The Organizations of Aranor
The Wardens of the Veil
Followers of Eldris, the Veiled Guardian, these holy warriors and priests dedicate themselves to combating necromancy and laying undead to rest. They operate primarily around Elburh but have outposts across Aranor to sanctify graveyards, hunt down necromancers, and protect the souls of the deceased. History: The Wardens of the Veil were established in the aftermath of the Sundering War by the first disciples of Eldris, the Veiled Guardian, to protect the sanctity of death. As the Silent King Tarnum's forces retreated into legend, necromancers and dark forces continued to exploit the corrupted leylines, raising undead armies and defiling the natural order. The Wardens were tasked with ensuring that no soul would be trapped in undeath, tirelessly sanctifying battlefields, graveyards, and tainted ruins. Initially a small sect operating from the holy crypts of Elburh, the Wardens grew in prominence as their sacred mission gained recognition. Their members were a mix of paladins, clerics, and scholars dedicated to purifying corrupt magic and honoring the dead. Over centuries, they established sanctuaries and training grounds across Aranor, creating fortified bastions to defend against necromantic incursions and raise the next generation of Wardens. During the Era of Rebirth, the Wardens faced internal division when some members advocated using necromantic magic as a tool against greater threats. This schism resulted in the formation of the renegade sect known as the Shadowed Reapers, who operated in secret, raising undead to fight necromancers. The Wardens considered them an abomination and hunted them as zealously as they did other necromancers. By the Age of Expansion, the Wardens had become a highly organized and influential force in Aranor. They were key players in diplomatic efforts to ally with the Circle of Eryndor and the Order of the Silver Flame, coordinating efforts to purge corruption from the Roude Wastes. Despite their success, rumors persisted of powerful necromancers rising in secret, challenging the Wardens' vigilance. Today, the Wardens of the Veil stand as the most steadfast defenders of the natural cycle of life and death. Their rituals are known to sanctify entire regions, and their warriors are said to wield divine blessings from Eldris herself. However, they remain ever vigilant, knowing that the return of Tarnum or another force of his magnitude could undo all they have achieved.
The Skyguard
A militarized organization based in Wyndalan, the Skyguard trains elite aerial riders who patrol the skies on wyverns, griffons, and hippogriffs. They protect the northern coastlines and serve as an early warning system against incursions from the Shattered Ice. History: The Skyguard was formed during the Era of Rebirth in response to increasing threats from above, including dragons, wyverns, and aerial raiders. Based in Wyndalan, this elite military organization began as a coalition of griffon-riding warriors dedicated to patrolling the skies and protecting settlements from aerial attacks. Over time, they evolved into a formidable force with a structured command hierarchy and advanced training programs. During the Age of Expansion, the Skyguard became instrumental in mapping Aranor’s skies and establishing aerial trade routes. They built a network of sky towers, which served as refueling stations and observation posts, allowing them to maintain constant vigilance. The most famous of these towers is the Spire of Winds, a colossal structure that doubles as their headquarters. The Skyguard’s rise to power was not without controversy. Their aggressive tactics often led to clashes with the Circle of Eryndor, as the Skyguard’s expansion sometimes encroached upon sacred lands. Additionally, their use of elemental magic to manipulate weather earned them the ire of Aeris’s more zealous followers, who viewed this as a violation of natural law. Despite these challenges, the Skyguard became legendary for their role in repelling the Draconic Incursions, a series of dragon-led attacks during the Late Age of Expansion. Their leader, Captain Arion Windrider, is remembered as one of Aranor’s greatest aerial tacticians, known for his daring maneuvers and unbreakable resolve. Today, the Skyguard stands as Aranor’s first line of defense against airborne threats. Their training academies are renowned, attracting recruits from across the continent. However, rumors of rogue Skyguard factions selling their services to mercenaries and pirates threaten to tarnish their reputation.
