Ritter

The Feral Tyberian Moon of Ritter is the largest moon of the planet Tyberous and the homeworld of the Luminarch Drotti Selwyn Jaeger and the Legion home-planet of the Scythes of Lazarus Imperial Legion.
== Overview ==
This particular page, whilst focusing on Ritter itself, will encompass much of the Space around Tyberous along with a good portion of the Tellus System.Tyber-0A4, or simply Ritter, is a notorious Death World, stands as the largest among the Seven Moons orbiting the poison-wreathed gas titan Tyberous. This titan planet orbits closely to its scarlet-dimmed sun, nestled deep within the treacherous territories of the southern Proxima Obscurus. The Tyberian Moons, as these satellites are collectively known, are shrouded in thick, miasmic atmospheres laden with toxic saline chemicals, a grim consequence of their proximity to the brine-poisoned Tyberous.
The environmental conditions on these moons are exceptionally harsh. The most virulent salt-mires frequently ascend from Tyberous, infiltrating the Lunar Orbital Zones and transforming the moons into realms of perpetual gloom. This toxic miasma creates a dismal ambiance, casting a pall over the lunar landscape and rendering sunlight scarce. The winters on these Moons are particularly brutal. As during these long, harsh seasons, entire regions are often plunged into an unbroken, starless night. The already dim light from the scarlet sun is further obscured, leaving the surface in near-total darkness. These winters are often heralded by short, shadowy days that provide little respite from the omnipresent darkness.
Many of the Tyberian Moons can be classified into two primary categories: Dead Worlds and Death Worlds. The four Desolate Dead-Worlds—Tyber-0A1-3, and 0A7—known to the Ritteans as the Verwüsten Moons, each individually known as Heinrus, Görin, Ohrma, and Alther, respectively, are utterly incapable of sustaining human life. Their environments are so hostile and barren that they remain uninhabitable. However, these moons are known to contain dense mineral deposits, attracting numerous miners to the satellite colonies orbiting these moons. From these colonies, miners venture to the subterranean mines below, braving the harsh conditions to extract valuable resources.
In contrast, the Death Worlds of Tyber-0A4, 0A5, and 0A6—referred to by the Ritteans as the Schwarze Brüder, or in Argothic as the Dark Brothers—are known individually as Ritter, Edler, and Freiherr. These moons each possess atmospheres that are breathable by Ritteans, but only at the lowest planetary elevations. These elevations are characterized by flat, fertile moors covered in deep halophyte forests that choke the equatorial river valley basins, nestled among the jagged, stony mountains that spine the moons. Due to their proximity to the gas titan Tyberous, the hydrospheres of the Dark Brothers retain a significantly higher saline content compared to many other human-habitable worlds. As a result, the so-called "freshwater" lakes and rivers in the equatorial zones are comparable to the oceans of Terra-like planets. Conversely, the "saltwater" Petty-Oceans of the northern and southern basins are more akin to poisonous salt-mires, perpetually shrouded in toxic saline fogs rather than true oceans.
These petty oceans are surrounded by ecological dead zones, desolate wastelands where only the hardiest of species can survive. The wasteland basins are characterized by harsh and unforgiving environments, often devoid of life, with extreme conditions that make survival impossible for many native Tyberian organisms. These barren expanses serve as a stark reminder of the hostile nature of these moons, presenting an insurmountable challenge for any form of colonization or habitation.
In contrast, the verdant equatorial valleys of the Dark Brothers provide a beacon of hope amidst the surrounding desolation. These belts of isolated life grace each of the moons, known as Black-Belts among the Ritteans, they teem with hardy flora and fauna uniquely adapted to the harsh lunar conditions. These habitable areas thrive on flat moors and within deep, forest-choked valley basins nestled among the jagged, stony mountains that define the moons’ landscapes.
The flora within these valleys exhibits exceptional resilience, having evolved to endure fluctuating temperatures and scarce water sources. These plants have developed mechanisms to thrive in the toxic environments, creating lush, dense forests that stand in stark contrast to the barren expanses beyond. The fauna of the Dark Brothers is equally tenacious, with species possessing specialized adaptations that enable them to navigate and survive in this precarious ecosystem. These valleys become sanctuaries where life not only exists but flourishes against all odds. The flat moors, though sparse, offer additional pockets of life where human settlement is possible. Here, small communities can eke out an existence, relying on the fertile land for agriculture and the surrounding forests for resources. The jagged mountains, rising with their steep, rocky inclines, provide natural barriers that shield these valleys from the worst effects of the toxic miasma prevalent at higher elevations. This geological feature creates isolated pockets of survivable conditions amidst an otherwise inhospitable lunar environment. Living upon the Tyberian Moons is no easy feat. With the constant threat of the toxic miasma, combined with the harsh winters that plunge the land into darkness, makes survival a daily struggle. Yet, within the protected valleys and moors, communities have learned to adapt and endure. They harness the limited resources available, relying on the dense forests for sustenance and the relative shelter of the valley basins to shield them from the deadly environment beyond.
Given this context, it was inevitable that the catastrophic onset of the Long Dark, which fractured humanity's once-golden empire, would have a devastating impact on the already harsh environmental conditions of the Tyberian moons. These moons, where humanity had struggled to eke out even a basic survival, swiftly regressed the remnants of the original Tyberian Mining Colonies to a state resembling a Pseudo-Feudal iteration of the era predating Humanity's Solar Expansion. The Ritteans who inhabited the Tyberian Moons would manage to maintain tenuous Interlunar Travel and Communication despite the chaos. This was achieved through the meticulous upkeep of their Rift-Net—a network crucial for intermoon communication and trade. Additionally, they utilized Low-Scale world jump-ships, which enabled them to navigate the treacherous void between the moons, albeit with considerable difficulty and risk.
In this post-apocalyptic setting, the survival of the Ritteans hinged upon their capacity to adapt and innovate within the confines of their isolated lunar domains. The Rift-Net and world jump-ships emerged as indispensable lifelines, enabling crucial trade in resources, knowledge, and technology among the moons and their inhabitants. These networks not only sustained their fragile societies but also preserved a semblance of interconnectedness and cultural exchange across the Tyberian moons. As millennia passed, the once-unified mining population gradually splintered into distinct groups. Foremost among them were the Ritteans themselves, the largest in number and direct descendants of the original human settlers who had been marooned on the moons millennia earlier. These resilient people adapted extensively to the harsh environments of the Dark Brothers, establishing villages that evolved into dense kingdoms within the fertile Black-Belts of the moons.
Many Rittean miners ventured beyond their homes to reach the mining stations scattered across the other Tyberian moons, braving perilous journeys to extract precious metals and natural fuels. These resources, hard-fought and essential for survival, were brought back to fuel the burgeoning kingdoms. Meanwhile, others among the Ritteans turned to agriculture, toiling daily to sustain their societies with crops and livestock. They formed the backbone of the kingdoms, supporting the soldiery, workers, and craftsmen who contributed to the thriving lunar societies. Amidst the rugged landscapes and toxic environments, the Ritteans forged a resilient civilization marked by ingenuity and perseverance. Their kingdoms, built upon the foundations of adaptation and resourcefulness, stood as bastions of survival in the harsh realm of the Tyberian moons.
Second was the Iron-Eros Skorval Militant Hegemon, or simply the Eros-Skorval, or the IESM. This formidable group comprised non-native human warbands, descendants of a lost colonist faction that found themselves within Tyberian space during the later millennia of the Long Dark. These invaders, initially stranded aboard their massive Colonial Galleon, drifted aimlessly through the orbit of Tyberous for decades. The crew, plagued by dwindling resources and isolation, struggled to maintain their vessel and their sanity in the desolate expanse of space. But eventually, a breakthrough occurred when an errant Rittean jump-ship made contact with the drifting galleon. The encounter was fortuitous for the beleaguered Colonists, providing them with the means to repair much of their ship and establish a tenuous foothold within the Tyberian system after the Skorval killed the Miners. Seizing the opportunity, the Eros-Skorval began to consolidate what few forces they had in stock as they began to pressure the Natives, transforming from a group of aimless wanderers into a structured militant hegemon.
The Eros-Skorval, armed and organized, embarked on a series of campaigns to establish dominance over the Tyberian moons. Their arrival disrupted the fragile balance maintained by the native Ritteans. The invaders, with their advanced technology and martial prowess, quickly carved out territories, often clashing violently with the Rittean kingdoms. Despite the harsh conditions of the moons, the Eros-Skorval adapted, exploiting the mineral-rich landscapes to fuel their war machine. They established fortified strongholds, using their superior knowledge of off-world and Pre-Fall technologies to create defensible positions and formidable arsenals. Over time, they forged a society deeply rooted in militarism and conquest, valuing strength and discipline above all else. The presence of the Eros-Skorval introduced a new dynamic to the Tyberian moons. Their relentless expansion and militaristic culture posed a constant threat to the indigenous Rittean kingdoms, leading to an era of continuous conflict and uneasy truces. The interactions between these two groups, one native and the other a lost but aggressive outsider, shaped the political and social landscape of the Tyberian moons for centuries to come.
