```metadata title: Library of Underside - Reddit Showcase description: '' tags: [] systems: [] renderer: V3 theme: 5ePHB ``` {{frontCover}} ::: {{imageMaskEdge,--offset:0%,--rotation:90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1185957253895958588/anonymous_primeval_madness_full_body_portrait_fantasy_illustrat_40922a61-f1fe-457d-bc2b-66550d22e3d8.png?ex=65917fc3&is=657f0ac3&hm=66bc6550ee31a52c75de6b77406888910aa84bebdf88973671d6227f7b77341c&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=3601&height=4001){height:127%,left:-45px,top:0px} }} {{position:absolute,top:-0px,left:0px # The library of underside : ## **Ariadne's Codex of Strings -- Reddit Showcase** --- }} {{banner 5th Edition Compatible}} {{footnote,width:370px Discover the secrets of the eldritch library beneath the City of Strings! }} \page {{insideCover}} {{imageMaskCenter,--offsetX:0%,--offsetY:16%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1109532699695271977/image-qGa5cQLBq-transformed.jpeg?width=3002&height=3002){height:101%,top:0,left:-120px,)} }} ::::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{classTable,frame,decoration,wide,position:relative,top:-380px ## FOREWORD Well hello there, dearest Threadseeker of our order! It does feel strange writing an introduction for someplace so close to home... But no matter! I will do my best, as I promised to every one of my planeswalking companions when I took on the mantle of Regent. : I must warn you... despite the apparent closeness to the City of Strings, the Library of Underside is a gloomy place, a very long shot from the civilized scholarly halls you can find right above it. Heedless of the risks as ever, we've still compiled this tome of information for the benefit of your curiosity, darling! As always, you'll find a panoply of monsters, spells, items, and all the other content you know and love from the illustrious pages of our monthly codex. : *Why* did we write the Codex, you ask? Well, for *you*, of course! Whether you're a DM, a player, or just a lover of all things fantasy, I'm sure you'll find plenty of things to pick your interest. Grab some inspiration, copy-and-paste items or monsters, make the feats your own... The only rule is that you enjoy. Go forth, my most illustrious colleague, discover the many secrets of this new release. : Much love, : ***Ariadne, Regent of the City of Strings*** }} {{pageNumber,auto}} \page {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:2%,--rotation:-90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1179433571623108688/tomfarlane_a_city_with_tall_spires_being_planeshifted_ruins_arc_bcaeb307-1cc4-431e-8e59-40bd51b4e193.png?ex=6579c41c&is=65674f1c&hm=2e8130d9a41ada79fb58a2f62b8e9c69479448ac55536169efb85427ea477411&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=900&height=1600){height:128%,position:relative,left:60px,top:-30px} }} {{position:relative,top:-23px,right:10px # An Introduction The City of Strings did not always carve its orbit across the Astral Sea, investigating the mysteries of the cosmos, as a traveling bastion for researchers, planeswalkers, and arcanists. It used to be a city-state in the material plane, teeming with rich and influential universities. : It was a comparatively small, independent enclave within the larger kingdom of Iskenar, an arrangement that suited all: in exchange for technology --the fruits of scientific research-- the wider kingdom left them alone and defended them against foreign powers. : ### A City Forced to Exile A number of unlikely deaths, arrests, and disappearances led to a most unexpected ascension to the throne of Iskenar, a distant uncle of the previous ruler, a ruthless religious zealot. A climate of holy persecution of the sciences intensified until the arrangement was no longer tenable, and a war broke out. : Despite superior firepower, technology, and magic, the numerical disadvantage was insurmountable, and the City of Strings was forced to extreme measures to ensure its survival. : ### Arcane Escape The astronomers of the besieged city made a proposal to the scholarly ruling council -- a planar shift of unprecedented proportions, teleporting the entire metropolis to the Astral Sea. Specifically, they suggested to relocate to an ancient structure, a yet unexplored artificial satellite of some kind, which the astronomers had first observed a few years back. Among its advantages, it had a stable, wide orbit that promised a suitable headquarter for threadseekers to continue their exploratory endeavors. : Rushed calculations, mistakes in application, and lack of arcane resources made it so one third of the City of Strings was lost in the great shift, either left behind in the material plane, or arcanely disintegrated by botched conjuration magic. : ### The Ageless Sea The great shift was nothing short of an incredible exploit, despite its imperfections. The City of Strings now floated gingerly in the Astral Sea, orbiting the universe along the ancient megastructure that now served as its foundation: the primeval halls of what became known as the Library of Underside. : A festivity is celebrated in the City of Strings on the date of the great shift, but it isn't a merry affair -- it's a solemn reminder of all that was lost that fateful day. }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote An Introduction}} \page ::::: {{position:relative,right:10px ### The Primeval Depths : Right after the Great Shift, years of exploration, rebuilding, and growth ensued. The primeval knowledge unearthed from the mysterious Underside played a great part in this age of expansion, bringing to light spells, alchemical recipes, and rites that had been thrice forgotten by the mortals down in the material plane. : A slew of dangers from the depths also arose, threatening to level what remained of the City of Strings -- but if anyone was prepared to deal with mystical, primeval threats, it was the scholars and arcanists of the Great Shift. The same cannot be said about many of the men and women who came after. : ### More Than a Library The Underside is often referred to as a library, and indeed, many of its thousands of rooms are covered in bookshelves full of old tomes, most of which are written in languages that have been dead for millennia. But if you spend any length of time traveling its halls, you'll also find alchemy laboratories, astronomy rooms, and even altar chambers... : More than a mere ancestral book trove, the Underside is almost a demiplane of its own, one devoted to an ancient and forgotten kind of doing science -- perhaps the first science the universe ever knew. }} \column ::::: {{position:relative,left:10px ### Artifacts and Keepers An ugly truth about those who explore the Underside nowadays? They're not all arcanist-types in search of lost knowledge, questing in the name of progress. Many are there strictly for selfish reasons, the most common and foolish of which is the alchemical recipe for gold. In reality, seeking such a thing denotes a lack of ambition, or intelligence, for things several orders of magnitude more powerful can be found in the primeval halls. : In the face of the existential perils, the City of Strings that (theoretically governs the Underside formed a special department wholly devoted to the defense, containment and recovery of the dangers that lurk in the endless library: the renowned Aurinoir Order. :: {{descriptive ##### From "Examinations", Section 2-A It was difficult for me to accept that knowledge and exploration should be curtailed in any way, but the ancient science to be found within the depths of the Underside truly proved me wrong. Garas and myself, some of the most prominent arcanists in the universe, can scarcely make sense of some of the things we've unearthed there -- objects of pure, unrefined ancestral power, as incomprehensible as they are mighty. And as we cannot fully understand them, neither could we hope to truly control it. : Imagine an amateur mage wielding these antique forces with the recklessness that characterizes youth... The disasters could go beyond anything we've ever experienced. A specific case moved us to action: King Jannis, who turned his pristine realm of fertile plains into an undead desert, careless as he was with the artifacts his servants brought him from the Underside. : Thus, in the 327th Council of Threadmasters, we decided to add a new department to our planeswalking organization: the Ministry of Underside Affairs, popularly known as the Aurinoir Order for their distinctive black and gold colors. The honorable Kara Salem has led this organization since its inception, becoming the sixth Threadmaster to join the fray. : I am happy to say that, between active patrolling and recovery missions across the planes, the Aurinoir have managed a containment rate of 88%, by conservative estimates! Yes, still a long way to go, but considering the mission at hand, I believe those *are* encouraging numbers. : **--Guilliam Fallow, Threadmaster of Arcana & Science** }} }} {{imageMaskCorner19,--offsetX:-38%,--offsetY:-54%,--rotation:-12 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1177299990515830876/tomfarlane_an_astronomy_room_in_a_cursed_library_fantasy_illust_8fe040ee-9d7c-4faf-9e70-415bcc9bd9df.png?ex=6572010e&is=655f8c0e&hm=26c6ff0749b008ad0dd39ab66e89d19ad437c9f6654c36529a46de1863ccc847&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1676){height:138%,top:px,left:-1px} }} {{imageMaskCorner12,--offsetX:-37%,--offsetY:-52%,--rotation:-12 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1177299990515830876/tomfarlane_an_astronomy_room_in_a_cursed_library_fantasy_illust_8fe040ee-9d7c-4faf-9e70-415bcc9bd9df.png?ex=6572010e&is=655f8c0e&hm=26c6ff0749b008ad0dd39ab66e89d19ad437c9f6654c36529a46de1863ccc847&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1676){height:138%,top:px,left:-1px} }} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:42%,--rotation:180 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1177299990515830876/tomfarlane_an_astronomy_room_in_a_cursed_library_fantasy_illust_8fe040ee-9d7c-4faf-9e70-415bcc9bd9df.png?ex=6572010e&is=655f8c0e&hm=26c6ff0749b008ad0dd39ab66e89d19ad437c9f6654c36529a46de1863ccc847&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1676){height:138%,top:-461px,left:-1px} }} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:40%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1177299990515830876/tomfarlane_an_astronomy_room_in_a_cursed_library_fantasy_illust_8fe040ee-9d7c-4faf-9e70-415bcc9bd9df.png?ex=6572010e&is=655f8c0e&hm=26c6ff0749b008ad0dd39ab66e89d19ad437c9f6654c36529a46de1863ccc847&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1676){height:138%,top:px,left:-00px} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote An Introduction}} \page {{position:relative,left:-20px,top:-10px ## The Initial Descent : Cleansed of much of its deadly peril by the impeccable work of generations of Aurinoir, the first few levels still retain a high level of danger for the unexperienced. Parts of it are entirely settled by the City of Strings, repurposed into vaults, laboratories and even living quarters. Others, closer to sources of primeval energy and passages to the dangers below, are routinely patrolled but considered too risky to settle. : ### Much to Decipher It would be a mistake to assume that the higher levels of the Underside hold no more mysteries, even if they