Mistipedia - User contributions [en]

Invidia

2025-03-07T17:47:20Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}
{{dombox
|picture=Jester-Invidia.png
|culture_lvl=Chivalric<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
|ecology=Full<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
|terrain=Temperate forests, hills<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
|year_formed=[[603 BC]]<ref name="RLCS p.17">[[Ravenloft Third Edition]] p.17</ref><ref name="RLPHB p.19">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p.19</ref>
|population=6,900<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
|races=Humans 99%, other 1%<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
|languages=[[Balok]]*, [[Luktar]], [[Mordentish]], [[Falkovnian]], [[Vaasi]]
|religions=[[Church of Ezra]], [[Hala]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
|government=Formerly independent settlements transitioning towards [[despotism]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
|ruler=[[Malocchio Aderre]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref> ; Previously: [[Gabrielle Aderre]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 47">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 47</ref> and, before her, [[Bakholis]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 44-46">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 45-46</ref>
|darklord=[[Gabrielle Aderre]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref> ; Previously: [[Bakholis]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 45-46">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 45-46</ref>
|analog=
|nationality=[[Invidian]]
}}

A land of passion torn by civil war and awash with the blood of ethnic strife, [[Invidia]] hangs on by a tenuous thread above the jaws of all-out chaos.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 47-49">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 47-49</ref> The [[fiend]]ish [[tyrant]] [[Malocchio Aderre]] deposed the lackadaisical rule of his mother [[Gabrielle Aderre]]<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 47">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 47</ref> and has begun to unite formerly independent settlements of Invidia into a single nation, though one that is firmly beneath his heel. Yet, as the much-feared [[Dukkar]], he mainly seeks power to eradicate the [[Vistani]] and torment those around him.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 54">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 54</ref>

Malocchio is opposed by an alliance of strange bedfellows thanks to the charm and wiles of Gabrielle Aderre. Through her proxies [[Matton Blanchard]] and [[Ardonk Szerieza (NPC)|Ardonk Szerieza]], she has drawn on [[Kartakan]] [[wolfwere]]s and oppressed [[Gundarakite]] [[:category:resister|resisters]]. However, her manipulations threaten to tear her fragile alliance apart.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 47-48,145">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 47-48,145</ref>

For his part, Malocchio may be little better off in his predicament than his mother. He leads a powerful army of [[mercenary|mercenaries]] bolstered by [[ogre]]s, [[giant]]s, and other [[monster]]s not often found elsewhere, let alone in the employ of a military.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 55-56">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 55-56</ref> However, the incursion of his Vistani-hunting mercenaries into other domains has earned the enmity of other neighboring powers and their lords, most notably [[Ivan Dilisnya]] and [[Count Strahd von Zarovich]]. Furthermore, Malocchio's army was greatly weakened by the mass slaughter in [[the Hour of Screaming Shadows]].<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 49,57">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 49,57</ref>

[[Category:The Core]]
===Mountains===
*[[Bleak Sisters]]
*[[Prestige Mountains]]

==Chronology==
*[[457 BC]] [[Duke Treholan|Treholan]] wipes out his rivals nobles and their families. He builds [[Castle Loupet]].<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 43">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.43</ref>
*[[603 BC]] [[Bakholis]], descendant of Duke Treholan, attains power. After a stint of rule through [[cruelty]] and horror<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 44">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.44</ref>, Bakkholis becomes infatuated with [[Marta]]. Marta is in love with [[Karlus]]. For their resistance of Bahkolis' wishes, he has Karlus [[maimed]] and [[eaten]] in front of Marta's eyes as several of his [[soldier]]s have their way with her. Before he kills her, she [[curse]]s him. His curse causes him to become a werewolf, and Invdia is drawn into [[the Mists]].<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 45">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.45</ref>
*603 BC The next full moon after Invidia enters Ravenloft, Bakholis transforms and goes on a rampage around the castle. His family are among the casualties. Initially shocked and horrified, Bakholis reacts by making his rule even more [[cruel]].<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 45">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.45</ref>
*[[613 BC]] [[Kartakass]] is revealed.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 93">[[Gazetteer I]] p.93</ref><ref name="DoD p.16">[[Domains of Dread]] p.16</ref>
*613 BC [[False History]]: The [[Invidian Occupation]] of [[Kartakass]] ends with the fall of [[Dargacht Keep]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 93">[[Gazetteer I]] p.93</ref>
* {{netbook-small}}[[711 BC]] Agents serving [[Duke Gundar]] abduct [[Orinda Nahle]] and [[Perryn Nahle]] from [[Invidia]] and drag them across the border to [[Castle Hunadora]].<ref>[[Lights in the Fog]], [[Book of Secrets]] p.124-125</ref>
* {{netbook-small}}[[724 BC]] The Mists draw an [[outlander]] [[priest]] named [[Keith de Lalune (NPC)|Keith de Lalune]], into the [[forest]]s of [[Invidia]]. He prays to his [[deity]], but it seems his god has left him. Keith loses his way in the forest for a time, before arriving in [[Karina]]. There [[Father Daltrey]], the local high priest of [[Ezra]], saves him from an angry mob and takes him to the nearby church, [[L'Eglise de Notre Peindre Dame]]. Keith receives shelter and healing there, and he soon converts to Ezra.<ref name="Undead Sea Scrolls 2002 p. 117-118">[[Undead Sea Scrolls 2002]] p.117-118</ref>
*[[729 BC]] After [[Gabrielle Aderre]] leaves her mother, [[Isabella Aderre]], to die at the hands of a [[werewolf]], the Mists take Gabrielle to Invidia, where she faces and kills Bakholis, becoming Invidia's new darklord and ruler.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 145">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.145</ref>
*[[729 BC]] The [[Invidian]] [[peasant]]ry revolt against Bakholis' decaying regime and burn part of [[the Citadel]].<ref name="The Evil Eye p. 29">[[The Evil Eye]] p. 29</ref>
*[[729 BC]] The overthrow of Bakholis is celebrated in [[Kartakass]]. [[Kartakan]] [[merchant]]s forge trade alliances with [[Invidian]] settlements.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 105">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 105</ref>
*[[740 BC]] [[The Grand Conjunction]] causes the land that was formerly in [[Gundarak]] to be split down the middle between [[Barovia]] and [[Invidia]].<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 39">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 39</ref>
*[[746 BC]] [[The Gentleman Caller]] beguiles [[Gabrielle Aderre]] and sires [[Malocchio Aderre]] with her.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 145">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.145</ref>
*[[747 BC]] [[Malocchio]] is recognized as the new [[dukkar]].<ref>[[The Evil Eye]]</ref><ref name="DoD p.17">[[Domains of Dread]] p.17</ref><ref name="RLCS p.18">[[Ravenloft Third Edition]] p.18</ref><ref name="RLPHB p.20">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p.20</ref> He usurps political rulership over the domain from his mother [[Gabrielle Aderre]].<ref name="RLCS p.18">[[Ravenloft Third Edition]] p.18</ref><ref name="RLPHB p.20">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p.20</ref> Relations with [[Kartakass]] become strained as a result.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 105">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 105</ref>
*[[747 BC]] '''Winter''' Malocchio has brought Gabrielle to the brink of [[madness]], but [[Matton Blanchard]] frees her and nurses her back to health.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 145">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.145</ref>
*[[748 BC]] [[Ardonk Szerieza]] begins fanning the flames of the Gundarakite separatist movement.<ref>[[Gaz 1]], p 19.</ref> He comes to lead the [[Barovian]] Gundarakite rebels.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 48">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.48</ref> Gabrielle Aderre beguiles him. They begin an illicit affair, and Aderre gains another tool to manipulate the Gundarakites with.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 49">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.49</ref>
*[[750 BC]] [[Carnival (Society)|Carnival]] saves the [[Skurra]] known as [[Scream (Vistani)|Scream]] from the [[Dukkar]]'s [[mercenaries]], and she, [[Leer]], and [[Pry]] form [[the Fates Three]].<ref name="Carnival p. 39">[[Carnival]] p.39</ref>
*750 BC '''Midyear''' Gabrielle Aderre and the [[Gundarakite]] [[rebel]]s capture [[Castle Hunadora]]. Her hold on the Gundarakite rebels is strong, and they rebuke Malocchio's retaliation.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 47">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 47</ref>
*750 BC Under Malocchio Aderre, Invidia negotiates a military alliance with Falkovnia. Aderre employs Falkovnian [[soldier]]s to boost his [[mercenary]] forces and help exterminate the [[Vistani]].<ref name="Gaz IV p.47-48">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.47-48</ref>
*[[752 BC]] After conspiring with [[Azrael Dak]], Malocchio sends in troops ot capture [[Nedragaard Keep]], but [[Vlad Drakov]] holds back all [[Falkovnian]] [[soldier]]s from the endeavors. The [[Night of Screaming Shadows]] commences, and Malocchio's invasion force is slain down to the last man.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 49">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.49</ref>
* {{netbook-small}}[752 BC [[Keith de Lalune]] calls for an [[orphanage]] to be constructed on [[Tower Street]] in [[Karina]].<ref name="Undead Sea Scrolls 2002 p. 122">[[Undead Sea Scrolls 2002]] p.122</ref>
*[[753 BC]] '''Late Year'''; Gabrielle is pregnant with [[Lucita Aderre]], though she does not know whether Matton Blanchard or Ardonk Szeriezia is the father.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 145">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.145</ref>
*[[757 BC]] The incursion of Malocchio's mercenaries into Borca drives [[Ivan Dilisnya]] up the wall. By this year, he has commissioned his own killers for hire to terminate any Invidians that come over the border looking for Vistani.<ref name="Gazetteer IV p. 32">[[Gazetteer IV]] p.32</ref>

{{ref}}

[[Category:Canon Domain]]
[[Category:domain]]
[[Category:The Core]]
[[Category:Annexer]]
[[Category:Occupier]]
[[Category:Conqueror]]
[[Category:Invader]]
[[category:Former Locations in the Prime Material Plane]]

==Data from the Ravenloft Catalogue==



{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:rldb_domain.jpg]]
|[[Image:rldb_primary.gif]]
|
''[[Ravenloft Third Edition]]'' 
''[[Domains of Dread]]'' 
''[[The Evil Eye]]''
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_desc.gif]]
|
''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' - pp7,28-30 
''[[Ravenloft Third Edition]]'' - pp14,15,17,20,123-124 
''[[Domains of Dread]]'' - p52 
''[[Ravenloft Campaign Setting:Domains and Denizens]]'' - pp17-18 
''[[The Evil Eye]]'' - pp56-59 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' - p73
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_map.gif]]
|
''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' - pp8-9 
''[[Ravenloft Third Edition]]'' - inside cover 
''[[Domains of Dread]]'' - p42 
''[[Ravenloft Campaign Setting]]'' - poster map 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' - poster map 
''[[The Evil Eye]]'' - poster map
|-valign="top"
|}





