public office and
wish to garner some form of support to their name.
It is the duty of the pontifices to ensure the sacred
grounds of their deity’s temples and shrines are kept
consecrated, to administer rites of marriage and
birth, to regulate religious festivities, and to ensure
the virtues of their god are upheld by their cult. A
position of potent power, the pontifex of an aedes
serves for a maximum term of ten years before a new
pontifex is elected from the cult. If no suitable candi-
date is found, the previous pontifex may continue in
their role until one is elected, leading to dynasties of
families handing down their title to their next of kin.
These talented religious leaders are trained in
both the ways of arcane spells and martial vigour.
Pontifices are granted the right to exercise Alerium
(the right to command a legion) should the need ever
arise. This right is seldom enacted by the pontifices
but has seen use historically, such as during the
Acclesian Civil War. Pontifices hold absolute power
over the aedes they govern, ignoring the traditional
rule of the Consentium when within the walls of
these temples. As such, the aedes may become sanc-
tuaries for those fleeing the arm of the law should
the governing pontifex allow it, much to the ire of
the Vintari. When leaving the aedes, however, the
pontifices hold little power outside of their own cult,
leading to many living almost entirely within their
aedes for the duration of their appointment.
Pontifices dress in plain white togas whose man-
tles partially cover the head and may be uniquely
identified by a resplendent carved marble disc, called
a convexum, upon which their deity’s symbol is
engraved, which hangs from their waist. They are one
52
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.
Special Pontifex Titles
Whilst the thirteen pontifices are generally viewed
as equals, there are four pontifices in particular
who hold additional powers over the others. One
of these titles is the Primus Pontifex (see page 63),
attributed to the Pontifex Deos, granting immense
political power in line with the currently standing
primi. The other three are those of the Pontifex
Martialis, Pontifex Arcanus Major, and Pontifex
Arcanus Minor.
Pontifex Martialis CW
The Pontifex Quor is additionally granted the title of
Pontifex Martialis, providing guidance to the Legions and
the Primus Legatus at the behest of the war deity. It is the
duty of the Pontifex Martialis to perform a sacrifice of cow
or sheep unto Quor for every new legion that is raised,
granting them a blessing of bravery before heading
onto campaign. It is considered a bad omen for this ritual
to not be performed before the legion has its first battle.
Additionally, the Pontifex Martialis is expected to lead
the opening ceremony of the Grand Mercari tournament
and to coordinate the religious celebrations of the Gales
Dea, amongst a number of other important festivals.
As opposed to the typical pontifex, who spends most
of their time within their aedes, the Pontifex Martialis
spends a vast portion of their term visiting legions across
the empire, freely issuing blessings of Quor to soldiers,
and performing healing upon injured legionarii. They are
also expected to swear in new clerici into the Legions, as
well as ensuring that enough clerici are trained within
the Vintari to meet the needs of the Legions.
Pontifex Arcanus Major
The Aldarins consider the ways of the magi to be more
aligned with the pursuit of knowledge and upholding
of law than necessarily with the essence of the arcane
itself. As bizarre as this may seem, it is an observance
that has been held since the early Dalaskian Kingdom.
As such, the Pontifex Iora takes on the title of Pontifex
Arcanus Major, guiding the Primus Arcanus in religious
matters whilst working alongside the Pontifex Arcanus
Minor to ensure the smooth flow between imperial-
aligned religious and arcane pursuits.
It is the duty of the Pontifex Arcanus Major to lead the
political procession of the Renovaré festival through
Consentiarus and to coordinate the distribution of
Aldarin-centric books to temples across the Anchor
Nations in the weeks leading up to the Wysta festival.
In the event of a hung jury within the Imperial Courts,
it is the Pontifex Arcanus Major who makes the final
decision as to the result of a trial. They are also to ensure
the proper judicial procedure is followed by consensae
working as judges, issuing fines and punishments to
consensae found abusing the power of the law.

Pontifex Arcanus Minor
While Gw’yth is indeed the goddess of the arcane,
her cult’s role within the empire is shadowed by that
of the Ioran sacerdotes. Despite this, the pontifices
still acknowledge her importance in the grand
machinations of the arcane, assigning the title of
Pontifex Arcanus Minor to the Pontifex Gw’yth. This
position originally came to be after the Second Medial
War when the Pontifex Arcanus, originally a single role,
was unable to resolve an argument with the Primus
Arcanus. This argument specifically revolved around
the pontifices’ involvement in Concilium Arcanus
Altus’s military operations, with the Pontifex Arcanus
stating that deific approval was required before
enacting Wyld inquisitions throughout temples and
shrines. The Pontifex Gw’yth was able to resolve the
matter, diplomatically negotiating an agreement
between the two parties and was awarded the title of
Pontifex Arcanus Minor for their efforts by the imperial
family. Since then, the Pontifex Gw’yth has operated
in the shadows as the prime communicator between
Concilium Arcanus Altus, the Primus Arcanus, and the
Aedes Tredecima. It is the duty of the Pontifex Arcanus
Minor to regulate the annual calendar, to predict the
arrival of astral phenomena spawned by Gw’yth, and
to lead the celebrations of the Anniculus festival within
the capital. The Pontifex Arcanus Minor additionally
is responsible for overseeing the upkeep of the Altus
Weave, Aldarin’s web of artificial waylines.
Sovigal (pl. Sovigals)
The first sovigals were, and still are, high-order
members of Sovingar’s cult. Over time, however, the
term has spread outwards towards other temples and
aedes to represent any religious official who tends
to the daily operations of a religious structure. The
sovigals of the Aedes Tredecima, for example, see to
the running of the aedes when the pontifex is away,
as well as coordinating the movements of sacerdotes
throughout their respective province of the empire.
There are usually up to three sovigals for each of
the aedes, governing finance, festivals, and the duties
of the sacerdotes respectively. Within smaller tem-
ples, however, there is only one sovigal whose duty
is akin to that of a high priest: overseeing the temple,
conducting festival rites, and following higher orders
from the aedes. The role of sovigal is seen as the
second highest in the cult of the Tredecima, sitting
just under that of the pontifex. As such, the role
of Sovigal is highly competitive within populated
settlements where there are more sacerdotes to have
power over within a temple.
Sovigal Altus (pl. Sovigal Alti)
Sovigal was originally a single term referring to those
who are now known as the sovigal alti, a unique sect
of high order sacerdotes who worshipped Sovingar
53
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
and were responsible for the upkeep of his temples.
When the term “sovigal” became more widely used
across the empire, the sovigals of Sovingar renamed
Introduction
themselves to “Sovigal Alti” meaning “High Sovigals”,
denoting their historic lineage to Sovingar.
Introduction
The duties of these sovigals are to oversee the to the
transportation and protection of Sovingar’s sacred Aldarin
Empire
fire, gifted to the Aldarins upon the birth of Deveros.
This golden flame flickers bright at the heart of the Aldarin
Shrine of Sovingar upon Mount Austellus, unable to Names
ever truly fade due to its divine nature, but desired
by many for its far-reaching light. Sovingar’s fire has Social Classes
been stolen a number of times over the centuries,
with the sovigal alti tracking down the culprits. These
criminals are swiftly executed for theft from a god: a Kinships in
the Empire
crime punishable by death.
One who holds the position as a sovigal altus is
expected to clean and upkeep both the Deverosian Festivals
Emberkiln (A14) and the Aeterflamma (Jc4), pre-
paring them for their respective purposes. Sovigal
alti are equipped with large shovels used to shift Sports
ash and snow, often starting their lives as paladins
under Sonvingar and trained in the ways of both
martial and divine. Religion
Sovigal Maximus (pl. Sovigal Maximi)
Temples of the Liberi do not have pontifices, with the Politics
highest ranking official within these cults therefore
falling to a sovigal. In order to maintain a semblance
of structure within the cult, a sovigal unique to Military
Liberi sects is elected to communicate with the deity
themself on a daily basis, guiding the path of their
followers. This sovigal is known as the sovigal maxi- Commerce
mus, typically elected through an empire-wide vote
conducted by members of the cult’s innermost circle.
Crime and
Some cults undergo different processes of election, Punishment
such as the sogivals of Uverthal who determine the
position by a draw of straws, or the sovigals of Isseti Provinces of
who hold a month-long art competition to create the Aldarin
most beautiful depiction of Isseti possible.
It is the duty of the sovigal maximus to oversee Periods of
Aldarin
the temples and shrines of their deity and to ensure History
the deific vows of the cult are upheld, similar to
the duties of the pontifices. These officials also
Classes
oversee the running of Liberillia, with sovigals of
the Tredecima deities strictly forbidden from direct
involvement in the festival planning. Sovigal maximi Backgrounds
are denoted by the gilded scroll they wield called a
volumen deii, containing the divine vows undertaken
upon their promotion and the names of all sovigal Appendices
maximi before them.
Sacerdos (pl. Sacerdotes)
Sacerdos is a common term referring to any member
of a cult who is not of pontifex or sovigal rank,
typically referring to priests, priestesses, clerics,
and paladins. These devout folk form the surging
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
a rank of miles or higher. Once these referrals have
been accepted, they may start the eight initiation
rites. The first seven take place upon consecutive
nights of the first week of the present month, where
the prospective member undergoes a series of trials,
with the final rite taking place on the last night of the
month. Should they complete all the rites, they are
inducted into the order and granted a single gold-
coated leaf of an olive tree, which is worn as a
necklace under their tunic. From then on, they may
access the ranks of the order and socialise with other
members, forging strong social ties and securing for
themselves a successful future.
Astra (Pl. Astrae) The astrae are the local
leaders of the order, typically the owners of a Social Classes
structure or building which is used to house
meetings. They wear a sloped cap, dotted
with star-like silver studs, and carry a hooked Kinships in
sword by their side, showing their allegiance the Empire
to the astral realm.
Iudex (Pl. Iudices) Senior members of the Festivals
order, the iudices are those who are allowed
to make decisions in the absence of a
soldromus or astra. The iucies also govern
over any internal trials and judgements made
Sports
by the order, forming a jury of eight when
needed. They wear a plain laurel wreath and
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,
Tak’huutans, and any others who do not conform to
the laws of the Ebyr’sol, citing them either as conspir-
ators against the plane or fae tricksters in disguise.
CW
While the Ebyr’sol are small in number throughout
Elos, the exertion of their power is immense. Hand-
crafted embers are gifted to their members by a
number of less-than-reputable demigods, known as
the Xwar, who draw from the frayed soul threads of
Deos cast away during the Medial Pantheon’s soul
siphonings. Those who serve loyally are shipped
across to Quthar to receive this ember-bound bless-
ing, returning to their homelands wielding vast
power, invigorated to purge the Medial Plane of all
who seek to oppose them. These corrupted demigods
are those of Deos’s domain who have fallen upon the
wayside since his disappearance following the
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-
tive yet deadly threat within Aldarin, and one not to
be taken lightly.
Corrupted Embers
Spiralling coils of Deos’s withered soul, the xwar
thread corrupted embers into the souls of their
underlings, maiming them in exchange for immense
power. Below are some of these devastating Deosian
embers, which use the Deosian spellcasting mod-
ifier and DC.
Corrupted Core Passive 0
When a creature successfully hits you with a melee
weapon attack, roll a d10. On a 10, the creature takes
1d6 fire damage.
When Charred. Corrupted Core now deals 2d4
fire damage.
Cinder Flesh Minor 1
As a bonus action, you tear at the skin of another
creature, stripping flesh from bone with intense,
scalding heat. The target creature must succeed on a
Dexterity saving throw or else suffer 2d8 fire damage
and become permanently branded with a mark of
your choosing.
When Charred. In addition, when a creature fails
its saving throw against Cinder Flesh, it becomes
cloaked in withering flames. The creature takes an
additional 1d6 fire damage and 2d6 necrotic damage
at the start of its turns for the next minute. It may
attempt to extinguish the flames by taking an action
to make a Dexterity saving throw against the effect.
56
Burn Them To Ashes Major 3
Requirements: You must have taken the Cinder Flesh
ember ability and charred it to take this ability.
As an action, you rip a fragment of Deos’s corrupted
soul from your body, causing it to explode in a
rippling tide of necrotic fire. All creatures within a
20-foot-radius of you must succeed on a Dexterity
saving throw or else take 5d10 fire damage and 5d10
necrotic damage, as well as catching on fire as per
the charred effect of Cinder Flesh for one minute.
Creatures who succeed their saving throw take half
damage and do not catch fire.
When Charred. The damage dealt by this ability
increases to 10d10 fire damage and 10d10 necrotic
damage. If a creature reaches 0 hit points from this
ability, it immediately dies, is turned to ash, and may
not be resurrected as its soul is destroyed.
Ranks of the Ebyr’sol
Xwar (Pl. Xwar) Demigods of Deos’s lineage
who support the Ebyr’sol and govern over
provinces of the Qutharian Empire. These
powerful entities are capable of twisting
Deos’s soul into new embers, with some
going as far as to weave their own soul
threads in as well.
High Flame (Pl. High Flames) Leaders of the
Ebyr’sol. These are almost exclusively high
priests dedicated to Deos who take on roles
as generals over Ebyr’sol armies and admirals
over Ebyr’sol fleets. The high flames work
hand in hand with the xwar to coordinate
movements across the Medial Plane and
to govern the provincial regions of the
Qutharian Empire.
Pyrion (Pl. Pyrions) Trusted commanders or
high priests serving as second-in-commands
to a high flame. Pyrions may be sent to
regional locations to assert Ebyr’sol control
or take over command should a high flame
be unable to enact their duties.
Brazier (Pl. Braziers) Local sergeants or
priests of the Ebyr’sol within a region,
typically commanding a small detachment of
cinders who assist them in inquisitions and
territorial control.
Cinder (Pl. Cinders) A recruited member
of the Ebyr’sol who takes up arms to fight
for the cause. Cinders may be drafted into
groups and dispatched on tasks at the
behest of a brazier or pyrion.
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.

CW
Politics
Aldarin politics is considered by visitors as one of the
most unnecessarily complicated systems of govern-
ment upon the continent. Those that do understand
the nuances of the Aldarin political system either
perpetually call for its reform or seek to exploit the
flagrant flaws the system holds. In the current era,
the system is divided into three political bodies: the
Emperor, the Consentium, and the Consentium
Minor. The emperor is symbolically placed at the
top, a figurehead of the empire but with no official
The Emperor
The Imperial Lineage
In 257 PDS, after the annexation of the Byldøri tribes
into the Aldarin Kingdom, King Venesti II (see
page 100), who was known for his rampant ego
and expansionist mindset, declared the Aldarin
Kingdom had ascended into an empire. This concept
of imperialism had already been at the forefront of
the minds of the people, with a number of kingdoms
falling under Aldarin control in the years prior. The
word of Venesti II was all that was needed to take
it that one step further. Little did he know that this
would set his nation on the path to become one of the
most prolific empires in the Medial Plane’s history.
CW
The Aldarin Empire has waxed and waned over
the centuries, never quite settling into a state of
stability. It has been dragged through countless
wars, hundreds of battles, and a bloody civil war
which pushed it to the very brink of collapse. As
centuries progressed, political power has slowly
shifted downwards into the hands of the people
and away from the imperial family. This was first
with the construction of the Consentium, granting
influence to the patrician social class. Then came the
Consentium Minor, opening the floodgates of voting
to the common people. Finally, in 892 PDS, Emperor
Fabinus (see page 108) succeeded his role as direct
ruler of the empire following the aftermath of the
Acclesian Civil War. In one fell swoop, the empire
had collapsed into a constitutional crowned imperial
republic. This shift in power placed the emperor as
a symbolic figurehead of the empire, rather than
the overarching ruler, with the Consentium taking
supreme command of all political dealings. This
transition was not an immediate shift — far from
it. Aldarin had been silently creeping towards
Consentium control during the century prior to the
war, with Acclesian’s rebellion driving the final nail
into the coffin of imperial reign. Despite this shift in
57
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
capacity for control. The Consentium comes next,
Introduction
representing the patricians and social elite. Beneath
this is the Consentium Minor, which grants every-
Introduction
day common citizens access to the political ladder. to the
Together, these three dubiously oiled cogs operate Aldarin
Empire
the machine that is the Aldarin Empire, each rely-
ing upon the other’s functions to provide the most Aldarin
widespread coverage of justice and law throughout Names
the empire’s several provinces.
Social Classes
Kinships in
the Empire
governance, the Aldarin Empire is still referred to as
Festivals
an empire to this day, despite no longer being led by
the imperial family in any official capacity.
Sports
Imperials of the
Modern Day Religion
Symbolic Status Politics
The symbolic emperor of modern Aldarin serves
an important dual purpose. Firstly, a figurehead to Military
the empire, flaunting the wealth-bound culture and
colourful history of Aldarin while standing as the
direct line of Deos himself. The imperial line survives Commerce
primarily for this purpose, lest the Aldarins incur
Deos’s wrath for displacing his bloodline. This is the
Crime and
prime embodiment of Pax Deorum or “peace of the Punishment
gods”, wherein the Aldarins seek to keep peace with
the divine so that they may call upon their aid during
Provinces of
times of need. Secondly, the emperor must write the Aldarin
terminal signature upon any bills passed through the
Consentium. All legislatures must, by law, be signed Periods of
Aldarin
off by the emperor, even if this act is solely a sym-
History
bolic gesture. Only one exception stands to this law:
Alerium Martius. The passing of Alerium Martius
Classes
through the Consentium declares a state of national
emergency, thrusting supreme control directly into
the hands of the two primi, enacting martial law.
Backgrounds
This has only occurred a handful of times in recent
history, typically through the advent of war.
Appendices
Today’s Emperor
In the present year of 1029 PDS the symbolic standing
emperor of the empire is none other than Emperor
Loxis Gaius Deveros Jykstravius III (CG he/
they Aldarin defender [Deos] 16), son of Empress
Iliandra Julia Iora Deveros III (CG she/her Aldarin
dead). Loxis III is well beloved by the common folk
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
the Aldarin Empire, where the highest profile nobles
furiously debate provincial relations, pass bills, and
govern campaigns during war-time. The Consentium
consists of roughly 500 members who are called
consensa (singular) or consensae (plural), the pre-
cise number of which fluctuates year on year. These
consensae are elected from the upper two classes of
Aldarin society: the patricians and the sanctes. The
role of an elected consensa is a highly influential
one, giving direct power over certain aspects in the
daily running of imperial life. This ranges from the
management of governmental offices to governing
large towns, cities, and even provinces. Even after
one’s term in office is finished, opinions may still be
given and votes cast during assemblies hosted by the
Consentium, effectively making one a member for
life. Whilst the Consentium’s assembly itself has no
power to enforce the law, only to enact legislation,
its members hold high-ranking positions such as
commanders, judges, and public officials who are
able to push judgement into action.
Novi Nobiles
Introduction
Novi nobiles, also known as ‘new nobles’, are
esteemed Aldarin citizens of the praestae class Introduction
who have achieved such great feats of arcane or to the
Aldarin
military prowess in the eyes of the empire that they Empire
are elevated into a higher social class — the sancte
Aldarin
class. These so-called ‘new nobles’ are the first of the
Names
family to be granted permission to run for election
on the Consentium, potentially bringing the rest of
their relatives up into the sancte class as well. To be Social Classes
granted the status of novus nobilis is a great honour
for any Aldarin citizen, with expectations set sky-
Kinships in
high for establishing a successful political career. the Empire
There is not any formal process in place to determine
when someone has risen into the sancte class aside
Festivals
from their general acceptance by other patricians
and sanctes accompanied by the encouragement for
their running of office in the Consentium.
Sports
Dressing for the Job
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.

59
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Structure
To understand how Aldarin politics works, it is
important to first understand the structure of the
Consentium itself. The building, and by proxy the
members, are split into two groups: the lower benches
and the upper benches. Despite the connotation of
the name, the lower benches are the more important
of the two positions. They are situated closest to the
front of the chamber where discussions take place,
giving a consensa easier access to the floor and to
voice their opinion.
The Benches
The lower benches form the active roles within the
Consentium: members who are currently serving
in office. Within the lower benches, there are four
elected roles: midnus; gildor; legitor; primus, as well
as four unelected roles: Primus Imperator, Primus
Legatus, Primus Arcanus, Primus Pontifex. The
elected roles are obtained through political cam-
paigning and experience, and become open for office
every two years. The unelected roles are granted to
special members belonging to esteemed imperial
organisations.
The upper benches form the inactive roles, which
are positions that a consensa “retires” to after leaving
active office. The title they gain is their highest served
lower bench role preceded by “pro”. For example, a
consensa spends two years in office as a midnus in
the lower bench. After their term in office is up, they
gain the title “promidnus” and move to the upper
bench. Here they can choose to either remain for the
rest of their career or attempt to gain another active
role, potentially progressing up the Consentium
hierarchy into higher positions. Upper benches are
not allowed to bring new bills into discussion and
are only allowed to vote and discuss present political
matters brought forward by lower benches.
Consentium Benches
Lower Bench Upper Bench
Primus Proprimus
Legitor Prolegitor
Gildor Progildor
Midnus Promidnus
60
Elected Roles
Midnus (pl. Midni)
Positions: 40
Prerequisite: five years in imperial service or three
scrolls of recommendation, one of which must be
from a patrician
This position involves endless low-level bureaucratic
tasks that many nobles would be all-too familiar
with by the time they enter into the Consentium.
Management of the treasury, conducting of judicial
proceedings within the minor courts, assuming com-
mand over a legionary cohort as either a hydrophos
or a regitorus, and conferring with the publis honori
of the Consentium Minor about public affairs. Midni
mainly serve as civil servants and bureaucrats, often
assigned to shadow a legitor. During this time they
would take on various roles such as quartermasters,
tax collectors, and recruiting officers on the behalf
of their legitor, effectively acting as their right hand.
As such, when a legitor is not present, their deputy
midnus is expected to stand in on their behalf, even
staying behind to keep watch over the legitor’s land
when they are on campaign or commanding a legion
during war. Two midni are held back each year to
serve as shadows to the primi, often running as
their secretaries: a very prestigious and competitive
role. Another four midni are assigned exclusively to
the treasury of Deveros, ensuring that no money is
embezzled and working alongside the Imperial Bank
of Saleen to manage imperial coffers.
Many consensae stop an active career in politics
after the highly stressful time spent in office as a
midnus. These consensae settle into serving as
promidni, a far more inactive position within the
Consentium, maintaining some voice towards
the direction of the empire without any real
effort being made.
Gildor (pl. Gildors)
Positions: 21
Prerequisite: one term as midnus
While the other roles within the Consentium are
usually considered honourable roles, dealing with
economic, judicial, and military matters, the role of
gildor is no less important. The position of gildor is
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

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
by the Imperial Courts where the Vintari may fail to
take action.
The five Deverosian gildors hold unique roles
within the capital. One is entrusted with the safety of
the consensae and the protection of the Consentium,
as well as issuing out bodyguards for consensae
during public events. The second is entrusted with
the protection of the Consentium Minor and the
publi. The third is entrusted with the protection of
the Imperial Courts and the Amethyst Acre, working
closely with both the Hetariae and the Bulwark
mercyrs in their respective zones of influence. The
fourth oversees various governmental offices, such
as the Imperial Sanitation Office (Cc6) and the
Imperial Postal Exchange (Cb11), ensuring the
smooth functioning of these public services. The fifth
is responsible for the protection of the Imperial
Bank of Saleen (Na16) and the Maximo Commutare
(Ec2), working alongside the four elected midni to
prevent embezzlement. Each of these gildors share
responsibility for the smooth running of the capital,
as they would in any other city. Despite their highly
important roles during office, gildors gain no further
benefits after becoming progildors, receiving the
same benefits as promidni. Due to this, many con-
sensae elect to skip serving as a gildor during their
second term in favour of serving again as a midnus.
Some years, the empire finds it difficult to even fill all
gildor roles, with only one gildor heading out to a
provincial capital instead of two, further perpetuat-
ing the problem.
Legitor (pl. Legitors)
Positions: 20
Prerequisite: two terms as midnus or one term as gildor
Legitor is the first Consentium rank to officially
exercise Alerium, the “right to command”, granting
permission to retain control over up to eight military
legions with instruction of the Consentium. This role
also grants the legitor the powers of a magistrate,
combining the judicial powers of a midnus with the
executive powers of a gildor. Legitors serve primarily
as legionary gryphotes during their term in office,
often spending more time out of the capital than
within it, either on active campaigns or maintaining
peace within a province. Whilst not all legitors go on
campaign during their term, they are still expected
to keep their legions active and available to answer
the call of the Consentium at any point.
After their term is over, a prolegitor is paired with
another prolegitor leaving office and issued joint
governorship of a province within the empire for
two additional years, taking on the title of praeses
61
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Peltors Introduction
“I got slapped by a pavlax once… I’m tellin’ ya,
do NOT get in a peltor’s way! My wing’s been Introduction
to the
crooked ever since.”
Aldarin
Empire
A peltor is a specialised form of vintarus,
trained for at least two years in a Vintari Aldarin
academy and having served at least five Names
years within a legion. Peltors are known both
for their exceptional strength and perceptive
abilities, commonly selected from either Social Classes
the speculatores or the exploratores of a
legion. It is the duty of a peltor to accompany
elected consensae and publi throughout Kinships in
the Empire
the city, defending them from crowds and
potential assassins.
Peltors are one of the many exceptions Festivals
made to the Sacrimum Script, which
forbids weapons to be carried within the
Sacrimum of Deveros. Historically, peltors
used to only carry a pavlax: a wooden plank
Sports
engraved with the imperial gryphon. It
has two handles on one side and is lined
around the edges with slate or iron, used for Religion
shoving back crowds and, in a fight, hacking
at attackers. Utilising these weapons,
the peltors are able to form a defensive Politics
perimeter around an official. Nowadays,
peltors have been granted allowance to carry
riveted truncheons under their white robes, Military
which come out should a situation grow dire.
Commerce
(pl. praesides). Whilst this may seem unusual, many
praesides find themselves working well together,
Crime and
either through agreement of rule or through Punishment
competitiveness in attempts to out-do each other.
This governorship has been known to extend up to Provinces of
10 years in some cases, typically caused either by Aldarin
praeses becoming locked in war, through exceptional
governance, or simply through no new prolegitors Periods of
Aldarin
wishing to take over the province. As there are only
History
eight provincial holds within the empire outside of
the Province of Deveros, at least four prolegitors
Classes
are assigned to command of naval legions for the
same two year period, though this number can
be higher depending on if provincial governance
Backgrounds
is turned down. At least two prolegitors also serve
as censor (pl. censors), who govern the judicial
functioning of the Imperial Courts under the eye of
Appendices
the Pontifex Iora.
If a prolegitor takes on a post-office role, they
cannot be elected to a lower bench position again
until their assignment is finished. This has caused
instances of prolegitors becoming deliberately locked
in an undesirable provincial governorship by the
Consentium due to worries about their political
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
influence in the capital. The most famous case of
this type of tactic was that of Acclesian Alventus
(see page 111), the prolegitor responsible for the
collapse of the imperial family’s rule, spending 10
years locked as a praeses in governorship of Borealia.
Primus (pl. Primi)
Positions: 2
Prerequisite: one term as legitor
The highest elected position attainable by a consensa
and the most powerful position across the entire
empire. Two primi are elected every two years,
becoming the official governors of the empire during
their term. While in office, the primi are considered
the physical embodiment of the empire and as such
have absolute legal immunity. Bringing legal claims
against a primus would be the same as bringing them
against the empire itself. This does not mean, how-
ever, that a primus cannot be held accountable for
their actions — it is just that one must wait until they
leave office, once again becoming a private citizen, to
bring these claims against the individual.
Primi hold several authoritative powers not readily
accessible to other roles. These include the power to call
the Consentium into assembly, to dismiss the assem-
bly, and most importantly of all: the power of veto.
Veto may be used to immediately dismiss a proposed
bill, regardless of reason, or to dismiss a consensa from
the assembly if the primus deems them obstructive to
the current proceedings. This has often been used by
political rivals to dismiss their opponents; however,
misuse of this power might garner the primus legal
issues after they have left office. Due to the importance
of the role, one primus must remain within Deveros
to ensure proper conduct within the Consentium. In
practice, this rarely occurs, with both primii often
heading out on military campaigns for the majority of
their term to attain as much dignitas — honour — as
they possibly can while they have the power to do so.
In the event of the death of a primus, a legitor may
be elected through the Consentium and granted an
honorary role as primus to fill in the position.
Primi have the exclusive right to exercise Alerium
Ultimum, the “right to ultimate command”, allowing
them to lead more than eight legions at once, greater
than the amount allowed to legitors, prolegitors,
and proprimi. In times of war, two additional primi
may be elected from the ranks of the legitors by the
Consentium to lead large movements of legions
against a threat. These primi are given Alerium
Ultimum, but whilst they remain within Deveros
they hold no extra power. As such, they are known
as a primi minor. Primi may also be empowered by
the Consentium during times of emergency with
Alerium Martius, the right of martial law, which
gives a primus the power to do whatever they
deem necessary to protect the empire without first
62
conferring with the Consentium. This act must be
voted through the Consentium before being issued
and lasts for a period of three months before it either
ends or is renewed through another vote.
The elections for primi are held before all the other
roles are allowed to begin campaigning, and must
first be accepted by the Consentium Minor and the
Primus Imperator. When running for the position
of primus, candidates may begin campaigning on
the 2nd of Summer’s Dawn in the second year of
the current office. They are limited to one month
of active campaigning, which ends on the 3rd of
Summer’s Crest. They may give speeches, rally
supporters, and do whatever they see fit within the
law to gain support for their run as primus. As these
elections are heavily scrutinised, any prospective
primus using illicit tactics to swing the election is
typically swiftly caught and exiled.
On the 3rd of Summer’s Crest, the consensae vote
between the candidates until a majority vote rises.
This candidate becomes the first elective candidate
and has their status passed through the Consentium
Minor, who must agree that the candidate is suitable
for office. If they agree, votes are run again for the
second most popular candidate and the process is
repeated. If they disagree, however, the Consentium
must choose another candidate. Once two candi-
dates have been approved by both the Consentium
and the Consentium Minor, they are given writs of
intent by the Primus Imperator. With these writs in
hand, the candidates meet with the emperor in the
Imperial Palace, who signs the writs declaring that
the candidates be allowed into office. The primi then
have just over six months to prepare for their term in
office to begin and to organise the elections for all the
other lower bench positions for their term.
On the 28th Winter’s Wane, the day of the
Renovaré festival, the emperor officially welcomes
the new primi into office and the two current primi
step down into the position of proprimi. The primus
who had the most votes during election holds vita-
lum, which allows them to propose bills, alternating
each month between the primi. There is often an
agreement made on the first day of office that each
primus will not veto the bills of the primus that holds
vitalum, though this is rarely the case in practice.
After leaving office, proprimi lose all of the special
powers they once had as primi. Some are given
absolute governorship of a province instead of two
prolegitors under the title of praeses ultimum (pl.
praesides ultimum), which is usually granted in five
year terms. Less enthusiastic proprimi, however,
retire to the upper benches, having achieved the
highest point in their career and wishing to take a
step back from the limelight. After serving in office
as a primus, one cannot serve as primus again until
at least four years have passed.