Through these interactions, both the Ritteans and the Eros-Skorval were forced to evolve. The Ritteans, though resilient, had to develop new strategies and alliances to counter the superior firepower and organization of the Eros-Skorval. Conversely, the Eros-Skorval, initially reliant on their technological superiority, began to adopt and integrate some of the survival techniques and environmental adaptations of the Ritteans, leading to a grudging mutual respect borne out of necessity and shared hardship.
== Solar Calendar ==
Due to the unique orbital dynamics of the Tyberian Moons around the gas giant Tyberous, the Ritteans, over the Millennia of the Long Dark would devise an intricate Solar Calendar to accurately track the passage of time. The standard measurement of time across Tyberian space is the Rittean Standard Day, which spans 38 Standard Hours following a similar system to the Terran Standard. This day is divided into four distinct periods: Day, Night, and two instances of Dämmerung, the transitional phases between Day and Night.
During the Rittean Daylight hours, which last for 6 Standard Hours for much of the year, parts of the moons are illuminated by the unimpeded light of Tellus, as Tyberous does not obstruct the sunlight. Dämmerung occurs twice each day, each instance lasting for 10 hours. These periods are characterized by an ever growing pale light as the moon transitions between Day and Night. The Night hours on Ritter extend for 12 Standard Hours, forming the period known as "True Night," where darkness prevails.
=== Rittean Standard Year ===
A Rittean Standard Year on the Three Dark Brothers consists of 15 months, each with 28 days, amounting to a total of 420 days. The year is divided into five distinct seasons, each with unique characteristics and environmental conditions.
==== Spring Months ====
The three Spring months are Blütenzeit (Blossom Time), Erwachungsmonate (Awakening Months), and Grünschein (Green Glow). These months follow the Long Winter and are marked by the reawakening of hibernating fauna and the return of green hues to the Halophyte Forests. This period signifies a time of renewal and growth, as life begins to stir after the harsh winter months.
==== Clean Months ====
The Clean Months, or Lautreinzeit, consist of two months: Reinigungslicht (Cleansing Light) and Klarheitzeit (Clarity Time). These months occur after the Spring months and align with the apex of the orbits of the sub-moons Elke and Ilse over Ritter. This alignment clears much of Ritter's salinic-chemical fogs, leading to a shift in the Day-Night cycle. During this time, true Days and Nights each last 12 hours, with 3 hours of Dämmerung in between. Production is set to over drive at this time as Fresh Harvest are sown and reaped whilst an interchange between Moons occurs, often with Miners leaving their homes to reach the Verwüsten Moon Colonies whilst others leave the Colonies to return Home.
==== Summer Months ====
The three Summer months are Sonnenhöhe (Sunheight), Wärmezirkel (Warmth Cycle), and Goldentage (Golden Days). Following the Clean Months, the day-night cycle returns to its standard pattern. This period is marked by warmth and abundance, with many animals preparing for the upcoming winter. It is also a time of significant human activity, with most Ritteans being born during this season.
==== Fall Month ====
Fall is represented by a single month, Herbstschleier (Autumn Veil). During this month, the world actively prepares for the long winter ahead. Many animals enter hibernation, and the forests begin their hibernation cycle, with the color draining from the Halophyte trees. The land within the Black-Belts becomes dry as flora attempts to retain moisture, signaling the end of the growing season.
==== Long Winter Months ====
The Long Winter, or Lanvhinter, spans six months: Eiskrone (Ice Crown), Sturmschlaf (Storm Sleep), Dunkelfrost (Dark Frost), Schneeschleier (Snow Veil), Kältetraum (Cold Dream), and Winterende (Winter's End). During this phase, the Dark Brothers are on the dark side of Tyberous, resulting in doubled toxic fogs and plummeting temperatures. The world falls into silence, and survival becomes a daily struggle as the harsh conditions dominate the landscape.
=== Orbital Dynamics ===
Ritter takes 420 Rittean days to complete its orbit around Tyberous. Tyberous itself takes 7 Rittean years to revolve around the Sun of Tellus. This extended orbital period results in long seasons and significant environmental changes throughout the year, shaping the lives and activities of the Ritteans.
== History ==
=== The Long Dark ===
In the annals of history, as with many human-inhabited Death-Worlds, the catastrophic arrival of the Long Dark was destined to wreak utter devastation upon the already severe environmental conditions of the Tyberian moons. These moons, where humanity had struggled from the outset to establish even a modicum of existence since their initial settlement during the zenith of Humanity's expansion, would swiftly degrade the remnants of the original Tyberian Mining Colonies to a societal state reminiscent of a pseudo-feudal era that predates Humanity's grand solar expansion.
Amidst this turmoil, however, the resilient Ritteans who called the Tyberian Moons their home managed to cling to a thread of civilization. Despite the galaxy spiraling into chaos, they preserved tenuous interlunar travel and communication networks. Central to their survival was the meticulous upkeep of the Rift-Net—a sprawling network essential for facilitating communication, trade, and coordination across the moons. The survival of the Rift-Network of the Tellus system during the tumultuous Black-Crash Conflicts remains a mystery to Imperial Historians, a testament perhaps to the Ritteans' resourcefulness and strategic foresight in safeguarding their lifeline amidst the chaos, or possibly simple luck.
In addition to the Rift-Net, the Ritteans employed low-scale world jump-ships, technological marvels that allowed them to navigate the hazardous void between moons. These jump-ships, though fraught with peril and navigational challenges, were crucial for maintaining connections and ensuring the flow of essential resources and knowledge among the fragmented colonies scattered across the Tyberian moons. Thus, against all odds, the Ritteans persevered, adapting to the new reality imposed by the Long Dark and the ensuing collapse of broader galactic civilization. Their ability to maintain interlunar infrastructure and communication channels not only preserved their society but also laid the foundation for their continued survival and eventual resurgence amidst the harsh and unforgiving landscapes of the Dark Brothers.
==== The Children of Ritter ====
In the aftermath of the cataclysmic Long Dark, the survival of the Ritteans depended entirely on their ability to adapt and innovate within the confines of their isolated lunar domains. Amidst the ruins of their once-thriving civilization, the Ritteans found salvation in their Rift-Net and world jump-ships, lifelines that became indispensable for trade in essential resources, knowledge, and technology among the Tyberian moons. These networks not only sustained their fragile societies but also nurtured a sense of interconnectedness and cultural exchange across the Valleys of Ritter, amidst the chaos and isolation that gripped the broader galaxy.
As centuries turned into millennia, the once-unified mining population that had been pivotal in fueling Humanity's expansive empire gradually fragmented into distinct social and cultural groups. Chief among them were the Ritteans themselves, descendants of the original settlers who had long been marooned upon Ritter—the moon that bore them their name—since the earliest days of humanity's interstellar colonization. Enduring the harsh rigors of their moon's environment, the Ritteans underwent profound cultural and physiological adaptations. They established villages that evolved over time into densely populated kingdoms within the fertile expanses of the Black-Belt, the most hospitable region of their moon. 
Through millennia of resilience, adaptation, and steady growth, the Ritteans cultivated a society uniquely suited to the challenges of their lunar home. With each generation, they honed their skills in agriculture, craftsmanship, and governance, forging a cohesive identity that transcended the harshness of their surroundings. As their kingdoms flourished within the protective embrace of the Black-Belt's fertile lands, the Ritteans began to look beyond their moon. Driven by a spirit of exploration and the need to expand their domains, the Ritteans set their sights on the other two moons of the Tyberian Triad—Edler and Freiherr, collectively known as the Dark Brothers. Millennia of isolation had tempered their resolve and prepared them for the challenges that awaited beyond Ritter's borders. With their Rift-Net intact and their knowledge of world jump-ship navigation well-honed, the Ritteans embarked on daring expeditions to explore and colonize the uncharted realms of their celestial neighbors.
As the intrepid Rittean explorers ventured forth onto the twin moons of Edler and Freiherr, they were immediately struck by the uncanny similarities these worlds bore to their own beloved home of Ritter. Despite being part of the Triad known as the Dark Brothers, each of these Elder Moons exhibited distinct characteristics that mirrored, almost unnaturally, the environment and challenges faced by the Ritteans on Ritter itself.
