Ravenloft: Prisoners of the Mist

Public (OOC) => Roleplay and Gameplay Resources => Ravenloft Setting => Topic started by: Bluebomber4evr on March 18, 2006, 08:08:27 PM

Title: Native PC Information Thread
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on March 18, 2006, 08:08:27 PM
Greetings,

To help you create native characters, you will find information on all of the Core's domains, along with islands of terrors, pocket domains, and clusters. Characters cannot be native to domains ending in an asterisk (*) since there is no local population.

The Core

The Core is the most densely populated and well-traveled region in the Land of Mists. There are more known domains within the Core than there are beyond it, lending weight to its standing as the veritable center of the world. It is a rugged, temperate land characterized by both bustling villages and trackless wilderness. The Balinok Mountains are the principal geographic feature of the Core, running north to south across the center of the continent. The mysterious Shadow Rift, a yawning chasm filled with black fog, interrupts the Balinoks near the center of the Core. The Core's frontiers are defined to the north and south by the Mists, to the east by the Nocturnal Sea, and to the west by the Sea of Sorrows.

Although the landscape varies from domain to domain in the Core, some generalizations about the continent as a whole can be made. To the east of the Balinoks, densely forested river valleys and floodplains dominate, with most waterways flowing toward the Sea of Sorrows. West of the mountains, sweeping grasslands stretch out on an upland plateau to the shores of the Nocturnal Sea. The temperate climate has a regular cycle of seasons, though weather extremes are common in many domains. The Core is a region of both prosperity and misery, where a host of tyrants skulk in their dark manses and plot endlessly against one another. The villages hum with thriving commerce and intrigue, while cunning predators, both natural and aberrant, stalk the wilds.
Clusters

Clusters are composed of two or more domains, though none approaches the magnitude of the Core. Like those of the Core, the domains within a cluster usually share a common climate and terrain. Some cluster domains have a subtler bond, however, such as a shared history. Each is distinctive, and few generalizations can be made about them.

The Amber Wastes
The Amber Wastes are desert lands parched by the relentless heat of the sun. There is no ebb and flow of seasons in these arid domains; the scorching temperatures are relentless. Here the Mists sometimes reveal themselves in strange ways, appearing as shimmering heat mirages or blinding sandstorms. The Wastes are harsh and unforgiving; life huddles near oases and hides beneath the shifting sands.
The Frozen Reaches
In the Frozen Reaches, eternal winter reigns. Daylight is short, the sun peering above the horizon for just six hours. Endless snow blankets the rugged landscape, making travel arduous. The stiff winds howl eerily across the wastes, cutting through the thickest clothing. Several feet of ice covers the surface of lakes and ponds, and jagged floes choke the rivers. Dense evergreen forests tower around travelers, their bitter needles, nuts, and bark the only food for foragers. Farmers are forced to grow tiny plots of winter grains and hardy root vegetables. Fierce predators, maddened with starvation, stalk the wilderness. The Mists sometimes appear here as cruel, blinding blizzards.
The Shadowlands
The forbidding Shadowlands are dubbed for the Shadowborn family whose fate seems entwined with the region. Regardless, it is an appropriate appellation for lands so suffused with darkness, both real and spiritual. Unspeakable atrocities and shameful secrets skulk within the dense forests, both also in strongholds of righteousness. Evil clashes with still greater evil, while the guttering flame of virtue threatens to dim forever.
The Verdurous Lands
The Verdurous Lands are sweltering, tropical domains where the lush vegetation grows dense and wild. The heat and humidity are unrelenting, drenching travelers in sweat. In these muggy lands, torrential rains define the years, deluging the verdant landscape with an annual wet season. The wilds are shadowy and menacing in the Verdurous Lands, stalked by vicious predators and choked by toxic plant life. Where humanity has slashed back the strangling vegetation and toiled to survive, nature seems to scrabble and claw at his handiwork. In these lands, the savagery of the wilderness is unremitting and terrible.
Zherisia
Once the city of Paridon was the bustling center of a domain called Zherisia (zair-ISS-i-a). Now the Paridoners find only unfamiliar lands beyond their city, but old habits die hard, and some still refer to their home as Zherisia. Although it outwardly resembles an island rather than a cluster, Paridon is not completely isolated. A wider world still extends beyond Paridon's streets, not outside of the city but below it. Beneath its fog-bound boulevards skulk living nightmares clawing at the edges of the city's shadows. Abominations squirm and gibber through the labyrinthine sewers, the natives of the subterranean domain of Timor.
Islands of Terror

Islands of Terror are domains surrounded by the Mists; they do not share stable borders with neighboring domains. They are among the most secluded domains in Ravenloft, though solitary wanderers always seem to find their way to such remote places. The list below only includes Islands of Terrors characters can be from; there are many others lost in the mists.
Pocket Domains

Pocket domains are the most minor of Ravenloft's terrible prisons. When a creature is first awarded a realm of its own, it is almost always a pocket domain. While there are no set rules for establishing the physical boundaries of such a place, they share many similar characteristics.

They lie completely within the borders of another, larger domain (this does not include islands in the Sea of Sorrows and the Nocturnal Sea, with independent darklords, which count as Core domains). They are often ruled by less powerful darklords, but this is not always the case. Examples of fixed pocket domains include Davion and the House of Lament.

Many pocket domains are fleeting in nature. They appear from time to time, linger long enough to torment a handful of explorers, and then change again. Some pocket domains are not even physically rooted to a geographical location. Those domains that move about are called floating domains. Floating domains are always within the borders of another domain, but they do not necessarily conform to the laws of that domain. Examples of Floating domains include The Nightmare Lands and Scaena.
Title: Barovia
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 14, 2007, 06:56:16 PM
The Core

Barovia

Barovian History

Barovia's early history is murky and incomplete, yet it is without a doubt the oldest nation of the core. The fact that the world calendar is based off of the Barovian Calendar (BC) is proof of this. One of the earliest known conflicts involved an invasion by a barbaric people known as the Neureni in 230 BC. Their hordes conquered and razed much of Barovia, until the legendary General-Princess Nicoleta von Zarovich halted the Neureni's advances and sent them back out of the passes in the Balok mountains that they had used to enter the valley.

Barovia enjoyed eight decades of peace and prosperity after the routing of the Neureni hordes, until court intrigues among the noble houses of Dilisnya, Katsky, and Petrovna sparked a bitter struggle called the War of the Silver Knives in 314 BC. This inter-family war of assassination and revenge lasted for two years before Count Barov von Zarovich intervened and ended it, placating the families with parcels of new land. Unfortunately, this conflict drastically weakened Barovia, and they were unprepared for the invasion of the Tergs some four years later in 320 BC.

Unlike the Neureni, the Tergs were not destroyers and raiders, but conquerors and settlers. In less than five years, the Tergs displaced many of Barovia's noble families, including the von Zaroviches themselves. Their shame would not last long, however. Strahd von Zarovich, eldest son of Barov, vowed to drive the Tergs from Barovia and rebuild his parents' nation at all costs. After twenty-seven grueling years, Strahd did just that, though his parents did not live to see the day. In their honor, he constructed Castle Ravenloft (named after his mother Ravenovia), and called to his family to settle in the castle.

In 351 BC, tragedy struck. On the day of the wedding of Strahd's youngest brother Sergei, assassins struck and murdered all the guests, as well as Strahd and his brother. The assassins, known as the Ba'al Verzi, were under the employ of a noble from the Dilisnya family, Leo Dilisnya. Leo wished to usurp the throne of Barovia from the von Zarovich line, though his actions, according to legend, cast a curse upon Barovia that still lasts to this day. Fortunately for the von Zarovich family, Sturm von Zarovich, Strahd and Sergei's brother, was unable to attend the wedding, and thus the von Zarovich family has lived on to this day.

The von Zaroviches have continued to rule Barovia, each one taking the name of Strahd in honor of the the man who freed their nation from the Tergs' iron grip. Curiously, each one resembles him as well. In the centuries since the wedding massacre, Barovia has seemed dismal and stagnant, perhaps a result of the curse placed upon the land by Leo Dilisnya's actions. Strahd's heirs have become increasingly despotic, seizing control from the nobles until they had all but disappeared from Barovia.

In 470 BC the Vistani appeared in Barovia, and Strahd IV formed an allegiance with them that lasts to this very day. Strahd IV declared the life of the Vistani to be sacrosanct, and they were to be considered under his complete protection. It is assumed that in exchange for this the gypsies provide some sort of service to the von Zaroviches, but neither the Vistani nor the von Zarovich family will discuss the matter.

In the years directly following the tragedy of Sergei's wedding, Barovia seemed to be surrounded by a thick, almost impenetrable white fog. In 542 BC, the wizard Azalin emerged from the mists, and formed an uneasy alliance with the von Zaroviches, though this alliance ended by 579. In 550 BC, the mists to the southwest of Barovia parted and revealed the land of Forlorn. In 585, the mists to the south parted to reveal the blasted landscape of Bluetspur. In 593, the western border revealed the nation of Gundarak, believed by many Barovians to be inhabited by the descendants of the Neureni. In 684, the mists to the northwest parted to reveal the nation of Borca, ruled by the descendants of Leo Dilisnya. To the north of Barovia, the nation of Markovia was revealed in 698 BC. To the east, Hazlan was revealed by the mists in 714. And in 715, the nation of Dorvinia appeared to the northwest, between Borca and Markovia, also ruled by Leo's descendants. Rumors spread of other nations beyond the borders of Barovia's neighbors, including one ruled by Azalin, far to the north.

This geographical arrangement was forever changed in 740 BC, during a powerful supernatural event called the Great Upheaval. The horrid land of Bluetspur disappeared from Barovia's southern border, and Hazlan somehow moved from the east to take its place. The landmass that was once occupied by Hazlan was now part of the nation of Nova Vaasa, once Hazlan's northern neighbor. The nations of Borca and Dorvinia merged into one nation, though it kept the name of Borca. The nation of Markovia disappeared from Barovia's northern border, along with Markovia's northern neighbor G'Henna. In their place was left a deep chasm called the Shadow Rift. No one knows exactly what lies at the bottom of the chasm's festering black shadows, though many rumors persist of a land haunted by dark fey, where time flows differently. Finally, to the east, the nation of Gundarak lay in anarchy when its ruler, Duke Gundar, was assassinated. Strahd XI seized this opportunity by conquering much of Gundarak and annexing it into Barovia. After a brutal nine-month siege, half of Gundarak was annexed and brought under the rigid control of Barovia. The rest of Gundarak was seized by the nation of Invidia to the west.

The Gundarakites are an oppressed people. Openly resented by the Barovians, their spite has brewed over the last decade and a half into a full-blown rebellion. The rebellion's leader, Ardonk Szerieza, believes in a vision of Gundarak that never truly was, often ignoring or revising history to fit his patriotic ideals. Ardonk moves back in forth between Barovia and Invidia, leading the rebellion in both nations.

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, Hills, Mountains

Major Settlements: Berez, Cuzau, Hoessla, Immol (1,623), Jarvinak, Krezk (2,060), Krofburg (500), Renika, Teufeldorf (3,539), Vallaki (1,547), Village of Barovia (535), Zeidenburg (4,615)

Population: 27,700

Races: 98% Human, 1% Half-Vistani, 1% Other

Languages: Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Luktar (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg130535#msg130535), Forfarian, Vaasi, Sithican, Thaani, Patterna

Religions: The Morninglord, Hala, Ezra, Nerull

Government: Feudal Hereditary Monarchy

Ruler: Count Strahd Von Zarovich XI

Currency: wolf-fang (gp), raven-claw (sp), rat-tooth (cp)

Resources: Wheat, corn, turnips, cabbage, potatoes, plums, sunflowers, grapes, goats, sheep, chickens, trout, pike, sausage, spirits, timber, iron, salt

Diplomacy: Limited contact with other realms due to the folk's xenophobia and the Count's tyrannical nature. Trade alliances exist between merchants in Barovia, Kartakass and Invidia. Despite the distance between their realms, it is widely believed that Strahd and Azalin Rex despise one another.

The Land: Straddling the loftiest reaches of the Balinok Mountains, Barovia is a harsh, rural domain held in the grip of tyranny and superstition. Its landscape is dominated by the Balinoks, in particular by the twin snow-capped peaks of Mounts Baratak and Ghakis. The mountains run like a craggy spine down the center of the realm, spreading east and west to include the rugged hills on either side of the range. The Balinoks within Barovia are particularly treacherous, characterized by jagged outcroppings and sheer cliffs. Travel is made all the more perilous by the ice and snow that choke mountain passes nine months out of the year.

The narrow valleys that cut the slopes of the Balinoks widen to the east and west. Crystalline mountain streams quickly transform into broad, mighty rivers that wind their way through the thickly forested dales. Numerous vital waterways begin their journey across the Core high in the Barovian Balinoks - the Gundar, Luna, and Nharov Rivers to the west and the Ivlis and Saniset Rivers to the east. With the exception of the upper reaches of Mounts Baratak and Ghakis, the domain is dominated by ancient forests, broken only occasionally by mossy meadows. At night, hulking wolves stalk the woods, and the skies swarm with huge, screeching bats.

Lake Zarovich, one of the largest freshwater bodies in the Core, is nestled between Mounts Baratak and Ghakis, along the Old Svalich Road. This highway is the sole link between the eastern and western Core south of the Shadow Rift. Thus, despite Barovia's forbidding landscape, a surprising number of merchants and pilgrims travel through the realm each summer, urgently crossing the Balinoks before the Old Svalich becomes impassable again in late autumn.

Most buildings in Barovia are constructed of brick and dense timber that is plastered and painted deep russet or light dun. Many homes and shops are adorned with rows of mineral-flecked stones set into the plaster. The thatched rooftops are steep and set with tiny, leaden rose windows in the gables. In the spring, window boxes overflow with vivid flowers, and harvest time brings pumpkin lanterns, intended to keep the minions of evil at bay. One of the realm's most remarkable features is the ring of perpetual fog that surrounds the village of Barovia. Although Barovia's winters are long and brutal, the remainder of the year is mild, characterized by gentle precipitation and sun-dappled days.

The Folk: Barovian culture is dominated by the ethnic Barovians, who have lived in the area for seven and a half centuries. Their language, Balok, is one of the most widespread tongues throughout the southern Core. The second largest ethnic group in Barovia are the Gundarakites, who became second-class citizens (at best) of Barovia when Strahd XI annexed neighboring Gundarak during the Great Upheaval in 740 BC. The Gundarakites are an oppressed people, and mainly stay in the vestiges of their former homeland in the west of Barovia. There are also smaller groups of Forfarians, the descendants of refugees from Forlorn when it was revealed to Barovia in 550 BC, and the Thaani, who fled across Barovia's southern border from the horrid realm of Bluetspur in 585 BC. These two minor ethnic groups have maintained their ethnic identity by refusing to intermarry with ethnic Barovians. Finally, the Vistani have a large presence in Barovia, largely due to the pact they have with the von Zarovich family. The Vistani are a nomadic people, but there are always some tribes to be found within Barovia's borders, as it is the safest place for them throughout the Core.

Barovian society is largely medieval, and the majority of its populace are poor peasants and serfs, working the farmland of the von Zarovich family under the watchful eye of the local boyars. Those few who are free are mostly small farmers, herdsmen, and fishermen. The villages and cities are a different matter, with many craftsmen and merchants to be found.

Barovians tend to marry at a fairly young age, 16 for males and 13 for females, though they do not observe the practice of arranged marriages. Their customs do not allow for divorce or remarriage for widows or widowers. Since many Barovians work on farms, their families tend to be large, and women are expected to bear as many children as they can. As a consequence, many mothers die in childbirth and the infant mortality rate is high during the first two years of life. Barovians receive no formal schooling, and few, if any are literate. Wealthy children are taught by private tutors or are sent abroad to study.

The majority of travel is done on foot, as the mountainous terrain is ill-suited to horse-riding. As a result, the folk of Barovia are quite sedentary, with many never even leaving the village they were born in. Most of the rivers are too hazardous for boat travel, though Lake Zarovich's deep waters have been a haven for fishermen for centuries.

The Barovian people, despite their varying ethnic backgrounds, all share at least one thing in common: a dislike of strangers, almost to the point of xenophobia. Their harsh glares and lack of hospitality are due to the years of living under the stern rule of Count Strahd. Barovians care little for the ways of others and prefer to mind their own business—and usually their own business consists of day-to-day survival.

All Barovians have an almost crippling fear of the supernatural. Their daily rituals involve locking every door and window at sunset. They regard magic with equal superstition. Arcane magic, in particular, is believed to be the gift of demons, and the foolhardy spellcaster in Barovia will likely find himself facing an angry mob.

The Law: Barovia is ruled by Count Strahd von Zarovich, the most recent despot in an ancient line of feudal tyrants going back centuries. "The devil Strahd," as he is called locally, is a cruel but distant ruler, rarely taking an interest in the day-to-day (or perhaps night-to-night) business of his realm. Strahd leaves local governance to the boyars (noble landowners) and burgomasters (mayors), who are free to rule as they see fit. These petty but coveted positions of authority are traditionally hereditary, but turnover is high due to replacement by the Count--for incompetance, weakness, or sedition--or suspicious deaths. The main duty of the boyars and burgomasters is to maintain a militia, for which they collect burdensome taxes, though Strahd himself does not demand regular tribute from his people. Boyars and burgomasters also enforce the peace, appoint magistrates for civil disputes, and keep a wary eye on ambitious craft and merchant guilds.

The ongoing Gundarakite rebellion in western Barovia has led to increasing tensions between the two ethnic groups.

Races: Humans are Barovia's dominant race, though half-Vistani run a distant second. Other races are extremely rare, but not unheard of. Calibans occur with disturbing regularity in Barovia, though their births are just as often blamed on the influence of vampires, demons, or wizards as hags. Halflings are found exclusively in the large villages of western Barovia, where they live in tiny ghettos. Dwarves are thought to dwell deep in the Balinoks, and wild elves purportedly stalk the Tepurich Forest. Rural Barovians who encounter such nonhumans are likely to consider them monstrous freaks or malicious fey.

Classes: Clerics, fighters, rangers, rogues, and sorcerers are the classes most commonly encountered in Barovia. Clerics are admired for their healing and power over the undead, even if they are not always trusted. Fighters and rangers are always given their due, for Barovians respect the warrior's path. Reviled as scoundrels, rogues are widespread, though they generally restrict their activities to countryside banditry rather than urban guild endeavors. Sorcerers must keep their nature secret for fear of retribution by suspicious peasants. Druids and wizards are fairly rare but similarly feared. Barovian bards are uncommon, but are enjoyed for their mournful ballads and lullabies. Paladins are regarded as hopeless madmen by all but devotees of the Morning lord, who respect their virtue if not their lawful outlook. The odd barbarian is usually a wild man, raised among beasts in the high mountains. Monks are all but unknown.

Recommended Skills: Hide, Influence, Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Blind-Fight, Dodge, Endurance, Extra Turning, Great Fortitude, Spell Focus (Abjuration, Conjuration, Divination, Necromancy), Toughness, Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (battleaxe, longsword, mace, scimitar, shortbow, throwing axe, warhammer)

Names:

-Barovian Male Names:

Adam, Adrian, Alexandru, Alexe, Alin, Anastase, Anatolie, Andrei, Anton, Antonie, Artur, Atanase, Atanasie, Augustin, Aurel, Avram, Barbu, Bartolomeu, Bela, Beniamin, Bogdan, Caius, Calin, Camil, Carol, Catalin, Cezar, Chiril, Ciprian, Claudiu, Coloman, Constantin, Coriolanu, Cornel, Corneliu, Cosmin, Costache, Costea, Costel, Costica, Costin, Cristian, Dacian, Damaschin, Damian, Dana, Daniel, Danut, Dario, Dariu, David, Decebal, Dimitrie, Dimitriu, Dimitry, Dinu, Dionisie, Dorin, Doru, Dragan, Dragomir, Dragos, Duiliu, Dumitru, Eduard, Emanoil, Emanuel, Emil, Emilian, Eremia, Eugen, Eugeniu, Fane, Felix, Filaret, Filip, Flaviu, Florea, Florentin, Florin, Francisc, Gabriel, Gavril, George, Ghenadie, Gheorghe, Grigore, Haralamb, Haralambie, Horatiu, Horea, Horia, Iacob, Iancu, Ilarie, Ilarion, Ilie, Ioan, Ion, Ionache, Ionel, Ionut, Ionuts, Iordan, Iosef, Iosif, Irinel, Iulian, Iuliu, Iurie, Iustin, Lascar, Laurentiu, Laurentsiu, Lazar, Leonte, Liviu, Luca, Lucian, Manea, Manole, Manuel, Marc, Marcel, Marcu, Marian, Marin, Marius, Martin, Matei, Mihai, Mihail, Mihaita, Mihnea, Miodrag, Mircea, Miron, Miroslav, Mitica, Moise, Mugur, Neculai, Nelu, Nichita, Nicolae, Nicu, Nicusor, Octav, Octavian, Octavianu, Olimpiu, Ovidiu, Panait, Paul, Pavel, Petre, Petrica, Petru, Pompiliu, Preda, Puiu, Radu, Rares, Raul, Razvan, Remu, Remus, Roman, Romulu, Sabin, Sandu, Sava, Scarlat, Sebastian, Sebastianu, Serafim, Sergei, Serghei, Sergiu, Sever, Silviu, Simion, Simon, Sorin, Stan, Stefan, Stelian, Stroe, Teodor, Teofil, Theodor, Tiberiu, Timotei, Titu, Toma, Traian, Tserban, Tstefan, Vaclav, Vadim, Valentin, Valer, Valerian, Valeriu, Vali, Vasile, Vasilica, Veaceslav, Victor, Vintila, Viorel, Virgil, Virgiliu, Vitalie, Vlad, Vladimir, Zaharia, Zamfir

-Barovian Female Names:

Adela, Adelia, Adelina, Adina, Adriana, Alexandra, Alina, Amalia, Ana, Anamaria, Anastasia, Anca, Andra, Andrada, Andreea, Angela, Angelica, Anica, Antonia, Aurelia, Aurora, Beatrice, Bianca, Bogdana, Brandusa, Camelia, Carmen, Catalina, Catina, Clara, Claudia, Constance, Constanta, Constantsa, Corina, Cornelia, Cosmina, Costela, Crina, Cristina, Daciana, Dana, Daniela, Daria, Delia, Demetra, Denisa, Despina, Diana, Doina, Dolores, Dorina, Dragana, Draguta, Ecaterina, Elena, Eleonora, Elisabeta, Elvira, Emilia, Eugenia, Felicia, Flavia, Florentina, Florica, Florina, Gabriela, Georgeta, Georgiana, Ileana, Ilinca, Ilinva, Ina, Ioana, Ioanela, Iolanda, Ionela, Irina, Irinel, Isabella, Iulia, Iuliana, Izabela, Juliana, Larisa, Laura, Lavinia, Lenuta, Liana, Lidia, Liliana, Livia, Lizuca, Loredana, Luana, Lucia, Luciana, Luiza, Luminita, Luminitsa, Madalina, Magda, Magdalena, Manuela, Mara, Marcela, Margareta, Maria, Mariana, Maricica, Marilena, Marina, Marioara, Marta, Melania, Mihaela, Milena, Minodora, Mirela, Miruna, Monica, Nadezdha, Nadezhda, Nadia, Nadine, Narcisa, Natalia, Natasha, Nicoleta, Niculina, Nikolina, Nina, Nuta, Oana, Olga, Olimpia, Otilia, Patricia, Paula, Petronela, Phoebe, Rachel, Rahela, Raluca, Ramona, Rebeca, Roberta, Rodica, Rodika, Roxana, Rozalia, Ruxandra, Sabina, Sanda, Sandra, Silvia, Simona, Sofia, Sonia, Sophia, Sorina, Stefania, Stela, Svetlana, Tamara, Tatiana, Teodora, Tereza, Tstefania, Uta, Valentina, Valeria, Vasilica, Vera, Veronica, Victoria, Violeta, Viorela, Viorica, Virginia, Ylenia

-Barovian Surnames:

Adamache, Adamescu, Adamesteanu, Agarici, Albu, Aldulescu, Alecsandri, Alexandrescu, Alexandru, Alexe, Amanar, Anastase, Anca, Andronescu, Andronic, Anghel, Anghelescu, Anton, Antonescu, Apostu, Arcos, Ardelean, Ardeleanu, Argetoianu, Arion, Astafei, Atanasiu, Athanasiu, Atodiresei, Avram, Avramescu, Babes, Badescu, Baicu, Balan, Balauru, Balcescu, Ban, Banica, Barbu, Barbulescu, Bârlădeanu, Barnutiu, Barnutsiu, Beldiceanu, Belododia, Bengescu, Berceanu, Berindei, Blaga, Boboc, Bochinsky, Bodiu, Boerescu, Bogdan, Bogoescu, Bogza, Bolohan, Bordeianu, Botez, Botezatu, Boureanu, Braescu, Brâncoveanu, Brasoveanu, Bratu, Breban, Brediceanu, Bucataru, Bucsa, Bucur, Budescu, Budisteanu, Bunea, Bus

Buzarnescu, Cadantsu, Cadantu, Calinescu, Calugareanu, Calugaru, Cândea, Capraru, Caragiale, Cardei, Catargiu, Cazacu, Ceausescu, Ceausu, Cebanu, Celibidache, Cercel, Cernat, Cernea, Cheban, Checiches, Chihaia, Chinezu, Chirila, Chirilov, Chiritescu, Chisca, Chitsu, Chitu, Ciharean, Cioaba, Cioban, Ciobanu, Ciobotaru, Ciocan, Ciocanu, Ciorba, Ciorbea, Ciubotaru, Ciuca, Ciurea, Coanda, Cobalcescu, Cocea, Codreanu, Cojoc, Cojocar, Cojocaru, Comanescu, Comanici, Comsa, Constantin, Constantinescu, Copil, Corbeanu, Corbu, Cornea, Corneanu, Cosmescu, Cosovei, Costea, Costescu, Costin, Costiniu, Cotrus, Covaci, Cozma, Craciun, Creanga, Cretsu, Cretu, Crisan, Cristea, Cristescu, Croitoru, Culianu, Cutov, Cutsov, Dabija, Dalakis, Damaschin, Damian, Danciu, Datcu, Davidoglu, Deac, Deleanu, Demetrescu, Densusianu, Diaconescu, Diaconu, Dimitrescu

Dimitriu, Dimitru, Dimofte, Dinescu, Dinicu, Dinu, Dobre, Dobrescu, Dobrogeanu, Dogaru, Donceanu, Doroftei, Dragan, Draganu, Draghicescu, Draghici, Dragnea, Dragoi, Dragomir, Dulgheru, Dumitrache, Dumitrescu, Dumitriu, Dumitru, Duta, Dutsa, Eliade, Eminescu, Enache, Ene, Enescu, Epureanu, Eremia, Esanu, Esinencu, Felea, Fieraru, Filotti, Florea, Florescu, Florian, Gaina, Gane, Ganea, Georgesco, Georgescu, Gheorghe, Gheorghiu, Gherea, Gherghel, Ghimpu, Ghita, Ghitsa, Giurescu, Giurgiu, Giurgiuca, Giusca, Goga, Goian, Goldis, Golea, Grasu, Grecu, Grigoras, Grigorescu, Grosu, Groza, Grozavu, Hagi, Hanescu, Hanganu, Haralamb, Hasdeu, Hatieganu, Hatsieganu, Herea, Herlea, Hoban, Hodos, Hossu

Huidu, Hutopila, Iacob, Iacobescu, Ilie, Iliescu, Ioanid, Ionescu, Ionita, Ionitsa, Iordache, Iordan, Iorga, Iosif, Iovan, Isopescu, Istrate, Istrati, Itu, Iuga, Ivanescu, Izbasa, Kogalniceanu, Lacatus, Lacusta, Lahovary, Lascar, Lazarescu, Lecca, Lemnaru, Leonte, Loghin, Luca, Lucaci, Lucescu, Lungu, Lupan, Lupas, Lupascu, Lupescu, Lupu, Lupul, Macedonski, Macek, Maftei, Magheru, Maior, Manea, Manescu, Maniu, Manole, Manolescu, Manoliu, Maracineanu, Marcovici, Marcu, Marculescu, Mardare, Mardarescu, Marginean, Marin, Marinescu, Martinescu, Matei, Micle, Miclea, Miculescu, Mihai, Mihalache, Mihalcea, Miklos, Milosovici, Minovici, Mirea, Mironescu, Mitu, Mocanu, Moceanu, Moculescu, Moga, Moise, Moisil,

Moisuc, Moldovan, Moldovanu, Moldoveanu, Morar, Morariu, Moraru, Morosanu, Moscovici, Movila, Mungiu, Muntean, Munteanu, Muresan, Muresanu, Murgu, Musat, Naum, Neago, Neagoe, Neagu, Nechita, Necula, Negoita, Negoitescu, Negoitsa, Negoitsescu, Negrescu, Negru, Negruzzi, Negulescu, Nemes, Nemescu, Nenitescu, Nenitsescu, Nichita, Nicolaescu, Nicolau, Nicolescu, Nicu, Niculescu, Nistor, Nita, Nitsa, Noica, Nuta, Olaru, Olinescu, Oltean, Olteanu, Onciul, Oprea, Oprescu, Orasanu, Otvos, Ovidiu, Pacuraru, Paduraru, Paler, Panait, Panaitescu, Paraschiv, Pârvulescu, Pascu, Pâslaru, Patrascu, Paulescu, Paun, Pavel, Pavelescu, Pavlenco, Pavlovici, Pellea, Petcu, Petre, Petrescu, Petri, Pillat, Pintea, Pintilie, Pippidi,

Pirvulescu, Pitsurca, Piturca, Plamadeala, Poânaru, Poenaru, Pogonat, Poienaru, Popa, Popea, Popescu, Popovici, Preda, Predoiu, Proca, Prodan, Puiu, Puscariu, Puscas, Raceanu, Racovita, Racovitsa, Radoi, Radu, Raducan, Raducanu, Radulescu, Ratiu, Ratsiu, Rebreanu, Rednic, Robu, Romanescu, Rosca, Rosetti, Rotariu, Rotaru, Rudeanu, Rus, Rusescu, Rusu, Sabau, Sadoveanu, Saftoiu, Saguna, Salaru, Sandu, Sârbu, Satmareanu, Saulescu, Savescu, Savin, Savulescu, Scarlat, Serban, Serbanescu, Serbu, Serghei, Silaghi, Sima, Simionescu, Skutnik, Slabu, Spârlea, Sperantia, Spirlea, Stan, Stanciu, Stancu, Stanculescu, Stanescu, Stefan, Stefanescu, Stirbei, Stoenescu, Stoica, Stolojan, Stroe, Stroescu, Suciu, Sulutiu,

Surdu, Surugiu, Tanase, Tanasescu, Taranu, Teodoreanu, Teodorescu, Theodorescu, Ticmeanu, Timofte, Tismaneanu, Titeica, Todoran, Toma, Tomescu, Tomoiaga, Torje, Trandafir, Trifa, Tsalaru, tsaranu, Tserban, Tserbanescu, Tserbu, Tsitseica, Tstefan, Tstefanescu, Tstirbei, Tsulutsiu, Tsurcan, Tsurcanu, Tudor, Tudose, Tugurlan, Turcan, Turcanu, Turei, Udrea, Ungur, Ungureanu, Ureche, Ursu, Urzica, Vaduva, Vântu, Vârzaru, Vărzaru, Vasilache, Vasile, Vasilescu, Vasiliu, Velculescu, Vernescu, Vianu, Vieru, Vizitiu, Vladescu, Vladu, Vlaicu, Voicu, Voiculescu, Voiculet, Voiculets, Voinea, Voinescu, Vulcan, Xenopol, Zaharia, Zamfir, Zamfirescu, Zeklos, Zidaru



-Gundarakite Male Names:

Abar, Adam, Adorjan, Adrian, Alexandru, Alin, Ambrus, Andrei, Andris, Antal, Anton, Aron, Artur, Atanase, Ati, Attila, Augustin, Aurel, Baltasar, Bela, Benedek, Beniamin, Bogdan, Carol, Catalin, Cezar, Ciprian, Claudiu, Constantin, Cornel, Corneliu, Cosmin, Costache, Costel, Costica, Costin, Cristian, Csaba, Csepan, Daniel, Danut, Dariu, Decebal, Demetrius, Dimitriu, Dimitry, Dinu, Dionisie, Domi, Dominik, Dorin, Doru, Dragomir, Dragos, Dumitru, Eduard, Elfric, Emanuel, Emil, Emilian, Eugen, Fane, Felix, Ferenc, Filip, Flaviu, Florin, Fredek, Furkan, Gabriel, Gavril, Gergely, Gergy, Ghenadie, Gheorghe, Grigore, Gusztav, Haralamb, Horatiu, Horea, Horia, Iancu, Ilie, Ioan, Ion, Ionel, Ionut, Iosif, Istvan, Iulian, Iuliu, Jakab, Jani, Laurentiu, Lazlo, Levente, Liviu, Luca, Lucian, Manuel, Marcel, Marin, Marius, Martin, Matei, Mihai, Mihail, Mihaita, Miki, Miklos, Milan, Mircea, Miron, Mitica, Neculai, Nelu, Nicolae, Nicu, Nicusor, Octavian, Ovidiu, Pali, Paszkal, Paul, Petre, Petrica, Petru, Pompiliu, Radu, Razvan, Remus, Rognvald, Sandu, Sebastian, Serafim, Sergei, Serghei, Silviu, Simion, Simon, Sorin, Stan, Stefan, Stefano, Stelian, Szabolcs, Teodor, Tiberiu, Tibor, Timotei, Toma, Traian, Ubul, Vaclav, Valentin, Valerian, Valeriu, Vali, Varady, Vasile, Vasilica, Veaceslav, Victor, Vilmos, Viorel, Virgil, Virgiliu, Vlad, Zaharia, Zalan, Zeteny, Zoli, Zsolti, Zsombor

-Gundarakite Female Names:

Ade, Agatha, Agota, Agotha, Anna, Annaka, Annoka, Annos, Antonia, Antonija, Barbala, Barbara, Borbala, Borbara, Borbolya, Boriska, Borka, Cata, Catalin, Catalyn, Caterina, Catha, Cathalin, Chatus, Clara, Crystina, Dominika, Dorko, Dorothea, Dorotthya, Eizabet, Elena, Elizabet, Elizabeta, Elyzabet, Eorsebet, Erse, Ersebet, Ethelhild, Eufrusina, Eva, Frusina, Helena, Hortenzia, Ilko, Ilona, Ingrid, Irisko, Judit, Julia, Jusztina, Kalara, Kata, Katalin, Katha, Kathalin, Kathalyn, Katheryna, Katho, Kathws, Kato, Katta, Katus, Katws, Klara, Krystyna, Lea, Lucia, Magda, Magdalena, Magdalna, Magdolna, Magolna, Margarytha, Margit, Margital, Margith, Margyth, Maria, Mariska, Marta, Orsik, Orsola, Orsolya, Orzebet, Petronya, Piroska, Pirosska, Potyncza, Priscina, Sara, Serafin, Sofya, Sophi, Sophia, Szabina, Szuszana, Theresia, Tzigane, Ursula, Vilhelmina, Yllona, Ylona, Zsofika, Zuzanna

-Gundarakite Surnames:

Ajkler, Ajtai, Ajtay, Aladár, Ambrus, Andras, Angyal, Apponyi, Artali, Asboth, Babits, Babos, Bacsik, Balassa, Balint, Balog, Balogh, Balsai, Baltar, Balzary, Baranyai, Barta, Bartha, Beregfy, Beres, Birtalan, Bokor, Bornemisza, Bozsik, Breznay, Buday, Burjan, Cizinski, Corvinus, Csapek, Csere, Csillag, Csizmadia, Csonka, Csurgo, Czako, Cziffra, Dajos, Daroczy, Dienes, Disztl, Divos, Dobay, Dobos, Doczi, Dohnanyi, Domokos, Dvorzsak, Egerszegi, Eötvös, Erdos, Eross, Fabinyi, Faludy, Farkas, Fazekas, Fekete, Fenyvesi, Ferenci, Födes, Foldenyi, Forintos, Fricsay, Fucsovics, Furedi, Gabor, Galamb, Galambos, Garaba, Garai, Gaspar, Geocze, Gergely, Gindl, Goencz, Götz, Groditje, Gyarmati, Gyepes, Gyorffy, Gyulai, Gyulay, Hadik, Hajnal, Halasz, Hamori, Haraszti, Harcsa, Harsanyi, Hegedus, Hegyi, Herczeg, Hevesi, Hlady, Hollai, Horansky, Horthy, Horvat, Hrutka, Janikovszky, Jaszi, Jeszenszky, Joska, Juhasz, Kalocsai, Kalocsay, Kanizsa, Kanta, Kardos, Karinthy, Kassai, Katona, Kelemen, Kenyeres, Keresztes, Keszthelyi, Kisfaludy, Kiss, Kocsis, Kollar, Koltai, Koncz, Koranyi, Kornai, Koroknay, Koszegi, Kovacsics, Kozma, Kristofics, Kurt, Kurucz, Lajtha, Lakatos, Lengyel, Lerch, Ligeti, Liptak, Liszt, Lorincz, Lucas, Lugosi, Madaras, Mandula, Markovits, Matuschka, Megyeri, Mezo, Mikes, Mindszenty, Moskovics, Moskovits, Mudin, Nagy, Nejedly, Neme?, Nemeth, Nikics, Nikisch, Noszaly, Nyers, Nyilasi, Orczy, Orosz, Palagyi, Palotai, Papp, Petofi, Petrahn, Pokolytsch, Pongratz, Pulszky, Rdzavolgygi, Rejto, Riesz, Roveda, Rozgonyi, Rubik, Rudas, Salzer, Sandor, Sarkozy, Sebok, Simonyi, Sinkovits, Sirokay, Sjsiengel, Solti, Somogyi, Somorjai, Somorjay, Sumegi, Supka, Szabo, Szalai, Szalay, Szell, Szeman, Szenes, Sziklai, Szirtes, Szisz, Szluka, Szocs, Szokefagy, Szokol, Szollosi, Szondi, Sztraka, Tabori, Takac, Takach, Tardy, Teleki, Temesvari, Tokody, Torma, Toroczkai, Vajda, Varady, Varga, Vasas, Vazsonyi, Verboczy, Veto, Vigh, Vincze, Vujicsics, Wajda, Weisz, Zambo, Zilahy, Zsiga, Zsigmondy, Zsivoczky, Zsivozky, Zsoldos



-Thaani Male Names:

Adarnase, Agim, Akaki, Alban, Altin, Andon, Anton, Arben, Ardian, Ardit, Argjend, Arjan, Armando, Avtandil, Bacurius, Bagrat, Bardhyl, Bashkim, Bekim, Besim, Besnik, Bledar, Bruno, Bujar, Burim, Dardan, David, Dmitry, Dren, Dritan, Endrit, Erind, Erion, Erjon, Ermal, Ermir, Ervin, Fatmir, Fatos, Fisnik, Getoar, Giorgi, Gjergj, Gjin, Gjon, Grigol, Guram, Gurgen, Haki, Haxhi, Helidon, Hysni, Ilir, Irakli, Irakly, Ismail, Jaba, Jonuz, Jusuf, Kakhaber, Kastriot, Klodi, Klodian, Koba, Korab, Kreshnik, Kristaq, Kristo, Lefter, Levan, Liridon, Llazar, Luarsab, Lulzim, Malkhaz, Mamuka, Mateos, Merab, Milot, Mirdon, Mirian, Ndoc, Ndue, Nexhmedin, Nika, Nikolla, Nikoloz, Nuhi, Otar, Pandi, Petrit, Pharnavaz, Pirro, Qamil, Rajmond, Rati, Revaz, Rexhep, Shalva, Shkodran, Shkumbin, Shota, Sokol, Spiro, Tamaz, Tanush, Tato, Taulant, Teimuraz, Teodor, Thanas, Tonibler, Tornike, Tsotne, Vache, Vakhtang, Valon, Varlam, Vasillaq, Vazha, Vedat, Visar, Xhafer, Xhelal, Xhevahir, Ylli, Ysni, Zaza, Zef, Zurab, Zviad

-Thaani Female Names:

Adamata, Adeli, Alasina, Alkana, Andronika, Anjeza, Arberasha, Axhire, Bajram, Ballore, Barida, Barzida, Berzanta, Besarta, Besime, Bestara, Bledarina, Bledina, Bleriana, Blerina, Blerta, Bletmira, Brerima, Bujeta, Bukuroshe, Curlina, Danjusha, Dashtra, Dashuri, Dazeta, Dedana, Dhuntia, Donmira, Doruntina, Drinusha, Drita, Enkela, Erdita, Erjeta, Ervjollca, Etleva, Etrita, Filja, Fitore, Fjorda, Flladjeta, Foltare, Gajza, Genzana, Grela, Guximtare, Hiesore, Hijeshore, Hosi, Jetare, Jetisha, Jorgji, Katrina, Kumrije, Labeata, Larisa, Larushe, Lavdime, Ledra, Lejla, Lesina, Liriza, Lirjeta, Liroshe, Lorana, Lumnesha, Mendime, Mendore, Merita, Mesila, Miklore, Mirashe, Mirjeta, Mirlinda, Mirsada, Mirvjena, Mitare, Mjaltina, Nanda, Naresta, Nazibe, Ndermira, Neritana, Njomzake, Ohrije, Orgesta, Orgeta, Qershore, Qeti, Regonta, Resmije, Rozafa, Rrape, Rrezepare, Ruda, Shasine, Shendvera, Shpresa, Shpresore, Skerdilaida, Sopo, Sorkadhe, Tarina, Tatjana, Teutona, Tina, Trime, Uksana, Urana, Valjeta, Valma, Vashnore, Veprime, Vlefta, Vloresha, Voglane, Vona, Vrullie, Zamira, Zhaklina

-Thaani Surnames:

Abkhazi, Abuletisdze, Ahmetaj, Ahmeti, Ajeti, Akhalaia, Alasania, Altunash, Anjaparidze, Arabidze, Arbnori, Aslanish, Asllani, Bagrationi, Bajraktari, Bajrami, Bajramovic, Baratash, Bazhunaishvili, Beridze, Bestavash, Bobokhidze, Boshnjaku, Bukia, Bytygi, Cacaj, Cela, Chabukiani, Chanturia, Chkhaidze, Chocholi, Ciftja, Darsalia, Davitaia, Dejti, Demisovski, Diasamidze, Dolidze, Donauri, Dzhugash, Fazliu, Gakharia, Gamsakhurdia, Gandzieli, Gjika, Gjokaj, Gogoladze, Hajdaraga, Halil, Harxhi, Hasangjekaj, Idrizi, Ismajli, Isufaj, Ivanaj, Janashia, Janazaj, Jandieri, Javakhish, Jeladze, Kalichava, Kartskhia, Kaukhchish, Kazbegi, Kharaish, Khimshiash, Khinchagash, Kiuprili, Kochakidze, Kodosh, Korkizoglou, Krasniqi, Kreshnik, Kuteli, Kvaratskhelia, Kvernadze, Labadze, Lala, Lamaj, Licheli, Liparteliani, Lobzhanidze, Logoreci, Luzaj, Malaj, Markaj, Maxharraj, Mishaxhi, Monavardisash, Mripa, Murtazash, Mzhavanadze, Naçi, Nanava, Nizharadze, Nooja, Nushi, Okropiridze, Oseku, Paloka, Pataraia, Pavlenish, Pertakhia, Petriash, Pllana, Prenkpalaj, Prifti, Qosja, Rexha, Rugova, Sabauri, Sapunxiu, Sejko, Shaburidze, Shkelyim, Smajlaj, Smajli, Sylaj, Tabagari, Tahiri, Tarkhnish, Tavdgiridze, Thaqi, Tolr, Tomash, Tzeka, Vakhvakhish, Vardanidze, Vllasi, Xhaxhka, Ymeri, Zalkaliani, Zhuzumi, Zogjani



You can find more information on Barovian and Gundarakite roleplay here (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=6563.0).

You can find more information on the official announcements in Barovia here (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=38951.0).

Sources: Ravenloft Gazetteer I, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Blaustein
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 15, 2007, 05:55:47 AM
Blaustein

Cultural Level: Early Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Grass, Rocks, Hills (island)

Major Settlements: Village of Blaustein (300)

Population: 300

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Mordentish*, Lamordian, Darkonese

Religions: The Lawgiver

Government: Autocratic Despotism

Ruler: Lord Bluebeard

Currencies: no currency, trade conducted through barter and other domains' currencies

Resources: potatoes, turnips, sheep, cattle, dairy, herring, cod, tuna, sardines, salmon, lobsters, whales, gems.

Diplomacy: None. Visitors are unwelcome on Blaustein unless invited by its ruler. It is also rumored to be a haven for the pirates of the Sea of Sorrows.

The Land: This small island located in the Sea of Sorrows off the coast of Dementlieu is nothing more than a rocky island in the sea. Blaustein is said to be impenetrable because of its major natural defenses. Shallow waters and dangerous reefs surround the island and Blaustein has no lighthouse. The waters of Blaustein have been the bane of countless ships in the past. These wrecked ships are a source of income for Blausteiners who often plunder them nearly as soon as they crash by. In addition to this, the isle itself is a large rock formation with cliffs so steep and high that no man could hope to climb them and reach the island.

The only way to reach the village from the sea is through the only natural access point. A small makeshift dock was built on the only sandy beach of the isle. Past this makeshift dock, the village of Blaustein spreads across most of the island. Its homes are small and shabby and many are in advanced states of disrepair. Towering above this village is the infamous Castle Bluebeard, a massive fortress of brown stone said to be haunted by the locals. The castle sits atop a hill at the edge of his village, reached by a winding, rutted dirt road. The castle, like the village below, is almost completely under the control of Lord Bluebeard. He knows of every action within its heavy stone walls.

It is said that a large network of sea caves crisscrosses the island, but few have attempted to explore them all and even less have come back alive to tell of it.

The Folk: Blausteiners are a rough folk. Most are stocky and sturdily built. Clothing is functional and rarely gaudy, though many young women tend to wear semi-revealing clothing when the weather permits in an attempt to court their ruler, who through a series of tragedies has been a widower several times over. The people seem to be mostly of Mordentish descent, perhaps intermarrying with Lamordians. Skin tends to be fair, though tanned from lots of outdoor activities. Hair color ranges from blonde to dark brown, most of it wavy or slightly curly. Men grow beards and mustaches in emulation of their ruler. Women grow their hair long, frequently braided or in a ponytail. Jewelry is quite fashionable, and many women wear large earrings, gaudy rings, and several necklaces, to the extent that one starts to believe the rumors of Blaustein being a pirate haven.

Most of Blaustein's people would best be described as "thugs" and "ruffians" by most other folk. They are likely to brutally attack or give very cold shoulders to those foolish enough to land on their island, unless they have been invited there by Lord Bluebeard. The lord's many departed wives do not seem to deter young Blausteiner women from seeking his attraction, yet Lord Bluebeard seems to prefer foreign women. His people have attempted to procure him a wife from afar, so strong is their devotion. The people of Blaustein love Bluebeard completely and obey him without question.

The people of Blaustein are generally not religious, caring little for gods and organized religions. Despite this, a priest of the Lawgiver has recently settled on Blaustein with the blessing of Lord Bluebeard and has been attempting to convert people. Bluebeard is favorable to this religion since its dogma preaches loyalty and love to the rightful ruler, something that fits very well his current status. The people of Blaustein do not care much for the Lawgiver, even though they agree with some of the viewpoints. However, they do not care for the strict dogma associated with it and generally just pay minor respect to the religion, ignoring its tenets or restrictions.

The Law: Autocratic Despotism. Blaustein is controlled by the dread Bluebeard, a secretive tyrant who commands fervant loyalty among his subjects. Bluebeard is the ultimate judge and jury of Blaustein, granting punishment as he believes it is deserved. Displeasing Bluebeard is a capital offense. Unfortunately, it is easy to do so. Many from other parts of the Core believe that Bluebeard's many departed wives met their fate because they could not live up to his impossibly high standards. Woe be to whomever says such a thing within earshot of Blausteiners. The people of Blaustein are so fervently loyal to their ruler that any who dare speak against him meet a violent end.

A small garrison of guards, best described as thugs, patrol the Castle walls and the few streets of the village ensuring no violence or crimes are commited. These guards often take liberties when applying the law and the most usual punishment on Blaustein is hanging. Lord Bluebeard rules the Village with an iron fist and does not let any sort of crimes go unpunished. In turns, this has made Blaustein a haven for pirates and any seafarers since within Blaustein's waters and on the isle itself, no one can harm another or attempt to capture them. This has given Blaustein a reputation as a freeport and a safe haven in the dangerous Sea of Sorrows.

