Category Archives: NPC’s

Solina Garhound and Company

NPC's, Orlanthi

Solina Garhound, Female Thief, late 20’s, Lanbril Cult member

Solina

Threat Level ****

Runes: Darkness, Life, Illusion

Traits: Sexy, Cautious, Patient, Greedy, Stubborn

A professional thief from Pavis region, she was expelled from Sun Country in mid-teens for various misdemeanours. Her style is theft via seduction and she  masquerades as a noble daughter of the Garhound clan from Pavis Country.

With fair skin brown hair with green eyes she is stunningly beautiful. Pleasant  light and fun company with a  good time mentality. Also she is completely and utterly amoral in most situations most of the time.

She followed Lan Stormson up from Prax. Employed by GimGim the Grim to retrieve the Windsword and  took a hefty advance. So she fears for her life if she returns without the sword. She has no real political or spiritual ideology to drive her forward.

When she arrived at swim here Lans wife Rahkal took an immediate dislike to her and threw her out of the community. She has since travelled to Trilus and Dykene, but does not know how to proceed with her quest at the moment. She is frustrated and is not used to failing at things she sets out to do.

She loves horses and is a natural rider and is currently travelling with two bodyguards.

Plot Uses: Will probably try to recruit the players to help her steal the Windsword, either knowingly or more probably as mindless dupes.

If not she will see the characters as possible marks and try to get close to relieve them of some of their more interesting possessions.

Gerak Garhound 27 Pavis, Lanbril Member

Threat Level ***

Runes: Darkness, Disorder, Man

Traits: Aggressive, Calm, Suspicious, Dour

Gerak grew up in Cheapside in Pavis and became a gang enforcer as an initial careers choice. He has known and worked with Solina for about five years, poses as her brother. Gerak has romantic feelings towards Solina but its unrequited and leads to some awkward moments.

His job is to work as her heavy which he can do reasonably well in an urban environment. He is not comfortable in the wilds. He is a competent fighter, but not a warrior. He is especially  fond of long knives and the gladius style shortswords.

Plot uses: Gerak has a short temper and is likely to pick a bar fight for no good reason

 ‘Dusty’ Rinan, 30 Pol Joni, Orlanth Initiate

Threat Level ***

Runes: Air, Movement, Beast

Traits: Stubborn, Brave, Adventurous, Dishonest

A praxian barbarian from the Pol Joni Clan, who signed on to be there scout,  guide and guard through the deserts of Prax. He is comfortable out in the wilds and is enjoying his time in Balazar.

He is not aware of what the details of their mission, but is wise enough to know the type of people he is travelling with and what kind of mission they are on.

Dusty is bored with a mercenary existence and  is looking for something a little bit more substantial in his life but he is unaware what that is at this moment. It may a more serious spirituality, a cause, a true love or just a plot of land.

Plot uses: Dusty is someone who could suddenly attach himself to the characters for various reasons and though he maybe unsightly and rough round the edges could become a useful friend.

Trilus Updated Lightbringers

Background, Balazarings, NPC's, Orlanthi

In this version of Griffin Mountain changes have happened as regards the Lightbringers hall in Trilus.

They are broadly speaking as follows;

  • Torath and Pay have got married and combined there teams.
  • Some of their original teams have joined the balazaring Orlanthi.
  • They have recruited some Balazarings into the cult and there team.
  • Bluebird is now with the Balazaring Orlanthi and not resident in Trilus to avoid Lunars.
  • Dushi Sones training of local Balazarings in the ways of Chalana Arroy is going well.

So now the current Lightbringer residents of Trilus are;

Pay and Toraths Orlanthi Group

Native Orlanthi

  • Domio – Redrock Orlanthi Acolyte
  • Katilin – Redrock Orlanthi Initiate

Chalana Arroy

Issaries

  • Djimm Mith Pg 47

Lan Stormson

Balazarings, NPC's, Orlanthi

Stormkhan, Favoured of Orlanth, Balazaring Warrior and Chief of Men

Runes: Air, Movement, Death

Traits: Proud, Aggressive, Impulsive, Deep, Conflicted

Tall and wiry warrior, with long scraggly brown hair and unkempt beard, he wear iron chain over furs and leather, he rides a Praxian Bison, and is usually escorted by group of praxian Bullmen from the Bison tribe. He is a man in his late 20’s who is living life fully,  but who seems to be driven to achieve, to risk, to fight and to kill.

He is the current wielder of the Windsword.

Ten years ago he was just one of a number of young Votanki hunters who were part of the Redrock Clan. Today he is much travelled, a leader of men, the wielder of the Windsword, Heroquester, the killer of chaos, a hammer against the Lunars and is unfulfilled still striving and pushing for something that evades him.

Upon meeting Lan mist people are impressed with him and want to impress him. he has an energy and dynamism  that people find engaging, but after spending time with him the shine wears off and he just seems very self absorbed.  He strives to be great and as such often wounds many close to him.