Both Edler and Freiherr were spined by ancient mountain ranges that carved jagged paths across their surfaces, reminiscent of the rugged terrain that defined Ritter. These mountains not only added to the moons' formidable topography but also acted as natural barriers and shelters for the diverse ecosystems that thrived within their shadow. Wrapped around the equators of both moons lay a Black-Belt—a dense collection of lush ecological zones teeming with life adapted to the harsh lunar environments. Here, halophyte forests intertwined with hardy flora, creating verdant landscapes that supported a variety of fauna uniquely suited to the challenges of their respective moons. As the Rittean explorers delved deeper into the rugged terrain and ventured into the heart of the halophyte forests on Edler and Freiherr, they stumbled upon intriguing remnants of failed settlements and ancient archeotech left behind by previous inhabitants. These artifacts bore witness to the ambitious endeavors of those who had once sought to establish their own foothold in these unforgiving realms.
However, what left the deepest impression on the Ritteans were the remains of the fallen civilizations they discovered—the Edlerians and the Freiherrians. Collectively known in Rittean lore as the Children of Edler and Freiherr, these ancient peoples were regarded as the Ritteans' failed cousins. Their existence having bore silent testimony to the harsh realities and formidable obstacles encountered on the Dark Brothers in the aftermath of the Great Darkness. For when the Great Darkness descended, each group had sought refuge within the Hearth of the Brothers, each given a chance to thrive and carve out a future amidst the moons' challenging environments. The Edlerians and Freiherrians, despite their initial efforts, seemed to have ultimately succumbed to the relentless adversities of their worlds. Their skeletal remains and abandoned settlements stood as somber reminders of the moons' unforgiving nature. These remnants evoked a profound sense of kinship and melancholy among the Ritteans, who saw in them the potential futures they themselves had narrowly avoided.
The Ritteans, known as the children of the Pale Knight and the youngest of the fraternal Triad, had endured where their cousins had not. This distinction imbued them with a sense of pride and a deeper understanding of their own resilience. They recognized that their survival was not merely a product of chance but of relentless determination, adaptation, and the ability to innovate in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
The ruins of the Edlerians and Freiherrians would become sacred sites, places of both reverence and cautionary tales. The Ritteans meticulously studied the archeotech and relics left behind, gleaning valuable lessons from their ancestors' failures and triumphs. These artifacts offered insights into lost technologies and forgotten methods of survival, which the Ritteans integrated into their own practices, fortifying their ability to thrive on the moons. This connection to their fallen cousins deepened the Ritteans' resolve to honor the legacy of the Children of Edler and Freiherr. They saw themselves as the torchbearers of a lineage that had been tested by the harshest of trials and emerged stronger. The shared history and the stark reminders of mortality embedded in the ruins strengthened the communal bonds among the Ritteans, fostering a culture of remembrance and respect for the past.
The discovery of the Edlerians and Freiherrians served as a poignant reminder to the Ritteans of the fragility of life and the resilience required to survive in such inhospitable lands. It reinforced their own sense of identity and purpose, reaffirming their belief in their chosen path and the values that had guided them through centuries of adversity. As they explored further and established new outposts on Edler and Freiherr, the Ritteans carried with them the legacy of their fallen cousins, honoring their memory while forging ahead with determination to secure their place among the stars.
=== Era of Tyber Urteil ===
In the Era of the Tyber Urteil, centuries after the initial colonization of Edler and Freiherr, the Ritteans had established burgeoning Kingdoms and nation-states on these moons. This era was marked by the expansion of the Rift-Net, which now encompassed nearly the entirety of Local Tyberian Space. This technological advancement facilitated unprecedented communication and trade, allowing the Ritteans to consolidate their power and extend their influence. With their newfound stability and interconnectedness, the Ritteans turned their gaze towards the desolate vacancies of the Verwüsten Moons—Heinrus, Görin, Ohrma, and Alther. Each of these moons, though hostile and barren, was ripe with dense mineral deposits. The potential for resource extraction presented a tantalizing opportunity for the Ritteans, whose industrial ambitions had been constrained by the limited resources of their home moons.
The Verwüsten Moons, named Heinrus, Görin, Ohrma, and Alther, were infamous for their uninhabitable environments. Unlike the Dark Brothers, which at least had their fertile Black-Belts, these moons were characterized by their harsh, lifeless landscapes. The atmosphere on each moon was laden with toxic saline chemicals, a byproduct of their much closer proximities to the brine-poisoned gas titan Tyberous. These moons were shrouded in thick, miasmic fogs, and their surfaces were marked by vast expanses of desolation. Yet, beneath this inhospitable exterior lay a wealth of mineral riches, drawing the attention of the Ritteans who saw in these moons the potential to fuel further expansion and technological advancement. The initial expeditions to the Verwüsten Moons were fraught with peril. Despite the presence of desolate satellite colonies that had persisted through the millennia, much of their inner workings were in a deep state of disrepair. It became evident that years of continuous repair and upkeep were required to bring these stations to a state fit for proper Rittean habitation.
However, the Ritteans, ever industrious, persevered. They embarked on extensive restoration projects, meticulously repairing and upgrading the infrastructure of the satellite colonies. This herculean effort eventually paid off as the Satellite Shoal Stations began operating efficiently, allowing a steady stream of miners to be brought in to work.
With these launching points secured, the Ritteans set their sights on developing new technologies and methods to withstand the extreme conditions of the Verwüsten Moons. They designed specialized personal mining suits capable of protecting the miners from the toxic saline atmosphere and the harsh environmental conditions. These suits were equipped with advanced filtration systems, reinforced exoskeletons, and life-support systems to ensure the miners' safety and efficiency. 
In addition to personal protective equipment, the Ritteans engineered hefty labor machines to aid in the extraction of minerals. These machines were designed to endure the brutal conditions of the moons, featuring robust construction, adaptive mechanics, and automated functions to minimize human exposure to hazardous environments. The development of these labor machines marked a significant advancement in the Ritteans' ability to extract resources efficiently and safely.
To support the miners during their long shifts, the Ritteans established terrestrial habitat zones. These habitats were fortified against the toxic environments, equipped with air purification systems, climate control, and sustainable living arrangements. These zones provided the miners with safe havens where they could rest, eat, and attend to their needs before returning to their arduous work.
As the mining operations expanded, so did the need for logistical and operational support. The Ritteans developed an intricate network of supply chains, transportation systems, and communication channels to ensure the seamless flow of resources between the moons and the more hospitable areas of Edler, Freiherr, and Ritter. This network was critical in maintaining the efficiency and productivity of the mining colonies, ensuring that the extracted minerals reached the industrial centers where they were most needed.
Despite the challenges, the Ritteans' efforts on the Verwüsten Moons began to pay off. The mineral wealth extracted from these desolate landscapes fueled a new era of prosperity and growth. The Kingdoms and nation-states that had formed on Edler and Freiherr saw an influx of resources that bolstered their economies and technological capabilities. The Ritteans' expansion into the Verwüsten Moons was not without its costs, however. The harsh conditions and dangerous work led to numerous casualties. Yet, the resilience and ingenuity of the Ritteans prevailed. They established permanent mining colonies with a routinely replaced staff of Miners and General laborers, complete with advanced infrastructure to support their workers and protect them from the toxic atmospheres of the Verwüsten Moons.
This period of expansion solidified the Ritteans' dominance in Local Tyberian Space. The wealth generated from the Verwüsten Moons enabled them to maintain and expand the Rift-Net, further integrating the various moons into a cohesive economic and political entity whilst also raising and subsequently solidifying standards of living. The once fragmented and isolated lunar domains were now part of a thriving interlunar civilization, united by their shared heritage and the common goal of survival and progress.
==== Coming of The Skorval ====
The Eros Skorval, or simply the Skorval, are a formidable group comprised entirely of non-native human warbands, descendants of a lost colonist faction that found themselves within Tyberian space during the later millennia of the Long Dark. These invaders, initially stranded aboard their massive Colonial Galleon, known to historians as the Kürzung, drifted aimlessly through the orbit of Tyberous for what is thought to have been decades, though no historians know for just how long. Regardless, the crew, plagued by dwindling resources and isolation from their aimless travel through the void, struggled to maintain their vessel and their sanity in the desolate expanses of space.
Eventually, a breakthrough occurred for them when an errant Rittean jump-ship, thought to have been traveling from a Verwüsten mining site back to one of the moons of the Triad, made contact with the drifting galleon. The encounter was fortuitous for the beleaguered colonists, providing them with the greatly needed means to repair much of their ship after the jump-ship, along with its mining loads, were rendered down for necessary material. With this newfound opportunity, the invaders seized the moment and brutally killed the miners aboard the jump-ship, marking the beginning of their aggressive tactics.
Having obtained the necessary resources and knowledge, the Skorval were now able to establish a tenuous foothold within the Tyberian World System. They began to consolidate what few forces they had in stock within cryo-bays along with those kept within the armories of the galleon. This marked the transformation of the Eros-Skorval from a group of aimless wanderers into a structured militant hegemon.
Their initial interactions with the Ritteans were marked by a series of skirmishes and raids. The Skorval, heavily armed and driven by a desperate need to secure resources, launched a campaign of intimidation and subjugation across the moons. Utilizing their superior weaponry and military tactics honed during their years of isolation and hardship, they began to pressure the native Rittean settlements.
