The Adventure Starts Here

Ordillias is a world of knights and nobles, ancient terrors and powerful gods.
Wild tribes roam the northern wilderness, industrious civilisation spreads from the West while Elves and Dwarves weather the steady march of progress in sacred woodland groves and halls of iron and stone.
Plots and intrigue surround kings and barons as soldiers and commoners march to war against an ever present threat.

Welcome, traveller, to Ordillias and it's realms within.

The World and it's Setting

Our adventure is set in a low fantasy medieval world. Magic and monsters do exist here, but if you read on you will come to understand that Ordillias is not quite the same as many other Dungeons and Dragons settings.
Although our game is indeed one of fantasy, many steps have been taken to encourage and foster a feeling of realism in both the world and inhabitants. Worry not, dear adventurer, this is still the game you know and love, only with changes and omissions to set the scene.

                                KNIGHT OF ADAMAR

Limitations of the Setting

To fully realise a bustling medieval society, there will be some, or even many, limitations to play.
First of these will be character race and class.

Races available to players creating characers for this adventure are limited to:

• Human (No limit)
• Elf (Two per party max)
• Halfling (One per party max)
• Dwarf (Two per party max)

The party must consist mainly of human members with one or two other races.

Classes available to players for character creation for this adventure are limited to:

• Fighter (No limit)
• Ranger (No limit)
• Cleric (No limit)
• Barbarian (One per party)
• Rogue (One per party)
• Bard (One per party)
• Paladin (One per party)
• Druid (One per party)
• Sorcerer (One per party)
• Warlock (One per party)
• Wizard (One per party)

This limitation is for reasons of both narative and mechanics. Arcane magic is outlawed in The Realms and non-human races often suffer open hostility, so choose your class and race wisely and with this knowledge in mind. (Druid and Cleric magic is considered celestial not arcane.)

Life in a Medieval World

The Realms, which is the name given to the main continental landmass of Ordillias and where the bulk of our journeys will be set, is a collection of feudal Dukedoms, Duchies and Earldoms. The continent is vast, stretching from the frigid northern wastes to the tropical southern islands.
The peoples, of whom you will become familier should you read on, vary markedly in their speech and customs.
Religion is a large part of the way of life in The Realms, and with it comes it's own set of problems...
Society is largely dictated by those of noble bloodlines or through the ever watchful powers of The Church.

Trials and tribulations of the age

As our adventure seeks to mirror many of the major aspects of medieval life, there will be themes of a darker nature that some may find unsettling. Due to this, I ask you, dear player, to consider what you are comfortable with and to make your feelings known before our party sets foot upon Ordillian soil.

Possible themes may include difficult issues such as:

• Drug & alcohol use and abuse
• Slavery and ownership of humans & other races
• Explicit language & (fantasy) slurs
• Racism toward humans and non-humans*
• Torture & descriptions of severe injury
• Religious persecution & anti-religion

This is NOT an excuse for players to roleplay dark fantasies. These guidelines stand as a warning of DM content, the themes used are for narrative purposes only.
*Racism and slurs will be fantasy only. Any real world racism or slurs will result in immidiate exclusion.

Character realism

When you create your characters, there is an expectation of realistic portrayal. This includes backgrounds, skill and tool choices, balance of combat and non-combat abilities, even choice of character portraits. This is a medieval low fantasy setting, think GoT meets LotR. Manga or otherwise foolish portraits are unacceptable. Please strive to provide a portrait that fits with the theme of the adventure.
If you are unsure, use the art in
this booklet for reference.

Your character(s) should be of
adventuring age: 19 or older.
He/she should be from this
world and have skills, class,
religion and language(s) that
fit with the choices as detailed
In the 'Peoples of Ordillias' section.

Things are a little restricted, but
there are also additions added
that are not in the standard game
available to you to choose from.
Ordillias has a vibrant cast of
characters whom call it home,
from cattle drovers to crusading
knights and everything in between.
Something for every taste!

A final note on realism

Although much effort has been put in to faithfully recreate a working medieval setting, some historical truths are not going to be told in our story. Sexism is not tollerated.
The role of women will be exactly as that of men.
There will be no themes of a sexual nature

Creating a party

As alluded to in the section 'The World and it's Setting', there are a number of differences in this campaign regarding character choice etc. In this section we will delve in to character and party creation for The Realms of Ordillias.

Please, dear adventurer, don't be disheartened if your favourite race or class is unavailable, try something new and you may just surprise yourself... - Adventure awaits!

Party formation

Parties will usually consist of 4-6 members, as detailed previously there are some restrictions on 'exotic' races.
A party of 4 may have ONE elf, dwarf or halfling while a party of 6 may have up to TWO. Exotic races are not common in The Realms and this ruling is in place to reflect that.

Furthermore, a limit of ONE arcane magic-user is set for ANY party size. This can be an exotic race if you choose.
Remember: Arcane magic is Outlawed in most areas of The Realms, openly casting will result in hostile opinion or worse.