The Order of the Silver Flame
Founded by paladins and knights who worship Vireon, the Iron Sentinel, the Silver Flame is a chivalric order dedicated to protecting the innocent and upholding justice. They have fortified bases across Aranor and are particularly active around Elburh, guarding against incursions from Roude. The Order of the Silver Flame was founded during the Sundering War by Vireon, the Iron Sentinel, to rally warriors and paladins under a single banner. Their original mission was to defend the innocent from Tarnum’s forces, and their members became renowned for their unwavering courage and discipline. The Order’s symbol, a flaming silver sword, became a beacon of hope across war-torn Aranor. After Tarnum’s defeat, the Order shifted its focus to rebuilding. During the Era of Rebirth, they became the protectors of newly established settlements, safeguarding roads and trade routes from bandits and rogue necromancers. The Order also forged alliances with other organizations, such as the Wardens of the Veil and the League of Artisans, to restore stability to the land. The Age of Expansion brought new challenges as the Order found itself stretched thin. As settlers pushed into uncharted territories, the Order was tasked with defending them from natural and supernatural threats. However, internal strife began to brew as some members questioned the Order’s alliances with more aggressive factions, such as the Skyguard, whose tactics often clashed with the Order’s values. The Order is headquartered in Elburh, where its central fortress, the Sanctum of Light, serves as both a training ground and a holy site. Its leadership council, the Silver Council, oversees its operations across Aranor, ensuring that its members uphold the values of justice and protection. Today, the Order of the Silver Flame remains a symbol of hope and resilience. Though they face growing challenges from external threats and internal divisions, their commitment to defending the weak and maintaining order is unwavering.
The Silent Quill
Scholars and wizards dedicated to Mara, the Weaver of Fate, operate within the Silent Quill. They believe in studying the world’s mysteries and safeguarding ancient texts, knowledge, and relics. Based in Donimroth, the Silent Quill’s library is considered the largest in Aranor, rumored to hold secrets of the Architects themselves. The Silent Quill was established during the Age of the Architects as an order of scholars dedicated to preserving knowledge. They worked closely with the Architects, documenting their creations and studying the leylines. When the Sundering War began, the Silent Quill shifted its focus to safeguarding this knowledge, hiding artifacts and texts to prevent them from falling into Tarnum’s hands. During the Era of Rebirth, the Silent Quill became instrumental in restoring lost knowledge. They reopened libraries and universities, training new generations of scholars and mages. Their headquarters in Satun became the most extensive repository of knowledge in Aranor, attracting researchers from across the land. The Quill’s neutrality has often put them at odds with other factions. During the Age of Expansion, they were accused of hoarding knowledge that could be used to aid settlers and armies. In response, the Quill implemented the Doctrine of Preservation, which limited access to dangerous artifacts and restricted the use of certain magics. Today, the Silent Quill continues its mission, though it faces increasing pressure from factions like the Azure Order and the Seekers of the Divine Spark, who demand greater access to its archives. Despite these challenges, the Silent Quill remains one of the most respected and enigmatic organizations in Aranor.
The Guild of Shadows
Worshipers of Lyssara, the Mistress of Shadows, the Guild of Shadows operates as Aranor’s most prominent thieves’ guild. Based in Thralash, they perform services such as espionage, smuggling, and sabotage. They view their work as an art and uphold a code of honor among thieves. The Guild of Shadows is an infamous network of thieves, spies, and assassins whose origins date back to the Sundering War. Initially formed as a resistance group operating in Tarnum’s occupied territories, the Guild evolved into a secretive organization that thrived in the chaos of post-war Aranor. Their expertise in covert operations made them invaluable to both rulers and criminals alike. During the Era of Rebirth, the Guild of Shadows expanded its operations, establishing cells in every major city. They became masters of manipulation, infiltrating courts, guilds, and religious orders to gather information and influence decisions. Their leadership, known only as the, the Council of Veils, remains enigmatic figures whose identities are fiercely guarded. The Guild played a pivotal role during the Age of Expansion, often acting as intermediaries between warring factions. Their ability to operate undetected allowed them to broker deals, sabotage enemies, and retrieve artifacts from heavily guarded ruins. However, their services came at a steep price, and their willingness to work for the highest bidder earned them many enemies. Despite their reputation as criminals, the Guild maintains a strict code of conduct. Members are forbidden from betraying the Guild or harming innocents unnecessarily. Those who break these rules are hunted down by the Nightblades, elite enforcers tasked with maintaining order within the organization. Today, the Guild of Shadows is both feared and respected across Aranor. Their motives remain a mystery, but their influence is undeniable. Whether they are heroes or villains depends entirely on who hires them—and what price they are willing to pay.
