-- ToME - Tales of Maj'Eyal
-- Copyright (C) 2009, 2010, 2011 Nicolas Casalini
--
-- This program is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify
-- it under the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by
-- the Free Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or
-- (at your option) any later version.
--
-- This program is distributed in the hope that it will be useful,
-- but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of
-- MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.  See the
-- GNU General Public License for more details.
--
-- You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License
-- along with this program.  If not, see <http://www.gnu.org/licenses/>.
--
-- Nicolas Casalini "DarkGod"
-- darkgod@te4.org

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Temple of Creation
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

newLore{
	id = "temple-creation-note-1",
	category = "temple of creation",
	name = "tract of destruction",
	lore = [[#{bold}#Tract of Destruction#{normal}#

Though armies would fall before the Spellblaze's might, though forests were razed and the skies bled red with fire, they always felt that the earth would endure. It seemed eternal, unmoving. Not even the fury of the Spellblaze could hope to destroy it.

How wrong they were. The Nalorën people, long secluded, were prepared to fend off any attacks on their land, but how could they hope to stop the land itself crumbling? Seeing their home literally tearing itself apart, plains and forests tumbling into the seas... For one brief, terrible moment, they beheld the true extent of the Spellblaze's power. Not only was it destroying the people of the world, but the world itself.

The lands of the Narlorën had sunk beneath the waves.]],
}

newLore{
	id = "temple-creation-note-2",
	category = "temple of creation",
	name = "tract of anarchy",
	lore = [[#{bold}#Tract of Anarchy#{normal}#

For the years following the cataclysm, chaos reigned. Their culture, their way of life, it was as broken and fractured as the land itself. Nalorë civilisation was reduced to a few isolated and feeble settlements, scratching out meagre existences as land, mind and body was warped in both shape and spirit.

Faced with the idea of their great race failing – another victim of the Spellblaze, a footnote in the annals of history – impassioned pleas were sent to their elven brothers: The Shalorën, the Thalorën. Aid was even requested from human and halfling, embroiled in their own petty squabbles as they were.

The Nalorën received no answer.]],
}

newLore{
	id = "temple-creation-note-3",
	category = "temple of creation",
	name = "tract of acceptance",
	lore = [[#{bold}#Tract of Acceptance#{normal}#

Betrayed by the Shalorën, wilful and destructive, and the Thalorën, aloof and suspicious, a long, seething silence fell over the remaining Nalorën people. It was during this period of grim introspection that salvation was suddenly and unexpectedly granted. The ancient Sher'Tul magicks, long pondered over by the land's mystics, would bear fruit at last.

The same force that destroyed the Nalorën would save them. Through the Sher'Tul's magic, the Nalorën became able to breathe water as if it was air. Their bodies became adapted for existence under the waves, their legs becoming long, snake-like tails. Such drastic metamorphosis would naturally cause horror, you may expect. However, the Nalorën saw the possibilities their new forms provided: Their sunken lands were their own once again. Their homes would be rebuilt, their civilisation reborn. Nalorën no more, the denizens of the sunken kingdom would come to be known as 'nagas'...]],
}

newLore{
	id = "temple-creation-note-4",
	category = "temple of creation",
	name = "personal note (Slasul)",
	lore = [[At long last, the temple finally reveals its secrets to me, and my plans can be set in motion. Lithe in form, faultless in combat, unmatched in speed both above the waves and beneath... nature couldn't have hoped to create such a race as nagas. With the Temple of Creation now open to me however, we may become so much more. With my guidance, my careful shaping of the Sher'Tul's magicks, under my expert hand our great race shall soon reach its zenith. A new tract shall soon be written: The Tract of the Devourer.
]],
}

--------------------------------------------------------------
-- Correspondances
--------------------------------------------------------------
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-1",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "letter to Rolf (1)",
	lore = [[Dear Rolf,

I hope this letter finds you well. I must apologise for this recent dry spell in our communication; my adventures across Maj'Eyal have taken many exciting and perilous turns as of late. What turns do I speak of, you ask? I know how you delight in reading the accounts of my exploits, so I shall waste no further time on this pre-amble.

Imagine, if you will, a wolf. Imagine a beastly wolf, a wolf with strength, ferocity and a lust for flesh matching that of an entire pack of its lesser kind. You too may have some small experience with these "wargs" as the locals are wont to call them. Now... imagine one the size of a bear. Truly, as I travelled the lands surrounding Derth did I come across such a monstrous, awe-inspiring, lupine adversary. With fangs of a length to match my own blade, I entered combat against this lupine lord and its skulking brood. To my regret I failed in slaying the beast, but I assure you - simply surviving against such feral rage is an honour worthy of recognition and renown.

And indeed, would there have been much glory in killing such a creature? True, I would have had enough to fur to line each and every boot and hat in Derth, but legends must live on. They are what give this world its very spirit!

With eager anticipation for your reply,
Weisman]]}
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-2",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "letter to Weisman (1)",
	lore = [[Dear Weisman,

Ah! What feelings your last letters inspired within me... primarily mirth, with a good amount of scorn! Must you continuously assail me with tale after tale of your waving of wooden swords and pestering of toothless mongrels? Allow me to recount your "legends" in a much more succinct manner: One day, I failed to kill a dog. Such bravery! Such pluck and derring-do!

Your petty escapades are made ever more insignificant by the trials I myself have recently overcome. Mere days ago I was trekking through the Old Forest (that's outside Derth, Weisman! Terror must already grip you!) when, by unfortunate happenstance, I came across a most hideous, bloated, oozing and chittering horror! No less than the giant ants' repulsive progenitor! Such hordes of frenzied chitinous young it had at its command, it was as though the ground itself was swarming forward to devour me!

And yet I live. Weisman, I sincerely hope that my letter has revealed to you your folly. Only when you have faced true danger can you call yourself an adventurer. Bore me with your tales no longer.