[[category:CL 8 Domain]]
[[category:Aristocracy]]
[[category:Temperate Climate]]

The Black Spire

2025-03-03T16:00:07Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

'''The Black Spire''' is a large, natural seemingly [[spire]] of glassy, purplish-black [[stone]] standing in [[Hazlan]] between the the [[Black Iron Shield]] and the [[Misty Border]]. It is said to a memento from before the [[Great Upheaval]] when the blasted wastes and nightmarish mountains of [[Bluetspur]] lay beyond the [[Hazlani]] frontier. When struck by [[lightning]], the spire resonates, putting to sleep and depositing in Bluetspur those unfortunate enough to be in its immediate vicinity. The Black Spire is the entrance to the [[Song of Obscene Hunger|Song of Obscene Hunger]] [[mistway]]. It is a one-way, excellently reliable [[mistway]] leading from [[Hazlan]] to [[Bluetspur]]. Within Hazlan, there are at least two [[rumor|rumors]] concerning the [[Black Spire]]. One maintains that its lightning induced, otherworldly ringing drives men mad. The other maintains that those hearing that ringing are instead delivered to Bluetspur and its [[Illithid|abominations]].<ref name="Gazetteer 1 p. 43">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 43</ref>

==Lore==
{{Homebrew}}
Characters with ranks in [[Knowledge (local)]], [[Knowledge (dungeoneering)]], [[Knowledge (psionics)]] or [[Knowledge (Ravenloft)]] can learn more about the Black Spire and the Song of Obscene Hunger. When a character makes a successful skill check, the following lore is revealed, including the information from lower DCs.

DC Result

[[Knowledge (dungeoneering)]]

DC 25 The [[Black Spire]] stands at the the [[Misty Border]] in Hazlan. When struck by lightning, it rings with an otherworldly note. Those unfortunate enough to hear the ringing of the Black Spire are delivered to the lost realm of [[Bluetspur]].

DC 35 Anyone in [[Bluetspur]] stands an excellent chance of being assailed by the [[illithids]] for it is their home.

[[Knowledge (local)]]

DC 15 The [[Black Spire]] is a large, natural seemingly [[spire]] of glassy, purplish-black [[stone]] standing between the [[Black Iron Shield]] and the [[Misty Border]]. When struck by lightning, it rings with a tone that drives all who hear it mad.

DC 20 The Black Spire is a memento from before the [[Great Upheaval]] when the blasted wastes and nightmarish mountains of [[Bluetspur]] lay beyond the [[Hazlani]] frontier.

DC 35 Anyone who entered [[Bluetspur]] was assailed by the [[illithids]] who inhabited the wracked place.

[[Knowledge (psionics)]]

DC 15 The [[Black Spire]] stands at the the [[Misty Border]] in Hazlan. When struck by lightning, it rings with an otherworldly note that drives all who hear it mad.

DC 20 The Black Spire is a memento from before the [[Great Upheaval]] when the blasted wastes and nightmarish mountains of [[Bluetspur]] lay beyond the [[Hazlani]] frontier.

DC 25 Those unfortunate enough to hear the ringing of the Black Spire are not driven mad but are in fact delivered to the lost realm of [[Bluetspur]].

DC 35 Anyone in [[Bluetspur]] stands an excellent chance of being assailed by the [[illithids]] for it is their home. Anyone in [[Bluetspur]] also coming to the attention of the [[God-Brain]], which rules the [[illithid]] and represents the ultimate stage in the [[illithid]] life cycle.

[[Knowledge (Ravenloft)]]

DC 15 The [[Black Spire]] stands at the the [[Misty Border]] in Hazlan. When struck by lightning, it rings with an otherworldly note that drives all who hear it mad.

DC 20 The Black Spire is a memento from before the [[Great Upheaval]] when the blasted wastes and nightmarish mountains of [[Bluetspur]] lay beyond the [[Hazlani]] frontier.

DC 25 Those unfortunate enough to hear the ringing of the Black Spire are not driven mad but are in fact delivered to the lost realm of [[Bluetspur]].

DC 30 The [[Black Spire]] is part of a one-way [[mistway]] known as the ''Song of Obscene Hunger''. The mistway is of no help to those seeking to escape from Bluetspur.

DC 35 Anyone in [[Bluetspur]] stands an excellent chance of being assailed by the [[illithids]] for it is their home. Anyone in [[Bluetspur]] making use of magic or psionics also risks inviting the fell attention of the [[God-Brain]], which rules the [[illithid]].

[[Category:Canon]]
[[Category:Spire]]
[[Category:Landmark in Hazlan]]
[[Category:Locations in Hazlan]]
[[category:Dread Possibility]]
[[category:Dread Possibility of Hazlan]]
[[category:Dread Possibility of Bluetspur]]
[[category:Transportation in Hazlan]]
[[category:Transportation in Bluetspur]]
[[category:Mistway in Hazlan]]
[[category:Mistway in Bluetspur]]

==Data from the Ravenloft Catalogue==



{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:rldb_location.jpg]]
|[[Image:rldb_primary.gif]]
|
''[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume I]]''
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_stats.gif]]
|
''[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume I]]'' - p43
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_desc.gif]]
|
''[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume I]]'' - p43
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_alias.gif]]
|

Black Spire, The
Black Spire
|-valign="top"
|}

Category:Baromanoff Coven

2025-02-01T07:09:52Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

A once-powerful [[coven]] of [[Vistani]] [[witch]]es and [[warlock]]s, they displeased [[Strahd]] and he massacred all of them except for a single man and woman, whom he let live to tell the story of those [[Vistani]] that dare to find themselves on Strahd's bad side.<ref>[[Van Richten's Monster Hunter's Compendium III]] p.252</ref>

{{ref}}

[[category:Coven]]
[[category:Witch]]
[[category:Warlock]]
[[category:Family]]
[[category:Vistani]]
[[category:Vistani Tribe]]

Emil Acsady

2024-10-23T09:48:18Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

Emil Acsady is the brother of [[Lazlo Acsady]] and [[Katarina Acsady]]. Emile works as an [[assistant]] [[apothecary]] to his father [[Jozsef Acsady]].<ref>[[Guide to Transylvania]] p. 70-71</ref>

{{ref}}

[[Category:Acsady Family]]
[[category:assistant]]
[[category:apothecary]]
[[category:character]]
[[category:European]]
[[category:human]]
[[category:Inhabitants of Cluj]]
[[category:Inhabitants of Transylvania]][[category:Inhabitants of Europe]][[category:Inhabitants of Gothic Earth]]
[[category:male]]
[[category:Masque of the Red Death]]
[[category:NPC]]
[[category:Tradesman]]
[[category:Romanian]]
[[category:Transylvanian]]
[

Sun of Anvolee

2024-10-23T09:36:32Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

The [[sun]] of Anvolee is an artificial [[light]] source created by [[Arlien]], [[She Who Maintains the Sun]], created to imitate normal celestial bodies. Of course, it does not give off actual sunlight, instead emitting a constant green light that makes [[Anvolee]] a bit brighter than the rest of [[the Shadow Rift]]. Arlien lives in a [[Arlien's Stalactite|a stalactite]] positioned directly behind the sun.<ref>[[Gazetteer V]] p. 116</ref>

{{ref}}

[[category:Light Source]]
[[category:Artificial]]
[[category:Artificially Created]]
[[category:Sun]]
[[category:Locations in Anvolee]]
[[category:Locations in the Shadow Rift]]

Category:Shards of Light

2024-10-23T09:33:55Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

The Shards of Light were a trio of dread [[artifact]]s powered by the [[soul]]s of three vile [[baron]]s contained within. These barons had waged savage battles for the [[city]] of [[Thorn Hollow]]. In response to the strife, a powerful [[witch]] levied a mighty [[curse]] upon them and stored their souls in the Shards of Light. Millennia passed before the Shards were located and brought together by a [[necromancer]] and [[immortality]] [[researcher]] [[Malachi Nately]]. Nately hoped to use the collected power of the Shards to open a magical [[portal]] to [[Hell]] and force a [[fiend]] to give him the [[secret]]s to achieve immortality. Despite Malachi's wishes, the Shards resisted cooperating with each other, and control over them took a significant toll on Malachi<ref name="Door dark">[[The Doorway to Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/rpgitem/236685/doorway-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek (both the product description and in the images section)</ref>.

Such was the toll that he could not simultaneously control the shards and the [[gelugon]] he conjured. The gelugon broke free and went on a rampage. Although Malachi bound the gelugon to his underground [[laboratory]], the gelugon ultimately slew him. The destruction wrought in their conflict drew the attention of the [[Dark Powers]], and they drew the laboratory and surrounding environs into the [[Land of Mists]]. The three Shards were rendered [[co-darklord]]s of the realm and teleported to different areas within it<ref name="Door dark">[[The Doorway to Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/rpgitem/236685/doorway-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek (both the product description and in the images section)</ref>. [[Ivan Davian]], another man with an immortality [[obsession]], found the [[Azure Shard]] in the [[Nately Family Tomb]]<ref name="Door dark">[[The Doorway to Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/rpgitem/236685/doorway-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek (both the product description and in the images section)</ref>. This Azure Shard later [[manipulated]] [[adventurer]]s into destroying the other two shards, [[the Crimson Shard]] and [[the Emerald Shard]]. The Azure Shard seized its rivals' former power and used it to break free of the Dark Powers hold, though not for long<ref name="Out from Darkness">[[Out from Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/image/3773179/out-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek</ref>.

It landed in a realm that was soon to become a domain itself. The Azure Shard, now known as the [[Shard of Darkness]] for its dark black color, was eventually found by the [[greedy]] [[King Gregor Ravinia]], whom at first resisted its domination. However, he eventually succumbed to its influence and became [[obsessed]] with it, neglecting his family and other duties. King Gregor took to making [[blood]] [[sacrifice]]s in return for making the [[crop]]s grow well. The role of blessing the crops was previously held by [[Havernus, Lord of the Harvest]], whom King Gregor rejected due to the financial costs of the required almsgiving to Harvernus during his festivals<ref name="Out from Darkness">[[Out from Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/image/3773179/out-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek</ref>.