Despite their initial success, the Skorval soon realized that conquering the Tyberian moons would not be as simple as they had hoped. The Ritteans, though less technologically advanced, were fiercely resilient and deeply rooted in their harsh environments. They mounted a tenacious defense, leveraging their intimate knowledge of the terrain and their unparalleled ability to adapt to the toxic and unforgiving conditions of their moons.
As the conflict dragged on, the Skorval adopted a more strategic approach. They focused on securing key resources and establishing fortified outposts, gradually extending their influence across the moons. Eventually they would establish fortified strongholds, using their superior knowledge of off-world and Pre-Fall technologies to create defensible positions and formidable arsenals. Over time, they forged a society deeply rooted in militarism and conquest, valuing strength and discipline above all else. And through a combination of brute force and cunning diplomacy, forged temporary alliances with some Rittean factions while ruthlessly crushing others.
Over time, the Skorval began to assimilate aspects of Rittean culture, adopting local customs and practices to better integrate into the Tyberian society. This blending of cultures led to the emergence of a new, hybrid identity among the Skorval, who retained their martial prowess while embracing the resilience and adaptability of the Ritteans.
Despite their initial enmity, the relationship between the Skorval and the Ritteans evolved into a complex web of rivalry, cooperation, and mutual dependence. The Skorval's presence brought both turmoil and technological advancement to the Tyberian moons, reshaping the socio-political landscape in profound ways.
As the centuries passed, the Skorval solidified their place within the Tyberian World System. Their initial invasion had transformed into a prolonged occupation, marked by periods of intense conflict interspersed with fragile truces. The Skorval's relentless drive for dominance and survival ensured that they remained a formidable force within the region, their legacy intertwined with the fate of the Rittean people and the harsh, unforgiving moons they both now called home.
=== The Black Torment - Die Folter der Dunkelheit ===
The onset of the Black Torment remains a profound enigma to historians, a notable anomaly considering the Ritteans' well-documented history of meticulous record-keeping. Throughout their history, the Ritteans have consistently maintained detailed accounts of their experiences and struggles, even during periods of strife that many other civilizations would deem biblically apocalyptic. Yet, for the years preceding the Era known only as the "Black Torment," the records and histories are conspicuously vacant. This period, shrouded in mystery, has left only scant pieces of myth and conjecture to hint at what transpired.
Historians and scholars have long pondered the cause of this historical void. Some speculate that a cataclysmic event may have wiped out not just the records, but entire populations, leaving few survivors to tell the tale. Others suggest that the event may have been so traumatic and destabilizing that the societal structures responsible for record-keeping simply collapsed under the strain, unable to preserve the memory of what happened.
What is known is that during the period following the Black Torment, Tyberian space experienced a span of relative peace between the Ritteans and the remnants of the Skorval. The initial intruder population, once a formidable and distinct group, had gradually been diluted throughout the Rittean populations scattered across the Titan’s lunar system. The remnants of the Skorval, now a minority, had assimilated into Rittean society, contributing to a more diverse cultural and genetic landscape.
However, an increasingly smaller group of self-described Skorval Supremacists, who began to call themselves the Kargahl—a Skorvalic word meaning "The Pure"—chose to segregate themselves. These Kargahl established their own satellite-station colony-cities, far removed from the centers of Rittean civilization on the edges of the Tyberian orbit. Their goal was to retain what they perceived as a pure strain of humanity, which they believed to be superior to the now culturally and biologically intermixed Ritteans.
Despite this segregation, many Skorval individuals chose to integrate into Rittean society. This cultural and genetic intermixing had a notable impact on the Rittean population. The infusion of Skorval knowledge and practices, along with their unique perspectives, bolstered the Ritteans, enriching their culture and contributing to their adaptive resilience. Over time, the distinctions between the Ritteans and those Skorval who chose to intermix blurred, with the former assimilating the latter's contributions into their own way of life.
During this era of peace and gradual integration, the Ritteans continued their routines, marked by their characteristic resilience and industriousness. They engaged in their traditional practices, whether farming the harsh lands, mining the mineral-rich moons, or maintaining the crucial Rift-Net and world jump-ships that connected their scattered communities. This period saw a slow but steady pace of technological growth, as the Ritteans, bolstered by the remnants of Skorval expertise, innovated and adapted to their challenging environment.
The era of peace among the Ritteans came crashing to a disastrous halt when death rained from the skies in sudden salvos that caught the nations of the Triad moons completely off guard. The initial bombardments were devastating, wreaking havoc before the Rittean Surface-to-Air cannons could be fully mobilized to defend their territories. The damage mounted swiftly, with entire regions plunged into chaos and destruction. As the shock began to wear off and the defense lines were hastily assembled, the Rittean lords and leaders convened in an urgent effort to ascertain the origin of this unprovoked assault. Their minds raced with questions and their hearts with a blend of fear and resolve. The once-peaceful valleys and moors of Ritter, Edler, and Freiherr now echoed with the sounds of battle and destruction, a stark contrast to the tranquil existence they had enjoyed for so long.
In the command centers and fortified keeps, Rittean strategists and tacticians pored over data and reports, trying to piece together the puzzle of their attackers. Communications networks buzzed with frantic activity as scouts and spies were dispatched to gather intelligence. As the situation evolved, it became clear that the attacks were not random but highly coordinated, suggesting a formidable and organized enemy. Theories and rumors spread like wildfire. Some speculated that the long-dormant Kargahl, with their dreams of purity and supremacy, had launched a final, desperate bid for dominance. Others feared a new, unknown adversary had entered Tyberian Space, bringing with them technology and weaponry far beyond what the Ritteans had ever faced.
In the midst of the turmoil, the Rittean leaders realized that unity and swift action were paramount. Old rivalries and territorial disputes were set aside as a collective defense strategy began to take shape. The lords of the Black-Belt kingdoms rallied their forces, mobilizing every able-bodied person to defend their homes and way of life. 
Vox-calls echoed through the Tyberian system, a cacophony of urgent transmissions seeking answers amidst the chaos. Desperation and determination fueled the Rittean leaders as they scrambled to identify the source of the onslaught. Eventually, the colonies of the Kargahl were hailed for interrogation, their isolation and prior hostility marking them as prime suspects in the unfolding disaster.
The initial responses from the Kargahl colonies were met with silence, further heightening the Ritteans' suspicion and anxiety. When Rittean soldiers were finally dispatched to search through these segregated remnants, what they uncovered was a scene from a nightmare. The once-human inhabitants had been twisted into monstrous effigies of mortal life. These beasts, wrought from false muscle that clung grotesquely to unnaturally stretched skeletal remains, were a horrifying testament to the corruption that had taken root.
It was unclear whether the source of this corruption was daemonic or xenos in nature, but the result was undeniable. The Rittean warband, initially confident in their mission, found themselves overwhelmed by the abominations that had once been the Kargahl. The soldiers fought valiantly, but they were ultimately slaughtered by the monstrous horde. The true horror of the situation revealed itself when the Kargahl's armada, now as twisted and corrupted as their masters, was unleashed upon the Tyberian moons. Ships that once bore the sleek lines of human engineering were now grotesque parodies, bristling with malign energy and dark intent. The Kargahl, driven by a malevolent force, sought to lay waste to the Ritteans and their hard-won civilizations.
Panic and chaos reigned as the corrupted armada began its assault. The once-peaceful skies of the Tyberian moons were filled with the ominous silhouettes of twisted ships, descending like a plague upon the Rittean territories. The Rittean defenses, already strained by the initial attacks, now faced an even greater threat.
The Kargahl, with their monstrous effigies and corrupted armada, unleashed armies of ghastly necro-automata upon the Rittean soldiery. These grotesque creations defied the natural order, abominations forged from corpses risen from the dead, twisted and animated to spew death upon the mortal plane. These necro-automata were not mere zombies but horrific amalgamations of flesh and machinery, designed to inflict maximum terror and destruction.
Leading these abominable legions were towering figures, charged with unlife and exuding an aura of malevolent power. These leaders, referred to by the Ritteans as the Kargahl Phiperions, reveled in their unholy purpose. Each one was a twisted Pied Piper, screeching ghastly laughs that echoed through the battlefields as they tore into the defense lines with relentless ferocity. Their voices, filled with a mix of mockery and malice, resonated like a death knell for the defenders.
As these ghastly figures advanced, they were followed by their twisted revelries—armies of the dead and the damned. The necro-automata moved with a horrifying grace, their movements both unnatural and eerily coordinated. And with each Rittean murdered in the defense of their homes, the Kargahl Phiperions would emit their screeching laughs, and the fallen Ritteans were brought back to unlife. They were reanimated, twisted into new abominations, and turned against their former comrades and loved ones.