The two leading primi of the current year are the
Revitalist Primus Yunila Averni Quinta and the
Reformist Primus Caesar Helios Aldarus.
Unelected Roles
These following roles are given to specific members
of the Aldarin Empire. Despite the title of primus,
they do not hold any of the powers of a primus and
are merely symbolic. It is often the case that these
primi are too busy to attend Consentium assemblies
with proceedings usually operating without them.
Primus Imperator
Reserved for the oldest child of the current ruling
emperor, Primus Imperator is the first of the unelected
roles, allowed to attend Consentium assemblies from
the age of 25. The Primus Imperator serves as an
ear for the emperor in the daily assemblies, allowed
to input their opinion into current proceedings on
behalf of the imperial family. They may also act on
behalf of the emperor in signing new bills and pass-
ing them into law. The primus imperator typically
sits between the two current acting primi, flanked
by the Primus Legatus, the Primus Pontifex, and the
Primus Arcanus, forming six total seats. If there is
no child to take the mantle, then the next in line to
the crown takes this position. Primus Imperator
Aurelia Deveros Iora (see page 58) is the current
standing Primus Imperator.
Primus Legatus
Issued to the gryphos of the Legio Terra I Deverosa,
Deveros’s resident land legion, Primus Legatus is an
honorific title bestowed upon the consensa who sits
at this rank. It is usually the case that the Primus
Legatus is already a proprimus or prolegitor with a
bountiful political history and is capable of providing
well thought-out military advice. The role of Primus
Legatus will often stay with one consensa for a long
period of time due to the Legio Terra I Deverosa
electing their gryphos through the Legion Assembly,
rather than the Consentium, of which the Primus
Legatus then takes charge. It is the duty of the Primus
Legatus to present the opinions of the Legions from
the Legion Assembly to the Consentium on any
given topic. It is typical for the Primus Legatus to
stand to the right side of the Primus Imperator,
positioned one step down to denote the Primus
Imperator as the higher power. Primus Legatus
Regalia Helios Tunestra Victoria (LN she/her
high half-elf legionarius principa 18) is the current
standing Primus Legatus.
Primus Arcanus
Issued to the Altus Magus of Concilium Arcanus
Altus, Primus Arcanus is an honorific title bestowed
63
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
upon the consensa who sits at this rank. As the
Altus Magus changes every five years, so does the
role of Primus Arcanus. The Primus Arcanus’s duty
Introduction
is to represent Concilium Arcanus Altus’s political
interests whilst protecting their sanctity, ensuring
Introduction
proper funding towards the imperial magi and
to the
upkeep of the Deverosian World Anchor. The Primus Aldarin
Empire
Arcanus is also expected to provide logistical arcane
knowledge and guidance for improvements in the Aldarin
magical defences of the empire when required. It is Names
typical for the Primus Arcanus to sit to the left side
of the Primus Imperator. Primus Arcanus Davicia Social Classes
Baradinus Kyren (see page 79) is the current stand-
ing Primus Arcanus.
Kinships in
Primus Pontifex the Empire
The Primus Pontifex is a special title attributed to the
Pontifex Deos who is allowed to sit to the right side of
Festivals
the Primus Imperator, representing the deities as well
as the will of Deos in the Consentium. The Pontifex
Deos is the most sought after role within religious
Sports
circles, with many patrician families seeking to push
their sons or daughters into the role. Not only does it
provide exceptional power within the cult of Deos, it
Religion
grants access to the ear of the Primus Imperator and
the imperial family, who are more than willing to
listen to the words of Deos’s pontifex. It is the duty of
Politics
the Primus Pontifex to report to the Consentium on
all matters religious, providing details on upcoming
festivals and reciting the words of the Tredecima Military
spoken to the other pontifices. Primus Pontifex
Domitia Astentium Lucius (NG she/they [GF]
Aldarin sovigal [Deos] 15) is the current standing Commerce
Primus Pontifex.
Becoming Law Crime and
Punishment
For any change to pass into law, it must first be
proposed during an assembly of the Consentium by Provinces of
Aldarin
one of the lower bench consensae. The Consentium
then debates this change, eventually reaching some
Periods of
agreement settled upon by the primi and forming Aldarin
a bill. This proposed bill then is placed within the History
Consentium Minor in writing, where it stands for
seven days — though in times of war, this timeframe Classes
is often overlooked. The bill may be accepted or
rejected before the seven days are over by the publi of
the Consentium Minor. If no agreement is reached, it Backgrounds
is automatically rejected once the seven days are up.
Accepted bills head to the Imperial Palace where they
are signed by the emperor, the Primus Imperator, Appendices
or a designated representative, passing into law.
Rejected bills are sent back to the Consentium for
amendment and further debate. This is the basic flow
of law-making within the empire.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Factions
Within the Consentium, there are a number of sizable
political factions which stand for various values, tra-
ditions, and ideas across the empire. The two largest
and most notable of these are the Revitalists and the
Reformists which were both formed in 258 PDS in
response to a number of reforms brought in by King
Venesti II (see page 100). Ever since, both of these
factions have locked horns on various matters over the
course of the empire’s existence, serving as represen-
tatives for the nobility and the people respectively. A
smaller political party known as the Capitans arrived
onto the scene in the early 11th Century, growing
rapidly in size over two decades to begin rivalling that
of the big two. Started as a mockery of the state of 11th
Century Aldarin politics, the party advertises itself
as the true representatives of the people, taking jabs
at how bureaucratic the whole process has become.
The Revitalists
Alternate Names: Optimates, Imperialists
Political Colour: Green
CW
Currently led by Proprimus Helgaria Astentium
Menderica, a wealthy and pompous aristocrat in
her late 60’s, the Revitalists see the current state of
the empire as too popularist and open to the whims
of the lower classes. Many Revitalists seek to grow
the wealth of the aristocracy and to fund lucrative
commercial ventures with the empire’s closest trade
partners. Expansionist in nature, Revitalists actively
push for the increase of funding towards military
campaigns against the empire’s rivals: Jykstrav and
Menderin. In recent years, the Revitalists have
managed to push through numerous bills to raise
additional legions to bolster forts along the northern
border against Jykstrav. Many Deverosian citizens
have argued that these aggressive bills are what
caused the Fourth Renavic War to spark: a hotly
debated topic in the local tabernae and thermae.
Some Revitalists even go as far as suggesting the
abolishment of the Consentium Minor and the rein-
statement of the emperor as the ruling body, which is
always met with angry backlash from the public. This
has led to countless Revitalist bills dying a swift death
on the floor of the Consentium Minor at the hands
of the honori, though their party retains a hardcore
following throughout the middle and upper classes.
Notable Revitalists
Proprimus Helgaria Astentium Menderica (LG
she/her Aldarin magus [divination] 7). The uppity
Revitalist faction leader, never seen without her pet
daschund, Ripper.
Primus Yunila Averni Quinta (LN they/them
[NB] Aldarin consensa 8). A stern, yet fair, lower
64
bencher who seeks to stop any more of the lazily
written land reforms passing from the Reformists.
Legitor Laurentius Helios Julius Borealus (LE he/
him Aldarin vampire [inquisitor]). An intelligent,
up-and-coming consensa who has defeated many
Reformist bills before they have gained traction.
The Reformists
Alternate Names: Populares, Popularists
Political Colour: Blue
Geared towards bringing power to the common
people and stealing it from the grasp of the tenacious
noble families, the Reformists are a deft opponent on
the forum floors. It is their desire to see the empire
officially renamed to that of a republic, something
which many Reformists believe should have hap-
pened at the fall of Emperor Fabinus (see page 108),
for too long has the imperial family lingered over the
heritage of Aldarin. Led by the quick-witted Primus
Caesar Helios Aldarus, who created quite a stir in
his term as prolegitor when governing over Gordistra
by cracking down on the illegal labour used by the
noble-owned berry farms, the Reformists stand
starkly against the values of the Revitalist faction.
They wish to see the redistribution of land that has
been promised to veterans of the Legions, as well
as to the farming families that the land has been
taken from in centuries prior. They believe strongly
in the power of the people, wishing to give those who
work hard to support the empire the recognition
they deserve, such as the legionarii, farmers, and
dock workers. Because of this stance, numerous
bills leaving the Consentium from the Reformist
faction pass through the Consentium Minor with
ease unless they are vetoed by a Revitalist honorus.
Notable Reformists
Primus Caesar Helios Aldarus (CG he/him
Aldarin veteran 9). The level-headed faction
leader, with a keen mind and razor wit. Aldarus is
a renowned legionary commander and respected
across the empire.
Proprimus Nivos Palikos (LG he/she/they [GF]
gnome consensa 8). Provincial governor of the
Pilkos Isles, Proprimus Nivos is a well-renowned
veteran of the Gryphon Legions and advocate of
humanitarian rights.
Prolegitor Nindrea Laos Felicis (NG she/her
Aldarin magus [abjuration] 7). Esteemed member
of the Laos family, who has a strong grasp on the
desires of the public markets within Deveros.
Prolegitor Dwa’hlin Deosia (TN she/they [NB]
half high elf consensa 7). An inspirational young
noble of Emondasian and Aldarin descent who
has captured the hearts and minds of the citi-
zens of Deveros.

The Capitans
Alternate Names: Socialares, Socialites
Political Colour: Yellow
A minor party of miscreant socialites stemming
from the high society club of Capitola, the Capitans
proudly stand for exuberant carnal activities: festi-
vals, alcohol, drugs, brothels, fireworks, and feasting.
These topics are seldom at the forefront of Aldarin
politics, and it is the goal of the Capitans to bring the
vices of debauchery and revelry into the limelight.
Increased funding for festivals, upscaled production
of wine and mead, imperial welfare for brothel work-
ers, and loosened restrictions on imported drugs
from Sel’Kildar and Ravidan. These, amongst many
other proposed bills, have been shot down time and
time again by the other political parties, despite the
morally just equality that would be brought about to
certain minority sectors of the lower classes. Despite
their tarnished reputation as head-in-the-clouds
troublemakers, the Capitans are well regarded by the
public as progressors of thought and social welfare,
The Consentium Minor
Even though the Consentium forms the centralised
decision making of the Aldarin Empire, the
Consentium Minor is the backbone which supports
it. No bill can pass into law without the eyes of
the Consentium Minor first overlooking it. The
Consentium Minor consists of over 200 members.
102 of these seats are for public citizens of the empire,
spanning from each of the provincial regions. The
remaining number of seats changes depending on
how many legions are active at one time. A member
of the Consentium Minor is called a publus (pl.
publi): a public official. Patricians and sanctes are
exclusively barred from entry to the Consentium
Minor, regardless of their prevalence (though some
manage to slip between the cracks by marrying into
plebeian families). This law is designed to protect
the sanctity of speech given to the common people
of Aldarin without influence from the ruling social
classes. Unlike the Consentium, being a publus does
not give you lifetime access to the political sphere,
with publi heading back to normal life after serv-
ing their term.
Structure
The Consentium Minor is generally more well
attended as compared to the Consentium, notably
due to the publi being paid a full wage of 10 gold
a week, which is an excessive sum of coin for the
regular citizen. Thanks to this equality of pay within
65
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
systematically opposing the bureaucratic red tape
that surrounds Aldarin politics in places that the
Reformists seem to be lacking.
Introduction
Notable Capitans
Legitor Favella Trimestri Publius (CG she/xir Introduction
[GF] Aldarin consensa 5). Political leader of the to the
Aldarin
Capitans and a staunch opposition to the current Empire
Reformist party, who has been systematically tearing
Aldarin
down their relatively lacklustre bills to the glee of the Names
general public.
Promidnus Benedectus Laos Caerulicus (CN he/
him Aldarin consensa 3). Notorious drunkard and Social Classes
troublemaker, Benedectus is better known for his
raunchy parties and ability to down entire kegs of Kinships in
wine than for his slurred political ramblings. the Empire
Gildor Rigoro Deosia (CG he/they [T] Aldarin
consensa 6). The currently elected gildor in charge
Festivals
of organising protection for the Consentium Minor,
who spends more time drinking with the publi than
protecting them.
Sports
Religion
the Consentium Minor, there is less disagreement Politics
born of personal desire and a greater sense of com-
radery in the name of the empire during assemblies.
Military
That is not to say, however, that the publi do not
have disputes. Whilst many publi start their terms
as upstanding citizens, seeking to do the best for the
Commerce
empire, the tendrils of innumerable patrician fam-
ilies soon infiltrate their coffers with bolstered coin
in exchange for supporting a certain political party. Crime and
Punishment
Opulatus (pl. Opulati)
Provinces of
Positions: 91 Aldarin
The opulati form the core group of publi in the
Consentium Minor. They are the open voices of the Periods of
Aldarin
public from across the imperial provinces, repre-
History
senting all walks of life from labourers to merchants.
To become an opulatus, one must first take part in
Classes
local elections, which are held within each major
provincial settlement over the months of Autumn’s
Crest and Autumn’s Dusk. A single opulatus is
Backgrounds
selected for each elective zone, of which there are
102, and represents that zone over the following two
years. These opulati are expected to move to Deveros Appendices
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
Wane, when the new consensae come into office, the
new publi also come into office. When voting on a
bill, the opulati are always the first to cast their votes.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Honorus (pl. Honori)
Positions: 11
A honorus is an extremely powerful position within
the empire, standing shoulder to shoulder with the
primi in terms of political gravitas. This is thanks to
their right of veto. Any of the eleven elected honori
may veto a bill that is seen to be against the interests
of the empire and its people. Due to this power, many
bills are stopped upon reaching the honori, who are
the last to vote out of the three publi groups. Whilst
this is a common occurrence, it is within the interests
of the honori to keep the empire running efficiently.
If any honorus is considered to be deliberately block-
ing the legislative process in contempt, they may be
dismissed from the session until the following day
through an unanimous vote of the other honori.
On the 1st Winter’s Wax, the new opulati meet
for the first time and must spend the next month
discussing in private which of the eleven members
will stand as honori. It is up to the opulati to decide
how they make this decision, with various bizarre
methods cropping up over the years. Ventricus
Pavluvus (CG he/they Aldarin commoner 3, a nota-
ble honorus from 998 PDS, was famously chosen after
successfully throwing a pomcloud mushroom into
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
Positions: Varies
Legati are members of the Legions who have been
elected to stand in the Consentium Minor by the
Legion Assembly. They serve the vital purpose of
protecting the interests of the Legions within the
public assembly. The legati are the second to cast
their vote after the opulati have come to agreement.
Whilst these legionarii do not have the right of veto,
they can often be found as a prime sticking point for
bills, primarily due to the overly critical nature of
many legionarii when it comes to law making. This
stems from the concept of furto within the Legions,
which is the name given to the collective, almost
innate sense of agreement between members of a
legion. Despite furto being incredibly helpful while
on campaign, it is a common trigger for political
bubbles to form amongst the legati, with legionarii
aligning more readily with those from their own
provincial region. The legati also have a duty to
protect the publi if the need might arise and are
one of the few allowed to carry weapons across the
Sacrimum in Deveros. Whilst occurrences for the
need of protection are rare, there have been several
occasions that a legatus has saved the lives of one
66
or more publi. One such event was when a political
assassin belonging to the Umbra Syndicate entered
into the Atrivia in 1018 PDS, intent on murdering a
Revitalist-aligned honorus, and was slain by Legatus
Atticus Balekan (NG he/they plains half-orc fighter
5), legatus of the Legio Terra IX Caerula.
Notable Publi
Honorus Felicia Krystola (NG she/her [GF] high
half-elf commoner 4). An incredibly vocal puppet for
the Revitalists, who stands avidly for the reinstate-
ment of the imperial family’s rule.
Legatus Iona Tursten Agravata (LG she/her
Aldarin sellsword 5). A surly legionarius who has
physically assaulted multiple publi whilst standing
to voice her opinion.
Opulatus Leo Craeus Noctus (NE he/him Aldarin
umbra crow). Manipulative and deceptive, Leo is
said to be part of the Umbra Syndicate, and has
bribed other publi to swing the favour of certain bills
to loosen the restrictions on certain illicit substances.
Opulatus Revian Magnis (LN he/him [T] high
half-elf commoner 3). A popular, silver-tongued
fellow from the elven region of Lornfell Creek in
northern Alvia, who seeks to loosen immigration
laws between Fyndar and the empire.
Political Insults
Honorus Fel“If ye want to really tear down
a political rival in the Consentium, try
throwin’ out one of these at ‘em! Though
don’t let my mother know that I told ye
about them…”
These are real insults found in literature from
ancient Roman authors such as Catullus,
Ovid, and Cicero.
Nemo aspicit, quin ingemescat “Nobody lays
eyes upon you without groaning.”
Odiosus mihis “To me, you are but
a bad smell.”
Quod mare conceptum spumantibus expuit
undis “What sea hurled you, creature, from
out of its foamy waves?”
Tune etiam, immanissum ac foedissimum
monstrum “You are an immensely
loathsome monster.”
Permites! “Leech!”
Impurae matris prolapsus ab alvo! “You
slimy son of a bitch!”
 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

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

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

Decima (pl. Decimae)
The lowest collective unit within a legion is that of a
decima, consisting of eight legionarii and two skilled
labourers. The legionarii eat, sleep, wash, relax, and
fight together, and are usually very closely knit —
often consisting of friends from before the legion
or from a specific vintari academy. Whilst in battle,
the decima forms a single line of soldiers standing
shield to shield. At least one legionarius within a
decima is expected to have clerical training, knowing
a small number of healing spells, and is called the
clericus. The two labourers are expected to help with
the upkeep of armour, cooking, setting up camp,
hunting, foraging, repairing of equipment, and any
other form of non-combatant work.
Century (pl. Centuries)
The next collective within a legion is the century,
consisting of 10 decimae, or 80 legionarii and 20
skilled labourers. The legionarii of a century would
camp in the same area, share meals amongst deci-
mae, and take turns keeping watch. When deployed
on the battlefield, a century has five rows with two
decimae per row. Members of a century typically
consider themselves as an extended family, with most
legionarii forming close bonds and even marrying
within their century. Legionarii in a century interact
casually with those of other centuries within their
cohort, forming a sense of comradery and rivalry
between certain groups. A century is also the lowest
structure in a legion to be assigned a number, for
example Century IV of Cohort VII. Members of a
century would be considered “veterans” of a cohort
if their century’s number is lower, with Century I of a
cohort being the most experienced and battle hardy
of the legionarii. Some centuries even grow to form
a unique reputation amongst the legions, such as the
3rd Century, 4th Cohort of Legio Terra II Alvia who
are renowned specialists in sapping.
Cohort (pl. Cohorts)
A cohort is the next largest collective within a legion,
formed of 6 centuries equalling a total of 480 soldiers
and 120 skilled labourers. This is true for all cohorts
apart from a legion’s 1st Cohort, which is doubled in
strength at 960 soldiers and 240 labourers. Cohorts
often act independently of each other whilst on the
march, following the orders of their hydrophos, but
may be grouped together to form larger formations
when on the battlefield. The normal formation of
a cohort is with two centuries at the front and two
centuries in the middle, which will swap positions
throughout a battle, giving the front line soldiers
time to rest and recover. The final two blocks of
centuries, called the triarii, sit at the back. These
69
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
are the most experienced legionarii in a cohort
and are veteran soldiers who have been part of the
Legions the longest out of everyone else. When the
Introduction
triarii are ordered to move to the front and engage
the opponent, the legion is considered to be in dire
Introduction
straits. There are usually eight infantry cohorts and
to the
two equestrian cohorts within a land legion, though Aldarin
Empire
numbers fluctuate based on location and tribula-
tions in war. The equestrian cohorts are sometimes Aldarin
replaced with legionarii gryphones depending on Names
where the campaign is headed and the availability of
gryphons at the time of forming the legion.
Social Classes
Alternate Legion Types Kinships in
the Empire
There are a couple of different variations in legions
seen throughout the empire and with its allies. Festivals
Aerial Legions
Sports
The Aerial Legions, sometimes called the Gryphon
Legions, Legio Aerius, or the Legio Gryphones in
Aldarin, function slightly differently to the land and
Religion
naval legions. They are much smaller in scale, typ-
ically only consisting of 1,200 legionarii gryphones
as well as 1,200 supporting units, such as archers or
Politics
magi, who ride facing backwards on the gryphons.
The Aerial Legions are split into decimae, centuries,
and cohorts as per the normal formation of a legion, Military
often flying in a column formation. When in battle,
each century acts independently of each other
within a cohort, and each cohort acts upon their Commerce
own volition from the rest of the legion. Due to the
complex nature in which the Aerial Legions operate,
Crime and
it generally takes twice as long to train to become a Punishment
legionarius grypho, requiring more time and effort
in maintaining the upkeep of a gryphon and learning
Provinces of
of complex aerial formations. Aldarin
The gryphons sourced for the Legions are raised
by numerous gryphon farmers in Caerula, Nivinea, Periods of
Aldarin
and the Province of Deveros who are governed by
the Feldarium (Cb13) — an imperial governmental
History
body whose job is to oversee the empire’s gryphon
Classes
population. These gryphons are typically hastellian
gryphons, a breed local to the Province of Deveros.
They are named after the famous Dalaskian general, Backgrounds
Alveria Hastellian (NG she/her Aldarin dead),
whose scouting party located the hill upon which
Deveros was founded, and who first trained the Appendices
gryphons of the region for war. Hastellian gryphons
are smaller in stature than the average gryphon, more
akin in size to a small horse or pony. With a shorter
wingspan, they have much greater manoeuvrabil-
ity, which is key to their use on the battlefield. The
much rarer imperial gryphons are also given to the
gryphotes of a legion, which are much larger and are
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
used to strike fear into the hearts of the enemy. These
imperial gryphons are raised by the imperially sanc-
tioned gryphon breeders, the Kaleon family, and are
protected under law by the imperial family — loaned
out to commanders at the behest of the emperor.
Silver Legions
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.
However, there are nations which are technically
not part of the empire, such as the nation of South
Rymin, who still have legions and follow the struc-
ture outlined in the Legata Ordato Probatia. These
are called the Silver Legions, whose standards bear
the emblem of the representative country, made
out of silver and oak. It is deemed illegal for any
country other than Aldarin to own or carry a golden
standard, with a small number of wars historically
having been fought over this law. The most notable of
these were against Jykstrav, who still hold the legion
banners belonging to the legions commanded by
Empress Iliandra I (see page 103), who fell against
the Nordvær clans during the 5th Century.
The Sel’Kildarak Legeshi
This specialised legion serves in the east of the
empire, holding the Ophelian Wall against Menderin.
It is feared as one of the most coordinated and deadly
legions the empire has at its disposal. Composed
of legionarii of Kildaran origin, the Sel’Kildarak
Legeshi is an exclusive legion born of agreements
between Tak’huutan and Kishmaran refugees during
the 5th Century. Despite the legionarii of this legion
stemming from both Nul’Kildarian and Sel’Kildarian
origin, the legion actually derives its name from the
Sala Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros from which
many of its members originate. Other legionarii
might join from Kishmaran or Tak’huutan populated
coastal settlements found along the westernmost
coast of Aldarin.
After completing their 25 years of service, a excel-
lent legionarius of the Sel’Kildarak Legeshi may be
lucky enough to become honoured with the title of
gentan meaning “gifted one”, joining the ranks of the
Gentan where they then serve for another 10 years
protecting the Ivory Halls of Sala Sel’Kildarak. These
elite warriors are solely chosen from members of
joint Tak’huutan and Qutharian birth, though some
sand elves have also been selected for membership as
well. Gentan are expertly trained in the ways of the
chakram, the symbolic weapon of Tak’huut, and the
shamshir, the regional weapon of Kishradam and the
Qutharian Empire, in the years prior to their selection.
A gentan is expected to control each of these symbolic
weapons with expert precision and finesse.
70
Upon retirement from the Gentan, the legionarius
is granted a sizable sum of coin, animals, and a plot of
land somewhere within the empire. The animals and
land are traditionally gifted by the Primus Legatus,
whilst the gold is gifted by the Ivory Halls. The legion
also has its own form of vintari called hashuul, mean-
ing “protector of the people”, who operate exclusively
within the Sala Sel’Kildarak district.
Hetaria (pl. Hetariae)
A hetaria is a private citizen of Deveros who has
served in the Legions for at least 20 years and has
been put forward by the Primus Legatus to guard The
Amethyst Acre — the district holding the imperial
family. Hetariae can be seen throughout this district
of Deveros in elaborate gilded armour, riding atop
imperial gryphons whilst patrolling or standing
guard at one of the many historic structures. Hetariae
are expected to be capable legionarii gryphones
and exert notable skill in the sword, spear, hydra,
and bow. Hetariae are one of the few military units
allowed to carry weapons within the Sacrimum,
typically wielding the famous hydra glaive used by
the hydrophotes of the Legions and ornate parmae
bearing the imperial crest. Hetariae are infamous
for shouting at any who get too close, giving the
strict, single-word warning of “Abi!” meaning “Go
away!”. Those who disobey the command either find
themselves shoved back with the hetaria’s parma or
struck with the hydra. Attacking a hetaria is consid-
ered an offence punishable by death, which has been
enforced numerous times over the centuries.
Unlike every other military structure in the
empire, the Hetariae have no formal command, with
each hetaria seen as equal to the next. There are, how-
ever, special roles within the Hetariae: the Sepulcriae,
who guard the Sepulchre (R1); the Astoriae, who
guard the statues of Memoria Imperium (R5) and
the Imperiae, who guard the Imperial Palace (R4).
Usually, a hetaria will not have membership to these
sub-groups upon joining, instead learning the lay
of The Amethyst Acre and guarding the main gate-
house. After two years, they may then transfer into
one of these unique groups if there is a free space, or
if another hetaria agrees to exchange.
The Hetariae are considered to be the private
army of the imperial family and do not answer to
the Consentium under any circumstances. This has
led to a number of interesting conflicts between
the Vintari and the Hetariae, such as during the
demon-led invasion of Deveros in 1027 PDS. During
this invasion, Empress Iliandra III (see page 57)
commanded the Hetariae to defend the palace and
the servants. The Consentium, however, decreed
that all capable fighters should converge upon the
Deverosian World Anchor to drive back the demonic
 THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

forces, an order which was ignored by the Hetariae.
Shortly after the invasion had resolved, this led to an
outburst by the Reformist faction who pointed to the
law that stated no private armies are allowed within
the empire. This was swiftly shot down by Revitalist
leader, Proprimus Helgaria Astentium Menderica
(see page 64), who defended the imperial family’s
ability to protect itself as a traditional right from
time immemorial.
however. A legionarius would be expected to tend
to their gear, perform duties around camp, forage
for food, source water, train, and assist the locals
Introduction
with harvests. Legionarii who form the soldiers of
an equestrian or gryphones cohort would also be
Introduction
expected to tend to the needs of their animals and to the
to work alongside the auxiliaries and exploratores to Aldarin
Empire
assist with foraging and scouting.
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

Gryphos (pl. Gryphotes)
Plumage: Purple
Roman Equivalent: Legatus Legionis
The commander of a legion, typically a legitor from
the Consentium, the gryphos stands at the front-left-
most side of their legion in battle, giving orders and
evaluating the progress of the battle. It is common for
the gryphos to ride an imperial gryphon, regardless
of whether the legion is an aerial legion or not, which
gives them elevated height above their legionarii and
the enemy. Some gryphotes, however, choose to fly
above their legion, giving them enchanted visibility
of the battlefield whilst their significatus rides upon
the back of the gryphon, issuing orders from the sky.
When out of battle, gryphotes have an endless
supply of other duties they are supposed to fulfil. This
ranges from overseeing the wellbeing of their legion,
making sure food and water supplies are well stocked,
planning and strategizing the movements of the
legion, and keeping open communication with the
Legion Assembly and the Consentium. Gryphotes
are not expected to attend Consentium assemblies
whilst on campaign, but are required to give a full
informative summary of the campaign once they
return. Therefore, many gryphotes keep campaign
logs called Campanus Libertae to track the legion’s
movements, funding, and interactions with the
enemy over the course of a single campaign. When
a gryphos returns to Deveros after a campaign, they
must rescind their title as legion commander, once
again becoming a private citizen before entering past
the Sacrimum — the sacred barrier around the
northern city. The only exception to this is when the
gryphos is granted a “triumph” by the Consentium
— a celebration of extraordinary military success
(see Triumph).
Special Ranks
There are a number of unique ranks in the Legions
which do not fall under the typical rank-and-file
structure of a legion.
Vintarus (pl. Vintari)
Plumage: None
Roman Equivalent: Legionarii of
the Cohortes Urbanae
The Vintari is a special sect of the Legions which
does not go on active campaign, serving instead
as trainee legionarii and city guards to the many
larger settlements of the empire. These vintari usu-
ally consist of the newest members to the Legions,
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
Introduction
Other Roles
“There’s a lotta other roles in the Legions apart Introduction
from just these, y’know! One cardinal I knew was to the
Aldarin
a pretty good cornicen. And by pretty good I Empire
mean he wouldn’t shut it! Used to toot his cornu
nonstop. Endless horn blowin’, day in, day out.” Aldarin
Names
There are several additional roles that one
might find in an Aldarin legion. These can
range from servants to musicians to cooks
Social Classes
to messengers. Here are some of the more
unique roles:
Legionarius Grypho (pl. Legionarii Kinships in
Gryphones) A legionary who is trained to the Empire
fly, take care of, and ride into battle with a
Hastellian gryphon. These legionarii form
the aerial legions of the empire. They are Festivals
sometimes simply called “gryphon riders”
by the common folk, a term used to refer to
anyone mounted upon a gryphon. Sports
Ala (pl. Alae) A legionary mounted upon
horseback belonging to a small group of
Religion
equestrian units. These have fallen out of
fashion in recent years as the training and
breeding of gryphons has improved.
Politics
Cornicen (pl. Cornicines) A horn blower
who uses a cornu to attract the attention
of the legionarii and works closely
alongside a pelitus. Military
Discens (pl. Discentis) A clericus in training,
usually a young sacerdos who has yet to
Commerce
undergo military training.
Tirones (pl. Tironis) A legionarius who
has been recruited without the required Crime and
Punishment
vintarus training. These are most commonly
found within rapidly raised legions during
times of war where formal training cannot Provinces of
be undertaken. Aldarin
Praefectus Castrorum The camp prefect,
Periods of
typically a veteran who has many years of Aldarin
experience under their belt and is chosen History
by the gryphos. Considered to be fourth in
command after the Hydrophos Altus and
Classes
Hydrophos Laticlavius, they are responsible
for securing the supply lines for the entire
legion. The praefectus is also responsible for
ensuring there is no disorder amongst the Backgrounds
ranks and that no mutinies are brewing.
Tribunus Angusticlavius (pl. Tribuni
Angusticlavii) These are five junior
Appendices
consensae or patricians who sit upon the
gryphos’ war council. They serve both as
administrators of a legion and as delegative
commanders during engagements.
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

cohort. It is not uncommon for the peliti to reign
fireballs upon enemy ranks during a charge or to turn
scouts invisible before heading out to investigate
enemy positions. During battle, the peliti protect
themselves with abjuration magic and avoid fighting
directly on the front lines unless strictly necessary.
It is not uncommon for the peliti to utilise cantrips
to target specific hostiles from afar, indicating high
profile targets in the enemy ranks for the cohort to
focus their attention onto.
CW
Story of the Cindersong Cohort
“A carpet of fire bolts cloakin’ the sky like a
swarm of cardinals fluttering off to find food.
We get hungry, okay? And it’s safer to go
in numbers…”
One famous pelitus from Cohort VIII of
Legio Terra VII Deverosa, Daedelia Tulius
(CG she/her Aldarin magus [evocation] 7),
is well known for going against the grain,
utilising the destructive forces of evocation
magic to assist her cohort. Daedelia has
been so influential on the battlefield during
the Fourth Renavic War that a number of
legionarii within her cohort have asked to
learn minor evocation cantrips from her,
which she has readily taught them. Cohort
VIII has since garnered the nickname
“Cindersong” from the whistling of fire bolts
fired off by Daedelia’s protégés. This in turn
has inspired other peliti to start teaching
their cohorts minor cantrips to those
inclined to learn, which has strengthened
the otherwise tenuous relationship between
the Imperial Arcane Academy and the
Legions. Daedelia has been awarded the
Altus Moventur, an accolade given by the
Consentium to those who have made
notable impact whilst in service, and seeks
to be promoted to the rank of significatus
backed with the full support of the
Cindersong Cohort.
75
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Legionary Assemblies
Century Assembly Introduction
Each legionarius is given a voice within the legion
Introduction
which can be exercised by talking to their principa to the
or secunda, being able to raise any issue or concern Aldarin
Empire
they might have. The Century Assembly of a cohort
gathers each week to discuss any issues from within Aldarin
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
been discussed, the decision can then be passed back
down to the legionarii. If an issue needs to be taken
higher, it is discussed between the hydrophos and the Kinships in
the Empire
regitorus in private, who then bring it to the Cohort
Assembly. The Century Assembly is somewhat more
of a social affair compared to the other legionary Festivals
assemblies, commonly involving drinking and
gambling between the officers with light chit chat
and discussion about plans for the coming weeks. Sports
Cohort Assembly
Religion
The Cohort Assembly is the weekly gathering of the
ten hydrophotes, the ten regitori, and the gryphos
used to discuss important matters within the legion Politics
and plans for what the legion is to do next. When on
campaign, the Cohort Assembly meets much more
regularly, usually every one to two days, to discuss Military
plans for upcoming battles and to strategize the
movements of the legion whilst in enemy territory.
Issues from one of the Century Assemblies may be Commerce
brought to the Cohort Assembly on the behest of a
hydrophos if a matter is deemed important enough to
Crime and
raise. There is sometimes the rare case that a matter Punishment
needs to be elevated higher to the Legion Assembly,
in which case it is the duty of the gryphos to bring
Provinces of
it forward. This meeting is a more formal affair as Aldarin
compared to the Century Assemblies, commonly
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.
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