Your party formation is up to you as players and should be discussed as a group before characters are even rolled.
You must decide between yourselves who, if anyone, will be an exotic race or the magic-user.
Reccomended but not imperative, is to have a healer and a human 'face' for the party. Of course, this is entirely up to you.

Character Creation

The creation of your character(s) will be done slightly differently and certain limiting rules will apply.
Firstly, we will be limited only to the subclasses available in The Player's Handbook.
Secondly, there will be a substantial amount of homebrew content that must be taken in to consideration when building your character so please familiarise yourself with the content contained within this booklet pertaining to your choices.

THE ROLL-UP

• Use Manual/Rolled for your stats. You have 75 points in total to distribute. Lower limit: 8 - Higher limit: 18
  Racial bonuses are added on top of your 75 points
  (Racial bonuses may not push a score over 20)
  
  
• Languages are to be replaced with those of your race choice from this booklet only.
  
  
• Hit points will be fixed for the entire game, you will always recieve maximum upon level up. On first creation, every character will have a bonus 10 hit points added.
  
  
• Your characters will be leveling using the milestone system.
  
  
• Unless otherwise stated, we will always start at level 1
  
  
• We will only be using backgrounds from The Player's Handbook.
  
  
• Add standard starting equipment for your class as well as any bonus equipment detailed in your racial choice. You may also use up to 25gp (free) to buy miscellaneous items from the standard equipment list.
  
  DND Beyond is reccomended for character creation.
  https://www.dndbeyond.com

Class Limitations

The different races in Ordillias are limited in their skills, talents and knowledge. To reflect this, our characters will choose their classes based upon their racial backgrounds. Listed below are the available classes your chosen race may choose from. It may be possible during play to multiclass.

Brythonian

Classes available to Brythonian characters are:
Fighter, Ranger, Cleric, Rogue, Paladin, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard*

When building a Brythonian character you may choose a feat of your choice at level one, just as standard Human Variant.

• Brythonian wizards are extremely rare. DM guidance.

Goidelid

Classes available to Goidelic characters are:
Fighter, Ranger, Barbarian, Druid, Bard.

Goidelid characters do not benefit from a feat at first level.

Elves

Classes available to Elven characters are:
Fighter, Ranger, Cleric, Druid, Wizard.

Dwarves

Classes available to Dwarven characters are:
Fighter (Anvilmar), Druid (Goldenbeard), Cleric (Both).

Halfling

Classes available to Halfling characters are:
Fighter, Ranger, Rogue.

Outlander

Outlanders can choose any permitted class.
They may also take a feat at first level.

House Rules

In an effort to portray a more gritty and realistic setting there will be a number of house rules imposed. These are intended to both reflect the low magic environment as well as create more option for use of tools, skills and abilities.

Healing, potions and hitdice

Healing potions are a very rare commodity in The Realms.
Classic methods of healing are used when magical healing is not available. To this end, Healer's kits will provide healing upon a short rest, if they are administered. (1d6 HP per rest)
Herbalist's Kits may also be used. If used in conjuction with a Healer's Kit, then the 1d6 increases to 1d8 per rest.
If only a Herbalist's kit is used, 1d4 healing per rest.

Hit dice at half your level may be used during a long rest. They will automatically be available for each long rest and can be used in conjuction with both Healer's and Herbalist's Kits. All magical healing is as normal.

Equipment damage

To simulate weapon, armour and equipment damage we will use a simple table based upon the roll of a critical failure.
If you make an attack, throw a rope etc. and roll a 1, there is a chance to damage your weapon or equipment.
Similarly, upon taking critical hits there is a chance of armour damage.
Having backup equipment and party members or hirelings skilled in the various tools and disciplines to repair things is imperative!

Equipment Damage Table
Once critical failure is rolled, reroll a d20.

1-10 No damage
11-15 Slight damage
16-20 Item Breaks

If weapons, armour or equipment break while in the field, they become unusable and must be repaired.
If wearing a shield, you may choose if the shield or armour takes the damage. On a break role, your worn armour drops 2AC rather than becoming completely useless.

Slight damage is repairable by a Player Character with only
simple tools and 10 minutes tinkering time.
Completely broken items, however, must be repaired by a skilled crafts-person, be it a PC or a smith, tanner etc.
Time taken to repair the item will depend on the item and it's complexity.
Magic items are exempt from normal damage

Magic use

Wizard spells are not automatically given at level up. The spells must be bought or found before being transcribed to your spell book. You may choose 8 spells for your 1st level wizard tome. Choose wisely!
All other arcane magic-users progress as normal due to their power being inherant. They are not able to learn spells during the adventure. Only at level up.

Both celestial and arcane magic in Ordillias is tied to the life force of the caster. Cantrips are always free to cast, but higher level spells will result in points of exhaustion for the character. The first two spells cast per day will impose no penalty, but every following spell will incur a point of exhaustion. Level 3 and above spells will result in two points of exhaustion and level 6 spells and above will result in 4 points. A long rest will return three levels of exhaustion rather than only one in the standard game.
Wizards may cast 3 spells per day before suffering any exhaustion.