Classes: Fighters and rogues. Barbarians and rangers are uncommon. All other classes are unwelcome here.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Discipline, Influence, Parry

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Back to the Wall, Called Shot, Dodge, Expertise, Great Fortitude, Toughness, Weapon Focus (rapier)



Names:

-Male Names:

 Alphonse, André, Antoine, Bernard, Bertrand, Bruno, Claude, Donatien, Étienne, Florian, François, Frederic, Gaston, Georges, Gerard, Gilles, Guy, Henri, Hervé, Hubert, Jacques, Jean, Jean Pierre, Jean-Claude, Jean-Francois, Jean-Paul, Laurent, Louis, Luc, Lucien, Mathieu, Michel, Olivier, Pascal, Phillippe, Pierre, Raoul, Remy, Renard, René, Serge, Thibault, Thierry, Valčre

-Female Names:

Adélaďde, Adéle, Adrienne, Aimée, Amélie, Antoinette, Avril, Bernadette, Blaise, Brigitte, Camille, Celeste, Chantal, Charlotte, Clarisse, Claudette, Corinne, Danielle, Désirée, Dominique, Éloise, Emmanuelle, Evelyne, Francoise, Genevieve, Giselle, Isabelle, Jacqueline, Jeanne, Joan, Joséphine, Josette, Karine, Lucienne, Marie, Marie-Laure, Mirielle, Monique, Nathalie, Nichole, Regine, Rolande, Sabine, Solange, Sophie, Sylvie, Tatienne, Therese, Valerie, Vivienne, Yvonne, Zoé

-Surnames:

Alard, Anciaux, Arguelles, Barbier, Baudelaire, Beauregard, Bordeaux, Bouchet, Brosseau, Camus, Carbonneau, Chaboteaux, Chevalier, Clemenceau, Clouseau, Coulette, d'Aubec, d'Espivant, Daumier, De La Brosse, De La Chaize, De Lavergne, De Leon, De Masse, De Thibault, Delaroux, Deneuve, Deschamps, Destine, Du Plat, Dupin, Durand, Favreau, Flaubert, Foucault, Garnier, Gatteux, Gauthier, Gillette, Goulet, Grignon, Jean-Aubry, Jeune, La Berche, La Rochenoire, Labourdette, Lacroix, Lambert, Laporte, Larroquette, Laurier, Lavigne, Le Jeune, Le Marquand, Le Nôtre, L'Heureux, Marceau, Martineau, Moreau, Pepin, Pichot, Poiret, Quilleboeuf, Renault, Roche, Simoneau, Soulette, Thibedeaux, Tourette, Voltaire



Sources: RR1 Darklords, Tales of Ravenloft, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Borca
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 15, 2007, 06:02:07 AM
Borca

Cultural Level: Chivalric

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forest, hills and mountains

Major Settlements: Levkarest (8,500), Lechberg (5,500), Sturben (2,020, Vor Ziyden (1,200)

Population: 34,200

Races: 95% Humans, 4% Halflings, 1% Other

Languages: Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Mordentish, Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Luktar (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg130535#msg130535), Halfling

Religions: Ezra, Hala

Government: Pseudofeudal despotism

Rulers: Sefeasa Ivana Boritisi and Sef Ivan Dilisnya

Currencies: nightshade (gp), hemlock (sp), foxglove (cp)

Resources: wheat, rye, corn, potatoes, apricots, sheep, cattle, chickens, beer, wine, timber, iron, copper, lead, salt, marble, leather goods, usury, culture

Diplomacy: trade and military alliance with Dementlieu, Mordent, and Richemulot. Hostile towards Falkovnia and Invidia. Neutral towards Barovia and Verbrek.

The Land: Borca is a beauteous domain scarred by betrayal and ruthlessness. The domain lies along the northwestern edge of the Balinok Mountains, in the rolling dales that stretch out beyond the icy crags of Mount Gries. Borca is a green, fertile land blanketed with wildflowers throughout the spring and summer. Ancient, verdant forests cover much of the domain, overgrown with tangled brambles and twining ivy.

The trees and shrubs are heavy with nuts and fruits, and the ground is blanketed by spongy little toadstools. Most of these morsels, however, ooze with sweet-smelling toxins, a notorious feature of Borcan foodstuffs fortunately betrayed by a telltale purplish tinge. The domain is also known for its geothermal activity; hot springs bubble up from the ground everywhere, spewing steam and sulfurous fumes into the air. The Luna and Vasha Rivers flow gently east through the realm, fed by the crystalline snowmelt of the Balinoks.

Homes and shops in Borca are broad, massive buildings of plastered and whitewashed brick. The gabled rooftops are shingled in thin, charcoal-gray wood and topped with slim, knobby spires. Wooden trim of dark green or blue, carved with stylized vines and mushrooms, graces the doors and windows. Small, white marble statues of the goddess Ezra stand serenely at the entrances of many homes. The smooth stone streets of villages are narrow, shaded by the overhanging upper floors of buildings. Borca has a temperate climate, leaning toward severe winters and cool, pleasant summers.

The Folk: Because of the harsh volcanic environment of Borca, Borcans seem to age quickly. They are fair-skinned and dark-haired. The most common eye color is brown. Women grow their hair long, while men grow theirs to a medium length. Commoners dress in a utilitarian manner, while nobles tend to wear baroque fashions imported from Dementlieu. The oppressive taxation of Borca has given the people a sullen and depressed nature. Borcans were once a lusty, life-loving people. Now they are defeated and go about their business with a resigned fatality. A weary, pained look clings to their features, as if they were being affected by some numbing poison. Their only respite is the grace of the goddess Ezra, whose largest sect resides in the Great Cathedral of Levkarest.

The Law: Ivana Boritsi, the "Black Widow of Borca" is the current mistress of this land. She inherited the rulership when her mother Camille died an unexpected death. Ivana's only real political interest seems to be indulging herself at her subjects' expense. She is called the Black Widow from her infamous fatal romances, as her lovers have a tendency to die in her bedchambers. Though a feudal form of government, Ivana Boritsi is the only true landowner, making all Borcans vassals to her. She grants and revokes noble titles on a whim, constantly changing the makeup of the aristocracy. Her cousin, Ivan Dilisnya, maintains the law, and his notoriously corrupt enforcers are more or less legal brigands who extort the populace as often as possible. Ivan is the only noble in Borca to truly own property, a holdover from when he ruled his own nation of Dorvinia prior to the Great Upheaval. Ivan's thugs never pass up an opportunity to extort whatever meager money the Borcans have. Protection rackets are an epidemic, with payment required from anyone unfortunate enough to run into a roving band of Dilisnya enforcers. Bribery is required merely to prevent a business from being vandalized or to keep enough food to live through winter. There is virtually no criminal or civil law in Borca, save what can be bought through dirty coin.

Races: Humans are the overwhelmingly dominant race in Borca; halflings hold no true power. Other races are extremely rare, and Borcans generally see them as freaks and curiosities, reacting with disdain rather than superstitious fear.

Classes: Bards, clerics, fighters and rogues are the most common classes here. Bards are seldom traveling minstrels; instead, they appear as actors, composers, or musicians who channel their tortured imaginations into arcane artistry. Many Borcans are devout followers of the Church of Ezra and hold anchorites in high regard, but reactions toward druids and clerics of other faiths range from indifference to mild hostility. Fighters can easily find employment as enforcers, but are usually dismissed as mindless thugs; they are paid to fight, not think. Rogues are common, but depending on their role in society may be respected or despised; Borcans admire cunning as much as they loathe thievery. A few rangers monitor undeveloped estates in the western lowlands for absentee landholders. Borca has few talented sorcerers or wizards. Those who do emerge typically conceal their abilities, hoarding their gifts as a valuable commodity. A tiny handful of folk have been popularly labeled as paladins of Ezra over the years, but these holy warriors remain largely the stuff of legend. Other classes are virtually unknown.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Influence, Lore

Recommended Feats: Dodge, Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (dagger, musket, pistol)



Names:

-Male Names:

Adelmo, Adriano, Albertino, Alberto, Aldighieri, Alessandro, Almerico, Aloysius, Aluysio, Andrea, Andream, Anechino, Angelo, Antonio, Antonolo, Arturo, Augusto, Aureo, Baiamonte, Baldasera, Balsamo, Barbus, Bartolomeo, Benasuto, Benghi, Benintendi, Benvenuto, Bernabas, Bernardo, Bertuccio, Bertucio, Blasio, Blaxio, Bolezino, Bonifazio, Bruno, Bucello, Carlo, Cataldo, Cesare, Checo, Cheslav, Clario, Claudio, Cristiano, Cristofo, Cristoforo, Daniele, Danieli, Dante, Dardi, Dionisio, Domenico, Donatello, Donato, Dragano, Edik, Enrico, Ermolao, Ezio, Fabio, Facio, Federico, Felle, Fiorenzo, Fortunato, Francescino, Francesco, Francisco, Frangibus, Fredrik, Galaxio, Gasparo, Geminiano, Geragio, Gerardo, Giacomo, Giambruno,

Gian, Giorgio, Giovanni, Giuliano, Giuseppe, Giustiniano, Gregorio, Guido, Guilelmo, Gurian, Gustavo, Iacobino, Jacobello, Jacobino, Jacobo, Jacomelo, Jacopo, Kiryl, Ladislao, Lenuzo, Leo, Leonardo, Lorenz, Lorenzo, Loysio, Luca, Luchas, Luigi, Luysio, Mafeo, Mapheo, Marcello, Marco, Marin, Marino, Mario, Martino, Matheo, Mercurio, Michael, Michaleto, Michelangelo, Mora, Moreto, Morosino, Nanino, Napoleone, Nicolaus, Nicoleto, Nicolino, Nicolo, Oliverio, Paladin, Palmerio, Panelo, Pangratio, Pantaleone, Pantalione, Paolino, Paolo, Pascal, Phylipo, Pietro, Poluccia, Prelatus, Prospero, Puzinello, Raffiano, Rambaldo, Raphael, Raynucio, Righi, Rigi, Rizardo, Rodrigo, Rolandino, Romaso, Romeo, Salvatore, Saraceno, Sclavo, Semelino, Sergio, Simon, Simoneto, Stepka, Tarvixio, Thadeo, Thomas, Tomaso, Triadano, Tusco, Tuscus, Ubertino, Uberto, Valentino, Vendramino, Victor, Vincenzo, Vitaliano, Vito, Vitti, Zanino, Zilio, Zivon, Zonta, Zusto,

-Female Names:

Acquilina, Adriana, Agnella, Agnese, Agnesina, Agneta, Agnola, Alegreza, Alessandra, Alma, Anastasia, Andrea, Andreuola, Angela, Anna, Annabella, Antonia, Bandecca, Bartola, Bartolomea, Bella, Belloza, Benevenuta, Besina, Bianca, Bice, Bona, Buona, Camilla, Campagnola, Carlotta, Catalina, Catarina, Caterucia, Cecilia, Charlotta, Chola, Cicilia, Ciecherella, Ciosa, Ciuta, Claudia, Colette, Colleta, Cristina, Dea, Diana, Dolce, Donata, Druda, Duscha, Elizabeta, Emerenzia, Eva, Fabiola, Federica, Fiametta, Filippa, Fiora, Flora, Florentia, Flos, Francesca, Gemma, Gerita, Ghinga, Ghita, Gianetta, Gilia, Ginevra, Giovanna, Giuliana, Gostanza, Grana, Helena, Irena, Isabella, Isabetta, Jacopa, Joanna, Katarina, Lagia, Lapa, Lena, Leonarda, Letta, Lippa, Lisa, Lisabetta, Lorenza, Lubmilla, Luca, Lucia, Lucilla, Lucrezia, Luisa, Madelena, Magdalena, Margherita, Maria, Marsilia, Marte, Martinella, Masina, Mea, Mella, Micola, Mina, Mirabella, Miranda, Nanna, Natasha, Nencia, Nezetta, Nicolosa, Novella, Nucca, Oleska, Pasqua, Pasqualina, Paula, Pencina, Penina, Pia, Piera, Richa, Rigarda, Riguardatta, Salvaza, Sandra, Santa, Serafina, Serena, Simona, Stella, Taddea, Tessa, Thomisina, Tita, Tomasia, Tommasa, Urola, Vera, Veroncia, Violetta, Zaneta, Zinerva,

-Surnames:

Adoldo, Aghov, Alberti, Alberto, Aldobrandini, Alighieri, Aliprando, Amanar, Angelo, Antelini, Antonio, Aragazzi, Baboescu, Badoer, Balbi, Barbarigo, Barbaro, Barberigo, Barbieri, Barbo, Barozzi, Bartoccini, Baseggio, Basilio, Bedheloto, Bembo, Benakov, Bendzar, Berberio, Bertaldo, Boccassio, Boccono, Boldů, Bollani, Bon, Bondemiro, Bonifati, Bono, Borovsky, Botticelli, Bragadin, Bratiano, Bredani, Buscharino, Buticularo, Calderario, Calvocoressi, Calzaghe, Cancharello, Caotorta, Capov, Cappello, Caprioglio, Caravello, Caresini, Carmitru, Caroldo, Carrara, Castelucci, Ceauęcescu,

Celsi, Chavalerio, Chodeschino, Cimator, Cocco, Codreanu, Collegario, Contarini, Corner, Correr, Czermak, d'Aqua, d'Armano, d'Artusio, d'Este, da Barleto, da Bologna, da Brabante, da Canal, da Carrara, da Cernia, da Chioggia, da Cimento, da Cola, da Ferrara, da Firenze, da Forli, da Frixaturo, da Lucca, da Milano, da Molin, da Monte, da Mosto, da Munego, da Mutina, da Negroponte, da Padova, da Parma, da Peraga, da Polenta, da Quaterno, da Raguso, da Riva, da Sabardia, da Segna, da Treviso, da Valaseno, da Vale, da Venzone, da Verardino, da Verardo, da Verona, da Vicenza, da Vigonovo, da Ziliolo, dal Sol, Dalioto, dalla Stava, Dallapiccola, dalle Boccole, Damiani, Dandolo, Darmo, de Buora, De Giovanni, de Mezzo, De Vesc, della Cava, della Scalla, Demko, Dente, Desiderato, di Leonardo, di Pigli, Dobrovsky, Dodrescu, Dolfin, Donŕ, Donzelli, Doro, Duodo, Emo, Enzignerio, Eruzione, Faber, Falier, Famizi, Fanutio, Felone, Fetsko, Fioravanti, Foscari, Francesco, Furlano, Gabbiadini, Galinarion, Gamba,

Gardesano, Garzone, Genovese, Georghiu-Dej, Girardo, Giustinian, Gogean, Gonzago, Goradz, Gradenigo, Graffaro, Grassi, Greco, Grissoni, Gritti, Guiccardini, Havel, Havlicek, Ibanescu, Ioanid, Iorga, Kafka, Karelo, Kautsky, Kazaku, Korda, Korzha, Kovarikov, Lazar, Lazzarali, Loredan, Malek, Malipiero, Mandildova, Marano, Marcella, Marcello, Marcovicci, Mare, Marino, Marmagna, Memo, Menegi, Michiel, Milea, Minorita, Mocenigo, Molin, Moravec, Moro, Morosini, Mudazzo, Muxe, Nani, Natale, Niculaie, Novak, Palmarocchi, Pangratiu, Paolo, Papacizza, Paradiso, Pasqualigo, Pavlovich,

Paxe, Petri, Petrov, Pisani, Pizzolato, Polani, Premarin, Priuli, Purus, Querini, Radacanu, Rambaldo, Rebagliati, Richterova, Rizo, Romaine, Rondinelli, Rosso, Sanuto, Sartor, Sartore, Scacceri, Scrovegni, Sfondrati, Silivasi, Simenov, Simoneti, Solario, Solsa, Soranzo, Sorto, Sourosin, Spira, Stornado, Stornello, Studenikova, Taiapetra, Tansuro, Tanto, Tartare, Tegliacci, Thadei, Tiepolo, Tomado, Torta, Trentavasi, Trevisan, Tuloni, Turri, Uguccione, Ullman, Utino, Valencik, Vendelino, Venier, Viadro, Vidal, Viscia, Visconti, Vitturi, Vizzoni, Volpe, Vosper, Vulpes, Zafoni, Zancani, Zane, Zanotti, Zelezny, Zen, Zeno, Zentil, Zorzi, Zrubakova, Zusto,



Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer IV, Ravenloft Gazetteer IV Web Enhancement
Title: Darkon
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 15, 2007, 09:57:56 PM
Darkon

Cultural Level: Ranges from Chivalric along the Jagged Coast and the edges of the Forest of Shadows to Dark Ages in the wildes regions of the Mountains of Misery

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: forest, hill, plains, mountains, swamp

Major Settlements: Corvia (4,400), Delagia (1,500), Karg (8,500), Martira Bay (10,400), Maykle (2,600), Mayvin (1,500), Nartok (7,500), Neblus (2,900), Nevuchar Springs (1,100), Rivalis (5,500), Sidnar (1,400), Tempe Falls (2,500), Viaki (8,900)

Population: 117,300

Races: 70% Humans, 14% Halflings, 6% Dwarves, 5% Elves, 3% Gnomes, 1% Half-Elves, 1% Other (errata)

Languages: Darkonese, Halfling, Gnome, Elven, Dwarven, Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Lamordian, Mordentish, Tepestani, Vaasi

Religions: The Eternal Order, Ezra, The Overseer

Government: Feudal hereditary monarchy

Ruler: Azalin Rex

Currencies: crown (pp), skull (gp), bone (sp), chip (cp)

Resources: wheat, barley, rye, oats, hops, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, grapes, hogs, sheep, cattle, goats, chickens, dairy, herring, cod, flounder, sausage, beer, wine, timber, peat, gold, silver, copper, iron, lead, salt, gems, cloth, ceramics, perfumes, ships, arcane knowledge

Diplomacy: trade with Lamordia and Nova Vaasa. Open hostility with Falkovnia

The Land: Darkon, one of the largest domains in the Core, is a land of legend steeped in intrigue, terror, and magic. Stretching across the entire northern third of the continent, the domain encompasses an astonishing variety of landscapes. In the west, the Sea of Sorrows laps at Darkon's shore, while the domain's eastern edge ends at the frigid shores of the Nocturnal Sea. North of Darkon lies the vast expanse of the Mists, which roil and shift much more chaotically than elsewhere in the Core. Thus the bleak northern frontier, known as the Mistlands, is constantly in flux.

The Mountains of Misery overlook all of southeastern Darkon, crowned by the barren volcanic peaks of Mounts Nirka and Nyid. Rugged and trackless, the mountains are surrounded by broken badlands that sprawl far to the west. The rest of the eastern half of Darkon is dominated by the Vale of Tears, a wide, rolling floodplain dotted with small, shadowy woodlands. Darkon's eastern shore is cold and bleak, a flat, wind-beaten coastline featuring only slim, sandy beaches.

Western Darkon is a thickly forested floodplain broken by the central Boglands and the western Jagged Coast. The Forest of Shadows enshrouds most of the region, a menacing wood so ancient and dense that no light can reach the forest floor. The Boglands consist of patchy marshes surrounding the dark depths of the Great Salt Swamp. The Jagged Coast is a harsh, rocky shore region riddled with caves and possessing only the sparsest vegetation. The coast is a maze of tiny islands and hidden coves, and the Sea of Sorrows itself is storm ridden along Darkon's shores.

Darkon is etched with a web of prominent waterways, most flowing into the mighty Vuchar River as it rushes westward. Numerous freshwater and saline lakes dot the landscape as well, most in the Mountains of Misery and the Boglands.

Darkon's villages exhibit dazzling variety in their architecture; each settlement is graced with a unique style that complements its surroundings. The folk of Corvia, for instance, have hollowed out the massive stone buttes of their village to create homes and shops. The metropolis of II Aluk, once the jewel of Darkon, is now a damned city so inhospitable to life that it has been rechristened Necropolis. The climate in Darkon is temperate tending toward extremes, with harsh winters, hot summers, and brief but pleasant springs and autumns.

The Folk: Darkon is a "melting pot" of sorts; there is no common physical trait among Darkonians. Dress tends to be practical in nature and in earth tones. All Darkonians fear the undead. They believe that their land once belonged to the undead until the living banished them to the Gray Realm. Darkonians believe that the undead will return to exact their revenge in an event called the Hour of Ascension. Non-human races are not treated with the fear and hatred they meet in other realms.

The Law: The wizard-king Azalin Rex rules Darkon with an iron fist in a velvet glove. His rule is harsh but he has set up a strong feudal base for his monarchy. Barons rule each major settlement and are allowed to rule as they see fit--they have their own vassals, set local laws, appoint magistrates, and control trade. Azalin's presence is felt amongst the populace through his secret police, the Kargat. This secretive organization is feared by all Darkonians and answer only to Azalin.

Races: Humans are the dominant race in Darkon, but the nonhuman races have a significant presence as well. Elves and half-elves are most common in the Mistlands, while most dwarves hail from the Mountains of Misery. Mayvin is the heart of gnome culture, and halflings center in Rivalis and Delagia. Calibans are not uncommon, but they have no communities of their own; most toil in "undesirable" positions, such as digging graves.

Classes: Bards, clerics, fighters, rogues, and wizards are the classes most commonly encountered in Darkon, but all classes can be found. Bards serve a valued purpose in society, spreading tales across the extensive kingdom. Clerics are expected to guard against the dead; any lapses are judged most harshly. Fighters are generally respected, particularly if serving in official capacities such as a landed knight or simple constable. Stealth and treachery are associated with the Kargat, so most folk are deeply suspicious of rogues. Sorcerers and wizards are both respected and justifiably feared for their powers. Other classes are usually newcomers claimed by Darkon.

Recommended Skills: Influence, Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Blind-Fight, Exotic Weapon Proficiency



Names:

-Male Names:

Abbrahan, Aburius, Accoleius, Adryel, Aebram, Aebutus, Aedard, Aedyn, Aerav, Agust, Ahbel, Ahron, Aisaak, Aldone, Alin, Alren, Andret, Andrex, Anedre, Anthonis, Anthonius, Antistius, Antius, Antorn, Apollox, Ardmor, Arhun, Arlox, Arruns, Arsinius, Asan, Asinius, Augus, Augustus, Auila, Aulus, Aurelius, Avitus, Babudius, Bekn, Billis, Bobbis, Bouwen, Boyce, Braedyn, Brantom, Brindan, Briyan, Briyce, Brodyn, Caelestius, Caelianus, Caesius, Caius, Callam, Calwin, Camryn, Caninius, Canisius, Caristanius, Carus, Carvilius, Cassius, Castus, Cayeden, Cincius, Claytin, Clintom, Cluntius, Cohren, Coltan, Cordus, Cossus, Cotta, Crew, Crispian, Cristover, Culleolus, Curtius, Cyrox, Daerryl, Daltom, Damaris, Damiran, Danirel, Dariux, Darren, Daviad, Davian, Dawson, Dax, Decimus, Dominicus, Edan, Elriot, Elyot, Emerton, Emerys, Ender, Enders, Eric,

Estran, Ethin, Excingus, Falco, Falx, Faustus, Ferreolius, Flavius, Flyx, Fronto, Gabryel, Galerius, Gallio, Garreth, Gavryn, Gayle, Geral, Gilos, Glabrio, Gnaeus, Gordio, Gryllus, Haral, Harp, Hectrr, Helvetius, Horrison, Jaeke, Jagget, Jax, Jakome, Jaro, Jaxer, Jaxson, Jefry, Johnath, Jordein, Kai, Karzen, Knox, Kodyn, Koltn, Korey, Krish, Kyeler, Lafrenius, Lar, Larrence, Larris, Lennox, Leontius, Leviye, Livius, Lucilius, Lucius, Lupinus, Lushian,
Maddax, Manius, Marcellus, Marcus, Matzen, Maxwill, Milonius, Munius, Mutius, Nayel, Nonus, Oppius, Otacilius, Pastor, Paulus, Pinarius, Pisentius,

Placus, Pleminius, Polus, Pomptinus, Popidius, Potitus, Primus, Priscian, Proculus, Protus, Publicus, Publius, Ragan, Ragnol, Rodrick, Rodrock, Romanus, Rutilius, Sanctus, Secundus, Sellic, Seneca, Servilius, Servius, Sextus, Simo, Spurius, Sulvan, Tadius, Taelor, Tasius, Tatian, Tertius, Tettienus, Tiberius, Titiedius, Titus, Tobis, Ton, Trimalchio, Tristen, Tuditanus, Tullus, Tyze, Umbrenius, Varian, Verullus, Veturius, Vinitius, Viridius, Volusius, Vonones, Vopiscus, Walkr, Wat, Wayde, Winson, Xandr, Xanthus, Xavix, Yan, Ysaac, Zaen

-Female Names:

Abercia, Adriaenne, Aelani, Aeliyah, Aera, Agorix, Alaysia, Albatia, Albinia, Aldea, Allecta, Angela, Annalisa, Antonia, Arbelle, Aria, Armenia, Atria, Aubriena, Avalynn, Banca, Barbatia, Belenne, Bestia, Betiliena, Bodenia, Braeylee, Broccha, Caelina, Caeryssa, Calidia, Cantia, Canuleia, Caria, Castina, Cata, Catalin, Celsa, Chaeya, Cominia, Danyka, Dayana, Dexsia, Deyanna, Dnise, Domitia, Donatiana, Dulcitia, Egnatia, Emson, Epidia, Epidiana, Epimacha, Erinne, Erixa, Evanline, Francesca, Genesia, Gennadia, Gisele, Grania, Haelee, Helvetia,

Herennia, Hostilia, Ilana, Imogen, Isaurica, Janae, Jaynelle, Juliasa, Kamryn, Karina, Kasdy, Kayelin, Kayi, Kelya, Krissa, Laberia, Laera, Laevina, Lartia, Lentula, Lentulla, Leshi, Liviana, Lorlea, Lucretia, Macrinia, Maenzee, Mallia, Marcallas, Margarita, Marguerite, Matia, Maxima, Melita, Memmia, Meriya, Milonia, Mucia, Nadira, Nasennia, Natlia, Nayla, Nicetia, Nola, Ondyne, Paetina, Papinia, Pictor, Pollia, Pomponia, Popidia, Primana, Pullo, Pupia, Quintillia, Quirica, Rayegan, Rayven, Rebexa, Reegan, Rosha, Ruricia, Saeva, Salinator, Saraia, Scarleth, Sempronia, Sentia, Sereya, Serilda, Sigilis, Silvana, Sirica, Sita, Socellia, Talira, Tanica, Tetrica, Titiedia, Treblana, Tuditana, Ulivia, Uulia, Vagennia, Vassenia, Victorina, Vinicia, Virdisia, Volusena, Volusia, Wylow, Zarinah, Zezilia

-Surnames:

Abderis, Aberkiis, Ableris, Abures, Aburis, Acamis, Accis, Acestes, Actor, Aelis, Aesepis, Aeson, Aetion, Agelais, Aias, Akamas, Aktor, Albatis, Alcmaion, Alector, Alexis, Alexon, Allectis, Aloeis, Altes, Ameinias, Amiantis, Amythaon, Angelis, Antenor, Appuleis, Areisiis, Aristion, Arsinis, Artemiis, Asonides, Asterion, Atrapes, Attalis, Aufidis, Ausonis, Autonois, Bacenor, Bantis, Barates, Barbatis, Bardas, Bathyaes, Belis, Bernd, Bianor, Birch, Blossis, Briaris, Bryennis, Brygis, Bucoli, Bulis, Caeparis, Camelis, Canuleis, Canutis, Caris, Carisis, Castor, Catienus, Catrares, Cedric, Ceionis,

Chalcon, Chileis, Chremon, Chrysaor, Cilix, Cilnis, Cincis, Cineas, Claudis, Cleon, Cluvis, Clytiis, Cnoethis, Cocceis, Codris, Cordis, Coresses, Corfidis, Cosconis, Crathis, Cretheis, Croesis, Cronis, Curchuas, Curiatis, Curtis, Cyneas, Daedalis, Dallas, Damiskis, Dardanis, Davis, Decis, Dellis, Delrico, Devere, Diagoras, Digitis, Dmetor, Doris, Dryops, Ducetiis, Duchas, Duris, Dux, Eckbert, Egnatis, Eis, Elatis, Elatreis, Elpidiis, Eniopis, Ennaeis, Epaphis, Epeiis, Epicydes, Erginis, Euaemon, Eubalis, Eubulis, Eueniis, Eugeniis, Eukles, Eumelis, Eumneis, Euphenes, Eupolis, Euryanax, Euryhis,

Euryphon, Eutychis, Evanetis, Evenis, Fabricis, Fannis, Flaminis, Fletcher, Floris, Floyd, Foslis, Franklin, Fufidis, Furis, Gauanes, Geleon, Gelon, Glabas, Goeran, Hateris, Heis, Helenis, Heliis, Hermeias, Herminis, Hermon, Hero, Herodes, Hippias, Hirris, Horatis, Hostilis, Hypenor, Hypsenor, Hyrtacis, Ialmenes, Iambulis, Ibanolis, Icaris, Ilioneis, Illyriis, Iollas, Iphiclis, Isagoras, Isidor, Ision, Itylis, Junis, Jussuf, Juventis, Kaenas, Kalesiis, Kaletor, Kannadis, Kapys, Karipis, Kebes, Keis, Kekrops, Kleitis, Koinis, Kolby, Konon, Kroisis, Kyrillis, Labotas, Laecanis, Laelis, Lafrenis, Laiis, Lamis,

Lampon, Laodamas, Laodocis, Lasis, Latinis, Leandris, Learchis, Lentidis, Leocedes, Leontis, Liburnis, Lichas, Licinis, Ligaris, Linis, Lucienus, Lucretis, Luitpold, Luscis, Lutatis, Lydis, Lygdamis, Lykon, Lysias, Macrinis, Maenis, Malaches, Mallis, Manlis, Mantes, Marcis, Marlow, Maro, Maron, Masson, Matullis, Mausolis, Maximis, Mecistes, Medis, Megakles, Melas, Menalcas, Meriones, Mesthles, Midas, Mikon, Minicis, Minidis, Mnesis, Monoecis, Murris, Musaiis, Mussidis, Mustis, Muzachis, Muzalon, Naevis, Nearchis, Nelpis, Neritis, Nestor, Nicanor, Nicias, Nicolais, Nikias, Nomion,

Norbanus, Numeris, Numicis, Nummis, Nyctinis, Obellis, Oenops, Ofanis, Ogulnis, Oicles, Oliatis, Olis, Ollis, Onesimis, Oppidis, Oranis, Orcis, Oscis, Ovinis, Pallans, Panares, Panionis, Pantites, Paris, Pataicis, Patrobas, Patulcis, Pedis, Pedocles, Peiris, Peleis, Pelicles, Perikles, Persis, Phaidon, Phausiis, Phegeis, Pheres, Phileas, Philon, Phlegon, Phoibis, Phorbas, Phorcys, Phormion, Phylacis, Phylas, Pilis, Placidis, Polybiis, Pompilis, Pomponis, Portis, Posides, Postumis, Pratinis, Praxis, Praxites, Prexinis, Priam, Proctis, Pylartes, Pyris, Pytheas, Quincey, Raimondo, Rasiel, Raul,

Reinald, Rizon, Rufris, Sabyllis, Salvador, Sarpedon, Scaiis, Schediis, Scythas, Sennis, Sentis, Septimis, Servilis, Sestis, Sextilis, Sextis, Sicinnis, Silanis, Simo, Sittis, Spenser, Stachys, Sumarville, Synesiis, Talis, Tarchon, Telekles, Telephis, Temenis, Tereis, Tertinis, Teutamis, Teuthras, Thalpiis, Thyrsis, Timnes, Timon, Timonax, Tityris, Trebatis, Trichas, Tuccis, Tullis, Tymnes, Ulpis, Ummidis, Varis, Verginis, Vesnis, Vettias, Veturis, Vibidis, Vibis, Vincent, Xanthis, Zosimis



Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer II
Title: Dementlieu
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 15, 2007, 10:09:48 PM
Dementlieu

Spoiler: Map • show
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/759742039977623582/908839594324275271/Dementlieu_Map_v1.9.png)

Cultural Level: Renaissance

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests and Plains

Major Settlements: Cerlimieu (804), Chateaufaux (1,400), Port-ŕ-Lucine (5,400), Villebois (less than 100)

Population: 13,600

Races: 95% Humans, 3% Halflings, 2% Other

Languages: Mordentish, Lamordian, Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Halfling

Religions: Ezra

Government: Aristocratic republic

Ruler: Lady-Governor Hélčne DuSuis

Currencies: corona (pp), solar (gp), lunar (sp), bit (cp)

Resources: Potatoes, wheat, barley, apples, grapes, cattle, dairy, herring, sardines, wine, timber, cloth, weapons, books, ships, culture, scientific knowledge.

Diplomacy: Political, military, and mercantile alliance with Borca, Mordent, and Richemulot. Hostile towards Falkovnia. Neutral towards Lamordia.

The Land: The coastal domain of Dementlieu is a bastion of civilization in the Core, a land of secrets and hidden loyalties. The domain lies on a broad, green floodplain dappled with lush woodlands and heaths. The realm's western shore along the Sea of Sorrows is blessed with numerous natural ports, including glittering Parnault Bay. Although the terrain is flat, Dementlieu's soil is sandy, and crop yields tend to be low, with stunted plants and small fruits. Scattered, sun-dappled forests cover the regions that agriculture has not claimed. The coastline is edged with rolling, sand dune beaches. The Musarde River meanders north through the domain, peppering the eastern countryside with oxbow lakes.

Dementlieu's highways bustle with activity, funneling people and wealth toward Port-ŕ-Lucine. The buildings in the domain are tall and narrow, densely packed edifices of dull brown stone that loom over the narrow, twisting village streets. Windows and doorways are trimmed with whitewashed wood, and the shallow, gabled rooftops are shingled in rich, dark brown wood. Towers are crowned with elegant stone ornaments and statues of legendary artists and civic leaders. Dementlieu's climate, blessedly mild, is characterized by frequent precipitation and moderate temperatures. Severe winters and sweltering summers are not unheard of, however.

The Folk: The average Dementlieuse person has a slim build, strong features, and high cheek bones. The range of skin tones is from very pale to olive-tan, and the range of eye colors is from pale blue to green to dark brown. Hair color varies from dark blond to light brown, though auburn does crop up in every few individuals. Men usually have beards and mustaches that are trimmed and styled. Women never have short hair, instead either pinning up their locks meticulously (nobles) or braiding it (poorer folk). Clothing is especially important in Dementlieuse culture, particularly to the nobility. Most commoner men wear dark woolen trousers and light cotton shirts, and wear cloth caps on their heads, regardless of whether they indoors or outdoors. Men of nobility wear breeches and silk shirts with tailed coats, as well as tall black hats. Wigs are considered proper for men in public life. Both commoner and noble women wear long, dark dresses with high-button boots and always wear hat when outside. Lower class women wear simple bonnets, while noble women have large, elaborate hats. Typical clothing colors are black, white, and shades of gray, though nobles often try to outdo each other in opulent and exotic colors for special occasions

The Dementlieuse, perhaps moreso than any other culture of the Core, believe themselves to be a highly civilized people. They appreciate beauty and learning in all its forms, and their society is structured according to rigid etiquette. Adherence to decorum is vital, and those who overstep the delicate balance between deference and bravado find themselves scorned. The Dementlieuse believe their advanced society has earned them a place of respect among the civilized nations of the world, and they often say so quite openly. Not all outsiders are as grateful for Dementlieu's contributions as the Dementlieuse believe them to be, and many people of other nations consider the Dementlieuse to be shiftless fops who produce nothing of value. Arcane magic is an accepted facet of life in Dementlieu, though it is viewed as a quaint distraction to be used primarily for entertainment. The majority of wizards in Dementlieu are enchanters or illusionists who take to the stage.

The Law: The Lady-Governor, Hélčne DuSuis, is advised by a five-member Council of Brilliance in the capital city of Port-ŕ-Lucine. Dementlieu's aristocratic society is extremely complex, and even though feudalism was dissolved long ago, true power is still held by the wealthy nobility. Dementlieu's nobles elect the lord-governor for life, but it is possible for them to depose her and elect a new lord-governor if they are dissatisfied with the current one. While the lord-governor is free to select her own advisors for the Council of Brilliance, the nobility often firmly suggests proper candidates for the position.

The lord-governor's duties include writing and enforcing laws, promoting the arts, administrating the realm's public institutions, appointing criminal judges and civil magistrates, and personally adjudicating important trials. Each settlement has a militia organized by the lord-governor through voluntary conscription, and many nobles have their own personal retinues of guards. Port-ŕ-Lucine also has the added protection of Alanik Ray, a world-famous master detective who often lends his skills to the city's watch.

Dementlieu's aristocracy has a tradition of providing for the needy through an extensive network of food distribution and housing and a literacy program for even the poorest of children. Despite all of this, however, Dementlieu's lower classes are still mired in desperate poverty and crime, and the nobles believe that their benevolence allows them to exploit the poor as they see fit.

Races: The majority of the population in Dementlieu is human. A small enclave of halflings, usually referred to as "the little people," lives in Port-ŕ-Lucine. Other non-humans can occasionally be found, but are often looked down upon by others.

Classes: Bards, clerics, fighter, rogues, and wizards are the most common. Bards, with their deference for the arts, are the most respected of all of these classes in Dementlieu. Fighters are usually trained by the local militias or in the personal retinues of the nobility. Clerics are typically priests of Ezra. Wizards are generally either enchanters or illusionists, but are looked down upon. Rogues are common amongst the poorer folk. Warmages have started appearing in recent years, trained at the Université de Dementlieu, though they are either looked down upon by academics or feared by locales. Hexblades and sorcerers are rare and are looked upon with suspicion- while learning magic from a text is acceptable (if quaint and improper), traipsing about flashing uncontrolled arcane might is considered unacceptable in Dementlieuse society. Other classes are either rare or unknown here.

Recommended Skills: Appraise, Influence, Lore, Perform, Sleight of Hand, Spellcraft

Recommended Feats: Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Iron Will, Muse, Soothing Presence, Weapon Finesse, Willbreaker



Names:

-Male Names:

Abraham, Adam, Adel, Ademar, Adenet, Alain, Albertet, Alexandre, Alixandre, Almaurry, Alphonse, Amable, Ambroisin, Anatole, Ancel, André, Ange, Antoine, Armand, Arnaud, Arnoulet, Aron, Aubin, Audebert, Audouin, Auffroy, Aufondet, Auguste, Aymard, Baudouin, Baudrain, Benoit, Bernard, Bertin, Bertran, Bertrand, Blaise, Blanchet, Blavot, Boniface, Bossu, Brion, Bruno, Bureau, Calvin, Candide, Charlot, Chiquart, Christian, Christofle, Christophe, Claude, Claude-Henri, Clement, Colin, Conrrat, Constant, Crespin, Cyrille, Daniel, David, Delbert, Denisot, Dimenche, Domin, Donatien, Dreue, Edgar, Edmond, Eliduc, Elyot, Emery, Erwan, Ethan, Étienne, Eustace, Fleurent, Flore, Florian, Florimond, Fouet, Francis, François, Frederic, Fremin, Fulbert, Fulgence, Gabriel, Gadiffer, Galoys, Gamelet, Garnot, Gaspard, Gassot, Gaston, Gauchier, Gaultier, George, Georges, Gerard, Germain, Gervaise, Ghislain, Gieffroy, Gille, Gilles, Gillet, Girard,

Godeffroy, Gracien, Guerin, Guibert, Guios, Guiot, Guy, Hebert, Henri, Herle, Hermant, Hervé, Horace, Hubert, Hugues, Jacques, Jaquet, Jaspar, Jasper, Jean, Jean Pierre, Jean-Antoine, Jean-Baptiste-Alphonse, Jean-Bernard, Jean-Christophe, Jean-Claude, Jean-Emmanuel, Jean-Francois, Jean-Henri, Jean-Jacques, Jean-Julien, Jean-Louis, Jean-Luc, Jean-Marc, Jean-Marie, Jean-Michel, Jean-Pascal, Jean-Paul, Jean-Philippe, Jean-Pierre, Jean-Robert, Jermaine, Joan, Jonathan, Jourdain, Jules, Julien-Joseph, Junien, Justin, Lanval, Laurent, Louis, Loup, Loys, Luc, Lucas, Lucien, Ludovic, Lyebault, Mahiet, Manuel, Marc, Marcel, Marcelet, Marcellin, Martin, Mathieu, Matthias, Matthieu, Maurice, Maxime, Maximilien, Melvin, Menet, Michel, Michel-Ange, Moriset, Nicolas, Noel, Olivier, Oudinet, Pascal, Paul-Antoine, Philip, Philippot, Phillippe, Pierre, Pierre-Simon, Poncelet, Porret, Quentin, Raoul, Rasse, Raymond, Regnault, Regnier, Remy, Renard, René, Richart, Robert, Robin, Roger, Rogier, Roland, Rolet, Romain, Roman, Samuel, Serge, Servais, Sicart, Simon, Sylvestre, Tassin, Thibault, Thibaut, Thierry, Thomas, Toussains, Toussaint, Tristan, Ulysse, Valentin, Valentine, Valčre, Verain, Vincent, Vivien, Xavier, Ymbelet, Ysambart, Yvain, Yvan, Yvon

-Female Names:

Abrelle, Adélaďde, Adele, Adéle, Adrienne, Aenor, Agathe, Agnes, Aimée, Alaiz, Alice, Alix, Amandine, Amélie, Anabelle, Anne, Anne-Marie, Anne-Sophie, Antoinette, Arlette, Arthuze, Astrid, Audrey, Aurore, Avoie, Avoye, Avril, Barbara, Barbe, Bastienne, Bernadette, Bernarde, Berraude, Bertrande, Bijou, Blaise, Blanche, Blanchefleur, Bonne, Brigitte, Camilla, Camille, Carine, Carole, Carolina, Caroline, Catherine, Celeste, Celestia, Chantal, Charlotte, Christiane, Christine, Claire, Clarisse, Claude, Claudette, Claudia, Claudine, Colette, Constance, Coralie, Corina, Corinne, Corneille, Daniele, Danielle, Daphne, Dauphine, Delphine, Denise, Désirée, Diana, Diane, Dominique, Edme, Edwige, Eleanor, Éloise, Emma, Emmanuelle, Emone, Estelle, Esther, Etiennette, Eucharistie, Eva, Eve, Evelyne, Fabienne, Fleur, Fleurance, FleurdeLys, Florence, Florentine, Florine, Francoise, Gabrielle, Genevieve, Geoffrine, George, Germaine, Geuffrine, Gilberte, Gilette, Gilles, Gillette, Gilon, Giraude, Giselle, Guillemette, Guillemine, Guyonne, Helaine, Helene, Hermine, Huguette, Ide, Ilona, Irina,

Isabeau, Isabella, Isabelle, Jacqueline, Jacquette, Jacqui, Jaqueline, Jeanette, Jeanne, Jeannie, Joachine, Joan, Jocelyne, Joie, Joséphine, Josette, Judith, Julie, Julienne, Juliette, Justine, Karine, Laetitia, Laure, Laurence, Lena, Liliane, Lilou, Louane, Louise, Lucie, Lucienne, Lucy, Lynnette, Lyse, Madelaine, Madeleine, Maeva, Mahaut, Manon, Marceline, Margot, Marguerite, Maria, Marianne, Marie, Marie-Claire, Marie-Claude, Marie-France, Marie-Georges, Marie-Laure, Marie-Madeleine, Marie-Odile, Marielle, MarieLouise, Marine, Marion, Marquise, Marthe, Martine, Maryse, Mathe, Mathurine, Maud, Melanie, Michele, Micheline, Michelle, Mireille, Mirielle, Monique, Murielle, Nadie, Nadine, Natalia, Nathalie, Nichole, Nicole, Nicolette, Noelle, Odette, Odile, Olarye, Olga, Olivia, Pascale, Patricia, Paule, Paulette, Pauline, Pearl, Pelonne, Pernelle, Peronnelle, Perrette, Perrine, Perronne, Petunia, Philiberte, Philippa, Philippe, Rachel, Ragonde, Regine, Richarde, Roberte, Robine, Robinette, Rolande, Rose, Sabine, Sandrine, Sara, Sidonie, Simone, Solange, Sophie, Suzanne, Sylvie, Tatienne, Therese, Thierrie, Thomyne, Valentine, Valerie, Vandeline, Vaudeline, Veronica, Victoria, Viera, Vincente, Virginie, Viviane, Vivienne, Yolande, Yonne, Ysabeau, Yvette, Yvonne, Zoé

-Commoner Surnames:

Alard, Alarie, Allard, Anciaux, Antier, Arguelles, Arsenault, Assayas, Asselineau, Auguste, Auvray, Baillieu, Balland, Barbet, Barbier, Barnaud, Barnier, Barrande, Basset, Batton, Baudelaire, Baudet, Beauregard, Beauvilliers, Beaux, Benett, Berengar, Berger, Bernard, Bernier, Besnard, Bigot, Bissonnette, Blanc, Boisson, Bombelles, Bonnet, Bordeaux, Borguet, Bouchet, Boudier, Boudreaux, Bougie, Boulet, Bourcier, Bourgue, Bourguignon, Brassard, Brissaud, Brosse, Brosseau, Brunelle, Brunet, Bullion, Cadieu, Camus, Candelon, Carbonneau, Carrell, Castex, Cazal, Cellier, Chaboteaux, Chappelle, Chapuis, Chatelain, Chauffard, Chaufourier, Chaumette, Chausson, Chesneau, Chevalier, Choquet, Clemenceau, Clouseau, Colbert, Compere, Corbin, Cordonnier, Coulette, Coulomb, Courtet, Courtial, Couttet, Crozier, Cuvier, Daumier, Decaux, Delafosse, Delannoy, Delattre, Delaunay, Delecour, Deneuve, Deniau, Deschamps, Desmarais, Desplechin, Destine, Devereux, Devillers, Dimont, Doumbe, Draper, Du Plat, Du Toit,

Dubuisson-Lebon, Duchemin, Dufresne, Dupin, Dupont, Durand, Durbin, Durel, Dussault, Emmanuelle, Escoffier, Esnault, Fasquelle, Fauveau, Favreau, Filleul, Flaubert, Foucault, Fouquet, Fournier, Fousseret, Gallois, Galopin, Gardet, Garnier, Gatteux, Gaudibert, Gaudreau, Gaulin, Gauthier, Gavreau, Geffroy, Genet, Gillette, Girardot, Giteau, Goulet, Granet, Grignon, Gueguen, Guevremont, Guillaume, Halphen, Jacquard, Jacquemin, Jacquemoud, Jalbert, Jean-Aubry, Jeannin, Jeune, La Rochenoire, Lacroix, Lagarde, Lalande, Lambert, Lamboley, Landry, Laporte, Laprise, Larroquette, LaRue, Latreille, Laurent, Laurier, Laval, Lavaud, Lavigne, Le Borgne, Leavitt, Lefeuvre, Lejeune, Lenoir, Loiseau, Loupe, Magnier, Malherbe, Marceau, Marchand, Marchant, Maret, Martineau, Masson, Matignon, Matthieu, Milhaud, Moise, Moreau, Nadon, Neri, Nicollier, Noirot, Pasquier, Peletier, Pepin, Perrottet, Pertuit, Phaneuf, Philippon, Pichot, Pierlot, Piquemal, Pleimelding, Poiret, Poirot, Pomeroy, Popelin, Portier, Pouliot, Poussin, Puech, Puel, Quilleboeuf, Renault, Riboulet, Ricard, Richard, Rigal, Robail, Robiquet, Roche, Roulet, Roussel, Rousselot, Sadoul, Sartre, Schaeffer, Serrurier, Sharpe, Silvestre, Simon, Simond, Simoneau, Soulette, Soulier, Theriot, Thibedeaux, Thibodeaux, Thiers, Thomas, Thureau-Dangin, Tillett, Tisseyre, Topping, Touchard, Tourette, Tremblay, Trottier, Trudeau, Vaganay, Vandame, Vaugeois, Vieillard, Vigouroux, Voltaire, Wathelet

-Noble Surnames:

d'Aubec, d'Espivant, de Bachelot, de Baillieu, de Ballesdens, de Ballouhey, de Bardin, de Barnaud, de Barnier, de Barthet, de Basset, de Baudelaire, de Baume, de Beausoleil, de Beauvais, de Beauvau, de Bebout, de Bechard, de Bellefeuille, de Bellegarde, de Benneteau, de Berengar, de Bernier, de Berthelot, de Bescond, de Bidard, de Bigot, de Blaise, de Bocuse, de Boisseau, de Boisson, de Bonheur, de Bonnel, de Borguet, de Bouchard, de Boucher, de Boudier, de Boulet, de Bourcier, de Bourque, de Boutet, de Bouthillier, de Boutillier, de Bozonnet, de Brassard, de Brouillet, de Brousseau, de Brouzet, de Caffier, de Caillebotte, de Camilla, de Camu, de Candelon, de Chabert, de Chaillou, de Chaize, de Chaney, de Chappelle, de Charlet, de Charroin, de Chaucer, de Chausson, de Chauve, de Chevotet, de Choquet, de Clouseau, de Cloutier, de Coderre, de Colmez, de Compere, de Cordier, de Corriveau, de Cortot, de Coulomb, de Courbet, de Courbis, de Cousteau, de Crevier, de Crozier, de Dallaire, de Dangin, de Daucourt, de Deniau, de Deniaud, de Dionne, de Doucett, de Draper, de Fauveau, de Favre, de Flandin, de Floquet, de Foucault, de Fouquet, de Fournier, de Fousseret, de Frossard, de Gachet, de Gaillot, de Garnier, de Gaucher, de Gaumont, de Geffroy, de Gilson, de Giresse, de Godeau, de Goyette, de Grandis, de Gribelin, de Grinda, de Grosjean, de Gueguen, de Guevremont, de Guilbert, de Haillet, de Halphen, de Husson, de Jacquemoud, de Jacquet, de Jaubert, de Jeannet, de Jeannin, de l'Isle, de la Batut, De La Brosse, De La Chaize, de la Croix, de la Faille, de la Flamme, de la Place, de la Rousse, de la Rue, de la Treille, de la Vaud,

de Lambert, de Landry, de Laurens, De Lavergne, de Lebas, de Leclercq, de Lecocq, de Lefebvre, de Lejeune, De Leon, de Loiseau, de Lortie, de Loupe, de Lucroy, de Lucy, de Lussier, de Maignan, de Maingon, de Malan, de Manoury, de Marcourt, de Maret, de Masse, de Mazet, de Michaut, de Millet, de Moineau, de Monteil, de Morin, de Nadaud, de Niel, de Noir, de Paquet, de Pasquier, de Passereau, de Pepin, de Perrottet, de Pertuit, de Phaneuf, de Piaget, de Pichard, de Pichot, de Plouffe, de Pomeroy, de Porion, de Portier, de Quint, de Reverdin, de Riboulet, de Robert, de Roche, de Rochette, de Rodier, de Rose, de Rousseau, de Rousset, de Sadoul, de Saint-de Pierre, de Saint-Pierre, de Serrurier, de Simon, de Simonot, de Sublette, de Tavernier, de Thauvin, de Theriot, de Thibaud, de Thibault, de Thiers, de Thomas, de Tomas, de Trudeau, de Truffaut, de Valluy, de Vaugeois, de Vaugrenard, de Vergie, de Villiers, de Vizard, de Voltaire, de Wathelet, de Zazou, Delaroux, des Borteaux, des Champs, des Guilloux, des Jardins, des Lys, des Maisons, des Ormeaux, des Rosiers, du Buisson, du Clos, du Cournau, du Fresne, du Friche, du Mahieu, du Maigre, du Plat, du Puy, du Rand, du Ret, du Vasseur, du Vivier, L'Heureux, La Berche, La Rochenoire, Labourdette, Le Jeune, Le Marquand, Le Nôtre



You can find more information on Dementlieu here (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=51923.0).