{{ref}}

[[category:Artifact]]
[[category:Co-darklord]]
[[category:Crystal]]
[[category:Darklord]]
[[category:Evil]]
[[category:Evil Magic Item]]
[[category:Former Darklord]]
[[category:Gemstone]]
[[category:Magic Item]]

Category:Shards of Light

2024-10-23T09:31:20Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

The Shards of Light were a trio of dread [[artifact]]s powered by the [[soul]]s of three vile [[baron]]s contained within. These barons had waged savage battles for the [[city]] of [[Thorn Hollow]]. In response to the strife, a powerful [[witch]] levied a mighty [[curse]] upon them and stored their souls in the Shards of Light. Millennia passed before the Shards were located and brought together by a [[necromancer]] and [[immortality]] [[researcher]] [[Malachi Nately]]. Nately hoped to use the collected power of the Shards to open a magical [[portal]] to [[Hell]] and force a [[fiend]] to give him the [[secret]]s to achieve immortality. Despite Malachi's wishes, the Shards resisted cooperating with each other, and control over them took a significant toll on Malachi<ref name="Door dark">[[The Doorway to Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/rpgitem/236685/doorway-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek (both the product description and in the images section)</ref>.

Such was the toll that he could not simultaneously control the shards and the [[gelugon]] he conjured. The gelugon broke free and went on a rampage. Although Malachi bound the gelugon to his underground [[laboratory]], the gelugon ultimately slew him. The destruction wrought in their conflict drew the attention of the [[Dark Powers]], and they drew the laboratory and surrounding environs into the [[Land of Mists]]. The three Shards were rendered [[co-darklord]]s of the realm and teleported to different areas within it<ref name="Door dark">[[The Doorway to Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/rpgitem/236685/doorway-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek (both the product description and in the images section)</ref>. [[Ivan Davian]], another man with an immortality [[obsession]], found the [[Azure Shard]] in the [[Nately Family Tomb]]<ref name="Door dark">[[The Doorway to Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/rpgitem/236685/doorway-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek (both the product description and in the images section)</ref>. This Azure Shard later [[manipulated]] [[adventurer]]s into destroying the other two shards, [[the Crimson Shard]] and [[the Emerald Shard]]. The Azure Shard seized its rivals' former power and used it to break free of the Dark Powers hold, though not for long<ref name="Out from Darkness">[[Out from Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/image/3773179/out-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek</ref>.

It landed in a realm that was soon to become a domain itself. The Azure Shard, now known as the [[Shard of Darkness]] for its dark black color, was eventually found by the [[greedy]] [[King Gregor Ravinia]], whom at first resisted its domination. However, he eventually succumbed to its influence and became [[obsessed]] with it, neglecting his family and other duties. King Gregor took to making [[blood]] [[sacrifice]]s in return for making the [[crop]]s grow well. The role of blessing the crops was previously held by [[Havernus, Lord of the Harvest]], which King Gregor rejected due to the financial costs of the required almsgiving that Harvernus required during his festivals<ref name="Out from Darkness">[[Out from Darkness]] [https://boardgamegeek.com/image/3773179/out-darkness excerpted] on Board Game Geek</ref>.

{{ref}}

[[category:Artifact]]
[[category:Co-darklord]]
[[category:Crystal]]
[[category:Darklord]]
[[category:Evil]]
[[category:Evil Magic Item]]
[[category:Former Darklord]]
[[category:Gemstone]]
[[category:Magic Item]]

Camille's Teaspoon

2024-10-23T09:26:12Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}
Oldest known version of the [[spoon of poison detection]], formerly owned by [[Camille Dilisnya]], now owned by her daughter [[Ivana Boritsi]]. When stirred by one of the [[Dilisnya Family]], (including those who have Dilisnya blood but belong to other families, like Ivana) the teaspoon can be can [[poison]] food or drink. The item is intelligent, [[evil]] and protective of the [[Dilisnya Family]] and, perhaps more importantly, its wealth.<ref name=LotBp.18>[[Legacy of the Blood]] p.18</ref>
{{ref}}

{{ref}}

[[Category:Dilisnya Family]][[Category:Artifact]]
[[category:Evil Magic Item]]
[[category:Guardian]]
[[category:Intelligent Magic Item]]
[[category:Magic Item]]
[[category:Neutral Evil]]
[[category:Poisonous]]
[[category:Metal]]
[[category:Silver]]
[[category:Spoon]]
[[category:Eating Utensil]]

Verbrek

2024-10-23T09:05:31Z

Trevylan: Fixed incorrect info. Nathan is Alfred’s father.

{{canon}}
{{dombox
|picture=Jester-Verbrek.png
|culture_lvl=[[CL 7|Medieval (7)]]<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>; [[CL4]]
|ecology=Full<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|terrain=Temperate [[Forest]], [[Hills]], and [[Swamp]]<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|year_formed=[[730 BC]]<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|population=830; Doesn't include population of 1140 [[Natural Werewolf|Natural Werewolves]]<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|races= Humans 97%, half-elves 1%, half-Vistani 1%, other 1%<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|languages=[[Mordentish]]]*, [[Balok]], [[Vaasi]]. [[Sithican]]<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|religions=[[The Wolf God]], [[Church of Ezra]], [[Church of Hala]]<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|government=Independent gerontocratic settlements and farms<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|ruler=None<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
|darklord=[[Alfred Timothy]]
|analog=[[Werewolf]] country
|nationality=[[Verbreker]]<ref name="Gaz IV p. 63">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 63</ref>
}}[[Verbrek]] is a land of rugged forests and scattered settlements. In this wild and woolly domain, it is not the [[human]] that dominates but rather the [[wolf]]. More specifically, the [[werewolf]], as werewolves both outnumber and out-power the humans of Verbrek.<ref name="RLPHB p. 184">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p. 184</ref> The [[Verbreker]]s can't even completely trust their own, as the [[sheepskinner]] werewolves dons the guise of humanity and live in seemingly normal communities.<ref name="Gaz IV p. 77">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 77</ref>

Verbrek is dominated by [[Alfred Timothy]] in both temporal and spiritual power. He embraces the beast inside through his development of [[the Wolf God]]. Yet despite all his ambitions, he cannot fully forget the fact that he is human as well as wolf. Nonetheless, his [[evil]] and cruelty is not stymied, as evidenced by [[the Grand Conjunction. During that cataclysm, [[Verbrek]] absorbed neighboring [[Arkandale]] during [[the Grand Conjunction]]. Whether by his own power or "favor" of [[the Dark Powers]], Alfred claimed the lands formerly controlled by his father, [[Captain Nathan Timothy]].<ref name="Gaz IV p. 160-161">[[Gazetteer IV]] p. 160-161</ref>

[[Category:The Core]][[Category:domain]][[Category:CL 4]]

==Biology==

===Flora===
===[[Tree]]s (mostly deciduous)<ref name="RoT p. 81">[[Ravenloft: Realm of Terror]], p. 81</ref><ref name="Domains and Denizens p. 32">[[Ravenloft Campaign Setting: Domains and Denizens]], p. 32</ref>===
**[[Flowering Dogwood]]
**[[Oak]]
**[[Quaking Aspen]]

===Mountains===
[[Bleak Sisters]]

==Chronology==
*[[Mythic History]] [[The Birth of the Wolf God]]<ref name=GazIVp.67>[[Gazetteer IV]] p.67</ref>
*[[684 BC]] [[Nathan Timothy]], future [[darklord]] of [[Arkandale]] and father of [[Alfred Timothy]], is born in [[Mordent]].<ref name=RoTp.126>[[Realm of Terror]] p.126</ref>
*[[708 BC]] [[Arkandale]] is formed.<ref name="DoD p.17">[[Domains of Dread]] p.17</ref><ref name="RLCS p.17">[[Ravenloft Third Edition]] p.17</ref><ref name="RLPHB p.19">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p.19</ref>
*[[709 BC]] [[Alfred Timothy]], son of [[Nathan Timothy]] is born in [[Arkandale]].<ref name=RoTp.126>[[Realm of Terror]] p.126</ref>
*[[730 BC]] [[Verbrek]] forms<ref name="DoD p.17">[[Domains of Dread]] p.17</ref><ref name="RLCS p.17">[[Ravenloft Third Edition]] p.17</ref><ref name="RLPHB p.19">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p.19</ref> after [[Alfred Timothy]] murders the [[Vistani]] whom had saved him from being [[burnt at the stake]].<ref name=GazIVp.160>[[Gazetteer IV]] p.160</ref>
* {{netbook-small}}[[737 BC]] After [[Carnagan Wolfe]] discovers the dead body of a friend and encounters the [[vampire]] who [[murdered]] him, Wolfe transforms into a [[mountain loup-garou]] for the first time. He has no memory of it, so he is Horrified to find the vampire torn to pieces when he regains his wits. Carnagan rushes to Lian for a cure. Lian discerns that Carnagan is a [[natural lycanthrope]], preventing any kind of cure. Wolfe flees [[Dementlieu]] forever, eventually drifting to [[Verbrek]].<ref>[[Book of Secrets]] p.86-87, derived from age 14 at this time vs. age 30 at [[753 BC]]</ref>
*[[740 BC]] [[The Grand Conjunction]] occurs. [[Arkandale]] dissolves, and its former lands are absorbed into [[Verbrek]]. Nathan Timothy is no longer a [[darklord]] and may sail all the [[river]]s of [[the Core]].<ref name=GazIVp.70>[[Gazetteer IV]] p.70</ref>
*[[741 BC]] [[George Weathermay]] is [[seduced]] by the [[werewolf]] [[Natalia Vhorishkova]] in order to get at [[Dr. van Richten]]. In the chaos of battle, [[Gennifer Weathermay-Foxgrove]], a mere bystander, is wounded and afflicted with [[lycanthropy]]. George Weathermay gives chase to Natalia out of [[Mordent]]. In [[Verbrek]], he confronts the Vhorishkova family and, upon finding they are [[werewolves]], [[murder]]s them all to the last noncombatant, yet he fails to catch Natalia. Out of this [[mass murder]] emerges a changed, more [[bitter]] and driven George Weathermay. Out of shame and guilt over what happened to Gennifer, George Weathermay does not return to [[Mordent]].<ref>[[Champions of the Mists]] p.63</ref>
* {{netbook-small}}[[746 BC]] Alfred Timothy [[exile]]s and [[curse]]s Carnagan Wolfe after he assists prey in escaping the hunt.<ref>[[Book of Secrets]] p.87; see previous age reference</ref>
*[[757 BC]] By this year at the latest, [[Celia Whitmoor]] and [[Argent]] have settled down and established the [[Duskpeace Lodge]], home to [[the Duskpeace Outcasts]].<ref name=GazIVp.82>[[Gazetteer IV]] p.82</ref>
*[[757 BC]] [["S"]] explores [[Verbrek]. However, she is [[betrayed]] by [[Gwalon]], and a large pack of [[werewolves]] fall upon her.<ref name=GazIVp.83-84>[[Gazetteer IV]] p.83-84</ref>

{{ref}}

[[Category:Canon Domain]]

==Data from the Ravenloft Catalogue==



{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:rldb_domain.jpg]]
|[[Image:rldb_primary.gif]]
|
''[[Ravenloft Third Edition]]'' 
''[[Domains of Dread]]''
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_desc.gif]]
|
''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' - pp7,60-62 
''[[Ravenloft Third Edition]]'' - pp15,17,20,145-146 
''[[Domains of Dread]]'' - p48 
''[[Ravenloft Campaign Setting:Domains and Denizens]]'' - pp31-32 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' - p81 
''[[The Evil Eye]]'' - p58
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_map.gif]]
|
''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' - pp8-9 
''[[Ravenloft Third Edition]]'' - inside cover 
''[[Domains of Dread]]'' - p42 
''[[Ravenloft Campaign Setting]]'' - poster map 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' - poster map
|-valign="top"
|}




[[category:CL 7 Domain]]
[[category:gerontocracy]]

Zosia

2023-12-03T12:57:01Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

Zosia is a supporting character in [[To Sleep With Evil]]. Formerly the [[midwife]] and [[nurse]] of [[Valeska Donskoy|Valeska]] and the current [[cook]] and [[servant]] of [[Lord Milos Donskoy]], Zosia nonetheless has an enigmatic agenda of her own.

