THE ZAND'RAYAN COMPENDIUM

Discover a new realm of light and darkness in this campaign source book for the world's greatest roleplaying game.

Welcome to Zand'raya,

Year: 950 Post Sundering

Welcome, reader. Within this, our most prized text, you will come to learn all that we - The Zand'rayan - have come to know. My name is Maester Ky'ranos, holder of the 87th seat of The Zand'rayan, chosen Binder and Keeper of the very tome you now read. I will be your guide on your quest.

Drink deep from this font of knowledge and learn of our world. Relive the many adventures that we once shared with friend and foe alike.

Throughout, you will hear many tales of how our world came into existence, and how we learned to rise again from the ashes of war. More secrets await beyond the borders of religion and planar boundries, for those wishing to seek scholarly knowledge.

Contents of this guide.

The Age of Wisdom - A Mystical time, with little knowledge of its details surviving. The general outline of the Age of Wisdom has been researched, hence its given name.

The Sundering - A cataclysmic event that ruptured the world. This led to the continents becoming smaller and the world maps being discarded. Adventurers have scoured the land over time, leading to the new world map of Zand'raya.

The God Wars - A disastrous affair allowing gods from pantheons across the multiverse to enter the material plane of Zand'raya. This caused a large multi-continental war lasting over 100 years for most continents... and 200 years for one.

A Diverse World - Explore the lands of Zand'raya as one of its own setting-focused races, complete with background information.

Lineages - Take your character to the next level, commiting to one of these pre-built lineages.

New Classes & Subclasses - New classes and subclasses that have come about in the world of Zand'raya

Rule Sets & Encounters - New ways to play your game, the way you want to.

Global Factions - New worldwide organisations for players who like think outside the continents!

Current Continents (WIP) - The mapped continents of the world, each now living together in a state of peace after The God Wars.

The Zand'rayan Bestiary (WIP) - Discover the new creatures that inhabit the World of Zand'raya and its surrounding planes.

The Zand'rayan Arsenal (WIP) - New Magik Items, Weapons, and Armour usable within all settings.

The Zand'rayan Spellbook (WIP) - A collection of new spells, usable within all settings. Complete with class spell lists.

The Zand'rayan Pantheon - A list of all the divine beings worshipped in the realm of Zand'raya, followed by an explanation of the Planes of Existence within this universe.

Referenced Locations

Within this guide, two particularly important locations will be mentioned. They detail a key part of the narrative of Zand'raya, prior to the world as we know it now. The important events directly connected to these destinations are "The Descendance" and the following event of "The God Wars" - both of which had profound effects on the world.

The Collective: A set of three smaller landmasses, cobbled together to form one continent after the sundering. This was where the events leading to "The Descendance" took place that led to "The God Wars". The Collective is now a wasteland, conquered and ruled solely by The Corrupted Dead, who has retreated into slumber after his victory. The Collective is used by them as an army, keeping the fields sown with the bones of soliders long perished.

Vinais: Once the largest continent in the world of Zand'raya. Due to the nature of this location, it was fought over by many different deities, all for their own goals. This eventually culminated in a catastrophic event that swallowed the continent into the dark abyss of the sea. No one knows what truly happened there, only that the "Remnant Isles" (discussed later) were left in its place. By some miracle, whatever power awakened to take down this once mighty continent did not pursue more prey.

The Sundering (Year: 0ps)

Decimation to a Hellish Extent

To usher in the current era (PS: Post Sundering), a catastrophic event took place. Disasters occured and continents were sundered...many lives ended before their rightful time. This catastrophe led to the world existing as it does now. No one alive knows how many continents existed or were known about during the "Age of Wisdom", and the world had to be remapped by those who lived on to re-populate the world.

Scattered Fragments

When survivors emerged from caves and havens, they looked around in awe of the new world. Although it had been subjected to disaster, it possessed no small amount of brilliance. New mountains had formed and, despite the nature of the events, new life was immediately present in the ground, creating a unique landscape. Although the original primal energies had departed or been spent, The Seamstress had already made quick work in granting new powers to Gal'Galad.

Survivors were astounded to find that they had no recollection of the event that led to what was named "The Sundering". Some recalled a bright flash of light, others recalled a pervasive darkness, and a select few only recalled the clashing of weapons. Thankful for what they had been left with, the survivors immediately set to work. This shared hope is what lended itself to great growth.

The Ethereal Years (Years: 353ps - 515ps)

The Re-Awakening of Magik

In the year 247ps, many Magi - all hidden away in the shelters of far away places - rose to the occasion to defend the myriad uses of spells. They granted its inherent use for destruction, but knew that with time and research the world could once again be free with Magik.

This marks the beginning of the Ethereal Years, when Magi came out of hiding and began to defend themselves and their practices openly in the streets. As mentioned, it also marks the first discovered tome of the Age of Wisdom.

From there, it was chaos, but only for some months before leaders began to arise from within different groups. This was the forming of the Magi Colleges across the continent - each one monitoring and researching the different intricaticies of a particular school.

This was a time of great achievement for the peoples of our crystal. The natural life of our earth flourished once more, spurred on by the return of residual magik. Our connection to the Elemental Crystals, through these effects, was also deepend; and since then many elemental magiks have wormed their way into many a spellbook.

The Magus War (Years 367ps - 394ps)

Of course, peace and power have never been comfortable bedfellows. Some colleges banded together to create new spells and Magiks between them, a pastime that quickly became competitive. Assassinations were rampant within the cirlces of Magi and, before long, the seeds of conflict sprouted a deadly tree.

Other colleges took to exploring ancient ruins that had survived since the Age of Wisdom. This knowledge only sought to make others jealous.

Soon, with both of these awful personalities within their ranks, the Magus War began, persisting for some 27 years. Eventually, they realised that their thirst for knowledge would instead destroy it. The group known as The Woven Alliance, despite the best efforts of their rival The Arcum Myriad, were able to lay waste to their foe, ensuring that the Seamstress would not be displaced of her power by these would be usurpers. henceforth, the colleges entered into a state of peaceful study...

An Enchanted World

We quickly discovered that our world was itself infused with an ancient Magik, one that the magi of The Age of Wisdom would call upon often. Whilst we hailed this discovery with glee, it was not long before our attempts to empower it were met with fear.

New creatures, both vicious and enchanting, began to sprout across our world. Emerging from all manner of envrionment, these creatures seemed to be instilled with a natural desire for slaughter. Some, we were able to train or befriend, but others still hunt us.

This, truly, was the emergence of merceneries and adventurers alike. Groups of young warriors and Magi, with a desire to see the greater world, would set off with merchants from town to town. They would caravan their way from coast to coast and, indeed, from continent to continent.

In the year 515ps, when the epidemic of monstrous creatures plagued the earth the most, further research into the Age of Wisdom was strictly abandoned by many magi; they feared the worst in awakening another sundering.

The God Wars (Years: 715ps - 933ps)

The Descendance

In the year 715ps, another tragic event befell the world. The cause of this event, later named "The Descendance", took place on "The Collective"; three small islands formed together to make a full continent. The story goes like this... Two valiant travellers, their destinies unravelling before them, set themselves on a quest to the northern reaches of Mythras (The centre island). It is here, they came to a dark cave, amidst a verdant grove. Inside, they found monsters and demons, the likes of which the mind could not fathom. It was here, their destinies would be revealed, and their true powers unlocked. After much bloodshed, some being their own, they left the cave victorious but found that the villagers of the nearby town were displeased. Their sacred cave had been trespassed on and they did not take kindly to the travellers. Unbeknownst to them all, The Elder God Lucifial had been keeping an eye on them from his seat in the cosmos and found these two travellers useful. He conjured a horrific nightmare to slay the villagers and bring the heroes to his domain. It was here they found themselves imprisoned, captured, hopeless. Dark words deftly fell from the trickster gods mouth and the heroes were swayed. Their powers of light were now that of dark. Along with the Trickster God, the travellers returned to Mythras with intent to wreak unimaginable havoc.