have been explored dozens of times. Every so often, a new secret passage is discovered, a trove of books found beneath piles of ancient debris, or a tablet with the key to understand an old forgotten language deciphered. : Threadseekers looking to make a good career in the City of Strings often start by studying the mysteries of the Underside's safest floorrs, which are still plentiful after centuries of study. Good contributions in this sector are a fast-track lane to secure resources for future studies, and influence in the highest circles of the astral bastion. : ### Death Looms Close As the opportunities aren't all spent in the highest levels of the Underside, neither are the dangers. Everything primeval in nature carries the risk of being misunderstood or unseen until it is too late. Spells like *identify*, *greater identify*, *legend lore*, among others, are the bread and butter of... not getting killed by an unforeseen runic explosion hidden in the pages of an otherwise mundane tome on the anatomy of the common draccus. : {{descriptive ##### From "Underside Principles", Chapter I Ancient beings from below sometimes make their way upward and end up in our levels. We deal with them swiftly and efficiently with a simple three step program. Pacify; if impossible, banish; if impossible, neutralize. We attempt to pacify first because knowledge is paramount to our cause, and studying live specimens is a rare and valuable opportunity. We banish second, because the assassination of primeval entities often brings curses and other unforeseen consequences that are costly and difficult to cleanse. If we have no other choice, we neutralize with superior firepower. : If you're unlucky, you may encounter one of these creatures *before* we do. In which case, you should apply a one step program of your own: *run*. : **--Kara Salem, Threadmaster of Underside Affairs** }} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:3%,--rotation:270 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1182019779364671569/tomfarlane_a_vertical_cut_of_the_floors_of_an_underground_libra_502842e4-2b46-4e4c-8fc2-566efd114c19.png?ex=65832cb4&is=6570b7b4&hm=2e888e62a0da9f8359d9129f40409b155555425bc05fe27bff32d331753742d8&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=501&height=1002){height:100%,right:-75px,top:0px} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote An Introduction: The Intial Descent}} {{watercolor6,top:-580px,left:300px,width:450px,background-color:white,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor6,top:-580px,left:300px,width:450px,background-color:white,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor6,top:80px,left:600px,width:560px,background-color:gray,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-80deg)}} {{watercolor6,top:80px,left:600px,width:560px,background-color:gray,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-80deg)}} \page : {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:0%,--rotation:180 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1179889001746940065/tomfarlane_a_survival_items_shop_fantasy_illustration_gold_and__cf97a7ef-ec5a-4d3c-ada8-9beb3a386635.png?ex=657b6c43&is=6568f743&hm=93a4a54a4e4bdab8f4729ac10dafddb447920e3e7e6f7725d403f1b34673528c&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1503&height=1002){height:57%,top:0px,left:0px,transform:scaleX(-1)} }} ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{classTable,wide,frame,decoration,text-align:center, ## Getting ready to delve, mate? You... will need a permit, you know that right? The Aurinoir can get real cranky if you don't have one! I carry some of those if you're interested, but they will cost ya, mate! The name's Runo, by the way, you may have heard of me. I am the best at doing business, so don't you try to swindle me! Us Fylsworths can smell fraud from half a mile away. : Not to pry into your affairs, but... What brings you here? Don't tell me you want to learn how to turn lead into gold, please... No? Good, good. No inflation magic on my watch, mate! We're still dealing with the macroeconomic consequences of the last idiot who manifested ten million gold coins. So, tell me about your valorous quest! I'm sure I could... point you in the right direction. No disrespect, but you seem like you barely know down from up! : You sure you got what it takes, mate? Maybe you should get some more provisions, I got plenty of them right here! My doctoral thesis was on Underside exploration *and* its lucrative opportunities! As you can see, I'm something of an expert. And in my expert opinion, mate, you should definitely buy something. Got any coupons you'd like to redeem? }} #### Writ of Safety *Wondrous Item, Rare -- 1.200 GP* : Doubling up as an official document and a magic scroll, this arcane paper will make the Aurinoir leave you alone, unless you are doing something patently dangerous to the security of the City of Strings. It also functions as a *Word of Recall* scroll that will always bring you back to Runo's shop. : The writ disintegrates after being used to cast *Word of Recall*. Seems like you'll have to buy another one, if you want to go back... : *Arcane Tracker:* This scroll secretly monitors your approximate location, with a margin of error of 100 feet. It also scries for magical items in the possession of the creature that is carrying the scroll. \column : {{note,background-color:gainsboro,position:relative,right:353px ##### Threadnotes: Runo's Clone Shops All across the City of Strings you will find them, conveniently placed specialty shops -- and the Underside is no exception. Runo has perfected the art of arcane shopkeeper clones, all of which retain his natural cunning for business endeavors and unfaltering eye for shoplifters. : This one is a bit special, however -- aside from making profit, its objective is to gauge your intentions and your level of ability. All this data is then transferred to the Aurinoir, who might decide to detain you or let you go on your way depending on the clone's findings. Many of the items sold by Runo have an arcane tracker that will point the Aurinoir to your location, should they ever need to find you. : The purpose of this shop is not wholly duplicitous, however -- if your intentions are accepted as legitimate and valuable, Runo (or his clone, rather) will actually point you in the right direction. You can make a fortune down here! Whether for you or for him remains to be seen. }} ![runo](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1179881065926623272/tomfarlane_a_fantasy_illustration_of_a_50_year_old_male_bald_ar_743ea38f-22b6-4d1d-b4b9-63c8b303c10d_1.png?ex=657b64df&is=6568efdf&hm=bb5f102ea02eda513119aa4b8eb54624f97afcb5120ab9dfb333c537af381cf1&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=667&height=1002) {width:475px,position:absolute,top:-170px,left:45px} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Runo's Underside Shop}} \page {{position:relative,top:460px #### Arcanadex Device *Wondrous Item, Rare -- 4.500 GP* : *"Knowledge is the name of the game, mate! And no spell, item, trick (dirty or otherwise) will afford you better information than the Arcanadex Device, designed by our great Threadmaster Guilliam Fallow. It is quite a wondrous little machine: using just a drop of blood, a piece of tissue, or any other biological remain, it can reconstruct a creature's anatomy -- and, more importantly, tell you how to kill it!* : *One little hair in the soup, I'm afraid... It doesn't work on constructs. So don't go jamming the analysis slot with pieces of iron, mate."* : This heavy metallic instrument bears the signs of heavy use -- probably one of the first iterations of the world-renowned Arcanadex Devices made by the City of Strings. You can place a small amount of organic matter inside of it through its detachable bronze and glass display. The device will process for one minute, and then convey some information about the creature to whom the sample belonged to: creature type, damage resistances, immunities, and vulnerabilities. Depending on the quality of the sample, it may gleam additional information: a piece of brain matter could yield the creature's Intelligence score, for example, or their Strength score for muscle tissue. }} \column {{position:relative,top:px #### Golem Wrecker *Weapon (Light Hammer), Very Rare (requires attunement) -- 16.000 GP* : *"Ah, this one was hard to make, lemme tell ya, but it became a necessity for the lower levels. Don't you know the Underside is crawling with golems of all kinds? Yeah, mate. There's the classic iron and stone kind, but also elegant marble golems, terrifying blackmoss golems, and the worse of all... eldritch void golems, infused with madness and death.* : *This pretty lil' thing will make short work of any and all of them. If you use it well, that is. Up to you, mate! I'd buy it, if I was in your shoes."* : You gain a +2 bonus to attack and damage rolls made with this light hammer. In addition, the weapon ignores resistance to bludgeoning and slashing damage, and treats immunity as if it were resistance. When you attack a golem with this weapon, its critical hit range is increased to 17-20. On a critical hit, a golem must succeed on a DC 17 Constitution saving throw or fall prone and be *stunned*. It can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. }} ![hammer](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1180222082093699203/Remove_background_project_21.png?ex=657ca277&is=656a2d77&hm=c587ae32bde2eb5832ee9f1c56e37c503e1cc0fc1adbdd2553c7007edb6dc52b&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:455px,position:absolute,top:30px,left:-0px,transform:rotate(deg)} ![separador](https://png.pngtree.com/png-clipart/20220706/ourmid/pngtree-decorative-line-separator-black-lines-png-image_5687462.png) {width:325px,mix-blend-mode:multiply,transform:rotate(0deg),position:absolute,top:406px,left:245px,opacity:80%} ![pokedex](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1180223047970607164/tomfarlane_a_magic_silver_slot_to_insert_liquids_4c2fdf6d-99a0-48f1-8238-061915dc527c_1.png?ex=657ca35e&is=656a2e5e&hm=8fbd1e7234bbce51f66d710bc2ec30a9f162229238c91934b261d55b63ec7ee8&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:405px,position:absolute,top:570px,left:390px,transform:rotate(-23deg)} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:45%,--rotation:180 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1179889001746940065/tomfarlane_a_survival_items_shop_fantasy_illustration_gold_and__cf97a7ef-ec5a-4d3c-ada8-9beb3a386635.png?ex=657b6c43&is=6568f743&hm=93a4a54a4e4bdab8f4729ac10dafddb447920e3e7e6f7725d403f1b34673528c&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1503&height=1002){height:100%,bottom:1005px} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:89 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1177143550610247690/anonymous_a_staircase_in_a_cursed_library_fantasy_illustration__175d4c4b-8859-4910-acf3-a276cd88ac25.png?format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1122&height=2004){height:100%} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:-91 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1177143550610247690/anonymous_a_staircase_in_a_cursed_library_fantasy_illustration__175d4c4b-8859-4910-acf3-a276cd88ac25.png?format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1122&height=2004){height:100%,right:0} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:45%,--rotation:1 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1179889001746940065/tomfarlane_a_survival_items_shop_fantasy_illustration_gold_and__cf97a7ef-ec5a-4d3c-ada8-9beb3a386635.png?ex=657b6c43&is=6568f743&hm=93a4a54a4e4bdab8f4729ac10dafddb447920e3e7e6f7725d403f1b34673528c&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1503&height=1002){height:100%,bottom:px} }} {{watercolor5,top:-220px,left:130px,width:650px,background-color:black,opacity:50%,transform:rotate(-23deg)}} {{watercolor7,top:700px,left:460px,width:400px,background-color:white,opacity:80%}} {{watercolor7,top:450px,left:560px,width:400px,background-color:white,opacity:80%}} {{watercolor7,top:860px,left:260px,width:400px,background-color:white,opacity:80%}} {{footnote Runo's Underside Shop}} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Runo's Underside Shop}} \page {{position:relative,top:-0px #### Bundle of Dried Eldermint *Consumable, Rare -- 500 GP* : *"Oh, Eldermint... Small wonder the elves have such an advanced civilization, with this plant growing everywhere in their sunny isles! Good for a smoke, good as medicine... The Dead Gods had favorites."