The battlefield became a nightmarish scene of relentless horror and despair. Rittean soldiers, fighting valiantly to protect their homes and families, faced the grim reality of their slain comrades rising against them. The psychological toll was immense, as they were forced to confront not only the loss of their fellow soldiers but also the grotesque spectacle of those same soldiers becoming part of the Kargahl's undead horde.
Amidst the chaos and carnage, the Rittean leaders rallied their forces, urging them to hold the line against the encroaching darkness. Kings themselves entered the battlefields, leading their Praetorian Guards to redouble the defense lines. They drew upon every resource, every scrap of courage and resolve, to stand against the tide of corruption. The Rittean defenses, though battered and strained, fought with a desperate tenacity born of the knowledge that their very existence was at stake.
But from there, the Ritteans, faced with this horrifying onslaught, found themselves locked in a desperate struggle for survival once more. The initial Kargahl strike evolved into an entrenched siege, transforming battles into drawn-out wars of attrition. Kingdoms became fortified strongholds, and armies became garrisons. As the initial years of conflict dragged into decades and then centuries, the Kargahl became an enduring aspect of Rittean life.
In the face of this relentless challenge, the resilience and ingenuity that had defined the Ritteans throughout their tumultuous history were put to the ultimate test. They adapted to meet the Kargahl attacks with matching fervor, developing new strategies and technologies to counter the ever-present threat. The Ritteans continued their routines as they always had, integrating their wartime efforts into their daily lives.
Villages fortified their perimeters, and every able-bodied citizen received basic combat training. The Rittean society evolved into a militaristic culture, where every individual played a role in the collective defense. Farmers and craftsmen became part-time soldiers, and even children were taught the skills necessary to survive and contribute to the war effort.
The Rittean ingenuity shone through in their development of advanced defenses and weaponry. They engineered fortified walls with automated turrets, constructed underground bunkers, and created specialized units trained to combat the necro-automata. The Rift-Net was adapted for rapid communication and coordination across the moons, allowing for swift mobilization of forces in response to Kargahl incursions.
Despite the constant threat, life continued. The Ritteans celebrated their festivals, upheld their traditions, and found moments of joy amidst the turmoil. They forged ahead with the same determination that had seen them through countless trials before. The Kargahl, once a terrifying unknown, became a familiar enemy, one that the Ritteans learned to anticipate and counter.
The Ritteans' ability to adapt and persevere ensured their survival. They turned their moons into bastions of resilience, where every community was a fortress and every citizen a warrior. The Kargahl, despite their horrific nature, became a catalyst for unity and strength among the Ritteans.
As centuries passed, the Ritteans developed a hardened but hopeful spirit. Their chronicles were filled with tales of bravery and sacrifice, of heroes who stood against the darkness and of communities that thrived despite the odds. The legacy of the Ritteans became one of unyielding resistance and unwavering determination, a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.
===Youth of the Luminarch - Coming of The Pale Rider===
Long ago, amidst a mysterious cosmic event scattering the Luminarchs of the Imperial Legions across the galaxy, one was born on Ritter, the largest moon of Tyberous. Named Selwyn, his early life remains shrouded in debate, whether born into his matriarchal family or adopted later. Raised within the Garrauw Kingdom's Eastern Territories, Selwyn was the youngest son among eight daughters. His parents, Ignata and Zoculen Jaeger, imparted diverse knowledge: Ignata nurtured agricultural wisdom while Zoculen, a blacksmith and scholar, shared ancient crafts and military strategies.
From a young age, Selwyn's intellect and growth surpassed norms. By 8 Terran years, he toiled alongside adults, mastering Rittean farming with unparalleled innovation, enhancing productivity dramatically. By 16, towering and fully grown, Selwyn's agricultural mastery earned him the title "Drotti," recognized for transforming agri-craft and metalwork, heralded by the Garrauw King.
Driven by insatiable curiosity, Selwyn blended practical farming with mystical insights, pioneering inventive solutions and strategic military plans. His renown grew, making him pivotal in Garrauw's defense against Kargahl incursions. Under his leadership, the kingdom thrived with fortified walls, enhanced irrigation, and inclusive policies welcoming refugees fleeing Kargahl horrors.
Selwyn's realm expanded beyond borders, fostering unity through communal projects and alliances with neighboring kingdoms. His diplomatic acumen bolstered regional resistance against the necro-automata hordes, forming a resilient front against relentless assaults. As settlements flourished under his guidance, Selwyn's legacy as a unifier, innovator, and defender endured, symbolizing Rittean resilience and the triumph of knowledge over darkness.
===The Garrauw Tragedy===
As Selwyn and his trusted retinue embarked on their missions to uplift neighboring settlements, bringing sustenance and knowledge, a dark threat loomed over the Garrauw Kingdom. Unbeknownst to them, deep within a nearby mountain, a malevolent force stirred. A Kargahl Phiperion, known to History only as the Kalox King, sensing the concentration of souls and life essence in Garrauw due to its growth and prosperity, prepared a sinister retaliation.
While Selwyn was away on one of his humanitarian expeditions, the Phiperion's forces lurked within the deadly mists that shrouded the mountainous region. These necrotic entities, twisted by dark sorcery and driven by hatred, plotted to unleash havoc upon the now under defended Garrauw Kingdom. Their malevolent plans were fueled by a desire to extinguish the burgeoning beacon of hope and prosperity that Selwyn had painstakingly cultivated. As the Phiperion's forces massed and prepared to strike, the unsuspecting residents of Garrauw continued their daily routines, unaware of the impending threat. The kingdom, left temporarily vulnerable without Selwyn's vigilant leadership, faced a dire test of its defenses and the resilience of its people.
The onslaught that befell the Garrauw Kingdom was devastating beyond measure. Despite the presence of heavily armored guards stationed on the settlement's walls—men who had been trained by Selwyn himself in the art of defense, led by battle-hardened veterans—the vile hordes of the Kalox King pressed on relentlessly. These undead masses, grotesquely bound together with metallic sinews, surged forward with an unyielding determination. The defenders of Garrauw fought valiantly, their weapons swinging with precision honed through years of training and combat experience. They clashed fiercely against the necro-automata and their twisted leaders, striving to protect their homes and loved ones from the encroaching darkness. Yet, for every fallen enemy that they managed to bring down, more seemed to rise from the ranks of the dead, animated by the dark magic of the Phiperion.
Amidst the chaos of battle, the cries of the wounded mingled with the clang of swords and the roars of the undead. The once-peaceful settlement echoed with the sounds of destruction and despair as the defenders struggled to hold their ground against overwhelming odds. The walls, once a symbol of security and protection, now bore the brunt of relentless assaults, their stout defenses tested to their limits.
Amidst the uncountable horde assaulting Garrauw, the Kargahl were bolstered by a grim addition: Living-Rittean soldiers corrupted into thrall-bound servants and known as Vion Kralls. These once-proud Ritteans, ensnared by promises of strength in their moments of despair, now fought clad in otherworldly armor empowered by sinister forces, relentlessly beat against the gates of Garrauw with devilishly fueled artillery salvos. Their corrupted forms and twisted resolve made them formidable adversaries, driving forward despite the defenders' fierce resistance.
Within the besieged settlement, valiant men and women fought with all their might against the onslaught. Trained by Selwyn himself, these defenders wielded their weapons with skill and determination, striving to repel the enemy from breaching their walls. They hacked and slashed at the desecrated flesh and bone of the Kargahl, their efforts bolstered by the relentless fire from wall turrets raining down death upon the encroaching horde.
Yet, the horror of the battle escalated with each fallen enemy. In a flash of psionic green light, fallen Kargahl were resurrected, returning to the fray with renewed vigor. This unholy resurrection defied the defenders' efforts to gain ground, turning the battlefield into a relentless cycle of death and rebirth. Despite their bravery and tenacity, the defenders faced overwhelming odds as the siege wore on, their stamina and resolve stretched to the breaking point.
The once-peaceful settlement of Garrauw now echoed with the cacophony of war, the clash of weapons, and the anguished cries of the wounded. The defenders fought not only for their lives but for the survival of their kingdom, standing firm against an enemy that seemed unstoppable. As the battle raged on, hope flickered like a dying flame, yet they persisted, driven by loyalty to their homeland and the memory of Selwyn's leadership.
In the heart of the chaos, amidst the swirling mist and relentless carnage, the fate of Garrauw teetered on the brink. The defenders knew that their struggle was not just against flesh and blood but against dark forces that sought to consume their world. Whether they could withstand the relentless assault and turn the tide of battle remained uncertain, yet they fought on with unwavering determination, their spirits unbroken even in the face of overwhelming darkness.
Under the relentless siege, the defenders of Garrauw began to falter, their resistance weakening with each passing moment. The final blow came with horrifying clarity—the appearance of the Phiperion itself, the Kalox King. Gaunt and malevolent, the Phiperion emerged amidst the swirling poison mists like a specter of doom, its presence casting a pall over the besieged kingdom.