legion. Any gryphos wearing the corona graminea
is granted the benefits of the corona civica, as well
as the unfaltering respect of legionarii across the
empire. It is a symbol of appreciation and sincere
thanks from a legion to one they respect highly, a
gesture which brings great pride to the gryphos and
their family.
Ovatum (Pl. Ovati)
Ovatum are ornate, circular brass discs that are inlaid
into each legionarius’ chestplate. These represent the
campaigns that the legionarius has been on, and are
usually representative of an in-joke from the cam-
paign in some way. Designs vary wildly from cam-
paign to campaign, with the imperial blacksmith of
the Ironworks in Deveros spearheading production
of ovati for distribution to legionarii throughout
the empire.
The Balderan Skull Ovatum
“Oh oh oh, this story is a goodun! Sounds like the
gryphos was a complete worm-wrangler. That’s
what we call cardinals who spend too long caring
about the finer details of pluckin’ worms from
the ground.”
A notable example of an in-joke ovatum
design is that of the Legio Terra III Baldera
and their ovatum for the Second Renavic
War. The ovatum of this campaign features
a skull with a single tooth, referencing the
Cohort V who found an unidentified skull
sitting in the middle of the road during a
march. The skull had no teeth apart from
one golden tooth upon its jawbone. Seeing
this as a good omen from the gods, the
legionarii nicknamed the skull “Gryphos
Difficilis” after their legion’s gryphos, who
was renowned for having a bad temper and
flying into a rage most evenings after setting
up camp. The skull became a companion to
the Cohort V and the legionarii took turns
looking after it, barking pretend orders
through it to other cohorts, with some
loyally following whatever the skull said. The
original skull now resides in the domus of
the hydrophos of the Legio Terra III Baldera,
Damascus Lena (CG he/him high elf veteran
7), with the joke perpetuating through the
campaign’s ovatum.
77
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Military Celebrations
There are many ways for a legion to celebrate their
Introduction
successes, ranging from the drinking dry of tabernae
when returning home to inter-cohort sporting events
Introduction
hosted by the gryphos. These unofficial celebrations to the
are certainly fun, but nothing is more desirable than Aldarin
Empire
an imperially sanctioned celebration in honour of a
legion’s success during a campaign. There are only Aldarin
two such celebrations, the triumph and the ovation, Names
which each great gryphos strives to achieve at the
height of their military career. These celebrations are
Social Classes
requested by the gryphos when returning to Deveros
and must be approved in advance by the Consentium
before taking place. Kinships in
the Empire
Ovation
Festivals
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
bulls, one for each of the Tredecima deities. The gry- Politics
phos first heads to the Aedes Tredecima, where they
are met by the pontifices. A bull is sacrificed here to
each deity, with the Primus Pontifex awarding the Military
celebrating gryphos with a wreath of silver oak leaves
mixed with myrtle and amethysts. The gryphos then
travels to the Sacrimum, laying down their arms and Commerce
rescinding their control of the legion, before entering
the Consentium as a private citizen to give a speech
Crime and
about their success. Punishment
Ovations are a smaller affair as compared to
triumphs, with less fanfare and no specific festival
Provinces of
day set aside to celebrate them. A gryphos is still Aldarin
expected to step down as a private citizen during
the course of the celebration and their legion is not Periods of
Aldarin
allowed to enter the city until they have finished History
their speech. On average, there is an ovation once
every couple of years, with many stopping their daily
Classes
business to witness the event.
Triumph Backgrounds
A triumph is the greatest accolade attainable by a
gryphos and commander of one or more legions.
These huge celebrations are day-long events, Appendices
announced weeks in advance, with a festival day
being set aside for all within the capital to partake in
the festivities. They are awarded to gryphotes who
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
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
to eight great white horses. They are dressed in an
all-red toga, trimmed with gold and purple filigree,
and woven with amethysts called the “toga picta”
(one of the few toga designs restricted by law for tri-
umphal gryphotes only). The full legions who served
the gryphos during the campaign follow them into
the city, processing with bountiful, exotic treasures
claimed from distant lands. This is accompanied
by the singing of marching songs by the legionarii,
often making fun of their gryphos light-heartedly
whilst dancing and throwing the spoils of war to
CW
civilians in the streets. Twenty-six bulls are led
behind the legions, which are taken to the Aedes
Tredecima and sacrificed to the thirteen deities by
the pontifices — similarly to an ovation. After the
sacrifices, the gryphos makes a speech to the crowds
gathered to watch, exclaiming their successes and
telling embellished stories of their experiences in
these distant nations of barbarians and monsters. The
gryphos is then gifted a crown of golden oak leaves,
laurel leaves, and amethysts by the Primus Pontifex
which is traditionally rejected thrice, implying the
unwillingness to accept the crown which would
attribute oneself to being an emperor. The crown is
then (not so) begrudgingly accepted by the gryphos
on the fourth offer and worn during their ride to
the Sacrimum, where they are allowed to cross as a
military commander. Their legions, however, must
lay down their arms — usually done before entering
Ovati
78
the city — and renounce their legionarius status,
once again becoming private citizens. The gryphos
then marches with their legions to the steps of the
Consentium, where they enter, flanked by their
officers. Within the Consentium, the gryphos gives a
speech announcing their successful campaign, listing
their victories to the consensae before eventually
offering their crown to the Primus Imperator, who
takes it from them before placing it back upon their
head, symbolising the imperial family’s acknowl-
edgement of the triumph. The gryphos then exits
the Consentium, publicly placing down their sword
at the door in renouncement of their military
leadership in the full view of their legions before
proclaiming to Deos: “Ave Deos! Nomen tuum
duco.” meaning “Praise Deos! I lead in your name.”.
At this point, the legions and the crowd burst into
celebration, with the festivities truly beginning and
lasting well into the night.
The triumph is the end goal of every aspiring gry-
phos, with few actually achieving one during their
military careers. There have only been a handful of
triumphs in Aldarin history, with one coming around
every ten to twenty years. Gryphotes who celebrate a
triumph are commemorated in the Consentium and
the Consentium Minor, with their names engraved
alongside those of their officers within bronze tablets
inlaid within the walls of both buildings.
 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
the 2nd Century, the now sprawling organisation
spans over 5,000 members ranging from powerful
magi to fresh acolytes. The Concilium Arcanus Altus
underwent massive reform during the 8th and 9th
Century after an insurgency by Wyld operatives
from the Wysterwood, eventually merging with the
Deveros Arcane University.
Imperial magi can be seen dotted throughout the
Prisada Arcana district of Deveros, adorned in their
distinctive gilded purple robes as they stride through
the sea of merchants and tourists enroute towards the
Deverosian World Anchor. This is the living heart
of governmental body and college is common Social Classes
amongst the other world anchors of the Medial
Plane, allowing them to serve a multifunctional
purpose in education, research, and military. Due Kinships in
the Empire
to the Deverosian World Anchor being one of the
only teleportation access points through the World
Border into the rest of the Compass, magi within the Festivals
empire wishing to teleport across the planar border
must first register themselves with the Concilium
Arcanus Altus and acquire the respective interplanar Sports
licences. The Imperial Arcane Assembly is known
to be the most ruthless out of the Anchor Nations
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

Ordos (pl. Ordotes)
Contained within each quaeson are multiple ordotes:
concentrated groups of specialist magi trained
in a specific niche of their school of magic. An
ordos typically contains up to ten magi and is led
by a haruspex — an elite magus of refined arcane
prowess. New ordotes are frequently constructed
and dissolved by the leading quaestors depending on
current research goals set by the assembly. Magi also
often shift themselves around ordotes to optimise
their skills and talents. Whilst membership to an
ordos is relatively fluid, the haruspex will remain as
the leader of an ordos until the quaestor sees fit to
remove them from their position, until they leave
the organisation, or until they retire. Whilst many
ordotes morph in membership on a yearly basis, it
is not uncommon for students who trained together
in their time as premagi to join together within the
same ordos and to remain together for extended
periods of time.
Ordotes serve a dual purpose, both bolstering the
arcane research output of the empire and serving as
rapid response units for emergencies across Elos,
often working in conjunction with their equivalent
allied Anchor Nation counterparts of the Gilded
Hand in Emondas and the Scholars of the Third
Flame in Zygarde. It is not uncommon for an ordos
to be formed entirely for the purpose of one of
these missions, with magi selected especially for
their proficiency with certain spells in a school of
magic. These units are unofficially referred to as
“thunder strikes” within the Anchor Nations due to
the deafening crackles of noise the magi make when
teleporting in unison as well as the destruction often
left in their wake.
Emeros (pl. Emerotes)
CW
The haruspex of each ordos form a minor assembly
within their quaeson called an emeros. This collec-
tive serves a similar purpose to the cohort assemblies
of the Legions, with the haruspices communicating
the desires and concerns of magi within their ordotes
to each other and to their governing quaestor. The
81
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
emeros additionally allows haruspices to coordinate
research efforts between ordotes and to plan for the
ever-changing whims of the quaestors. Originally,
Introduction
emerotes did not exist, with ordotes serving as
entirely free flowing collectives across the quaesons.
Introduction
After the Concilium Arcanus Altus insurgency of to the
790 PDS, however, Altus Magus Geliora Astentium Aldarin
Empire
Bruta (LG she/her Aldarin dead) ruled for mass
reforms within the Imperial Arcane Assembly, which Aldarin
brought numerous structural concepts across from Names
the Legions. The emerotes were one such byproduct
of these reforms, now serving as a fundamental cog Social Classes
in the ever-spinning machine of assembly politics.
Higher Emeros
Kinships in
Stemming from the same reforms as the emerotes, the Empire
the Higher Emeros is the collective of all quaestors
within the Imperial Arcane Assembly who meet
Festivals
with the Altus Magus to discuss the direction of the
Concilium Arcanus Altus as a whole. This council
is held within the secretive Upper Sanctum at the
Sports
pinnacle of the Deverosian World Anchor, the same
demiplanar room where the gryphotes hold the
Legion Assembly.
Religion
Due to the busy nature of the quaestors, it is
common for the council to be sparsely attended, with
any important opinions or proposals often delegated
Politics
to another quaestor known to be attending, or even
to a trusted haruspex. The one exclusion to this is
The Summons — an annual discussion between the Military
quaestors and Altus Magus to decide upon which
applicants are to be allowed into the Deveros Arcane
University that year. All quaestors are expected to Commerce
be in attendance, with heavy sanctions placed upon
their quaeson by the Consentium if they fail to
Crime and
show. This harsh punishment is in part due to the Punishment
importance of tradition held by the empire, with The
Summons forming a focal part of the Ioras festival Provinces of
each winter, celebrating cultural achievement and Aldarin
arcane prosperity.
Periods of
Aldarin
History
Classes
Backgrounds
Appendices
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
issues with the Altus Magus directly, with repre-
sentatives from each year of the premagi courses
allowed to attend. Numerous improvements have
already been brought forward by the students, such
as renovations to decrepit accommodation buildings
and the introduction of Communitas, a week where
the students celebrate the end of exam season and
help out in the community around Deveros.
Rise of the Premagi Assembly
“I’m glad the premagi are gettin’ a voice,
y’know? As a young cardinal in the cardinal
Vintari academies we didn’t get much of a say in
anythin’ at all. ‘Eat the worm!’. ‘Fly over there!’.
‘Poop on that soldier!’. It was hard going!”
Helia Syrinthi took it upon herself to
spearhead a campaign to grant premagi a
voice within the Concilium Arcanus Altus
following numerous students speaking out
about the dangerous misconduct of the
Evocation Quaeson’s previous quaestor,
Remus Alerius (CN he/him Aldarin magus
[evocation] 12). This campaign struck a chord
with the locality of Prisada Arcana, who
allowed Helia’s campaigners to place fliers
and hold gatherings in the local tabernae
and temples.
Remus’s careless spellcasting in lectures
and the training arenas had resulted in
a number of students becoming scarred
with fire magic, with heightened outcries
from the premagi body for his removal. This
culminated in a seven-day protest within
the Anchor Pendant, which surrounds the
Deverosian World Anchor (Ja17), finally
culminating in the resignation of Remus
as quaestor and ensuing his banishment
from the empire. Primus Arcanus Davicia
Baradinus Kyren publicly apologised to
the premagi and Deverosian public for
not addressing the issue sooner, citing
miscommunication within Concilium
Arcanus Altus. Not long after, the Premagi
Assembly was formed to prevent such
travesties occuring again.
82
Deveros Arcane
University
The Deveros Arcane University, or DAU, is one of
the few magical colleges on the continent of Elos
and by far the most expensive to attend. Whether
one’s magical talents are learned, innate, gifted, or
earned, the university seeks to hone in on these skills
and to help each and every student flourish. Premagi
of the university are not only taught the ways of the
arcane but history, politics, and interplanar law,
setting them up to become the plane’s most talented
diplomats and agents.
Accepting only applicants who display keen mental
acumen and a deep arcane potential, the quaestors of
the Imperial Arcane Assembly spend the entirety of
the Ioras festival choosing these candidates during
a meeting called The Summons. At the end of The
Summons, as the clock strikes midnight under the
vibrant blue glow of the Deverosian World Anchor,
the Higher Emeros publicly announces the names
of the new students who will be attending DAU that
year. These students are formally handed their robes
and are bestowed with the title of premagus.
Annual fees stand at around 450 gold a year, with
students spending at least five years at the university.
These fees are more than the average fledgling mage
might be able to afford, even through several years
of work. As such, there are numerous scholarships
hosted by patrician families and charitable funds
across the three Elosian Anchor Nations of Aldarin,
Emondas, and Zygarde. One such scholarship is
that of the Enlightened Gem, run by Primus Arcanus
Davicia Baradinus Kyren herself at her family home
of Baradinus Estate (Ia17) in Deveros. These
scholarships are geared towards assisting talented
budding magi in attending both DAU and her sister
universities of the Blooming Lily in Emondas and the
University of the Third Flame in Zygarde.
Premagi traditionally undergo a five-year pro-
gramme at DAU, granted the exciting opportunity to
learn a bounty of spells and techniques from across
all schools of magic. In the second year, a premagus

specialises into one school, taking training under
magi of that school’s quaeson. Lectures are held
daily within the Prisada Arcana, not only by highly
renowned imperial magi but also by researchers
and mages from throughout the Anchor Nations.
These lecturers give talks on a multitude of topics
ranging from the ancient Vilorian Empire to the
mysterious dusk magic behind embers. After the
normal five-year course, premagi graduate during
the Ioras festival, traditionally handing their books
over to the new students who are sworn in at the end
of the festival. Once graduated, some premagi choose
to go on and take further exams, becoming imperial
magi within the Imperial Arcane Assembly whilst
carrying on important research from their time at
DAU. Others use their qualifications to seek well-
paid work with patricians of the empire or within
one of the many prestigious mercyr guilds situated
across Elos.
Joining DAU
In order to join DAU, an applicant must first have
attained at least one level in any of the following
traditional arcane classes: Bard, Wizard, Sorcerer,
Warlock. An application is to be made, containing
the applicant’s name, age, talents, accommodation
requirements, referees, and any letters of referral.
This must be signed by the applicant before being
addressed and sent to the Higher Emeros of the
Imperial Arcane Assembly between the months of
Autumn’s Crest and Winter’s Wane. If an applicant
is selected to attend the university, they are informed
either during the final day of Ioras, where they may
receive their robes in person, or are sent an accep-
tance letter through the Imperial Postal Service with
instructions on accommodation and robe collection.
From this point onwards, they are known as a prema-
gus of DAU and are expected to act with decorum.
Students who request accommodation are
typically assigned to one of the three student halls:
Helian, Byrandos, and Verdant. This designation is
usually random, though applicants can request to be
placed into certain halls given availability. Students
who do not request accommodation are assumed
to have their own arrangements within or around
Deveros. Helians and Bryans have an ongoing rivalry
against each other, perpetuated to the younger years
by the senior premagi. Both dislike Verdants with
a passion, who are seen as the snooty heirs of aris-
tocratic families. Premagi are assigned to learning
groups which mimic the ordotes of Concilium
Arcanus Altus, ranging in size anywhere from three
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
research tasks under the guidance of a magus, who is
their mentor over their five years at DAU. During this
time, they will be expected to both spark and hone
Introduction
their embers, learning to control the tempestuous
magic held within them whilst embracing the arcane
Introduction
teachings DAU has to provide. to the
Aldarin
Semesters Empire
Aldarin
There are three semesters each year: Spring, lasting
Names
from early Spring’s Dawn through to early Summer’s
Dawn; Summer, lasting from late Summer’s Dawn
through to early Autumn’s Dawn; and Autumn, Social Classes
lasting from late Autumn’s Dawn through to late
Autumn’s Dusk. Each semester has a 2–3 week
Kinships in
break in between, with the winter seasons left for the Empire
students to travel home and visit family. Semesters
typically cost around 150 gold each, which may be
Festivals
paid at the start of the semester. A 25 gold discount is
given per semester for a full year’s payment upfront.
This cost includes the expenses of basic accommo-
dation, robes, spell components worth less than 2
Sports
sp, lectures, three meals a day, and non-magical
books. Any additional costs must be funded by the Religion
student or their beneficiaries. An additional 50 gold
is reduced from the price if the student already has
accommodation. Politics
The Autumn semester marks exam season for the
university, a stressful time for many premagi. If one
is to pass the autumn exams, they graduate on to the Military
next year, gaining one level in their chosen arcane
class. If a premagus is to fail the exams, however,
they may be held back a year or even expelled from Commerce
the university. The exams typically range from
theory to practical, with the 2nd and 4th year exams
Crime and
including field contracts where students join with a Punishment
mercyr guild or research team to complete an official
imperial mercyr contract. Provinces of
Aldarin
Running a DAU Campaign
Periods of
DAU is the perfect setting for an arcane-focused Aldarin
party starting at 1st level, giving players an insight History
into the arcane aspects of Aldarin society and
introducing them to the concepts of how magic fits Classes
into the wider world of Vynestra. Player characters
have a wide range of options when graduating as
premagi from DAU at 6th level, with the title of Backgrounds
“DAU alumnus” that will carve a lucrative path for
them within the empire. They could join a mercyr
guild, progress upwards into the Concilium Arcanus Appendices
Altus, join Magnatus or another research society, or
venture out to other cities in the empire to seek fame
and fortune.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Ranks
Premagus (pl. Premagi)
Pauldron: None
Premagi form the main body of the Concilium
Arcanus Altus, consisting of over 3,000 of the 5,000
total members. That being said, the drop out rate of
students in the first year of DAU is over sixty percent,
with only the most hardened progressing through to
graduation. Whilst still just students, premagi are
held with exceptionally high regard by the
Deverosian community, with numerous tabernae
giving discounts to premagi wearing their robes.
Auspicious business owners have jumped onto the
perception that the presence of imperial magi regu-
lars portrays an establishment as trustworthy and
reputable, which in turn attracts a well-pay-
ing clientele.
“Hey. HEY! Totally not true! Premagi are the
scourge of the city after the sun goes down.
They’re even rowdier than the students of the
Vintari academies! My worm hunting buddy, a
sparrow called Crimshaw. He hangs out in Sala
Sel’Kildarak. He said that The Garzag’s Tail
caught fire last week after… Guess what? A
rogue firebolt. Fired off by some premagus
attempting to warm up their puls! Talk about
‘reputable’, right?”
These young students are put through gruelling
training during their time at DAU, learning how to
defend themselves as trained mages. Weekly training
sessions are held in arenas within the Deverosian
World Anchor to test the students in their practical
prowess. They are expected to perform extensive
research into the history of the Medial Plane, arcane
waylines, soul threads, and all other aspects of magic,
which they are then quizzed on during exams.
Premagi can be spotted throughout Deveros wear-
ing the traditional purple and white robes, though
without any of the symbolic pauldrons that would
commonly be worn by the imperial magi. Some
students seek to embellish their robes further than
the standard clothing, commissioning additional
designs or adornments from high class tailors such
as The Gryphon’s Groove (Nb9). Due to recent
fashion trends sweeping across the empire from
the continent’s cultural capital of Longbreach, short
shoulder capes with braided tassels is the current
trending look amongst premagi.
Premagi are assigned accommodation within
one of the many student insulae within the Prisada
84
Arcana at the start of their first year. This accommo-
dation is commonly shared with another premagus
from one of the higher years, who serves as a mentor.
This senior premagus is expected to help familiarise
the freshmen with the typical daily routine of a pre-
magus, to show them how to get around the city, and
to offer assistance where needed on spellcasting and
any other issues they might face. As the years go on,
the senior premagus eventually graduates and their
junior premagus takes their place, entrusted with
guiding another newly joining freshman. Because
of this system, a lot of traditions are passed down,
particularly through the student houses.
Magus (pl. Magi)
Pauldron: Silver feathers on both shoulders
Usually mages who have graduated from one of the
Anchor Nation universities around Elos, magi form
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
upon becoming a magus, one would be awarded
a pauldron formed of silver gryphon feathers,
denoting one’s rank. Whilst a magus can belong to
multiple quaesons at once, they usually specialise
towards a single school of magic. This would be their
main quaeson and dictates which ordotes they find
themselves a part of on a daily basis.
Seen as orderly officials of the empire by the public
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-
gling discounts from merchants, boasting their
positions for public favour, or even smuggling illicit
goods through the World Border. With the recent
reforms of the Imperial Arcane Assembly, in tandem
with the progress made by the Premagi Assembly,
this type of activity has been cracked down on in
recent years by the haruspices and quaestors. Any
magus who is found to be abusing their power
against the goodwill of the people risks having their
position stripped from them, as well as serving jail
time in Carcer Opero on Crevana.
Alongside their research, magi are sometimes
expected to assist the haruspices and quaestors in
training the premagi of DAU, as well as overseeing
premagus insulae. If a premagus has any concerns
that cannot be answered by the senior premagus, they
would be expected to reach out to their supervising
residential magus for assistance. Many of the magi
who did not attend DAU have complained about
this role, stating that they are part of the assembly
to research, not to babysit. Conversely, graduates
of DAU who end up becoming magi tend to speak
more fondly of the position as it allows them to pass

Soul Salt
CW “Did you know? Shortly after a bird’s nest full
of rules came into play in an attempt to crack
down on smugglin’ rings, a number of naughty
magi from the Divination Quaeson left the city
in quite a hurry. Sounds pretty suspicious,
right? The imperial magi discovered that they’d
been smugglin’ soul salt, some illegal substance
made from the remnants of frayed soul threads
or something weird like that. Crazy, right?!
They were even sellin’ the soul stuff on The
Slipways (see D:TAC). Apparently, or so Al tells
me, thanks to their specialisation in the spooky
divine magics, these rogue magi were able to
avoid detection for over ten years. Ten whole
blinkin’ years! They were led by some fella who
migrated all the way from Halthos called Vexan
Heligram (NE he/him earthbound dwarf magus
[divination] 4). Al says Vexan’s fled to Jykstrav
since one of his rook buddies followed him during
one of ‘is migrations. Shame the magi don’t just
ask us city birds about these things. We’d solve
these crimes in no time!”
on their knowledge of the Concilium Arcanus Altus
to the next generation. These graduate magi are well
known within the student body for hosting extrav-
agant parties and for mingling with the premagi.
This has led to a handful of dubious relationships
springing up within the organisation between
senior magi and premagi, relationships which are
generally looked down upon by the Imperial Arcane
Assembly as a whole.
Haruspex (pl. Haruspices)
Pauldron: Golden feathers on right shoulder
By the turn of the 9th Century, the Concilium
Arcanus Altus had grown from its humble begin-
nings as a council of elders and arcane experts into a
sprawling organisation. By recruiting plentiful talent
into its ranks, the organisation provided necessary
magical support across the length of the empire.
As numbers grew within the organisation, greater
structure needed to be defined. The Altus Magus
at the time, Geliora Astentium Bruta (LN she/her
Aldarin dead), saw it prudent to introduce a more
fixed role of leadership for the floating ordotes of
the organisation. These defined leaders, known as
haruspices, allowed for better focused research goals
from each of the ordotes as well as specialised inter-
nal training by the assembly’s most esteemed magi.
Haruspices are denoted by the plumage of golden
gryphon feathers upon the right shoulder, similar
in style to that of the magi. A haruspex is generally
considered to be a well-respected magus from
within the Anchor Nations with a fine control over
the magic of their specialised school. Their role
85
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
revolves around both leadership for the junior
magi and spearheading research projects into
complex magical formulations, such as studies
Introduction
on the arcane waylines. A haruspex must sit as the
lead magus of an ordos, expected to drive forward
Introduction
any research goals or objectives the ordos has been to the
asked to complete and to report to their quaestor Aldarin
Empire
about any progress or issues. Certain haruspices
train especially to become significati within the Aldarin
Legions or to lead thunder strike missions on the Names
empire’s foes.
Quaestor (pl. Quaestors) Social Classes
Pauldron: Golden feathers on both shoulders
Each quaeson within the Imperial Arcane Assembly Kinships in
is led by a quaestor: an elite magus who wields the the Empire
immense power of their quaeson’s school of magic
with absolute control. It is the duty of the quaestors
Festivals
to organise the membership of the ordotes, to rec-
ommend forward haruspices and magi as significati
and peliti for the Legions, and to lead the research
Sports
directives of the quaeson as a whole. Quaestors
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
Deverosian World Anchor hosting a multitude of
lecture halls and training rooms to suit these needs.
Politics
It is down to the Altus Magus to find suitable
haruspices to fill the roles of quaestors. Once chosen,
a quaestor usually stays within their position until Military
they choose to step down or are replaced by order
of the Altus Magus. A quaestor is easily identified
by the golden gryphon feather pauldron stretched Commerce
across both their shoulders, accompanied by a
toga or sash featuring the colour attributed to
Crime and
their school of magic. Whilst not all quaestors are Punishment
consensae of the Consentium, their word still holds
a heavy political weight within Deveros due to the Provinces of
respect garnered by the Concilium Arcanus Altus Aldarin
amongst the public people. It is not uncommon to
witness quaestors orating within the public forums, Periods of
Aldarin
advocating for the greater spread of arcane-inclined History
knowledge or encouraging folk to support relations
with Aldarin’s closest geographical allies, such as
Classes
Lildor and South Rymin.
Quaestors usually arrange their own accommoda-
tion within the Prisada Arcana district or elsewhere Backgrounds
within the capital of Deveros. Fluminis is one such
popular district for the quaestors with easy rapida
access to both Prisada Arcana and Consentarius. Appendices
This is also due to the spacious domus which are
found throughout the district, allowing the quaestors
to escape the hustle and bustle of the World Anchor
in their downtime without the worry of premagi
knocking on their door asking for extensions on
their assignments.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Altus Magus (pl. Alti Magi)
Pauldron: Golden gryphon claw and feathers on left
shoulder; Gold and amethyst laurel wreath on head
The Altus Magus, known as the Primus Arcanus in
Aldarin’s political sphere, is the highest rank attain-
able by any imperial magus. Holding responsibility
for the daily running of Concilium Arcanus Altus
and both its child organisations, an Altus Magus is
expected to not only be a brilliantly talented mage
but also a keen military tactician, politician, teacher,
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
assemblies, hosting public events, giving speeches,
and coordinating military movements with the
Legions to provide arcane-centric logistical support.
Whilst some of these duties can be pawned off to the
quaestors, the Altus Magus stands to uphold their
reputation as the figurehead of CAA and is generally
expected to handle each of these areas personally.
The current Altus Magus, Primus Arcanus
Davicia Baradinus Kyren (see page 79), is widely
considered to be the most acclaimed Aldarin-born
magus of the current century, holding an immensely
powerful Rank 0 Devotion ember and standing as a
proud mantel of Iora. Conversely, her predecessor,
Talio Lucaros Garos (NE he/they Aldarin dead),
was executed for conspiring with Jykstrav in attempts
to sabotage Aldarin legionary forts stationed near
the River Nystra in the years prior to the Fourth
Renavic War. Kyren has served for four years out
of her five year term and has overseen numerous
improvements to CAA in this time, such as the
introduction of the Premagi Assembly. Rumours
are circulating that the next in line to be elected as
Altus Magus is Vopiscus Korvo Alistair (NG he/
they Aldarin magus [Abjuration] 15), quaestor of
the Abjuration Quaeson. Alistair is seen to be an
excellent successor to Kyren, as the two see eye to
eye on many areas. Additionally, Alistair’s husband,
Prolegitor Damascus Korvo Pilkos (CG he/him
Rymish veteran 10), serves as the headmaster of
High Rock Imperial, an academy specialised in
streamlining the very best talent into DAU, with
strong desires voiced by consensae to more formally
join the two schools.
86
Elections for the Altus Magus are held within
the Higher Emeros every five years, traditionally
announced in early Summer’s Crest alongside the
new primi for the following year. Over the course of
the next six months following this announcement,
the new Altus Magus works closely alongside the
current in a transitional period. On the 2nd Winter’s
Wane, the new Altus Magus formally takes command
over CAA and begins their five year stint as Aldarin’s
Primus Arcanus.
Magic and Mystery
To the average Aldarin, magic is something
of a wondrous mystery. An element of the
world to be both respected and feared. Even
something as simple as a levitating potion
bottle or a magical orb of light is enough
to inspire awe in the common folk of the
empire, especially for those far flung from the
settlements of esteemed arcane colleges. As
such, to be born with magic, to learn magic,
or to be gifted with magic is considered
to be an honour held high above all else.
Those who can manipulate this lifeblood
of the Compass, who can understand its
twisting machinations, find themselves
propelled into the upper echelons of Aldarin
society. Craftsfolk may work for decades to
secure enough gold so that their child may
apprentice under a magus, if just enough to
learn the basics of magic.
To be a magus in a society where one is
ogled as a manipulator of existence itself is
to incite the attention of any and all folk who
pass you by. From the local smithy asking you
to mend his anvil to a patrician presuming it
is within your skillset to cook a fine feast with
but a flick of your hand. These expectations
of arcane service to the wider populace held
by the non-magical majority are conflated by
many magi who lean into such propositions.
These money-minded magi charge for their
services at a heightened cost to outweigh
whatever inconvenience performing these
spells causes them. As such, magi have
garnered a reputation amongst poorer rural
communities for being tight with their coin
and thieves of opportunity, willing to take
a widows inheritance to allow her to see an
illusion of her lost partner again.
 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-
standing for the importance of coinage, using it both
as a currency and a form of propaganda. Those who
exchange this magically minted coinage witness
stunning views of the empire emblazoned across the
glimmering gold, finding themselves enticed by the
calls of the wealth-filled nation. Sparkling amethysts
embedded within Aldarin’s higher-value coins boasts
an excessive splendour otherwise lacking throughout
smaller, less opulent countries. Engravings such as
“Deos’s radiance blesses us” ensures that all across
the plane know that the Aldarins are blessed by the
gods, voyagers of Deos’s sun-touched bloodline. A
sense of ridiculousness lies in these messages, how-
was emblazoned upon the mint as a means of
informing those in far-flung lands as to who held Social Classes
the seat of absolute power. As the empire shifted
governmental state into that of a republic, so too did
its coinage reflect this newfound freedom. Whilst Kinships in
the Empire
the single gold coin — the unum — stayed the same,
representing the current symbolic ruler of Aldarin,
the more sizable values of coinage shifted to show Festivals
the boastful aspects of living within the empire.
Stunning vistas, bountiful wine, powerful legionarii
gryphones, all blessed by the rays of Deos who Sports
watches over Aldarin and its people.
Embedded into all forms of Aldarin coinage
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
Aeris
Argentum
Unum
Quinta
Rise of Merchants
I heard that the Aldarin Empire used to be pretty
resistant to exportin’ too many goods for fear
of shortages within the empire itself. They were
already wealthy enough so who could blame ‘em
really? This was at least until after the First
Medial War when some clever cookie realised
that they could make a lotta money by flogging
off stuff gathering dust in their warehouse.
Loads of families made their names sellin’
random wares during the Age of Exploration. My
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
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
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
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
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.
Anchor Nations
Of all the nations Aldarin trades with, trade routes
formed between the powerful Anchor Nations are by
far the most lucrative and stable. As the initial
designers and architects of the world anchors,
Aldarin holds a capital monopoly throughout the
Anchor Nations for the upkeep of these grandiose
structures, exporting not only material goods but
talent and knowledge as well. Imports too are made
in vast quantities, such as black powder from the
distant nation of Xhaolo and dusk crystals from
Giraré in Ravidan.
 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
location for countering Jyrden naval threats and as
such is bolstered through injections of gold, wood,
and wool by the two more powerful nations.
South Rymin
Land connections travel onwards from central
Aldarin into the luscious vineyards and rolling
plains of South Rymin where a breadth of culture is
shared between the two nations. Art, textiles, music,
dyes, and countless other expensive goods pass along
the bustling thoroughfares connecting the South
Rymish capital of Longbreach and the provincial
capital of Liceric in Civaci. Under the watchful eye
of the Rymish Silver Legions, these trade routes are
protected from raiders along the border, though
sometimes see issue with bandits ambushing car-
avans through Civaci’s easternmost forests. Aldarin
streams a steady supply of armour, weaponry, siege
equipment, and troops into South Rymin, bolstering
their legions against the ever-encroaching necropolis
state of North Rymin.
Mistveil
CW
Whilst Aldarin holds prime position upon the west-
ern coast of Elos for trade with the Kildars, Mistveil
holds the same for trade with Ravidan and Panthéa
upon the easternmost shores. Mistveil’s mercantile
presence is vast, spanning numerous fleets which sail
along well-established ocean routes to their far-flung
trade partners. These efforts are coordinated by the
Duskan League, Mistveil’s controlling mercantile
faction, who are perpetually at loggerheads with the
Aldarin Mercantile League over trade tax. The pair
of nations served a reasonable amount of trade to
each other in centuries past, though relations have
soured in the last decade with heavier and heavier
duties placed on goods arriving from either side.
This rivalry has culminated in an outright ban of
Mistvellian goods entering into the Aldarin Empire,
shortly followed by a surge of black markets and
smuggling routes to pick up these now banned
goods. The Aldarin Mercantile League stands strong
on its stance against Mistveil, awaiting the Duskan
League to reduce taxes targeting Aldarin merchants.
Until then, the ban remains firmly in place.
90
Strange Forbidden Imports
The Aldarin Empire has banned a number
of goods from being imported into the
nation over the past few centuries. Some of
these, such as harmful drugs and dangerous
weaponry, would make sense to the
common visitor however there are some
banned goods that often catch travelling
merchants off guard.
Beer Specifically non-Aldarin brewed ale
and beer are banned for import into Aldarin
following a sizable amount of lobbying and
bribery from imperial ale brewers. Any beer
caught through import checks by the Vintari
is confiscated and either disposed of or sent
to the Legions to be drunk. Despite this,
most vintari are willing to overlook the ban
on the imported goods for a few gold unum
and a small crate of free ale, with numerous
merchants still dealing in the alcoholic good
decades after the ban was imposed.
Gryphons It is illegal to import any form of
gryphon that is not native to Aldarin into
the empire. This restriction has been in place
since the 3rd Century and the Consentium
refuses to budge on the matter, claiming that
any threat to Aldarin’s indigenous gryphon
population shall be summarily disposed of.
A number of black market traders are able
to bypass these restrictions through use of
powerful teleportation magic or demiplanes,
though such traders may be counted on one
hand. Due to this restriction, a handful of
patricians and wealthy collectors take great
pride in showcasing gryphons from other
parts of the Medial Plane in their private
collections due to their exclusivity.
Pearlberries Pearlberries are a white, sweet,
pearlescent berry found growing in the
northern forests of Jykstrav and the southern
mountains of Halthos, commonly mixed
with drinks to grant a pleasant aroma. Not to
be confused with the jewelberry of eastern
Elos, pearlberries were a popular import
for Jyrden merchants up until their ban by
Empress Aurelia I in the 8th Century. This ban
was imposed without any real given reason
but the commonly accepted theory is that
Aurelia was sick of the berries appearing
in her food platters and ordered for a
blanket ban on the goods. To this day, the
Consentium has yet to repeal the ban, much
to the ire of Jyrden travellers.
 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
in the Province of Deveros as opposed to Civaci,
whereas theft is less strictly punished in the capital
as opposed to the northern provinces.
Separated from the core laws of Aldarin are the
political bubbles of both Northwatch and the Sala
Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros, who find themselves
partially governed under the sway of the Ebyr’sol. As
such, breach of crimes which do not even exist in the
Aldarin Empire — such as affiliation to or harbour-
ing of fae creatures — is possible throughout these
imperial regions with punishments potentially
leading to death.
CW Servant of Caecillius
“This was before me time livin’ in Deveros but
back in the 8th Century there was some real
weird stuff goin’ on. Chthonic stuff, ya’know.
Not that there’s not chthonic cult stuff goin’ on
now, that is! Al and me ‘ave a harpastum meet
up every Wir.”
In the mid 8th Century a serial killer, who
became known as the Servant of Caecillius,
swept the city. This servant left letters
addressed to the imperial family and
Consentium, slandering them for exerting
too much control over the people. This
Servant of Caecillius murdered over two
dozen citizens over the course of three years,
causing a panic in the streets of Deveros. Folk
refused to leave their homes after dark while
the Vintari and Legions scoured the streets
under order from the Consentium, only to be
made a fool of when the killer next struck.
After precisely three years to the day, the
murders ceased. Many believe that the serial
killer had taken their own life. The last victim
of the spree, a Veritus Caledoni Libo (CN he/
him Aldarin dead) who had indeed worked
as a servant under a sancte called Caecillius
Lucius Prima (TN he/they Aldarin dead), was
pinned as the murderer. Others believe that
these were the machinations of a chthonic
cult formed under Prima due to eyewitness
reports recalling different renditions of the
killer’s face, some of which looked nothing
like Libo. To this day, the mystery of the
Servant of Caecillius remains unsolved in the
eyes of the public, despite the Vintari’s claim
that Libo was to blame.
92
Forms of Punishment CW
Those caught breaking the law might undergo imme-
diate punishment by the Vintari arresting them,
such as fines or corporal punishment. Otherwise
they will typically be brought to trial in front of the
Imperial Courts before being sentenced. Torture and
interrogation are both commonly used practices by
the Vintari for extracting information, in which they
receive special training. Some players may not be
comfortable with such brutal methods being used on
either PCs, NPCs, or both, so make sure you have the
consent of your players before doing so.
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.
Criminals may be required to wear the brace for a
period of time before having it removed. For more
severe crimes, a brand might be marked upon the
criminal’s face or arm, labelling them a criminal for
the rest of their life.
This type of punishment is utilised to lower the
social standing of the criminal whilst not removing
them from society altogether. Wealthier criminals
may pay for sacerdotes to remove their branding
through use of magic.
Fines
Crime Severity: All but very high
Fines can be found issued for almost all forms of
crime, even all the way up to murder and political
sabotage. Those caught committing a crime may be
issued a fine by the courts. Should the criminal not
be able to pay the sum, whatever it might be, they
would find themselves cast into the cells of one of the
empire’s prisons so that they may pay off their debt
to the empire through physical labour.
Prison
Crime Severity: All
Either through inability to meet a fine or through
sentencing of a court, a criminal may be placed into
prison to serve time working for the empire as a
physical labourer. This may involve the construction
of roads, buildings, or other public spaces, or to be
contracted out to wealthy landowners to work their
fields, vineyards, or properties. In doing so, one
is temporarily stripped of one’s name and status,
instead becoming a servus in service to the empire.

