Appendix 2: Glossary

Aberrant Dragonmark: There are twelve dragonmarks, as described, but stories say that when dragonmarked bloodlines mingle, they can produce warped marks. Like the true dragonmarks, these bestow magical powers, but these powers are dark and dangerous and said to take a terrible toll on the mind and body of the bearer. See dragonmark, House Tarkanan, War of the Mark.

Adar: A small nation on the continent of Sarlona. Adar is the homeland of the kalashtar, and its mountain terrain serves as a natural defense in the constant battle against the Inspired.

Aerenal: An island nation off the southeastern coast of Khorvaire, Aerenal is known as the homeland of the elves.

Alina Lorridan Lyrris: A gnome wizard with considerable wealth and influence. Whether she is a true criminal or simply amoral, Alina is a dangerous woman who usually works in the shadows. Once she lived in the city of Metrol, where she employed Daine. Currently she resides in the Den’iyas district of Sharn.

Arcane Congress: Established by King Galifar I in 15 YK, the Arcane Congress was tasked to study the mysteries of magic and place these powers at the service of the kingdom. The congress has its seat in Aundair, and when the kingdom collapsed in 894 YK the congress swore its allegiance to the Aundarian throne.

Arcanix: An institute of arcane studies in the nation of Aundair. Many of the greatest wizards of Galifar learned their craft within the floating towers of Arcanix.

Artificer: A spellworker who channels magical energy through objects, creating temporary or permanent tools and weapons.

Asdren: A young halfling employed by the Jorasco house in Tavick’s Landing. Asdren is studying the healing arts and dreams of one day earning a place in the hierarchy of the house, but for now she is tasked with administrative chores.

Aundair: One of the original Five Nations of Galifar, Aundair is houses the seat of the Arcane Congress and the University of Wyrnarn. Currently under the rule of Queen Aurala ir’Wyrnarn.

Auger: A professional fortune-teller or diviner.

Bal: An influential member of House Tarkanan, Bal is a gifted unarmed combatant. His skills are enhanced by his aberrant dragonmark—a chilling touch that drains the life from his victim. Bal is covered with boils and sores, and a superstitious soul might say that Bal’s aberrant mark was responsible for his unsightly appearance. See House Tarkanan.

Bandit King of the Whistling Woods: The title adopted by Horas Calt during his infamous career. Born in Breland in 845 YK, Calt developed impressive sorcerous powers and soon turned his magical abilities to crime. He earned his place in the songs of bards by being the first man to rob the lightning rail, and ultimately settled in the depths of the Whistling Woods. Many vagabonds and rogues joined his gang, and it is said that he found allies among the fey spirits of the wood. A group of the Sentinel Marshals of House Deneith finally cornered the Bandit King in 872 YK. The battle left a trail of destruction across the woods, and in the end Calt threw himself into a fire to avoid capture. It was a great victory for House Deneith, but some bards maintain that Calt’s friends among the fey saved him from the flames and spirited the bandit king away to the plane of Thelanis, where he lives to this day.

Battle of the Three Moons: A vicious conflict that occurred in the conflicted territory between Breland, Darguun, and Cyre. The Battle of the Three Moons began on the evening of Barakas 20th, 990 YK, when a Darguul troop and a Brelish army launched a surprise attack on a Cyran encampment. But the Darguuls had failed to account for the presence of a Valenar warband. While the elves were not allied with the Cyrans, they saw more sport in fighting the larger force. The battle lasted for four days, with the worst of the fighting occurring at night; fortunately, the unusual conjunction of three of Eberron’s moons provided enough light for the humans and elves to match their goblinoid foes.

Black Arch: A garrison district in the Lower Tavick’s Landing ward of Sharn.

Blade Desert: A harsh region in the southeast of Khorvaire. Once part of Cyre, it is currently claimed by the nation of Valenar.

Blademark: The mercenary’s guild of House Deneith.

Breland: The largest of the original Five Nations of Galifar, Breland is a center of heavy industry. The current ruler of Breland is King Boranel ir’Wyrnarn.

Bronzewood: An unusual form of lumber that has many of the traits of metal. The elves of Aerenal use bronzewood in the creation of arms and armor.

Byeshk Mountains: A mountain chain on the western coast of Khorvaire, separating Droaam from the Eldeen Reaches.

Cadrian: A soldier who served in the Cyran army under Daine’s command. Cadrian was killed in the battle of Keldan Ridge.

Calis, Lailin: An augur living in Sharn, Lailin is an old friend of Lei d’Cannith.

Calazar Tash: A halfling hero of the Talenta Plains, said to have lived in the first days of the Kingdom of Galifar. There are hundreds of tales of Calazar’s exploits, and with the aid of his clever clawfoot Shurka he is said to have battled dragons, challenged demons, and even outwitted the Traveler himself.

Callol: A small Cyran village captured by the Darguuls in 995 YK.

Cannith, House: The dragonmarked House of Making. Cantrip: A minor form of magic. A cantrip might be used to clean the dirt from filthy clothing or to open a door from across a room.

Carnival of Shadows: The traveling circus of House Phiarlan, filled with illusion, acrobatics, and exotic creatures and entertainers from across Khorvaire.

Carralag: A gargoyle who immigrated to Sharn from Droaam. Carralag represents the district of Malleon’s Gate in the Race of Eight Winds.

Changeling: Members of the changeling race possess a limited ability to change face and form, allowing a changeling to disguise itself as a member of another race or to impersonate an individual. Changelings are said to be the offspring of humans and doppelgangers. They are relatively few in number and have no lands or culture of their own but are scattered across Khorvaire.

Chyrassk: A cult leader who has been gathering followers in the dismal district known as Khyber’s Gate. Chyrassk has never been seen by those outside of his cult, and he remains shrouded in mystery.

Cloudsilk: A form of glamerweave, cloudsilk is almost weightless and has the appearance of diaphanous white mist. A popular variation of this is stormsilk, which has the appearance of dark clouds laced with lightning.

Cold Fire: Magical flame that produces no heat and does not burn. Cold fire is used to provide light in most cities of Khorvaire.

Cogs: This network of tunnels stretches deep beneath the towers of Sharn. The foundries and workhouses of Sharn are mostly located in the Cogs, along with sewers and tunnels dating back to the ancient empire of the goblins.

