A Tale of Twins

The world centers on Terre Aquin (the North) and Terre Fluime (the South). Thousands of years ago, the southern land of Terre Fluime—once lush and magical—was destroyed after its kings summoned evil powers, creating “The Price,” a wasteland filled with monsters. Terre Aquin, more stable and agricultural, has rebuilt society under King Aeolo, who now seeks to reclaim the southern lands. The setting blends low-to-mid magic (feared and restricted except for monks) with medieval-to-early-industrial technology, especially among dwarves in the underground city of Ucca, where “magic and science are indistinguishable.” The world’s defining tension lies between religion, prophecy, and suppressed magic—anchored by the possible return of the demon-dragon Krokoa. Overall: The return of Krokoa is not completely unexpected. Just as the gods are aware, some mortals and demons themselves know of the fate that hangs in balance in Terre Acquin. Though before we get into the prophecy, who are the players and what is the story? Overall plot of the campaign:Thousands of years ago, colonizers appeared on the shores of Terre Fluime. They played the different factions of the Native dragonborn against one another, and enslaved the rest of the dragonborn. After enslaving them, they built a glorious city and traveled further up north, to a wild untamed and ancient land. This is Terre Acquin - the land of waters and home to the long dead Ancient Elves. Up north they transformed the old forest into farmland, built a sister city, and established the land of twins. The most powerful families moved up North and while the population of humans was low in Terre Fliume the dragonborn revolted and cut off trade with Terre Acquin. Now, the Dragonborn reside in the City of Krokoa, trading with others while a standing army sits on their beaches, and a monster laden wasteland protects them from the Northerners. Though they are preparing to reclaim this land, and the high priests are planning on summoning the ancient demon Krokoa from his slumber to destroy the north so that they may take the land and spill the blood of those who nearly destroyed them all. Up North, King Aeolo is being called by his god to lead his army south, to reclaim a land beset by evil magic and monsters, and to establish trade with the rest of the world. Little does he know of the bustling society that already lives there. The dragonborn that weren’t slaughtered in retribution against the southerner’s uprising fled to the mountains where they built their own society amongst the Dwarves. They eventually became craftspeople and reintegrated with the humans after thousands of years. King Aeolo has a vast army, and as he prepares to lead it south come spring he is looking wherever he can find it for more help.

Terre Aquin – Northern kingdom of farmland, rivers, and forests. Ruled from the capital Valley Throne. It’s isolated by mountain ranges to the north and cliffs to the east. Subregions include: Choke Canyons – Badlands infested with bandits and monsters. Cyricwood – A dark forest spawning evil creatures. Mount Bahamut – Formerly Mount Claw, renamed by King Aeolo. Terre Fluime – The southern continent, now corrupted and fragmented (“The Price”). Once the home of the Dragonborn. Ucca – Underground dwarven kingdom beneath western mountains, cohabited peacefully with Dragonborn. Krokoa (City) – The dragonborn stronghold in the south, guarded by armies and wasteland. The Elsewhere / Fae Realm – An otherworld of rivers, lakes, and eternal autumn forests, tied to the Firbolg and centaurs.

Humans dominate Terre Aquin politically and militarily, though divided by noble houses (Wheatflow, Ashglade, Serpentwind, Laughingsteel). Dragonborn – Once enslaved by humans, now independent in Ucca and Krokoa. Organized by clans: Yergich (entertainers), Toghner (workers), Vachar (traders), Haytni (leaders). Dwarves (Uccan) – Inventive, communal, and scientifically magical. They value creativity and art above conquest. Elves – Ancient, largely extinct; their ruins remain in Terre Aquin. Tieflings – Feared and persecuted due to demonic heritage (e.g., Kyndha). Firbolg & Centaurs – Forest races paying tribute to the Fae; tied to the Elsewhere. Genasi (Omi) – Magical beings connected to ancient spirits and the prophecy.

King Aeolo’s Crusade South – Aeolo prepares to lead a massive army to reclaim the southern lands and reopen trade. Dragonborn Revolt & Summoning of Krokoa – The southern Dragonborn plan to resurrect the demon-dragon Krokoa to destroy Aeolo’s armies and reclaim their homeland. Religious Manipulation – Celestial and demonic entities (Sarith, Orestes, Ahgar) influence mortal events through prophecy and temptation. Underground Crime – The Obsidian Cloth, led by Jagha (a half-orc warlock), secretly controls Valley Throne’s black market and may betray the crown. Magic vs. Order – While magic is restricted in Terre Aquin, it’s central to both the dwarves’ way of life and the prophecy’s unfolding.