==Biography==
Zosia is a [[Vistani]] [[witch]], though her mystical talents as a Vistani have dwindled with her time sedentary at [[Donskoy's keep]]. (Lord Donskoy refers to her as "tamed", reflecting this awareness.) Although never explicitly referred to as such, the dwindling of her power is [[static burn]], the torturous process of a Vistani becoming a [[mortu]], one somewhat cutoff from their Vistani nature.) Nonetheless, Zosia retains some considerable mystical ability, including some prediction of the future and a seeming [[spy]] and [[familiar]] in [[Griezell]], her [[Griezellbub]] [[pet]]. She is also skilled in [[herbalism|using herbs]] and also regularly provides various recreational [[drug]]s to Donskoy. Some of these drugs cause Donskoy to slip into periods of [[madness|delirium]].

Zosia was once [[midwife]], [[nurse]], and [[servant]] to [[Valeska Donskoy|Valeska]], a Vistani woman Donskoy took to be his wife against the wishes of Valeska's tribe.<ref>Cardarelle, Andria. To Sleep With Evil (Ravenloft The Covenant Book 16) (Kindle Locations 2057-2059). Wizards of the Coast Publishing. Kindle Edition.</ref> In Valeska's pregnancy, he tore their child from her womb and [[killed]] it. She [[cursed]] him saying, "The seeds you have sown shall seal your damnation. The blood of your blood shall bring you to your knees."<ref>Cardarelle, Andria. To Sleep With Evil (Ravenloft The Covenant Book 16) (Kindle Locations 4174-4183). Wizards of the Coast Publishing. Kindle Edition.</ref> before, according to [[Djubo]], she jumped from a ledge to her death.<ref>Cardarelle, Andria. To Sleep With Evil (Ravenloft The Covenant Book 16) (Kindle Locations 2265-2269). Wizards of the Coast Publishing. Kindle Edition.</ref>

Following Valeska's death, Zosia stayed on as Donskoy's servant. Over the course of ''To Sleep With Evil'', she helps [[Marguerite de Boche]] in a number of ways, both formal (as Marguerite's [[midwife]] during her pregnancy) and informal (covering for Marguerite's absences and giving her information on Donskoy's past). An enigmatic player, Zosia is not always forthcoming with her assistance. Ultimately, Marguerite becomes a pawn in a scheme by [[Zosia]] and [[Ramus]] (a Vistani [[woodsman]] with which Zosia shares some sort of bond) to destroy Lord Donskoy. Obeying the advice of Zosia and getting help for Ramus, Margureite at last becomes pregnant (and thus avoids Donskoy's full wrath). However, when the baby arrives, it is not a human child but rather a [[snake]] of [[shadow]]. Zosia reveals she has enacted Veleska's [[curse]] (see above). The serpent and Donskoy do battle, and he throws it from the top of a [[tower]]. However, when it hits the ground, he falls into a heap, his body bent unnaturally. Zosia then exclaims, "“The old lord is dead... And the new lord has come.”<ref>Cardarelle, Andria. To Sleep With Evil (Ravenloft The Covenant Book 16) (Kindle Locations 4190-4191). Wizards of the Coast Publishing. Kindle Edition.</ref>

Following Donskoy's demise, Zosia hires [[Arturi (To Sleep With Evil)]] to return Marguerite back into Darkon, whereas Zosia herself seems to remain behind in [[Donskoy's land|Donskoy's former land]]. It is unknown if she or another entity replaced Donskoy as [[darklord]] of his former domain.

{{ref}}

[[category:character]][[category:NPC]]
[[category:Apothecary]]
[[category:Betrayer]]
[[category:Character Without Game Statistics]]
[[category:Conspirator]]
[[category:Cook]]
[[category:Deceiver]]
[[category:Exploiter]]
[[category:Fat]]
[[category:female]]
[[category:herbalist]]
[[category:Inhabitants of Donskoy's Land]]
[[category:Killer]]
[[category:Manipulator]]
[[category:Midwife]]
[[category:Mortu]]
[[category:Murderer-by-Proxy]]
[[category:Novel Character]]
[[category:Nurse]]
[[category:old]]
[[category:Punisher]]
[[category:Regicide]]
[[category:Servant]]
[[category:To Sleep With Evil Character]]
[[category:Vistani]]
[[category:Witch]]

Ramus

2023-12-03T12:51:31Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

Ramus is a minor character from the Ravenloft product line novel [[To Sleep With Evil]]. In universe, he is a [[mysterious]] [[Vistani]] [[woodsman]] who resides within the [[forest]]s of [[Donskoy's land]]. apparently unable to leave. He appears several times and makes sexual advances on and attempts to help [[Marguerite de Boche]], though she rejects both of them most of the time. She finally accepts his help when she seeks the web of the [[white spider]], a substance [[Zosia]] says she needs for a potion to make Marguerite [[pregnant]].

Marguerite ultimately comes to wish to be with Ramus, though he rejects her request. He claims not to be a creature of "[[flesh]] and [[blood]]" but "blood and [[mist]]". His chest bears the [[curse]] mark of the Vistani, and the nail of his index finger can extend into a talon. He cut his chest to prove he was not of the same nature as normal people. Red [[snake]]s came out of his chest instead of blood. At the end of the novel, Marguerite spots a mysterious figure in the woods as she leaves Donskoy's former domain. This is most likely Ramus.

By his own reckoning, Ramus has some kind of bond with both [[Lord Milos Donskoy]] and [[Zosia]]. The exact conditions of their bond is never stated, though Ramus tells Marguerite he cannot leave the domain.

[[category:Character]][[category:NPC]]
[[category:Cursed]]
[[category:Fiddler]]
[[category:Horseback Rider]]
[[category:human]]
[[category:Inhabitants of Donskoy's Land]]
[[category:Loner]]
[[category:male]]
[[category:Musician]]
[[category:Novel Character]]
[[category:Outcast]]
[[category:Rider]]
[[category:To Sleep With Evil Character]]
[[category:Trapped]]
[[category:Unknown Creature Type]]
[[category:Vistani]]
[[category:Wanderer]]
[[category:Woodsman]]

Azalin Rex

2023-11-13T13:40:40Z

Trevylan:

[[File:Azalin.jpg|thumb|alt=Alt Azalin's Illusionary Living Face|Azalin's Illusionary Living Face]]
[[File:Azalin rex.jpg|thumb|alt=Azalin's True Undead Face|Azalin's True Undead Face]]
{{canon}}
In the World of ''[[w:Greyhawk | Greyhawk]]'' and [[Ravenloft]] campaign settings for the Dungeons & Dragons role-playing game, Azalin Rex or "The Rex" is a wizard-king. He is the [[Darklord]] of the domain of [[Darkon]]. He is known by his subjects for his draconian rule.<ref name=ravgaziip134>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 134</ref>

== Description ==
As a [[lich]], an undead wizard, Azalin's true appearance resembles a skeleton or mummy. In his everyday appearance, however, Azalin maintains the illusion of a living king, closely mimicking his late-life persona: an elderly man with aquiline features and a piercing gaze, with unkempt dark hair topped by a heavy [[Iron Crown|iron crown]]. However, he can alter his appearance to resemble many humanoid individuals, even that of a different race or gender.<ref name=ravgaziip134>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 134</ref> Perhaps as a result of this in-game flexibility, official portrayals of Azalin differs greatly from artist to artist, much more so than portrayals of characters such as [[Lord Soth]] or [[Strahd von Zarovich]].

== History ==

=== Early life ===
Firan Zal'honan was born in the earldom of Knurl<ref name="From the Shadows p. 30">[[From the Shadows]] p. 30</ref>, a city-state in the eastern Flanaess. As the second of three sons of [[Lord Turalitan Zal'honan]], his political future was decidedly dim from his birth<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>, and he spent much of his childhood overlooked by his parents. From an early age, Firan demonstrated a keen intelligence, marked with a distaste for his fellow men and their deviation from discipline and order, a revulsion that manifested itself in self-loathing several times for his own perceived weaknesses. Firan respected his father's strict rulership, as well as the prior claim to succession exercised by his older brother Ranald, but disliked his father's superstitions and his bans against magic. Perhaps in a display of rebellion, Firan entered the underworld of Knurl's mages, studying under the wizard [[Quantarius]].<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>

As a youth, Firan seems to desire control over others and of himself above all else, although he also is given to angry outbursts and quick decisions which he later comes to regret. Even into his later lichhood and rulership status, these attributes recur, painting the portrait of a ruler demanding fealty and promising order, but secretly and constantly frustrated by the failings of his fellow men and of himself.

The only family member he loved without reservation was his younger brother, [[Irik]]. Where Firan was quick to anger and slow to forgive, Irik was the opposite. Firan pursued his studies and thirsted after[[knowledge]], but occasionally displayed an inability or ignorance of the potential repercussions. The death of Irik would prove a telling example: At 15, Firan called a [[demon]] that broke loose from his power and killed Irik<ref name=ravgaziip134>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 134</ref>. Firan's actions caused his father to expel [[Quantarius]] from the city, and Firan chose to follow him into exile, continuing his studies.<ref name="King of the Dead p. 104-125">[[King of the Dead]] 104-125</ref> In time, he would learn magics that few other mages could master (and which are actually largely beyond reach of normal D&D characters): he could permanently heal himself by stealing others' life forces, he could read minds and steal magical information, completely learning new spells with a thought<ref>KotD p. 152-153</ref>, he could extend his own life by draining the vitality of enemies.<ref>KotD p. 144-146</ref>

=== Rulership of [[Knurl]] ===
[[Ranald Zal'honan]] died as a result of a dissipate and gluttonous lifestyle, and Firan returned to his home, assuming the seat of power and ruling as "Azal'Lan," or wizard-king.<ref>KotD p. 156-165</ref> His credits include reversing the decline that Knurl suffered under Ranald's reign, and returning it to economic and military significance.<ref name="KotD p. 166-167, 176">KotD 166-167, 176</ref> Also, under his reign, magic once again became an important part of Knurl's daily life.