Council of Thronehold: Following the Mourning, princes and ambassadors of the surviving nations gathered at Thronehold, the traditional heart of the kingdom of Galifar. Negotiations lasted for many months, until a treaty was finally signed on the 11th day of Aryth, 996 YK.

Crown: The copper crown is the lowest denomination of coin minted under the rule of Galifar.

Cyre: One of the original Five Nations of Galifar, known for its fine arts and crafts. The governor of Cyre was traditionally raised to the throne of Galifar, but in 894 YK, Kaius of Karrnath, Wroann of Breland, and Thalin of Thrane rebelled against Mishann of Cyre. During the war, Cyre lost significant amounts of territory to elf and goblin mercenaries, creating the nations of Valenar and Darguun. In 994 YK, Cyre was devastated by a disaster of unknown origin that transformed the nation into a hostile wasteland populated by deadly monsters. Breland offered sanctuary to the survivors of the Mourning, and most of the Cyran refugees have taken advantage of this amnesty. See Mourning, Mourners, Mournland.

d’Cannith, Aaren: Dragonmarked artificer, one-time baron of Metrol, and member of the Cannith Council based in Cyre. The official records of the house credit Aaren with the mystical breakthrough that gave true sentience to the warforged. Aaren was fascinated by the mysterious continent of Xen’drik, and some say his work was based on ancient secrets recovered there. Aaren passed away in 984 YK. He is survived by his son Merrix d’Cannith.

d’Cannith, Aleisa: A dragonmarked artificer of House Cannith and mother of Lei d’Cannith. Aleisa was involved with the development of the warforged, but all records of her work were lost in the war. She is believed to have died in Cyre on the Day of Mourning.

d’Cannith, Casalon: A legendary artificer of House Cannith, who lived in the third century of the kingdom of Galifar. Dasalon’s most noteworthy achievement was the development of cold fire, allowing artificers and magewrights to bring light to the cities of Khorvaire.

d’Cannith, Dasei: A dragonmark heir residing in Sharn. Dasei studied the mystical arts with her cousin Lei d’Cannith, but she has accomplished far more as a socialite than as an artificer.

d’Cannith, Dravot: The warden of the Cannith enclave in Sharn, Dravot distinguished himself during his service with the elite Blackwood Watch. During the final decade of the Last War he served as the warden of the Whitehearth armory in Cyre, but he was reassigned before the Day of Mourning.

d’Cannith, Hadran: A dragonmarked heir. Hadran’s ancestors were one of the first branches of House Cannith to set roots in Sharn, and he possesses considerable wealth and influence. A widower with no children, Hadran arranged a betrothal with Lei d’Cannith.

d’Cannith, Lei: A dragonmarked heir, daughter of Aleisa d’Cannith. Lei studied the mystical arts in Sharn and Metrol. Like many young artificers, she chose to serve in the Cannith support corps during the war. She served with the military forces of the Five Nations to maintain the warforged soldiers and other weapons each nation had purchased from Cannith. In 990 YK, Lei was assigned to the Southern Command of Cyre, where she served with Daine, Pierce, and Jode. In 993 YK, her parents arranged for her betrothal to Hadran d’Cannith, but before her term of service came to an end she was caught in the Day of Mourning and nearly killed.

d’Cannith, Merrix: As a baron of House Cannith, Merrix oversees house activities in the vicinity of Sharn. Son of Aaren d’Cannith, Merrix is a skilled artificer who has spent a decade working on new warforged designs. In the wake of the Last War he has shown shrewd political instincts and has moved to take advantage of the chaos created by the destruction of the House Council. He is the most influential Cannith baron in Breland, and many believe that he hopes to seize control of the house itself.

d’Deneith, Doran: A general of the Blademark of House Deneith, Doran is known for his brilliant tactics and his utter devotion to the principles of his house. During the Last War he led troops on behalf of Cyre, Breland, and Karrnath, taking pride in his impartial service.

d’Lyrandar, Dantian: A half-elf of House Lyrandar, Dantian is a trade minister of his house. Dantian devotes a great deal of time to the needs of his house, but he is also renowned for his lavish parties and galas.

Daeras: A half-elf woman serving in the Daggerwatch garrison of the Sharn Watch. Daeras has a great love of sports, particularly the aerial races of Sharn.

Daggerhawks: A breed of hawk found in the mountains that run along the shores of the Dagger River. Daggerhawks are also known as dire hawks; they are massive creatures that can support the weight of a human rider while in flight. During the reign of Galifar II, daggerhawks were domesticated and used as aerial mounts. However, they are difficult to manage and today they are generally only seen in the sporting arenas of Sharn.

Dagger River: One of the largest rivers in Khorvaire, the Dagger runs south through Breland into the Thunder Sea.

Daggerwatch: 1) One of Sharn’s garrison districts, located in the ward of Upper Dura. 2) A specific garrison building within that district, commanded by Captain Grazen ir’Tala.

Dailan: The grandfather of Daine. Dailan was a master swordsman and taught Daine to wield a blade. He passed away in 984 YK, passing his heirloom sword to his grandson.

Daine: A soldier and one-time mercenary, Daine prefers not to speak of his past. Born in Cyre, he is known to have worked for Alina Lorridan Lyrris for an extended period of time. In 988 YK he took up service with the Queen’s Guard of Cyre, ultimately rising to the rank of captain in the Southern Command.

Dalan’s Refuge: A wealthy residential district in the Lower Tavick’s Landing ward of Sharn.

Dal Quor: Another plane of existence. Mortal spirits are said to travel to Dal Quor when they dream.

Darguun: A nation of goblinoids, founded in 969 YK when a hobgoblin leader named Haruuc formed an alliance among the goblinoid mercenaries and annexed a section of southern Cyre. Breland recognized this new nation in exchange for a peaceful border and an ally against Cyre. Few people trust the people of Darguun, but their soldiers remain a force to be reckoned with.

Darkhart Arms: The home of Jura Darkhart, located in the Ocean-view district of Upper Tavick’s Landing.

Darkweave: Minor enchantments woven into this cloth give it the appearance of solid shadow. Garments woven of darkweave allow the wearer to blend into darkness and are favored by thieves and spies.

Darkwood: This rare lumber is named for its pitch-black coloration. It is as hard as oak, but it is remarkably light—almost half the weight of most types of lumber. It is often used in the creation of magical wands and staves.

Dassi: A halfling whose family immigrated to Breland from the Talenta Plains. Dassi owns and maintains the Manticore Inn in the High Walls district of Sharn.