He loves dogs and hunting which he considers a joy, he loves women and has made many bad choices in that area of his life. He dreadful husband to Rahkal his wife and a poor father to his three children. He loves them deeply but has not the emotional capacity to consistently express that in any meaningful way.

He is touched by Orlanth, and is a clear manifestation of what is good and what is challenging about the god.  As a younger man his only desire was to become a windlord. However when  his wife became one before him, he turned to the cult of Stormbull instead. Surprisingly he has never been afflicted by the cults spirit of reprisal.

Lan is currently trying to form a permanent community in the Dangerground close to Swim Here which comprises of warriors seeking a Lord, Orlanthi farmers who have travelled up from Pavis country on the promise of freedom and farming land, Bison riders from Prax who are checking out this green land to see if a larger group could prosper here and Balazaring hunters  who are drawn to his rising star.

He is finding it hard but old friends from the Redrock tribe and allies from elsewhere are drifting back to him, and as a community something is coming together.

Lan has a poor view of baboons and has put a price of a wheel on the head of every baboon brought to him, and 50 Wheels for Gareeki Chaz’s head.

Nature: Architect
Demeanour: Bravo
Physical: Strength 4, Dexterity 6, Stamina 5
Mental: Intelligence 4, Wits 5, Perception 5
Social: Manipulation 3, Appearance 4, Charisma 5
Talents: Alertness 5, Artistic 2, Athletics 5, Brawl 4, Dodge 5, Empathy 3, Expression 2, Intimidation 5, Streetwise 4, Subterfuge 4, Sense Chaos 5
Skills: Archery 5, Commerce 2, Crafts 2,Etiquette 2, Leadership 4,Melee 6, Riding 5, Stealth 5, Survival 4
Knowledge’s: Academics 2, Culture 4 ,Investigation 2, Languages 3, Medicine 3,Myth  5, Politics 4, Divine Lore 5, Spirit Lore 2
Essence 6
Quintessence: 34
Willpower: 7
Runes: Air 6, Movement 5, Beast 4, Death 5, Mastery 4, Eternal Battle 4
Spirit Magic: Bladesharp 4, Healing 4, Disruption 3, Speedart 2, Shimmer 4, Mobility 4, Farsee, fanaticism 2
Rune Magic: Pact Stormbull 9pt; Beserker, Summon/Dismiss Air Elemental, Face Chaos, Shield
Pact Orlanth 15pt; Bless Woad, Flight. Lightning, Shield, Wind Words, Wind Warp, Summon Air Elemental,  Increase/Decrease Wind, Dismiss Air Elemental, Detect Honor
Virtues: Vigor 5, Trust 4, Generosity 4
Backgrounds: Allies 4, Artifact 5, Contacts 3, Cult Status 5, Destiny 5, Dogs 3, Family 4, Homestead 4, Influence 5, Mount 4, Ransom 5, Resources 5, Status 3, Witta 4
Flaws & Merits Favoured By Orlanth -6pt merit,  Compulsive Speech -2pt flaw, Gall – 2pt merit,  Intolerance baboons – 1pt flaw, Killer Instinct – 5pt merit,
Equipment: Bison -with allied spirit,  Partial Iron Plate Armor & Furs – 6pt, Windsword ** Special** see below, Lance 4pt, Medium Round Iron Shield -3pt, 3*javelins – 3pt
Spirits: Trouble: Allied Spirit
Essence: 3 Quintessence:8 Runes:  Beast 1, Air 2, Spirit 2 
Spirit Magic: Spirit Block 4, Countermagic 4, Dispel Magic 4
Krugor the Axe: Ancestor
Essence: 2 Quintessence:6 Death 2, Earth 2 
Spirit Magic: Strength 3, Vigor 3
Windsword Iron Broadsword 4pt ( 5pt vs. chaos)
Guardian Spirit: Essence:5 Quintessence:12 Runes:Air 5, Law 5
Pact: 17 Summon/Dismiss Air Elemental, Flight, Extension, Impede Chaos, Face Chaos
Power Storage: 11

For RQ players there is a post on how to understand and convert these stats on the fly.

Plot Uses

  • If you running a Lunar based campaign this guys should be you key adversary, he will fighting killing ambushing and raiding Lunars at every opportunity and causing others to do so.
  • If you are running  a Balazaring hunters campaign this guy and his actions will make interesting political ripples which players will need to ally with , negotiate round or oppose.
  • If your campaign is Yelmalian based he will be a difficult customer and potential foe.
  • If your campaign is Orlanthi based he will be a rival, a friend or an employer.

NPC’s – Lightson Of Yelmalio and Wife

Balazarings, NPC's

Kalason Flameheart, 34 Year Old Male, Lightson of Yelmalio
Threat Level *****
Traits: Optimistic, Patient, Energetic, Pious, Leader
Runes:  Fire, Truth, Movement

Kalason is a Balazaring warrior come good. Initially from the  Sun Lizard clan of Elkoi Tribe, he left Balazar when he was 18 to Join the warriors of the Sun Dome temple.

He has spent the last 16’s years as a templar at Sun Dome Temple at  Ever New Glory and done so with distinction rising to rank of lightson.