Magic is distrusted but necessary because of the Price. The Monks of Moradin research “safe” healing and crafting magic. Other forms of magic are considered dangerous remnants of The Price. Key divine and infernal forces: Orestes – A prophet-turned-deity who sealed Krokoa and wrote the prophecy that drives current events. Sarith – Lawful evil celestial (Lilith-inspired) who seeks revenge on Krokoa. Krokoa – Ancient demon-dragon imprisoned beneath Terre Fluime, now worshipped by southern Dragonborn. Ahgar – Son of Sarith and Krokoa; manipulates descendants to fulfill the prophecy. Local Gods – Moradin (creation), Tempus (war), Kassuth (fire), Silvanus (nature), Sune (love), Bahamut (justice).

The Fae realm (Elsewhere) overlaps with the mortal plane cyclically. When night falls, the Elsewhere’s lake becomes the God’s Pit in Terre Fluime. Fiends and celestials (e.g., Sarith, Orestes, Ahgar) manipulate mortals across planes. Omi’s spirit connection and the genie Aja demonstrate the link between elemental, fey, and infernal realms.

Age of the Ancients – Rule of the Elves and early magic. Age of Colonization – Humans conquer Dragonborn lands and enslave them. The Price – The magical cataclysm that destroyed Terre Fluime. Reformation – Rise of Terre Aquin under kings and the Monks of Moradin. Present Era – Prophecies resurface, Krokoa stirs, and Aeolo prepares for war. Remnants: elven ruins, the cursed south, and ancient amulets tied to Orestes’s prophecies.

erre Aquin relies on farming and alchemy (grain, fish, potions). Ucca produces crafts, weaponry, and magical inventions, traded through Dragonborn intermediaries. Currency resembles standard gold/silver coinage. Trade routes are internal, with hopes of reopening southern commerce through Aeolo’s campaign. Obsidian Cloth maintains a thriving black market, controlling much of Valley Throne’s economy.