With psychic flames and an ever-shifting scythe, the Phiperion wrought devastation upon the land and its defenders. Its dreadful weapon tore through the armored forms of the valiant warriors, the silver-white metal of the Armament darkening with heart's blood as the warrior's fell one by one. Heroes left martyred in defense of their people, their sacrifices marked by the relentless advance of the Kalox King. Driven by dark purpose, the Phiperion targeted the kingdom's defensive bunkers where civilians sought refuge. And with each strike of its ever-changing blade against the bulkhead, reinforced metal was rent asunder, the structures groaning under the assault. The chilling laughter of the Phiperion echoed through the settlement, a cruel symphony amid the chaos and despair. Despite the defenders' efforts, the last bastion of resistance crumbled before the relentless onslaught.
Screams mingled with the laughter of monsters as the bunker's interior was met with vile void-fire, the Phiperion burning its prey to cinders. Only when the final screams were silenced by the ashes did it depart, moving on to the second bunker to repeat its cruel operation. Like a twisted surgeon, it tore into the steel walls, its scythe shrieking with each strike, until it discovered its terrified prize. And in another cruel blast of void-fire, these screams would have been silenced once more, had not for the fact that, In a flash, the Phiperion's form disappeared from the sight of the harrowed eyes.
Fate's cruel dagger seemed to have smiled upon the men and women of the Garrauw Kingdom. As the Drottinn and his retinue had barely been a few miles from Garrauw territories when they turned back due to a miscalculation in their supplies. According to historical Rittean remembrances, once they were close enough to the settlement, about ten miles away, Selwyn ordered silence from all who followed him. They complied, and the Drottinn stood there, transfixed in an almost daze-like state as he looked to the sky. Only when his most trusted confidant, Khoron Zurroathe, questioned his actions did he react.
In a show of speed impossible for mortal warriors and even those of the Imperial Legions to replicate, Selwyn charged back to his home. The journey was a blur of relentless pace and urgent determination, driven by a gut-wrenching fear of what he might find upon his return. The air thickened with a sense of dread as they approached, the acrid stench of burning flesh and the echoes of fading screams spurring him onward.
Upon reaching the outskirts of the Garrauw settlement, the sight that met Selwyn's eyes was a scene of utter devastation. The once-thriving community lay in ruins, the walls breached, and the ground scorched. The vile horde of the Kargahl was in full force, shambling drones following the warriors of the Vion Kralls as they battled the Rittean defense guard. Selwyn's heart pounded with a mix of rage and sorrow as he surveyed the battlescape, the echoes of void-fire and the laughter of monsters still lingering in the air.
Fueled by wrath, Selwyn tore through the horde with a fervor never before seen by his people. His sword sliced into the monstrous forms, its steel edge blackened by the burning blood of his enemies. He fought his way to the Phiperion itself, reaching the fiendish creature just as it prepared to immolate the terrified survivors of the second bunker. With unmatched fury, Selwyn engaged the beast, his every strike a testament to his resolve and strength. As Selwyn battled the Phiperion, his retinue of two hundred of his greatest warriors arrived, having followed their lord back to the settlement. They tore into their hated enemies, protecting the surviving civilians and providing much-needed relief to the haggard defenders. Their valor and the sight of their lord fighting with such ferocity emboldened the spirits of the remaining warriors. Cries of Selwyn's name and praises of honor filled the air, renewing the resolve of those still in the fight.
The Phiperion, a gaunt, spindly, many-limbed entity cloaked in tattered black robes, wielded its ever-shifting scythe with deadly precision. Psychic flames erupted from the creature, sundering the lands of the Garrauw Kingdom. Selwyn matched the creature blow for blow, his strategic mind and warrior's instincts guiding him. The battle raged, each strike a clash of titanic wills. The air crackled with energy as Selwyn's blade, now blackened and bloodstained, cut through the Phiperion's defenses.
Selwyn's wrath knew no bounds as he moved with lightning speed, each blade-stroke a testament to his agility and strength, defying his immense size. Void fire blazed from his eyes, casting an otherworldly glow as he clashed relentlessly with the monstrous sorcerer, the Phiperion. Their battle tore through the Garrauw Kingdom, Selwyn's strikes punctuated only by brief pauses to direct his warriors to evacuate their people to safety.
The Phiperion, undeterred by Selwyn's fury, matched him blow for blow. Their duel ranged across the kingdom, the sorcerer's taunting laughter echoing through the streets and valleys alike. And in a devastating moment, the Phiperion's mighty scythe struck Selwyn with tremendous force, hurling him into a sturdy building. The impact shattered stone and mortar as Selwyn's armored form crashed through the walls, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.
With a mocking shriek, the Phiperion unleashed its dark power once more, conjuring a funnel of terrible void fire that engulfed the building and its surroundings in a blaze of eldritch flames. The unnatural inferno spread rapidly, consuming wood, steel, and stone alike. Soon, much of the kingdom's streets were ablaze, the intense heat scorching everything in its path.
Amidst the chaos, Selwyn emerged from the burning wreckage, his left side grievously wounded by the searing void fire. The pain was intense, marking him with a lasting scar that would endure for centuries to come. Despite his injuries, Selwyn's resolve remained unbroken. With grim determination, he continued to lead his warriors, rallying them to press on against the relentless onslaught of the Kargahl.
The Pale Prince arose once more, bleeding and scorched but standing, his resolve unwavering. He readied his sword for another bout, the growing flames casting an eerie light on the battlefield. And despite his impaired vision, the blurred sight of the fiend's grinning maw filled him with an ever-renewable hatred. Through the city streets, homes, buildings, and storefronts, the demigod clashed with the vile beast. Selwyn's strikes tore into the Phiperion's cloaked form, the bite of artificed Rittean steel making the necromechanical creature bleed black, bile-like blood.
The battle raged on, each blow and parry echoing through the burning city. With unrelenting ferocity, Selwyn fought, his determination fueling each strike. Yet, the thrice-damned beast managed to throw him through another building, and as Selwyn crashed through the debris, he finally heard it. Amidst the roaring flames of the burning structure, his gene-enhanced ears picked up the faint cries of a child. Selwyn turned to see a crib, the hellish flames inching closer, ready to consume the innocent infant. The Phiperion saw it too, and with a cruel smile, the monstrosity moved with glaring speed towards the crib, its scythe raised, ready to bring down upon the child.
The sight of the impending doom galvanized Selwyn. And in a burst of desperate energy, he launched himself at the Phiperion, moving his body into the arc of the descending scythe. The blade pierced through his chest, lacerating and burning, its psionic edge searing his Demigod flesh. Pain surged through him, but the Drottinn saw his chance. Exploiting the now lessened range of his enemy, Selwyn launched his sword deep into the Phiperion's chest. The beast's pained screech confirmed that he struck true.
With a mighty effort, Selwyn pulled his blade upward in a killing arc, freeing the foul creature's head from its shoulders in a crackling execution. The Phiperion's body crumbled, the fell magics that had sustained its life expelled in its death. As its head hit the ground, the light in its eyes faded, and the sinister laughter echoing through the streets ceased.
The death of their Phiperion left the scrambling horde without a synaptic leader to revive the fallen. Panic spread among the Kargahl forces, their once-cohesive assault now a chaotic retreat. The surviving warriors of the Garrauw Kingdom, emboldened by Selwyn's victory, rallied and struck back with renewed vigor. The undead mass, now disorganized and leaderless, was routed by the defenders, who cut through the shambling drones and living thrall-bound with righteous fury.
As dawn broke over the smoldering remnants of the settlement, a new sense of hope began to take root. These valiant survivors, in their victory cries, witnessed their Lord emerge from the dying empyrean flames of the immolated city, the ruined structures collapsing behind him. In one hand, he held the looted scythe of the Phiperion, its sinister form a testament to his victory, and in the other, he cradled the infant he had saved. Selwyn's chest was split wide open, ruined and bleeding, the severity of his wounds evident in every agonizing step he took.
As he approached his warriors, his strength began to wane. He buckled, the pain overwhelming him, and had to use the ever-shifting armament of his enemy to catch himself. His wounds, normally quick to heal, had not closed as they should have, a grim reminder of the battle's intensity. But despite the agony, Selwyn knelt triumphant before his people.
===The Archo Lazarean===
Selwyn was determined to have died by his people, along with the child he tried to save. In a mournful Rittean burial procession, they laid their Lord and their dead to rest within a tomb in the heart of the Kingdom. And for six days and nights, the survivors wept for the passing of their Lord as they tried to rebuild their shattered home.
On the seventh day, a terrible storm reached their settlement. For another six days and nights, the storm raged, relentless and unforgiving, as if the heavens themselves mourned the fallen Drottinn.