He is currently on assignment from the temple and has been sent to find out what he can about King Skilfils Giant Vrock Hawks.

King Skilfil is in a difficult position he does not want to share the information with his hawks with anyone, but neither does he want to deny his cult. He also likes Kalason and wants to recruit him into his citadel Guard.

For  the moment he has told Kalason he needs to earn his trust and has left him to work at the temple of Yelmalio in Dykene.

Kalason enjoys being back in Balazar, loves to hunt and owns a pack of hunting dogs. He has geases of only love an earth worshipper and never eat meat so he does find the diet very limiting.

standing stones pic
Oraine  Starlight, Sun Dome Wife and  Ernalda Initiate
Threat Level **
Traits: Aggressive, Clever, Humorous, Dry Cutting Wit
Runes: Earth, Life, Truth

Oraine is not the usual ‘Sun Dome Wife’, is very well read and has a keen mind. Raised the daughter of a priestess of Ernalda, she has been educated  from an early age, and loves philosophical debate.

She loves her husband dearly, was drawn to his unconventional nature and energy wildness. However originally coming from the New Glory Sun Dome temple complex she finds the Yelmalio temple in Dykene terminally boring and she doesn’t want to be in Balazar any longer than she has to be.

The only balazaring she really likes is  Starnia of the rest she says ‘they are all a bit dull and backwater’.

She is of the opinion that he husband has been sent on a fool’s errand, and thinks chances of success are low to none. She also wants to return to civilisation so she can start family in what she would think is a safe environment.

She has seen the need of an earth priestess in Balazar, but isn’t admitting anything to herself or anyone else. That is a calling she would not want and would do anything to avoid, but sometimes the gods are fickle.

Plot Uses;

These guys are not loaded with extra plot, they are colour characters, who may become good friends with your PC’s.  There are possible long story arks for these as NPC’s, but initially they are for colour and light interaction.

NPC’s Lunar Fighting Men

Lunars, NPC's

Three quite different fighting men from the Lunar Provinces

Fazzar the Relentless

Sairdite Bounty Hunter – Initiate of Urvairinus
Threat Level  ****
Runes: Earth, Death, Fate
Traits: Cold, Hard, Calculating, Implacable

With a Balding head and long beard which is starting to turn grey. Fazzar is a large Strong man in his late 30’s.

Originating from Saird, he is an Ex Soldier who likes to wield a large axe. He currently works as a bounty hunter. Marusa and Halycon Von Enkorth have brought him to Elkio, to try to track down The Lhankor Myh priest Bluebird. Due to bluebird not being findable at the moment Fazzar is trying to find some other work in the mean time

He considers himself a righteous man. Fazzar likes to know that that his targets are criminals, as he does not consider himself an assassin. He is a fatalistic man and believes many things which happen are destiny.

He has a love the open country and being outdoors, so prefers country jobs to city jobs in most instances. He is always keen to talk with strangers to see if he can find anything out about the location of Bluebird. His fee must be large for him to persevere with a chase which has gone so cold.

Gessi Gabinius

Lunar Assassin,  Initiate of Krarsht
Runes: Moon, Death, Disorder
Threat level ****
Traits: Patient, Calm, Reliable, Charming

From Mrins cross, Gessi is an assassin who has completed contracts in a number of dart completions. he has currently been hired to kill Aetius Agga Rufelza which has brought him into Balazar.

He was supposed to be recruited into Aetius’s guards in Mrins cross but things have not gone to plan and he has had to follow his mark out to Balazar.

He is posing as mercenary for hire by the name of Gera and hopping to get close enough to make his kill. His favourite technique is poison, but he think he may have resort to other means for this job.

He is known and disliked by Fazzar who has recognised him in the area and knows his trade, but has no knowledge of his true nature. Therefore uncomfortable and wants to do the job and get out of Elkoi as quickly as possible, but is also waiting for Fazzur to move on first.

Gessi comes across as a very charming person, and he knows how to make people like him. He is however calm and cold, and willing to kill without thought. Gessi has the chaotic feature of being undetectable by use of magic.

Gessi is his 30’s now, he was recruited to the cult of Krasht when he was an apprentice to a bureaucrat in the lunar government. Only after his chaotic feature became apparent was he  used for his current line of work.

Regnar Ven Voran,

Head of Elkio light skirmishes, Initiate of Yanafal Tarnis
Runes: Moon, Truth, Movement
Threat Level  ****
Traits: Brave, Aggressive, Charismatic, Honourable

In his late 20’s, a lithe, quick but rugged man, Clean shaven  with roguish good looks.

Originally a street urchin from Darleep in the Lunar heartlands. He served with distinction as an head of file in Imther garrison for 5 years. Before he was brought to Elkoi as an officer working under Euryptus the Bold.

He is currently forming and training the Balazar light skirmishes a militia unit of native skirmishes designed to support the lunar regulars and mercenaries based in Elkoi. He is a popular commander and has been successful in his work. He is highly trusted by Euryptus who treats him as his right hand man.