Spells such as Goodberry, Create Food and Water etc. are not to be used in this campaign. The reason for this is that they detract from roleplay of basic survival, while also making the skills of classes such as ranger defunct.

The Chosen

As the main protagonists of our adventure, your characters are not your average person. Each of you has a destiny to fulfill and a path to find within the world. Even though you may not have met one another before, you are able to see in each other some form of spark, something... Different.

Although you may not know it, or even want to admit it if you do, you all share in something most others never will.
Whether it's magical ability, an ancient bloodline, or even just a sense that you are somehow... Other.

Curiosities and heirlooms

As you begin your adventure, you may choose a unique item from the list below for your character. The item can be linked to your backstory, but must have been given to you or found at some point in your life.
Please keep your choice secret from the other members of your party until roleplayed out in character.

UNUSUAL ITEMS

• An ancient sword of unknown make
• A ring with illegible markings
• A lump of amber containing a preserved leaf
• A key of unknown origin for an unknown lock
• A map of a place never visited
• A horn that makes no sound
• A metal egg, warm to the touch
• An obsidian arrow, cold to the touch
• A book written in an unknown language
• A silver dagger with interesting runes
• A limb said to be from a sacred tree
• A necklace made from an unknown tooth
• A small flask of unknown liquid
• A strange religious symbol
• A child's waistcoat with gold embroidery
• A small black metal rod, about 7" long
• A brass clockwork contraption
• A crystal eyeglass with a clouded lens

Magic use continued

Magic users are able to 'up-cast' their spells, meaning that even a level 1 character may cast a spell at a higher level if the spell allows it. However, this always causes a point of exhaustion on top of those relevant to the level of spell cast. Not only that, but for every 2 levels the spell is cast above the spell caster's ability, a permanent physical effect manifests in the character as a result of the drain on their life force.
These are detailed below:
(Previous effects apply)

Over-casting Drain Table

2 levels over spell ability
The character's hair is turned white, they are aged 1d6 years and arcane markings are burned in to their chest and back.

4 levels over spell ability
The character's STR and CON are reduced by 1 point, their base HP is lowered by 2d6.

6 levels over spell ability
The character's mind is fractured, INT & WIZ are lowered to 8.

8 levels over spell ability
The character is killed with no chance of revival. Their soul is consumed by The Weave.

As an example, a 1st level cleric decides to cast Inflict Wounds at 6th level:
Damage potential would be 8d10 necrotic on a successful hit. The cost would be 5 points of exhaustion, and the effects of both level 2 and level 4 on the drain table.

Tools and Skills

Due to the relativly low magic environment and incresed threat level of this adventure, equipping your characters with varied skillsets will be imperitive to your effectivness as an adventuring party. Remember, wagon wheels break, rations run low and equipment needs regular upkeep!
Even the most book learned wizard lacks the knowledge of a skilled carpenter or a time served mason.

Handling skills and tools

We will base our use of tools upon the rules within Xanathar's Guide to Everything, but your characters are not limited to what is contained there. If you provide good reason, and more importantly good roleplay, the use of tools are almost limitless.
For example, it may seem that only a rogue skilled in lockpicking could open a lockbox or door... Why couldn't a skilled woodcrafter understand the mechanism by which the box was locked, or a smith know the weaknesses inhearant in a hingepin? Think on this and use skills to your advantage.

• If you feel a certain fitting tool or skill is missing, by all means, add a little homebrew of your own

Vehicles and mounts

The continent of Ordillias is expansive, there are vast tracts of land to cover when travelling between The Realms. Wagons, coaches and carts are commonplace, but move much slower in comparison to a fully mounted company. Consideration should be given to how your party intends to travel. Unskilled riders may become a significant burden...

Medieval occupations

Unlike many more fantasy oriented settings, this adventure strives to reproduce a sense of what existence would be in a medieval world. This also means that there is not one blacksmith who works everything. No, there is a farrier, a wainright, a cartwright, a fletcher, a bowyer and so on.
The same can be said for every occupation and not all will be present in every city, town or village.

The World Map

A Great continent streches out before you, vast tracts of land to explore. From lush forests to towering mountain peaks, deadly bad-lands and festering swamps...

The Realms, The Goidelid territories, Brythonia it's self and the darker places of the world where many would never dare to set foot. Will you?
(please visit: https://i.ibb.co/6Xk9xHB/Ordillias.png)

KING JORWYN UMBERSTAR III

The Peoples of Ordillias

The Brythons

                         HOUSE DE COUR MAN AT ARMS

The Brythons are an industrious race, spread to the continent from their island home in the west, they are masters of technology and warfare.

Knights atop pure-blood chargers equiped with the finest plate mail, men-at-arms in tight ranks brandishing vicious pole weapons... They are both the best and the worst of humanity. Their society is highly religious and ceaselessly warlike, few can stand in the way of their dogmatic onslaught.

The island of Brythonia and it's capitol Brenhinol house both the Royal Family of Umberstar under King Jorwyn III and the Holy Court, the fanatical ecclesiastical centre of worship of Brythonians both to the west and east, in The Realms.