The Law and Underbelly of Valley Throne and Terre Aquin King Aeolo: KA was an orphan discovered by a military group during a mission into the Choke Canyons during the reign of the Twin Queens - two sisters who inherited the throne after their parents were assassinated. This was during a time when Orc groups and Bandits were raiding farm lands and it is thought that his parents were captured or murdered and the child was left for dead. He was sent to the Castle to work and he quickly proved himself to be a valuable warrior and good friend. His vision rarely strayed far from the needs of the realm and he became a hero of the people at 17 when he entered the Choke Canyons and single handedly brought back the heads of 20 bandits - proclaiming that he had avenged not a crime against his family, but a crime against his heart - the people of Terre Aquin. He was formally adopted by the Twin Queens as they took no lover nor had an heir. After their death KA took the throne and ruled justly, loved by the people. KA always felt drawn to magic and he is responsible for the urging of the monks to use it. During his expedition to Mt. Bahamut he was given a vision and new strength and prophecy to conquer the Price. He is willing to trust Sarith despite her magical origins because her focus seems as sharp as his and aligned with his plans. It helps that she knows what to say to him. She also promised him a child should they defeat Krakoa. The 8 Teeth of King Aeolo: The Teeth are King Aeolo’s must trusted advisors and protectors. Only some are known to the world yet they are feared, respected, and legendary. 1. The Wizard Maya: King Aeolo’s must trusted companion. Maya manages the leader of the underworld Jaghu under King Aeolo’s direction. Crime must be directed to keep the Jaw in shape and manage the people. Maya also practices and studies forms of destructive magic to design ways to brave the price. Maya’s understudy is Hideo – a weaker wizard. Maya is Neutral Evil and ultimately seeks power though is subservient to the King and willing to obey him as long as he brings her further power and knowledge. 2. The Canines – two fighters who always flank KA. a. Mako: A fighter experienced in Sword and Shield Combat. Drawn to younger men in his downtime and influenced by the promise of glory. b. Shanti: A quick and devilish fighter who uses daggers when up close and archery from afar. Considered largely emotionless, he is always enticed by a good hunt. 3. Aklio: KA’s main informant. A rogue who picks up secrets, rumors, and trouble throughout Valley Throne. Holds an item that allows them to polymorph (disguise self) at will. 4. Samuil: The General of the Jaw. A lawful neutral barbarian who lusts after power and battle. Enjoys his drink though it takes a trough to get him drunk. Always fights in the Winter Festival – often finding himself the Champion. Does not tolerate disrespect. 5. The Wise: Two of the most powerful Teeth who travel Terre Aquin together collecting Rumors and Information. They mostly communicate with KA remotely. a. Pap: A Famous Bard who is able to find her way into any home or situation in order to influence others and gather intel. b. Sheffa: A fearsome and durable fighter who travels in light armor and a dueling sword. (Maybe has a level in another magic wielding class). 6.Lord Colonel Huron: The military leader of Terre Aquin just under King Aeolo. Like most who find success as career soldiers, Huron comes from one of the wealthier families. Despite being a strategy genius he is also a kind and compassionate leader when not on the battlefield. He is tasked with training the army and preparing for the conquest through Choke Canyons and into the Price. While some see it as a strength - his weakness is the fondness he holds for his soldiers which at times may cloud his judgement in impassioned moments. (7.) Mastra: Lawful Good. The head Monk of Moradin. A Gifted Paladin (whose armor is magical) and Healer. Is untrusting of KA’s teeth though supports the Kingdom in ways to heal and promotes normalizing use of Magic. The Jaw: The Jaw is the guard of the city under the command of Samuil. Varied in their prejudice against the races, what links them is their obedience to Samuil. Though their leader may be swayed by a good story or drink if their actions seem too out of line. The Jaw have a good reputation across Terre Aquin. This is due to them having proper enemies and monsters to control as managed by Maya’s control over the organized crime of Terre Aquin. Military in Terre Aquin: Military Ranks: 2nd Lieutenant: Often a position held by farmers' sons and daughters when they first enter the military. They are often under the command of captains and are sent throughout Terre Aquin as scouting parties or to rout out small threats. 1st Lieutenant: The rank of the Jaw. Most common throughout Terre Aquin. They can be found in every town, city, and often villages. Bonded by their service they have a strong sense of culture and community. Tend to be made up of promising soldiers and lesser nobles’ children often find themselves beginning their military career here. Captain: After their tutelage under a retired major or Colonel many of the major noble’s children often begin their careers as captains, whether or not they last is another subject. This is the first role of major responsibilities in the military. Captains often control their unit - run military jails, camps, and other operations. Only the most talented and committed lieutenants can expect to be promoted into captains, once in this rank the likelihood of further promotion is more likely. Major: Those who excel as captains find their rank as majors. These are the main generals of the army. They are made up of older nobles and exceptional warriors. Because there are so few of them they each maintain protection and control over different areas of Terre Aquin. Colonel: A singular position who controls the broader strokes of military operation. The post reports directly to King Aeolo and acts under his supervision. The current Colonel is Lord Colonel Huron and he is posted in the southern military camp to oversee the training of the overflow of new recruits. Crime in Terre Aquin: The Obsidian Cloth: Led by the Evil Half-Orc Warlcok Jagha the Obisidian Cloth embraces those who do not fit within the law of Valley Throne. Due to their treatment in Terre Aquin – rather than their natural disposition – many members of the Cloth are non-humans. Although she answers to Maya, Jagha organizes larger operations in the city to her own accord. The Obsidian Cloth maintains much of the economy of Valley Throne and their stronghold is in the city’s island. They are responsible for providing the competition for the Winter Festival though the community thinks this to be the King’s work. The Obsidian Cloth is a secret organization, known only to its members and the King himself. Jagha: Jagha’s power extends beyond Valley Throne and she is known to make conquests outside of the city to capture monsters, employ ruthless cutthroats. What Maya does not know is that she is often bidden by her Demonic Patron to build her own leadership and organization in Choke Canyons to overthrow the army as they pass through on their trek toward the Price. Her goal is to take control of the army and be the one who takes the glory for conquering the Price. She is swayed though, by the promise from KA himself, to be the master of trade and commerce once establishments are settled down South. Nobility: The Noble Houses of Terre Acquin function as the workforce, government, and pride of the nation. Sons and Daughters of nobility are most often sent to build estates and farms, or are drafted into the military. If the son or daughter of nobility does not serve the nation, they are often seen as a disgrace. Older successful Nobles function as KA’s advisory committees though if you join a position in the Castle you forfeit your Noble name and are not allowed to marry through the noble houses. If a noble presents their son or daughter to the ruler they must forfeit their house name regardless of whether or not the ruler chooses to marry them. Major Houses: Wheatflow (Grain with a sun): They claim to be the first settlers of Terre Aquin. For this they are some of the snobbiest of the houses. Given their rural roots they are also very giving to the people even though they look down on them Their Daughter Phroenia runs the Alchemy Guild. Ashglade (Two Swords): A military family. Their daughter Victoria runs the barracks and they primed their youngest daughter Beatrix to be presented to King Aeolo. They trained her in all things ladylike rather than militaristic, though before she came of age she publicly denounced her family name as she felt manipulated. She then found independence in her skills and now runs the artisan guild. Serpentwind (A snake and a wolf): House Serpentwind has always focused on community service rather than military. When their son began having prophetic dreams as a child they were eager to get him involved with either the monks or the church. They ultimately placed him in the church as they wanted him in the city due to his wild nature. He quickly became the high priest due to his visions though is dying to escape. Laughingsteel: (Armor with a bear): Lord Laughingsteel is also the Dockmaster. He never wanted to retire like most nobles and will work till he dies. His son, Ace on the other hand, has never been known to work a day in his life and is known to spend large amounts of money out and about.

Krokoa – Imprisoned dragon-demon; central threat to the world. Sarith – Demon queen seeking vengeance and balance. Jagha – Half-orc warlock leading the Obsidian Cloth. Ahgar – Incites mortals to fulfill the dark prophecy. The Price – Land crawling with abominations, remnants of magical catastrophe. The Fae Guardian – Neutral force maintaining the Elsewhere’s barrier through mortal sacrifice.