If Euryptus needs a job doing well Regnar is the man he will send. Regnar has a tendency to bend the rules to get things done, he is competitive and likes to win in all situations. He has a romantic streak to him and has a strong sense of natural justice which means he can be an honourable and merciful foe.

Though popular Regnar is a somewhat solitary individual, who seems content with his own company. When not on duty he enjoys the company of the ladies, but does not seem to have a permanent attachment.

Brokat – Heortling Emissary

NPC's, Orlanthi

Brokat the True

Heortling Noble Issaries Initiate.
Runes: Water, Harmony, Trade
Threat Level ****
Traits:   Self Important, Over Courteous , Curious, Friendly

Brokat is an Emissary of King Bryon of Whitewall, a younger son of a thane of Bryons, he has been sent  to request the bearer of the Windsword to join Kallyr Starbrow and King Bryon at Whitewall for the inevitable campaign against the Lunar Empire. He is a follower of Issaries in the aspect of diplomat and herald and would see trading as beneath his station.

Has been sent as he is suspected as being a lunar spy and this quest is seen as a long shot that keep him away from important matters happening in the south. He is loyal, but his diplomatic ways means he has a more cultured approach to dealing with Lunars that is appreciated by some in these more violent days. However due to these suspicions and the difficult position he finds himself in he does not want to return back to Whitewall  empty handed

He is a man of some maturity and a competent warrior. Likes to Drink and discuss stories of lands people(including himself) may have visited. He is also a keen falconer and has a hawk with him on the trip.

He is currently located at Trilus in the company of Torath Manover and Lightbringers hall. He is waiting for some sign of the bearer of the Windsword, but is frustrated in the meantime. He has spent some time with King Yalaring, but has been kept at arm’s length because the king believes him to be a boring windbag.

Plot uses: Makes characters aware of the greater political plot in dragons pass, tie into those parts of the world. Explore the area of divided loyalties, and bigger ponds elsewhere.

Endal the Calm

Humakti Initiate and Bodyguard
Runes: Fire, Death, Beast
Threat Level ****
 Traits: Vicious, Angry, Energetic, Expressive

Endal is a housecarl in the service of King Bryon, who is currently assigned to Guard Brokat the true on his trip north. he has been ordered to watch Brokat for King Bryon, if Brokat shows any sign of treacherous behaviour he is to Kill Brokat on the spot.

He is much more prominent and outspoken that bodyguards tend to be. He is runetouched by the rune of death and as such people struggle to connect with him, and he is feared by many round Trilius.

Endals reaction to most problems is disproportionate violence and aggression. he sees this as a normal reaction and cannot understand why others do not appreciate these traits of character.

Endal dresses and  is armed in the more civilized fashion of Esrolia and is very proud of his  weapons and armour which he keeps in pristine condition. He is also clean shaven and keeps hair cut short.

Plot Uses

  • A reminder that Humakti can be psychopathic tools
  • Persuading him not to hurt someone for little reason

Angorri  Blackspear

Humakti Initiate & Bodyguard
Runes: Darkness, Death, Mastery
Threat level ***
Traits:   Cheerful, Friendly, Funny, Aggressive

A young friendly man,  who is tall and lean. He wears his fair hair and beard in Plats in the way of Satarite Orlanthi.  He wields a spear made from an unknown black material which has been a  family heirloom for at least 3 generations, as well as his Humakti sword.

He is the Junior partner to Endal, but he usually does most of the communicating as his demeanour is much less challenging for most people.

He has  a girl near Whitewall who is with child and wants to go home as soon as he can.

Troll Leaders of the Elder Wilds

Background, NPC's, Setting, Trolls

Here are notable political troll figures and leaders of tribes, it is unlikely that pc’s will interact directly with these  figures, but they should in the background adding colour and moving events that may  affect the characters.

Great Old Mother

Leader of the Trang Clan and Mistress Race troll high priestess of Kygor Litor, who never leaves the temple of Kyger Litor at Black Spire Gorge

Her agenda  is to control the religious life of the trolls of the Elder Wilds  but she uses political and religious power very directly, not in a subtle manner. She has been known to deny’s clans and tribes who are out of favour access to major temples. She also has an elite war gang called the Sons of Trang.

She has had an ongoing feud with Cragspider for centuries and the two ancient trolls despise each other with a passion. She claims to have met Arkat and has detailed knowledge of some of the events surrounding the Gbaji wars.

‘The Spider’

The Head of the Gar Tola Tribe and High Priestess of Gorakki, Priestess of Areana. She does everything she can to make her form a mystery, but she is actually a very old uzko who has morphed into part troll part spider form via hero questing

A subtle politician and great gather of information she sits at the centre of a great web of relationships and intrigue she is by far the best informed troll leader in the Elder Wilds.

She always ensures the great Old Mother believes her to be an ally, but she also communicates on a semi regular basis with Cragspider.

Gnasher

The Uzuz leader of the Bone Gnashers and the Guardian of the Wailing Place. He presents himself as a simple Zorac Zoran beserker warlord, but has a much deeper aspect and is a knowledgeable magician and sorcerer, is a devotee of Arkat.

