Topic: The Books of Ashar

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-10 16:56 EST

"You come across an ancient tome, thick and heavy, bound in brown leather and gold etchings, with several tiny jewels adorning the cover."

"Blowing the dust off the cover you read, in fine, bold silver etchings these words.."
The First Book of Ashar

"Taking the small bronze key that is tied to the book, you unlock it and open up the old cover, the smell of ages on the pages. Old, semi-faded writing, in the Elven Language, yet you can read the words."

Here now is an accounting of the History, Lands and Races of Asharan, or Land of Ashar. Known also as the Lands of the Far West, across the Great Sea. A land once ruled by Evil Dragons and their Dark Goddess Tiamat. Where after a long time of harsh and evil rule, the DragonBorn, children born of Human and Dragons, led the way to Freedom. How they, with the Elves and Dwarves, cast down their Dragon Masters and forged a new Realm.

Bid you know dear reader, this Book and its companion tomes are writen by the hand of Siradon MoonHeart, Grey Elven Sage, Keeper of the Imperial Libraries of Nirunar and Blessed Proxy of Deep Sashelas, the Elven Deity of Knowledge. Harkon to these words, for they are a true accounting of the Land of Asharan.

And may Deep Sashelas guide you in your quest for that knowledge...

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-10 17:27 EST

Here first is an accounting of the lands of Asharan, the Lands of the Far West...

To the west, some Eight Hundred Leagues across the Great Sea of the World of Rhydin, you come upon Asharan. Or the Lands of Ashar..A great landmass of two landmasses, joined together by a wide and long land bridge. Greater Asharan, which is to the North and West, is a land of rugged, steep, cold and snow-covered Mountains. At the foot of the Mountains of Aerie, stretching the length of Greater Asharan, from East to West, is the Great Forest of Mynealar.

A vast, Temperate Forest of Pines, Firs, Redwoods, Oaks, Maples and Willows. The Forest floor covered in a sea of green ferns and other lush undergrowth. In the deep places of the Woods, gullies and glens are found, home to a myriad of Forest Dwellers. Many are the places where the Sunlight barely shines through, here one finds fields of darkness loving Mushrooms of all kinds.

Beyond the Great Forest of Mynealar these Mountains, known as the Peaks of Aerie, are vast Grasslands. The Grasslands of Lir, a great area of cool Steppes, with rolling hills, and several wide rivers. In this place there are some small, light forests and fields of tall grass. This great Landmass stretches some four thousand miles, East to West and a thousand miles North to South.

Going to the south and east, one comes to the great Land Bridge, known as Ashar's Road, a Savannah, hot and semi-arid, with only a few waterways. Looming on either side of this Savannah, known as the Hinderlands, are the Fangs of Tiamat. Two long broken mountain ridges, of barren rock and scrub bushes. The Great Eye of Chronepsis, as the Red sun of Rhydin is called here, beats down heat on the Savannah. The Hinterlands stretch for 750 miles Northwest to Southeast in length and are at the widest point, some 600 miles across.

The Ashar's way, hot and dry, with its little shade and water brings one to the Landmass known as Lesser Asharan, the Southeastern Landmass of the Continent of Asharan. Steeping into the Desert of Thiros, a vast wasteland of some 600 by 800 miles, with dry river beds, small mountain ranges, salt flats, Ash plains and sand dunes. All of this is encircled by the Ring of Everlasting Fire, a series of Ash and Lava spewing Volcanic Mountains.

As one traverses over the perilous Ring of EverLasting Fire, and heads south, you find the Lowlands of Ghar. A large region of Mangrove swamps, thick muddy Boglands, and stagnent, insect-infested waterways. All cast in a palor of grey mists and the smell of swamp gas. A hot, muggy place, forlorn and seemingly empty, but a place of danger and death.

The whole of Lesser or Southern Asharan is 1,200 miles North to South and some 970 miles East to West in size.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-11 14:04 EST

This being an account of the Races and Creatures that populate the Lands of Asharan. Both Good and Evil, of Law or of Chaos, and those that are purely Neutral in their outlook of things...

The DragonBorn...

First and foremost, the Race that brought forth the Imperium of Asharan, and from whom Ashar the Free, who lead the way from being ruled by the Evil Dragons. This Race being the DragonBorn, a People born of Humans, taken as slaves, and used as breeding stock to be Soldiers. Some Humans were the playthings of the Dragons, used at a whim. And after a few thousand years of this degrading treatment, and with Dragon-Blooded Humans be mated to Humans, thus arose the DragonBorn.

They had the Scales and look of their Dragon Ancestors, but walked on two legs as Men do, their strength greater then men. And yet their hearts though fierce like Dragons, they had feelings as Men do. Five Subraces of DragonBorn came about. The RedScales, the Wizards of the DragonBorn, the GreenScales, the Warriors of the DragonBorn. Next in line the Bluescales, who were to be as Priests to the foul Goddess Tiamat. Then the BlackScales, the Assassins and Spies amongst the DragonBorn. And last, and least of all, the WhiteScales, brutes and savage warriors.

These were their appointed roles in DragonBorn Society, that is until the great Ashar freed the Peoples of the Land, and over time the five Breeds of DragonBorn mingled their blood, and now there is but two subraces of DragonBorn, those with Green-Grey Scales and those with Blueish-black Scales. Each equal in the others sight.

The Elves...

The Second great Race of People in the Lands of Asharan, the High Elves, who were and still are the oldest of Asharan's Races. The Tall, thin, and mysterious Elves, with pale-grey skin, Violet eyes and long Black or Deep Blue hair. They who are masters of Magic and of Music, enslaved as well by the Evil Dragons of Long ago. The Rulers of the Great Forest of Mynealar, named for their first King, who ruled over ten thousand years ago. Before the Evil Minions of Tiamat claimed the land for their own.

Many of the High Elves stayed true to their Gods, and did not sware fealty to Dark Tiamat. But there were some, who sought the Darkness of another one, for she heard and felt the bitterness and hate of some Elves. This was Lloth, The Spider Queen, and Mistress of the accursed Drow, known also as the Dark Elves. She can calling to those who spoke Evil in the Darkness, hiding their cries. She offered these Elves power against the Dragons. But at a price, that was costly..marked they were as Traitor by the Noble Grey Elves.

Twisted these traitors became, their stature lessened, their hair bleached white, their eyes red as blood and their skin dark as night. They were marked as Drow, and hid away in the depths of the Ground, in caves. Where over time they both fought Tiamat's minions and the Grey Elves, having loyalty, though twisted to their Goddess Lloth. To this day, the Drow, now in great underground cities and fortresses fight their Wars with the Elves and the Dragonborn. Despised always and forever, for their crimes.

The Dwarves...

Just as with the Humans and Elves of Old, The Dwarves, older then Men, but not as old as the Elves, were once slaves of the Evil Dragons from the past. Once great Kingdoms of Dwarves dotted the Hills and Mountains, that is until the Dragons and their minions came. With Orc, Goblin, Hobgoblin and Ogre slave warriors, the Evil Dragons conquered the Deep Homes of the Dwarves. Breaking the once proud Dwarves, enslaving them to dig for ores and gems, to give in tribute to their Dragon Lords.

Some as with the Elves, lost hope in their Gods, growing bitter and hateful in their Enslavement. They turned their hearts to Darkness and learned from the Drow forbidden magics. These Dwarves, now calling themselves Duergar, or the Grey Ones, for their skins became as grey as stone, like their cold hearts. They sided with the Drow, turning their backs on their Dwarven cousins and Gods, finding Darker powers to worship.