Daughters of Sora Kell: The three hags that rule the nation of Droaam. The Daughters are figures of myth and legend, and possess impressive mystical and oracular abilities.

Dek: A changeling gambler and bookmaker. Dek spends most of his time at the King of Fire in Hareth’s Folly.

Demon Wastes: A barren land in the northwest of Khorvaire. The Demon Wastes are said to be filled with savage barbarians, deadly spirits, and ruins that predate human civilization by hundreds of thousands of years.

Deneith, House: A dragonmark house bearing the Mark of Sentinel.

Den’iyas: A district in the Upper Menthis ward of Sharn. Den’iyas is a prosperous area primarily inhabited by gnomes. It is sometimes known as “Little Zil.’”

Dolurrh: The plane of the dead. When mortals die, their spirits are said to travel to Dolurrh and then slowly fade away, passing to whatever final fate awaits the dead.

Dolurrh’s Doorstep: A dangerous and rundown tenement in the High Walls district of Sharn, inhabited by Cyran refugees.

Domo: A warforged servant at the house of Hadran d’Cannith.

Donal: A soldier in the Cyran army. Donal served under Daine at the battle in Keldan Ridge. He has not been seen since the Mourning.

Doraashka: A Goblin term translating to “gray eater.” A name for the acidic oozes that inhabit the sewers of Sharn. Also known as eaters or gray ooze.

Doras: This half-orc was the reeve of Cytal, a tiny village in the south of Cyre. He managed to escape the effects of the Mourning, but his village was destroyed and he has become twisted and bitter. He currently lives in Dolurrh’s Doorstep, a tenement in the High Walls district of Sharn and has built up a number of followers among the refugee community.

Dragon: 1) A reptilian creature possessing great physical and mystical power. 2) A platinum coin bearing an image of a dragon on one face. The platinum dragon is the highest denomination of coin minted under the rule of Galifar.

Dragon Towers: A district in the Middle Central ward of Sharn. Most of the dragonmarked families maintain enclaves in Dragon Towers, and it is the primary place to do business with these houses.

Dragonmark: 1) A mystical mark that appears on the surface of the skin and grants mystical powers to its bearer. 2) A slang term for the bearer of a dragonmark.

Dragonmarked Houses: One of the thirteen families whose bloodlines carry the potential to manifest a dragonmark. Many of the dragonmarked houses existed before the kingdom of Galifar, and they have used their mystical powers to gain considerable political and economic influence. The dragonmarked houses are described in detail. See dragonmark, War of the Mark.

Dragonshard: A form of mineral with mystical properties, said to be a shard of one of the great progenitor dragons. There are three different types of shard, each with different properties. A shard has no abilities in and of itself, but an artificer or wizard can use a shard to create an object with useful effects. Siberys shards fall from the sky and have the potential to enhance the power of dragonmarks. Eberron shards are found in the soil and enhance traditional magic. Khyber shards are found deep below the surface of the world and are used as a focus binding mystical energy.

Dreamlily: This powerful opiate comes from the continent of Sarlona. Brelish healers imported elixir of dreamlily for use during the Last War but discontinued use once they determined how addictive it was. It has since found a market as a recreational narcotic in Sharn, and use is spreading across Khorvaire.

Dreamsilk: A form of glamerweave produced on the looms of Zilargo. Minor illusions are woven into the threads, producing stunning visual effect. Clebdecher’s Loom in Sharn is renowned for its sunset gowns, dreamsilk dresses that seem to glow with the orange-and-rose light of a Sharn sunset.

Droaam: A nation on the west coast of Khorvaire. Once claimed by Breland, this region was never settled by humans and was known as a wild land filled with all manner of monsters and creatures who had been pushed back by the spreading power of Galifar. In 986 YK there was a movement to organize the creatures of Droaam into a coherent nation. While this has met with some success, the new nation has yet to be recognized by any other country.

Dura: One of the five quarters of Sharn. Dura is the oldest quarter of the city and is home to the most impoverished inhabitants of Sharn.

Eaters: See doraashka.

Eberron: 1) The world. 2) A mythical dragon said to have formed the world from her body in primordial times and to have given birth to natural life. Also known as “The Dragon Between.” See Khyber, Siberys.

Eldeen Reaches: Once this term was used to describe the vast stretches of woodland found on the west coast of Khorvaire, inhabited mostly by nomadic shifter tribes and druidic sects. In 958 YK the people of western Aundair broke ties with the Audairian crown and joined their lands to the Eldeen Reaches, vastly increasing the population of the nation and bringing it into the public eye.

Elymer: An elderly Cyran blacksmith who became a refugee after his village was destroyed by the Mourning. Currently he lives in the High Walls district of Sharn. The hardship has sapped much of his strength, and he is beginning to go blind.

Eternal Fire: See cold fire.

Everbright Lantern: A lantern infused with cold fire, creating a permanent light source. These items are used to provide illumination in most of the cities and larger communities of Khorvaire. An everbright lantern usually has a shutter allowing the light to be sealed off when darkness is desirable.

Excoriate: A person who has been expelled from a dragonmarked house. An excoriate is stripped of the family name and any property held by the house and is not welcome at house enclaves. Members and allies of the house are urged to shun excoriates. Prior to the foundation of Galifar, houses often flayed the victim’s dragonmark off of his body. While only temporary, this was a brutal and visible way of displaying the anger of the house. See dragonmarked houses.

Eye of Deneith: Most of the dragonmark houses have two heraldic emblems—a magical beast associated with the history of the house and a simpler, iconic symbol. The three-headed chimera is the beast of Deneith, while its icon is a silver eye surrounded by the golden rays of the sun. This symbol is known as the Watchful Eye or the Eye of Deneith.

Felmar Valley: A stretch of land on the border between Breland and Cyre. Towards the end of the Last War, Daine and his fellow soldiers were assigned to hold the Felmar fort against the Brelish.

Fernia: A plane of existence known as the Sea of Fire.

Firebinding: A technique taught to artificers. This art includes the creation of cold fire and true flame, allowing an artificer to produce a flaming sword or to slay an armored knight by boiling him in his armor.

Fireblossoms: These rare flowers are found in the gnome lands of Zilargo. Ruby red in color, when properly tended they produce an inner radiance similar in nature to cold fire.