He is an elf killer and the troll leader the Aldryami want slain more than any other. He was present at the burning of the great tree of what is now the  Dangergound. He sees it as his responsibility to stop the elves expanding their forests ever again.

Gorks Daughter

Gorks daughter is a powerful uzko shaman and mystic, also priestess of Kygor Litor. She is often used a channel for Gork himself a powerful darkness spirit.

Is over 300 years old so many believe her to be a uzuz, but is actually an uzko. Her prime motivation is to protect Gork from the Great Old Mother, who Gork believes wants to bind the spirit, and control the worship of Gork.

She rules the tribe of Gork well, but is an isolationist who only really has contact with a number of independent clans the tribe of Danar Tol. She has studied the ruins in Gorks hills extensively and has some knowledge of the magic so the EWF.

Mama Di

The Leader of the Bara Du is an Uzko priestess of Kyger Litor and one of the most fertile troll in living memory. Mama Di is beautiful in troll standards as well as being mother to over 20 healthy uzko

She swears by the effects of the Black Plinth and ensures her tribe controls the lands round it. She also  keeps a harem of male lovers and is jealous of her breeding rights

She is scared of the Grand Old Mother and would never do anything to offend her. A very good practical politician, and the tribe is doing well under her.

Kieger Ba

Zorac Zoran warlord from Dragori Inkarth who  usurped of the  previous leaders Guttuz Tribe, after being hired to lead their raids.

Currently is perusing a damaging conflict with the elves and humans of the bear woods and gets his tribe to raise large numbers of un-dead, especially from the corpses of their own fallen.

He terrorises his tribe and often inflicts atrocities upon his own people. Worshippers of Zong and Kygor Litor are waiting for a leader who could challenge him and the tribe will explode into civil war.

Troll Personalities of the Elder Wilds

Background, NPC's, Setting, Trolls

Here are a  few of the troll personalities of the Elder Wilds which may be met by characters in a non violent encounter and who hopefully could provide some fun plot twists and turns along the way.

I will do another post for politically and culturally important troll figures later on but thought it best to split them.

Breath of Zong, The Huntsman, The Day Shadow

A mythic figure even amongst the trolls of the Elder Wilds, a solitary Uzuz hunter who has hunted the region alone since before the dawn. He lives for the hunt always looking for harder and more exotic prey to catch, and ways to further test his skills as a Hunter.

Few have seen him, none can remember talking with him, but when we wants to be seen the steam of his breath will be noticed for a second maybe two, before he silently fades away.

He is the guardian of the hunters and watches over all the hunters of the Elder Wilds, troll, man even baboon. He is never seen to intervene but he has saved many hunters from meeting a sticky end without revealing himself.

He is also the self appointed guardian of the hunt and those who kill without following the sacred ways of the peaceful cut, can find themselves in deep trouble in his presence.

The hunt can take him away from the Elder Wilds for seasons as he hears of a beast he must catch or challenge he must face. As the hero wars start he may feel the need to start to communicate with hunters of all kinds.

Worshipper of both Zong and Foundchild will find themselves in spiritual awe him without fully understanding why.

 Ta Cassa , The shadow mother

A noted and powerful ukzo shaman of the western troll wild hunters clans, and a friend of the Blue Dog Eaters. She travels between the clans and is well respected.

Many spirits have talked to her of Blueface the Shaman , and it is her desire to meet and emulate him.  However even she is unsure whether she wants to treat him as a friend, rival or enemy.

She is very aware of the presence of Chaos in the Elder Wilds and knows the locations of both festering isle and the chaos holy ground

Toola Barg

A uzko Argan Argar Worshipper and trader from the Trang tribe, who has run a number of caravans south of the mountains but who believes that trade with the citadels would be quicker than travelling  south.

In the past he has traded with Joh Mith once on his trips into the Elder Wilds, and has gained a map of Balazar and has some basic understanding of the human situation.

He is trying to identify troll goods from the Elder Wilds humans would be interested in. He is interested in clothes, spices, and pungent and tactile luxuries. He is  currently interested in developing a rapport with humans who can introduce him to one of the citadels.

Kol Serap – ‘The Mapmaker’

An uzko Argan Argar priest  Mapping the Elder Wilds with a map of scents, he has moved to the Elder wilds after he complete mapping Dragori Inkarth, where his map of scents gained him some wealth and fame.

He finds life in the Elder Wilds tough and wants to get the region mapped as quickly as possible and move onto the Shadow Plateau or Blue Moon Plataeu, he is not aggressive in nature and is often willing  to parley and negotiate with humans. he is keen do what he can to collects distinct smells and will often pay for ones which would be dangerous for him to collect, such Aldryami sap. He travels with small group of guards

Bassa Rak

A uzko warrior of  the blue moon plateau, holding the rank of Boztakang’s a Son( subcult of Kygor Litor) has travelled to the Elder Wilds to find potential allies and prepare the way for his mistress to come and recruit support for Boztakang’s Empire.