To this day the Dwarves, live in much smaller kingdoms, having lost much of their old homes to the descendents of the Orcs, Goblinoids and Ogres of the past. They eek out what they can, and feel still the bitter sting of that loss, as well as the loss of the Duergar. The two races having never reconciled, fight when either is encountered by the other. A Blood feud lasting centuries, no end in sight.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-12 05:04 EST

The Humans...

It is from the Humans of the Land, now known as Asharan, that arose the DragonBorn, for their Blood is of Humans as well as the Dragon Lords of Old. The Humans were then, simple Nomads, Herders and Farmers, iving in simple huts and tiny villages. They rarely if ever have contact with the Dwarves or Elves. Though all of this changed when the Evil Dragon Lords came, to conquer the Land.

The Dragon Lords knew then, that the best stock of slaves, where the Humans. They were the easiest at first to control and bring terror to. It was from the Humans, that came the easiest of Breeding stock, to build an army, loyal to the Dragon Lords and to the Dark Goddess Tiamat. For centuries of cruel and dark rule, the Humans suffered the worst tortures and foul experiments. Whole slave villages of Humans used to find ways to breed them with Dragons.

In time, there became less and less Humans, as their blood mingled with Half-Breed Dragons, who were quite savage with the Blood of Dragons still very strong in them. Bred over and over again, until the first pure DragonBorn came along. It was then, some 9,000 years ago, the Race of Man, all but died out in the lands of Asharan. Even now, these many thousands of years later, the Race of Men is small in number. And they do remember the past of their ancestors. Few live in the cities of the DragonBorn, some live in the Mountains of the North. Others still traverse the Grasslands as Nomads.

The Gnomes and Halflings....

The socalled Hidden Races, Gnomes and Halflings are not true natives of Asharan. The two Races came to the Land over 1,500 years ago as refugees through a Magical gate. A gate that lead them from a World that was in ruins. Scarred and alone, these small beings found themselves in a foreign land in a foreign world. They had happened upon a DragonBorn, named Erios, who was a Planewalker and had known of Gnomes and Halflings.

Erion spoke to them in their own tongues, and told them they could find peace in Asharan, and new lands to raise crops in and build homes upon. And so the Gnomes and Halflings prospered in this new paradise and were heartily accepted by Dragonborn, Elves, Dwarves and even the Humans. They brought a cheer and a wonderment as Gnomes and Halflings are apt to do. Becoming fast friends with their neighbors, living in the cities, or in pastoral villages. Showing off their crazy Inventions and skill with Illusion magics. As well as a simple, yet fulfilling life to all.

And to this day, Halfling and Gnomes do still sing and tell the tale of Erion, their DragonBorn savior who showed them a green and peaceful world. And on the eve of his passing, every year Gnome and Halfling hold a feast in his honor and say prayers for his spirit to remain in Eternal Peace.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-12 17:22 EST

The Orcs...

No discussion on the Races of Asharan would be complete without a look at one of the great plagues of the Lands of Asharan, the Orcs. A plague indeed for all the Land, since the days of the Dragon Lords. These brutish, green-skinned, tusk-mouthed, hunched over beasts are a true menace. Their blood shot eyes, foul breath, rough, muscular bodies, dressed in hides and decorated with skulls. Orcs were foot soldiers of the Dragon Lords, brutal and without mercy. Their signature weapons the Spear and the Axe.

However the Orcs themselves were slaves and worshipped their own dark Orcish Gods, chief among them, Grummsh the One-Eyed. And the Orcs had a fierce hatred of the Elves in particular. It was said that the Chief God of the Elves Corellon and Grummsh in ages past had fought a terrible batter and that Grummsh had lost an eye. It seems that this ages old battle had carried on into the centuries and millenia later.

After the Dragons were overthrown, the Orcs prepetuated and now plague the Land even more. Hidden amongst the old Clanholds of the Dwarves. They to this day fight the Dwarves for these places as much as they battle the Elves. Indeed the Orcs are a great threat to the Lands and Peoples of Asharan.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-13 13:44 EST

The Goblinoids..

The Goblinoid Races have been in the Lands for as long as the Orcs have, and are just as much a plague to Asharan. The three Races of Goblinoids are the Goblins, the most prominent and dumb of the three. The Militaristic Hobgoblins, who sometimes rule over tribes of their lesser Goblin cousins, and the Bugbears, bigger, stronger and more savage cousins to the Goblins and Hobgoblins. All of these races were at one time slave-warriors to the Dragon Lords of Asharan, long ago, now they serve either themselves or are used as slave warriors to the Drow or other Dark Races.

First are the Goblins, who stand as tall as Gnomes in most cases, some as tall as Dwarves. They are green-skinned like Orcs, with warty, tough hides, and sharp teeth. They bark and snarl their own primative language and dress in primative hide or leather, barely above using bone or stone weapons, such as knives and small spears. They live in tribes underground, dirty, grimy dens, strewn with bones and animal furs. They are known to eat Dwarves, Gnomes and even Humans, though uncooked.

Next are the Hobgoblins, ruddy skinned and hairy, with big, flat noses and low-foreheads, and pointed ears like Goblins and Orcs. Their eyes blooshot and giving them the ability to see in the Dark, as Goblins and Orcs can. The Hobgoblins are fairly more intelligent, able to craft iron weapons and studded leather armor. They are fierce and as strong as Orcs, but more organized in their combat. Often are the times that Hobgoblins are found in command of Goblin tribes, acting as leaders, bullying the smaller Goblins arround.

Lastly are the Bugbears, much bigger and hairier then their Hobgoblin cousins, at heights of upto 7 feet. These brutes are as savage as Goblins, yet they wear armor and use weapons like the Hobgoblins, favoring heavy maces and battle axes. Bugbears who are smarter then Goblins, but not quite as smart as Hobgoblins can also be found leading tribes of Goblins, or are found in Hobgoblin tribes serving as shock troops.

All the Goblinoid Races have three more things in common, first all worship the same savage Goblinoid Gods, who demand constant warfare from their creations. The Goblinoids also have a long standing hatred with the Orcs, as both races compete from living space and resources in the Underdark. And lastly are three Races use Dire Wolves and Worgs(Evil, fairly intelligent large Wolves) as not only as pets, but as mounts and guard animals. They treat the beasts very well, giving their Dire Wolf and Worg companions choice bits of meat, and plently of furs to sleep on. Nearly all Goblinoid Tribes well have several Worgs and/or Dire Wolves in their camps.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-14 14:01 EST

The Giants...

Giants, great and strong beings primordial and powerful, they are as old as Asharan itself having dwelled in the Mountains and hidden places of the Land. Some as mighty as Dragons, their only natural foe, others though powerful still as dumb as savage brutes. Many Varieties call Asharan home, here along before the coming of the Evil Dragons. Infact some of the Giants fought against Tiamat's Forces, others allied with them.

Greatest amongst the Giant Races are the mighty Storm Giants, either Green of Violet skin, standing at heights of at least 30 feet. They command weather magic and weild great magical weapons. These Lords of the Sky, Sea and Mountains live in fantastic Palaces upon magic cloud Islands and in the depths of Oceans.

Next are the Cloud Giants, close cousins to the Storm Giants, these white-silver skinned Giants, though mighty in strength and magic, are slightly less powerful then the Storm Giants. They dwell too in magical cloud islands and upon high, cloud-covered mountain tops in great fortresses. These great Giants easily stand at heights of upto 26 feet.

We come now to the brutish, and fierce, and thoroughly evil Fire Giants, with coal colored skin, and fire-hued hair. They are cruel and strong, though not so much as powerful as the Cloud and Storm Giants. Nevertheless the Fire Giants are a dreadful force in combat. These mighty brutes dwell amongst the places of Fire and Lava in the world, Volcanic regions being most favored, such as the Ring of Everlasting fire. They command hordes of lesser beings such as Azer or Fire Dwarves and Lava and Fire Mephits. These brutes stand from about 18 to 23 feet in height.