The League of Artisans
The League of Artisans is a guild of craftsmen, blacksmiths, inventors, and merchants dedicated to Thalos, the Shaper of Fire and Forge. With headquarters in Donimroth, the League oversees trade routes, sponsors apprenticeships, and hosts annual fairs to showcase new inventions. The League of Artisans was founded in Donimroth during the early Era of Rebirth, emerging as a coalition of craftsmen and inventors dedicated to revitalizing Aranor through technological and magical innovation. Initially, the League was formed out of necessity, as towns and cities required skilled artisans to rebuild infrastructure and craft tools for survival. As their influence grew, the League evolved into a structured guild that emphasized collaboration and mastery. During its early years, the League worked closely with the Silent Quill to recover lost techniques from the Sundering War. These efforts led to the rediscovery of leyline-infused crafting, allowing artisans to create powerful enchanted items. The League’s greatest triumph during this time was the restoration of Thalos’s Eternal Forge, an artifact said to be blessed by the god himself. As the Age of Expansion began, the League took on a more ambitious role. They established trade routes across Aranor, ensuring that even the most remote settlements could benefit from their innovations. However, their rapid expansion caused tensions with the Circle of Eryndor, as the League’s mining and resource-gathering operations were seen as threats to the natural world. Over time, internal factions formed within the League. The Guild of Progress, a subgroup, championed the use of industrial methods to increase production, while the Traditionists sought to preserve artisanal craftsmanship. This ideological divide sometimes led to conflicts within the League, though its overall mission remained unchanged: to improve the lives of Aranor’s people through innovation. Today, the League of Artisans is one of the most powerful economic forces in Aranor. Their annual Craftsman’s Summit draws inventors and artisans from across the land, displaying new creations and fostering collaboration. However, their growing ambitions have also made them a target for thieves, saboteurs, and rival factions.
The Circle of Eryndor
Followers of Eryndor, the Keeper of the Wilds, this druidic circle preserves the balance of nature and opposes exploitation of the land. Based in the forests near Threigrove, they frequently clash with those who threaten the wilderness, including miners, loggers, and expansionist nobles. The Circle of Eryndor was founded by the first druids who claimed to hear the whispers of Eryndor, the Keeper of the Wilds, during the Age of the Architects. They believed their mission was to protect the balance between civilization and nature, ensuring the wild places of Aranor were preserved against exploitation. The Circle initially operated in harmony with the Architects, serving as stewards of the natural world. When the Sundering War erupted, the Circle was thrust into conflict. The corrupted leylines tainted forests and rivers, and entire regions became desolate wastelands. The druids fought valiantly to purify these areas, often sacrificing their lives in the process. Their greatest victory was the preservation of the Weeping Tree, a sacred site said to hold a fragment of Eryndor’s divine essence. During the Era of Rebirth, the Circle expanded its influence, becoming both protectors and advisors to emerging settlements. They negotiated treaties with settlers, ensuring that expansion would not come at the cost of the wilds. However, their growing power also led to friction with groups like the League of Artisans, whose innovations often conflicted with the Circle’s principles. By the Age of Expansion, the Circle had split into factions, with some advocating for cooperation with civilization, while others adopted a more militant stance. These radicals, known as the Wildfangs, believed that civilization was inherently destructive and began sabotaging settlements encroaching on protected lands. This internal division has weakened the Circle’s unity, though its influence remains strong in regions like Wyndalan. The Circle of Eryndor remains a powerful force in Aranor, revered for their mastery of nature magic and their ability to commune with the wilds. They continue to stand as guardians of the natural world, even as their unity is tested by the ever-growing reach of civilization.
The Azure Order
A wizardly order sanctioned by the rulers of Satun, the Azure Order is responsible for regulating magical practices and ensuring that dangerous magics do not threaten Aranor’s stability. They train mages, conduct research, and monitor leyline activity, ensuring that only approved magic is practiced. The Azure Order was established in Satun during the late Era of Rebirth as a response to the chaotic flux of magic left in the wake of the Sundering. Its founders were a group of powerful wizards and scholars who sought to regulate the use of leyline magic and prevent further disasters. The Order quickly became a governing body for all magical practices, issuing strict guidelines and licensing for spellcasters. During its early years, the Azure Order focused on researching the leylines to understand and stabilize their influence. This led to the creation of Nexus Nodes, enchanted devices that could control leyline surges and prevent magical catastrophes. The Order’s work earned them the respect of many, but also the suspicion of those who viewed their growing power as dangerous. As the Age of Expansion progressed, the Azure Order extended its influence beyond Satun, establishing outposts in major cities and requiring all mages to register with them. This expansion caused friction with the Silent Quill, who accused the Order of hoarding magical knowledge and restricting academic freedom. The two organizations have maintained an uneasy truce, though tensions remain high. The Azure Order’s greatest challenge came during the Storm of Resonance, a leyline eruption that caused wild magic storms across Aranor. The Order’s swift response saved countless lives and cemented their authority as the foremost magical organization. However, their methods, which often involved sacrificing unstable artifacts, drew criticism from factions like the Seekers of the Divine Spark. Today, the Azure Order continues to govern the use of magic in Aranor. While their expertise is unmatched, their authoritarian approach has made them many enemies, including rogue sorcerers and independent magical academies. Their goal is to unlock the full potential of the leylines, but whether this will lead to salvation or ruin remains to be seen.
