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…		…
3	=begin comment	3	=begin comment
4		4
5	This is the source for some of the books in crossfire, at least, it should become one.	5	This is the source for some of the books in crossfire, at least, it should become one.
6		6
7	Authors:	7	Authors:
		8
8	Gorlin <gorlin@freibier.htu.tuwien.ac.at>	9	Gorlin <gorlin@freibier.htu.tuwien.ac.at>
9	Mark Wedel <mwedel@scruznet.com>	10	Mark Wedel <mwedel@scruznet.com>
10	Marc Lehmann <crossfire@schmorp.de>	11	Marc Lehmann <crossfire@schmorp.de>
11	The Crossfire Wiki	12	Lalo Martins <lalo.martins@gmail.com>
		13	Yann Chachkoff <yann.chachkoff@mailandnews.com>
		14	Gros
		15
		16	many stories taken from unknown authors at The Crossfire Wiki
		17	http://wiki.metalforge.net/
12		18
13	Each =head1 should become its own book.	19	Each =head1 should become its own book.
14		20
15	=end comment	21	=end comment
16		22
…		…
250		256
251	Around 350 EK: The Story of the Fourth Mariner is written by an unknown author.	257	Around 350 EK: The Story of the Fourth Mariner is written by an unknown author.
252		258
253	435 EK: Colony of Skorn Founded. It would eventualy become the city of Scorn.	259	435 EK: Colony of Skorn Founded. It would eventualy become the city of Scorn.
254		260
255	711 EK: The outpost of Heaven’s Gate is founded.	261	711 EK: The outpost of Heaven's Gate is founded.
256		262
257	=head2 Volume II: Second Millenia EK	263	=head2 Volume II: Second Millenia EK
258		264
259	1223 EK: Ekkis the Drunk leads a disastrous crusade against the Sirens in the southern seas.	265	1223 EK: Ekkis the Drunk leads a disastrous crusade against the Sirens in the southern seas.
260		266
…		…
264		270
265	2287 EK: Battle of Tered - The Kingdom of the Masts is dismantled by Navar.	271	2287 EK: Battle of Tered - The Kingdom of the Masts is dismantled by Navar.
266		272
267	2567 EK: Fernast Fergono, exiled from Navar, leads a famous exploration expedition in the south-east seas.	273	2567 EK: Fernast Fergono, exiled from Navar, leads a famous exploration expedition in the south-east seas.
268		274
269	2765 EK: The city of Heaven’s Gate is burned by pirates.	275	2765 EK: The city of Heaven's Gate is burned by pirates.
270		276
271	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.	277	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.
272		278
273	=head2 Volume IV: Fourth Millenia EK	279	=head2 Volume IV: Fourth Millenia EK
274		280
…		…
292		298
293	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.	299	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.
294		300
295	=head2 Volume VI: Sixth Millenia EK	301	=head2 Volume VI: Sixth Millenia EK
296		302
297	5524 EK: The Meteomage Grab of Ledh fails an experiment, making the weather mad for a while, an event remembered as “The Weather Madness”.	303	5524 EK: The Meteomage Grab of Ledh fails an experiment, making the weather mad for a while, an event remembered as "The Weather Madness".
298		304
299	Late LVIth Century EK: The Great Schism between the Simplifists led by Mish the Toon and the Stabilists: The Sedition Wars.	305	Late LVIth Century EK: The Great Schism between the Simplifists led by Mish the Toon and the Stabilists: The Sedition Wars.
300		306
301	5581 EK: Battle of the Glowing Crystal: the Order of the Careful Coders is disbanded.	307	5581 EK: Battle of the Glowing Crystal: the Order of the Careful Coders is disbanded.
302		308
303	5598 EK: The Simplifists exile themselves into the Pocket Dimension of Daï-Moh-Nî, “The World With a Future”, in Ancient Daigojij Language.	309	5598 EK: The Simplifists exile themselves into the Pocket Dimension of Daï-Moh-Nî, "The World With a Future", in Ancient Daigojij Language.
304		310
305	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.	311	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.
306		312
307	=head2 Volume VII: Seventh Millenia EK	313	=head2 Volume VII: Seventh Millenia EK
308		314
…		…
321	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.	327	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.
322		328
323	=head2 Volume IX: Ninth Millenia EK	329	=head2 Volume IX: Ninth Millenia EK
324		330
325	8009 EK: Euthville is destroyed.	331	8009 EK: Euthville is destroyed.
		332
		333
		334	=head1 The Sultanate of Darcap
		335
		336	Isolated from the rest of the region by an extensive mountain range to the
		337	south, and possessing a massive natural harbour, Darcap is a small, but
		338	easily defensible town, dominated by a pair of powerful guilds. The town
		339	is also noted for its circus, whose reputation draws visitors from all
		340	over the world.
		341
		342
		343	=head1 Santo Dominion
		344
		345	Santo Dominion sits in a small bay to the north of Scorn. It is an
		346	important port of call for ships travelling to and from Scorn and is
		347	also somewhat famous for its Opera and its Litle House of Horrors, two
		348	magnificent cultural buildings you would not expect in so small a town as
		349	Santo Dominion.
326		350
327		351
328	=head1 Euthville History	352	=head1 Euthville History
329		353
330	The Ruins of Euthville can be found just off the Imperial Highway north of	354	The Ruins of Euthville can be found just off the Imperial Highway north of
…		…
335	The Codex Skudensis tells that Euthville was founded by the Euthanasia the	359	The Codex Skudensis tells that Euthville was founded by the Euthanasia the
336	Builder, hence its name.	360	Builder, hence its name.
337		361
338	=head2 Past and Destruction	362	=head2 Past and Destruction
339		363
340	Ah, Euthville - “City of the Pearl”, in Old Hemdalite, has indeed a	364	Ah, Euthville - "City of the Pearl", in Old Hemdalite, has indeed a
341	rather sad story!!	365	rather sad story!!
342		366
343	If you went there about half a millenia ago, you’d have seen something	367	If you went there about half a millenia ago, you'd have seen something
344	very different than the field of haunted ruins it has since become. It	368	very different than the field of haunted ruins it has since become. It
345	was initially founded by a handful of industrious, clever dwarves, that	369	was initially founded by a handful of industrious, clever dwarves, that
346	had found a mystical way to locate fields of precious Karitta, the famous	370	had found a mystical way to locate fields of precious Karitta, the famous
347	metal that is as transparent as a pearl of the North Sea, yet as strong as	371	metal that is as transparent as a pearl of the North Sea, yet as strong as
348	the best irons of Navar.	372	the best irons of Navar.
349		373
350	And thus, they found at the location of Euthville a lot of that raw metal,	374	And thus, they found at the location of Euthville a lot of that raw metal,
351	which quickly made the city one of the richest of all. And for a long	375	which quickly made the city one of the richest of all. And for a long
352	time, it stayed so. The inhabitants of Euthville weren’t interested by	376	time, it stayed so. The inhabitants of Euthville weren't interested by
353	war, work, or anything else too tiresome - they preferred to pay somebody	377	war, work, or anything else too tiresome - they preferred to pay somebody
354	else to do all of this. And with the advanced technical knowledge bring by	378	else to do all of this. And with the advanced technical knowledge bring by
355	the dwarves, working was less and less an issue for them.	379	the dwarves, working was less and less an issue for them.
356		380
357	Yet yhey were facing a problem. All their devices, all their machineries,	381	Yet yhey were facing a problem. All their devices, all their machineries,
358	all their tricks to cheat with nature required energy. Lots of	382	all their tricks to cheat with nature required energy. Lots of
359	energy. They relied first on the strength of horses and donkeys, but it	383	energy. They relied first on the strength of horses and donkeys, but it
360	wasn’t enough. Then, they tamed the dangerous Wyverns of Kal-Durandasi,	384	wasn't enough. Then, they tamed the dangerous Wyverns of Kal-Durandasi,
361	so that the hot lizards would provide them with the full force of their	385	so that the hot lizards would provide them with the full force of their
362	steamy breath. But soon, it wasn’t enough. They also used the hidden	386	steamy breath. But soon, it wasn't enough. They also used the hidden
363	power provided by the Faeries of the Tarniska river, building a dam, so	387	power provided by the Faeries of the Tarniska river, building a dam, so
364	that they could put the invisible horses of water that the sylphids are	388	that they could put the invisible horses of water that the sylphids are
365	rumored to breed in use.	389	rumored to breed in use.
366		390
367	But even so, their hunger for power wasn’t satisfied, and became an	391	But even so, their hunger for power wasn't satisfied, and became an
368	increasing nuisance for them. So, the Commander of Euthville (which was,	392	increasing nuisance for them. So, the Commander of Euthville (which was,
369	more or less, the equivalent to our King at Scorn), finally decided to	393	more or less, the equivalent to our King at Scorn), finally decided to
370	send messengers across the whole Continent, calling the world for a	394	send messengers across the whole Continent, calling the world for a
371	challenge. Whoever would be able to fulfill the needs of Euthvillians of	395	challenge. Whoever would be able to fulfill the needs of Euthvillians of
372	energy would become the new Commander, thus the ruler of the richest city	396	energy would become the new Commander, thus the ruler of the richest city
…		…
374		398
375	Many answered the call, of course, and many failed. Wind, Sun, Stars, even	399	Many answered the call, of course, and many failed. Wind, Sun, Stars, even
376	dwarven beer were proposed, but nothing seemed to be enough. For years,	400	dwarven beer were proposed, but nothing seemed to be enough. For years,
377	wizards tried. And failed.	401	wizards tried. And failed.
378		402
379	And then came a boy. He wasn’t a wizard, nor pretended to be one. He was	403	And then came a boy. He wasn't a wizard, nor pretended to be one. He was
380	young, but the story didn’t kept the record of his name, and some now	404	young, but the story didn't kept the record of his name, and some now
381	think it is because he was damned. Who knows? The Boy sat in the middle	405	think it is because he was damned. Who knows? The Boy sat in the middle
382	of the city, playing with his flute, laughing whenever he saw one of the	406	of the city, playing with his flute, laughing whenever he saw one of the
383	demonstrations the powerful wizards and engineers failing again and again.	407	demonstrations the powerful wizards and engineers failing again and again.
384		408
385	After several days, the Commander noticed the Boy, and said: “who	409	After several days, the Commander noticed the Boy, and said: "who
386	are you to laugh, you, who has only a flute ?” “I have only a	410	are you to laugh, you, who has only a flute ?" "I have only a
387	flute for sure - but there’s more in my simple pipe than in those	411	flute for sure - but there's more in my simple pipe than in those
388	legions of wizards.” “Really ?” said the Commander, half-laughing,	412	legions of wizards." "Really ?" said the Commander, half-laughing,
389	half-curious, “so you think you can solve my challenge ?”	413	half-curious, "so you think you can solve my challenge ?"
390		414
391	The Boy smiled. “Not only I can, but I shall - and my price will be	415	The Boy smiled. "Not only I can, but I shall - and my price will be
392	quite acceptable to give you the energy you need.” “And that would	416	quite acceptable to give you the energy you need." "And that would
393	be...?” - “A new pipe.” came the reply “That one is becoming	417	be...?" - "A new pipe." came the reply "That one is becoming
394	old.” “Agree, you have your chance.”	418	old." "Agree, you have your chance."