Firepine: An exceedingly rare tree. Firepines can only grow in manifest zones linked to Fernia. The wood of the firepine does not burn; instead, it draws the fire into itself, absorbing the heat while still glowing cherry-red. Between the beauty, rarity, and practical value of the wood, it is one of the most expensive forms of lumber in Khorvaire.

Five Nations: The five provinces of the Kingdom of Galifar—Aundair, Breland, Cyre, Karrnath, and Thrane.

Flamewind: A mysterious sphinx from the distant land of Xen’drik. The Carradan Expedition found her in the ruins of a city of giants. Flamewind claimed to have been waiting for the explorers and declared her intention to accompany them back to Khorvaire. Fascinated, the explorers agreed and even provided her with a residence at Morgrave University. Flamewind has the body of a predatory cat, the wings of an eagle, and the head of an elf-maiden. She clearly possesses oracular powers, but her motivations remain an enigma.

Flameworms: These parasites enter through the digestive tract and reside in the stomach, causing internal lesions and fever in the host. While uncomfortable, these symptoms are rarely lethal among adults, but children can easily die from a case of flameworms.

’forged: A slang term for the warforged.

Foundling: Dragonmarks are bound to the blood of a single family. Anyone who possesses the Mark of Making has some tie to House Cannith. However, the marks have existed for thousands of years, and those families have grown and spread over that time. When someone develops a dragonmark but has no known link to the house that bears that mark, he is known as a foundling. The dragonmarked houses traditionally embrace foundlings in order to maintain control of the mark, but foundlings rarely rise far in the ranks of the house and cannot use the full house name. The child of a foundling and a full heir of the house can take the name of the house. See dragonmark, dragonmarked houses.

Galifar: 1) A cunning warrior and skilled diplomat who forged five nations into a single kingdom that came to dominate the continent of Khorvaire. 2) The kingdom of Galifar I, which came to an end in 894 YK with the start of the Last War. 3) A golden coin minted by the kingdom, bearing the image of the first king. The golden galifar is still in use today and is worth ten sovereigns.

Galt: A young goblin from Malleon’s Gate.

Ghallanda, House: A dragonmarked house bearing the Mark of Hospitality.

Ghaal’dar: A Goblin term that can be translated to “mighty people.” The goblinoids of Darguun use this word to describe the people of their nation, emphasizing their martial strength.

Ghostfish: A large, freshwater fish similar to a trout, with one key difference: the ghostfish is invisible. This bizarre condition persists even after the fish is killed, and many diners relish ghostfish for the sheer experience of eating an invisible meal.

Glamerweave: A general term used to describe clothing that has been magically altered for cosmetic purposes. A glamerweave outfit may enhance the appearance of the wearer—concealing blemishes, adding color to hair or eyes—or it may simply possess colors or patterns than could never be replicated with mundane fabrics. Cloudsilk and dreamsilk are two examples of glamerweave.

Glass House: A restaurant and inn located in the Hareth’s Folly district of Sharn. The Glass House is based on the theme of invisibility; the walls are made from Riedran crystal, the staff wear translucent glamerweave garments, and the kitchen serves unusual dishes, such as Aundairian ghostfish.

Goblinoid: A general term encompassing three humanoid species—the small and cunning goblins, the warlike hobgoblins, and the large and powerful bugbears.

Gold Wings: A mounted unit of the Sharn Watch. The Gold Wings ride trained hippogriffs, and the unit monitors the upper towers and responds to aerial crimes.

Gorlan’tor: A word from the language of the halflings of the Talenta Plains, roughly translating to “stampede.”

Half-orc: When humans and orcs interbreed, the offspring typically possess characteristics of both races. These half-orcs are not as bestial in appearance as their orc forbears, but they are larger and strong than most humans and usually possess a few orcish features, such as a gray skin tone or pronounced canine teeth. Half-orcs are most common in the Shadow Marches but can be found across Khorvaire.

Halfstone Street: One of the main streets of the Black Arch district in Sharn. Much of the commerce in the district is located on Halfstone.

Halodan Meal-worms: These grubs are considered to be a delicacy in the Talenta Plains. Halfling traders brought the worms with them as they spread across Khorvaire, and while most humans find them repulsive, many gnomes and shifters enjoy these treats.

Hareth’s Folly: A district in the Middle Dura ward of Sharn. Hareth’s Folly is an entertainment district, with a focus on gambling and aerial sports.

High Walls: A district in the Lower Tavick’s Landing ward of Sharn. During the Last War many foreign nationals living in the city were relocated to High Walls, and the majority of the Cyran refugees living in Sharn reside in this district.

Hila: A humble seamstress, Hila was born in a small village on the southern edge of Cyre. She was widowed during the war and traveled south to Sharn after the Mourning.

Hollow Tower: An arena for aerial sports, located in the district of Hareth’s Folly.

Holas: A half-orc serving in the Sharn Watch. Born in Malleon’s Gate, he fought his way up from poverty and destitution and earned a place in the watch. Currently he serves as a sergeant in the Daggerwatch Garrison.

Horas: A dwarf serving with the Guardians of the Gate. Horas spends most of his days processing travelers at Wroann’s Gate in Tavick’s Landing.

Hugal Desal: A young Cyran refugee. Hugal and his identical twin brother Monan came to Sharn after the Mourning and found a home in the High Walls district.

Hulda: This dwarf served as a field medic in the army of Cyre. After the destruction of her homeland, she traveled south to Sharn to lend her skills to the refugee community in the city. She maintains a makeshift infirmary in Togran Square in the district of High Walls.

Hu’ur’hnn: A giant owl with the power of speech and a quick wit matching—or exceeding—that of a human. Hu’ur’hnn used to be a racing beast, and he won the Race of Eight Winds in 970 YK. Age has forced him to retire, but he has found great success as a mediator and advisor in the Bazaar of Dura.

Illithid: An abomination from Xoriat, the plane of madness. An illithid is roughly the same size and shape as a human but possesses a squidlike head with tentacles arrayed around a fanged maw. Illithids feed on the brains of sentient creatures and possess the ability to paralyze or manipulate the minds of lesser creatures. Illithids are more commonly known as mind flayers.

