Caldrith Lore
Factions & Peoples
A field guide to the major peoples of Caldrith, their traditions, and the roles they play across the world.
Introduction
Caldrith is shaped by many peoples whose histories overlap through trade, war, migration, faith, and old alliances. Some communities hold tightly to ancient customs, while others have adapted to changing borders and new powers. Together they form the living fabric of the world, from mountain halls and forest enclaves to river towns, frontier roads, and contested strongholds.
This page offers a broad overview of several of the most prominent peoples found across Caldrith. Use it as a reference point for culture, reputation, and first impressions, while leaving room for local variation, regional politics, and the stories your campaigns uncover.
Humans
Humans have spread throughout Caldrith, establishing bustling cities and rural farming communities. Though they were once part of the Aurelian Imperium, many now see themselves as the inheritors of the land. Eryndell, the capital of the current empire, stands as a symbol of human ambition, and many humans still hope to reclaim the grandeur of their ancestors.
Dwarves
The dwarves of Caldrith are the master builders, engineers, and stewards of the old empire’s legacy. They inhabit the lower reaches of the Crownspire, in cities like Stonehearth, where they work tirelessly to protect the ancient mechanisms that power Caldrith’s oldest secrets. Their love of stone and metal is matched only by their determination to uncover the truth of the lost age.
Elves
The elves are ancient, wise, and often aloof, living in forested enclaves or among the ruins of the old world. Some elves still cling to the old ways of magic, while others have turned to more practical concerns, such as maintaining the old ley-lines that power much of Caldrith’s remaining magic. Their connection to the land is deep, and many view the fall of the Aurelian Imperium as a warning to never repeat the mistakes of their ancestors.
Halflings
Halflings are the farmers, traders, and good-natured folk who have carved a life for themselves along the riverways of Caldrith. They may not have the power of the elves or dwarves, but they have a deep connection to the land and a strong sense of community. Rivenmarch, a bustling town built along one of Caldrith’s great rivers, is one such example of their resourcefulness.
Tieflings
Tieflings are primarily based out of Blackharbour, where their presence is often felt as much as it is seen. Known for being a little rambunctious and never shy about making themselves part of the moment, they still play a recognized role in Caldrith’s political landscape, with a representative maintaining their interests in Eryndell.
Gnomes
Gnomes are based out of Cogmere, where invention is less a discipline and more a way of life. Forever inventive and constantly pushing toward cutting-edge technology across every field, they have recently turned much of their attention toward scouring the ocean depths in search of new knowledge, resources, and forgotten wonders.
Orcs & Half-Orcs
Once seen as brutish savages, orcs and half-orcs are now integral members of the empire, particularly as soldiers and protectors. Many have embraced the ways of civilization, settling in frontier towns or serving in the imperial legions. However, their ties to the ancient, wild lands of Caldrith are never far behind them.
Dragonborn
Dragonborn are primarily based out of Ashkara, where their communities tend to remain insular and self-directed. Though they generally keep to themselves, their strength, traditions, and strategic presence still shape the broader geopolitical landscape of Caldrith.