You can find more information about the laws of Dementlieu and official edicts here (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=39166.0).

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer III, Van Richten's Guide to Fiends, RPGA Adventure: A Curse of Blood, RPGA Adventure: The Beast Within
Title: Dominia
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 10:07:32 PM
Dominia

Cultural Level: Chivalric

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forest and hills

Major Settlements: Heinfroth's Asylum (300)

Population: 300

Races: 99% Humans, 1% Other

Languages: Darkonese, Vaasi, Lamordian, Mordentish

Religions: Any

Government: No formal government.

Ruler: Dr. Daclaud Heinfroth is the chief physician and owner of the asylum.

Resources: None.

The Folk: Heinfroth's asylum is staffed by orderlies, doctors, and groundskeepers. The rest of the population is made up of the mentally ill from around the Core. Heinfroth's asylum is a world-renowned institution for treating those plagued with madness.

The Law: Aside from Heinfroth, there are three other individuals referred to as "doctor" by the orderlies. One of these is Dr. Piotr Rehner. The other two serve as Rehner's assistants and are called Dr. Black and Dr. White. The orderlies obey these other doctors, but there is no question that Heinfroth is the ultimate authority.

Classes: Any, though most who have been admitted into Heinfroth's asylum are hopelessly mad. No PC may be a native of Dominia for this reason.

Recommended Skills: None.

Recommended Feats: None.

Names: Any name can be used for NPCs from this tiny island asylum; people from all over the world come here to be treated for their madness.

Source: Bleak House, Domains of Dread, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Falkovnia
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 10:16:41 PM
Falkovnia

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests and Plains

Major Settlements: Aerie (2,600), Lekar (15,900), Morfenzi (1,500), Silbervas (5,800), Stangengrad (6,500)

Population: 64,300

Races: 93% Humans, 2% Halflings, 2% Half-Elves, 1% Gnomes, 1% Elves, 1% Other

Languages: Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Darkonese, Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Lamordian, Mordentish, Halfling, Elven, Gnome, Dwarven

Religions: Hala, Ezra

Government: Military despotism

Ruler: Kingfuhrer Vlad Drakov

Currency: falconhead (gp), falconclaw (sp), falconeye (cp)

Resources: Wheat, oats, barley, hops, rye, potatoes, cattle, hogs, dairy, falcons, beer, dye, timber, salt, weapons

Diplomacy: As one of the "breadbaskets" of the Core, Falkovnia maintains active trade with virtually every other nation. Despite this, Vlad Drakov is considered an enemy of every single nation bordering Falkovnia, save Lamordia. The mercenary-king has tried his hand at invading all of his neighbors in the past, with no success. Nearly every campaign has met with disaster--sometimes spectacularly so--which only enrages Drakov further. Darkon in particular is a thorn in Drakov's side, as he has tried to invade that nation on five separate occasions, and each one has failed worse than the prior attempt. The nations of Mordent, Borca, Richemulot, and Dementlieu have formed a political and military alliance in the form of a mutual defense pact against Falkovnia, called the Treaty of Four Towers. The only nations that treat favorably with Falkovnia are the aforementioned Lamordia and distant Invidia, where Drakov has offered that nation's ruler support in the form of troops.

The Land: Falkovnia is a sinister realm crushed by the iron fist of military tyranny. It is a region of rolling lowlands swathed in dark forests. The woods are wild, shadowy places filled with vicious predators and unspeakable horrors. The towering trees of Falkovnia have bark so dark it is nearly black. In the eastern parts of the realm, dead trees are unusually common. Stripped of leaves and bark, they stand bleached white like driftwood. Falkovnian legend says that a tree dies for every person executed by the realm's merciless ruler. The realm's mighty forests are slowly shrinking as the fertile land is cleared for agriculture. Grain is an important export in Falkovnia, and in the late summer, the countryside transforms into fields of swaying gold. Tributaries of the Musarde River skirt the borders of Falkovnia but do not penetrate the dark interior. Lake Kriegvogel, with its abyssal waters of midnight blue, is the domain's only notable body of freshwater.

Falkovnia's cities are dark and unfriendly, free of any aesthetic sensibility whatsoever. Homes and shops are squat, efficient structures of unfinished timber and brick stacked densely next to one another. Stone city walls and fortresses are towering, gray, and featureless. Garbage, offal, and mud cover every surface, and the air swarms with horseflies and yellow jackets. Falkovnia's climate is one of extremes, characterized by bitter winters and hot, humid summers.

The realm has a serious problem with disease, especially during the summer and in the congested cities.

The Folk: Falkovnians are fair-skinned and fair-haired, though their eyes tend to run from hazel to brown. They are visibly overworked and underfed. Men wear their hair in crew cuts and women grow their hair long and unkempt. They dress in deliberately drab clothing; to stand out is to draw the attention of the realm's soldiers, which can mean death or worse. Typical colors for clothing are earthen tones such as brown or tan. Men tend to wear tunics and breeches while women tend to wear blouses and long skirts. Those who are not soldiers are often filthy, covered in dung, mud, lice, and fleas. All Falkovnians are branded on their foreheads at birth with Drakov's seal, a hawk's head. This clearly identifies Falkovnians in other lands and reminds every citizen of his true status: property.

Falkovnians have perhaps the most horrid of lives in all the Core. Brutally oppressed, overtaxed and overburdened, they have little to look forward to but death. The unending horrors of Drakov's regime have destroyed any sense of beauty or hope the people may have had in their hearts. Many people develop personalities that mimic their brutal oppressors, though by far most Falkovnians are simply passive and slightly paranoid. They are jaded and desensitized towards violence and gore.

No matter how bad the humans of Falkovnia have it, it is much, much worse for any nonhumans who happen to find themselves in Vlad Drakov's realm. Any nonhumans who pass through Falkovnia are slapped in irons and are considered state property, to be treated as chattel slaves. Intermarriage between humans and nonhumans is forbidden in Falkovnian culture, though Drakov has tried to promote it as an attempt to "breed out the taint of nonhuman blood." So far his program has met with little enthusiasm.

The Law: Vlad Drakov, the mercenary-king, rules his nation with an iron fist. He is infamous not only for his constant attempts to invade his neighbors, but also for his cruelty towards his subjects. Drakov seems to simply oppress his people because he can. It is well known that he is a brutal sadist; it is said that he demands an execution by impalement every night to accompany his evening meal.

Falkovnia is nothing more than a military state. There is no civilian government or police force, nor even any form of aristocracy; soldiers are the highest social class. Drakov's soldiers oversee every aspect of daily life in Falkovnia. Military tribunals conduct all trials, and justice is swift and harsh. Punishments are always a shocking display of torture and execution, and criminals are often left hanging on the city walls to rot.

Anyone of any station in Falkovnia has a military commission of some sort, even a bureaucrat. Falkovnians fear Drakov's elite soldiers, the Talons, more than any of the other soldiers. These shock troops have fanatical loyalty towards Drakov and are said to have a sadistic streak that matches that of their cruel master.

Races: Humans, including half-Vistani, are the sole free race found in Falkovnia. All other races are considered state chattel, subject to imprisonment and forced labor.

Classes: Fighters, rangers, and rogues are the most common classes in Falkovnia. Clerics are free to follow their gods within Falkovnia, so long as they inspire no disobedience in the populace. In addition to the large numbers of fighters in the military, fighters such as mercenaries and retired veterans can be found throughout Falkovnia. Rangers are common in rural areas, where their skills are needed to hold back the woodland shadows of the interior. Rogues are common throughout Falkovnia's squalid cities, where crime and stealth are often all that ensures day-to-day survival. Falkovnian wizards (and more rarely, sorcerers) are uncommon, but those found within the domain are quickly brought to the military's attention and forced to take oaths of loyalty and service to Vlad Drakov. In recent years, the Ministry of the Arcane has started training warmages loyal to Vlad Drakov, though they remain a rather small contingent for now. No other PC class finds significant representation in Falkovnia.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Hide, Influence, Move Silently

Recommended Feats: Back to the Wall, Great Fortitude, Improved Critical, Toughness, Weapon Focus (bastard sword)



Names:

-Male Names:

Adolfus, Agilward, Alard, Alber, Alexander, Alexius, Ambrosius, Andirke, Anselm, Anthonius, Arnest, Arnoldus, Arnulf, Artur, Augustein, Augustin, Austein, Balthasar, Barthel, Bartusch, Berold, Bertolf, Blasius, Bogusch, Burghard, Burgmann, Burkhard, Caspar, Christoph, Conrad, Cretczing, Cunot, Dieterich, Dietmar, Dietrich, Dietwyn, Dippelt, Eberhard, Eberhart, Eberlin, Eckehard, Egidius, Elbel, Elgast, Enderl, Enderlein, Enewalt, Engelbrecht, Ermelaus, Fabian, Felix, Franz, Frenczl, Friederich, Fritzsche, Gawin, Gebehart, Gebhard, Gelfrid, Georg, Gereke, Gerhard, Gerlach, Gerold, Gerung, Girnot, Giselbert, Giselbrecht, Glockrun, Godeke, Gotbold, Gotfrid, Gotschalg, Greimolt, Grolm, Gunczold, Gunther, Gysel, Hanmann, Hans, Hantsch, Hartmann, Hartrad, Heindl, Heinke, Heinrich, Heinz, Heinzcke, Hellenbrecht, Helmut, Helwig, Henne, Henneke, Henning, Hensel, Hentschel, Herdein, Hertel, Herterich, Hertwig, Heydenrich, Heyne, Heynrich, Hildebrand, Hugo, Hunold, Igor, Ivan, Jander, Jeckel, Jekli, Karl, Kirstan, Kristann, Kytschuld, Leopold, Liphard, Ludolf, Ludwig, Lukas, Luther, Martin, Mathewelin, Meffrid, Meinhard, Mertt, Neidhart, Neimand, Nikolaus, Nitschke, Olbrecht, Ortlieb, Oswald, Otmar, Otnand, Otto, Parsifal, Paschal, Paschke, Peregrin, Pessl, Peter, Petermann, Petsche, Philipp, Poppe, Ramung, Ramwold, Ranfeld, Raphael, Reinhard, Reinhold, Reiprecht, Richart, Richolf, Ruland, Seidl, Seidlmann, Seifried, Siegfried, Siegmund, Stafke, Steffan, Symon, Thietmar, Tilman, Tristram, Trotwin, Truchtlieb, Ulmann, Ulrich, Valten, Viktor, Vladimir, Volmar, Voltz, Weigandt, Weigel, Wenzel, Wernher, Wernike, Weyker, Wichmann, Wigel, Wiglas, Wilrich, Winrich, Wiprecht, Wolf, Wolfhart, Wolfram, Wulfgang

-Female Names:

Anya, Lucie, Mechthild, Irmeltrud, Lusche, Femeke, Katherin, Ilg, Maneth, Grite, Katharina, Osanna, Kethe, Marusch, Margrite, Ute, Gudradis, Cilie, Nethe, Hille, Eufemia, Agnete, Yrmegard, Gyrlin, Hildegund, Mecze, Cecilia, Katusch, Fronika, Beate, Anna, Amalie, Olga, Nele, Sanne, Clare, Hedwig, Heske, Elzebeth, Ermel, Ingrid, Ottilie, Ennelein, Kunneke, Helena, Gerke, Kunegunde, Irmel, Merlyn, Katheryn, Barbara, Osterhild, Otilge, Berchte, Salmey, Girdrud, Czylle, Keterlyn, Salomea, Vika, Agathe, Eneide, Ysentrud, Libe, Czyne, Agnise, Demut, Ermegart, Isentrud, Ilse, Ursula, Heile, Aythe, Lenne, Kirstyn, Rebek, Jutte, Gele, Sophie, Else, Veronica, Marie, Lena, Beatke, Alke, Osterhildis, Heze, Liphilt, Inga, Herlinde, Berta, Tasha, Sylvi, Emma, Gerdrut, Klara, Elze, Phye, Libusch, Libeste, Herburg, Margarethe, Neleke, Greta, Feme, Aleyd, Helusch

-Falkovnian Surnames:

Aertzinar, Ahlmann, Alt, Angerhausen, Apenzeller, Armbroster, Artzat, Aschenbach, Auerbach, Augspurg, Bachman, Bader, Baeht, Baepplin, Balingen, Bauer, Baumgaertel, Beham, Bendel, Benner, Bettinger, Bill, Bischoff, Bloch, Bluom, Boepp, Bohlen, Bohringer, Bondorfff, Boppenwiler, Braun, Brendlin, Brisgon, Brockhaus, Buggmaeyer, Bung, Buoch, Byter, Cantzler, Claewin, Cuontzer, Dautzenberg, Deling, Dener, Denhardt, Denkinger, Deutscher, Diesel, Dietz, Dittrich, Draeyer, Egen, Egnolff, Eichendorf, Ernst, Esslinger, Faulhaber, Faustmann, Fehrenbacher, Frankenheimer, Frauenfelder, Friburg, Fridrich, Friedlander, Froelich, Fry, Fuollwin, Fusch, Gaerwer, Gailinger, Gettelfinger, Giengen, Ginningen, Glaey, Glauber, Gnygellin, Goebel, Goettinger, Gosshain, Grave, Groezinger, Grundler, Gruorer, Gysel, Haenler, Haessler, Hafner, Hahn, Hamman, Hammerich, Harthain, Haspel, Hattinger, Hauser, Hautrlos, Herzog, Hess, Hiller, Hoen, Hoffmann, Hofhart, Hohmessinger, Horburg, Horgen, Huntziger, Huober,

Huoter, Jaeger, Joachimsthaler, Jung, Kaempfer, Kaiser, Kierkegaard, Kirchenbacher, Kleinschmidt, Knoblochs, Knuvs, Koehler, Kolhopffin, Kraepflin, Krödel, Krum, Lainbart, Lambrecht, Lang, Leitenberger, Lendlin, Lientz, Lux, Maeger, Manstein, Marstaller, Matzenkopf, Mauler, Messner, Moellendorf, Muelich, Nachbauer, Naeyer, Narr, Niederstatter, Nusplinger, Oberman, Offterting, Offtringen, Ortenberg, Pfankuoch, Pfeiffer, Pfender, Pflumer, Pfuser, Raunfft, Reinhardt, Rem, Richter, Roeslin, Roetlin, Rotenburg, Rotenkopff, Ruehen, Sackweber, Schaeffer, Scheltz, Schenk, Schinwyss, Schmid, Schmidt, Schoeblin, Schoen, Schroder, Schultz, Schuoler, Seger, Singer, Spaichingen, Spreng, Sprengerort, Staehillin, Stapffer, Steinbauer, Strauss, Strobel, Surwin, Swaigers, Swygglin, Talhain, Tanhaimer, Tann, Tellenbach, Tettingen, Tischmesser, Trossingen, Uerslingen, Ulme, Undingen, Unger, Unraut, Unslingen, Vaeler, Van Volkman, Vesar, Vetter, Vichter, Videllin, Villing, Visel, Vogt, Volmar, Voltz, Von Ettingshausen, Von Friedenreich, Von Zitzewitz, Waechssing, Wagner, Waybel, Weiss, Werkmaister, Werner, Winman, Wolfert, Wollheim, Zahn, Zaiser, Zepffenhain, Zetter, Zimmermann, Zoeller, Zorrer, Zurbrugg, Zyler, Zymmer



Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer II
Title: Forlorn
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 10:29:10 PM
Forlorn

Cultural Level: Iron Age. The ruins in Forlorn reflect a Medieval culture.

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, hills, plains

Major Settlements: None

Population: 2,025

Races: 94% Goblyns, 6% Humans

Languages: Forfarian

Religions: Forfarian druidism (the Celtic pantheon)

Government: Anarchy

Ruler: None

Currency: none

Resources (not exploited): timber, iron, clay, salt.

Diplomacy: None. Forlorn has no formal government to conduct relations. Likewise, the monstrous goblyns that inhabit Forlorn's bleak landscape have no interest in trade or barter. The few beleaguered humans who dwell here are in constant fear of being discovered by the goblyns and have no time for mercantile relationships, though they readily accept aid from any who offer to fight the goblyns.

The Land: Forlorn is a blasted highland domain, a forsaken land from which humanity has long been driven. Nestled just south of the Balinok Mountains, Forlorn is a land of thickly forested uplands with sparse heather and mosses clinging to the exposed rocky hillsides. The woods are dark, twisted places full of grasping branches and ominous shadows. In some areas, the forest has been actively destroyed by the land's goblyn inhabitants, reduced to a wasteland of broken stumps and sucking mud. The Maw of Arawn, rising from the center of Forlorn, is a jagged peak that perpetually belches noxious vapors. The only notable body of water is the Lake of Red Tears, whose deep, dark waters appear crimson when the sun reflects off the nearby red granite cliffs.

The Folk: The primary inhabitants of this bleak no-man's land are the monstrous goblyns (not to be confused with goblins). These horrid, grotesque humanoids love little else but slaughter and mayhem, and the only goals they seem to pursue are the systematic destruction of Forlorn's remaining forests and the routing of the last remnants of the druidic humans. Forfarians in Hazlan and Barovia, as well as the druids of Forlorn assert that the goblyns of Forlorn were once humans who were transformed into hideous mockeries along with the land itself during a period they refer to as the "Year of Woe." It comes as little surprise that this Year of Woe ends at the exact moment the Mists at Barovia's borders revealed Forlorn in 547 BC. Forfarians say this transformation was caused by the "Solleyder," their all-purpose bogeyman whom they say is the cause of all of Forlorn's problems. The goblyns are completely obedient to this "Solleyder," whom the druids of Forlorn insist is the spirit that haunts Castle Tristenoira. The goblyns are as ruthless and cunning as they are stupid and violent. They are also fearless, and often hurl themselves into situations that would make any sane being quake with fear. They speak a degenerate form of the Forfarian language, which ethnic Forfarians can understand with effort, though the goblyns have little of interest to say aside from promises of death and torture and the wrath of their mysterious master.

The humans of Forlorn are a weary and beleaguered folk, yet they are hearty and well-built. They have a very fair complexion, often with freckles and are easily sunburned. They nearly all have red hair, which they always grow out and is often times unkempt. Men often grow thick beards and muttonchop sideburns. Their clothing is known for its bold plaids and earthy greens and browns. The colors and patterns of stripes on their clothing are called "tartans," and are emblematic of their various clans. The primary clothes for men consist of a loose shirt and a kilt (a plaid, skirt-like garment). Women's clothing is basically the same, though their skirts are longer than the men's kilts. Additional garments include sheepskin vests, tartan shawls or cloaks, and sashes in greens, browns, or tartans. Jewelry is either polished iron or silver in nature motifs such as vines and oak leaves. The Forfarians are a humble people, pursuing agriculture or simple crafts as a means to live. Forfarian herbalists and healers are renowned as some of the best in all the Land of Mists. Religion is centered around the druids, and clerics are rare, so many druids overlap their duty to nature with the duties of a priesthood to the Forfarian gods. One of the most important elements of Forfarian culture is the passing down of their complex oral history. This task is usually assigned to a clan's elder female, called a "tanist," who is often the de facto leader of her settlement. Important holy days are on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes and the summer and winter solstices.

The Law: No formal government exists within Forlorn. The monstrous goblyns have a loose clan system, no doubt a holdover from when they were human, but all goblyn clans swear allegiance to the Solleyder, the mysterious master of Castle Tristenoira. This "Solleyder" only seems to have two goals for its servants: raze the forests and hunt down the humans. The hidden human settlements are ruled by the druids, who often take the advice of the tanists of each clan.

Races: Forfarians are almost exclusively human. A half-elf or half-Vistani of Forfarian descent might be encountered, but this would be extremely unusual and such individuals would undoubtedly find themselves shunned by their fellow Forfarians.

Classes: Bards, druids, fighters, rangers, and rogues are the most common classes among the Forfarians. Forfarian bards are highly respected, not just for the entertainment they provide but for their role as historians and storytellers. All Forfarians in Forlorn are raised with the expectation that they will become druids, and this is the most common class found there by far. Druids are also well respected by Forfarians in other lands, but also feared due to the primal nature of their power. Fighters are readily embraced, as the Forfarians still hearken back to a time when they were feared warriors defending a highland kingdom. Rangers have been valued by the Forfarians ever since the wolf plague began centuries ago, but those who choose that path are often seen as having a death wish. Rogues are generally despised for their reliance on cunning and stealth over honor and directness. Barbarians are uncommon, but garner more respect from Forfarians than they do from most other peoples; the wild warriors hearken back to the Forfarians' ancient heritage. Clerics are rare but not unheard of; most Forfarian clerics follow the Morninglord, though the old gods have recently made a resurgence. Sorcerers are usually redheaded, as red hair and a talent for magic seem to go hand-in-hand among the Forfarians. Monks, paladins, and wizards are virtually nonexistent.

Recommended Skills: Influence, Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Courage, Dead Man Walking, Dodge, Endurance, Great Fortitude, Toughness, Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (battleaxe, dagger, halberd, handaxe, longspear, longsword, shortspear, throwing axe).



Names:

-Male Names:

Adam, Aed, Áengus, Alaxandar, Alain, Algune, Amhlaidh, Aodh, Aonghus, Arcill, Baíthín, Beathán, Bran, Brian, Bróccín, Caerell, Cailin, Cainneach, Cainnech, Caral, Cathal, Cennédig, Cinaed, Colbán, Comgell, Conan, Constantin, Cormac, Cospatric, Cú Lí, Cuilén, Domhnall, Domnall, Domongart, Donal, Donnachac, Donnchad, Donnchadh, Donnsléibhe, Dubgall, Dubhghall, Dubne, Duncan, Dúngal, Eachann, Eochaid, Eoghan, Eoin, Faolán, Fearchar, Fearghus, Feradach, Ferdomnach, Fergus, Finguine, Fionghuine, Fionn, Fionnlagh, Garbhan, Gartnait, Gille Aindréis, Gille Bheatháin, Gille Bhríghde, Gille Brigte, Gille Callíne, Gille Cholaim, Gille Chomhghain, Gille Coimded, Gille Colaim, Gille Fhaoláin, Gille Ísu, Gille Mhuire, Gille Mícheil, Gille Míchéil, Gille Patraic, Gille Petair, Gille Serf, Giric, Griogair, Ided, Íomhar, Kenneth, Kyle, Lachlan, Léod, Lochloinn, Lúcas, Lulach, Mac Bethad, Mac Dobarchon, Mac Dubbacín, Máel Bricín, Máel Brigde, Máel Coluim, Máel Domnaich, Máel Féchín, Máel Giric, Máel Ísu, Máel Muire, Máel Petir, Máel Snechta, Malcolm, Maol Choluim, Maol Domhnaich, Maol Dúin, Maol Mhuire, Mártainn, Matadín, Matain, Matne, Morgann, Muireadhach, Muiredach, Muirgheas, Neachdan, Nechtan, Niall, Nioll, Padraig, Pilip, Raghnall, Roibeard, Ross, Ruadhán, Ruadrí, Ruaidhrí, Seamus, Sionn, Síthech, Sluagadach, Somairle, Somhairle, Taran, Toirdhealbhach, Torcadall, Trálín, Uilliam, Uisdean, Wallace

-Female Names:

Adaira, Adairia, Affraic, Afraig, Agan, Aggie, Agnes, Aila, Aileana, Aileen, Ailie, Nathaira, Ailsa, Ainsley, Alpina, Anna, Annella, Annis, Nathara, Annys, Athdara, Athol, Bearnas, Beathag, Nighean, Beileag, Beitidh, Beitris, Bethac, Blair, Bonnie, Bradana, Bredach, Brenda, Bridget, Cadha, Caillic, Cairistiona, Caitir, Caitlin, Caitrina, Catriona, Ceit, Coira, Cullodena, Cumina, Curstaidh, Dallis, Davina, Dearbháil, Dearbhorgaill, Deirdre, Deoiridh, Nighinn, Deonaid, Nora, Dolina, Ealasaid, Ealusaid, Edme, Effemy, Efric, Eilidh, Eiric, Eithne, Eithrig, Ella, Elspeth, Ete, Éua, Eubh, Donella, Euna, Fenella, Finella, Finola, Fiona, Fionna, Donna, Fionnghuala, Fionola, Flora, Florrie, Oighrig, Peigi, Raghnailt, Forbhlaith, Freya, Garia, Gavenia, Gormlaith, Greer, Grier, Grizela, Ina, Innes, Iolan, Iona, Iosbal, Iseabail, Grizel, Isla, Isobel, Jessie, Raoghnailt, Laighb, Laire, Leagsaidh, Kina, Leana, Lena, Lorna, Machara, Máel Muire, Maeve, Magaidh, Maidie, Maili, Mairghread, Mairi, Maisie, Rhona, Mald, Malmuira, Malvina, Maol Mhuire, Robena, Marcail, Marioun, Marsail, Moibeal, Senga, Moira, Moire, Moireach, Mór, Seonag, Morag, Morna, Muireall, Muirgheal, Nairna, Seonaid, Agatha, Arline, Colina, Dona, Edana, Heather, Kenna, Nessa, Seonid, Sheena, Shona, Sěleas, Sitheag, Siubham, Siusan, Skena, Sorcha, Stineag, Struana, Teasag, Una, Wynda

-Surnames:

Abhra, Adaidh, Áidh, Airgid, Alasdair, Amhalghaidh, Angus, Aodhagain, Aoidhein, Aomalain, Aonghais, Ara, Armstrong, Arnain, Asgaidh, Asgaill, Athain, Bharrais, Bheatha, Bheathaig, Bheathain, Bhigein, Bhradain, Bhreac, Bhreatannaich, Bhreatnaich, Bhris, Bisset, Brodie, Buchanon, Caisgein, Caluim, Caog, Caoig, Carmaig, Carraige, Cathachaidh, Cathain, Cathbhaidh, Ceallair, Cearnaigh, Cearraich, Ceasain, Chiar, Choinnich, Chombaich, Chriathrair, Chrosain, Chruiteir, Ciarain, Ciomalain, Clambroch, Codrum, Coinnigh, Colla, Comhainn, Comyn, Corcadail, Cormaig, Cosgraigh, Crain, Crithein, Crosain, Cruimein, Cuidhein, Cuirc, Cullach, Dhubhaich, Dhubhaig, Dhuibh, Dorsair, Duibh, Dunbar, Eachainn, Eacharna, Ealar, Fhaolain, Fhearchair, Fhearghail, Fhigheadair, Fhilib, Fhilidh, Fhiongain, Fhitheachain, Fhlaithbheartaich, Fhuibhir, Fuirigh, Gairbheith, Ghearailt, Ghille,

Ghreusaiche, Ghuirm, Gille athain, Gille Bhreac, Gille Chaluim, Gille Eain, Gille Earnain, Gille Easbaig, Gille Ghlais, Gille Oig, Gille Riabhaich, Goraidh, Iain, Ionmhainn, Iosa, Labhrainn, Lachlainn, Lamhaich, Lamraich, Laomainn, Lathagain, Leith, Lianain, Lothaidh, Luirg, Lulaich, MacArthur, MacBride, MacDonald, MacDougall, MacDuff, MacEwan, MacFarlane, MacGillivray, MacGregor, MacIntyre, MacLachlan, MacLean, MacLeod, MacNeil, MacQuarrie, MacRae, Mhaoilein, Mhaoirn, Mhatha, Mhathain, Mhiadhaich, Mhiadhchain, Mhoire, Mhorgain, Mhuille, Muir, Munro, na Brataich, Naois, Niallghais, Nobaill, Ogilvie, Onfhaidh, Osa, Phaid, Phearsain, Pheidearain, Rabaidh, Raghnaill, Raibeirt, Raoimhin, Raoiridh, Rath, Riabhaich, Ross, Ruairidh, Rusachainn, Sagairt, Scott, Seannaig, Sheathanaich, Shitrig, Shomhairle, Sinclair, Sinclair, Siridh, Sporain, Suain, Sual, Thaidhg, Thomaidh, Thorcaill, Tuairneir, Ualraig, Uchtraigh, Uisdein, Urardaidh, Urardaigh, Urchadain, Urquhart, Usbaig, Wallace



Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer I
Title: Ghastria
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 10:36:48 PM
Ghastria

Cultural Level: Chivalric

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, Plains (island)

Major Settlements: East Riding (600)

Population: 600

Races: 99% Humans, 1% Other

Languages: Mordentish, Lamordian, Darkonese

Religions: Ezra, Hala (no standing temple)

Government: Feudal Aristocracy

Ruler: The Marquis Stezen d'Polarno

Currency: no currency, trade conducted through barter

Resources: potatoes, wheat, grain, vodka, turnips, sheep, cattle, dairy, herring, lobsters, whales, wine, cider

Diplomacy: No political alliances, though the natives share an ancestry with Mordent and have amicable relations with that nation.

The Folk: The Ghastrians, like the Mordentish people, are fair-skinned. Common eye colors are blue, green, or gray. The most common hair colors are blond and brown, though many other hair colors are known among the Ghastrian folk. Men either grow their hair long or cut it short. Those who grow it long tend to keep it in a ponytail or braid. Women grow their hair very long. Ghastrian clothing is made of wool and kept very clean. Most men wear simple shirts and breeches of homespun with high socks, though nobles wear lacy shirts with a waistcoat over them. Women wear long dresses that flare at the bottom but fit tightly above the waist. Clothing colors are usually black, gray, or various earthtones from rust to green. Jewelry is considered gaudy even amongst the nobles.

Most Ghastrians are simple farmers, and warmly welcome contact with those from other lands. It is not often that they get visitors to their tiny island nation, and even Ghastria's ruler takes interest when foreigners come to his realm. One reason outsiders are so welcome here is hope for trade in their foodstuffs. For some unexplained reason, any food grown in Ghastria is lifeless and bland to taste. It is only during certain times of each season that native-grown foods have any flavor at all. This rare produce, as well as foodstuffs from the Core, fetch impressive prices here, but most of it is taken as tax-payments by the Marquis. However bland their food is, it still provides the necessary nutrients to survive. Isolation from the Core has taught Ghastrians self-reliance and they have also began to hone their maritime skills.

The Law: Ghastria is ruled by the Marquis Stezen D'Polarno, an aristocrat who throws annual galas for nobles who make the journey to his island. Stezen rules his land apathetically so long as the crops are harvested and he has enough to eat and drink. Unless crimes involve strangers--who interest him for some reason--he lets the local law deal with the problem. "Local law," in this instance, means mobs with lots of rope.

Classes: Fighters and rogues. There used to be clerics but ever since the Marquis burnt down the only church in East Riding, claiming the priests were stealing from his coffers, there hasn't been a standing clergy in Ghastria. Sorcerers and hexblades are infrequently born amongst the populace, but wizards and warmages are unheard of. All other classes are unknown here.

Recommended Skills: Parry

Recommended Feats: Back to the Wall, Dodge, Expertise, Weapon Focus (rapier)

Names:

-Male Names:

Alfred, Allan, Allistair, Andrew, Arthur, Beldwyn, Benjamin, Brian, Charles, Christopher, Cyrus, Daniel, Douglas, Edward, Elias, Elijah, Francis, George, Giles, Halrick, Henry, Hugh, Ian, Irving, Isaac, James, Jeremiah, Jonathan, Joseph, Lawrence, Martin, Matthew, Nathaniel, Neville, Nicholas, Oliver, Owen, Pardag, Peter, Porgam, Richard, Robert, Samuel, Silas, Simon, Stephen, Thaddeus, Theodore, Thomas, William

-Female Names:

Abigail, Alice, Alyson, Anne, Annabeth, Beth, Bridget, Candace, Charity, Chastitiy, Constance, Deborah, Dorothy, Elizabeth, Emily, Esther, Faith, Gennifer, Grace, Hannah, Helen, Hope, Irdala, Jane, Judith, Julianne, Katharine, Lacey, Laurie, Lillian, Lucile, Lydia, Margaret, Martha, Mary, Mercy, Meredith, Nell, Patience, Prudence, Rebecca, Ruth, Sarah, Susanna, Tabitha, Virginia

-Surnames:

Abbot, Archer, Bennett, Brumfield, Capper, Carpenter, Chandler, Collier, Dodds, Dole, Emry, Fisher, Fletcher, Garrett, Golding, Laxon, Laydon, Lewis, Mutton, Powell, Post, Reade, Sexton, Smith, Sullivan, Sykes, Thatcher, Towtales, Unger, Ward, Weaver

Source: RR1 Darklords, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Dance of the Dead (RPGA Adventure), Return of Stezen D'Polarno (RPGA Adventure)
Title: Hazlan
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 10:43:44 PM
Hazlan
Spoiler: Map • show
(https://i.imgur.com/eHOhWiP.png)

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: hills, mountains, plains

Major Settlements: Ramulai (300), Sly-Var (4,500), Toyalis (8,200)

Population: 26,100

Races: 92% Human, 4% Halflings, 3% Gnomes, 1% Other

Languages: Vaasi, Halfling, Gnome, Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454)

Religions: Bane, Hala

Government: Feudal ethnocratic despotism

Ruler: Hazlik, the Red Wizard

Currency: soulorb (gp), moondagger (sp), bloodpenny (cp)

Resources: wheat, barley, corn, cotton, olives, grapes, hazelnuts, opium, tea, goats, sheep, cattle, honey, copper, lead, iron, leather goods, cloth, arcane knowledge

Diplomacy: Limited trade with Nova Vaasa and the Barovian village of Immol. Hazlanis have little interest in the rest of the world

The Land: Hazlan is a domain of ancient magic and severe oppression, lying in the extreme southeast of the Core, at the southern end of the Balinok Mountains. The Hazlani Balinoks are rugged but traversable, though vegetation is sparse and landslides are not uncommon. The dusty cliffs and canyons slope downward to a sweeping landscape of knolls and valleys stretching off to the horizon. Massive blocks of golden stone and half-buried statuary hint at a forgotten era. Mineral springs, common in the foothills, are warm pools of jade-green water encrusted with alkali salts. Farther eastward, the foothills become dry plains blanketed by brown grasses and briars. Herds of sheep wander the lonely plains, their bleating carried weakly on the breezes. Occasional stands of trees dot the grasslands, but overall Hazlan is a land of open sky and trackless terrain.

The poorer Rashemi majority dwells in simple, squat structures of whitewashed brick. Roofs are flat and facades are unadorned, though tiny, dutifully tended vegetable gardens grow alongside many homes. The estates of the wealthy Mulan, by comparison, are sprawling, opulent abodes. Magnificent edifices of polished gray, pink, and russet stone are surrounded by serene gardens of poppy flowers and bubbling fountains. Delicate latticework covers the tiny, rounded windows.

Towering minarets and domes inlaid with intricate mosaics sparkle in the sun. Hazlan has a generally mild but temperate climate featuring long, hot summers and short, wet winters. Although the Balinoks are capped with snow, truly frigid weather is rare elsewhere in the realm.

The Folk: Two distinct ethnic groups comprise the human population of Hazlan: the Mulan and the Rashemi. The Rashemi are the lower class, yet make up 90% of the population. The Rashemi are short, broad-shouldered and muscular. Their skin tends to be tan, their eyes brown, and hair either brown or black. Rashemi men keep their hair wild and wear bushy beards while Rashemi women grow their hair long and work it into elaborate braids. Both Rashemi men and women dress in simple baggy clothing in earth tones. The Mulan, the upper-class of Hazlan, only make up 10% of the population. The Mulan are tall and slim with angular facial features. The Mulan have pale skin and gray eyes. Mulan hair tends to be blond, but both genders ritually shave their heads. Mulan men and women cover their skin with elaborate tattoos, with distinct designs for each gender. Both Mulan men and women wear cloth wrappings instead of trousers. Women wear vests while men go bare-chested. Both genders wrap themselves in red robes.

The most distinctive trait amongst all Hazlani is their deep pride.  They are deeply religious and devout worshippers of Bane, making them rather cruel and somewhat fatalistic. The Rashemi are practical and gruff while the Mulan are arrogant and paranoid. Both ethnic groups are distrustful and suspicious, and the Mulan are especially obsessed with maintaining their control of Hazlani society. Hazlani people have a tendency to view all outsiders as rivals at best or enemies at worst.

The Law: Hazlik, the Red Wizard, rules Hazlan with sheer arcane might and utter ruthlessness. He is Mulan, and his word is law. Hazlik established a a council of Mulan governors to oversee the major settlements of his realm, with each governor personally responsible for enforcing Hazlik's edicts. Though there is an appearance of law in Hazlan, it is little more than a byzantine system of boons and favors amongst the Mulan. The Rashemi are not allowed to participate in the governing process. Prior to the Great Upheaval, magic was outlawed in Hazlan; no-one but Hazlik was allowed to practice arcane magic. Something about the events of the Great Upheaval changed his mind however, and now an academy of wizardry has been opened in Ramulai.

Races: Humans are by far the most common race in Hazlan, but nonhumans are better represented here than in most of the Core. Gnomes and halflings are commonly found in Hazlan, though actively discouraged from mingling socially with their human "betters." Calibans were once virtually unknown in Hazlan. Since arcane practice became legal, they have been born with exponentially greater frequency.

Classes: Clerics, fighters, rogues, sorcerers, and wizards are the classes most likely to be encountered in Hazlan. Clerics, who must follow the Lawgiver if they expect to worship openly, are given wary respect and a wide berth. Fighters are considered necessary but not particularly desirable; most fighters eventually find themselves recruited as retainers for a Mulan family. Rogues are common only among the Rashemi; the prosperous Mulan detest thieves and their ilk. Wizards and sorcerers have rapidly risen in standing in Hazlan, at least among the Mulan, since Hazlik rescinded the prohibition on arcane magic. In recent years, a training program for warmages has been established at the Red Academy. Monks are slightly more common in Hazlan than in the rest of the Core domains, but still quite rare; Hazlani monks subscribe to an odd mix of Lawgiver theology and arcane mysticism. The Order of the Iron Path is a minor Lawgiver monastic order dedicated to the patronage and promotion of the Blessed Fezima Kyrillian, one of the first Mulan to convert to the faith of the Lawgiver, and of the various works she did in her life, spreading the will of the Lawgiver in Hazlan; its abbey is located on the Saniset River near Nordenvall Village. No other class finds significant representation in Hazlan.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Concentration, Influence, Lore, Spellcraft

Recommended Feats: Combat Casting, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Spellcraft), Spell Focus (Conjuration, Divination, Evocation, Transmutation), Toughness, Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (dagger, falchion, quarterstaff, whip)

Names:

-Mulan Male Names:

Adnal, Adnalseris, Adnar, Adnar-De, Adnarom, Alual, Alualar, Alualarazol, Alualarcos, Alualav, Alualcrom, Alualcros, Alualoch, Alualser, Alualserill, Alualseris, Aoth, Aothaal, Aothamas, Aothamassur, Aothazcid, Aothazo, Aothazold, Aotho, Aothos, Aothoth, Aothothos, Aothothoth, Aothzhamme, Aothzhar-De, Bal, Balav, Balcrom, Baloch, Balser, Balseris, Bar, Bar-De, Barath, Barazaros, Barco, Barcos, Barebennox, Bareris, Barom, Barommed, Barommor, Baros, Cen, Cendal, Cendalser, Cennox, Cinal, Cinalar-De, Cinalav, Cinalcrom, Cinaloch, Cinalser, Cinar, Cinar-De, Cinarco, Cinareris, Dal, Dalarcos, Dalarer, Dalav, Dalcrom, Daloch, Dalser, Dalserill, Ehput-Kehur, Ehput-Keth, Ehput-Ki, Enevol, Enevold,

Enevoltan, Enevolvazar, Enevolvazo, Enevolvazol, Ev, Fen, Fendal, Fendalar, Fendalav, Fendalcrom, Fendaloch, Fendalser, Fennox, Has, Hassan, Hassur, Hos, Hosdal, Hosho, Hoshos, Hoshoth, Hoshothazar, Hostur, Jhaalar, Jhaalav, Jhaalcros, Jhaaloch, Jhamas, Jhamassan, Jhamme, Jhammorglav, Jhar, Jhar-De, Jharazo, Jharco, Jharer, Jharos, Jhazar, Jhazarath, Jhazcid, Jhazo, Jhazol, Jhazold, Jos, Josdal, Josdalav, Joshos, Joshothoth, Jostur, Kehur, Keth, Kethazo, Ketho, Kethosho, Kethoth, Kethzharco, Kethzhazar, Kyrill, Kyris, Kyriskaugo, Lar, Larathammed, Larathammor, Larathar, Laratho, Larazo, Larco, Larcos, Larcostur, Lareben, Larer, Lareris, Larom, Larommed, Laros, Lath, Lathaal, Latharomme, Lathazo, Latho, Lathoshosho, Lathostur, Lathoth, Lathzhar, Lathzharazo, Lathzhazcid, Lukth, Lukthaal, Lukthar, Luktharcos, Luktharomme, Lukthazcid, Lukthazol, Luktho, Lukthos, Lukthoth, Lukthothaal, Lukthzhaal, Lukthzhamme, Mar, Mar-De, Marath, Maratho, Marazaros, Marco,

Marcos, Marcosho, Marcus, Marer, Marerill, Marommed, Mis, Miskaugo, Mom, Momme, Mommed, Mommor, Mommorazcid, Mume, Mumed, Nizuder, Nizuderill, Nizuderis, Ossan, Ossur, Preben, Prebendal, Prebennox, Prer, Prerill, Preris, Preriskaugo, Ramas, Ramassan, Ramassur, Ramme, Rammed, Rammor, Rammorazcid, Rammorglav, So-Kehur, So-Keth, So-Ketharer, So-Ki, Sol, Sold, Soltan, Solvazar, Solvazar-De, Solvazaros, Solvazcid, Solvazo,
Solvazol, Solvazold, Solvazoltan, Taico, Taicos, Taicoshos, Taicoshoth, Taicostur, Thaal, Thaalser, Thamas, Thamassan, Thamassur, Thamme,

Thammor, Thammorglar, Thar, Thar-De, Tharazoltan, Tharco, Thareben, Tharer, Tharom, Tharommor, Thazar, Thazar-De, Thazarcos, Thazarerill, Thazarom, Thazcid, Thazo, Thazold, Thazoltan, Thazolvazar, Thazolvazol, Urhur, Vor, Vorath, Voratho, Vorathostur, Vorathothos, Vorazar, Vorazcid, Vorazo, Vorazol, Vorglar, Vorglar-De, Vorglaratho, Vorglarom, Vorglaros, Vorglav, Vos, Vosdal, Vosdaloch, Vosdalseris, Vosho, Voshos, Voshosdal, Voshosho, Vostur, Zol, Zold, Zoltan, Zolvazar-De, Zolvazcid, Zolvazol, Zolvazold

-Mulan Female Names:

Alvina, Alvine, Arica, Arina, Arine, Aris, Arisa, Arita, Aritacta, Arithi, Arithis, Aritula, Aritulara, Aritura, Ariturica, Ariturine, Ariza, Arizima, Arizimara, Arizimatula, Bezmita, Bezmitacta, Bezmithi, Bezmithis, Bezmithisa, Bezmitula, Bezmitulara, Bezmitura, Bezmiturda, Bezmiturica, Bezmituriza, Cathi, Cathis, Cathisa, Cattia, Cattima, Cattimara, Cattimatula, Catula, Catulara, Catura, Caturdara, Caturica, Caturis, Caturiza, Chaima, Chaimalu, Chaimalvina, Chaimalvine, Chaimara, Chaimathi, Chaimathisa, Chaimattia, Chaimatura, Chais, Chaisa, Chathi,

Chathis, Chathisa, Chattia, Chattima, Chatula, Chatulara, Chatura, Chaturda, Chaturdara, Chaturica, Chaturita, Ekla, Eklara, Elida, Elidara, Elis, Elisa, Gathi, Gathis, Gathisa, Gattia, Gattima, Gattimara, Gattimatula, Gatula, Gatulara, Gatura, Gaturda, Gaturdara, Gaturica, Gaturis, Gaturisa, Gaturitacta, Gaturithi, Helma, Helmalu, Helmalvina, Helmalvine, Helmara, Helmathi, Helmathis, Helmattia, Helmatula, Helmatulara, Helmaturda, Kaima, Kaimalu, Kaimalvina, Kaimara, Kaimathis, Kaimathisa, Kaimatula, Kais, Kaisa, Koura, Kourda, Kourdara, Kourica, Kourina, Kourine, Kouris, Kourita, Kouritacta, Kourithis, Kouriza, Kourizimalu, Kourizimara, Leila, Leilara, Leilla, Leillara, Lema, Lemalu, Lemalvina, Lemalvine, Lemara,

Lemathis, Lemathisa, Lemattia, Lemattima, Lematula, Lematura, Lematurine, Lematuriza, Lentia, Lentima, Lentimalu, Lentimara, Lentimathi, Lentimathis, Lentimatula, Lentimatura, Lita, Litacta, Litactacta, Lithi, Lithis, Litula, Litura, Liturda, Liturdara, Liturica, Liturina, Lituris, Malu, Malvina, Malvine, Modutula, Modutulara, Modutura, Moduturda, Moduturdara, Moduturica, Moduturina, Moduturisa, Mura, Murda, Murdara, Murina, Murine,
Muris, Murisa, Murithi, Muritula, Muritura, Muriza, Murizima, Murizimara, Nephi, Nephis, Nephisa, Neya, Nula, Nulara, Prica, Prina, Prine, Pris, Prisa,

Prita, Pritacta, Prithi, Prithis, Pritula, Pritulara, Pritura, Priza, Prizima, Prizimara, Prizimathis, Saasiza, Saasizima, Saasizimalu, Saasizimara, Sefrica, Sefrina, Sefrine, Sefris, Sefrisa, Sefrita, Sefritacta, Sefrithi, Sefrithis, Sefritula, Sefritura, Sefriturine, Sefriza, Sefrizima, Shaima, Shaimalu, Shaimalvine, Shaimara, Shaimathis, Shais, Shaisa, Shathi, Shathis, Shattia, Shattima, Shattimalu, Shatula, Shatulara, Shatura, Shaturda, Shaturica, Shaturita, Thola, Tholara, Tholida, Tholidara, Tholis, Tholisa, Trica, Trina, Trine, Tris, Trisa, Trita, Tritacta, Tritactacta, Trithis, Tritula, Tritulara, Triza, Trizima, Trizimalu, Trizimara, Trizimattia, Uma, Umalu, Umalvina, Umalvine, Umara, Umathi, Umattima, Umatula, Umatura, Zila, Zilara, Zilla, Zillara, Zola, Zolara, Zolida, Zolidara, Zolis, Zolisa

-Mulan Surnames:

Ankhalab, Ankhalabh, Ankhamm, Ankhandem, Ankhanden, Ankhass, Ankhasset, Ankhet, Anskuld, Anskulet, Bet, Bethamm, Bethass, Bethasset, Bethraess, Bethraesset, Bethraet, Bethtraess, Dhorab, Dhorabh, Dhoraeln, Dhoraelzim, Dhoraer, Dhoraernis, Dhoraess, Dhoraesset, Dhoraet, Dhorakt, Dhoraktaeln, Dhoraktaess, Dhoraktaet, Dhormet, Dhormethrab, Dikrab, Dikrabh, Dikraeln, Dikraelzim, Dikraern, Dikraernis, Dikraess, Dikraesset, Dikraet, Dikrakt, Dikraktaess, Dikraktaet, Dikrekhalab, Dikrekhamm, Dikrekhet, Dikrekt, Dikrektaess,

Dikrektaet, Dikret, Dorab, Dorabh, Doraeln, Doraelzim, Doraer, Doraess, Doraesset, Doraet, Dorakt, Doraktaeln, Doraktaess, Dormet, Dormethalab, Dormethass, Ekrab, Ekrabh, Ekraeln, Ekraelzim, Ekraer, Ekraern, Ekraess, Ekraesset, Ekraet, Ekrakt, Ekraktaeln, Ekraktaern, Ekrekhalab, Ekrekhandem, Ekrekhanden, Ekrekhass, Ekrekhet, Ekrekt, Ekrektaet, Ekret, Ekrethalab, Fezim, Guodamm, Haeln, Haelzim, Haer, Haern, Haernis, Haess, Haesset, Haet, Haethrabh, Haethrakt, Hahpet, Hahpethamm, Hahpethrakt, Hekhalab, Hekhalabh, Hekhamm, Hekhandem, Hekhanden, Hekhass, Hekhasset, Hekhet, Hekt, Hektaeln, Hektaelzim, Hektaer, Hektaern, Hektaess, Hektaesset, Hektaet, Huuld, Huulet, Huurab, Huurabh, Huuraer, Huuraess, Huuraesset, Huuraet, Huurakt, Huuraktaess, Huuraktaet, Huurmet, Huurmethass, Huurmethrab, Huurset, Huursethamm, Inzer, Inzern, Inzernis, Keudem, Keuden, Khalab, Khalabh, Khamm, Khandem, Khanden, Khass, Khasset, Khurab, Khurabh, Khuraeln, Khuraelzim, Khuraer,

Khuraess, Khuraet, Khurakt, Khuraktaeln, Khuraktaer, Khuraktaess, Khurmet, Khurset, Kurab, Kurabh, Kuraeln, Kuraess, Kuraesset, Kuraet, Kurakt, Kuraktaet, Kurmet, Kurmethass, Kurset, Mohalab, Mohalabh, Mohamm, Mohandem, Mohanden, Mohass, Mohasset, Nathalab, Nathalabh, Nathamm, Nathandem, Nathanden, Nathass, Nathasset, Nathrab, Nathrabh, Nathraeln, Nathraelzim, Nathraer, Nathraernis, Nathraess, Nathraesset, Nathraet, Nathrakt, Nathtrab, Nathtrabh, Nathtraeln, Nathtraess, Nathtraet, Nathtrakt, Oonger, Oongern, Oongernis, Orvaeln, Orvaelzim, Orvaer, Orvaern,

Orvaernis, Orvaess, Orvaesset, Orvaet, Prekhalabh, Prekhamm, Prekhandem, Prekhanden, Prekhass, Prekhet, Prekt, Prektaelzim, Prektaernis, Prektaess, Prektaet, Pret, Prethamm, Prethandem, Prethrab, Prethrabh, Prethraer, Prethtrakt, Seprekhamm, Seprekhass, Seprekhet, Seprekt, Seprektaer, Seprektaess, Seprektaet, Sepret, Seprethalab, Skuld, Skulet, Skulethass, Tess, Tesset, Tessethrab, Thrab, Thrabh, Thraeln, Thraelzim, Thraer, Thraern, Thraernis, Thraess, Thraesset, Thraet, Thrakt, Thraktaeln, Thraktaer, Thraktaess, Thraktaet, Uuthalab, Uuthalabh, Uuthamm, Uuthandem, Uuthanden, Uuthass, Uuthasset, Uuthrab, Uuthrabh, Uuthraeln, Uuthraelzim, Uuthraer, Uuthraernis, Uuthraess, Uuthrakt, Uuthraktaet, Uuthtrab, Uuthtrabh, Uuthtraeln, Uuthtraer, Uuthtraess, Uuthtraet, Uuthtrakt, Xarn, Xarnis



-Rashemi Male Names:

Aberik, Acamar, Acknar, Acravel, Agaros, Aldros, Alemhok, Alogahn, Alpagu, Ambros, Anzar, Arcanod, Aszkos, Aszler, Augornas, Azakour, Azilos, Baetorys, Ballousek, Barzal, Bedrich, Beld, Benesek, Bertony, Besnik, Bezephaal, Bislav, Bolgreth, Bolontav, Borgol, Borivik, Breluthkos, Brullax, Buthek, Cannaur, Cardosh, Cashgaraal, Cathal, Cengis, Cergos, Chasghar, Clagius, Coros, Coslan, Crommach, Csan,

Csarkos, Csimbro, Csirvaldo, Danax, Darghin, Daruma, Dasan, Despari, Dhulark, Diralos, Doukan, Dralas, Draxgor, Drogoro, Dzaglaros, Eldoth, Eligos, Elirvola, Enim, Eramel, Erjesko, Eshunir, Eston, Etrich, Faljinn, Faranos, Farduk, Farnak, Faulkas, Faurgar, Faxxon, Fetav, Forak, Galambos, Galeno, Galstak, Galuk, Gamaliel, Ganek, Gazra, Georenos, Gextas, Ghorak, Gimor, Girthan, Gollin, Goonast, Gorlas, Gurza, Halav, Halig, Hallvor, Hamaszul, Harkith, Haydar, Horvath, Igan, Ikar, Ikhen, Imizael, Inalchin, Irezan, Irik, Ivor, Jadmek, Jago, Janak, Jandar, Jannali, Jarmir, Jelvard,

Jerda, Jezzara, Jhago, Jhangara, Jhaznos, Jiermalu, Jigor, Joluch, Jori, Josen, Julnar, Kalos, Kanithar, Khalas, Kirdis, Kolex, Koraq, Koresh, Korgeska, Koron, Kosef, Kozka, Krazos, Krelhaz, Kubilay, Kyelet, Kyros, Lagmir, Lamek, Larnobov, Levas, Lonaz, Lorach, Lurraiza, Lushka, Madislak, Malgor, Markos, Melek, Mengu, Meshtinos, Minos, Mitlosek, Molvar, Moros, Mottul, Myghal, Nalek, Namkor, Narlash, Nezzin, Nikos, Nircin, Nisami, Nivor, Nolkus, Nolzur, Nuru, Nurush, Olukon, Oluthir, Ondrik, Ontak, Orlosh, Orma, Orsolya, Osken, Ourgath, Ozalan, Ozno, Parelvas, Peltak, Pernos,

Petros, Pevek, Pharlos, Phinor, Pylos, Qoras, Quryn, Ragap, Rahlet, Ralmevik, Rannulf, Rinyarko, Rolasi, Rolkhun, Rortos, Ruslan, Saleos, Sanir, Sarad, Segori, Selmak, Serkos, Shaumar, Shurram, Skrael, Somos, Soros, Stalos, Szanto, Szollos, Taston, Tegvan, Thalos, Tharaxus, Thazar, Thirza, Thola, Thomolios, Thonnac, Thoros, Toktamop, Tomek, Torloch, Toslav, Tralulcora, Triglolys, Turghan, Tvashtri, Ultan, Ulzy, Uthros, Uzan, Vladisak, Xamaroth, Xelvar, Xenak, Xorgrael, Yamos, Yogner, Yorgos, Yudmo, Yurbyn, Zagros, Zald, Zaleos, Zantus, Zigunkuros, Zijelvet, Zikaros, Zindelo, Zolena, Zordral, Zorlus, Zotyas, Zsanett, Zvarich

-Rashemi Female Names:

Adanja, Adelet, Aduna, Aislina, Alina, Ameshe, Anishta, Arkhosia, Asalla, Baatala, Barzula, Beketa, Beless, Bengi, Beress, Beshurza, Cana, Carcera, Cazna, Celima, Cemiyet, Cemre, Cener, Chedena, Chylaro, Cidulla, Csindrila, Cymnia, Dalleska, Damita, Danira, Danuela, Dastia, Dathanja, Datura, Daxsenca, Delena, Demelza, Derema, Desala, Devaia, Devora, Dhyana, Dilana, Diriya, Dismoja, Drocia, Ducesca, Dulonna, E'zolva, Ectyna, Edana, Eizena, Ekala, Elanja, Enushara, Erielda, Erlata, Ethra, Ettana, Evalla, Ezrella, Fansalia, Fathusa, Fenyra, Fetizza, Feyza, Fleta, Folema, Fyevarra, Gafna, Galvena, Galya, Garisa, Gehennora, Gellana, Ghazala, Ghissa, Glasya, Glexa, Golora, Gorstalia, Gulara, Gunay, H'thana, Hadiya, Haduma, Haktla, Halina, Hanitra, Hecina, Hulmarra, Huriza, Imala, Immith, Imzel, Inaya, Indrea, Irunda, Ishira, Isztea,

Ivera, Jalana, Jastra, Jazene, Jelmira, Jirina, Jolanta, Jonna, Jora, Julgare, Julide, Kariya, Klervia, Kolja, Kurunna, Lamia, Lasha, Lashela, Lenka, Levana, Logorna, Lolka, Lunzia, Lythra, Malena, Malynya, Marozia, Maryla, Maschena, Meellea, Melesca, Melina, Melusina, Melza, Memmess, Menesta, Menor, Milena, Mimura, Mirja, Misca, Mungoria, Myrskyla, Nadenka, Najera, Nashera, Nashira, Nathka, Navarra, Nazara, Neshara, Nesta, Netosa, Neyadis, Nirresh, Nismet, Nissa, Nitara, Nitra, Nozria, Nuala, Oldrisa, Olesya, Oliana, Olma, Omiya, Ondria, Onora, Orana, Oreza, Orla,

Orlona, Otava, Ozioma, Petra, Phamea, Polira, Pylena, Pyrrulvia, Qora, Qualora, Rachna, Ravana, Raxia, Rayada, Rella, Remina, Rescha, Roxelana, Rullena, Rulonda, Rusalgha, Rustona, Ryla, Saveta, Sedna, Selmyra, Semka, Sereja, Sethra, Setinka, Seyda, Sezela, Shestra, Shevarra, Shona, Sobehat, Sorsha, Sotana, Stesha, Sturla, Sugorna, Talonira, Tammith, Tamzin, Tasenka, Tasina, Tavira, Teshella, Thyrza, Tiena, Tiress, Tisina, Tizergha, Torima, Udalia, Uliana, Ulrica, Uskura, Wermila, Xagova, Xalana, Xaralyna, Xemitra, Xereya, Yakora, Yalina, Yaromira, Yenka, Ylvera, Yorala, Yuldra, Yusmena, Zahra, Zala, Zanela, Zelgana, Zelsea, Zilennora, Zilora, Zinata, Zorkeda, Zumrut, Zuzela, Zvalana

-Rashemi Surnames:

Aloya, Aloyakina, Aloyakoga, Aloyana, Aloyanayana, Aloyazhina, Aloyenka, Aloyenkoga, Aloyenkoya, Aloyernina, Aloyethara, Badenka, Badenkoga, Badenkogana, Badenkogna, Badenkogoba, Badenkoyana, Chenka, Chenkoga, Chenkoya, Chenkoyara, Cherga, Chergoba, Chergora, Chergorgoba, Chernina, Chernyenka, Cheshara, Cheshenka, Cheshenkoga, Cheshkoga, Cheshkogna, Dyenka, Dyenkoga, Dyenkogora, Dyerga, Dyernina, Dyernyenka, Dyertanoga, Dyertazhina, Dyethara, Dyethayara, Dyetzoya, Dyetzoyenka, Edoga, Edogana, Edoganayora, Edogna, Edogoba, Edogora, Edogorayora, Edogorba, Edogorgorba, Ferga, Ferganogna, Fergoba, Fernina, Fernyenka, Fernyerga,

Fernyernina, Fernyetzoya, Fertana, Fertanaya, Fertaya, Fertazhina, Fertazya, Glezdroba, Glezdroga, Glezdrogana, Glezdrogna, Glezka, Glezkina, Glezkinaya, Goraya, Gorayakina, Gorayanogna, Gorba, Goremkina, Gorezdroba, Gorezdroga, Gorezdrogna, Gorezkina, Gorga, Gorgana, Gorgoba, Gorgorga, Gorgoroba, Goroba, Goroga, Gorogana, Gorogna, Gorogora, Goropuzka, Goropuzkina, Hayakina, Hayakogna, Hayakogoba, Hayana, Hayanayora, Hayanoga, Hayanogora, Hayazhina, Hayora, Hayorayorba, Heshara, Heshaya, Heshayakina, Heshayakoga, Heshayana, Heshenka, Heshenkoga, Hesherga, Heshergoba, Hesheshkoga, Hesheshkoya, Heshkoga, Heshkogna, Heshkogoba, Heshkoya, Heshkoyana, Iltana, Iltanaya,

Iltanayana, Iltanoga, Iltaya, Iltayana, Iltayanaya, Iltayazya, Iltazhina, Iltazhinaya, Iltazya, Iltazyakina, Iltazyanoga, Iltazyara, Kuzka, Kuzkina, Kuzkinaya, Kuzkinayora, Kuznethara, Kuznethaya, Kuznetzoya, Lorayana, Lorayora, Lorba, Loremkina, Lorezka, Lorezkina, Lorga, Lorgoba, Lorgoroba, Loroba, Lorogana, Muremkina, Muremkinaya, Murezdroba, Murezdroga, Murezka, Murezkina, Murnina, Murnyenka, Murnyenkoga, Murnyergana, Murnyergora, Murnyethara, Nomaya, Nomayakina, Nomayakogna, Nomayakoya, Nomayana, Nomayanaya, Nomayanoga, Nomayara, Nomayora, Nomayoraya, Nomayorgoba, Proba, Proga, Progana, Proganogoba, Prognaya, Progoba, Progora, Propuzka, Propuzkina, Rishara, Risharayara, Rishaya, Rishayakoya, Rishayana, Rishenka, Rishenkogna, Risherga, Rishergora, Rishergorba, Risheshara, Rishkoga, Rishkogana,

Rishkogna, Rishkogoba, Ryenka, Ryenkoga, Ryenkogana, Ryenkogna, Ryergana, Ryergora, Ryertana, Ryethara, Ryethaya, Ryetzoya, Ryetzoyana, Ryetzoyenka, Shenka, Shenkoga, Shenkogana, Sherga, Shergana, Shergoba, Shergorba, Shernina, Shertayana, Sheshara, Sheshaya, Sheshayakina, Sheshayorba, Sheshenka, Sheshertaya, Stana, Stanayazya, Stanayora, Stanoga, Staya, Stayakina, Stayakoga, Stayana, Stayanoga, Stayara, Stayazhina, Stayora, Stayorba, Stayoroba, Stazhina, Stazya, Stazyakina, Stora, Storaya, Storayakina, Storayara, Storba, Storezka, Storga, Storgana, Storganaya, Storgorgoba, Storgoroba, Storoba, Storogna, Storogoba, Storopuzka, Ulmokina, Ulmokinaya, Utyakina, Utyakinaya, Utyakoga, Utyakogna, Utyana, Utyanoga, Utyanogoba, Utyara, Utyazya, Utyazyakina, Utyazyaraya, Volya, Volyakina, Volyakinaya, Volyakoga, Volyakogna, Volyakogoba, Volyana, Volyazhina, Volyazya

You can find more information on Rashemi and Mulan roleplay here (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=61218.0).

You can find more information on the official announcements in Hazlan here (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=61844.0).

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer I, Forgotten Realms 3rd Edtion Campaign Setting
Title: Invidia
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 10:50:10 PM
Invidia

Cultural Level: Chivalric

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests and Hills

Major Settlements: Beltis (0), Curriculo (1,135), Karina (2,315), Valetta, Tancos

Population: 6,900

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Mordentish, Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Luktar (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg130535#msg130535), Vaasi

Religions: Ezra, Hala

Government: Formerly independent villages shifting to despotism

Ruler: Malocchio Aderre

Resources: Barley, rye, hops, wheat, oats, potatoes, cabbage, grapes, hogs, wine, beer, sulfur, salt

Currency: drymark (gp), sweetpiece (sp), bitterbit (cp)

Diplomacy: Hostile towards Barovia, Borca, and Sithicus. Neutral towards Kartakass. Military alliance with Falkovnia.

The Land: Nestled in the heart of the southwestern Core, Invidia is a land where passions are easily inflamed and daggers are drawn with little provocation. Cut by the murky waters of the Gundar and Musarde Rivers, the land stretches out largely unspoiled, broken only by the occasional farm or vineyard peeking through the thick, old growth forests. Massive trees soar above an open floor of soft, green grasses and spongy mosses. The oaks, redwoods, and maples burst into fiery colors in autumn, unrivaled in their beauty anywhere in the Core. Noisy flocks of crows and swallows soar over the lush landscape, darting to and fro in the warm breezes.

The bulk of the domain's population is concentrated in the bustling river villages, and even rural folk tend to live within an hour's ride of a settlement. Journeys through the wilderness are lonesome; travelers only rarely spy lone carts burdened with hay or casks or wine. Their only companions in the wilds are lean packs of wolves, which keep menacing pace with travelers for hours at a time.

Invidia's buildings are tall with steeply gabled roofs tiled in black wooden shingles. Although plastered and painted a creamy dun color, most Invidian structures have crumbling facades that expose the red brick underneath. Interiors are wooden, the staircases and rafters darkly stained and intricately carved with grapevine designs. Baroque towers, topped with charcoal-gray cupolas and grim statuary, tower above the grandest buildings. Invidia's climate is temperate, although the realm boasts long, pleasant summers.

The Folk: Invidia, unlike many of its neighbors, lacks its own distinct ethnic group. Most Invidians are of mixed blood, with Barovian and Kartakan blood running strongest. As such, few generalizations can be made about their physical appearance. They can range from swarthy and stocky to fair and lean, but they do tend to have the best features of their ancestors. Invidian clothing is simple but aesthetically pleasing. Men wear tunics, breeches, and high boots. Women wear loose-fitting shirts and layered skirts. Sparkling jewelry is commonplace for both genders, particularly earrings or rings.

Invidians are infamous for their passionate personalities; it is not, however, a compliment to say that someone has an "Invidian heart." Invidians are hot-tempered and tempestuous, and frequently allow their passions to get the better of them. Marital infidelity is common, as are the grudges and spilt blood that often follow. Bitterness is nursed for years over small (or even imagined) slights, and it is not unknown for violence to erupt within families when tempers flare.

Stereotypes aside, the Invidians are a hard-working, solid people who nonetheless like to enjoy the fruits of their labors and have little use for the lazy. Invidia has a loose, poorly-defined class system. The rich still look down upon the poor, but the nobility seems to be weak and ineffectual. Thus the middle class, made up mostly of merchants, is exceptionally strong in Invidia. Most Invidians hold a deep loathing for the Vistani.

The Law: The vicious tyrant Malocchio Aderre has ruthlessly been increasing his hold on Invidia for nearly a decade. Prior to his ascent to power, Invidia had experienced a period of isolation and weak self-governance at the local level. This state of affairs had persisted since Malocchio's mother Gabrielle Aderre assassinated Invidia's previous despot, Bakholis. Though Bakholis was a cruel tyrant, he seemed more interested in protecting his hunting rights than in governing. Although Malocchio is perhaps more brutal than his predecessor, he has taken a much more aggressive approach to ruling Invidia. He encourages trade between the villages and generally pursues a more unified vision for his realm. Since Invidia cannot raise much of an army, Malocchio has hired mercenaries from across the Core to serve his expansionist agenda. Falkovnia's ruler, Vlad Drakov, has lent Malocchio his own troops, though his motives for such an uncharacteristic show of good faith are unknown.

Malocchio is obsessed with destroying the Vistani. The gypsies are, to say the least, not welcome in his realm; all Invidian mercenaries have standing orders to kill Vistani on sight. Besides this duty, the soldiers collect taxes, protect civilian merchants, and generally enforce order in Invidia. Invidians are fearful of these soldiers but have learned to follow their orders without question and to avoid them whenever possible. Although this military presence has successfully suppressed brigand activity, it has done little to stem the rise of attacks of solitary madmen such as Karina's Midnight Slasher.

Races: Invidians are almost exclusively human, of mixed Barovian and Kartakan heritage. Nonhumans make up less than 1% of the total population and are regarded with superstition and distrust by commoners. Half-Vistani risk their lives by entering the domain. In the north, the Gundarakites descend from the same root stock as the Barovians, but stick doggedly to their own culture.

Classes: Most Invidian heroes are either fighters or rogues. Bards are fairly common, some of whom learned their craft from the famous Kartakans. Sorcerers are not uncommon, but usually practice their craft only in the larger towns. Magic in rural areas is a delicate matter, as spellcasters must carefully avoid displaying any destructive magic. Wizards fill the same role, but are far less common. Clerics are rare and usually serve Ezra as wandering healers and priests, but are generally trusted. Druids lie somewhere between sorcerers and clerics and must be careful what kinds of spells they cast lest they trigger an angry response from the common folk. Paladins, barbarians and monks are all but unknown.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Influence

Recommended Feats: Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Improved Initiative, Lunatic, Weapon Focus (dagger, musket)

Names:

-Male Names:

Adi, Adrian, Badun, Costine, Dimitru, Gogu, Haslav, Horatu, Mikal, Petre, Radu, Vasili, Vaslav

-Female Names:

Ameli, Antoaneta, Celestina, Diona, Elena, Florenta, Gabrielle, Ileana, Ivona, Ligia, Lizuça, Marilena, Nicoleta, Ridiçea, Teadora, Zina

-Surnames:

Angelova, Balakov, Borev, Bukhalov, Chervenkov, Dimitrof, Dimova, Hinova, Ingatieva, Ivanov, Jordanov, Krumova, Levski, Lukanov, Maleeva, Markhov, Pendareva, Prandzheva, Rakovski, Romanov, Slovensky, Stamboliski, Svetkova, Todorova, Veneva, Yankov, Zukanov

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer IV
Title: Kartakass
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 10:57:29 PM
Kartakass

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests and hills

Major Settlements: Harmonia (1,500), Skald (2,800)

Population: 5,000

Races: 98% Humans, 1% Half-Elves, 1% Others

Languages: Vaasi, Old Kartakan, Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Sithican

Religions: The Ancestral Choir, Ezra, Hala, Milil

Government: Meritocratic independant settlements

Ruler: None; Autonomous meistersingers

Currency: ballad (gp), dirge (sp), canticle (cp)

Resources: rye, barley, oats, beets, potatoes, cabbages, hogs, cattle, dairy, sausage, beer, timber, salt, musical instruments.

Diplomacy: Kartakass' lack of a sovereign ruler prevents the nation from achieving true political standing amongst its neighbors. It conducts trade with Barovia, Invidia, and Sithicus and has formed mercantile alliances with these nations. Kartakan merchants are famed throughout the southern Core for being both cunning and charismatic. Kartakan lumberjacks are known for being overeager and are often found felling trees illicitly in neighboring lands. Kartakass' reputation is for the most part healthy with its neighbors, though the elves of Sithicus are taking an increasingly dim view of Kartakan immigrants.

The Land: Located in the south-central Core, Kartakass is a land of music where joyful song echoes through the black forests, tinged ever so slightly by a tone of fear. It is a domain of dense woodlands blanketing a region of rocky upland terrain southwest of the Balinok Mountains. The forests are wild and treacherous here, from the thorny undergrowth to the fierce wolves that stalk the wooded ridges. The wilderness is far from lonely, however, as the sweet baritone voices of lumberjacks at work float over the hills.

The domain is riddled with spectacular natural caverns, endlessly branching labyrinths of limestone that wind deep into the cold earth. As daylight begins to wane, silvery fog rises from the ground, settling in low places and making travel through the forests all the more dangerous. The Musarde River's headwaters lie in Kartakass, and here the mighty waterway is clear and sparkling, pooling into serene ponds and lakes on its way to the valleys of Sithicus.

Buildings in Kartakass are massive log lodges with broad facades and towering thatch roofs. Rows of narrow windows, bold wooden carvings, and delicate floral patterns grace the fronts of homes and shops. Most structures feature enormous central fireplaces ringed by a raised dais for musical performances and storytelling. Natural surroundings are frequently incorporated directly into the domain's architecture. Living trees may be employed as natural pillars, or a structure may open up directly into a cavern of glittering crystal. Even the humblest settlements feature public amphitheaters for annual singing contests. Kartakass' climate is generally moderate, but harsh winters sometimes strike the domain.

The Folk: Kartakans are lean and graceful, with angular, handsome features. Skin tones are light and creamy with the occasional freckles. Eye color is blue-violet and hair color is typically flaxen blond. Men and women both grow their hair long and wild. Men often grow facial hair in the form of long, full moustaches and neatly trimmed goatees. Clothing is comfortable and dashing, with both genders wearing blousy shirts and trousers. These trousers are tucked into high black boots. Men wear full coats over their shirts, while women wear short vests. Men typically wear wide-brimmed hats. Clothing colors are vibrant and brilliant, and hues of red, yellow, and blue are the most popular. Jewelry is used sparingly.

Kartakans are a warm, gregarious people known for their love of music and singing talent. They have a song or melody for every occasion and daily activity. They also have a fondness for tall tales called "feeshkas"; stories that both teach a lesson and play on the gullibility of the listener. Bards are an institution here, and some, such as the dashing Harkon Lukas, have become celebrities. A popular local alcohol called "meekulbrau" is often imbibed during musical festivals. It is said to sweeten the voice and loosen inhibitions. Kartakans appreciate the simple pleasures of life and value tradition, wisdom, and musical skill above all else. The one thing Kartakans truly fear are the vicious wolves that stalk their land in large numbers. It is said these wolves have been known to enter homes at night and drag the inhabitants out from their very beds. Legends speak of a time when wolves disguised themselves as men to trick humans just long enough to devour them.

The Law: Each settlement in Kartakass is autonomous. They each choose a "meistersinger" at an annual competition marked by wild revelries and constant music. The winner of the competition becomes the meistersinger for that settlement. The meistersinger is personally involved in all matters of the community, delegating nothing except for the appointment of the leaders of the local militia. Meistersingers also serve as cultural and moral leaders, responsible for teaching the youth the "mora," songs which the Kartakans believe are divine gifts from the gods to teach moral lessons to all. Most meistersingers serve for many years before retiring voluntarily.

Races: Humans are by far the dominant race in Kartakass. Half-elves are usually the product of the Kartakans' limited interaction with their Sithican neighbors, and as such display their elven parent's silvery hair. Other races are extremely rare. Kartakans are quick to believe even the wildest tales told about nonhumans, though they are somewhat accustomed to Sithican elves.

Classes: Bards, fighters, rangers, and rogues are the most common classes encountered in Kartakass. Unsurprisingly, bards form the backbone of Kartakan culture; bards throughout the Core dream of performing at Harmonia's amphitheater. Rangers are considered the defenders of Kartakan settlements against nature and are generally well regarded. Rogues are also respected for their resourceful cunning, a trait common to the heroes of Kartakan mora. Kartakans are notably noncommittal toward fighters; while they recognize the need for brawn, they see nothing particularly praiseworthy in it. Barbarians are uncommon and usually appear as wild men, shunning the larger settlements. With the exception of the handful of followers in the Ancestral Choir cult, Kartakans have little respect for organized religion; clerics are rare and are sure to face frequent good-natured ribbing. Druids and sorcerers are also rarely encountered and poorly understood, having been entangled in many wildly inaccurate tales, though the Kartakans (with a few exceptions) are not overtly hostile toward them. Wizards and monks are virtually unknown, and the former are frequently confused with sorcerers. Any that appear will be the students of an isolated, secretive teacher. Paladins are seen as figures of legend, the archetypical doomed hero.

Recommended Skills: Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Expertise, Lunatic, Skill Focus (Perform), Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (Rapier).



Names:

-Male Names:

Aalef, Aitet, Akil, Auutet, Avin, Avo, Avutet, Bartholomeus, Bentet, Bernhard, Blekulf, Brunhard, Castor, Christoffel, Edulf, Eilbern, Eilherd, Eilulf, Eilward, Eldei, Elderd, Elhard, Engilbald, Enhard, Entet, Erik, Ernst, Esulf, Euitet, Euuerhard, Evert, Faes, Floer, Florens, Florijs, Fock, Folcbald, Folkbern, Folkhard, Folkward, Forys, Fraen, Frans, Frederik, Frerich, Frethuhard, Frethwi, Frithunath, Gerbrand, Gerdeg, Gerhard, Gerold, Gerulf, Gustaaf, Habo, Hathuward, Hebetet, Helibad, Hobern, Hoitet, Jacos, Jan, Jeroen, Johannes, Jonckhan, Jorden, Jortgen, Josef, Joshua, Koenrad, Kyros, Lanx, Laszlo, Laurens, Leenaert, Lens, Liaftet, Lievin, Lijbrecht, Lijn, Liudbad, Liudger, Liudgod, Liudward, Lob, Lodewijck, Lonijs, Loy, Lubbert, Lubbiko, Lubbrecht, Lucas, Luytgen, Maarten, Maer, Manuel, Marcus, Marten, Matheeus, Meginhard, Meginulf, Meintet, Melcior, Melis,

Menbold, Menger, Menhard, Menhold, Meniko, Mentet, Merulf, Messel, Mette, Meyner, Miginward, Moer, Moes, Mol, Nikolaas, Noys, Olivier, Oltmann, Osnath, Oste, Ot, Petros, Pieter, Pouwels, Querijn, Raeddeg, Rauantet, Redbad, Reginhard, Reinbern, Renward, Reyer, Reymbout, Reymhout, Reyns, Rijc, Rijckouts, Rikwi, Robbert, Rodbern, Roelof, Rover, Rutger, Salaco, Sander, Sandor, Sarijs, Scoutijn, Sebastiaan, Seyn, Sibraht, Sidei, Silef, Silveren, Siward, Siwi, Solin, Spierinck, Stans, Steesken, Steffen, Stroys, Symon, Tadaco, Thancward, Thankbern, Theon, Thiadbrund, Thiaddi, Thiadwi, Thiedold, Thilmar, Thomas, Thonkrik, Tiadi, Tiadward, Tygerman, Tyman, Tymer, Uulfnoth, Valc, Vastaert, Veltgen, Vijncken, Volquijn, Vop, Vrachtelt, Vranck, Vrederic, Walraven, Wambald, Wemer, Wening, Wensselijn, Wentet, Werbout, Werner, Wessel, Wesser, Weyncken, Weyt, Wibad, Wiftet, Wigbald, Wihard, Wijnckel, Wijnken, Wijnrick, Wilbrand, Willeboort, Wiltet, Witte, Wolf, Wollebrant, Wouter, Yde, Yewen, Ysbrant, Ysgerman, Zebert, Zegher, Zev, Zijbout, Zweer

-Female Names:

Abarhild, Adalgarda, Adalwar, Adelindis, Adelisa, Aetrele, Aeutlinde, Agglethrudem, Akrynna, Aldburg, Aldwi, Aleris, Alfild, Alfswind, Althilt, Amalberga, Amelia, Amiza, Amoltrud, Anselda, Ata, Athalkin, Baertge, Baet, Beatrijs, Beatris, Bebelina, Belegardis, Belij, Berenda, Bergundis, Berta, Berthrada, Bertilindis, Bescela, Beverielle, Bianca, Bilicam, Boltiardam, Brunihilt, Carissima, Christina, Cilia, Clementia, Cunegunda, Dagarada, Deinswindis, Derulth, Dida, Diren, Dithgilt, Dwin, Egam, Egesburga, Elegswind, Elftrudis, Engilburc, Erkenradis, Erkensundt, Ermengardis, Errictrude, Ethelmode, Euerloga, Eva, Evergerd, Everhildis, Femke, Fockini, Folcrada, Folquif, Fordola, Frawara, Frederada, Friduwic, Frieda, Frigart, Geertruyt, Geiltrud, Gelburg, Gerberga, Gerbrun, Gerda, Gerswinda, Gerwih, Gherwara, Gisihilde, Gisla, Godelif, Godelinda, Godelt, Goltgart,

Goudarda, Gundrada, Habonis, Hachinda, Hadewigis, Hanezin, Hedelgheue, Hedelin, Heilewiga, Heillewif, Heiltgen, Helena, Helswent, Heltrada, Hema, Hengelsenda, Henrika, Hera, Hererat, Herlinda, Hildeborch, Hildrada, Hobba, Hostarwara, Idasgarda, Ideca, Ige, Ingelwara, Irinfrid, Iudith, Iuliana, Johanna, Julianna, Jutte, Katalyn, Katheline, Katherijn, Kathrijn, Klara, Kolette, Landen, Landgarda, Lantwara, Ledewif, Lelia, Lietgardis, Lietwif, Lijskin, Lijss, Liudburg, Liudwar, Liudwih, Lysbet, Lysken, Maga, Margriete, Maria, Marij, Martha, Megenlioba, Meginhild, Meinburg, Meleda, Menika, Mergriet, Mina, Minia, Murina, Name, Notha, Odburg, Odelle, Odilia, Ogiva, Osgiwa, Osmuth, Othilhildis, Oulin, Radgardam, Ramburge, Ratsmunt, Reginswint, Reinbolda, Reingard, Reinwidis, Ricburgis, Rikera, Rikwi, Riquif, Rissinda, Rodgarde, Rotburgam, Salomone, Sarachildis, Sarra, Sibilia, Sigardis, Sighethrod, Snelburch, Sofie, Stenburch, Stincken, Suvi, Switburgis, Thedelam, Thetburga, Thidelam, Thrudberga, Tiedrad, Verghina, Vodalwih, Vua, Vualdberta, Vuelaca, Vuerinburg, Vulfiardis, Walburgis, Wana, Wela, Wicswint, Widlet, Willa, Willeca, Williburg, Willigard, Wimod, Windborig, Wivin, Wlgarda, Wrachtilt, Yolande, Zeta

-Surnames:

Acker, Adolfssoen, Aelberts, Aertsen, Albertszen, Allertssoen, Amerman, Anseyving, Ayers, Baans, Banckert, Bant, Barentstochter, Barneveld, Bartholds, Bekker, Berchoven, Bergkamp, Berijssoen, Bernts, Bervoets, Blauvelt, Bleekemolen, Bleyck, Blinkerhof, Boemgaert, Boertgens, Bogaardt, Borkelssoen, Bosch, Brattbakk, Breughel, Bronckhorst, Buystelman, Calfkin, Christoffel, Claessen, Coenraetssoen, Cornell, Cronenburgh, De Baun, De Boer, de Buuter, De Camp, De Graff, De Jager, De Klerk, De Randt, De Veaux, de Vyns, Deburghraeve, Dekkers, Dennysen, Didricks, die Rijck, Drotske, Duisenderb, Duzant, Dyckman, Ebersole, Eckhaus, Egbert, Emouts, Engel, Engelbrechts, Esterhuysen, Evertszen, Fransz, Fredrickszen, Froelich, Gaet, Geertruyt, Gerberich, Gielis, Gijs, Gillis, Gode, Goedscalxz, Goessenz, Graaf, Groeneveldt, Groethuysen, Gruter, Gysbrechts, Haag, Hagerman, Hecht, Heinensoen, Hendricks, Herbrüggen, Hess, Heymans, Heyns, Hoefnagel, Hoekenman, Hof, Holst, Hostetter, Hubert, Hubrechts, Hugensoen, Janssens, Jongejans, Jordenssoen, Jusse, Kauffman, Keynhopts, Kierstede, Klausman, Koch, Krige, Kuyper, Lamany, Lamberts,

Lauwerijsoon, Lenairt, Lenskijnssoen, Leydecker, Loers, Loifs, Louf, Lutz, Mackelyck, Markgraaf, Maurhoffer, Melisoon, Messeker, Meynderts, Mulenair, Neuwenschwander, Nordhagen, Oberholtzer, Ostenstad, Others, Otte, Ottensoen, Ottenz, Ottez, Pieterszen, Pul, Reiss, Reizinger, Ristenblatt, Robbertsoon, Roeloffs, Roggenbroet, Rutgeers, Schaeffer, Schenck, Schermerhorn, Schoonmaker, Schuyl, Schuyler, Scrijver, Seedorf,

Sleecht, Snyder, Spaen, Stevens, Stevenssoen, Struycken, Sykes, Teichmann, Ter Haar, Terwilleger, Tichelman, Traphagen, Trichardt, Ude, Van Alstyne, van Atensen, van Bairy, van Beest, van Benen, Van Biesbrouck, van Bleric, van Blitterswijck, Van Brevoort, Van Cleve, Van Couvenhoven, Van Daalen, van den Oudenbergen, Van Der Berg, Van Der Hoef, van der Kerken, Van Der Linde, Van Der Schurr, van der Scilden, van Doren, Van Dyck, Van Friesland, van Gelre, Van Giesen, van Ham, van Herwinen, van Hoevel, van Holl, van Huysen, Van Imbroeck, van Kempen, van Lom, van Moeck, van Monkelwaerde, van Mulcum, van Nuys, Van Pelt, van Rijn, van Ringe, Van Tassel, van Trier, van Weric, van Weye, Van Wyck, van Zanten, van Zoelem, Veldkamp, Veltgen, Vermeulen, Veymberts, Vijnck, Von Hengel, Voorhees, Wagner, Wannemacher, Weekveldt, Westerhof, Wiese, Willemsoonswijf, Winninck, Woerm, Wonder, Wortendyke, Wyckoff, Yost, Zegersoon, Zimmerman



Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer I
Title: Lamordia
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 11:03:02 PM
Lamordia

Cultural Level: Renaissance

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: aquatic, forest, hill, plains, swamp

Major Settlements: Ludendorf (930), Neufurchtenburg (760)

Population: 3,280

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Lamordian, Darkonese, Mordentish, Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Dwarven

Religions: none

Government: Hereditary aristocracy, with republican settlements

Rulers: Baron Vilhelm von Aubrecker, Regent Gerta von Aubrecker

Resources: rye, sheep, cattle, dairy, furs, cod, mackerel, herring, flounder, beer, sausage, salt, leather goods, furniture, ships

Currency: glutton (gp), sable (sp), marten (cp)

Diplomacy: trade with Darkon, Dementlieu, and Falkovnia. No political alliances with any neighbors

The Land: Lamordia is a bleak coastal realm in the northwestern Core, a land ravaged by the elements. The domain lies south of Darkon's Jagged Coast on the Sea of Sorrows and includes the string of islands known as the Finger, which stretches out to the northwest. Notable are the frozen Isle of Agony, where a demonic creature is said to lair, and rocky, forsaken Demise. During the summer months, a muddy causeway links the islands of the Finger, but few travelers brave the brackish muck.

The interior is a region of towering forests where the black trees grow massive and dense. The woods are forlorn and eerily still, but travelers often have the impression that they are being watched from the shadows. Each spring, woodsmen inevitably find thawed corpses deep in the wilderness, their forms mangled beyond recognition. The terrain is rugged in the north, especially along the rocky upland region known as the Sleeping Beast. To the south, a wooded delta marks where the mighty Musarde River meets the Sea of Sorrows.

Lamordian villages are tidy and attractive, whether awash in summer wildflowers or slumbering peacefully beneath winter snow. Two or three stories tall, the neat rows of homes and shops look down over narrow streets of gray, smooth cobblestone. Buildings are constructed with thick timber frames and brick, then plastered and painted white or cream. Roofs are steep and gabled, with thick thatch to keep out the cold.

Although Lamordia is a temperate domain, its winters are extraordinarily harsh. Blizzards blanket the land with unending snow and batter the inhabitants with bitter, howling winds. For much of the year, sleighs and snowshoes are the preferred modes of transportation. The summer is no less difficult on travelers, as thick, sucking mud collects in low areas.

The Folk: Lamordians are lean, tall, and wiry. They have very fair skin and eye colors are either green or blue. Hair color varies from light blond to dark brown, but the lighter colors are more common. Men cut their hair short, while women grow their hair long and tie it into twin braids. Men never grow facial hair but tend to grow muttonchop sideburns. Clothing is modest and somber, yet of the finest quality. Typical clothing for men includes collared shirts, vests, and trousers, with nobles adding waistcoats and scarves. Typical clothing for women includes modest woolen dresses with high collars and tight, white bonnets. Lamordian clothing is almost never colored. Jewelry is not worn by Lamordians, although they often carry canes or pocketwatches.

Lamordians are a hardy folk, accustomed to Lamordia's harsh winters. They believe that they can survive through hard work and will. Lamordians are not superstitious in the least. They are logical and rational, almost to a fault, and believe that any problem can be solved with a commonsense solution. Lamordians are either deistic or outright atheistic, and no religion has managed to gain a foothold here. Lamordians believe that faith and magic are crutches for those with weak minds. Lamordians believe that demihumans such as dwarves and elves are merely abnormalities instead of other races. They do not hide their disdain towards Victor Mordenheim, a mad scientist who conducts strange experiments in his estate in northern Lamordia.

The Law: Baron Vilhelm von Aubrecker rules Lamordia from his estate in the Sleeping Beast mountains. His family has ruled Lamordia for generations. The von Aubreckers have been distant rulers, collecting tribute on occasion and maintaining small garrisons of soldiers throughout the nation. Vilhelm is on his deathbed, however, and with the loss of both of his sons, it falls to his daughter, Gerta von Aubrecker, to take his place when he passes on. Each of Lamordia's settlements is ruled by a mayor, who is appointed by a council of wealthy aristocrats. The main responsibility of the mayors is to encourage and maintain trade with other towns and other nations. Since Lamordians are extremely polite and have such a strict moral upbringing, they rarely have many conflicts and therefore do not need to enforce many laws. On the rare occasion that trouble arises, the baron's enforcers and the town militias are quick to respond.

Races: Lamordians are almost exclusively human. A handful of half-Vistani can be found, but they are viewed with suspicion and a sneer of racial superiority. Nonhumans, including the dwarves of the Sleeping Beast, are regarded as natural abnormalities and flawed branches on the Great Tree of Life, the top of which is crowned by humanity.

Classes: Fighters, rangers, and rogues are the most common classes in Lamordia. Adventurers in general are perceived as shifty mercenaries without an honest trade. Fighters are given a healthy respect for their skills, though epithets such as "brute" are whispered behind their backs. The talents of rangers are admired, but those who espouse their woodland spiritualism are mistrusted. Rogues are despised unless they prove a willingness to apply their skills toward the protection of communities rather than the pursuit of criminal acts. All other PC classes are rare in the extreme or completely unknown. Heroes with levels in the expert class are not unusual, however, as master craftsmen and academics alike can be drawn into the sinister conflicts of the Realm of Dread.

Recommended Skills: Appraise, Disable Trap, Lore, Search

Recommended Feats: Endurance, Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Expertise, Great Fortitude, Iron Will, Point Blank Shot, Skill Focus (Lore), Toughness, Weapon Focus (handaxe, halberd, musket, pistol, rapier, throwing axe)

Names:

-Male Names:

Augustin, Berthold, Conrad, Dieter, Frans, Hubert, Juergin, Ludwig, Niklaus, Oscar, Rudolph, Stefan, Tomas, Werner, Yann

-Female Names:

Brigitte, Camilla, Daniela, Erika, Federica, Ingrid, Johanna, Katia, Mathilde, Pascale, Ramona, Sofia, Teresa, Ursula, Victoria

-Surnames:

Accola, Acklin, Agassiz, Albrecht, Almer, Anderhub, Baehler, Baertschi, Bertod, Besse, Boller, Bornisson, Bovet, Brand, Burkhart, Corminboeuf, Delfs, Egemann, Frei, Frischknecht, Geiger, Gisler, Goeschi, Graf, Grassi, Gruenenfelder, Gygax, Haefeli, Heinzmann, Huber, Kestenholz, Lafranchi, Lambert, Lanbrigger, Lautens, Lucchesi, Metzier, Monachon, Nietlispach, Perren, Plancherel, Quentin, Reuteler, Riegler, Righetti, Rusterholz, Schneider, Seifert, Sforza, Stocki, Von Gruenigen, Von Sibenthal, Zberg, Zingre, Zinsli, Zulle, Zurcher, Zwygart

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer II
Title: Liffe
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 11:12:32 PM
Liffe

Cultural Level: Chivalric

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, Hills, Plains, Swamps (island)

Major Settlements: Armeikos (3,000), Moondale (1,600), Claveria (400), Aferdale (1,000)

Population: 6,000

Races: 95% Humans, 5% Other

Languages: Darkonese, Vaasi

Religions: Ezra, Bane

Government: Hereditary aristocracy, with republican settlements

Ruler: Baron Lyron Evensong

Currency: no coinage, trade conducted through barter, though some merchants have begun to use Nova Vaasan currency

Resources: potatoes, corn, sheep, dairy, cod, herring, mackerel, lobsters, talc, salt, ships, pottery

Diplomacy: The deep-water harbor of Armeikos, as well as the shipyards there, are making Liffe a frequently visited island, despite something of a language barrier. It seems the tongue spoken by the people of Liffe is closely related to the language known by the elves of Sithicus.

The Land: This large island contains several cattle farms, rolling fields - although the corn grows sickly here, due to the scarcity of sunlight - and three settlements: Armeikos, which is home to three thousand people; Moondale, home to one thousand people; and the small village of Claveria (located on the estate of Baron Evensong), home to four hundred people. Between these three settlements and the island's farms, Liffe is completely self-sufficient.

The Folk: Liffan skin tones range from tan to olive; brown and auburn hair are common, though some individuals have hair as light as honey or as dark as coal. Likewise, eye coloration is highly variable; brown and gray are seen most often. Liffans tend to have square or oval faces and strong jaw lines. Dress normally consists of a short tunic and close-fitting trousers with a cape or cloak, tailored for ease of movement. Designs and patterns are often stitched into their clothes, such as plaids, checks, ovals and diamonds.

The people of Liffe enjoy their independence as a small nation. Recent trade with Darkon and Nova Vaasa has given rise to a large merchant class, though it also has brought in cultural influence from these nations, which Liffe's ruler dislikes. The Baron sees this cultural contact as a threat to Liffe's independence. The populace of Liffe, on the other hand, seeks to end Liffe's isolation and has increased its contact with other nations of the Core. Farmers work harder to produce more crops to sell across sea which they use to hire more hands and produce even more crops. Meanwhile there are the newly starting craftsmen anxiously producing their wares for sell overseas and the traders and explorers hoping for new exotic items to bring back. Ironically, the Liffan people are so desperate to trade, yet so much needs to be imported that there is little to offer. Given that many craftsmen are so new to their skill and may lack the years of experience,  many mimic the crafts from Darkon and Nova Vaasa, producing cheap copies and knock-off products. Waves of cheap, supposedly "masterwork" Darkonian pottery are now being sold in ports across the Nocturnal Sea.

The Law: Liffe is the realm of Baron Lyron Evensong, a highborn bard who prizes his island's independance. The Baron dwells in an opulent manner in the small town of Claveria. Though he is seen every day, he never steps foot outside of his house, the farthest he goes is his front porch. So all edicts are issued from this porch, with visitors only rarely going inside his mansion. The Baron has instituted a code of morality in Liffe. Those who obey his moral code are free to otherwise do as they wish. Those who do not face stiff penalties; these are usually fines, but harsh offenders have been known to be brought to the Baron's home and have never been seen again.

Each of the towns in Liffe have a local constabulary to keep the piece. Constables are elected by the populace and they keep their position for life. When a constable dies, a new election is held. The towns of Liffe are ruled by a council of elders. These councils run the day-to-day affairs of their settlements, enforcing the Baron's edicts and moral code, arbitrating settlements, and levying taxes and fines.

Classes: Bards are the most prized citizens, though few of Liffe's population are born with the natural talent. Fighters are fairly common, and many serve in the local constabulary. Clerics are welcome, so long as their beliefs don't contradict Baron Evensong's moral edicts. Paladins are welcome here, unlike many other lands of the Core. Their code of honor and goodness pleases the Baron. Wizards, beguilers and sorcerers are distrusted, but respected. So long as they behave themselves and don't practice necromancy, they are allowed to dwell here. Rogues flaunt the Baron's moral edicts, and are not tolerated, yet they still are found here. Other classes are not known here.

Recommended Skills: Influence, Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Artist, Courteous Magocracy, Curse Song, Dodge, Empower Spell, Expertise, Extend Spell, Extra Music, Lingering Song, Maximize Spell, Mobility, Quicken Spell, Skill Focus (lore), Skill Focus (perform), Weapon Focus (rapier)

Names:

-Male Names:

Ardmor, Boyce, Estran, Gilos, Jakome, Ragnol, Tullus, Varian, Wat, Xanthus

-Female Names:

Aldea, Catalin, Francesca, Gisele, Imogen, Marguerite, Ondyne, Serilda, Virdisia, Zezilia

Sources: RR2 Book of Crypts, Domains of Dread, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Living Greyhawk Gazetteer, Adventure Hook Bank from the Fraternity of Shadow's website (http://www.fraternityofshadows.com/)
Title: Mordent
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 11:19:34 PM
Mordent

Cultural Level: Renaissance

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forest, marsh, plains

Major Settlements: Mordentshire (2,600)

Population: 5,500

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Mordentish, Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Vaasi

Religions: Ezra, Hala

Government: Hereditary aristocracy

Ruler: Lord Jules Weathermay

Currency: mournepiece (gp), weepstone (sp), saltpenny (cp)

Resources: barley, wheat, hops, sheep, cattle, dairy, flounder, sole, sardines, lobsters, oysters, chalk, clay, ships

Diplomacy: trade and military alliance with Dementlieu, Richemulot, and Borca. Hostile towards Falkovnia.