395		419
396	The Boy then started to play an amused melody. It sounded like an	420	The Boy then started to play an amused melody. It sounded like an
397	invitation to a great feast, the opening of a meeting where everybody was	421	invitation to a great feast, the opening of a meeting where everybody was
398	invited. And then came from earth itself sounds of steps, climbing from	422	invited. And then came from earth itself sounds of steps, climbing from
399	the depth. The fountain that stood in the middle of the place crumbled,	423	the depth. The fountain that stood in the middle of the place crumbled,
400	leaving a great hole from which flames emerged. But the fire seemed to	424	leaving a great hole from which flames emerged. But the fire seemed to
401	dance at the rythm of the music itself.	425	dance at the rythm of the music itself.
402		426
403	The Boy then said to the Commander: “As long as you keep playing for	427	The Boy then said to the Commander: "As long as you keep playing for
404	the Demons there, at least 23 hours each day, you’ll get them to make	428	the Demons there, at least 23 hours each day, you'll get them to make
405	whatever you need.” And he gave them the score, took a brand new silver	429	whatever you need." And he gave them the score, took a brand new silver
406	flute, and left, and never was seen again at Euthville.	430	flute, and left, and never was seen again at Euthville.
407		431
408	At first, things seemed fine, and the Commander couldn’t believe his	432	At first, things seemed fine, and the Commander couldn't believe his
409	luck, as a pipe was a feeble price to pay for such a powerful recipe of	433	luck, as a pipe was a feeble price to pay for such a powerful recipe of
410	prosperity. Who wouldn’t want to tame the Demons themselves? Quickly,	434	prosperity. Who wouldn't want to tame the Demons themselves? Quickly,
411	though, it appeared obvious that, for enough demons to be there, that	435	though, it appeared obvious that, for enough demons to be there, that
412	music needed to be played rather loudly. And if, at first, it sounded	436	music needed to be played rather loudly. And if, at first, it sounded
413	entertaining, joyous, and funny, it quickly grew on the nerves of	437	entertaining, joyous, and funny, it quickly grew on the nerves of
414	many. And especially because it was played 23 hours a day.	438	many. And especially because it was played 23 hours a day.
415		439
416	Finally, the Commander decided that the city couldn’t stand this	440	Finally, the Commander decided that the city couldn't stand this
417	anymore, and ordered that the Demons had to be attracted faraway from the	441	anymore, and ordered that the Demons had to be attracted faraway from the
418	city. On this fateful day, a whole fanfare left the city, hoping that the	442	city. On this fateful day, a whole fanfare left the city, hoping that the
419	demons would follow, attracted by the music.	443	demons would follow, attracted by the music.
420		444
421	And so, they did. One after another, they climbed out of Earth itself, and	445	And so, they did. One after another, they climbed out of Earth itself, and
…		…
429	music that enslaved them, crushed what remained of the city, in a bloody	453	music that enslaved them, crushed what remained of the city, in a bloody
430	fest that they will forever keep in their twisted memories.	454	fest that they will forever keep in their twisted memories.
431		455
432	The Commander went mad, of course, and it is said that his madness was	456	The Commander went mad, of course, and it is said that his madness was
433	so strong that his mind was unable to understand that he was dead. If	457	so strong that his mind was unable to understand that he was dead. If
434	you search enough in the ruins of Euthville, you’ll probably encounter	458	you search enough in the ruins of Euthville, you'll probably encounter
435	his ghost, as well as those of the many who perished for having believed	459	his ghost, as well as those of the many who perished for having believed
436	that mortals could enslave the hell. Some demons stayed there, obviously	460	that mortals could enslave the hell. Some demons stayed there, obviously
437	enjoying the area and its newborn ashes that smelled fresh blood and	461	enjoying the area and its newborn ashes that smelled fresh blood and
438	carnage. Euthville is now, of course, a dangerous, deserted place, and the	462	carnage. Euthville is now, of course, a dangerous, deserted place, and the
439	richesses that are still sleeping below the ruins of its former palaces	463	richesses that are still sleeping below the ruins of its former palaces
440	are now guarded by powerful entities of the 9th Circle.	464	are now guarded by powerful entities of the 9th Circle.
441		465
442	Many said that, if the Enchanted Music could be found, it would open the	466	Many said that, if the Enchanted Music could be found, it would open the
443	gates of many treasures, but because none of the former Euthvillians	467	gates of many treasures, but because none of the former Euthvillians
444	survived, and because nobody knows where the Boy went afterwards, those	468	survived, and because nobody knows where the Boy went afterwards, those
445	gates are still closed. I’ve heard that the School of Daemonology was	469	gates are still closed. I've heard that the School of Daemonology was
446	precisely founded to rediscover that spell. But who am I to claim this to	470	precisely founded to rediscover that spell. But who am I to claim this to
447	be true ? I’m only a man of the past that tells stories before a fire,	471	be true? I'm only a man of the past that tells stories before a fire,
448	and the fire is dying, and so has my tale reached the end.	472	and the fire is dying, and so has my tale reached the end.
449		473
450		474
451		475
452	=head1 The Kiritani Pass (from "Euthville Legends")	476	=head1 The Kiritani Pass (from "Euthville Legends")
…		…
460	=head1 Sannistra (from "Euthville Legends")	484	=head1 Sannistra (from "Euthville Legends")
461		485
462	The Sannista is a legendary flying boat that was powered by the reaction	486	The Sannista is a legendary flying boat that was powered by the reaction
463	of a fire and a water elemental. It was built by the tenth Commander of	487	of a fire and a water elemental. It was built by the tenth Commander of
464	Euthville, Farkennis, as a gift for the 18th Birthday of his daughter,	488	Euthville, Farkennis, as a gift for the 18th Birthday of his daughter,
465	Sannista. That’s the boat that was stolen by Fax when he fled from	489	Sannista. That's the boat that was stolen by Fax when he fled from
466	Euthville, and that he used to get to Khelens. Giusitta the Verbous then	490	Euthville, and that he used to get to Khelens. Giusitta the Verbous then
467	sailed it back to the Continent, and hid it “somewhere in the mountains	491	sailed it back to the Continent, and hid it "somewhere in the mountains
468	of Euth”.	492	of Euth".
469		493
470	So I guess she would have put it there, although I’m not sure. Many	494	So I guess she would have put it there, although I'm not sure. Many
471	people thought the story was speaking about the mountains just east of the	495	people thought the story was speaking about the mountains just east of the
472	ruined city, but now that I’ve discovered those two caves, I’d rather	496	ruined city, but now that I've discovered those two caves, I'd rather
473	bet on them - it seems more logical.	497	bet on them - it seems more logical.
474		498
475		499
476	=head1 The Name of the World	500	=head1 The Name of the World
477		501
478	I, Forag the little-known, have invested my lifetime into exploring	502	I, Forag the little-known, have invested my lifetime into exploring
479	the various names of this, our World. In this tome I wrote down all my	503	the various names of this, our World. In this tome I wrote down all my
480	knowledge. Be careful with it, else it might overwhelm you, as it did me!	504	knowledge. Be careful with it, else it might overwhelm you, as it did me!
481		505
482	In Khelens and most of its territories, it was named “The Earth”,	506	In Khelens and most of its territories, it was named "The Earth",
483	while the major western landmass was called “The Continent” while the	507	while the major western landmass was called "The Continent" while the
484	eastern landmass was called "the Wilderness".	508	eastern landmass was called "the Wilderness".
485		509
486	Fendrakis used “Raxida”, which is also the name they gave to the Fox	510	Fendrakis used "Raxida", which is also the name they gave to the Fox
487	Lady, Mother of All Things, deity.	511	Lady, Mother of All Things, deity.
488		512
489	Elves traditionally use “Eänella”, which translates as “The Land of	513	Elves traditionally use "Eänella", which translates as "The Land of
490	Green”	514	Green"
491		515
492	Dwarves of Khorolizov use “Herdankaupf”, “Country of the Horses”,	516	Dwarves of Khorolizov use "Herdankaupf", "Country of the Horses",
493	which is a reference to their mythology (see the legend of the Twelve Days	517	which is a reference to their mythology (see the legend of the Twelve Days
494	for that)	518	for that)
495		519
496	The Orcish name is “Knâgsh-Ishzeh”, “Rotten Branch”	520	The Orcish name is "Knâgsh-Ishzeh", "Rotten Branch"
497		521
498	The people of the Old Wall, used the name “Harinappa”, “Bottom of	522	The people of the Old Wall, used the name "Harinappa", "Bottom of
499	the Pit”, to designate the world.	523	the Pit", to designate the world.
500		524
501	Most people nowadays use the old Khelenti name ("The Earth") or its direct	525	Most people nowadays use the old Khelenti name ("The Earth") or its direct
502	translation in local languages/idioms.	526	translation in local languages/idioms.
503		527
504		528
…		…
541	kingdom.	565	kingdom.
542		566
543		567
544	=head1 History of Lake Country	568	=head1 History of Lake Country
545		569
546	Lake Country originaly was where the elves who where exiled from the north	570	Lake Country originally was where the elves lived who where exiled
547	by the kings of Scorn, during the Vth millenia EK. They named the area	571	from the north by the kings of Scorn, during the Vth millenia EK. They
548	Vkovzerov. The major elven city of Vkovzerov was Tashkeren-tah. It was	572	named the area Vkovzerov. The major elven city of Vkovzerov was
549	destroyed by a Water arch-elemental in 4453EK.	573	Tashkeren-tah. It was destroyed by a Water arch-elemental in 4453EK.
550		574
551		575
552	=head1 Visit our Training Centres!	576	=head1 Visit our Training Centres!
553		577
554	We, Training Centres Incorporated provide the best service for warriors,	578	We, Training Centres Incorporated provide the best service for warriors,
…		…
563		587
564	A Bonecrusher, a Firestar, and a Demonspawn Shield.	588	A Bonecrusher, a Firestar, and a Demonspawn Shield.
565		589
566	Undead	590	Undead
567		591
568	Lich dust, a Spectre’s ectoplasm, and a Skull’s tooth.	592	Lich dust, a Spectre's ectoplasm, and a Skull's tooth.
569		593
570	Dragon	594	Dragon
571		595
572	An Ancient dragon’s steak, an Ancient Blue Dragon’s steak, and an Ancient red dragon’s steak.	596	An Ancient dragon's steak, an Ancient Blue Dragon's steak, and an Ancient red dragon's steak.
573		597
574	Demon	598	Demon
575		599
576	A Demonbane, a Belzebub’s sword, and a Firebrand.	600	A Demonbane, a Belzebub's sword, and a Firebrand.
577		601
578	=head3 Free Centres	602	=head3 Free Centres
579		603
580	As a special service, we provide access to two of our older training	604	As a special service, we provide access to two of our older training
581	centres completely free of charge, although you will understand that there	605	centres completely free of charge, although you will understand that there
…		…
602		626
603	=head1 The Kingdom of Navar	627	=head1 The Kingdom of Navar
604		628
605	Straddling the corner of the Imperial highway as it turns North near the	629	Straddling the corner of the Imperial highway as it turns North near the
606	Eastern border of the known world, and surrounded by dangerous territory,	630	Eastern border of the known world, and surrounded by dangerous territory,
607	Navar is an unlikely site for one of the world’s grandest cities. Yet	631	Navar is an unlikely site for one of the world's grandest cities. Yet
608	there it stands, dominating the skyline for miles around and showing the	632	there it stands, dominating the skyline for miles around and showing the
609	same bustling activity expected of any thriving market town.	633	same bustling activity expected of any thriving market town.