However Bassa  is paying only lip service to his mistresses wishes and is making the most of his time without supervision. He controls a small war party of powerful , well trained well armoured trolls and is currently happy to roam the Elder Wilds doing what he wishes. He knows he needs to get on with the task at hand soon, but keeps putting it off till next season.

Xara Kiri, Watching Mother

An uzko priestess, who runs a small temple to Xiola Umbar a few miles away from Offas Pile. She used to run the temple within the community but felt that trollkin were getting too wild in their behaviour  and was gaining deep concerns about the spirit known as the Eater.

She has moved the temple a few miles away and still cares for the needs of the trollkin of the community as best she can. She is attended by a  group of 30 permanent trollkin attendants and guards who are fanatically loyal to her.

She is currently pondering how to investigate and combat ‘the eater’  without involving troll war parties which will slaughter and eat most of the trollkin.

Lunar Hunting Expedition

Lunars, NPC's

A group of 3 young lunar men from the heartland come to Balazar for two seasons exotic hunting, wanting to ‘bag a thunder lizard’. They believe they are out of the danger of the dart completions in Balazar and are somewhat carefree in their attitude.  They also have not realised that their rank will hold little sway and offer little protection outside the court of Elkio.

Thy are currently guests of Glyptus the Good, who they view as a country bumpkin, but who offers better hospitality than the local inn.

Currently there is an ongoing plot against the nobles, one bodyguard was subtlety murdered in Mrins Cross has been murdered and one bodyguard has been turned. the stay in Balazar will be eventful.

Plot Uses

These fellows can be used as employers, adversaries, victims or agent provocateurs. They have little reason to pick a fight with PC’s but may create conflict due to high handiness, thoughtlessness or general stupidity. This could be aimed at the PC’s or friends and associates.

If the PC’s assault kill or kidnap these individuals the Lunar authorities will be forced to throw serious manpower into recovery or revenge missions.

Aetius could be the central piece of a nice of fake ‘my death plot’  with pc’s hired to fake his death, and then put all of the investigating/retributing authorities of his path.

The PC’s could also be hired by Petronius to track down any potential assassins as he becomes more concerned about the life of his charges. Or the pc’s could just be present when an attack is made on the Nobles, and maybe even thought to be involved in it.

Aetius Agga Rufelza,

Lunar Noble, Initiate of Seven Mothers
Runes: Moon, Mastery, Movement
Threat Level ***
Traits: Extrovert, Physical, Charismatic, Energetic, Selfish

A good looking and athletic young man in his early 20’s. Cousin to Queen Jocetis, the eldest son and due to inherit considerable power and influence, he is destined to be part of the Lunar Administration but is at best an average student of the arts pertaining to government.

Has enjoyed being outdoors and is enjoying a ‘life of adventure’.Likes the company of warriors and hunters, Feels more at home here and does not want to return to the heartlands.He is an excellent horseman, and good with both scimitar and bow.

Woefully unaware of the needs of others, he is not intentionally cruel but can be very selfish. Marusa has identified him as a possible future husband as he would be a positive move up the ladder for her, however he has no more than a casual interest in her which could prove fatal.

Marcus Agga Rufelza,

Lunar Noble, Initiate of Seven Mothers
Runes: Fire, Law, Harmony
Threat Level **
Traits: Cautious, Thoughtful, Follower, Nervous

Younger brother of Aetius and looks up to him. Marcus is the diligent hardworking and academic of the bothers.  He is at home in the Lunar heartlands and finds Balazar very uncomfortable, though he would not want his brother to know this fact.

He is also in love with a girl back home, and resisting the temptations of local women (with all that hair!) despite the ridicule of his compatriots.

It is very possible that Marcus may over compensate for his perceived failings, and do something rash, brave or stupid that will put him and the others in danger.

Though young he has a head for money and finance and probably has the best knowledge of monetary policy of anyone in Balazar at this moment.

Nerva Ven Varse,

Lunar Noble,  Initiate of Seven Mothers
Rune: Moon, Disorder , Mastery
Threat Level ***
Traits: Aggressive, Physical, Suspicious, Greedy

A close friend of Aetius from a more modest house, Nerva is your archetypal bully. Of good physique and with some martial training, Nerva has been used to being able intimidate his fellow students and compatriots.

He continues to use his connection with Aetius, his status as the Kings guest and his Lunar citizenship to bully and intimidate some of the locals.

Nerva is a habitual and talented gambler but also a skilled cheat, he has weighted dice and marked cards that he will use whenever he sees a likely dupe. Nerva has no need for the money, but sees cheating as a way of proving to himself that he is smarter than his opponent.

Disliked by all the group apart from Aetius

Petronius,

Lunar Bodyguard, YanafalTarnis – Initiate
Runes:  Moon, Death, Truth
Threat Level ****
Traits: Proud, Cautious, Honourable, Brave

A highly skilled, dependable warrior who has served the family for 15 years after 7 years in the heartland Corps , however Is unsure of his surroundings beyond civilization, and finds Balazar unfamiliar and troubling.

