#Region Names
tagGDX2MapWitchGodBase=Conclave of the Three
tagGDX2MapArea01=Korvan Plateau
tagGDX2MapRuinedTempleCity=Temple City of Osyr
tagGDX2MapRuinedTemple01=Temple of Osyr
tagGDX2MapHiddenOasis=Hidden Refuge
tagGDX2MapArea02=Korvan Sands
tagGDX2MapRuinedCity01=Cairan Docks
tagGDX2MapOasis=Sunbane Oasis
tagGDX2MapDeadLake=Bonebleach Basin
tagGDX2MapArea03=Basalt Crags
tagGDX2MapRuinedCity02=Ruins of Abyd
tagGDX2MapBurningSpire=Burning Spire 
tagGDX2MapArea04=Infernal Wastes
tagGDX2MapVolcano01=Eye of Ulzuin
tagGDX2MapVolcano02=Maw of Apesh
tagGDX2MapTombValley=Valley of the Chosen
tagGDX2MapArea05=Remnants of Korvan City
tagGDX2MapRaisedTemple=Sunward Spire
tagGDX2MapMessengersVolcano=Pit of Atonement
tagGDX2MapRoadToKorvaakTemple=Path of Ascension
tagGDX2MapVanguardBase=Vanguard of the Three
tagGDX2MapSecretDesertShrine=Shrine of Azaleon
tagGDX2MapSecretBaseShrine=Shrine of Horran



#Riftgate Names
tagGDX2RiftWitchGodBase=Conclave of the Three Rift
tagGDX2RiftKorvanPlateau=Korvan Plateau Rift
tagGDX2RiftTempleOfOsyr=Temple of Osyr Rift
tagGDX2RiftKorvanSands=Korvan Sands Rift
tagGDX2RiftCairanDocks=Cairan Docks Rift
tagGDX2RiftOasis=Sunbane Oasis Rift
tagGDX2RiftVanguard=Vanguard of the Three Rift
tagGDX2RiftAbyd=Ruins of Abyd Rift
tagGDX2RiftInfernalWastes=Infernal Wastes Rift
tagGDX2RiftKorvanCity=Korvan City Rift
tagGDX2RiftTemple=Tomb of the Eldritch Sun Rift
tagGDX2RiftEldritch=Eldritch Gate Rift

#World Map Labels
tagGDX2WorldMapWitchGodBase=Conclave{^n}Of the Three
tagGDX2WorldMapArea01=Korvan{^n}Plateau
tagGDX2WorldMapRuinedTempleCity01=Temple City{^n}Of Osyr
tagGDX2WorldMapRuinedTemple01=Temple{^n}Of Osyr
tagGDX2WorldMapArea02=Korvan{^n}Sands
tagGDX2WorldMapRuinedCity01=Cairan{^n}Docks
tagGDX2WorldMapOasis=Sunbane{^n}Oasis
tagGDX2WorldMapChasm=Howling{^n}Chasm
tagGDX2WorldMapDeadLake=Bonebleach{^n}Basin
tagGDX2WorldMapArea03=Basalt{^n}Crags
tagGDX2WorldMapRuinedCity02=Ruins{^n}Of Abyd
tagGDX2WorldMapArea04=Infernal{^n}Wastes
tagGDX2WorldMapVolcano01=Eye{^n}Of Ulzuin
tagGDX2WorldMapVolcano02=Maw{^n}Of Apesh
tagGDX2WorldMapTombValley=Valley Of{^n}The Chosen
tagGDX2WorldMapArea05=Remnants Of{^n}Korvan City
tagGDX2WorldMapRaisedTemple=Sunward{^n}Spire
tagGDX2WorldMapMessengersVolcano=Pit Of{^n}Atonement
tagGDX2WorldMapRoadToKorvaakTemple=Path Of{^n}Ascension
tagGDX2WorldMapKorvaakTomb=Tomb Of The{^n}Eldritch Sun
tagGDX2WorldMapVanguard=Vanguard{^n}Of the Three

#Underground Names
tagGDX2RuinedTemple01=Temple of Osyr
tagGDX2CairanRuins01=Sandblown Ruins

tagGDX2Beetle01=Crawling Nest
tagGDX2Beetle02=Durg's Den

tagGDX2SanctuaryOfHorran=Sanctuary of Horran

tagGDX2HowlingChasm=Howling Chasm

tagGDX2RuinedTemple02=Temple of Ateph

tagGDX2VOTC01=Tomb of Sethan
tagGDX2VOTC02=Tomb of Nephos
tagGDX2VOTC03=Tomb of Ariath

tagGDX2MapRoom=Map Room of Rahn

tagGDX2MessengerVolcano=Pit of Atonement

tagGDX2KorvaakTomb01=Tomb of the Eldritch Sun
tagGDX2KorvaakTomb02=The Eldritch Gate
tagGDX2EldritchRealm01=Astral Fields
tagGDX2EldritchRealm02=Throne of the Three

tagGDX2RuinedDC=Edge of Reality
tagGDX2BysmielEldritch=Veiled Den
tagGDX2SolaelVoid=Bloodied Wastes

tagGDX2Cellar=Forgotten Cellar

tagGDX2DesertUG01=Sunken Pit
tagGDX2CairanRuins02=Cairan Bathhouse
tagGDX2RuinedTemple04=Temple of Rahn
tagGDX2RuinedTemple04A=Map Room of Rahn 
tagGDX2RuinedPass01=Foundations of Abyd
tagGDX2VOTC04=Tomb of Irrah


#Signs


#Points of Interest
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_CovenBase=Conclave of the Three
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_CovenBaseBysmiel=Bysmiel Encampment
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_CovenBaseDreeg=Dreeg Encampment
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_CovenBaseSolael=Solael Encampment
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombKorvaak=Tomb of the Eldritch Sun Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TheEmissarysPortal=The Emissary's Portal

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombKorvaakA=Stairs Down
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombKorvaakB=Stairs Up

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_BloodiedWastesA=Bloodied Wastes Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_BloodiedWastesB=Bloodied Wastes Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_EdgeOfRealityA=Edge of Reality Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_EdgeOfRealityB=Edge of Reality Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_SandblownRuinsA=Sandblown Ruins Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_SandblownRuinsB=Sandblown Ruins Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TempleOfRahnA=Temple of Rahn Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TempleOfRahnB=Temple of Rahn Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TempleOfAtephA=Temple of Ateph Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TempleOfAtephB=Temple of Ateph Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TempleOfOsyrA=Temple of Osyr Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TempleOfOsyrB=Temple of Osyr Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombOfAriathA=Tomb of Ariath Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombOfAriathB=Tomb of Ariath Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombOfIrrahA=Tomb of Irrah Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombOfIrrahB=Tomb of Irrah Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombofNephosA=Tomb of Nephos Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombofNephosB=Tomb of Nephos Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombofSethanA=Tomb of Sethan Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TombofSethanB=Tomb of Sethan Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_VeiledDenA=Veiled Den Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_VeiledDenB=Veiled Den Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TheEdritchGate=Proceed to the Eldritch Gate
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TheEdritchGateA=The Eldritch Gate
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_TheEdritchGateB=The Eldritch Realm

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_EldritchThrone=Descend to the Eldritch Throne

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_SanctuaryHorranA=Sanctuary of Horran Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_SanctuaryHorranB=Sanctuary of Horran Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_BasaltCragsA=Howling Chasm Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_BasaltCragsB=Howling Chasm Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_BeetleA=Beetle Den Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_BeetleB=Beetle Den Exit

tagGDX2POI_AREAG_MessengerA=Pit of Atonement Entrance
tagGDX2POI_AREAG_MessengerB=Pit of Atonement Exit


#Notifications
tagNotification_AreaG_WitchGodTestWaveEvent=The Eldritch Trials have begun!
tagNotification_AreaG_WitchGodTestWaveEventFinished=You have survived the Eldritch Trials...
tagNotification_AreaG_DailaPendant=This pendant is all that remains of Uroboruuk...

tagNotification_AreaG_SolaelStatueUnlocked=The guardian's death opens nearby Sarcophagi ...
tagNotification_AreaG_SolaelStatueCorrect=The tomb is at peace...
tagNotification_AreaG_SolaelStatueWrong=A guardian stirs to protect the desecrated tomb...

tagNotification_AreaG_Ritual=Something falls through the rift...
tagNotification_AreaG_Special01=A sacred seal has been broken...
tagNotification_AreaG_Special02=A shiver goes down your spine, visions of endless sands overwhelm your mind...
tagNotification_AreaG_Special03=As the creature's remains dissolve into the sands, the way forward opens...

tagNotification_AreaG_MawOfEnahtA=A terrifying discovery. Somebody at the Conclave of the Three would likely wish to hear of this...
tagNotification_AreaG_MawOfEnahtB=This must be the creature Carmac spoke of back at the Conclave of the Three...


#NPC Names
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_01=The Emissary
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_02=Inarah, the Afflicted
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_03=Byscilla, Matron of Rifts
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_04=Draellus, Oracle of Dreeg
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_05=Sagon, Vicar of Solael

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_06=Anorak
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_07=Aaral
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_08=Anderan

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_09=Seer Laurna
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_10=Vorak
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_11=Keisen
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_12=Elita
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_13=Kait

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_14=Alain
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_15=Kira 
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_16=Raiken

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_17=Master Harken of Death's Vigil

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_18=The Eldritch Gate
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_19=Sorcerous Barrier
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_20=Altar of Ateph
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_21=Altar of Abyd
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_22=Mysterious Statue

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_23=Atrin
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_24=Rikket
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_25=Niran

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_26=Uroboruuk

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_27=Kanatha, Mistress of the Sentinels

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_28=Brother Haggan
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_29=Sister Vaira
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_30=Brother Parrin
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_31=Brother Miranok

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_32=Sacrifical Altar
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_33=Desert Altar

tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_34=Sister Girra
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_35=Brother Narun
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_36=Brother Ignar
tagGDX2NPC_AreaG_37=Sister Paulia

#Flavor NPC Names
#Solael Camp
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_01=Alica
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_02=Merise 
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_03=Vikon ~ Oathkeeper of Solael
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_04=Harrold 
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_05=Ricard

#Dreeg Camp
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_06=Lura, Seer of Dreeg
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_07=Riggs
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_08=Darrion
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_13=Nailene, Seer of Dreeg

#Bysmiel Camp
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_09=Nika
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_10=Carmac
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_11=Sentinel Thorgil
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_12=Sigvald

tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_14=Indalla
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_15=Vanguard Ritualist
tagGDX2NPC_Flavor_AreaG_16=Narra


#Rift Names
tagGDX2_RiftTheEmissary=The Emissary's Rift
tagGDX2_RiftEldritchGate=The Eldritch Gate
tagGDX2_RiftBysmiel=Rift to the Veiled Den
tagGDX2_RiftDreeg=Rift to the Edge of Reality
tagGDX2_RiftSolael=Rift to the Bloodied Wastes
tagGDX2_ShortcutEldritchRift=Rift back to the Korvan Lands


#Quest Items
tagGDX2QuestItemDreegRune=Hexstone of Dreeg
tagGDX2QuestItemDreegRune_Desc="Bestowed by the Witch God Dreeg himself to counteract the vile magic of his enemies."

tagGDX2QuestItemBysmielRelic=Gargan Key
tagGDX2QuestItemBysmielRelic_Desc="Not so much an actual key but a collection of strange artifacts combined to resemble one. It emits a nearly imperceptible humming sound."

tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelFaction01=First Word of Rahn
tagGDXQuestItemSolaelFaction01_Desc="A piece broken from the Tablet of Rahn. It appears as though someone may have shattered the tablet intentionally."

tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelFaction02=Second Word of Rahn
tagGDXQuestItemSolaelFaction02_Desc="A piece broken from the Tablet of Rahn. It appears as though someone may have shattered the tablet intentionally."

tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelFaction03=Third Word of Rahn
tagGDXQuestItemSolaelFaction03_Desc="A piece broken from the Tablet of Rahn. It appears as though someone may have shattered the tablet intentionally." 

tagGDX2QuestItemEldritchPower=Galfang's Core
tagGDX2QuestItemEldritchPower_Desc="The orb of eldritch energy pulsates like the heart of some unnatural creature."

tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelPowerSource=Eye of Ekur
tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelPowerSource_Desc="An ancient relic, the eye-like jewel at its center burns with a dark energy."

tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelPowerSource_02=Branded Eye of Ekur
tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelPowerSource_02_Desc="The eye-like jewel at its center burns with a dark energy. It has been marked by Sagon for some dark purpose."

tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelTribute=Heart of Onarix
tagGDX2QuestItemSolaelTribute_Desc="The heart of an ancient eldritch creature. It continues to beat as if the creature were still living."

tagGDX2QuestItemSigil=Sigil of the Three
tagGDX2QuestItemSigil_Desc="Forged by the Witch Gods themselves to pierce the veil into realms beyond."

tagGDX2QuestItemKymonRelic=Mummified Flesh of Korvaak
tagGDX2QuestItemKymonRelic_Desc="Said to be an ancient piece of a primordial being. The runes upon it still pulse with power."

tagGDX2QuestItemMothersPendant=Mother's Pendant
tagGDX2QuestItemMothersPendant_Desc="This pendant is all that remains of Uroboruuk. It features the silhouette of a young woman carved in bone, but no names or initials."

tagGDX2QuestItemLostTome=Tome of Eanatum
tagGDX2QuestItemLostTome_Desc="This ancient tome seems to describe methods for the study of arcane relics and armor. It will require a well trained eye to fully decipher its texts." 

tagGDX2QuestItemBloodOfWatchers=Blood of the Watchers
tagGDX2QuestItemBloodOfWatchers_Desc="When they're destroyed, this purple and brown substance oozes from the animated statues still roaming the Korvan Basin. It smells of rusted iron and appears to move under its own volition."

tagGDX2QuestItemBloodSwornManual=Bloodsworn Manuscript
tagGDX2QuestItemBloodSwornManual_Desc="A collection of hastily written notes on rituals used by a group of Bloodsworn cultists."