Iltrayan: A dark, dry wine from Aundair. The Iltrayan vineyards lie within a manifest zone tied to Shavarath, and many soldiers claim that a goblet of Iltrayan readies the blood for battle.

il-Yanna: A word from the Quor tongue, translating to “the Great Light.” This mystical force is the focus of the religion of the kalashtar. For more details.

ir’: When attached to a family name, this prefix indicates one of the aristocratic lines of Galifar. The descendants of King Galifar I belong to the ir’Wyrnarn line.

ir’Dain, Jairan: Proud scion of a noble line, Jairen ir’Dain is the Cyre’s ambassador to the city of Sharn—or was, before the Mourning. The Lord Mayor of Sharn has allowed the Cyran embassy to remain open, and Jairen is doing what he can to promote the interests of Cyran refugees.

ir’Dalas, General Bail: The commanding officer of the Cyran forces at the Battle of Three Moons. General ir’Dalas survived that conflict, but fell in battle against a legion of Karrnarthi undead the following year.

ir’Lanter, Alais: A noble from the nation of Aundair. Along with his brother Helais, Alais serves as an ambassador, representing the interests of the Aundairian crown in Sharn.

ir’Ryc, Greykell: Scion of a noble Cyran family, Greykell ir’Ryc served as a captain in the Queen’s Guard of Cyre. Known as “the laughing wolf” due to her tenacity and good humor, Greykell was renowned throughout the southern command for her cunning strategies and her ability to inspire her soldiers. The blood of dragons is said to run through her house, and in addition to being a gifted swordswoman, she possesses a minor talent for magic. Following the destruction of Cyre, Greykell traveled to Sharn. She has established herself as the unofficial sheriff of the High Walls district, though she prefers to maintain order through diplomacy as opposed to the use of force.

ir’Soras, Teral: Once a councilor to the court of Cyre, Teral ir’Soras retired from politics to enjoy his middle years. This quiet life came to an end when the Mourning destroyed Cyre. Teral survived the disaster and traveled to Sharn. As one of the few Cyran nobles in the city, Teral feels an obligation to use his skills to preserve the remnants of Cyran civilization and he has devoted himself to organizing the refugees of High Walls.

ir’Talan, Grazen: Born into House Deneith, Grazen served in the Blademark and earned a place in the Sentinel Marshals. During an assignment in Sharn, Grazen fell in love with an heir of the Tala line. As the Galifar Accords prevent the heirs of dragonmarked houses from holding royal titles, Grazen chose to leave House Deneith to marry his beloved. Between his own skill and the influence of his new family Grazen obtained a commission in the Sharn Watch. Today he is the captain of the Daggerwatch Garrison in Upper Dura.

ir’Talan, Hareth: An aristocrat and architect who lived in the early days of Sharn. Many believed that Hareth was mad, but the gold and connections of the ir’Talan family gave him the opportunity to design one of the districts fo Sharn. Now known as Hareth’s Folly, this district is a bizarre conglomeration of building styles from across Eberron—and at least according to Hareth, from across the planes of existence.

ir’Wyrnarn, Wroann: The daughter of King Jarot ir’Wyrnarn, the last king of Galifar. Prior to her father’s death, Wroann served as governor of Breland. When Jarot died in 894 YK, Wroann turned against the tradition of the kingdom and crowned herself Queen of Breland. To the people of Breland, Wroann is a heroine who took a stand against outdated traditions. To many others—especially the people of Thrane and Aundair—Wroann was the worst of the rebels, responsible for a century of war and the destruction of Cyre.

Ivy Towers: A residential district in the Upper Menthis ward of Sharn.

Jani Onyll: A Cyran soldier who served with Daine in the Last War.

Jask Roots: Alchemists claim that the jask root is the most nutritious vegetable that can be grown in Khorvaire. The root was first discovered in the Talenta Plains, where it is a staple of the halfling diet. However, most humans—especially human children—are revolted by the taste of jask root. As a result, roots are typically served with thick, sugary glaze.

Jhaakat: A hobgoblin warrior from the land of Darguun, Jhaakat led a bad of Darguuls to Sharn following the war, in hopes of finding mercenary work. Currently he lives in Malleon’s Gate. The lack of work has fueled his frustration, and he often picks fights with humans and elves.

Jhola’: This is a salutation used by the halflings of the Talenta Plains. It can be translated many different ways, depending on the time, location, and the relationship between the speakers.

Jholeg: A goblin scout who served in the Cyran army under Daine’s command.

Jode: This halfling has revealed little about his past. He bears the Mark of Healing but has never admitted to having a tie to House Jorasco. While he occasionally speaks of a childhood in the Talenta Plains, Jode moved to the Five Nations at a young age. In 988 YK he took up service in the Queen’s Guard of Cyre in the company of his friend Daine. He never sought to hold any sort of command and instead served as a healer and occasional scout, using his dragonmark and quick wits to assist his friend.

Jol: An old Cyran refugee. Jol was born in the village of Callol. His family was killed when the Darguuls captured the village, and Jol was tortured. He now lives in High Walls, but is widely considered to be insane.

Jorasco, House: A dragonmarked house bearing the Mark of Healing.

Jura Darkhart: Born Jura d’Cannith, this dragonmarked aristocrat was expelled from House Cannith after marrying a dryad. He remained in Sharn even after being condemned as an excoriate. His wife died in 995 YK.

Kadran: A servant of House Lyrandar, Kadran serves as the major domo in the household of Dantian d’Lyrandar.

Kalashtar: The kalashtar are an offshoot of humanity. Stories say that the kalashtar are humans touched by spirits from another plane of existence and that they possess strange mental powers.

Karris: A grim Cyran dwarf. Karris was once a soldier, but following the Mourning he chose to serve Teral ir’Soras as an assistant and bodyguard.

Karrnath: One of the original Five Nations of Galifar. Karrnath is a cold, grim land whose people are renowned for their martial prowess. The current ruler of Karrnath is King Kaius ir’Wyrnarn III.

Kasslak: An authority figure in the district of Malleon’s Gate.

Kazha zar: A Draconic incantation often used to activate arcane spells involving movement or teleportation.

Kela: The hostess at the King of Fire.

Keldan Ridge: A remote region of hills in southern Cyre. While passing along the ridge in 994, Daine’s soldiers encountered a heavily armed force of unknown nationality. This enemy scattered the Cyran forces; it was this forced retreat that pushed Daine, Lei, Pierce, and Jode outside the radius of the Mourning.

Khorvaire: One of the continents of Eberron. For more details.