On the final, fourteenth day, as the storm finally dissipated and the sun rose, a miraculous sight met the eyes of the grieving people. Selwyn stood there, the burial wrappings of his entombment wreathed upon his barren and scarred body, flowing aimlessly in the poisoned winds of Ritter. Under the tattered wrappings, his perfect form was seen by all. Despite the newly acquired scars of the conflict, Selwyn stood renewed and invigorated. His skin was without blight, and his pale eyes were pools of placid gray. In his hand, he held the metamorphic blade that had taken his life, and cradled in his other arm was the orphan child he had saved during the Phiperion's siege.
The sight of their Lord, returned from the throws of death, filled the people of the Garrauw Kingdom with awe and reverence. They saw in Selwyn's resurrection a divine sign, a testament to his indomitable spirit and the favor of the very gods. His presence, both ethereal and commanding, brought a renewed sense of hope and purpose to the survivors.
With Selwyn's return, the rebuilding efforts took on a new fervor. The people, inspired by their resurrected leader, worked tirelessly to restore their homes and fortify their defenses. Selwyn himself, now more than ever a symbol of resilience and strength, led them with unwavering determination.
Selwyn stood shimmering in the pale light of the Rittean dawn, a sentinel over the cooing infant girl in his hand. For hours, he stood there, acknowledging those few who passed him, until the child finally fell asleep in his arms. Only then did he move, embarking toward the largest building in the settlement. In the fourteen days of Selwyn's death, it had been transformed into a makeshift hospital where the few surviving wounded were housed.
Upon entering the makeshift hospital, Selwyn brought with him an aura of hope and renewal. The sight of their resurrected Lord filled the wounded with a sense of relief and inspiration. Selwyn immediately set to work, using herbs that had grown thick in the area surrounding his burial tomb to create a potent aid that healed even the worst of wounds. The herbs, infused with a mysterious energy, seemed to draw upon the very essence of life, knitting flesh and bone with remarkable speed.
For hours, Selwyn toiled in the hospice, a Lazarus in a house of dying. He moved from bed to bed, administering the healing salve to those who had fought valiantly in defense of their home. To those whose wounds were too severe, he brought a final peace, comforting them with words of solace and placing them gently into a restful slumber. His presence was a balm for their souls, and his hands, though scarred and worn, brought a touch of the divine.
As he worked, the infant girl remained close, a symbol of the future he fought to protect. The wounded survivors, inspired by Selwyn's dedication and resilience, found the strength to endure their pain. The sight of their Lord, tirelessly tending to their wounds, reinforced their resolve to rebuild and protect their home.
Selwyn, now more than ever a symbol of resilience and strength, continued to lead his people with unwavering determination. His actions in the makeshift hospital solidified his status as not only a warrior and protector but also a healer and savior. The legend of Selwyn, the Pale Prince who returned from death, grew with each retelling, his deeds etched into the hearts and minds of his people. And as the Rittean dawn gave way to a new day, the Garrauw Kingdom looked to the future with renewed hope, guided by the unwavering light of their resurrected Lord.
===Pilgrimage of The Rittean Wastes===
With the settlement cleaved of most of its life, fields burned, and farm animals slaughtered, there was nothing left for the survivors of Garrauw. Many had perished in the onslaught, and even more succumbed to disease in the aftermath. Selwyn, leading the final few survivors, embarked on a journey to the Rittean valleys, taking less than six hundred battle-ready men and women and around three thousand farmers, laborers, and working people. Together, they navigated through the poisonous mists and pale forests of Ritter, their rebreathers filtering the worst of the toxic atmosphere.
As the pilgrims moved through the land, they discovered the devastation wrought by the Phiperions extended far beyond their own settlement. Villages and kingdoms had fallen prey to these monstrous beings, leaving a trail of death and despair. They found that many soldiers, once honor-bound to defend their people, had abandoned their depleted communities. These deserters stripped the villages of their remaining resources, leaving them defenseless against the encroaching hordes and living out their days as roving warbands.
Worse still were the valiant few who had remained true to their oaths. These defenders were often corrupted by the Phiperions, transformed into monstrous beasts. Their armor became living coffins, animated by daemonic magics, turning them into thralls of the very evil they once fought against. This horrific sight only strengthened Selwyn’s resolve, fueling his determination to protect and lead his people to safety.
Through the treacherous journey, Selwyn's leadership was vital. He provided not only physical protection but also moral support, constantly encouraging his people to push forward despite the overwhelming odds. His knowledge of the land and strategic mind enabled them to avoid the worst of the dangers lurking in the toxic mists. Along the way, Selwyn and his warriors would sometimes engage with smaller Phiperion forces, ensuring the safety of the main pilgrim group as they continued their journey.
Upon reaching the Western Valley Basin of Edelfruchttal, Selwyn and his people found a temporary reprieve from the horrors they had left behind. This region, an agricultural heart of Ritter, boasted the densest, nutrient-rich black soil, making it an ideal place to establish a new settlement. Selwyn’s immediate focus was on ensuring his people had shelter and could begin to rebuild their lives. However, the existing kingdoms of the Edelfruchttal Valleys—the Andis, Daravech, Hadrabas, and Voyu Kingdoms, along with various minor villages and vassal nations—were initially slow to accept these gaunt strangers arrayed in armors and banners from lands far beyond their own.
The chance to prove their worth came when creatures enthralled to another Phiperion attacked a nearby village. Seeing the peasants unable to effectively fight back against the horde, Selwyn and his retinue joined the deadly fray. Wielding the massive morphing blade as his own, Selwyn made short work of the weaker horde of flesh beasts. The attacking Phiperion, a multi-faced monstrosity composed of clicking tendrils and interlinked fingers, retreated to the apparent safety of the deadly mists when Selwyn advanced upon it. Unyielding, Selwyn pursued and butchered the fiendish creature, displaying his inhuman resilience and cementing his role as a defender.
Accepted into the Western Territories without much further reservation, the pilgrims began to settle in the lands. Selwyn and his warriors, along with his elite laborers, artisans, and general workers, started to train the civilians of the Western Kingdoms in all they knew. Soon, representatives from villages across Edelfruchttal journeyed to learn from Selwyn and his pilgrims, transforming the scattered kingdoms into strongholds.
The most trusted of Selwyn's retinue traveled from settlement to settlement, teaching, building, and raising militias to defend their people. These seasoned warriors and artisans instilled a sense of resilience and self-sufficiency in the once-vulnerable villages. They imparted their knowledge of agriculture, crafting, and warfare, ensuring each settlement could thrive and protect itself against future threats.
But conflicts would arise elsewhere. The fortified strongholds, now emboldened and capable of defending themselves, would no longer forfeit their supplies and resources to the oppressors of the roving Warbands. These Warbands, who had previously taken from those unable to defend themselves to fuel their thieving war-machine, were enraged by this defiance. In retaliation, they launched attacks on those who denied them their prize. However, the villages, now strengthened and united under Selwyn's leadership, fought back.
These skirmishes swiftly escalated into pitched battles as more villagers gained the strength and courage to defend themselves. The collective power of the Warbands began to crumble under the pressure of this newfound resistance. Unable to sustain themselves, the Warbands disintegrated. Many of the former raiders were assimilated by the villages they once oppressed, becoming known as the "Penitents of The Daravek," or simply the "Daravek Penitents." A few became roving marauders, living short, bloody lives within the valleys and low cliffs, while others fell under the cruel employ of the Phiperions, seeking power only to be transformed into something far less than human.
Selwyn, ever the pragmatist, saw an opportunity to further strengthen his people. He began recruiting the physically toughest and most resilient would-be warriors from the villages he encountered, forming them into small to medium unit militias that trained under his primary supervision. He enlisted the aid of blacksmiths, craftsmen, and artificers to create suits of armor and weaponry that would allow these men to travel through the poisonous fog and battle the horrors lurking within. Each battle fought in the mists provided valuable lessons. Selwyn and his growing force, now known as the "Scythes of Lazarus," continually adapted their armor and tactics to better withstand the poisonous heights of their world's moon. They became adept at moving through the toxic fog, their rebreathers filtering out the worst of the atmosphere, allowing them to engage with enemies previously thought unreachable.
As the Scythes of Lazarus grew in number and skill, they ventured deeper into the treacherous mists of Ritter, cleansing the cradle of their people of the Kargahl threat even as expeditionary forces left Ritter to travel to the other Moons of the Triad. Their mission was to help cleanse these moons of the Kargahl threat as well. In these expeditions, they encountered new and more dangerous threats, each with a plethora of monstrous capabilities.
Across Tyberian Space, Selwyn and his growing forces traveled, working tirelessly to unify the Tyberian Moons once again. They reestablished links to the Verwüsten Moon Mining-Colonies, ensuring a steady influx of valuable resources. With these resources, Selwyn and his Scythes fought relentless battles against grotesque beasts and corrupted beings. Each fight honed their abilities and strengthened their resolve. The armor they used, initially cumbersome, became lighter and more effective with each iteration, incorporating advanced materials and designs that provided greater protection and mobility.