#Journals
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_NoteA01Name=Bloodsworn Manuscript Excerpt
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_NoteA01codexTitle=Bloodsworn Manuscript
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_NoteA01Text=*This parchment appears to have been torn out of some larger tome and is covered in a fresh layer of hastily written notes. What remains is covered in what you assume is human blood.*{^n}{^n}Ketan'Thunn, herald of the darkness, we beseech you. Our Bloodlord has fallen, and by association with his blunders we were made to suffer; but hear us, master of our blood, for we come bearing an offering. This land, these ruins, they are brimming with power, power which reeks of the enemies of the Dying One.{^n}{^n}We beseech you with this offering of blood. Come forth! May the shadows of the void follow in your wake that the Eldritch Sun be blotted out. And when the void has consumed this fallen kingdom, may we stand beside you with but a taste of your eternal glory. Then we shall go forth in your name and gather blood from the unworthy.{^n}{^n}The remainder of the text is written in glyphs beyond your understanding. Even peering upon them fills your head with thoughts of murder and spilled blood.


#Witch Gods
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA01Name=Death to the Usurper
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA01Text=Praises be upon the Three. Praises be upon their wisdom, their foresight and their pity upon mankind. For without their blessings, we would be as worthless husks, devoid of the gifts of the Eldritch realm and at the mercy of the Luminari hounds.{^n}{^n}Curses be upon the usurper, the burning vengeance, the Korvan destroyer. Curses be upon his lust for the Eldritch Thrones, the pinnacle of the gods. May he die a thousand deaths as Dreeg suffers a thousand festering wounds, may his insides fill with spiders and his eyes turn to ash by Eldritch fire. All this we invoke upon the usurper of the Eldritch powers; powers meant to be wielded by the true gods and their servants.{^n}{^n}We march through the blistering sands and into the heart of flame, the whispers of Dreeg in our ears, the hounds of Bysmiel at our side, the black flame of Solael upon our blades. None shall be spared before our wrath. By the gifts of our patrons, we will reclaim what is theirs; and though our blood shall spill upon the Korvan sands, it will be done in honor of the true masters of humanity.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA02Name=Convergence of the Covenant
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA02Text=I am certain you have heard the whispers as I had. The mad one is restless, his mind filled with visions of the burning one's return. If the bonds are broken and his power restored, he could unmake everything. I do not have to remind you of the consequences. The Triumvirate's fate is bound in this moment.{^n}{^n}Send word along the spider's web. Rally the servants of Bysmiel. I invoke the sacred covenant. The forces of the Three must converge in the forgotten lands of the Korvan people. Our forces must unite against this threat, or divided we shall succumb to the vengeful flames. None must be allowed to defy our summons. Any that do are as much enemy as the forces we contend with and shall be dealt with in kind. We must not allow ourselves to be distracted by the machinations of the Aetherials or the bloodletters succumbing to their own doom. The danger they pose pales in comparison to what awaits us if we fail. And if the web has done its part, then the Erulan survivors will at least stymie their progress long enough for our matters to be settled.{^n}{^n}Seek out the twin statues. You know of which I speak. The veil there is thin and will serve as an opportune location to begin our work. At the request of the infinite eye, I've dispatched the Emissary to track down valuable allies who will turn the tide in our favor. I consider their lives expendable in pursuit of victory, but one must not tamper with the whims of fate when they are so clearly written before us.{^n}{^n}By the Three Thrones, we will eradicate this threat to our gifts. The world will tremble before the might of the Witch Gods!{^n}{^n}Sagon, Vicar of Solael

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA03Name=Web is Spun
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA03Text=Mistress of the web, the ear to Bysmiel's whispers, I have done all that you have asked.{^n}{^n}As you wisely surmised, the fanatics known as the Kymon's Chosen are here, in the Korvan lands. We have tracked their movements from the Arkovian Foothills north to Sorrow's Bastion. From there their leader, a former Luminari inquisitor who now calls himself Father Kymon, has dispatched his fervent followers to gather relics and to wage war against the Chthonic cult. It appears that he was successful on whatever endeavor he set out to accomplish as one night we saw him leaving the bastion with a fraction of his forces, the ones we've surmised were his more staunch followers.{^n}{^n}They did not travel far, just to a nearby clearing where a wisp of flame manifested itself before them. In a flash, it tore a rift through the very air, much like your gifts bestowed by the Schemer, and Kymon and his ilk vanished into thin air. At that time, we thought the trail had gone cold, but you were correct in dispatching us after we arrived at the Conclave. We uncovered remnants of camps on the edge of the desert sands and tracks leading north. As you've surmised, they seem to be after the Valley of the Chosen and the temple beyond.{^n}{^n}More concerningly, Kymon's Chosen appear to have taken up a new banner and some of them have been undergoing...changes. They've branded their foreheads with strange runes and their eyes turned to flame. We've observed some convulsing in their sleep as a gaping furnace opened in their guts. It seems by virtue of being closer to their ultimate goal, they've begun some kind of transformation.{^n}{^n}Nevertheless, one of our own has infiltrated their ranks and will continue to report back to me with any findings or further disturbing reports. You will also be pleased to know that the grand web is working amongst the ranks of the Solael's and Dreeg's followers. They will make no move without our knowledge, and certainly they will make no discoveries in this land that we cannot take advantage of.{^n}{^n}By the spider's will.{^n}{^n}- Areaka of the Shadows

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA04Name=Visions of Terror
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA04Text=This place we have chosen for our vigil, this Conclave, it is a cursed land! The veil screams in agony. The whispers from beyond threaten to unravel reality.{^n}{^n}Every night I've spent here, the visions of the other side came more frequently, and with greater clarity. What I first thought were images of darkness turned out to be much more. Within it were the screams of a million souls, crying out to me. Crying out for mercy. As my dreams solidified, I realized that the darkness moved. It writhed like a mass of tentacles endlessly searching for something. The sight of it filled me with terror beyond anything I've ever felt. I awoke gasping for breath and grasping for anything within reach that would remind me that I've left the dream, to the chagrin of my fellow seers sharing the tent.{^n}{^n}Shaken and unable to sleep, I sought the wisdom of the Oracle. To my surprise, or perhaps I should have expected this, my master was already waiting for me inside his tent. Lanterns illuminated him in their flickering light as he sat cross-legged, without his usual regalia, on a rug with tea set out for us. As he stared ahead with his blank eyes, he gave me a tight-lipped smile and motioned for me to sit.{^n}{^n}Before I could utter a word, he said: Yugol. I was taken aback and blinked. The Oracle continued by describing exactly what I had seen in my dreams, as if he had been there to share them with me. The Insatiable Night, he called it, the eternal darkness that exists in the beyond. It is primordial, unfathomable to the human mind. We see it as a mass of writhing tentacles, but what it truly is cannot be described in words. Yugol exists to consume everything, its endless pursuit halted only by the light of the celestial stars.{^n}{^n}I was told that it is a gift and a burden to bear witness to the makings of reality. What I had seen cannot be unseen. When I started visibly shaking, the Oracle placed his palm upon my forehead and for a moment I could swear his eye tattoos were staring at me. Yet I found myself instantly calmed.{^n}{^n}When I asked what he had done, he would not say, but he offered to teach me a technique to calm myself and banish the darkness from my nightmares. It is a lucid method by which I would conjure my own stars into the dream, brighter than the desert sun.{^n}{^n}I thanked him for his wisdom and promised to return the next eve for my lesson. As I stood to leave, I glanced in his direction. He was staring ahead, as before, a somber expression on his face. His tea remained untouched. I said no more and closed the tent flap behind me.{^n}{^n}It would seem my visions have disturbed the Oracle as well, but I trust that his judgment and foresight will carry us through whatever darkness looms on the horizon. I pray to Dreeg that the Oracle's teachings will spare me further nightmares.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA05Name=Worthy Purpose
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA05Text=Let this sacrifice echo across the Conclave, that our brother Jarros was found worthy of bearing his life before Solael's blade. Few are granted the honor and fewer still have the will to accept the burden for the benefit of us all.{^n}{^n}And so it was with our brother who not only willingly stepped forward to feed Solael's hunger, he had Solael's sigils painted upon his bare chest as he paraded himself to the center of the Conclave. Larger than life, he stood proudly before Sagon and his curved witchblade and proclaimed to all that today marks the first day of their victory against the usurper. Jarros kneeled, as was customary, but his eyes never turned away from the Vicar's stoic gaze.{^n}{^n}As was set down upon us by Solael, Sagon uttered the sacred words and slit his forefinger to paint a rune upon Jarros' forehead. Then the Vicar stood behind the sacrifice and placed the sacred blade upon his throat. This was the chosen's last chance to back down, though to be perfectly honest such a disgrace would likely end in death anyway. Jarros looked ahead with confidence. His face was beaming with pride, such was his faith.{^n}{^n}"For Sola..." he began to cry when Sagon slit his throat and plunged his other hand drenched in black flames into Jarros' chest. Sagon removed the dead man's heart in a swift motion and drank deep of the lifeblood spilling forth. Jarros' body slumped to the ground, his eyes still staring forward. Several attendants saw to his cremation as the vicar delivered the heart to Solael's shrine.{^n}{^n}The heart was placed in an ornate bowl and incinerated; and as it burned the runes upon the shrine grew brighter.{^n}{^n}"Solael is pleased," Sagon uttered, smiling with bloody lips.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA06Name=Harnessing the Forgotten
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA06Text=There are ulterior motives to my selecting this location for our Conclave. The Dreeg seers have no doubt felt it by now and your spiders have suspected. Yes, the veil is thin here and yes that enables the cults to better work with the gifts of the Eldritch Realm, but another source of power lies buried at our fingertips.{^n}{^n}At my behest, one of our most gifted scholars in the veil's mysteries, Mazaan, is working on harnessing this power. As you well know, there are other realms, other constructs of the primordial gods. The statues adorning this sacred place are more than just mere decoration. They are conduits between realities and could be manipulated to form a gateway with enough force of will.{^n}{^n}I believe Mazaan is close to a breakthrough and, once he succeeds, we will have an entire realm of untapped potential to harness for our purposes. I for one am eager to see what we uncover if past experience is any indication.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA07Name=Vanguard Must Hold
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_WitchGodNoteA07Text=Our efforts to the north have been met with increasing resistance. The fanatics have become aware of our activities and are attempting to push us back.{^n}{^n}At first, they merely tested our defenses. Watching them pass through our defensive wards was a pleasing sight and the stench of burning flesh filled the air. Unfortunately, they were more prepared during later incursions and I regret to say that our wards are no longer holding them back. The sentinels have suffered some injuries during these initial exchanges, but no casualties.{^n}{^n}The followers of Kymon have greater numbers than we suspected, and the powers they are harnessing are unlike any we've dealt with before, and more gruesome. In the most recent strike, a bare-chested behemoth of a man with his face flayed off charged the vanguard in a whirlwind of blades. His gut was exposed to reveal a churning furnace of molten flames that he unleashed upon our forces. Within moments, he had taken out four of our sentinels without pause. Only when we had finally brought him down by removing his head did we realize that his arms had been removed at the elbows and fused with burning-hot blades. To our relief, when he fell the other fanatics retreated. I dread to think what would happen if several such giants attacked us at once.{^n}{^n}I pray to Dreeg that the time to strike is nearly upon us and that our main force at the Conclave will meet us here, as without reinforcements the Vanguard will not hold out much longer; but do not interpret this as hesitation. We will fight to the last to keep this point secure in the name of the Witch Gods!