The Land: Mordent is a bleak domain on the Core's western coast, a land of fishing hamlets and desolate, haunted moors. Tracks of dense forest still cover much of the countryside, alternating with low, foggy plains and rolling heaths. Stiff winds whistle across the eastern moors; some travelers have reported hearing chilling howls carried on the breezes. At night, curling fog creeps out of the moors and into the domain's decrepit graveyards.

Majestic ruined manors, crumbling and choked with dark ivy, loom out of the fog. Abandoned to the restless spirits of the moors, such estates are widely regarded as haunted, and the Mordentish know better than to investigate when a dim light is spotted in an upper window. In particular, they avoid the infamous House of Gryphon Hill, where the dread spirit of Lord Wilfred Godefroy lurks. Mordent's shore along the Sea of Sorrows is rocky and battered by cold winds, the rugged chalk cliffs rising up a hundred feet or more. Salt spray perpetually hangs in the air, and belligerent seagulls gather to snatch the bait of fishermen. It is in Mordent that the broad Arden River finally joins the Sea of Sorrows, at Arden Bay.

Mordent's seaside communities, huddled in the bitter ocean winds, are stoic clusters of shanties and venerable taverns. The whitewashed buildings are constructed with thick wooden frames, soft brick, and plaster. Wooden plank roofs grace the humble structures, gray and warped by the sea air. Every window and door is equipped with sturdy storm shutters. Narrow tin chimneys puff white smoke into the sky, and weather vanes spin frantically in the shifting winds. Twisting wooden staircases descend the steeper cliffs, providing access to the humble vessels moored along the docks below. Mordent is a gray, damp land, its temperatures moderated by the sea; extreme summers and winters are uncommon.

The Folk: The Mordentish people are fair-skinned. Common eye colors are blue, green, or gray. The most common hair colors are blond and brown, though many other hair colors are known among the Mordentish folk. Men either grow their hair long or cut it short. Those who grow it long tend to keep it in a ponytail or braid. Women grow their hair very long. Mordentish clothing is made of wool and kept very clean. Most men wear breeches with high socks and loose shirts, though nobles wear lacy shirts with an waistcoat over them. Women wear long dresses that flare at the bottom but fit tightly above the waist. Clothing colors are usually black, gray, or dark hues of blue, green, yellow and red. Jewelry is considered gaudy even amongst the nobles.

The Mordentish are simple and practical, highly prizing tradition and common sense. They are also highly superstitious, yet are not ruled by fear. They respect and avoid places they believe to be haunted, in order to keep the wrath of spirits at bay. The people of Mordent are always polite and friendly, yet reserved as well. They are known for their ability to get others to reveal a lot without revealing anything about themselves. Mordent is perhaps best well-known for being the home of the late, great Dr. Rudolph van Richten, an accomplished physician-turned-monster-hunter, who recently perished in a battle with his long-term nemesis.

The Law: Situated in the grand estate of Heather House, Lord Jules Weathermay, aging patriarch of the Weathermay family, rules Mordent with a light hand. He does not usually pronounce any laws, preferring instead to let the mayors and other civic servants of Mordent's villages run themselves. The villages elect their mayors from the male property owners, who are always reminded of how their decisions will affect the poor. The mayor of Mordentshire, Daniel Foxgrove, is Lord Weathermay's son-in-law. His daughters, Gennifer and Laurie, have decided to carry on in Dr. van Richten's footsteps. The Weathermays are the last of Mordent's noble families. The other families fell to tragedy and betrayal generations ago, and their decaying estates haunt Mordent's fog-choked moors. The most infamous of these haunted manors is the House on Gryphon Hill, once home to the Godefroy family until tragedy claimed them.

Races: Given the overwhelming racial makeup of the domain, one should perhaps not be surprised that most Mordentish heroes are human. The majority are drawn from fairly common stock, driven by wanderlust or tragedy to take up the adventurer's path, although a fair number of nobles looking for a diversion or to regain their family's glory can be found in this profession as well. Most foreign heroes in Mordent are sailors who arrive in the realm either at Arden Bay or through the Arden River traffic, though these points of access are by no means the only way for them to arrive. Of all the other races, only half-elves are represented often enough to count as any significant minority, and even they are few and far-between. Most other races avoid dwelling in Mordent for any length of time; or if they do, they form such a small number of the realm's adventuring population as to be essentially irrelevant.

Classes: Although one might consider it unlikely given their dour reputation, the Mordentish folk value bards highly as keepers of stories and traditions. The ability of a bard to entertain can help alleviate much of the tedium and depression that can wrack communities during the long winters spent around tavern fires.

With their strong devotion to Ezra, clerics are highly valued in Mordent as well, especially those who make a habit of laying to rest wandering spirits and other restless dead. Few druids are found here. Those that do exist associate themselves with the faith of Hala, keeping the true extent of their knowledge secret from their neighbors.

Many fighters come from the ranks of the common folk to help defend their towns against attacks by wildlife, brigands, and the occasional monstrous enemy. Rangers are slightly less common; those of Mordentish stock have few equals when dealing with their bogs, marshes, and other lowland areas. Paladins are extremely rare, given the somewhat fatalistic outlook of Mordentish folk as a whole, although those few that do emerge are accorded great respect by those who know of them.

Given Mordent's small, insular nature, rogues tend to stay constantly on the move. It does not take long for tales of their past to catch up to them or for the local folk to cast suspicious glances at the stranger from out of town when items go missing. A few live as highwaymen, striking from ambush and waylaying wealthy nobles in transit.

Not many wizards learn their craft in Mordent, and those that do tend to be nobles with the means to hire a private tutor, as no known academies of magical learning exist in this superstitious land. Sorcerers emerge infrequently and are often subject to a great deal of fear and abuse from their fellow townsfolk until they learn to control their gifts.

Native barbarians and monks are so rare as to be unheard of in Mordent; the local culture and history simply do not support either lifestyle very well.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Heal, Influence, Lore, Search, Spot

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Blind-Fight, Endurance, Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Extra Turning, Great Fortitude, Skill Focus (Lore), Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus (flintlock, rapier)



Names:

-Male Names:

Abel, Absalom, Adam, Addison, Adelard, Ademar, Aedan, Alan, Albert, Albin, Aldous, Alexander, Alfred, Allan, Allistair, Alphonse, Alwin, Amaury, Ambrose, Amos, Ancel, Andrew, Ansell, Anselm, Ansger, Archibald, Arnold, Arthur, Asher, Audry, Augustine, Augustus, Aylwin, Bardolph, Barnabas, Bartholomew, Basewin, Benedict, Benjamin, Berenger, Bernard, Berold, Bertram, Bevis, Blaise, Botolf, Brian, Caleb, Charles, Christopher, Clement, Cleophes, Clerebold, Conrad, Constantine, Cornelius, Cove, Crispin, Curtis, Cuthbert, Cyprian, Cyrus, Daniel, David, Denis, Dennis, Diggory, Dionisius, Douglas, Duncan, Ebenezer, Eden, Edric, Edward, Elias, Elijah, Ellis, Ernis, Esau, Esdras,

Eudo, Eustace, Everard, Ezekiel, Faramond, Felix, Ferand, Filbert, Francis, Frank, Fray, Frederick, Fulk, Gabriel, Gaillard, Galien, Gamaliel, Gamel, Geoffrey, George, Gerald, Gerard, Gerbert, Gervase, Gideon, Giffard, Gilbert, Giles, Godbert, Godelot, Godfrey, Godwin, Gregory, Gunter, Guy, Hamo, Hamon, Hardwin, Harvey, Hemon, Henry, Herbert, Hereward, Herman, Heth, Heward, Hezekiah, Hodijah, Horatio, Hubert, Hugh, Hugo, Humphrey, Hurrey, Hushai, Ian, Ilbert, Ingram, Irving, Isaac, Isaiah, Isembard, Issachar, Ives, Jabez, James, Jasper, Jeremiah, Jesse, Job, Jocelyn, John, Jonah, Jonas, Jonathan, Jordan, Joseph, Josias, Jupp, Justin, Kelah, Lagot, Lambert, Lance, Lancelot, Laurence, Lawrence, Lazarus, Leonard, Ligart, Lionel, Louis, Louve, Magnus, Manfred, Marcus, Marmaduke, Martin, Matthew,

Matthias, Mauger, Maynard, Micaiah, Michael, Miles, Milo, Mordecai, Moses, Nathaniel, Neville, Nicholas, Nigel, Noah, Obadiah, Octavius, Odo, Ogier, Oliver, Osbert, Osgood, Osmer, Osmond, Owen, Pagan, Paul, Pearl, Percival, Peregrine, Peter, Philemon, Philip, Philomath, Phinchas, Ralf, Ralph, Randal, Randolph, Ranulf, Raymond, Rayner, Reginald, Reuben, Reynard, Reynfred, Reynold, Richard, Richeman, Richer, Ringer, Robert, Rocelin, Roger, Roland, Rolf, Russell, Sacheverell, Samuel, Sayer, Sebastian, Serle, Seth, Sewal, Sewel, Shiloh, Silas, Silvester, Simon, Solomon, Sperling, Stephen, Swithin, Talbot, Tancred, Thaddeus, Theobald, Theoderick, Theodore, Theophilus, Thomas, Timm, Titus, Tobias, Toly, Tristram, Turbert, Uriah, Valentine, Walcher, Walding, Walkelin, Walter, Warin, Warner, William, Wischard, Wymar, Wymark, Wymer, Wymon, Wymund, Zachariah, Zachary, Zebulon

-Female Names:

Abigail, Agatha, Agnes, Albreda, Algerina, Alice, Alina, Almira, Alyson, Amice, Amicia, Amphillis, Angelica, Annabeth, Anne, Aquila, Arabella, Arabia, Arimathae, Ascelina, Ascelota, Audrey, Aurelia, Auwenilda, Avice, Avis, Barbara, Bathsheba, Beatrice, Benedicta, Beth, Bethia, Bexelinda, Biddy, Blythe, Bridget, Britta, Caelia, Camilla, Candace, Cassandra, Cassia, Cecilia, Cecily, Cenota, Charity, Charline, Chastity, Christiana, Christina, Clarice, Clemency, Clementia, Climelche, Cloelia, Comfort, Constance, Damaris, Deborah, Delilah, Delphi, Denise, Diana, Dinah, Dorcas, Dorothy, Dove, Easter, Eda, Edelina, Edelota, Edina, Edith, Edna, Elena, Elizabeth, Elosia, Emelota, Emily, Emma, Erita, Esther, Eularia, Euna, Eunice, Eustachia, Eva, Faith, Gennifer, Gertruda, Gillian, Gillota, Goda, Grace, Gundreda, Gunilda,

Hannah, Helen, Heloise, Henrietta, Hephzebah, Hester, Hodierna, Honor, Honora, Hope, Idonea, Imeina, Iris, Isabel, Isadora, Isolda, Jane, Jemima, Joan, Josepha, Joy, Judith, Juliana, Julianne, Juliet, Karen, Katharine, Katherine, Keturah, Kezia, Lacey, Laurie, Leonora, Letitia, Lillian, Love, Lovely, Lucile, Lucretia, Lydia, Mabel, Magdalene, Maisenta, Margaret, Margery, Maria, Marina, Mariota, Martha, Marthanna, Mary, Matilda, Mercy, Meredith, Mirabel, Miriam, Modesty, Naomi, Nell, Octavia, Olive, Olivia, Oresia, Osanna, Pamela, Patience, Paulina, Pelagia, Penelope, Petronilla, Philadelphia, Philippa, Phillis, Phoebe, Pleasance, Priscilla, Providence, Prudence, Rachel, Rebecca, Rebekah, Rhoda, Robina, Roesia, Rosamund, Rosanna, Rose, Rosemary, Ruenna, Ruth, Sabina, Sabra, Sarah, Scarlet, Scolastica, Selina, Silda, Silence, Susan, Susanna, Swanekilda, Sybil, Sylvia, Tabitha, Temperance, Theodosia, Theophania, Theophila, Thomasin, Tryphena, Ursula, Valentine, Verity, Violet, Violetta, Virginia, Virtue, Wilhelmina, Zelda

-Mordentish Commoner Surnames:

Aarons, Abbot, Abbott, Adlam, Alabaster, Aleshire, Alexander, Allison, Anderson, Applegate, Appleyard, Archer, Armfield, Arnold, Arthur, Axford, Axton, Baker, Beal, Beardsley, Bedingfeld, Bedser, Beeching, Bennett, Best, Bidder, Birdsong, Bishop, Blackman, Blinkhorn, Booth, Boulting, Bowes, Bramble, Brewster, Brickman, Brimson, Brumfield, Burdon, Burke, Bush, Butcher, Bywater, Capper, Carpenter, Case, Cawley, Chandler, Cleland, Cleverly, Clowney, Collier, Coombes, Copleston, Coppersmith, Cortright, Cotman, Crockett, Cruddas, Crutcher, Cushing, Dicks, Dinning, Dobbs, Dodds, Dole, Dolehide, Donaldson, Dowd, Dowdall, Drinkwater, Dunham, Emry, Englefield, Faithfull,

Fisher, Fleetwood, Fletcher, Forster, Froud, Garrett, Gates, Giffen, Ginger, Golding, Grainger, Greathouse, Hackett, Hall, Hamill, Hardcastle, Hardwick, Harenc, Harrold, Hastings, Hawkins, Hawkyard, Hayes, Heathfield, Hitchcock, Hoffman, Hogan, Holder, Hood, Hoover, Horler, Horner, Hudson, Huntsman, Jennings, Jetton, Jewell, Kitchen, Lampkin, Lapthorne, Laws, Laxon, Laydon, Lemer, Levett, Lewis, Lock, Longfield, Lovejoy, Lowe, Lusher, Marris, Mayberry, Merriman, Morrison, Morton, Mutton, Newdigate, Niccol, Nicholl, Northmore, Overstreet, Oxley, Paget, Pettit, Phelps, Phipson, Post, Potter, Powell, Priest, Qualls, Quarrie, Querrey, Reade, Reader, Reckord, Redding, Reilley, Roper, Roy, Sammons, Sanders, Sexton, Sharrock, Sherman, Short, Shown, Simon, Simons, Skippon, Slowey, Smith, Sorley, Speakes, Spratt, Stevens, Sullivan, Sweeney, Sykes, Teagarden, Thackeray, Thatcher, Thompson, Thornhill, Thrasher, Tidwell, Towtales, Trout, Trull, Truss, Unger, Upshaw, Vincent, Wadding, Wall, Wallman, Ward, Watchorn, Waterfield, Watling, Watson, Watts, Weaver, Weller, Westfield, Whitesides, Wilde, Winder, Workman

-Noble Surnames:

Adkins, Akehurst, Alborough, Alderdice, Allard, Ambrose, Anstead, Anstey, Armistead, Armstead, Astley, Atkinson, Ayrton, Bancroft, Bawden, Bayard, Beacham, Berenson, Bethell, Blythe, Braxton, Chappell, Cockerell, Copeland, Cracroft, Creede, Denmarsh, Doyle, Emerson, Entwistle, Fleming, Galbraith, Galloway, Greenall, Haigh, Halley, Halsey, Hayden, Haythornthwaite, Heathcoat, Hepburn,

Hodierna, Hotspur, Houlgrave, Hyland, Ireton, Kersey, Laughton, Levinson, Lister, Livingston, Mattingly, Maxwell, Merrington, Midwinter, Moultrie, Mursell, Nicolson, Norrington, Palfrey, Pankey, Peverett, Quimby, Radcliffe, Randall, Randolph, Ravenscroft, Rawling, Rodes-Taving, Rowantree, Rundle, Sappleton, Saxon, Shalders, Shapcott, Shawcross, Sheridan, Sickelmoore, Souttar, Spickernell, Spiering, Stanbury, Stanley, Stetson, Stobart, Sugrue, Thornedale, Throgmorton, Tozer, Uffington, Ulminster, Voyle, Waddington, Wallis, Wathey, Watkins, Wellington, Westmoreland, Weston-Smythe, Whidden, Whitaker, Whittemore, Wickinson, Winterburn, Wyffrin



Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer III
Title: Nebligtode
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 20, 2007, 11:25:30 PM
Nebligtode

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Cold

Terrain: Plains, Swamps, and Rocky Badlands (islands)

Major Settlements: Graben Village (1,900), Seeheim (300), Kirchenheim (300), Meerdorf (150)

Population: 2,800

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Grabenite, Vaasi

Religions: Ezra, Bane

Government: Feudal Plutocracy

Rulers: The Graben family

Currency: no coinage, trade conducted through barter

Resources: sheep, goats, cotton, oats, rye, wheat, flax, corn, wool, cod, herring, mackerel, lobsters, seals, talc, salt, ships

Diplomacy: Trade with Darkon, Nova Vaasa, Liffe, and Vechor. No political alliances

The Land: Graben Island is located approximately 75 miles off the coast of Lamordia, in the Sea of Sorrows. There are no landmasses visible from any portion of Graben Island. The climate of Graben Island is cold and harsh. Chilly ocean winds torment all sides of the island during all seasons of the year. The temperature never warms above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, even in the height of the summer. Winter temperatures can easily reach -20 degrees. The island is shrouded in mist nearly every evening, varying from a light haze to thick fog with low visibility.

The island receives frequent, violent storms and is buried beneath many feet of snow in the winter. While the climate is difficult to live in, the storms nonetheless provide a steady source of fresh water.

The northwestern coast of Graben Island is a rocky bluff bordered by a short, rocky beach. The bluff is void of plant life except for some scrub grass and an occasional tree wedged between the rocks.

The village of Graben and the Graben family estate are contained in a bowl-like ravine where the river cuts through the bluff to reach the ocean. On both sides of the river, the bluff slopes steeply upward until it reaches the 300-foot height of the rest of the bluff. The northern end of the island is covered by rocky, rough terrain. Long, tough grass and some occasional hardy flowers grow in the hard soil. The land is used for grazing sheep and goats.

The land slopes gradually toward the southern end of the island. The midsection of the island is covered by prairie, with long grass, tumbleweeds, and many varieties of shrubs and wildflowers. It is home to a variety of small wildlife, including wild chickens, ground squirrels, prairie dogs, pheasants, quail, partridges and other birds and small mammals.

The southern end of the island consists of swamp and marshland. The ground is spongy and soft, virtually uninhabitable. Many of the typical swamp-dwelling creatures are absent, due to the cold climate. However, the swamps are home to otters, beavers, many species of snakes and frogs, owls and several species of birds.

The frequent rainfall on the island caused the formation of many flash-flood ravines. Along the ravines are dense pine forests, home to bears, wolves, cougars, rabbits, squirrels and many varieties of birds.

Two small, isolated farming villages, Seeheim and Kirchenheim, lie on the northern end of the island. They are nearly self-sufficient, but a few merchants in each village make occasional trips to Graben village for needed supplies. These villages are each home to approximately 300 people. The largest settlement on the island is the village of Graben. It is home to approximately 1,000 people. A fourth village lies on a small island to the west of the main island. Known as Knammen Island, its terrain matches that of the northern portion of Graben Island. The small village is home to 150 persons and is known as Meerdorf.

The island of Todstein is a rocky knoll located 60 miles to the west of Graben Island. The waters around the island for 50 yards are calm and placid, but outside that boundary for one mile, the waters are choppy and boiling. Despite a similar latitude to that of Graben Island, Todstein has a radically different climate. The climate of the island, for unknown reasons, is arctic. The temperature can drop to -60 degrees in the winter and reaches a maximum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. During the winter, snow falls every few days. Blizzards assault the island every two to three weeks. For this reason, the animals dig deep burrows and warrens, and they survive quite well despite the harsh climate.

The island is an igneous extrusion of an ancient, extinct volcano. This gives it a hard, stable base. A 20-foot layer of permafrost lies over the igneous base. Despite the extreme climate, the island is covered by pine forest and a variety of hardy evergreen shrubs growing and thriving right in the permafrost. Snowshoe hare, wolves, ptarmigan and a few other varieties of arctic creatures inhabit the island.

A wide beach rises gradually to meet the pine forest, which rises in a steep hill. The beach is sandy within 20 feet of the water, giving way to frozen sand, then permafrost, and finally the thick pines. The rest of the island looms 150 feet over the water in icy, treacherous cliffs. Except for the beaches, the rest of the island stands at a 150-foot elevation. Two mausoleums stand on the northern end of the island. They can be reached by following a snowy, narrow trail from either the western or eastern side of the island.

Except for the mausoleums and trails, the island appears to be untouched by civilization. Animal tracks are abundant, forming trails through the thick woods. Human tracks are discernible along the trails. They appear to be several days old. The tracks lead only to the mausoleums and do not lead anywhere else on the island.

The Folk: Nebligtodians are fair-skinned and fair-haired, with blonde the most common hair color. Typical eye color is blue, though green and gray are not unknown. Men grow their hair no longer than the shoulders, and facial hair is somewhat common. Women grow their hair fairly long, down to their hips on occasion, and usually tie it in a single long braid. Typical Nebligtodian garb is made of thick wool, to fend off the biting cold of the long winters. Men usually wear breeches and loose shirts with a woolen overcoat. Women usually wear sweaters and long skirts. Clothing colors are usually grays and browns, though members of the Graben family wear black with purple and deep blue. Jewelry is uncommon, though many women wear simple earrings and necklaces.

The residents of all the villages are a quiet, slightly suspicious people. They compose a tightly knit group, apprehensive of outsiders and strangers. They know their fellow villages very well and know the relatives and family trees of their neighbors as well as their own. The natives of Graben Island are primarily sheep and goat herders, though various grains such as wheat, rye, flax, and corn are grown in small fields in the prairie regions of the island. Many natives are employed as weavers, millers, and wool spinners. The people work hard, but they make a reasonably comfortable living in their harsh environment. The rough waters of the Nocturnal Sea surrounding this group of islands makes fishing a dangerous profession, but the since the deep waters are so near, boats need not venture far to land a large catch.

The Law: Settlement elders called deacons oversee governance of their villages with the mandate of the Grabens, who own all the land in Nebligtode. The Grabens were the first settlers on the islands and are descended from jewel merchants. Most of the older Grabens keep to themselves, but the younger family members are seen in the Village of Graben frequently. Four generations of the family live on the estate. The Graben family leaves most of the day-to-day affairs to the deacons of each village, only making direct rulings in the case of an emergency, which, aside from the flash-floods during the heavy rainy season, are fairly rare on these small islands. All villagers are essentially leasing their land from the Graben family. Most of the Grabens keep to themselves, and this suits the villagers just fine.

Classes: Fighters and rogues are the most common classes here. A few clerics have imported the religions of Ezra and the Lawgiver from the mainland, though they only have a small following here. A few rangers patrol the tiny wilderness of Graben Island, though druids are extremely rare. Bards are uncommon, but welcome, especially during the long, cold winters. Sorcerers are occasionally born, but few willingly take up the profession of wizards...those who practice arcane magic openly in Nebligtode have a tendency to disappear mysteriously. Other classes are unknown here.

Recommended Skills: Appraise

Recommended Feats: Dodge, Expertise, Weapon Focus (rapier)

Names:

-Male Names:

Alfred, Andreas, Arvid, Asmund, Barnabus, Bjřrn, Blaine, Colin, Danar, Driddam, Edvard, Egil, Erik, Ezekial, Gunnar, Halvard, Hans, Harald, Harvid, Henrik, Hiram, Horst, Ivar, Jeremiah, Jacob, Jarle, Johan, Jonas, Josef, Karl, Knut, Kristoffer, Kugan, Lars, Leif, Ludvig, Markus, Matthias, Metan, Mikkel, Nestor, Njord, Olaf, Olsain, Osvald, Řystein, Pieter, Ragnar, Roald, Rolf, Sigurd, Stymar, Sven, Thomas, Thor, Tobias, Torbjorn, Torvald, Vance, Viggo

-Female Names:

Adelheid, Anette, Anne-Lisbet, Araby, Astrid, Bergitte, Dina, Elena, Elisabeth, Emma, Eva, Geneel, Gerd, Gjertrud, Gudrun, Gunnhild, Hedvig, Hilde, Hjřrdis, Inga, Johanna, Josefina, Karolina, Kirsten, Kristianne, Lucretia, Madeline, Margaret, Marie, Marietta, Marta, Matilde, Mavis, Miriam, Olava, Nora, Petra, Ragnhild, Rebekka, Rosalee, Sigrid, Synnřve, Tova, Valbjorg, Yvonne

-Surnames:

Aasgaard, Abel, Ackerman, Alving, Andreassen, Arnesen, Berg, Bjoenkaer, Björnson, Böcklin, Bře, Bredesen, Brekke, Brřgger, Brote, Dahl, Dybendahl, Edvardsen, Eggen, Elvsted, Engstrand, Eriksen, Ertzgard, Fischer, Fjćrestad, Garborg, Gjeldnes, Grodas, Groenvold, Gundersen, Gwynn, Haarland, Hagen, Halvorsen, Hanevold, Hanssen, Heiberg, Henriksen, Heyerdahl, Ingstad, Jakobsen, Jensen, Johannessen, Karlsen, Kjřrsvik, Knutsen, Kristoffersen, Larsen, Loevaas, Lövborg, Ludwigsen, Mikkelsen, Mueller, Olsen, Rasmussen, Schrřder, Sjřvold, Skovgaard, Stellen, Stromm, Thomassen, Thorsen, Vincent

Source: RA2 Ship of Horror, Domains of Dread, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Nova Vaasa
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 21, 2007, 12:30:34 AM
Nova Vaasa

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Plains, forests, and hills

Major Settlements: Arbora (4,500), Bergovitsa (6,600), Egertus (3,800), Kantora (16,500), Liara (2,600).

Population: 67,700

Races: 91% Humans, 5% Halflings, 3% Gnomes, 1% Other

Languages: Vaasi, Halfling, Gnome, Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Darkonese, Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Tepestani

Religions: Bane

Government: Hereditary Aristocracy

Ruler: Prince Othmar Bolshnik

Currency: bridle (gp), spur (sp), horseshoe (cp)

Resources: Wheat, corn, millet, barley, oats, rye, cabbage, beets, potatoes, apples, pears, sunflowers, hemp, flax, horses, chickens, cod, herring, wine, gypsum, amber, chalk, salt, leather goods, furniture, ships

Diplomacy: Mercantile relationships with Barovia, Darkon, Hazlan, Tepest, and the island nations of the Nocturnal Sea. Nova Vaasans dislike the Barovians' superstitious atheism, and like the Cult of the Morninglord even less--its message of hope for the downtrodden is the polar opposite of the dogma of Bane. Nova Vaasans admire Azalin's firm control of Darkon and have been eager trading partners with Darkon ever since the Great Upheaval. The people of Hazlan have a culture too alien for the Nova Vaasans, so much so that even their common language and religion does little to bring the two cultures together. The Tepestani people are considered beneath the Nova Vaasan's notice. Their "pagan" zealotry and wild, untamed lands would drive most Nova Vaasans away, were it not for Tepest's vast stores of timber and the possibility of a shortcut to Darkon through Keening.

The Land: Nova Vaasa, situated on a plateau in the southeastern Core, is a land dominated by sweeping grasslands and crushing urban poverty. The plains are rocky and trackless, but the grasses that cover them are short, tamed by the constant grazing of horses. The wind whistles eerily across the steppes, which are dotted with rocky uplands and copses. For the most part, however, the domain is exceptionally flat, stretching from the Balinok Mountains in the west to the Nocturnal Sea in the east. Crumbling stone ruins and humble horse ranches break up the landscape.

Broad rivers meander across Nova Vaasa's steppes, cutting deep gorges through the plateau where they reach the Nocturnal Sea. The domain enjoys access to numerous important waterways, including the Dnar, the Borchava, the Ivlis, and the Saniset. The eastern coast is rugged and adequate natural ports are rare; the flat plateau drops down to treacherous bluffs and narrow, rocky beaches.

Near settlements, the plains are cleared for vast farms needed to feed the domain's swelling population. The cities are nightmarish scenes of dreadful urban squalor. The streets throng with beggars, and the ditches are piled with refuse and plague-bloated corpses. The press of people and beasts of burden is positively suffocating. Buildings are constructed of reddish beige brick on foundations of rough gray stone, with tiny windows and gabled roofs of golden-yellow shingles. Nova Vaasa's weather can be brutal during winter, but spring always brings mild warmth and wildflowers.

The Folk: The people of Nova Vaasa are rugged, with average stature, wide hips, and stout limbs gained through generations of horsemanship. Their facial features include angular chins, prominent cheekbones, and wide, full-lipped mouths. Skin color is usually pale and ruddy, though pale olive or sallow skin are not unusual. Eye color is usually dark green or gray, while hair color ranges from dirty blond to black, with darker colors being more common. Women grow their hair straight and long, often past their waists, though young girls often tie their hair into braids. Men prefer to keep their hair cut just below the shoulder, and grow long mustaches, which the wax into stiff curls. Clothing varies by social class. The poor wear simple garments that are not maintained very well. Male commoners wear trousers and long shirts while female commoners wear blouses and culottes and cover their heads with kerchiefs. Commoner clothing is never dyed and is patched repeatedly. Most of the poor cannot even afford shoes, and instead wear cloth wrappings on their feet. Aristocrats stand out from the unwashed rabble in their meticulously kept and brightly colored clothing. Male nobles wear flared riding breeches, tall black boots, finely tailored coats trimmed with lace, neckerchiefs bearing their family crests, and felt caps. Female nobles wear velvet riding skirts, black boots, billowing blouses, and gauzy scarves trimmed with tinkling bells. The clothing of the nobility is often dyed in vibrant shades of red, blue, and purple, with stripes and spiral patterns being popular.

The class divide in Nova Vaasa is wide and deeply entrenched. The poor are the vast majority of the population. They are truly destitute and miserable, afflicted by hunger, disease, and crime. The comparatively tiny aristocracy is immensely wealthy. Five families - the Bolshniks, Chekivs, Hiregaards, Rivtoffs, and Vistins - own nearly all the property in the vast country. A very small middle class has arose in recent years, comprised of civil servants, merchants, and underworld types. Despite its wealth and size, Nova Vaasa has the feeling of a society in decline. The overpopulated cities are rife with violence and vice. The nobility becomes increasingly wealth on the backs of the poor masses. The poor are only concerned with surviving and drowning their sorrows in vices. Most of the nobility is arrogant, believing the common people to be little more than subhuman beasts of burden to be used and abused at whim. One would think that in such a society rebellion and unrest would be commonplace, but the dogma of Bane forbids such actions, thus the status quo is maintained in Nova Vaasa.

The Law: Prince Othmar Bolshnik, patriarch of the Bolshnik family, is the current ruler of Nova Vaasa. Nova Vaasan tradition had the nation's mantle of leadership be passed to the head of each noble family every five years, called the Ordained Cycle of Stewardship, though Prince Othmar has refused to relinquish his title after twenty-eight years as prince. This has caused considerable tension among the other four noble families of Nova Vaasa, but Othmar's formidable military and political power has grown so great that none dare oppose him. Othmar is vain and ruthless, focused on making his family the most powerful of all the noble families, as well as maintaining the status quo in Nova Vaasan society. Each of the noble families rule their lands independently, only rarely paying tribute to Othmar. Most of the noble families rule harshly and without mercy nor pity, though the Hiregaard family treats its commoners relatively fairly.

Law and justice do not truly exist in Nova Vaasa, and there is little recourse if one is wronged criminally. The cities and plains of Nova Vaasa are largely lawless, with cities having a weak and mostly ineffectual civil government, run by people hand-picked by the local nobility. Each noble family has its own militia, though the Bolshnik family's forces are equal to that of a full-blown army. The closest thing Prince Othmar has to a rival is the criminal mastermind known as Malken. This shadowy figure is said to control all illicit activity in Nova Vaasa, and is practically a bogeyman of sorts to the poor and downtrodden of the realm.

Races: Thanks in no small part to the influence of the Church of the Lawgiver, Nova Vaasa is an unashamedly racist domain. Nonhuman races are believed to be cursed with degenerate forms for the sins of their past, and thus nonhumans are seen as innately corrupt, both physically and spiritually. Large pockets of dwarves, gnomes and halflings live in Nova Vaasa, mostly confined to racial ghettoes in the larger cities. The laws of the land prohibit "fraternization" between races, so inter-racial social interactions are limited and kept as brief as possible.

Classes: Clerics, fighters and rogues are the most common classes in Nova Vaasa. Almost all clerics are devoted to the Lawgiver and receive a high degree of respect and deference. Other clerics are in danger of harassment or imprisonment if their faith is revealed. Fighters and rogues can be found in all corners of the domain, with rogues being especially common in the cities. Rangers are uncommon, but their skills are highly valued; nobles often employ them to help watch over their horse herds or to keep plains cats from wandering into their land tracts. Bards are uncommon in Nova Vaasa due to the general distrust of arcane magic; most artists and musicians in the domain are mere experts. Those bards who do reside in or visit Nova Vaasa focus on recitation and poetry and keep their arcane talents well concealed. Druids, sorcerers and wizards are all equally despised and rarely encountered. Barbarians and monks are virtually unknown.

Recommended Skills: Animal Empathy, Antagonize, Appraise, Lore, Perform, Sleight of Hand

Recommended Feats: Endurance, Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Great Fortitude, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Animal Empathy), Toughness, Weapon Focus (heavy flail, heavy pick, lance, longspear, morningstar, scimitar)



Names:

-Male Names:

Aage, Agmund, Agnar, Aksel, Alf, Amund, Anders, Andor, Are, Arild, Arne, Arnfinn, Arnold, Arnstein, Arnt, Aron, Arve, Arvid, Asgeir, Aslak, Asle, Atle, Audun, Bendik, Bengt, Bent, Bernhard, Bernt, Birger, Bjarne, Bjarte, Brage, Christer, Dag, Dagfinn, Didrik, Edvin, Egil, Eilif, Einar, Eirik, Eivind, Elling, Emil, Erik, Erlend, Erling, Ernst, Eskil, Espen, Even, Finn, Fraanse, Fredrik, Fridtjof, Fridtjov, Frode, Gard, Gaute, Geir, Geirmund, Georg, Gisle, Gjermund, Gudmund, Gunnar, Gustav, Guttorm, Haakon, Hallvard, Halvard, Halvor, Hans, Harald, Helge, Henning, Henrik, Hugo, Idar, Ingar, Inge, Ingvald, Ingvar, Ivaar, Ivan, Ivar, Iver, Jacob, Jakob, Jan, Jarl, Jarle, Jens, Jesker, Jesper, Jo, Joakim, Joar, Johan, Jon, Jonas, Jostein, Kai, Kaj, Karl,

Karsten, Kein, Ket, Ketil, Kjarr, Kjartan, Kjell, Kjetil, Knut, Konraad, Kurs, Lars, Lasse, Laurits, Leif, Leiv, Loke, Ludbjorn, Ludvig, Lukas, Madbjorn, Mads, Magnar, Magne, Magnus, Marcus, Marius, Markus, Mathis, Mats, Matteus, Mattias, Mattis, Mikaal, Mikael, Mikal, Mikkel, Morten, Nicolai, Niklas, Nilas, Nils, Nisse, Odd, Oddmund, Oddvar, Odin, Ola, Olaf, Olav, Ole, Oleif, Olger, Oscar, Oskar, Osvald, Ottar, Otto, Ove, Paulus, Peder, Peer, Per, Petter, Preben, Ragnar, Randolf, Randulf, Rasmus, Reidar, Rikard, Roald, Roar, Rolf, Rolv, Ronald, Ronny, Roy, Ruben, Rudolf, Runar, Rune, Sander, Sigmund, Sigurd, Sigve, Simen, Sindre, Sivert, Sjur, Snorre, Sondre, Stefan, Stein, Steinar, Sten, Stian, Stig, Svein, Sveinung, Sven, Svend, Svenn, Sverre, Syver, Terje, Theo, Theodor, Thomas, Thor, Thore, Thorleif, Tor, Tord, Tore, Torfinn, Torgeir, Torleif, Tormod, Torstein, Trond, Truls, Trygve, Trym, Ulf, Ulrik, Valdemar, Vegar, Vegard, Vetle, Victor, Vidar, Viggo, Viktor, Vilhelm, Warnaar, Yngvar, Yngve

-Female Names:

Aagot, Aase, Aina, Alfhild, Alma, Ana, Ane, Anette, Anja, Annelen, Annemor, Anngerd, Anniken, Arris, Aslaug, Asta, Astri, Astrid, Aud, Babben, Barbro, Benedikte, Bente, Bergljot, Bergly, Birgit, Bitte, Bodil, Borghild, Brita, Carina, Chatrin, Dagmar, Edit, Edrikke, Eirin, Eli, Elin, Elinda, Eline, Elisabet, Else, Embla, Erikke, Erle, Ester, Eva, Frida, Gjertrud, Grete, Gry, Gulle, Gunda, Gunvor, Hedvig, Hege, Helena, Helga, Helle, Hilde, Hildegunn, Hilma, Hulda, Ida, Ine, Inge, Ingelinn, Inger, Ingerlill, Inggjerd, Ingjerd, Ingrid, Ingvild, Iren, Iris, Irunn, Iselinn, Janfrid, Janhild, Janne, Jannicke, Jannike, Joakime, Johanne, Jorid, Jossi, Juli, Kaja, Kamilla, Karethe, Kari, Kariane, Kine, Kirsten, Kjellaug, Kjersti, Kjerstin, Larsine, Lea, Lene, Leny, Leviken, Lill, Lilli, Lillunn, Line, Linnea, Lisabet, Lise, Lisebet, Lisen, Lisken, Lita, Liten, Livny, Lottelise, Lucia, Ludvikke, Ludvine, Lydia, Magda, Magga, Magnhild, Maibritt, Maigunn, Maiken, Mailill, Mailis, Maja, Majbrit, Majlis, Malene, Malin, Margitt, Margrethe, Mari, Marlaug, Marta, Marte, Melborg, Mette, Mie, Mikine, Mikkeline, Milda, Mille, Milred, Minde, Monsine, Mossa, Myrthild, Neleta, Nenne, Nilfrid, Nilsine, Oda, Oddlaug, Oddrun, Oddveig, Olefine, Oleif, Olette, Olga, Olgine, Olgunn, Oline, Olinn, Olufine, Ovarda, Ovedia, Ovedie, Pergunn, Perine, Pernhild, Pernille, Peroline, Petra, Ragnhild, Rangdi, Ranghild, Rannveig, Renhild, Rigmor, Rikke, Ronja, Rut, Selja, Sella, Sidsel, Sigrunn, Siri, Sirild, Sirill, Siss, Sissel, Siw, Sjasmin, Snefryd, Sofie, Solbritt, Solfrid, Solgull, Solin, Solveig, Sonja, Svanhvit, Sylvei, Synne, Syrene, Syverine, Tanja, Thina, Thiril, Thone, Thora, Thrine, Thuva, Tiril, Tolline, Tone, Tonje, Tordine, Tordis, Torhild, Torild, Torill, Torunn, Tove, Trude, Tutta, Tuva, Ulla, Ulrikke, Unn, Unni, Valborg, Vanja, Vigdis, Vilde, Vildis, Vildrid, Vita, Vivi, Viviann, Waina, Wenche, Wigdis


-Surnames:

Aabech, Aaby, Aabye, Aadland, Aae, Aaen, Aagaard, Aakjaer, Aakre, Aakvik, Aaland, Aalberg, Aalvik, Aamot, Aandal, Aanerud, Aanes, Aanestad, Aanstad, Aardal, Aarestrup, Aarflot, Aarnes, Aarrestad, Aarsand, Aarset, Aarseth, Aarskog, Aarsland, Aarstad, Aarum, Aarvik, Aasberg, Aaserud, Aaseth, Aasgaard, Aasheim, Aasland, Aaslund, Aass, Aavik, Abdi, Abildgaard, Afzal, Agger, Aglen, Aker, Akram, Aksdal, Aksnes, Allum, Almaas, Alme, Almli, Alnes, Alsaker, Alstad, Alsvik, Alver, Alvestad, Alvheim, Amdal, Amin, Amlie, Ancher, Anders, Andersen, Andvik, Angell, Angeltveit, Angstrom, Angvik, Apeland, Arctander, Arneberg, Arneborg, Arnestad, Arntzen, Arshad, Asheim, Ashraf, Aske, Askeland, Askvik, Aslam, Aspaas, Aspelund, Aspenes, Asphaug, Assenbjerg, Astrup, Auestad, Augestad, Aukland, Aulie, Aunan, Aune, Aurdal, Aurstad, Ausland, Austad, Austnes, Bakhvalova, Bakken, Balcerowicz, Bang, Bartoszak, Beck, Bekker, Berg, Bergh, Berthelsen, Bille, Binger, Bjerre, Bjur, Blaudzun, Bloch, Blom, Bonnikson, Borniski, Borzykowski, Boserup, Boye, Brandhorst, Breivik, Bruun, Chichlowski, Ciesinski, Claussen, Czernin, Dahl, Dalby, Dalgaard, Damsgaard, Daugaard,

Dembowski, Didenksen, Dinger, Dlugopolski, Domaszewski, Drachmann, Dziewanowski, Ebel, Ejlersgaard, Ejstrup, Eldjárn, Ellegaard, Eng, Enger, Eriksen, Ernst, Fallingborg, Fisker, Forchhammer, Fredskild, Friis, Gammelgaard, Gasioworski, Gimsing, Golota, Gorczinski, Gospodyni, Gram, Gruntvig, Grzybowska, Guildenstern, Guldbrandsen, Halkenhvad, Hambro, Hannestad, Hastrup, Haugaard, Hauge, Haugen, Heintze, Helveg, Hjelmslev, Holm, Holowczyc, Holst, Hřrby, Hosbond, Hougaard, Huitfeldt, Hvass, Hviid, Hylgaard, Iglikowski, Jakkelsen, Jankowski, Jaworski, Jensdatter, Johannsen, Johnson, Kalendovsky, Kantorowicz, Kapuscinski, Karseffni, Kasprowicz, Kaustrop, Keilhau, Kierkegaard, Kieslowski, Kjeldsen,

Kjölbye, Kobolowski, Kolakowski, Koppel, Korzeniowski, Kowalski, Krab, Kruhl, Krzyzanowski, Kvint, Kwiatkowski, Lang, Langvardt, Laursen, Lenska, Leszczynska, Leth, Lewinsky, Lie, Lind, Lindegaard, Lumbye, Lund, Lundgaard, Malewski, Malinowski, Matschewski, Mazurkiewicz, Meindl, Mikkelsen, Mleczko, Moen, Moesgaard, Nowak, Nygaard, Nyland, Nylén, Olrik, Olszewki, Olynyk, Ostgerg, Paderewski, Partyka, Peplinski, Pilegaard, Piotkowski, Pitowski, Podivinsky, Pollack, Prazmowski, Przybyiski, Quisling, Quist, Qvist, Raknes, Rasch, Rasmussen, Refshauge, Rigby, Riis, Roesdahl, Rogowski, Rohrmann, Rohtez, Rommedahl, Rřnne, Rosenkrantz, Rozycki, Ruud, Schau, Schjonberg, Schriver, Sellevold, Skaarup, Skov, Skovgaard, Skrowaczewski, Slowacki, Sokolowski, Solberg, Solheim, Sommer, Soren, Sřrensen, Sparre, Staff, Staszewska, Steen, Steenstrup, Storm, Suhr, Svendsen, Szymanowski, Teglbjaerg, Theil, Thodberg, Thorup, Thrane, Thyregod, Tobolowsky, Toft, Toksvig, Torp, Turnau, Urbansky, Vanska, Verner, Vestergaard, Von, Wajda, Werfel, Westergaard, Wieghorst, Wieth, Wisniewski, Zahle, Zbigniew, Zinck, Ziomkowski



Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer V
Title: Richemulot
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 21, 2007, 12:44:41 AM
Richemulot

Cultural Level: Chivalric

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, Hills, Plains

Major Settlements: Mortigny, Pont-ŕ-Museau, Ste. Ronges

Population: 45,330

Races: 93% Humans, 5% Halflings, 1% Half-Vistani, 1% Other

Languages: Mordentish, Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Falkovnian (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg129390#msg129390), Halfling, Vaasi, Darkonese

Religions: Ezra, Hala

Government: Hereditary aristocracy

Ruler: Jacqueline Renier

Currency: scandal (gp), secret (sp), rumor (cp)

Resources: Wheat, oats, barley, apples, potatoes, dairy, cloth, furniture, leather, ceramics, glass, weapons, iron and tin goods

Diplomacy: Trade and military alliance with Dementlieu, Mordent, and Borca. Hostile towards Falkovnia. Neutral towards Verbrek

The Folk: Richemuloise are short, but wiry and athletic. Skin tones are fair, and eye colors are typically blue, green, or gray. Hair colors range from honey blonde to dark brown, with black only seen in noble families. Both genders wear their hair long, with men keeping theirs in a ponytail or braid. Excessive facial hair is considered barbaric, but thin, well-groomed mustaches are acceptable. Dress is uniformly comfortable and neat throughout the social spectrum. Both genders wear loose shirts, which men keep open during the warmer months. In terms of legwear, men wear baggy trousers while women wear knee-high skirts. Standard footwear consists of high, hard-soled boots. Clothes are usually patterned or decorated, with colors of white, gray, or beige. Jewelry is rarely worn, even amongst the nobility.

Unlike their Dementlieuse neighbors, the Richemuloise are down-to-earth and practical, and care nothing for superficialities such as rank and social status. They believe that a man's significance is defined by what he knows--his skills and knowledge, and how he applies those assets. This attitude has created a remarkably unstratified society. Richemulot's large cities have no grubby beggars nor opulent nobles. It as if the whole of the population is moderately comfortable. Property ownership is not a mark of social status, and any family can take up residence in an abandoned building and call it home. Unlike many other nations in the Land of Mists, Richemulot has a large immigrant population, as folk flee from oppression and poverty in their homelands to seek opportunity and free property in the nation's cities.

It is information that defines the nobility of Richemulot. While the nobility is hereditary, the aristocratic families hold their power in the form of information, which is brokered and exchanged like a commodity among the Richemuloise elite. A cobbler who happens upon a secret can become a noble overnight if he knows how to properly use his influence. The intrigues of Richemuloise courtly life are dizzying in their complexity, and few outsiders could keep up with either their nuances or pace. Trading in knowledge can be a lethal pursuit, however, as more than one noble has buried a secret forever with a dagger or vial of poison.

The Law: The most powerful noble family in Richemulot is the Renier family, informally ruled by its matriarch, Jacqueline Renier. She is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant and ruthless nobles in Richemulot, and few of her subjects would argue that their nation's fate could be in more capable hands. While Jacqueline is undeniably conniving and conceited, her strong patriotic streak and firm vision for the future of Richemulot serves her nation and her subjects well. She encourages outsiders to settle in her nation, asking only that they own a weapon and swear fealty to Richemulot. There are no formal militias, but Jacqueline expects all of her subjects to defend Richemulot should it ever be invaded.

Daily life in Richemulot is controlled by the hereditary nobility. Aristocrats arbitrate civil disputes and regulate trade, and enforcers retained by individual noble families keep the peace. The nobility exercises its power only lightly; power is a transitory thing in Richemulot, and few families wish to risk overstepping their bounds and become disgraced by vicious rumors.

Races: Humans predominate in Richemulot, though halflings and half-Vistani also dwell in the domain in small numbers. Other races are almost always refugees or their descendants. The Richemuloise tend to accept nonhumans into their society more readily than other folk, though they feel that this openness gives them carte blanche to treat such outsiders with persistent, "good-natured" cruelty.