The Royal Family aside, there are eight Great Houses whom head the feudal system of lesser nobles from seats of power in their baronies and earldoms, each one a demi-capitol in it's own right. Heavily fortified and boasting large standing armies, these would-be centres of power are the Brythonian's perminant mark of ownership upon the continent.

In the thousand years since The Fall of The Empire, the Brythons have expanded steadily outward and now occupy nearly every corner of the continent. The Realms function like petty-kingdoms, each one acting autonomously with it's own customs and cultures, those closest to the west remain much like their overseas cousins, while others further afield have picked up various foreign influences over the centuries.

Brythonian history, religion and many aspects of their culture have direct connection to their Imperial forebears. The language of lore-keeping and matters of a celestial nature are still conducted in Old Imperial. When The Empire died out on the continent Brythonia was still a thriving province, in some ways they are a continuation, but in others they are something new.

House St. Lucas

The second oldest house after Umberstar, House St. Lucas resides in their holdings of Tir Awyr on the Pensiarc peninsula. The head of the house is Duke Alwyn St. Lucas. His spouce is Duchess Margot St. Lucas, they have three young children; Alwyn, Cormyn and Yole.

Margot is previously of House De Cour, both houses sport the fleur du lys upon their crests as a symbol of this union.

THE PELLINVALE
Surrounded on all sides by water save for the thin neck of land bordering the Goidellic teritories, The Pellinvale is heavily forested and wild. Regular skirmishes break out between the tribes to the north-east and the men of 'The Vale'. Reknown for their skill in both archery and navigating the wild-lands, Vale-men and women make excellent Rangers. Although theirs is a smaller provence of The Realms, they can boast the tightest borders. The fell creatures of the Bitterspine mountains rarely stray too close.
Ancient yew groves supply those of The Vale with staves of unparalleled quality, archery truly is in the blood in this realm with children being taught to shoot by the time they can walk.

• Culture tip: Welsh
  
  
  

Vale-folk

Stat increases - +1 to DEX & WIZ
Bonus proficiencies - SURVIVAL, PERCEPTION
Languages - Brythonic, Goidellic (Optional)

Bonus starting item(s) -
Pellinvale Yew Longbow (+1 Damage)

House Adamar

Third oldest and fiercely independent, House Adamar takes holding at Heuvelhâld in the highlands of the Sägezahn peninsula. The head of the house is Baron Kristoff Adamar. An ageing widower, he has no spouce or heirs.

Baron Adamar enjoys nearly exclusive audience with the Anvilmar Dwarves of the Sawtooth mountains.

KARST
Bordering both the Dwarven lands and the Badlands, Karst is both a beautiful and forbidding place. Great plains extend as far as the eye can see in the south while deep seemingly impenetrable forest surrounds the impressive mountainous region of the interior. The twin rivers Ovel and Host snake their way down from the peaks encircling Heuvelhâld and it's fertile plains.
The people of Karst, known as Hochländers, are stout and capable. Many of them, including the womenfolk, stand at over six feet tall. Their great mills keeping them well fed and water-powered machines hammering fine plate, these industrious people want for little from the other provences. Having spent some number of centuries in close proximity to the Dwarves, they have developed a distinct dialect of Brythonic. That and a love of strong ale.

• Culture tip: Germanic
  
  
  

Hochländer

Stat increases - +1 to STR & CON
Bonus proficiencies - ATHLETICS, INTIMIDATION
Languages - Brythonic, Dwarvish (Optional)

Bonus starting item(s) -
Half Plate
Greatsword

House De Cour

A mixture of the Old Imperium ways and western Brythonic, House De Cour resides at Goudelion in the rolling pastureland and oak forests of the Orneilles peninsula. The head of the house is Duke Jaques De Cour. Duchess Martine was one a commoner, but since rising the social ranks has borne two children; Margot and Augustus.

The Duke has taken ill of late and Lady Martine tends to much of the courtly duties. Despite her modest backgroud she is a capable leader and is much beloved by her people.

ORNEILLES
The people of Orneilles are known for three things; religious devotion, chivalric tournaments and the strongest navy in Ordillias. The groves of centuries old oaks that surround the open pastureland of the peninsula provide some of the toughest timber known in The Realms. Orneillian society is very organised, most learn to ride and fight from horseback at an early age. Due to this Orneillians can think themselves above the other realms, both culturally and religiously superior. Despite this, any would welcome the unmistakable sound of Les Chevalier atop their chargers coming to aid.

• Culture tip: French
  
  
  

Orneillois

Stat increases - +1 to INT & CHA
Bonus prof. - ANIMAL HANDLING, RELIGION
Languages - Brythonic, Old Imperial (Optional)

Bonus starting item(s) -
Horse, riding
Saddle, Riding
Lance

House Rośmir

Heavily Elven influenced in centuries past, House Rośmir rules from Sosnagrod, nestled between the river Salga and the vast coniferous forests of the land. The head of the house is Countess Kasia Rośmir. The countess has twin sons; Tomas and Lukas who are in their early twenties.

Countess Kasia rules Myrsovia with an iron fist, she is known to be something of a tyrant. Count Olaf was lost at sea, a fate Kasia continues to blame on House Thoros.

