Overview
In the heart of darkness lies the Dead Islands, an accursed and enigmatic realm teeming with undead and demonic creatures that hold dominion over these forsaken lands. Vampires, wraiths, ghouls, lesser demons, and other abominations roam the islands without restraint, sowing terror and despair in the hearts of any who dare approach.
Over a millennium ago, Nharazul the Lich was once a formidable human wizard named Narinthal, renowned for his unbridled ambition and unyielding pursuit of arcane knowledge. As age took its toll on him, Narinthal became consumed by the desire for immortality and delved into the sinister arts of necromancy, seeking methods to prolong his life and transcend his mortal existence.
Narinthal journeyed across the world in search of hidden secrets and shadowy relics that would grant him his wish. On his travels, he discovered an ancient grimoire called the "Book of Eternal Shadows," which held the knowledge necessary to transform oneself into a lich, an undead being of immense power. Enticed by the allure of eternal life and the chance to amass endless arcane wisdom, Narinthal resolved to enact the ritual contained within the grimoire.
To perform the ritual, Narinthal needed to craft an object known as the "Philotrapax," a vessel for his soul that would tether him to unending existence. After months of meticulous preparation and grisly sacrifices, Narinthal completed the Philotrapax and executed the dark ritual. His success saw him reborn as Nharazul the Lich, forsaking his life and humanity in the process.
With the passage of time, Nharazul gathered power and knowledge, attracting legions of demonic and undead beings to his side. He chose the Dead Islands as his abode, a haven perfectly suited to conduct his nefarious plans without the meddling of mortals. Upon these islands, Nharazul established a sanctuary for his dark studies and set about raising an army of the undead to safeguard his dominion.
In his bid for supremacy, Nharazul also erected the magical barrier that enshrouds the Dead Islands, confining his vile minions to the islands and averting the gaze of other formidable entities. Thus, Nharazul continued to expand his knowledge and might undisturbed.
In the present day, Nharazul the Lich remains an enigma – a being of immense power and ambition who governs the Dead Islands with an Ironfist. As his might swells, so too does his influence, and many dread that Nharazul will someday decide that the Dead Islands can no longer satiate his thirst for knowledge and power, turning his attention toward the mainland in search of new realms to conquer.
The dwarves of Dhon Mendor and Dhon Vondaral have had numerous encounters with these sinister creatures, particularly during their expeditions to the Dead Islands in their quest for lost lore and wisdom. These encounters have given rise to countless stories and legends among the dwarves, often passed down through generations, serving as both cautionary tales and records of their people's daring bravery in the face of unspeakable darkness.
Figures of Interest
Naharazul the Lich
Chaotic evil, gender unknown
Nharazul the Lich is a powerful and ancient undead being who resides on the Dead Islands. It is believed that he is the supreme leader of the abominations that inhabit the islands and the one responsible for maintaining the magical barrier that prevents these creatures from advancing towards the mainland. Nharazul seeks total domination of the Dead Islands and the destruction of those who attempt to unlock its secrets.
Lord Gavric Rockhammer
Chaotic good, male dwarf
The brave Lord Gavric Rockhammer is the leader of Dhon Mendor and a veteran of many battles against the creatures of the Dead Islands. Gavric seeks allies to launch an expedition to the islands and discover the secret behind the barrier that keeps the undead and demons at bay.
Master Craftswoman Freyja Ironheart
Neutral, female dwarf
Freyja Ironheart is a master craftsman of Dhon Vondaral and an expert in weapons and armor that have been used in the fight against the creatures of the Dead Islands. She is interested in studying the magical artifacts that can be recovered from the islands to improve her own creations.
Selene Night Eye
Neutral, female elf
Selene Nighteye is an elf explorer who has spent years studying the Dead Islands and their inhabitants. Despite having lost many companions on her expeditions, Selene remains determined to discover the secrets of the islands and find a way to eradicate the evil that lives there.