The Seekers of the Divine Spark
This order of researchers, archaeologists, and magic-users is fascinated by Aranor’s ancient history, particularly the lost civilization of the Architects. They travel the continent, uncovering ruins and studying leyline convergence points. Many of their discoveries are funded by the Silent Quill. The Seekers of the Divine Spark were established during the late Age of Rebirth as an academic and exploratory society dedicated to uncovering the secrets of the Architects. Founded by the renowned scholar Lyra Sunfire, the Seekers believe that understanding the Architects’ legacy is key to ensuring Aranor’s future. Their work focuses on exploring ancient ruins, deciphering lost texts, and studying leyline nexuses. In their early years, the Seekers operated as an offshoot of the Silent Quill, but their focus on practical exploration set them apart. Unlike the Quill, which prioritized preservation, the Seekers aimed to actively use their discoveries to advance Aranor’s knowledge and technology. This led to friction between the two organizations, with the Quill accusing the Seekers of recklessness. During the Age of Expansion, the Seekers became a prominent force in Aranor. They funded expeditions to uncharted territories, discovering artifacts and ruins that shed light on the Architects’ mysterious downfall. Their most significant discovery was the Shard of Lumina, a fragment of an ancient leyline reactor believed to have powered the Sky Gate. The Shard now resides in the Seekers’ headquarters in Satun, where it fuels ongoing research. However, the Seekers’ pursuits have not been without controversy. Their willingness to experiment with unstable artifacts has resulted in catastrophic accidents, including the Leyline Rupture of Eldrith Vale, which rendered an entire region uninhabitable. This has led to calls for stricter regulation of their activities, particularly from the Azure Order. Despite these setbacks, the Seekers remain undeterred. Their work continues to push the boundaries of Aranor’s understanding of magic, and many believe that their efforts will one day unlock the secrets of the Architects, revealing the true nature of the Divine Spark they seek.
The Stormborn Corsairs
: This infamous faction of pirates and privateers follows Aeris, the Stormbringer, and operates primarily in the Silver Sea. Known for their swift ships and unpredictable raids, the Stormborn Corsairs believe they are blessed by Aeris to claim whatever they can take from the waves. They operate with their own code and sometimes serve as mercenaries. The Stormborn Corsairs were founded during the Age of Rebirth, emerging from scattered pirate clans that roamed the Silver Sea. Originally a loose confederation of raiders, smugglers, and mercenaries, the Corsairs were unified under the leadership of Captain Eryx Stormborn, a charismatic sailor who claimed to receive visions from Aeris, the Stormbringer. The Corsairs began to see themselves not just as pirates but as agents of Aeris’s will, bringing both chaos and change to Aranor. During the early years, the Corsairs preyed on coastal settlements and merchant fleets, becoming a scourge on the Silver Sea. However, Captain Eryx introduced a strict code of conduct that distinguished them from common bandits. The Code of the Tides forbade unnecessary cruelty, ensured fair distribution of plunder, and upheld the Corsairs’ reputation as protectors of freedom. Those who violated the code were cast into the sea during the Trial of the Storm. By the Age of Expansion, the Corsairs had grown into a powerful naval force. Their mastery of the sea allowed them to dominate trade routes, both as raiders and as mercenaries for hire. They played a pivotal role in defending coastal towns from sea monsters, earning the gratitude of many communities despite their piratical ways. Their base, Tempest Haven, is a floating fortress hidden within a perpetual storm, making it nearly impossible to find without their guidance. The Corsairs are deeply religious, venerating Aeris as their patron god. Their ships are adorned with symbols of the storm, and their captains often perform rituals to invoke Aeris’s favor before setting sail. However, their devotion has also led to conflict with the Azure Order, who accuse the Corsairs of exploiting forbidden weather magic. Today, the Stormborn Corsairs are both feared and admired across Aranor. Their loyalty lies with Aeris and the sea, and while they can be ruthless in their dealings, they are also known for their honor and willingness to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
The Cult of the Resplendent Dawn