CW
Corporal Punishment
Crime Severity: All
A common form of punishment used readily on the
streets by the Vintari, as well as by the Hashuul and
Ebyr’sol of Sala Sel’Kildarak, corporal punishment is
the most widely used means of discipline in Aldarin.
This may range from the perpetrator being whipped
to the removal of a body part, as deemed reasonable
to fit the crime committed. The Genere of Laos Street
in Deveros, for example, are prone to whipping those
who do not uphold the decorum of the historic alley
whilst market guards may threaten to remove the
hand of a habitual thief.
Exile
Crime Severity: High, very high
Exile is an allowance given solely to citizens of the
empire should they be sentenced to death. Instead
of death, they may opt to be exiled from Aldarin
altogether, typically travelling with their families
to some allied nation such as Emondas, Jordveil
Isle, or South Rymin. Exile may last from anywhere
between ten years to a lifetime, though it may also
be pardoned should laws ever change or by a primus.
Typically those who are exiled retain their citizenship
and property, looked after by some benefactor in
their absence, though for the most serious offences
these are stripped from them as well.
Death
Crime Severity: Medium-high, high, very high
A punishment liberally granted by the courts, death
is the ultimate end to one’s existence, utilised for
immensely destructive or high profile crimes. Death
may be issued in a number of ways. Those who are
lucky are beheaded or cast from a high place, known
as an execution stone, such as the infamous Sunset
Rock a few miles south of Deveros. Others may be put
to the sword or bundled into sacks and cast to the sea.
Those who are not so lucky go on to suffer linger-
ing deaths, which could last for weeks or months.
Sometimes this is through the stripping of one’s rights,
with the criminal cast unto the mines owned by some
guild or wealthy landowner where they are worked to
death. Others are sentenced to serve as penal gladi-
ators in the empire’s arenas, fighting against other
criminals, professional gladiators, or monsters for the
enjoyment of the masses. This is typically a quicker
death than the mines, though a penal gladiator might
gain enough popularity with the masses that they are
set free through a chorus of “Free them!”. It is not
uncommon to see penal gladiators return to living a
life in the empire after serving for a time in the arenas.
Those who find themselves at the behest of the
Ebyr’sol — an extremist religious collective of
Deosian followers — have a far worse fate in store for
them. Known as sol kindlings, the Ebyr’sol habitually
burn their criminals alive on the streets, believing
that the purgation of the soul in Meveril’s flames
93
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
shall bring the sentenced closer to Deos in death.
This act is performed not only as a punishment but
as a reminder to the masses as to who is in charge.
Introduction
Evolution of Aldarin Justice Introduction
For a long span of time, right up until the to the
turn of the 11th Century, Aldarin’s judicial
Aldarin
Empire
system was brutal at best and downright
cruel at worst. Below are some of the Aldarin
more recent evolutions in Aldarin’s judicial Names
methodologies compared to how they were
used centuries prior.
Social Classes
Prison In bygone eras of Aldarin law, prior
to the signing of the Anchor Nation Treaty
and Aldarin’s integration of culture with
Kinships in
other prolific civilisations of the Medial Plane, the Empire
prison was used exclusively as a holding
place for those awaiting trial. The concept of
using a prison as a form of punishment was Festivals
not in the minds of the Aldarin people until
very recently, a method which was taken
across from Zygardian culture. Now, prisons Sports
are used to enact sentences of servitude to
Aldarin in the repayment of debts through
manual or skilled labour. Religion
Courts Historically, citizens and non-citizens
were tried in different courts with separate
laws, judges, and trials. These were often Politics
weighted heavily in the favour of citizens.
While there is still a sizable disparity in the
punishments given to non-citizens over Military
citizens, as well as questionable bias seen in
trials directed against non-citizens, there is
at least now unity in the courts and judges
Commerce
used across all trials. Legitors and midni
now oversee all judicial proceedings within
Aldarin, regardless of whether this be in Crime and
Deveros or throughout the provinces. Punishment
Policing The Vintari were not always utilised
as a police force within Aldarin’s larger Provinces of
settlements. This, in fact, is only a recent Aldarin
development seen throughout the 8th and 9th
centuries. The Vintari were originally just newly Periods of
recruited legionarii on their way to becoming Aldarin
fully fledged soldiers, with policing of the
History
provinces left to either the local legionarii
or the denizens of a settlement. Nowadays, Classes
all vintari (except those drafted for service
in times of war) are expected to go through
training in the policing of Aldarin, with some Backgrounds
remaining with the Vintari organisation to act
as permanent policing units.
Torture Before its outlawing by Acclesian Appendices
Alventius, torture was common practice
within the prisons of Aldarin, used to extract
information from criminals. Torture is now
exclusively only used for the crimes of treason
and high treason. Despite this, there are still
some prisons that operate outside of the books
and still frequently use it for lesser crimes.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Provinces
Alvia
Original Name: Alvian Kingdom
Provincial Capital: Jester
CW
The windswept birthplace of the Alvians: a tall, red-
headed folk whose history of war with the Aldarins
spanned throughout the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Centuries
before the eventual collapse of their warrior king-
dom at the hand of Empress Iliandra I (see page
103). Alvia was mostly left to its own devices in the
centuries following its annexation into the empire,
forming a rough history of brutal wars and rebellion
not uncommon with the northern provinces. What
fragments of clans were not killed during Iliandra’s
expansion incited uprising after uprising against
their Aldarin oppressors before they too were
either absorbed or killed. The Alvians themselves
have somewhat faded into obscurity, their genetics
interwoven with the swathes of other northern clans
annexed during the same era. A fragment of the
original clanship remains, living shattered between
ancient family homesteads in Jester and the Nyflae
forests where they thrive, away from the grasp of
imperial culture.
of Aldarin
Alvia does not strike joy into those sent to govern it
from the imperial capital of Deveros. Fish from Lake
Jvaske, truffles from the low-land forests of Nyflae,
and silver from the mines along the snowcapped,
giant-infested mountains to the north are the only
real exports the province has to offer. A moderate
offering, though hardly the exports seen from the
wealthier provinces of Nivinea, Caerula, and Civaci.
The sultry tundra-blighted landscape and sparse,
frosted farmsteads, whose summer lingers barely
long enough to be acknowledged by the months of
its name, do not form an appealing province for any
governor to take command over. So much so that the
praesides who do end up stuck with Alvia as their
territory of dominion are nicknamed “Jesters” after
the unruly provincial capital. This, accompanied with
a meagre command of only four provincial legions,
makes the province a dull region to oversee with
the only excitement stemming from the occasional
Jyrden raiding parties pushing over the border to
cause havoc. Many in the southern provinces call
Alvia the “Jykstrav of the South”, hinting at its bleak
landscape, frequent blizzards, and resistance to
Aldarin culture throughout a sizable number of its
northernmost settlements. CW
94

Baldera
Original Name: Byldøsk
Provincial Capital: Helvekium
CW
One of three Aldarin provinces which borders along
the edge of Jykstrav, Baldera once belonged to the
Byldøri clanship, a clustering of Jyrden folk who
all eventually succumbed to Aldarin rule over the
course of several centuries. Nowadays Baldera is
one of the empire’s most heavily fortified provinces.
This is in part due to the copious iron mines scat-
tered within its borders, which form the backbone
of legionary industry. This sizable fortification is
primarily due to the ever-present threat of Jyrden
invasion from the north, however. Governed by
the odd town or village whose way of living has
changed little since its founding, the rugged hills
of the province’s southern region are flooded with
sheep and cattle. Twisting roads wind through these
sparse hills in attempts to connect the snow-blighted
northern border with the legionary forts of Caerula,
allowing rapid access to the province both in and out
of campaigning season. The further north one gets,
the more inhospitable the climate becomes for the
sun-loving Aldarins, whose aversion to the cold has
been one of the contributing factors to their delayed
expansion into southern Jykstrav. Fragmented walls
adjoin wartorn legionary forts at the precipice of
the Nyflvaerr valley cluster, an endless stretch of
densely forested no-man’s land between the borders
of Jykstrav and Aldarin. Here the faceless live in
diminutive, woodland communities: a folk whose
citizenship falls to neither nation and wishes no part
in the on-going hostilities.
CW
The snowcapped provincial capital of Helvekium
resides upon the cusp of Helvek Hill. A fortified
hillfort–turned–settlement after the prolonged
legionarii presence in the area morphed into even-
tual occupation. The frost-scorched ground around
the northern region makes it tricky for any form
of building to be properly founded, with the city
undergoing constant repairs due to lack of resources,
perpetual raids from Jyrden clanships, and the
unforgiving blizzards which sweep through weekly.
A dense smog lingers above the city as raw iron is
smelted in the hundreds of forges around its outer
walls, providing some semblance of coal-choked
warmth against the frigid cold. Those who live here
either do so out of necessity or a drive to prove
themselves, with the provincial legions of Baldera
being the most active out of the rest of the empire.
Campaign season never truly ends in Baldera, where
the threat of Jyrden invasion is ever-present and a
handful of war-driven clans from across the River
Nystra are perpetually hungering for a chance to
spill Aldarin blood.
95
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Borealia
Original Name: Nordvær
Introduction
Provincial Capital: Northwatch
The gentle, lifegiving streams of the River Nystra CW
Introduction
intersect with the Nordvær Forest at the north- to the
ernmost point of what the Aldarins consider Aldarin
Empire
“civilised land”, dividing the border between the
allegedly barbarous clanships of southern Jykstrav Aldarin
with Aldarin’s notoriously rebellious province of Names
Borealia. Originally the territory inhabited by the
immensely powerful Nordvær clan, Borealia was Social Classes
annexed into the grasp of the empire during the 5th
Century by Empress Iliandra I (see page 103), with
the inhabitants of the province resisting imperial Kinships in
the Empire
control every step of the way. Even to this day, five
centuries on from the massacre of the Nordvær clan,
the people of Borealia harbour a seething resentment Festivals
against the empire for the treatment of their ances-
tors — many of whom laboured in the iron mines
for meagre pay and even fewer rights. Countless Sports
rebellions have sparked from the province over the
years, the most famous of which was the Acclesian
Civil War which culminated in the overthrowing of Religion
direct imperial rule over Aldarin. Borealia is host
to the largest number of legionary forts in Aldarin,
most of which are situated along the River Nystra Politics
in expectation of Jyrden warbands crossing to raid
and pillage — a common occurrence in the daily
Military
life of northern Borealians. Turmoil stirs within
the province at every turn, whether from Jykstrav
to the north, the encroaching Ebry’sol inquisition
Commerce
which spreads seeds of corruption within the heart
of the provincial capital, or even from Borealia’s own
people who crave freedom from the vice-like grip of Crime and
Punishment
Aldarin dominion.
Despite the province teetering on the edge of war
all year round, the lands of Borealia themselves are Provinces of
Aldarin
some of the most fertile in the northern empire.
This is thanks to the teeming off-shoots of the River
Periods of
Nystra, some natural, some man-made, which pro- Aldarin
vides sustenance to the stepped fields of the central History
province. Countless more streams flow deep under-
ground, forming twisting, water-logged caverns and Classes
cave systems linking to the Underworld — perfect
for foreign spies and deep creatures to slink through,
avoiding the legionary forts entirely. These systems Backgrounds
are prone to collapse, however, opening up into
underground lakes and mineral-rich mines which
local entrepreneurs are quick to take advantage of. Appendices
A handful of industrious guilds have sprung up over
the past decade to capitalise upon these untapped
resources, plenty of whom form their own private
armies with which to protect their vantages. Whilst
these armies have not grown large enough to yet
spark concern from the Legions, their commanding
officers have enough control over local communities
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
to disrupt political influence stemming from the
governing praesides. Villages, and even entire towns,
have fallen prey to the influence of these guilds,
which some locals consider to be for the better given
the gold readily pouring into their pockets.
Caerula
Original Name: None
Provincial Capital: Blue Hold
Arguably Aldarin’s oldest province, a territory held
by Princess Lyrica (see page 100) a full decade before
the settlement of Deveros, Caerula is a small region
to the north of the Province of Deveros, bordering
with all provinces apart from Civaci and The Pilkos
Isles. Due to its location underneath the more trou-
blesome northern provinces, Caerula is somewhat
of an agricultural and military powerhouse. Refined
over the centuries, Caerula’s expansive infrastructure
is designed with interconnected road networks and
legionary forts in mind, streamlining travel for
supply wagons and legions alike. Nestled between
these hubs of legionarii activity are plentiful well-es-
tablished farming settlements, whose architecture
boasts a notably Deverosian design of clay brick and
marble, but whose people are the most diverse out
of all the empire. This is in part due to the strong
trade links with Salenti, Nivinea, and Deveros with
ready access to all the major trade hubs by direct
road or budding railway. The stability of the region
can also be attributed to the even distribution of land
between the populace, with no one family or patri-
cian owning more than two hectares thanks to land
reforms passed by the Reformists not one century
ago. Caerula is not necessarily the most luscious
nor extravagant province, but it offers a stable life
for those within it. Surrounded by sweeping fields of
grain and sheep, accompanied by the warming rays
of Deos’s ward, are all that most need to find comfort.
One cannot talk about Caerula without mention
of Blue Hold, the resplendent provincial capital. A
fantastical floating fortress upon the rippling waters
of Lake Sapphire and an exceptional feat of archi-
tectural prowess, Blue Hold has been built upon by
many centuries of renowned architects from the four
corners of the empire. Situated several miles into the
lake itself, the city is connected to land by three grand
bridges adorned with gilded statues of the Tredecima
deities. Gleaming walls of polished marble, inter-
woven with inlaid golden swirls and windows of
amethyst glass tower around the circular city form-
ing a multi-tiered cylindrical structure. Blue Hold
is as industrious as it is beautiful, with the sublevels
of the city home to Aldarin’s most profitable mines
which connect deep into the Underworld. These
deep mines provide not only bountiful minerals and
96
gemstones but underground passage in and out of
the city, guarded by the Blue Legion — Blue Hold’s
city guard. These passageways are connected to a
handful of well-fortified settlements throughout the
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
of thousands of people within its sublevels should
it need to, with arcane-protected stockpiles large
enough to last decades.
Civaci
Original Name: Cilicera
Provincial Capital: Liceric
One of the empire’s larger provinces, Civaci expands CW
outwards towards the eastern border of Aldarin’s
influence, touching upon the boundaries of South
Rymin and Menderin. Vast swathes of woodland
cover the central portions of this industrious region,
providing lumber and skilled artisans who construct
siege equipment, forts, and armaments for use by the
Legions. This equipment is a necessity for Civaci in
particular, whose border also hosts the Ophelian
Wall: an expansive clay-brick wall stemming from
the edge of South Rymin all the way to the Gilded
Ocean, designed to hold back the Yun’stra clanships
of Menderin. Raids upon the wall are commonplace,
usually driven by armies seeking to exploit a weak-
ness in the border defences with desire to pillage the
settlements beyond. These raids are mostly rebuffed
by the half a dozen provincial legions stationed
within the wall’s numerous border forts, though it
is not unheard of for one or more to slip through
every few years — especially those utilising giant
tundra mammoths. It is common for the Civacian
provincial legions to march towards South Rymin
in the winter months to support the on-going war
against North Rymin or to train alongside the Silver
Legions situated there.
Conversely, the western wealds of the province are
vastly more tame in nature than the border-bound
east, boasting resplendent vineyards and rolling
fields of wheat and barley, mostly owned by ex-le-
gionarii and a handful of wealthy agrarian families.
The provincial capital of Liceric is situated at the very
heart of the province along the edge of Lake Helikos,
serving as a connecting point between Nivinea’s
provincial capital of Altario Regitum and the cultural
heart of South Rymin: Longbreach. Whilst Civaci is
not as wealthy as Nivinea, it is certainly one of the
more well-off provinces, housing a great number of
industrially and commercially driven settlements
within its borders. It is common practice for the
praesides of Civaci to split their duties, with one
taking ownership over the province’s industrial

operations whilst the other oversees the defences
along the Ophelian Wall and maintains open rela-
tions with the empire’s ally of South Rymin to the
north east.
Nivinea
Original Name: Niviské
Provincial Capital: Altario Regitum
Renowned as the wine capital of Aldarin, Nivinea
spawls outwards into the heart of the empire.
Luscious vineyards and wealthy townships are found
densely packed within its borders. One of the first
imperial provinces, Nivinea borders the Province of
Deveros, acting as a key supplier of goods into the
imperial capital. Countless droves of trade caravans
and supply wagons stream downwards from Altario
Regitum, the provincial capital, which in turn acts as
a centralised hub for commerce heading eastwards to
Alvia, Caerula, and South Rymin. One would not be
a true patrician if they did not own some swathe of
vineyard-swept hill land within the heart of Nivinea.
Noble families from Deveros hold expensive second
homes in the region, typically used as staging posts
for commercial ventures or holiday homes away
from the bustle of Deveros. As such, a majority of
the land within the province is held by the nobility,
though with recent land reforms passed by the
Reformist party, sizable chunks have been carved
out of these to be awarded to retiring legionarii and
magi. As such, there is somewhat of a divide in the
CW
The Ophelian
Wall
97
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
social and political landscape of Altario Regitum.
On the one end, there are the political elite of the
empire, seeking to maximise their influence and
Introduction
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
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
overbearing patrician governance. Local political Aldarin
elections are nothing short of a bloodbath, with Names
backstabbing, corruption, bribery, and assassination
all at play in the daily operations of urban Nivinean Social Classes
life. Those who elect to choose no side in this war of
intrigue are deemed ignorant, for failing to defend
oneself simply stands as the mark of a weak target. Kinships in
the Empire
Politics aside, Nivinea is regarded as Aldarin’s most
stunning province, as officially stated by Emperor
Loxis II (see page 101) during their visit to Altario Festivals
Regitum. The endless rolling hills of greenery, dotted
with remote illustrious villas and minor settlements,
is nothing short of breathtaking for those visiting this Sports
region. Only the finest quality alcohol is produced
from the grapes of the Nivinean vines, with plentiful
vintners finding fame and fortune in the sun-blessed Religion
yards of central Aldarin. Life outside of the provin-
cial capital is peaceful, far flung from the endless
wars upon the northern borders or the bustling port Politics
towns of the southern provinces. To many, settling
in the breadths of rural Nivinea is a dream come
Military
true: close enough to Deveros to enjoy its perks, far
enough away to ignore its troubles, and enough wine
and sunshine to last a lifetime.
Commerce
Crime and
Punishment
Provinces of
Aldarin
Periods of
Aldarin
History
Classes
Backgrounds
Appendices
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Province of Deveros
Original Name: None
Provincial Capital: Deveros
Birthplace of the Deverosian people, inheritors
of Deos’s lineage; the thriving religious epicentre
of the continent; the beating heart of the Aldarin
Empire: the Province of Deveros is the original
territory claimed by the Dalaskians during the
Age of Reclamation. Bathed in a wealth of history
and culture, this expansive provincial region is the
bustling core of Aldarin society. Heavily fortified
and densely populated, the Province of Deveros is
where both the imperial family and the Consentium
reside, respectively forming the symbolic and func-
tioning bodies which govern over the entirety of the
Aldarin Empire. These lands are rich with vineyards,
amethyst mines, gold mines, marble quarries, wheat
farms, fishing settlements, and countless other
sources of agricultural and industrial commodities.
Easily the busiest of the provinces, seeing passage
from endless seafaring vessels, trade caravans, and
the Del Umbra railway, the Province of Deveros
is very much the commercial heart of Aldarin,
exporting goods from some of the continent’s oldest
and most renowned artisanal families. Despite the
numerous buffer provinces between Deveros and
its enemies, this province has the second largest
number of standing legions after Borealia. This is
also in part due to the Consentium’s fear of another
internal insurrection led by a popularist politician or
influential patrician, something which has happened
one too many times for the empire to be comfortable
with. Legionary forts are stationed along all major
thoroughfares, designed in such a way that they
may hold back attacking forces until reinforcements
arrive to relieve them.
Whilst patricians would have everyone believe
that these lands were gifted to their ancestors by
Deos themself, the reality could not be further from
the truth. During the first two centuries of the Age of
Reclamation there were in fact numerous other clans
and cultures outside of the Aldarins who presided
over this coastal territory. Wood elves, cambion,
halflings, countless other human settlements, all
of which laid a stake to the coastal strokes of the
southern continent. These clans were all eventually
annexed under Aldarin control, a large number
wiped from existence entirely, with the few left
surviving either through integration or tentative
alliance. To this day, one can still find settlements
with families tracing lineage back to these clans,
though almost all now fall under the singular title of
“Aldarin”. The people of this province are immensely
diverse, with cultural traditions originating from
these long-deceased clans. From the fierce lycans
and druidic wood elves who shelter within the
98
Holstratum woodlands to the northwest, to the
holistic halfling tribes of the snowcapped Milevian
Mountains to the east, who integrated and embraced
Aldarin culture many centuries prior while sharing
portions of their own. These cultures, along with
many others, all form the traditional backbone of
what has now become Aldarin society. Not stemming
from one kin or group, but from many.
Salenti
Original Name: Sasmian Kingdom
Provincial Capital: Gordistra
Upon the westernmost front of Elos, bolstered CW
against the raging waves of the Gilded Ocean, rests
the massive province of Salenti. Salenti is one of
the empire’s oldest territorial claims, whose origin
spans back to the collapse of the Sasmian Kingdom
in the early 2nd Century. Dense forests intermingle
with the northernmost mountainous regions of the
province, providing a never-ending supply of lumber
and stone to the industrious coastal settlements of
the fragmented southern shores. Sprawling wheat
and pig farms dot the landscape between, bound
to sparse farming communities whose grasp of
imperial politics is far-flung from the socialites of the
well-connected towns and cities. Merchant caravans
protected by heavily armed mercyr groups are a
common sight along the Lyrican Mile, the coastal
road connecting Salenti’s capital of Gordistra to the
imperial capital of Deveros, with the recent addition
of the Del Umbra railroad alongside it only increas-
ing connectivity between the two commercial hubs.
Salenti’s most impressive feat is undoubtedly its
streamlined shipwright industry which operates
along the breadth of its coastal front. With count-
less tonnes of lumber cut from the northern forests
sent in daily deliveries to these coastal settlements,
Salenti’s shipwrights thrive as new seafaring vessels
are born each day. These range from small sloops
and fishing craft to impressive war galleys designed
to withstand the Medial Plane’s tempestuous oceans.
Being the closest imperial city to the Kildars,
Gordistra serves as the busiest imperial trade hub
when dealing with both the Tak’huut and Qutharian
empires and, thanks to this, is host to a diverse popu-
lation of Kildarian peoples and cultures. Numerous
travellers from across the Gilded Ocean and beyond
have fallen in love with Salenti’s sweeping shores,
soft sea breeze, and idyllic coastal vistas. So much so
that settlements along its ocean borders continue to
expand daily as wealthy immigrants from the four
corners of the Compass stake their claim within
the province.