MYRSOVIA
Beset both to the east and south, Myrsovians find themselves hemmed in to their forested homeland. The borderlands to the south lost over a century ago along with the cities of Solsov and Rehm, are now thrall under the power of The Bonelands. The Countess focuses the effort of her hussars in the north-west in conjuction with riders of House Erosar. The corridor of land known as 'The Neck' provides the only lifeline in and out of the realm.
Mysovians themselves are a hardy and resourceful people. Famine and sickness have taught most how to live off the land and survive with little. This has given them a reputation as a hard and sometimes cruel people, however they are still highly respected for their tenacity and skill-at-arms.

• Culture tip: Slavic
  
  
  

Myrsovian

Stat increases - +1 to DEX & CON
Bonus proficiencies - SURVIVAL, NATURE
Languages - Brythonic, Elvish (Optional)

Bonus starting item(s) -
Scale mail
Composite Short Bow (+20 ft range)

House Erosar

The only Brythonic House to be inter-married with a Goidelic clan, House Erosar rules Tallatheros on it's high hill overlooking the grasslands of The Reach. The head of the house is Earl Æthelsar. His marriage to Chieftess Isla of Clan Ithantys solitifies the union of the two.
House and clan having been intermarried for centuries can almost be considered one entity, however due to cultural and language differences, there are still defining lines.

THE REACH
Vast swathes of grassy plain stretch in all directions, the land flat and barren save the clusters of hilly groud around Tallatheros. It is easy to see why it is sometimes reffered to as "The Great Grass Sea". The only way to travese The Reach is by horseback or with the long slow carriage-trains that snake their way through the endless green. It is commonplace for children to ride before they can walk, often producing the finest riders in all The Realms.
Those of The Reach share a bond with their steeds unlike any other. They have been known to put themselves in harms way without thought to ensure the wellbeing of a horse.
With their link to Clan Ithantys, many believe Reach-folk share in the worship of the Goidelic animalistic gods.

• Culture tip: Anglo-Saxon
  
  
  

Rider of the Reach

Stat increases - +1 to DEX & STR
Bonus proficiencies - ANIMAL HANDLING (expert)
Languages - Brythonic, Goidelic

Bonus starting item(s) -
Chain mail
Horse, riding
Saddle, Riding

House Estraii

The most heaviliy influenced by reminants of The Empire, House Estraii resides at Casambar, the former capitol of The Empire, now renamed. The head of the house is Duke Tolvus. Known as 'The Mad Duke', Tolvus never married. He is prone to bouts of extreme exuberance that quickly shifts to long periods of depression.

Due to the duke's condition, the realm is mainly overseen by The 'Consell dels Savis' a group of lesser nobles whose conflicting interests often end in misery for the commoners.

VELLPAÍSA
A large realm of sun-scorched plateaus and dusty savannahs, Vellpaísa would seem an unlikely centre for trade. The laws of the land as they are, however, facilitate a bustling merchant economy. If it's made in The Realms, you can be sure to find it in the bazars and caravans of the mechants here. With a price tag that reflects it's rarity, of course.
As a people, Vellpaísians are generally quick-witted and shrewd. Although many spices and aromatics are sourced in the region, bulk foodstuffs are harder to come by and must be traded for on a daily basis, to haggle is to live.
Trade and ingenuity have lead to multiple discoveries, including gunpowder and simple steam machines.

• Culture tip: Latin
  
  
  

Vellpaísian

Stat increases - +1 to DEX & INT
Bonus prof. - SLEIGHT OF HAND, PERSUASION
Languages - Brythonic, Old Imperial

Bonus starting item(s) -
Merchant's Scales
Pistol

House Thoros

Something of an oddity in the structure of The Realms, House Thoros are the reminants of some of the first Brythons to venture out after The Fall. They retain the name of Baernon Thoros, the expedition leader whom centuries ago first landed upon the island which also bears his name. Those of House Thoros have no power structure similar to others, they rely solely on 'The Code' to maintain balance and resolve differences between islanders.

THOROS
Centuries of isolation has resulted in mistrust of others.
The island nation is not only fiercely independent but often outright hostile toward those on the continent. Known as 'Reavers' to many, Thorossian warships are known to pilliage costal towns and on occasion take captives to replenish their ranks. The island is a harsh place with little fertile ground. Vigul, the singular centre of dense population, is more a large shanty-town than a real city.
Many Thorossians do not worship Primus, instead preferring the raw power of the Goidelic god and her link to nature and the power of the sea. As a result magic is not outlawed on Thoros, power is respected in all forms.

• Culture tip: Cultural Melting pot (any)
  
  
  

Thorossian

Stat increases - +1 to two stats of choice
Bonus prof. - Vehicle Proficiency: Water + 1 choice
Languages - Brythonic, +1 choice

Bonus starting item(s) -
Navigator's tools
Fishing Tackle

House Borae

A younger off-shoot of House De Cour, House Borae presides over Makael, the sprawling city held aloft on stilts over the relentless swampland of the Boyan peninsula. The head of the house is Grand Mayor Guidry Borae. Not officially recognised as a Great House, Mayor Borae is thought of by many as a sniveling try-hard. Not only is he weak of character, his repulsive appearance turns both stomachs and opinions.