Rolf]]}
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-3",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "letter to Rolf (2)",
	lore = [[Dear Rolf the Antslayer,

Ha! Such trials you have overcome! Forget dragons and demons, here we have a hero who has survived against ants! I shall deliver this joyous news to Last Hope with all haste - perhaps there shall be a parade in your honour!

I hope you registered the sarcasm in my previous words, but I obviously cannot expect much from one who struggles with insects. Allow me to share with you knowledge of a beast rather more fitting for a true adventurer to behold. My travels had taken me south, and as I walked one night along an abandoned mountain pass, imagining what treasures and trials the next day may bring, a brilliant light filled my vision! I stood in its radiance, the land around me illuminated so that it almost appeared to be in broad daylight, and that was when I saw it.

Such a magnificent sight! With wings of fire, leaving the air itself hissing and smouldering in its wake, I could only watch with rapt amazement as it alighted on a rocky outcrop mere yards away from me, the stone beneath its talons warping from its tremendous heat. It was at that moment, Rolf, that I realised that this was what being an adventurer was about - there is always more in this world of ours to amaze and astonish us.

Learn from my experiences,
Weisman]]}
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-4",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "letter to Weisman (2)",
	lore = [[Dearest Weisman,

Sorry to cut your birdwatching session short, but I must bring this badinage to an end. I have tolerated your ridiculous pomposity and false heroics long enough. At first, I took your over-inflated tales of bothering local wildlife with good humour but now I realise, with dread, that you are sincere; you believe your pathetic wanderings to be the stuff of legend.

Well, no more. We shall meet seven days from now in Derth's town square. Come prepared for travel. The number of rumours claiming that a monster has taken up residence within the ruins just north of town have grown to the point where they cannot be considered rumours anymore. You shall come with me, face this creature alongside me, and experience intimately the vast difference between your skills and my own. If we're lucky, you will learn this lesson unscathed, but I fear that such a trial may cost you a limb or two.

Prepare yourself, if you've the courage,
Rolf]]}
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-5",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "letter to Weisman (3)",
	lore = [[Weisman,

The tentacles. I still remember them. They have lashed into my mind as they lashed into my flesh. How can nature abide such a... a... being in her realm? What dark plane of existence could it have been born from? How can creation itself tolerate such an aberration?!

How did we survive? I have no clue. All I can remember is pain, and panic, and fear. All I could think of was getting away, fleeing... to my shame, all other thoughts left me. Thoughts of you, home, the world... all I could do was keep hacking away at the... things between myself and freedom. Perhaps that is why it didn't... no. I shall not think on it. The beast is certain to fill my nightmares tonight, I won't allow it to fill my waking thoughts.

Rest easy, brother. It may have taken your eye, but think of what else it could have taken. Anyway, I shall be leaving for the tavern soon. Maybe I can drown the images of that monster in a sea of ale.

Make sure you write the words on your next letter nice and big,
Rolf]]}
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-6",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "letter to Rolf (3)",
	lore = [[Rolf,

I can't remember anything from the fight save the sheer terror at being near something so horrid and powerful. There is no shame in running from a foe you cannot possibly hope to defeat, is there? Maybe ale from the tavern is a good idea, but maybe it is better to conquer your fear once and for all... I hope you can forgive me, but I must defeat this monster, if it takes me the rest of my life.

Wishing you and your ale a hearty good-bye,

Weisman.]]}
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-7",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "letter to Weisman (4)",
	lore = [[Weisman,

By my ancestors' profits I hope you receive this message in good health and spirits. Please, old friend - there is no need to impress upon me your valour, I know full well how courageous you are. Please, do not go after that... that thing! If I must drag you away physically, that is what I shall do, but I beg of you, please, consider another foe to fight!

Your friend,

Rolf.]]}
newLore{
	id = "adventurer-letter-8",
	category = "adventures",
	name = "Last Will of Rolf",
	bloodstains = 6,
	lore = [[Last Will and Testament of Rolf Two-Axes

I have failed. Oh by the great wyrm's maw, I have failed! The beast Weisman set out to slay was dead already by another's hand, but its corruption remained still. When I arrived in its chamber, Weisman was already half-gone; he was hacking away at foes only he could see. When I tried to stop him, he turned his axe on me... I am beaten and broken, hiding in some crevasse away from... from my own friend, who through the corruption in this place has been perverted into a monstrosity my axes were unable to fell. I hold no doubt that this is the last time I shall put quill to parchment, as even now I can hear my old friend's perverted voice.. calling to me. I bequeathe my belongings to any who slay ...
#{italic}#(the ink blotch seems to indicate Weisman had caught up to his old friend, one-half of that abomination)#{normal}#]]}

--------------------------------------------------------------
-- Myths of creations
--------------------------------------------------------------

newLore{
	id = "creation-elf",
	category = "myths of creation",
	name = "memories of Artelia Firstborn",
	lore = [[#{italic}#This scroll looks ancient, possibly going back millennia, but has been incredibly well-preserved.#{normal}#

I remember when I first woke, and I drew my first breath, and the fresh young air of the world filled me with vitality. I opened my eyes, and above me stood a figure of outstanding radiance. She was tall and slim, crowned in silver hair that fell to the ground in silken tresses. Her skin was pale to the point of luminance, and her eyes were brighter than the stars.

I watched her for what felt like a century, and she watched me, and I saw tears form in her eyes. I did not have a voice yet, but I thought, "Why does she look so sad?" And I felt then her reply in my thoughts, "For you are beautiful, and far more beautiful than all else in the world. But this is a world of pain and sorrow, and I cannot bear to think of my creation come to harm. I will give you strength to endure many years, and a voice to express all desires, but the burden of sadness will follow you forever. At that thought I weep..."