Classes: Bards, beguilers, clerics, fighters, rogues, and wizards are the most common classes in Richemulot. All are regarded with esteem in at least some circles of Richemuloise society, though beguilers, rogues and wizards must be wary of the jealous, vindictive nobility. Druids and rangers are rare in a land with such an urban character, though occasionally a brave ranger devotes himself to the urban wilderness of back alleys and labyrinthine sewers. Paladins are equally scarce, often beginning their lives as mad street corner prophets. Sorcerers are much rarer in Richemulot than in neighboring realms, and those who do exist seem to prefer solitude. Barbarians and monks are practically unknown.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Appraise, Disguise, Hide, Influence, Listen, Move Silently, Spot

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Expertise, Iron Will, Point Blank Shot, Silent Spell, Skill Focus (Influence), Spell Focus (Divination), Still Spell, Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (dagger, heavy crossbow, light crossbow, musket, rapier, sap, short sword)

Names:

-Male Names:

Arnaud, Bernart, Crespin, Esteve, Folcaut, Gauderic, Jaufres, Lambert, Michels, Peirol, Raimond, Sicart, Thibaud, Vicenc, Xavier

-Female Names:

Aidelina, Beatriz, Cecile, Danielle, Elianor, Felise, Garsenda, Heloise, Isolina, Lilianne, Margalida, Nicole, Reina, Sibille, Verinne

-Surnames:

Adriaenssens, Ambre, Amelotte, Appelmans, Audenaert, Balanque, Barbieur, Batte, Berndeux, Blacque, Blondeau, Boenne, Bollens, Bonacieux, Callioux, Camerier, Cathoir, Coppenol, De Beul, De Bilde, De Maere, De Wilde, Debergé, Deflandre, Demeuleneire, D'Haenens, D'Hondt, Donnadieu, Dupon, Engels, Falličres, Fauchlevent, Felix, Flambeau, Fraigneau, Galliene, Gareau, Gatteaux, Gielen, Godignon, Grosbelhomme, Heirbaut, Higounet, Huygens, Jobert, La Pérouse, Lapierre, Lapôtre, Le Goyet, Lerminie, Lesclide, Loef, Loubens, Malisse, Mercator, Michielssens, Mirabeau, Mortier, Pallegoix, Pasquier, Penneman, Picavet, Provost, Rivette, Rogiers, Rotthier, Thernadier, Tilleman, Van Brussel, Van Damme, Van de Velde, Van de Walle, Van Haute, Van Poele, Vermeiren, Villevieille

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer III
Title: Sithicus
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 21, 2007, 12:52:47 AM
Sithicus

Cultural Level: Medieval; Wild Elves are Stone Age

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests and hills

Major Settlements: Har-Thelen (500), Hroth (900), Mal-Erek (500)

Population: 4,300

Races: Elves 96%, Half-Elves 2%, Humans 1%, Other 1%

Languages: Sithican, Vaasi, Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Mordentish

Religions: Ezra, Hala

Government: Despotic monarchy and aristocracy

Ruler: Azrael Dak

Currency: rose (gp), crown (sp), sword (cp)

Resources: oats, cabbage, carrots, turnips, peppers, squash, peaches, grapes, sheep, goats, wine, spirits, timber, furs, salt, gems, crystal, cloth

Diplomacy: Heavy trade with Kartakass. Hostile towards Invidia and Valachan

The Land: Sithicus, located in the southwestern Core, is a shattered elven kingdom, perhaps the only domain in the Land of Mists populated primarily by nonhumans. As might be expected, it is a land of ancient forests where the dense, leafy boughs above blot out the sun. The wilds are overgrown and treacherous, reeking constantly of wet decay and sickly-sweet resin. Patches of briars and nettles form dense snarls, and the forest floor is slick with rotting leaves and moss. Mottled ivy and gray ferns grow everywhere, and pools of fetid water gather algae in the hollows. Fallen logs litter the understory, encrusted with florid, poisonous fungi. Rocky uplands peek out of the sweeping forest landscape here and there, providing roosts for great, russet eagles.

The Musarde River and its tributaries cut through the domain's gently rolling terrain. Near the center of the domain is the jagged maw of the Great Chasm. Out of this sheer canyon rises a black peak topped by the ruins of Nedragaard Keep, the fortress of Sithicus' dwarven tyrant. Shattered three years ago in the Hour of Screaming Shadows, the cracked ruins now jut from the earth like blackened teeth. Ravens wheel forlornly about the towering shards, and some elves swear they have glimpsed mournful shades drifting around the ruins at night.

Elegant architecture was once prized by the elves of Sithicus, but today the domain's settlements are crumbling. The wondrous elven wood and crystal masonries are neglected and covered with ivy. Twisting towers of living wood are blighted with insect galls and rot, and the gardens stand choked with thistles and brambles. Roads that once glittered like an evening sky are dull and crumbling. The arcane libraries slowly rot under an assault of mildew and silverfish, yet the elven wizards seem oblivious. Temples to forgotten gods are charred and blasted as if from lightning, the holy names stricken.

The climate in Sithicus is temperate but mild. Although the sun often blazes cruelly in the late summer months, the elves are sheltered by the cool shadows of the forest.

The Folk: Sithicus is unique among the realms of the Land of Mists in that its population is almost entirely non-human. The dominant race here is the elves, though Sithican elves are very different than the elves found elsewhere in the world. The elves here are grim and dreary, their love of nature and beauty replaced with a solemn apathy. They are highly arrogant; they treat humans with the contempt that non-humans receive in other nations, but the Sithican's contempt extends to other non-humans and even non-Sithican elves. The elves of Sithicus live in constant denial. Their culture is visibly crumbling away before their very eyes, yet they firmly cling to age-old traditions that no longer seem to have any meaning. Hair color tends to be silver and eyes are usually amber in color.

The elves dress in drab colors, often dull shades of white, beige, ash, and gray-green. There are rumors among the elves of a xenophobic tribe of halfling-like beings called "kender" dwelling in the northeaster hills of Sithicus, but the elves believe it is a haunted region and avoid it whenever possible. Also in that same region live the wild elves. The wild elves are polar opposites to the "civilized" elves in this land. They are feral and primordial, dress in furs and let their hair grow wild. They tattoo themselves and partake in ritual scarification. There are rumors that they even resort to cannibalism in the belief this will make them purer elves.

The Law: Until very recently, Sithicus was ruled under the iron fist of the death knight Lord Loren Soth, Knight of the Black Rose. Soth had no compunctions about revealing his undead status to the world, and used it to strike fear into the populace. He hated the elves and kept them under his thumb with his sorcerous powers. In 752 BC, during a confrontation with the forces of Malocchio Aderre's Invidian troops, a wave of wailing shadows smashed Soth's fortress Nedragaard Keep, apparently destroying him. Soth's seneschal, the dwarf Azrael Dak, immediately proclaimed himself King of Sithicus.

Azrael has ruled erratically since then, appearing periodically in the elven cities to demand tribute and mercilessly slaughtering any who displease him. Azrael backs his power up by a host of undead troops and a secret police force known as the "politskarae." The elven aristocracy, however, remains a potent and stabilizing force on the government. Each of the three cities has a council of aristocratic elders. This council appoints and advises a leader called the Lord Speaker, who in turn answers to Azrael. The councils follow a complex set of elven traditions, and follow King Azrael's edicts in appearance only. When Azrael demands they change their rules to follow his, the elven councils resort to endless debate in an effort to delay. Given Azrael's short attention span, this tactic usually works, and the council then continues about their business without changing their ways. Azrael, however, often plays upon the rivalries of the three cities' councils, and thus maintains at least some measure of control. Aside from the councils, each elven city has a house for each role and task in their society. The noble, wizard, and ranger houses are the most powerful and prestigious.

Races: Most Sithicans are elves, with smatterings of humans, half-Vistani, halflings and a growing population of half-elves. Sithicans are met with derision and hatred by the humans outside their borders and thus return the favor within their realm. While “true” Sithicans are disdainful, if not outright rude, to any foreigners and non-elves within their borders, PCs may be exempt from such racist behavior. Yet even they are growing concerned and fearful of the bitterkinder, the fastest-growing population of "new" Sithicans.

Classes: Druids, fighters, paladins, rangers and wizards are the most common classes in Sithicus. In a desperate attempt to better understand the land Sithicans have finally chosen to inhabit, there is a growing trend among the elves to embrace the path of the druid. Acting as guardians of the forests, druids protect the woods from elf or human intervention. They serve as a medium between the land of spectres and elfkind, although some turn toward evil as they struggle with and misinterpret the nature they so desperately try to understand.

Rangers are also highly respected, though not numerous. They protect the travelers passing through the elven forests, while both druids and rangers act as intermediaries between folk and nature.

A select few from the growing numbers of halflings have turned to the life of the paladin, as younglings born to halflings who escaped with their lives have not grown up under the grim rule of the Black Rose. Wizards are also a growing number as more of them reveal themselves. Without the sorcerous presence of the Black Rose, many who studied for years in secret are slowly practicing their craft in public.

The Kagonesti elves of Sithicus are a feral reflection of their Krynnish counterparts. They believe the gods abandoned them so they abandoned their worship in turn. A few scattered ruins dot the land, but whatever names they once bore were stricken off, their statuary and icons seemingly blasted by lightning. They follow animist shamanistic beliefs. Most Kagonesti strongly feel that the world is full of spirits, and every animal, tree, creek, river, spring, rock, hill, and mountain has a spirit of its own. Their spiritual leaders therefore take the paths of the druid or shaman. They are known to tattoo themselves and partake in ritual scarification. They do not have a written language but use a form of pictographic writing that serves as a mnemonic device for their storytellers and shamans.

Recommended Skills: Heal, Hide, Listen, Lore, Move Silently, Search, Spellcraft, Spot

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Deflect Arrows, Dodge, Great Fortitude, Improved Unarmed Strike, Point Blank Shot, Skill Focus (Lore), Skill Focus (Move Silently), Weapon Focus (dagger, handaxe, longbow, longsword, quarterstaff, shortbow, spear)

Names:

-Male Names:

Aramil, Aust, Avonathalonus, Eberk, Enialis, Falindrithan, Heian, Hemo, Ivellios, Jahran, Kardanon, Laucian, Lothas, Maravallon, Pellarin, Quarion, Quimathon, Ruric, Silvanas, Terevalis, Thamior, Tharivol, Veit

-Female Names:

Aleaha, Anastrianna, Antinua, Artin, Diesa, Drusila, Felosial, Ielenia, Ilde, Ladine, Lia, Lisindrela, Maleesa, Nemetranee, Qillathe, Raenavalona, Roselenna, Serinda, Silaqui, Telisina, Thyanel, Valanthe, Xanaphia

-Surnames:

Althonos, Caladon, Calostin, Dralathalas, Kaldeist, Lanthaloran, Oakleaf, Rathenas, Starbreeze, Takmarin

-Sithican Castes:

Aristocratic, Arcane, Artisan, Greenshaper, Ranger, Servant

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer IV, Dragonlance 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Tepest
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 21, 2007, 12:59:06 AM
Tepest

Cultural Level: Early Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forest and hills

Major Settlements: Briggdarrow (300), Kellee (3,700), Viktal (3,600).

Population: 15,500 (Approximately 3,000 goblins)

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Tepestani, Darkonese, Goblin, Sylvan, Vaasi

Religions: Belenus*, Ezra, Lawgiver

Government: Aristocratic and theocratic independent settlements

Ruler: none

Currency: no currency, trade conducted through barter

Resources: barley, wheat, oats, turnips, potatoes, pears, sheep, goats, hogs, dairy, sturgeon, pike, peat, timber, gypsum, beer

Diplomacy: Tepest's isolation, even prior to the Great Upheaval, has kept it from having extensive contact with other nations. The nation's only contact with the outside world are through the East Timor Road and South Dnar River, both leading into Nova Vaasa. Tepest's forests hold a fearsome reputation that discourages travel along the East Timor Road, and the recent paranoia and hysteria sweeping through the nation give few outsiders any reason to conduct business with Tepest. There is limited trade with Nova Vaasa.

The Land: The domain of Tepest is a land of dark, menacing forests where the folk are beset by malicious, creeping evils and paranoid hysteria. These woodlands are eerie, preternatural places where shadows persist throughout the day and wisps of fog cling to the ground. The ancient trees are gnarled and grotesque, their branches and roots seeming to grasp at interlopers. Toadstools and mosses carpet the muddy ground, and weird sounds echo through the thickets. The forests seem sinister even by the light of day, and at night they teem with flickering shadows, glinting yellow eyes, and the eerie glow of St. Elmo's fire.

Travelers sometimes stumble upon unnatural copses of trees that are perpetually wrapped in spring bloom, autumn color, or winter snow. Rivers and the East Timori Road divide the forests, and the Tepestani have names for them all - Wytchwood, Brujamonte, Goblinwood, and so forth. The black waters of Lake Kronov, in western Tepest, provide easy fishing throughout the year, as they never freeze over completely. Fishermen must keep a watchful eye out for the water monster known as the Avanc and avoid the haunted shores of Castle Island.

Villages are cozy little points of light amid the forest gloom. Most buildings in the domain are crudely constructed of smooth stones. The conical roofs are thatched with hay or peat, with central, wobbly chimneys. The humblest homes are merely sod huts built atop shallow pits. Nobles, meanwhile, dwell in grim keeps that are little more than featureless monoliths of stone surrounded by wicked palisades. The domain's most beautiful structures are the small stone temples dedicated to Belenus. The splendid chapels are open to the sky, as if anticipating a glimpse of the god's face through the ashen sky. Stylized stone images of Belenus's solar disc adorn villages throughout the domain.

Tepest's climate is temperate but moderate; truly brutal winters or scorching summers are unusual. Most days are overcast and foggy, the sun shining weakly through the gray haze.

The Folk: Tepestanis are muscular and handsome, if a bit short. Their fair skin often has freckles. Eye color is typically green or blue. Hair color ranges from strawberry blond to brown, though most are redheads. Men cut their hair just above the shoulder while women grow their hair to exceptional lengths. Most men have beards and moustaches. Tepestanis wear clothing that is simple and durable. The men wear trousers and baggy shirts and the women wear long skirts and blouses. Both wrap themselves in dense, layered furs during the winter. Clothing colors tend to be earth tones such as brown or dark green.

The Tepestani take pleasure in hard work and the simple joys of life, such as family, food, and music. While they consider toil and hardship to be sacred facets of life, they are also a passionate people. The typical Tepestani calendar has many festivals and holidays featuring song, dance, and spirits. The Tepestani are also extremely superstitious and fearful, moreso than even the Barovians. They are particularly terrified of the goblins that infest Tepest's forests, whom the Tepestani refer to as "little beasties." They also greatly fear the fey. They view all of the inhabitants of the forest as unholy magical beings bent on destroying civilization. While the Tepestani used to huddle in fear from these monsters, they now respond with sword and flame, led in their crusade by the clerics of Belenus. The Tepestani have begun to see signs of evil everywhere, even amongst their families and friends. This paranoia has caught a few malicious creatures, but has destroyed a great many innocents in the process.

The Law: The people of Tepest are united by their culture, rather than by a formal government. Each settlement is independently administered by a council of wealthy elder males. They govern with relative impunity, though they only act when in unanimous agreement. The clerics of Belenus have a significant influence of these councils in most settlements, an influence which has grown in recent years, as the crusade to save Tepest from evil has intensified. The clerics root out suspected evildoers and quickly convene tribunals to interrogate and sentence them. These hasty trials often cause a domino effect of accusations as the guilty try to shift the blame to others. The head of the Church of Belenus is Wyan of Viktal. He is a severe man who unflinchingly takes drastic measures when cleansing a village of evil.

Races: Tepest's population is from a near-total homogenous ethnic group, with the exception of a tiny number of half-Vistani on the outskirts of the settlements and a small number of Nova Vaasan woodsmen and their families on the edges of the forest.

Classes: Fighters and rangers are the most common heroic classes in Tepest. Fighters are typically devoted to defending their families and communities, while rangers focus mostly on hunting, trapping and protecting loggers or members of the Inquisition as they move from settlement to settlement. Tepestani rangers usually choose goblins as their first favored enemy, with a type of fey being their second choice.

Since the beginning of the Inquisition, a growing number of Tepestani have entered the service of the gods, so an increasing number of clerics dwell within Tepest's forests. Most of them serve the mighty Belenus, although a few serve other deities in the pantheon. A smaller, extremely militant arm of Belenus' clergy has emerged in Kellee in the last couple of years: paladins. Still uncommon, they are quickly gaining respect among the common folk and the Inquisition alike. There is also a small, extremely secretive coven devoted to Hala living in a tiny community on the far shores of the Blackmist River. They are devoted enemies of the hags that menace Tepest. Small churches devoted to Ezra and the Lawgiver have been founded in Kellee within the past decade. While they are headed by an ever changing selection of experienced clergy from Nova Vaasa and parts more distant, the tiny flocks are starting to produce local clerics of the deities as well. The clergy of Ezra has fairly good relations with the Inquisition of Belenus, while the Lawgiver's priests scoff at the ignorant peasants and their foolish superstitions.

By tradition, at least one bard and his or her apprentice live in each of the domain's major settlements. The bards are responsible for maintaining an oral history of their community. In recent years, clerics of Belenus have encouraged the bards of Tepest to focus their efforts more on chronicling the deeds of the domain's holy warriors and the misdeeds of the fey, saying that these are the only events worth passing down through the generations. As in most domains, however, Tepestani bards tend to be free spirits, so as the clergy tries to force more control upon them, apprentices quit their masters' tutelage and seek freedom and livelihood in the alien lands beyond the forests of their birth. The Inquisition is grows ever more suspicious of bards, particularly those who augment their performances with magic; if these bards weren't allies of fey, wouldn't they be more dedicated to preserving a record of the Inquisition's deeds and the defeat the fey suffer at its hands?

Sorcerers are rare in Tepest, and they fall almost exclusively into the category of Redheads, while wizards are practically unheard of. Those Tepestani who feel a pull toward the magical arts tend to leave their homeland and seek their fortunes elsewhere. If they return, it is only for short visits, for every spellcaster who isn't a priest of Belenus or other gods from his pantheon, or a well-known local bard, is viewed with potentially violent hostility and is automatically suspected of being one of the fey in human guise. Natural sorcerers, such as Redheads, are often found in the ranks of the Inquisition these days. A rare few of them also sometimes live as hermits in the forest, occasionally becoming allies of the Witches of Hala in the southwestern part of the domain.

Rogues do not find Tepest a welcoming place. Those of larcenous bent discover that there is very little worth stealing and that the penalties if caught are so severe it's not worth the risk. Rogues who tend to stay on the right side of the law find even less to do in the domain as rangers fill their traditional roles far more effectively in the wild woods and primitive settlements.

Recommended Skills: Animal Empathy, Heal, Influence, Listen, Lore, Perform, Spot

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Back to the Wall, Great Fortitude, Skill Focus (Lore), Toughness, Warding Gesture, Weapon Focus (throwing axe)

Names:

-Male Names:

Abban, Berrin, Brion, Brock, Brogan, Calvagh, Cassair, Colm, Cormac, Cobb, Cuinn, Declan, Dermot, Desmond, Donal, Donagh, Dougal, Eamon, Ellis, Ernan, Eunan, Fearghal, Fergus, Fian, Finn, Garvan, Gilligan, Hewith, Keane, Kevin, Killian, Lawton, Liadan, Lochlan, Loman, Mullen, Murtagh, Murray, Murphy, Nashe, Neil, Nealon, Ogan, Onghus, Oran, Oscar, Ossian, Patrick, Rafe, Reardan, Rion, Ronan, Rory, Ross, Rowan, Seamus, Shea, Tiernan, Torin, Ultan, Whitten, Wyun

-Female Names:

Aisling, Ana, Blinne, Breda, Brigid, Brona, Bryonna, Canice, Cara, Darina, Derval, Doreen, Deirdre, Eileen, Enya, Evgren, Evlin, Finnat, Fiona, Fionella, Hespra, Jocelyn, Kaylin, Keeva, Keira, Kira, Maeve, Maren, Maureen, Melissa, Moira, Molly, Muriel, Myrna, Nemon, Nessa, Nora, Noreen, Orla, Rathnait, Renny, Riona, Rosaleen, Rose, Sheeva, Siobhan, Slaney, Sondra, Tallula, Tara, Teafa, Tressa, Una

-Surnames:

Most Tepestani do not use family names (not surprising, given the lack of concern for social status), instead distinguishing themselves by their birthplace. It is proper to address a man as "Goodman"; a woman is "Good mistress" if single and "Goodwife" if married. When greeting an acquaintance or family member in situations in which some small degree of protocol is required, using the familiar form of the address, "Goody," is acceptable. Thus, Ellis from Viktal would be "Young Goodman Ellis of Viktal." Those Tepestani who make use of family names usually have some foreign ties in their family and have adopted some alien customs.

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer V
Title: Valachan
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 21, 2007, 01:10:51 AM
Valachan

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests and Hills

Major Settlements: Helbenik (3,500), Rotwald (4,400), Ungrad (1,500).

Population: 19,100

Races: 97% Human, 2% Gnome, 1% Other

Languages: Vaasi, Mordentish, Gnome, Sithican

Religions: Yutow, Ezra, Hala

Government: Aristocratic Monarchy

Ruler: Baron Urik von Kharkov

Currency: pantherhead (gp), cateye (sp), claw (cp)

Resources: Wheat, barley, hops, cherries, apples, peas, flower bulbs, hogs, sheep, dairy, salmon, trout, timber, furs, gold, copper, bows, furniture

Diplomacy: Hostile towards Sithicus and Verbrek. No formal diplomatic relations with any other nation, but trade exists between Valachan and Mordent.

The Land: Nestled in the southwestern Core, Valachan is a rugged domain blanketed by lush evergreen forests and prowled by fearsome black panthers. The trees are ancient and massive, shrouded by cool fog and a thick beard of mosses. Eerie hoots and growls echo through the hollows, and the chill air is heavy with the primeval scent of damp redwoods. Although the shadowy understory is dotted with low, dewy ferns, travel is difficult due to the treacherous terrain. Ridges and narrow canyons wind their way through the domain, providing concealment for skulking predators. Rocky streams flow eastward toward the Arden River, their whitewater rapids teeming with fish.

Villages are densely clustered in Valachan, bustling pockets of industriousness amid the eldritch wilderness. The windowless buildings are constructed of heavy logs or planks, with gabled roofs shingled in black slate. Large, single-room lodges are common even among wealthy nobles, who take great pride in their cavernous abodes and encourage villagers to socialize within. Structures are decorated with elaborate, stylized carvings of panthers, bears, wolves, and ravens.

Heraldry is important to the Valachani, and homes are proudly adorned with the matriarch's insignia. Baron von Kharkov's Castle Pantara, in contrast to the inviting homes of his subjects, is a menacing fortress of charcoal-gray stone. Although temperate, the Valachan's climate is exceedingly wet, with heavy rainfall throughout the year. Temperatures are moderate through all seasons, but sweltering summers occur occasionally.

The Folk: The Valachani are tall and muscular, with wide shoulders and long, sturdy limbs. Skin color is a dark coffee brown, though it can range from a creamy tan to a charcoal black on occasion. Eye color is almost always dark brown, but every once in awhile an odd individual with bile-yellow eyes is born. Hair is glossy black and worn long and straight by both genders. Men never grow facial hair, though many grow long sideburns. Clothing is durable and simple, with both genders preferring to dress in loose trousers and tunics often decorated with fringe and animal teeth. Faded black and white are their favorite colors, accented with bold reds, greens, and blues. Footwear consists of knee-high soft leather boots that are worn throughout the year.

The Valachani are a stalwart people accustomed to a rustic life in the nation's eerie forests. They personify the forest animals in their myths, with their greatest reverence--and fear-- for the panthers, which are numerous and notoriously cunning. Valachani value perseverance and strong family ties but tend to be suspicious of "book learning" and the trappings of more advanced nations. To the Valachani, anyone who does not know how to shoot a bow or survive in the wilderness is less than a whole person. Despite their individualism, they are a social people with exceedingly complex rituals for life's milestones, including birth, coming of age, marriage, and death. Lengthy festivals mark these events in Valachan's settlements. Handcrafted gifts are exchanged and wealthy Valachani attempt to outdo one another by obtaining the best foodstuffs and entertainment.

The Law: Valachan's ruler, Baron Urik von Kharkov, is a cold man who values obedience and his own privacy above all else. This stern aloofness does little to endear him amongst his subjects, but the Valachani have learned to pay their taxes dutifully and thereby avoid the Baron's attention and infamous temper. The baron occasionally demands petty servitude from random commoners, summoning them to Castle Pantera for a single night. These one-time servants often return infected with the White Fever, a mild but debilitating flu that strikes many Valachani throughout their lives. Each year von Kharkov forcefully takes a young Valachani woman as his bride; to date, none of these women have lived more than a year as his wife. These sinister facts only heighten the Valachani's fear of their ruler and feed rumors that he is truly some inhuman monster.

Von Kharkov's private army of enforcers, the Black Leopards, collect his taxes and captures anyone unfortunate enough to anger him. Each of these enforcers is expertly trained in swordsmanship and wilderness survival, and they sadistically and fanatically serve the baron. They are commanded by the mysterious Lady Adelaide, often referred to as the Veiled Mistress. Adelaide seems to share the same appetite as von Kharkov, and is known to be arrogant and vicious. She can be bribed by the offering of a handsome male youth, who usually emerges scarred without and within from the mistress's wicked attentions.

Despite the oppressive presence of the Black Leopards, life in Valachan is relatively peaceful. The nobility administers justice and arbitrates disputes, and corruption is rare. Nobility is hereditary through the mother's side, and men instead of women marry outside of their families. Although tradition states that nobles be respected and deferred to because of their wealth, commoners do not tolerate incompetence or weakness in their betters. Nobles who lack the guile to defend their positions are eliminated and their assets divided up among the remaining nobles. To the Valachani, serving in a settlement's militia is both honorable and profitable, as the nobles reward excellent service with wealth, titles and arranged marriages.

Races: Humans are by far the most common race in Valachan, but many gnomes have been tempted to settle the domain from Darkon, Hazlan and Nova Vaasa by the fierce demand for their skills. Calibans are frequently born, but are then abandoned to the elements.

Classes: Valachan is a wild land, and rustic classes such as barbarians, druids, fighters, sorcerers and especially rangers are common. Rangers and barbarians are held in high regard as the defenders and providers for their villages; their ability to survive in Valachan’s eldritch forests is seen as particularly praiseworthy. Although bards’ tales are enjoyed, Valachani tend to regard the musicians as shiftless fops and layabouts, and keep close watch on them to ensure they pull their own weight. Of the spellcasters, clerics command some respect among the common folk, but those who proselytize too vigorously have a tendency to vanish. Druids are more common and are less likely to disappear than priests of more public churches. Sorcerers are relatively common but are vilified for their unnatural talents. Along with wizards, they are often arrested or executed by the Black Leopards.

Recommended Skills: Hide, Lore, Move Silently, Spot

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Courage, Improved Critical, Point Blank Shot, Warding Gesture (fey, shapechangers, undead), Weapon Focus (composite longbow)

Names:

-Male Names:

Aksell, Arkin, Audun, Brand, Davin, Egil, Erik, Jens, Mikkel, Mogens, Morten, Nils, Oleg, Ragnar, Rurik, Skjřld, Stefan, Trigue, Varik

-Female Names:

Aleksia, Andras, Birget, Dakin, Faiga, Falda, Grette, Katarine, Kristen, Liese, Magna, Nissa, Rakel, Reidun, Saffi, Semine, Sula, Unni, Vanja, Ylwa

-Surnames:

Aamodt, Amundsen, Arup, Bakken, Birknes, Bjoenkaer, Bjřrlo, Böcklin, Brřgger, Daehle, Dybendahl, Eftevang, Engen, Fjortoft, Frethheim, Gjeldnes, Grieg, Grimsmo, Haarland, Hagen, Hanevold, Ingstad, Kaland, Kjeldaas, Kvarme, Ljoekelsoey, Lövborg, Malmros, Mostue, Mykland, Naustvik, Nyberg, Omholt, Ostenstad, Rasmussen, Ratkje, Sandvik, Siversten, Sjřvold, Skarsgard, Skovgaard, Svendson, Tveit, Ulving, Wikborg, Ytterhus

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer IV
Title: Vechor
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 21, 2007, 01:16:44 AM
Vechor

Cultural Level: Classical

Climate: Warm

Terrain: Forests, Hills, and Swamps

Major Settlements: Abdok (8,000)

Population: 15,900

Races: 99% Humans, 1% Other

Languages: Vechorite

Religions: None. Vechorites acknowledge their king as a god but do not worship him.

Government: Ochlocratic despotism

Ruler: Easan the Mad (also known as Easan the Eternal)

Currency: wildcrown (gp), wildorb (sp), wildpenny (cp)

Resources: Rice, millet, cassava, cotton, bananas, sugarcane, cacao, coffee, tea, rubber, gums, spices, vanilla, cattle, tuna, shrimp, turtles, pearls, timber, gold, silver, gems

Diplomacy: Expanded trade with Darkon and Nova Vaasa. No formal or military relations with any other nation.

The Land: Vechor is a domain of chaos and turmoil where the land itself can be unstable. Lying east of the Core, beyond the cold, gray waters of the Nocturnal Sea, Vechor's coast is a tidal marshland. Lush, salt-tolerant vegetation and clouds of buzzing mosquitoes inhabit this border between land and sea. Farther inland, dense, verdant tropical forests are cut by the wide Nostru River as it winds its way toward the coast. At the domain's eastern frontier, the Cliffs of Vesanis rise up toward a drier plateau that quickly becomes lost in the Mists. Vechor's climate is perpetually hot and humid, marked by a long and merciless rainy season. Rapid, seemingly impossible shifts in weather are not unusual. Storms that drop hail, sleet, and even snow can sweep through the domain unexpectedly, vanishing just as quickly as they appear. Cyclones regularly strike the domain with frightening ferocity.

Much like the weather, Vechor's landscape has a disturbing tendency to shift over time, as fluid and unpredictable as a maelstrom. Most of these changes occur over the course of days, but rapid, violent shifts are not unheard of. The forests seem to rearrange themselves at random, obliterating landmarks and rendering maps useless. Trails are redirected to new destinations, and the coastline appears to creep back and forth. This effect can be observed in the domain's settlements as well. The square, pale brick structures can vanish or appear from nowhere. Streets and alleyways twist and turn differently each time they are traversed. Even the heavens above Vechor are not immune. The sky changes colors, oozing from azure to sickly green to brilliant purple. The sun and moon appear to change size with each dawn and dusk, bloating to fill the sky or dwindling to a weak blot of light.

The Folk: The lean, athletic people of Vechor tend to have dusky complexions ranging from an olive-tinged light tan to a deep bronze. Their deeply set eyes are either an intense blue or green, or, more rarely, a startling gold or silver. Vechorite hair is straight and unruly, with color ranging from honey-blond to flat black. Most Vechorites work their long locks into a cascade of fine braids. Men grow small, neat mustaches but do not grow beards. Clothing is light, to provide the wearer with mobility and keep him cool in Vechor's muggy climate. Both genders favor short skirts and tunics that are worn over the left shoulder and belted at the waist with a sash. Simple sandals are the preferred footwear. Men's clothing colors consist of white, beige, or gray, while women dress in floral colors such as pale reds, oranges, yellows, pinks, and violets. Jewelry is popular among both genders, especially bracelets and necklaces; gold, silver, gems, shell, bone, and wood are all used in equal measure. Every Vechorite bears the brand of an "E" on the forehead, written in the local language. This is done voluntarily as an honorific for their king.

Vechor's weather and landscape are disturbingly unstable. Snowstorms blow through during the summer. Forests rearrange themselves at random. Streets twist and turn differently each time they are traversed. The sky changes colors and the sun and moon appear to change size. Despite this unnerving strangeness, Vechorites are a warm and content people. They take simple joy in farming, fishing, hunting, and handicrafts. They are notoriously fickle, however, and tend to act out of emotion or impulse rather than rationality. It is no secret that Vechor's king is hopelessly mad. The Vechorites believe that the land is both an extension and reflection of their ruler. Thus, they do not find it surprising that Vechor can seem as insane as their king. Their response is to simply take the mayhem in stride. Particularly startling changes in the landscape are considered omens of the king's mood.

The fluid nature of the land has touched its society as well. There are few social restrictions or barriers and virtually no taboos. Class structure is loose, and both genders are considered equal. The strong dominate the weak with little fear of reprisal. The only enduring social custom seems to be marriage, which is considered a sacred symbol of stability. Widowed men and woman do not remarry, and unfaithful spouses are executed.

The Law: Vechor is ruled by Easan the Mad, a reclusive wizard-tyrant. His reign is supported by a firm conviction among the Vechorites that he is divine. According to them, Easan has ruled for eons. He is never seen in public, and his opulent palace in Abdok stands silent. It is rumored that the king spends most of his time in a mystical dwelling beyond the Cliffs of Vesanis in the east, cackling madly and listening to the whispers of ancient evils.

Vechor has no formal law, only an unspoken code of loyalty to Easan. Although Easan's presence is barely felt in everyday life, none dare speak against him. Those who speak words of rebellion vanish without a trace, never to be seen again. Vechor's settlements have no civil or criminal authorities. Violence and theft are repaid with brutal mob justice; lynchings are carried out in the streets, the offenders hacked to death with blades. There are no militias in Vechor, but all young men are trained in hunting and combat.

Classes: Druids, fighters, rangers, sorcerers. Other classes are unknown here.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Lore

Recommended Feats: Courage, Dodge, Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Weapon Focus (kukri)

Names:

-Male Names:

Abercius, Adranos, Aeacus, Aelianus, Agrippa, Aloysius, Ambrosius, Angelus, Aquilius, Augustus, Aurelius, Barbatus, Bartolomaeus, Bellus, Brutus, Caesar, Caldus, Caligula, Calvinus, Carnifex, Cicero, Claudianus, Constantius, Corvinus, Crispus, Cyprianus, Damasippus, Didacus, Dominicus, Eborius, Emeritus, Eugenius, Falconius, Felix, Festus, Flavian, Gaius, Gessius, Hadrianus, Helvius, Hortensius, Italicus, Jovinus, Julian, Justinianus, Laevinus, Lentulus, Ligustinus, Lucretius, Magnus, Marcellus, Martinus, Mercator, Narcissus, Neneus, Nero, Novatian, Octavian, Paetus, Peregrinus, Philippus, Pilus, Placidus, Porphyrius, Primus, Quartinus, Receptus, Regulus, Remus, Romulus, Sabinus, Scipio, Seneca, Sidonius, Sigilis, Silus, Synnodus, Tacitus, Tertius, Tiberinus, Tyranus, Ursinus, Valentinian, Vestorius, Vitulus

-Female Names:

Aeliana, Amalthea, Astia, Camilla, Carina, Cinna, Cloelia, Cordelia, Crescentia, Cypria, Decima, Dinysia, Dulcilla, Emelia, Emerentiana, Erigena, Estella, Eubia, Eutropia, Felicia, Flora, Fontia, Gaea, Gloria, Gnaea, Graecina, Grata, Hilaria, Honora, Hypatia, Iana, Idonea, Ingenua, Innocentia, Januaria, Jovina, Juliana, Lanilla, Larina, Laureola, Laurina, Lavinia, Lepida, Licinian, Livigena, Longina, Luciana, Lucilla, Lucina, Lupula, Mallea, Mamaea, Mariana, Marina, Martina, Matrona, Maximilla, Messina, Metella, Milvia, Naissa, Nobilioris, Occia, Ocresia, Olivia, Panthea, Peregrina, Petraea, Phrygia, Planasia, Plotina, Pompeia, Porcella, Prenestina, Priscilla, Regina, Rhea, Sabina, Salonia, Saturnina, Selene, Serena, Severiana, Silvia, Thena, Tiberia, Ursula, Velvinna, Veronica, Vibidia, Victoria, Viventia, Volumnia

-Surnames:

Aegidius, Aelius, Annaeus, Antonius, Arius, Artorius, Axius, Baenius, Barrius, Bruccius, Bruttius, Caelius, Caesius, Caledonius, Calpurnia, Cassius, Clovius, Cordius, Decimius, Dexius, Egnatius, Equitia, Fabricius, Fadia, Faustus, Floronius, Fulvia, Galerius, Gavius, Herminius, Horatia, Iulus, Juventius, Laetonius, Lampronius, Licinia, Longus, Lucius, Lutatius, Mallius, Maximius, Milonius, Nemetorius, Neratius, Nipius, Nonius, Occius, Octavius, Orestilla, Petellius, Petreia, Petronius, Piscius, Placidus, Platorius, Pomponius, Publicius, Quintius, Rufus, Sabidius, Salvius, Secundius, Septimius, Sertorius, Sidonius, Silius, Silvianus, Terentia, Titinius, Valerius, Vesuvius, Victricius, Vipsanius, Vitruvius

Sources: Domains of Dread, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Verbrek
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on January 21, 2007, 01:22:38 AM
Verbrek

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, Hills, Swamps

Major Settlements: None. Verbrek is sparsely populated, and most folk dwell in solitary farmsteads or settlements of fewer than twenty people. The only larger settlements are Fylfot (67), Alyssum (62)

Population: 830

Races: 97% Humans, 1% Half-Elves, 1% Half-Vistani, 1% Other

Languages: Mordentish, Balok (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=10721.msg122454#msg122454), Vaasi, Sithican

Religions: The Wolf God, Hala, Ezra

Government: Independent gerontocratic settlements and farms

Ruler: None

Currency: no currency, trade conducted through barter

Resources: Oats, barley, hops, cabbage, potatoes, peppers, cattle, hogs, chickens, dairy, mushrooms, timber, furs, beer, clay

Diplomacy: Verbrek has no formal relations with any of its neighbors, though trade does occur.

The Land: Verbrek is a wild domain in the grip of fear, where the wolf is master and humanity huddles like cowering prey. Lying in the heart of the southwestern Core's river lowlands, the domain is shrouded in a patchwork of towering forests, misty hollows, and overgrown wetlands. Here the wilderness is primeval and untamed, the dense and thorny vegetation making travel an arduous experience. Travelers must learn to be wary of Verbrek's wolves, hulking, silverfurred beasts that stalk their prey with human cunning.

Those who brave the domain's trackless wilds are constantly harried by a terrifying sensation of being hunted. Snapping twigs and rustling leaves are enough to send travelers into panicked flight, like frightened deer. There are no wide, well-traveled roads in Verbrek, only the most rugged and poorly maintained trails. The broad, muddy Arden and Musarde Rivers and their tributaries serve as the domain's primary conduits to other lands.

The scattered hamlets and lone farmsteads that dot the domain are wholly without comfort in the surrounding gloom of the wilderness. Civilization seems to be hanging on by a thread, the savage forests threatening to devour its tiny strongholds. The squat buildings are constructed of massive, rough-cut logs and thatched, gabled roofs and chimneys of smooth river stones. Muddy trenches five feet or more deep surround the domain's humble livestock pens, an often futile strategy to keep the wolves at bay. Verbrek's climate is extremely even, featuring cold winters and warm summers, with rainfall most plentiful in late spring.

The Folk: Verbrekers are short, sturdy, and muscular. Skin tones range from fair and freckled to light tan. Eye color is usually blue or green. Hair color ranges from honey blonde to light brown, with the occasional auburn. Both genders keep their straight hair long and unstyled. Men prefer to keep their hair at shoulder length, and grow mustaches and beards. Clothing is simplistic and functional; men wear trousers and tunics while women wear blouses and long skirts slit up to the thigh. Hooded cloaks are commonly worn by both genders. Typical garment colors consist of greens, whites, beige, and browns. All Verbrekers carry a hatchet and knife at all times.

While Verbrekers are at home in the wilderness, it would best be described as an uneasy truce. They have a healthy respect for nature, but it is tempered by a fear of nature's savagery. They stoically attempt to establish a small piece of civilization along Verbrek's rivers, though they realize that in a battle between man and nature, nature is likely to be the victor. They value basic survival skills and are easily angered by city folk who risk everyone's well-being through their recklessness or ignorance.

Verbrekers realize they are not the true masters of their homeland. Verbrek belongs to the werewolves, who have their own brutal tribal society. Verbrekers, raised on wolf myths and the occasionally encounter with the lycanthropes, fear werewolves and avoid them at all costs.  Every once in a while, during a full moon, a lone victim of werewolves is heard screaming in the darkness. Verbrekers respond by simply double-checking their locks and thanking the gods that they aren't the ones who are victims that night.

The Law: Verbrek has no centralized authority or regional government. Each settlement is ruled by a council made up of the oldest male from each household. Most of these councils are democratic, with disputes settled by majority votes. Petty rivalries are uncommon, because survival, not power, is on the minds of Verbrek's patriarchs. Since the settlements are too small to have militias, all young men are trained in combat, both armed and unarmed.

Verbrek's werewolves have a cruel and savage culture, but the details are unknown to most of Verbrek's human population. Werewolves attack only occasionally, despite the fact that they vastly outnumber the human population and could easily slaughter them all. The reason for this is unknown, though the Verbrekers are thankful nonetheless. The werewolves are said to worship a deity known only as The Wolf God, a primeval force of fury and carnage. Tales of moonlit sacrifices, blasphemous beast rites, and frenzied ritual hunts are common among the Verbrekers.

Races: Most Verbrekers are humans, though the domain is home to a smattering of calibans, half-elves, and half-Vistani. Verbrekers generally accept these outcasts, provided they have dwelled among the native humans for some time. The Verbrekers reserve their suspicion for civilized outsiders, regardless of their race.

Classes: Druids, fighters, rangers, and sorcerers are the most common classes in Verbrek. Druids and rangers act as emissaries between nature and humankind, promoting respect and caution toward the wilds. Fighters follow a less spiritual path, perfecting tactics that provide an edge in the forest landscape. Sorcerers are relatively common here, and many Verbrekers believe that the forests themselves touch these souls with eldritch power. Barbarians are uncommon, but not unheard of among the werewolves and toughened wanderers who dwell deep in the forests. Other classes are curiosities or outlanders far from civilization.

Recommended Skills: Heal, Hide, Listen, Lore, Move Silently, Spot

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Back to the Wall, Dodge, Great Fortitude, Lunatic, Point Blank Shot, Skill Focus (Lore), Warding Gesture, Weapon Focus (battleaxe, dagger, handaxe, longbow, longsword, quarterstaff, spear, throwing axe)

Names:

-Male Names:

Agnan, Cadoc, Drenig, Ehoarn, Gilduin, Herveig, Jaoven, Kerrian, Maugan, Privael, Riwallan, Sklaer, Teyrn, Vonig, Youenn

-Female Names:

Aven, Biganna, Enora, Flamenn, Goulvena, Joela, Kavanenn, Lennig, Maiwenn, Nevena, Paola, Rivanon, Sisilia, Vouga, Yuveot

-Surnames:

Aelfing, Aelli, Aescwine, Angeltheow, Angenwit, Baeldaeg, Bedca, Beorthing, Caedbaed, Cerdic, Cweldgils, Cynewald, Ealding, Ealdrith, Eanferth, Eomer, Eoppa, Esla, Frithugar, Hrothmund, Hryp, Offa, Saefugl, Saexnaet, Sigefugel, Sigegeat, Swebdaeg, Sweppa, Trygils, Uxfrea, Waegdaeg, Wecta, Westerfalca, Wihtlaeg

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Ravenloft Gazetteer IV
Title: Har’Akir
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on February 18, 2008, 09:14:20 PM
The Amber Wastes Cluster

Har’Akir

Cultural Level: Bronze Age

Climate: Tropical

Terrain: Deserts, hills, mountains

Major Settlements: Muhar (300)

Population: 600

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Akiri, Pharazian

Religions: Akiri (Egyptian) Pantheon

Government: Theocracy

Ruler: Snefru, high priestess of Osiris

Currency: no currency, trade conducted through barter

Resources: wheat, millet, flax, beans, dates, figs, sheep, goats, cattle, camels, iron, salt, gypsum, talc, cloth

Diplomacy: brisk trade with nomads from Pharazia. Little contact with other nations

The Land: Har'Akir is a land of vanished empires where the sands erode ancient monuments and the folk live in the shadow of faded glories. It is a lonely realm, a patch of burning desert that drifts up against the towering cliffs that lie to the east. Riddling these barren crags are numerous forgotten tombs, concealing fabulous riches and horrifying curses. Foremost among these forbidden vaults is the crypt of Anhktepot, Har'Akir's mightiest pharaoh, in the canyon known as Pharaoh's Rest.

The sole source of fresh water in Har'Akir is the Muhar Oasis, hidden among the rolling desert dunes. Its waters are clear and refreshing, though the local villagers strictly limit access to such a precious resource. The shores are lined with swaying palm trees and crowded throughout the day with camels, donkeys, and women bearing jugs of water. Buildings in Har'Akir are squat structures of whitewashed mud or sandstone. Doorways and windows are open portals that allow cool breezes to circulate indoors, though at night they are draped with linen to keep out the evening chill.

The Folk: The Akiri people are short and wiry. Their skin, weathered from the hot desert sun and winds, varies in color from bronze to brown. Eyes are brown and hair is either brown or black. Men never grow facial hair and often shave their heads. Both genders wear long, loose robes of white cloth, and wear a headcloth that can be draped across the face during sandstorms. Sandals are the customary footwear of Har'Akir. Both men and women wear pigments of gold, azure and black around their eyes, and women often stain their hands with henna.

They are a cautious folk, suspicious of outsiders though not hostile towards them. They are quiet and sad, even amongst themselves, as if they bitterly remember a time of glory and nobility that has long since passed. They express fear and regret over their last pharaoh, Anhktepot, who they claim sleeps nearby in his tomb in the mountains. Of all the Akiri gods worshipped here, it is Osiris who gets the most reverence. As the god of both life and death, the Akiri try their best to please Osiris by adhering to the principle of "ma'at," a philosophy that dictates a cosmic order to everything. Those who live by the principle of ma'at may be admitted to paradise in the afterlife. The Akiri believe that the dead require their bodies and possessions in the afterlife, so much importance is placed on funerals and their rituals. Even entering a sealed tomb is considered a profane act among the Akiri, and graverobbing is an unspeakable crime.

The Law: Har'Akir was once ruled by the pharoahs, kings who claimed to be descended from the sun god Ra. Those days came to an end with the tragic life and death of Anhktepot, the last pharaoh. Today, the clerics of the Akiri gods rule the populace. The lone settlement of Har'Akir, Muhar, is ruled by Snefru, the high priestess of Osiris. Outside the village is a lawless wasteland of brigands and desert hazards. Slavery is an accepted institution here, and the most common form of punishment for criminals is enslavement. Slaves can perform various tasks from household chores to heavy labor.

Classes: Clerics, fighters, and wizards are common here. Sorcerers are rare. Other classes are unknown amongst the natives.

Recommended Skills: Influence, Lore

Recommended Feats: Endurance, Spell Focus (Necromancy), Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (short sword, spear)



Names:

-Male Names:

Ahhotep, Ahmose, Achoris, Amenakht, Amenemopet, Ahhotpe, Ankhef, Akhenaton, Aka, Bahri, Djhutmose, Teti-en, Genubath, Bakenkhonsu, Hapu, Bakenmut, Haremakhet, Djedhor, Haremhab, Djehuty, Hatshepsut, Djhutmose, Heqaemeheh, Genubath, Hor, Hapu, Horemheb, Haremakhet, Hyksos, Heqaemeheh, Imhotep, Hor, Iu-Amun, Horemheb, Kha'y, Imhotep, Khnumhotep, Iu-Amun, Khonskhu, Kha'y, Maakha, Khnumhotep, Ma'nakhtuf, Khonskhu, Menes, Maakha, Menkaure, Ma'nakhtuf, Menmet-Ra, Menmet-Ra, Merenptah, Mentuhotep, Mokhtar, Merneptah, Mose, Mokhtar, Naga-ed-der, Mose, Nebankh, Naga-ed-der, Nebimes, Nebankh, Nebnefer, Nebimes, Nefermaet, Nebnefer, Nes, Nefermaet, Nespaherenhat, Nes, Pakheter, Nespaherenhat, Pa-Siamun, Pakheter, Penmaat, Pa-Siamun, Prahotpe, Ptahhemhat-Ty, Penmaat, Rahotep, Prahotpe, Sabef, Ptahhemhat-Ty, Rahotep, Seneb, Sabef, Sennufer, Seneb, Sethnakte, Sennufer, Si-Mut, Sethnakte, Tefibi, Sua, Si-Mut, Tefibi, Snefru, Tekhen, Teti-en, Thutrnose, Tymisba

-Female Names:

Ama, Amosis, Amosis, Ankhta, Asenath, Asenath, Baktre, Baktre, Beketaten, Beketaten, Dahshur, Duathor, Duathor, Henenhit, Henenhit, Hentempet, Hentempet, Henut, Henut, Hetepheres, Hetepheres, Hrere, Hrere, Inhapi, Inhapi, Ipip, Ipip, Ipu, Ipu, Isetemkheb, Isetemkheb, Isiemkheb, Isiemkheb, Kem, Kem, Kutenptah, Kutenptah, Maatneferure, Maatneferure, Maharet, Maharet, Mehetweshkhet, Mehetweshkhet, Mekhare, Mekhare, Meryt, Meryt, Mutemhab, Mutemhab, Nailah, Nebefer, Nebefer, Neferet, Neferet, Neferu, Neferu, Nitetis, Nitetis, Nodjmet, Nodjmet, Nofretiri, Nofretiri, Nubkhaes, Nubkhaes, Rai, Rai, Reddjedet, Reddjedet, Reonet, Reonet, Sebtitis, Sebtitis, Senet, Senet, Senmonthis, Senmonthis, Shadya, Shesh, Shesh, Sitkamose, Sitkamose, Sitre, Sitre, Snefru, Sobekemshaf, Sobekemshaf, Tabes, Tabes, Tabesheribet, Tabesheribet, Tahpenes, Tahpenes, Tai, Takhat, Takhat, Tiaa, Tiaa, Weret



Source: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Pharazia
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on February 18, 2008, 11:12:06 PM
Pharazia

Cultural Level: Early Medieval

Climate: Tropical

Terrain: Deserts

Major Settlements: Phiraz (8,800)

Population: 10,200

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Pharazian

Religions: None. Pharazians revere Diamabel, the beauteous ruler of Pharazia, as a divine being, though he has no temples or clerics

Government: Moralistic Despotism

Ruler: Diamabel the Righteous

Currency: penance (gp), reproach (sp), blessing (cp)

Resources: wheat, barley, rice, millet, flax, melons, citrus, peas, beans, eggplant, figs, dates, coffee, camels, sheep, goats, cattle, cloth

Diplomacy: Diamabel and his subjects have a dim view of outsiders, and have little to no contact to anyone beyond the city of Phiraz. The nomads of Pharazia's vast tracts of desert engage in trade with the people of Har'Akir, however.