#Korvan Plateau
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanPlateauNoteA01Name=Korvan Expedition - 1st Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanPlateauNoteA01codexTitle=Korvan Expedition 1st Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanPlateauNoteA01Text=The writings gathered here are to serve as record of our journey to reach the lost Korvan city.{^n}{^n}This expedition is the culmination of a lifetime of study by myself, Thomas Peterson and my esteemed colleague Roderick Krane. Together we have focused our efforts on ancient lore that speaks of a magnificent city of gold, hidden deep in the burning desert; a city whose people and culture vanished generations ago. By following the works of Rion the Scholar, sparse regional folklore and a number of cryptic religious texts, we were able to piece together a potential location for the lost city.{^n}{^n}From Rion's writings, we know that the main port of entry to the Korvan civilization was a place called the Cairan Docks, a massive coastal city positioned in a protective bay just inland of a large river delta. However, recovered Korvan folklore claims that the waters of this river delta and the protective bay where Cairan was situated turned to flame and were burned away during the supposed cataclysmic event that ended the civilization. After speaking with a number of shipping merchants and retired sailors we have pinpointed a location that fits this description. A strip of land where the desert meets the sea, just north of Cape Erine. The terrain and weather here are apparently so treacherous that few have ventured far from the coast.{^n}{^n}It should not go unmentioned that funding for our expedition was provided by a number of wealthy individuals from both Erulan and Malmouth. It does concern me that their interests in the lost city may not align with ours. And they have sent a retinue of individuals to monitor our progress and look after their investment. I am concerned that they may attempt to interfere if things don't seem to be going their way. Roderick assures me that, whatever their intentions, we will not allow them to waylay us from our goal. Though, I suspect he's told them they are likely to find some sort of treasure or otherwise valuable items to make it seem worth investing in our expedition.{^n}{^n}And so our journey begins.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanPlateauNoteA02Name=Korvan Expedition - 2nd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanPlateauNoteA02codexTitle=Korvan Expedition 2nd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanPlateauNoteA02Text=Day - 23{^n}{^n}Until today, our journey has been an exercise in the mundane. I have lost track of time as I watch the ship's crew go about their routine day in and day out. I feel more than a bit useless but the captain has explained, a number of times, that our involvement will only make his crew less efficient. So I sit, read, watch the clouds pass overhead and review my notes over and over again.{^n}{^n}That all changed this morning shortly after dawn when I was violently awoken by the sound of cannon fire. The shattering boom gave me such a start that I fell out of my hammock. When I rushed above deck the scene was somewhere between utter chaos and military precision. Before I could determine what was happening the captain ordered Roderick and I below deck.{^n}{^n}Later when the fracas had subsided, I had a chance to speak with him. Evidently, the dawn watchman spotted another ship with no colors flying; a sure sign of piracy, the Captain said. Instead of risking an attack he decided to go on the offensive and begin firing as soon as the ship was in range. Whatever he did, it worked and the other ship fled. However, it appears this is a common tactic among pirates of the region. They follow ships and attempt an attack at night when the crew is less alert. I shudder to think that our expedition could have come to such a grisly end before we even reached the barren shores.{^n}{^n}Day - 27{^n}{^n}The captain tells me we're nearing our destination, no more than a day's sailing left and then an indeterminate number of days searching the desert for the lost city.{^n}{^n}The retinue of babysitters sent by our investors have been asking a number of peculiar questions about the burial habits of the Korvan people, and about the types of objects we might hope to find there; none of which I have answers to. I caught one of them reading an ancient-looking text of some sort the other day. Aurenial Arcanum, the name read. It is a volume I am unfamiliar with, though if I didn't know better I'd say it was exactly the kind of thing that could attract Luminari attention. He snatched the book closed and hid it in his jacket when I asked what he was reading. His scowl said it all.{^n}{^n}Peculiar indeed.

#Desert/Oasis Notes
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_DesertNoteA01Name=Naiema's Letter to Yorhun
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_DesertNoteA01Text=My dearest Yorhun, we're nearing the end of our journey now. I can see the oasis in the distance calling to us like a great beacon in a sea of sand.{^n}{^n}It cannot come soon enough, another day in the burning desert and Yaesha may lose her mind. As it is, her spirit dwindles. She concerns herself with inevitability. She's been asking what will happen once we reach the temple and what will come of her if she is chosen by the priests.{^n}{^n}I try to explain that it would be a great honor if she was chosen out of all the young women who make the journey this year. But she questions the necessity of it, asking why she should give herself to Horran. I try to offer reason, but I must admit my faith falters. I do not have your strength. I see the same in the others who follow their daughters on pilgrimage.{^n}{^n}Like me, I am sure they remember the journey as young women, the anticipation and fear they felt. I remember questioning my mother's faith as well as she guided me to the temple steps. It seemed unfathomable that she would so willingly give me away; but she remained stoic and devout.{^n}{^n}I fear I am not the mother she was. How am I to leave my precious lotus, how can I just give away Yaesha if she is chosen? If only I could tell her how I truly feel. If I could just embrace her and cry together with her one last time. But I know I cannot, I must remain strong for her.{^n}{^n}I know how important it is for us to give thanks to Horran, to pay tribute to all that he provides. But my love, it is so terribly hard to see the beautiful young woman our precious Yaesha has become and to imagine our life without her.{^n}{^n}I must go now to begin the final preparations as we approach the temple. I have mended the dress I wore on pilgrimage and fitted it to Yaesha. She will be the 4th of her name to wear it. Perhaps it will bring her luck. She will be so beautiful in it. Should she be chosen, I am certain Horran will be pleased.{^n}{^n}By the time you read this, the ceremony will be over and I shall be making my journey home. Forgive me, but I pray that I will not be making the trip alone.{^n}{^n}Yours always,{^n}{^n}Naiema

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_DesertNoteA02Name=The Burning Shores
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_DesertNoteA02Text=I cannot fathom what fate has befallen us. The water in the bay burns as if it were liquid flame, the countless ships docked along the piers consumed in an instant like twigs in a blacksmith's furnace. The hellish flames reach beyond the bay and threaten our city, our homes.{^n}{^n}I still hear the screams of sailors as they burned alive and the chaos in the streets as the flames spread. My body is numb with fear, but my mind is racing; I cannot comprehend the sights I bore witness to in the dawn's light or what would bring such unimaginable tragedy upon us. The bay's flames linger in my mind like an unending nightmare.{^n}{^n}Were it not for Yeahran's calm mind and quick action, I may have perished in the initial frenzy that ensued. While others panicked and fled, trampling each other in the process, Yeahran gathered us up and placed us in his wagon with a small satchel of supplies. Without delay or thought for himself, he sent the horse into a gallop towards the exit gates. He refused to come, saying that he had to stay and try to help others.{^n}{^n}As refugees continue to gather at the Temple of Osyr, I've seen no sign of my dear husband. I do not know what has become of him, but I fear our future may be just as bleak.{^n}{^n}The skies to the north are burning. Red hot pillars of flame leap towards a dark ashen cloud that hangs over Korvan City. Whatever curse had stricken the Cairan Docks appears to continue there as well.{^n}{^n}I pray that we will find safety to the south.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_DesertNoteA03Name=The Trials of Horran
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_DesertNoteA03Text=All who drink of the waters and bathe in their cleansing currents shall give thanks to Horran and be indebted. For it is the blood of his love that gives liquid life to the valley of the Eldritch Sun.{^n}{^n}Before the walls of the temple gleamed in the light of Rahn, before the first of the Korvan people arrived to build the foundations of their faith, there was only Horran.{^n}{^n}Scorned and persecuted by his people for the depth of his faith in the god of gods, Horran fled to the burning desert to seek a life of devotion in solitude. For a time, the desert provided for him as it had not provided for any creature before him. There, Horran lived happily and spent his waking hours meditating upon his faith.{^n}{^n}In time, as do all virile creatures, Horran grew lonely. And so he prayed to our eldritch patron, pledging all he possessed for the pleasures of companionship. As the glow of Ateph graced the burning sands, he fell ill and, though a cool night drew upon him, the heat of the day still burned in his skin. His god bade him sleep and as he slept a feverish vision overtook him.{^n}{^n}At daybreak, Horran awakened from his dream and set upon his quest. With his sole possession, Aineth, the goat which had given the best of its years to run thick with milk for him and whose offspring he had gorged himself upon, he marched deeper into the desert. The burning light of Rahn weighed heavily on him that morning and for seven days hence he marched without food or rest. On the fifth day Aineth, like many creatures before it, succumbed to the heat and could go no further. With waning strength, Horran carried the beast and cared for it until his body would serve him no more.{^n}{^n}There, at the end of his journey, Horran collapsed and prayed to the Eldritch Sun for mercy. His god commanded he lay dead Aineth, to slit the beast's neck and drain its blood upon the sands, and Horran did as his master asked. As the crimson waters of Aineth's life ran out upon the sand, it hissed and burned in the midday sun. From the pool of burning life there arose a woman. Eyahna she was called and she poured upon Horran the love for which he had so yearned.{^n}{^n}Together Eyahna and Horran knew only ecstasy and for a time they were happy. But their love bore no fruit and so they once again prayed to their god to sate their desires. Thusly Yahlia was born. A child of such immense beauty that Rahn and Ateph both became jealous of how the light of the sun and of the moon danced and sparkled in her eyes. Eyahna and Horran were happy once more.{^n}{^n}But there was a gift that was given and a price that was yet to be paid and so the desert turned against them. Struggle and strife beset Eyahna and Horran. Food aged and rotted at their touch. Water turned to sand as they drank and young Yahlia fell ill of hunger.{^n}{^n}With nowhere to turn, Horran begged his god for mercy and the Eldritch Sun answered. But to save the life of Yahlia there was a price that needed to be paid. Horran once again did as his master bade him and gathered up the blade which had slain Aineth. Then, as he stood there hovering over the bed of Eyahna, the jagged and terrible blade raised high above him, Horran's faith faltered. He could not take the life of his love, not even to save Yahlia. Horran turned the blade upon himself and drew its claw-like edge across his throat, but it made no mark. Then, Eyahna called out and clutched desperately at her neck, the red life seeping out between her fingers. Horran ran to her side but it was too late. The warm blood flowed from her body and pooled in the sand beneath his feet. From the pool of Eyahna's life there burst a ceaseless spring of cleansing water.{^n}{^n}The Eldritch Sun had once again answered his prayers, but Horran's life was not his own to take. Horran bathed Yahlia in the water of the spring and she was healed. But the lovely child would never forgive him for the death of her mother. As the cost for his greed, Horran was cursed with ceaseless life such that he might remember the death of his beloved Eyahna for all eternity and so that one day he might hold Yahlia in his arms as she too drew her final breath.{^n}{^n}Such is the price of godhood.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_NoteA02Name=Carmac's Notes
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_NoteA02Text=This creature is truly fascinating.{^n}{^n}Unlike anything previously documented by me or my predecessors. Its pin toothed maw lies at the surface nearly motionless like a predatory plant waiting for its unsuspecting prey. Based on the size of the visible portions of its physiology, my best estimations indicate that we are seeing no more than 10% of the creature. What lies beneath the surface may be truly massive and span the entirety of the Korvan Sands.{^n}{^n}It seems insane to even ponder the idea, but it may be so large as to allow someone brave, or foolish enough, to tread freely inside the beast; depending on the biology of the creature's digestive tract, of course. Similar ventures had been attempted on the giant sand worms of Freanall Peninsula. Though those expeditions had proven markedly unsuccessful, this beast is many times larger than any worm on record.{^n}{^n}This discovery is the culmination of my life's work. I cannot pass up such an opportunity, no matter how outlandish it may seem.{^n}{^n}All the necessary preparations have been made. My initial observations of the beast indicate it is partially dormant during the hottest hours of the day. This is when we will attempt to make our descent into the gaping maw.