Angered by this betrayal, The Elder God Diadain whose essence is ever-flowing, used her latent powers to call upon the two heroes' former allies; now worshipped as the 5 heroes of light. These Defenders of The Realm did battle with the betrayers, but despite their immense power, they were no match for the dark... They fell, and Diadain wept. In a fit of rage, she drew upon the souls of the dying and ruptured the seals of the planes. From the heavens and hells alike, deities rained down from the clouds, and thus, the god wars began. Sometimes, the cosmic rift, the tear created upon the descendance, can still be seen in the sky to this day.

Unlike the goddess who retreated into the deepest recesses of the cosmos, it is believed that Lucifial attempted to reclaim his cataclysmic might upon the continent of the Collective. Despite his best efforts, and suffering at the wounds of previous defeats, he could not match the power of the new Pantheon.

The deadliest war yet known

After The Descendance, many deities of the planes saw this as an opportunity. Finally, they could be free to gain new followers and eliminate their enemies on an even playing field. At great cost to life, this is exactly what they did. All six known continents were plagued with gods of various alignments (The Collective, Vinais, Dartheryn, Hysillia, Uthylies and Ythian). Some joined their causes willingly, but others were forced into slavery. Great wars raged and the continents became smaller, after parts of their land masses sunk into the oceans.

The deities who initially descended as part of The Descendance were largely evil gods, with vicious wants. It was not until the collective was conquered by Kelemvor, god of the dead, that many good aligned gods descended to aid the mortals with the constant bloodshed. Whilst a number of lesser god-like beings were killed, in addition to the death of a single prime deity, the other gods were much more fortunate... Once their power was removed from the Material plane, their essence simply made its way back to their respective plane. The ruling gods of the 4 remaining continents will be covered under their specific sections, but this leads nicely into the Fall of Vinais...

The Fall of Vinais (Year: 933ps)

By the year 832ps, all the continents in the world of Zand'raya had been conquered by a deity of the god wars, except for Vinais... Due to the reshaping of the continents, many of the ongoing wars ended quickly, but due to the size of Vinais and with it being the central continent, many gods tried to gain control of it. Upon this discovery by the other conquered continents, they ceased all contact and trade to Vinais, and left it to whatever ruin may befall it.

After a time, a great darkness swept the continent; many died at the hands horrific manifestations that threatened to consume all who called Vinais home... Despite this catastrophe, the gods saw fit to continue their slaughter. There was, however, eight warriors; determined to reclaim the realm and set free their comrades from this bloodshed. Through destiny, they met and embarked on a mission to strike against the force of darkness that ravaged the continent. Armed with 8 soul-bound weapons of immense strength - now lost to the depths of time - they marched forward into the world, making use of the war to hide their actions, infiltrating the many lands across the continent and honing their abilities and knowledge of the dark. Through loss and sacrifice, as the world crumbled around them, the eight ventured to the source of the evil to rid the world of its impendiung doom.

They were met with a dreadful sight within the darkened land... The Netherborne. He had finally breathed new life into a decrepit form - an avatar of the abyss - and threatened to claim a new domain in which to rule. He joined his powers along with another entity known as The Eldritch Truth, and during the completion of his dark ritual, the warriors lunged at the god, and by their might defeated him in combat...

The Eldritch Truth

When the Descendance was wrought upon this world, and the divine goddess sent her champions to die, she was overcome with sadness. She retreated to the Cosmos (the space between the planes, beyond the reaches of the Astral Sea) and slumbered. Her nightmares caused dark visions to rise, monstrous beasts that roamed the endless star highways, waiting for the call to war.

Upon the breaking of his first chain, The Netherborne discovered the slumbering goddess Diadain and her creations. He dubbed her The Eldritch Truth and sought to harness her powers. The Netherborne learned to abuse the Eldritch Truth and, after some time, summoned forth her absurd creations to do his bidding.

Angered by this, the goddess awoke during the final battle, and descended onto Vinais in a radiant fury. She claimed the remaining essence of Tharizdun to empower herself. Unbeknowst of her motives, aside from her destructive capabilities, the warriors once more charged into the face of fear.

Realising naught could be done, the warriors weakened the goddess, and - by sacrificing themselves and their blessing - they shattered the essence of the goddess once more; returning her soul back to the cosmos... Vinais, however, was lost... Sunk into the darkness of the sea.

Today, the eight warriors who sacrificed themselves for the world are hailed as the Prophets of Hope; their deeds remembered for eternity alongside the Defenders of The Realm.

Lost and Forgotten

It is now known, in the modern world of Zand'raya, that Vinais could have never been saved. No one talks about the continent anymore, as it symbolizes a dark time in history. Books can still be found on the subject, but public conversation is outlawed. Once the wars had finished on Vinais, the winning gods across Hysillia, Dartheryn, Ythian and Uthylies banded together to seal the rift between the planes, but maintain watchful eyes over their prizes. Now, all that remains of Vinais, is the dark remnants of its land known to the world as "The Remnant Isles", with a single, protected, celestial grave.

Only the mad or treasure hungry, venture there. It is a land of demons now; a land of horror. The world is thankful that whatever nightmare befell Vinais did not pursue more prey, but everyone lives in fear that one day, this power could return...

Zand'rayan Races

Aarakocra

Jacob to write

Dragonborn

Bearing no true connection to Xi'Thael, The Dragon God of Dreams, The Drakonids (as they prefer to be called) have fought mercillessly against their own gods since time began. Considered failed offspring by their parents, The Ancient Dragons, the first Dragonborn were enslaved by their winged masters - forced to provide for them endlessly. There was no end to the deeds they would be tasked with: banditry & theft, long hours spent crafting great lairs, and the sacrifice of mortals to name but a few.

The Everlasting Dragon Wars

To this day, every Dragonborn devoted to the first ancestors still speaks of The Dragon Wars and their continuation - constantly on the search for more prey to put down. For this purpose, the great stronghold of Dro'gosh was built; this is where the dragonborns turned to the creation of vicious and violent technology, becoming skilled in the art of explosive enginneering so that they can never be taken hostage again.

For this reason, the stern face of the Drakonids can be hard to read; always trusting of their gut instinct and letting that decide the fate of those around them. A life hard fought for is not so easily taken away again.

Pride & Survival

Argued to be the two most prevelant forces within the mind of the Drakonids, it can be hard to strike up a friendship with this hardy people; once you do, however, you can rest assured that you have a stalwart ally for life. The bonds which Drakonids form as much deeper than we realise, and in their kinship they will risk almost everything to protect those whom they deem worthy.

Dwarves

There are not many kingdoms un which the nobles Dwarves have not had a hand in building. Their fabled ability for architecture has not once even been proven to be false, offering their services to all wishing to expand their realms. Despite this, aside from the own settlements that can oft be found within towering mountains filled with great mysteries, Dwarves have neglected to claim their own true Kingdom, even since they set foot on our lands as servants of The World-Maker. Instead, Dwarves from all walks of life have banded together as one great community, helping their own within whichever walls they find themselves within.

The Forging of The Thrones

Once every decade, all Dwarves who wish to feel the great embrace of family make their way to The Earthen Throne - A great underground temple, nestled within a mountainous isle 3 days south of Ythian, which served as the home of Gal'Galad during the crafting of the world. It his here that they bask in revelry for sometimes weeks on end, with the conclusion of the event marking the vote for 3 new kings or queens to oversee Dwarven Law until the next meeting.

Dwarven Law is held to high account - for them it is even more imperative that the laws which hold sway over the different kingdoms and continents; which has led to many problems within court rooms, where conflicts of interest tread ever thinning lines.

Dwarven Artistry

Alongside their keen skill in architecture, their deep and unwavering connection to Gal'Galad makes this race especially gifted in crafting enchanted armour and weaponry. Where many eleven smithin techniques focus on swiftness and dexterity, dwarven focus lies more in the realms of unparalleled strength; the ability to strike down a foe no matter their size.

Elves

The word "Elf" - and all of its many variations - is a term spoken amonsgt the divinity in their celestial tongue. For them, it carries severalk meanings, but the one always taught to us "Kin". As such this was the name, attributed to the children of divinity, by the races knwon to have survived the sundering; these being: Humans, Halflings, Gnomes, Kenku, Orcs, Kenku, and Tiefling. Now, the word has just come to be associated with these peoples that roam our realm.