I felt then strength come into my limbs, and a voice rise in my throat. I rose to the ground and I looked around, and in awe of the world around me and the stars above me I sang loudly for joy. And the woman smiled as she heard my voice, and her tears stopped, so I continued to sing for a while to entertain her. But then I said, "Am I alone?" She nodded, and said, "There are no others like you." At this I felt sad, and she could see the loneliness in my heart. She seemed to hesitate a moment, and said, "Though it pains me, I cannot deny your desires. You will sleep now, and when you awaken you will be among people like yourself, and you will walk out into this broken world and try to mend it."

As she finished speaking I instantly fell into a trance, and when I awoke I saw the world had changed, and there was now a blazing light in the sky - it was the new-born Sun. And I saw all around dozens more people like me, and others similar in appearance but varying in traits and abilities. I woke them up, and gathered them together, and we all expressed delight in each other's being, and named ourselves Alor�. But the woman was gone, and no others knew anything about her, and my searches for any trace of her were in vain.

Times passed and changed, and other creatures were found, and oft they were fell and vile and we did war with them. Then we found the Sher'Tul, and they delighted in our beauty, and taught us the ways of the Arts. And then the War came, and some of us helped them in their battles, but soon we saw we had no place beside such masters, and we retreated to the woods as the War raged to its catastrophic conclusion.

In all those centuries I still searched for the woman and found no trace. I know that the gods were all hunted down, and I remember the thorough searches of the Sher'Tul in their holy war. I grow old now, and some of those who first woke with me have passed away, and each passing night seem ever colder and lonelier. But still at times when I lie asleep I see her face or I hear her voice, and I know that one day, somehow, I will see her again.]],
}

newLore{
	id = "creation-human",
	category = "myths of creation",
	name = "human myth of creation",
	lore = [[At the start of time Sun was born, and Moons, and Eyal raised from the Darkness.
And Gerlyk walked Eyal with his three brothers.
But one day Gerlyk walked alone and realised he was alone, and he desired company.
So Gerlyk took a burning coal, and put stones around it, and wrapped it in earth, and bathed it in water and breathed his breath into it, and it became alive. And Gerlyk named it Human.
Now Gerlyk brought Human back to his brothers to see.
But Gerlyk's brothers were jealous and tore Human apart. One brother grabbed the stone, and one brother grabbed the earth, and one brother grabbed the water.
Gerlyk was sad, but took the burning coal that was left and made a new Human.
Then the brother with the earth copied him, but made a short creature, and called it Halfling.
And the brother with the stone made a thick creature, and called it Dwarf.
And the brother with the water made a thin creature, and called it Elf.
But Gerlyk's brothers grew jealous of each others creatures, and they fought, and they all were killed. And Elf cried and Dwarf cried and Halfling cried to see their creators fall.
And Gerlyk was sad, and looked at Human and said, "I am sorry, but this is not a time for creators any more. I must go."
And Gerlyk walked into the Darkness.
But Human did not cry, for the coal in his heart burned hot, and he knew he was not truly alone.]],
}

newLore{
	id = "creation-halfling",
	category = "myths of creation",
	name = "a logical analysis of creation, by philosopher Smythen",
	lore = [[Many are the tales of how our world was made, from the absurd to the romantic to the horrific. But they are all mere myths, with no more than seeds of truth to even the most reliable. The history of our race goes back far, but it is tantalisingly scant in details from before we met the other races. Indeed, it is only through our battles with the others that we halflings have any ancient records at all.

The elves one would suspect of having the greatest knowledge of elder times, but they are aloof and silent. One must judge from this that either they do not know, or that the truth ashames them. The latter would certainly not surprise me.

The humans have more myths than they have brain cells. It seems that each village has several versions of their own local tales, usually passed down orally over the ages. It is clear that not a single element of any of their myths can be construed to contain any essence of the truth.

The dwarves are reticent about the subject of how they were made. They say that such talk is "not profitable". However upon further pressing (and bribing) they will open up a little further. They as a race are of the most fervent belief that they were the last people to be made in Maj'Eyal. They say they are the "final product". Their word for all other races in fact translates directly to "prototype". This mostly singular outlook does of course seem absurd, but one need only look at the rest of dwarven society to see that they are an absurd race with ridiculous ideals. If they are what they consider perfection then I thank whatever god made me that I am flawed!

The subject of gods is of course a difficult one. Clearly there are no divine forces at work in the world today. But the world as we know it did not come from nothing, and even the great Sher'Tul clearly did naught more than manipulate the world - they did not make it.

By logical conjecture one can only presume that some great being made the world. This must have been a benevolent being, for it is clear that "He" created creatures separate from himself to walk the earth. Clearly this is we halflings. We are the only race that truly appreciates the world. We do not warp it with magic experiments like the Shaloren, nor hide from it like the Thaloren. We do not bring destruction like the orcs, or petty greed like the dwarves. And our understanding and knowledge is so far advanced than the humans that it is hard to understand why we share the same world with them at all. We were quite clearly the first of the current races to be created, and our natural feelings of entitlement to all there is in Maj'Eyal must stem from this.

Now that this has been clearly analysed in logical terms, one must consider the source of the other races. It is impossible that they were made by the same god - truly impossible. What strange being could create our race, so gifted and rounded, and yet make such warped and twisted creatures as the dwarves and humans? No, clearly other gods were responsible, lesser gods than our own which copied his grand design. But with fudging fingers and inelegant touches the works of their design were clearly far inferior to the subtleties and perfection which crafted us.

However there remains the matter of the Sher'Tul. Clearly these were of greater power than us, and yet they disappeared. One must presume that our god made this race before us, but was somehow unhappy with them, and so removed them and made us instead. We are not as powerful as the Sher'Tul - not yet at least - but we have our own gifts that evidently give us a greater place in our creator's heart. This would explain why we were the first race to unlock the powers of the Sher'Tul farportals. We had a natural affinity to the works of our elder brethren.