* : Eldermint is a latently magical plant, extremely difficult to grow outside of the lands from which it is native. It can be ingested in many ways with different results. This bundle yields three uses of the plant. : *Chewing:* After chewing on Eldermint, your mind benefits from a boost of focus for the next hour, sharpening your talents to the maximum. You have a +1 to your proficiency bonus for that duration. : *Inhaling:* Smoking dried Eldermint bolsters your natural defenses, granting you immunity to poison and disease for the next hour. Diseases and poisons already in your system aren't cleansed, merely suspended until the Eldermint's effect fades. : *Drinking:* Drinking Eldermint infused tea fills you with magical optimism and determination for one hour, granting you a bonus of +2 to all ability checks. }} \column {{position:relative,top:475px #### Caustic Flame *Firearm (Pistol), Legendary (requires attunement) -- 20.000 GP* : *"This right here, mate, is the masterpiece of an arcane factory I acquired some years ago. I only had ten of these made -- the pinnacle of gunslinging exclusivity! You... should probably buy it, if you're planning on exploring the depths of the Underside. Believe me, you're gonna need all the firepower you can get. Or acid-power, in this case!* : *I'll even sweeten the deal a little, mate! Buy it quick, and I will throw in three acid vials, for free. "* : You have a +3 bonus to attack and damage rolls made with this pistol, which deals a base of 1d8 acid damage and 1d8 fire damage instead of 1d10 piercing damage. Creatures hit by an attack from *Caustic Flame* take its base damage again at the start of their next turn, as the flaming acid continues dissolving and burning through them. : The reload mechanism of this pistol is very particular, using no bullets. Instead, it must be loaded by filling its tempered glass chamber with a vial of acid worth at least 25 GP. A full vial loaded into the *Caustic Flame* is enough to fire it ten times before it needs to be reloaded again. }} ![chumbo BG](https://h7k9a7e2.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/fleck1-min.png) {width:490px,position:absolute,top:500px,left:19px,transform:rotate(0deg)} ![chumbo](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1186825821101498378/laserfixed-HTTj9f2Cl-transformed.png?ex=6594a8ad&is=658233ad&hm=8f0a72dd1b89140535d3779552dcfcfb7150a4d3b3faf58d504fd242c4556aa8&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:450px,position:absolute,top:550px,left:-10px,transform:rotate(0deg)} ![separador](https://png.pngtree.com/png-clipart/20220706/ourmid/pngtree-decorative-line-separator-black-lines-png-image_5687462.png) {width:325px,mix-blend-mode:multiply,transform:rotate(0deg),position:absolute,top:407px,left:245px,opacity:80%} ![faso](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1180636247199326218/vecteezy_explosive-green-watercolor-splash-for-brush-stroke-ai-generated_24856948.png?ex=657e2430&is=656baf30&hm=d476ee2a29b3a036b8b8e7ea3a90e48140e9de10d41d0b2f32a3e22ed2140b7a&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:435px,position:absolute,top:30px,left:380px,transform:rotate(-3deg)} ![faso BG](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1180229974368714782/tomfarlane_a_bar_of_chewing_gum_as_a_dungeons_and_dragons_magic_2268585d-73ec-454c-854e-6928e8ffabba_1.png?ex=657ca9d1&is=656a34d1&hm=9e8456c5e06a65fe7ca3c97ba5f77116e62a1767b198f361d037067a748aeca8&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:435px,position:absolute,top:30px,left:390px,transform:rotate(-43deg)} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:45%,--rotation:181 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1179433571623108688/tomfarlane_a_city_with_tall_spires_being_planeshifted_ruins_arc_bcaeb307-1cc4-431e-8e59-40bd51b4e193.png?ex=6579c41c&is=65674f1c&hm=2e8130d9a41ada79fb58a2f62b8e9c69479448ac55536169efb85427ea477411&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=900&height=1600){height:135%,bottom:005px} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1179433571623108688/tomfarlane_a_city_with_tall_spires_being_planeshifted_ruins_arc_bcaeb307-1cc4-431e-8e59-40bd51b4e193.png?ex=6579c41c&is=65674f1c&hm=2e8130d9a41ada79fb58a2f62b8e9c69479448ac55536169efb85427ea477411&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=900&height=1600){height:100%} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:-90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1179433571623108688/tomfarlane_a_city_with_tall_spires_being_planeshifted_ruins_arc_bcaeb307-1cc4-431e-8e59-40bd51b4e193.png?ex=6579c41c&is=65674f1c&hm=2e8130d9a41ada79fb58a2f62b8e9c69479448ac55536169efb85427ea477411&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=900&height=1600){height:100%,right:0} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:45%,--rotation:2 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1179433571623108688/tomfarlane_a_city_with_tall_spires_being_planeshifted_ruins_arc_bcaeb307-1cc4-431e-8e59-40bd51b4e193.png?ex=6579c41c&is=65674f1c&hm=2e8130d9a41ada79fb58a2f62b8e9c69479448ac55536169efb85427ea477411&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=900&height=1600){height:135%,bottom:-700px} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Runo's Underside Shop}} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Runo's Underside Shop}} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Runo's Underside Shop}} \page \column {{position:relative,left:-0px,top:-30px ## The First Perils : The Underside is a huge magical ecosystem that births things both wondrous and horrifying. Thanks to the zealous watch of the Aurinoir Order, the primeval dangers are suppressed from ever surfacing to the civilized halls of the City of Strings. Even the first dozen levels beneath it are reasonably safe for experienced adventurers, an area known as the *controlled* part of the Underside. : However, if you spend any length of time in these higher floors, you are bound to encounter at least a minor primeval entity. Of these, Eldritch Bookworms and Forsaken Alchemists are the most common, surging from below in an unending spring of headaches for the Aurinoir. : ### Omens of Damnation As the decades went by, arcanists started hunting the primeval beings that ascended to the higher floors of the Underside, in a bid to find raw ingredients to be used in alchemical concoctions, or components for the crafting of magical items, and even arcane remedies against diseases and poisons of all kinds. There is a certain controversy regarding these activities among the planeswalking community of the City of Strings, as the Underside is a place teeming with thousands of curses and arcane afflictions, most of which remain poorly understood. While some see this as a great opportunity for learning and experimenting, others consider bringing objects of the Underside to the surface to be an invitation for disaster. : Both sides are simultaneously right -- the exploration and recovery of the Library of Underside's mystical troves of knowledge have brought both prosperity *and* doom to those responsible for their discovery. The difference most often resides in preparation and cautiousness, rare traits, even among the Underside delving community. : But some of the powers at play in the primeval depths are so ancient and incomprehensible that they can bring doom to even the most prepared adventurers. Exploring the Underside is always a gamble of death, wealth, and knowledge. : : {{note,background-color:gainsboro ##### Threadnotes: The Higher Levels Yes, it is true that the floors closest to the City of Strings are safer. It is not very difficult to obtain a writ of passage allowing you to explore these levels. But do not mistake "safer" for "safe"; there is good reason that this part of the structure hasn't been converted into another district of the City of Strings. The dangers are too many and too unpredictable, even at the top of this cursed megastructure. : Truth is, you are rolling the dice every time you descend. Will it be wealth, or demise? Stack the odds in your favor by not underestimating the higher levels. }} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:6%,--rotation:89 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1184845313089994892/David_M._dnd_fantasy_underdark_library_--v_5.2_3574dd7f-4705-4b74-baf8-a6e1d4aef367.png?ex=658d7430&is=657aff30&hm=1de3638f5abf1e906f7b6ba093ca1fca68c8c053d09e8e9283fdea2fa96c734c&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=2004&height=2004){height:100%} }} \page {{watercolor3,top:690px,left:-220px,width:790px,background-color:indigo,opacity:90%}} {{watercolor3,top:690px,left:-220px,width:790px,background-color:indigo,opacity:90%}} {{watercolor3,top:690px,left:-220px,width:790px,background-color:indigo,opacity:90%}} {{watercolor1,top:-200px,left:-100px,width:600px,background-color:white,opacity:100%}} :: {{monster,frame,position:relative,top:132px,right:20px ## Eldritch Bookworm *Tiny aberration, unaligned* ___ **Armor Class** :: 11 (natural armor) **Hit Points** :: 3 (1d4) **Speed** :: 20 ft., fly 20 ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |7 (-2)|12 (+1)|11 (+0)|5 (-3)|6 (-2)|5 (-3)| ___ **Senses** :: truesight 10 ft. **Languages** :: understands deep speech but doesn't speak **Challenge** :: 1/2 (100 XP) ___ ***Magic Resistance.*** The Eldritch Bookworm has advantage on saving throws against spells and magical effects. : ***Otherworldly Vermin.*** Despite their minor offensive capabilities, Eldritch Bookworms will shy away from fighting, preferring to hide behind small illusions and slipping away, biding their time, using their truesight to find their next meal and reproduce. : ***Arcane Ingestion.*** The Eldritch Bookworm can consume a scroll, a page from a spellbook or an enchantment from a magical item by spending one minute munching on it. After doing so, the Eldritch Bookworm is *Empowered*, granting it immunity to nonmagical damage and allowing it to use actions marked with the ***(Empowered)*** requirement. : After using an action that requires this trait to be active, the Eldritch Bookworm ceases to be *Empowered* until it consumes another arcane meal. : ***Innate Spellcasting*** The Eldritch Bookworm's innate spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 10, +2 to hit with spell attacks). It can innately cast the following spells, requiring no components: : *At will:* acid splash (range 30 ft.), minor illusion : ### Actions ***Bite.