Kin of Ze'lenia

For a long time, The kin of Ze'lenia were just as fearsome and determined as their creator, The Great Panther. Since their creation, many of them have followed Ze'lenia faithfully - some going so far as to reside with her amongst the rivers and trees of The Great Beastlands. Others show their devotion through and unbridled sense of the natural world and its ways; an ability that only some firbolgs can harness through Elsarios.

This personality of temper and frustration led to a life of hermitage for Forest Elves, integrating themselves into the clans of Firbolgs and Goliaths for many years. For some, it has led to a life of solitude all together.

And whilst these traits have caused so much turmoil for the Forest Elves, there have been significant changes since Zehelehnia entered into her Slumber, following the conclusion of The Hysillian God Wars. Now, with the goddess' fury calmed, so too have her children; it would be much more likely to see them as druids these days, as opposed to beasts.

Kin of Kai'melorn

Ever glowing with a faint radiance, the kin of Kai'melorn - more commonly known as Essence Elves - strive to embody the wisdom and charisma with which their creator belssed them with. When the many battles betwixt her and her sister had come largely to an end, Kai'melorn reliquished much of her control of her kin, granting them freedom from her ties and bestowing them with a desire to explore the realms: "a hunter must learn all they can of their world, should they seek to thrive within it".

This blessing has led to Essence Elves becoming the more predominent elven race to be found within cities and large towns, often spending their days in pursuit of worldy knowledge. Others can often be found within the ranks of guards in towns and cities, while a selection may take a more adventurous approach to their protection of others.

The drive of a hunter is an unrelenting one, however, so it would serve best to not stand in their way all too frequently.

Kin of Fel'sith

The (commonly known as) Dark Elves, that emerged from the great cavern created by Fel'Sith, were a feared sight upon their first arrival. Climibing out of wholes in naught but their skin, still went from the ethereal rivers from which they were born. These kin ahve never know the touch or voice of their mother goddess, for she forsook them the moment she laid her many eyes upon their visages. She mcould never love a creation, and so, the fresh Dark Elves retreated into the darker places of the world - they found that the sunlight was harmful to their eyes and so took to most of their business in the evening, this led to their second naming: Night Elves.

Over time, the new elven children of this lineage which have be born have developed a resistance to sunlight, leading to their heightened presence in the world since around the time of The Magus War. This war, bloody as it was, can be credited for one miracle only: allowing The Dark Elves access to new magiks; bearing a new and fresh desire to attain intellect and arcane prowess. Whilst some have diverted from this path, perfecting their love of shadow into more vicious arts, Magi are much more frequent amonsgt this now learned and respected race.

Kin of Cosmos

Linked to the celestial bodies, "Cosmic Elves" are a new form of race born into the world of Zand'raya. The First Cosmic Elves appeared in Dartheryn, After The Oracle conquered the continent. Fully grown elves, Purple and blue in skin, their hair dark or light, but most often vibrant, their eyes glistening like stars, walked out of the Star Mirror Lake and built the town of Shadowstall.

Journey Onward

After this occurence, most of the elves stayed within Shadowstall after convincing the king and The Oracle of their peaceful intent. Others set off into the world, where they birthed new Cosmic Elves from lakes and rivers on starlit nights. The King set letters with each of the original elves, and these were passed on to the rulers of the other continents, allowing Cosmic Elves to be welcomed world wide. Now, Cosmic Elves are found all over the globe in small groups working together. More commonly, they reside within villages close to water, which helps them feel closer to home.

Ever since the fall of Vinais, the creation of Cosmic Elves has become more difficult and time consuming; Those born following this event, are often found to have much darker skin and hair.

Cosmic Elves have a clear intuition for accessing the weave of Magik. They are not believed to be descended from the other established elven races, given their wildly abrupt appearance into the world, but given the similar features, their race was given this name.

Cosmic Elf Names

Cosmic Elves, upon their creation, did not take names, for they only spoke through telepathy to one another. When the first elves visited the king to commune to The Oracle, the populace were confused by this and so these five came forth with the dreams they hoped to achieve in their lifetime, in service to their birth mother, who they named as "She who watched the cosmos".

Henceforth, between themselves, Cosmic Elves still took no name, but when talking to other inhabitants of the world they gave themselves a name in reference to their wildest aspirations.

Cosmic Elf Traits

Ability Score Increases: Your Intelligence score increases by 2 and your Wisdom score increases by 1
Age: Cosmic Elves will commonly live for around 250-300 years. This means that since their first appearance in 832ps, none have died from old age. in the present day, Cosmic Elves are unaware of their natural end, stating death as "when mother cosmos decides"
Gender: The Cosmic Elves do not recognise gender in a general sense. Due to the nature of their birth, and the image in which they are created, they may have male or female identifiers.
Alignment: Cosmic Elves are born with an innate desire for the world and the cosmos to maintain balance. Thus, almost all elves take a Neutral alignment. There have been cases, where elves have been born with an excessive need for good or evil, but within the Cosmic Elf community, they are both considered a villainous lifestyle.
Size: Cosmic Elves have slender builds and range from 6 to just over 7 feet tall
Speed: your base walking speed is 30 feet
Darkvision: Accustomed to the darkness of the comos, before their appearance, all Cosmic Elves have an innate ability to see in dark places. You can see in dim light within 90 feet of you as if it was bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can still discern colour in these lights.
Magikal Adept: You gain proficiency in the Arcana Skill.
Star lit eyes: You have advantge on saving throws against being blinded. Once per long rest, you can cause your star infused eyes to flash, illuminating a 10ft area in bright light for 1 minute. In combat, this is classed as an action.
Ever Watchful: When sleeping during a long rest, Cosmic Elves can cause their spirit to leave their body. Their spirit is unable to fight, but can perform other actions whilst their physical body is sleeping. They can read, write, speak and perform all ability checks as normal. The spirit is visible to all living things, meaning undead can not see the spirit. If the spirit is hit by an attack, it is counted as a critical hit, as the spirit jumps back to its body and the elf takes all damage as normal. For a spirit to re-enter their body, they must be within touch range and spend their action to do so.
Languages: You can speak, read and write in Common and Celestial. Additionally, you can speak telepathically to all other Cosmic Elves who are within 60ft of you.

Fey-Kin

Hailing from the Fey Wild, Fey-Kin are animal creatures with the capabilities of Humanoids. They were created by Lord Enevenary of the Summer Court; who enchanted various creatures from The Material Plane and brought them to The Fey Wild, after deeming Captain Faerelia's efforts lacking. These creatures became part of a large pegasi-mounted army, built to keep out invaders from The Shadow-fel, before the demise of The Goddess of Divine Light. Although still largely a part of this army, many of these creatures took advisory positions within the court, or returned to a natural way of life within The Fey Wild.

A life of change

For some Fey-Kin, they retained memories of their lives before their transformation. Upon their leave from the armies of Lord Enevenary, they returned to The Material Plane.

A large majority of Fey-Kin entered into the communities of towns of cities, building a substantial reputation for themselves within the ranks of guards. Others pursued more inqusive lines of work, helping to preserve relics from The God Wars and perform scholarly research. Some Fey-Kin did not see their life this way however. Some became thieves or organisers of crime.

Lastly are the Feral Fey-Kin. Those who reverted back to their most primal form of life. These creatures are often renouced by other Fey-Kin, seeing them as being wasters of a great gift.

For those who stayed behind with the Fey-Wild, they contiue to server Lord Enevenary, pursueing their lives as great warriors. Occasionally, they visit The Material Plane, keeping tabs on their brethren and ensuring their safety.

Fey-Kin Sub-Race

When creating a Fey-Kin character, choose one of the following as your sub-race:

Fox: Your Charisma score increases by 2
Wolf: Your Strength score increases by 2
Bear: Your Constituion score increases by 2
Hare: Your Dexterity score increases by 2
Mouse: Your Intelligence or Wisdom score increases by 2

If you wish to play a race that isn't listed here, consult your DM for more options.