Khyber: 1) The underworld. 2) A mythical dragon, also known as “The Dragon Below.” After killing Siberys, Khyber was imprisoned by Eberron and transformed into the underworld. Khyber is said to have given birth to a host of demons and other unnatural creatures. See Eberron, Siberys.

Khyber’s Gate: This name is used to cover a vast stretch of the Cogs of Sharn. It is a lawless area where the Watch will not go, and many criminals, goblinoids, and Droaamites make their home in this dark district.

King of Fire: A tavern and gaming hall located in the district of Hareth’s Folly.

Korlan: A half-orc from the Shadow Marches, Korlan developed an aberrant dragonmark when he was ten. He was driven from the Marches, but found a home in Sharn with House Tarkanan.

Korluaat: “Hero’s Blood.” A highly alcoholic beverage favored by the hobgoblin warriors of Darguun.

Kundarak, House: A dragonmarked house bearing the Mark of Warding.

Lakashtai: A kalashtar woman residing in Sharn.

Lamannia: A plane of existence known as the Twilight Forest.

Last War, The: This conflict began in 894 YK with the death of King Jarot ir’Wyrnarn, the last king of Galifar. Following Jarot’s death, three of his five children refused to follow the ancient traditions of succession, and the kingdom split. The war lasted over a hundred years, and it took the utter destruction of Cyre to bring the other nations to the negotiating table. No one has admitted defeat, but no one wants to risk being the next victim of the Mourning. The chronicles are calling the conflict “the Last War,” hoping that the bloodshed might have finally slaked humanity’s thirst for battle. Only time will tell if this hope is in vain.

Lhazaar Principalities: A collection of small nations running along the eastern cost of Khorvaire. The people of this land are renowned seafarers, and there is a strong tradition of piracy in the region.

Lorrak: A Brelish dwarf. Lorrak holds the rank of sergeant in the Sharn Watch.

Lynna: A soldier who served in the Cyran army under Daine’s command. Lynna was killed in the battle of Keldan Ridge.

Lyrandar, House: A dragonmarked house bearing the Mark of Storm.

Magewright: A general term for any professional who uses magic to enhance the skills of his trade. The typical magewright can only perform one or two spells; examples include the blacksmith who uses magic to improve his craft, the lamplighter who produces everbright lanterns, and the auger who uses magic to divine the future for her clients.

Mal: A soldier who served in the Cyran army under Daine’s command. He was killed in the battle of Keldan Ridge.

Malleon’s Gate: A district in the Lower Tavick’s Landing ward of Sharn. This area is largely inhabited by goblins, Droaamites, and other inhuman creatures.

Manticore: 1) A magical beast with the body of a lion, the wings of a dragon, and the face of a man. 2) An inn located in the High Walls district of Sharn, which uses a Manticore as its trade sign.

Marcher: An inhabitant of the Shadow Marches.

’mark: A slang term for the bearer of a dragonmark. See dragonmark.

Menthis Plateau: One of the five quarters of Sharn. Menthis is noted as a center of education and entertainment. Most of the theaters of Sharn are spread throughout this quarter, and Morgrave University is located on the Upper Ward.

Metrol: The capital of Cyre. Metrol was destroyed by the Mourning.

Minal: A member of the Sharn Watch, serving in the Daggerwatch Garrison.

Mind flayer: See illithid.

Mithral: A silvery metal that is just as strong as iron, but far lighter and more flexible.

Monan Desal: A young Cyran refugee. Monan and his identical twin brother Hugal came to Sharn after the Mourning and found a home in the High Walls district.

Moresco: A halfling pickpocket who makes his home in the drains of Daggerwatch.

Morgalan: A human with a minor gift for sorcery, Morgalan served in the Brelish army but grew tired of the military life. Morgalan deserted the army and along with a group of his friends, he became a bandit, preying on those traveling along the road to Sharn.

Morgrave University: Located in Sharn, Morgrave University is the largest institute of learning in Breland. Compared to the other great colleges of Khorvaire, it has a shady reputation; many claim that the scholars of Morgrave University are more interested in grave-robbing than actually unlocking the secrets of the past. Regardless of its standing, Morgrave can be a valuable resource to inquisitive inhabitants of Sharn.

Mourner: A slang term for a Cyran refugee.

Mourning, The: A disaster that occurred on Olarune 20, 994 YK. The origin and precise nature of the Mourning are unknown. On Ollarune 20, gray mists spread across Cyre, and anything caught within the mists was transformed or destroyed. See the Mournland.

Mournland, The: A common name for the wasteland left behind in the wake of the Mourning. A wall of dead-gray mist surrounds the borders of the land that once was Cyre. Behind this mist, the land has been transformed into something dark and twisted. Most creatures that weren’t killed were transformed into horrific monsters. Stories speak of storms of blood, corpses that do not decompose, ghostly soldiers fighting endless battles, and far worse things.

Mror Holds, The: A nation of dwarves and gnomes located in the Ironroot Mountains.

Olalia: A Cyran refugee and servant of Teral ir’Soras. Olalia has been disfigured, supposedly through magical means.

Olaran: A village in the northeastern edge of Cyre. Olaran was destroyed during a Karrnathi attack in 989 YK.

Old Road: A trade road built on the orders of King Galifar II. Today, the Old Road still links the capitals and great cities of the Five Kingdoms.

Olladra: The Sovereign of Feast and Fortune, goddess of luck and plenty. Those who follow the Sovereign Host will ask Olladra for aid in risky ventures, and the phrase “Olladra smiles” is used when someone has a stroke of good luck.

Oranon, Mulg: A dwarf windchaser who races in the aerial events of Sharn. Mulg is best known for riding Daggerhawks.

Orasca: A word from the language of the halflings of the Talenta Plains. It can be translated many ways, but a standard usage is “one who seeks to steal my livelihood.”

Phiarlan, House: A dragonmarked house bearing the Mark of Shadow.

Philan: A Cyran refugee living in High Walls. A minstrel by trade, Philan survives by telling tales to children in exchange for copper or scraps.

Pierce: A warforged soldier, Pierce was built by House Cannith and sold to the army of Cyre. He was designed to serve as a skirmisher and scout, specializing in ranged combat. His comrades named him based on his skill with his longbow. Following the destruction of Cyre, he has chosen to remain with Daine, his last captain.

Precarious: One of the districts of Sharn. Precarious is located on the lowest levels of Dura Plateau. It serves the shipping trade, and is dominated by warehouses and the mystical cranes that haul goods up from the docks of the Dagger.