Firan swore allegiance to the distant Malachite Throne of the [[Great Kingdom]], but conducted many unsanctioned military campaigns against the surrounding tribes, adding handsomely to Knurl's holdings. His reign was marked by prosperity and growth, but also by violence and dissent from the conquered tribes.<ref name="KotD p. 166-167, 176">KotD 166-167, 176</ref>

Firan was 60 when he married, as his life-extending spells started to fail and he needed an heir. His loveless marriage took 18 years to produce a son<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>, with some saying his wife even sought magical wards against bearing his child. [[Olessa]] died in childbirth, cursing him.<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref> Firan named his son Irik, after his brother, but the name would carry greater resonance. His son inherited the kindness and generosity of Firan's brother, and would not follow his father's harsh footsteps, a trait Firan saw as weakness.<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref> When Irik was caught freeing political prisoners, Firan was faced with a choice: to pardon his son, or to kill him. In accordance with his own laws and as a symbol of his strict devotion to them, Firan not only permitted the [[execution]] but wielded the headsman's blade himself.<ref>KotD 186-193</ref>

Although this act impressed upon his citizens the strictness of his rule, Firan himself was plagued with doubts over his own actions. He became obsessed alternately with finding a means to live forever, or finding a means to bring his son back from the dead to try to train him anew.<ref>KotD p. 193-196</ref> As he lamented his failure as a father, a dark and nameless force presented him with the secret of lichdom.<ref name=ravgaziip134>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 134</ref>

Firan shed his mortality and changed his official title to Azal'Lan, ruling for 60 more years.<ref name=ravgaziip134>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 134</ref> During this time, [[Knurl]] became a major power in the Flanaess, even daring to renounce fealty to the Malachite Throne. Azal'Lan's military and trade power began to infringe on the territories of surrounding kingdoms, who sought ways to eliminate Azal'Lan. Assassins and armies alike seemed unable to topple him, but the course of his downfall would come from the minor tribes he had defeated early in his reign.<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>

Azal'Lan was finally lured out of his defenses by the promise of a new magical spell that could allow a mage to restore true life to a corpse. Blinded by his hopes for restoring his son, Azal'Lan went forth with a small retinue of guards, and was then ambushed<ref>KotD p. 206-214</ref> by a group of mercenaries. Fleeing their pursuit, he entered a dense fog to lose them. He was never to see Knurl again.<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>

=== Arrival in Ravenloft ===
In [[542 BC]], Azalin appeared in [[Barovia]], whose inhabitants called him "Azalin" upon hearing his name.<ref name=ravgaziip135>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 135</ref> Continuing in his insatiable quest for knowledge, he terrorized several local boyars searching for magical texts. During this time, he apparently discovered something similar to the life restoration spell he sought<ref>KotD p. 226-236</ref>, but whether he could learn it at all is unclear (see Memory anomalies below).

It was not long before he drew the attention, and grudging respect, of the domain's dark lord. Trapped in Barovia and suffering from a strange malady that prevented him from learning new spells<ref name="I, Strahd, the War Against Azalin">[[I, Strahd: The War Against Azalin]]</ref> Azalin entered into an uneasy alliance with Strahd. Azalin, who was a more powerful spell caster than the vampire, would instruct Strahd in the magic arts in exchange for his help in Azalin's [[experiments]] which were aimed at returning the lich lord to his own [[plane]]. This collaboration led to the first concerted attempt to break through the [[Misty Border]] surrounding Barovia and escape using an apparatus of Azalin's design.<ref name=ravgaziip135>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 135</ref>

This attempt resulted in the pair arriving in the outworld realm of [[Mordent]]<ref name=ravgaziip135>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 135</ref>, which bore striking similarities to the town of Whitby in Britain, also a setting for Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. There, [[the Apparatus]] split Strahd's personality into good and evil manifestations: [[the Alchemist|Alchemist]] and Creature respectively. Azalin's role in this adventure ([[I10:The House on Gryphon Hill]]) appears to be largely observational. The Alchemist and Creature's attempts to destroy each other caused the escape attempt to fail, and forced Mordent into joining the Demiplane of Ravenloft.

===Memory anomalies===
After the failed Mordent incident, the already-tense relation between Azalin and Strahd frayed further. When the domain of Mordent actually appeared beyond Barovia's borders, Azalin deduced that the [[Misty Border]] of Ravenloft might hold other lands, free from Strahd's authority. He entered the mists alone, and emerged in a realm of his own: Darkon.<ref name=ravgaziip135>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 135</ref>

Here, the exact nature of Azalin's existence is unclear, on two counts. The first count is the issue of a personality split: one source ([[King of the Dead]], a canonical novel) maintains that a traveling wizard named Firan appeared at the border, while an undead lich-like creature named Darcalus materialized in Darkon's central castle, [[Avernus]]. Firan, a just and good [[adventurer]], eventually sought out the depraved tyrant Darcalus and confronted him, rather as the Alchemist Strahd and the Creature Strahd did in Mordent. However, few other Ravenloft products refer to this (although they do not explicitly contradict it). According to King of the Dead, Firan stumbled about Darkon with no memory, and did not regain his memory until he defeated Darcalus, whereupon the undead essence merged with his own and made him Azalin once again. The novel also depicts his rage at realizing he had come so close to escaping his despicable undead state as well as the burdens of rulership.<ref>KotD p. 10-78, 263, 267-271</ref>

The second count is the question of Azalin's memory. As with many Darklords, Azalin suffers a curse tailored to his personality, granted by the [[The Dark Powers]] of Ravenloft. In this case, one dimension of his curse is the inability to learn any new magic at all, a crippling blow to any wizard, and downright unbearable for a lich, especially one who has knowingly sacrificed his living self so he can pursue new magics for all eternity. All sources cite this handicap, but they disagree on the time it manifested. Some sources, including [[King of the Dead]], imply that he could not learn new magic from the moment he arrived in Barovia (such as the resurrection spell he found)<ref>KotD p. 230-236, 250-251</ref>; others, such as the [[Gazetteers]]<ref name=ravgaziip135>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 135</ref> and campaign setting books, imply he must have been able to learn new magic while helping Strahd penetrate the Demiplane's magical secrets. The fact that he invented [[Bone Golems]] and [[Zombie Golems]] during his time with Strahd<ref>[[Ravenloft Monstrous Compendium I & II]] p.26</ref> suggests that he had some ability to innovate after arriving in Ravenloft. [[I, Strahd: The War Against Azalin]] maintains that the curse struck Azalin immediately upon entering Barovia, and that the lich tutored Strahd in the arcane arts. Azalin had the [[vampire]] lord learn and cast any spells that Azalin devised but could not personally master. The [[Ravenloft Campaign Setting: Domains and Denizens]] also depicts Azalin tutoring Strahd. However, this source maintains Azalin tutored Strahd at Strahd's command. Here, Azalin complied because of his deference to Strahd's connection to the land. At the time, Azalin believed that if Strahd were to be unmade, so would the [[Demiplane of Dread]] and all within it, including the [[lich]] himself<ref>[[Ravenloft Campaign Setting: Domains and Denizens]] p. 54</ref>

What is certain is that by the time he assumed lordship of Darkon, his curse was firmly in place.<ref name=ravgaziip135>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 135</ref> Also, a similar curse strikes all travelers to [[Darkon]], who eventually lose their memories and gain false memories, a magical tome that records these true memories as they are lost, Âand it is implied that Azalin himself only rediscovered his true past after reading the book.<ref name=ravgaziip25>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.25</ref>

=== Rulership of Darkon ===
After a few years spent assembling the [[Kargat]] secret police, Azalin prepared for a massive [[invasion]] of Barovia to unseat his nemesis. The invasion was thwarted by [[Strahd]]'s minions, who struck at the Kargat leadership and disrupted Azalin's chain of command<ref name=ravgaziip20>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 20</ref>. Afterwards, the effort of rebuilding the Kargat, and the appearance of intervening domains such as [[Falkovnia]], put an end to Azalin's military interest in Barovia.

Azalin's rule over [[Darkon]] was absolute: all political, military, and Kargat matters ultimately reported to him. His rule was strictly lawful to the point of ruthlessness, but based in large part on deception, both in terms of Azalin's illusion of being a mortal king, and also in the artificial docility that his civilians displayed, thanks to their false memories. However, this concentration of power has its weaknesses, especially when Azalin has demonstrated several times his willingness to abandon his people and realm at a moment's notice if it means a chance of escape from Ravenloft.<ref name=ravgaziip.34>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.34</ref>

Militarily, Azalin recognizes the futility of attempting to extend his borders through conquest. In defense, too, he has little to fear. On no fewer than four occasions, the neighboring country of Falkovnia to the south has declared [[war]], and Azalin's mastery of undead has easily repulsed their soldiers.<ref>[[Domains of Dread]] p. 17</ref>

=== Escape Attempts ===
In the last 30 years, Azalin has tried to escape Ravenloft twice more.<ref>The first is played out in the two [[module]]s [[From the Shadows]] and [[Roots of Evil]] that conclude the Grand Conjunction series. The second is played out in the [[Requiem: The Grim Harvest]] [[boxed set]] that concludes [[the Grim Harvest]] series of modules.</ref>

The first attempt was in manipulating the [[Grand Conjunction]], wherein he sent powerful heroes back in time to steal key artifacts from the formation of Ravenloft. Azalin's actions split the Demiplane open, freeing all the Darklords to terrorize other worlds. However, his hatred for Strahd proved to be his undoing: Azalin returned to face his nemesis, giving the heroes their chance to reverse the Grand Conjunction and reform the prison of Ravenloft once more. Some Darklords escaped permanently; Azalin and Strahd were not among their number.<ref>[[Roots of Evil]]</ref>

(The actual history of the Grand Conjunction involves six tenuously-related adventures, tied together by a poetic [[hexad]]. Later source materials claims Azalin's flaw was to disrupt the verse order of the hexad's last two couplets, although the "correct" order of the verses themselves frequently changes from product to product.)