Fey-Kin Lifestyle

When creating your Fey-Kin character, choose one of the following as your lifestyle:

Civilised: Your Wisdom score increases by 1
Criminal: Your Intelligence score increases by 1
Feral: Your Intelligence score is capped at 4 (for character creation only), but you may increase your Strength or Dexterity Score by 1. Additionally, your unnarmed strikes from your "Creature at heart" trait increases to 1d6 + Your Strength or Dexterity Modifier as Slashing damage.

Fey-Kin Traits

Age: Fey-Kin mature around the age of 12 and they can live for up to 200 years.
Alignment: Fey-Kin come in all styles of alignment. Often, their alignment is linked to their Fey-Kin background.
Size: Fey-Kin range anywhere from 2ft, all the way up to 7ft. Speak to your DM on how this affects your size.
Speed: your base walking speed is 30 feet
Darkvision: You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it was bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light.
Animal Friendship: You gain proficiency in the Animal Handling skill.
Fight or Flight: Once per short rest, when struck by a melee attack, you can call upon your innate animal instincts. You may use your reaction to either A) Strike back at the creature with a melee attack of your own. B) Leap back 5ft and increase your movement speed by 10ft on your next turn.
Old Habit-ats: When looking for shelter in the wild, you are gifted with finding something suitable or making something suitable. You gain advantage on any ability checks made to find or create shelters. Additionally, your passive perception and any perception checks you make whilst within 30ft of your shelter are increased by 5.
Creature at heart: Your unarmed strikes use a 1d4 + your Strength or Dexterity Modifier as Slashing Damage
Wild Speech: You can communicate with beasts and plants in a limited capacity. They understand the meaning of your words and you can vaguely interpret their response.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write in Common and Sylvan.

Firbolgs

Naturalistic and wise, the Firbolgs of Zand'raya are a welcome sight to any wayward traveller upon the wild-road. Long have they spent time cultivating the magiks and earth and water from the elemental crystals - forever blessing the land with the hope of new fortune.

Nomads by Nature

The first firbolgs came into the world as a result of the Magus Wars, during the Ethereal Years. The goddess Elsarios looked down upon the destruction wrought by the arcane, and summoned these creatures - in her own kind image - to wander the destroyed lands and repair their natural beauty.

Faithfully they followed the wish of their mistress - until their tasks were complete for the most part. Some lands still remained to corrupted and required constant care; for others, they would continue to chase the threats across the plains, knowing that darkness would rear its ugly head once more elsewhere.

Since the passing of the godwars, some have made their way to the continent of Hysillia - either making homes for themselves on Fentualias Isle or defending the lands from within the ranks of The Watchers.

Friends to a fault

In its within their personality that others find friendship with the noble firbolgs. It is not out of the ordinary in their travels to stop by at towns and villages offering aid to those in need. To accompany, as well as their lifestyle, many firbolgs take up the roles of paladins and druids - especially when called upon to defend verdant and natural lands.

Gnomes

The Gnomes of Zand'raya are a curious bunch; their heads often so full of ideas that they are quite unable to hold conversations that drag on for too long. Indeed keeping a Gnome is ones company is a sure way to keep the life of an adventurer interesting.

Fantastic Thoughts

The origination of Gnomes is so often brought into question - and is one that has brought about many myths from even the Gnomes themselves. Some Gnomes will tell you that they sprouted out of the ground like saplings, where as others may try to tell-tale of strange concoctions that eventually led to their being. One thing is for certain, however: the wild minds of these creatures have surely been a boon to our societies across the globe.

An ability to see things from a wondered perspective has given the Gnomes many homes across the world, a great deal of them being hired to maintain and improve both magikal and mechanical creations.

Always Looking Ahead

Indeed, perhaps it is these wild and erratic thoughts that truly explain the nature of the Gnome. Each of them can often be found to have a stalwart affection for their own mortality and the mortality of others. In spite of al of their ramblings, it is quite impossible to escape their keen desire for life. When their heads are not buried in their work and research, they can often be found settling up campsites beneath the dark, star-lit sky, singing songs of praise to good fortune, alcohol, and other substances of which we shall not note.

Goliaths

There is no race quite as varied in their ways as the Goliath's of Zand'raya. A stlwart people of strong values, beliefs, and traditions; the Goliath can easily be a favoured friend or a deadly enemy. Indeed, these traditions may include trials of hardship - but others take approaches to elementalism and other forms of eathly magiks.

Protect the tribe

Much like the firbolgs - with whom the Goliath have found brotherhood and kinship - many Goliaths outside of the continent of Hysillia (which have taken protective residence over The White Fractal, Land of The Laden Lord) have taken to the ways of old; wandering plain, desert, forest, and tundra all in search of freedom. This is where the many traditions of the Goliath have been bred; around a crackling fire after a long days hunt, many stories of great heroes past would be told along with many offerings to their spirits along with bonds-of-blood formed through violent sparring. All in the name of the Tribe.

Elemental ties

Through this freedom which they have sought, this ancient people - believed to have been the first mortal race to exist - have been granted many boons from their bloodlines of old, with the gods of the new pantheon continueing to honour this lineage. The many shamans that lead the tibes of Goliath across the world are also their most wisest protectors. These arts are the roots of Rune Carvings; therefore tied to the Elemental Crystals, as detailed in dusty texts still kept by the great smith of Zanith, Thavagal.

Halflings

These keen and quick beings have found a way to blend into all of the aspects of life that present themselves across the material plane. Whether that be wandering afar with bands of bards, trekking radiant groves with druidic bretheren, Slipping through cracks of stone or perhaps even offering shelter to those in need.

A love of people

Despite all of these skills, however, its is not common to see a halfling walking alone. Becoming one with other people, and blending into groups formed of tight bonds and friendship, seems to be a requirement for most of these cheerful being.

Through this affection for groups, a further desire for exploration and amazement has also blossomed; many of those trained within guilds across the continent are filled with halfling-kin - each of them yearning for a wider beyond.

Family above all

Perhaps this wayward sense is what has led to the appearance of several halfling districts and hamlets across the continents. At the setting of each sun, their is nothing on the mind of a halfling more than a full belly and a raucous cheer coming from around the fire.

Those who make their homes outside of cities - nestled within the hills around them - can often be caught leaving in groups at the gates, their hands firmly clasped with brother and sister as they kick their dusty boots along the road.

Hobgoblins

The Hobgoblins of Zand'raya have gone to great lengths to repair lasting, ancient, poor reputations. Throughout their history only the worst of them have shone through; Tyrants and warmongers who would aid many of our crystals greatest enemies. Indeed, their very creation is at the heart of this chaos... A binding to the Elder God of Darkness himself. During the Age of Wisdom, through a tome discovered in the year 248ps, t'was revealed that Hobgoblins were created by this being known as Lucifial - acting as his servants across many wars. They became shunned across the continents for years to come.

The Dark Pilgrimage

It was during the Magus War, when most Hobgoblins were in hiding or believed deceased, that members of The Finer Details came across a society of them within Hysillian Border Mountains. Many stories were shared with us, one of those being the breaking of their binding; a tale which they had kept hidden in secret for the fact that no other soul ever believed it.

The Hobgoblins, valiant in their droves, and led by Paragon Hy'zathrak, descended into the Great Rivers and further still into the Abyss. There, they fought against The Elder God and The Netherborne both, and in their darkest hour The Laden Lord reached out his hand in kinship; he felt their struggle and would see their success against such unfathimable odds. The great paragon, wielding the last of his strength, took up his son's broken spear and slashed the throat of the Elder God - reducing his voice to whispers forever.

With a great blow dealt to their foe, and their chains of their creation broken, the paragon and his warriors emerged from the Abyss victorious; the Hobgoblins were set free and now walked as equals alongside The Laden Lord.

Growth after Victory

We took it upon ourselves to spread word of this tale, and with time the generations of old faded away; many have always known them as friends. Regardless, they found plenty of kinship with the nomadic races of Zand'raya.