Pride of the Storm: The personal airship of Lord Dantian d’Lyrandar.

Prospers Street: A street in Deniyas. Most of the upscale merchants and inns of the district can be found on Prospers Street.

Q’barra: A young nation hidden within the jungles of eastern Khorvaire. Q’barra was formed by refugees and rebels who refused to fight in the Last War, along with bandits and other ruffians.

Queen’s Guard: One of the titles of the army of Cyre.

Race of Eight Winds: An aerial sporting event that takes place in the Dura quarter of Sharn. In this annual event, riders race different types of flying beasts. Each Dura district is represented by a different beast, and preparations and rivalries between the districts play a major role in daily life.

Rakshasa: Ancient fiends from the dawn of time. Rakshasa are cunning shapeshifters with considerable mystical powers, but the most powerful of these demons were bound in Khyber hundreds of thousands of years ago.

Ralus: A human windchaser. Ralus specializes in handling hippogriffs, and represents Daggerwatch in the Race of Eight Winds.

Rasial Tann: A guardsman with a gift for handling hippogriffs. Rasial had a bright future in the Sharn Watch and the sporting arenas of Dura quarter. He rode the hippogriff to victory in his first time in the Race of Eight Winds, but the second year his mount died in an unexplained accident. Following this disaster, Rasial disappeared into the underworld of Sharn.

Rattlestone: One of the residential districts in the Lower Dura plateau of Sharn. Many of the poorer inhabitants of Dura gather in Rattlestone Square to watch the major aerial races.

Rhazala: A young goblin girl who lives in Malleon’s Gate in Sharn.

Riedra: The largest country on the continent of Sarlona. Once a collection of warring states, Riedra overcame its internal conflicts only to break all ties with the rest of Eberron. After a thousand years of silence, Riedra is only beginning to reestablish diplomatic relations with the nations of Khorvaire, and much about the realm remains a mystery.

Round Wind: The ancestral estate of Hadran d’Cannith. Round Wind is located in the district of Dalan’s Refuge in Sharn.

Saerath: A wizard who served in the support corps of the Queen’s Guard of Cyre. Saereth served under Daine but has not been seen since the Battle of Keldan Ridge.

Sagal Powder: A pungent spice commonly used by the halflings of the Talenta Plains.

Sarlona: One of the continents of Eberron. Humanity arose in Sarlona, and colonists from Sarlona established human civilization on Khorvaire.

Sarris: A young woman from Cyre. Sarris served as a scout in the Cyran army, under the command of Greykell ir’Ryc.

Seawall Mountains: A mountain chain in southern Breland. The Seawall separates Darguun and Zilargo, and many kobolds and goblinoids still lurk in its shadows.

Selas Leaves: First found in the Shadow Marches, the use of these aromatic herbs has spread across the Five Nations over the last three centuries. They have become a staple of Cyran dishes, particularly those involving red meat.

Sennan Rath: A simple keep in southern Cyre, Sennan Keep was heavily fortified after the rise of Darguun. Daine and Pierce spent a year walking the walls of Sennan Rath.

Sentinel Marshals: The dragonmarked House Deneith is the primary source for mercenary soldiers and bodyguards in Khorvaire. The Sentinel Marshals are a specialized form of mercenary—bounty hunters empowered to enforce the laws of Galifar across Khorvaire. This right was granted by the King of Galifar, but when Galifar collapsed the rulers of the Five Nations agreed to let the Sentinel Marshals pursue their prey across all nations, to maintain a neutral lawkeeping force that would be respected throughout Khorvaire. See House Deneith.

Seren Tablets: An ancient set of tablets recovered from the Seren Island chain off the coast of Argonnessen. The tablets are a written account of a tale handed down among the dragons for hundreds of thousands of years, describing the war between the first dragons and the creation of the world.

Shaarat: A Goblin word that translates to “sword” or “blade.”

Shaarat’kor: A Goblin word that translates to “blood-colored blade.” This is the sobriquet of the Lhesh Haruuc Shaarat’kor, the ruler of Darguun. Goblinoids loyal to Haruuc often use this as a warcry.

Shadow Marches, The: A region of desolate swamps on the southwestern coast of Khorvaire.

Shae Mordai: An Elvish name translating to “City of the Dead.” Shae Mordai is the home of the Undying Court of the elves of Aerenal.

Sharn: Also known as the City of Towers, Sharn is the largest city in Khorvaire.

Sharn Watch: The force that maintains order in the city of Sharn. The Watch is spread throughout the city, and each quarter of Sharn has its own garrison. In addition to the main force of guards, there are a number of specialized divisions of the Watch. The Gold Wings provide aerial reconnaissance and support. The Blackened Book deals with magical crimes. The Guardians of the Gate monitor the activities of foreigners. And the Redcloak Battalion are an elite military unit that can be deployed against deadly foes—demons, enemy commandoes, or similar threats.

Shifter: A humanoid race said to be descended from humans and lycanthropes. Shifters have a feral, bestial appearance and can briefly call on their lycanthropic heritage to draw animalistic characteristics to the fore. While they are most comfortable in natural environs, shifters can be found in most of the major cities of Khorvaire.

Siberys: 1) The ring of stones that circle the world. 2) A mythical dragon, also called “The Dragon Above.” Siberys is said to have been destroyed by Khyber. Some believe that the ring of Siberys is the source of all magic. See Eberron, Khyber.

Silver Flame, the: A powerful spiritual force dedicated to cleaning evil influences from the world. Over the last five hundred years, a powerful church has been established around the Silver Flame.

Silver Tree: A luxurious inn located on Prospers Street in Deniyas.

Sivis, House: A dragonmarked house bearing the Mark of Scribing.

Sivis Tower: The central enclave of House Sivis in Sharn. This structure is located in the district of Dragon Towers.

Skyblade Joust: A sporting event where participants fight while mounted on flying beasts. In a typical joust, the goal is to unseat all opponents and send them tumbling to the ground, but there are many variations of the sport.

Skycoach: A small flying vessel, typically shaped like a rowboat or gondola. The magic that allows a skycoach to fly is tied to the manifest zone around Sharn; as a result, these vehicles will not function far from Sharn, and are only found in the City of Towers.

Sorans: A family of Cyran refugees living in High Walls. Bakers by trade, the Sorans have struggled to acquire enough supplies to continue their trade in Sharn.