To the colder regions of Asharan, to the wind swept Ice fields and Tundras of Northern Asharan to seek out the Frost Giants. As cold and as cruel as the Icy North, these Blue-white skinned with Ice colored hair, the Frost Giants with a power over that cold, are as brutish as their Fire Giant cousins. Known for wielding frost-rimmed axes of immense size and hunting White Dragons for sport. Few creatures are as deadly in the North Polar regions as Frost Giants are. Frost Giants stand also at about 18 to 23 feet.

All across any mountain ranges of Asharan, you will find the grey skinned, and fairly reclusive Stone Giants. They are not as strong as Frost or Fire Giants, but one must not underestimate them. Stone Giants though relatively peaceful well attack intruders with large boulders, which also happens to be a game they enjoy. And they can be deadly accurate in throwing large rocks. For the most part Stone Giants dwell in their mountain caves, hunt for bear, and make stone art and cave paintings. These reclusive creatures stand at roughly 16 to 18 feet in height.

Dwelling in the foothills and at the base of mountains, one well find the very brutish and savage Hill Giants, who appear as large savage looking men dressed in furs and carrying large clubs, or spears of wood and stone. These gruff beasts pound their foes to a pulp, and have little to fear from most beings and beasts. They can be found at times in Ogre and Troll lairs, extra muscle and protection, or in their own tribes, terrorizing any nearby settlements. These large brutes stand between 12 to 14 feet in height.

Lesser known and lesser seen are Fomorians, twisted, warty pale-skinned cruel Giants that hide in caves and are known to eat people. They are usually found with groups of Trolls and Hill Giants, and stand hunchback at about 10 to 13 feet high. In the swamps of Lesser Asharan, trod the Milky-skinned and fierce Fog Giants, armed with large clubs and spears, these creatures are given a wide birth in the Swamps. They can be found in the company of Ogres and Hags, or in their own tribes. Fog Giants find good sport in hunting Black Dragons. Lastly are the Ettins, which would appear to be Hill Giants, if not for the fact that they have two heads, that can be found to argue with each other. It is from these brute savages mating with trolls(they have low standards) the rare two-headed trolls come from.

All giants, no matter their race worships ancient, hidden Giant Gods, who are truely as old as Time, just as their children, the Giants are old as Time itself.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-15 15:21 EST

The Dragons....

The Final entry of the Major Races of Asharan, saving the best for last as it were. The Dragons, the mightiest of all Beings in Asharan, or in any World for that matter. Once long ago Asharan had no Dragons to speak of, that is until The Dark Rift opened. Some ten thousand years ago, a Rift, a Gate from the very pits of Baator, known also as the Nine Hells opened up in the Grasslands of Lir. It was a rip, dark and sulferous, with red flashes and black lightning. This Dark Rift had opened near the Ancient city of Lir, for which the Grasslands today named after.

The City of Lir, a city ruled by Humans, Elves, and Dwarves, walled and vast, was set upon by a great army of Abishai, the Baatezu or Infernal Fiends that served Tiamat, the Dragon Queen of Evil Dragons. Hidious Gargoyle-like beasts, with Red, Green, Blue, Black or White scaly hides. But these Fiends were not alone, for with them came a great Flight of Evil Dragons, led by Five mighty and powerful Chromatic Dragon Lords, Axerionias the Red Terror, Dorunthialix the Green Beast, Guaranisis the Black Fear, Hadararinex the Blue Annhilator and Cryosinis the White Rage.

Each had lesser Dragons, in all the number of Evil Drgaons numbered in the dozens. With Flame, Lightning, Acid and Ice, the Dragons and their Abishai Fiend troops attacked. But they also had Goblins and Orcs, Trolls and Ogres, Hobgoblins and Bugbears. Even Frost and Fire Giants in this massive and terrible army. Legions of troops, by the many Thousands attacked Lir. The Men and Elves and Dwarves did fight back, day and night as others fled in terror. Spells and catapults, arrows and ballastae filled the sky, until the Sun itself was darkened. Sword and axe, spear and knife cleaving flesh, rivers of blood and dead bodies littered the land. Hammer and flail crushing bone and skull, the screams of the dying lifted to the Heavens.

For three years this war raged on, many dead, many captured, until at last the Dragon Lords and their hordes had killed or driven off so many Humans, Elves and Dwarves, the remaining surrendered. From the victory over the Kingdom of Lir, and using the now ruined city of Lir as a base, the Dragon Lords scoured the land to find more Humans, Elves and Dwarves to be used as slaves. And so it came to be, the Reign of the Dragon Lords, some two thousand years in length had begun.

It was in that long, and dark time that the Dragon Lords used their lesser Dragon vassals to bred with the Human slaves they had bred in the thousands to use as food, labor and sacrifices to their Dark Queen Tiamat. Those humans chosen, all females, where the first to give birth to the savage Half-Dragons. Too unstable to be used as anything but beasts. So the Half Dragons under Dragon influence were bred again and again with Humans. Down the line this went until the first True DragonBorn were bred. They were to be used as the forefront of an army set on conquering the rest of the World.

However that was not to come to pass, for the Dragonborns hated their Dragon Masters, a fiery defiance had been bred into them as well from their Human ancestors. They oftered prayers to whatever Gods would help them, and their prayers were awnsered two fold, first in the form of Ashar, a Dragonborn with Golden-Silver scales, first and only ever Dragonborn with such scales. He led the way, he rallied the other Dragonborn, the Elves, the Dwarves and the Humans to fight. And fight they did, by slaughtering the Orcs and other Humanoid troops first. The Abishai had long since left the land back through the Dark Rift, now long closed.

It was then the Dragon Lords and their Dragon Vassals had taken notice and gave chase to Ashar and his warriors. The battle was fierce and consisted of many raids and lightning strikes. This War of skirmishes and Raids, lasted some ten long years. But still the tables were turning for Ashar and his allies, that is until their second awnser to their prayers came. The Good Dragons, the Metallic Children of Bahamut, the Platinum Dragon, and foe to Tiamat. Shining Gold, Bright Silver, Burning Bronze, Quick Copper and Sneaky Brass, they came in the dozens as well. The battles in the air were an epic terror in itself. The raging, roaring Dragons tearing each other apart, blasting with fire, ice, lightning and acid.

These aerial battles tore apart the land, and left the ground littered with the bodies of dead massive Dragons. But Ashar, strong and Migthy, with a gift, a gift from Lord Chronepsis, Father of all Dragons, led the final assult. He had with him the Balancer of Chronepsis, a great black Adamantine DoubleSword, which blazed with Grey Fire. Forged by the Lord of Dragons himself, he gave this to worthy Ashar. And upon seeing Ashar wielding the Balancer, rallied the Good Dragons and his allies and they entered the ruined hold of Lir, home to the Dragon Lords. Without fear Ashar held the sword high and faced the Red Terror himself, and they battled for three days and three nights, and upon the morning of the fourth day, beaten and bleeding, Ashar drove the sword with a fatal blow into the Red Terror's chest, his heart. And did fall the Red Terror to the ground, slain.

This sight drove the other Dragon Lords away in fear for their own lives. The Lesser Dragons and their remaining Humanoid allies fled as well. And for their aid in the battle Ashar allowed the Good Dragons to stay in the Land, as friends and Allies. From the ruins of Lir, the great city of Nirunar was built, and from this city Asharan, or Land of Ashar was born. And in his wisdom Ashar, Champion and Proxy of Chronepsis founded the Tradition of the High WarLords and the High Captains. Proxies and Champions of Lord Chronepsis and Lord Bahamut. Twenty-one in all, ten for Bahamut, ten for Chronepsis, and one to led them, chosen by the High Captains, always a Proxy of Chronepsis.