THE FELLMIRK
Long known as The Fellmirk, the land of the Boyan peninsula is not only a festering swamp, plagued by insects and ancient reptiles, it is also an area of deep corruption of a magical nature. Fell waters and fetid winds flow from The Bonelands bringing disease and suffering to those unfortunate enough to call this place home.
The Fell-folk as they are known, often exhibit the symptoms of infection and disease. In constant pain and discomfort, they are often open to anything to ease their suffering.
Worship of Salwch, The Blightmother, is commonplace in The Fellmirk, and with it the illicit use of dark magics that promise to cure infection and heal weeping sores. But like anything, these remidies come at a cost...

• Fell-folk always roll at disadvantage for social CHA

• Culture tip: Cajun
  
  
  

Fell-folk

Stat increases - +2 to CON +1 to WIZ -2 to CHA
Bonus proficiencies - MEDICINE, SURVIVAL
Languages - Brythonic, Old Imperial (optional)

Bonus starting item(s) -
Healer's Kit
Poison Vial (3 uses, 1d12 poison damage)

The Peoples of Ordillias

The Goidelids

                      BERSERKER OF CLAN ULFANDIR

The Goidelids see themselves as 'The First People', they have occupied the continent since before the times of The Empire, outlasting both The Fall and the coming of the Brythonic settlers. A wild and tenacious people, they are rumoured to hold both elvish and dwarvish blood in their veins. Unlike the Brythonic newcomers, they pray to Anu - The Earth Mother. An ancient and powerful god, She is manifest in the rivers, rocks and trees of the land.

Seen through the eyes of Brythons, Goidelids appear technologically retarded. They have no great power of industry or systems of government, rather they organise themselves around a clan system of family ties and kinship. Chieftain or chieftess effect complete rule over their clans and are responsible for every matter from simple civil dispute to leading their armies in times of war.

Fewer in number and at a disadvantage technologically, Goidelids have weathered the encroaching tides of outsiders not only due to their fighting prowess and powerful nature magics, but also as a result of geography. The Goidelid territories are protected by the vast Bitterspine mountain range. It's interior no less difficult to traverse for any invading army due to lack of established roads and infrastructure.

Far in the frigid north lies the centre of Goidelid power.
The Goilandir, something between a High Chief and a conduit of the power of Anu, is rumoured to be almost as ancient as the people themselves. It is not known whether this powerful presence is male, female or even human at all. A great oak four times the size of it's oldest bretheren stands within a clearing amidst the perpetual winter. Although in this place the land is fertile and warm, as if shielded somehow from the bitter outside world.
This is The Heart of The Goilandir, the place from which this entity makes it's wishes known to the druids and faithful.

• Goidelids refuse metal armour, rather they tattoo, paint or scarify their bodies with protective markings. (+2 to base AC when unarmoured, +1 in natural armour)

Clan Berath

Chieftess Fionn leads her people from the banks of the Pitculoch river. Crannog Tir, an impressive system of fortified roundhouses situated atop tall piles set in to the riverbed is the ancestral home of Clan Berath.
The Chieftess has an infant son, Ruaidhrí. Bearing a birthmark in the shape of a triskelion on his chest, the young boy is said to be a chosen of Anu. However Fionn fears the day he must leave and begin his service to The Goilandir.

THE GLENS
The large forested valleys and sweeping scree-laden slopes act as natural fortification in The Glens. The Pitculoch river, fast flowing and up to six hundred feet wide in places is the main route for trade and travel. Bordered by the Bitterspines, Ironhorns and the The Whispering Mountian, this area is extremely well protected from outside incursions.
Members of Clan Berath are skilled guerilla fighters, adept in stealth and skirmish tactics. They have long been the eyes and ears of The Clans providing not only the first line of defence but also gathering information on all and any external threat.

• Culture tip: Pictish
  
  
  

Glen-folk

Stat increases - +2 to DEX +1 to any choice
Bonus proficiencies - STEALTH, SURVIVAL
Languages - Goidelic, Brythonic

Innate Ability -
You may cast Longstrider as a bonus action once per short rest. Only to be cast on yourself.

Clan Ulfandir

Chief Gunnar Ulfandir rules over Kallrivare from his hiltop fortress of Logrlandyr. A distinguished warrior, he is both feared and respected by his people.
Chief Gunnar and his wife Ingrid have a young son Alve and a young daughter Wilda.

Gunnar, although advancing in years, still leads raiding parties and expeditions. Much to his young wife's distaste.

KALLRIVARE
A land of snow, forest and rivers. The north of the territory is perpetually blanketed in a thick layer of snow, but to the south seasons of sorts provide a thaw giving the population a short farming window. The large number of rivers are used both for travel and as a plentyful food source. Members of Clan Ulfandir are without a doubt the best sailors among The Clans. During the long winters they often form raiding parties who head south looking for oppertunistic bounties in the form of poorly defended costal towns or monastic communities. Hardy and strong, Kallrivarens make for fearsome opponents, many flee before their longships even make land. Such is their reputation.