#Cairan Docks
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA01Name=Anorak's Journal
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA01Text=Aaral's got the three of us working with an odd crew, some bunch of witch worshipping fanatics, but I have my trepidations. For one, getting mixed up with such a controversial group may prove more dangerous than it's worth. They also seem like a terribly conflicted lot, all pledging themselves to different deities, none of whom seem to get along very well.{^n}{^n}They've somehow roped my brothers into joining their little cult, though I suspect those two aren't buying into the mumbo jumbo the witches are peddling. More likely they think we'll turn a healthy profit by going along with the whole deal. If that's the case, Aaral and Anderan are doing an awfully good job hiding it. They're joining in with daily rituals, kowtowing to their new god. It's an odd sight, those two fools pretending they care for anything other than making themselves rich. I wonder how long it will be until they try to get me to join in with them. I haven't had an opportunity to speak with them about it, but deceiving a group of fanatics like this could be dangerous business.{^n}{^n}For the time being, the witches have kept us well supplied and there seems to be no shortage of grave robbing they want us to do. I don't exactly know what they're looking for but they don't seem to have any interest in the usual trinkets. They were rather displeased with our first haul, saying it was all useless junk. We just grabbed what usually sells well, jewelry, anything that looks expensive, but they said to focus our efforts on items that seem to have greater importance, auras, whatever that means.{^n}{^n}On top of all else, things are heating up in camp. The witches seem to be preparing for something, arguing amongst themselves, making plans in secret. There's a lot of strange people coming and going and some rather concerning rumors about goings-on to the north in the ruins of Korvan City. We don't have any plans to head out there though, at least I hope not.{^n}{^n}This morning it's off to the Cairan Docks for a second run. There's a network of tombs and temples beneath the ruins that the witches seem particularly interested in. We've been down there before and most of those places seemed like they were picked over years ago. But maybe the stuff with...auras is still down there. In any case, I'll have my hands full keeping Aaral and Anderan out of trouble, as usual.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA02Name=Writings of Rion the Scholar - 1st Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA02codexTitle=Rion's Notes - 1st Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA02Text=I must admit, this place is truly a jewel in the desert. In my travels I have been to the farthest reaches of the world, seen and experienced much, sadly most sights did not live up to their own tales. This place, however, is a marvel that exceeds even the grandest of stories. Transcribing its beauty and grandeur may prove challenging even for me.{^n}{^n}I arrived via ship at the Cairan Docks late last night. My charter, a merchant vessel called Spire, packed to the gunwale with fine goods from distant shores; its captain, a stalwart and grizzled sailor whose dedication and leadership shone through in the motivation of his crew. Like a finely tuned machine they deftly navigated the dangerous waters west of the Korvan River delta.{^n}{^n}We first spotted the grand port while still at sea, miles before entering the river where it is located. The Cairan beacon shone brightly over the horizon. I do not know what magic powers that ubiquitous signal but its intense light draws vessels from the seas like moths to a flame. As we sailed upriver, the port began to reveal itself to us like an eager maiden. Countless warm yellow lights gently illuminated polished sandstone structures, some more than five stories tall. Beautifully crafted statues and fountains proudly stood watch over the gardens and public spaces that flowed through the grand bazaar.{^n}{^n}The port itself was ablaze with activity. Containers hoisted to and from ships, dock workers and merchants closing deals and crews taking leave in bars and fine brothels. Mere moments after I set foot on solid ground, for the first time in weeks, I was greeted by my local contact. A beautiful woman of middling age with an effortless and enticing gait further enhanced by the lovely gold embroidered gown that hung over her figure like a graceful waterfall. She guided me away from the pier to the heart of the port city, and my lodging for the night; which I politely offered to share with her, an advance she graciously denied. Not even this could dampen my mood however and, albeit alone, I had the greatest night of sleep in my life. The bazaar gently rocked me to sleep with the melodic hum of its ceaseless activity.{^n}{^n}This morning, my path takes me north to the capital, Korvan City. I shall join a small caravan that travels there daily along the immaculate stone roads leading to the heart of the city from the four cardinal directions. I can see the path now, as I sit and wait in the lovely garden bower just outside my lodging. Its stonework shines in the gentle morning sun. Immaculate golden leafed braziers mark its boundaries as far as the eye can see.{^n}{^n}If the next leg of my journey rivals the first, it shall truly be the experience of a lifetime.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA03Name=Captain Freinhaul's Log
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA03Text=After more than a month's travel, we've reached the port at Cairan. And a hard month it was. The crew has suffered more than they deserve. During our first week at sea, a freak storm flooded the hold and ruined a fair portion of our better provisions. The steward's been forced to dole out smaller portions than I'm sure he'd like; there were more than a few threats to his life come mealtimes.{^n}{^n}To add to the lean conditions, a particularly bold band of native pirates attempted to board the ship from a small canoe as we passed near the Tarken Islands. I didn't know what they were thinking at the time as they had little chance of sacking the ship. Not a one of them was fully dressed and only two of the five were armed, if you can call it that. They carried no more than roughly fashioned spears. Little did we know they were so lethal. The crew's response was expectedly concise and the attempted raid was stopped almost before it started. However, two of the crew, Barken the deck hand, and Rennet our new swabbie, sustained minor injuries from the incident. Both took ill and died no more than a day later. It turned out those half naked bastards were planning to poison us all in our sleep. They got what they deserved, hogtied and keel hauled. Some of the crew suggested less savory ends but it's important not to allow the rabble to run rampant in such situations. As it is, I allowed them to keep the hands. It's a foul practice, if you ask me, but they do fetch a fine coin if you can source the right buyer. I'm sure the old boatswain Yarik will have no trouble finding someone to sell them to here.{^n}{^n}This is to be the first of three nights at port as the ship's cargo is sold and her hold replenished. I've given the crew their leave which I am sure they will take at local taverns and homes of ill repute. As is well deserved no doubt. I shall tend to the ships business and attempt to source cargo for our return journey.{^n}{^n}The Cairan port is truly a sight to behold. Many times larger than any this captain has seen in his many years at sea. Hundreds of ships make landfall and just as many, with bellies full of cargo, wait at the mouth of the river. The docks churn like a well-oiled machine and the pristine city beyond glistens in the moonlight as if bathing in its rays. Yet, in my short time ashore I have seen the all but hidden evidence of the dark underbelly that bolsters any successful port. Back alley dealings, wealthy merchants treading on the less fortunate, a ship whose hold is overflowing with bound and chained folk, stolen from a far-off land. I am certain our return journey will be a profitable one, though I hope to haul a less unsavory cargo.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA04Name=Writings of Rion the Scholar - Final Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA04codexTitle=Rion's Notes - Final Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA04Text=Sadly my time here has come to an end, and I find myself back at the Cairan Docks where I first embarked on this a most magnificent journey. I met once again with my captivating local contact. Katrice is her name, I've learned. And as if this marvelous place were eager to grant me a parting gift, she agreed to share in my final night's lodging.{^n}{^n}Tomorrow I shall once again board the merchant ship Spire and depart for distant shores. My destination, Cape Erine and the untamed lands that lie beyond. There I will attempt to make contact with the indigenous peoples and study their deep understanding of herbal medicine and insatiable penchant for human sacrifice.{^n}{^n}Wherever my travels take me I shall certainly cherish my time here in the Korvan Basin.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA05Name=Yhania's Diary
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA05Text=Father would have me hanged if he knew. But he should be none the wiser.{^n}{^n}Anhad called to me this evening, whistling like the evening sparrow from the garden below my window. He pleaded with me to join him and I could not resist. Silently we snuck past the night guard, through gardens, over walls, out of sight, down to the docks where I paused for a moment in amazement. They were ablaze with activity, I couldn't believe my eyes. While the rest of the city slept, the docks positively hummed with activity. I'd never seen them at night.{^n}{^n}Anhad grasped my hand and snapped me out of my stupor. He led me down a secret path running next to the docks out past the last ship. From there we could see the bay stretching out before us. Its rippled surface sparkled in the light of Ateph. It was more beautiful than I could have imagined. We could see ships entering the bay, their sails like pale specters against the jewel-filled night sky. It was Anhad's plan all along for us to go swimming. Swimming, of all things. Father would lose his mind. He's forbidden me to swim, he says it's inappropriate for a young woman.{^n}{^n}Anhad has promised to teach me but tonight he guided me down to the shore so I could wade in up to my waist. The water was like a warm bath and Nirdu fish nibbled at my toes as I walked. Anhad swam out past the pier, so far I could barely make him out against the glimmering water. I've heard there are massive fish that linger out there, waiting for a ship to drop scraps or for someone to fall overboard, but now I think those are mere tales people tell children to keep them from swimming.{^n}{^n}Why would they want to keep anyone from doing this, it's incredible. I will certainly teach my children to swim in the bay one day.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA06Name=Korvan Expedition - 3rd entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA06codexTitle=Korvan Expedition 3rd entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_CairanDocksNoteA06Text=Day - 29{^n}It has been two tedious and nerve wracking days since we made landfall. Our time is spent cautiously picking our way through arid canyons and barren valleys with no sign of civilization. We are forced to travel huddled together with armed guards at our flanks, a cumbersome but necessary measure. One of our porters was mauled by an unknown predator while relieving himself. We must be incredibly cautious to prevent further attacks.{^n}{^n}I am no expert in the study of animals but I have witnessed many here that defy my understanding of the natural world. Massive reptiles skulking in the dunes. Flying predators with wingspans as large as a ship. Beetle-like insects the size of a man. This is a place of deep primordial energy, I feel certain we are on the right path.{^n}{^n}Day - 31{^n}Today we have reached the first true evidence of civilization. The lotus symbolism and crumbled remains of guardian statues that I've previously only seen depicted in texts made it abundantly clear that these were indeed the remnants of the Korvan people. Around midday, we walked clear of the insipid and deathly dry desert and there laid out before us were the sprawling ruins of a once glorious city. Beyond the sand covered husks of buildings, I could make out the remnants of a massive port and the bones of ancient ships now resting on the dry salt bed. There was no doubt about it. These were the Cairan Docks, the port that connected Korvan City to the luxurious trade routes that brought power and riches untold to these shores. Beyond it the now barren bay that served as its connection to the outside world. Our efforts are paying off, we are now on the path once trod by the Eldritch Sun himself.{^n}{^n}Day - 32{^n}We've uncovered an ancient bathhouse and temple complex at the center of the port city. Our accompaniment insisted on exploring the ruins and carefully cataloguing every grain of sand that appeared unique to them. I tried to impress upon them that this was not the intended destination of our expedition and that it was not the time for delays, not when we were so near, not after so many years of preparation. I will not allow their petty attempts to recover meaningless artifacts to stall our progress.{^n}{^n}Perhaps the time for more drastic action has come. I will speak with Roderick in private, beyond prying eyes. We will reach an agreement as to the appropriate next steps.