610		634
611		635
612	=head1 The Kingdom of the Masts	636	=head1 The Kingdom of the Masts
…		…
623	Navari Princes against the Artificers, a group of mages that were masters	647	Navari Princes against the Artificers, a group of mages that were masters
624	in the now banned magical field of Technomancy. The Artificers were close	648	in the now banned magical field of Technomancy. The Artificers were close
625	to obtain a complete victory, but were finally destroyed by the raw power	649	to obtain a complete victory, but were finally destroyed by the raw power
626	of their own biggest creation, The Thaumic Gear. The explosion of the Gear	650	of their own biggest creation, The Thaumic Gear. The explosion of the Gear
627	shattered the whole east of the world, and many territories forever sank	651	shattered the whole east of the world, and many territories forever sank
628	into the ocean, including Kari Kori, the Technomages’ city.	652	into the ocean, including Kari Kori, the Technomages' city.
629		653
630		654
631	=head1 Juradiths Dissidents	655	=head1 Juradiths Dissidents
632		656
633	Juradiths, named after Juradith, Minor Spirit of Equity, were a group of	657	Juradiths, named after Juradith, Minor Spirit of Equity, were a group of
…		…
637	Scornians against them. When trying to recapture the city, their army was	661	Scornians against them. When trying to recapture the city, their army was
638	defeated by the Scornian Militia with the help of a couple city mages, who	662	defeated by the Scornian Militia with the help of a couple city mages, who
639	flooded the Juradiths into a magically created lake.	663	flooded the Juradiths into a magically created lake.
640		664
641	Juradiths still exist as a small political faction today, although	665	Juradiths still exist as a small political faction today, although
642	they’ve long traded their violent ways for some weird traditions whose	666	they've long traded their violent ways for some weird traditions whose
643	origins and meaning are now mostly forgotten.	667	origins and meaning are now mostly forgotten.
644		668
645		669
646	=head1 The Gaean Legend of Creation	670	=head1 The Gaean Legend of Creation
647		671
…		…
650	In the beginning there was Gaea, the force of nature. SHE filled the whole	674	In the beginning there was Gaea, the force of nature. SHE filled the whole
651	of existence with her being. After a few billion years, this became to	675	of existence with her being. After a few billion years, this became to
652	grow boring and lonely, so SHE decided to have children.	676	grow boring and lonely, so SHE decided to have children.
653		677
654	At first SHE created a host of forces like Herself, eternal and	678	At first SHE created a host of forces like Herself, eternal and
655	divine. But with all their power, they couldn’t get along with each	679	divine. But with all their power, they couldn't get along with each
656	other, so Gaea decided that wasn’t a good idea. SHE decreed that from	680	other, so Gaea decided that wasn't a good idea. SHE decreed that from
657	that point on all creatures but HER would have a limited lifetime. But	681	that point on all creatures but HER would have a limited lifetime. But
658	most of HER first children disagreed, and went away to an unknown	682	most of HER first children disagreed, and went away to an unknown
659	location.	683	location.
660		684
661	=head2 Age of The Small World	685	=head2 Age of The Small World
662		686
663	So Gaea created a small world and populated it with limited creatures -	687	So Gaea created a small world and populated it with limited creatures -
664	animals and plants of all sorts. For a few million years she was happy	688	animals and plants of all sorts. For a few million years she was happy
665	to watch them. But her remaining faithful children were growing restless	689	to watch them. But her remaining faithful children were growing restless
666	and wanted to make their own experimentations too. Finally SHE got bored	690	and wanted to make their own experimentations too. Finally SHE got bored
667	again, as her creations weren’t self-aware and therefore weren’t	691	again, as her creations weren't self-aware and therefore weren't
668	much of a company. But SHE was also curious, because her creatures had	692	much of a company. But SHE was also curious, because her creatures had
669	developed many different styles of living, and SHE desired to compare	693	developed many different styles of living, and SHE desired to compare
670	them.	694	them.
671		695
672	And Gaea destroyed the original world, breaking it in four new ones.	696	And Gaea destroyed the original world, breaking it in four new ones.
…		…
696	the fittest. It was populated with fierce creatures and predators. Two of	720	the fittest. It was populated with fierce creatures and predators. Two of
697	Her children believed this was the best way to live and decided to live in	721	Her children believed this was the best way to live and decided to live in
698	this world.	722	this world.
699		723
700	After the worlds were created, only four children of Gaea still preferred	724	After the worlds were created, only four children of Gaea still preferred
701	to live in the Void: two because they weren’t interested in any of those	725	to live in the Void: two because they weren't interested in any of those
702	worlds, and two because they liked all of them and preferred to visit them	726	worlds, and two because they liked all of them and preferred to visit them
703	whenever they wished.	727	whenever they wished.
704		728
705	=head2 Age of Awakening	729	=head2 Age of Awakening
706		730
…		…
710	and wanted to create more interesting creatures, SHE understood them and	734	and wanted to create more interesting creatures, SHE understood them and
711	quickly allowed them and gave them the power to do it.	735	quickly allowed them and gave them the power to do it.
712		736
713	So on the First world, one of the Gods who lived there created a race of	737	So on the First world, one of the Gods who lived there created a race of
714	beings that loved peace and wildlife, and called them Elves. The other	738	beings that loved peace and wildlife, and called them Elves. The other
715	God in that world didn’t choose to create followers, but she teached	739	God in that world didn't choose to create followers, but she teached
716	language to the Elves of her brother, and when the Elves larned the art of	740	language to the Elves of her brother, and when the Elves larned the art of
717	naming, they named their creator Lythander, and in exchange for his name	741	naming, they named their creator Lythander, and in exchange for his name
718	he gifted them with luck.	742	he gifted them with luck.
719		743
720	On the Second world, one of the Gods created a race of builders and named	744	On the Second world, one of the Gods created a race of builders and named
721	them Dwarves. His children, in turn, named him Mostrai. His sister, in	745	them Dwarves. His children, in turn, named him Mostrai. His sister, in
722	turn, decided not to create, but teach some of the dwarves (the ones	746	turn, decided not to create, but teach some of the dwarves (the ones
723	willing to learn) about magic and the powers of the gods. The other	747	willing to learn) about magic and the powers of the gods. The other
724	dwarves, however, didn’t accept their changed siblings, so they went off	748	dwarves, however, didn't accept their changed siblings, so they went off
725	to live by themselves and became known as gnomes.	749	to live by themselves and became known as gnomes.
726		750
727	On the Third world, of course, none of the resident Gods wanted to	751	On the Third world, of course, none of the resident Gods wanted to
728	cooperate with the other. Both created their own races: the God who fought	752	cooperate with the other. Both created their own races: the God who fought
729	for darkness created many kinds of fierce, brutal monsters he named	753	for darkness created many kinds of fierce, brutal monsters he named
730	“Demons”, while the God who fought for light created many kinds of	754	"Demons", while the God who fought for light created many kinds of
731	skillful, swift warriors he named “Angels”. Befittingly, these Gods	755	skillful, swift warriors he named "Angels". Befittingly, these Gods
732	were named by their enemies, and not their followers: the demons gave the	756	were named by their enemies, and not their followers: the demons gave the
733	light god the name of “Valriel“, and the angels gave their enemy god	757	light god the name of "Valriel", and the angels gave their enemy god
734	the name “Gorokh“.	758	the name "Gorokh".
735		759
736	And on the Fourth world, the patron Gods kept true to their philosophy	760	And on the Fourth world, the patron Gods kept true to their philosophy
737	and created not one, but innumerable races, in the hope that one of these	761	and created not one, but innumerable races, in the hope that one of these
738	would prove the strongest and most worth. So they created goblins, trolls,	762	would prove the strongest and most worth. So they created goblins, trolls,
739	ogres, and not least, dragons. The Gods became known as Gnarg, the Patron	763	ogres, and not least, dragons. The Gods became known as Gnarg, the Patron
…		…
800	It was only when a group of reasonable elves, dwarves, gnomes and dragons	824	It was only when a group of reasonable elves, dwarves, gnomes and dragons
801	managed to get together and talk, that it became clear who these masters	825	managed to get together and talk, that it became clear who these masters
802	could be. Till this point, everyone was blaming some (any) god other	826	could be. Till this point, everyone was blaming some (any) god other
803	than the one they worshipped. But there was only one, obvious answer:	827	than the one they worshipped. But there was only one, obvious answer:
804	the Banished Gods, the Forgotten Children who left ages ago because	828	the Banished Gods, the Forgotten Children who left ages ago because
805	they didn’t agree with he concept of death, were back, and enacting	829	they didn't agree with he concept of death, were back, and enacting
806	revenge by subverting death itself. In later days, these Gods would become	830	revenge by subverting death itself. In later days, these Gods would become
807	collectively known as the Devourers.	831	collectively known as the Devourers.
808		832
809	Knowing the enemy was not the solution to the war, but was a start. This	833	Knowing the enemy was not the solution to the war, but was a start. This
810	group, slowly, was able to form a resistence against the undead armies,	834	group, slowly, was able to form a resistence against the undead armies,
…		…
841	In the beginning, for an infinite time, all that existed was a pure light,	865	In the beginning, for an infinite time, all that existed was a pure light,
842	and that light had a name, and that name was Valriel.	866	and that light had a name, and that name was Valriel.
843		867
844	But part of the light was not content to be alone, and so did Valriel put	868	But part of the light was not content to be alone, and so did Valriel put
845	this part of Himself aside and did He allow this part to have independent	869	this part of Himself aside and did He allow this part to have independent
846	life; and this part was everything that wasn’t content, and as it	870	life; and this part was everything that wasn't content, and as it
847	wasn’t light, it surely was the darkness; and the darkness took upon	871	wasn't light, it surely was the darkness; and the darkness took upon
848	itself the name of Gorokh.	872	itself the name of Gorokh.
849		873
850	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the	874	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the
851	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because	875	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because
852	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And	876	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And
853	although filled with hidden motives, Gorokh’s words were always very	877	although filled with hidden motives, Gorokh's words were always very
854	wise, so that Valriel would hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the	878	wise, so that Valriel would hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the
855	wise counsel of the Shadow and created a world full of living things to be	879	wise counsel of the Shadow and created a world full of living things to be
856	His new companions and servants.	880	His new companions and servants.
857		881
858	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh	882	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh
859	said, “so now you won’t need me anymore, I can leave and find my own	883	said, "so now you won't need me anymore, I can leave and find my own
860	companions and servants”. And this made Valriel unhappy because He was	884	companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because He was
861	the only and true Lord, but Gorokh wouldn’t recognize that, and so it	885	the only and true Lord, but Gorokh wouldn't recognize that, and so it
862	was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over other men instead of	886	was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over other men instead of
863	paying respect to the one true ruler of all.	887	paying respect to the one true ruler of all.
864		888
865	So did Valriel upon the departure of his first servant, create new	889	So did Valriel upon the departure of his first servant, create new
866	servants modeled after His beauty and grace, and elf and man and dwarf he	890	servants modeled after His beauty and grace, and elf and man and dwarf he
…		…
868	himself, so he came to them in the night and whispered in their ears, and	892	himself, so he came to them in the night and whispered in their ears, and
869	some of them were tempted and started to worship and serve the Shadow.	893	some of them were tempted and started to worship and serve the Shadow.
870		894
871	But not enough were seduced by his promises. So he decided to be many,	895	But not enough were seduced by his promises. So he decided to be many,
872	not one. And he wore different shapes and again he whispered in the ears	896	not one. And he wore different shapes and again he whispered in the ears
873	of Valriel’s creations. And to the elves he was Lythander of the bow	897	of Valriel's creations. And to the elves he was Lythander of the bow
874	that never misses, and the elves did not see that if a bow never misses,	898	that never misses, and the elves did not see that if a bow never misses,
875	and it isn’t the work of the Lord, then it can only be the work of the	899	and it isn't the work of the Lord, then it can only be the work of the
876	Enemy. And to the dwarves he wore the name of Mostrai, of the fire, of the	900	Enemy. And to the dwarves he wore the name of Mostrai, of the fire, of the
877	forge, the builder of things, for the fire and the desire to change was	901	forge, the builder of things, for the fire and the desire to change was
878	the true face of Gorokh.	902	the true face of Gorokh.