And it is to this day the Good Dragons, as well as the Evil Dragons, both who did have a hand in shaping Asharan linger in the wild places of the Land. Now and forever a part of Asharan, Land of Ashar, the Western Realms.

This here now concludes the Lesson in the Races of Asharan.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-16 14:44 EST

Now dear reader we come to the Cosmology of Asharan, and there by the Cosmology of the World of Rhydin, as put forth by Tirias of Lycephera, the so called City of Stars. Known well for the many Observatories and Astromony towers. Tirias being both the Chief Royal Astromoner and Chief Royal Astrologer, and a member in good standing with the Planarololigts' Society.

Here now is a short view into how the Multiverse is arranged and as agreed to in this arrangement by many prominent Planarologists, those who study the Planes of Existance.

The Prime Material Plane or simply the Prime..

Here now this is where all the Worlds, Suns, Moons and other Astromonical Phemonenon are found. As well as the many Mortal Races such as Humans, Elves, Dwarves and others dwell on those said Worlds and Moons. Each series of worlds and moons that orbit arround a Sun or Suns, or those worlds which Sun or Suns revolve arround them are contained in a vast Crystal Sphere. These Crystal Spheres themselves are Magical, Mystical barriers of Primordial strength, formed arround the Worlds they contain. These massive Spheres float in an Endless river of flamable material called the Phlogiston. Travel is possible between the Crystal Spheres by way of the Magical SpellJamer Ships, but these is can be downright deadly. Such trips also are very very long.

The Ethereal Plane or the Grey Realm...

Beyond the Prime, when passing beyond the Veil, either in Death or by Magic, one comes upon the Ethereal Plane. A misty realm of many colored Fogs and Mists, much of which is a medium to deep Grey. Herein lies the Realm of Possibility, where whole worlds can be formed from the Ethereal soup. Many beings both benign and foul dwell, there are also finite so called DemiPlanes, area created by some strange mind or powerful Spellcaster wishing to seek quiet. They are also many dangers in the form of unique weather, such as the terrible Ether Storms. It is from here, passing through the Ethereal Curtains, seemingly endless walls of misty color, one can pass to other worlds and to the Elemental Planes.

The Elemental Planes or the Planes of Substance...

There quite a number of Elemental Planes, all unique, all deadly in their own way. Each home to a great variety of beings, and most of which are outright hostile. The four well most known are the Plane of Fire, a Land of ash, fire, lava, smoke and oppressive heat. The Plane of Air, an Endless and bottomless sky of blue, with islands of both cloud and some are floating rock, where terribel winds and storms can arise. Next is the Palne of Earth, solid, crushing rock of all kinds, where a person can find vast mineral wealth, fossils and if not careful his end. Then there is the Plane of Water, where one will find a bottomless Ocean without top either, though not crushing,one still has to breathe. It mixes both fresh and salt water, can be hot or freezing.

There are the Para Elemental planes, where the four great Elemental planes touch, Fire and Earth, make the Plane of Magma. Water and Fire make the Plane of Steam, Water and Earth make the Plane of Ooze, Air and Fire make the Plane of Smoke, Air and Earth make the Plane of Dust. Air and Water make the Plane of Ice.

Setting at the Top and the Bottom of the Elemental Planes are the Energy Planes, the Positive Energy Plane, the Plane of Life Energy and the Negative Energy Plane, or the Plane of Death. Where these two planes touch upon the Elemental Planes one well find the strange and bizzare Quasi-Elemental Planes, which are too numerous to list in this section.

The Astral Plane or Plane of the Mind...

If one goes the other way, and not towards the Ethereal, one comes to the Astral Plane, the backdrop of the Multiverse, the barrier between the Prime and the Outer Planes. Here one will find the graveyard of Dead Gods, now floating as great rock-like islands in a spaceless, endless sea of silvery-grey nothingness. Here there is no horizon, nor sun, nor moon. And yet one well find much, including the Githyanki, a race of Evil Humanoids who have made the Astral their home. Also found here are a myriad of deadly creatures and harmless beasts. From here one can travel to other worlds and to the Outer Planes through color pools, roundish portals of color torn into the very fabric of the Astral.

The Outer Planes, the Planes of the Gods...

Here one comes to the Homes of the Powers, the Deities of every race and world known and unknown. Good and Evil, Law and Chaos, and Neutral. Each of the Outer Planes has its own unique layout, rules and own Native Races. Each Plane is Infinite in its own right, each has its own dangers. These Outer Planes are further divided into a number of catagories..The Planes of Law, the Planes of Chaos, the Planes of Neutrality, the Upper or Good Planes and the Lower or Evil Planes. Yet all are in a perfect Balance.

These now concludes the lesson of the Asharanian Cosmology, further details well be given on the Planes, later in the Books of Ashar. Thankyou.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-17 17:28 EST

Here now is a listing of the Deities worshipped in Asharan, their names given, Realm they dwell in, their status of importance, their spheres of Influence and their Divine Symbol by which they are recognized.

Draconic Deities-

-Chronepsis
Over Power
Chief Dragon God of Fate, Death and Balance.
The Throne of Fate and Death, Outlands, Outer Planes.
A single, lidless Draconic Eye, grey in color.

-Bahamut
Greater Power
Dragon God of Good Dragons, Law and Justice
Palace of Bahamut, Mount Celestia, Outer Planes.
A Platinum Dragon in mid flight.

-Tiamat(OutLawed)
Greater Power
Dragon Goddess of Evil Dragons, Tyranny, Fear
The Caves of Greed, Baator, Outer Planes.
A Five Headed Red Dragon with A Red, Green, Blue, Black and White head.

-Tamara
Lesser Power
Dragon Goddess of Life, Light and Mercy
Isles of the Blessed, Elysium, Outer Planes.
A Silver Dragon in Mid Flight with an Eight Pointed Golden Sun.

Elven Deities-

-Corellon Larethian
Greater Power
Elven God of Magic, Justice, Music and War
The Crystal Palace, Arborea, Outer Planes
A Crescent Moon, silver in color.

-Hanali Celanil
Intermediate Power
Elven Goddess of Love and Beauty
The Evergold Fountain, Arborea, Outer Planes
A Heart of Gold.

-Sehanine Moonbow
Intermediate Power
Elven Goddess of Dreams, Death and Mysticism
The Crystal Palace, Arborea, Outer Planes
A Full moon, silver in color.

-Solonor Thelandira
Intermediate Power
Elven God Of Archery and Hunting
The Pale Tree in the Forests of Arborea, Arborea, Outer Planes.
A Silver Arrow with Green Fletching.

Human Deities-

-Belenus
Intermediate Power
Human God of the Sun
Isles of the Blessed, Elysium, Outer Planes
A Solar Disc.