They have adopted many of their shamanistic tendencies from the Goliaths as well. Often, the wandering groups will converge to hold special ceremonies in honour of the elements and spirits.

There is now only one time a Hobgoblin strikes fears into the hearts of the other races: when they step into an arena. Always fighting with honour, Hobglins train from birth to display excellent combat skills - both for killing and entertainment. Their deftness and dexterity with even the most unwieldy of weapons is unrivaled.

Humans

Despite the differences that each of these races now hold, the Humans and Tabaxi of Zand'raya are close ancestral allies, for they came about in the same manner. Two races, born from the very lands of our world and believed to be hear since the beginning; ever evolving and changing into something new and exciting.

For Humans, who for ages past have been a predominant race in Zand'raya, these changes oof course led to the rise and fall of many great communities in their time, but their effect on the world has always been one that has held great sway.

Protection Through Fear

Humans, since their inception, have often been ill-trusting of new arrivals at their gates. Always cautious of what other tribes may have lurking for them around the corner. It has taken many years of the current age to correct the many rumours spread by settlements of old, but in time their lot have became more accepting of outside friends. Old tensions still linger against select races, especially the Drakonids whose ancestors have hands stained with the blood of sacrifice; and the Tieflings, whom served the Devil Lords in the Ancient Bloodshed - one of the few documented wars of The Age of Wisdom that began the ancient bloodline of Tythos.

Home and Hearth

Local beliefs, rather than a wider sense of community, is what Humans tend to follow, and this has led to many differing opinons about them across the world. what can be said, about all humans however, is the ability to take solace in family. When a human solider lays down his life, he fights not for love nor glory, but to see their people live on and prospoer to a greater future. At the end of their long days, as long as a home and a heart is waiting, they do not ask for much.

Kenkus

The Kenku have always been such a curious race upon the lands of Zand'raya. Almost always appearing with a glint in their eye and a keen sense of worldly-direction in terms of their goals and aspirations. Despite lacking the gift of speech, brought upon them by a curse of unknown magiks, they do not learn their determined & adventurous personality wait upon the sidelines.

Minions of the Light

Unlike the Hobgoblins, the Kenku fought bravely in service to the goddess Diadain - the glistening in their eyes being a sign of her everlasting pressence. But something happened that the goddess could not predict - a rogue solider corrupted by the enemy. In a fury, many of the Kenku were claimed back unto her own essence, in a great battle that saw the end of 2 empires. Those that were spared found themselves incapable of both speech and flight. Scorned by their mother, it is written that many of the Kenku fled to caves in the highest peaks, only venturing out to eventually witness her end and the following cataclysm

A love for the earth

With their lack of flight, the Kenku developed a deep and druidic connection to the earth; most circles of druids were indeed prominently dominated by Kenku and Firbolg, with of course appearances from the Kin of Ze'lenia and Kai'Melorn.

The very nature of their being has bound them innately to the beasts of this world, despite their humanoid appearances, therefore those outside of a drudic profession still end up committing themselves to world-benefitting activities throughout the lands.

In towns and cities, where Kenku often arrive after long days of travelling through the green woodlands, they are a peaceful bunch; often spending much of their time exploring the many paths and alleyways for secrets that have escaped them thus far.

Orcs

These valiant and defiant people have had a varied effect upon the lands of Zand'raya; many of them bearing lineages to heroes and villains from tales long past across are history. But, in their shining true nature, no one may define an Orc but themselves.

Always a reason

With the rise and fall of their many kingdoms in [Years prior to Ethereal Years] across the continents, the nature of the Orc was understood very quickly. Whilst their fights and wars were bloody, and merciless, there was always an abidence to a strict code of honour: in their tongue known as "Zhe'Hyz Grahl". Translating Orc can at times be complicated, but loosely in the common tongue it means "The Forge of Blood".

A great treaty, signed during their most brutal wars of [Year prior to Ethereal years], written on the walls in blood inside a great forge. Its location has since been lost, with many Orcs vowing to find it in their lifetime, but this has not prevented the treaty from living on. In many Orcish homes they keep a great tome of the code; others tattoo its most relevant sections onto themselves.

The greatest rule is this: "Death is to be dealt swifty, should the reason be worthy of Orcish praise". Strict laws are in place to limit "Zhe Hyz Grahl" within settlements, towns, and cities world wide; these of course do not apply in the wild.

Sins of the father

The Orcs keep a many great detailed scripts of their lineages, making clan-wide efforts to ensure the accuracy of family trees. Every Orc is remembered, has stories told about them; even those who brought with them only misery. But, to accuse the sins of the father against the son, is to draw their most violent attention; Orcs themselves recognise this as a violation of the "Zhe Hyz Grahl".

Each Orc defines their own worth in the clan, with each one playing their part and aiding their own against whichever foes may cross their path; no matter the violence.

Tabaxi

The Tabaxi's history trales closely alongisde that of Humans, with both of them tracing their roots to evolution through Survival. Whilst Humans often found themselves within forests and plains, the Tabaxi much preferred Jungles or others would call the desert their home. They climbed to the top of the food chain swiftly after they developed certain hunting tactics, which is recorded within the tomes discovered during the Age of Wisdom

Treasure Hunters By Nature

It is not precisely recorded when the Tabaxi began to build their own settlements, towns, and eventually cities - Yu'Rahdia, as an example - but they certaily developed a keen sense for bartering and mystery somewhere along the way. Tabaxi treasure hunters and enchanters were often famed for their talents, scouring the globe to discover many different artifacts. At times, The Finer Details have found them to be valuable comrades on expeditions for research.

Nights beneath the stars

In many Tabaxi cultures, it is common for most business to be conducted during the later hours of the day and well into the night - this is of course when the best deals also become available. It is almost as if a secret town lie within every city across the globe, filled to the brim with magiks the eyes may have never gleaned before; for this reason, some often tailor their wares to the adventuring type.

Tieflings

The Tieflings of Zand'raya have suffered at the hands of many others. When their connection to the Elder God Diadain was uncovered (By the fact that she herself was described as Tiefling before her ascension) during The Ethereal Years - much like the Hobgoblins with whom they sought kinship - the people could not contain their hatred. They were cursed out of settlements and towns for many years and their lineage to The Nine Hells did not help to mend their reputation; they had been scorned once and now they were scorned two-fold.

Unexpected Allies

When tieflings were the subject of many violent purges, it was the Tabaxi that came to their aid. With their many merchant ships, they would stow them away to safer shores. Overtime, the two races have grown close in their relations, and to this day both still claim the Yu'Rahdia as their shared home.

Rejoining the fray

Attacks against Tieflings have unfortuately occured very recently in the lands of Zandraya (with the latest happening in the deserts of Uthylies) but this seen good change in recent years. Time will tell if the many new laws being integrated across the world will allow this strong people to walk freely without fear once more. For now, only the stubborn town of Whittrock, guided by Fire Magi, refuse to join the future.

Zand'rayan Lineages

Half-Blood

Love is not bound to the body, but to emotion and the soul. Half-Bloods, such as half-elves, are prime examples that the boundries of race are often crossed and ignored; the world has become a more vibrant and cultural place as such.

Half-Bloods on Zand'raya are not ashamed of who they are, and their welcoming into different communities spreads far and wide.

Ability Score Increase: Increase one ability score by 2 and increase a different one by 1, or increase three different ability scores by 1. If you are replacing your race with this lineage, replace any Ability Score Increase you previously had with this.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and both the languages of your two crossed races.
Creature Type: Your creature type is Humanoid
Size: Your size is small or medium. You choose the size when you gain this lineage.
Speed: Your walking speed is 30ft
Ancestral Legacy: If you replace a race with this lineage, you can keep the following elements of that race: any skill proficiencies you gained from it and any climbing, flying, or swimming speed you gained from it. If you don't keep any of those elements or you choose this lineage at character creation, you gain proficiency in two skills of your choice.
Darkvision: You gain dakrvision if one of your two races has access to the feature.
Bound By Blood: You gain access to one ability from each of your two crossed races. Examples include an Elf's Trance ability, A Halfling's Brave ability, and a Firbolg's Hidden Step Ability. You can not choose two abilities that grant spells.