So what happened to these gods after they had made the races which we see today? One must presume strife between them, and that they killed themselves, or took their battle away from the world. Our creator, seeing the other gods killed or left, must have then entrusted the world to us halflings, knowing that we would rule over it in his stead. This is why at every point in history we have played a pivotal role in the shaping of our world. It is our rightful inheritance, and it is our duty to rule it well.]],
}

newLore{
	id = "moons-human",
	category = "eyal",
	name = "Tale of the Moonsisters",
	lore = [[Eyal was raised from Darkness,
And One came who made a blinding light called Sun,
But Eyal flinched and said, "It is too bright!"
So Gerlyk spun Eyal around; thus his face was half-time in light and half-time in shadow,
But in shadow Eyal became lonely and cried.

And so Gerlyk made him two younger sisters who danced around Eyal
And kept him in good spirits.
But the moonsisters became jealous of their brother's affection,
Threatening to fight and scream.
Thus Gerlyk separated them so that Eyal would only ever dance with one at a time.

In the summer Eyal dances with the moonsister Altia.
She sings songs of joy and laughter,
And brings friends and family together,
And she glows yellow with mirth.
In the winter Eyal dances with the moonsister Felia.
She tells tales of times begone,
And makes men walk alone in thought,
And she glows blue with solemness.

But in the time between,
When both sisters are slimly seen on each side of Eyal,
Glaring at each other from behind their brother's belly,
Then the world goes still, and the winds hold their breath, and the oceans lie flat.
For this is the Time of Balance, when the Darkness rises deepest, and all life is in peril.
Aye, and Gerlyk did say, "Let no man walk abroad this night, lest Darkness catch him and take him forever."
Aye, and Gerlyk did walk abroad that night, into Darkness beyond, and has ne'er since been seen.]],
}

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Ancient Elven Ruins
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

newLore{
	id = "ancient-elven-ruins-note-1",
	category = "ancient elven ruins",
	name = "ancient papyrus scroll",
	lore = [[Death is nearing. I can feel her chilling breath down the back of my neck. So many of us firstborn have passed on already. I cannot allow it... I will not let myself rot into dirt like the others. I am the mightiest of the Shaloren - I have a right to life!
]],
}
newLore{
	id = "ancient-elven-ruins-note-2",
	category = "ancient elven ruins",
	name = "ancient papyrus scroll",
	lore = [[Death mocks my experiments. I can preserve the flesh of my servants, tightly wrapped and salted, treated with the correct chemicals. I can animate them, make them shuffle about the empty halls of my mausoleum. But they are but empty shells, devoid of any soul. Is this how my majesty is to end? I demand a greater fate...

My days are numbered. Each night that passes saps strength from me. I must find the way to preserve my soul within my flesh. My greatness cannot be allowed to fade.]],
}
newLore{
	id = "ancient-elven-ruins-note-3",
	category = "ancient elven ruins",
	name = "ancient papyrus scroll",
	lore = [[Death has met her match. My results are complete, and I am ready to step to the Beyond. I have my sword by my side, and its icy edge will freeze even the dark one in her tracks. My powers cannot be denied...

Come, Death, try to lay your bony fingers on me! I will vanish before your very eyes and slice you apart! You and your agents are no threat to me. I am immortal!]],
}


--------------------------------------------------------------
-- Race analysis
--------------------------------------------------------------

newLore{
	id = "races-0",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Introduction",
	lore = [[I set out here to give a full and complete analysis of all the intelligent races in Maj'Eyal. This is an ambitious project to say the least, but it is put together from a great many years labour, including travels across all the kingdoms and direct meetings with many of the highest rulers and most learned sages. I have drawn my findings from common knowledge, exclusive interviews, and studies of many thousands of pages of texts and histories, some going back dozens of centuries.

I myself am a Higher human, in the employ of the court of King Tolak the Fair, but I have done my best to write all accounts from a purely neutral standpoint. I leave it to my peers to judge my success.

Index:
Chapter 1 - Humans
Chapter 2 - Halflings
Chapter 3 - Dwarves
Chapter 4 - Shaloren
Chapter 5 - Thaloren
Chapter 6 - Naloren (extinct)
Chapter 7 - Orcs (extinct)
Chapter 8 - Sher'Tul (extinct)
Chapter 9 - Monstrous Races
Chapter 10 - Dragons
]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-1",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 1 - Humans",
	lore = [[I begin my writings with a study of the humans, currently the most populous of the races in Maj'Eyal. The greatest kingdom in number are by far the Cornacs, but mention should also be made of the Sholtar and Mardrop kingdoms, and the Higher bloodline. The biggest human population centre is around the citadel of Last Hope, though many other settlements exist across all corners of Maj'Eyal.

Cornacs are normally around 5'9", with generally dark hair, brown eyes and ruddy features. Most Cornacs take up roles as tradesmen, farmers, or other manual labour jobs. It is a sad fact that the majority of bandit groups tend to be dominated by Cornacs. Cornac families tend to be large, and since the Age of Dusk their population has expanded rapidly, especially in the farming lands in the west and around Last Hope in the south.

Sholtar are generally 5'11", with dark skin, hair and eyes. They originate from the south-east of Maj'Eyal, and are few in number since the Cataclysm tore much of their land into the sea. Their affinity with nature is renowned, and they are often found employed as healers, infusion crafters or wyrmic huntsmen.

Mardrop humans are all but extinct, after the Spellhunt and the plagues during the Age of Dusk. They were known to be powerful spellcasters, and as such were prime targets by the spellhunters. However some trace of them can still be found, as their fiery hair and freckled skin oft can appear in those of distant descent. A few are rumoured to still possess citadels and towers in remote locations.