-Mahannan Mac Lir
Intermediate Power
Human God of Oceans and Seas
Tir Fo Thuinn(Sea of Eternity), The Outlands, Outer Planes
A stylized Fish

-Lugh
Intermediate Power
Human God of Travel, War, Commerce, Horses, Crafts/Arts
Tir Na Og(Land of Youth), The Outlands, Outer Planes
Blue-Silver Eight Pointed Star

-Brigantia
Intermediate Power
Human Goddess of Rivers and Livestock
Isles of the Blessed, Elysium, Outer Planes.
A River under a footbridge

Dwarven Deities-

-Moradin
Greater Power
Dwarven God of Smithing and Creation
The Mithril Throne, Mount Celestia, Outer Planes.
A Hammer and Anvil, steel in color

-Berrornar Truesilver
Intermediate Power
Dwarven Goddess of Truth, Home and Healing
The Mithril Throne, Mount Celestia, Outer Planes.
Two Silver Rings

-Clangeddin SilverBeard
Intermediate Power
Dwarven God of Battle
Mount Clangeddin, Arcadia, Outer Planes.
Two Crossed Axes, one Grey Steel one Mithril

-Dumathoin
Intermediate Power
Dwarven God of Mining and Exploration
The Dwarven Mountain, The OutLands, Outer Planes.
A four-sided, diamond-cut Emerald.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-18 01:36 EST

Here good reader we come to the Three ruling Kingdoms that form the Asharan Imperium, each a Sovereign power. Each with a say in the Governence of the Imperium, yet all anwser to the High WarLord as is the Law. Which was set forth some 8,000 years ago by Ashar himself.

The Grand Dominion of Ashar...

This is the Greatest of the Three Realms of the Imperium, ruled by the hand of the 20 DragonBorn High Captains, 10 who serve Lord Chronepsis and 10 who serve Lord Bahamut. They see to the day to day governing of the Dominion of Ashar. Which stretches the length of the GrassLands of Lir and nominaly into the the southren Peninsula of Southern Asharan. The Capital of both of the Dominion of Ashar and the Imperium itself is the grand City of Nirunar, a vast metropolis of some 525,000 people.

The Hall of the High Captains, a Great complex of Meeting Halls, Temples to Chronepsis and to Bahamut, Barracks for Imperial Guardsmen(the Elite Guard of the High Captains and the High WarLord.) This complex, surrounded by high, thick walls of Granite and white-grey marble can be found near the High Mount, the Home of the Citadel of Fate, the High Warlord's seat of Power.

The Elven Kingdom of Mynaelar...

This the second and nearly as powerful Realm of the Imperium, is the Ancient Kingdom of Mynaelar. This Kingdom is founded in a series of Fortress-cities and outpost town spread across the Ancient Forest f Mynaelar, named for the First High Elf King, Mynaelar, a Proxy and Champion of Corellon Larethian, the High God of the Elves. He and his beloved wife, Fallainiali, a Gold Elf, founded this Kingdom over 11,000 years ago. During the dark times of the Dragon Lords, the Kingdom went underground, the secret Fae roadways and portals used to hide the rulers of the Realm in hidden places. As ths took place the Elves engaged in skirmishes and ambushes against Drow and other allies of the Dragon Lords.

The Kingdom is now ruled by Queen Starieal SilverCrown, a High Elf, and her Council of Nobles, Green, High and Gold Elves, Men and Women who rule the towns and cities of the Realm. There are two courts for the Land, the Winter Court and the Summer Court. The Winter court rules from one of the more southerly Fortress cities in the Winter. And the Summer Court moves North, nearer the foot of the Northern Mountains of Aerie. Elardin and Guardinals, and other Faerie beings can be found in these Courts. As the Elves keep close ties to the Seelie Court.

The Dwarven Kingdom of Thirundusir...

The smallest, but no less proud Kingdom of Thirundusir or Throne of Thunder. Founded some 5,000 years ago by Gariunar StoneHammer, after gathering together several large clans of Dwarves from across the land. Having been scattered by the wars with the Dragon Lords, and the Orcs and Goblins. This Kingdom was brought under the rule of Eight Thanes of Lords, and overseen by the High Thane. Each representing the Nine Great Clans that arose. Every 200 years, a new High Thane is appointed to led.

Thirundursir is based in the South-Eastern slopes of the Mountains of Aerie, near the Great Glacier of Ukanisar, a vast Glacial sea of Ice, which serves as one of the main water sources of the Mighty Irion River, one of the longest and biggest Rivers in Northern Asharan, which stretches a length of 750 miles south to the Sea of Durial, the Sea set between Northern Asharan and Southern Asharan. The Dwarven capital of the same name as the Kingdom, as a great above and below-ground fortress city of some 143,000 inhabitants. Mainly Hill and Mountain Dwarves, Grey Gnomes, Tinker Gnomes and some Halflings.

In all the various Rulers and Lords of the Three Realms still anwser to one Lord, above the rest. Always a Proxy Champion of Chronepsis, The High WarLord, a DragonBorn and who is chosen from amongst the High Captains who serve Chronepsis. But is voted on by all the the High Captains, every 300 years. And to replace the empty seat of the High Lords who serve Chronepsis, a new High Captain is chosen from among the Noble Clans of the DragonBorn

The High Warlord rules from the Citadel of Fate, a Five-towered, High-walled Fortress of Grey-Black stone, set at the top of the HighMount, a 220' high hill of trees and green grass, in the near center of Nirunar, the Imperial Capital. It was on this spot, 8,000 years ago Ashar had slain the Red Terror, and forged his own Realm. And on the Summer Solstice, for three days, the High Warlord, the High Captains, the Sovereign of Mynaelar, the Elven Council of Lords, the Dwarven High Thane and the Thanes of Thirundusir, meet. This grand event, which actually lasts a week, with three days of Meetings at the Citadel of Fate, is called the Festival of the Great Founding. In memory of the united foundation of Asharan between DragonBorn, Elves and Dwarves.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-18 14:53 EST

A Brief Timeline of Asharan History...

The Dawn of Time to 12,000 Years before the Present Age(The Dawning Age)-

The First Races walk and fly in the Land known one day as Asharan, first the Dragons, then come the Giants, followed by the Elves who dwell as primitive tribes in the Primoridal Forests. From deep within the Earth, arise the Dwarves. Roaming across the Plains are Tribes of Men. Other beings also find root in the Land, Lizardfolk, the Sylven Peoples and creeping in the dark, hidden depths are the Alien Mind Flayers who have travelled from Beyond the Stars.

12,000 to 10,000 years before the Present Age(The First Age, the Rise of Civilization)-

Elves are the first to form small Kingdoms in the Primodial Forests of the Land, ruled by Lords. They with the help of the Sylven Races discover the hidden Magics of the world, leading to the First Druids, Mages and Clerics. Dwarves contact Man, who by now have started to use Bronze, settling in small farming villages, herding livestock. The Dwarves who have the use of Steel and Mithril, teach Man who to Forge Iron to Steel. The Stout Folk as they are known as, build their own Kingdoms and Clan Holds, and have hidden wars with the Horrors of the Underdark, such as MindFlayers and Beholders. In time the small Elven Kingdoms form into the Great Elven Kingdom of Mynaelar, a strong and wise High Elf who serves the Chief Elven God Corellon Larethian. And it is at the nearing end of this time that The Dragon Lords, Five powerful Evil Dragons who serve Tiamat come to Asharan with a great army to conquer the Land.

10,000 to 8,000 years before the Present Age(The Second Age or Age of Darkness)-

For Two Thousand years time the Dragon Lords and their lesser Dragon Vassals scour, crush and burn the land with legions of Orcs, Goblinoids, Evil Giants and treacherous Drow Mercenaries. They enslave the Elves, Humans and Dwarves, others they kill. Cities once founded lay in ruins, taken over by the Evil Chromatic Dragons. It is in this time period that The Dragon Lords have their Lesser Dragon Vassals, the Male Dragons mate with Human Women, while the Dragons are polymorphed as Men. A terrible and twisted breeding pogrom begins. The First Generation of Half-Dragons are born, savage, and blood thirsty, these beasts are kept in cages and holding pens.