Azalin then initiated a side project aimed at circumventing his magical curse: he magically impregnated various women with clones of himself, then tried to harvest the clones' magical knowledge when they reached adulthood after a childhood of magical tutelage. Although this [[experiment]] failed, it did result in the creation of [[Lowellyn Dachine]], a clone (of sorts) of Azalin, and an important figure in later day Darkon.<ref name=ravgaziip138>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 138</ref>

He then toiled for 10 years in creating his "[[doomsday device]]", which would turn him into a [[demilich]] and allow his immaterial essence to escape. The prototype device turned [[Lowellyn Dachine]] into a [[negative energy elemental]] known only as [[Death (Lowellyn Dachine)|Death]].<ref name=ravgaziip2223>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.22-23</ref>

The second and full application of the machine caused the [[Requiem]], killing all life in [[Il Aluk]], the capital city, and shattering Azalin's essence and scattering it across Darkon. He remained in that state for five years before pulling himself together<ref name=ravgaziip24>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.24</ref> and taking over the corpse of his son, which had been lying in [[Castle Avernus]] for almost two hundred years. To this date, Irik's spirit haunts Azalin, reminding him constantly of his actions and urging his father towards redemption. Needless to say, Azalin gives this counsel limited heed.<ref name=ravgaziip134-135>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.134-135</ref>

During his absence, Il Aluk became an undead [[Necropolis]], ruled by [[Death (Lowellyn Dachine)|Death]]<ref name=ravgaziip138>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 138</ref>, and his Kargat lieutenants ran amok. Mortal agents loyal to Azalin helped to foil usurpation attempts by a rebel Kargat leader ([[Tavelia]]) and also by the new ruler of Il Aluk, Death.<ref name=ravgaziip24>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.24</ref> Although reinstalled as ruler of Darkon, Azalin's current concerns are the re-centralization of his power, the elimination of rebel Kargat officers, and the future of Necropolis, whose mere existence is a daily challenge to his own power.

=== Current ===
Today, Azalin's [[experiments]] seem to focus on more than just escape. The lich lord appears to have recovered some limited ability to expand his knowledge ever so slightly, by formulating new magic as long as it is strongly related to knowledge he already has, though this process apparently takes much longer than for a human mage. He also has gained several salient powers, including the ability to look into the mind, and alter the memories of, anybody in Darkon. His control over undead is still absolute, with no apparent limit to the number or power of slaves thus controlled, and his spellcasting largely seen as being second to none.<ref name=ravgaziip136>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 136</ref>

[[Azalin's Phylactery]] is an enormous golden dragon skull, which is almost immovably heavy. It also appears near indestructible.<ref name=ravgaziip136>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p. 136</ref> His dependence on it may be equal to or even less than most liches, some sources maintain that he will be instantly killed if it is destroyed, while others imply that he will survive as long as his physical body is not destroyed along with it. Like most liches, Azalin is extremely protective of his true name<ref>[[Ravenloft Campaign Setting: Domains and Denizens]] p. 52</ref>, although whether this is out of any true weakness (perhaps to spells such as [[Trap the Soul]], which require the true name to be spoken) is debatable.

Currently, Azalin has commissioned the services of a scholar, known only as [["S"]], to travel and research the domains of Ravenloft. "S"'s speculation indicates that he is still searching for a method to escape Ravenloft.<ref name=ravgaziip24>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.24</ref> According to several products released recently, his current plan involves discovering a method to undo the magical bonds tying the [[Dukkar]], [[Malocchio Aderre]], to the domain of [[Invidia]]. Once free, Malocchio would have the ability to travel freely within and without the [[Land of Mists]], unstoppable to the [[Dark Powers]] and, most importantly, able to take even darklords with him. As well as finding a method to free the Dukkar, Azalin is also working towards making a deal with (or enslaving) Malocchio to ensure that he will allow Azalin to return to the world of [[Oerth]]. (Comments from the authors seem to indicated escape is not the goal of Azalin's current plan. This section needs to be rewritten in light of this.) [In game Azalin remarks that even dreams must die.<ref name=ravgaziip24>[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]] p.24</ref> The dream here is that of escape. For he has concluded that the Dark Powers would be able snatch him back at their leisure.]

==[[Creation of Azalin Rex|Creations of Azalin Rex]]==

==Chronology==
NOTE: [[CY]] refers to [[Common Years]], the [[calendar]] of [[Oerth]]. BC refers to the [[Barovian Calendar]]

*231 CY: Firan Zal'honan, the man whom would later become known as Azalin Rex, is born.<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>

*234 CY: [[Irik Zal'honan (Brother)|Irik]], Firan's younger brother, is born.<ref>KotD p. 81</ref>

*246 CY: Adolescent Firan and his friend [[Corsalus]] botch a [[summoning]], causing Firan's younger brother [[Irik Zal'honan (Brother)|Irik]] to become [[possessed]] and transform into a fiend. They call upon [[Quantarius]] for help, but things go awry as [[Earl Turalitan Zal'honan]]. Irik dies, and Quantarius is banished from [[Knurl]]. Firan follows and becomes Quantarius' [[apprentice]].<ref>KotD p. 81-125</ref>

*255 CY: Firan roots out a gang of [[bandit]]s and helps [[Merchant Glodreddi]]'s troops dispatch them.<ref>KotD p. 126-131</ref>

*270 CY: Earl Turalitan Zal'honan dies, leaving [[Ranald Zal'honan]] to rule [[Knurl]].<ref>KotD p. 138-139</ref>

*270 CY: Responding on behalf of Quantarius, Firan saves [[Lord Nerof]] from a plot to [[poison]] him and harshly punishes the [[conspirator]]s. Firan is given control over the business and over tutoring the apprentices while Quantarius recovers from his sickness.<ref>KotD p. 132-142</ref>

*275 CY: Firan's service to Quantarius comes to an end as he prepares to leave of [[Rauxes]]. On the day of Firan's depature, he gives Quantarius an [[apple]] that rejuvenates youth drained from enemies on the battlefield. Shocked and horrified, Quantarius delivers a worrying vision of a doom for Firan worse than [[death]].<ref>KotD 143-149</ref>

*283 CY: Ranald's [[gluttony]] results in an early death, leaving Knurl in chaos. In Rauxes, Firan saves [[Prince Edron]] from [[rebel]]s before he receives word from [[Warden Rehajo]]'s [[messenger]]s that Knurl needs the wisdom of Firan's rule. Firan returns to Knurl and begins to set things in order. The people begin calling him [[Azal'Lan]], an ancient word meaning [[wizard]] [[king]].<ref>KotD p. 150-165</ref>

*290 CY<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref> After arranging the demise of [[Olessa]]'s lover [[Parras Venturian]],<ref>KoTD p. 170-173</ref> Azal'Lan marries [[Olessa]].<ref>FtS p. 61, as told in KotD</ref>

*308 CY: Olessa perishes giving birth to Azal'Lan son [[Irik Zal'honan (Son)|Irik]]. As she is dying, Azalin mentions he caused Parras' murder. In her last few moments of life, Olessa curses Azal'Lan.<ref>From the Shadows p. 61, as told in KotD p. 188-191</ref>

*327 CY: Irik is caught political prisoners escape. Not only does Firan condemn him to [[execution]], but Firan is the one to deliver the killing blow. The night of Irik's [[funeral]], a mysterious tempts Firan with the knowledge of how to become a [[lich]]. Firan accepts the offer. He formally adopts the title of [[Azal'Lan]]<ref>FtS p. 61, as told in KotD 186-196</ref>

*329 CY: Firan finally becomes a [[lich]]. Although he conceals his transition to [[undeath]], Firan officially adopts the title of [[Azal'Lan]].<ref>FtS p. 61, as told in KotD p. 196-203</ref>

*342 CY: Azal'Lan annexes all of the [[Teesar Valley]] that surrounds Knurl.<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>

*372 CY: Azal'Lan captures part of the southern edges of the [[Flinty Hills]] and Flinty Hills as well as portions of the [[Adri Forest]]. [[Dwarves]] and [[halfling]]s in the Blemu Hills violently rebel. However, their resistance is put down, and they receive horrendous [[punishment]].<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref>

*391 CY: Azal'Lan invades [[Innspa]] in the kingdom of [[Nyrond]], provoking [[Nyrondese]] wrath. They send out [[mercenary|mercenaries]] to wreak their vengeance.<ref name="From the Shadows p. 61">[[From the Shadows]] p. 61</ref> Azal'Lan searches futilely for a way to resurrect Irik until [[Stakaster]] lures Azal'Lan into an ambush from which even he can't defeat.<ref>KotD p. 204-216</ref> Azal'Lan flees his [[ambusher]]s into a bank of [[mists]] that whisk him away from [[Oerth]] entirely.<ref>FtS p. 61, as told in KotD</ref>

*[[542 BC]] Azal'Lan enters [[Ravenloft]] and arrives in [[Barovia]]. The natives corrupt his title to Azalin.<ref name="GazII p.135">[[Gazetteer II]] p.135</ref>

*542 BC [[Strahd]] discusses the potential threat [[Azalin]] poses with [[Madame Ilka]], the new raunie of the [[Zarovan]] tribe ([[Maruschka]] having apparently died at some point in the last 40 years).<ref>[[I, Strahd, The War Against Azalin]] - p71, pp109-117, pp167-171</ref>

*542 BC Strahd confronts Azalin at [[Berez]]. A wary alliance is struck.

*[[547 BC]] Strahd sends Azalin to investigate [[Forlorn]], but nothing of value to them is found.<ref>[[Gazetteer I]] p.73-74</ref>

*[[579 BC]] Strahd and Azalin create a [[portal]] to [[Mordent]] to escape the [[Land of Mists]], but their plans fail as [[the Mists]] snatch up that land. Angered, Azalin abandons Strahd and [[Barovia]].<ref name="Gaz II p. 135">[[Gazetteer II]] p.135</ref>. Darkon forms as a result.<ref name="Gazetteer II p. 9">[[Gazetteer II]] p.9</ref>

*[[579 BC]] [[False History]] '''Late Fall''' [[Darcalus Rex]] is overthrown by [[Azalin]].<ref name="Gazetteer II p. 19">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 19</ref>

*579 BC [[Azalin]] holds a masquerade ball, calling the nobility of Darkon to its mandatory attendance. After Azalin introduces himself and proclaims rule of Darkon to be his, he kills anyone who refuses to acknowledge this right of rule.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 20">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 20</ref>

* {{netbook-small}}[[640 BC]] Azalin appoints [[Tavelia]] as Kargat leader in [[Martira Bay]].<ref name="Death Undaunted p. 4">[[Death Undaunted]] p. 4</ref>

*[[656 BC]] On the [[Prime Material Plane]], [[Ebb]] stalks those who killed her [[shadow dragon]] relatives, but she is drawn into [[the Mists]]. Winding in up in Darkon, she first comes into conflict with Azalin but then reaches an accord with him through their mutual power and condescension towards living [[human]]s.<ref name="Gaz II p.143">[[Gazetteer II]] p.143</ref>

*[[684 BC]] [[Azalin]] calls [[Styrix]] the [[night hag]] into the [[Land of Mists]]. After a number of months, her research of an escape proves fruitless. In response, Azalin banishes her from [[Castle Avernus]].<ref name="Gaz II p.117">[[Gazetteer II]] p.117</ref>