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +3 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit* 4 (1d4 + 1) force damage. : ***Magical Regurgitation (Empowered).*** The Eldritch Bookworm casts *burning hands*, *magic missile* or *thunderwave* (spell save DC 10). : ***Arcane Replication (Empowered).*** The Eldritch Bookworm uses its stored magical energy to spawn another of itself in an unoccupied place within 5 feet of it. }} \column :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{descriptive,position:relative,left:45px ##### From "Examinations", Section 15-A Ah, these damned bugs... I normally encourage explorers and arcanists to capture live specimens of the beings in the Underside whenever possible, for study and experimentation. I am afraid these wretched little aberrations deserve nothing more than a swift, fiery demise, however. Eldritch Bookworms exist to devour arcane energy, which they later regurgitate in an unholy meld of magical power to defend themselves when you try to end their assault on your bookshelves. Yes, their gastric juice can be extracted and made into a compound capable of erasing enchantments and undoing runes. Do we want to risk the knowledge of ages to farm these disgusting things? Absolutely not. : Oh, you think I'm biased? Talk to me when you have your spellbook eaten and your beard burnt off by colorful maggots, you unctuous bellend. : **--Guilliam Fallow, Threadmaster of Arcana & Science** }} {{footnote An Introduction: The First Perils}} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:3%,--rotation:270 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1177143550610247690/anonymous_a_staircase_in_a_cursed_library_fantasy_illustration__175d4c4b-8859-4910-acf3-a276cd88ac25.png?format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1122&height=2004){height:100%,right:-110px} }} ![Arcane Bookworm](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1181975855421980762/tomfarlane_a_long_worm_as_a_DD_monster_blank_background_in_the__2b9604aa-7aac-4ee1-a3ba-27499a3cb209-transformed.png?ex=658303cb&is=65708ecb&hm=cff825ea31b6ba9b2f4a74c32b071f4c2afd9aaa2ff1b06ca7dc871281043446&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {position:absolute,top:-20px,left:-75px,width:560px,transform:scaleX(-1)} \page {{monster,frame,position:relative,top:-45px,left:-37px,width:365px ## Forsaken Alchemist *Medium undead, neutral evil* ___ **Armor Class** :: 12 (16 with barkskin) **Hit Points** :: 60 (8d8 + 24) **Speed** :: 30 ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |14 (+2)|10 (+0)|16 (+3)|16 (+3)|14 (+2)|9 (-1)| ___ **Saving Throws** :: Con +5, Int +5 **Damage Immunities** :: poison **Condition Immunities** :: charmed, exhaustion, poisoned **Senses** :: darkvision 120 ft., passive Perception 12 **Languages** :: primeval **Challenge** :: 4 (1,100 XP) ___ ***Undying Scourge.*** When the Forsaken Alchemist takes damage that would reduce it to 0 hitpoints, it must make a DC 10 Constitution saving throw, unless the damage is radiant or from a critical hit. On a success, it is reduced to 1 hit point instead. The DC increases by 2 every time the Alchemist has to roll this save between long rests. : ***Spellcasting*** The Forsaken Alchemist is a 5th-level spellcaster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 13, +5 to hit with spell attacks). The Forsaken Alchemist has the following spells prepared: : *Cantrips (at will):* mending, eldritch blast, thaumaturgy : *1st level (4 slots):* feather fall, magic missile, sleep : *2nd level (3 slots):* barkskin, levitate, heat metal : *3rd level (2 slots):* blink, counterspell : ***Cursed Core.*** The Forsaken Alchemist should have perished a long time ago, but its physical form is sustained by a cursed orb that replaced its heart. When the Forsaken Alchemist is below half its maximum hitpoints, faint glimmers of the red orb can be observed. A creature can attempt to remove the sphere from its chest by making a DC 17 Strength (athletics) check using their action. On a success, the Alchemist dies instantly. : The Forsaken Alchemist's body turns to dust upon death, leaving behind only its blood-red cursed core. Creatures within 30 feet of the exposed sphere have disadvantage on all saving throws, unless they possess the *Cursed Core* trait. Casting *Remove Curse* on the sphere neutralizes this effect for eight hours, or permanently if cast at 5th level or higher. : ***Alchemical Fixation.*** Forsaken Alchemists are attracted to a material that they studied in life -- gold, silver or gemstones, typically. They can sense the presence of their preferred material within 1000 feet, and will act to take it, irrespective of the perils. ### Actions ***Touch of Alchemy.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +4 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit* 9 (2d8) force damage. A medium or smaller creature reduced to 0 hit points by this attack is instantly killed and fully transmuted into the Forsaken Alchemist's favored material. : ***Cursed Breath (recharge 5-6).*** The Forsaken Alchemist breathes a cloud of cursed gas in a 15 foot cone in front of it. Creatures within that area must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or suffer disadvantage on rolls related to a statistic of the Forsaken Alchemist's choosing (the same for every creature in the area). }} :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{note,background-color:gainsboro,width:350px,position;relative ##### Threadnotes: The Forsaken Ones The Primeval Arts, as the ancient science practiced by the inhabitants of the Underside is known, are an endeavor ripe with things like immortality, chaotic transmutation, arcane afflictions, and death. Those who dabble in it rarely keep their wits for long, and their mortal bodies soon follow their minds into eternal demise. : What is left are a particular type of entity, the Forsaken Ones, wretched undead abominations that pursue the arcane art they practiced in life with frenzied madness. Because they are mostly mindless, the Forsaken Ones are easily lured into traps, especially if you are aware of their fixation, the scientific obsession that keeps their soul from passing to the afterlife. Alchemists, the weakest of the Forsaken, often fixate on the transmutation of gold, or other precious metals and gems. }} : #### Cursed Sphere: Blood *Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement)* : The Forsaken Ones who pursued forbidden transmutations in life slowly grew this cursed sphere within their hearts, eventually turning into the undead abominations they are today. It is a potent transmutation focus: after being extracted, it can be used to transmute up to 5 gallons of blood into the favored material of the Forsaken Alchemist from whom it was taken. {{imageMaskEdge3,--offset:35%,--rotation:180 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1180915495323566160/tomfarlane_a_cursed_underground_laboratory_as_a_grimdark_fantas_ee05a316-14d4-4775-b61b-a34c9b491a27.png?ex=657f2842&is=656cb342&hm=d2bcdb7384e353a1b62d3d44c1c02cf72694f87662e6674cece38eea83b55b70&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%} }} {{imageMaskEdge3,--offset:35%,--rotation:207 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1180915495323566160/tomfarlane_a_cursed_underground_laboratory_as_a_grimdark_fantas_ee05a316-14d4-4775-b61b-a34c9b491a27.png?ex=657f2842&is=656cb342&hm=d2bcdb7384e353a1b62d3d44c1c02cf72694f87662e6674cece38eea83b55b70&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%} }} {{imageMaskEdge3,--offset:35%,--rotation:197 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1180915495323566160/tomfarlane_a_cursed_underground_laboratory_as_a_grimdark_fantas_ee05a316-14d4-4775-b61b-a34c9b491a27.png?ex=657f2842&is=656cb342&hm=d2bcdb7384e353a1b62d3d44c1c02cf72694f87662e6674cece38eea83b55b70&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%} }} ![Forsaken Alchemist](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1180875022282260540/alchemistthrallfixed.png?ex=657f0290&is=656c8d90&hm=ce5c151aafc332005cb0a20c917580bf814c6a827054a6ecdf21fb97013bf17f&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=667&height=1002) {position:absolute,top:-10px,right:-10px,width:400px,transform:rotate(deg)} {{watercolor9,top:820px,left:710px,width:300px,background-color:indigo,opacity:80%}} {{watercolor9,top:820px,left:-200px,width:300px,background-color:indigo,opacity:80%}} {{watercolor9,top:820px,left:710px,width:300px,background-color:indigo,opacity:80%}} {{watercolor9,top:820px,left:-200px,width:300px,background-color:indigo,opacity:80%}} {{watercolor9,top:820px,left:710px,width:300px,background-color:indigo,opacity:80%}} {{watercolor9,top:820px,left:-200px,width:300px,background-color:indigo,opacity:80%}} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote An Introduction: The First Perils}} \page {{partCover}} # I {{ ## The Aurinoir Order }} {{imageMaskEdge,--offset:10cm,--rotation:180 ![Background image](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){position:absolute,top:-0px,left:0px,height:130%} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote The Aurinoir Order}} \page {{position:relative,left:-15px,top:-10px ### Cloaks of Ink & Gold As bearers of the City of Strings' authority, the black-and-gold enforcers under the leadership of Threadmaster Salem are renowned and feared, and not only among arcanists and knowledge pillagers. Stories of recovery parties dressed in ink and gold burning libraries and assassinating leaders are commonplace around the planes, some attributing such acts to heavenly or hellish retribution. : But no, the explanation is simple: the fundamental laws of reality, as well as the integrity of the planes, are to be protected from the ancient sciences. Until something is understood, it must not be used. The warriors and mages who defend this principle are officially known as the *Aurinoir*. : ### The Aurinoir Domain As you delve deeper and deeper into the Underside, your likelihood of crossing paths with an Aurinoir officer decrease dramatically. They mostly patrol the first few levels, hoping to catch trespassers before they make a mistake they cannot walk away from. : They will ask for a writ of passage, which are granted by the officers of the Aurinoir detachment to those whose interest in the Underside is deemed legitimate and beneficial to the cause of knowledge and progress. : ### Efforts of Recovery In truth, the patrolling of the higher levels of the Underside is more of a humanitarian effort than anything else. The Aurinoir leadership is aware that anyone with the potential to explore the cursed library, gather artifacts of power from it, *and* use it in a dangerous manner... is surely also capable enough to evade their sentries. : Those people, they deal with *after* they leave, raiding their planar domains to confiscate anything taken from the Underside. Trying to return them is about as unwise as stealing them in the first place, so they end up in the Aurinoir vault, one of the most valuable arcane treasuries in the universe. }} {{monster,frame,position:relative,top:305px,right:10px,width:375px ## Aurinoir Enforcer *Medium humanoid (any race), lawful neutral* ___ **Armor Class** :: 14 (padded armor) **Hit Points** :: 55 (8d8 + 16) **Speed** :: 30 ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |12 (+1)|16 (+3)|14 (+2)|16 (+3)|13 (+1)|12 (+1)| ___ **Saving Throws** :: Int +5 **Damage Resistances** :: acid, cold, fire, lightning, thunder **Senses** :: darkvision 60 feet **Languages** :: common, primeval, and one other language **Challenge** :: 4 (1,100 XP) ___ ***Cloak of the Elements.