Some of them escape into the wilds, those left behind are sedated with magic and bred with more Human Women for the male Half-Dragons. Female Half-Dragons are bred with Male Half-Dragons. The two next Generations from both sides are bred and so on, for years, until at last the DragonBorn are bred true. Then the years of breeding more and more DragonBorn, to make a great army for use in the Conquest of the whole World. In time thousands of supposed loyal DragonBorn warriors populate the land, but these Dragonborn burn with hatred in the hearts for their masters. And they find voice, with Ashar, the Chosen of Chronepsis, the One with the Golden-Silver Scales. He leads the way, with the remaining Humans, the Elves, the Dwarves and with the arrival of the Good or Metallic Dragons. The Forces of Ashar take back the land and scatter the Evil Dragons and their minions to the Corners of the Land.

8,000 to 4,500 years before the Present Age(The Third Age or Age of Rebirth)-

In this era, Ashar forms a new realm, founding with the Dwarves, the Elves and the few remaining Humans and the many Dragonborn. From the ruins of Ancient Lir, Nirunar, or Cradle of Rebirth, arises Asharan, or Land of Ashar. By the vote of the Elves, Dragonborn, Dwarves and Humans, Ashar is named the First High WarLord. The various ruling councils of Land are established, as are the Laws to govern the Land. Some Humnas stay within the cities, others leave for the Grasslands to live as their ancestors did, still others head North for the Tundra Lands which lie North of the Aerie Mountains. And some go south to the Savannah Peninsula, known as the Tongue of Tiamat. Four distinct groups of Humans in time walk in the lands of Asharan. It is in this time that the a number of the Dwarven Clans now scattered form the Kingdom of Thirundusir in the South-East slopes of the Mountains of Aerie.

And from Lands beyond the world, through magical Portals arrive the Small Folk, Halfling and Gnome refugees from a now ruined World. The DragonBorn, Elves, Dwarves and the Asari, the Humans that remained in the Cities of Asharan, except the Gnomes and Halflings fully. And as it turns out, with Halfling hands, even more farmlands sprout up producing many crops. From the Gnomes come a greater understanding of Machinery and Science, combined with Magic. Propelling Asharan into the Stars, The Planes, and the rest of the World of which Asharan is but one Continent.

4,500 to 3,000 years before the Present Age(The Fourth Age or the Age of Exploration)-

Here comes a height in the Civilization of Asharan, the time of Exploration. Through the use of Sailing Ships, SpellJammer Ships, and Magical Gates and Portals, Explorers and Adventurers set out to map all that is beyond Asharan. Ships ply the waters of the World, making the first true maps of all of Asharan's coastlines. They also make maps of the other Continents of the World, including the Rhydin Continent, making contact their with the peoples on that Landmass. Spelljammer ships sail through the depths of Space, to the other worlds of the Rhydinian Crystal Sphere, making contact with Mind Flayer and Beholder ships. This causes great battles to be fought in the Gulfs of Space. The Planes, are discovered for the first time, the Ethereal is founded first, then the Inner Planes, then by sheer luck the Astral, then to the Outer Planes.

This is when Sigil the City of Doors, the premier crossroads of the Planes is happened upon. Trading and an influx of Colonists from Asharan spread into the Outer Planes. Trade Colonies and Imperial Forts sprout up, mainly on the OutLands, near the Gate Towns, the settlements with permanent portals to the Outerplanes. Though however some of the more Evil and Chaotic Ones, such as Xaos, which leads to Limbo, and Plague-Mort, which leads to the Abyss, are left alone. This Age of Exploration and Colonization, makes the Asharan Imperium a Merchantile and Military Powerhouse.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-18 16:54 EST

A Brief Timeline of Asharan History(Continued)...

3,000 to 1,600 years before the Present Age(The Fifth Age or the Age of Upheavel)

From the long Expansion and Colonization of places beyond Asharan, from other lands in the World of Rhydin, to other Worlds in the Rhydinian Crystal Sphere, and of course the Planes, brought conflict. And it also brought Diseases from far off places. From the Blood War, the Eternal War of the Tanar'Ri and the Baatezu across the Lower Planes, to the Enternal Battle Plains of Acheron. To wars fought across the Outlands, and battles fought in the Gulfs of Space, against Drow and MindFlayers. And upon the face of the World, against Orcs, Goblinoids, Drow, Dragons, Mindflayers and Duergar. Asharan was involved in many wars, mant lives lost in Bloodshed.

The Fortunes of War shifted again and again, bringing great loss or great Victory. This was a strain on the Imperium, compounded by years and decades of terrible Plagues, the worst of which was the Grey Plague. Brought back by soldiers from the Grey Waste, during battles in the BloodWar. This was a horrid wasting disease, that caused the skin to go pale, deathly grey, and rot one from the inside out, along with racking pains and couging that tore one's lungs to shreads. Thousands upon thousands died, whole towns had been decimated by the Grey Plague. The bodies of the many dead, burned in great pyres that lit the Night Sky.

From the loss of so many, Farms were left unattended, crops and livestock died off, Famine and Pests common aspects of daily life. The Church of Chronepsis, the Dragon God of Death, Fate and Balance, grew in power and influence. To where it became the predominate Faith of the Land. Many seeking solace, many seeking and end to the suffering turned to Chronepsis in prayer. Nearly half of the 5 million people of all of the Imperium, DragonBorn, Humans, Dwarves, Elves, Gnomes and Halflings died from either Plague or Starvation. The whole last 300 years of this Age was known as The Grim Harvest of Chronepsis. Those not sick, and with the means, travelled to other Lands on the World of Rhydin, as well as travelling to other Planes. This was called the Exodus of the Lost, many thousands fleeing to escape the Grey Plague and its horrors. Finally the Grey Plague subsided, the Wars of Conquest and Expansion ceased. Time now to rebuild all that was lost.

1,600 to the Present Age(The Sixth Age, or the Age of Second Rebirth, or the Present Age)-

Here now is the Present Age of the World and the Continent of Asharan, after the long and terrible times of the previous age, a new start is in place. The Imperium has steadily rebuilt itself from the ashes, with help from the Colonies beyond the shores of the Homeland and the World itself. That with the strong spirit of the DragonBorn, Men, Elves, Dwarves, Gnomes and Halflings, things are looking better for the Land, long ago forged by the hand of Ashar. And though there are many Faiths in the Land, the Church of Chronepsis still holds much power in the Imperium. The head of the Church of Chronepsis, the High Precep is nearly as equal in power as the High Warlord. This of course has caused a slow but steady rift to form between the High Warlord and the High Captains. As well as with the Church of Chronepsis and the Church of Bahamut.

Time well tell if there is to be a Religious war in the Imperium, for now, the Imperium remains strong, working to return to its once former Glory.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-18 18:06 EST

The Codex Imperialis Legis or the Codex of Imperial Law
(The Laws of Asharan as set forth by Ashar and continued to be set forth to this day)

I. All Citizens of the Imperium are here and now Forever free, never to be enslaved again by any External or Internal Force.

II. All Citizens have the Right to A trial by Jury of one's peers, A Trial by Justices or a Trial by Combat as in a Duel between Accuser and Accused as determined by the severity of the Crime. All Trials are to be witnessed, and Testimony and Representation of Plaintiffs by the council of Speakers is also the Right of the Accused and the Accuser.

III. All Citizens have the Right to Travel without harm or granted permission. All Citizens may own Property and may Marry without being subject to having such Property or Marriages being denied or annulled. And are to be fully recognized by the Government.

IV. All Citizens have the Right to Worship whatever Deity or Deities they see fit as long as such Deities are not found to be Outlawed in Worship. All Citizens have the Right to Redress grievences against the Nobility and the Military Ruling Class, withour fear of Reprisal. Such a Reprisal is deemed Outlawed and will be punished by Imprisonment, Banishment and/or a Repaying to the person or persons harmed by such Reprisals.