#Tombs and Ruins
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA01Name=Missive to Elders of Ulzuin's Temple
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA01codexTitle=Ulzuin's Temple Missive
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA01Text=Esteemed elders,{^n}{^n}I wish to express my deepest concerns in regards to the recent actions of our patron and guardian, the divine Ulzuin. I realize that it is not our place as mortals to judge the behavior of the gods, for their whims are beyond our limitations to understand, but this course of events warrants apprehension.{^n}{^n}Since his return, the divine has not been himself. He has ever been on the bottle that our temple's stock cannot replenish quickly enough. I've been forced to instruct our aspirants to seize incoming shipments of wine before they can be claimed by local merchants. But even that is not enough to sate his bloated appetite.{^n}{^n}A Cairan caravan was rerouted to the temple on a daily basis, bringing in fresh courtesans for the pleasures of our patron. I've received numerous complaints from the merchant guild regarding the seizure of shipments and their caravan, but these voices were quickly silenced when I invoked Ulzuin's name in their presence.{^n}{^n}I imagine none of this sounds alarming on its own, however more recently the divine has taken an unusual interest in a particular maiden of the temple. She is a young and ambitious priestess and I admit the mighty Ulzuin has good taste. Her brilliant emerald eyes shine underneath that raven black hair and her face glows with lustful desire. At first, I wrote it off as another of the divine's conquests, but he has begun to shun others in her favor. At times, our own attendants are denied access to Ulzuin's chambers so that she may tend to his wounds and wishes personally.{^n}{^n}I braved the celestial's wrath and suggested that it may be dangerous for a god to allow a single mortal to grow so close to him when so many are in need of his guidance and protection. Even in his weakened state, Ulzuin hurled a stone brazier in my direction with ease, damaging the mosaic upon the wall and turning the brazier into mere rubble. I dare not show my face to him again until his anger has subsided.{^n}{^n}It is clear to me now that this young priestess has consumed the divine's attention, like a spider ensnaring a victim in its web. If we cannot speak sense to Ulzuin, then we must keep eye upon her, learn of her methods and motives. It is possible that she merely desires to taste the pleasures of divine flesh, but I've never seen our mighty lord so enthralled by a mortal.{^n}{^n}I call upon all my brethren to take heed of this warning and join me in my endeavor without drawing the ire of our patron. But if Ulzuin cannot protect himself from these mortal pursuits, then we will need to take the necessary measures, for the good of the Korvan people, of course.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA02Name=Rhenet the Rat God
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA02Text=Rhenet was not always a rat and did not always preside over the vermin and lowly creatures of the Korvan Basin. He was once a powerful and proud man, a merchant whose wealth rivaled any who bask in the light of Rahn.{^n}{^n}But he was not born into the life of wealth and power. No, he was born a diseased and lowly vagrant to a widowed mother with nothing more to give him than her faith in the Eldritch Sun. And so, unable to care for her sickly child, she prayed to her god and pledged her own life so that Rhenet would be spared the plight that was his birthright. The desperate mother's prayers were answered and miraculously the infant grew to become a healthy child.{^n}{^n}As a young man Rhenet was conscripted to the service of a trade ship where it is said that even the cruel sea showed him favor. He grew strong and clever in his service and his skill as a sailor brought him much renown. He worked furiously to honor the life he was given and through his drive and dedication became the captain of the ship to which he served.{^n}{^n}His success at sea was so great that he would one day return to the Cairan Docks and from there command an armada of ships that sailed in his name. It was from this position of power that he built his grand wealth and from which he began to forget his humble origins. The success of his life so tainted his ego that Rhenet began to believe he was destined for greatness, that a life such as his could not be a coincidence. He sought greater power and forgot the gift which was given.{^n}{^n}Those who served or were loyal to Rhenet showered him with their adoration and his pride grew with his wealth. The shade of his origins was all but forgotten as Rhenet proclaimed himself the master of the seas and commissioned the first of many temples to be constructed in his honor. Quickly, sailors and seafarers began paying tribute, leaving riches and treasures at these sites of worship. It was said that the favor of Rhenet bestowed good fortune upon those who took to the sea. Some even perceived him as a god of the waters, an ascendant whose legend spread beyond even the Korvan waters.{^n}{^n}But the grand hubris of Rhenet drew the ire of his benefactor. And so, the Eldritch Sun left his throne, disguising himself as an elderly vagrant so he could walk amongst the people of the Korvan Basin. There he heard the adulation for Rhenet, listened as the people spoke of the man as if he stood among Korvaak's Chosen, those few mortals whose service and dedication to the Eldritch Sun had earned them a place aside his throne. This rightly enraged the divine and in his disguised form he sought court with the self-appointed god of the seas.{^n}{^n}In a grand temple built in his name, Rhenet met with the old man. He laughed at the sight of the sickly and broken creature before him.  "What have you to give the master of the seas, you poor old fool?" asked Rhenet.{^n}{^n}"I have come to remind you of the life you should have lived," the man said meekly.  "I am you as you should have been, were it not for the kindness of the Eldritch Sun."{^n}{^n}Rhenet laughed once again "You have come here to threaten me? Who are you to speak for the gods? How dare you?"{^n}{^n}And with that the old man's voice boomed, shaking the earth beneath their feet. His form twisted and grew as he spoke and a blistering heat washed over Rhenet, burning away his clothes, peeling and bubbling his flesh. "I do not come to threaten, I have come to collect upon the gift which was given."{^n}{^n}The searing heat cleansed Rhenet of his pride and he cowered before the towering figure. "Forgive me," begged Rhenet, "I did not know."{^n}{^n}"What have you to give me you poor little creature," the figure boomed.{^n}{^n}"I give my life," cried Rhenet.{^n}{^n}"Indeed. But death is too small a price. No, you shall serve me as the lowliest of creatures you have always been. You will hold court over those who saw you as a god."{^n}{^n}With those final words, Rhenet's body collapsed upon itself, twisting, tearing and grinding until finally he appeared as a massive diseased rat. His temples were brought to ruin in an instant, and from the rubble emerged a swarm of rats. All of those who had followed the master of the sea, all who had pledged their loyalty to him or begged for his favor were cursed to live out their days as vile vermin in the service of the Rat God.{^n}{^n}Take heed of the story of Rhenet, for all things that we cherish in life are gifts of the Eldritch Sun.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA03Name=Vizier Erhaman's Note
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA03Text=The temple grows cold. No longer does the warmth of its heart wash over the city below. I do not know what has transpired, what could possibly cause such an event, but the patrons of the lesser temples have begun to notice. Those who come to pay homage approach me after prayer with questions I cannot answer. "Have we angered Korvaak?", "Has the Eldritch Sun waned?". They are rightfully concerned and scared. However, these are the types of emotions which spur wavering faith and thoughts of dissent. There are even some who speak openly against the temple. Though they are few in number, I am concerned that recent events may embolden them. They have the potential to become the rotting core at the center of a larger movement.{^n}{^n}In the meantime, I have pleaded to the elders for guidance, for words of calm that I might share with the patrons of the temple. They give no notice to my anxieties. I am told to continue on as I always have, for Korvaak's flame is with us as certainly as the sun rises each day.{^n}{^n}The Eldritch Sun works in ways I do not hope to comprehend, but we must take heed when the populace becomes restless. The foundations of our city, of our very faith must not be shaken. I will do more than just offer the people words, I will give them a spectacle, a grand sacrifice to the heart of the temple.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA04Name=Jeren's Travel Log - 1st Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA04codexTitle=Jeren's Log - 1st Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA04Text=We set out yesterday to make our way over the charred rim and down into the valley below. It is a wild place where towering basalt formations jut from the ground like the bones of an ancient beast. I don't know what happened here but it appears as if the earth turned itself inside out, spewing its jagged entrails across the valley floor. The land rests now but signs of ancient turmoil abound.{^n}{^n}I must say I am pleasantly surprised to find that Amal's map has been accurate. When he bought the old rag from a wandering junk peddler and then tried to convince me to join his little treasure hunt I was skeptical to say the least. After all, what kind of traveling trash merchant carries a genuine treasure map, for a few measly iron bits no less. Even if the map was real, I thought, what business do Amal and I have trekking through a burning desert to raid some poor soul's long-forgotten grave. But he's really come through this time; the map is in fact real and, remarkably, Amal has led us this far without incident. According to the map, it won't be more than a half day's journey to the place they once called the Valley of the Chosen, or so Amal says. I'm relying entirely on him as I cannot read the supposed ancient language the map is written in. How he can is beyond me.{^n}{^n}There are signs of a once mighty civilization everywhere. I've seen buildings, statues, tombs and temples. Some stand as if they were erected yesterday but most have fallen prey to the ravages that tore through this land long ago. If I didn't know better, I'd say the earth itself had reared up to lay waste to the structures built here, intentionally razing some and leaving others untouched. It is an unnerving thought, no doubt.{^n}{^n}I do not know what happened to this place, or to the people that must have inhabited it, or why no one has returned to reclaim it. Amal tells me stories of cataclysmic events, the roiling hot blood of the earth pouring over the land, unnatural beasts risen to exact the vengeful punishment of a scorned god. I honestly don't know if he's making it up to scare me or if he genuinely believes that's what happened here.{^n}{^n}In the end, all that matters is that everyone left in a hurry and they left a whole lot of valuables behind. If it is true, and it appears to be, this will be a very profitable journey after all.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA05Name=Jeren's Travel Log - 2nd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA05codexTitle=Jeren's Log - 2nd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA05Text=Last night we reached the badlands around the Valley of the Chosen where we made camp along a jagged ridgeline. Just over the crest, as far as the eye could see, the harsh volcanic landscape was dotted with tomb entrances and monuments whose golden inlays sparkled in the bright moonlight; all of which were centered along a main corridor of grand burial crypts.{^n}{^n}It was an equally exhilarating and daunting sight as I was not looking forward to traversing volcanic rock and leaping over molten rivers. And I have to say there's been some strange goings-on as we draw nearer to our goal. This morning I could swear that the earth itself shook me awake and in the last fitful moments of sleep I dreamt of being consumed by fire, sinking deeper and deeper into an endless ocean of flame. As I jerked back to the realm of the waking I saw Amal sleeping like a freshly suckled pig, clutching his empty rum cask like the teat of a generous mother. It must have been in my head, perhaps an anxious dream brought on by the anticipation of the final leg of our journey and the riches that might be buried in the valley ahead.{^n}{^n}But later, as we broke camp, I noticed something very peculiar. We arrived last night well after sunset and I would have bet my life we made our camp at the foot of a massive statue. This morning, it was missing. I was dumbstruck. Not only was it gone but there were gargantuan footprints leading away from it like those of a man wearing heavy boots, only many times larger. They were deep and the stride was long as if the statue had just walked off in the night or some massive man had slung it over his shoulder and made off with it.{^n}{^n}When I told Amal he seemed surprised at first, but then brushed it off. He insisted there was no statue, that the full moon played a cruel trick on me. I think he saw it too, I'm certain of it, but he's so focused on finding treasure that he won't admit to any distractions.{^n}{^n}If that weren't enough, as we made our way down into the valley I could swear I saw an entire caravan of men and women dressed in long gray robes and heavy armor off in the distance. They were traveling northward along the ridgeline next to the tombs, chanting as they went. By the time I got Amal to stop gaping at the gold inlay on the temple door we were going to pry open, he missed seeing them entirely. I feel as though I'm losing my mind but I'm quite positive we are not alone here.{^n}{^n}I don't suppose it matters much at this point. We've reached our goal, the tomb marked on Amal's map is right beneath our feet. This one, among so many, supposedly holds grand riches. Perhaps once we're inside, I can breathe easy away from all the weirdness happening out here; if we can figure out how to get the damned thing open.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA06Name=Scorched Note
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA06Text=There's nowhere left to go, nowhere to run.{^n}{^n}I got separated from Amal when a cave-in blocked the passageway into the depths of the tomb. In his typical unnatural calm, he said to go on, that we'd meet up again further down. But as I walked, the earth began to shake. Groaning and rumbling, the bedrock beneath the temple cried out like a waking beast.{^n}{^n}I panicked and began to run but every step seemed to aggravate the beast further. I made it less than 20 feet before the shaking brought me to my knees. I continued to crawl, scraping my arms against the jagged stone floor, with no concept of where I was going, no plan of escape.{^n}{^n}With a bone-shattering crack, the floor of the temple opened like a gaping maw, revealing the white hot river of flame below. I could not have imagined the depth of terror that consumed me in that moment as Amal's desperate screams echoed through the passage behind me. I somehow summoned the courage to move and dragged myself away from the searing heat. For a time, I cowered there as the tomb shook around me. Its groans and cracks resembled an oppressive voice that called out to me, that called out to all living things from the depths of the fiery river that flowed around me.{^n}{^n}Then, as the shaking subsided, there was calm. I could still hear other cracks and booms in far off places, but the temple I lay in was still.{^n}{^n}Now there is nothing, nothing but the sizzle and drone of the molten earth that now defines the island of solid rock that will be my final resting place. There are no riches, no treasure, only burning death and the voice that beckons me into the flames.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA07Name=The Sting
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA07Text=*The parchment is covered in what appears to be dried up human bile*{^n}{^n}Day 4: The Korvan people have been generous with their treasures. Hardly a threat in sight. I had to use the fire of my camp to scare off something lurking in the dark last night, but otherwise it had been an easy journey so far.{^n}{^n}Day 5: Today I was making my way back to the camp when something stung me. Made me feel a bit dizzy. I know a good night's sleep will help me to feel right as rain. Nothing to be concerned about.{^n}{^n}Day 6...or is it 7? I am not sure how long I've slept, but something is definitely wrong. My lips are cracked. My gums are bleeding. And the headache, my gods, the headache is blinding. The skin feels like it's crawling. Everything hurts so bad I can barely move. What manner of demon stung me?{^n}{^n}Day 9: I've managed to crawl my way back to the horse and traveled back south out of the basin, but the symptoms have not abated. Twice now I've woken in agony, burning up. My skin moves on its own as if something was moving beneath the surface.{^n}{^n}Day 10: I've watched in horror as a fat maggot tore through the flesh of my abdomen, from the inside. They are inside me. By the gods, they are feasting while I still live...

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA08Name=My Hands Are Not My Own
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_TombsNoteA08Text=I write this final letter so those who may find this know what had transpired. Know that I am not a sinister man, and would never murder anyone in cold blood. But through some evil dwelling within this place, that is precisely what had happened.{^n}{^n}I came to these lands with my two companions, Harnen and Belik. After weeks of travel through accursed sands, we at last came to see the spires of Korvan ruins. They were stabbing up from the haze of the horizon like the rotten ribs of some great dead god.{^n}{^n}It was not until we stepped foot inside the first tomb that I began hearing the whispers. I kept asking what the others were muttering about, but they would laugh, saying that I was merely hearing things. As our days of digging and opening tombs continued, I became convinced that they were conspiring to slit my throat. I refused to sleep. I grew weary and delusional. The whispers kept gnawing at my mind.{^n}{^n}Yesterday, as we made our way into the latest tomb, the voices took their toll. We had found a small opening on the surface through which we were able to descend via rope. As soon as my feet touched the dusty tiles, however, I was but a passenger in my own body; trapped behind my own eyes. As my companions moved into the inky depths, my hands reached for the rope and soaked it with lamp oil. I screamed to warn the others, but I had no voice. I stared in horror as our only means of escape vanished in a brief blaze.{^n}{^n}Deeper inside, I found Harnen overlooking a golden railing near a waterfall. My hands came up into my vision as if to push him. I tried to fight my arms down, I commanded my mouth to make any noise, but nothing came of it. I was powerless and could only watch as his hands shot out in desperation, grasping for anything within reach...the railing, the wall...me. His eyes met mine with the final fearful question: why? Then he was gone, tumbled over the railing and out of sight into the ravine.{^n}{^n}Belik was not far from my grisly deed. I found him admiring the intricate work of gold-encrusted statue. The figure was frightening, with too many arms gripping a razor-sharp halberd as if at the ready to defend the tomb. There was an eerie quality of unlife about it that made my blood run cold.{^n}{^n}In a flash, my hands were wrapped around Belik's arms and I lifted him with inhuman strength way up into the air before forcing his back onto the statue's weapon. I released him and watched as he slowly slid down the length of the halberd, his blood pouring down along the shaft and pooling at the foot of the statue.{^n}{^n}It was at that moment when my last friend was dead that whatever spell had enthralled me had ended. Freed from my mental prison, I screamed and wailed and pounded on the cold stones like a distraught child. For a brief moment, I could swear I saw a withered face clad in golden armor staring back at me, but then it was gone. I can't say when or how, but I pulled Belik down off the statue. Nor do I know how long I laid there holding my dead friend. My mind was broken.{^n}{^n}There was no hope of escape, I saw to that. By my own hand, I became trapped down here to waste away and rot to bone with my fallen companions. I needed to write this. If not for myself, then for my friends. I can only pray their spirits know in their hearts that it was not me, and they will greet me with forgiveness when I see them beyond the veil.{^n}{^n}Gods preserve me, my hands were not my own.


