History of The Known World

Ten years have passed since the end of the Time line. War between the Humans and Wolfen is imminent. Border Skirmishes have already taken place along the Great Northern Wilderness and the Eastern Territory. There have also been fights between the Dwarves and Orcs for control of the Old Kingdom. The Kingdom of Byzantium has refused to swear allegiance to either side. It has decided to stay neutral stating that “... it would be bad for business.” The Ophid's Grasslands, Yin-Sloth Jungles, Baalgor Wastelands, Mt. Nimro, and Land of the South Winds have all become contested territories.

Humans have formed the Unified Front (The Front) to combat the waves of monstrous creatures that threaten their lands. While unified, the humans show more allegiance to their individual kingdoms than to The Front. If needed, Kings will send their troops to help another kingdom, but will expect recompense. The most notable example of this is Lord Itomas, ruler of the Western Empire. While being the largest force behind the unification he also sees the opportunity to expand his own empire.

The Elves still show extreme loyalty to the humans. They have established kingdoms and cities in almost every human controlled area. Their knowledge magic has become the biggest deterrent to attacks. While still a formidable force, the Elves are a mere shell of what the had been during their prime.

The Old Kingdom Mountains have been reclaimed by the Dwarves. While they have not reclaimed all of their lost kingdoms and strongholds they have taken back enough to claim the mountains as their home once again. This action was not taken lightly by the Orcs, Goblins, and Kobold that were living there. It has created great tension in the Old Kingdom between both sides. Dwarves are still the best smiths known to man, but have lost almost all knowledge of rune magic.

Gnomes are gnomes. Living predominately in human cities. They still have settlements in the Ophid's Grasslands. Many of these villages have been decimated in the fighting. Gnomes have shown to have their own agenda while fighting alongside The Front. They are fighting for their kin who have been slain in the fighting.

The Wolfen race is the leading force behind the creation of the Pack. They have a severe hatred for the humans. At the same time, Wolfens usually keep this hatred in check to keep their kin safe. They know very well that if they strike out against the humans, then they will have the full force of the Front coming down on them. Realizing this possibility keeps them from waging outright war. They will however strike out against anyone that they feel has invaded their territory. The pack of 12 are the largest offenders against the humans. They have slaughtered many in the name of their enslaved Wolfen kin.

Orcs and Goblins make up the second largest section of the Pack. They joined with the Wolfen when the Dwarves decided to start reclaiming their kingdom back. In the process, a large number of hobgoblins were killed. Only about 5% of their original population is still alive. Having offended the Goblins with the murders of their brothers brought the Goblins to arms. They also called out to their larger brothers, the Orcs. Having heard of this atrocity, the Orcs sent message to all Orcs and Goblins to defend their ground from anyone.

Kobolds came into the Pack about the same time as the Orcs and Goblins. They were upset at losing the forges and mines in the Old Kingdom Mountains. During the time of their control, Kobolds were able to improve on their crafting of weapons and armor. While still not as good as the Dwarves, Kobold craftsmanship comes in a close second.

The Unknown World

Five years ago, monks and scholars of the Library of Bletherad released information of unknown text. In these text, a new continent was mentioned. It also gave general information of where this new land was. The word of this reached the leaders of both sides with lighting speed. Both sides immediately sent out ships to find this land and to start exploring. Within one year, the land was found by both sides.

Word quickly spread again. Adventurers from all around started to sign up with their side as a way to come over. Some came for the fame, some for the money, and various other reasons. Right now the only way to be allowed over to the new continent is to serve their side.

The encampments made by both sides are far from being a vacation destination. The camps main purpose is to receive materials and troops from the incoming ships. It is expected that it will be roughly another ten years before high quality fortifications can be expected. While the camps are improved, scouting is taking place to find out what is here.

The reports from the scouting party talks mainly of lush forests, rolling grasslands and clean water. A few of the reports from the scouts furthest out talk of a mountain range off in the distance. The sky around the mountains are described as “dark, almost like a moonless night.”

Where Our Adventure Begins

At this point, our brave heroes have decided to enlist. Each one having their own specific reason. They have just landed on the new continent in their sides respective camps.