V. All Citizens have the Right to Buy and Sell services and Goods, as long as such Services and Goods are not Outlawed. All Citizens have the Right to own Businesses as long as said Businesses are not found to be Outlawed.

VI. All Crimes commited by Citizens, Nobles and the Ruling Military Class, are to be punished by the following forms of Punishment..Execution by Sword and Axe for the Nobility and the Military Ruling Class, Hanging for the Commoners. Imprisoment for All Classes, from a period of one to one hundred years. Perminent Banishment upon pain of Death, and repayment of redressing greviences through the sale of Properties and Businesses or Fines paid to be determined by the severity of the Crime.

VII. For the Crime of Unjustifed Murder, the Punishment is Death or Imprisoment for 50 to 100 years.

VII. For the Crime of Sedition or Treason against the Imperium, the Punishment is Death.

VIII. For the Crime of Slavery the Punishment is Imprisonment for 20 to 50 years, Death or Banishment.

IX. For the Crime of Thievery the Punishment is Imprisonment for 1 to 30 years.

X. For the Crime of the Worshiping of Outlawed Deities the Punishment is Death if one is a Leader, Imprisonment for 50 to 100 years if one is a Follower or Banishment.

XI. For the Crime of Defacement, Defilement or Destruction of Governmental or Religious Buildings and Properties the Punishment is 1 to 20 years Imprisonment and/or a set fine of one fifth the value of the Property or Building Defiled or Defaced to be paid to the Party or Parties that own that Building or Property.

XII. For the Crime of Defacement or Destruction of Public and Private Properties, Homes, Businesses and so for, the Punishment is 1 to 20 years Imprisonment and/or a set fine of one fifth the value of the Property or Building Defaced or Destoryed to be paid to the Party or Parties that own that Property.

XIII. For the Crime of usage and practice of Necromantic Magics and Summonings of Undead and Fiends the Punishment is Death or Banishment upon Pain of Death or Imprisonment for 100 years.

XIV. For the Crime of Piracy on the High Seas or in the Sea of Space beyond the World against any Imperial Naval Ship or Merchant Vessal of Asharan, the Punishment is Death by Hanging or Imprisonment for 40 to 80 years.

XV. For the Crime of Torture and/or Rape the Punishment is Imprisonment for 20 to 40 years, if such actions lead to the Death of a Victim, the Punishment is then Death by Hanging.

XVI. For the Crime of Fraud the Punishment is 5 to 50 years, dependent of the severity of the Fraud and that any monetary losses that are resultant from a Fraud, are to be paid in full to any and all Victims of a Fraud.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-18 21:37 EST

The Rankings and Line of Battle for the Imperial Military of Asharan, as of the year 8,126 of the Asharan Imperium. As recorded by the Imperial Registars' Office, and apporved by The Imperial Military High Command of the High Captains.

The High WarLord, Supreme Commander of all Military Forces of the Asharan Imperium, he is noted for his Black Robe and Black Sash.

The Imperial High Captains- 10 Proxy-Champions of Lord Chronepsis and 10 Proxy-Champions of Lord Bahamut. Each High Captain commands one of the 20 Imperial Legions of the Army and Navy. Each High Captain is noted for the Blue Robe and Blue Sash they wear.

Each Legion consists of 100,000 Army Troops and 6,000 Naval
Sailors, with a Naval Fleet of 30 Sailing Ships and 15 SpellJammer Ships. For a total of 2,120,000 Troop and Sailors with 600 Sailing ships and 300 SpellJammer Ships.

Now Each Legion is commanded by an Imperial Legion Commander, noted for the Red Robe and Red Sash they wear.

Every Legion of Army Troops is divided to 10 Regiments of 10,000 Troops each, and 3 Ship Lines of 10 Sailing ships and 5 SpellJammer Ships to each Line, with 2,000 Naval Sailors.

Each Regiment is Commanded by a Regiment Captain, noted for the Green Robes and Green Sashes they wear.

The Regiments consist of 5 Battalions of 2,000 Troops each, and no further break down of Naval Forces. Each Battalion is commanded by a Captain, noted for their Brown Robes and Sashes.

The Battalions consist of 10 Companies, 200 Troops to each Company, and commanded by a Lieutenent, each is noted for the deep purple robes and sashes they wear.

The Last order of battle are the Platoons, 10 in all to each Company, 20 Troops to a Platoon, also known as a squad. Each Squad or Platoon is commanded by a Sargeant, they wear Grey robes and Grey sashes. The second in command of a Platoon is a Corporal, he wears a Grey robe and a Bronze colored sash. The remainder are warriors, each wears a Grey Robe under their armor, but no sash.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-20 04:15 EST

The Fauna of Asharan, a look into the Mundane and Monstrous Creatures and Animals of the Western Realms. Their given name, a basic discription, their typical Climate and Terrain, Dietary category, active cycle and rating of Intelligence as defined by the Royal Academy of Science, Zoological Branch.

As presented by Professor Alvion FuttleBurg, Professor of Zooloogy and Biology at the Royal Academy of Science, and Senior Fellow at the Imperial University of Nirunar. And all references are in Alphabetical order.

Aarakocra-
Tropical and Temperate Mountains
Daytime
Carnivores
Average Intelligance, rating 8-10
Bird-like Humanoids, standing 5 feet in height, with a 20 foot wingspan. Four-fingered hands, with opposible thumb. Males have red, orange, or yellow plumage, Females have brown or grey plumage. They are primitive tool makers, that have offspring born from eggs. They speak their own language and some speak the Common Human Tongue.

Aboleth-
Tropical and Temperate Subterranean
Nightime
Omnivore
High Intelligence, rating 13-14
Fish-like beings, with four tenticles and tail, three red silt-like eyes on top end. 20 feet in length, water dwellers, slimey skin green-grey in color, with grey splotches and pink underbellies. Also possesses a rubbery, toothless mouth on its underbelly. Extremly Alien, cruel and Evil. Prone to having slaves, and are known to have magic ablity. Touch can turn a victim into a slimy membraned being.

Basilisk, Lesser and Greater-
Any Terrain and Climate
Daytime
Carnivore
Lesser has Animal Intelligence, rating 1; Greater has Low Intelligence, rating 5-7

Both are large reptile like beasts, with eight legs, long tails, and dull brown scales, with yellow underbellies. Their eyes glow a constant green and can turn people to stone. If reflected back, a Basilisk will be turned into stone, not immune to its own gaze. Lesser Basilisks are 7 feet long, Greaters are 12' long.

Bat, Common, Large and Huge-
Any Land or Climate
Nighttime
Omnivore
Comman and Large have Animal Intelligence, rating 1; Huge Bats have Low Intelligence, rating 5-7

All have leathery, hairless skin and wings, with pointed ears and sharp needle like teeth. They all see through Sound Location off of objects. The Common Bat has a two inches and is one foot long. Large Bats have a wingspan of 2 feet, and are 5 to 6 feet long. Huge bats have wingspans of 15 feet and are 12 to 16 feet long.

Bear, Black, Brown, Cave and Polar-
Any Temperate for Black and Brown, Any Land for Cave and Any Cold for Polar.

Daytime
Omnivore
Semi Intelligent, rating 2-4

Bears being large furry Mammals with sharp claws and teeth, standing anywhere from 6 to 16 feet in height when standing on their hind legs. Known to be lumbering beasts, they can run down most creatures if necessary. Brown bears of course have brown or reddish-brown fur, and are the least agressive species. Black bears which of course have black to blackish-grey fur. The much larger Cave Bears have Grey fur and can be very dangerous. Polar Bears are the largest of Bears, and have White fur to match the snowy surroundings of their Arctic and Sub Arctic homes. They too can be rather agressive if threatened.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-20 15:25 EST

Fauna of Asharan, Mundane and Monstrous continued...