#Korvan City
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA01Name=Security Concerns
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA01Text=As this is now my fourth request for an increased guard retinue for our caravans, consider this a formal complaint and if my concerns are not addressed in a forthright manner, you can be certain that my voice will be heard by the merchant guild.{^n}{^n}I've been told my previous correspondence had been ignored due to a lack of evidence of increase criminal activity on the Cairan Docks to Korvan City route; but I assure you, criminals are the least of our concerns. I imagine the thugs we normally contend with are facing the same constant onslaught we are!{^n}{^n}There has been a staggering increase in wildlife activity across the entirety of the Korvan Basin. The natural predators are emboldened, attacking single travelers and sometimes the caravans themselves in broad daylight. In all my time managing the Caravan, I have seen nothing like it. They appear crazed as if driven mad by something. In addition, there have been numerous sightings of previously unknown and peculiar beasts, seen traveling in packs, stalking caravans through the deepest desert. One of my most trusted drivers even reported a gryphon matriarch down on the valley floor. What could possibly drive those behemoths down from their lofty perches?{^n}{^n}Whatever it is, we need to secure the caravans or risk shipments stopping all together. I've lost such large quantities of product and men over the last month that trade ships have begun to complain about their deliveries not reaching merchants in the city. It's becoming more and more difficult to hire new hands because of rumors flying around of what happened to the previous crews.{^n}{^n}We must have more guards to secure the caravans. Surely you magistrate types can imagine your life without fine wine and graceful silks. Let us not forget that it is the caravans and their courageous drivers that bring such luxuries and it is the wealth of these very caravans that fund your comfy seats.{^n}{^n}Respectfully{^n}{^n}Raulan - Caravan Master

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA02Name=Missing Shipments
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA02Text=I don't know what the temple stewards are thinking. Do they believe no one will notice or do they simply not care? But I see right through their little game. Taxes are rising, to fund temple affairs they say, all while they spend our hard-earned gold on exotic goods and drink. When I missed a shipment of Vaurine Wine last week, for the second month in a row, I personally made the trip to Cairan to inquire with my importer. After a fair bit of coercion and no small amount of coin, he told me that a temple attendant signed the cargo manifest and then made off with my wine. I then spoke with a number of other local sellers and it seems they too have been missing product they've been expecting through the Cairan caravan. I do not mean to imply that they are appropriating the goods, certainly not. They are in fact not only paying for our wares but also bribing importers to keep quiet about their little dealings. A fine waste of our tax money, no doubt.{^n}{^n}I mean to take this up with the merchant guild as soon as possible and I implore you to do the same. It is about time a voice of power in this region ruffled the feathers of a few ordained officials.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA03Name=Writings of Rion the Scholar - 2nd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_ KorvanCityNoteA03codexTitle=Rion's Notes - 2nd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA03Text=I arrived today at the heart of Korvan City after a grueling three days of travel, a journey which began on a high note as we traversed the lush oasis just beyond the walls of the Cairan Docks. The Korvan capital is something else entirely. Lush stands of palms grace the shores of flowing streams fed by subterranean springs, which bubble up from the depths with an irrepressible ferocity. In the midst of a stark desert it is truly a sight to behold.{^n}{^n}I've been told that this one source provides the cleanest of waters to the region. Apparently an entire class of water merchants exists, with the sole duty of collecting the life-giving nectar from there and distributing it throughout the land.{^n}{^n}This is also where I had my first exposure to the curious and deep-rooted faith of the region. My traveling companions, the daily caravan from Cairan Docks to Korvan City, insisted that we stop at a temple, known as the Sanctuary of Horran, positioned in the heart of the oasis. It was apparently crucial that they stop while the burning sun was at its highest point, the prescribed hour to observe a daily ritual in which they give thanks to their god for his mercy and pittance.{^n}{^n}I can understand why a culture surrounded by such harsh and unforgiving lands would be grateful for whatever it is that has graced them to create such a stunning civilization. However, I quickly learned to be wary of these rituals as the prescribed hour for worship is not one but several a day. I know now why the journey to Korvan City takes three days.{^n}{^n}On the second day of our journey we passed through a smaller city on the outskirts of Korvan. This was truly an unusual locale. It appeared to be more temple than practical residence. I surmise it is a center for religious practice, perhaps where the local faith's most devout followers can go about their various rituals unhindered by the bustle of Korvan proper. Just beyond the temple city lies a vast network of tombs. I was told, by one of the caravan's drivers, that previous Korvan leaders and powerful devotees of the Korvan faith are buried there along with countless precious relics. Apparently the valley was chosen as a burial site because the roiling hot blood of their god flows close to the surface there. I suspect there is an ancient magma flow passing beneath the valley, perhaps the remnants of a long dormant volcano.{^n}{^n}These revelations are quite curious and worthy of further investigation. I shall hope to learn a great deal more about this faith, its practices and practitioners during my time in Korvan City.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA04Name=Writings of Rion the Scholar - 3rd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_ KorvanCityNoteA04codexTitle=Rion's Notes - 3rd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA04Text=Today was my first full day in Korvan City and I must say I am as awestruck by its majesty as I was when I first landed at the Cairan Docks. The focal point of the city is a grand temple dedicated to the Eldritch Sun, Korvaak, a deity I am unfamiliar with but one that dominates local theology. The temple's majesty is indescribable. It seems to dwarf everything in sight, even nearby mountains. And it radiates with such an energy that its heat can be felt even in the midday sun. Even I, a skeptic, find myself in sheer admiration. I've been told that the heat of the temple had dwindled for some years but has recently rekindled, a cause for celebration and ritual. I suspect it is built on a geological feature, perhaps a volcano or hot spring of some sort. I should very much wish to gain access to the inside. Though, as I discovered by visiting several smaller temples around the city, this is unlikely to happen. The main temple holds particular importance and entry is strictly prohibited to outsiders.{^n}{^n}Though it appears to be the focal point of the local faith, Korvaak is by no means the only entity worshipped by the Korvan people. There also appear to be lesser gods whom the people call ascendants. What that means exactly, I am not clear on and nobody had a straight answer for me either. The stories regarding these individuals vary, and not all of them seem to be holy men or even devout practitioners.  By my observation, they may well be wealthy individuals that have bought their way to deification and the social reverence that comes with. Nonetheless, minor temples were constructed in their honor and they are all worshipped in their own right and for various means, sometimes even before death.{^n}{^n}I should very much like to know what qualifies a person for a place of such honor and so tomorrow I will be visiting several temples positioned around the main Temple of the Eldritch Sun. If birthright will not grant me access, then perhaps the grease of a few coins will.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA05Name=Writings of Rion the Scholar - 4th Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_ KorvanCityNoteA05codexTitle=Rion's Notes - 4th Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA05Text=Following today's investigation of the tombs and temples of Korvan City, I must say I am more confused and, frankly, enthralled by the Korvan faith than I could have possibly imagined.{^n}{^n}Today I had the privilege to bear witness to a ceremony at the Temple of Rahn, where the ascendant himself was present to perform the honorable rite. It is my understanding that Rahn holds domain over the sun itself and it is by his blessing that the sun rises each day to warm the earth and give life to the harvest. The ceremony itself was brief and involved the slaughter of five goats upon the golden altar, their blood spilled into the carving in the form of a many-pronged sun.{^n}{^n}Rahn was a splendor to behold, his skin as golden as the suit of armor he wore. The armor glowed with burning energy and yet, as some of the acolytes in the temple described to me from their blessed opportunities to lay their hands upon it, is cool to the touch. With the way he presents himself it is easy to see why his followers believe this man to be a deity. The acolytes tell me that this is actually the 12th incarnation of Rahn. His father was the 11th and so on down the patriarchal chain of his family. Each of them had allegedly lived for centuries, and each had willingly given his life in the service of the Eldritch Sun. I was astonished to discover that the deification of this figure was his birthright. It does however lend credence to my suspicions regarding the true nature of these Korvan gods.{^n}{^n}The acolytes of this temple were more than eager to share Rahn's history with me. I swear if I let them, they'd talk all day of his countless accomplishments and divine intervention. But what did catch my attention was the presumed rivalry between Rahn and another deity they call Ateph, the lord of the moon. As this rivalry heated up, Ateph, I've learned, had slighted the Eldritch Sun and was thus banished from setting foot in Korvan City or to ever again feel the warmth of day upon his flesh.{^n}{^n}But the divine Korvaak was not without mercy. Once every 30 cycles of the sun, the disgraced Ateph was to make pilgrimage to Korvan City and make an offering upon the grand temple steps. This is an extraordinary and incredibly creative explanation for the cycling of day and night and the wax and wane of the moon.{^n}{^n}If this strange practice of ascension weren't enough, the people of the Korvan valley also appear to deify native animals and sometimes odd combinations of people and animals. The Korvan gryphon is a particularly common target of this practice. The creatures apparently live in rigid hierarchical packs which elevate a singular, usually male, individual to an alpha known by the Korvan people as a Sovereign. These gryphon Sovereigns are then worshiped by locals as minor deities.{^n}{^n}The intricacies of the Korvan faith are remarkable but it must not go unmentioned that they all lead back to Korvaak in one fashion or another. I shall focus future investigations on this penultimate deity.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA06Name=Writings of Rion the Scholar - 5th entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_ KorvanCityNoteA06codexTitle=Rion's Notes - 5th Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA06Text=I can no longer count the days since I've first arrived in Korvan City. I have been so enveloped by my work that I've lost track of the rising and setting of the sun, Rahn would be so disappointed in me.{^n}{^n}I find it difficult to pull my attention away. I've hired a young man to bring me meals three times a day and I must admit they are piling up outside the door to my chambers. My time is spent pouring over mountains of texts and tomes, rites and ceremonies in an attempt to better understand the origins of this Korvaak.{^n}{^n}What I have learned thus far is truly fascinating. As far back as I can go, there seems to be no inconsistency to his presence or domain, no evolution of his worship. It is as if the core of the Korvan religion had somehow remained pure since its inception, quite unusual. It is that or its founders had put a great deal of effort into obscuring its true origins. The texts I've perused make it seem as though their rites and rituals are performed today as they were when first prescribed centuries ago.{^n}{^n}According to these texts, Korvaak reigns over the Eldritch realm, a plane of existence in parallel to our own of his very making. They say that no mortal may bear witness upon its splendors and live; some fools have tried and paid the ultimate price for it. The texts warn of a many-eyed guardian that stands as a warning to all that would dare trespass upon the god's domain.{^n}{^n}Korvaak himself is said to be primordial, ancient and eternal, a progenitor of all that mankind cherishes. From his Eldritch Throne, the Korvan god ascended numerous champions to enforce his rule. He had even been known to elevate those that dare challenge his worship as a means to appease them, turning former foes into steadfast allies. The now familiar names of Rahn and Ateph came up several times in the various tales spun around Korvaak's divine actions. The history of the Korvan faith is indeed generations in the making.{^n}{^n}The Eldritch Sun is depicted both as the blessed flame and the dreadful terror of destruction. It seems he is both adored and feared by those that show him reverence, and with good reason; though Korvaak is generally depicted as benevolent to his followers, there are numerous records of disasters or outright cleansings that were attributed to the god's retribution for mortals displeasing him.{^n}{^n}Some of these events seem eerily familiar, though I cannot recall why. I suspect there are similar mythos which I have been exposed to in nearby regions. There are also a number of rituals which bear a remarkable similarity to primitive practices I have researched in the past.{^n}{^n}This leads me to wonder if there are other tribes and civilizations that have been worshiping Korvaak since antiquity, but perhaps by a different name. This is a matter which will necessitate further investigation.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA07Name=Writings of Rion the Scholar - 6th entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_ KorvanCityNoteA07codexTitle=Rion's Notes - 6th Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA07Text=I have made a startling discovery while on my latest foray into the Korvan texts. While exploring the vast collection of the Korvan City Library, I briefly escaped the attention of its stewards and found my way to a closed-off archive. Among ancient birth records of some of the most prestigious Korvan families, several ascendants included, I unearthed a collection of texts that appear to shatter some of the core tenets of the very faith that is central to these people's lives.{^n}{^n}A large number of the pages were badly damaged, as if whatever ward cast upon them had violently dissipated. Strangely, the parchment itself appeared newer than some of the records I've seen; perhaps someone had restored a damaged record at a later date. The bits that I could make out, however, painted a very different account of the early years of the Korvan faith.{^n}{^n}Korvaak himself was shown as a usurper, a conqueror of a realm he had no part in making. It is not entirely clear if the Korvaak that is spoken of today is even the same one described in those texts or whether that is the name given to the master of the Eldritch Throne.{^n}{^n}Another curiosity was the description of the upheaval involved in such a transition of power, a whirlwind of creation and destruction within which were caught the unfortunate believers. Sadly, before I could complete my analysis of the text, one of the stewards discovered my presence in the closed-off archive and promptly chased me out of the building.{^n}{^n}What little I've managed to read offers some troubling conclusions. Is Korvaak's rule destined to falter as it had before? If so, will the same destruction consume these people when it does? It is truly a shame that I could not spend more time with those texts as they represented a fantastic culmination of my research into the origins of the Korvan faith.{^n}{^n}Alas, I must prepare to leave this land and, though I have learned a great deal, I am certain there is more than a lifetime of knowledge hidden away here. The devotion and machinations of the Korvan people have proven to be one of my most fascinating studies.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA08Name=The Desert Calls
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA08Text=Her burning waves beckon, calling sweetly in my ear. I see her in my thoughts like a golden ocean laid bare before me.{^n}{^n}Her grand expanse conceals countless treasures hidden tightly away, left for only the most intrepid lover to reveal.{^n}{^n}Though her dangers abound, she lingers in my mind, haunting me as I sleep.{^n}{^n}There are many others I have loved of beauty beyond compare, whose pleasures weaken lesser men; but only she has gripped my heart.{^n}{^n}And though she is the cruelest of lovers, starving and burning those who seek her pleasures. I shall return to her.{^n}{^n}For the desert calls to me and I shall always answer.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA09Name=Korvan Expedition - 4th Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA09codexTitle=Korvan Expedition 4th Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA09Text=Day - 33{^n}Now we are free from all hindrance, free of the pretense of money-making and investors who were so concerned with their returns that they shackled us with a league of babysitters to watch over us. This morning, as our cohorts made their way back into the bathhouse for yet another day of sorting and cataloguing the belongings of dead people, Roderick and I barred the doors shut from the outside. I'm brimming with glee to think of the looks on their faces as they return from a long day of graverobbing only to discover that their treasure trove shall also be their tomb.{^n}{^n}We are, of course, alone now and without protection. However, traveling will be easier with just the two of us and I have prepared a number of wards that should keep us well-hidden and protected from the ravenous wildlife.{^n}{^n}Onward to the temple and the burning heart of Korvan City!{^n}{^n}Day - 35{^n}I am awestricken. I stand here, after so desperate a journey, at the foot of a grand temple devoted to Korvaak. The city of his name stretches out in all directions. Its buildings in ruins, collapsed as if kneeling to pay tribute to the Eldritch god. The scars of his wrath run deep through the very foundations of the infrastructure, evidence of the cataclysm which claimed these people centuries ago. There are ancient rivers of stone now cooled and crystalized into black glass. Great upheavals of jagged rock which pierce buildings and form monuments to his anger. All lie in ruin but for the temple. There, at its heart we shall find what we have come for, a power immutable, a wealth greater than all of the riches of mankind.{^n}{^n}This we shall claim for ourselves.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA10Name=Korvan Expedition - Final Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA10codexTitle=Korvan Expedition Final Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA10Text=Were the tales of Korvan legends untrue? Were we led astray by false promises? What of the white-hot energy that once warmed the foundations of Korvan City?{^n}{^n}There is nothing, no revelation, no great power. The temple runs cold, its heart a hardened mass of blackened glass. The great god who once dwelt here is gone. To where? I do not know. His fate is irrelevant to me. I care only for the power that lingered here and it is all gone.{^n}{^n}I am alone now, a lifetime of work and friendship gone...wasted. Roderick lies dead, struck down by the ancient guardian of this place; the only indication that this place was ever worth a damn. Roderick gave his life so that I could reach the heart of the temple. His sacrifice was rendered pointless as the history that led us here proved to be no more than fables. I am certain a great power dwelt here once but it is long gone, perhaps claimed by another.{^n}{^n}There is nowhere left for me to go, no reason for me to pursue an existence beyond these walls. And so I shall perish here as well, with the knowledge that my life's work, my very purpose, was to waste. Or perhaps I should return to the guardian that felled my friend and allow it to take me as well, a final tribute to the Eldritch Sun of old.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA11Name=Yorvok's Letter to Bahan
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvanCityNoteA11Text=Business is good, better than it has ever been. The new location has certainly paid off, at the heart of the marketplace near the spice merchants, during the week of ceremonies leading up to the ascension no less.{^n}{^n}Business is good indeed. The streets and alleyways surrounding the shop are overflowing as thousands of people come and go, procuring provisions, fine linens, food and drink in preparation for the week's festivities.{^n}{^n}There are new customers too, and sellers of foreign goods. Many more than I remember from years past. I think word has gotten out that the temple has once again felt the warmth of the Eldritch Sun and so many have come from far and wide in hopes of laying eyes upon its splendor; or to make a tidy profit from the celebrations that follow.{^n}{^n}Tomorrow, I shall prepare a small caravan and display my wares at the foot of the temple, just like we used to do. The entire city will be gathered there to witness the chosen be selected from the temple's devotees. Everyone will gather there again, three days hence, when the procession enters the temple and the chosen will give themselves to the Eldritch Sun.{^n}{^n}Your great grandfather used to tell me stories of these ceremonies in his day. He said that Korvaak himself presided over them, deep inside the temple, convening with the chosen and leading them down into the temple's burning heart. The divine would sometimes bless his worshippers with a brief appearance outside the temple. His mere presence was allegedly enough to cure the ill and strike blind the wicked.{^n}{^n}Such a sight certainly has not happened in my lifetime. I'm not sure anyone living, apart from the most devout priests has ever laid eyes on the Eldritch Sun. Perhaps we are no longer worthy of such things. Perhaps he has looked into our hearts and seen that all too many have come only to enjoy the festivities, with no intention of truly paying homage or offering prayer. It is a different time, no doubt. Perhaps a good time. The city is as beautiful and radiant as it has ever been and its people happy and successful.{^n}{^n}I only wish you could be here to see it.{^n}{^n}I will send this by caravan to Cairan where hopefully it will reach you when you return to port. Please, my son, consider coming to visit me. I would so love to hear of your adventures, off in the far-off places you've seen, of the exotic cities you've visited. I know the life of a shipmate is a busy one, but do remember your old father. It won't be long before they take me to the sands and leave me for the good of the night creatures. They don't build temples for crusty old merchants after all.{^n}{^n}With all my heart.{^n}{^n}Your Father,{^n}{^n}Yorvok.