*[[688 BC]] '''Autumn''': The [[Crimson Death]] originates in the [[Boglands]]. It eventually spreads to [[Il Aluk]] and, from there, the rest of Darkon, killing an estimated 1 out of every 5 [[Darkonian]]s. To combat the spread of the plague, Azalin institutes a merciless regimen of quarantines for the next three decades, ordering death for any whom defy them.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 21">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 21</ref>

*[[689 BC]] '''Spring''': The Crimson Death is on the decline. History credits Azalin's quarantines as responsible for its decline, though he continues its enforcement for the next three decades. The decreased population allows women opportunities for career advancement previously unavailable.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 21">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 21</ref>

*[[696 BC]] (Approx.) Azalin assembles the doctrine of [[the Eternal Order]] from various bits of Darkonian [[folklore]].<ref name="Gaz II p. 29">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 29</ref>

* {{netbook-small}}[[700 BC]] Several members of [[the Fraternity of Shadows]] back [[Falkovnia]] in an effort to unseat [[Azalin]]. After the invasion fails, [[Azalin]] and his [[Kargat]] conduct a purge to free the [[University of Il Aluk]] and [[Il Aluk]]'s [[intellectual]] community of Fraternity agents. Several members of the Fraternity, including [[Lazarus Ikonnas]], are [[assassinated]] in the purge. Others are better prepared and flee into neighboring domains, where they are more evenly matched against the Kargat. Azalin eventually halts active extermination attempts against the Fraternity.<ref name="Undead Sea Scrolls 2002 p. 8">[[Undead Sea Scrolls 2002]] p. 8</ref> The only two of the then-current [[Umbra]] to escape are [[Tarnos Shadowcloak]] and [[Wilhelm von Lovenhorst]].<ref name="Quoth the Raven Issue 13 p. 72">[[Quoth the Raven Issue 13]] p. 72</ref>

*[[706 BC]] [[Erasmus van Richten]] is stolen by the [[Radanavich clan]] and sold to [[Baron Metus]]. With the help of [[Azalin]], [[Dr. Van Richten]] wipes out all but one member of the Radanavich caravan; [[Madame Radanavich]] [[curse | curses]] Van Richten.

*[[717 BC]] [[Foedus]], future [[vassalich]] to Azalin, is born in [[Sidnar]].<ref name="Gazetteer II p. 132 n1">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 132, was born 40 years ago from [[757 BC]], the current year of [[Gazetteer II]]</ref>

*[[719 BC]] After three decades of enforcement, Azalin ends the Crimson Death quarantines.<ref name="Gaz II p. 21">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 21</ref>

*[[735 BC]] [[Azalin]] discovers [[Hyskosa's Hexad]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 22">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 22</ref>

*[[740 BC]] Azalin engineers [[the Grand Conjunction]] using Hyskosa's Hexad. His plan to destroy the [[Demiplane of Dread]] fails. Fortunately for Darkon, it seems among the least affected.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 22">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 22</ref>

*[[747 BC]] [[Baroness Karimana Reldkasen|Karimana Reidkasen]] is awarded the title of [[Baroness of Martira Bay]] after she reveals her husband's [[corruption]] to [[Azalin]].<ref name="Bleak House Book III p. 25">[[Bleak House: Heroes, Monsters, and Settings]] p.25</ref>

*[[748 BC]] [[Azalin]] and his subordinates finish building the most primitive prototype for the [[Doomsday Device]]. [[The Ebon Fold]] are sent out to begin collecting [[soul]]s.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 23">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 23</ref>

*750 BC-[[755 BC]] [[The Shrouded Years]] As Azalin struggles to regain corporeal form, his mind reaches out to those of his subjects in the [[Drowning Dreams]]. Although his loyal minions can sense him, so can [[Death (Lowellyn Dachine)|Death]]. Death sends out his Horsemen to prevent Azalin's resurrection and wreak devastation upon Darkon.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 23-24">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 23-24</ref>

*[[753 BC]] Azalin recovers enough of his disperse essence to consciously think again, though he still lacks [[corporeal]] form. He sends [[dream]]s to several allies with plans for his return. These plans apparently involve a [[soul phylactery]].<ref name="Gazetteer II p. 24">[[Gazetteer II]] p.24</ref>

*755 BC '''Summer'''<ref name="Gazetteer III p. 4">[[Gazetteer III]] p. 4</ref> Azalin is restored to corporeal form.<ref name="Gaz II p.24">[[Gazetteer II]] p.24</ref><ref name="RLCS p.18">[[Ravenloft Third Edition]] p.18</ref><ref name="RLPHB p.20">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p.20</ref>

*755 BC [[Necropolis]] becomes its own [[domain]] with [[Death (Lowellyn Dachine)|Death]] as its [[darklord]].<ref name="Gaz II p.55">[[Gazetteer II]] p.55</ref>

*[[756 BC]] [[Azalin Rex]] hires [["S"]] to complete detailed guides of all of the [[domain]]s of the [[Land of Mists]].<ref name="RLCS p.18">[[Ravenloft Third Edition]] p.18</ref><ref name="RLPHB p.20">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p.20</ref>

*756 BC '''New Year's Eve:''' As [["S"]] prepares to leave [[Darkon]], [[Azalin Rex]] speaks to her through his shambling [[undead]] and provides her with her protective bracers.<ref name="Gazetteer II p. 53">[[Gazetteer II]] p. 53</ref>

==Appearances==

===[[Modules]]===
*[[1st Edition]]
**[[I10: The House on Gryphon Hill]] (first appearance)
*[[2nd Edition]]
**[[From the Shadows]]
**[[Roots of Evil]]
**[[Death Unchained]] (referenced only)
**[[Death Ascendant]] (referenced only)
**[[Death Triumphant]] (in [[Requiem: The Grim Harvest]] boxed set)
*[[3rd Edition]]
**[[Death Undaunted]] (no official release)

===[[Novel]]s===
*[[Tower of Doom]]
*[[King of the Dead]]
*[[Lord of the Necropolis (Novel)|Lord of the Necropolis]] ([[declared non-canon]])
*[[I, Strahd, The War Against Azalin]]

==References==
<references />

[[category:Character]][[category:NPC]]
[[category:1st Edition Character]]
[[category:2nd Edition Character]]
[[category:3rd Edition Character]]
[[category:Arcane Loremaster]]
[[category:Arcane Researcher]]
[[category:Azal'Lan]]
[[category:Betrayed]]
[[category:Betrayer]]
[[category:Cloner]]
[[category:Concealer]]
[[category:Constructcrafter]]
[[category:Corporeal Undead]]
[[category:Crafter of an Artifact]]
[[category:Crafter of an Evil Magic Item]]
[[Category:Darklord]]
[[category:Darklord (Domain Lord Magnitude of Evil)]]
[[category:Deceiver]]
[[category:Delegator]]
[[Category:Demonologist]]
[[category:Disguised]]
[[category:Dragon Rider]]
[[category:Earl]]
[[category:Experimenter]]
[[Category:Father]]
[[Category:Fiend Summoner]]
[[category:Filicide]]
[[Category:Foe of Count Strahd von Zarovich]]
[[category:Foe of Vlad Drakov]]
[[category:Founder]]
[[category:Founder of a Religion]]
[[category:Founder of a Secret Society]]
[[category:Former Inhabitants of Oerth]]
[[category:Former Inhabitants of the Prime Material Plane]]
[[category:Golemcrafter]]
[[category:Heirless]]
[[category:Human]]
[[category:Imprisoner]]
[[Category:Inhabitants of Castle Avernus]]
[[Category:Inhabitants of Darkon]]
[[category:Inhabitants of the Forest of Shadows]]
[[category:Inventor of a Spell]]
[[Category:Inventor (Monstrous)]]
[[category:Instituter]]
[[category:Intellectual]]
[[category:Killer]]
[[category:King]]
[[category:King of Darkon]]
[[Category:Lawful Evil]]
[[Category:Lich]]
[[category:Manipulator]]
[[category:Male]]
[[category:Mass Murderer]]
[[category:Murderer]]
[[category:Necrologist]]
[[Category:Noble of Darkon]]
[[category:Oerth Native]]
[[Category:Outlander]]
[[Category:Pathfinder 1st Edition Character]]
[[category:Personality of Darkon]]
[[category:Planar Mechanic]]
[[category:Ravenloft Lorist]]
[[Category:Ravenloft Loremaster]]
[[category:Reanimator]]
[[Category:Rex]]
[[category:rider]]
[[Category:Ruler]]
[[Category:Son]]
[[Category:State of Darkon]]
[[category:State Personality]]
[[category:Temporal Leader]]
[[category:Threatener of Violence]]
[[category:Tyrant]]
[[Category:Wizard]]
[[Category:Undead]]
[[category:Undead Controller]]
[[category:Undead Summoner]]
[[Category:Zal'honan family]]

==Data from the Ravenloft Catalogue==



{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:rldb_npc.jpg]]
|[[Image:rldb_primary.gif]]
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''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' 
''[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]]'' 
''[[I, Strahd, The War Against Azalin]]''
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_art.gif]]
|
''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' - p19 
''[[The Ravenloft Campaign Setting: Domains and Denizens]]'' - pp12, 53, 55 
''[[Roots of Evil]]'' - pp4, 66, 93 [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[From the Shadows]]'' - p58 [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' - p91 
''[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]]'' - p133 
''[[I, Strahd, The War Against Azalin]]'' - cover
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_stats.gif]]
|
''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' - pp17-21 
''[[The Ravenloft Campaign Setting: Domains and Denizens]]'' - p52 
''[[Roots of Evil]]'' - p5 [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[From the Shadows]]'' - p59 [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' - pp90-93 
''[[Ravenloft II: The House on Gryphon Hill]]'' - pp45, Poster [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]]'' - pp133-137
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_desc.gif]]
|
''[[Secrets of the Dread Realms]]'' - pp7, 11, 17-21, 27 
''[[Ravenloft Third Edition]]'' - pp13-18, 114, 117, 132 
''[[Death Ascendant]]'' - p57, 60 
''[[Death Unchained]]'' - p57 
''[[The Ravenloft Campaign Setting: Domains and Denizens]]'' - pp11-13, 52-56, 99 
''[[Roots of Evil]]'' - pp5, 84-87, 93-94 [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[From the Shadows]]'' - pp9-10 [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[Tales of Ravenloft: The Crucible of Dr. Rudolph van Richten]]'' - pp8-11 
''[[Tower of Doom]]'' - pp29-31 
''[[Realm of Terror]]'' - pp90-93, 117 
''[[Ravenloft II: The House on Gryphon Hill]]'' - pp39, 45 [http://web.archive.org/web/20100329193632/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/downloads Download Now! ] 
''[[Ravenloft Gazetteer Volume II]]'' - pp133-137 
''[[I, Strahd, The War Against Azalin]]'' - p35-38, 49-50, 77-84, 87-175, 199-303
|-valign="top"
|
|[[Image:rldb_alias.gif]]
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Firan Zal'honan
|-valign="top"
|}

The Southern Empire

2023-11-11T15:44:51Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

As described in the [[Shadowborn|Shadowborn novel]], the '''Southern Empire''' is an [[outlander land]] from the same world as [[the Great Kingdom of Avonleigh]]. This [[unnamed]] [[world|outlander world]] is thus where the [[Shadowborn Family|Shadowborn family]] originated. The Southern Empire and the Great Kingdom held some amount of animosity against each other due to the conflicts of [[the Heretical Wars]] {{Spec|and maybe the [[War of Evil]]}}. In addition, the Southern Empire followed [[deity|deities]] judged [[heretical]] by [[the Church of Belenus]],<ref>Shadowborn p. 73, 75</ref> the dominant religious power in the Great Kingdom.