He is concerned the young lords will create too much trouble in the area, is constantly alert for potential trouble. He unsure what happened to the other Guard who disappeared  in Mrins cross so is being more vigilant than usual.

Though respectful to the Lords he is not employed by them, and is loyal to Aetius’s father, and if he feels it is needed for their safety and security can order the young nobles about.

Scaevola is a long term friend who he trusts and does not suspect. He often drinks too much, but only when off duty. He is very proud of his Iron Scimitar

Scaevola

Lunar Bodyguard  YanafalTarnis – Initiate

Threat Level ***
Traits: Brave, Reliable, Physical, Calm

An older man in his mid 30’s, he is a loyal guard who has served the family for 12 years, However he has been blackmailed to make an attempt of Aetius life, as a rival lunar family have his young daughter held captive.

He disposed of one of the other guards on the journey down and he was supposed to hire an associate in Mrins cross, but Petronius chose Calia as a replacement as she has no close contact with anyone from the heartlands.

Currently Scaevola is pensive and snappy, Petronius has put this down to the surroundings and doesn’t understand what he his friend is going through.

Calia

Lunar Bodyguard, – Seven Mother Initiate
Runes: Moon, Movement, Beast
Threat Level ***
Traits: Clever, Dependable, Cautious, Innovative, Nervous

Originally from a hill tribe in western Holay and has served for 5 years in a mercenary regiment, she usually works as a caravan guard, but has developed a good reputation as a reliable solid employee.

She was picked up by Petronius after one the original bodyguards disappeared on the journey down. Since joining the group she has quickly developed a particular dislike of Nerva, and tries ties keep ‘the creep’ at arm’s length.  Petronius doesn’t think she is as respectful as she should be to her employers, but is impressed with her quiet efficiency.

She is Skilled with 2-handed spear , and competent in the wilds. She has picked up a fondness for the dogs which are ubiquitous in Balazar

Wuylar Distantheart,

Elkoi Hunter,  Found Child Initiate
Runes:  Fire, Death, Harmony
Threat Level ***
Traits: Cautious, Introvert, Patient, Stoic

A hired local guide and older Hunter From the Red Sable Clan of Elkoi, he has hunted the lands round Elkoi for the past 20 years. As a traditional hunter he has taken offence at his employers for disrespecting the peaceful cut and local hunting traditions

He is amazed at how bad the nobles are at hunting and will happily sell them out to anyone who may want to attack them, as long as Nasir and himself are long gone and not implicated in any way.

Nasir Longknife ,

Eloi Hunter – Foundchild Initiate
Runes:  Water, Death, Harmony
Threat Level **
Traits: Energetic, Brave, Dishonest, Clever

The nephew of Wuylar and a young brave From the Red Sable Clan, like his mentor he has also taken great offence at the nobles for disrespecting the peaceful cut and hunting traditions

However he has developed a crush on Calia and would be sad to leave, however he has been gently pilfering from his employers and this has not been noticed yet.

Barons Blackshields

Lunars, NPC's

Mercenary Scum from the Lunar Provinces

Baron’s Blackshields call themselves a mercenary band but a really an adventuring group. They are a disparate group of Individuals but can be identified easily each carries a matt black shield.

They are currently employed on a long term contract by Halycon Von Enkorth in the service of Lunar Empire. They are used for roles which he needs a degree of loyalty for but does not want to go through the standard military authorities.

The group is initially from Holay and Tarsh but can’t return home with ease  due to past crimes. They are cunning and vicious, but ill-disciplined and arrogant. They do not think there is anyone in Balazar they should be scared of, but have been lucky enough  not encounter any more powerful groups of the elder races so far.

Usually when on job which takes them out of Elkoi they hire associates to bulk out numbers, and to do much of the dying. These could be Elkoi Hunters, Holayan mercenaries, Imther Barbarians or Tusk Riders.

Being in the service of Halycon Von Enkorth they are immune to punishment for any crimes which are not to Lunar Citizens or property.

Plot uses: These are Halycons stooges, recurring crafty sneaky mean, bad guys. They will be thoroughly wasted if used in one random direct combat encounter only to die early.

If players cross the Lunar Empire these are the guys who will be sent deep into Balazar after them. They will usually do so with extra mercenaries as backup.

If encountered more randomly they could be;

  • Causing minor trouble around any of the citadels.
  • Found bullying Small Balazarings groups out in the wilds usually after their women.
  • Escorting someone back to Elkoi for a ‘discussion’ with Halcyon von Enkorth
  • Tracking and hunting for anyone Haylcon Von Enkorth decides is a threat to the empire
  • Engage in long range scouting for the Empire

If the players are Lunar these guys make good rivals as they would not be adverse to some foul play to ensure they continue to get the good jobs. Weaker parties could suffer this gang as very poor employers.

Later in the campaign they will turn on Halcyon because he is not able to pay them for work done, and they will be outlawed from Elkoi also and have to flee deeper into Balazar.