*** The Enforcer's cloak is made of a magical fabric that is highly resistant to the elements, granting it resistance to acid, cold, fire, lightning and thunder damage. : ***Aurinoir Cuffs.*** The Enforcer carries a pair of *Aurinoir Cuffs*, which can be placed on a willing, restrained or incapacitated creature, blocking their prana. While cuffed, a creature must succeed on a DC 25 spellcasting ability check to cast a spell. On a failure, the creature's spell fails and has no effect. The action and slot are still wasted. ### Actions ***Multiattack.*** The Aurinoir Enforcer makes two *Energy Baton* attacks. : ***Energy Baton.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +5 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit* 7 (1d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage and 4 (1d6) lightning damage. : ***Arcane Bolt.*** *Ranged Spell Attack:* +5 to hit, range 120ft., one target. *Hit* 11 (2d10) fire / cold / lightning damage (the Enforcer's choice). : ***Starfire Grenade (1/day).*** The Enforcer launches a starfire bomb at a point it can see within 60 feet of it. Each creature in a 20-foot-radius sphere centered on that point must succeed on a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw or be wreathed in purple, magic-devouring flames for the next minute. While wreathed, creatures attempting to cast a spell or use a magic item must succeed on a DC 13 Charisma saving throw, or have their magic fail and have no effect. }} {{imageMaskEdge4,--offset:32%,--rotation:8 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178715346136469587/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_8a2ccf75-aa47-4871-8188-00e7a6598f14.png?ex=65772735&is=6564b235&hm=c0a31f01d3d593ae21673af3bb8d3562f0f314aebc53b13fcfc9099eb0beff9e&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1600){height:138%,left:0px} }} {{imageMaskEdge4,--offset:17%,--rotation:-52 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178715346136469587/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_8a2ccf75-aa47-4871-8188-00e7a6598f14.png?ex=65772735&is=6564b235&hm=c0a31f01d3d593ae21673af3bb8d3562f0f314aebc53b13fcfc9099eb0beff9e&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1600){height:138%,left:0px} }} {{imageMaskEdge4,--offset:12%,--rotation:-82 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178715346136469587/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_8a2ccf75-aa47-4871-8188-00e7a6598f14.png?ex=65772735&is=6564b235&hm=c0a31f01d3d593ae21673af3bb8d3562f0f314aebc53b13fcfc9099eb0beff9e&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1600){height:138%,left:0px} }} {{imageMaskEdge4,--offset:45%,--rotation:-170 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178715346136469587/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_8a2ccf75-aa47-4871-8188-00e7a6598f14.png?ex=65772735&is=6564b235&hm=c0a31f01d3d593ae21673af3bb8d3562f0f314aebc53b13fcfc9099eb0beff9e&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1600){height:138%,left:0px} }} {{imageMaskEdge4,--offset:39%,--rotation:-153 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178715346136469587/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_8a2ccf75-aa47-4871-8188-00e7a6598f14.png?ex=65772735&is=6564b235&hm=c0a31f01d3d593ae21673af3bb8d3562f0f314aebc53b13fcfc9099eb0beff9e&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1600){height:138%,left:0px} }} ![ENFORCER](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1179477600767311902/tomfarlane_an_elven_wizard_policeman_fantasy_illustration_in_th_66ebd655-1b3e-451d-920b-b0816c4b428e_2.png?ex=6579ed1d&is=6567781d&hm=0304fa54bd5cecccaebd8adcc551862955f96f0f84e63188b4b79a9322d597e7&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=525&height=1002) {position:absolute,top:-55px,right:50px,width:330px,mix-blend-mode:} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote The Aurinoir Order}} \page {{imageMaskCorner16,--offsetX:-40%,--offsetY:40%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178715346136469587/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_8a2ccf75-aa47-4871-8188-00e7a6598f14.png?ex=65772735&is=6564b235&hm=c0a31f01d3d593ae21673af3bb8d3562f0f314aebc53b13fcfc9099eb0beff9e&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1600){height:138%,left:-200px} }} {{imageMaskCorner12,--offsetX:50%,--offsetY:-30%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178715346136469587/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_8a2ccf75-aa47-4871-8188-00e7a6598f14.png?ex=65772735&is=6564b235&hm=c0a31f01d3d593ae21673af3bb8d3562f0f314aebc53b13fcfc9099eb0beff9e&=&format=webp&width=900&height=1600){height:138%} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote}} {{watercolor4,top:-850px,left:330px,width:550px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:40%,transform:scale(-1)}} {{watercolor4,top:-760px,left:300px,width:550px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:40%,transform:scalex()}} {{watercolor4,top:-200px,left:-100px,width:550px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:40%,transform:scale(}} {{watercolor4,top:-450px,left:-230px,width:550px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:40%,transform:scale(-1)}} ![Officer](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1179459365690949783/officer_fixed.png?ex=6579dc22&is=65676722&hm=7cd3e433cfe1949b234fbe8008413f55774505999067747752c669ee58e96378&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=667&height=1002) {position:absolute,top:30px,right:426px,width:370px,transform:rotate(-2deg)} {{descriptive,position:relative,top:440px,left:-38px,width:370px ##### From "Ariadne's Journal", Page ??? The Aurinoir are vetted to be stalwart, intelligent, but above all, incorruptible. Often recruited from the midst of populations struck by a disaster brought forth by the mishandling of Underside artifacts and knowledge, they have a personal drive to prevent further catastrophes by any means necessary. It's safe to say that no bribe will get you past an Aurinoir Lieutenant, dear! : However, they are also taught of all the times knowledge from the Underside saved lives, or brought forth meaningful progress. They know about the good, the bad and the ugly. And the City of Strings trusts them thus, to make the right decisions pertaining to each artifact, each tome, and each blueprint under their protection. : If you find yourself at odds with one of them --not that you ever should do something so foolish, dear-- your best hope is to plead your case convincingly. Despite being all stern frowns and raised, proud chins, they keep a surprisingly open mind. If you go for the fighting or escape route... they will be relentless in their pursuit. : I'm afraid to say we have authorized them to use lethal force quite liberally. Not our proudest policy, but we think it best to have one death on our hands than a million, should the Underside's secrets be let loose by the ambitious, the greedy and the reckless. Knowledge is power, after all, and power should be used *very* carefully. : **--Ariadne Stringweaver, Regent of the City of Strings** }} \column {{monster,frame,top:-30px,left:25px ## Aurinoir Lieutenant *Medium humanoid (any race), lawful neutral* ___ **Armor Class** :: 14 (17 with mage armor) **Hit Points** :: 91 (14d8 + 28) **Speed** :: 30 ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |14 (+2)|18 (+4)|15 (+2)|18 (+4)|14 (+2)|16 (+3)| ___ **Saving Throws** :: Dex +7, Int +7 **Skills** :: Perception +8, Investigation +7 **Damage Resistances** :: acid, cold, fire, lightning, thunder **Senses** :: darkvision 120 ft., passive Perception 18 **Languages** :: common, primeval, deep speech, and one other language **Challenge** :: 8 (2,300 XP) ___ ***Cloak of the Elements.*** The Lieutenant's cloak is made of a magical fabric that is highly resistant to the elements, granting it resistance to acid, cold, fire, lightning and thunder damage. : ***Unassailable Wit (2/day).*** When the Aurinoir Lieutenant is subjected to an effect that forces it to make a Wisdom or Charisma saving throw, it can make an Intelligence saving throw instead. : ***Replicant Extraordinaire.*** When the Aurinoir Lieutenant uses the *Magisteal* spell, it can copy and store a magical effect up to one level higher than the spell would normally allow. : ***Mind Fortress.*** The Aurinoir Lieutenant has advantage on saving throws against spells and magical effects that would modify, read or otherwise interfere with its memory or emotions. : ***Spellcasting.*** The Lieutenant is a 9th level spellcaster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 15, +7 to hit with spell attacks). It has the following spells prepared: : **Cantrips (at will):* message, light, mage hand, shocking grasp* : **1st level (4 slots):* detect magic, mage armor, magic missile, shield* : **2nd level (3 slots):* zone of truth, arcane cuffs, blur* : **3rd level (3 slots):* counterspell, lightning bolt, greater identify* : **4th level (3 slots)* arcane rescripting, faithful hound* : **5th level (1 slot):* magisteal* ### Actions ***Gauntlet.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +7 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit*: 7 (1d4 + 4) bludgeoning damage. : ***Arcane Bolt.*** *Ranged Spell Attack:* +7 to hit, range 120ft., one target. *Hit* 17 (3d10) fire / cold / lightning / acid damage (the Lieutenant's choice). : ***Reinforcements! (1/day).*** The Aurinoir Lieutenant calls upon up to three *Aurinoir Enforcers* that are arcanely tethered to him. If they are within the same plane of existence, they can use their reaction to immediately teleport to an unoccupied space within 10 feet of the Aurinoir Lieutenant. If there is no space available for them to appear, the teleportation fails. }} {{footnote The Aurinoir Order}} \page {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:26%,--rotation:200 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%,top:0px,left:00px} }} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:26%,--rotation:140 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%,top:0px,left:00px} }} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:21%,--rotation:76 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%,top:0px,left:00px} }} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:18%,--rotation:273 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%,top:0px,left:00px} }} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:17%,--rotation:360 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%,top:0px,left:00px} }} {{position:relative,top:255px,left:160px,text-align:center # Unbreakable Vaults }} {{position:relative,top:255px,left:160px,text-align:center *The Aurinoir Confiscations* : The Aurinoir have accumulated a great hoard of magical items within their vaults, both confiscated from Underside explorers and gathered in their own ventures into the primeval library. : As far as they're concerned, an object or piece of knowledge need only be contained if it's dangerous. If you believe you can put an item from their storage to better use, you'll be assigned an audience with a few Aurinoir officers to plead your case. After hearing your arguments, they will decide whether or not you are worthy of being granted use, for how long you are authorized to have it, and how much you have to pay for the privilege. : Magical bureaucracy at its finest! : }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Unbreakable Vaults}} \page {{monster,frame,wide,position:relative,top:285px,width:765px,left:-40px ## Aurinoir Destroyer *Huge construct, lawful neutral* ___ **Armor Class** :: 22 (natural armor) **Hit Points** :: 225 (18d12 + 108) **Speed** :: 50 ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |25 (+7)|9 (-1)|22 (+6)|14 (+2)|11 (-)|6 (-2)| ___ **Saving Throws** :: Str +11, Con +11 **Damage Immunities** :: psychic, poison; bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from nonmagical attacks that aren't adamantine **Condition Immunities** :: charmed, exhaustion, frightened, paralyzed, petrified, poisoned **Senses** :: tremorsense 30ft., darkvision 240ft. **Languages** :: Common, Primeval **Challenge** :: 19 (22,000 XP) ___ ***Legendary Resistance (3/day).