The Pilkos Isles
Original Name: None
Provincial Capital: Dynvara
CW
Cresting along the southernmost point of the conti-
nent are the Pilkos Isles, a clustering of fragmented
islands linking together in an arching chain in a
western heading. Over time, the province of the
Pilkos Isles has expanded its control northwards
into the province of Civaci, with the governors of
both regions commonly locked in heated debate
over the true borders of their provinces. This is in
part due to the rich, fertile lands to the south of the
Milevian Mountains, which forms the current-day
natural border between the two provinces. Civaci
has long laid claim to these industrious farmlands,
which are frequently rebuffed by imperial decrees
stemming all the way back to the 8th Century. These
fertile fields are, for now, held firmly by the Pilkos
Isles. Travelling further southwards, one would cross
countless valleys teeming with life, birthed from the
independent rural settlements found within. These
settlements have embraced many aspects of Aldarin
society into their own, with Aldarins from the
northern provinces visiting these idyllic locations to
escape the perpetual warring and blizzards. Thermae
sourced from tactically placed aqueducts are situated
throughout the region, providing travellers with
resting points both within and between settlements.
Those with gold-lined pockets might instead utilise
the province’s gryphon carrier services, used to
transport both items and people across the lofty
mountain peaks.
At the very tip of the Pilkos Isles, arching wide
into the clutches of the Gilded Ocean, is the Velesti
Peninsula, home to the Pilkish gnomes who hold
dominion over the provincial capital of Dynvara. The
Pilks, as they are known, were the original inhabi-
tants of these lands many centuries ago before the
Aldarins asserted control over the region. They were
also the first of numerous peoples to be freed from
Aldarin’s old class system and were the prime insti-
gators in the push towards the eventual abolishment
of many archaic class restrictions within the empire
during the 7th Century. Whilst the Pilks do not
consider themselves Aldarin, tenaciously grasping
on to their own identity, they are held in high regard
by the widespread Aldarin populace. Some Pilks lean
into this respected visage, rising to become influ-
ential local politicians and even consensae within
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.
99
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Pilkish Cultural Traditions
“I’m not Pilkish, I’m a bird! But I always, ALWAYS
Introduction
tap me claws together before I head into any
kitchen window to steal… uhh… to take some
Introduction
seeds that are rightfully mine.” to the
The Pilkish gnomes of The Pilkos Isles hold
Aldarin
Empire
dear to them a number of cultural relics from
their assimilation into the Adlarin Empire Aldarin
many centuries ago. These traditions are Names
passed down through familial household
teachings, taught from parent to child.
Social Classes
Whistling While not a tradition per se, this
habit can be found within rural villages
throughout the northern and western
regions of The Pilkos Isles. When a Pilk from
Kinships in
the Empire
these regions finds themself alone and
fearful, they might start to whistle a jaunty
tune known as “The Lost Sparrow”, which tells Festivals
the story of a young sparrow, fallen from its
nest, trying to find its way home. The tune is
often sung to Pilkish babies to lull them into Sports
sleep by their parents. Numerous Pilks find
the tune comforting to hum or whistle along
to in times of stress or fear. Other such tunes
are whistled as well, often small folk songs
Religion
from around other regions of The Pilkos Isles,
with each isle having its own distinct pitch
and melody of various songs. It is said that Politics
Pilks can sometimes identify the exact region
another Pilk is from through their whistle.
Military
Tapping Toes It is considered to bring bad
luck upon a household to enter within it
without first tapping the tops of one’s feet
Commerce
together before crossing the threshold.
This came about when an old chancellor of
Dynvara invited a visiting diplomat from a
Crime and
neighbouring nation into his homestead. Punishment
The chancellor paid mind to his feet and
stepped over the threshold of the doorway,
knowing it to be slightly elevated, whereas Provinces of
Aldarin
the diplomat behind him did not, who then
tripped and fell. In the fall, the diplomat
Periods of
struck a stool with her head and was killed. Aldarin
A war eventually broke out between the History
two nations, with this event pinned as the
pushing factor. The tradition of tapping Classes
one’s feet grew from this story, to force the
visitor to check their footing before crossing
into the household. To this day, numerous
domus within Dynvara have small mosaic Backgrounds
feet embedded in the ground just before the
threshold of the house to remind people to
tap their toes together before entering. Appendices
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
CW
Periods of Aldarin History
Shortly after the Age of Dusk came to an end, the
Dalaskian people settled upon the southern shores
of Elos. These folk took on a new name stemming
from the ancestral Vilorian word “aldaros’’ meaning
“to begin anew”. With the founding of the city of
Deveros, the Aldarin Kingdom was born. The reso-
lute King Loxis Regitorus Deveros I (CG he/they
Aldarin dead) was at its mantle, son of the ascended
demigod Deos. Loxis endeavoured to provide his
young, vibrant nation with a fruitful beginning in
this new age of discovery, going down in the annals
as Aldarin’s wisest king (“rex”).
Early Expansion
Period: 29–272 PDS
Notable Rulers: King Loxis I, Queen Lucina I (LN she/
her Aldarin dead), The Lost Prince (NE unknown
[they/them] Aldarin dead), King Venesti I (LN he/him
Aldarin dead), Emperor Venesti II (NG he/they [GF]
Aldarin dead)
For almost 250 years, the Aldarin Kingdom saw
bountiful growth and economic strength under the
Deveros lineage. Extensive early expansion provided
the fledgling kingdom with vast swathes of land and
wealth paired with resistant rebellions. Overall, the
continent of Elos was in a state of turmoil as nations
scrambled to maintain dominion over the unfamil-
iar lands of their ancestors. The Aldarins took this
in their stride, first establishing governance over
Caerula to the north, where King Loxis I’s daughter,
Princess Lyrica Deveros (NG she/her Aldarin
dead), had been left to rule. Next came the fall of the
Niviskén Matriarchs, a collective of wood elves and
humans who had settled within the luscious wealds
to the north east, becoming the province of Nivinea.
The expansionist Sasmian Kingdom to the west, a
splintered nation of the old Dalaskian Kingdom,
sought to annex Aldarin into its own realm. A dev-
astating war was waged between the two kingdoms
over many decades with numerous minor nations
flattened in the crossfire. Aldarin teetered upon the
precipice of defeat on countless occasions during
this bloody war. The most notable was the betrayal
of The Lost Prince, the firstborn of Queen Lucina
I, who defected to the Sasmian side and has since
been erased from Aldarin history books. Eventually,
the Sasmians were defeated by the Aldarins and
their capital of Gordistra was sacked, becoming the
province of Salenti. This sowed the seeds of deep
hatred towards the Deveros lineage within Salenti
that would birth many future rebellions.
100
The Aldarin Kingdom took several years to recover
from the Sasmian Wars, only regaining traction in its
expansion towards the mid-2nd Century. The allied
clans of the Cilicians to the south-eastern valleys
found themselves invaded by the gnomish Pilks of
the Pilkos Isles, situated upon the very southern crest
of the continent. Joined in arms with the Aldarin
legionarii gryphones, the Cilicians all but erased the
Pilkish civilisation from history over the course of
the next 30 years. The Pilkos Isles were split between
the Aldarins and the Cilicians through the Pilkos
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
Aldarin Empire at the time, the Pilks were unable to
climb higher than the otium social class until reforms
came along many centuries later. Only three years
later, Cilicera fell into a troublesome internal war
through clan disagreements. The Aldarins stepped in
to side with the leading Baradinus clan, annexing the
nation in the process and claiming a new province
for their ever-growing kingdom. Cilicera became the
province of Civaci, with any clans who chose to swear
fealty to the Aldarin Kingdom allowed to retain
their land, and some even granted status as nobility.
Those who did not were eventually destroyed, either
by the Aldarins or their old clan allies, with most
falling to the binds of thralldom or problematic class
structures under the heel of their neighbours.
Peace reigned for a while across the kingdom, CW
but as King Venesti II took the crown, expansion
was again on the mind of the regency. The north-
ern Byldøri tribes of Byldøsk, who had recently
fragmented from the chaotic folds of the Jyksvyne
Alliance (later to become Jykstrav), had been con-
ducting regular raids upon the provinces of Civaci
and Caerula, sacking and burning the crops of rural
settlements. Venesti set his sights on vengeance
against the Byldøri, taking his newly formed legions
to war against the troublesome tribes. These fresh
legions did not fare well against the rampant guerilla
tactics of Byldøsk’s southernmost clans, unfamiliar
with the hilly and heavily forested terrain. The
Legions saw defeat after defeat, with Venesti himself
eventually taking up command and marching into
central Byldøsk. Through a handful of lucky battles
within the dense forests, the Aldarins gained a
foothold and were able to leverage a peace deal with
the more diplomatic of the Byldøri tribes, taking war
hostages in settlement.
The tribes who did not wish to seek agreement
with the Aldarins instead fled northwards. Some
begrudgingly rejoined the Jyksvyne Alliance, whilst
others settled within the neighbouring Nordvær
territory. Standing atop this new province of

the Aldarin Kingdom, Venesti named it Baldera.
Baldera’s annexation into the kingdom marked a
notable shift in the mindset of the Aldarins. They
were powerful. Stronger than all those around them.
They were more than a mere kingdom. Upon return-
ing to Deveros with news of his success in the north,
King Venesti II proclaimed that Aldarin had grown
unto new heights in the eye of Deos. He stated that
in his dreams, Venesti had spoken unto Deos who
had in turn blessed his glorious realm as an empire.
And so, in 272 PDS, the Aldarin Empire was born, with
Emperor Venesti II at its helm. However, it did not
take long for this new empire to begin showing signs
of internal fracture.
CW
The Grain Wars
Period: 273–321 PDS
Notable Rulers: Empress Lyrica I (LG she/her Aldarin
dead), Emperor Nito (NE name Aldarin dead)
Following legislation by the infamous Emperor Nito,
which hiked the tax on grain across the imperial
provinces, the already disgruntled provincials from
regions such as Civaci, Salenti and Baldera began
to rebel. These uprisings started within a collective
of minor farming settlements in northern Civaci
whose Cilician labourers had risen up against
the clans who had oppressed them. Killing their
oppressors and burning the estates upon which
they had been expected to toil, these rag-tag armies
stormed southwards towards the provincial capital
of Liceric. Legions were dispatched by Nito to put
down the revolt. The month-long pillaging was
swiftly ended in a bloodsoaked massacre in southern
Civaci, culminating in a defiant last stand by the
workers known as the Battle of the Bleeding River.
As the years passed, smaller disagreements between
provincial inhabitants and Aldarins sparked relating
to the infamous tax, commonly ending in fines or
even banishment — though nothing major rose
until twelve years later. The seeds of rebellion sown
within the minds of the Sasmians had finally come
to fruition as another major uprising quaked the
foundations of the empire. Imperial caravans and
trade wagons were sacked. Aldarin citizens living
within Salenti were put to the sword. A handful of
provincial legions defected from Aldarin rule as
Salenti declared independence from the empire. In
the same month the Byldøri tribes, who had retreated
into Nordvær many years prior, finally returned to
reclaim their homeland. Peace had rapidly devolved
into turmoil.
CW
The empire was fighting a war on two fronts and
was soon overwhelmed. Three legions were lost
defending Baldera, slain in battle by the Byldøri who
eventually reclaimed their home and began raiding
101
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
the neighbouring province of Caerula. Numerous
skirmishes were fought between the Deverosian
legions and the rebel Salenti legions over the follow-
Introduction
ing two decades, the Salenti slowly pushing further
into the Province of Deveros with each passing year.
Introduction
Despite the well defended territory of Deos’s kin to the
resisting capture for so long, Deveros eventually fell Aldarin
Empire
in 321 PDS to a gargantuan army led by renowned
Salenti commander and powerful mantel of Rael Aldarin
Aedissima Fretavi (CN they/them Salenti dead). Names
Emperor Nito was executed in the Imperial Palace
(R4) with Nito’s youngest daughter, Lyrica II, escap- Social Classes
ing through a rowboat under nightfall alongside two
palace guards. She fled to Caerula where the imperial
family still had loyal followers. Kinships in
the Empire
Post-Grain Reclamation Festivals
Period: 322–384 PDS
Notable Rulers: Empress Lyrica II (CG she/they Aldarin Sports
dead), Emperor Loxis II (LN they/them Aldarin dead)
The capital was lost. For a time, the empire was Religion
considered to have fallen, but imperial support
still remained throughout the province of Caerula.
Within the lake-fortress of Blue Hold an urgent Politics
summons was made by Lyrica II for all loyal legions
to come to her aid. The remaining imperial legions
quickly marched to Caerula in the days following Military
Deveros’s fall, somehow defending the province in
the face of defeat from a simultaneous invasion by
the Salenti to the east and the Byldøri to the north. Commerce
Over the coming years, the tactically minded Lyrica
was able to stabilise the neighbouring province of
Crime and
Civaci with assistance from the loyal magi of the Punishment
Baradinus clan, putting any who stood against her to
death. This war took a heavy toll on her armies. With Provinces of
her legions weakened and the Salenti encroaching Aldarin
from the southwest, Lyrica could not fight another
pitched battle. She instead had a long wall built along Periods of
Aldarin
the southern border of the province over a period History
of three weeks — a feat hailed to this day as one of
the most impressive in Aldarin history. Whilst the
Classes
Lyrican Wall defended against the Salenti, manned
by a fraction of her forces, Lyrica took the remaining
legions and marched north to Baldera to face the Backgrounds
Byldøri. Through cunning use of illusion magic
stemming from the Baradinus clan and their embers
— a rarity at the time — the Aldarins were able to Appendices
repel the Byldøri. Tales to this day are told of fabri-
cated dragons flying above the Legions, terrifying the
Byldøri back across the border which bought Lyrica
enough time to refortify the province. As thanks for
their loyalty, the once-Cilician Baradinus clan was
awarded full Aldarin citizenship and welcomed into
the arms of the patrician elite.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
CW
Not long after recapturing Baldera, Lyrica II
passed away after being struck by a poisoned arrow
whilst fighting against the Salenti during the Battle
of Fabisko Hill. Despite best efforts to resurrect her,
Lyrica’s soul became lost to the afterlife. Her child,
Loxis II, just 13 years of age, came to the throne. And
so followed a period of relative calm in the war, with
neither the Aldarins nor the Salenti claiming any
overwhelming victories.
CW
Eventually, through deft sabotages orchestrated by
an organisation of ex-legionarii spies and assassins
called the Umbra Syndicate, the Aldarins made
a push into the Province of Deveros, recapturing
numerous forts over a period of three years. In 373
PDS
, they were able to reclaim their capital from the
grip of the Salenti with Loxis now officially crowned
as Emperor Loxis II. In their victory speech, Loxis
proclaimed that they were the reborn soul of Deos
in mortal form and shall lead the empire to victory
as Aldarin’s god-emperor. Only four years later did
Loxis hold true to these words. Following a streak of
overwhelming military victories, the self-proclaimed
god-emperor led the Legions into Salenti and sacked
Gordistra, ending the Grain Wars once and for all.
Over 380 Salenti nobles were put to death, alongside
nearly 7,000 military insurgents and magi who had
defected. A handful of these managed to escape
in the days before the executions, fleeing across to
the distant continent of Sel’Kildar or into the Inner
Compass. Whilst this was a time of bitter celebration
for the Aldarins, unbeknownst to any in the empire, a
much more terrifying threat loomed on the horizon.
A threat that not even Loxis II could defeat.
CW
The White Plague
Period: 385–389 PDS
Notable Rulers: Emperor Loxis II
Victory had rung through the empire. The provinces
were re-established under the hold of the imperial
family with the all-powerful Emperor Loxis II at the
helm. As 385 PDS ticked around, however, catastrophe
struck the continent. Unbeknownst to many in
Elos, the people of Sel’Kildar and Nul’Kildar had
recently experienced outbreaks of a deadly disease
known as The White Plague, ravaging seaside ports
and communities across the twinned continents.
The plague was pneumonic, affecting the lungs and
respiratory system of the host, whilst additionally
causing blindness and pale white lesions across the
skin, from which it garnered its name. Survival was a
coin toss, and entire settlements were left eradicated
in its wake. None had yet managed to track down
how the white plague was spread, with educated cler-
ics indicating towards an arcane source as opposed
102
to one of nature. By the time news of the plague had
reached Aldarin, it was already too late.
On the morning of 21st Winter’s Wax 384 PDS, only
a week before the Anniculus festival, two trade ves-
sels arrived from Sel’Kildar at the port of Gordistra
carrying sailors infected with the deadly infection.
The white plague quickly spread throughout the city,
centralised around tabernae and brothels where
contact with other folk was closest. Before long,
settlements within Salenti were showing signs of
infection, and the Consentium issued an edict to
blockade the province. Any who were caught cross-
ing the border were to be executed on sight by the
Legions. Sacerdotes of Deos were dispatched from
the Aedes Deos (A7) in Deveros to stem the flow of
the plague, to little effect.
Meanwhile, the two lone trade routes linking
Sel’Kildar and Nul’Kildar to Elos were halted. Any
arriving ships found themselves diverted away from
imperial ports under threat of death. This did not
stop the plague for long, however. By the end of
385 PDS, it had entangled its destructive roots across
the Province of Deveros, Caerula, Civaci, Baldera,
and Nivinea. The Pilkos Isles remained relatively
untouched by the blighted infection thanks to a quick
response by the local patricians who closed down
sailing routes in and out of the region. Deaths across
the empire soared into the hundreds of thousands as
the populace was brought to its knees. Mass graves
overflowed with pale-skinned bodies. The deceased
decayed in the streets for days, or even weeks, before
being collected for burial. Due to the troublesome
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
halted. The Aldarin Empire was not the only nation
to face surmounting death tolls. Almost all regions
across Elos suffered heavy casualties in the uphill
war against the white plague, as desperate skirmishes
were fought over dwindling food supplies.
The white plague slowly faded over time as immu-
nity built up, with clerics bringing the arcane-fuelled
infection under control by the end of 389 PDS. Over
thirty percent of Elos’s populace had died during the
plague, with a further twenty-five percent becoming
blinded for life. After a long period of war, followed
by the ravaging destruction of the white plague,
the Aldarin Empire was teetering on the edge of
collapse once more. The source of the plague was
eventually traced back to the ascension of a deity
in north-western Sel’Kildar: Larveth, Goddess of
Disease, Insects, and Decay. Upon her ascension,
the cruel deity’s first nefarious act was to ensure that
all mortals knew their place under her foot. Larveth
had curated the deadly infection for many decades
prior, finally unleashing it upon the Medial Plane
in her defining moment of glorious deification. To

this day, Larveth is still feared by the common folk
CW
of the Compass. The festival of Larvelia is celebrated
as a means to appease the vile goddess in the hopes
of preventing another deadly epidemic. As the
white plague faded into history, a withered husk of
a continent was left behind. The empire took almost
a hundred years to fully recover from its rampant
destruction.
CW
The Low Period
Period: 390–498 PDS
Notable Rulers: Emperor Loxis II, Emperor Serperian
(CN he/him Aldarin dead), Empress Sorilla (LN she/
her Aldarin dead), Empress Iliandra I (LG xe/they
[GF] Aldarin dead), Empress Lyrica III (NG she/her
Aldarin dead)
Severely disrupted by the fallout of the white plague,
the empire entered into a nebulous state of decay.
Famine swept the provinces with countless citizens
dying of starvation in the years following the plague.
Fields went fallow as any form of physical labour
became difficult to find, with many folk weakened
from the plague’s lingering effects. Four long, ardu-
ous decades passed which crept towards an eventual
growth of the populace once more, bolstering both
the Legions and rural communities which had been
ravaged most.
As the continent gradually rose back to its feet, so
too did the senseless warring begin. At first it was just
minor border disputes. Disagreements over plots of
land. Spats with once friendly nations who had toiled
through the plague together. The most predominant
of these nations was that of the Alvian Kingdom
to the north-eastern border of the empire. Alvian
trade caravans had kept the empire’s settlements
fed during the early months of the plague, with
the Aldarins returning the gesture after Alvia was
struck with famine. These friendly trade caravans
began to see heightened taxes. A couple of wagons
were raided by Alvian mercenaries, leading to angry
letters from the Consentium. These minor disputes
eventually escalated into scrappy fights between the
provincial border settlements of Aldarin and their
Alvian neighbours. Before long, the two nations were
at war. The provinces of Nivinea and Baldera saw
pillaging and raids throughout their lands over the
ensuing twelve-year war. After a pyrrhic victory by
the Aldarin legions at the Battle of Holstead, the cap-
ital of Alvia, Jester, was sacked and burnt. The Alvian
ruler, Queen Gisella VI (LG she/her Alvian dead),
fell upon her own sword rather than being taken alive
by the Aldarins. In a matter of months, after rampant
pillaging and looting by the legions, the region was
annexed into the empire as the province of Alvia.
103
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Meanwhile, the clans of the Jyksvyne Alliance in
the north were making their own movements against
the empire. The Byldøri, who had been repelled in the
Introduction
years prior to the plague, once again gathered their
fragmented clanship at the empire’s northernmost
Introduction
border. The fearsome Nordvær clan stood at their to the
side, fielding over 2,000 war mammoths to bolster Aldarin
Empire
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
take their warriors hostage.
Historical documents count over 300,000 warriors Social Classes
crossing the River Nystra during the late summer of
456 PDS. Swiftly capturing Baldera, the army flattened
the defending provincial legions before moving on to Kinships in
the Empire
northern Caerula, razing settlements and indiscrim-
inately killing all who stood in their path.
The Caerulian provincial legions were pushed Festivals
back to Blue Hold, where a siege was laid by the
allied clans. Before reinforcements could arrive
from Deveros, however, the clans fell into an internal Sports
disagreement. An argument had sparked between
clan leaders about looting rights of the city once it
had been taken. This argument turned into violence, Religion
and soon the camp of the invading army was ablaze,
its warriors at each other’s throats. Tens of thousands
were slain under nightfall as the Aldarins simply Politics
watched from the walls in shock. Only adding to
the chaos, several of the war mammoths became
Military
spooked by the fires which had begun to lick the
encampment. They rampaged through the tents,
demolishing several of the exterior fortifications and
Commerce
crushing countless Jyrden underfoot. The Aldarins
knew better than to interrupt their enemy whilst
they were making a mistake, simply firing their Crime and
Punishment
arrows from the walls in attempts to further stoke the
madness below. By dawn, the clans had dispersed.
Some Jyrden stuck around within the province for Provinces of
Aldarin
a few weeks, half-heartedly pillaging and looting
before being driven back by the reinforcing legions.
Periods of
Others headed straight home, enroute to burn the Aldarin
villages of the opposing clan they had once consid- History
ered an ally. The Consentium came to the decision
that the Byldøri and Nordvær must be dealt with. Classes
Preparations began as the Aldarins vowed to bring
destruction upon these troublesome clanships in the
following year. Backgrounds
As the campaigning season began, twelve legions
crossed River Nystra into Nordvær led by Empress
Iliandra I alongside 2,000 mercenary units loaned Appendices
from the nearby kingdom of Crimesa. The empress
was an acclaimed leader, having dragged the
empire out of recession by the scruff of its neck and
obtaining numerous victories against the Alvians
during the prior war. The army eventually split into
two, with Iliandra taking charge of four legions and
the Crimesan mercenaries, heading north into the
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

teleporting along the waylines into Elos, enroute
to capture Elosian land in preparation to wage war
against Zwys. The Medial Plane was slowly devolving
into the battleground of these two farborn nations.
CW
On the 12th of Winter’s Wane in 500 PDS, the
empire’s stance shifted drastically. News of inter-
planar invasions breaking out throughout the
continent had reached the ears of the Consentium.
The Zygardians reported sightings of earthborn
troops marching through their homeland as the
high elves of Emondas sent word of frightening
Zwysian cloud fortresses teleporting into strategic
locations upon their shores. Before a response could
be made, the flames of the Emberkilns flared in a
vibrant chorus of colour, spiralling streaks of divine
energy high into the sky. Planar war had officially
been declared by the Medial Pantheon. The Elosian
mantels, the prospective deific vessels, were called
forth to the Emberkiln of the Aedes in Deveros. The
Duodecima1 chose which vessel they would embody
as the souls of gods and mortals melded. These
chosen vessels of immense soul energy, known as
the flamines, took their first steps upon mortal soil.
Empowered with the divine strength of the gods,
they would defend the plane against her enemies.
Deos’s flamen, Licenus (CG he/they Aldarin dead),
remained in Aldarin and assumed control of the
Aldarin Empire as the other flamines scattered to the
winds to confront the invading forces. In a historic
speech, known as “Licenus’s Vow”, Deos elucidated
the gravitas of the war to the Consentium and the
people of the empire. It was not long before reports of
skirmishes against warring Korkuntaar and Zwysian
forces began streaming in from the north as Aldarin
fleets clashed with Zwysian cloud fortresses upon
the empire’s southernmost shores. Aldarin was once
again at war. And this time, it threatened more than
just the empire. It threatened the entire Medial Plane.
Licenus lost no time taking charge of the Legions
and marched northwards to repel the clashing
farborn armies who had chosen the lands of
the Jyksvyne Alliance as their warring grounds.
Aldarin legionarii fought side by side with Jyrden
warriors — a rare moment of unity between the
two age-old rivals — as they drove invading farborn
from their homesteads. Whilst the Aldarins were
able to maintain a strong defence against the invad-
ing forces, others were not so lucky. The luscious
plains of the Milithic Clans, known in the present
day as Menderin, were obliterated by Korkuntaar
elementals, with almost all of the south-eastern
continent falling to the invading earthborn nation.
The Aldarins spent the next two decades waging war
against the Korkuntaar and Zwys in these regions,
working closely with Gw’yth’s flamen, Caellione (CN
1) The Duodecima did not become the Tredecima until after the First Medial War.
105
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
she/they high elf dead), who had taken charge of
high elven nations Jivastiá and Emondas, as well as
the half-dragon realm of Zygarde.
Introduction
As naval technology advanced over the course CW
of the war, secure ocean connections were forged
Introduction
between the continents of the Medial Plane, with to the
Giraré in Ravidan, Tak’huut in Nul’Kildar, and the Aldarin
Empire
Kishmar Kingdom in Sel’Kildar forming a tentative
alliance with Aldarin, Emondas, and Zygarde. This Aldarin
alliance became known as the Allied Medial Nations, Names
which would later turn into the immensely powerful
Anchor Treaty Nations. This alliance was formed in Social Classes
an aim to eliminate the troublesome Zwysian cloud
fortresses and aerial fleets controlling the waves from
above the Herove and Gilded oceans, who were being Kinships in
the Empire
aided by a handful of power-hungry deities from the
Inner Pantheon. Deities from both sides of the planar
fold clashed, fighting fiercely over the territory of the Festivals
Medial Plane. The farborn armies continued their
rampage in attempts to secure a foothold, supported
by their own pantheon of gods. The war would come Sports
to an abrupt and unexpected close following the
death of the Inner Patheon goddess and instigator of
the war, Ethwylei. As the wind-bound goddess fell, Religion
the Zwysian forces whom she had been supporting
turned tail and fled back to the Inner Wind Plane.
The Korkuntaar too fell shortly after, their own gods Politics
unable to fight against the combined attention of the
Duodecima. The death of Licenus and subsequent
Military
sealing of the planar border marked a definitive end
to the planar invasion, with any lingering farborn
slain at the hands of the Medial Plane’s forces.
Commerce
Through the chaos of interplanar war, the Aldarins
had stumbled upon firm new allies with which to
secure lasting connections. Allies not just from Elos Crime and
Punishment
but from far-flung continents across the plane joined
together in unity by the Duodecima twelve and their
heroic flamines. Provinces of
Aldarin
Era of Exploration Periods of
Aldarin
History
Period: 523–782 PDS
Notable Rulers: Empress Lyrica IV, Empress Ophelia Classes
(CG she/her [T] Aldarin dead), Emperor Venesti
IV (CG he/him Aldarin dead), Emperor Trilium (CG
he/him Aldarin dead), Emperor Deosa (LN he/him Backgrounds
Aldarin dead), Empress Aurelia I (CG she/they [GF]
Aldarin demigod)
Appendices
As the First Medial War came to a close, several
nations across the Medial Plane breathed a collec-
tive sigh of relief. The interplanar borders had been
secured by Licenus’s sacrifice — for now at least —
and the Aldarin Empire had seen mortals and gods
alike fall at their sandal-clad feet. It did not take long
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
for alliances to solidify between powerful nations in
the wake of the war, with Emondas and Zygarde to
the east forging a treaty-bound alliance with Aldarin
due to the bonds of Licenus and Caellione. Through
these far-flung friendships, advanced naval technol-
ogies emerged to support necessary connections. A
desire to forge stable trade routes with the distant
lands of Ravidan, Kildar, and Panthéa too were born,
with ocean-faring quinqueremes becoming the new
norm. Within five years, fresh Elosian fleets bound
the waves of the Herove and Gilded oceans, primed
to secure lucrative connections with these distant
continental powers.
CW
The Aldarin Empire jumped aboard this pio-
neering bandwagon, constructing hundreds of
quinqueremes within the industrious docks of
Deveros and Gordistra. Some were privately owned,
funded by wealthy patricians seeking to establish
profitable trade routes to bolster the profits of their
own private enterprises. Others saw funding from
the imperial treasury, loaned out to notable trusted
citizens as diplomats of the empire and guarded by
the naval legions. Before long, a steady stream of
quinqueremes were gliding across the sprawling
oceans, connecting the sparse continents of the
Medial Plane in thriving commerce and culture.
As the decades trundled on, a great number of
trade routes saw permanent establishment between
foreign countries. The Vorien Empire slowly fought
its way into existence towards the end of the 6th
Century. The Aldarins found in them a reliable trade
partner across the seas as the Voriens constructed
trading posts along the provincial shores of Civaci
and the Pilkos Isles. The Aldarins too spread out into
Ravidan, establishing colonies along the Lotus Ring
and forging treaties with the fledgling nations of
Giraré and La’Mysté, whose technological advances
matched those of their newfound Elosian allies.
Cultural colonies eventually formed along the shores
of Sel’Kildar and Nul’Kildar, blending the cultures of
distant nations with those of the Kildarian people.
Despite the initial success of these budding Kildarian
ports, almost all eventually saw collapse towards the
end of the 7th Century due to the countless blood-
soaked conflicts between Kishradam, Tak’huut, and
the Jzarni kingdoms.
Aldarin’s coffers were fit to bursting at the seams
as they hoarded cascades of gold, ancient magical
artefacts, and a wealth of arcane knowledge. The
patricians were raking in vast swathes of foreign
funding which rivalled even the treasury of the
imperial family. Whilst the empire had been blessed
with tides of commercial success, there was trouble
stirring in the east. The Milithic Clans, a collective of
orcish and dwarven clanships who had been all but
destroyed during the First Medial War, had reformed
under a new banner. The banner of the Yun’stran
106
Tribes. A once small collective of power-hungry
warmongers, whose hatred for the Aldarins exceeded
that of even the Jyrden, the Yun’stran had grown
strong in recent years. With their once verdant
fields reduced to desolate scrubland by the earth
elementals of the Korkuntaar, the Yun’stran Tribes
saw an opportunity to lay claim upon the luscious
fields of Aldarin to the west. In the spring of 681
PDS
, two separate Yun’stran armies crossed into the
province of Civaci, totalling over 250,000 soldiers.
The Aldarins were taken completely by surprise. The
Civacian provincial legions were busy campaigning
in the northern empire against lingering remnants
of the Rhulati clan, one of many Jyrden tribes
attempting to reclaim the province of Borealia for
the Jyksvyne Alliance.
Hearing news of the invasion, Empress Ophelia
leapt into action. Raising seven legions from the
surrounding provinces of Caerula, Nivinea, and
western Civaci, Ophelia marched east to cut off the
Yun’stran armies before they would reach central
Civaci. These greenhorn legions were partially
formed of Cilicians who were given the promise
of full citizenship should the Yun’stran forces be
repelled. Now fighting for not only their own lives
but those of their future descendants, these legionarii
were out for the blood of the Yun’stran and fought
like starved wolves. Ophelia campaigned solidly for
six long years, driving the invading clanships back
into their own territory. She did not stop there. The
eager young empress followed the routing armies
across the border into their homeland, giving them
no chance to regroup. Settlements were razed, and
what little fertile land remained was salted. A direct
warning. A threat to not even consider touching the
land of Deos’s children.
Peace was eventually negotiated. To prevent future
troubles, Ophelia utilised the overflowing coffers of
the imperial treasury to fund construction of the
Ophelian Wall: a monolithic clay brick barrier with
dozens of towering in-built legionary forts spanning
from the Gilded Ocean to the Rymish border. This
great wall still stands today, an impressive feat of
Aldarin engineering. As promised, Ophelia granted
citizenship to the Cilicians who had served loyally
within her legions, granting them sizable plots of
land in southern Civaci and allowing their deferment
from any future military service. Thanks to this
interaction between Ophelia and her people, with a
sizable push from prolific Pilkish politicians within
the provincial capitals, was Aldarin’s class system
overhauled once again. The servus class all but fell
out of use, with any who found themselves engulfed
by the Aldarin Empire granted the possibility of
upwards trajectory regardless of whether they were
born “Aldarin” or not.