Plane-Blood

Ever since the god wars, the many planes of existence have had vast influences in the world of Zand'raya; settling into its residents is not out of the question. Many interesting gifts have been bestowed to varied people, creating a new realm of Magik on the continent that has never been present before.

Ability Score Increase: Increase one ability score by 2 and increase a different one by 1, or increase three different ability scores by 1. If you are replacing your race with this lineage, replace any Ability Score Increase you previously had with this.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and one other language appropriate to your plane. This is in addition to any racial languages.
Creature Type: You may choose your creature type based on the level of otherworldly influence on your body. You can be a Humanoid, or a type more suited to your chosen plane of existence.
Size: Your size is small or medium. You choose the size when you gain this lineage.
Speed: Your walking speed is 30ft
Ancestral Legacy: If you replace a race with this lineage, you can keep the following elements of that race: any skill proficiencies you gained from it and any climbing, flying, or swimming speed you gained from it. If you don't keep any of those elements or you choose this lineage at character creation, you gain proficiency in two skills of your choice.
Protection of The Planes: When you are reduced to 0 hitpoints and are unconcious, you are protected by the plane of existence you are blessed by. Until the start of your next turn, you are immune to non-Magikal damage. You can use this ability once per long rest.
Divine Gift: You gain access to one of the following cantrips: Sacred Flame, Toll The Dead, Thunderclap, Thornwhip, Green-Flame Blade, Frostbite, Booming Blade. You can use your class' spell casting ability for this cantrip, otherwise, the spell casting ability is Charisma.

Elderborne

The bloodlines from the age of wisdom still run deep within the world of Zand'raya. On rare occasions, this blood is still imbued with a sacred and raw form of Magik that has been lost to time. They are known to us as the Elderborne.

Whilst many Elderborne are hidden away and often never discover their abilities, some know of it quite well. Queen Garnet herself is Elderborne, allowing her to make full use of her sword and sorcery style of combat. Magi are able to empower themselves, often to grand or disastrous extents.

Ability Score Increase: Increase one ability score by 2 and increase a different one by 1, or increase three different ability scores by 1. If you are replacing your race with this lineage, replace any Ability Score Increase you previously had with this.
Creature Type: Your creature type is Humanoid.
Size: Your size is small or medium. You choose the size when you gain this lineage.
Speed: Your walking speed is 30ft
Ancestral Legacy: If you replace a race with this lineage, you can keep the following elements of that race: any skill proficiencies you gained from it and any climbing, flying, or swimming speed you gained from it. If you don't keep any of those elements or you choose this lineage at character creation, you gain proficiency in two skills of your choice.
Harness Raw Power: When you cast a spell, you can tap into the ancient, raw Magik, that runs through your blood. You have 3 charges of raw Magik that you can expend to increase the damage of your spells by one additional dice. You can expend more than one charge on a spell and your charges refresh after a long rest. If you use all 3 charges to amplify one spell, you must roll a D20. If you roll below a 10, you suffer 1/3rd of the damage as recoil. Once you have used this feature, you must wait one full round before doing so again.
Arcane Eyes: You can read all written forms of spells, regardless of the language they are written in. This can extend to symbols and runes if you DM allows it.
Natural Arcanist: You gain proficiency in the Arcana skill. In addition, you can cast the Identify spell once per day, without expending any components or spell slots.

Soul-scarred

The poor wretched souls who are born in or travel to the scarred lands are often met with the fate of the Soul-scarred. When the spirit is rended from the horrific scenes of the scarred lands it is hard for anything else to phase you. The few who can live with these tainted memories are often cold and unforgiving in their motives; for how can they see reason without the presence of a full soul?

Ability Score Increase: Increase one ability score by 2 and increase a different one by 1, or increase three different ability scores by 1. If you are replacing your race with this lineage, replace any Ability Score Increase you previously had with this.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and any languages you knew in life. If you take this lineage during character creation, you gain one additional language of your choice.
Creature Type: Your creature type is Undead
Size: Your size is small or medium. You choose the size when you gain this lineage.
Speed: Your walking speed is 30ft
Ancestral Legacy: If you replace a race with this lineage, you can keep the following elements of that race: any skill proficiencies you gained from it and any climbing, flying, or swimming speed you gained from it. If you don't keep any of those elements or you choose this lineage at character creation, you gain proficiency in two skills of your choice.
Blessing of Undeath: You do not need to breathe, eat, or drink. You also gain access to the Eldritch Blast cantrip. You can use your class' spell casting ability for this cantrip, otherwise, the spell casting ability is charisma.
Macabre Facade: All Soul-Scarred are able to partially disguise themselves at will, visually repairing their skin and bones, but this can be dropped as a reaction of your turn when you are targetted by an attack that requires an attack roll. When you do so, the roll suffers a -2 penalty. If the attack misses, you deal psychic damage to the attacker equal to your Spell Casting Ability (Charisma if you do not have one) + Your Proficiency Bonus. You can use this ability once per short rest.
Undead Slumber: You only require 4 hours of sleep to complete a long rest. In addition, you are unable to be put to sleep by Magik.

Zand'rayan Classes

Myriad Knight

Deep in his cave, a lonesome Kobold toils away at the rock wall. In the distance, a bestial roar echoes throughout the depths. He grabs his pickaxe and rushes to aid his allies, but it was not as he seemed. What else did he see, but a young human, clad in blue, a mask across their face, telling stories of adventure and vile creatures as his comrades sit around a dim-lit campfire. They gladly offer their aid to the humans encroaching endeavours.

Before long, the whole clan is singing songs. With a short motion of the traveller’s staff, the kobolds are captivated, the essence of their souls flowing from their chests, to join with this ravishing adventurer.

Monsters made human

The Myriad Knights, a long-lost order of extraordinary adventures based on the continent of Hysillia, have resurfaced! Kind at heart, vicious when required, the Myriad Knights seek to understand the world of creatures that strayed from civilisation. The old knights spent years perfecting the art of finding the soul, found deep within the core of their biology. Through friendship or bloodshed, they accumulate the souls of creatures to add to their own and push the boundaries of spellcasting. Although they were typically spellcasters, the new Myriad Knights trained relentlessly to also perfect skills in swordsmanship and archery to protect their comrades in battle.

In the past, the Myriad Knights were often assigned as scholars within towns, to offer guidance and knowledge on local threats. Over time, this art was lost due to a reluctance in wanting to risk life and limb in this profession. Now, having found the missing tomes of old across Hysillia, the new order seeks to become, under the new age of wisdom led by The Seamstress, a great organisation once again.

In pursuit of new experiences

Much of the knowledge gathered by the Myriad Knights of old is still missing and most recruits of the new order have decided to forge their own path. Utilising the base techniques, they found, Myriad Knights set out on the path of adventure, learning all they can of the world and monsters around them. Many have taken to specializing in certain creature types, dividing up the organisation for a more... time-effective approach. Though the undertaking of this reborn order is large, the fiery recruits will never be deterred.

High Risk, High Reward

The Myriad Knights utilise a very mysterious kind of Magik linked to the soul. The soul is thought to capture the very essence of the person who holds it, but what if your soul could bond with the essence of another? By utlising the bond that souls can develop, Myriad Knights can invoke the powers of creatures for their own use, however, the process places strain on the soul of the caster, and in some cases, they can suffer great damage. The first order of business in the new order? Find a way to combat this of course! With new techniques, the new Myriad Knights developed self-sufficient healing, allowing them to expand the realms of knowledge they can explore.