*** When the Aurinoir Destroyer fails a saving throw, it can choose to succeed instead. : ***Magic Resistance.*** The Aurinoir Destroyer has advantage on saving throws against spells and magical effects. : ***Immutable Form.*** The Aurinoir Destroyer is immune to all spells and magical effects that would alter its form. : ***Attuned Proto-Soul.*** Through its proto-soul, the Aurinoir Destroyer can be semi-attuned to up to five magical items. While connected in this way, the Destroyer knows the precise location of an item and prevents creatures from attuning to it, though the Destroyer gains no attunement benefits from the item. : ***Magic Weapons.*** The Aurinoir Destroyer's weapon attacks are magical. ### Actions ***Multiattack.*** The Aurinoir Destroyer makes three attacks with its *Hook Blade*. It can forgo one of these attacks to make a *Harpoon* attack instead, or to use its *Electroshock* action. : ***Hook Blade.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +14 to hit, range 10ft., one target. *Hit* 18 (3d6 + 7) slashing damage, and the target is *grappled* (escape DC 19). The Destroyer can have a maximum of two creatures grappled in this way. : ***Harpoon.*** *Ranged Weapon Attack:* +14 to hit, range 120ft., one target. *Hit* 21 (3d8 + 7) piercing damage, and the creature is *harpooned*. Only one creature can be harpooned at a time. While harpooned, a creature's speed becomes 0. A creature can use an action on their turn to remove the harpoon, taking 14 (3d8) piercing damage in the process. While a creature is *harpooned*, the Destroyer can use this attack again to partially recall the harpoon. A *harpooned* creature must succeed on a DC 21 Strength saving throw or be pulled 60 feet towards the Destroyer. If a creature breaks free from the Harpoon, it rapidly recoils back, ready to be launched again. : While the Harpoon is deployed, its steel cable can be attacked and cut, preventing the Destroyer from using this action again. It has an AC of 18 and 40 hit points. : ***Electroshock.*** The Aurinoir Destroyer targets a creature *harpooned* by it, sending a current of overwhelming electricity through the harpoon's steel cable. The harpooned creature takes 45 (10d8) lightning damage and must succeed on a DC 20 Constitution saving throw or be stunned until the end of their next turn. ### Legendary Actions *The Aurinoir Destroyer can take one legendary action, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action can be used at a time and only at the end of another creature's turn. The Aurinoir Destroyer regains spent legendary actions at the start of its turn.* : ***Blast Thrusters (3/day).*** The Aurinoir Destroyer jumps up to 50 feet away in a blast of alchemical thruster fire. Creatures within 5 feet of it when it begins this action must make a DC 17 Dexterity saving throw, taking 14 (4d6) fire damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one. Creatures in its landing area must succeed a DC 17 Dexterity saving throw to move out of the way, or take 35 (10d6) bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone. : Creatures knocked prone in this way are *restrained* (escape DC 19) until the Destroyer moves away, cannot be targeted by the Destroyer's attacks, and take 14 (4d6) bludgeoning damage at the start of each of the Destroyer's turns. : ***Onslaught.*** The Aurinoir Destroyer makes a Hook Blade or Harpoon attack. }} {{watercolor3,top:300px,left:590px,width:550px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:60%,transform:scale(}} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:-10%,--rotation:55 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?format=webp&quality=lossless){height:130%} }} ![LE GORDO](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1179146077740474388/gordofixed.png?ex=6578b85c&is=6566435c&hm=6ad52ee1488e8501a3b0f757376d6b0380d8488533fae5dc802a87f6c01bf169&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1503&height=1002) {width:1005px,position:absolute,top:0px,left:-190px,mix-blend-mode:} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Unbreakable Vaults}} {{quote,position:absolute,top:20px,left:530px,width:250px,text-align:center This was some of my best work while I apprenticed with the Aurinoir. This behemoth has what I like to call a "proto-soul", an artificial essence first distilled by the cursed alchemists of the Underside, which has properties that are remarkably similar to a real soul. With a cannister's worth of this essence, we artificially attune the Destroyer to the items it is meant to protect, giving it precise, uninterrupted knowledge over their location... : {{attribution Threadseeker Farlane}} }} \page {{watercolor9,top:-420px,left:970px,width:380px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-420px,left:970px,width:380px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-420px,left:970px,width:380px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-1020px,left:-700px,width:350px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(85deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-1020px,left:-700px,width:350px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(85deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-1020px,left:-700px,width:350px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(85deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:380px,left:-200px,width:350px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(65deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:380px,left:-200px,width:350px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(65deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:380px,left:-200px,width:350px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(65deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-550px,left:-550px,width:310px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-550px,left:-550px,width:310px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-550px,left:-550px,width:310px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-350px,left:-270px,width:310px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-350px,left:-270px,width:310px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-350px,left:-270px,width:310px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} ![garlic](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1179538462559436870/tomfarlane_a_wooden_wand_of_chaos_magic_DD_magic_item_white_bac_f803ed35-e1b8-4b68-90d8-7927947e9528_1.png?ex=657a25cc&is=6567b0cc&hm=d0d73cf6353dd89270dac1ed2d0c3c57c25142df85db356f052f4acfb89930dd&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:505px,position:absolute,top:60px,left:330px,transform:rotate(-45deg)} ![tomeprimeval](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1179539680765673543/tomfarlane_an_ancient_leather_tome_wrapped_in_chains_and_locks__a87b212d-838e-449f-a477-c88eb58abd62_1.png?ex=657a26ee&is=6567b1ee&hm=a71f71bd7be05e39a09953f3f68754e52f39c63a2ae589681ad4b0967af6c21f&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:375px,position:absolute,top:525px,left:410px,transform:scaleX(-1)} {{position:relative,top:35px,left:-10px #### Wand of Gold & Garlic *Wand, Very Rare (requires attunement)* : Made by a primeval alchemist with a sense of humor, this wand can freely transmute heads of garlic into sand-like grains of gold. It will not transmute anything else under any circumstances, but it does reek of garlic all the time. Because of its potential to wreck the economy of the material plane, the *Wand of Gold & Garlic* is safely contained deep within the vaults of the Aurinoir Order. : This wand can also be used as a spellcasting focus that grants a +2 to your spell save DC and spell attack bonus. While attuned to this item, all cloud-based spells smell of garlic and deal double damage to creatures of vampiric origin. : ***Cursed Item:*** After you transmute a hundred and one heads of garlic into gold, the next time you attempt the transmutation, you must succeed on a DC 18 Charisma saving throw or be turned into a mound of golden sand. This transformation kills you instantly. :::: #### Tome of Primeval & Deep Speech *Wondrous Item, Rare* : This leather bound tome looks similar to most of the scholarly texts you'd expect to find in an arcanist's library, save for the chains and locks. Nothing about it is particularly strange, though it seems to be crafted backwards for most languages. : Inside, you'll find a comprehensive guide on how to understand, speak and write the primeval tongue (not to be confused with primordial, the language of elementals), an antique dialect that is often credited as the first language, and the one in which most spells and arcanisms were first devised. With the help of this book's subtle magic, you can reach an intermediate level in primeval after devoting 40 hours to its study. : The second part of this book covers Deep Speech, the tongue of the void, which can also be learned in 40 hours. The preface reads: *Nothing good comes of learning Deep Speech -- aberrations will be drawn to you, and you'll suffer endless temptations and manipulations to study the dark arts borne of the chaos beyond time and space. But knowledge comes first, and it must be recorded, ruinous as it may be.