Highers are on average 6'0", with fair hair and skin and blue or grey eyes. The majority of scholarly roles are taken up by Highers, and they tend to fill most of the noble classes. Some say this is due to discrimination and elitism, though these may simply be jealous sentiments. There are also rumours that the superior intellects of Highers are due to arcane experiments instigated by the ancient Conclave during the Age of Allure, but I have found no records to support this idea and must consider it to be baseless. The Higher bloodline is renowned as a mark of excellence, and mixing with lower bloods is strongly frowned upon.

All human kingdoms were united by King Toknor the Brave in the Age of Pyre, and remain under the rule of his son King Tolak the Fair. A full discussion of the long human history would require a far more detailed document.]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-2",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 2 - Halflings",
	lore = [[There are two main kingdoms of halflings, the Eldoral and the Nargol, though both mix often. All halflings are just under 4' tall, and are generally noted for their large feet and curly hair. Eldoral are usually fair-haired and blue-eyed. Nargol tend to be darker in hair and complexion, with hazel eyes, and oft slightly shorter than their cousins. Halflings are known for their intelligence and quick wit, but also their arrogance in dealing with other races - something they do not deny, for they say it is well-deserved.

Halflings used to be the most dominant race in Maj'Eyal, with control of many strategic Sher'Tul ruins and rule over great swathes of land. The recorded wars between humans and halflings are numerous, and the halflings were the most often victors. However the Age of Pyre brought them great ruin, for the orcs seemed to target them more fiercely than any other race, and many of their communities were wiped out. This has forced them to rely more on trade with other races in modern times, especially with the humans.

The Eldorals used to have a kingdom in the north of the continent, but most of it was destroyed during the wars with the orcs, and not much has been rebuilt. However they do still have many agricultural settlements such as Derth, albeit shared with other races. The Eldoral are known for their great healers and farmers, and their slingers are considered the best in all the lands.

The Nargols once had many strong fortifications in the south of Maj'Eyal, but though they suffered less than the Eldoral in the Age of Pyre they still lost great numbers, and much of their centres of population dwindled. The rise of Last Hope has accelerated this process, as many communities are subsumed into the city's suburbs. Nargols are known as great jewellers, alchemists and rune-crafters, and possess some of the best tactical minds of all the races. Many generals and military advisers are employed from their kingdom.

The most famous of all halflings is Queen Mirvenia, most famed for her saving of King Toknor in Last Hope from a siege of orcs. Mystery still surrounds how she managed to bypass the winter's icy floes with her army to reach the citadel in time to rescue Toknor. Some have hypothesised that she enlisted the aid of sorcerers, but none of her troops would talk about the journey afterwards. She wed King Toknor in the second year of the Age of Ascendancy, and gave birth to the first known mixed race child - Tolak the Fair.
]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-3",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 3 - Dwarves",
	lore = [[The dwarves are an exceptionally secretive and quiet race, reluctant to talk about themselves to outsiders unless hefty bribes are paid. Many times in their history they have cut off all contact with the other races for no known reason, shutting tight the great iron doors that cover the trade passages to their mines and their cavernous cities. However of late they have become more open with the outside world, and I have even had the pleasure of receiving the unique distinction of being allowed to enter their main city, the Iron Throne, and speaking with several of their guild leaders.

Dwarves are around 5' tall, with generally brown or grey hair. They are usually stocky and muscular, and known to be very resistant to any physical suffering. Their females can be hard to distinguish from their males, but can usually be identified by the beads braided into their beards. All dwarves are highly proud of their beards, and take immaculate care of them. The greatest insult to a dwarf is to belittle his beard, and the greatest sign of suffering in a dwarf is for him to tear at his beard.

Dwarves are known especially for their smithwork and artificing, which is unrivalled amongst all the other races. They also make cunning merchants, known to drive a hard bargain. Their society consists of a fairly strict caste system, with families belonging to guilds of miners, smelters, craftsmen, and so on, and deviance into work outside of one's guild of birth is almost unheard of. However there is no perceived inequality between guilds, with each having equal representation on their ruling Committee of Guilds. Who actually acts as figurehead is unknown to outsiders though, and no amount of bribing will encourage any dwarf to speak on the subject. When it is mentioned in passing their allusions to a leader are normally marked by an almost religious reverence.

Their skill with metal is renowned above all else. Dwarven steel is considered the most durable material for use in construction, and dwarves are the finest workers with stralite and voratun, precious metals of immense value. They trade heavily in their crafts from their capital the Iron Throne, but allow no outsiders in - instead they send innumerable merchant caravans out to all the cities to ply their wares.

As well as the many merchant dwarves one may meet there are also a great deal of young dwarves who venture beyond their halls of stone. These are generally of adventuring fare, and it is encouraged in dwarven society to experience something of the wider world in one's younger years. This is known to them as being "smithed upon the anvil of the world". In private though some senior dwarves admit that this activity is promoted to help with their "market research strategy".]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-4",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 4 - Shaloren",
	lore = [[Though the elven races look very similar in appearance, they are extremely distinct in history, culture, mindset and many subtle physical traits, so I shall write of each of them separately. All elves are marked by their long, pointed ears and high cheek-bones, but other features can vary greatly. It should be noted that they call themselves as a whole "Elore", which means "siblings", yet the interactions between these brothers and sisters are oft strained.

Shaloren (or Shalore - lit "siblings of grace") are on average 6'2", with bright hair and blue or purple eyes. They are usually slim and lightly built, more marked for their mental prowess than their physical strengths. They are however known to be extremely swift of movement and light of foot. But of particular note is their magical affinity, which is far stronger than any other race, and their intense powers of will.

The Shaloren have a long history of magic-use which continues to this day. Though other races shun the dangers of magic to a large degree, the Shaloren embrace it, and it is still widely used throughout their society. However they are careful to hide this in their dealings with other races. The Shaloren were the ones that began the Spellblaze, though they would soon have it forgotten, and the memories of blame run deep amongst many. During the Spellhunt in the Age of Dusk they locked their city doors and shrouded the whole region in mist, only coming out in secrecy. It took many centuries before they were accepted again in wider society, and still they are treated with intense distrust.