#Korvaak
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA01Name=Ruminations of the Primordial One
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA01codexTitle=Primordial Ruminations
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA01Text=*The raging thoughts of a primordial being emanate from this scrap of runed flesh and flow through your mind*{^n}{^n}Betrayed...by my brothers and sisters. Empyrion, vanished to the eternal tapestry of creation. The war is over, we...have lost. My kin, in their desperation, tapped into the forbidden void in order to turn the tide in their favor. They may be the victors, but the maddening whispers have them now. As for us, we are beaten. Nothing remains now but to hide and tend to our wounds. My temple still stands, my faithful remain loyal. With their worship and sacrifice, I regain my strength. It may take a hundred years, a thousand, it matters not. My vengeance is inevitable.{^n}{^n}*Roars of agony reverberate through your flesh*{^n}{^n}My loyal Ulzuin watches over me now along with the many-eyed fiend I've bound to his fate. Mortal eyes must not see me in this state until I am ready to return to the stars and reap my vengeance. The rabble's faith must not falter.{^n}{^n}*The clash of battle, the sizzling power of arcane spellwork fills your ears before becoming deafened by the cracking of the very earth*{^n}{^n}Treachery! Betrayal! Where is Ulzuin?! What sorcery is this? What has this witch done? When these bindings break, I will spill her blood and make her watch every drop. The scheming sorcerer she's allied with will burn on an eternal pyre for my amusement. As for the duplicitous Dreeg...the agony I've instilled upon him will be a mere trickle compared to the torment he will suffer for eons!{^n}{^n}*Darkness clouds your mind, and heavy breathing fills your ears*{^n}{^n}He stirs...the dead one stirs...his blood roils within our creations, yearning to return. Even my captors can sense their impending doom. I will not be a lamb waiting for the slaughter. This farce has gone on long enough. The Witch Gods may have stolen what is mine, taken my faith as theirs, but there are still those in this world that yearn for my brother's return. I will harness their wishes, their desperation, and through them I will break these bonds and reclaim my throne!{^n}{^n}*You hear the clanking of chains, the straining of metal as it is pushed to its limits*{^n}{^n}An opportunity, yes...a mortal pure of purpose, but so easily molded. He will be the harbinger of my return. I can already feel the bonds becoming brittle. The Witch Gods' hold on me weakens. And when I am free, this world will again tremble before the might of Korvaak!

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA02Name=The Korvan Elegy - Part 1
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA02Text=We do not know where he hails from. Nobody we spoke to knows him. What drew this sorcerer to our lands confounds us, but it is his disregard for our ways, our very faith, that brought him to my attention.{^n}{^n}I've received numerous complaints of this...Solael visiting religious sites and temples and showing utter disregard for procedure or ritual. It is almost as if he's searching for something, but what? I cannot say. His private home in the outer reaches of the Cairan Docks, acquired with a satchel of foreign gold, I am told, has been sighted giving off an eerie glow in the middle of the night, much like the divine's Eldritch light. I feel that it is only a matter of time before he conjures his own undoing by delving into matters he is not meant to and drawing the ire of the Eldritch Sun.{^n}{^n}I know not what folly the sorcerer plans, but he is quickly becoming a danger to the Korvan faith and a menace to its people. We must not let dissidents unravel what is presently a fragile situation. With the Eldritch Sun silent and none allowed to seek his providence, we must take these matters into our hands.{^n}{^n}I've dispatched the temple's elite guard to handle this concern. Nobody's going to miss a reclusive sorcerer; and besides, he is a stranger to these lands after all. What's one more unidentified body in the river...

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA03Name=The Korvan Elegy - Part 2
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA03Text=Blindly have I stared beyond the curtain of reality. Agony met me partway. Beyond...magnificence.{^n}{^n}For my achievement, I was punished. My wounds weep, but my eyes are open. That was to be my gift, my bane, for staring into the Eldritch Sun. Dutifully, I kept others at bay for centuries, filled their minds with horrors and visions of their own demise that they not repeat my mistakes.{^n}{^n}Yet this one confounds me. He is undisturbed, driven, power-hungry. The priests made threats, and he laughed in their faces. Such arrogance in a such a fragile fleshy thing. And yet, he is brimming with potential.{^n}{^n}My open eyes peer through the possibilities. The one that holds the leash is wounded, broken. Given these circumstances and enough attempts, the mortal may eventually succeed in satisfying his hunger. But would his reign be any more just? His heart is as black as the writhing darkness, but he is not mad; he could be reasoned with.{^n}{^n}Many roads to follow, but only one shines clearly before me, but one leads to my ultimate victory. The Eldritch Sun must set, and a new order must rise in its stead: the sorcerer, the priestess and the guardian, equal and not. Yes, it will not be enough to merely bring the sorcerer to his goal. The Everliving Flame needs to be extinguished from the path. His immortal heart shattered by betrayal; and the one that wraps her web around his very soul will be the very same that binds our prize.{^n}{^n}No doubts remain in the infinity. My course is set. Now I must merely ensure that the other pieces fall in line. All other threads will be cut, until the one true path remains...the path of Dreeg.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA04Name=The Korvan Elegy - Part 3
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA04Text=Tragic is the tale of Ulzuin the Everliving Flame, the right hand of the Eldritch Sun, for none have suffered as ruthless a betrayal as he. A warrior at heart, Ulzuin was restless with his newfound duties of keeping vigil over the Temple of the Eldritch Sun; for what mortal could hope to threaten a god?{^n}{^n}And so he entertained himself within his temple, consuming wine and concubines faster than his attendants could hope to supply. That was until the priestess Bysmiel attracted his attention. Her generous curves moved with confidence through the halls and her emerald eyes captivated the god, but it was her silky voice that got her invited to his chambers.{^n}{^n}There she stayed, sometimes for days, to the chagrin of the temple priests. Ulzuin was enthralled by the young priestess, shirking his duties and ignoring the complaints of his attendants. Nobody but Bysmiel was allowed near him and none but her would be allowed to fill his lonely nights of vigil. That lust ultimately proved to be his undoing for it was then that Ulzuin learned the true danger of mortals.{^n}{^n}It was on the fateful day when the earth ruptured and the sky turned to flame that Ulzuin realized his folly. Bysmiel had promised him a glorious surprise, an indulgence unlike any he had yet experienced in his many lifetimes, which left Ulzuin recklessly far from Korvan City and the Temple of the Eldritch Sun. Sensing the upheaval, Ulzuin rushed back to his post, but he was far too late. The city was consumed by fire and the great temple had been claimed by another.{^n}{^n}Ulzuin howled at the sky, calling out to his father, Empyrion, for aid. But the skies were silent. In blinding agony and rage, Ulzuin flattened his temple and inflicted a wound upon the world that burns to this day, just as the wound Bysmiel left upon his heart remains still. But where the vengeful god is now, perhaps only the Witch Gods know.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA05Name=The Korvan Elegy - Part 4
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_KorvaakNoteA05Text=Let me regale to you the tale of Korvan's fall. For when the gods did battle and the world shook in their wake, it was the people of Korvan that paid the price of ambition.{^n}{^n}With Ulzuin off in distant lands, the Temple of the Eldritch Sun was infiltrated, aided by treachery. The many-eyed fiend, the guardian of the hidden realm, clouded the minds of the temple's attendants and allowed two figures, a sorcerer and a priestess, to pass through unhindered. Together they crossed the gate to a reality beyond mortal words, the realm of the Eldritch Sun. There they found the primordial being gathering strength upon his throne.{^n}{^n}The sorcerer spared no time in unleashing his assault upon the wounded god. All the while the priestess cast her bindings upon him and the infinite gaze filled his mind with visions of terror. The celestial being thrashed against his restraints and lashed out at his attackers, and as he did so the land above crumbled and spat fire. The air filled with sulfur and the Korvan people fled for safety. The seas evaporated and rivers were replaced with molten rock, for the Korvan lands were as bound to the fate of Korvaak as flesh is to bone.{^n}{^n}For every injury the god sustained from the sorcerer's onslaught, a violent eruption shook the basin and engulfed its people; as he strained against the priestess's bindings, so the earth crumbled and changed; and as the guardian's visions consumed his very thoughts, so the Korvan people were ensnared by madness and nightmares.{^n}{^n}When at last the tremors subsided and the survivors looked up from amongst the ashes, they saw not one figure descending the temple steps in triumph, but three. And the fate of Cairn was forever changed.