The Myriad Knight

Level	Proficiency Bonus	Features	Challenge Rating
1st	+2	Monstrous Spellcasting, Primal Vitality	2
2nd	+2	—	2
3rd	+2	Monstrous Mask	3
4th	+2	Ability Score Improvement	3
5th	+3	Multiattack	4
6th	+3	Monstrous Mask Feature	4
7th	+3	Drain Essence	5
8th	+3	Ability Score Improvement	5
9th	+4	—	6
10th	+4	Monstrous Mask Feature	7
11th	+4	Enhanced Research	7
12th	+4	Ability Score Improvement	8
13th	+5	—	8
14th	+5	Monstrous Mask Feature	9
15th	+5	—	10
16th	+5	Ability Score Improvement	11
17th	+6	Titanic Might	12
18th	+6	Monstrous Mask Feature	13
19th	+6	Ability Score Improvement	14
20th	+6	-	15

Quick Build

You can make a Myriad Knight quickly by following these suggestions. First, make Charisma your highest ability score, then place your second highest stat in Constituion. Depending on the weapons you plan on using when not casting, you should then take Strength or Dexterity as your third highest stat.

Class Features

As a Myriad Knight, you gain the following Class Features:

Hit Points

Hit Dice: 1D10 per Myriad Knight Level
Hit Points at 1st Level: 10 + your Constitution modifier
Hit Points at Higher Levels: 1D10 (or 5) + your Constitution modifier per Myriad Knight Level after 1st

Proficiencies

Armour: Light Armour, Medium Armour
Weapons: All Weapons
Tools: Herbalist kit, Alchemy kit
Saving Throws: Constitution, Charisma

Skills

Choose two from the following: Animal Handling, Arcana, History, Insight, Medicine, Nature, Perception, Performance, Survival

Equipment

You start with the following equipment, in addition to the equipment granted by your background.

(a) A Spear or (b) A Shortsword
(a) An Arcane Focus (b) A Hand Crossbow with 20 bolts
(a) an Explorer's pack or (b) a Scholar's pack
(a) Leather Armour, a Herbalist kit & an Alchemy kit.

Monstrous Invocations

At 1st level, you have undergone a transformation of the soul, allowing you a deeper connection to the creatures that inhabit your world. You are able to learn how they act and gain access to their abilities through this connection. At 1st level, you can only gain abilities from monstrosities. You will gain access to new monsters as part of your "Monstrous Mask" and "Enhanced Research"

Invoking Monstrous Creatures

As a Myriad Knight, you collect and memorise the souls of creatures, gaining access to their Invocations. You can prepare a number of Invocations equal to your Myriad Knight level. You can perform an amount of Invocations equal to your proficiency bonus per short rest.

You can gain a Invocation in two ways. The first is to slay the creature and connect with the soul it leaves behind. The second way is to form a bond with the creature and earn its trust. For this method, you make a Charisma contest against the creature. The creature roll should suffer a small penalty based on how much they trust you. Based on the contest, your DM will decide whether you successfully connect with the creature. The maximum challenge rating creature you can bond with is listed in the Myriad Knight class table.

Once you have successfully bonded with a soul, you gain the ability to invoke the power of the creature. Invoking a creature costs you a bonus action and, for the next 1 minute, you are able to utlise the abilities, actions, and spells within the creature stat block. To complete the Invocation, you take damage equal to an amount of d8s * The challenge rating of the creature you invoke (minimum 1d6). You can end an Invocation early by using your bonus action again and you can freely switch from one Invocation to another.

Active monstrous abilities and spells granted by your Monstrous Invocation feature end when you end or change your current Invocation.

While invoking a creature, your attribute scores, movement, and allignment remain unchanged. This means that all Invocation attacks are made using your attributes.

Invocations known at 1st Level and higher

At 1st Level, you know two Invocations equal to or lower than your challenge rating (defined in the Myriad Knight spell table) These can be anything defined as acceptable by your DM. Consider what your character has been doing before joining the campaign and the experiences they have had with creatures in their past. Remember these can only be from monstrosities.

Spellcasting ability

Charisma is your spellcasting ability for all Invoked monster abilities, including any spells the creature may know. You use your Charisma whenever an invoked action refers to the target creature having to make a DC. You also use your spellcasting ability to hit attacks such as biting and clawing from beasts.

Spell Save DC = 8 + Your proficiency bonus + your Charisma modifier

Spell Attack Modifier = Your proficiency bonus + your Charisma modifier

Primal Vitality

Starting at 1st level, your soul flares during combat as the memories of the creatures you have faced swell inside of you. As an action on your turn (or a bonus action if you are currently using an Invocation), you can expend a number of hit dice up to your Charisma modifier to regain hit points equal to the amount rolled. Additionally, you gain additional hit dice equal to your Proficiency Bonus.

Monstrous Masks

As a Myriad Knight, one of your main goals is to learn as much about the world around you as possible. However, there are so many monsters that inhabit the planes that this task would be too large for one person.

Each Myriad Knight commits to learning spells from a specific monster type to help even out the knights assigned to particular research tasks. At 3rd level, you will commit to one of these paths and create what has been dubbed a "Monstrous Mask". This mask shows other knights of your order and those you encounter the types of monsters you are committed to learning about. During combat, an ethereal mask appears over your face to strike fear into your enemy. This mask takes on the face of a creature you have learned an ability from, and you can change the mask's appearance as many times as you like, even during combat.

Most Mask abilities can recharge when you complete an Invocation. You may only recharge one of these features per used Invocation.

Multiattack

At 5th level, while not invoking a creature, you benefit from the Extra Attack feature. At the same level, you are able to benefit from creatures that have the multiattack feature in their statblock; to a maximum of 2 attacks.

Drain Essence

At 7th level, whenever you use an Invocation, you can rend the souls of those around you. Hostile creatures within 5ft of you when you cast an Invocation suffer Psychic damage equal to your Charisma modifier. You can then force one creature to make a Constituion Saving Throw. On a fail, the creature suffers double Psychic damage from the attack and you gain temporary hitpoints equal to the damage dealt.

Enhanced Research

At 11th level your spectrum of knowledge has grown, and your soul can accommodate another specialization. Choose one of the below monster types to specialize in. you gain access to learning spells from these creatures as you have with the type defined with your Monstrous Mask as well as the bonus indicated:

Dragons: From your soul, you manifest a tiny ethereal dragon capable of performing small tasks. You gain resistance to one of the following damage types on a long rest, exchanging it with the previous: Lightning, Fire, or Cold damage. You also learn the Draconic Language

Celestials:From your soul, you manifest a tiny ethereal Pegasus capable of performing small tasks You gain resistance to one of the following damage types on a long rest, exchanging it with the previous: Necrotic, Radiant or Psychic damage. You also learn the Celestial language.

Giants: From your soul, you manifest a tiny Ettin capable of performing small tasks. You gain resistance to the following damage types per long rest, exchanging it with the previous: Slashing, Piercing or Bludgeoning damage. You also learn the Giant Language.

Titanic Might

At 17th level you have mastered the way of the monstrous souls that have joined you on your journey.

During combat, whilst you are invoking a creature, you can end the Invocation early as an action to grant yourself a mighty boon. For the next 30 seconds, you may choose one of the following attribute scores and increase it to 28: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution. All neccessary changes take place as per a standard attribute score increase during the length of this ability. You also gain a flying speed of 60ft.

Once the effect ends, you are unable to invoke an Invocation for the next 30 seconds, but all of your Myriad Knight Subclass Features are refreshed.

You may only use Titian Might once per long rest.

Mask of The Fiend

The Mask of The Fiend defines your intent to learn about the hellish creatures that traverse into your plane. You are also committed to travelling to their homeland should that be necessary for your endeavours. Myriad Knights who assign themselves to this mask often become colder over time as their soul swells to accommodate the many harsh creatures they encounter and learn from. Those who take up this mask are often thought to be more vicious and willing for combat, focusing more on the swordsmanship skills they have honed with their time in the order.

Innately Fiendish

Upon choosing this mask at 3rd level, you gain the Imp Invocation. Whilst invoking the powers of a fiend, your melee and ranged attacks deal additional Necrotic damage equal to your Strength modifier.

Fiendish Glare

At 6th level, as an action on your turn, you can choose one creature within 30ft of you that you can see. This creature must make a Wisdom saving throw against your Spell Save DC, if they fail, they are frightened of you for 1 minute or until they take damage. If the creature is of a challenge rating that you can invoke, you can instead choose to stun the creature until the end of its next turn. This ability can recharge whenever you use an Invocation.