The Land: Pharazia is a domain of endless, searing desert as pitiless as the judgment of a god. The rolling dunes shift eternally in the burning winds, and rocky outcroppings emerge and vanish from the sand. Overhead, vultures circle the blazing eye of the sun, patiently waiting for thirst and exhaustion to overcome travelers. Sparkling oases break the harsh tedium of the wastes, though far too rarely for desert wanderers. The oases feed the domain's brackish, muddy rivers, where slews of crocodiles sun themselves on the banks. Swaying palm trees along the oases and rivers provide precious shade, but travelers must compete with the desert creatures that claim the cool shadows for themselves.

Near the center of the domain is the city of Phiraz, a dusky desert jewel on the shores of a shimmering oasis. The city's square buildings are constructed of stone brick covered in whitewashed plaster. Blessed breezes waft through the open portals of doorways and windows.

The most opulent structures are built of polished stone and decorated with intricate geometric mosaics. Slender spires and gleaming domes soar above the city, as if yearning to touch the heavens. Narrow streets wind between homes and shops, opening into plazas thronging with eager vendors.

The Folk: Pharazians are generally considered handsome and trim, with angular features and skin tones ranging from light olive-tan to a dusky bronze. Eye color is almost universally dark brown, though occasionally a child is born with jet-black eyes. Children with this eye color are considered a bad omen and are often killed at birth out of superstitious fear. Hair color is universally black, with men cutting theirs short while women grow theirs exceptionally long. Well-groomed facial hair is common among men. Typical Pharazian clothing consists of long, loose robes over trousers or skirts, plus traditional head cloths worn out of both modesty and practicality, as protection from the blistering sun and wind-blown sand. Women conceal their hair under shawls and their faces beneath veils in public. Typical footwear consists of sandals or slippers. Pharazians do not wear makeup or jewelry in public, as it is considered vulgar.

Diamabel's strict moral doctrines have made the Pharazian people tense, reserved, and mindful of their own words and deeds. Moral purity is paramount to them, though more out of tradition and fear than out of spiritual conviction. The peoples' speech often carries a palpable anxiety, as if they are fearful of uttering the wrong words. And these fears are not unfounded. Diamabel's confessors are vigilant for those who would stray from the fold. Pharazians will eagerly betray an offender to the confessors, if only to gain a brief respite for themselves from the confessors' watchfulness.

Deep in the sandy wastes, however, the desert nomads refuse to submit to Diamabel's laws. These hardy wanderers are always on the move, pitching their vividly colored tents in a different spot each night. The nomads are considered heretics by the people of Phiraz, for the nomads insist Diamabel is no divine being, but instead a corrupted mortal creature. Led by Sheikh Allahn el Rashaan, the nomads wear distinctive black robes and ride sleek horses and camels in their crusade against Diamabel.

The Law: Diamabel rules Pharazia with an unforgiving hand, demanding that his subjects submit to his demands with nothing less than perfect obedience. Diamabel is a pale, angelic creature with feathery wings and a blazing countenance. Pharazians believe he is a celestial sent among them to teach right word, thought, and deed. There is no god at the center of these commandments, only purity for its own sake. There are certain activities that must not be undertaken, foods that must not be eaten, words that must not be uttered, and thoughts that must not be pondered. Two hours of prayer are required each day for the penitent to reflect on their crimes and resolve to be obedient. The people are required to report infractions of the law of prayer.

Diamabel's laws are enforced strictly, without ambiguity or leniency. Subjects are either obedient or wayward, and the latter are punished harshly for their sins. Confessors, wearing pure white robes and wielding wicked scourges, patrol the streets of Phiraz escorted by armed warrior-zealots. The confessors are ever vigilant for errant souls, who are expected to repent and submit to brutal lashings. Naturally, the most brutal of Phiraz's citizens find their calling as confessors. The confessors have absolute discretion in meting out punishment, as their mandate comes from Diamabel himself. The worst transgressors are slain in the night by the Black Herald, a terrifying spectre rumored to be the embodiment of Diamabel's vengeance.

The nomads of Pharazia's desert are loyal to Sheikh Rashaan, who leads by virtue of his charisma, wealth, and battle prowess. Although they are sworn enemies of Diamabel, they have their own strict code of laws, and punishments no less severe than Diamabel's for breaking them; violent criminals and traitors are horrifically maimed and left in the desert to die. The nomads do not disdain the aid of outsiders, but they are a shifty, treacherous bunch. While their main goal is ridding the land of Diamabel and surviving the desert, they will not hesitate to kill those who disagree with them and their methods. They claim to know a sure method to bring about Diamabel's destruction, but will not share it with outsiders.

Classes: Barbarians, fighters, wizards. There are a small group of monks who try to embody Diamabel's edicts through asceticism within Phiraz. Sheikh Rashaan's nomads have a few rangers within their ranks. Sorcerers are rare here. Other classes are unheard of.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Influence

Recommended Feats: Endurance, Expertise, Two-Weapon Fighting, Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (scimitar)

Names:

-Male Names:

Abbas, Abdul, Abou-ali, Afsharafshin, Akbar, Ali-Naghi, Amir, Arash, Arshia, Assadollah, Azad, Aziz, Babak, Bahram, Behrouz, Bijan, Cyrus, Danush, Davood, Ebrahim, Eshqi, Esma'il, Ezatollah, Faraz, Fardad, Fariborz, Farrokh, Farzin, Fazlullah, Forouq, Ghaffar, Habib, Hamid, Hassan, Hesam, Hooman, Hormoz, Ja'far, Jahangir, Jalal, Kamal, Kamran, Karim, Kaveh, Kayvon, Key-khosrow, Khashayar, Kourosh, Mahmoud, Massoud, Mehdi, Mehran, Mehrzad, Mohammad, Mohsen, Morteza, Nader, Naseem, Nasr-ed-Din, Navid, Nosratdoleh, Parviz, Payam, Pejman, Rahim, Rashid, Reza, Sa'adi, Sa'id, Shahrokh, Vahid, Yashar, Yousef

-Female Names:

Akhtar, Ashraf, Azita, Bahareh, Banafsheh, Behbaha, Darya, Dina, Elaheh, Ezzati, Fakhri, Farahnaz, Farideh, Farnaz, Farzaneh, Fatimah, Forouzandeh, Ghamzeh, Ghazaleh, Gita, Golnessa, Gordia, Guita, Habibeh, Haideh, Hediyeh, Hengameh, Houri, Iman, Iran-dokht, Ishraqi, Jamileh, Khadijeh, Khatereh, Khojassteh, Khorshid, Kimiya, Laleh, Laqa, Leyla, Lili, Mahdokht, Mahin, Mahrokh, Mahshid, Malakeh, Marjan, Maryam, Mina, Mitra, Mona, Mozhgan, Naghmeh, Nahal, Naniyyih, Nasim, Neda, Niloufar, Noor, Olya, Omid, Pareesa, Pegah, Qudsiyyih, Rana, Reema, Reyhaneh, Riri, Roksana, Roshanak, Ruhiyyih, Salomeh, Samila, Samira, Sanaz, Seeta, Sepideh, Shahin, Shahrzad, Sheyda, Sima, Soraya, Talayeh, Vida, Zara, Zia-Ashraf

-Surnames:

Abedzadeh, Amir, Amirsadeghi, Awji, Bakhtavar, Bazargan, Dhabihiyan, Ebtehaj, Eftekhari, Fatemi, Gaffari, Haqiqat, Imami, Izadi, Jafari, Kazimi, Khadim, Khatami, Mahallati, Mahmudi, Mihdizadih, Mu'ini, Najafi, Nassiri, Qazai, Rahimi, Sadiqi, Salimpour, Shahriar, Vafa'i, Zahedi

Sources: Islands of Terror, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Sanguinia
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on February 19, 2008, 02:51:25 AM
The Frozen Reaches Cluster

Sanguinia

Cultural Level: Early Medieval

Climate: Boreal

Terrain: Forest, Hills, Mountains

Major Settlements: Fagaras (800), Kosova (1,000), Tirgo (1,300)

Population: 6,300

Races: 99% Humans, 1% Other

Languages: Sanguine

Religions: none

Government: Hereditary Monarchy

Ruler: Prince Ladislav Mircea

Currency: frostmark (gp), chillpiece (sp), nip (cp)

Resources: wheat, rye, turnips, onions, reindeer, goats, trout, perch, timber, furs, gold, copper, iron, salt, gems

Diplomacy: No formal contact with any other nation. Sanguinia has had virtually no contact with the outside world for generations. Hunters have only recently discovered a pass into Vorostokov to the southeast, but the large, vicious wolves that prowl the wilderness have thus far stymied any contact.

The Land: Sanguinia is a domain of jagged, frozen mountains. The dizzying icebound peak of Mount Radu is the land's highest point. The slopes are treacherous, though primeval evergreen forests cling to them tirelessly. Rugged outcroppings and sheer ledges abound, making travel a lethal challenge for all but the most hardened mountaineers. Bitter winds scream across the heights, threatening to fling travelers from the mountain's face. Avalanches choke the mountain passes for months at a time.

Frozen streams tumble down the mountainsides, their waters a mere trickle beneath the thick crust. Silent waterfalls hang from the rocky precipices, caught forever as glittering curtains of ice. East of Mount Radu, the glassy surface of Lake Argus is pockmarked with the holes of ice fishermen. Sanguinia is dotted with menhirs carved with primitive images of mythic heroes and frightening behemoths. The mountain tribes that erected such monuments have vanished, and not even the Sanguinians know of their fate.

Villages in Sanguinia are gray bulwarks huddled against the weather's limitless fury. The buildings are squat, round edifices, the windowless walls constructed several feet thick with gray cobbles and boulders. The roofs are made of two layers of wooden planks and insulated with dry, packed evergreen needles. Much grander design is exhibited in Castle Guirgiu, the abode of Prince Mircea. Spired turrets pierce the mountain air, and the steep roofs of dark green slate are free of snow and ice. Although it is guarded only by a low wall and frozen moat, most Sanguinians quake at the thought of even approaching Mircea's dread domicile.

The Folk: Sanguinians are a rugged people, strengthened by a lifetime of clinging to the frigid mountains. They are generally broad, with wide hips and shoulders and deep chests. They are fair-skinned, although their cheeks are usually ruddy from the freezing air temperatures. Eye color is typically pale blue or gray, and hair color ranges from sandy brown to nearly black. Hair length for both sexes is typically long and wild. Men's beards and moustaches are carefully braided. Typical clothing is thick and durable, being made from multiple layers of hide stitched together with sawdust for insulation. Both sexes wear trousers, shirts and long coats, and often wear round fur hats. Clothing is usually darkly-colored. Boots are studded with iron spikes to provide traction on ice. Snowshoes are used for large expanses of snow.

Since the Sanguinians have managed to survive in such a hostile environment, they have a respect for endurance and practicality. They are honest and straightforward almost to a fault and have no patience for deception or timidity in others. Death comes easily in this land, so life is considered precious. Sanguinians cherish their children, are very expressive of their emotions, and live life as fully and as robustly as possible. They enjoy music, dance, and romance. A healthy birth is cause for the grandparents to sponsor a week of nightly feasting and dancing. Simple children's rhymes about nature and silly characters are popular even amongst the adults, who sing them passionately through the night. The only things Sanguinians fear are wolves, avalanches, and the bloodthirsty, misshapen vampires known to haunt the lonely mountain passes.

The Law: Prince Ladislav Mircea, a cruel young tyrant, rules Sanguinia with almost casual malice. Few have ever seen the reclusive monarch, though it is rumored that he is incredibly handsome. Although monstrously harsh to those who displease him, Mircea seems to govern solely for his own jaded amusement. He is easily distracted and involves himself with his realm only for as long as it entertains him. He sometimes skulks in Castle Guirgiu for months at a time, much to the relief of his subjects. Mircea levies severe taxes but demands little else from his people. His personal enforcers, clad in ashen coats and wielding battleaxes, usually only emerge from Castle Guirgiu to collect the taxes from each town. Settlements are otherwise left to govern themselves. Typically the most powerful landowners in each village serve on a council with limited seats. These councils are responsible for making broad decisions that affect the whole community, adjudicating disputes, and organizing local militias.

Classes: Barbarians, bards, fighters, rangers, and sorcerers.

Recommended Skills: Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Back to the Wall, Endurance, Power Attack, Weapon Focus (battleaxe)

Names:

-Male Names:

Andrij, Bogdan, Danylo, Fedir, Gennadi, Hryhorii, Ilia, Ivan, Kostya, Lev, Marko, Mykhailo, Oleksander, Pavlo, Petro, Rhostislav, Roman, Sergei, Stanislav, Stepan, Vadim, Volodymir, Youri

-Female Names:

Bohdanna, Iryna, Ivanna, Kilina, Lilia, Lioubov, Malanka, Maria, Marunia, Olena, Palahna, Svitlana, Valentyna, Vita, Zhanna

-Surnames:

Andrukhovych, Artiukhov, Balakhonova, Baranovsky, Bazyr, Bezushko, Bialkevich, Bilyk, Bodrova, Borovoi, Bulkovsky, Cheryshova, Danylovych, Dergatchev, Dmitrenko, Dobrydnev, Dziuba, Frankivsk, Govorova, Herasymenkov, Ivankiv, Janchyskyj, Kalyna, Khorobehinski, Klochkova, Kolisnky, Kolpakov, Kosmenka, Kravchenko, Kryzhanovsky, Lavrinenko, Lishchinska, Malinevski, Nedelenko, Osovich, Pavlovych, Poliakov, Pomrenkel, Romanych, Savchuk, Stefaniuk, Teslenko, Varshavsky, Vasylenko, Volovyk, Zadinsky, Zadoinov

Sources: Realm of Terror, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Vorostokov
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on February 20, 2008, 03:40:12 AM
Vorostokov

Cultural Level: Dark Age

Climate: Boreal

Terrain: Forests, plains, hills, mountains

Major Settlements: Kargo (100), Kirinova (100), Nodvik (100), Novayalenk (100), Oneka (100), Torgov (100), Voronina (100), Vorostokov (200)

Population: 1,100

Races: 99% Humans, 1% Other

Languages: Vos

Religions: none

Government: Formerly independent settlements shifting to despotism

Ruler: Boyar Gregor Zolnik

Currency: none, trade conducted through barter

Resources: wheat, beets, potatoes, carrots, onions, reindeer, goats, trout, perch, pike, sturgeon, spirits, furs, timber, resin, iron

Diplomacy: Although the occasional wanderer has stumbled upon "the valley of eternal winter" from time to time, Vorostokov has by and large remained cut off from the outside world for years. Rangers have recently discovered a pass in the northwest leading into Sanguinia, though grotesque creatures have been sighted descending from the mountains at night, frightening off all but the most bold.

The Land: Vorostokov is a vast, frozen valley crushed by endless cold and terrorized by brutish warriors. Ringed by jagged, treacherous peaks, the domain's trackless steppes and forests are buried under perpetual snow. Weary reindeer herds and humans alike subsist on lichens, bark, and the bitter evergreen nuts that sprout every three months. The dark conifer forests are venerable and perilous, haunted by huge wolves and restless snow spirits. Brutal winds constantly whistle across the plains, and lethal blizzards are a weekly occurrence throughout the domain. The icebound Trau River meanders southwest across Vorostokov, draining into the black waters of the aptly named Bottomless Lake.

Vorostokov's tiny settlements are scattered, each a self-sufficient speck of civilization amid the frozen wastes. The domain's log buildings are long and low, single-room structures that reek of pitch and pine resin. The gabled roofs are thatched with winter hay and topped with tilting stone chimneys, their feeble smoke wisps vanishing in the wind. Animals, including reindeer and goats, are stabled inside residences so that their body heat warms the household. Modest but wickedly sharp palisade fences surround each home to keep out wolves and more unnatural interlopers.

The Folk: The Vos are hearty and stout, with fair skin, brown eyes, and dark hair. Women traditionally tie their waist-long hair into a single braid, while men wear their hair in a variety of styles, from wild, shorn temples, or a topknot. Men typically have facial hair. Vos clothing usually consists of hide shirts and trousers for men and long, layered dresses for women. Both genders wear furs when outdoors. Headwear consists of fur hats for men and shawls and kerchiefs for women. The furs are never dyed. Jewelry is rare, though many women have earrings made of antlers or bone. Snowshoes are almost always used when travelling in the wilderness.

The Vos are generally warm and good humored, but with each passing year of continual winter, their spirits have begun to grow dim. They are resolute in their determination to survive, and they disregard what they cannot change. They prize hospitality and socializing and are inherently suspicious of those who cannot enjoy a strong drink and a hearty laugh. Vos delight in eating, drinking, song, jokes, board games, and tests of might. Sweathouses, lodges where residents can relax amid thick steam, are a cornerstone of culture in Vos villages. Here, men and women alike gather to gossip and enjoy the therapeutic vapors. If the Vos have a weakness, it is their stubbornness and the slowness with which they are stirred to action. Dark streaks of cynicism mar the demeanors of many Vos, and this hopeless fatalism is often drowned in potent liquor.

The Law: Gregor Zolnik, the self-proclaimed boyar of Vorostokov, threatens to draw the entire domain into his grasp. In the past, a powerful warrior or wealth landowner governed each village in Vorostokov, ruling as he saw fit. The boyar organized the region in times of war and collected tribute on behalf of the king's distant court. Since the eternal winter settled over Vorostokov, the region has been in limbo, the settlements unable to establish contact with the monarchy. Zolnik, a master hunter and sadistic bully from the village of Vorostokov, has stepped forward and proclaimed himself the new boyar of the valley. To consolidate his power, Zolnik has gathered a boyarsky, a local band of warriors and thugs. He is now engaged in a brutal reign of terror intended to bring Vorostokov's settlements under his control.

As might be expected, Zolnik has met with stubborn resistance in some villages. His response is always swift and monstrous--the wholesale slaughter of the settlement's hunters and trappers. Starvation has caused more than one village to capitulate to Zolnik's demands, as the hunter offers the game of his huntsmen in exchange for loyalty. Slowly but surely, the boyar's reach is extending from village to village in the frozen valley.

Classes: barbarians, bards, fighters, rangers, and sorcerers

Recommended Skills: Heal, Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Back to the Wall, Endurance, Lunatic, Power Attack, Toughness, Weapon Focus (Greatsword)

Names:

-Male Names:

Anatoli, Barak, Baran, Basil, Boris, Dimas, Dmitri, Drago, Fyodr, Garan, Gregor, Karel, Kasimir, Igor, Ilya, Ivan, Josef, Leonid, Markov, Mikhail, Mischa, Nikoli, Orel, Pavel, Pavlov, Pyotr, Rodel, Sergei, Stefan, Victor, Vladimir, Yuri

-Female Names:

Chessa, Danica, Fiala, Galina, Jana, Kalina, Kara, Kira, Krista, Lena, Lenora, Lida, Mara, Marya, Marisha, Nadia, Natasha, Neva, Olga, Pavla, Petra, Pola, Raisa, Sonya, Tamara, Tanya

-Surnames:

Abelev, Alexandrei, Aznabaev, Bakhvalova, Barabanschikova, Basilevsky, Belikov, Beregovoi, Borzakovsky, Cherchesov, Chernyovskaya, Czartoryska, Demidenko, Dmytryk, Dorogoi, Dzhamgerchinov, Filischkin, Gavrilov, Gergiev, Golubkhov, Gretchaninov, Hvorostovsky, Ilyukhin, Kalinnikov, Kapustin, Kasparkova, Kozyrev, Lebedyenko, Lyapunov, Malenkov, Martinov, Mikhaylichenko, Nelyubova, Nikiforovic, Nizienko, Novakovsky, Oleneva, Ostrovsky, Pobedonostev, Potemkin, Protopopov, Raskolnikov, Rostropovich, Ryzhkov, Serafinowicz, Sidelnikov, Sokolov, Stoljarov, Svetlanov, Tchaikovskaya, Toporov, Zbruyev, Zhukov

Sources: Birthright Campaign Setting, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Nidala
Post by: Bluebomber4evr on March 05, 2012, 02:50:25 AM
Shadowlands Cluster

Nidala

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, Hills, Mountains, and Plains

Major Settlements: Touraine (20,200)

Population: 30,000

Languages: Nidalan

Religion: Belenus

Government: Theocratic Monarchy

Ruler: Elena Faith-hold, Knight Protector of Nidala

Currency: blaze (gp), flare (sp), flame (cp)

Resources: wheat, barley, oats, rye, potatoes, hogs, cattle, sheep, dairy, perch, salmon, crayfish, timber, silver, copper, iron, lead, limestone, salt, furniture.

Diplomacy: The Knight Protector discourages contact between her realm and other domains, reasoning that the corrupting influence of outsiders would only taint her subjects. Since Nidala is self-sufficient and somewhat remote, this has not been a problem in the past. Travelers who do find their way to Nidala are expected to adhere to Elena's decrees, an unlikely prospect since most outsiders are not even aware the laws exist. Thus, residents of other domains often find themselves on the way to Faith Hold's torture pits within days or even hours of their arrival in Nidala.

The Land: Nidala is a domain of breathtaking, rugged wilderness scoured clean of wickedness by the ruthless vigilance of the domain's Knight Protector. The Theospine Mountains run through the center of the realm, their snowcapped heights soaring up to touch cold, gray sky. Sparkling streams and rivers flow down either side of the range, teeming with freshwater fish and shellfish. To the east, the jagged crags descend to rolling foothills, where flocks of sheep graze serenely under the watchful gaze of shepherds. Lake Amenta huddles close to the southern reaches of the Theospines, its frigid waters supposedly concealing the gateway to a mystical kingdom. Farther to the east, sweeping grasslands and fertile farms stretch out beyond the foothills, eventually changing into a densely forested flood-plain. The Knight Protector's warriors patrol the eastern woods for predators, and lumberjacks work year-round without fear.

West of the Theospines, Nidala's landscape is much more savage and sinister. The peaks slope down toward rocky badlands, which are riddled with black, twisting caverns. Here the air is still and swollen with a palpable tension. As the barren hills descend into gloomy forests, the sense of dread heightens. The gnarled trees creak and sway regardless of the winds, making even seasoned woodsmen edgy. Snapping twigs and low growls betray the movements of stalking beasts, natural and otherwise.

Near the edge of the eastern foothills stands the bustling city of Touraine, smoke rising from its thousand little chimneys. Its buildings are charming and tidy, each built two stories tall with stone and timber and finished with creamy plaster. The gabled roofs are shingled in vermilion tiles, and windows are guarded with beautifully carved wooden shutters. Above the city, perched atop Mount Malcredo, glowers forbidding Faith Hold, castle of the Knight Protector. A churning thunderstorm rages perpetually above the keep, arcs of purple lightning periodically stretching out to strike the uppermost towers.

Overall, the climate in Nidala is cool and temperate, though winters can be extremely harsh.

The Folk: The Nidalans are lean folk blessed with strong limbs and commanding statures. They have smooth, fair skin that is frequently freckled or lightly tanned from working outdoors. A Nidalan's eyes are always an icy blue in color. Their straight hair is usually flaxen to dirty blond, but Nidalans with raven tresses are not unheard of. Men keep their hair trimmed short and grow their mustaches and beards out neatly to match. Women allow the hair to grow long, though rarely past the middle of the back. Clothing is rugged and functional, designed to allow the Nidalans to work easily and shrug off the chill air. Men wear loose shirts, vests, breeches, and high boots, while women don long dresses and aprons over blouses and pin their hair beneath stiff bonnets. Neutral colors such as black, white, and beige dominate Nidalan garb, though bright red accents are common. Jewelry is outlawed in Nidala, as the Knight Protector has decreed it vain and vulgar.

The Nidalans are grim folk exhausted and frustrated by the Knight Protector's endless moralistic decrees. Although they once enjoyed song, dance, and tragic plays, all such activities have been outlawed, leaving the Nidalans to pursue their livelihoods with a perceptible air of gloom. This is not to say that the Nidalans are utterly despondent at all times; rather, a vague, unshakable sense of loss clings to them, as if they feel profound regret. Family gatherings featuring elaborate feasts are central to Nidalan life, even if the atmosphere has been terse in recent years. Handicrafts are practiced throughout Nidala for recreation as well as profession, and many folk enjoy wood-carving in their spare time.

The Law: Elena Faith-hold, Knight Protector of Nidala, rules her realm through respect, order, and, above all, fear. She is a legendary holy warrior in the service of the sun god Belenus and takes her responsibilities to the faith extremely seriously. Unfortunately, the Nidalans have suffered mightily under her unwavering conviction and tenacity, and they pervert her name as "Elena Strangle-hold" in whispers.

Elena issues weekly Decrees of Faith, commandments and prohibitions that have slowly accumulated into a mountain of a moral code. To enforce her decrees, Elena relies on her knights and clerics, as well as an elaborate network of informants spread through the realm. Mayors officially govern Touraine and smaller settlements, gathering four times a year to discuss matters that affect the entire domain. Most Nidalans recognize these men for what they are: the eyes and ears of Elena.

Those who violate Elena's decrees are punished savagely. Public floggings and maimings are standard sentences, but those with the gall to speak against Elena or Belenus' church are dragged in chains to the infamous torture chambers of Faith Hold. Given this cruelty, Nidala would probably be on the edge of revolt if it were not for a legendary dragon named Banemaw. It is Elena's presence alone that keeps this eldritch wyrm at bay, though he has been known to slaughter rural villages beyond the Knight Protector's reach.

Classes: Clerics (of Belenus), fighters, rangers.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Influence, Lore

Recommended Crafts: armorsmithing, blacksmithing, carpentry, weaponsmithing

Recommended Professions: farmer, herdsman, lumberjack, miner

Recommended Feats: Power Attack, Skill Focus (Lore), Weapon Focus (longsword)

Names:

-Male Names:

Aberth, Adwen, Alcuin, Berngal, Bran, Cael, Cathbadh, Cobthach, Cu, Deaghadh, Donn-Ruadh, Dubhdaleithe, Eoban, Etgall, Findabair, Foilleán, Gillacomghain, Gorm-Shuileach, Gwythno, Iduthin, Istoreth, Keir, Kylan, Lachlan, Leith, Liobhan, Mac Da Tho, Maelchwn, Merddyn, Morgund, Muirchú, Natanleod, Nuadha, Oren, Rian, Robhartach, Rowan, Samthainn, Sgoith-Gleigeil, Suanach, Tuaigh, Tyrnon, Vran

-Female Names:

Ailne, Boudica, Briga, Daalny, Duineachta, Ethil, Finndealbh, Gwyna, Innogen, Keelta, Liath, Miluchradh, Modwenna, Moriath, Onuava, Rhyanidd, Sinna, Tiabhal, Tuag, Uchtdealb, Unna, Veldicca, Wenna

Sources: Islands of Terror, Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: Souragne
Post by: EO on November 03, 2020, 01:45:21 PM
Souragne

Cultural Level: Chivalric

Climate: Warm

Terrain: Forests and Swamps

Major Settlements: Marais d'Tarascon (300), Port d'Elhour (1,200).

Population: 3,100

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Souragnien

Religions: The Loa.

Government: Independent aristocratic settlements

Ruler: None.

Currency: gravestone (gp), fingerbone (sp), toothchip (cp)

Resources: rice, yams, sugarcane, cotton, catfish, crappie, shrimp, crayfish, spirits, salt

Diplomacy: Sailors who find their way to the Murky Sea regard Souragne as a hostile and unpleasant domain. Although the sugar and cotton grown here are highly valued in distant domains, merchants are wary of the sweltering climate, Maison d'Sablet's unseen horrors, and the peculiar ways of the Souragniens. The native nobility, for their part, strive to encourage trade with other domains. They hope to expand their influence into other realms and watch Port d'Elhour emerge as a vital harbor in the Land of Mists.

The Land: Souragne is a domain that swarms and slithers with life, a lush river delta choked with dark bayous. Called Maison d'Sablet by the Souragniens, the wooded swamp that covers most of the domain stretches out like a languid snake. The muggy air is thick with gray fog and buzzing insects. Pale green moss hangs heavy on the cypress trees, where raccoons and opossums clamber. The few folk who dwell in the bayou pole their wooden rafts through the fetid waters, keeping a wary eye out for alligators and more unnatural threats. At night, the swamps come alive with the trilling of frogs, crickets, and cicadas. The delta fans northward toward the Souragne's warm, shallow coastline along the Murky Sea. Near the center of the domain is Lake Noir, its waters slick with algae and choked with cattails.

Most settlements are in the east, where ground is slightly higher and flooding less severe. The domain's villages are cramped and sweltering, the gray stone edifices of their buildings looming over narrow, muddy streets. Balconies and gates of wrought iron adorn the two-story homes and shops, alongside stone carvings of snakes and dancing skeletons. The plantations of the nobility feature magnificent estates with lustrous white pillars and gloomy willow groves. The high water table prevents traditional burial in Souragne, so the dead are entombed in morbidly beautiful mausoleums. Unrelenting, oppressive heat and humidity mark the domain's weather. The autumn rainy season brings temperatures that are only slightly cooler than the norm.

The Folk: Souragniens are generally short in stature and slight of build, but their appearance otherwise exhibits remarkable variation. Their skin can range from milky pale to a deep coffee brown. Eye colors vary widely, from pale blue to hazel to nearly black. Hair is either straight or tightly curled and anywhere from auburn to raven black in color. Men keep their hair very short or shoulder length, with nobles preferring the latter, and shun facial hair. Women let their hair grow quite long, and while commoners don't mind wild and tangled tresses, noblewomen style their hair elaborately, pinning it up in delicate fashion. Among commoners, clothing is threadbare and humble; men wear a loose shirt and trousers, women a blouse and long skirt. Such garb is usually naturally colored rather than dyed. Nobles, on the other hand, go about in exquisite garments of vibrant hue. Men wear blousy shirts under jerkins, sashes, and breeches with high boots. Women wear revealing, ruffled dresses in pastel colors. Jewelry is common among the aristocracy, who love to show off their wealth through such baroque adornments.

The class divide in Souragne is deep and bloody. Property owners, no matter how humble their assets, are the elite, and all others must toil to serve them. Commoners are little better than slaves; they're exploited by the aristocracy until they collapse, then discarded. Among the nobles it is acceptable to savagely abuse commoners, even without reason. In villages, poor farmers rub shoulders with gamblers and streetwalkers, attempting to drown their miseries in vice. All Souragniens, regardless of class, tend to be earthy, passionate folk. They have little respect for academic knowledge, instead valuing cunning and strength of character.

Souragniens are also superstitious people, their beliefs revolving around natural spirits called loa, The loa are the embodiment of natural forces; chief among them is the Maiden of the Swamp, who represents Masion d'Sablet itself, and the Lord of the Dead. While numerous loa are revered, Souragniens truly fear the Lord of the Dead, who has the power to take the deceased as his own, raising them as zombies. Wild festivals throughout the year honor the loa and appease the Lord of the Dead in particular. Many customs in Souragne are believed to tap the power of the loa to attract success and romance or to strike one's rivals with misfortune.

The Law: Villages in Souragne are essentially autonomous, the nobles electing a lord mayor from among their ranks every two years. Precious little governance actually occurs, however; lord mayors merely act as voices for the aristocracy, who create and enforce laws in the domain to suit their needs. There are no standing militias in Souragnien villages, but young noblemen are expected to serve a term as village constables.

Although he may be only a mythical being, the Lord of the Dead is so deeply feared in Souragne that the folk follow customs intended to please him. The dead are not interred for four days following death, out of deference to the Lord of the Dead, who may choose to claim the corpse as his servant. Similarly, all arcane magic save Necromancy displeases him, and as such its practice is strictly forbidden among the Souragniens.

Classes: Druids, rangers, rogues, sorcerers and voodan are the most common, but any class can find its way in Souragne. Voodan (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=50127.0) are the primary religious casters but clerics also worship the Loa pantheon.

Recommended Skills: Discipline, Lore, Perform

Recommended Feats: Exotic Weapon Proficiency,  Spell Focus (Necromancy), Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (rapier, sickle).

Names:

-Male Names:

Alphonse, André, Antoine, Anton, Bernard, Bertrand, Bruno, Claude, Colin, Donatien, Étienne, Florian, François, Frederic, Gaston, Georges, Gerard, Gilles, Guy, Henri, Hervé, Hubert, Jacques, Jean, Jean Pierre, Jean-Claude, Jean-Francois, Jean-Paul, Jerald, Jordi, Laurent, Louis, Luc, Lucien, Marcus, Mathieu, Michel, Nazaris, Olivier, Pascal, Phillippe, Pierre, Pierot, Raoul, Remy, Renard, René, Serge, Thibault, Thierry, Tomas, Valčre, Vardain

-Female Names:

Adélaďde, Adéle, Adrienne, Aimée, Amélie, Antoinette, Avril, Bernadette, Blaise, Brigitte, Camille, Celeste, Chantal, Charlotte, Clarisse, Claudette, Corinne, Danielle, Désirée, Dominique, Éloise, Emmanuelle, Evelyne, Fiora, Francoise, Genevieve, Giselle, Henrietta, Henriette, Hillaire, Isabelle, Jacqueline, Jeanne, Joan, Joséphine, Josette, Karine, Katha, Lillin, Louise, Manon, Marguerite, Marie, Marie-Laure, Mirielle, Monique, Nadine, Nathalie, Nichole, Regine, Renée, Rolande, Sabine, Solange, Sophie, Sylvie, Tatienne, Teresa, Therese, Valerie, Vivienne, Yvonne, Zoé

-Surnames:

Alard, Anciaux, Arguelles, Barbier, Bascolm, Baudelaire, Beauregard, Bordeaux, Bordell, Bouchet, Brosseau, Camus, Carbonneau, Chaboteaux, Chevalier, Clemenceau, Clouseau, Coulette, d'Aubec, d'Espivant, d'Cann, Daumier, De La Brosse, De La Chaize, De Lavergne, De Leon, De Masse, De Thibault, Delaroux, Deneuve, Deschamps, Destine, Du Plat, Dupin, Durand, Favreau, Flaubert, Foucault, Garnier, Gatteux, Gauthier, Gillette, Goulet, Gremin, Grignon, Jean-Aubry, Jeune, Labourdette, Lacroix, Lambert, Laporte, Larroquette, Laurier, Lavigne, Le Jeune, Le Marquand, Le Nôtre, L'Heureux, Levi, Marceau, Martineau, Moreau, Pepin, Pichot, Poiret, Quilleboeuf, Renault, Roche, Simoneau, Soulette, Thibedeaux, Tourette, Verret, Voltaire

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Domains of Dread, Night of the Living Dead, Ravenloft Monstrous Compendium III

Note: the Souragnien Gazetteer netbook made by the Fraternity of Shadows is not considered Canon for our Server.
Title: I'Cath
Post by: Dread on May 31, 2021, 06:46:56 AM
I'Cath

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Urban Sprawl

Major Settlements: The City of I'Cath (10,000)

Population: 10,000

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Shou (High Shou)

Religions: The Celestial Bureaucracy (rare)

Government: Autocratic Despotism

Ruler: Queen Tsien Chiang

Currencies: no currency; trade conducted through barter in the waking world; no need for it in the dreaming world

Resources: None. Those who find themselves in the waking city and remain risk starvation, unless they raid the homes of those still sleeping.

Diplomacy: None. The vast majority in I'Cath, including its ruler, are asleep and have little interest in interaction with the waking world. Additionally, it is an Island of Terror, cut off from the Core.

The Folk and the City: Those who live in I'Cath are descended from the Shou peoples of Kara-Tur. They typically have bronze, sandy complexions, black hair, and broad flat facial features. Their language, High Shou, utilizes the Draconic alphabet and yet is its own language separate from the tongue of wyrms. It is said that I'Cath in times past was a radiant center for learning and art, though now those who live in the city -- those who dream, that is -- know only toil and hardship. and they can be afforded no distractions from that. While a part of this collective dream, the people of I'Cath do not eat, drink, or sleep. All time is spent working.

When the inhabitants of I'Cath fall asleep, they enter an alternate version of the city they call home—a city dreamed into being by the Queen, through the power of the Nightingale Bell. In time, these poor souls can’t remember which version is the real I'Cath and which one is the dream. In the physical world, I'Cath's surreal, knotted streets echo with their emptiness. Within spare, meandering row houses, the majority of the populace slump against walls or sprawl against each other where they fell. These people lie trapped within a collective dream world created by the city’s ruler, Tsien Chiang. Within this shared dream they labor ceaselessly, ever striving to create the impossible, perfect city of a perfectionist mastermind.

The streets and row-homes of I'Cath change nightly, making navigation next to impossible. The city has a single exit, the Four Trees Gate, but few know how to reach it. What few who do manage to escape I'Cath and the dream that envelops its people frequently elect to pass through the gate when they find it and take their chances with the Mists that surround the massive, sprawling, labyrinthine city. Often do they forget to take care of themselves, neglecting to eat or drink; after all, whilst they dreamt, they did not need to. They find themselves troubled by perfectly mundane nightmares of their captivity in Tsien Chiang's dream-world, believing that they have been reclaimed by that which they had escaped. Some even tend towards solipsism, believing that it is impossible for them to know for certain that they are awake.

The Law: Autocratic Despotism.

Within the dream-city of I'Cath, the Queen Tsien Chiang rules a golden vision of the city—a place of ultimate beauty and efficiency where all things move according to her design. For her, it is near perfection. For her people, it is a nightmare of inescapable drudgery from which death is the only escape. The dream-city's identical, even streets sprawl across a broad hill, atop which rises a glorious palace Tsien Chiang shares with her four perfect daughters. Day or night, the streets are filled with people ever toiling to perfect the buildings, reshape the gardens, and undo the work of the previous days and weeks in favor of new designs. Within the dream, there is no respite, nor need for sleeping, eating, or for attending to any other concerns. They know only their work and the glory of Tsien Chiang.

In the waking world, the truth of I'Cath is starkly apparent. Rows of decrepit, moldy homes merge to line endless, coiling avenues. The streets wind and double back, but eventually climb the rise at the city’s center, where the infamous Palace of Bones and the gold-scaled Ping'On Tower loom. By day, the streets are largely empty, except for those few desperate residents of I'Cath who have yet to succumb to the domain’s dream. They rush through their days, scavenging what they can in hopes of enduring the coming night. At night, Tsien Chiang's chiang-shi and other servants prowl the streets.

Classes: Rogues number high among those who have escaped from I'Cath, owing to their survival skills and ability to scavenge. In spite of the endless toil demanded by its ruler, the spark of creativity has not been wholly stamped out in I'Cath; for this reason, you still see Bards on occasion. Though rare, there are a few clerics and shamans serving the Celestial Bureaucracy. Sorcerers and wizards are not uncommon either, particularly evokers with an interest in the elements.

Recommended Skills: Hide, Move Silently, Search

Recommended Feats: Back to the Wall, Courage, Dead Man Walking, Endurance, Stealthy

Names:

-Male Names:

An, Chen, Chi, Fai, Jiang, Jun, Lian, Long, Meng, On, Shan, Shui, Wen

-Female Names:

Bai, Chao, Jia, Lei, Mei, Qiao, Shui, Tai

-Surnames:

Chien, Huang, Kao, Kung, Lao, Ling, Mei, Pin, Shin, Sum, Tan, Wan



Questions/Considerations for Characters from I'Cath:

How did you escape I’Cath? How long were you awake?

How did you evade or distract the chiang-shi and the spirits that serve the Queen? Did you find or lose something during your wandering? Do you bear a mark or scar from the experience?

Whom did you leave behind in I’Cath? Why didn’t they go with you? Did you try to forget about them? Is it your hope to one day return to I’Cath for them?

Sources: Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft, 5th Ed., Races of Faerűn, p. 108., 2003, 3rd Ed.
Title: Rokushima Táiyoo
Post by: EO on June 05, 2021, 10:41:52 PM
Rokushima Táiyoo

Cultural Level: Dark Age

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, Hills and Mountains

Major Settlements: Beikoku (1,800), Chuugoka (3,100), Eikoku (2,300), Roshiya (2,500).

Population: 19,300

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Rokuma

Religions: The Kami.

Government: Feudal hereditary aristocracy

Ruler: Four shujin.

Currency: chrysanthemum (gp), water lily (sp), cherry blossom (cp)

Resources: rice, beans, tea, mulberries, citrus, herring, mackerel, tuna, sardines, salmon, crabs, squid, seaweed, beer, silver, copper, iron, lead, silk

Diplomacy: Rokushima Táiyoo has long been an isolated domain embroiled in its own exhausting conflicts and unaware of the wider world beyond its shores. Recent contact with Dementlieuse and Darkonian sailors has not encouraged the Rokuans, who have found these outsiders brutish and disrespectful. Nonetheless, the presence of such travelers may prove to be a wild card in the struggle between the shujin. The brothers have taken notice of these foreign strangers and are even now scheming of ways to take advantage of their boorish naivete and tantalizing weapons.

The Land: Rokushima Táiyoo, also known as the Six Islands of the Sun, is a lush archipelago that rises impossibly from the surrounding Poison Sea. The domain's sobriquet might seem to be a misnomer, as there are only four isles. The Rokuma, however, assert that the two vanished islands sank into the ocean when their shujin, or local lords, were killed. The remaining isles surround the glassy surface of the Great Mirror Lake, which is fed by clear mountain springs. The waters of the lake rush between the islands, cascading down jagged slopes of coral and into the venomous depths of the Poison Sea. The roiling Nightmare Mists shroud the lake's western outlet to the sea, and ships voyaging into the dread vapors never emerge. The snowcapped peak of Mount Frost soars high above the surrounding islands, its slopes purportedly riddled with corrupted shrines and caches of plundered treasure. The island landscape is rugged and picturesque, blanketed by damp evergreen forests, arching wood bridges, and misty waterfalls.

Structures in Rokushima Táiyoo are elegant and possess a distinct aesthetic style. Wood is used almost exclusively in construction, fitted together without nails. Decorative gables, eaves, and screens are commonplace. The walls and sliding doors are often made of thin paper on a wooden frame, allowing for easy repairs following the domain's vicious storms and earthquakes. The shujin, however, dwell in enormous stone castles with multiple tiers climbing up to touch the sun. Serene shrines both magnificent and humble dot the islands; located on sites of natural beauty and power, they are identifiable by the sacred torii gates. The weather in the domain is fierce and merciless. Summers are oppressive and muggy, autumns beset by rampaging typhoons. Winters are brutally cold, burying the domain under endless snow. Springtime is short but comparatively pleasant, a time when the islands are covered in pale flower blossoms.

The Folk: The Rokuma are slight in stature but blessed with trim builds and physical grace. Their skin tone varies from creamy white to ruddy brown, usually with a sallow tinge. Eye color tends to be dark, ranging from hazel to midnight black. Rokuma hair is straight, sleek, and jet-black. Men and women both grow their hair long, arranging it in elaborate fashion with wooden pins, though commoner men sometimes prefer a shorter style. Men are clean shaven, regarding facial hair as barbarous. Women and men alike wear widesleeved robes belted at the waist with a sash over a long shirt or shift. Men also don loose trousers or wrapped leggings. Soft slippers or wooden sandals are the customary footwear. Male commoners are fond of wide straw hats to keep off the sun and snow. Black and soft pastels are favored colors in clothing.

The Rokuma are reserved and enigmatic folk, ascribing great value to social decorum and aesthetics. They prize beauty and harmony, whether in the natural world or in their relationships. They are reverent toward the kami, the spirits that are believed to dwell in all things, and worship at breathtaking natural shrines. The elderly are given great respect, and proper etiquette is imperative even among the poorest commoners.

The Rokuma have a deep respect for the warrior's skill with sword and bow. They see beauty in all of life's pursuits and feel secure in their place in the natural order. The constant warring between the island shujin, however, has created an atmosphere of terror in the domain's villages. The bloody conflict has cast a fearful shadow over the Rokuma, who endure harassment and brutality from the prideful samurai of their masters.

The Law: Each of Rokushima Táiyoo's four islands is ruled by a shujin, a feudal warlord with numerous lesser noble warriors under his vassalage. The domain's shujin are all brothers, endlessly bickering over the birthright each feels was denied him by a deceased father. Although each shujin is ostensibly responsible for overseeing his island realm, the brothers are completely obsessed with breaking one another's power. Their slow, smoldering war wreaks havoc on the lives of their subjects. Their samurai clash openly in the streets, heedless of the commoners who are caught in the conflict. Ninja clans slink through the shadows, carrying out sabotage and assassinations. Periodically, the struggle explodes into outright warfare as the forces of each brother slaughter one another in gruesome battles. In most villages, there is no longer any civic order at all.

In short, the greed and pride of the shujin is literally tearing the Six Islands of the Sun apart. The Rokuans try to carry on with their lives, hoping that adherence to tradition will carry them through the dark times. Many folk, however, have turned to shrewd brigands called yakuza to protect them from their own nobility.

Classes: Druids, fighters, monks, rogues, shamans (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=69411.msg796745#msg796745) and wizards. Sorcerers and clerics are uncommon. Barbarians, bards, and paladins are unknown here.

Recommended Skills: Influence, Lore, Perform.

Recommended Feats: Expertise (plus derivatives), Improved Unarmed Strike (plus derivatives), Two-Weapon Fighting (plus derivatives), Weapon Focus (longsword).

Names:

-Male Names:

Akahito, Akira, Arimoto, Atasuke, Benjiro, Bussho, Chojiro, Chomei, Daisetsu, Daisuke, Ebizo, Eichi, Eiji, Eisuke, Fujimaro, Fukusaburu, Fumihiko, Genichi, Genjo, Gennosuke, Goemon, Goro, Hachemon, Hajime, Hayato, Heihachiro, Hideki, Hideo, Hideyoshi, Hikaru, Hiroshi, Ichiro, Iwao, Jin, Jun, Kadonomaro, Katsuhiko, Kazuma, Kei, Ken, Kenji, Kenshin, Makoto, Masaharu, Matsuo, Minoru, Miyazaki, Nobuo, Noriaki, Oda, Ryo, Ryu, Sanjiro, Sojuro, Sotaro, Takahashi, Takeshi, Taro, Tetsuo, Tetsuya, Tokugawa, Toru, Yajirobei, Yamato, Yoshi, Yoshihiro, Yoshimitsu, Yuji, Yukio, Yusuke

-Female Names:

Ai, Ami, Ayame, Eiko, Emiko, Eri, Fujiko, Hana, Haruko, Hatsuyo, Hikaru, Hisako, Hitomi, Inoue, Izumi, Juri, Kaede, Kaori, Kaoru, Katsumi, Keiko, Mae, Maki, Megumi, Midori, Misako, Misato, Momoko, Naoko, Natsumi, Noriko, Reiko, Riku, Risa, Rumiko, Ryoko, Sakura, Shiori, Suzuko, Tomoe, Yoko, Yuki, Yumi, Yuriko

-Surnames:

Akamatsu, Akiyama, Arakawa, Ashikaga, Chikanatsu, Daishi, Endo, Fuchida, Fujimoto, Fukayama, Funaki, Genji, Hama, Harada, Hideki, Hiro, Honda, Ichiro, Ikeda, Imagawa, Inoguchi, Ishibashi, Ishikawa, Ito, Kasahara, Kato, Katsuhika, Kawakami, Kobayashi, Kodama, Koga, Kojima, Kurosawa, Kuwabara, Matsuda, Matsumoto, Matsuya, Mitsui, Miyagi, Miyamoto, Muraoka, Nagasawa, Nakatoni, Narato, Nishimoto, Nobunaga, Nomura, Okada, Okamura, Otomo, Oyama, Saito, Sakai, Sakamoto, Sano, Sasaki, Sato, Shimamura, Suzuki, Takagawa, Takahashi, Takara, Takeda, Tanaka, Tsuda, Uchida, Ueda, Watanabe, Yamada, Yamaguchi, Yamamoto, Yoshida

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting
Title: G'Henna
Post by: EO on June 05, 2021, 10:57:54 PM
G'Henna

Cultural Level: Classical

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Hills, Plains, and Mountains

Major Settlements: Zhukar (10,100).

Population: 19,500

Races: 98% Human, 2% Other

Languages: Balok,* Falkovnian

Religions: Zhakata*.

Government: Theocracy

Ruler: Yagno Petrovna.

Currency: stoneclaw (gp), irontusk (sp), bonefang (cp)

Resources: wheat, corn, oats, turnips, potatoes, sheep, goats, cattle, wine, beer, iron, copper, lead, iron goods

Diplomacy: G'Henna has struggled to maintain contact with the realms of the Core in the hope that commerce will bring desperately needed food to the domain. Most merchants prefer to leave the domain to its fanatical clerics, however; the land produces few resources that cannot be obtained in more hospitable lands. Petrovna cares nothing for his realm's standing among outsiders. His only concerns are to ensure that Zhakata is properly venerated and to maintain order within G'Henna; the Inquisition hastily removes any foreigners who interfere with either task.