Sovereign: 1) A silver coin depicting a current or recent monarch. A sovereign is worth ten crowns. 2) One of the deities of the Sovereign Host. See Sovereign Host.

Sovereign Host, the: A pantheistic religion with a strong following across Khorvaire.

Star of Cyre: A five-pointed star. The points represent the Five Nations; the top point and the center of the star are gold—representing Cyre—while the remaining points are red, blue, black, and silver. The silhouette of a crown is often placed in the center of the star. As Cyre maintained its claim to the Five Nations throughout the Last War, it continued to use this symbol throughout the war.

Stone Eye, The: A title the goblins of Malleon’s Gate often use to refer to Kasslak.

Stormchild: A slang term for an heir of the dragonmark of House Lyrandar.

Sundown: A fast-paced gambling game traditionally played at the end of the workday.

Syllia: A matron of a Cyran farming family, Syllia came south with her surviving sons after the war. The family found a place in Dolurrh’s Doorstep, but Syllia turned to dreamlily to wash away the pain and soon became an addict.

Tal: A beverage from the Talenta Plains. Tal was introduced to the Five Nations by the halflings of House Ghallanda. Made by steeping herbs in boiling water, it serves many purposes depending on the herbs that are used. There are dozens of varieties. Milian tal is typically served cold and is said to settle a fever, while blackroot tal is served hot and is a popular midday drink.

Talenta Plains: A vast stretch of grassland to the east of Khorvaire, the Talenta Plains are home to a proud halfling culture. The people of the Talenta Plains live a nomadic lifestyle that has remained more or less unchanged for thousands of years, though over the centuries a number of tribes have left the grasslands to settle in the Five Nations. A wide variety of large reptiles are found in the Talenta Plains, and the halfling warriors are known for their fearsome clawfoot mounts.

Tanda: This salutation from the Talenta Plains can be translated in many ways depending on the circumstances but is generally friendly. A common usage is, “Greetings, one who is not my brother in blood but yet might become one in friendship.”

Targath: A metal found in the land of Argonnessen. A charm fashioned from this metal is said to provide its wearer with good health.

Tarkanan, House: A criminal organization based in Sharn, specializing in theft and assassination. Only people possessing aberrant dragonmarks can join House Tarkanan, and the members of the house are taught to hone these skills to aid in their work. The organization is structured as a mockery of the true dragonmarked houses, in remembrance of the aberrant alliance that arose during the War of the Mark. See aberrant dragonmark, War of the Mark.

Tavick’s Landing: One of the five quarters of Sharn. Travelers arriving by foot or by rail must pass through Tavick’s Landing, which is a blend of residential, entertainment, and business districts.

Test of Siberys: Members of dragonmarked houses are not born with their marks. Anyone who possesses the blood of a house has a chance to manifest a dragonmark, but typically a mark only appears under stressful conditions, when its power is truly needed. The Test of Siberys is a formal ritual administered by the house. In theory it will force a dormant mark to the surface, though there have been those who failed the test but still developed a mark late in life. The precise nature of the test varies from house to house. In some cases, the test can be quite dangerous. See dragonmark, dragonmark houses.

Tharashk, House: A dragonmarked house bearing the Mark of Finding. In Sharn, House Tharashk serves as a clearinghouse for the services of monstrous mercenaries from Droaam, including gargoyle couriers and ogre laborers.

Thrane: One of the original Five Nations of Galifar, Thrane is the seat of power for the Church of the Silver Flame. During the Last War, the people of Thrane chose to give the church power above that of the throne. Queen Diani ir’Wyrnarn serves as a figurehead, but true power rests in the hands of the Church, which is governed by the council of cardinals and Jaela Daeran, the young Keeper of the Flame.

Three Stones: A popular gambling game played with a deck of cards sporting an elemental theme. The three stones of the title represent the three dragons that are said to make up the world.

Tsash: A common greeting in the Goblin tongue.

Traveler, the: Loosely aligned with the Dark Six, this deity is the embodiment of intrigue and artifice.

Xoriat: Another plane of existence, known as the Realm of Madness.

War of the Mark: Five hundred years before the creation of Galifar, the dragonmarked families joined forces to eliminate those who possessed aberrant marks. Ultimately the aberrants joined forces and formed an army of their own, under the leadership of Lord Halas Tarkanan and his lover, the Lady of the Plague. Despite Tarkanan’s skill and personal power, his troops were few in number and poorly organized, and he could not stand against the dragonmarked. In the aftermath of the war, the families formally established the first dragonmarked houses. See aberrant dragonmarks, dragonmarks, dragonmarked houses, House Tarkanan.

Warforged: A race of humanoid constructs crafted from wood, leather, metal, and stone, and given life and sentience through magic. The warforged were created by House Cannith, which sought to produce tireless, expendable soldiers capable of adapting to any tactical situation. Cannith developed a wide range of military automatons, but the spark of true sentience eluded them until 965 YK, when Aaren d’Cannith perfected the first of the modern warforged. A warforged soldier is roughly the same shape as an adult male human, though typically slightly taller and heavier. There are many different styles of warforged, each crafted for a specific military function—heavily-armored infantry troops, faster scouts and skirmishers, and many more. While warforged are brought into existence with the knowledge required to fulfill their function, they have the capacity to learn, and with the war coming to a close, many are searching their souls—and questioning whether they have souls—and wondering what place they might have in a world at peace.

Windchasing: A popular sport in Sharn. Windchasing is a form of aerial racing, in which riders mounted on flying beasts follow a dangerous course in and around the towers of Sharn.

Windguard: The organizers of the Race of Eight Winds.

YK: Most of the nations of Khorvaire make use of the calendar of Galifar. The current date is reckoned from the birth of the Kingdom of Galifar, in the Year since the founding of the Kingdom, or more simply, YK.

Zae: This halfling is one of the youngest members of House Tarkanan. She seems to be able to mystically communicate with vermin and influence their actions. This is not an aberrant ability that has been seen in recent history, but it is reminiscent of the powers of the legendary Lady of the Plague—if on a far smaller scale.

Zilargo: Located on the southern coast of Khorvaire, Zilargo is the homeland of the gnomes. Known for its vast universities and libraries, Zilargo also possesses considerable mineral wealth in the form of gemstones and Khyber dragonshards. The gnomes themselves are masterful diplomats, shipwrights, and alchemists, renowned for their cunning and inquisitive nature.