#Eldritch
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EldritchNoteA01Name=Terrors of the Eldritch Realm
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EldritchNoteA01codexTitle=Eldritch Realm Terrors
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EldritchNoteA01Text=I must admit, at first I was thrilled with my discovery. To defy the Witch Gods and transport myself to their domain without their knowledge was an exhilarating prospect; even more so when I succeeded. What I did not account for, however, is the intrinsic instability of the realm I had traveled to. The land itself, as astounding to behold as it is, shifts within a vast emptiness. The portal I had ripped through the veil became unstable within minutes of my exploration. I gasped in dismay from a distance as it ruptured and vanished before my eyes.{^n}{^n}Without my reagents back on Cairn, I cannot possibly create another rift. My only chance now is to study the local flora in the hopes of discovering alternatives to my spell. This is a realm of raw wild magic, after all. Surely if the Witch Gods can harness it, then so can I.{^n}{^n}There are, however, more pressing concerns. While I seem to have evaded the infinite gaze of Dreeg, I have attracted the attention of local wildlife. Most appear to be harmless, ravens with feathers that shimmer in the sunlight fly overhead and lizard-like creatures skitter around my feet, but from time to time I hear the bushes shift violently as something larger passes by. Unnatural sounds echoing in the distance have sent a chill down my spine on more than one occasion. Worse still, the sounds are getting closer.{^n}{^n}I'm starting to believe now that my success was not so much due to outsmarting the gods themselves but them knowing that I was doomed to begin with. This is not the domain of humans. It is an untamed realm teeming with creatures beyond comprehension, and I have become their prey.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EldritchNoteA02Name=Splendors of the Eldritch Realm
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EldritchNoteA02codexTitle=Eldritch Realm Splendors
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EldritchNoteA02Text=To behold the realm of the Eldritch Sun is a blessing onto itself. To be granted the honor by the divine himself is another matter entirely. But so it was on the day I visited the Temple of Rahn to breathe of the sacred incense that I was visited with a vision of golden light and flame. It was without a doubt a manifestation of our divine, Korvaak. I am certain of it. With arms open wide, he welcomed me to witness the splendors of his realm.{^n}{^n}The temple walls dissolved around us and I found myself stepping onto a land for which words are lacking. Massive winged creatures glided in the distance, their glistening feathers backdropped by a brilliant starry sky. Auroras of raw magic flowed between vast floating islands of trees and plants I've never seen before. I touched one of the roots and raw arcane energies pulsed away from my fingertips.{^n}{^n}It was all too much for a mortal mind to absorb. I turned to our benefactor with tears in my eyes. I could tell I was visibly shaking.{^n}{^n}The Eldritch Sun took mercy on me and I awoke abruptly to find myself surrounded by the temple priests. I had apparently started convulsing and foam formed itself at the corners of my lips. The priests placed some herbs beneath my nose, which they say was what allowed me to awaken again. I told them that could not be true as I was visited by the Eldritch Sun himself.{^n}{^n}I was looked upon as a madman. Why would I, of all people gathered at the temple, be granted such an amazing sight? For that I do not have an answer, but I cannot deny the gift I was given, even if the envious are in denial of its magnitude.



#Endless Dungeon
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EndlessDungeonNoteA01Name=Sins of the Forgotten - 1st Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EndlessDungeonNoteA01Text=Cast your eyes upon the splendors of Ralyoth and bear witness to the price of defiance, for by our own actions we forged our doom.{^n}{^n}As tendrils of the great darkness rip and tear at our world, as we stare into our oblivion, one truth stands above all others: when our ancestors cast out our god they sealed our fate. As I look up at the star-less sky and the subtle writhing of the devourer, I find myself reminiscing of brighter days. Days when the children would run in the streets and laugh instead of cowering in cellars with their parents, awaiting the inevitable. Gone are the boisterous calls of the bazaar, the chatter of folk going about their day. We've all fallen silent. Some resort to prayer to any god that would listen; but none will answer for we had forgotten their names.{^n}{^n}Such was the decree of our ancestors. Their words painted the divines as cruel, malicious and petty; but if it was by their will that our land exists, that we exist, what price is too high? Did our ancestors feel justified in their acts? In my final moments, I seek answers to these questions.{^n}{^n}None barred my way as I entered the royal library. The guards were long gone, searching for solace amongst their families and peers. Some of the archivists remained, unable to break routine even in our end of days. Quizzingly, they pointed me to the tomes I required, they felt no need to deny me knowledge at a time like this.{^n}{^n}What I uncovered shook me to the very core and opened my eyes to the hubris and defiance of our people...

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EndlessDungeonNoteA02Name=Sins of the Forgotten - 2nd Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EndlessDungeonNoteA02Text=All that we see, the animals that we breed for meat, the trees we harvest of their fruit, all were a gift of a nameless god. All this was bestowed upon us and but one thing was asked in return: worship.{^n}{^n}The radiant entity stood before the first of our people, its light brighter than a star in the sky, and demanded fealty. Its arrival was heralded by a breathtaking meteor shower. All were in awe of their benefactor. All kneeled.{^n}{^n}Monuments were erected in its honor. The finest artists argued over which materials were most worthy of capturing a divine's countenance. Temples were constructed by the sweat and blood of our people. A grand ziggurat was built at the heart of Ralyoth to stand as the celestial's throne and fanatic worshippers sacrificed themselves upon the temple steps to gain the god's favor.{^n}{^n}But as our society flourished and our people spread out across the vast lands created for them, they became discontent. The blessings of the divine were no longer witnessed by all. The boons of the harvest were not felt on the outer reaches of our empire. Disease became more common as our cities grew crowded.{^n}{^n}The people's ire was placed upon their divine. They felt that their worship warranted greater blessings, that the sacrifices their ancestors made earned them the right to a blissful existence. For a time, it seems the god was willing to appease its people, but as it granted boons to one group, another grew angry that their prayers were not answered first. Unrest became commonplace. Citizens turned to crime where once the land provided all they desired. And as they turned their backs upon the very god that gave them everything, the divine grew silent and reclusive.{^n}{^n}What I find peculiar in these retellings is that not once was the god's name uttered, and a few places I could find that referred to it directly had been blotted out with black ink. Our ancestors, it appears, were thorough in erasing evidence of its existence.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EndlessDungeonNoteA03Name=Sins of the Forgotten - Final Entry
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_EndlessDungeonNoteA03Text=The earth beneath my feet trembles and the few candles I have left are all the light I have by which to read these tomes and record my final hours. The archivists too have fled. To where, I do not know. Nowhere remains that is safe from the hungering darkness.{^n}{^n}My reading has brought me to the chronicles of the defining moment in our people's history, the day we vanquished a god. The date of this event is unclear, but it had to have been at least several generations ago as nobody I've known had been alive to witness it.{^n}{^n}The texts describe the final years of the divine's presence as tumultuous. The stars grew dimmer and the god was almost never seen outside the ziggurat. Some stopped worshipping it entirely, convinced that they had been forsaken and left to their own devices. Angry mobs took to the streets. Monuments were toppled, shrines desecrated. Temples burned.{^n}{^n}Discontent turned to riots and the riots into an angry mob that marched towards the grand ziggurat. Priests concocted powerful runes, the arcanists crafted spells they hoped could subdue a god. With death in their eyes, the people climbed the steps to the divine's throne. There they found it, angered by the desecration and revolt, but its once brilliant light had faded. The divine stood, towering above the people, and demanded fealty; but none bent the knee. Evidently infuriated by this defiance, the god cursed the very land and its people and vanished in an eruption of flames that toppled the ziggurat and claimed the lives of all that dared confront their deity.{^n}{^n}Ralyoth was rid of its divine. Its name was scoured from all records, all art. Its monuments were toppled and disfigured. The temple was left abandoned for nature to reclaim.{^n}{^n}What followed were months of grieving for the brave souls lost at the ziggurat interspersed with celebration and feasts. Our once god was all but forgotten. It was not until centuries later when our star faded and the hungering darkness encroached that we realized what our ancestors had truly done.{^n}{^n}As I sit here under the waning light of my candles, I ponder a future where we are still under the heel of a celestial being. Not knowing the repercussions, would we, as our ancestors did, resent our god? Or would we show greater appreciation for the lands and boons we were given? As the darkness takes me, my thoughts spin with questions of what if, but there is no one left to answer...


# Bonebleach Basin
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_BonebleachNoteA01Name=Sea of Dust - Page 1
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_BonebleachNoteA01Text=Our journey into the basin of the long dead Cairan Bay is off to a bitter start. After several days into the trackless dunes we found ourselves delayed by a massive sand storm.{^n}{^n}Three days it blew and twice I had to dig my way out to keep from being buried.  Our guide was not so lucky. It looked as if his tent had ripped at some point in the night and all the sand poured in on top of him.{^n}{^n}Fhariz thought we should turn back, but the rest of us were in agreement to press on. With the extra water and food of having one less mouth we should be fine. The promise of wealth is well worth the risk.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_BonebleachNoteA02Name=Sea of Dust - Page 2
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_BonebleachNoteA02Text=Yesterday the caravan wagons were lost. Sucked into the dunes in a burst of air and sand. Many of our porters and some of my dearest friends were gone in an instant. I had heard tales of quicksand but never in my worst dreams could I have imagined how truly horrifying the reality is. The stink that filled the air was ghastly, acidic and full of rot. How many over the centuries had been pulled into that unimaginable death?{^n}{^n}What fools we were. Only my friend Fhariz saw the danger and we ignored him and followed our greed into death's jaws. Last night, he and I argued and fought, taking out our frustrations on each other. This morning I started at my friend lying there in the blood-soaked sand, my knife still plunged into his heart.  I was alone with the vultures circling overhead.

tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_BonebleachNoteA03Name=Sea of Dust - Page 3
tagGDX2LoreObj_AreaG_BonebleachNoteA03Text=I climbed to the top of a massive dune in hopes to get a view of anything...a rock, a landmark, a bird. Anything. From the top of the ridge my eyes teared in despair. The sea of dust stretched to the horizon, vanishing into a shimmering wall of cloudless blue.{^n}{^n}Water ran out yesterday and the blinding headache makes it impossible think clearly. Lost in these endless dunes, I no longer favor my chances.




#Merchants and Other Services
tagGDX2NPC_MerchantA01=Asgra
tagGDX2NPC_MerchantA02=Muldin
tagGDX2StoreTitle_MerchantA01=Cult Supplier

tagGDX2NPC_InventorA01=Kargon
tagGDX2StoreTitle_InventorA01=Inventor

tagGDX2NPC_SmugglerA01=Sangral
tagGDX2StoreTitle_SmugglerA01=Smuggler of Secrets

tagGDX2NPC_IllusionistA01=Julliana
tagGDX2StoreTitle_IllusionistA01=Illusionist

tagGDX2NPC_ReallocatorA01=Bagalla
tagGDX2StoreTitle_ReallocatorA01=Spirit Guide

tagGDX2NPC_ExchangeA01=Garrus ~ Keeper of Iron

tagGDX1StoreDesc_SmithA03_2=Bella Fald's hammer is said to have been forged from the stars themselves, capable of creating Legendary items up to level 94, not including objects forged by the Forgotten Gods.

tagGDX2NPC_SmithA01=Ignus
tagGDX2StoreTitle_SmithA01=Bewitched Smith
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA01_1={}Marked by the Witch Gods
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA01_2=The work of Ignus has been marked by the Witch Gods. His creations carry unusual properties bestowed by their blessing.
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA01_3= 
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA01_4=Crafted Weapons, Armor and Accessories are imbued with one of the following properties:

tagGDX2NPC_SmithA02=Algosia Fald
tagGDX2StoreTitle_SmithA02=Celestial Smith
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA02_1={}Celestial Forge
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA02_2=Algosia Fald's hammer is said to have been forged from the stars themselves, capable of creating Legendary items up to level 94, even including objects forged by the Forgotten Gods themselves.
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA02_3= 
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA02_4=Crafted Weapons, Armor and Accessories are imbued with one of the following properties:

tagGDX2NPC_SmithA03=Egellon
tagGDX2StoreTitle_SmithA03=Forgotten Smith
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA03_1={}Desert Forge
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA03_2=Egellon's flesh may have been scoured by the sands, but his skill with the hammer is no less diminished.
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA03_3= 
tagGDX2StoreDesc_SmithA03_4=Crafted Weapons, Armor and Accessories are imbued with one of the following properties:

#Faction Quartermasters
tagGDX2NPC_FactionQuartermaster_01=Falonestra
tagGDX2StoreTitle_FactionQuartermaster_01=Wares of Bysmiel
tagGDX2NPC_FactionQuartermaster_02=Reida
tagGDX2StoreTitle_FactionQuartermaster_02=Wares of Dreeg
tagGDX2NPC_FactionQuartermaster_03=Jugal
tagGDX2StoreTitle_FactionQuartermaster_03=Wares of Solael


#Faction Bounty Tables
tagGDX2NPC_FactionTable_01=Witch God Bounty Table


#Devotion Shrines
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG01=Temple of Osyr
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG02=Cairan Docks
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG03=Ruins of Abyd
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG04=Valley of the Chosen
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG05=Tomb of the Eldritch Sun
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG06=Sunward Spire
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG07=Sanctuary of Horran
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG08=Korvan Oasis
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG09=Splendors of the Shattered Realm
tagGDX2DevotionShrineG10=Sandblown Ruins

tagGDX2DevotionShrineN01=Port Valbury
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN02=Ransacked Lighthouse
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN03=Temple of the Three
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN04=Hallowed Hill
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN05=Stonerend Quarry
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN06=Void's Edge
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN07=Tomb of the Watchers
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN08=Barrowholm Mine
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN09=Den of the Ancient
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN10=The Hidden Path
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN11=The Infestation
tagGDX2DevotionShrineN12=The Conflagration

tagGDX2DevotionShrineS04=???