879		903
880	And he taught the men to wage war upon each other, and scared the warriors	904	And he taught the men to wage war upon each other, and scared the warriors
881	with thunder and lightning, and they would call him Sorig. And those	905	with thunder and lightning, and they would call him Sorig. And those
882	who weren’t scared, he tempted with weapons and glory, and wore the	906	who weren't scared, he tempted with weapons and glory, and wore the
883	beautiful face of a woman, and they called him Valkyrie. And as they	907	beautiful face of a woman, and they called him Valkyrie. And as they
884	killed each other, Gorokh was happy.	908	killed each other, Gorokh was happy.
885		909
886	And much more he did. He taught women to heal and to make the soil grow	910	And much more he did. He taught women to heal and to make the soil grow
887	crop, and they called him Gaea, and believed that Gaea created the world	911	crop, and they called him Gaea, and believed that Gaea created the world
…		…
910	envy, and they became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again	934	envy, and they became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again
911	spoiled by the venom of the enemy, because angels had to step aside from	935	spoiled by the venom of the enemy, because angels had to step aside from
912	their assigned mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading	936	their assigned mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading
913	the evil in their dark hearts.	937	the evil in their dark hearts.
914		938
915	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel’s creation into a new	939	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel's creation into a new
916	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and corrupted them with	940	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and corrupted them with
917	his dark will, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and troll, and	941	his dark will, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and troll, and
918	giant, and ogre, and many other abominations to the eye of the Creator,	942	giant, and ogre, and many other abominations to the eye of the Creator,
919	and Gorokh wore the name of Gnarg to these new creations and delighted in	943	and Gorokh wore the name of Gnarg to these new creations and delighted in
920	watching the destruction and sorrow they spread in the world.	944	watching the destruction and sorrow they spread in the world.
…		…
970	Son with a Will.	994	Son with a Will.
971		995
972	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the	996	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the
973	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because	997	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because
974	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And fueled	998	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And fueled
975	by the fire of his will, Gorokh’s words were always very wise, so	999	by the fire of his will, Gorokh's words were always very wise, so
976	Valriel would always hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the wise	1000	Valriel would always hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the wise
977	counsel of the Fire and created a world full of living things to be their	1001	counsel of the Fire and created a world full of living things to be their
978	new companions and servants.	1002	new companions and servants.
979		1003
980	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh	1004	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh
981	said, “so now you won’t need me anymore, I can leave and find my own	1005	said, "so now you won't need me anymore, I can leave and find my own
982	companions and servants”. And this made Valriel unhappy because he	1006	companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because he
983	believed he should be only and true Lord, but Gorokh couldn’t agree	1007	believed he should be only and true Lord, but Gorokh couldn't agree
984	to that, and so it was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over	1008	to that, and so it was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over
985	themselves instead of paying respect to one self-appointed ruler of all.	1009	themselves instead of paying respect to one self-appointed ruler of all.
986		1010
987	So did Valriel, while Gorokh was away exploring the wonders of the new	1011	So did Valriel, while Gorokh was away exploring the wonders of the new
988	world, create new servants of flesh and bone to adore him blindly, and elf	1012	world, create new servants of flesh and bone to adore him blindly, and elf
…		…
1000	weapons, medicine, agriculture, writing, magic, and wine and booze and	1024	weapons, medicine, agriculture, writing, magic, and wine and booze and
1001	music, even then would Valriel create a false god to pose as the giver of	1025	music, even then would Valriel create a false god to pose as the giver of
1002	those gifts and take the glory for himself.	1026	those gifts and take the glory for himself.
1003		1027
1004	And since Gorokh kept inventing new presents, Valriel became angry,	1028	And since Gorokh kept inventing new presents, Valriel became angry,
1005	because he doesn’t like change and he doesn’t like any good that	1029	because he doesn't like change and he doesn't like any good that
1006	doesn’t come from him. And so did he create a new race of servants, more	1030	doesn't come from him. And so did he create a new race of servants, more
1007	powerful and more prone to following him blindly than any other, imbued	1031	powerful and more prone to following him blindly than any other, imbued
1008	with the mission of hunting down and undoing the work of the Fire, and	1032	with the mission of hunting down and undoing the work of the Fire, and
1009	this race He called Angels.	1033	this race He called Angels.
1010		1034
1011	But again Gorokh found a cunning way to defend his work, and again he	1035	But again Gorokh found a cunning way to defend his work, and again he
…		…
1016	became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again spoiled by the	1040	became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again spoiled by the
1017	genius of the Fire, because angels had to step aside from their assigned	1041	genius of the Fire, because angels had to step aside from their assigned
1018	mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading the word of	1042	mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading the word of
1019	Gorokh.	1043	Gorokh.
1020		1044
1021	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel’s creation into a new	1045	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel's creation into a new
1022	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and tried to imbue them	1046	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and tried to imbue them
1023	with greater strength, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and	1047	with greater strength, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and
1024	troll, and giant, and ogre, and many other strong creatures. But their	1048	troll, and giant, and ogre, and many other strong creatures. But their
1025	intelligences greatly suffered from the process, and he was unhappy with	1049	intelligences greatly suffered from the process, and he was unhappy with
1026	his creation, and while he was looking for a way to help them did Valriel	1050	his creation, and while he was looking for a way to help them did Valriel
…		…
1038		1062
1039	And upon seeing the dragons, Valriel declared war and set his servants	1063	And upon seeing the dragons, Valriel declared war and set his servants
1040	upon the task of killing all the most valuables of Gorokh they could	1064	upon the task of killing all the most valuables of Gorokh they could
1041	find. Gorokh was consumed with sorrow, and devised a way to spare these	1065	find. Gorokh was consumed with sorrow, and devised a way to spare these
1042	faithful servants, by allowing them to raise again from the grave even	1066	faithful servants, by allowing them to raise again from the grave even
1043	after their deaths. But the servants of Valriel found these “un-dead”	1067	after their deaths. But the servants of Valriel found these "un-dead"
1044	an even greater abomination, and set forth to hunt them, and Valriel	1068	an even greater abomination, and set forth to hunt them, and Valriel
1045	delighted in the war and carnage that ensued.	1069	delighted in the war and carnage that ensued.
1046		1070
1047	So did Gorokh, his fire dim with sorrow, decide to create a whole world	1071	So did Gorokh, his fire dim with sorrow, decide to create a whole world
1048	for him and his faithful. And this world he called Hell. But when he was	1072	for him and his faithful. And this world he called Hell. But when he was
…		…
1056		1080
1057	=head1 The Dwarven Creation Tale	1081	=head1 The Dwarven Creation Tale
1058		1082
1059	A play by Shakesdor the Dwarf.	1083	A play by Shakesdor the Dwarf.
1060		1084
1061	- What... where we come from? You’re not old enough for this	1085	- What... where we come from? You're not old enough for this
1062	conversation.	1086	conversation.
1063		1087
1064	- No, uncle, I mean as a whole... the world, the dwarves, the others.	1088	- No, uncle, I mean as a whole... the world, the dwarves, the others.
1065		1089
1066	- Ah. I see. (Big gulp of beer.) You mean, NOW?	1090	- Ah. I see. (Big gulp of beer.) You mean, NOW?
…		…
1069		1093
1070	- sigh all right, all right. It goes like this.	1094	- sigh all right, all right. It goes like this.
1071		1095
1072	First there was the Ore and the Forge. The Ore is what existence looked	1096	First there was the Ore and the Forge. The Ore is what existence looked
1073	like before it existed. The Forge was the untapped will, the potential in	1097	like before it existed. The Forge was the untapped will, the potential in
1074	the Ore to be everything that is, ever will be, or won’t.	1098	the Ore to be everything that is, ever will be, or won't.
1075		1099
1076	Over a span of time that is not time, because time wasn’t forged yet,	1100	Over a span of time that is not time, because time wasn't forged yet,
1077	some tiny scraps of Ore drifted into the Forge. A piece of the Forge	1101	some tiny scraps of Ore drifted into the Forge. A piece of the Forge
1078	merged with that Ore and became sentient. He has many names, but we call	1102	merged with that Ore and became sentient. He has many names, but we call
1079	him Mostrai.	1103	him Mostrai.
1080		1104
1081	He spent ages of time-that-was-not-time exploring, learning the nature	1105	He spent ages of time-that-was-not-time exploring, learning the nature
1082	of Ore and Forge and himself. Till he decided it was time to start	1106	of Ore and Forge and himself. Till he decided it was time to start
1083	forging. And then, first of all, he forged time, so that he could separate	1107	forging. And then, first of all, he forged time, so that he could separate
1084	after from before, and so that he could exist absolutely - as opposed to,	1108	after from before, and so that he could exist absolutely - as opposed to,
1085	at the same “time”, existing and not being created yet, which was the	1109	at the same "time", existing and not being created yet, which was the
1086	case if time didn’t exist.	1110	case if time didn't exist.
1087		1111
1088	Then, with things in order, he began forging things. The first thing he	1112	Then, with things in order, he began forging things. The first thing he
1089	forged was his armor, because he liked the touch of metal against his	1113	forged was his armor, because he liked the touch of metal against his
1090	body. Then he forged beer, because of course, beer is essential. He forged	1114	body. Then he forged beer, because of course, beer is essential. He forged
1091	it red like the Forge, and black like the Ore. The yellow thing, as we all	1115	it red like the Forge, and black like the Ore. The yellow thing, as we all
…		…
1103	were thousands of dwarves partying, thousands sleeping, thousands hunting,	1127	were thousands of dwarves partying, thousands sleeping, thousands hunting,
1104	and thousands forging. Mostrai thought it was good, but it was also damn	1128	and thousands forging. Mostrai thought it was good, but it was also damn
1105	annoying. So he created an enormous mountain for them to live under. He	1129	annoying. So he created an enormous mountain for them to live under. He
1106	put the boar and bird, and a few other animals he had come up with later,	1130	put the boar and bird, and a few other animals he had come up with later,
1107	on the outside, where he forged woods and forest. And so that his children	1131	on the outside, where he forged woods and forest. And so that his children
1108	wouldn’t wander forever, he placed these places in the middle of an	1132	wouldn't wander forever, he placed these places in the middle of an
1109	infinite ocean. There you have, that’s the story.	1133	infinite ocean. There you have, that's the story.
1110		1134
1111	- Whoa. What about the others?	1135	- Whoa. What about the others?
1112		1136
1113	- sigh You won’t let me finish my beer, will you?	1137	- sigh You won't let me finish my beer, will you?
1114		1138
1115	- You’ll never finish your beer, uncle. When you soak that mug,	1139	- You'll never finish your beer, uncle. When you soak that mug,
1116	there’s plenty more in the barrel.	1140	there's plenty more in the barrel.
1117		1141
1118	- All right, all rigth. (Big gulp.)	1142	- All right, all rigth. (Big gulp.)