Their capital city is Elvala, in the south-west peninsula, and they have very few settlements outside of this. They have naturally long lives, and their mastery of the arcane arts has allowed them to extend their lives indefinitely. The eldest immortals make up their Council of Elders, which is headed by their King Aranion Gayaeil. Death is a particular fascination amongst the Shaloren, and early kings of their race were said to build great tombs for themselves whilst experimenting in flesh preservation and necromancy. The Shaloren of course deny this.

They deal with other races seldom, preferring to keep a low profile, and most of their trade is done through halfling intermediaries. A few rune-crafters and enchanters sometimes travel to other major cities to do business, and some brash youths are known to explore further afield.]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-5",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 5 - Thaloren",
	lore = [[The Thaloren (or Thalore - lit "siblings of wrath") are on average 6'4", with dark brown hair and hazel or green eyes. They are generally of muscular build, and known for their physical prowess. They are renowned to be of a fey mindset - as quick to furious violence as they are to joyous song. Their relations with the Shaloren are particularly strained, as they strongly oppose their brethren's use of magic.

Their capital city is Shatur, hidden deep within the northern woods, and they are loathe to let any outsiders even approach the surrounding forest. Archers and fighters carefully patrol their borders, ready to rain down death from the trees on any who encroach. Their leader is Queen Nessilla Tantaelen, and they are said to live in extensive dwellings carved into giant trees, but little else is known about their society.

Those who choose to leave the fastness of the forest tend to be of unique disposition with unusual attitudes and traits. Oft they are musicians, bowmasters or skilled warriors. However they are sometimes mistrusted heavily, as rumour has it that many of those who leave Shatur are actually criminals expelled for the very worst crimes. In any case they tend to be natural loners who wander the world on their own personal quests.

The Thaloren do business very rarely with the outside world, but when they do it is normally for metals and certain foodstuffs that they cannot get themselves. Usually in trade they sell woodcraft and fine silks. This is the only legal source of elven-wood, a rare commodity that is often sought after for fletchwork. Black market sources rely on poachers to cut trees from the Shatur forest - an immensely risky business, but also very profitable for the high prices paid by Shaloren mages for an elven-wood staff.]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-6",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 6 - Naloren (extinct)",
	lore = [[The Naloren (or Nalore - lit "siblings of spirit") are now an extinct race, as their homeland was swept into the sea by the Cataclysm. However as a separate elf race they are worth studying, scant though the records be. Much of what is now said about the Naloren is traced with myth, but one can deduce certain facts.

Naloren elves were around 5'10", with blonde hair and green eyes. They were incredibly thin, but known for their swift and dextrous capabilities. Their kingdom was located on the eastern side of Maj'Eyal, and all of their towns were on the sea or straddling major rivers. They employed themselves as fishermen, sponge-divers, sailors and musicians. They were renowned for being able to stay underwater for hours at a time, and those with arcane abilities were said to be able to stay submerged indefinitely.

They traded little with the other races, and were very protective of their coastal lands. They most especially guarded jealously an ancient Sher'Tul ruin that lay in the centre of their territories. The Shaloren were in particular keen to study this relic, but the Naloren always refused them access, though they were too afraid to touch it themselves. The orcs were said to encroach on their lands often, but were always fought back by their mail-clad warriors wielding vicious tridents.

Alas their love of the sea was to be their undoing. When the Cataclysm came the whole of the coastal kingdom was shorn away and fell into the sea, annihilating almost the entire race. What small numbers survived committed suicide soon after by leaping from the eastern cliffs into the ocean, following their fallen brothers and sisters. Almost no evidence of their civilisation remains.]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-7",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 7 - Orcs (extinct)",
	lore = [[The orcs are, joyfully, extinct from Maj'Eyal, following the purge instigated by King Toknor the Brave at the start of the Age of Ascendancy. But an academic study of their previous culture and civilisation is still of interest, primitive though it may have been.

Orcs were generally around 6'1", with green or black skin. They varied greatly in physical appearance and build, most likely due to their exceptionally fast breeding rates. The majority of orcs were thick-built and heavily muscled, well remembered as the stock grunts of their terrible armies. However in the Age of Pyre a greater number of thinner, stringier orcs appeared, oft versed in destructive magics.

The orcs were first encountered by the Eldoral halflings, who tried to use the simple creatures as servants, but gave up after finding them to be too violent. In the many centuries since wars and battles have been almost continuously fought with the brutes. Their oft superior numbers have at times threatened to overwhelm all of civilisation, even leading to such drastic defensive measures as the Spellblaze. The most terrifying time though was during the Age of Pyre, when the orcs developed arcane abilities, and under the leadership of Garkul the Devourer they swept through the continent, mercilessly slaying all before them. In the end 10,000 halflings gave up their lives in the Battle of Nargol to defeat their demonic leader and stem their army's advance. Gradually the civilised races began to recover, and finally King Toknor and Queen Mirvenia succeeded in uniting the human and halfling kingdoms, putting together a force to push back the orcs and ultimately extinguishing them entirely.

Recent investigations of orcish ruins have revealed a surprising amount of cultural material, and even crude artworks based around fertility and battle. Some evidence has also been found of strong community elements to their culture, with much focus on sporting activities and racial pride events. However these are still clearly lacking in the subtleties and aesthetics of our more advanced cultures, and any attempt to compare them with us must be overshadowed by their brutality, territorial violence, and obsession with war.

There have been no substantiated reports of orcs for over 100 years. What reported sightings there are tend to be from such unreliable sources as adventurers and hermits, and have never been verified. We should be thankful that these horrible creatures have been banished to the annals of history, surviving only as stories to be told to misbehaving children.]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-8",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 8 - Sher'Tul (extinct)",
	lore = [[Ah, the legendary Sher'Tul! How any scholar does love to write about them. Indeed, the texts are many, but the facts are few, as so little is known about this crucible race. The most learned and factual academic on the subject is the renowned explorer and archaeologist Darwood Oakton, but he has alas been missing for several months at the time of writing. I will attempt to summarise here some of his key discoveries.