• Culture tip: Norse
  
  
  

Kallrivaren

Stat increases - +2 to STR +1 to any choice
Bonus proficiencies - ATHLETICS, INTIMIDATION,
WATER VEHICLES
Languages - Goidelic, Brythonic

Innate Ability -
Resistance to cold damage.

Clan Ithantys

Chieftess Isla, being married in to House Erosar, does not rest on her haunches due to her position. A capable warrior, she also serves as the main liaison between the Goidelic Clans and the Brythonic Houses.
The union of Ithantys and Erosar has proven to reduce tensions over the years. Since the two have been joined there has been no all out war between Goidelid and Brython, although border skirmishes are still commonplace.

FERANN
The teritory of Ferann borders Brythonic, Elven and Dwarvish lands. Due to this, the city of Feurach Mora has historically been chosen as meeting grounds for diplomacy between the races.
Tradition and kinship are important in Feranian culture, the history of The Clans is kept in the sagas and songs of the people and are greatly respected. The 'Òran Sgoinneil'
or Great Song is held here twice per year at which
new tales of accomplishment or tragedy are
added to the annals of the people.

• Culture tip: Gael
  
  
  

Feranian

Stat increases - +2 to CHA +1 to any choice
Bonus proficiencies - PERFORMANCE, HISTORY
Languages - Goidelic, Brythonic, Elvish, Dwarvish

Innate Ability -
Can cast Friends once per long rest.

• Feranians unlike other Goidelids often choose to wear metal armour.

Clan Morrigan

Rather than a traditional clan, Morrigan is a collection
of those born of other clans but marked with The
Triskelion. Maybe one in every few thousand
bear this mark, a blessing for some and a
curse for others.
In Goidelic society those marked are seen
as the chosen of Anu. When they come of
age they are sent to Gleann Naomh to begin
their training in the druidic arts.

THE CIRCLE
Strictly off limits to those outside the druidic orders, The Circle lies at the heart of Gleann Naomh. Maighstirs, as they are known, are those who have completed their training and are tasked with protecting the teritories and persuing the interests of The Goilandir outside Goidelic lands.
Even Brythons show respect to Maighstirs of the Circle, perhaps a distant memory of their display of power during more troubled times, or perhaps they are simply seen as the elite of Goidelic culture. Whatever it is, the wisdom and level headedness of The Maighstirs command respect from all.

• Culture tip: Celtic
  
  
  

Maighstir

Stat increases - +2 to WIZ +1 to any choice
Bonus proficiencies - MEDICINE, ARCANA
Languages - Goidelic, Brythonic, Elvish, Dwarvish

Innate Ability -
Can cast Pass Without Trace once per long rest.

• Maighstirs can only choose the Druid class

The Peoples of Ordillias

The Elves

                LORD ITHIRITH VATH'ILIR

Elves are a rare sight indeed within both The Realms and Goidelic Territories. Stories can last generations before they are re-kindled by the arrival of a fair-faced stranger.

Over a thousand years ago, at the beginning of The Fall of the Empire, the Old Houses of the elves broke contact with human-kind. A century long war with Imperial forces still not forgotten. Their hands forced, the Elven Lords made the ultimate sacrafice to ensure the protection of their people and to safeguard their ageless secrets from the ceaseless greed of The Ordillian Empire.

So it was the City of Light, jewel of the elves, was cast in to the sea. This act, known to all elves as 'The Song of Sorrow' broke the realms of The High Elves from those of humanity. Ever since the great song was sung, barriers both magical and physical prevent all and any outsiders from entering the realms of The High Elves.

Those remaining on the continent, Andril and Vath'ilir, have forged their own path. Over the centuries both houses have formed their own singular identity and no longer look to the Royal House of Elves for leadership.

Elves have a number of abilities that set them apart from other humanoid races. They are agile and dexterous creatures, quick to notice danger and react to it.

Many elves do not sleep, instead finding their rest in a meditative state called "reverie", which is as restful as true sleep but leaves them aware of their surroundings. Elves tend to make strong and uplifting friends. Most elves love simple joys such as dancing, singing, footraces, or contests of skill. They have a natural aversion to that which they see as uninteresting tasks and are fun-loving by nature. However, despite how unpleasant some things such as war can be, elves become grimly serious if a threat to their friends, family, or livelihood make such actions necessary.

House Evenaris

This most ancient house has at it's head Lord Callon Evenaris. Even for an elf he has enjoyed a long life. Far before the empire of men ruled Ordillias, Lord Callon walked the earth and studied it's secrets. Now in his twilight years, he shows little interest in the happenings outside of Morfimben.

MORFIMBEN
Home to the greatest library in the known world, Morfimben and it's high city of Glîrphen stand as a shining example of the elven race. The Evenar see themselves as keepers of knowledge and protectors of arcane secrets. Their society could be called a magocracy, although the idea of rule is not particularly applicable here due to every member accepting their place in society and fulfilling their duty as part of a greater whole.