1119		1143
1120	The dwarves had amazing weapons to hunt with. Eventually, the hunt was	1144	The dwarves had amazing weapons to hunt with. Eventually, the hunt was
1121	no challenge anymore. The best hunters would play-act wars between	1145	no challenge anymore. The best hunters would play-act wars between
…		…
1124	Mostrai was worried that those fights might one day evolve into real	1148	Mostrai was worried that those fights might one day evolve into real
1125	wars. So he created an enemy, something very different from the dwarf,	1149	wars. So he created an enemy, something very different from the dwarf,
1126	something very obviously wrong, which lived in the woods and preferred	1150	something very obviously wrong, which lived in the woods and preferred
1127	bows and other coward weapons rather than hand-to-hand combat. He made	1151	bows and other coward weapons rather than hand-to-hand combat. He made
1128	them incredibly lucky, because otherwise they would stand no chance - and	1152	them incredibly lucky, because otherwise they would stand no chance - and
1129	they came to believe they’re lucky because they’re protected by their	1153	they came to believe they're lucky because they're protected by their
1130	god, which of course doesn’t exist. He also made them very old, so that	1154	god, which of course doesn't exist. He also made them very old, so that
1131	they would think they existed before the dwarf - otherwise they would just	1155	they would think they existed before the dwarf - otherwise they would just
1132	recognize our superior position and submit. And all was good and happy;	1156	recognize our superior position and submit. And all was good and happy;
1133	for time beyond count, dwarf and elf honed their skills against each	1157	for time beyond count, dwarf and elf honed their skills against each
1134	other, and prospered.	1158	other, and prospered.
1135		1159
1136	I mean, have you ever fought an elf? Yes, it was an eternal war, but not	1160	I mean, have you ever fought an elf? Yes, it was an eternal war, but not
1137	like those bloody gorefest the others have today. When dwarf and elf	1161	like those bloody gorefest the others have today. When dwarf and elf
1138	fight, it’s clean, it’s beautiful, it’s according to the rules,	1162	fight, it's clean, it's beautiful, it's according to the rules,
1139	it’s a ritual of honor.	1163	it's a ritual of honor.
1140		1164
1141	Well, I digress. All was well, I said. But one day, one elf created yellow	1165	Well, I digress. All was well, I said. But one day, one elf created yellow
1142	beer. And that offended Mostrai to a level of rage unseen before. So he	1166	beer. And that offended Mostrai to a level of rage unseen before. So he
1143	created an entire new piece of the world, and populated it with humans,	1167	created an entire new piece of the world, and populated it with humans,
1144	and other horrible creatures, and then let these young ones discover our	1168	and other horrible creatures, and then let these young ones discover our
1145	land, so that they may raze the elf forests, ruin the elf nations, and	1169	land, so that they may raze the elf forests, ruin the elf nations, and
1146	soil their honor. We’re not stupid enough to argue with Mostrai, so we	1170	soil their honor. We're not stupid enough to argue with Mostrai, so we
1147	went underground, and we’re waiting for that to happen, to see what he	1171	went underground, and we're waiting for that to happen, to see what he
1148	will do next.	1172	will do next.
1149		1173
1150	Can I drink in peace now? There, go play with your friends.	1174	Can I drink in peace now? There, go play with your friends.
1151		1175
1152		1176
1153	=head1 The Legend of the Builders	1177	=head1 The Legend of the Builders
1154		1178
1155	People of the Old Empire believed that the whole universe was made by	1179	People of the Old Empire believed that the whole universe was made by
1156	powerful beings called Builders. Builders were not part of the world	1180	powerful beings called Builders. Builders were not part of the world
1157	like gods were - they lived Outside. Little is known about the Builders	1181	like gods were - they lived Outside. Little is known about the Builders
1158	themselves. The priests of the Empire weren’t quite sure themselves	1182	themselves. The priests of the Empire weren't quite sure themselves
1159	about their names. Some were universally known, though: Mawëdel the Ruler	1183	about their names. Some were universally known, though: Mawëdel the Ruler
1160	or Peterëm the Writing One were the most popular of the ever changing	1184	or Peterëm the Writing One were the most popular of the ever changing
1161	list of Builders.	1185	list of Builders.
1162		1186
1163	The Builders understood very well how difficult it would be for them to	1187	The Builders understood very well how difficult it would be for them to
…		…
1187	left the Holy Guestbook, one of the oldest relics of Crossfire, where he	1211	left the Holy Guestbook, one of the oldest relics of Crossfire, where he
1188	and his fellow friends wrote their names. Skud disappeared long before the	1212	and his fellow friends wrote their names. Skud disappeared long before the
1189	Old Empire came, and nowadays only the Builders can probably remember him.	1213	Old Empire came, and nowadays only the Builders can probably remember him.
1190		1214
1191	Recent researches show that, although he greatly contributed to the	1215	Recent researches show that, although he greatly contributed to the
1192	popularity of the city, Skud didn’t found it: it was in fact created	1216	popularity of the city, Skud didn't found it: it was in fact created
1193	by Tabb the Dark, a Builder that left very little information about him	1217	by Tabb the Dark, a Builder that left very little information about him
1194	behind. According to the Codex Skudensis that was discovered in the depths	1218	behind. According to the Codex Skudensis that was discovered in the depths
1195	of the Old City, “Scorn” would have been the real name of Tabb the	1219	of the Old City, "Scorn" would have been the real name of Tabb the
1196	Dark.	1220	Dark.
1197		1221
1198		1222
1199	=head1 The Coming of Color	1223	=head1 The Coming of Color
1200		1224
…		…
1202	world was colorless and sad. Aware of that problem, the Builders decided	1226	world was colorless and sad. Aware of that problem, the Builders decided
1203	to bring color in the life of the Crossfire people. They called the	1227	to bring color in the life of the Crossfire people. They called the
1204	massive powers of Xepemes, The Source Of All Colors, on the universe. The	1228	massive powers of Xepemes, The Source Of All Colors, on the universe. The
1205	magical burst slowly covered the world with colors, but some elements	1229	magical burst slowly covered the world with colors, but some elements
1206	resisted for a long time. Prophets of the Old Empire announced that,	1230	resisted for a long time. Prophets of the Old Empire announced that,
1207	although victorious, the force of Xepemes wouldn’t stay forever: one	1231	although victorious, the force of Xepemes wouldn't stay forever: one
1208	day, it would eventually fade away against a more powerful magical force,	1232	day, it would eventually fade away against a more powerful magical force,
1209	the mysterious Pegemes (or Peengees?). This happened - but much after the	1233	the mysterious Pegemes (or Peengees?). This happened - but much after the
1210	fall of the Empire.	1234	fall of the Empire.
1211		1235
1212		1236
…		…
1228		1252
1229		1253
1230	=head1 Skud the Great	1254	=head1 Skud the Great
1231		1255
1232	One of the first Builders. Skud created many famous places, like the	1256	One of the first Builders. Skud created many famous places, like the
1233	Scorn’s First Inn or the Newbie Tower.	1257	Scorn's First Inn or the Newbie Tower.
1234		1258
1235	The reasons of the disappearance of Skud are mostly unknown. The Codex	1259	The reasons of the disappearance of Skud are mostly unknown. The Codex
1236	Skudensis mentions that it could have been because of the negative	1260	Skudensis mentions that it could have been because of the negative
1237	influence of the Arch-Demon Neth Aq. It is thought that The Tower of Skud,	1261	influence of the Arch-Demon Neth Aq. It is thought that The Tower of Skud,
1238	although left unfinished by its creator, may contain informations about	1262	although left unfinished by its creator, may contain informations about
…		…
1256		1280
1257	=head2 On the nature of elemental essences	1281	=head2 On the nature of elemental essences
1258		1282
1259	It is said that of the four primary elements	1283	It is said that of the four primary elements
1260		1284
1261	- there is earth which is.	1285	- there is earth which is.
1262
1263	- there is water which changes.	1286	- there is water which changes.
1264
1265	- there is air which moves.	1287	- there is air which moves.
1266
1267	- there is fire which consumes.	1288	- there is fire which consumes.
1268		1289
1269	=head2 Overheard in a Narcopian brothel	1290	=head2 Overheard in a Narcopian brothel
1270		1291
1271	When Mother Earth was suckling her children	1292	When Mother Earth was suckling her children
1272
1273	sky suckled from her right teat	1293	sky suckled from her right teat
1274
1275	but flame and sea fought to suckle from her left teat	1294	but flame and sea fought to suckle from her left teat
1276
1277	this is why they still fight to this day	1295	this is why they still fight to this day
1278		1296
1279		1297
1280	=head1 The Tale of Lord Butakis - The Lost Stars of the Lake, Volume I	1298	=head1 The Tale of Lord Butakis - The Lost Stars of the Lake, Volume I
1281		1299
1282	This story begins nearly four thousand years ago, when Kadriosa IV, King	1300	This story begins nearly four thousand years ago, when Kadriosa IV, King
1283	of Scorn, invaded the southern territories and pushed back the elven	1301	of Scorn, invaded the southern territories and pushed back the elven
1284	barbarians that lived there.	1302	barbarians that lived there.
1285		1303
1286	The elvish people fled, and many of them settled in a place they called	1304	The elvish people fled, and many of them settled in a place they called
1287	Vkovzerov, “The Country of the Three Waters”, as it was a rather	1305	Vkovzerov, "The Country of the Three Waters", as it was a rather
1288	unique meeting point between a river, a lake, and the sea. There they	1306	unique meeting point between a river, a lake, and the sea. There they
1289	enjoyed a great prosperity, working with the local sprites to build	1307	enjoyed a great prosperity, working with the local sprites to build
1290	Tashkeren-tah, The City of the Wooden Towers.	1308	Tashkeren-tah, The City of the Wooden Towers.
1291		1309
1292	Two centuries passed, then three. The elven princes of Tashkeren-tah had	1310	Two centuries passed, then three. The elven princes of Tashkeren-tah had
…		…
1308	Haemdel the Legendary was crushed and the Three Artifacts lost. But so	1326	Haemdel the Legendary was crushed and the Three Artifacts lost. But so
1309	strong was their flame of hatred that it soon burned the ropes of their	1327	strong was their flame of hatred that it soon burned the ropes of their
1310	carefulness. Using their most powerful summoning spell, they convocated	1328	carefulness. Using their most powerful summoning spell, they convocated
1311	one of the Greater Aquomons before them.	1329	one of the Greater Aquomons before them.
1312		1330
1313	“Who are you, you creatures with pointy ears, to dare awaken me from my	1331	"Who are you, you creatures with pointy ears, to dare awaken me from my
1314	dreams, me, Vërno, the Fourth Drop ?”	1332	dreams, me, Vërno, the Fourth Drop ?"
1315		1333
1316	Elven Princes exposed what they wanted to Vërno, and the creature seemed	1334	Elven Princes exposed what they wanted to Vërno, and the creature seemed
1317	very interested at the idea of grabbing all the richesses of Scorn, and	1335	very interested at the idea of grabbing all the richesses of Scorn, and
1318	bringing them back into his dark kingdom of the depth of the sea.	1336	bringing them back into his dark kingdom of the depth of the sea.
1319		1337
1320	“Very well, said Vërno, but you know, I suppose, that we are all bound	1338	"Very well, said Vërno, but you know, I suppose, that we are all bound
1321	by the Law of Equilibrium, established by the gods themselves when the	1339	by the Law of Equilibrium, established by the gods themselves when the
1322	world was new and the seas infinite. And for my services, you’ll have to	1340	world was new and the seas infinite. And for my services, you'll have to
1323	pay the price.”	1341	pay the price."
1324		1342
1325	- And what do you want for a price ? - Well, my needs are rather	1343	- And what do you want for a price ? - Well, my needs are rather
1326	modest. I’ll only claim a tenth of your own lands as a reward.”	1344	modest. I'll only claim a tenth of your own lands as a reward."