==History==
Not much has been revealed about the early history of the Southern Empire in [[canon]] [[source]]s. In the time of [[Kateri Shadowborn]], a [[hero]] of the Great Kingdom who fought the Southern Empire in the Heretical Wars, the Southern Empire was ruled by [[Grand Caliph Muhdar ab Sang]]. At least according to [[Lysander Greylocks]], the grand caliph was [[wise]] and benevolent ruler until he encountered the [[fiend]] [[Lussimar]], also known as [[Ebonbane]]. The fiend approached the Grand Caliph as he was praying to his god for advice on dealing with the [[Sea Raiders]] of the far north. Taking on the guise of Muhdar ab Sang's deity, Ebonbane [[corrupted]] the caliph and drew him [[mad]]. So [[possessed]], the caliph ordered the events that caused the [[Heretical Wars]] with the Great Kingdom. In addition, the [[Ahltrian]], previously an order of [[adventurer]]s and [[explorer]]s serving Grand Caliph ab Sang, were changed to a secret society of [[murderer]]s. Those who objected or found the truth were quietly [[murdered]]. Upon the orders of the Grand Caliph, the Ahltrian personally oversaw the sacking of [[Letour]] and [[Sanschay]], two cities in the southern provinces of the Great Kingdom. Thousands of innocents lost their lives in the raids and conflagrations that scarred the towns.<ref>Shadowborn p. 129, 132-134</ref>

Over the course of the [[war]], thousands lost their lives. Yet a [[hero]] for the Great Kingdom emerged: Lady Kateri Shadowborn. One of the Ahltrian, a man named [[Lysander Greylocks]] led an ambush on the [[knight]]s situated in [[Hammerlin]], killing the majority of the knights but capturing a handful. As with previous atrocities, Ebonbane's [[domination]] caused Lysander to perform a number of horrible [[torture]]s upon them until the Grand Caliph ordered them to be brought in for [[interrogation]]. Kateri led the [[survivor]]s to escape. The shoe was on the other foot two years later when Kateri defeated Lysander's troops and captured him at [[Sined Pass]] some two years later. With [[Lysander]] [[captured]], Kateri detected the [[evil]] possessing him and freed him of it. With Lysander acting as [[advisor]] against Ebonbane's tactics, Kateri faced Ebonbane and banished it from the mortal world, including the Grand Caliph's soul. Unable to bear the weight of his actions under Ebonbane's influence, the Grand Caliph committed [[suicide]] soon after.<ref>p. 134-138</ref>

After his freedom from Ebonbane, Lysander Greylocks settled in at [[Forenoon Abbey]] in the Great Kingdom and became a [[monastic]]. A year passed and the Great Kingdom's armies, led by Lady Kateri Shadowborn, returned home victorious. Having become tired by war, Lady Kateri declared her retirement<ref>p. 173</ref> and returned to [[Shadowborn Manor]], a home she had constructed in the south that was a replica of [[Shadowfast]].<ref>p. 129</ref> The only three remaining Ahltrian, [[the Dark Triad]], [[conjured]] Lussimar back into the world and put it into a magical sword. However, Ebonbane, as they called it, turned on them and slew them, reanimating them into its servants. Three years later, Ebonbane [[killed]] Kateri in her own home, drawing Shadowborn Manor into the [[Demiplane of Dread]].<ref>Shadowborn p. 1-7, 174</ref>

==Note of clarification on the Great Kingdom==
Note that the Great Kingdom of Avoneleigh is different from the Great Kingdom of [[Oerth]]. The matter is treated here: http://fraternityofshadows.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5389

{{ref}}

[[Category:Empire]][[Category:Outlander Land]]

The Southern Empire

2023-11-11T15:41:02Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}

As described in the [[Shadowborn|Shadowborn novel]], the '''Southern Empire''' is an [[outlander land]] from the same world as [[the Great Kingdom of Avonleigh]]. This [[unnamed]] [[world|outlander world]] is thus where the [[Shadowborn Family|Shadowborn family]] originated. The Southern Empire and the Great Kingdom held some amount of animosity against each other due to the conflicts of [[the Heretical Wars]] {{Spec|and maybe the [[War of Evil]]}}. In addition, the Southern Empire followed [[deity|deities]] judged [[heretical]] by [[the Church of Belenus]],<ref>Shadowborn p. 73, 75</ref> the dominant religious power in the Great Kingdom.

==History==
Not much has been revealed about the early history of the Southern Empire in [[canon]] [[source]]s. In the time of [[Kateri Shadowborn]], a [[hero]] of the Great Kingdom who fought the Southern Empire in the Heretical Wars, the Southern Empire was ruled by [[Grand Caliph Muhdar ab Sang]]. At least according to [[Lysander Greylocks]], the grand caliph was [[wise]] and benevolent ruler until he encountered the [[fiend]] [[Lussimar]], also known as [[Ebonbane]]. The fiend approached the Grand Caliph as he was praying to his god for advice on dealing with the [[Sea Raiders]] of the far north. Taking on the guise of Muhdar ab Sang's deity, Ebonbane [[corrupted]] the caliph and drew him [[mad]]. So [[possessed]], the caliph ordered the events that caused the [[Heretical Wars]] with the Great Kingdom. In addition, the [[Ahltrian]], previously an order of [[adventurer]]s and [[explorer]]s serving Grand Caliph ab Sang, were changed to a secret society of [[murderer]]s. Those who objected or found the truth were quietly [[murdered]]. Upon the orders of the Grand Caliph, the Ahltrian personally oversaw the sacking of [[Letour]] and [[Sanschay]], two cities in the southern provinces of the Great Kingdom. Thousands of innocents lost their lives in the raids and conflagrations that scarred the towns.<ref>Shadowborn p. 129, 132-134</ref>

Over the course of the [[war]], thousands lost their lives. Yet a [[hero]] for the Great Kingdom emerged: Lady Kateri Shadowborn. One of the Ahltrian, a man named [[Lysander Greylocks]] led an ambush on the [[knight]]s situated in [[Hammerlin]], killing the majority of the knights but capturing a handful. As with previous atrocities, Ebonbane's [[domination]] caused Lysander to perform a number of horrible [[torture]]s upon them until the Grand Caliph ordered them to be brought in for [[interrogation]]. Kateri led the [[survivor]]s to escape. The shoe was on the other foot two years later when Kateri captured defeated Lysander's troops and captured him at [[Sined Pass]] some two years later. With [[Lysander]] [[captured]], Kateri detected the [[evil]] possessing him and freed him of it. With Lysander acting as [[advisor]] against Ebonbane's tactics, Kateri faced Ebonbane and banished it from the mortal world, including the Grand Caliph's soul. Unable to bear the weight of his actions under Ebonbane's influence, the Grand Caliph committed [[suicide]] soon after.<ref>p. 134-138</ref>

After his freedom from Ebonbane, Lysander Greylocks settled in at [[Forenoon Abbey]] in the Great Kingdom and became a [[monastic]]. A year passed and the Great Kingdom's armies, led by Lady Kateri Shadowborn, returned home victorious. Having become tired by war, Lady Kateri declared her retirement<ref>p. 173</ref> and returned to [[Shadowborn Manor]], a home she had constructed in the south that was a replica of [[Shadowfast]].<ref>p. 129</ref> The only three remaining Ahltrian, [[the Dark Triad]], [[conjured]] Lussimar back into the world and put it into a magical sword. However, Ebonbane, as they called it, turned on them and slew them, reanimating them into its servants. Three years later, Ebonbane [[killed]] Kateri in her own home, drawing Shadowborn Manor into the [[Demiplane of Dread]].<ref>Shadowborn p. 1-7, 174</ref>

==Note of clarification on the Great Kingdom==
Note that the Great Kingdom of Avoneleigh is different from the Great Kingdom of [[Oerth]]. The matter is treated here: http://fraternityofshadows.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5389

{{ref}}

[[Category:Empire]][[Category:Outlander Land]]

Camille's Teaspoon

2023-11-10T17:12:36Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}
Oldest known version of the [[spoon of poison detection]], formerly owned by [[Camille Dilisnya]], now owned by her daughter [[Ivana Boritsi]]. When stirred by one of the [[Dilisnya Family]], including those have Dilisnya blood but belong to other families, like Ivana, the teaspoon can be can [[poison]] food or drink. The item is intelligent, [[evil]] and protective of the Dilisnya family and, perhaps more importantly, its wealth.<ref name=LotBp.18>[[Legacy of the Blood]] p.18</ref>
{{ref}}

{{ref}}

[[Category:Dilisnya Family]][[Category:Artifact]]
[[category:Evil Magic Item]]
[[category:Guardian]]
[[category:Intelligent Magic Item]]
[[category:Magic Item]]
[[category:Neutral Evil]]
[[category:Poisonous]]
[[category:Metal]]
[[category:Silver]]
[[category:Spoon]]
[[category:Eating Utensil]]

Camille's Teaspoon

2023-11-10T17:11:20Z

Trevylan:

{{canon}}
Oldest known version of the [[spoon of poison detection]], formerly owned by [[Camille Dilisnya]], now owned by her daughter [[Ivana Boritsi]]. When stirred by one of the [[Dilisnya Family, including those have Dilisnya blood but belong to other families, like Ivana, the teaspoon can be can [[poison]] food or drink. The item is intelligent, [[evil]] and protective of the Dilisnya family and, perhaps more importantly, its wealth.<ref name=LotBp.18>[[Legacy of the Blood]] p.18</ref>
{{ref}}

{{ref}}

[[Category:Dilisnya Family]][[Category:Artifact]]
[[category:Evil Magic Item]]
[[category:Guardian]]
[[category:Intelligent Magic Item]]
[[category:Magic Item]]
[[category:Neutral Evil]]
[[category:Poisonous]]
[[category:Metal]]
[[category:Silver]]
[[category:Spoon]]
[[category:Eating Utensil]]