Behir-
Any Land
Daytime
Carnivore
Low Intelligence, rating 5-7
Large, dangerous and dowright deadly serpentine creatures, with Auqamarine to Deep blue scales with grey-brown bands. These beasts with their set of a dozen legs allows them to move at a very fast pace and nearly half their rate in speed in climbing. Along their heads they have a pair of curved horns. However their most deadly weapon is the Lightning breath, a bolt of pure Lightning these creatures can breathe, once a minute. This on top of their powerful jaws filled with deadly, razor sharp teeth and vicious claws used when squeezing a victim, makes Behirs a deadly opponent.

Beholder-
Any remote
Day or Nighttime
Omnivore
Exceptional Intelligence, rating 15-16
The Beholder, a most deadly and cunning being, a feared, solitary and cruel creature. These floating orb-like Monsters are a terror to any that cross their path. They have a single large eye that can nullify most magics located in the middle of their large orb bodies. Atop their bodies are ten smaller eye stalks, which allow not only for 360 degree vision, but each eye stalk can cast a powerful spell, which can do harm to any that dare to attack these beings. Beholders also have large mouths filled with sharp fangs, that can rip flesh if it gets close enough. They are dominating creatures, usually controlling lesser beings through their Chraming powers or by terror alone. Their thick, motled, scaley hides also provide a great degree of protection to their forms. However their Central eyes and eye stalks and smaller eyes are less protected.

Bird-
Any land
Day or Nighttime(dependent by species)
Herbivore to Omnivore
Animal to Semi Intelligence, Rating 1-4
There are a variety of Birds, both small and great in Asharan, the most common types being Owls, Giant Owls, Crows, Eagles, Giant Eagles, Ravens, Huge Ravens, Giant Ravens, Swans, Vultures and Giant Vultures. All are favored as either pets, Game to be hunted for food or sport, or see as pests or animals that take care of pests. They are in abundance in the Lands of Asharan.

Carrion Crawler
Subterranean
Day or Nighttime
Carnivore
No Intelligence, Rating 0(pure instinct)
Carrion Crawlers a bane to any that dwell in Underground places, these beasts of pure Instinct, are a nightmarish cross of Cutworm and Cephalopod. Upto nine feet in length, with eight long tentacles that sprout from its head, each two feet in length. It uses these tentacles to paralyze prey and drag them into the vicious tearing mouths of the Carrion Crawler. It is called as such due to the fact that it can crawl along walls and ceilings, and many feeds on dead things. However it can smell fresh meat and living beings. These creatures have either a yellow-green or sickly green tough hide that affords a good amount of protection.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-21 13:53 EST

Catoblepas-
Any Swamp
Daytime
Omnivore
Semi Intelligent, Rating 2-4

The dangerous and bizzare Catoblepas, which has a body like that of a Buffalo, stumpy legs similiar to a small Elephant, with a long serpantine neck ending in a head much like some ugly Warthog. This fearsome beast uses either its club like tail or its more feared gaze which emits a magical ray that can cause Death to all who look at the gaze of the Catoblepas. This hidious creature has no known natural predators, except maybe the biggest of Black Dragons. Catoblepas can stand upto 6 feet tall at the shoulder and have fairly tough hides.

Cave Fisher-
Any Subterranean
Nighttime
Carnivore
Semi Intelligent, Rating 2-4

The Cave Fisher as this strange creature is called, is an odd cross between a Spider and a Lobster of sorts. It has a hard chitinous shell or overlapping plates and eight legs. It also has a long snout-like mouth from which it shoots a strong, sticky filament used to capture prey. Those caught by or facing a Cave Fisher are subject to its large pincers, capable of ripping apart flesh and bone. These creatures measure 7 feet in length, their many legs allow them the ability to climb up walls and along ceilings. Their body plates provide good protection.

Centaur
Temperate Forest
Daytime
Omnivore
Low to Average Intelligence, Rating 5-10

The Brave and Noble Centaur, a Race of Woodland Beings with the upper torso and heads of Humans and the lower bodies of powerful horses. They are excellent hunters and warriors, nearly fearless against any enemy. They are a tool making people, favoring the Bow and Oaken Club as weapons. Living in small tribes deep within their forest homes Centaurs deal mainly with Elves, for they do not care much for other Races, save prehaps other Woodland beings. The mighty Centaurs stand at a height of 8 to 9 feet and have strong, thick hides for good protection.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-21 14:16 EST

Chimera
Any Temperate or Tropical
Daytime of Nighttime
Omnivore
Semi Intelligent, Rating 2-4

The deadly and very strange Chimera, a feared predator of many an Adventurer. Its Forequarters are that of a Lion, its Hindquaters being that of a Black Goat. This beast also has Brown-black Dragon-like wings which allow for flight. Its other most unusal feature are the three heads on the body of these monsters. That of a Lion's head with a brown mane and green glowing eyes, a Black Goat's head with Green glowing eyes and reddish-brown horns and a Orange Dragon's head, with Black eyes. The Chimera can attack an opponent with a variety of weapons, its front Lion-like claws, the sharp fangs of its Dragon or Lion head, the Horns of its Goat head, or it can breathe a gout of Fire 15 feet from its Dragon head.
Chimeras stand at roughly five feet at the shoulder, can speak speak a crude form of Draconic and their bodies have fairly thick hides and scales for adequate protection.

DeepSpawn-
Any
Daytime or Nighttime
Omnivore
Genius Intelligence, Rating 17-18

The Deepspawn, a true horror of the deep Underground. A hidious beast spherical in shape with three large eyes in its grey fleshy body.These horrors have six arms as it were, three of which are 20 foot long tentacles, the other three are 20 feet long jaw arms that end in deadly mouths full of sharp teeth. Deepspawns that eat a creature can reproduce or give birth as it were to an exact replica of the creature eaten by a Deepspawn. These Spawn are also under the control of the Deepspawn parent and can never by any means harm the Deepspawn. These foul beasts are 14 feet in diameter, though it is rumored that there are large versions. All Deepspawns rubbery, thick hides give a good measure of protection.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-21 14:25 EST

Displacer Beast
Temperate Mountains
Daytime or Nighttime
Carnivore
Semi Intelligence, Rating 2-4

The deadly, yet stunning Displacer Beast, a cat-like creature, with Blue-black fur, and green glowing eyes have two long, black tentacles that grow out of their shoulders. These deadly predators have the natural ability to project the illusion that they are infact three feet from their true position. This Displacement helps these beasts hunt, as well as trick any opponents that are faced with a Displacer Beast. They mainly use their two barbed tentacles as weapons, rarely using their claws or sharp teeth. These creatures can be from 8 to 12 feet long and weigh from 450 to 500 pounds. Their thick, furry hides offer good protection against physical attacks.

Planewalker · Date: 2009-07-21 14:33 EST

Doppleganger-
Any Land or Climate
Daytime or Nighttime
Omnivore
Very Intelligent, Rating 11-12

The odd and reclusive Doppleganger, a strange thin, and hairless grey beings with long pointed ears and large solid white eyes. They of course are never really seen in this form as they have the natural ability to assume the form of any natural Humanoid, that stands from 4 to 8 feet in height. Which means Dopplegangers can be Dwarves, Humans, Elves, Half Elves and even DragonBorn. Though this of course being after they have killed someone, and then take that person's place. Making Dopplegangers near perfect spies, who actually live on the fringes of society. They are infact fairly cowardly and greedy beings. They stand roughly 5 feet tall when they are in their true form and their grey hides offer a fairly good amount of protection against Physical attack.