1327		1345
1328	The Elven Princes quickly discussed the matter, and came to the conclusion	1346	The Elven Princes quickly discussed the matter, and came to the conclusion
1329	that it was a rather fair price to pay - after all, their territories	1347	that it was a rather fair price to pay - after all, their territories
1330	weren’t very large, and there was a lot of empty space all around, so	1348	weren't very large, and there was a lot of empty space all around, so
1331	it wasn’t really a problem for them. Maybe it would for a couple of	1349	it wasn't really a problem for them. Maybe it would for a couple of
1332	peasants, but who cared about them more than of the vengeance against	1350	peasants, but who cared about them more than of the vengeance against
1333	Scorn ?	1351	Scorn ?
1334		1352
1335	And so they answered: “The Fate of Scorn is Sealed, then. We accept.”	1353	And so they answered: "The Fate of Scorn is Sealed, then. We accept."
1336		1354
1337	What happened then is too long to tell in details here, as it belongs	1355	What happened then is too long to tell in details here, as it belongs
1338	to another story. In short, Jovidjevska the elven girl, who had heard	1356	to another story. In short, Jovidjevska the elven girl, who had heard
1339	everything, travelled to Scorn, and convinced the city wizards of the	1357	everything, travelled to Scorn, and convinced the city wizards of the
1340	truth of the menace. And when Vërno came to crush the city, they moved it	1358	truth of the menace. And when Vërno came to crush the city, they moved it
1341	two days into the future, and the water hand of the Fourth Drop grabbed	1359	two days into the future, and the water hand of the Fourth Drop grabbed
1342	only emptiness.	1360	only emptiness.
1343		1361
1344	Vërno, furious, came back to the Elves with a big smile, and told	1362	Vërno, furious, came back to the Elves with a big smile, and told
1345	them: “I did what you wanted, and flooded the territory on which Scorn	1363	them: "I did what you wanted, and flooded the territory on which Scorn
1346	was established. Now I take my due price.”	1364	was established. Now I take my due price."
1347		1365
1348	And that said, he selected the area on which the Elven City itself was	1366	And that said, he selected the area on which the Elven City itself was
1349	built, and covered it with water, its inhabitants trapped and killed there	1367	built, and covered it with water, its inhabitants trapped and killed there
1350	without understanding what was happening.	1368	without understanding what was happening.
1351		1369
…		…
1366	secret power of elves...	1384	secret power of elves...
1367		1385
1368	For years, he studied the Arcanes, hunting for traces of the city, as he	1386	For years, he studied the Arcanes, hunting for traces of the city, as he
1369	was convinced that the lost wisdom of the elves of Vkovzerov would give	1387	was convinced that the lost wisdom of the elves of Vkovzerov would give
1370	him a great power. And, finally, after 20 long years of searching, he	1388	him a great power. And, finally, after 20 long years of searching, he
1371	concluded that the secret was in the area now called “Lake Country“.	1389	concluded that the secret was in the area now called "Lake Country".
1372		1390
1373	And there, he came, and there was a small house made of wood, and there	1391	And there, he came, and there was a small house made of wood, and there
1374	was a tree, and there was a young elvish woman, dreaming at the stars,	1392	was a tree, and there was a young elvish woman, dreaming at the stars,
1375	under the tree. And Butakis fell in love, and the elvish lady fell in	1393	under the tree. And Butakis fell in love, and the elvish lady fell in
1376	love, and they both watched the stars. But soon, Butakis felt the need of	1394	love, and they both watched the stars. But soon, Butakis felt the need of
1377	getting back into action, and finding the lost city and getting its power.	1395	getting back into action, and finding the lost city and getting its power.
1378		1396
1379	The lady told him: “The true wisdom is in those stars, and in that	1397	The lady told him: "The true wisdom is in those stars, and in that
1380	tree, and in that house you see. You’ll only find unrest by aiming for	1398	tree, and in that house you see. You'll only find unrest by aiming for
1381	more.”	1399	more."
1382		1400
1383	But Butakis had already made up his mind, and he brought back engineers,	1401	But Butakis had already made up his mind, and he brought back engineers,
1384	and sappers, and miners, and they all worked to build a huge machine to	1402	and sappers, and miners, and they all worked to build a huge machine to
1385	pump the water, and discover the city. During ten years, Butakis worked on	1403	pump the water, and discover the city. During ten years, Butakis worked on
1386	this, hoping that in the end, the elvish lady would be at his side, and	1404	this, hoping that in the end, the elvish lady would be at his side, and
…		…
1405	The Elvish lady came, as beautiful as ever. And on the balcony at the top	1423	The Elvish lady came, as beautiful as ever. And on the balcony at the top
1406	of the pump, they watched the stars, and she kissed him, and she when they	1424	of the pump, they watched the stars, and she kissed him, and she when they
1407	were in the bed he had prepared for that very special night before the	1425	were in the bed he had prepared for that very special night before the
1408	pumping started, she whispered at his ear.	1426	pumping started, she whispered at his ear.
1409		1427
1410	That, Butakis had waited for long, but he didn’t expect what she told	1428	That, Butakis had waited for long, but he didn't expect what she told
1411	him then.	1429	him then.
1412		1430
1413	“Ten years you were away, and ten years I watched the stars with	1431	"Ten years you were away, and ten years I watched the stars with
1414	Twak. And now for him, and for he choose me and my heart, I’ll	1432	Twak. And now for him, and for he choose me and my heart, I'll
1415	disappear, and so does your dream.”	1433	disappear, and so does your dream."
1416		1434
1417	Butakis understood that he had been fooled, that she only kept her	1435	Butakis understood that he had been fooled, that she only kept her
1418	attention away enough for Twak and three of his faithful men to sabotage	1436	attention away enough for Twak and three of his faithful men to sabotage
1419	the pump. And so came a great rumble from the basis of the huge building,	1437	the pump. And so came a great rumble from the basis of the huge building,
1420	and so the huge engines exploded, and so was his dream reduced to smoke,	1438	and so the huge engines exploded, and so was his dream reduced to smoke,
…		…
1440	story.	1458	story.
1441		1459
1442		1460
1443	=head1 The Wizard School of Blue	1461	=head1 The Wizard School of Blue
1444		1462
1445	“Although the School disappeared with the Empire itself from The World,	1463	"Although the School disappeared with the Empire itself from The World,
1446	several wizards claimed to be the heirs of their ancient, secret wisdom,	1464	several wizards claimed to be the heirs of their ancient, secret wisdom,
1447	and nicknamed “the Blue Ones”, a reference to the color of the School	1465	and nicknamed "the Blue Ones", a reference to the color of the School
1448	Banner.” – Gros, the Irrelevant One	1466	Banner." – Gros, the Irrelevant One
1449		1467
1450		1468
1451	=head1 The Great Heliograph	1469	=head1 The Great Heliograph
1452		1470
1453	A device made by Mer’Eric the Walker. Built on the highest point of the	1471	A device made by Mer'Eric the Walker. Built on the highest point of the
1454	Brestian Hills, it is basically a giant magnifying glass, using a complex	1472	Brestian Hills, it is basically a giant magnifying glass, using a complex
1455	mechanism commanding several mirrors, that is able to concentrate the	1473	mechanism commanding several mirrors, that is able to concentrate the
1456	sunlight into a powerful beam. The concentrator is associated to a Sun	1474	sunlight into a powerful beam. The concentrator is associated to a Sun
1457	Stone that can receive similar long-range light signals and transform	1475	Stone that can receive similar long-range light signals and transform
1458	them into pure thaumic energy. A keyboard is attached to a mechanical	1476	them into pure thaumic energy. A keyboard is attached to a mechanical
1459	obturator, allowing a single operator to send coded messages to very long	1477	obturator, allowing a single operator to send coded messages to very long
1460	distances. A magically-powered scriptor writes any such incoming message	1478	distances. A magically-powered scriptor writes any such incoming message
1461	capted by the Sun Stone.	1479	capted by the Sun Stone.
1462		1480
1463	Although Mer’Eric only saw the Great Heliograph as a research project	1481	Although Mer'Eric only saw the Great Heliograph as a research project
1464	and as a way to communicate easily across huge distances, this device	1482	and as a way to communicate easily across huge distances, this device
1465	is also a powerful weapon that can burn nearly anything several miles	1483	is also a powerful weapon that can burn nearly anything several miles
1466	away. This is probably why he decided to hide it in a sealed cave.	1484	away. This is probably why he decided to hide it in a sealed cave.
1467		1485
1468	A similar device was built by the Mad Mage of Scorn, but its fate is	1486	A similar device was built by the Mad Mage of Scorn, but its fate is
…		…
1474	Also called the Twin Witches, they were two powerful women wizards; Herin	1492	Also called the Twin Witches, they were two powerful women wizards; Herin
1475	was specialized in White Magic, while her sister Urdin was a master of the	1493	was specialized in White Magic, while her sister Urdin was a master of the
1476	Black Art. Both of them tried to improve the life of the people living	1494	Black Art. Both of them tried to improve the life of the people living
1477	all around their house, and introduced the use of cats as spirit-watchers	1495	all around their house, and introduced the use of cats as spirit-watchers
1478	in Scorn. Unfortunately for them, they were burned by an angry Brestian	1496	in Scorn. Unfortunately for them, they were burned by an angry Brestian
1479	fanatical mob for “illegal use of Arcane Powers”.	1497	fanatical mob for "illegal use of Arcane Powers".
1480		1498
1481		1499
1482	=head1 Ilrya, The Mountain Huntress	1500	=head1 Ilrya, The Mountain Huntress
1483		1501
1484	Ilrya was an elven spellcaster and huntress from the underground city of	1502	Ilrya was an elven spellcaster and huntress from the underground city of
…		…
1487		1505
1488		1506
1489	=head1 Irial, The Fast One, The Shy Light	1507	=head1 Irial, The Fast One, The Shy Light
1490		1508
1491	Irial is a lesser spirit of flashlight - the light that you can see when	1509	Irial is a lesser spirit of flashlight - the light that you can see when
1492	there’s thunder, for example. It is represented as a small, jumpy and	1510	there's thunder, for example. It is represented as a small, jumpy and
1493	fast fairy with a temperamental mood.	1511	fast fairy with a temperamental mood.
1494		1512
1495		1513
1496	=head1 Khorolizov	1514	=head1 Khorolizov
1497		1515
1498	One of the three great dwarven kingdoms. “Khorolizov” means “Green	1516	One of the three great dwarven kingdoms. "Khorolizov" means "Green
1499	Gold”, which is a reference to the Green Sand, an alchemical component	1517	Gold", which is a reference to the Green Sand, an alchemical component
1500	the dwarves of Khorolizov are the only ones to produce. It is probably	1518	the dwarves of Khorolizov are the only ones to produce. It is probably
1501	the oldest of the three kingdoms, founded long before the Old Empire of	1519	the oldest of the three kingdoms, founded long before the Old Empire of
1502	Khelens reached the shores of the Continent.	1520	Khelens reached the shores of the Continent.
1503		1521
1504		1522
…		…
1512		1530
1513		1531
1514	=head1 Cromli, The Rocky One	1532	=head1 Cromli, The Rocky One
1515		1533
1516	Crolmi is the Dwarven Spirit of Rocs and Mountains. It has no temples, as	1534	Crolmi is the Dwarven Spirit of Rocs and Mountains. It has no temples, as
1517	it is said that buildings made of stone anger him (it is like “building	1535	it is said that buildings made of stone anger him (it is like "building
1518	with his own flesh”).	1536	with his own flesh").
1519		1537
1520		1538
1521	=head1 Glamdri, The Darkness Breaker, The Last Standing One	1539	=head1 Glamdri, The Darkness Breaker, The Last Standing One
1522		1540
1523	Glamdri is a lesser spirit of light - it is said that candlelights are	1541	Glamdri is a lesser spirit of light - it is said that candlelights are
1524	manifestations of Glamdri, for example.	1542	manifestations of Glamdri, for example.