The Sher'Tul lived over ten thousand years ago, during what is referred to as the Age of Haze. The name of the race we know from the elves, who speak of the ancient beings with awe and reverence, yet know little else about them. Ruins of fantastical Sher'Tul structures have been found all across Maj'Eyal, and some have been observed in sunken lands off the coasts, implying that in their time the Sher'Tul must have ruled unopposed all across the world.

The farportals were first discovered by the halflings during the Age of Allure, and after much experimentation they were found to be able to transport items and creatures over vast distances. The arcane powers behind these incredible artifacts are still far beyond the understanding of the greatest minds of our time. The one attempt to truly tap into these powers ended in disaster - the Shaloren moved all known farportals to a remote spot near their capital, and their most powerful mages were overwhelmed as they unleashed the Spellblaze, killing them instantly and tearing apart the continent. What remains of farportals are left in the world have since been left untouched.

Of their physical appearance we know almost nothing, as there is no surviving artwork or records which depict themselves. However they must have been of similar form to other common races, as their ruins contain stairs, doorways and rooms not unfit for humans. Oakton estimates from his studies of their tools and artifacts that they would have stood around 5'4" tall, with uncommonly long limbs and fingers.

What caused them to become extinct is unknown, though many theories abound. The most popular in academic circles at the moment is that their mighty magics were their undoing, turned upon their own people during some great civil strife. Other theories hold weight though - Archiman Garybald, Professor of Demonic Studies, believes that the extensive uses of arcane energies by the Sher'Tul may have attracted twisted forces from other worlds which wiped out the ancient race. Some even believe that they are not truly extinct, but are in hiding, or have left this world for elsewhere. I fear the truth may never be fully known, but the ongoing study and examination of the relics they have left behind continues to provide immense value and inspiration.]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-9",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 9 - Monstrous Races",
	lore = [[No text would be complete without at least a brief note of some of the more brutish races which infest our world. These do not hold any civilised society of note, nor in general do they seem capable of any form of higher thought or culture, but they are still of interest to study for any who take delight in analysing beings of more primitive intellect.

Trolls come in two main types - Kezrak and Moltep, or stone and forest trolls as they are colloquially known. Stone trolls infest many mountain chains to the north-east, and some have been known to wander further afield in search of food or to spread violence. They are generally over 8' high, with extremely pronounced muscular strength and a thick, solid hide which bears the appearance of coal or granite. Forest trolls are generally found in dense woods or swamps, with the Trollmire east of Derth being especially infamous. They have a more advanced form of speech than their mountain-dwelling cousins, and are known to move faster and wield more elaborate weapons, though their greenish hide is not as thick and their musculature less developed. All trolls have intensely fast metabolisms, capable of healing from grievous wounds within a matter of hours. At birth they measure just eight inches long, but within two years grow to full maturity, and rarely live beyond ten years old. They used to be considered little more than beasts, but towards the end of the Age of Pyre many were trained as fighters by the orcs, and were even taught the basics of language and certain battle tactics, making them much more dangerous. Though the orcs are gone their servants remain, and their remote breeding areas and intense birth rates have so far scampered attempts to eradicate them completely.

Giants live mostly around the mountainous peaks surrounding the Daikara Pass. They vary greatly in size, but are normally at least 10' tall. They look somewhat like large, deformed humans, with swollen or distended facial features and much longer, swinging limbs. They live in nomadic tribes, moving from peak to peak with the seasons, feeding on wild deer and goats. They are usually peaceful creatures, only turning violent when their territory is encroached or their young are threatened. There are sometimes reports of giants coming to lowlands and stealing farm animals or attacking communities, but these are rare and normally isolated to particularly harsh winters. Giants seem to have no developed culture or language worth mentioning, but have been noted to show interactions of limited intelligence and to commune well in groups.

Nagas were once believed to be mere myth, but reliable reports and even the capturing of dead physical samples has shown them to be real creatures. The upper half of their body is humanoid in form, with blonde hair and an extremely thin build, but the lower half is like that of a giant snake's tail. They stand around 6' tall on land, though their tails extend several feet further. They have been encountered off the eastern and south-eastern coasts of Maj'Eyal, which seems to indicate some exotic civilisation beneath the waves. Records of them exist only from the last few hundred years, and only more recently have they been interpreted as more than just the wild fantasies of inebriated sailors. They can breathe in air and underwater, possessing both lungs and gills, and have been reported to move with surprising speed on the ground. One might think them simply odd monsters, but they decorate themselves in jewellry and craft weapons and armour from materials found on the sea-bed, such as supple mail formed from layers of thick shark-hide. This would suggest an advanced culture, but communication with them so far has proved impossible. It is not known if they are capable of complex speech, but to date their only response to those who encounter them has been extreme violence, and fishermen in the east are always wary of coming across these vicious creatures.

The origin of Demons is not wholly known, but it is clear that they are capable of intelligence and so I feel the need to describe them somewhat here. It is known that they can be summoned by certain magical rites, and minor demons were oft in the employ of evil sorcerers during the Age of Dusk. The main theory, which is supported by certain studies by Shaloren archmages, seems to indicate that they come from another world than our own, with connections formed through intense arcane energies. It must be a truly terrifying place to host such foul denizens. Demons vary immensely in appearance and power, as much as the creatures of our own world vary. They generally have blueish blood and metallic flesh and skin, which can oft react oddly with our atmosphere - some become wreathed in flames, others release hideous acids or belching clouds of darkness. All seem versed in magical abilities to some degree, and the strongest of them possess truly terrifying powers. Luckily they are exceptionally rare, and seem to be much less common in modern times since magic has fallen out of use.]]}

newLore{
	id = "races-10",
	category = "races",
	name = "Loremaster Greynot's Analysis of the Races - Chapter 10 - Dragons",
	lore = [[The common man may scoff at the idea of classifying dragons as an intelligent race, but experienced wyrmics know otherwise. Dragons are incredibly long-lived creatures, with some known to survive for thousands of years. Though in their early life they are of a bestial nature, as they advance through the centuries they gain an ever keener and more developed intellect. The eldest of wyrms are sometimes considered the most subtle and intelligent of creatures in Maj'Eyal, capable of telepathic communication and advanced mental abilities, and wyrmics speak of them with the highest reverence.