CW
As Aldarin’s economy waxed and waned over this
period, it eventually struck a low point during the
late-8th Century, falling into a crippling economic
depression. Recession swept the empire in the fallout
of Emperor Trilium’s disastrous reign, culminating
in his assassination and the rapid enstatement of the
child empress, Empress Aurelia I. With little true
guidance from the imperial family, the Consentium
was left to its own devices, leading to further in-fight-
ing and inner turmoil. This could not have come at
a worse time, as the divine seal of the planar borders
laid down by Licenus was growing weaker with every
passing day. The Inner Pantheon sought revenge
against Deos and his kin for daring to restrain them
and would stop at nothing to attain it.
Second Medial War
Period: 783–802 PDS
Notable Rulers: Empress Aurelia I
War erupted almost immediately, and Empress
Aurelia I, now of age to govern, took the helm of
the empire in a desperate attempt to coordinate its
haphazard defence. Numerous civilians fled from
major settlements into the Underworld, seeking
to protect themselves from the encroaching Inner
Compass armies landing from the planar bridges.
Deveros was beset upon by a 120,000-strong army
belonging to the fireborn Skorbrak, who burnt all in
their path to ash. The Aldarins barely grasped onto
the clutches of victory thanks to the timely arrival
of the Mysh’lae Kingdom and their frightening
Gwylmerin deep angels, who had journeyed from
the Inner Water Plane to protect the Medial Plane
from their elemental cousins. Aurelia, blessed with
the radiance of Deos, fielded alongside the seaborn
Gwylmerin to drive back the Skorbrak into their
magmatic tunnel systems. Not even before the
last Skorbrak soldier had left sight of the city walls
were the Emberkilns lit for a second time in Medial
history. Two Aldarin-born mantels were quick to
step forth to answer the call. Levola (LN she/they
Aldarin dead), Loritel’s daughter and demigod under
her mother’s ward, and Estia (NG she/her Aldarin
dead), a devoted paladin of Deos, were chosen as
flamines. The Duodecima descended to the plane
unto their new vessels, prepared to drive back the
Inner Pantheon once more.
CW
The fighting over the next two decades was fierce
and ruthless. Countless Aldarins fell in battle against
the forces of the Inner Planes and the Wysterwood.
Wyld operatives, minor fae-born daimon deities
from the Wysterwood, seeped into every crack and
crevice of the empire, seeding confusion and distrust
throughout the already turbulent political landscape.
107
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
The Concilium Arcanus Altus, Aldarin’s relatively
small collective of experienced magi, was itself
infiltrated by the Wyld, triggering an insurgency. The
leading Altus Magus at the time, Vetalia Milenius Introduction
(TN they/them Aldarin dead), was assassinated by
Introduction
Jojin (CE he/they/it satyr dead), a satyr demigod to the
who desired to consume their soul. Jojin, along with Aldarin
Empire
six other daimons, devoured an unknown number
of souls belonging to powerful magi across the Aldarin
continent before their deceptions were unveiled. Names
Through a purge of the organisation, the trickster
daimons who were unable to escape, alongside a Social Classes
number of Aldarin traitors who had joined them
in their pursuit of power, were arrested and swiftly
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
Altus underwent vital reforms with a sizable number Festivals
of traitorous magi purged from its ranks.
Towards the later years of the war, a decisive CW
battle, known as the Battle of Blue Hold, was fought Sports
within Caerula’s provincial capital. This clash of
armies was in defence of an immensely powerful
artefact known as the Maxim. This ancient tome of Religion
dangerous spellcraft, forbidden for research by the
imperial magi in centuries prior, was being utilised to
isolate and eliminate fae impostors within the ranks Politics
of Aldarin’s military. Vanicus Helios Julius (NG he/
him Aldarin dead), a prolific general during the war,
Military
fought to defend the city’s walls and inner sanctum
where the tome was being held. Meanwhile Levola,
Loritel’s flamen, held the skies of Blue Hold at the
Commerce
helm of her dedicated aerial legions. It was during
this battle that Levola was slain by an unknown
daimon commander wielding the god-killing bow, Crime and
Punishment
Cromær. It is believed that this commander was
actually one of the Inner Pantheon gods in disguise,
who was attempting to destroy Loritel’s soul. Whilst Provinces of
Aldarin
Loritel just barely survived, her soul ejecting to her
demiplane, Levola did not, falling from her gryphon
Periods of
into Lake Sapphire where she succumbed from her Aldarin
injuries. Despite the fall of Levola, Vanicus was able History
to repel the invading army alongside his brother,
Osterio Helios Deverosa (LG he/him Aldarin dead), Classes
who used the spells within the Maxim to eradicate
the remaining fae from the city. Levola’s body was
recovered from the depths of the lake shortly after Backgrounds
and was sent to Deveros for burial. As her body
reached the city, processed by a parade of gold-clad
hetariae, a mournful triumph was held in her honour. Appendices
Levola’s untimely death was mourned heavily by the
empire. The joyous demigod had become beloved
throughout the land as a wise yet caring individual
whose love for her people transcended her divine
duties. Cromær was also recovered from the battle-
field and delivered to the capital, but was later stolen
by the Umbra Syndicate for reasons unknown.
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

CW
The first world anchor constructed was the
Deverosian World Anchor, situated within the
empire itself, taking a gruelling 25 years of hard
labour from the placing of the first brick to eventual
completion. The construction itself put a massive
strain on the Aldarin economy, drawing resources
from the far edges of the empire to ensure the
monolithic entity was finished on time. Even with
all the pooled resources of the empire, several thou-
sand workers died over the course of the project.
Hundreds of these deaths can be attributed to the
horrific Anchor Blaze of 821 PDS following an explo-
sion of alchemist’s fire, which was used to temper
the special basalt forming the shell of the building.
By the time the structure was finally finished, the
mood of local Deverosians had soured considerably
in regards to the world anchor, with many believing
that the gargantuan obelisk of blackened basalt was
a blight upon the otherwise picturesque landscape
of the Deverosian Coast. Furthermore, the persistent
hum of the anchor eye, the condensed souls of fallen
gods responsible for powering the World Border, was
triggering insomnia in those who lived nearby. This
incessant hum was eventually muffled through the
crude covering of the crystal in a thick layer of wool.
Despite these modifications, the wonder of modern
architecture was anything but easy on the eyes.
Following the completion of the Deverosian World
Anchor, Aldarin began exporting its findings from
the construction process, adapting their designs for
the other Anchor Nations and assisting them with
the troublesome construction of their own anchors.
Each anchor was modified slightly depending on
the available resources at each location, but for the
most part, these obelisk-like monoliths of condensed
arcane energy remained consistent across the plane.
CW
Aldarin encountered numerous issues during
the following decades whilst supporting the other
nations. During the excavation of an ancient mine
in southern Baldera during the spring of 838 PDS,
intended to provide vast swathes of iron to Emondas
to assist in the construction of their world anchor,
a bizarre discovery was made. Within a seething
sphere of dusk crystals, a cindering collective of
condensed ashes was unearthed. After smashing
apart the dusk crystal encasement against the better
judgement of the mine’s supervisors, the horrifying
visage of a phoenix — a long-lost entity corrupted
by Meveril’s decaying soul — rose from within. All
creatures in a two-kilometre radius around the mine
were immediately disintegrated by the phoenix’s
devastating burst of corrupted flame. This abomi-
nation of Meveril’s essence had somehow survived
the cataclysm of the Dusk Shroud and was reborn
as its ashes were exposed to sunlight. Dozens of
villages and farms were reduced to ash as the phoenix
rampaged across the northern empire, leaving only
109
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
destruction and fire in its wake. As this was occur-
ring, Julia Verikos (NG she/her [T] Ravidanian
dead), a talented Ravidanian magus who had joined
Introduction
Concilium Arcanus Altus to share arcane insight
across the Anchor Nations, happened to be travelling
Introduction
northwards to visit her cousin in Helvekium. Seeing to the
the terrifying threat scorching its path through the Aldarin
Empire
plains, Julia utilised her ember to entrap the phoenix
in a spiralling cascade of water, dowsing its intense Aldarin
flames for just long enough to cast sending for assis- Names
tance at the world anchor. Imperial magi teleported
to Julia’s location almost immediately and together, Social Classes
through combined use of their embers, they were
able to obliterate the phoenix.
Its ashes were quickly gathered and contained Kinships in
the Empire
by Concilium Arcanus Altus for study whilst the
nearest legion was contacted to assist in tending to
the wounded. Julia was granted a military ovation Festivals
by Emperor Venesti V upon her return to Deveros,
something unheard of for someone outside of the
Legions, especially one from a foreign nation. This, Sports
however, was very much in line with what was to
be expected from Venesti, whose reign had been
described as “bumbling” and “crowd-pleasing” by Religion
the consensae of the era. Disinterested in the con-
struction of the world anchors and planar affairs as
a whole, the emperor was more concerned with the Politics
building of gardens, parks, and hunting grounds.
This was born of a desire to bring a greater wealth of
Military
greenery to the settlements of Aldarin following the
gloom of the Second Medial War. Grand swathes of
the treasury were poured into these herculean proj-
Commerce
ects. Extravagant amphitheatres and hippodromes
were established too, providing regular entertain-
ment to the people. Grand games were held on a Crime and
Punishment
weekly basis, further pandering to public approval.
These acts of charity all went down well with the
masses, whose minds were focused on the past and Provinces of
Aldarin
present, enjoying the escapism the festivities pro-
vided. Meanwhile, the advisors to the emperor were
Periods of
concerned for the future of the plane, the empire, Aldarin
and their newfound allies. Not only was the trea- History
sury penniless, but the lack of funding towards the
empire’s arcane defence and military pursuits was at Classes
an all-time low. This rampant spending on bread and
circuses could not come at a worse time, for a fierce
war was about to spark across two separate fronts. Backgrounds
The First Renavic War
Appendices
Towards the latter end of the 9th Century, as the
world anchors were completing construction, two
notable politicians began to rise into the public eye.
The first of these was a young provincial governor, a
proprimus by the name of Acclesian Alventius (see
page 111), referred to today as simply Acclesian.
Acclesian was bright and tactically minded. A
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
politician at heart, he was strongly intertwined with
the Revitalist faction, a popularist group that sought
to bolster rights for soldiers and Deverosian citizens
whilst increasing corn dole for the families of those
on active campaign. The second of these politicians
was the notable Revitalist politician and long-time
rival of Acclesian, Justian Averni Julius (see page
111). Justian was considered a lapdog for the
emperor, pushing for increased taxation of the public
to better fund the emperor’s pet projects. Justian
and Acclesian had both served as primi during the
same term, effectively leading the empire together
under the eye of the emperor. During this time,
the pair were locked in perpetual argument during
Consentium assemblies, vetoing each other’s bills
and preventing each other from performing their
respective duties. Their relationship was anything
but friendly. As their terms in office came to an end,
the pair of proprimi were sent to opposite corners
of the empire by the Emperor Venesti V, who had
grown weary of their perpetual bickering. Acclesian
was granted governorship of Borealia for a five year
term, whilst Justian was given charge of Civaci for
the same period.
CW
Acclesian sought every opportunity possible to
claim further fame in the eyes of his countrymen, and
after two years of successful governorship, a chance
to elevate himself into the lofty heights of Aldarin
history was offered to him upon a gilded platter. A
prolegitor by the name Secundus Renavare Odricus
(CN he/they Aldarin dead), one of several under
Acclesian’s charge, was leading his legion, the Legio
Terra VI Borealia, on a routine exercise alongside the
banks of the River Nystra — the border of the empire
and the Jyksvyne Alliance. During this exercise, two
cohorts were ordered to cross the river by Odricus to
comb the forests along the northern banks in what
was an alleged training mission. Despite protests
from Odric’s advisors, the cohorts followed through
with his orders. Scouts from the leading cohort
quickly spotted a small number of Ivericii warriors
stationed upon a hill just north of the river, who had
been watching the Aldarins curiously. A detachment
was sent to investigate, who were quickly set upon
by a sizable Ivericii warband of 20,000 soldiers who
poured out of the forests. This warband had been
moving to raid their rivals of the Lovi to the east
when their scouts had spotted Odric’s cohorts cross-
ing the river. The remainder of the legion rushed
across the river to defend their compatriots though
were eventually forced to retreat behind the walls
of their fort, where they were besieged by the war-
band. Urgent requests for aid flew out from the fort
to all settlements within range. Acclesian, picking
up on the distress call, spared no time in rousing
his numerous resting legions from throughout the
province, and four legions were raised to his side
110
from the provincial towns and nearby clanships. It
was evident that Acclesian had been waiting for such
an event to occur, for he not only proceeded to crush
the Ivericii warband in a decisive victory at the Battle
of Fengolan’s Ford but continued to press onwards
into Lovi and Ivericii territory, sparking a full-scale
invasion of southern Jykstrav. War had begun on the
empire’s northern front.
Meanwhile, along the eastern edge of the empire,
the Ophelian Wall had come under assault from the
overwhelming forces of the Yun’stran Tribes from
Menderin. Justian, who was in charge of the defence,
led four legions to meet with the clans in a pitched
battle. Despite all the odds being stacked against
Justian, he was able to repel the Yun’stran back into
the heart of Menderin, receiving only minimal
casualties. Hearing news of what was occurring on
the northern front, Justian wished to outshine his
age-old rival of Acclesian. Summoning his remaining
six legions, the keen commander pushed forwards
into Menderin with an aim to conquer new lands in
the name of the emperor, wishing to dampen the vic-
tories he assumed Acclesian would soon be gaining.
Over a two-year period, Justian carved new territory
for the empire in preparations for the settling of a
new province. At the end of his governorship Justian
would face disaster, however, when the clanships
of the Orvuk and Celeci tribes formed together in
a last-ditch defence against the invading legions.
Out-manoeuvring the Aldarins with their horse
archers and earthen druids, the tribes systematically
dismantled Justian’s settlements, pushing back his
army in a matter of months. Justian was repelled
all the way back to the wall, losing almost half his
forces in the retreat. He ended his governorship in
shame, heading back to the imperial capital with
his head hung low, all whilst Acclesian triumphed
again and again.
Over the next decade, the northern expansion
was seeing greater success. Acclesian, whose
governorship had been extended to allow for the
conquest to continue, led his legions throughout
southern Jykstrav on two separate campaigns, allying
himself with a handful of clans whilst obliterating
several others. A new province was formed from
these conquests, Jorverica, which Acclesian assumed
governorship over as well. His local rule of Borealia
was extended indefinitely to allow for completion of
the already successful campaigns. The true reason for
this extension was not out of the successes Acclesian
was seeing, however, but instead out of fear. Emperor
Venesti had been watching Acclesian’s popularity
mount with increased worry, believing that Acclesian
would eventually dethrone him as emperor. Venesti
wished for Acclesian to be out of sight of the imperial
capital for as long as possible in the hopes that he
might be slain whilst on campaign, much to the

disapproval of the Consentium. In actuality, the
CW
inverse was occuring. Thanks to Odric’s mishap,
Acclesian had unknowingly been given the chance to
flex his tactical prowess, attaining swathes of military
victories and increasing his public opinion across
the empire to even loftier heights. Before long, the
public was chanting Acclesian’s name in the streets
of the capital, calling out the callous fear of Emperor
Venesti. They joked that Acclesian, a plebeian who
had risen to the ranks of the aristocracy through hard
work and dedication, had done more for the empire
during his life than the emperor, who spent most
of his time gardening in the Imperial Palace. These
two campaigns would be jokingly known as the
First Renavic War, with Secundus Renavare Odricus
going down in Aldarin history as the blunderous
commander who sparked the empire on the path
of civil war.
Acclesian Civil War
Period: 884–892 PDS
Notable Rulers: Emperor Fabinus, Acclesian Alventius
(NG he/they Aldarin dead), Justian Averni Julius (LN
he/him Aldarin dead)
CW
Following the aftermath of the First Renavic War, a
civil conflict loomed upon the horizon. The reign of
Emperor Venesti V had been disastrous for foreign
perception, broadcasting the once-tumultuous
nation as a weakened entity to its power-hungry
neighbours. The swift assassination of his eldest
child, Empress Iestia, after a mere thirteen days
upon the throne, followed by the lacklustre rule of his
son, Emperor Fabinus, did not do much to aid this
deteriorating visage. The imperial family had begun
to churn the economy into the throes of a depression.
In these dark times, Acclesian stood ardently as a
figurehead for the people. Countless Aldarin citizens
looked up to the man, who had risen from the ranks
of a humble public official into the lofty heights of
the Consentium as a novus nobilis, a new noble of
the empire. Now hailed as a public hero in the wake
of his recent conquest of Jorverica, Acclesian was
the centre of imperial attention. Jorverica was not
Acclesian’s first notable conquest either. Far from
it. Acclesian had claimed countless accolades under
his belt whilst serving in the Civacian legions during
his youth in the military. The apotheosis of his early
career was elevation into the role of legion gryphos
in the stead of his recently deceased commanding
legitor, even though he was only a mere midnus at
the time. Acclesian stood as a pinnacle of Aldarin
progression. A public figure to aspire to. Conversely,
Emperor Fabinus had done little to aid the Legions
or the public in the decade since his appointment.
111
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
He had cut funding of legionarii equipment, dis-
mantled many of the public tax reliefs put in place in
the century prior, and disbanded numerous legions
Introduction
throughout the southern provinces, causing thou-
sands of legionarii to lose out on retirement benefits.
Introduction
Tensions were high between the Imperial Palace and to the
the Consentium, with the empire held inches away Aldarin
Empire
from full scale rebellion by a rapidly fraying thread.
Upon Acclesian’s victorious return from the Aldarin
second Jorverican campaign of 884 PDS, the eager Names
commander established himself twenty miles
northwards of the capital of Deveros alongside his Social Classes
six legions. It was tradition for a victorious return-
ing commander, especially one who had claimed
a new province, to be granted a triumph — an Kinships in
the Empire
official celebration provided by the imperial family.
Furthermore, Acclesian’s legions had served under
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
ahead of time to the emperor requesting the triumph, Sports
though received no reply. And so Acclesian waited.
After three weeks of patience, Acclesian eventually
received a response. His request for a triumph had Religion
been refused by the emperor. Fabinus had grown to
despise Acclesian, jealous of his success, and was
terrified at what might happen should he be allowed Politics
entry to the capital. A rebellion or even a coup were
within the realms of possibility. Furthermore, the
Military
treasury was unable to award Acclesian’s legionarii
with their retirement funds. Unbeknownst to all
apart from the gildors of the city, the imperial cof-
Commerce
fers had been run dry. Emperor Fabinus’s rampant
spending on luxury villas and expensive magical
artefacts had bled gold like a flowing wound from Crime and
Punishment
the empire’s funds. Fabinus expected Acclesian to
hand down his command as a loyal consensa of
the empire and to enter into the city as a private Provinces of
Aldarin
citizen without his triumph. Acclesian, however,
had other ideas. He delivered a rousing speech to
Periods of
his tired troops, stating resolutely how he would Aldarin
stand beside them not as a commander but as an History
Aldarin citizen. That he would fight for what they
were truly owed, whether it be by force or otherwise. Classes
A famous line from this speech commonly quoted by
Aldarins today reads: “Let not the full-grown fields
of lineage wither, nor run dry the dutiful soil which Backgrounds
sources countless bounties, lest all fall fallow at ye
feet.” indicating Fabinus’s unwillingness to fund the
welfare of his veteran legionarii and their families. As Appendices
the speech ended, a deafening cheer rippled through
the rolling hills of the province, said to reach the
walls of the capital many miles south. With that,
Acclesian ordered his legions to tear down camp as
he marched on Deveros.
In a panic, Emperor Fabinus beseeched the patri-
cians of the Consentium to hand over their own land
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
CW
to appease the veterans. This only incited further
uproar, spiralling the Consentium into a frenzy.
Many consensae fled the city, fearing for their lives.
The Revitalists who remained slated Acclesian as a
traitor in a vain attempt to remain loyal to the impe-
rial family, whilst the Reformists begged Fabinus
to cede over his own land to appease Acclesian
and the Legions. Justian Averni Julius, Acclesian’s
arch-nemesis in politics, stole the attention of the
consensae during this scattered assembly, stating that
the city was under attack by a turncoat tyrant whose
self interests were superseding those of the empire.
In his speech, Justian convinced the Consentium into
handing him alerium martius, the right of martial
command. This act placed an elected consensa in
full command of the empire, albeit temporarily, only
to be used when the Consentium issued a vote of no
confidence in the ruler to lead during a time of crisis.
With this power, Justian took charge of the four
legions stationed within Deveros and met Acclesian
in a pitched battle upon the Agrarian Hill just east of
Agrizzo. Acclesian’s legions held their own but were
eventually ordered to fall back by Acclesian’s trusted
right-hand commander, Metella Dicenus Licena
(CG she/her Aldarin dead), who saw that Justian had
the high ground upon the hill and would soon over-
run them. Justian returned to the city and prepared
fortifications, sending missives to his contacts across
the empire in an effort to raise additional legions and
to bring them to Deveros at once.
Acclesian retreated north to Borealia where he
was still governor, calling the provincial legions of
Caerula to his side along the way, and began writing
letters to his own far-flung allies. After six months,
he had raised an additional eight legions as well as
several mercenary armies from Fyndar, whom he
had formed strong connections with during his time
warring in Jykstrav. Three additional legions soon
defected over from Justian, fearful for the outcome
of their own retirement. In letters to his mother,
Acclesian writes: “My hand has been forced, mater.
I seek peace within the pastures of my homeland,
freedom for the plebes who fight and die for her —
yet how can there be peace amongst our kinsfolk
when corruption puppets the strings.”
Over the next decade — a tumultuous period of
history warranting its own annals — brutal battles
waged between the two kinsfolk saw Acclesian
gaining a greater foothold across the empire, with
settlements welcoming the wayward gryphos with
open arms. Justian, in contrast, was vastly less
experienced a commander to Acclesian, prone to
fits of rage and endless ramblings. Public opinion of
the man had soured even further over the final years
of his leadership due to his marriage to Emperor
Fabinus’s cousin, tying him even closer to a decaying
imperial rule. Justian was perceived in the public
112
eye as that of a cowering dog circling the heels of
the imperial family, blindly lashing out at any who
drew too close. Furthermore, he was unwilling to
relinquish the alerium martius granted to him by the
Consentium, becoming the very thing he had sought
to protect the empire from: a tyrant.
Almost ten years after the war had begun,
Acclesian had all but the Province of Deveros on
his side. Jorverica had been lost during this time,
left under the governance of the foolish Secundus
Renavare Odricus, who was eventually slain after
a shattering defeat at the hands of an invading Lovi
warband. Despite this, Acclesian’s eyes were set
firmly upon the imperial capital of Deveros. Seeing
the overwhelming odds stacked against him, Justian
lost his nerve. He fled the capital under cover of
night, alongside dozens of other Reformist patricians
who feared for the worst. Justian would eventually
take his own life, along with that of his wife and two
daughters, upon the infamous Sunset Rock — an
execution site for traitors and murderers — to the
south of the Deveros Coast. In his final letter to his
brother, Apian, Justian wrote: “Life cannot thrive in
these blighted lands where tyranny rises from every
crevice. Deos forgive me for your legacy has fallen.”
Acclesian, accompanied by his legions, marched in
through the gates of Deveros and occupied the city.
Upon the sheer marble stairs to the Consentium, he
gave a vitriolic speech denouncing Emperor Fabinus
for his leeching of wealth from the masses into the
pockets of the patricians. From here, Acclesian and
his legions, accompanied by multitudes of Aldarin
citizens, stormed the Imperial Palace where Emperor
Fabinus was hiding. The hetariae betrayed Fabinus,
opening up the gate of The Amethyst Acre for
Acclesian to pass through. The emperor, who had
failed to poison himself with hemlock, was forced
to sit upon the floor of the palace at the base of
his throne, upon which Acclesian placed an olive
branch and a sword — representing the free people
of Aldarin. A lengthy scripture was drafted called the
Volumen Libertatum or The Scroll of Freedom, which
Fabinus was forced to sign, officially handing over
the right of rule to the people of the empire. Whilst
this had been a long time coming, with the influence
of the imperial family somewhat waning over the
past two centuries in favour of a Consentium-driven
governance, it was a refreshing change for the masses.
The signing of the Volumen Libertatum brought
in numerous additional laws and rights for those
living in the provinces of the empire, most notably
the expansion of Aldarin citizenship to hundreds of
thousands of provincial citizens outside of the
Province of Deveros — a topic which had almost
sparked its own war several decades prior. The
Volumen Libertatum was copied numerous times
and sent to all major settlements across the empire
 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
onwards, the empire was no longer ruled by one
person but many. It had evolved from a stagnating
empire into a radiant republic, dead-set upon
making the most of their newfound freedom. Due to
the lingering presence of the imperial family as
symbolic rulers and their vital importance in the
lineage of Deos, the empire retained its name as
such for now.
Acclesian After the War
Many had feared that Acclesian would snatch
the throne for himself following the civil
war. The world-weary commander had no
desire to do so, however. He instead sought
retirement shortly after the revolution,
purchasing a vineyard in western Caerula
where he lived out the rest of his days in
relative peace. That was aside from when he
was called back to action by the Consentium
to command half a dozen legions against an
invading warband from Menderin. Acclesian
performed this task dutifully at the ripe
age of 82 before returning to his vineyard
following his final successful campaign as a
legionary gryphos.
The Gilded Period Commerce
Period: 893–985 PDS
Notable Rulers: Primus Iliandra Alventius Aldarus (NG Crime and
Punishment
she/her Aldarin dead), Primus Marvello Hastellian
Julius (CN he/him Aldarin dead), Primus Gisella
Helios Jykstravica (LG she/her Aldarin dead), Empress Provinces of
Aldarin
Iliandra II (NG she/her Aldarin dead)
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
sprouted anew. Growth started slowly at first, the
new structure of republican governance taking time
Classes
to find its feet, but before long the Aldarins were
accelerating industrial production and military
activity. Lucrative trade links were established with
Backgrounds
Ravidan and Sel’Kildar, fastidiously operated by the
Laos patrician family whose mercantile network had
singlehandedly supported the backbone of Aldarin Appendices
commerce for well over two centuries. Cities and
towns rapidly expanded as an economic boom struck
the nation. Advanced new infrastructure was laid
down, bolstering trade and connectivity even further.
Whilst the economy was thriving, so too were
the Legions. It was during this time that Aldarin’s
military began to see heightened activity too, not

113
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
only along the historically troublesome northern
and eastern borders, but also abroad in both Lildor
CW
and Jordveil Isle. Swathes of naval legions had begun
to dominate the western shores of Elos, disrupting
Jyrden transport into Jordveil, who wished to claim
independence from the archaic Jyksvyne Alliance.
Lildor too, a sizable region of land to the western
edge of Jykstrav, sought freedom from the grasp
of the fragile alliance, and so with the assistance of
Emondisian and Zygardian magi, Aldarin was able
to assist these Jyrden nations in independence. This
was not necessarily done out of charity, however.
Aldarin had been seeking to gain a foothold along
the length of the western coast for many centuries.
With their legions now stationed as supporting
armies in both these countries for the foreseeable
future, they had achieved their goal, with control
only growing stronger as relations improved. Whilst
all was well with foreign affairs, there was unfinished
business to be dealt with much closer to home.
The Second Renavic War
Having become thrown onto the back foot during
the civil war, with a handful of the more auspicious
southern Jyrden clans invading and occupying the
northernmost lands of Baldera and Borealia during
this time, the empire sought to reclaim what was
theirs. The praesides ultimum of Borealia and great
granddaughter of Acclesian, Proprimus Iliandra
Alventius Aldarus, issued an order for all provincial
legions to join her at the edge of the River Nystra. She
was met by twelve battle-hardened legions: ten land
and two aerial.
Four such legions were led by Prolegitor Petulia
Renavare Didella, the granddaughter of the
infamous legion commander Secundus Renavare
Odricus (see page 110) who had instigated the
First Renavic War just over 80 years prior. Seeking
to reclaim the honour of her family, Didella was
the first to command her legions across the River
Nystra, massacring Jyrden warriors with reckless
abandon. As the other legions swept out behind her,
storming settlements and burning hill forts, Didella
pressed northwards into the land that had once been
the province of Jorverica. The land that her great
grandfather had foolishly lost. Against direct orders
from Aldarus, the hot-headed sancte split from the
main army, enroute to establish a foothold within the
old provincial capital of Duovericum. This brazen
idea of conquest did not go to plan, however. Didella
and her four legions were caught off-guard whilst
on the march through the bog-ridden swamplands
of the Livealio Valley by a colossal Jyrden warband
totalling 50,000 warriors and 600 mammoth riders.
Due to a fierce blizzard which had swept during the
night, the legions were unable to fully set up defences
114
at their camp before nightfall. Additionally, they had
no visibility on the slowly encroaching warband until
it was too late. All four legions were destroyed over a
gruelling two-day slaughter, known as the infamous
Battle of Raeokbor Creek.
This warband, which was heading westwards to
wage war against the clanship of the Ivericii, belonged
to the infamous Lovi clan, a fierce Jyrden tribe whose
relations with the Aldarins posed them as nothing
short of despised villains. The Lovi had historically
executed all who dared associate themselves with the
empire, hanging these alleged traitors from the trees
of the Nobristra Forest at the edge of their territory
as a warning. The warchief of this army, Bucellia
Oloyvn (NG she/her Jyrden dead), believed that
more legions were enroute to occupy the southern
clanships. Within two weeks, she had rallied another
80,000 loyal warriors from the surrounding settle-
ments. Her ever-growing warband crossed the River
Nystra, the head of Didella poised high upon a spear,
sparking what is known as the Second Renavic War.
Settlements were pillaged indiscriminately as
the sparsely scattered provincial legions who had
been left behind to defend the province scrabbled
to defend their forts. Aldarus, catching word of
what was occuring, reversed her legions back to the
river as fast as she could, where they prepared to
cross. During this crossing, they were set upon by a
second warband who had been waiting for them in
the swampland nearby. Aldarus had sourced intel
from her gryphon-bound scouting parties about
this second warband, however, luring them into a
deadly trap laid by a collective of imperial magi.
As the warband went to cut off the legions, over
two hundred water elementals rose from the river,
wreaking havoc throughout the warband’s lines
and triggering a panicked rout within a matter of
hours. This became known as the decisive Battle of
Fengolan’s Ford.
With one warband eliminated, Aldarus gathered
her weary legions and headed south, encamping at
the city of Novistrum along the cusp of the Verliaine
Valley. From here, Aldarus commanded Aldarin
movements over the course of the next year. The
keen-minded gryphos systematically began to dis-
mantle Lovi hill forts throughout the winter months,
a time when the Lovi felt they were safest holed up
behind their defences. She simultaneously repelled
further invading clans who sought to aid the Lovi
back across the river. Numerous skirmishes were
fought with almost all falling to Aldarin victory.
As the second year of the war came into Spring’s
Dawn, a final push was made from Aldarus’s legions.
She was accompanied by eight Caerulian legions
led by notable popularist politician Legitor Junipus
Laos Licillia (NG he/they [NB] Aldarin dead).
Junipus had been aiding Aldarus to the best of his

ability, actively raising legions from throughout the
local province during the months of winter and
early spring, all whilst preventing the pillaging from
seeping into his home province of Caerula. The two
respected military commanders would later marry
after the war, having grown close during their time
working together, and retire to Junipus’s sizable villa
in southern Caerula.
CW
As the two leaders coordinated their legions
effectively throughout the following year, the final
Lovi hill fort south of the River Nystra fell in the
monumental Battle of Gyvileae, where a surrounded
Bucellia fought bravely to the death upon the back
of her war mammoth. The Lovi leader’s head was
presented to the Consentium not three weeks later
by Aldarus and Junipus as they entered Deveros
with a joint triumph, hailed as the reclaimers of
Borealia. Aldarus would return the next summer
to lead another successful campaign against the
Lovi in their own territory, dismantling a number
of settlements and executing several local leaders as
a show of superiority. War hostages were taken in a
peace agreement with the Lovi, though they would
never forgive the Aldarins for what they did. Almost
as quickly as it had started, the Second Renavic War
ended. The war earned its name through Didella’s
overconfidence, with the Renavare family falling
further unto the dark side of Aldarin history. Despite
future wars with Jykstrav having nothing to do with
the Renavare family, they would all bear the family
name as a mark of lingering shame. In a letter to her
cousin, Didella’s daughter wrote: “Cursed as Ivora
was to fall, Deos’s rays cast shadows upon our home.”
The Dusk Revolution
Period: 986–1029 PDS (Present Day)
Notable Rulers: Primus Lucullus Cicero Caesar (CG he/
him Aldarin dead), Primus Caesar Helios Aldarus (see
page 64), Primus Helgaria Astentium Menderica (see
page 64), Empress Iliandra III (see page 57)
Aldarin’s progressive golden age has yet to end. A
sizable boom of dusk-born technology towards
the tail end of the 10th Century had thrown the
empire into an industrious new era. The Girarén
magi of the Spiral Queens and fellow members of
the Anchor Nations had been delving into the use of
dusk crystals — remnants of phoenix souls coalesced
into dense dusk magic over many millennia. It was
eventually discovered that with precise applications
of evocation magic, these dusk crystals could be trig-
gered to explode, causing a surge of energy. Before
long, this information had spread throughout the
Anchor Nations, becoming integrated into new and
exciting technologies.
115
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
The Aldarins were naturally the first to weaponise
the crystals, attaching them to the bolts of multi-shot
ballistae and imbuing them with various tracking
Introduction
spells. These fearsome siege weapons became known
as prometheans and were rapidly produced and
Introduction
mounted onto every ship and city wall throughout to the
the empire. The imperial magi also discovered that, Aldarin
Empire
when ground into a fine powder and mixed with
sulphur, these crystals could propel projectiles at Aldarin
blinding speeds. They had unearthed a form of Names
unstable gunpowder, similar to the rudimentary
Panthéan black powder, though one which could be Social Classes
imbued with spells to craft elemental shot.
Alongside inventors from Zygarde, Giraré, and
Emondas, multitudes of dusk engines were born, Kinships in
the Empire
originating from early Ravidanian designs. Whilst
Giraré sought to propel flying vessels with this tech-
nology, known as airships, Aldarin and Zygarde took Festivals
these inventions to land. Dusk trains saw the light of
day, capable of shifting enormous amounts of cargo
and people at once. Next came the Divestus engine, Sports
used within Aldarin to rapidly propel movement
of light coastal craft, with plans to develop greater
variants for larger ships. As more and more uses for Religion
dusk crystals come to fruition, the Dusk Revolution
continues to sweep the empire to the present day.
Politics
The Third Renavic War
Whilst these technological advances had begun to Military
propel the empire to new heights, war still lingered
upon its borders. The newly formed nation of
Jykstrav, born of the old Jyksvyne Alliance, had set- Commerce
tled into a state of relative peace as the 10th Century
came to a close. Whilst the clanships had operated
Crime and
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
Provinces of
overarching order, called the Gathering of the Many, Aldarin
held a firm grasp over the actions of the clanships
with raids along the border into Aldarin becoming Periods of
Aldarin
less frequent as a result of improved diplomatic History
relations. A rare semblance of unity formed between
Jyrden and Aldarin border settlements, whose
Classes
residents had become sick of the perpetual toing
and froing. Despite this mutual peace between local
citizens of both nations, Aldarin once again found Backgrounds
itself at loggerheads with its age-old rival.
Stories of how the war started vary from account
to account, but the general tale is as follows: A band Appendices
of Aldarin mercyrs from the fledgling guild of Kari’s
Initiative had travelled to the Jykstrav-sided town of
Kist Ver’haal to complete a lycan hunting contract.
Some drunken altercation arose over incorrect
payment for the stabling of horses at the local tavern,
leading to a brawl and the eventual death of the mer-
cyrs at the hand of the town guard. The Consentium
quickly caught wind of what had happened, issuing
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