Baron Tyler

Initiate of Seven Mothers
Runes: Moon, Death, Movement
Threat Level ****
Traits : Aggressive, Patient, Calm, Leader, Cunning, Violent, Greedy

The leader of the group, he is a man in his Early 40’s,  greying long hair with shaved sides and long beard but Lithe and light of frame with active and alert eyes.

His title is a work of fiction, he is a Former Street urchin from Mrins cross in Holay who Spent 21 years with the silver shields, ended as sergeant. Has spent 6 years with his own band since, he functions as the leader of the group.

He is a skilled warrior with Scimitar and Javelin and wields and iron scimitar. He has the cunning of an old warrior and if ever possible will make sure the odds are stacked in his favour before fighting. He is loyal to no one and if he feels his life is one the line he will leave his mission or any of the his compatriots without a second thought.

He has a deep love of gold and wears a few interesting pieces of gold jewellery. He has an light infantryman’s dislike of horsemen and cavalry, and will prefer to walk in most instances.

Trishana Salma

Initiate of Seven Mothers
Runes: Moon, Death, Mastery
Threat Level: ****
Traits: Extrovert, Calm, Brave, Humorous

Trishana  was born a Petty Noble from the Filichet area. In his Late 20’s, with a shaved head, strong duelling scar across left cheek

Being an excellent swordsman’s, he was a former duellist, and unfortunately killed a local magistrate’s younger cousin in a duel. Since that point he has been lying low with Baron Tyler for 4 years.

Highly Skilled with Scimitar, rapier and round shield he is very confident in his abilities and likes to challenge a single opponent to a duel.

He is a likeable and charismatic character and will usually be the one to hire and command mercenaries’ for the group. He is the closest thing has to Tylers second in command.

Trishana is most educated of the group likes to read and has a fondness for Carmarthen poetry.

Big Howarth

Initiate of Seven Mothers
Runes: Moon, Disorder, Stasis
Threat level: ***
Thraits: Impulsive, Greedy, Lazy, Brave

Early 20’s, very fat as well as being very large being over 6’ 7” in height and 350lbs in weight. He is incredibly strong but slow of speed and wit.

He grew up as a son of herder from near Eneal and quickly learned to use his size to exhort a living. Having never being a trained warrior he was recruited due to his size and strength, receiving a level of training from the Baron, he isn’t a skilled warrior but is deadly due to his strength. He been with the gang for 2 years

He uses a uses a Pole Axe in battle and is used particularly to attack larger foes, and is often protected by a Tolar

He loves food and continues to be a glutton

Tolar Blackheart

Apostate of Yelmalio
Runes: Sky, Stasis, Death
Threat level: ****
Traits: Dour, Dishonest, Lethargic, Slightly bitter but loyal Individual

A burly, bearded, deep voiced individual in his lates 20’s, who is a solid warrior in Templar mode.

However he was broken out as a Sun Dome Templar, when he ran from a troll in battle. He has been with the gang for 4 years.

He is slow to change has not found a new path he wishes to embrace yet, he is considering the Lunar way but has not yet decided to commit to it.

He is a keen proponent of the game shield push and is trying to teach the lunar garrison at Elkoi the game. He will also bet on any game of shield push he encounters.

He usually fights with hoplite shield and long spear but when fighting larger foes acts as shield man for Howarth . He has taken to drinking, but is a functioning alcoholic who has a deep rooted hatred of trolls, and wants the chance to prove himself against his butter foe.

Telina

Tracker – Initiate of  Foundchild
Threat Level: **
Runes: Earth, Death, Harmony
Traits: Impulsive. Optimistic, Ambitious, Emotional

In her Early 20’s,an Elkoi Balazaring Hunter from the Great Bear Clan who wants to be a rich famous and great warrior, now in her 2nd season with the gang.She is a competent tracker and useful with a bow, and probably the best woodsmen in the group.

Currently she is the partner of Baron Tyler, but the relationship is borne of convenience and there is a lack of depth and commitment from both sides. She much more idealistic and less world-weary than the rest of the gang so she does wonder who and what she has got herself involved with. She wants to travel widely and may ditch the group for a better offer.

She travels with two hunter dogs called tesh and tash who she is more than fond of.  She maintains close contact with a number of childhood friends from her old clan, but ensures they do not get involved with the blackshields.

Kalis

Shaman from Imther – Jakaleel Tradition
Runes:  Dying Moon, Spirit, Life
Threat Level: ***
Traits: Cautious, Patient, Greedy,  Clever

A shaman in his Mid 30’s, from one of the hill tribes of Imther who was exiled out of his clan for stealing. It is his third year with the gang and he is trusted by Tyler.  Responsible for magic and healing in the group, and is also the magical law master of the group.

A slight man of medium height, he is bald and has tattooes down the right side of his face and body

Kalis has deep interest in legends and myth and how they relate to the spirit plane.  He has a broad range of knowledge of Imther, balazaring and lunar spirit traditions.

However his exile happened before he had completed his training, so he is not as knowledgeable as Tyler believes him to be, but Marusa is developing his training and has brought him into the lunar traditions.