The Land: G'Henna is a bleak, windbeaten wasteland, a domain where hunger and hardship are ways of life. Legend states that the rampages of the beast-god Zhakata the Devourer wreaked havoc on the once fertile land.

Constant, brutal gales blow across G'Henna's chill plains, bending the stunted grasses and brown shrubs. The rocky, dry soil is poor for both farming and grazing; herds of emaciated cattle and goats roam the wastes forlornly. Craggy uplands rise up like broken teeth throughout the domain, casting gray shadows across the land. The domain is covered with desolate stretches of cold desert, salt flats, and fields of fine, windblown ash. Savage windstorms scream out of the wastes, burning the skin and driving even stalwart herdsmen to safety. The silty, brackish waters of the Eel's Flow and Drogach Rivers meander through the badlands, providing little nourishment to the surrounding farmsteads.

Zhukar is G'Henna's solitary city, and its fearful populace is ruled by starvation and miserable submission. The grim buildings are constructed of massive stone blocks roughly hewn and pale dun in color. Everywhere are carvings of monstrous stone faces bristling with horns and tusks. Colossal pillars and intricate mosaics of polished bone adorn the grander buildings. Beyond the city, many G'Hennans dwell in round tents of ragged hide, which can be easily packed up and moved when folk must search for better grazing grounds. Although chill, G'Henna's climate is temperate overall. Its winters, however, are unforgiving. Wind temperatures drop cold enough to crack stone, and the muddy rivers freeze completely through.

The Folk: G'Hennans are lean and gaunt, their features sunken. Their skin is fair, though often with a faint sallow, ruddy, or dusky tone. Raw windburns commonly afflict those who dwell on the plains. G'Hennans' eyes are always exceptionally dark and often black as midnight. Their straight hair is a drab gray-brown or flat black in color. Men keep their hair short and slicked back and wear long, closely trimmed sideburns. Mustaches are not uncommon, but all married men wear a beard, which is waxed stiffly into a long braid. Women grow their hair to a moderate length, pinning it up under thin shawls. G'Hennan clothing is humble and often drab. Men wear blousy white shirts, vests with stiff collars, wide trousers, and short boots. Older men also wrap themselves in long, woolen robes and don small cloth caps. Women wear long dresses with wide hems and high collars, usually over baggy pantaloons.

Those who must survive on the bitter wastelands don long, thick coats and round fur hats. Clothing is always neutral in color: black, white, beige or brown. Jewelry is rarely seen except among Zhakata's clerics, who wear grisly ornaments crafted of human bone and teeth.

G'Hennans live in fear of Zhakata the Destroyer, a ruthless beast-god that exists only to annihilate whatever they toil to produce. All aspects of life in G'Henna are shaped around endless supplication of Zhakata. This constant devotion wears visibly on the G'Hennans. Grim and humorless, they have neither the time nor the inclination to savor pleasures such as dance or song. The horrors of starvation and the bottomless cruelty of Zhakata's clerics have long ago broken the spirits of most folk. Despite this, they have many sacred traditions, which are adhered to with solemn strictness. Mealtimes are hallowed events, and families gather dutifully, squatting on woven carpets at a low table, to partake of the meager fare. One of the most sacred heirlooms a family can possess is the guesting cup, a chalice made from the skull of an ancestor who was martyred by starvation.

The Law: Yagno Petrovna, Prophet of Zhakata, rules G'Henna from Zhukar, his divine word regarded as the supreme law of the land. Petrovna is a passionate zealot blessed with feverish visions of the Destroyer.

Three times a week, he preaches of Zhakata's boundless fury before the city's assembled throngs, working himself into a roaring fit of religious fervor. Petrovna sits atop the mammoth religious hierarchy of Zhakata's church, guiding it as the living voice of the Destroyer. There is no authority in G'Henna save that of the church. Clad in their distinctive vestments of scarlet and orange, clerics and holy warriors perform all military and civic duties. Petrovna also has a secret order of cleric enforcers known as the Inquisition. Unlike most of the church hierarchy, they operate from the shadows, vigilant for heresy and dissidence.

Zhakata is a feral, destructive god who eagerly tears down whatever the G'Hennans build and devours whatever they produce. To placate him, the G'Hennans are expected to donate all the food they produce directly to the church, which receives the offerings in a sunrise ceremony known as Zhakata's Taking. Whatever food remains by sunset is returned to the people as Zhakata's Dole. Fasting is a sacred sacrifice in G'Henna, and the Inquisition harshly punishes black market dealings in foodstuffs. The worship of any gods but Zhakata is forbidden, as is the practice of arcane magic. Once a week, Petrovna performs a horrifying miracle, transforming a criminal into a deformed abomination as a sacrifice to Zhakata. The only persistent hostilities the church encounters are from the barbaric bandits who dwell deep in the hinterlands. Hatefully atheistic, these raiders conduct a clandestine war of attrition against the church and Petrovna. Little is known of their cunning and shadowy leader, who is simply called the Jackal.

Classes: Barbarians, clerics, fighters, rogues are the most common classes. Clerics must worship Zhakata.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Influence, Lore.

Recommended Feats: Endurance, Improved Critical, Skill Focus (Lore), Toughness, Weapon Focus (whip).

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Circle of Darkness, Domains of Dread
Title: Odiare
Post by: EO on June 05, 2021, 11:13:39 PM
Odiare

Cultural Level: Medieval, though there are remnants of a Renaissance culture

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Settled Area (Village)

Major Settlements: Odiare (fewer than 100).

Population: Fewer than 100.

Races: 100% Human

Languages: Odiarian (Gothic Earth Italian)

Religions: None.

Government: Informal commonwealth

Ruler: Rudolfo and Giselle Velutto.

Currency: none. Scattered silver currency can be found in Odiare, but the citizens have no use for hard coin and see little value in such baubles.

Resources: wheat, corn, potatoes, chestnuts, almonds, olives

Diplomacy: Odiare is a secluded and lonely village where many months often pass before outsiders wander into its quiet streets. The Odiarans are friendly to travelers, but their demeanor is tinged with apprehension. Indeed, Odiarans urge such outsiders to leave the village as soon as possible; they fear that Maligno will slay any newcomers he perceives as a threat to the children.

The Land: Odiare consists of a solitary, foggy village where the memories of childhood horrors are still fresh in the minds of the populace. The town's narrow streets are paved in smooth cobblestones and are blessedly free of waste, mud, and other detritus. The humble homes and shops are tidy two-story structures built of soft stone brick, plastered, and painted white or cream. The shallow, gabled roofs are shingled with dusky red-orange tiles. Many of the village's structures are in a sorry state, however. Roofs are marred by gaping holes, plaster crumbles away in chunks, and shattered glass hangs limply in window frames. The Odiarans labor tirelessly to maintain the buildings as best they can. The Secolo Theater - once gutted by fire - has recently been rebuilt for use as a village meeting house. Nearby, a bronze statue of a nameless woman tops a fountain in the village square, the mournful figure clutching a broken doll to her chest. Hidden between the buildings are a handful of stunted gardens, the only source of food for the Odiarans. Overhead, the sun traces a low, lazy path through the hazy sky for a mere six hours each day. The long nights, meanwhile, are starless and chill; an eerie stillness settles over the village, marked only rarely by the distant echoes of laughing children. The climate is moderate in the village, with mild summers and cool, wet winters.

The Folk: As a group, the Odiarans are young. Save for a demented, elderly toymaker, no villagers are over the age of thirty, and a few of the young adult couples have infants or toddlers of their own. They are trim and lean folk, if a bit undernourished. Their skin ranges from fair to medium olive-tan, often with a ruddy or sallow tinge. Eye color varies widely, from pale green to deep brown.  Their straight or finely curled hair ranges from dark blond to raven black, though darker hues are more common. Males keep their hair short and styled back, with young men always going about clean shaven. Females grow their hair to just below the shoulder. Odiaran clothing is humble and often threadbare from years of wear. The boys and men wear loose shirts, breeches, and high socks. Women and girls wear long, blousy dresses, tying their hair back with wide ribbons. Bright colors are rare in Odiaran garb, with most clothing appearing in neutral tones or washed-out hues of red, orange, and yellow.

The Odiarans are genial and considerate folk prizing simple values such as cooperation, sharing, and compassion. Although they are diligent and hard working, they also have an enduring affection for performance, including music, dance, and theater. Honesty comes easy to them, but a sheltered life in their strange village has made them more than a little naive. Their only fear is Maligno, Odiare's persistent bogeyman. According to legend, Maligno is a wooden puppet that skulks in the village's shadows, gleefully watching the Odiarans from hidden crannies. Maligno loves children first and foremost, but unfortunately his affection is twisted and malicious. The Odiarans believe it was Maligno who massacred the adults of the village nearly twenty years ago, aided by an army of malevolent toys. Although the little marionette has not been sighted for some time, many older Odiarans are terrified that he will return for them soon. Maligno's creator, an old toymaker named Guiseppe, still dwells in Odiare, laboring at his workbench in the depths of bleary madness.

The Law: The Odiarans conduct themselves in a remarkably peaceful and orderly manner. The oldest villagers have authority by virtue of their wisdom and experience; other Odiarans obey their requests unhesitatingly. Most Odiarans respect in particular the words of Rudolfo and Giselle Velutto, the village's eldest inhabitants at twenty-three and twenty-seven respectively. Early morning town meetings serve as a focal point for organizing the various tasks for the day. Chores are doled out according to each individual's skills and strengths. Gardens must be tended, buildings must be repaired and maintained, and numerous tools and everyday items must be crafted by hand. Older citizens teach the young the fundamental skills and trades that are vital to the village's continued survival. Although any Odiaran is free to leave the village and settle elsewhere, those who choose the Mists over Odiare are considered reckless and irresponsible.

Classes: Bards, fighters and rogues. Due to the nature of the land, characters native to Odiare lack formal schooling and as such classes such as cleric and wizard are out of their reach; rangers, barbarians and druids cannot hail from such a civilized setting. Characters must be under the age of twenty five.

Recommended Skills: Heal, Influence, Perform, Search.

Recommended Feats: Courage, Dodge, Iron Will, Weapon Focus (dagger).

Names: Italian names and surnames can be used for Odiare.

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Domains of Dread, The Created
Title: Sri Raji
Post by: EO on June 05, 2021, 11:29:46 PM
The Verdurous Lands

Sri Raji

Cultural Level: Classical

Climate: Warm

Terrain: Forests, Hills, and Mountains

Major Settlements: Muladi (8,200), Pakat (3,500), Tvashti (2,100).

Population: 27,300

Languages: Rajian

Religion: Rajian Pantheon

Government: Theocratic and aristocratic monarchy

Ruler: Maharaja Arijani

Currency: soma-drop (gp), lotus-flower (sp), rice-seed (cp)

Resources: rice, tea, cotton, jute, coconuts, tobacco, peanuts, spices, rubber, cattle, goats, timber, iron, gems, cloth.

Diplomacy: Sri Raji trades sporadically with numerous distant domains, though exchanges have always been marked by awkward cultural differences. Contact with other lands continues to increase, however. Just as Rajian explorers have pushed into the neighboring Wildlands and more far-flung realms, travelers from the Core arrive seeking Sri Raji's exotic goods. It remains to be seen when the Maharaja will turn his awful attention to these outsiders.

The Land: Sri Raji is a land of tropical forests and crumbling ruins where the people live according to traditions as old as time and cower in fear from their dread Maharaja. Enormous hardwoods tower around travelers in the forests, the limbs heavy with vines, mosses, and orchids. Green dampness permeates everything, as heavy rains batter the forests each night. The thickets echo with the cacophony of animal life, from the buzzing of parasitic insects to the shrieks of monkeys to the growls of prowling tigers. Ancient temples and shrines peek through the verdant shroud in places, hinting at forgotten secrets. To the northwest, the Yahasha Mountains climb toward white wisps of mist, as lush as the surrounding lowlands. Broad, muddy rivers meander down from the mountains, their banks swarming with listless crocodiles. Eminent among these waterways is the sacred Damuhm River, which flows from legendary Bahru, the Accursed City. Beyond Mount Yamatali, the highest peak in the Yahashas, the land plunges away into the forsaken, fog-bound waters of Saragoss.

Sri Raji's cities are walled bastions of civilization surrounded by vast rice fields. Within the city gates, throngs of filthy beggars swarm everywhere, clamoring for a single coin. The muddy streets are strewn with diseased corpses and the dung of buffalo and elephants. The contrast with the city's spectacular architecture is striking. The blocky buildings are constructed of stone brick and finished with plaster, which is often painted with colorful trim. Slender columns, delicate latticework, and colorful awnings adorn even the humblest homes and shops. The grandest structures are breathtaking in their beauty, with walls of polished stone, imposing towers, and friezes depicting famous myths.

The Folk: Rajians are lithe people short in stature but blessed with trim builds. Their skin tone is dark, ranging from a medium olive-tan to deep chocolate brown. Eye color is almost always dark brown, though rare individuals with pale gray or green eyes are sometimes seen. Rajian hair is straight and always black, though its sheen can be flat or glossy. Men cut their hair short, regarding long hair as barbaric. Women, however, grow their hair throughout their lives, pulling it back and braiding it into a single lock.

It is acceptable for men to wear neat mustaches or beards or to be clean shaven, as suits their taste. Clothing is made of light cotton dyed with vibrant colors of every hue. Men wear loose shirts and wrapped leggings, often covered with a long coat, and don cloth caps or turbans. Women traditionally wear a sari, a single swatch of cloth wrapped around the body and worn over the shoulder, and cover their heads with a shawl when going about in public. Sandals or soft slippers are the customary footwear. Jewelry is common, particularly among women, who also paint their eyes and lips with luscious pigments and stain their hands with henna.

Rajians respect tradition and religious conviction above all else, perhaps blindly so. Since the ancient customs have proven their worth, the  Rajians see little reason to give them up. Nonetheless, they are practical people, and have equal admiration for battle prowess, artistic talent, and scientific ingenuity. The illustrious University of Tvashti encourages the latter trait; within its libraries and temples, the wisest scholars study all facets of technology and the natural world.

Most traditions in Sri Raji are rooted in a complex, cyclical view of the cosmos. The Rajian gods are countless and interrelated, with one deity often regarded as a manifestation of another. The gods require continuous prayer and sacrifice, which the Rajians gladly give. Ritual hymns, chants, and dances are also vital, while sects with more philosophical bents have given rise to a strong monastic tradition. A central tenet of Rajian culture is reincarnation, a constant cycle of rebirth that comprises all living creatures. This concept is entwined with the domain's rigid caste system, such that fulfilling one's dharma, or proper role, in this life ensures that one is born into a higher caste in the next.

The Law: The terrible Maharaja Arijani rules from his palace Mahakala in the Accursed City of Bahru. Arijani is actually the high priest of Kali, the Black Mother, though none dares object to his self-proclaimed title of Maharaja. In truth, though Arijani's shadow falls darkly over Sri Raji, he is a reclusive ruler. Each day a single Rajian is chosen as a sacrifice to Kali; that person then journeys to Bahru on an albino elephant, never to be seen again. Apart from this horrific practice, the Maharaja demands little from his subjects, though his cleric spies are everywhere. Nobles and clerics of the Rajian gods control most aspects of society.

Although the clerics are of higher station, the nobles perform the actual tasks of governance. They levy taxes, control trade, and organize city militias, though most nobles also have their own private armies.

The caste system is a critical pillar of Rajian culture, serving as a strong organizing principle and a bulwark against unrest. Although there are numerous castes, they are divisible into four primary groups: brahmin (priests), kshatriya (nobles and soldiers), vaishya (merchants and craftsmen), and shudra (farmers). Rajians are born into a caste and remain in it throughout their lives. Those of lower castes are expected to obey and respect their betters, but there is no expectation for highborn individuals to treat the lower castes fairly or even humanely.

Classes: Bards, clerics, fighters, monks, rogues, shamans (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=69411.msg796745#msg796745) and wizards are the most common classes.

Recommended Skills: Animal Empathy, Influence, Lore, Perform, Sleight of Hand

Recommended Feats: Expertise, Improved Expertise, Improved Unarmed Strike, Thug, Voice of Wrath, Weapon Focus (shortbow, scimitar)

Names: Indian-themed names can be used for Sri Raji characters.

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Web of Illusion, Legends and Lore, Realm of Terror Boxed Set
Title: Paridon
Post by: EO on June 05, 2021, 11:57:22 PM
Zherisia

Paridon

Cultural Level: Renaissance

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Settled Area

Major Settlements: Paridon (11,600)

Population: 11,600

Races: Humans 99%, Other 1%.

Languages: Zherisian

Religion: Divinity of Mankind

Government: Aristocratic republic

Ruler: City Council

Currency: pound (gp), shilling (sp), pence (cp)

Resources: beer, spirits, furniture, cloth, ceramics, leather and iron goods, jewelry, usury, culture, scientific knowledge.

Diplomacy: Since Paridon has no arable land beyond the city proper, starvation is a serious concern. Although contact with other domains has fortunately increased in recent years, allowing Paridon to purchase foodstuffs, the city is still woefully underfed.

Most merchants who arrive in Paridon bring raw materials, which in turn are used in handicrafts that are sold in distant domains. Gradually, other realms have also discovered that Paridon is one of the most modern cities in Ravenloft, perhaps second only to Port-ŕ-Lucine in Dementlieu. Accordingly, interest in Paridon's culture and scientific knowledge has grown.

The Land: The domain of Paridon consists of a single bleak city steeped in fog and bloodshed. Its narrow streets of smooth cobblestones wind between tight clusters of buildings. Dense fog, white as a shroud, perpetually blankets the city, severely limiting visibility. Dark figures and clattering horse carriages can emerge from the haze with startling swiftness. Horses are rarely ridden, but such black carriages are frequently used to get around; many folk also conduct their business and errands on foot. The city has distinct neighborhoods with wealthy and poor residential districts, commercial avenues, a wharf along the Nodnal River, and seedy back alleys filled with streetwalkers and gamblers.

Most buildings are constructed to two or three stories, with gabled roofs and narrow doors and windows. Dressed stone blocks or plastered brick is used in most homes and shops, with heavy timbers for support. Roofs are shingled with thin wood or slate. Most structures are gray, unfriendly, and sparsely adorned with severe stone faces or ornaments of black iron. The estates of the wealthy are set back from the streets and surrounded by tall, forbidding gates and lovingly tended gardens. Tidy city parks once dotted Paridon, but most of these have been converted into meager plots of crops. Stunted food plants are also grown on rooftops. As dusk approaches, young boys wander the streets, lighting the iron streetlights that line the boulevards. In recent years, however, Paridoners rarely venture out at night, fearful of violent madmen and stranger things. The domain's most infamous predator is Bloody Jack, a nearly mythic killer who goes on gruesome rampages every thirteen years and whose latest rampage comes due this year.

Temperatures in Paridon are normally cool and mild, a weak drizzle sometimes falling like salty tears. The fog persists through the muggy summer months and during the bitter winters, when silent snow blankets the city.

The Folk: Paridoners have wide hips and athletic builds, though aristocrats tend to be portly and commoners lean. Their skin is fair and ruddy, sometimes freckled lightly on the cheeks or nose. Eye color is normally gray with a bluish or greenish cast, but nearly any hue can occur. Their hair is straight or slightly wavy, and color varies widely, from blond to auburn to medium brown. Men cut their hair short, often slicking it back in a roguish style that the women find attractive. Neatly trimmed mustaches, beards, and muttonchops are popular. Women grow their tresses extremely long but pin them up in elaborate buns. Clothing among Paridoners is somber and coarse, though expertly tailored. Men wear collared shirts, trousers, high boots, waistcoats, and heavy cloaks. Noblemen don tall black hats and tuck scarves under their necks. Women wear long dresses, coats, and high boots. It is indecent for a woman to be outdoors without a hat; common women wear simple bonnets, but the hats of noblewomen are elaborate. Jewelry is worn but is never flashy and is usually limited to solitary rings, pins, cameos, or necklaces.

Paridoners are sober people, the foggy streets of their city reflecting their demeanor. At one time they enjoyed food, drink, song, and dance with lusty enthusiasm, but their manner in recent times is noticeably dry and detached. Although violent criminals terrorize them, Paridoners remain perpetually stalwart. They are not easily discouraged and are possessed of remarkable tenacity and ingenuity. The class divide is deep and ironclad. The wealthy never associate with commoners, who are expected to mind their place and treat the nobles with respect and deference.

Although they worship no gods, many Paridoners, especially aristocrats, subscribe to a "theological philosophy" known as the Divinity of Mankind. Lodges of male Paridoners meet weekly to discuss philosophy, the arts, and natural science. The crux of their beliefs is perfection of the mind, body, and spirit, an aspiration that has spawned a peculiar monastic tradition. Some folk whisper that the Divinity conceals more sinister activities and that lodge members participate in secretive occult rites steeped in the language of alchemy.

The Law: The governance of Paridon is firmly in the hands of the aristocracy, who chafe at the notion of sharing power with the unwashed masses. Male nobles elect a City Council of nine from among their ranks every five years. The council is responsible for administrating most aspects of life in Paridon, including collecting taxes, adjudicating disputes, overseeing the city watch, and organizing programs for urban farming and public health. The council watches out for the interests of the nobles first and foremost, considering the welfare of the commoners only when it reinforces their image. Vice and violent crimes are commonplace in the streets, yet the council is preoccupied with punishing debtors and seizing assets. Its only recent action that has met with widespread approval has been to strengthen the city watch and increase evening patrols.

Despite the sharp class divide, Paridon's society is remarkably progressive in some respects. Professional advocates argue in civil and criminal trials, where legal precedent trumps legal principle. Merchants can protect themselves from financial ruin by paying a regular fee to usurers. The daily Paridon Newsbill is not controlled by the aristocracy and is sometimes critical of the council's actions.

Classes: Fighters, rogues, monks, clerics, beguilers are the most common classes. Paridon has consisted exclusively of settled lands for many decades, so more nature oriented classes (like rangers) are unknown there. Also, wizards are highly unusual. The most common characters in Paridon are rogues and fighters. Native clerics and monks all follow the philosophy known as the Divinity of Mankind.

Recommended Skills: Hide, Influence, Listen, Lore, Move Silently, Sleight of Hand

Recommended Feats: Blind-Fight, Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Improved Unarmed Strike, Skill Focus (Influence), Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus (flintlock, rapier)

Names: British-themed names can be used for Paridon characters.

Sources: Ravenloft 3rd Edition Campaign Setting, Hour of the Knife, Domains of Dread
Title: Kalidnay
Post by: EO on June 06, 2021, 04:04:44 PM
Kalidnay

Cultural Level: Classical, though the people of Kalidnay do not forge metal weapons, but instead use stone, bone, and obsidian. This is not due to a lack of knowledge, but due to a lack of metal. In Kalidnay, iron is rarer than water.

Climate: Tropical

Terrain: Deserts

Major Settlements: Kalidnay (2,300) and Artan-Ak (200).

Population: 2,500.

Races: 98% Human, 2% Other

Languages: Common

Religions: Kalid-Ma, the Sorcerer-King

Government: Theocracy

Ruler: Kalid-Ma

Currency: Ceramic pieces that are broken into several smaller pieces to denominate smaller amounts of currency (a full ceramic piece is the equivalent of 1 gp). These ceramic coins are simply called "ceramic pieces."

Resources: wheat, corn, obsidian, ceramic. No natural animals live in Kalidnay. Metal and water are extremely rare.

Diplomacy: None. The local population tries to capture lone travelers or weak bands and sell them to the arena masters. Strangers in the arena always provide new excitement, as well as reducing the chances of a citizen of the city being conscripted. Anyone entering Kalidnay should be well armed and well prepared.

The Land: The weather in Kalidnay is a study in extremes. During the day, an immense red sun blasts upon the land, driving temperatures up to one hundred fifteen degrees Fahrenheit and higher. Three greenish moons rise in the night sky, while temperatures quickly plunge to just shy of freezing. Survival in the domain of Kalidnay is a challenge for any character. Water cannot be found except in the two settlements of Kalidnay and Artan-Ak. A constant wind blows across the sands, whipping it into the eyes of travelers and stinging their skin.

Kalidnay is an island surrounded by a basin of loose sand. The natives refer to this as the Silt Sea, and travel here is very difficult. Special equipment (skimmer crafts or specially made shoes that resemble snowshoes) is needed to cross the Silt Sea. The Mists only appear in Kalidnay at night, rising up from the silt that surrounds the domain.

The city of Kalidnay is a sprawling place that once held fifteen thousand people, although now it is quite underpopulated. Roughly twenty-three hundred souls make their home here. In the center of Kalidnay stands a ziggurat, an elaborate structure over one hundred feet high, surrounded by a palace complex. These are the only buildings in the city that are in good repair, housing the land's ruler and sorcerer-king, Kalid-Ma. Despite the best efforts of the citizens, the fields around the city of Kalidnay consistently produce poor crops.

Only two hundred people dwell in Artan-Ak, though their community is surrounded by the best farmland in the domain. Over two-thirds of the food grown here is sent to Kalidnay to feed the city. The inhabitants of Artan-Ak are not willing participants in this process; armed caravans are dispatched regularly to escort the harvest to the city. Many in Artan-Ak go hungry every year to feed the citizens of Kalidnay.

The Folk: The folk of Kalidnay are typical representatives of any Athasian city, they are light-skinned, with hair colors ranging from reddish-blond to black. They favor loose-fitting clothes, with skirts and vests among the most common clothing for both men and women. The people frequently wear masks or veils in order to protect their eyes and faces from the scouring sandstorms that whip across the domain.

Psionics are common among the people of Kalidnay. In fact, not having psionic ability is considered an aberration in this domain. On the other hand, wizards are reviled, often hunted down and killed if discovered. This is because magic in Kalidnay saps life from the land itself.

Water here is more precious than gold. Spitting is considered a grave insult, and crying is an expression of ultimate sorrow. The people of the domain do not acknowledge any gods, save Kalid-Ma the sorcerer-king, who grants spellcasting abilities to his servants, the templars. Other clerics rarely exist, and only those serving elemental powers.

The folk are unlikely to receive strangers from non-Athasian lands gracefully. Elves, dwarves, and other demihumans are seen as quite strange and different. Xenophobia (fear of other races) runs high in Kalidnay.

Inhabitants of Artan-Ak hate the city dwellers. In this smaller village, they believe Kalid-Ma has been usurped by head templar Thakok-An. Although they have no love for the sorcerer-king, they blame their current problems on the templar. Renegades and rebels are welcomed here with open arms, but the "underground" is riddled with templar spies.

Arena combat is a popular diversion among the people of Kalidnay. Several times a week, accused criminals battle each other, often to the death, to the delight of the citizens. There are all manner of captured monsters and beasts to provide amusement for the audience. The life of an arena gladiator is unpleasant at best.

The Law: Kalid-Ma is the undisputed master of Kalidnay, and the inhabitants honor him as a god. He has, however, been in seclusion for over twenty years. His loyal head templar, the half-elf Thakok-An, is the only being allowed to see him, and she carries out his decrees with unswerving devotion. One such decree is the banning of all use of magic, except the one used by templars of Kalid-Ma, since every caster may be a defiler. Since any wizard is a potential defiler, they all go to the arena. They are stripped of their spell books, of course.

Classes: Kalidnay originates in the Dark Sun setting, so all classes found there can be used in Kalidnay. However, arcane casters are particularly rare since they are actively hunted down. Clerics must be templars of Kalid-Ma.

Names: For most humans, a single name suffices. Templars often take a honorific name based on their rank in the religious hierarchy. Nobles also have a family name, which is generally referred to after the word "of," as in "Agis of Asticles." Members of a merchant house take the house's name as their own last name. Freemen occasionally refer to their occupations to avoid confusion, as in "Barek the Weaver."

You can consult the Dark Sun entry (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=27795.0) for more details on Athasian characters.

Sources: Domains of Dread, Forbidden Lore, Dark Sun Campaign Setting (AD&D)
Title: Nosos
Post by: EO on June 06, 2021, 05:28:39 PM
Nosos

Cultural Level: Renaissance

Climate: Warm

Terrain: Settled Area (Small City)

Major Settlements: Nosos (6,000).

Population: 6,000.

Races: 98% Human, 2% Other

Languages: Nosian

Religions: None

Government: Virtual anarchy

Ruler: Malus Sceleris.

Currency: factory (gp), smokestack (sp), gear (cp)

Resources: coal, gold, factory products.

Diplomacy: There are no trees or other natural plants in Nosos, aside from those found on the manor estates. The only way anyone can make a living from the land is to mine it. The only way to obtain grain and meat is through trade with other lands.

The market is located on the edge of town, away from the worst of the conditions. The merchants are either those who are native to Nosos or who can be lured by the money the lord of the domain promises to each who enters. Since the stench and appearance of the city keeps most merchants away, those who do come leave with full purses, although their clothes must afterwards be burnt.

The metropolis holds the mines which provide its income. The main pits produce coal and gold, two items easily traded. The smithies and coal-powered mills nearby belch enormous clouds of gritty soot skyward and mix with the other ingredients lofted by the wind.

The Land: This is one of the foulest domains in Ravenloft. When the Mists arise in this domain, no one even notices; the smoke from the refineries and burning coal mines obscure them. Rotting compost, raw sewage, and huge mounds of trash choke the streets of the city of Nosos, which makes up almost the entire domain. Everything is coated with a yellow-gray grime, and hundreds of chimneys pump thick black smoke into the air around the clock. The countryside around the town consists of more mounds of decaying garbage, including the bodies of many deceased citizens. A few walled estates contain the only green, garbage-free areas, but even there, the stench is impossible to escape.

The weather itself is the worst possible kind for the land which it encompasses. Nosos is a hot, humid land where the winds whistle constantly throughout the day. The clouds skid insanely across the bLotchy sky, spurred on by the howling wind. The sun dares not show its face for too long, seeming to fear the blight that Nosos would surely cast upon it. Even as it is, the sun appears only through a hazy cataract of pollution.

The Folk: The six thousand inhabitants of Nosos are generally pale-skinned, blue-eyed, and light-haired. They are a scrabbling, miserable folk who care nothing for the lives of others, seeking gain only for themselves. They even occasionally pull cruel pranks simply for their own amusement.

One of the ways to climb socially in Nosos is to attend the masquerade balls held by the wealthy residents. Though only other rich folk are invited, the poor people often try to sneak into the parties. Usually, they are easily detected by their stench, but some actually bathe in order to pass undetected. The rich are extremely paranoid that the poor people are carrying an incurable, infectious plague.

The Law: The law in Nosos is dictated by the whims of the wealthy. The general state of the land is near anarchy. The poor folk keep to themselves, and the wealthy use them as the need arises. The bodyguards of the wealthy enforce the desires of their employers. The only real law that applies in Nosos is the Golden Rule: He who has the gold makes the rules. In this land, most of the gold is owned by Lord Malus Sceleris.

Disease seems to be a way of life in Nosos. The effects of the various diseases combine to create a fatal version, which even the best of the modern healers cannot cure. Since the people of Nosos disdain healing magic, claiming that it is only superstition, clerics are not welcome.

Classes: All player character races and classes allowed in Ravenloft are allowed here. Upper class characters from Nosos are extremely frightened of disease and get scared when in close proximity with a sick individual. Lower-class characters tend to be less charismatic, since the smell of rotting garbage still clings to them due to their poor personal hygiene. Because of their constant exposure to the unwholesome environment of Nosos, these lower-class characters are particularly resistant to diseases of all types (can take Resist Disease to reflect this).

Clerics are rare and not welcome since the people of Nosos disdain healing magic, claiming that it is only superstition. The stubborn folk prefer the more modern methods of herbs, poultices, and leeches. Clerics are thus reviled by the common folk as witch doctors and no one of importance pays them any heed.

Grimetrekkers can also be found prowling Nosos' infested sewers.

Recommended Skills: Antagonize, Appraise, Disguise, Heal, Influence, Sleight of Hand.

Recommended Feats: Exotic Weapon Proficiency, Filth Eater, Resist Poison, Resist Disease, Skill Focus (Heal), Weapon Focus (firearms).

Sources: Domains of Dread, Islands of Terror
Title: Staunton Bluffs
Post by: EO on June 07, 2021, 05:45:20 PM
Staunton Bluffs

Cultural Level: Renaissance

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Plains, forests, cliffs, swamps, hills

Major Settlements: Willisford (200).

Population: 1,000.

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other

Languages: Avergnite

Religions: None

Government: Direct democracy

Ruler: Sir Torrence Bleysmith (absentee).

Currency: no currency, trade conducted through barter

Resources: grain, cattle, sheep, peat.

Diplomacy: They are a very insular community, not often dealing with outsiders. The peasants of Staunton Bluffs are unable to rely on trade from the other lands.

The Land: Staunton Bluffs is a small, isolated domain, about 4 miles on a side. A line of sandstone cliffs, running north to south, divides the land in half. The western region is relatively flat and good for farming, with a few wooded patches. The bluffs rise above it. At their highest point, near the center of the land, a castle is perched on a cliff. It is Castle Stonecrest. Most natives of this domain live in modest white cottages, which are scattered across the farmland. Staunton Bluffs also has one tiny settlement named Willisford. The village is located beside the Willis river in the west.

The weather in Staunton Bluffs is generally cold and wet. Mornings begin with a misty rain or fog, but the skies often clear by noon. As the sun fades, the mists return. They spill off the bluffs and settle over the farmlands, bringing with them the weird sounds of night.

The Folk: The folk of Staunton Bluffs are generally fair-skinned people with dark hair and eyes. Although they work long hours in the fields or with animals, they are usually clean. They believe in frequent bathing and cleansing of their clothes. Their clothing is not drab, but neither is it colorful or exciting. It matches the prevalent personality of Staunton Bluffs.

In comparison to other domains, life is good here, albeit boring. As long as the folk stay away from the cliffs and Castle Stonecrest, they can go peacefully about their business. They are not rich or even comfortable, but with hard work each day, they survive.

Since Staunton Bluffs is all that most of these people have seen of the world, they have difficulty imagining the world as much larger. Their views are narrow-minded and provincial, with very little room for anything new. They are a very insular community, not often dealing with outsiders.

The Law: The citizens do not have any sort of ruling body. Their population is small enough that direct democracy works better than it would anywhere else. They hold their meetings once monthly, choosing a new person to chair the meeting each time. It makes no difference whether the chair is male or female, for there is no discrimination in Staunton Bluffs. Every member of the community is an integral, valuable part without whom the others would find it more difficult to survive.

There is an informal militia in Staunton Bluffs, based solely on who is closest to the scene of trouble at the time. The people of Staunton Bluffs are competent fighters and will fight to protect the peace in their domain. Criminals from the domain are nonexistent. The only lawbreakers in Staunton Bluffs are those who come from outside. The citizens deal with them harshly, often cutting off the hand of the criminal. There are no jails in Willisford, as the citizens are fairly sure that the criminals will reform after they lose one hand.

Destroying or damaging the trees is a punishable offense. The people do not look kindly on those who ruin the few natural areas still intact in this tiny domain. Certainly, the citizens could venture into the wild eastern half of the land for wood, but they would sooner sacrifice their lives.

The lord of the land, Sir Torrence Bleysmith, has established only a few laws, but the citizens observe these scrupulously. The first law dictates that the living remain well away from Castle Stonecrest. They do so almost fanatically, physically restraining those who plan to do otherwise.

The second law applies only to the dwellers of the eastern domain. They are forbidden to travel to the lowlands at night, no matter how greatly they despise the living. The supernatural beings are forbidden to wander west of the bluffs, or they may face the wrath of the lord.

Classes: Fighter is the most common class here. There are no native arcane casters since the use of magic is frowned upon. The people desire that life remain simple and explainable. They are a pragmatic populace and do not enjoy having the natural order of things disrupted by such inexplicable phenomena that magic often entails. They are not so fanatical that they burn mages and priests, but the company of such is not welcome, nor long tolerated.

Names: English-inspired names and surnames can be used for Staunton Bluffs.

Sources: Realm of Terror, Islands of Terror
Title: Farelle
Post by: EO on June 07, 2021, 08:53:44 PM
Farelle

Cultural Level: Early Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Plains, Forests

Major Settlements: Kaynis (1,000) and Mortillis (1,000).

Population: 2,000.

Races: 98% Human, 2% Other

Languages: Farellian

Religions: None

Government: Democracy

Ruler: Village Councils.

Currency: no currency, trade conducted through barter

Resources: grain, cereals, cattle, dairy, sheep.

Diplomacy: Farellians conduct steady trade with other lands. Navigating the Mists to Farelle is relatively easy, which brings many merchants from Ghastria to Pharazia. The twin villages of Kaynis and Mortilis welcome travelers readily, and many merchants choose to end their days here.

The Land: Farelle is wild and thickly wooded, although civilization and agriculture claims more and more terrain every day. It has two towns on each side of the Mourfa river, which runs through the center of the domain, Kaynis in the west and Mortilis in the east. Both of them lie in an area devoted to agriculture. The land is rich, although extreme - summers are hot and winters are frigid - and full of animal life. Packs of dogs and jackals are quite common, and seem unusually vicious; many careless humans are killed every year. This is both a blessing and a curse from the animals' point of view. Animal attacks serve to reduce the ever-increasing numbers of humans, but each attack is followed by an increase in the number of hunts and traps laid.

The Folk: In a land where strife and xenophobia are disturbingly common, the genuine warmth of the Farellians is justly appreciated. They are a simple people; however, they are passionate and run to extremes. Many take offense at simple mistakes, and will pursue their enemies to the grave. Their sensitivity to insult only fades towards a wandering tinker named Jack Karn. Although he is surly and aggressive, and seems always to be ill, the Farellians are extraordinarily fond of him, and often seek him out.

Farellians are prolific. Women commonly bear 13 children or more before they become too old or weary to continue. There is no fear of overpopulation. Stillbirths are common, and carnivores help keep the natives' numbers in check.

Most are peasant farmers, although many make their living by hunting, but that profession can be as deadly for them as it is for their prey. Strangely, a disproportionate number of sages and scientists live in the villages. Because of the ready contact with advanced domains like Mordent, Paridon and Nosos, Farellians technology advances at an astounding rate.

The Law: The citizens are governed by two local village councils, appointed by popular vote, that make decisions for the villages. The villages are rather independant of each other, though coexist peacefully.

Classes: Fighters, rangers, rogues, druids, and wizards are the most common.

Recommended Skills: Animal Empathy, Appraise, Hide, Listen, Lore, Move Silently, Search, Spot

Recommended Feats: Alertness, Blooded, Bullheaded, Skill Focus (Animal Empathy), Stealthy.

Names: English-inspired names and surnames can be used for Farelle.

Sources: Realm of Terror, Book of Sacrifices
Title: Tovag
Post by: MAB77 on June 07, 2021, 10:49:11 PM
Tovag

Cultural Level: Medieval

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests, mountains and plains.

Major Settlements: City of Tor Gorak.

Population: 15,000

Races: 99% Human, 1% Other.

Languages: Ancient Flan. Note that the culture of Tovag is one from Oerth's distant past, but characters drawn from the Greyhawk setting would not recognize this. The language and customs of these folk are those of Ancient Flan, but such knowledge was lost in the history of their homeworld. Nowhere on Oerth does anyone speak or understand the language spoken in Tovag.

Religions: The folk of Tor Gorak are not dedicated to any one god or religion in particular. They primarily worship thousands of powers and spirits dedicated to protection and watchfulness. A few clerics maintain a large cathedral, the Temple of Penates, but most of the time faithful and fearful supplicants come here to worship the gods on their own. Most likely, worshipers do not even know the names of the gods prayed to by those around them. Divine casters can gain their powers from any of the Greyhawk deities, though only the Cult of Vecna has a significant, but hidden, presence within the domain.

Government: Undead Military dictatorship.

Ruler: Kas the Bloody-Handed.

Currencies: Gold, silver and copper pieces stamped with the sigil of Kas.

Resources: Wheat, oats, barley, hops, rye, potatoes, cattle, fishes, hogs, dairy, beer, dye, timber, salt, weapons.

Diplomacy: None. Tovag is an isolated domain without any neighbours nor allies.

The Land: Tovag lies pinned between the churning Mists and the jagged Burning Peaks. Much of the land is covered with light forests of scrub pines and other plants hardy enough to survive in the sulfur-rich soil. The land hosts wildlife typical to temperate forests with wolves, mountain lions, and the occasional viper being the most dangerous of this land's animals. The lord of Tovag, Kas the Bloody-Handed, dwells in a great fortress in the northern portion of the domain. In the south lies the densely packed city of Tor Gorak and the expanses of farms that supply grain and other crops to the inhabitants. A number of well-constructed flagstone highways run across the countryside. The most noteworthy of these is the Karsican Way, which runs between Tor Gorak and the Fortress of Kas. Three lesser roads run to the west, vanishing through passes in the Burning Peaks and the Mists beyond. Despite the fine quality of these roads, they are rarely used.

The streets of Tor Gorak are usually empty, due to the patrols that march through every neighborhood, apprehending and detaining anyone they see fit. Thus, the poor, downtrodden, and oppressed citizens hurry to their various destinations without lingering. A curfew denies anyone the right to travel inside the city after dark except for soldiers and Daggers (the local militia). While in this city, travelers encounter mostly women (many of them pregnant), small children, and old people. Almost all are human. Kas forces all able-bodied men and some women to serve in the army to battle against Vecna and the forces of Cavitius. To keep the army fed and supplied, certain soldiers are allowed to leave the army after a time to work as farmers, merchants, and craftsmen.

The Folk: The poor souls who live in Tor Gorak accept their lot in grim silence. They recognize that theirs is a harsh master and speak of their lord Kas only in whispers and guarded tones. They know too well that the creature who rules beyond the Burning Peaks, or so they think, is far more terrible than their own lord. The inhabitants of Tovag tend to have very large families, mostly because the lord pays a decent bounty for each child born. Those who live in this domain also age at an accelerated rate. Most reach maturity after about nine years, allowing them to be conscripted into Kas' army sooner than would be possible elsewhere. Newcomers to the city do not usually realize this until they are told. The residents do not think of their rapid aging as strange. Rather, they would find it strange that others age at such a slow rate. Any visitors who remain in this domain for more than a month begin to age faster as well.

The Law: Kas maintains a constant war-time mentality, forcing his people to live the most meagre of existences in order to save important supplies for his endless war against Vecna. He cares nothing for these people, seeing them only as instruments in the effort to destroy his former master.

Life in Tovag is dominated by routine searches of people and residences, a complete lack of personal liberties, and the crushing heel of a tyrannical police state. The state police, known as the Daggers, search continuously for traitors, spies, and criminals. The Daggers have the power to sentence and execute criminals on the spot. Little matters like evidence and guilt are seldom important in the meting out of justice. Citizens of Tor Gorak possess few rights and even fewer luxuries. Their food is rationed, and hoarding is illegal. While the state allows citizens to bear arms, they consider stockpiling weapons a serious offense. In general, if residents commonly carry the weapon on their person, they can keep it (since this makes raising a citizens' militia that much easier). Laws in Tor Gorak also forbid the possession of books, knowledge of any sort of written language, or any other sort of formalized education. Residents of Tovag learn the arts of war and those trades that support the war-nothing else.

Classes: Fighters, barbarians, and rogues form the bulk of adventuring classes encountered. Small contingents of warmages are also trained to fight against Cavitius. All other classes can be encountered but would be rare exceptions. Especially those following scholarly or artistic pursuits as such practice is outlawed.

Recommended Skills: Any martial oriented skills.

Recommended Feats: Any combat oriented feats.

Names:

-Tovagian Male Names:

Banquo, Bratorn, Dast, Haroln, Hragris, Qoolarn, Skreyn, Tejen, Virianis, Vocar

-Tovagian Female Names:

Jacairn, Larossa, Marit, Valuriss

Sources: Domains of Dread, p. 110., Vecna Reborn, p. 5-7., Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft, 5th Ed.
Title: The Nightmare Lands
Post by: EO on June 09, 2021, 06:24:45 PM
The Nightmare Lands

Cultural Level: Stone Age, but the City of Nod is a renaissance culture. Also, the Clinic for the Mentally Distressed was originally located in Nova Vaasa, a medieval domain with chivalric influences.

Climate: Temperate

Terrain: Forests and plains.

Major Settlements: City of Nod (0).

Population: Unknown.

Races: 99% Humans (Abber Nomad (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=57336.msg680124#msg680124)), 1% Other

Languages: Abber

Religions: None

Government: None

Ruler: The Nightmare Court.

Currency: no currency

Resources: silk, wood, woven crafts, rare metals, gemstones.

Diplomacy: None. In the past the Abber Nomads sometimes ventured outside to conduct trade with neighboring Nova Vaasa and Hazlan but since the Grand Conjunction, they have been isolated.

The Land: In this domain, the lines between reality and dreams are blurred. The terrain alters so quickly that it almost seems alive. The sky changes color, the sun changes size, and the air changes temperature. Each metamorphosis is smooth and seamless, usually occurring at the corner of the viewer's field of vision. Much of this domain is covered by forest, though it is truly trackless. No trail can form in this unstable country.

At the heart of this ever-shifting forest lies the City of Nod. This ruined metropolis is devoid of life, save for the staff and patients of the Clinic for the Mentally Distressed, drawn here through the mighty powers of the land's rulers, the Nightmare Court. Dr. Illhousen, the clinic's chief physician, attempted to challenge the Nightmare Court and lost. The court then claimed him and all of his patients.

The forest itself is surrounded by a blasted wasteland, the exact features of which are ever-changing. The one constant landmark here is the Ring of Dreams, a collection of thousands of glistening spheres that range in diameter from three to three hundred feet. Each one of these contains a dreamscape, a pocket dimension where nightmares unfold. A person can look into these spheres and see what appears to be worlds in miniature. The curious should beware, however, as those who gaze too long into these dreamscapes may be drawn into them, never to be retrieved. Within one of these dreamspheres lies the domain of Davion.

The Nightmare Lands are as unstable as a dream. This Floating domain moves throughout the Misty Border, sometimes even appearing in the Nocturnal Sea. While in this eastern sea, the island is surrounded by shoals that rip the bottom from any ship save those piloted by expert seamen. Obviously, this domain also links to the Plane of Dreams.

The Folk: Until recently, only the Abber Nomads lived in this domain. Never owning any more than they can carry, the Abber Nomads are occasionally mistaken for druids due to their simplistic lifestyles. They do not use metal weapons or build structures of any kind. These hunters arm themselves primarily with spears and bows. Their culture is based on self-sacrifice and communal unity.

These nomads have developed the mental fortitude needed to deal with the constant changes of the land in which they dwell, something which scholars brave enough to study them attribute to their simple way of life. The Abbers themselves say that they survive because they understand reality as it truly is: Anything that cannot be perceived, does not exist.

Most Abbers have no faith in the permanency of anything, including other beings, but a small percentage reject this philosophy. This minority strives to understand what governs the Nightmare Lands. Other Abbers view this as insanity and cast these individuals out. However, all Abbers believe that insanity can grant insight, so the outcasts become, in effect, tribal shamans.

Recently the staff and inmates of the Clinic for the Mentally Distressed were drawn into the land by the evil deeds of Dr. Harold Tasker, who had fallen under the sway of an evil being known as the Nightmare Man. The clinic's chief physician, Dr. Gregorian Illhousen, attempted to defeat the Nightmare Court, but he was betrayed by Tasker. Although Tasker has been confined to one of the cells, Illhousen and the eighteen other staff members - not to mention the sixty-two patients - have not yet been able to escape. Worse, they are slowly being driven insane by the nightmares of this domain. Thus, the clinic is gradually becoming a very dangerous place.

The Law: The Nightmare Court rules this place. Their exact numbers are unknown, but the more prominent ones include the Nightmare Man (a skeletal, robed figure whose body consists of thousands of crawling spiders), the Ghost Dancer (a tragic, undead ballerina whose white gown sports ominous, bloody handprints), Morpheus (an imp with a wicked sense of humor), Hypnos (sleep personified), Mullonga (a malicious, aboriginal witch), and the Rainbow Serpent (an intelligent, evil snake).

Each member of the court seems to favor a certain type of nightmare, endeavoring to pollute the nightly sleep of mortals with these dreams. The Nightmare Lands have no laws, save the chaotic logic of a dreamscape.

Classes: Fighters and rangers are the most common classes found here. There are no Abber wizards, and Abber clerics are almost equally rare. The few Abbers who decide to take up priestly magic and try to learn about their strange world must leave the safety of their tribes and become Abber shamans (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=69411.msg796745#msg796745) (see above).

Races: Natives player characters from the Nightmare Lands must be Abber nomads.

Names: Abber nomads have short first names and no last names (eg. Skya for a female character). Abber shamans take on nicknames that reflect their journey.

For more information on Abber nomads, click here (https://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=57336.msg680124#msg680124).

Sources: Domains of Dread, The Nightmare Lands, Realms of Terror, Tales of Ravenloft