CW
As the world anchor crumbled, its crystal destroyed,
a sizable tear shredded through the World Border.
Within moments, planar gates began to appear
throughout the streets of the city. Demonic forces,
who had been waiting on the other side, charged
through led by Luthor himself, indiscriminately
slaughtering all in their path. Taken by surprise during
a time of peace, the city was wholly unprepared. The
city’s three legions swarmed to the Prisada Arcana to
rescue magi trapped within the rubble of the world
anchor as Prince Loxis III assembled what few legion-
arii gryphones he could find, mounting a precarious
defence of the district. Night fell upon Deveros as
flames illuminated the landscape. Thousands were
slaughtered by the minute, and those who remained
clambered behind the interior walls of the Prisada
Arcana, defended by the remaining legions and a
handful of mercyr guilds. As countless lay dead upon
the streets, the capital all but fallen, Empress Iliandra
III stepped into a secluded corner the Anchor Plaza,
sending a quiet prayer to Deos in a plea to save her
people. Her ember flared with divine radiance as her
form became wreathed in intense white flame, her
pure soul burning bright, illuminating the district. As
Iliandra’s soul was consumed, the souls of each and
every fallen Aldarin across the city returned to their
body as a mass resurrection, the likes of which had
never been seen before, took place.
As the dead rose from the ground, Prince Loxis
III flared his own ember, summoning forth spectral
figures of Aldarin legionarii who rose alongside
them. Invigorated by their empress’s sacrifice
and their now-bolstered numbers, the exhausted
legions pushed through the streets in a historic
battle known as the Battle of Sovinvale Night. As
this push began, the legions were met with further
surprise, as cracks of magic tore through the night.
Their Elosian Anchor Nation allies had arrived,
teleporting in across the expansive rooftops of the
city. The Gilded Hand of Emondas and the Scholars
of the Third Flame of Zygarde, two of the powerful
mage collectives on the continent, summoned
forth wreaths of ice and snow which battered the
demonic armies, driving them back through their
planar gates. The immense form of the ancient brass
dragon, Pel’thadrak, led skyfarer forces alongside
Aldarin legionarii gryphones in a defining moment
of unity between Zygarde and Aldarin. One which
would never be forgotten.
As swiftly as it had started, the Battle of Sovinvale
Night ended. Luthor, who had taken residence in the
Imperial Palace, was slain by Pel’thadrak after being
dropped from high above the city. His hulking form
fell onto the tip of the Sunspear, a monumental spear
belonging to Deos which rested upon the southern
banks of the River Ivora. With Luthor’s defeat, the
remaining Verhlmic forces retreated. Those who
117
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
remained were slain at the hands of the Anchor
Nations. Over the course of the next month, the
world anchor was rebuilt up through the tactical
Introduction
use of embers and magic by the three Elosian Anchor
Nation collectives whilst supported by their distant
Introduction
allies on other continents. Emperor Loxis III rose to to the
the throne, vowing to carry on his mother’s legacy Aldarin
Empire
as a much-beloved and respected symbol of Aldarin
pride. The World Border was soon reformed and the Aldarin
crack in the planar membrane was quickly discov- Names
ered and dealt with. The Medial Plane was once again
safe from exterior threats. Social Classes
The Fourth Renavic War
Kinships in
Still ongoing in the current year of 1029 PDS, the the Empire
Fourth Renavic War is where the Aldarin Empire
currently finds itself. For the last thirty years, rela-
Festivals
tions with Jykstrav have been tenuous at best. Minor
incursions along the border have threatened war on
several occasions; however, the ever-present pressure
Sports
of peace pressed upon a handful of non-involved
Anchor Nations has kept Aldarin tempers under
control. The intermingling of cultures was a nota-
Religion
ble aid to the peace as well, with large collectives
of Jyrden moving to live within the empire and
commercial-invested Aldarin socialites moving to
Politics
Jykstrav’s capital of Val’dyrak. This manufactured
peace was unfortunately not set to last.
Still resentful at the loss of the Jorverican province Military
many centuries ago, an area which holds great com-
mercial interest to the empire, the Aldarins prepared
for invasion. As the campaigning season began upon Commerce
1028 PDS, fifteen Aldarin legions crossed into Jykstrav,
led by the hot-headed Emperor Loxis III who had
Crime and
outright ignored Consentium ruling which forbade Punishment
the imperial family leading an army. These legions,
eager to regain the historic province of the famed
Provinces of
Acclesian, swiftly reached Duovericum and began to Aldarin
lay siege. The operation was coordinated flawlessly
alongside the fearsome skaaldblud navy of Jordveil Periods of
Aldarin
Isle, who assisted the Aldarins in securing naval
History
supply lines whilst simultaneously blocking Jyrden
fleets from crossing southwards.
Classes
To this day, the siege of Duovericum continues,
a double-sided wall formed around both the city
and the legionary camps protecting the legions from
Backgrounds
both internal and external attacks. Numerous other
legions have splintered from the central siege to
claim strategic locations within old Jorverica and to
Appendices
secure supply routes to the sea. These detachments
are constantly skirmishing with Jyrden warbands,
abetted by their mammoth riders, who move to delay
the Aldarin’s progress whilst the Gathering of the
Many slowly assembles her armies. With the second
year of the war looming, both nations are gearing
towards a gruelling, bloodsoaked summer.
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.

118
 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.
If there is no viable saving throw against the spell,
ability, or condition, no saving throw is made and
you retain the condition.
You may additionally use this ability to transfer
up to two exhaustion points from another creature
within 30 feet of you onto yourself. When you finish
a long rest, you may expend a use of this ability to
remove two exhaustion points instead of one.
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.
CW
Channel Divinity: Overwhelm Emotion
2nd-level Emotion Domain feature
You may use your Channel Divinity to make others
around you become overwhelmed with emotion.
As an action, you present your holy symbol and
recall experiences of your past which summon forth
powerful feelings of deep, lingering emotion. Each
creature of your choice that can see you within 30
feet of you must succeed on a Charisma saving throw
or become filled with intense emotion for 1 minute.
The creature may repeat their saving throw at the
end of its turns to end the effect. A creature who
is willing automatically fails its saving throw. You
choose the emotion upon use of this ability from the
Emotion Table.
Emotion Table
Emotion Effect
may attempt to succeed on a Charisma saving throw
to resist the emotion.
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.
Upon reaching 10th level, when using this feature
you may instead expend a spell slot of 3rd-level or
higher to apply the effects of greater restoration.
Potent Spellcasting
8th-level Emotion Domain feature
Starting at 8th level, you add your Wisdom modifier
to the damage you deal with any cleric cantrip.
Intense Feelings
17th-level Emotion Domain feature
The effects of your Overwhelm Emotion increase
in potency with each emotion coalescing into an
intense manifestation of themselves. At the start
of your next turn following the use of Overwhelm
Emotion, the emotions evolve into their heightened
form. While in their heightened form, the original
effects still apply unless otherwise stated.
Heightened Emotion Table
Base Heightened
Emotion Emotion Effect
Sadness Depression The creature’s
movement speed
decreases by an
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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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE

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
Intelligence, the gryphon also increases the same
ability score by the same amount. The gryphon
6 I constantly moult my feathers. Everywhere.
7 Barding is uncomfortable. I make a huge fuss
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
123
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
During combat, the gryphon acts on your initiative
and may be commanded by you using either gestures
or verbal orders, requiring no action on your behalf.
If not commanded, it defends you to the best of its
ability. A gryphon who has not yet formed a strong
bond with its rider, or whose rider is regularly push-
ing the gryphon to do things it otherwise does not
wish to do, might disobey orders.
If your gryphon dies, you may obtain a new
juvenile gryphon by purchasing one for 250 gold
or through bonding with one in the wilds over a
period of 24 hours. If you have gained the Maturity
class ability, the new gryphon takes two months to
fully mature through the magical bond made with its
rider. This time may be halved by spending at least 4
hours each day training with the gryphon.
Maturity
7th-level Gryphon Rider feature
Your gryphon matures into a young adult gryphon.
It grows to Large in size and you may now mount
it. The gryphon gains a fly speed of 60 feet, which
decreases to 30 feet when you are mounting it. The
damage die of the gryphon’s beak attack increases to
a d8 and the claws to a d6.
Charging Attack
7th-level Gryphon Rider feature
You can now make charging attacks whilst mounted
on the gryphon. You may make a charge attack as an
action as long as the gryphon has moved in a direct
line of at least 20 feet towards a target creature. Make
a melee weapon attack roll against the target creature.
On a successful hit, the creature takes an additional
2d8 bludgeoning damage in addition to the normal
damage dealt by the weapon. Additionally, if the
creature is size Large or smaller, it must succeed on
a Strength saving throw of DC 8 + your proficiency
bonus + your Strength modifier or else be pushed
back 10 feet. You can use this feature a number of
times equal to your Constitution modifier (a mini-
mum of once). You regain all expended uses when
you finish a long rest.
Swift Wings
10th-level Gryphon Rider feature
At 10th level, the gryphon no longer suffers a pen-
alty to its fly speed when mounted. In addition, the
gryphon gains the bonus action Zoom, which it may
use three times a day.
Zoom (3/Day). As a bonus action, the gryphon
triples its fly speed until the end of the round.
Aerial Training
15th-level Gryphon Rider feature
At 15th level, your gryphon matures further into a
full adult. The gryphon’s fly speed increases to 90
124
feet. In addition, as a reaction to either a rider or
itself being targeted by a ranged attack, the gryphon
may perform an evasive manoeuvre granting +2 AC
against the attack but reducing its movement speed
by 20 feet until the end of its next turn.
Side Saddle
18th-level Gryphon Rider feature
At 18th level, the gryphon is able to hold two riders
without over encumbering itself. When the second
rider is targeted with an attack, you may use your
reaction to make yourself the target of the attack
instead, gaining a +2 to your AC against the attack. In
addition, the second rider gains the ability to perform
a charging attack as a reaction to your charging attack
Legionarius
Fighter Subclass
You have undergone training in the Aldarin Legions
at some point in your life, studying hard to learn all
the tactical elements at their disposal. While not as
effective as on a battlefield with thousands of other
legionarii, you are able to apply these principles of
stratagem to small skirmishes, granting your allies
benefits from joining you in military formations.
When times are tough, you may let out a battlecry
to rally those around you to continue fighting or to
terrify your foes into fleeing.
Strategic Positioning
3rd-level Legionarius feature
You have come into battlefield knowledge utilised by
the Aldarin Legions. When you choose this archetype
at 3rd level, you learn a number of formations with
which to better position yourself on the battlefield
to grant yourself and your allies an advantage. You
may start a formation as a bonus action by issuing
a command, granting passive benefits to those who
end their turn within it. A formation lasts for 1
minute or until you choose to break it for free at the
start of your turn.
Formations are the tactical positioning of multiple
allied units on a battlefield. A formation has a maxi-
mum and minimum number of participants who can
receive the benefits from a single legionarius. These
minimum and maximum participant requirements
include the legionarius. Multiple legionarii can set up
separate formations or extend an existing formation
of another legionarius. The benefits of a formation
cannot be stacked across multiple formations and a
creature can only be part of one formation at a time.
Any bonuses given from a formation come from the
legionarius who initiated the formation.
You and your allies receive the benefits of a forma-
tion as long as the minimum participant requirement
 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

125
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

126
 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.

127
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

128
 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.

129
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Night-Bound Resilience
6th-level The Twinned Moons feature
You gain resistance to the type of lunar damage
that you deal.
Additionally, when you cast a spell or use an ember
ability which deals a damage type equal to your lunar
damage type, the spell deals extra damage of this type
equal to half your warlock level.
Deft Claws
10th-level The Twinned Moons feature
The number of temporary hit points gained when
you shift into your lycan form increases to 2d8 + your
Constitution modifier + your warlock level.
Additionally, while shifted into your lycan form,
you gain the following abilities:
Multiattack. As an action, you may attack once
with your claws and once with your bite.
Howl. As an action, you let out a terrifying howl
which rattles the bones of creatures around you.
All creatures of your choosing within 30 feet of
you who can hear the howl must make a Wisdom
saving throw of DC 8 + your proficiency bonus +
your Charisma modifier. On a failed save, a creature
becomes frightened of you for 1d4 rounds. Once a
creature has been targeted by this ability, it cannot be
affected by your Howl again for 24 hours.
Wolf Pack
14th-level The Twinned Moons feature
As an action, you may magically call four spectral
wolves to you. The wolves act as an ally to you and
obey your spoken commands. The wolves remain
for 1 hour, until you fall unconscious, or until you
dismiss them as a bonus action.
Instead of dealing physical damage, the wolves’
attacks deal the same type of damage as your lunar
damage. Additionally, while you are shifted into your
lycan form, you gain the benefits of the wolves’ Pack
Tactics ability when standing within 5 feet of one or
more of the wolves.
After using this ability, you may not do so again
until you have finished a long rest.
130
Lunar Requisitions
To make a pact with the moons is to enter
into an ongoing contract with these great
lunar demigods. One does not simply take
from Adriosa and Atheana without paying
back in kind. As such, those who find
themselves entering into a pact with one
of the twinned moons may find themselves
requested to embark upon quests for their
patron every so often, to fulfil their end of
the bargain. These quests are known as
luna sagire (pl. lunae sagire) with those who
undertake them granted the nickname of
sagires — one who seeks with their scent
— by the devotees of the moons. Sagires
are seen by lycans and other nightkin as
powerful and revered entities, diplomats
of the moons, who seek to restore balance
upon the Medial Plane where creatures of
the night have fallen away from the natural
order. As such, most nightkin are hesitant to
attack, or even engage with, sagires lest they
fall prey to the ire of the lunar demigods and
their whims. Sagires carry with them a faint
scent of burnt sandalwood and moss which
may immediately be picked up by nightkin
from many miles away and is exceptionally
difficult to hide.
This unique status as a sagires only last
for the duration of the luna sagire. Upon its
completion, the sagires might receive some
additional reward from their chosen moon
as thanks for executing their wishes in a
timely or concise manner. After completion,
the sagires once again becomes a normal
creature and loses the sagires scent. It is
not uncommon for multiple sagires to be
recruited at once to achieve some greater
goal, such as eliminating a troublesome
lycan encampment or executing a vampire
who has corrupted their own soul in search
of an ember. Travelling to any temple of
Mornfel one may find sagires gathering,
preparing to embark upon some grand
journey in appeasement of the lunar bodies
above, guided by a sacerdos of Mornfel in
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.
 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

131
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
politician one day — a goal which you achieved.
You have spoken passionately within the halls of the
Consentium, attended meetings with the emperor,
and have made a name for yourself in the higher
echelons of society.
Your family name belongs amongst the ranks of
the patricians and sanctes. Everyone from the empire
who hears it tilts their head slightly downwards in
respect. Maybe this makes you feel strange, or maybe
you bask in the limelight, holding your toga proudly
as you stride along the streets of Deveros.
You are familiar with the location of all the temples
in the city, and regularly attend sacrifices and feasts
dedicated to the gods. The deities have a large sway
upon the wellbeing of the people and you know it.
You are able to perform any of the rituals needed for
a festival in the absence of a sacerdos, something
which was drilled into you from a young age.
When you became a consensa, you had to choose a
side. Was it the imperial aligned party of law-abiding
Revitalists, the popularist party of the Reformists
who are always looking out for the people, or maybe
the eccentric yet enigmatic party of the Capitans who
are seen as a joke by many of your colleagues. That
choice is yours to make.
When taking this background, you automat-
ically gain Aldarin citizenship and become part
of either the Sancte or Patrician social class (see
Social Classes).
Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion, Religion
Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set
Languages: Aldarin, Old Aldarin, and one of your choice
Equipment: An elegant toga trimmed with the colours
of your political party, a pichera (an ornamental
dagger) bearing the crest of your family, a set of noble
clothes, a pouch containing 25 gp
Political Party
Choose or randomly determine one of the
three political parties in the Aldarin Empire to
become aligned to.
Political Parties
d6 Political Party
1-2 Reformist (Populares)
3-4 Revitalist (Optimates)
5-6 The Capitans (Hooliganistic Populares)
132
Feature: Political Allies
You are familiar with other consensae in your
chosen political party, their businesses, and their
families. They will readily share news with you about
people from the other political parties. They might
also be willing to lend you some money or do you
a favour. Additionally, you know your way around
Deveros like the back of your hand, having grown
up in the city.
Personality Traits
d8 Personality Trait
1 I follow the latest fashion trends from
Longbreach. Shoulder capes are so in
this season.
2 My booming voice garners me a lot of
attention.
3 Those of the lower classes are beneath my
splendour. I am special and they should
know it.
4 Aldarins are my people and I will fight for
their honour.
5 I am all bark but no bite. I wouldn’t harm a fly.
6 I am beloved by shopkeepers and business
owners across the empire for my generosity
towards them.
7 Despite living in a spacious villa, I prefer the
confines of the small cramped streets in the
depths of the lower city.
8 I am a great orator and can enchant the
masses with my speeches.
Ideals
d6 Ideal
1 Righteous. I uphold the laws of both mortals
and gods. (Lawful)
2 People. The common folk are the lifeblood of
our great empire. (Good)
3 Wealth. My family’s business is all that
matters. (Evil)
4 Strife. I support the street gangs of my
political party and the trouble they cause.
(Chaotic)
5 Culture. Sometimes I stride through the
streets of Consentarius and bask in the
wondrous culture of our people. (Any)
6 Politics. I seek to engage in the betterment of
the empire in any way I can. (Any)
 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.

134
 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.

135
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Personality Traits
d8 Personality Trait
1 I am brave and courageous in the face of
danger.
2 My tales of monster hunting make me feel
powerful.
3 The coin I earn only fuels my greed further.
4 I wish to set all free from fearing the night and
its terrors.
5 If you look at me the wrong way, you’ll get a
fist in your face.
6 I am brash, rushing into a fight without a
second thought.
7 Death looms over me and it strikes fear into
my core.
8 I enjoy spending my free time making new
allies. Everyone who crosses my path is a
potential new best friend.
Ideals
d6 Ideal
1 Community. I wish to see my community safe
from those who might wish to do it harm.
(Good)
2 Fear. I cannot see my brethren slain by
creatures of the night and as much as they
terrify me, I wish them all dead. (Any)
3 Duty. When I swear I’ll do something, I’ll
uphold that vow to my last dying breath.
(Lawful)
4 Power. I grow stronger every day and shall
dominate my foes. (Evil)
5 Solitude. I have seen many die and wish for it
no longer. I simply wish to be alone. (Neutral)
6 Patience. I will wait until the time is right to
enact my plans. (Neutral)
Bonds
d6 Bond
1 I do what I can to sustain my family. Whatever
it takes to keep them fed.
2 My loyalty falls to the mercyr guild I served. I
will assist them at a moment’s notice.
3 I will uphold my nation’s image at all costs.
4 I’ll never forget the kind mercyr who
comforted me after my first contract
went awry.
5 I met a wonderful person through a contract
and we keep in regular communication
through letters.
6 I hold the brooch of my old guild leader
who died protecting me. They shall not be
forgotten.
136
Flaws
d6 Flaw
1 You don’t know what I’ve seen. Alcohol
and drugs keep the memories behind a
mental wall.
2 My closest friend died whilst on a contract and
I can never forgive myself for what happened. I
still have night terrors.
3 I am hard headed and do not listen to the
opinions of others.
4 Once I have accepted a contract, I see it
through to the bitter end, even if I must die to
get it done.
5 Everyone is a potential monster in disguise. I
trust nobody, even those close to me.
6 My anger flies out of control very quickly.
Premagus
Requires Citizenship: No
Trained in the ways of the arcane, you have attended
the Deveros Arcane University or another Anchor
Nation arcane university for some period of time.
Maybe you have just finished your first year. Maybe
you have recently graduated with flying colours.
Or did you drop you before your first year was up?
You have formed strong bonds with many people
throughout the Prisada Arcana district, both citizens
of the city and other premagi. You have also made
a few enemies from the perpetual rivalries with the
opposing student houses. There are always parties to
attend or study groups to be a part of, but you have
your priorities set and have headed out into the wide
world to seek something more.
Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, Insight
Languages: Two of your choice
Equipment: A set of premagus robes, a library pass for
Deveros’s libraries, a quill, three scrolls of parchment, a
vial of ink, a wax tablet, and a pouch containing 10 gp
Student House
Choose or randomly determine which one of the
three student houses within the Prisada Arcana you
belonged to.
Student Houses
d6 Student House
1-2 Helian Halls
3-4 Byrandos Halls
5-6 The Verdant Plains
Feature: University Access
You know a number of premagi and magi who
belonged to your student house. They would
be willing to offer you guidance and could cast a
 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
d8 Personality Trait
1 I am rather shy.
2 I enjoy flaunting my wealth.
3 I am spiteful towards those in other
student houses.
4 I enjoy crushing things with powerful spells.
5 I flirt with everyone, including my professors.
6 My friends think I’m lazy.
7 I cannot stop talking about how cool magic is.
8 I’ll never turn down a free drink.
Ideals
d6 Ideal
1 Studious. I must study so that I can improve
myself. (Good)
2 Spiteful. I’ll go out of my way to cause others
grief. (Evil)
3 Apathy. I don’t really care about anything
anymore. (Neutral)
4 Fire. I just really REALLY like setting things on
fire. (Chaotic)
5 Companionship. I seek to surround myself
with those who hold similar views. (Any)
6 Gentle. A soft smile warms the hearts of those
I talk to. (Good)
Bonds
d6 Bond
1 My life revolves around my books and
my studies.
2 I must graduate and make my family proud.
3 Deveros Arcane University is the best place on
earth. I never want to leave.
4 A quaestor gave me their arcane focus and I
am never letting it go.
5 I found an ancient book talking about the old
gods and I read it every evening before bed.
6 I wish to become the best magus in the empire
and serve loyally in Concilium Arcanus Altus.
get bored. Introduction
to the
2 Scrolls and spell components tend to go Aldarin
missing from my colleague’s rooms into my Empire
ownership.
Aldarin
3 When I get invited to a party, I drink until The Names
Void consumes me.
4 Nobody can sing better than me. Nobody.
Social Classes
5 I write everything back to front, even my
spellbooks.
Kinships in
6 I have little respect for those who do not
the Empire
understand the arcane.
Publus Festivals
Requires Citizenship: Yes
You were always drawn to the politics of your people
Sports
and eventually saw a chance to represent the region
you were born in within the capital of Deveros.
Maybe you were part of a legion and were elected Religion
to stand on their behalf. Maybe the settlement you
came from in the outreaches of the empire found
nobody better to represent them. Either way, you Politics
served your time as a government official, speaking
your mind and winning the hearts of the people. You
blocked bills passing through the Consentium Minor Military
which you disagreed with, making both friends and
enemies along the way.
You finished your time as a publus — a public Commerce
representative of the plebeians — but that history
never left you. You feel strongly still about the way
Crime and
the empire is run and wish to see change still. Are Punishment
you trying to run for office again? Maybe you have
connections to the street gangs of your party and are Provinces of
lobbying for a cause? Do you care much about your Aldarin
political party or are they simply a means to an end?
When taking this background, you automatically Periods of
Aldarin
gain Aldarin citizenship and become part of either History
the Artifex or Praesta social class (see Social Classes).
Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion, Insight Classes
Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set
Languages: Aldarin and one of your choice
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.

137
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)
Feature: Ally of the People
You are familiar with other publi in your chosen
political party as well as families living within the
lower city who support your party’s cause. They will
be willing to help you out within reason if you ask
for it. You personally know the leader of the street
gang aligned to your cause and they might lend you
a couple of street thugs in return for a favour.
2 Deveros is my home, even if I did not grow
up here.
3 The street gangs of my party have kept me
safe all these years.
4 My purpose is to serve the people and the
people alone.
5 I miss the people of my home region dearly.
6 I stole a pichera (a ceremonial dagger
belonging to a consensa) and wish I could be
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

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

138
 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

139
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
which last for 8 hours.
A coarse bath salt sold at Hyetiah’s Halls (Oa18) in
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
Rich blue salt crystal fragments found in deep,
seaside caverns containing strong earthy minerals.
Thermae Boon: You regain 1d4 + 1 spell slots of 3rd
Level or lower.
Rarity: Legendary
Rich blue salt crystals found in deep, seaside caverns
containing strong earthy minerals.
Thermae Boon: You regain 1d4 + 1 spell slots of 9th
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

Glossary
Acclesian: Also known as Acclesian Alventius, a
famous Aldarin who overthrew the imperial
family and handed ownership of the Aldarin
Empire to the people.
Acclesian Civil War: The civil war fought between
Acclesian and the Aldarin Empire in the
9th Century.
Acclesiavesti: A festival celebrating the overthrowing
of Aldarin’s imperial rule by Acclesian Alventius.
Adriam: A festival celebrating the moon Adriosa.
Adriosa: One of the twinned moons of The Compass.
Adriosa’s Pride: A troublesome collective of lycans
in Deveros aligned to Adriosa.
Aerial Legion: An Aldarin legion composed entirely
of gryphon riders.
Aeris (pl. Aeri): Aldarin currency representing a
copper piece.
Aestus: A festival celebrating Rael and the seas.
Aether: The Medial Pantheon deity of travel, clouds,
and the sky.
Al: Cardin’s butterfly companion.
Ala (pl. Alae): A legionarius mounted on horseback.
Aldarin: A person who has citizenship within the
Aldarin Empire. Also a kinship of humans who
descended from Dalaskian heritage.
Aldarin (Nation): See Aldarin Empire.
Aldarin Empire: A militaristic nation living in the
south-western region of Elos.
Aldarin Republic: The lesser-used, yet proper name
for the present era of the Aldarin Empire.
Alserius: The flamen of Rael during the
Second Medial War.
Alta Deosia: A festival celebrating the
summer solstice.
Altus Moventur: An Aldarin military award
bestowed for revolutionary thinking and
progressiveness.
Altus Weave: An artificial weave of arcane waylines
which spans across southwestern Elos, owned by
the Aldarin Empire.
Aluforod: The immense snow-clad forest which
covers most of Fyndar and western Emondas.
Alvia: A north-eastern province of Aldarin border-
ing Jykstrav.
Amakro: The flamen of Vys during the
First Medial War.
Amicis (pl. Amici): Aldarin term for allies to the
Aldarin Empire.
Anchor Nations: The eight nations who uphold the
World Border and are host to the World Anchors.
Anchor Treaty: See Anchor Nations.
Anchor Week: The time frame of one week used by
calendars in the Anchor Nations.
Anniculus: A festival celebrating the new year.
151
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
of Terms
Arcane Blight: A horrific affliction which thrives
on the consumption of arcane energy and soul
threads, arcane blight slowly gnaws away at the
souls of emberblood and magi, endlessly consum-
ing until there is nothing left.
Arcane Wayline: Rivers of arcane energy which flow
throughout The Compass on set routes.
Argentum (pl. Argentum): Aldarin currency
representing a silver piece.
Artifex (pl. Artifex): An Aldarin social class rep-
resenting those who work in non-specialist or
moderately skilled professions.
Asher: Medial Plane deity of spring.
Asheri: A festival celebration of the spring equinox.
Astra (pl. Astrae): Local minor leaders of the
Quadrumvirate.
Astral Chaos: A transitive plane on the top side of
The Compass, through which new souls woven by
Fate travel to their destinations.
Atheana: One of the twinned moons of The Compass.
Atheanius: A festival celebrating the moon Atheana.
Aurmerce: A collective of freelance privateers who
operate around the Gilded Ocean.
Autumn’s Crest: The tenth month of the
Medial Calendar.
Autumn’s Dawn: The ninth month of the
Medial Calendar.
Autumn’s Dusk: The eleventh month of the
Medial Calendar.
Baldera: A northern province of Aldarin border-
ing Jykstrav.
Barbarus (pl. Barbari): Aldarin term for those who
come from cultures vastly differing to that of the
Aldarin Empire.
Batilia: The flamen of Iora during the
First Medial War.
Bloodbound: A specific sect of Quor’s cult, typi-
cally legionarii, who ritualistically offer their
blood to Quor.
Blood Rot: A vile disease which slowly rots the
blood, causing it to turn blackened and sludge-
like. Vampires and dhampir are immune to the
symptoms of the disease but may still carry it and
pass it on to others.
Blueglades: A gang of smash-and-grab thieves and
pickpockets in Deveros.
Brazier (pl. Braziers): Minor local leaders of
the Ebyr’sol.
Brimshaw: Medial Plane deity of alcohol.
Brivane Pirates: A sizable collective of pirates who
operate around the Deveros Coast, typically
working to protect the local fishing population
of illicit fishers.
Bodystone: A magical stone which acts as a magi-
cal prosthetic.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Borealia: A northern province of Aldarin border-
ing Jykstrav.
Bulla (pl. Bullae): A charm given to Deverosians
on their 9th day after being born which functions
similarly to a gildum.
Bunê: The capital city of Menderin.
Caellione: The flamen of Gw’yth during the
First Medial War.
Caerula: The central and oldest province of Aldarin.
Calceus (pl. calcei): Leather boots worn by higher
class Aldarins.
Caliga (pl. Caligae): Leather sandals worn by
Aldarins and legionarii.
Cambion: A common kinship of half daimons on
the Medial Plane.
Cambion, Blood Eclipse: A rare kinship of half
daimons born of the twinned moons on the
Medial Plane.
Candor: The primordial of wind created by Fate.
Cardin: Vynestra’s mascot, an iridescent cardinal in
Aldarin legionarius armour.
Capitola: A high society club in Deveros. See also:
The Capitans.
Catfolk: A common kinship of feline people on the
Medial Plane.
Cel’drik: One of the twinned capital cities of Peliox.
Celeres: A gang of youths in Deveros practising the
soon-to-be-banned sport of henestra.
Celianthre: The Medial Pantheon deity of nature,
glades, and trees.
Censor (pl. Censors): A prolegitor who governs
the judicial functioning of the Imperial Courts
alongside another prolegitor and the Pontifex
Arcanus Major.
Centa (pl. Centae): Aldarin currency representing
one hundred gold pieces.
Century (pl. Centuries): The second largest unit in
an Aldarin legion consisting of ten decimae.
Century Assembly: A gathering where principae
may raise any concerns with their hydrophos
or regitorus.
Charring: The process of giving an ember access to
more of your soul in exchange for greater power.
Children of Ivora: A group of cultists dedicated to
the ancient blue dragon, Ivora.
Chitinskin: The slow descent into becoming a
chitina begins with the laying of chitin eggs into
one’s flesh by a chitin beetle, forming a hard chi-
tin-like layer to the skin. Eventually the infected
becomes a withered husk, controlled completely
by the chitin beetles living within them.
Chthonic: Something pertaining to the
Underworld, typically implying nefarious or
unsettling intentions.
Cinder (pl. Cinders): The rank-and-file cultists of
the Ebyr’sol.
152
Circum Aquatica: An annual rapida race around
the Deveros bay.
Civaci: The easternmost province of Aldarin border-
ing South Rymin and Menderin.
Clericus (Clerici): A sacerdos who is also a legion-
arius, responsible for administering healing on
the battlefield.
Cohort (pl. Cohorts): The largest unit in an Aldarin
legion, outside of the legion itself, consisting of
anywhere between six to twelve centuries.
Cohort Assembly: A gathering where the hydropho-
tes and regitori of a legion may raise any concerns
with their gryphos.
Communitas: An Aldarin festival celebrating the
end of exam season for arcane university students
focusing around helping the community.
Concilium Arcanus Altus: The organisation which
oversees all magic and arcane functions within the
Aldarin Empire.
Consensa (pl. Consensae): High profile politicians
who are members of Aldarin’s Consentium.
Consentium: Aldarin’s highest political forum,
reserved exclusively for patricians and sanctes.
Consentium Minor: Aldarin’s public political
forum, reserved for all but patricians and sanctes.
Cornicen (pl. Cornicines): A horn blower within
the Aldarin Legions.
Corona Aurea: An Aldarin military award bestowed
for feats of exceptional bravery in the face
of adversity.
Corona Civica: An Aldarin civic award bestowed
for acts of great valour resulting in the saving of
numerous Aldarin lives.
Corona Graminea: An Aldarin military award
bestowed to a gryphos by their legion repre-
senting feats of excellence and the approval of
their legionarii.
Corona Navilia: An Aldarin military award
bestowed to the first legionarius to board a ship
during battle.
Culina: A kitchen.
Cult: A collective of worshippers or followers of a
deity or demigod.
Daimon: A creature not from the Medial Plane.
Daîthar: The primordial of water created by Fate.
Dalask: An underground city formed during the Age
of Dusk. Now lost to time.
Dalaskian: An old human kin during the
Age of Dusk.
Dane: A well-defended city state situated in the
heart of Elos.
Decima (pl. Decimae) (Legion): The lowest unit in a
legion consisting of eight legionarii and two skilled
labourers. For the coinage see Decima (Currency).
Decima (pl. Decimae) (Currency): Aldarin cur-
rency representing ten gold pieces.