Dragons come in many shapes and sizes, normally growing from 5' long hatchlings to 20' long mature drakes, with some of the greatest wyrms growing to over 40' in length. They are generally winged, with large lizard-like maws and sharp talons on both their fore and hind legs. They are often noted for the lustrous colour of their scales, normally representing an attunement to one of the key Elements of Eyal. This attunement is unseen in any other race, and some philosophers believe that dragons predate all other races, being formed as raw representations of the elements of nature at the beginning of the world. However this theory may be borne purely from the fanatical delusions of certain wyrmics who have studied the creatures for too long.

All corners of Maj'Eyal show some trace of different types of dragons. The Daikara Pass and surrounding mountain chains are home to a great number of ice and storm dragons. Numerous sand and red dragons can be found in the western desert and hills, and many have been the reports of gigantic sea dragons in the deepest oceans, especially to the south.

Attacks from dragons on humans and halfling settlements are fairly rare, but when they occur they can be truly devastating. Usually they are to feed on livestock, but now and then come attacks from newly matured drakes, seeking out precious metals and gemstones to build up a hoard. Dragon hoards have become a thing of legend, with the greatest wyrms rumoured to protect literal mountains of gold, but in modern times truly sizeable hoards are rare. The dwarves farmed hoarding dragons almost to extinction in the Age of Allure, and most dragons these days retain only modest treasures in their lairs.

Dragons are regularly hunted for their thick scales and their elementally imbued bones. Dragonskin leather is prized amongst armour-workers, as when properly treated it is both light and tough, and oft retains some inkling of the original wyrm's power. Dragon-bone is highly favoured by staff-crafters for its natural attunement to elemental forces, and is sometimes used by fletchers in the crafting of the most delicate yet resilient bows and arrows. However the hunting of dragons for their skin and bones is greatly opposed by many wyrmics, and there is an increasing market for "naturally harvested" drake materials - those taken from dragons which have died of natural causes. Still, demand for all dragon materials is strong with exceptionally high prices paid, and many are the greedy souls that lose their lives each year at the fangs and claws of these magnificent creatures.]]}


--------------------------------------------------------------
-- Misc
--------------------------------------------------------------

newLore{
	id = "thaloren-lament",
	category = "shatur",
	name = "Lament for Lands now Lost", always_pop = true,
	lore = [[You see a moss covered statue of a Thalore reciting a poem, over and over.
#{italic}#"Where bright and berried yews did stand,
Where the eldest oaks grew so grand,
Where singing birds once flew to land,
All is dust, all is dead.

Once flowers rose to reach the sky,
Once blossoms fell from beech on high,
Once thrush and owl did screech and cry,
Now all lost, now all fled.

Oaths from Shaloren mages sworn,
Yet spells of fiery rages born,
Our lands of bygone ages torn,
Gone is trust, wrath is red.#{normal}#
]] }

newLore{
	id = "eden-guile",
	category = "artifacts",
	name = "Running man",
	lore = [[Running man, running man
Your time is ending soon
Running man, running man
Will not save sun nor moons

Running man, running man
Survival growing slim
Running man, running man
You know your fate is grim

Running man, running man
Now's the time to choose
Running man, running man
Your honour or your shoes!]] }


--------------------------------------------------------------
-- Misc bosses
--------------------------------------------------------------

newLore{
	id = "zquikzshl",
	category = "boss",
	name = "Z'quikzshl",
	lore = [[#{italic}#(The handwriting of this diary entry is poor at best. Whoever wrote this was in poor health.)

#{bold}#53rd Allure, Year 603 of the Age of Pyre#{normal}#

I have done it! My fool of a master said I was not ready for the rites of lichdom, that I would attract undue attention... what utter idiocy. Already I can feel the transformation taking place, and I am certain that this weakness will only be momentary. My master was foolish to leave the Grimoire of Mortality Transcended open and unattended! All I needed was a bone from a magical creature, and as luck would have it, I had found a skeletal corpse of a dragon not far from our tower. The other ingredients were trivial and in possession of my master... surely he will be astounded that I, Zilquick the Eternal, will have transcended mortality!

(Another entry is written beneath this one, in a much more elegant and controlled script.)

Zilquick the Eternal, hah! What an unbearable buffoon, and I am glad his pride was his undoing. The young fool used up the Ruby of Eldoral in creating his phylactery, however; I must acquire a new phylactery for myself. On the bright side, my incompetent apprentice did illustrate why a bone from a creature slain by my own hand is important: the dragon bone he chose had left to fester a mold infection, and the mold somehow infused itself with the bone's inherent magical properties, altering the magical composition of the spell. I do hope whoever finds this note shall kill this "lich" using the most painful means available, and shall deposit him someplace where he is sure to be found.
Oh, look. He is trying to harm me with spells, but all he can manage is a corruption of his own name: Z'quikzshl.]]
}

newLore{
	id = "walrog",
	category = "boss",
	name = "Walrog",
	lore = [[Dirge of the Naloren

There once was a village
the Nalore held dear
but when Ol' Walrog came t'pillage,
they did quiver in fear.

So remember the tale
of dead Old Shellsea,
for Ol' Walrog sent the gale,
that ended Old Shellsea.]]
}
