Primer

System
  • 5E Basic Rules
  • Four Classes: Fighter, Cleric, Rogue, Wizard.
  • Four Races: Elf, Dwarf, Halfling, Human.

You

… are an adventurer, an individual of unusual skill and remarkable drive, come to the Canvaslands for your own ends.

You may be a swordsman, a scoundrel, or a practitioner of some esoteric art. But first and foremost, you are a survivalist. You face hunger and thirst as readily as any monster. Your wits, rather than skill at arms, are your greatest asset.

As you venture into danger, keep these three guidelines in mind:

  • Not all fights can be won.
  • Not all mysteries can be solved.
  • Careful preparation is worth more than spell or steel.

Places

The City Below

A subterranean otherworld beneath the ruins of a mysterious desert city. Its tunnels are filled with treasures and danger.

The Canvaslands

A lawless shantytown of yurts and market stalls around the City’s entrance. Aspiring slumlords rent out hostels to adventuring parties in the area, while opportunistic merchants trade water for gold.

The Nameless Desert

A vast arid desert prone to sandstorms and drought. Giant scorpions and other megafauna hunt for any travelers foolish enough to venture in without a guide.

People

Adventurers

The greedy, the desperate, and the hopeful. Persons of talent that have left the comforts of civilization to plumb the City’s depths.

Embassies

Ambassadors of the Elves and Dwarves. Their thousand-year war against one another is continued in the Canvaslands through espionage and subtle power plays.

City Dwellers

Strange, monstrous creatures that speak in tongues and wield powerful magic. Native to the City’s underground tunnels.

Languages

Language Description
Common The human language, widely used for trade and diplomacy.
Undercommon The spoken language of orcs, kobolds, and other City Dwellers.
Infernal The written language of orcs, kobolds, and other City Dwellers.
Sylvan The secret language of beasts.
Abyssal The secret language of the dead.

Tips