A benevolent religious organization dedicated to Alara, the Dawnmother, the Cult of the Resplendent Dawn is a network of healers, priests, and missionaries. They provide healing, food, and shelter to those in need and are known to oppose oppressive regimes. Temples of the Resplendent Dawn are found in almost every major settlement, welcoming all in need of solace. The Cult of the Resplendent Dawn traces its origins to the early days of the Age of Rebirth when the world of Aranor was still reeling from the devastation of the Sundering War. Founded by a small group of survivors who claimed to have received divine visions from Alara, the Dawnmother, the cult began as a beacon of hope amid the chaos. These early disciples, led by the charismatic healer Elysia Dawnsong, traveled across the scarred lands, offering healing, food, and guidance to those struggling to rebuild. Their acts of kindness and unwavering faith in Alara’s light drew followers from all levels of society, transforming the group from a small band of wanderers into a growing movement. During the late Age of Rebirth, the Cult expanded rapidly, establishing temples and sanctuaries in major settlements such as Donimroth, Wyndalan, and Satun. These temples served as places of healing and sanctuary, where the sick and destitute could find comfort and care. The Cult’s doctrine emphasized compassion, the sanctity of life, and the power of hope to overcome despair. Their reputation grew as they actively opposed tyrannical rulers and oppressive regimes, often risking their lives to shelter refugees and resist injustice. Elysia herself became a legendary figure, remembered for her selflessness and the miracles she performed in Alara’s name. As the Age of Expansion dawned, the Cult faced new challenges. With settlements spreading into uncharted territories, they sent missionaries to accompany pioneers, ensuring that compassion and support reached even the most remote regions. However, their expansion also brought them into conflict with those who rejected their ideals. Tyrannical leaders viewed the Cult as a threat to their power, while necromancers and practitioners of dark magic saw them as enemies of their craft. The Cult’s opposition to the Cult of the Obsidian Order and other necromantic factions solidified its role as a defender of life against the encroaching forces of death and corruption. Internally, the Cult has experienced its own struggles over the centuries. Some members have questioned whether their mission should remain purely passive or if they should take a more active role in opposing injustice and destruction. This ideological divide led to the formation of the Radiant Guard, a militant wing of the Cult dedicated to directly confronting tyrants and necromancers. While controversial among the more traditional members, the Radiant Guard has been instrumental in protecting temples and vulnerable communities from harm. Today, the Cult of the Resplendent Dawn remains one of the most widely respected religious organizations in Aranor. Their network of temples continues to provide healing, food, and solace to the needy, while their priests and healers carry Alara’s light into the darkest corners of the land. Though they face opposition from forces of tyranny and darkness, the Cult’s unwavering faith in the Dawnmother and their commitment to compassion ensure that they remain a guiding light in a world still recovering from its haunted past.
The Obsidian Order
A cult devoted to Tarnum, the Silent King, the Obsidian Order believes in defying death to gain immortality and power. Members include necromancers, undead warlords, and power-hungry individuals who aim to raise an army of the undead. Their main base is rumored to be in Roude. The Obsidian Order traces its roots to the Sundering War, where Tarnum's most loyal disciples swore an eternal oath to his cause. Though the Silent King was defeated, his most devout followers preserved his teachings and began spreading his dark doctrine in secret. They believed Tarnum would rise again, ushering in an era where death was conquered, and all mortal limitations were transcended. During the Era of Rebirth, the Order operated in shadows, infiltrating noble courts, magical academies, and rural villages. They amassed power by exploiting fear, promising eternal life and power to those willing to embrace necromancy. The Order’s influence grew rapidly, particularly in the Roude Wastes, where corrupted leylines gave them an unholy advantage. Several key cities fell to their manipulation, only to be reclaimed by joint efforts from the Wardens of the Veil and the Order of the Silver Flame. The Order’s doctrine evolved over the centuries, blending Tarnum’s teachings with elements of other faiths to lure converts. They began emphasizing the concept of “ascension,” where undead transformation was portrayed not as a curse, but as a divine gift. Their efforts culminated in the Revenant Uprising, where the Order openly waged war on Elburh and nearly succeeded in resurrecting Tarnum’s spirit. By the Age of Expansion, the Order had fractured into splinter cells, with each faction vying for control of ancient ruins and leyline nexuses. Their leaders, known as the Ember Priests, work tirelessly to uncover Tarnum’s greatest relics. Some are said to be experimenting with merging leyline magic with necromancy, creating even more dangerous forms of undead. The Order remains one of the greatest threats to Aranor’s stability. Their members are skilled infiltrators, often disguised as loyal citizens or scholars. Despite the best efforts of the Wardens, the Order’s reach extends into every corner of the land, and many fear that Tarnum’s return is not a question of if, but when.