1525		1543
1526	Glamdri doesn’t represent a magical light - more a spiritual light, the	1544	Glamdri doesn't represent a magical light - more a spiritual light, the
1527	last pinch of hope in a desperate world. Glamdri also represents original	1545	last pinch of hope in a desperate world. Glamdri also represents original
1528	thinking used to get out of difficult situations, as opposed to Sarikka -	1546	thinking used to get out of difficult situations, as opposed to Sarikka -
1529	the Raging Fire - who tries to resolve those by extreme violence.	1547	the Raging Fire - who tries to resolve those by extreme violence.
1530		1548
1531		1549
1532	=head1 Archmage Rhyz, (Entorinaas Durdennis Rhyz, Fourth Archmage of the Seat, Herdysenmark of Normania)	1550	=head1 Archmage Rhyz, (Entorinaas Durdennis Rhyz, Fourth Archmage of the Seat, Herdysenmark of Normania)
1533		1551
1534	Rhyz was an Archmage of the Blue School during the Old Days of the Empire.	1552	Rhyz was an Archmage of the Blue School during the Old Days of the Empire.
1535		1553
1536	“(...)Unlike Dhelyy Olyy, his contemporary rival for the Seat, Rhyz	1554	"(...)Unlike Dhelyy Olyy, his contemporary rival for the Seat, Rhyz
1537	focused mostly on closing the gap that existed between the art of fighting	1555	focused mostly on closing the gap that existed between the art of fighting
1538	and the Arcane. While Dhelyy Olyy believed in the dual association of the	1556	and the Arcane. While Dhelyy Olyy believed in the dual association of the
1539	Warrior and the Wizard, each with its own strength increased by a long	1557	Warrior and the Wizard, each with its own strength increased by a long
1540	specialization in their respective fields, Rhyz believed in the idea of	1558	specialization in their respective fields, Rhyz believed in the idea of
1541	a “super warriard”, a combination of a powerful wizard and a strong	1559	a "super warriard", a combination of a powerful wizard and a strong
1542	warrior. As such, he devised many items that increased the strength and	1560	warrior. As such, he devised many items that increased the strength and
1543	combat capabilities of their wearers, hoping that wizard apprentices would	1561	combat capabilities of their wearers, hoping that wizard apprentices would
1544	so be more inclined to learn the battle skills of warriors.	1562	so be more inclined to learn the battle skills of warriors.
1545		1563
1546	Unfortunately for Rhyz, most of his followers relied more and more on	1564	Unfortunately for Rhyz, most of his followers relied more and more on
1547	magical strength more than physical training, leaving them to a severe	1565	magical strength more than physical training, leaving them to a severe
1548	defeat at the Battle of Moriach, when Dhelyy used an anti-magic field over	1566	defeat at the Battle of Moriach, when Dhelyy used an anti-magic field over
1549	them.”	1567	them."
1550		1568
1551	(Quote from the Codex Simochusianus, Volume XVII)	1569	(Quote from the Codex Simochusianus, Volume XVII)
1552		1570
1553		1571
1554	=head1 Archdaemonist Xebinon	1572	=head1 Archdaemonist Xebinon
…		…
1561	drained the magical force of the wearer at the same time, making the spell	1579	drained the magical force of the wearer at the same time, making the spell
1562	regeneration more difficult. This was in fact a cursed, twisted artifact,	1580	regeneration more difficult. This was in fact a cursed, twisted artifact,
1563	created by daemons for people who were seeking short-term power, but would	1581	created by daemons for people who were seeking short-term power, but would
1564	thus head directly for long-term soul slavery.	1582	thus head directly for long-term soul slavery.
1565		1583
1566	Xebinon is sometimes called “The faceless one”, as it is said that the	1584	Xebinon is sometimes called "The faceless one", as it is said that the
1567	daemon trapped him by stealing his visage. This may explain why magical	1585	daemon trapped him by stealing his visage. This may explain why magical
1568	artifacts wearing his name are often helmets.	1586	artifacts wearing his name are often helmets.
1569		1587
1570		1588
1571	=head1 Argoth, the Fish-City of the Two Towers	1589	=head1 Argoth, the Fish-City of the Two Towers
…		…
1576	Towers, because two huge towers were built there, to guide the ships	1594	Towers, because two huge towers were built there, to guide the ships
1577	navigating on the oceans between Bigworld and Khelens.	1595	navigating on the oceans between Bigworld and Khelens.
1578		1596
1579	Argoth was a dwarven city built on one of the highest mountains known,	1597	Argoth was a dwarven city built on one of the highest mountains known,
1580	rooted in the depths of the sea, and climbing so high in the skies that	1598	rooted in the depths of the sea, and climbing so high in the skies that
1581	uneducated travelers said that it was a “stairway to the gods”. On the	1599	uneducated travelers said that it was a "stairway to the gods". On the
1582	top of the mountain, the Imperial Governors built the Two Towers, who were	1600	top of the mountain, the Imperial Governors built the Two Towers, who were
1583	visible from Scorn, about 200km far from them.	1601	visible from Scorn, about 200km far from them.
1584		1602
1585	The dwarves of Argoth had a terrible secret: in the depths of the caves	1603	The dwarves of Argoth had a terrible secret: in the depths of the caves
1586	below the mountains, they had trapped Hregalakhen, one of the last	1604	below the mountains, they had trapped Hregalakhen, one of the last
…		…
1646	are strongly influenced by Asferenn.	1664	are strongly influenced by Asferenn.
1647		1665
1648		1666
1649	=head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume I	1667	=head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume I
1650		1668
1651	I’ll tell you about Lorkas of Amudrias, and how he found the White Bird	1669	I'll tell you about Lorkas of Amudrias, and how he found the White Bird
1652	of Hope, and how he capitained it, opening the Gates of the Sun, and some	1670	of Hope, and how he capitained it, opening the Gates of the Sun, and some
1653	stuff like that.	1671	stuff like that.
1654		1672
1655	Some say that Lorkas was an angel of Valriel, that fell long ago from the	1673	Some say that Lorkas was an angel of Valriel, that fell long ago from the
1656	Skies, stealing a couple of highly holy artifacts, and hiding them in his	1674	Skies, stealing a couple of highly holy artifacts, and hiding them in his
…		…
1662	But, for what matters, some also said that Fido was a fiction, or that	1680	But, for what matters, some also said that Fido was a fiction, or that
1663	the Empire never was more than a dream of a past that never existed. Some	1681	the Empire never was more than a dream of a past that never existed. Some
1664	definitely are foolishly uninformed for sure, and speak more than they	1682	definitely are foolishly uninformed for sure, and speak more than they
1665	think.	1683	think.
1666		1684
1667	Because, if they were less quick on jumping to conclusions, they’d	1685	Because, if they were less quick on jumping to conclusions, they'd
1668	quickly notice how difficult it is for an angel to fall from the sky and	1686	quickly notice how difficult it is for an angel to fall from the sky and
1669	never be able to climb back, as if wild gooses were never able to take off	1687	never be able to climb back, as if wild gooses were never able to take off
1670	again once they land after their long journey to the South.	1688	again once they land after their long journey to the South.
1671		1689
1672	Anyway, as every wise man knows, Lorkas was no angelic creature of divine	1690	Anyway, as every wise man knows, Lorkas was no angelic creature of divine
1673	essence, or even a magical creation of a godly force.	1691	essence, or even a magical creation of a godly force.
1674		1692
1675	Some say that Khelens is the Beginning, first of the Cities of Men. That,	1693	Some say that Khelens is the Beginning, first of the Cities of Men. That,
1676	too, is untrue: before the Age of Khelens was the Time of the Kingdoms	1694	too, is untrue: before the Age of Khelens was the Time of the Kingdoms
1677	at War. And before them, the Era of Songor the Great. And going back	1695	at War. And before them, the Era of Songor the Great. And going back
1678	through the thick book of history, you’ll cross Arnistar of the Desert	1696	through the thick book of history, you'll cross Arnistar of the Desert
1679	Dwellers, the Republic of the Two Rivers, and the Ancient Haemdel, and the	1697	Dwellers, the Republic of the Two Rivers, and the Ancient Haemdel, and the
1680	Kingdom of the Long Wall. And before it, the forgotten towers of light	1698	Kingdom of the Long Wall. And before it, the forgotten towers of light
1681	that Horadrists built.	1699	that Horadrists built.
1682		1700
1683		1701
…		…
1688	boy that wanted to see everything, to understand the world and its stars,	1706	boy that wanted to see everything, to understand the world and its stars,
1689	and discover its limits, for it was extending much further than the mists	1707	and discover its limits, for it was extending much further than the mists
1690	of his home valley.	1708	of his home valley.
1691		1709
1692	But life was rude in Kuratas, and trying to think about anything else than	1710	But life was rude in Kuratas, and trying to think about anything else than
1693	your next harvest wasn’t well perceived by most; and, more than often,	1711	your next harvest wasn't well perceived by most; and, more than often,
1694	Lorkas dreamed with tears and despair about the Mountains with the white	1712	Lorkas dreamed with tears and despair about the Mountains with the white
1695	tops, and Seas that ended only when they touched the sky, far away.	1713	tops, and Seas that ended only when they touched the sky, far away.
1696		1714
1697	Tired of his senseless life, he left his parents, his village, his	1715	Tired of his senseless life, he left his parents, his village, his
1698	friends, when he was only 12, and for weeks walked to the West, until he	1716	friends, when he was only 12, and for weeks walked to the West, until he
…		…
1703	Kridatta, which was famous for its ships, as its inhabitants had mastered	1721	Kridatta, which was famous for its ships, as its inhabitants had mastered
1704	a powerful arcane, so that their boats roamed not only the seas, but the	1722	a powerful arcane, so that their boats roamed not only the seas, but the
1705	very clouds themselves.	1723	very clouds themselves.
1706		1724
1707	Because he was smart and quick-brained, Lorkas soon got enrolled in the	1725	Because he was smart and quick-brained, Lorkas soon got enrolled in the
1708	team of Capt’n Bortaras; and after several adventures I shall maybe tell	1726	team of Capt'n Bortaras; and after several adventures I shall maybe tell
1709	about another day, he took the succession of the old mariner.	1727	about another day, he took the succession of the old mariner.
1710		1728
1711	Horizon was the name of his ship, and famous was his crew, exploring huge	1729	Horizon was the name of his ship, and famous was his crew, exploring huge
1712	territories and fighting the Princes of Sinas, who back then tried to put	1730	territories and fighting the Princes of Sinas, who back then tried to put
1713	the whole area under their iron, greedy grasps.	1731	the whole area under their iron, greedy grasps.
…		…
1731		1749
1732	People there spoke a strange language; they were small and not unlike	1750	People there spoke a strange language; they were small and not unlike
1733	joyful foxes, and they welcomed Lorkas and his men (and women)	1751	joyful foxes, and they welcomed Lorkas and his men (and women)
1734	warmly. Soon, they learned to understand each other enough.	1752	warmly. Soon, they learned to understand each other enough.
1735		1753
1736	They called themselves “The People of the Mother”, and they had	1754	They called themselves "The People of the Mother", and they had
1737	never seen the “Flat-Eared Giants” before, although they already met	1755	never seen the "Flat-Eared Giants" before, although they already met
1738	“Flat-Eared Beards” and “Flat-Eared Greens” before.	1756	"Flat-Eared Beards" and "Flat-Eared Greens" before.