* : }} ![separador](https://png.pngtree.com/png-clipart/20220706/ourmid/pngtree-decorative-line-separator-black-lines-png-image_5687462.png) {width:365px,mix-blend-mode:multiply,transform:rotate(0deg),position:absolute,top:400px,left:420px,opacity:80%} : {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Unbreakable Vaults}} \page {{watercolor9,top:-520px,left:990px,width:380px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-520px,left:990px,width:380px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-520px,left:990px,width:380px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-1020px,left:-700px,width:350px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(85deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-1020px,left:-700px,width:350px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(85deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-1020px,left:-700px,width:350px,background-color:black,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(85deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:50px,left:-200px,width:350px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(95deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:50px,left:-200px,width:350px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(95deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:50px,left:-200px,width:350px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(95deg)}} {{watercolor3,top:-620px,left:-565px,width:310px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor3,top:-620px,left:-565px,width:310px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor3,top:-620px,left:-565px,width:310px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-450px,left:-250px,width:310px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-450px,left:-250px,width:310px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-450px,left:-250px,width:310px,background-color:#D4AF37,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(145deg)}} ![mechanical pseudodragon](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1180251016655024249/Remove_background_project_22.png?ex=657cbd6a&is=656a486a&hm=848a7dd3145d32d38a28951784623589314c7e4a20620deb954684e8e29de23a&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1002&height=1002) {width:515px,position:absolute,top:10px,left:-90px,transform:rotate(-deg)} ![bracers](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1179572355173986304/dfasf_1.png?ex=657a455c&is=6567d05c&hm=a8cefb9baf29cd1dcc4a56616d4e22e8ba14d8604dbe4fc2f2729868a579a7ee&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1047&height=1002) {width:405px,position:absolute,top:495px,left:0px,transform:scaleX(-1)} \column {{position:relative,top:35px,left:-10px #### Mechanical Pseudodragon *Wondrous Item, Legendary (requires attunement)* : An amazing construct familiar, at least in theory. No mechanical pseudodragons have been found already built, only blueprints and instructions to construct them, which were diligently followed by arcanists of the City of Strings. The result was this little devil of a construct, which will act benevolent, but will secretly plot the demise of its owner. What's worse, the ultimate objective of these creatures always is to replicate themselves, and form a mechanical swarm to take over the universe. It's not a joke, that's what they do... : Blueprints and deactivated specimens of Mechanical Pseudodragons are kept under the strictest custody because of the existential threat they pose to life, as they would raze entire worlds to obtain resources to make more of themselves. Only a 9th level upcast of the *Arcane Rescripting* spell can twist them against their evil, genocidal nature. Being authorized by the Aurinoir to keep a Mechanical Pseudodragon is a symbol of power and influence within the City of Strings, for it denotes the tremendous arcane prowess and knowledge of the construct's owner. :: #### Pauldrons of Villainous Opulence *Wondrous Item, Legendary (requires attunement)* : These impressive pauldrons turn any suit of armor they are affixed to into a suit of fine *plate armor +3*, colored in silver and red enamel. They were probably a poisoned gift from a skilled arcane smith of yore to one of their enemies. : *Cursed Item:* once you attune to these pauldrons and affix them to a suit of armor, you are powerless to remove them or the armor. An aura of queasy opulence protrudes from you in a 30 foot sphere -- sapient creatures within that area perceive you as decadently wealthy, wasteful and unlikeable. Non-sapient creatures naturally mistrust you and feel threatened by your presence. You may be attacked by the more aggressive specimens of either group. : The pauldrons are sentient, and will slowly try to turn you against your allies, friends, family, and eventually the world at large, attempting to stir resentment in you... to guide you down a villainous path of destruction and murder. Genocidal conquerors from across the ages have been known to own pauldrons very similar to these... }} ![separador](https://png.pngtree.com/png-clipart/20220706/ourmid/pngtree-decorative-line-separator-black-lines-png-image_5687462.png) {width:365px,mix-blend-mode:multiply,transform:rotate(0deg),position:absolute,top:400px,left:20px,opacity:80%} : {{pageNumber,auto}} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Unbreakable Vaults}} {{footnote Unbreakable Vaults}} {{footnote Unbreakable Vaults}} \page ::::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{note,position:relative,left:-43px,width:365px ##### Mechanical Pseudodragon Variants Not all Mechanical Pseudodragons are made with electric systems in mind -- depending on the materials available to the swarm, several variants have been observed. : ***Combustion Variant (CR 5):*** A less efficient model, but much easier to make with limited materials. : *Trait: Combustion Dependence.* The Mechanical Pseudodragon is resistant to fire damage, and must consume four pounds of coal per day or fall dormant until its combustion system is reignited. This replaces the *Lightning Dependence* trait. : *Action: Incinerating Breath (recharge 5-6).* The Mechanical Pseudodragon breathes sticky, liquid flames in a 15 foot cone in front of it. Creatures within that area must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking 10 (4d4) fire damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one. Creatures who fail the saving throw are *incinerated*, taking 5 (2d4) fire damage at the start of each of their turns for the next minute, or until they spend an action to quench them by rolling on the ground. This replaces the *Electrostatic Breath* action. : ***Caustic Variant (CR 8):*** An advanced model that can produce an abundance of energy from simple chemical reactions. Its more robust systems grant it a Constitution score of 18, and 112 maximum hit points. : *Trait: Energetic Independence.* The Mechanical Pseudodragon can subsist for one week consuming only a vial of acid. It retains its lightning absorption capabilities, and has resistance to acid damage. : *Action: Caustic Flames (recharge 5-6).* The Mechanical Pseudodragon breathes flaming acid in a 15 foot cone in front of it. Creatures within that area must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking 10 (4d4) fire and 10 (4d4) acid damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one. Creatures who fail the saving throw are wreathed in caustic flames, taking 5 (2d4) fire damage and 5 (2d4) acid damage at the start of each of their turns for the next minute, or until they quench them with at least one gallon of water. }} \column {{monster,frame,position:relative,top:5px,left:10px ## Mechanical Pseudodragon *small construct, neutral evil* ___ **Armor Class** :: 15 (natural armor) **Hit Points** :: 67 (15d6 + 15) **Speed** :: 30 ft., fly 60 ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |8 (-1)|17 (+3)|12 (+1)|18 (+4)|12 (+1)|15 (+2)| ___ **Saving Throws** :: Dex +5, Int +6 **Skills** :: Deception +5, **Damage Immunities** :: poison, necrotic, lightning, psychic **Condition Immunities** :: poisoned, exhaustion, charmed, frightened, paralyzed, petrified **Senses** :: darkvision 240 feet. **Languages** :: common, primeval, deep speech, draconic **Challenge** :: 6 (2,300 XP) ___ ***Genocidal Hive.*** The Mechanical Pseudodragon has an overpowering drive to build more of itself and destroy all non-mechanical, non-draconic life. It will always choose this objective above friends, allies and treasure, which it only sees as means to reaching its ultimate goal of cosmic domination. : ***Duplicitous Artificery.*** The mechanical pseudodragon has advantage on Charisma (deception) checks made to hide its ultimate objective. : ***Overpowering Swarm.*** The Mechanical Pseudodragon has advantage on attack rolls if it has at least two other flying allies within 15 feet of it. : ***Lightning Dependence.*** Whenever the Mechanical Pseudodragon is subjected to lightning damage, it takes no damage and regains a number of hit points equal to the lightning damage dealt. It must absorb at least 10 points of lightning damage in this way every day, from a source other than its own attacks and abilities, or it falls dormant until it is recharged. ### Actions ***Multiattack.*** The Mechanical Pseudodragon makes two attacks: one with its *talons*, and one with its *bite* or *electrobolt*. : ***Talons.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +6 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit* 5 (1d4 + 3) slashing damage. : ***Bite.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +6 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit* 6 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage and 3 (1d4) lightning damage. : ***Electrobolt.*** *Ranged Spell Attack:* +7 to hit, range 60ft., one target. *Hit* 9 (2d4 + 4) lightning damage. : ***Electrostatic Breath (recharge 5-6).*** The Mechanical Pseudodragon breathes paralyzing lightning in a 15 foot cone in front of it. Creatures within that area must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking 15 (6d4) lightning damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one. Creatures who fail the saving throw are also slowed by the pulsing electricity, taking a 10 feet penalty to their movement and being unable to use reactions until the end of their next turn. }} ![mechanical pseudodragon BG](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1181238574096580659/tomfarlane_a_lightning_watercolor_splatter_white_background_fan_01bf395b-9ca4-4242-a47d-dab9311d1173-transformed_1.png?ex=65805526&is=656de026&hm=23c6337a6e7874a558c47df00111121375a4b70e7c44d1edccf59bd2f1065db9&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=2002&height=2002) {width:955px,position:absolute,top:-170px,left:-220px,transform:scaleX(-1),opacity:30%} ![mechanical pseudodragon BG](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1181238574096580659/tomfarlane_a_lightning_watercolor_splatter_white_background_fan_01bf395b-9ca4-4242-a47d-dab9311d1173-transformed_1.png?ex=65805526&is=656de026&hm=23c6337a6e7874a558c47df00111121375a4b70e7c44d1edccf59bd2f1065db9&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=2002&height=2002) {width:955px,position:absolute,top:-170px,left:-220px,transform:scaleX(-1),opacity:70%} ![mechanical pseudodragon](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1180981513299427369/Remove_background_project_23.png?ex=657f65be&is=656cf0be&hm=e89160a435918ed7a2784bfb4ac1c6052ca17cac9d1d5cc10d02f53417c97886&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=501&height=1002) {width:505px,position:absolute,top:-280px,left:-50px,transform:scaleX(-1)} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Unbreakable Vaults}} {{imageMaskEdge2,--offset:40%,--rotation:-7 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1179450333324390510/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_f778990c-ffe2-406f-8eda-ea1bdfa5bd68.png?ex=6579d3b8&is=65675eb8&hm=a2a2a352d259e44a9eef97898e053081b6d8c98c9f7d935201ea642cc6e9d1f6&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1122&height=2000){height:138%,top:-320px} }} {{imageMaskEdge2,--offset:40%,--rotation:-47 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1179450333324390510/tomfarlane_fantasy_illustration_of_an_overgrown_magic_laborator_f778990c-ffe2-406f-8eda-ea1bdfa5bd68.png?ex=6579d3b8&is=65675eb8&hm=a2a2a352d259e44a9eef97898e053081b6d8c98c9f7d935201ea642cc6e9d1f6&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1122&height=2000){height:138%,top:-320px} }} \page :::: {{text-align:center,wide,position:relative,top:-15px # The Aurinoir Arcanum : *Penned by many illustrious planeswalkers of the City of Strings, the Aurinoir Arcanum is a collection of spells designed for the defense and recovery of Underside items. Like all knowledge, however, it has spread far beyond its initial purpose, and can now be found in diverse corners of the planes, being used for motives noble and ruinous alike.