Hellish Advance

At 10th level, as a bonus action on your turn, you rush forward and appear 30ft in a straight line ahead of you in ablazing dash. When you do so, the ground beneath your feet is lit by flames as you run the distance of your dash. all creatures you pass during your dash suffer fire damage equal to your Proficiency Bonus. The flames remain on the ground until the start of your next turn. Any creature that moves the the flames takes 2d8 Fire Damage. The movement from this ability does not provoke opportunity attacks. This ability can recharge whenever you use an Invocation.

Wicked Strikes

At 14th level, your attacks mimic the relentless violence of a fiend. As a bonus action, you can declare your next attack that hits to become Wicked. The target of your attack suffers an amount of d8’s equal to their Constitution modifier (minimum 2d8) as necrotic damage at the start of their next turn. This ability can recharge whenever you use an Invocation.

Naught but Ash

At 18th level you have learned to harness to full power of these hideous creatures. When entering into a fiend Invocation, you can allow them to overwhelm you, sending you into a violent rage. You take maximum damage from the Invocation damage roll but you gain advantage on all attacks rolls during your Invocation and any creature you reduce to 0 hitpoints is immediately turned to ash. Each time you successfully kill a creature, you can move up to your movement speed towards another creature and make a melee weapon attack against them (you cannot repeat this more than two times). This ability recharges on a Short Rest.

Mask of The Fey

The Mask of The Fey defines your intent to learn about the lovely and terrifying creatures that traverse to the Material Plane from the Feywild. You are also committed to traveling to their homeland should that be necessary for your endeavours. Myriad Knights who assign themselves to this mask often become more mischievous over time as their soul swells to accommodate the many mysterious creatures they encounter and learn from. Those who take up this mask are often thought to be more caring but not afraid of a good time, even at the expense of others. These knights often commit to a much more supportive role for their comrades.

Gift of The Fey

Upon choosing this mask at 3rd level, you gain the Dryad Invocation. Whilst invoking the powers of a fey, your first melee or ranged attack deals additional radiant damage equal to your Dexterity modifier.

Verdant Exorcist

At 6th level, while you have a Fey Monstrous Invocation active, you can use your reaction to grant an ally within 30ft of you temporary hit points equal to twice your Charisma Modifier when they are hit by an attack roll but before they take damage. You can utilise this reaction twice per Fey Invocation, regaining the uses once you active an Invocation

Revelry in the court

At 10th level, you sense a deep connection to the Feywild. As an action during combat, you perform a dance inspired by one of the Fey souls within you. You grant yourself, and one other ally within 60ft who does not have one, a point of inspiration. This point of inspiration is lost once you leave combat. This ability can recharge whenever you use an Invocation.

Fey Mark

At 14th level your connection to the Fey souls inside of you is strong.

As an action, you can invoke the power of a Fey creature inside of, causing a creature within 30ft to become marked. Attacks made by your allies against the creature cause the attack to heal them for an amount equal to 1d6 + your Charisma modifier. You cannot benefit from this healing. You may only have one creature marked at a time. This mark lasts for 30 seconds or until all charges are expended. This ability can recharge whenever you use an Invocation

Wild Nature

At 18th level, your bond with the Feywild is only rivalled by the Fey themselves. As an action, Nature bursts out and grows in a 30ft radius around you. Wild vines sprout and protect you and each of your allies. On your allies first successful attack each turn, they are healed for an amount equal to your Charisma modifier. Enemy creatures within the area suffer Necrotic damage equal to your Charisma modifier at the end of their turn. This ability is usable once per long rest.

Mask of the Aberration

The Mask of The Aberration defines your intent to learn about the horrific creatures of the Abyss and Underdark. You are also committed to travelling to their homeland should that be necessary for your endeavours. Myriad Knights who assign themselves to this mask often become wiser and more secretive over time as their soul swells to accommodate the many eldritch creatures they encounter and learn from. Those who take up this mask are often thought to be rational thinkers but with a tendency to be absorbed in their research. These knights often commit to a much more technical crowd control role within a group.

Dark Wisdom

Upon choosing this mask at 3rd level, you gain the Choker Invocation. Your also learn the Eldritch Blast cantrip, which you can cast at will without taking damage. When casting this cantrip as a Myriad Knight, the damage type is changed to Psychic.

Forbidden Knowledge

At 6th level, you can gaze into the depths of expansive knowledge. When making an Arcana, History or Religion check, you can choose to use your Charisma modifier instead of Intelligence.

During combat, whilst under the effects of an Aberration Invocation, you can use your reaction to target a creature and make a Deception check against their Insight. If you win, you take half damage from the attack whilst the other half is reflected back at the creature as Psychic damage. You can utilise this reaction twice per Aberration Invocation, regaining the uses once you active an Invocation

Encroaching Abyss

At 10th level, you can pull the veil of darkness over yourself, empowering your abilities. When you activate this ability, and at the start of your next three turns, your attack rolls, damage rolls, and Armour Class increase by 1. When you reach the end of your turn with a +4 modifier, you and all hostile creatures within 10ft of you suffer Psychic damage equal to your Proficiecy Bonus. This ability can recharge whenever you use an Invocation.

Dark Hysteria

At 14th level, As an action, you can target a creature and sow seeds of darkness into their mind. As an action on your turn, you can target a creature within 30ft of you, allowing you to roll 1d10 and subject them to the effects of the Confusion spell. If you roll a 9 or 10 for the effect, they instead take damage 3d8 Psychic damage and you may roll again for another effect. This ability can recharge whenever you use an Invocation.

Eldritch insight

At 18th level, the souls you have bonded with have transcended your mind. As an action, you bestow a blessing of the cosmos upon yourself, casting and empowering an Eldritch Blast.

Each creature hit by your Eldritch Blade a Constituion Saving Throw against your Spell Save DC, rolling at disadvantage if they are not proficient On a fail, the creature is Blinded and Deafened for 1 minute. They can repeat the saving throw, following the same conditions, at the end of each of their turn. This ability is usable once per short rest.

The Talekeeper

Level	Proficiency Bonus	Features	Prophecy Charges	Spells Known	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	5th	6th	7th	8th	9th
1st	+2	Fateful Draw, Prophecy	2	2	2	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
2nd	+2	—	2	3	3	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
3rd	+2	Fate's Call	3	4	4	2	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
4th	+2	Ability Score Improvement	3	5	4	3	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
5th	+3	Fate's Call Feature	4	6	4	3	2	—	—	—	—	—	—
6th	+3	Remnants of the Past	4	7	4	3	3	—	—	—	—	—	—
7th	+3	Fate's Call Feature	5	8	4	3	3	1	—	—	—	—	—
8th	+3	Ability Score Improvement	5	9	4	3	3	2	—	—	—	—	—
9th	+4	Fate's Call Feature	6	10	4	3	3	3	1	—	—	—	—
10th	+4	—	6	11	4	3	3	3	2	—	—	—	—
11th	+4	Fates Call Feature	7	12	4	3	3	3	2	1	—	—	—
12th	+4	Ability Score Improvement	7	12	4	3	3	3	2	1	—	—	—
13th	+5	Fate's Call Feature	8	13	4	3	3	3	2	1	1	—	—
14th	+5	Lingering Remnants	8	13	4	3	3	3	2	1	1	—	—
15th	+5	Fate's Call Feature	9	14	4	3	3	3	2	1	1	1	—
16th	+5	Ability Score Improvement	9	14	4	3	3	3	2	1	1	1	—
17th	+6	Fate's Call Feature	10	15	4	3	3	3	2	1	1	1	1
18th	+6	—	10	15	4	3	3	3	2	1	1	1	1
19th	+6	Ability Score Improvement	11	15	4	3	3	3	2	2	1	1	1
20th	+6	Divine Bulwark	12	15	4	3	3	3	2	2	2	1	1

Quick Build

You can make a Talekeeper quickly by following these suggestions. First place, your highest stat in Intelligence, followed by placing your second highest stat in Constitution and your third highest in Dexterity. Next, take the Sage background.