1739		1757
1740	But there was a lady called Sonja. And, although she wasn’t human, she	1758	But there was a lady called Sonja. And, although she wasn't human, she
1741	seemed brighter, smarter, more beautiful than any other woman Lorkas had	1759	seemed brighter, smarter, more beautiful than any other woman Lorkas had
1742	ever seen before.	1760	ever seen before.
1743		1761
1744	Those months were the most wonderful for him - and her - and time seemed	1762	Those months were the most wonderful for him - and her - and time seemed
1745	to have stopped for them in their endless love. But of course it hadn’t.	1763	to have stopped for them in their endless love. But of course it hadn't.
1746		1764
1747	And after a while, some of his men wanted to go back to their own homes,	1765	And after a while, some of his men wanted to go back to their own homes,
1748	and some wanted for their families to come to the Golden City. And, also,	1766	and some wanted for their families to come to the Golden City. And, also,
1749	there was the Bird.	1767	there was the Bird.
1750		1768
1751	They had no problem to find the White Bird of Hope - a statue entirely	1769	They had no problem to find the White Bird of Hope - a statue entirely
1752	made of the purest of the white marble, with gemstones of red ruby as	1770	made of the purest of the white marble, with gemstones of red ruby as
1753	eyes. But so much the inhabitants liked it, so they thought that a	1771	eyes. But so much the inhabitants liked it, so they thought that a
1754	valuable friend was much better than a valuable statue.	1772	valuable friend was much better than a valuable statue.
1755		1773
1756	And so they said: “Take the bird as a gift of us to your masters, to	1774	And so they said: "Take the bird as a gift of us to your masters, to
1757	show them we want to make friendship with them. Welcome are the friends of	1775	show them we want to make friendship with them. Welcome are the friends of
1758	the children of the White Bird.”	1776	the children of the White Bird."
1759		1777
1760	And so Lorkas left, promising Sonja that he’d soon return.	1778	And so Lorkas left, promising Sonja that he'd soon return.
1761		1779
1762	The people of the Golden City also told him that “The Bird is imbued	1780	The people of the Golden City also told him that "The Bird is imbued
1763	with powerful magic: the one owning it will always keep hope.”	1781	with powerful magic: the one owning it will always keep hope."
1764		1782
1765		1783
1766	=head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume IV	1784	=head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume IV
1767		1785
1768	When Lorkas came back, he and his men were welcomed as heroes. So where	1786	When Lorkas came back, he and his men were welcomed as heroes. So where
…		…
1789	Lorkas was now an old man that lived in a small house looking at the	1807	Lorkas was now an old man that lived in a small house looking at the
1790	Ocean.	1808	Ocean.
1791		1809
1792	And still, each day, he spent hours waiting, watching the line where the	1810	And still, each day, he spent hours waiting, watching the line where the
1793	sea met the sky, hoping that one day, one would sail back and tell him:	1811	sea met the sky, hoping that one day, one would sail back and tell him:
1794	“we found the Golden City !”. And always he hoped, but never received.	1812	"we found the Golden City !". And always he hoped, but never received.
1795		1813
1796	Nearly all of his companions were now dead, and the Horizon had been	1814	Nearly all of his companions were now dead, and the Horizon had been
1797	retired long ago, now slowly rotting in the bay, fading souvenir of a long	1815	retired long ago, now slowly rotting in the bay, fading souvenir of a long
1798	forgotten past.	1816	forgotten past.
1799		1817
…		…
1807	leaving from dozens of miles away, reported that an ancient ship left the	1825	leaving from dozens of miles away, reported that an ancient ship left the
1808	bay, with Lorkas sitting at the front of it, holding the Bird, as if he	1826	bay, with Lorkas sitting at the front of it, holding the Bird, as if he
1809	was sleeping.	1827	was sleeping.
1810		1828
1811	Nobody knows exactly where he went. Was he even dead? Nobody knows. But	1829	Nobody knows exactly where he went. Was he even dead? Nobody knows. But
1812	everybody kept hope that, one day, he’d reach the Golden City	1830	everybody kept hope that, one day, he'd reach the Golden City
1813	again. Lots of people tried to find the Bird after that event. They all	1831	again. Lots of people tried to find the Bird after that event. They all
1814	accused Lorkas of having “stolen” it. The story became legend. The	1832	accused Lorkas of having "stolen" it. The story became legend. The
1815	legend became fairy tale. And the fairy tale got forgotten by most.	1833	legend became fairy tale. And the fairy tale got forgotten by most.
1816		1834
1817	Yet, Centuries ago, deep in the oldest parts of the Old City of Scorn,	1835	Yet, Centuries ago, deep in the oldest parts of the Old City of Scorn,
1818	people claimed to have found an ancient mausoleum, a relic of the	1836	people claimed to have found an ancient mausoleum, a relic of the
1819	past. All made of the purest, finest gold. On the walls were engraved a	1837	past. All made of the purest, finest gold. On the walls were engraved a
1820	man at the wheel of a strange ship, and a woman with pointy ears, watching	1838	man at the wheel of a strange ship, and a woman with pointy ears, watching
1821	the skies. And many nowadays keep the Hope that the White Bird now sleeps	1839	the skies. And many nowadays keep the Hope that the White Bird now sleeps
1822	down below the streets, having found its way back to home with Lorkas.	1840	down below the streets, having found its way back to home with Lorkas.
1823		1841
1824	But who could tell if it is the truth, or only a silly story? Who	1842	But who could tell if it is the truth, or only a silly story? Who
1825	knows? As for myself, I don’t care: I just hold hope it is. And so ends	1843	knows? As for myself, I don't care: I just hold hope it is. And so ends
1826	the Story of Lorkas, and so keeps Hope running.	1844	the Story of Lorkas, and so keeps Hope running.
1827		1845
1828		1846
1829	=head1 The Prison of Madness	1847	=head1 The Prison of Madness
1830		1848
…		…
1838	in it, seen many of its wonders and returned.	1856	in it, seen many of its wonders and returned.
1839		1857
1840	He also wrote a book that details all the ways and passages, alas, nobody	1858	He also wrote a book that details all the ways and passages, alas, nobody
1841	could decipher it yet:	1859	could decipher it yet:
1842		1860
1843	gb2trg2gb2gur2rkvg:	1861	gb2trg2gb2gur2rkvg:
1844	2jnaqre2nebhaq2hagvy2lbh2ybpngr2n2znc2aN,	1862	2jnaqre2nebhaq2hagvy2lbh2ybpngr2n2znc2aN,
1845	2vg2vf2ba2gur2obggbz2ragenapr2bs2n2znc.	1863	2vg2vf2ba2gur2obggbz2ragenapr2bs2n2znc.
1846	2bapr2gung2vf2ybpngrq2tb2evtug,	1864	2bapr2gung2vf2ybpngrq2tb2evtug,
1847	2hc,	1865	2hc,
1848	2evtug,	1866	2evtug,
1849	2evtug,	1867	2evtug,
1850	2evtug,	1868	2evtug,
1851	2evtug,	1869	2evtug,
1852	2evtug,	1870	2evtug,
1853	2lbh2jvyy2or2ng2gur2rkvg.	1871	2lbh2jvyy2or2ng2gur2rkvg.
1854	2gb2trg2gb2gur2inhyg:	1872	2gb2trg2gb2gur2inhyg:
1855	2jnaqre2ebhaq2hagvy2lbh2trg2gb2znc2aN1,	1873	2jnaqre2ebhaq2hagvy2lbh2trg2gb2znc2aN1,
1856	vg2vf2gb2gur2evtug2bs2n2abezny2znc.	1874	vg2vf2gb2gur2evtug2bs2n2abezny2znc.
1857	2tb2hc,	1875	2tb2hc,
1858	2yrsg,	1876	2yrsg,
1859	2hc,	1877	2hc,
1860	2yrsg,	1878	2yrsg,
1861	2qbja,	1879	2qbja,
1862	2qbja,	1880	2qbja,
1863	2evtug,	1881	2evtug,
1864	2qbja,	1882	2qbja,
1865	2qbja,	1883	2qbja,
1866	2qbja.2Lbh2jvyy2or2va2gur2unyy,	1884	2qbja.2Lbh2jvyy2or2va2gur2unyy,
1867	2tb2guebhtu2naq2gb2gur2yrsg2gb2ernpu2gur2inhyg.	1885	2tb2guebhtu2naq2gb2gur2yrsg2gb2ernpu2gur2inhyg.
1868		1886
1869		1887
1870	=head1 Order of the Gravestone	1888	=head1 Order of the Gravestone
1871		1889
1872	An ancient order of druids, that venerated the supposed gravestone of	1890	An ancient order of druids, that venerated the supposed gravestone of
…		…
1875	cycle. The Order of the Gravestone was very popular during the first	1893	cycle. The Order of the Gravestone was very popular during the first
1876	Millenia EK, but then went extinct. No druid is known to exist today, and	1894	Millenia EK, but then went extinct. No druid is known to exist today, and
1877	the exact location of the gravestone has long been forgotten.	1895	the exact location of the gravestone has long been forgotten.
1878		1896
1879		1897
		1898	=head1 Rule of Dictus
		1899
		1900	If you get killed twice at the same place - go elsewhere.
		1901
		1902	- Dictus the Fat, EK 323
		1903
		1904
		1905	=head1 Heaven and Hell
		1906
		1907	It is said that the church of Valriel in Scorn has direct access to
		1908	Heaven. The priests of Valriel claim that you can enter Heaven freely, and
		1909	even come back to the world of mortals. The priests of Gorokh claim that
		1910	their church has a connection to Hell. The Valriel priests claim they were
		1911	first, and, in their usual attitude, the Gorokh priests claim the priests
		1912	of Valriel are useless maggots that lie to their followers.
		1913
		1914	Although a number of people have travelled to both Heaven and Hell, their
		1915	reports are inconclusive as to wether it was real "Hell" (or Heaven) they
		1916	visited.
		1917
		1918	Some people claim this Heaven and Hell business is just some magic
		1919	illusion forged by some magicians of those churches, mostly because you
		1920	can still die in Heaven, Hell doesn't look all that impressive (and it
		1921	is so easy to come back), and why would only the churches in Scorn have
		1922	access to those in the first place?
		1923
		1924
		1925	=head1 Barad-Dur
		1926
		1927	In the mountains north-east of the great city we found it at last -- the
		1928	hidden fortress of Barad-Dur. What treasures could lie in it I do not know
		1929	for our party never gained its way past the entryway. Skulls, pixies, and
		1930	a horrible creature I hesitate to name decimated my friends and I.
		1931
		1932
		1933	=head1 A visit to the Alchemist
		1934
		1935	...and then did the Alchemist agree to make me my potion. First he
		1936	called to his grimm servants who hauld forth a great iron cauldron. Into
		1937	this black device did he deposit his ingredients and, opening his spell
		1938	book for reference, then did he cast his spell of alchemy therepon the
		1939	cauldron.
		1940
		1941	Greatly did the tub shake and move! I thought that the Alchemist had broke
		1942	his device, but he chuckled at my ignorance. Into the cauldron did he
		1943	reach an brought forth a filled bottle of golden amber fluid...
		1944
		1945
		1946	=head1 The Philosophical Ingredients
		1947
		1948	Know that there are 4 principle philosophical ingredients. In order, they
		1949	are:
		1950
		1951	- philosophical salt
		1952	- philosophical sulphur
		1953	- philosophical phosphorus
		1954	- philosophical oil
		1955
		1956	The great alchemist has often said that all living things are made of
		1957	these ingredients. Proper combination of these with other base objects can
		1958	often create potions of power and might.
		1959

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