It is unusual for Evenar to leave their realm, but on occasion few may venture to the continent in search of ancient artifacts or knowledge thought too dangerous to be stumbled upon by the lesser races.
It should be said that the Evenar remain deeply distrustful of humanity and it's ability to bring chaos in to their world of balance and order.
Of all the elven houses, Evenaris is the most powerful.

• Culture tip: Sun Elves
  
  
  

Evenar

Stat increases - +2 to DEX +2 to INT
Bonus proficiencies - ARCANE (expert)
Languages - Brythonic, Elvish, +1 of choice

Racial Traits:
Darkvision, Keen Senses, Fey Ancestry, Trance

House Andril

The deep forested realms where the elves of house Andril
range are ruled over by the King & Queen of the forest.
Phyla, Queen of the Andrili and Sylus, her king.

THE FORESTS OF ANDRIL

• Culture tip: Wood Elves
  
  
  

Andrilian

Stat increases - +2 to DEX +2 to WIZ
Bonus proficiencies - NATURE (expert)
Languages - Brythonic, Elvish

Racial Traits:
Darkvision, Keen Senses, Fey Ancestry, Trance

House Selune

A mixture of the Old Imperium ways and western Brythonic, House De Cour resides at Goudelion in the rolling pastureland and oak forests of the Ornelles peninsula. The head of the house is Duke Jaques De Cour. Duchess Martine was one a commoner, but since rising the social ranks has borne two children; Margot and Augustus.

The Duke has taken ill of late and Lady Martine tends to much of the courtly duties. Despite her modest backgroud she is a capable leader and is much beloved by her people.

SELUNE
The people of Ornelles are known for three things; religious devotion, chivalric tournaments and the strongest navy in Ordillias. The groves of centuries old oaks that surround
the open pastureland of the peninsula provide some of
the toughest timber known in The Realms. Doors to
Ornellian strongholds have turned the heaviest of
rams. This is a good thing for them as they
share the longest border with The Bad-lands
and although defences are stalwart, rare
raiding parties manage to make it to the
heartland interior of the emerald green
realm. Always, however to be routed.

• Culture tip: Moon Elves
  
  
  

Selunite

Stat increases - +2 to DEX +2 to WIZ
Bonus proficiencies - RELIGION (expert)
Languages - Brythonic, Elvish

Racial Traits:
Darkvision, Keen Senses, Fey Ancestry, Trance

House Vath'ilir

Lord Ithirith Vath'ilir is something of a king in the perpetual twilight realm of Vath-Teris. Unlike other Elven Houses, those of this house are ruled with iron fist.

VATH-TERIS
Savagery and cruelty are commonplace in Vath-Teris. Intruders are dealt with swftly and without mercy. It is extremely rare to see Vath outside their own realm, as they themselves are prisoners of their lord. Escapees are hunted and slaughtered where they stand, scapled as proof.

• Culture tip: Dark Elves
  
  
• Savage Shape
  Vath Elves are able, once per long rest, to change their form to reflect their savage nature. The ability lasts up to 1 hour and takes an action to perform. Savage Shape can be dropped at will using a bonus action.

Vath

Stat increases - +2 to DEX -4 to CHA
Bonus proficiencies - SURVIVAL (expert)
Languages - Brythonic, Elvish, Goidelic

Racial Traits:
Darkvision, Keen Senses, Fey Ancestry, Trance,
Cold Resistence, Sunlight Sensitivity.

SAVAGE SHAPE
Your claws are natural weapons, which you can use to make unarmed strikes. If you hit with them, you deal slashing damage equal to 1d6 + your Strength modifier. You may make 2 attacks per turn.

While in your Savage Shape and wearing no armour you gain 10 temporary hitpoints, +2 to AC and 10 extra feet of movment.

The Peoples of Ordillias

The Dwarves

               HIGH KING YORRIN STONESPLITTER

Dwarves in Ordillias are rarely seen outside their mountain strongholds. Long tired of the affairs of men, trade for grain and other foodstuffs is usually the only reason they have for surfacing. Over-land travel between clans happens, but is a rare occurance. Seeing a dwarf in a human settlement is often cause for rumour and, at times, suspicion.

Dwarves highly value the ties between family members and friends, weaving tightly knit clans. Dwarves particularly respect elders, from whom they expect sound leadership and the wisdom of experience, as well as ancestral heroes or clan founders. This idea carries on to relations with other races and dwarves are deferential even to the elders of another, non-dwarven race.

Likewise, dwarves, perhaps moreso than most other races, turn to their god for guidance and protection. They look to the divine for comfort and inspiration. Individual dwarves might be faithless, but the race as a whole have a strong inclination for religion and every community maintains at least one temple or ancestral shrine.

Most dwarven societies are divided into clans built along family ties and political allegiances. These clans are usually led by hereditary rulers, often monarchs of a sort and descended from the founder of the clan. Dwarves strongly value loyalty to these rulers and to the clan as a whole and even objective dwarves tend to side primarily with their kin over other races or communities.