De’Leyé: The flamen of Kylera during the
First Medial War.
Demigod: A half-deity or child of a deity.
Deos: The Medial Pantheon deity of healing, the sun,
and the divine.
Deveros: The capital city of the Aldarin Empire.
Deveros Arcane University: A sub-sect of
Concilium Arcanus Altus used to train premagi
into becoming fully fledged magi.
Deverosia: An Aldarin festival celebrating the
founding of the city of Deveros.
Deverosian: An Aldarin who lives in Deveros.
Dhampir: A common kinship of half vampires
found on the Medial Plane.
Discens (pl. Discentis): A clericus in training.
Diviliana: Medial Plane deity of summer.
Divisio Imperium: The highest bracket of the jova
sport where all the best teams of the Aldarin
Empire compete against one another.
Dreamscape: A plane which cloaks The Compass,
where the collective dreams of all creatures adjoin
in bubble-like formations.
Dorok: The flamen of Hargrum during the
First Medial War.
Duodecima: The twelve original demigods who set
out to destroy the Dusk Shroud.
Dusk Crystals: Concentrated phoenix souls melded
with the soul threads of Meveril, which may be
used to produce extreme amounts of energy.
Duskfall: The destruction of the Dusk Shroud by
the Duodecima.
Dusk Magic: Another term for the corrupted soul
threads of Meveril.
Dusk Rot: A deadly disease obtained through
prolonged exposure to dusk magic.
Dusk Shroud: A cataclysmic event caused by the
destruction of Meveril’s soul. The Dusk Shroud
caused a haze across the Medial Plane that inflicted
any who walked within it with dusk rot.
Dusktech: Technology which uses the magic of dusk
crystals to be powered.
Dust: One of the twinned capital cities of Peliox.
Duthwellyn: The flamen of Meliam during the
First Medial War.
Dwarf, Delvar: A common kinship of dwarves on
the Medial Plane found deep underground.
Dwarf, Earthbound: A common kinship of dwarves
on the Medial Plane found in mountainous regions
and underground.
Dwarf, Hill: A common kinship of dwarves on the
Medial Plane found mostly in hilly regions.
Ebyr’sol: A collective of Deosian worshippers who
believe that daimons, and those descended from
them, are causing the collapse of The Compass.
Elf, Ashensworn: A common kinship of elves on
the Medial Plane found mostly centralised around
volcanic regions.
153
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Elf, High: A common kinship of elves on the
Medial Plane found mostly centralised around
arcane waylines.
Elf, Sand: A common kinship of elves on the Medial
Plane found mostly in hot climates.
Elf, Snow: A common kinship of elves on the Medial
Plane found mostly in cold climates.
Elf, Wood: A common kinship of elves on the Medial
Plane found mostly in woodland regions.
Elais: An old term for Elos. See also: Elos.
Elos: A densely populated continent at the heart of
the Medial Plane.
Enor: The primordial of earth created by Fate.
Ember: A powerful mark on the soul caused by the
combination of normal soul threads and deific
soul threads. Embers grant those who have them
powerful abilities akin to those of demigods.
Emberblood: Someone with an ember.
Emberfire: The Common tongue version of Ebyr’sol.
Emberkiln: A brazier which alights when the Medial
Plane is in grave peril.
Emondas: A nation primarily composed of high
elves from northeastern Elos.
Erothir: One of the Inner Pantheon deities of war.
Esmere: Medial Plane deity of fate. See also: Fate.
Estalia: A festival celebrated in rural communities
in worship to the Four Primordials.
Estia: The flamen of Deos and Xyth during the
Second Medial War.
Estioc: Medial Plane deity of burial.
Ethereal Expanse: A transitive plane on the bottom
side of The Compass, through which deceased
souls take passage to Väedfel.
Ethwylei: The Inner Pantheon deity of tornados
Far: The sixth day of the Anchor Week.
Farborn: A term used by Medial Plane dwellers to
describe sapient daimons.
Fate: A mysterious entity which controls the path
of all souls.
Felgarde: The capital city of North Rymin.
Flamus: A festival looking at the memory of the First
and Second Medial Wars, where powerful ember-
blood and demigods attempt to become mantels
to deities or to even ascend as gods themselves.
Flamen: A flaming soul: a mantel who has been
chosen to become a vessel of a god, destined to
eventually perish as their soul becomes overcome
by the soul of their god.
Flaming Flasks: An Aldarin festival celebrating the
upcoming summer in an attempt to appease Deos.
Flora: Medial Plane deity of flowers and wells.
Fortuna: A festival celebrating Uverthal, meant to
usher in good luck.
Fyndar: A snow-covered, heavily wooded nation to
the north of Elos.
Gales Dea: An Aldarin festival celebrating gender
fluidity and embracing oneself.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Gathering of the Many: Jykstrav’s oligarchic council
consisting of representatives from each of its
clanships and families.
Gilded Ocean: The ocean between the
Kildars and Elos.
Gildum: A small coin worn around the neck signi-
fying Aldarin citizenship.
Gildor (pl. Gildors): The third highest ranking
elected member of Aldarin’s Consentium, typically
responsible for clerical work and finances.
Giraré: A nation of trade ports in Ravidan owned by
the Spiral Queens.
Glismara: Medial Plane deity of nectar and bees.
Gnome: A common kinship in the Medial Plane.
Gnome, Frost-blistered: A common kinship in the
Medial Plane, typically found in cold climates.
Goblin: A common kinship in the Medial Plane.
Grand Mercari: A festival and set of games where
famous mercyr guilds compete against one
another for glory.
Gryphos (pl. Gryphotes): The commander of a
legion, typically a legitor.
Grypho Probatio: A Deverosian festival celebrating
Aldarin’s military might and the swearing in of
new gryphon riders into the Legions.
Gryphon Giggles: It is unknown how the gryphon
giggles spread, nor where they originated, but
this peculiar and infectious plague has existed for
countless centuries — long before the events of the
recent millennia and Duskfall. When an infected
creature interacts with anything gryphon related,
they cannot help but burst into uncontrollable fits
of laughter.
Gryphon Rider: See Legionarius Grypho.
Gw’yth: The Medial Pantheon deity of stars, the
astral, and the arcane.
Halfling: A common kinship in the Medial Plane.
Half-Dragon: A kinship of half humans,
half dragons.
Half-Dragon, Skyfarer: A kinship of half-dragons
with wings from eastern Elos.
Half-Elf: A kinship melding one kin with
that of an elf.
Half-Orc, Plains: A kinship melding one kin with
that of a plains orc.
Half-Orc, Snow: A kinship melding one kin with
that of a snow orc.
Halthos: A mountainous, snowy nation
within the north-western corner of Elos.
Hargrum: The Medial Pantheon deity of forges,
architecture, and creation.
Harpastum: A violent sport where a ball is thrown
between two teams. Whoever keeps the ball for
the longest wins.
Hel: A strange island in the Gilded Ocean known to
be the domain of Xithri.
154
Henestra: A cruel sport played by Aldarin youths
involving the plucking of feathers from gryphons.
Herove Ocean: The ocean dividing the north-
ern segment of the Medial Plane from the
southern segment.
Hetaria (pl. Hetariae): A veteran legionarius who
has undergone special training and now protects
the imperial family and the Amethyst Acre dis-
trict of Deveros.
High Flame (pl. High Flames): Leaders of
the Ebyr’sol.
Honorus (pl. Honori): One of eleven elected publi
of the Consentium Minor with the ability to veto
any bill passing through: a very powerful position.
Human: A common kinship in the Medial Plane.
Hydra: A multi-bladed spear used by the hydropho-
tes of the Aldarin Legions.
Hydrophos (pl. Hydrophotes): The first in com-
mand of a cohort, named after the “hydra”, the
weapon their wield.
Hyperuranion Sovereigns: A collective of interpla-
nar deities who govern the Dreamscape.
Imperial Arcane Assembly: A sub-sect of Concilium
Arcanus Altus which acts for military and research
purposes to the benefit of the Aldarin Empire and
the Anchor Nations.
Inner Compass: The region of The Compass
between the Wysterwood and Väedfel ring planes.
Inner Pantheon: A fragmented collective of deities
who govern the Inner Compass.
Ioke: Medial Plane deity of beauty.
Iora: The Medial Pantheon deity of knowledge,
scripture, and law.
Ioras: A festival celebrated in Deveros, ushering in
the new premagi of the Deveros Arcane University.
Iset: A Sel’Kildarian festival celebrating
life and family.
Isseti: Medial Plane deity of artistry.
Itheli: The flamen of Saleen during the
First Medial War.
Iudex (pl. Iudices): Senior members of the
Quadrumvirate.
Ivora: An ancient blue dragon slain upon the found-
ing of Deveros, prophesied to return 1000 years
after her death.
Jordveil Isle: A small nation of warrior sailors off the
west coast of Elos.
Jova: A popular sport in Aldarin involving teams
flying upon gryphons and throwing balls through
hanging hoops.
Juella: Medial Plane deity of wind.
Jykstrav: A snow-blighted nation in western Elos
formed of hundreds of splintered clanships.
Jyrden: A person from Jykstrav. Also a kin-
ship of humans.
Kara-vaji: An underground necropolis and city
traditionally utilised by Sel’Kildarian cultures.

Kestanova: Medial Plane deity of the ethereal.
Kil’thweiél: The flamen of Quor during the
First Medial War.
Kishmar Kingdom: A now collapsed kingdom in
Sel’Kildar, occupied by the Qutharian Empire.
Kishmaran: A person from the Kishmar Kingdom
and a kinship of humans.
Kistra: The Medial Pantheon deity of harvests, souls,
and the dead.
Korkuntaar: A collective of earthen farborn from
the Inner Compass.
Koshka: Medial Plane deity of diplomacy.
Kylera: The Medial Pantheon deity of growth, birth,
and reincarnation.
Laedemus: A gang of thugs in Deveros, renowned
for kidnapping, extortion, and blackmail.
Lanterna (pl. Lanternae): The newest members of
the Quadrumvirate.
Larvelia: A festival celebrated as a means to
appease Larveth.
Larveth: The Medial Pantheon deity of disease,
insects, and decay.
Last Dusk Expedition: The expedition undertaken
by the Duodecima to rid the Medial Plane of the
Dusk Shroud.
Legatus (pl. Legati): Legionarii representatives for
the Legions who serve as additional publi within
the Consentium Minor.
Legion: A single cohesive army functioning within
the wider realm of Aldarin’s military.
Legion Assembly: A gathering where all gryphotes
of all Aldarin legions gather with the Primus
Legatus and Pontifex Martialis to discuss empire-
wide matters.
Legionarius (pl. Legionarii): A rank-and-file
soldier in the Aldarin Legions.
Legionarius Grypho (pl. Legionarii Gryphotes):
A legionarius trained to ride a hastellian gryphon.
Legitor (pl. Legitors): The second highest ranking
elected member of Aldarin’s Consentium, typically
responsible for the upkeep of the Legions and the
Imperial Courts.
Leitaai: A collective of minor nations in west-
ern Nul’Kildar.
Levola: The flamen of Loritel during the
Second Medial War.
Liberi: Minor deities of the Medial Plane, typically
those not within the Tredecima.
Liberillia: A festival celebrating the Liberi.
Libertus (pl. Liberti): Aldarin term for a wide range
of folk, ranging from strong allies to neutral parties
in relation to the Aldarin Empire.
Licenus: The flamen of Deos and Xyth during the
First Medial War.
Lildor: A river-riddled nation in north-western
Elos, blocked off from the rest of the continent by
mountain ranges.
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THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Liórne: The capital city of Fyndar at the heart of
the Aluforod.
Longbreach: The capital city of South Rymin, widely
considered to be the cultural capital of Elos.
Longbreach Collection: A festival and fashion show
of the newest fashion from Longbreach.
Loritiea: A festival celebrated by Aldarin legionarii
where offerings are made to Loritel.
Loritel: The Medial Pantheon deity of strategy,
rivers, and serenity.
Lusa: A Sel’Kildarian festival celebrating love and
passion, dedicated to Quor.
Magnos: The capital city of Mistveil.
Magus (pl. Magi): Someone who is capable of cast-
ing spells, typically from a studied arcane-centric
background such as that of a wizard.
Mana: A mysterious island surrounded by the
continent of Panthéa.
Mantel: A powerful demigod or emberblood who
has entered into a pact with a deity to become their
vessel should the need arise.
Masqué: A festival celebrated in Longbreach and
other major cities involving masquerade balls
and feasting.
Medial Pantheon: The collective of deities who
oversee the Medial Plane.
Medial Plane: The central plane of The Compass.
Medicenta (pl. Medicentae): Aldarin currency
representing fifty gold pieces.
Meliam: The Medial Pantheon deity of protection,
warding, and curses.
Melsina: The flamen of Kistra during the
Second Medial War.
Menderin: An expanse of plains and shrubland
along the south-central coast of Elos.
Mercantus: An Anchor Nation festival in which sales
tax is temporarily lifted.
Mercyr: A licensed adventurer or troubleshooter,
often part of a guild of other like minded
mercyrs who take on contracts together. See:
Mercyr Contract.
Mercyr Contract: A legally binding agreement
signed by a mercyr (or group of mercyrs) to com-
plete a specific task, typically with some reward
upon completion of the task.
Methindril: The capital city of Emondas.
Meveril: The primordial of fire created by Fate.
Midnus (pl. Midni): The lowest ranking elected
member of Aldarin’s Consentium.
Mik’ael: Medial Plane deity of ash.
Miles (pl. Milites): The rank-and-file members of
the Quadrumvirate.
Milithic Clans: The original clanships which inhab-
ited the lands of Menderin.
Mistveil: A volcanic nation inhabited mostly by
ashensworn in the south-eastern reaches of Elos.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Moneta: The flamen of Rael during the
First Medial War.
Mørken League: A commercial and defensive
alliance between Aldarin, Lildor, and Jordveil Isle.
Mornfel: The Medial Pantheon deity of moons,
prophecies, and the night.
Mul: The second day of the Anchor Week.
Mysh’lae Kingdom: A collective of powerful deep
angels from outside the Medial Plane.
Nerithal: Medial Plane deity of resurrection.
Nhu Zho: The flamen of Gw’yth during the
Second Medial War.
Nisa: The flamen of Loritel during the
First Medial War.
Nivinea: One of Aldarin’s central and wealthi-
est provinces.
North Rymin: A necropolis state run by a lich in
central Elos.
Novus Nibilis (pl. Novi Nobiles): New nobles.
Aldarin citizens who have become elevated to the
status of sancte within their lifetime.
Nul’Kildar: A sizable continent on the Medial Plane,
adjoined with Sel’Kildar.
Nuscilla: The flamen of Meliam during the
Second Medial War.
Old Rymin: A nation in central Elos which collapsed
following the uprising of a lich, splitting into North
Rymin and South Rymin.
Ophelian Wall: The wall that marks the border of the
Aldarin Empire with Menderin in the east.
Opulatus (pl. Opulati): The core group of rank-and-
file publi within the Consentium Minor.
Orc, Plains: A common kinship of orcs on the
Medial Plane found mostly in temperate climates.
Orc, Snow: A common kinship of orcs on the Medial
Plane found mostly in cold climates.
Otium (pl. Otium): An Aldarin social class repre-
senting those who work in unskilled labour.
Outbrok: The Outer Earth plane of The Compass.
Outer Compass: The region of The Compass outside
of the Väedfel ring plane.
Outfeir: The Outer Fire plane of The Compass.
Outswel: The Outer Water plane of The Compass.
Outwyn: The Outer Wind plane of The Compass.
Ovation: A minor parade of celebration granted to
a gryphos who has achieved reasonable success
whilst on campaign.
Ovatum (pl. Ovati): Aldarin military cam-
paign medals.
Panthéa: A crescent shaped continent on the Medial
Plane, teeming with commerce.
Parma: A small shield used by Aldarin gryphon
riders and cavalry.
Patrician (pl. Patricians): An Aldarin social class
of the higher nobility, those from the original
founding families of Deveros.
156
Pax Deorum: Peace of the Gods. A belief held by the
Aldarins that it is best to keep a strong relationship
with the gods to help fend off bad omens.
Peliox: A dust-ridden nation to the east of Elos.
Pelitus (pl. Peliti): Junior magi who work alongside
the significati of an Aldarin legion.
Peltor (pl. Peltors): The guards of Aldarin’s consen-
sae and Consentium.
Pichera: A ceremonial dagger granted to each of the
consensae of Aldarin’s Consentium.
Pontifex (pl. Pontifices): The highest position
attainable in an Aldarin cult belonging to one of
the Tredecima deities.
Pontifex Arcanus Major: The pontifex of Iora’s cult.
Pontifex Arcanus Minor: The pontifex of
Gw’yth’s cult.
Pontifex Martialis: The pontifex of Quor’s cult.
Praecelsa (pl. Praecelsae): A pole of wood with
the Aldarin flag and a golden gryphon attached,
wielded by a significatus.
Praefectus Castrorum: The camp prefect of an
Aldarin Legion, responsible for securing supply
lines and keeping order amongst the ranks.
Praeses (pl. Praesides): A prolegitor who has taken
on governorship of one of Aldarin’s provinces
alongside another prolegitor.
Praeses Ultimum (pl. Praesides Ultimum): A
proprimus who has taken on governorship of one
of Aldarin’s provinces in place of two prolegitors.
Praesta (pl. Praestae): An Aldarin social class rep-
resenting those who work in specialist or highly
skilled professions.
Precipa: A small rural festival asking for blessings of
rain for the upcoming harvest season.
Premagus (pl. Premagi): A student magus.
Primordial: A powerful entity created by Fate to
govern one of the four prime elements of fire,
water, wind, and earth.
Primus Coperna: An Aldarin festival celebrating
the Four Primordials and the creation of The
Compass, as well as celebrating new life.
Primus (pl. Primi): The highest elected political
position in the Aldarin Empire, responsible for
leading the empire alongside another primus.
Primus Arcanus: A title issued to the Altus Magus
of the Concilium Arcanus Altus allowing them to
speak in the Consentium on behalf of Aldarin’s
imperial magi.
Primus Imperator: The oldest child of the currently
ruling emperor or empress who may voice their
opinion on the behalf of the imperial family in
the Consentium.
Primus Legatus: A title issued to the gryphos of the
Legio Terra I Deverosia allowing them to speak in
the Consentium on behalf of the Legions.
Primus Pontifex: The pontifex of Deos’s cult and the
religious leader of the Aldarin Empire.

Principa (pl. Principae): The first in command
of a century.
Progildor (pl. Progildors): Consensae who have
previously served as gildors as their highest rank
in Aldarin’s Consentium.
Prolegitor (pl. Prolegitors): Consensae who have
previously served as legitors as their highest rank
in Aldarin’s Consentium.
Promidnus (pl. Promidni): Consensae who have
previously served as midni as their highest rank
in Aldarin’s Consentium.
Proprimus (pl. Proprimi): Consensae who have
previously served as primi as their highest rank
in Aldarin’s Consentium.
Province of Deveros: The Aldarin province along
the southern shore of Elos which holds its capi-
tal: Deveros.
Publus (pl. Publi): Elected members of Aldarin’s
Consentium Minor.
Pyrion (pl. Pyrions): High priests and commanders
of the Ebyr’sol.
Qenna: The flamen of Saleen during the
Second Medial War.
Quadrumvirate: A religious cult of Aldarins dedi-
cated to Deos, Quor, Iora, and Gw’yth.
Quadrumvir: A member of the Quadrumvirate.
Quinta (pl. Quintae): Aldarin currency represent-
ing five gold pieces.
Quor: The Medial Pantheon deity of love, pas-
sion, and war.
Qutharian Empire: A powerful empire spanning the
breadth of Sel’Kildar, controlled by the Ebyr’sol.
Qutharian: A person from the Qutharian
Empire and a kinship of humans.
Rael: The Medial Pantheon deity of seas,
oceans, and storms.
Rahil: The flamen of Quor during the
Second Medial War.
Rapida (pl. Rapidae): A dusk engine-fuelled light
watercraft common in Deveros and around the
Deveros Coast.
Ravidan: An archipelago continent within the
Medial Plane.
Ravidanian: A human kin from Ravidan.
Reformists: A left-wing Aldarin political party
seeking to further empower the people.
Regitorus (pl. Regitori): The second in command
of a cohort.
Renavic Wars: A series of four wars spanning several
centuries waged between Jykstrav and Aldarin.
The current on-going war is that of the Fourth
Renavic War.
Renovaré: A festival celebrated in the Aldarin
Empire, celebrating the new public officials being
ushered into office.
157
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Resentia (pl. Resentiae): Tattoos marking the name
of a person upon their body, preventing theft of
their name by fae.
Revitalists: A right-wing Aldarin political party
seeking to reinstate the imperial family into rule.
Ring Plane: A ring-shaped plane within
The Compass. The inner ring plane forms
the Wysterwood and the outer ring plane
forms Väedfel.
Rymish: A human kin from either North or
South Rymin.
Sacerdos (pl. Sacerdotes): A religious member of a
cult, such as a priest, priestess, cleric, or paladin.
Sacerdos Maximus (pl. Sacerdos Maximi): A
local religious cult leader, typically found in rural
temples and shrines.
Saleen: The Medial Pantheon deity of trade, pros-
perity, and greed.
Salenti: Aldarin’s westernmost province overlooking
the Gilded Ocean.
Sancte (pl. Sanctes): An Aldarin social class of the
lower nobility.
Sar: The seventh day of the Anchor Week.
Scutum: A rectangular shield used by Aldarin’s
legionarii, designed to cover most of the body.
Secunda (pl. Secundae): The second in command
of a century.
Sel’Kildar: A sprawling continent filled with oases,
jungles, and deserts found just south of Nul’Kildar.
Sel’Kildarak Legeshi: A specialised legion com-
posed of members from Deveros’s Sala Sel’Kildarak
district which helps hold the Ophelian Wall to the
east of the Aldarin Empire.
Servilla: Medial Plane deity of finance.
Servus (pl. Servus): An Aldarin social class
representing those without a name, those
unknown to society.
Significatus (pl. Significati): A magus, typically a
haruspex, who functions as a signaller and magic
user for an Aldarin legion. They wield a praecelsa.
Silver Legion: A legion typically from an allied state
to Aldarin that uses the Aldarin legion structure.
Skaald: Demigod of frost.
Skaaldblud: A kinship of humans descended
from Skaald.
Skorbrak: An empire from the Inner Fire Plane.
Sola Luna: An Aldarin festival celebrating the sun
and the moons.
Soldromus (pl. Soldromi): Major leaders of the
Quadrumvirate.
Soul: A collective of soul threads forming the life
of a creature.
Soul Thread: The most basic structure of a soul,
representing a single path one may take in life.
Also known as a Thread of Fate.
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
Soultide: A festival celebrating those who have
passed away, dedicated primarily to Estioc and
The Palid Clasp.
South Rymin: A farming nation found in
central Elos.
Sovigal (pl. Sovigals): A high order member of a
religious cult.
Sovigal Altus (pl. Sovigal Alti): A unique type of
sovigal specific to Sovingar’s cult who upkeep
Sovingar’s sacred flames.
Sovigal Maximus (pl. Sovigal Maximi): The
leader of a cult whose deity is not one of the
Tredecima deities.
Sovingar: The Medial Pantheon deity of winter,
hearths, and shelter.
Sovinvale: A festival celebrating Sovingar.
Spiral Queens: A collective of powerful pirate
captains who lead a lot of modern day dusk-
tech research.
Spring’s Crest: The fourth month of the
Medial Calendar.
Spring’s Dawn: The third month of the
Medial Calendar.
Spring’s Dusk: The fifth month of the
Medial Calendar.
Strigil: A scraping tool used in a thermae to remove
oil from the skin.
Sul -The first day of the Anchor Week.
Sulia: Medial Plane deity of bathing.
Summer’s Crest: The seventh month of the
Medial Calendar.
Summer’s Dawn: The sixth month of the
Medial Calendar.
Summer’s Dusk: The eighth month of the
Medial Calendar.
Takel: The language spoken within the
Tak’huut Dynasty.
Tak-huut: Capital of the Tak’huut Dynasty.
Tak’huut Dynasty: A sizable empire which spans
across the eastern breadth of Nul’Kildar.
Tak’huutan: A person who hails from the
Tak’huut Dynasty.
Talo: Medial Plane deity of celebration.
Thaikos: The flamen of Hargrum during the
Second Medial War.
The Capitans: An Aldarin political group based
from the high society club of Capitola whose bills
tread the line between liberal social reform and
hooliganism.
The Compass: The physical construct of planes
created by Fate out of The Void during Emergence.
The Deity: The first vampire, leader of the
Vampiric Order.
The First Medial War: The first great interplanar war
between the planes of The Compass.
The Iusdecim: The ten basic rights granted to
Aldarin citizens.
158
The Lesser Key: The all-powerful ruling lineage of
seventy two daimons who govern vast swathes of
the Outer Fire Plane.
The Palid Clasp: A sect of death gods led by Kistra.
The Pilkos Isles: A fragmented island province of
Aldarins along Elos’s southernmost shores.
The Second Medial War: The second great inter-
planar war between the planes of The Compass.
The Torporus: Sometimes the eggs of vine moths are
mistaken for grapes and crushed into batches of
wine, causing them to become infested with vine
moth larvae residue. Those who drink this residue
become afflicted with feelings of lethargy and the
strong desire to be left alone.
The White Plague: This vile plague born of Larveth
causes respiratory issues, white lesions on the skin,
and eventually blindness. It is rare in modern day
Vynestra but has still been known to strike in small
clusters throughout the plane
Thermae (pl. Thermae): Baths used by the Aldarins
to cleanse themselves.
Thermae Oils: Oils used within thermae which are
rubbed on the body and scraped off to remove
impurities in the skin.
Thul’dari: A continent within the Herove Ocean
which stands as a single mountain. It once
was a sprawling continent that was destroyed
during Duskfall.
Tianlán Ocean: The ocean between the Kildars
and Panthéa.
Tirones (pl. Tironis): A green horn legionarius who
has not untaken the typical two years training
provided to a vintarus.
Toga: A long, draping piece of cloth commonly worn
by Aldarins.
Tormentide: A Rymish festival celebrating creativity
and crafting.
Torn: Medial Plane deity of crafts.
Tredecima: The thirteen leading deities of the
Medial Pantheon.
Tribunus Angusticlavius (pl. Tribuni
Angusticlavii): Five junior members of the
Consentium or well-known patricians who sit as
advisors to a gryphos’ war council.
Trigona: A ball game played between children.
Triumph: A major parade of celebration granted to
a gryphos who has achieved exceptional success
whilst on campaign.
Tundae: A festival celebrating the autumn equinox
and preparations for the winter.
Tunder: Medial Plane deity of Autumn.
Tunica: A long shirt, commonly tied at the waist with
a belt, worn by Aldarins.
Umbra Crow: A member of the Umbra Syndicate,
also known simply as a “crow”.
Umbra Syndicate: A secret organisation of assassins,
information brokers, and saboteurs working for

the Aldarin Empire. Members are known as
Umbra Crows.
Underworld: The underground realm of the Medial
Plane, filled with immense seas, caverns, and
tunnel systems.
Unum (pl. Unum): Aldarin currency representing
a gold piece.
Uverthal: Medial Plane deity of good for-
tune and luck.
Vae Night: A festival to ward off fae and nefar-
ious spirits.
Väedfel: The outer ring plane of The Compass, where
souls go after they have passed on.
Vagnata (pl. Vagnatae): An Aldarin social class
relating to drifters or vagrants with no real home.
Va Hyleuu: The flamen of Vys during the
Second Medial War.
Vampiric Order: A Medial Plane-wide collective of
powerful vampires who work together to tilt the
flow of global politics to their benefit.
Veket: A collective of clanships from the
Inner Fire Plane.
Veshmera: A Sel’Kildarian festival of the dead.
Vigilant: The capital city of Halthos.
Viker: The Medial Pantheon deity of thieves, hunt-
ing, and the wilds.
Vinalia Barus: A festival celebrating successful
barley harvests and the first ale production
of the year.
Vinalia Barus: A festival celebrating successful
grape harvests where many help in harvesting the
grapes of local vineyards.
Vintari: The collective of trainee legionarii and
guards across the Aldarin Empire.
Vintarus (pl. Vintari): A trainee legionarius or
guard within the Aldarin Empire.
Vista: The flamen of Kistra during the
First Medial War.
Void (Magic): A cold, dark magic stemming from
The Void (Plane) which negates that which exists.
Void (Plane): Anything outside of The Compass,
where the unknown exists.
Void Blight: Creatures who interact with the Void,
whether it be willingly or unwillingly, may con-
tract a horrendous affliction called Void Blight.
Dark tendrils of anti-material magic slowly break
down the fabric of one’s true self, leaving behind a
husk of nothingness in its wake.
Vorien Empire: A seafaring nation of privateers and
merchants found in Ravidan.
Voruthal: The capital city of Zygarde.
Vynestra: The universe of the Vynestra setting.
Vys: The Medial Pantheon deity of illusion, curiosity,
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
159
THE ALDARIN EMPIRE
of sparkling warts which look akin to the meld of
the Astral Chaos.
Wir -The fourth day of the Anchor Week.
Winter’s Dawn: The twelfth month of the
Medial Calendar.
Winter’s Dusk: The second month of the
Medial Calendar.
Winter’s Wane: The first month of the
Medial Calendar.
Winter’s Wax: The thirteenth month of the
Medial Calendar.
World Anchor: A monolithic wonder of the Medial
Plane, used to house arcane universities and to
uphold the World Border.
World Border: The arcane barrier around the
Medial Plane, powered by the World Anchors of
the Anchor Nations, which regulates interplanar
travel to and from the plane.
Wyld: A collective of powerful minor fae deities
from the Wysterwood.
Wysta: An Anchor Nation festival celebrating liter-
acy with the gifting of books and scrolls.
Wysterwood: The inner ring plane of The Compass,
where fae daimons exist.
Xephyr: Medial Plane deity of passing.
Xhaolo Republic: A militaristic seafaring nation
found on Panthéa.
Xin Quao: The flamen of Iora during the
Second Medial War.
Xithri: The Medial Pantheon deity of emotions,
theatre, and dreams.
Xwar (pl. Xwar): Demigods aligned to the cause of
the Ebyr’sol who have corrupted Deos’s soul to
turn it into embers for their followers.
Xyth: The Medial Pantheon deity of shadows, decep-
tion, and corruption.
Yakareb: The flamen of Kylera during the
Second Medial War.
Yataal: A collective of five powerful families based
within the Sala Sel’Kildarak district of Deveros,
renowned for their power over the district and
criminal operations.
Zephyr: See Xephyr.
Zhurak-a-Baz: The desert spanning the breadth of
central Sel’Kildar.
Zol: The third day of the Anchor Week.
Zor: The fifth day of the Anchor Week.
Yrrdenheim: The capital city of Jordveil Isle.
Zaiyi Federation: A commercially oriented seafar-
ing nation found on Panthéa.
Zwys: A nation of farborn from the Inner Wind Plane.
Zygarde: A mountainous nation filled with
half-dragons and kobolds to the east of Elos.
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