* : }} #### Arcane Cuffs *2nd level abjuration* **Casting Time:** :: 1 action **Range:** :: touch **Components:** :: S, M (an ingot of polished silver, which the spell consumes) **Duration:** :: 1 hour You attempt to place silvery anti-magical restraints on a creature within range, who must succeed on a saving throw using their spellcasting ability or be unable to cast spells of 2nd level or lower for the duration. : Restrained creatures have disadvantage on this save, and incapacitated creatures fail it automatically. : **At Higher Levels:** When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 3rd level or higher, the target becomes unable to cast spells of the slot's level or lower. Additionally, the duration of the spell increases to 8 hours when cast with a spell slot of 4th level or higher, 24 hours at 6th level, and one week at 8th level. : #### Greater Identify *3rd level divination (ritual)* **Casting Time:** :: 10 minutes **Range:** :: touch **Components:** :: S, V, M (A pearl worth at least 500 gp and an owl feather) **Duration:** :: instantaneous You choose one object that you must touch throughout the casting of the spell. If it is a magic item or some other magic-imbued object, you learn its properties and how to use them, whether it requires attunement to use, and how many charges it has, if any. You learn the identities of its three previous users, and the most significant actions they took with it. You also learn of any hidden compartments, traps or malicious design concealed within the object. You learn if any spells are affecting the item and what they are. If the item was created by a spell, you learn which spell created it. : Additionally, you decipher compatibilities and dissonances of the object with different magical auras, learning if the item would react adversely or positively to planar energies of any kind, such as chaotic, lawful, good and evil auras and effects. : If you instead touch a creature throughout the casting, you learn what spells or magical effects, if any, are currently affecting it. You also learn the the three highest level spells the creature can cast, and the last spell it casted. : #### Arcane Rescripting *4th level omniturgy* **Casting Time:** :: 1 minute **Range:** :: touch **Components:** :: S, V, M (a shard of fine opal worth at least 100 GP, which the spell consumes) **Duration:** :: instantaneous You target a construct you can touch with a powerful arcane script that allows you to modify its fundamental behavior. Create a sentence, no longer than 30 words, to act as the construct's new root programming. : At the end of the casting time, an unwilling construct must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or be bound to obey your arcane script over any previous orders and instructions for the next 24 hours. You must touch the construct throughout the entire casting of the spell for the script to take effect. : **At Higher Levels:** If you cast this spell using a spell slot of 7th level, the arcane script lasts for one week. If you cast it using a spell slot of 9th level, it lasts indefinitely until it is dispelled or the construct dies. {{note,position:relative,top:10px ##### Of omniturgy and how to run it This entry of the Codex of Strings works a lot with a new school of magic: Omniturgy, the magic of reality manipulation. This primeval form of arcana is typically reserved for deities endowed with the power of creation, but through ceaseless scientific study, mortals can replicate some of this long lost power. : Omniturgy is the study of the underlying magic systems of the universe. In our world, it represents adaptations of the ancient magics that shaped the universe, and as such, many Omniturgy spells deal with modifying other magical effects. : If you don't feel like adding another school of magic to your setting, that is fine! You can replace Omniturgy with Abjuration or Enchantment, for most spells. If you do want to use it, consider changing the type of certain reality-manipulating spells to Omniturgy -- time stop, reverse gravity, and wish, for example, fit the bill perfectly. }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:44%,--rotation:181 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:270 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:100%} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote The Aurinoir Arcanum}} \page #### Magisteal *5th level omniturgy* **Casting Time:** :: 1 reaction taken when you see a spell or magical effect being cast by a creature within range **Range:** :: 30 feet **Components:** :: S, M (the eye of a hawk) **Duration:** :: 8 hours You save an arcane snapshot of a spell or magical effect of 5th level or lower that you witness within range. For the duration, you can consume the snapshot to replicate the magic as if you were its source, maintaining all its original effects, damage and DCs, if any. Once you do so, the spell ends. You cannot use this spell to save a snapshot of an effect being replicated by *Magisteal*. : *The slot level required to copy a magical effect other than a spell is up to DM discretion, as they are too varied to make a general rule for, but we suggest dividing the casting creature's CR by two, rounding up. This way, the **Healing Touch** of a Planetar (CR 16) would require an 8th level upcast of Magisteal, as would the **Fire Breath** of an Adult Red Dragon (CR 17).* : **At Higher Levels:** When you cast this spell with a spell slot of 6th level or higher, you can copy a spell or magical effect if its level is less than or equal to the level of the spell slot you used. To copy *Power Word Kill*, for example, you must cast Magisteal using a spell slot of 9th level. ::: ![MIGUEL JENGA](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1186511106403999794/myriel_genra_1.png?ex=65938394&is=65810e94&hm=1c1fef56b7399f57d7699679ec36eb833003fd8b03d68310febc2c8d648ff62f&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=3314&height=4072) {position:absolute,bottom:0px,right:400px,width:380px,height:,mix-blend-mode:darken} ![separador](https://png.pngtree.com/png-clipart/20220706/ourmid/pngtree-decorative-line-separator-black-lines-png-image_5687462.png) {width:255px,mix-blend-mode:multiply,transform:rotate(0deg),position:absolute,top:720px,left:455px,opacity:80%} {{watercolor6,top:400px,left:700px,width:400px,background-color:goldenrod,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor2,top:400px,right:1000px,width:400px,background-color:goldenrod,opacity:80%,transform:rotate(40deg)}} \column #### Mantle of Bodily Safety *5th level abjuration* **Casting Time:** :: 1 action **Range:** :: touch **Components:** :: S, V, M (a purple diamond worth at least 300 GP) **Duration:** :: concentration, up to 10 minutes A creature you touch is wreathed in an ethereal cloak of protective light, rendering them completely immune to spells or magical effects that would alter their form, such as the *polymorph* spell or a Medusa's *petrifying gaze*. Creatures within 15 feet of the Mantle of Bodily safety are also aided by its magic, gaining advantage on saving throws against spells or magical effects that would alter their form. : **At Higher Levels:** When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 6th level or higher, the maximum duration is increased to 1 hour. : #### Confiscate *6th level abjuration* **Casting Time:** :: 1 action **Range:** :: 30 feet **Components:** :: S, M (a platinum magnet) **Duration:** :: Concentration, up to 1 minute You target a wondrous item you can see within range. If a creature is attuned to it, they must succeed on a Charisma saving throw or have their attunement interrupted for as long as you maintain concentration on the spell. If you concentrate for the full duration of the spell, their attunement is broken and you can choose to instantly attune to it in their stead. Items that are sentient or of *Artifact* rarity are not affected by this spell, unless you cast it using a 9th level spell slot. : Additionally, while you concentrate on this spell, you can use your bonus action to magically pull the targeted item 30 feet towards you, catching it if you have a free hand to do so when it reaches you. If a creature is carrying it, it must make a Strength (athletics) check against your spell save DC to prevent the item from being torn from their grasp. :::::: {{quote "Chosen by a higher power... that is quite something. You must be very special, are you not? Now, let me borrow that... blessing of yours. Let me have a taste of your power. Us wizards, you know... we had to actually earn ours. : {{attribution Myriel Genra, Threadseeker of Divinity}} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:270 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:130%} }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:34%,--rotation:90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1178773659565961309/tomfarlane_the_quarters_of_a_wizard_institute_black_and_gold_pa_a2556481-d964-4b84-b6a1-d276d9de3e0c.png?ex=65775d84&is=6564e884&hm=ba54d4e9e8d029bafb751573eee36498aa55bc6d0a66bfea6a45fc126b5e32b1&=&format=webp&width=1500&height=2500){height:100%} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote The Aurinoir Arcanum}} \page {{backCover}} # Like what you See? : If you want to see more of us, we have a lot more content in our site: www.codexofstrings.com : The Library of Underside is our seventh entry into this burgeoning universe we call the Codex of Strings. It is on sale at the moment! 80 pages of content to give your holiday season DnD an eldritch twist and discover the secrets of the Library of Underside! : We would like to extend a big *THANK YOU* {{width:1px}} to all of our patrons, who make these entries possible and give us starving creatives some stability in this ever-fledging world. : These commendable Threadmaster-tier Patrons have climbed through the ranks of our organization, and are the lifeblood of this project: ##### **-- Dakota Hinton** ##### **-- Richard J Shepard III** ##### **-- Asin Samay** ##### **-- John Doe** ##### **-- Davin Pacheco** ##### **-- Kristian Meling** ##### **-- Gavin Pacheco** : A Special thank you to our Stringweavers! ##### **-- Steven Zillinski** ##### **-- Zack Byers** Got any feedback? Ideas? Suggestions? We have an email! How very modern of us... : Reach us at support@codexofstrings.com ___ {{text-align:center,position:relative,top ##### Join us in voting for our next entry! www.patreon.com/codexofstrings }} ![background image](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1149849911337173134/1151926837589590037/city_o_string_1.png?width=3000&height=4000){position:absolute,bottom:0,right:-24px,height:100%}