Selwyn's leadership and the dedication of his warriors inspired others across the Tyberian Moons. Kingdoms began forming their own armies once again, training under the guidance of the Scythes of Lazarus. These armies were gifted schematics for creating ever-greater armor, weapons, and vehicles. The once-fractured moons transformed into a network of fortified kingdoms and settlements, each newly capable of defending itself and contributing to the collective security of the Tyberian Region.
The unity and strength brought about by Selwyn's efforts resonated deeply. The Scythes of Lazarus, once a single band of warriors, now represented a movement spreading across the moons. Kingdoms that had once been isolated and vulnerable now stood fortified and allied. Trade routes were reestablished, and commerce flourished, further bolstering the region's defenses. Selwyn's strategy extended beyond mere military might. He understood the importance of a robust infrastructure and worked tirelessly to rebuild the economies of the Tyberian Moons. Agricultural projects were initiated, utilizing the fertile valleys and advanced farming techniques to ensure food security. Educational programs were established to train the next generation in both combat and essential civilian skills.
The Scythes of Lazarus, with their unmatched combat prowess, also took on the role of peacekeepers. They mediated disputes between kingdoms, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Their presence deterred opportunistic attacks from remaining Kargahl forces and rogue elements, ensuring the stability of the region.
But eventually, the Moons of the Dark Triad were cleansed of Kargahl taint, and the Verwüsten Moons were firmly under the control of Selwyn's forces. The Rittean people were united and defended under the Drottinn's banner. He even salvaged the giant galleon of the Kürzung, the same colony vessel utilized by the ancient Eros Skorval during their original intrusion into Tyberian space. This very ship was salvaged by Selwyn's forces, dragged from the far edges of Tyberian space, and rebuilt, repaired, and upgraded into the flagship of the Tyberian Armada.
Yet even then, only one site of corruption stood resolute against this ever-growing and impending unity. Known to history as "The Unbarmherzig," this mass of ever-shifting metal plating and writhing daemonic meat was the corpse of the ancient Kargahl satellite-station colony-cities wherein the Horde had been sired. Once kept silent and asleep during the millennia of the Black Torment, but with the cleansing of its children from Tyberian space during Selwyn's campaigns, the creature had now begun to stir. It began creating ever more of its hated spawn, it's sired beasts beginning to take ever-more horrifying forms as the Unbarmherzig attempted to hound the Tyberian moons once again. Though now it was under a high-security military cordon with endless surveillance to ensure its spawn were contained.
===Coming of the Stellar Imperium===
Selwyn, ever vigilant and resolute, focused his attention on the looming threat posed by the Unbarmherzig, the last stronghold of Kargahl corruption in the Tyberian Moons. He understood that the eradication of this malevolent entity was crucial to securing lasting peace and security for his people. However, amidst his preparations for the decisive siege, he was compelled to heed the counsel of his most trusted friends, confidants, and advisors.
Among them was Khoron Zurroathe, whose wisdom and foresight cautioned Selwyn against rushing into battle prematurely. Khoron, a steadfast voice of reason, emphasized that the Scythes of Lazarus were not yet fully prepared to confront the Unbarmherzig in a full-scale naval siege, despite the advancements in their armor and the bolstering of the Tyberian Armada. His counsel urged Selwyn to reconsider the timing and strategy of their assault.
Reluctantly, Selwyn acknowledged the prudence in Khoron's words. While his heart burned with the desire to confront and vanquish the source of so much suffering, he understood the importance of patience and strategic planning. With a heavy yet determined heart, he redirected his forces to the orbital port-stations of the Verwüsten Moon of Ohrma – strategically positioning to a point closest to the Unbarmherzig.
The Verwüsten Moon of Ohrma served as the ideal rallying point for Selwyn's forces. Here, amidst the orbital port-stations, they would regroup, refine their tactics, and further fortify their defenses. The moon's proximity to the Unbarmherzig provided a tactical advantage, allowing them to observe and assess the enemy's movements while preparing for the inevitable confrontation.
But it would be there that Selwyn and his command retinue had their moods darkened when it was found out that the Port Workers were found to be talking not of their victories achieved throughout the Karghant Campaigns, but of the arrival of a benevolent stranger, tall and wrapped in foreign silks and resplendent jewels, his head crowned with scarlet hair and who promised salvation to the people of Tyberous.
Selwyn's brow furrowed with concern as he learned of the stranger's presence and his audacious proposition. The port workers' whispers carried a sense of awe and hope, contrasting sharply with the somber mood that had settled over Selwyn and his retinue. Despite their undeniable successes in the Karghant Campaigns, the looming threat of the Unbarmherzig weighed heavily on their minds.
With resolve etched into every line of his battle-worn face, Selwyn strode purposefully towards the Elders, Kings and Statesmen gathering where the stranger had now awaited. He was a towering figure, adorned in foreign silks and jewels that spoke of a distant realm untouched by the trials of Tyberous. His scarlet hair crowned him with an air of authority and mystery that commanded attention.
In the presence of the elders, Selwyn's voice rang out with a mix of authority and restraint. "We need no outside help," he declared firmly, his gaze unwavering as it met the stranger's intense scrutiny. The tension in the air was palpable, the weight of their responsibilities heavy upon them both.
The stranger, undeterred by Selwyn's defiance, spoke with a calm confidence that belied the gravity of his challenge. "Even you and your Scythes struggle against the Unbarmherzig," he remarked, his tone carrying a hint of empathy amidst the underlying challenge. "If you can defeat the Overmind at the heart of the Unbarmherzig, I will depart from Tyberous," he proposed. "But if you should fail, you must swear fealty to me and the Stellar Imperium I represent."
Selwyn's jaw clenched with determination. He understood the stakes of the stranger's challenge – not just a battle against the Unbarmherzig, but a test of his leadership and the resilience of his people. The choice was clear: accept the challenge and secure their autonomy, or risk subjugation under the stranger's unknown authority.
The Rittean Kings, silent witnesses to this exchange, awaited Selwyn's response with bated breath. They had placed their trust in him as their leader, the Drottinn who had led them through countless trials. Now, in the face of this unexpected challenge, Selwyn's decision would shape the future of Tyberous and its people.
With a steady gaze fixed upon the stranger, Selwyn spoke, his voice carrying the weight of his resolve. "Very well," he accepted, his tone leaving no room for doubt. "I will face the Overmind of the Unbarmherzig. And when I emerge victorious, you will leave Tyberous, and your Stellar Imperium will trouble us no more."
The stranger nodded solemnly, acknowledging Selwyn's resolve with a hint of respect. "So be it," he agreed, his scarlet hair catching the scarlet light of Tellus as he turned to leave the gathering, leaving Selwyn and the elders to prepare for the daunting task ahead.
As the sun set over Ohrma, casting long shadows across the port-stations, Selwyn's mind raced with strategies and preparations. The challenge laid before him was daunting, but with the unwavering loyalty of his Scythes and the resilience of the Tyberian people, he was determined to face it head-on. The fate of Tyberous hung in the balance, and Selwyn would not falter in his duty to protect his homeland from all threats, whether ancient or new.
Emboldened by resolve and purpose, Selwyn brushed aside the protests of his commanders and called forth the Scythes of Lazarus with renewed vigor. Their ranks had swelled with recruits from the united kingdoms across Tyberous, each warrior ready to face the looming threat of the Unbarmherzig. Leading them was the formidable Tyberian Armada, with the salvaged Kürzung serving as their flagship.
The approach to the Unbarmherzig was treacherous, fraught with perils unknown even to the seasoned veterans of Tyberous. As within the tightly secured military cordon, the Unbarmherzig had erected a formidable defensive perimeter. Monstrous spawn prowled its borders, fueled by daemonic energies that twisted the very fabric of reality. This barrier presented a seven-fold challenge that the Tyberian Fleet must surmount to breach the fortress-like defenses.
With precision born of countless battles, the Tyberian Armada executed a series of coordinated strikes. Selwyn himself led the vanguard, his presence a beacon of unwavering resolve amid the chaos of battle. As the fleet engaged in a relentless assault from the skies, ground troops mobilized to secure a perilous landing on the Daemon-Vessel's surface. Their objective was clear: penetrate the heart of the Unbarmherzig and confront the Overmind that lay within.
Against a backdrop of swirling mists and crackling daemonic energies, Selwyn's voice boomed over the din of war, rallying his warriors to press forward. Each step closer to the Unbarmherzig's core brought them face to face with horrors beyond comprehension—beasts spawned of nightmares and technologies twisted by malevolent forces.
The battle raged on, an epic struggle between the indomitable will of Selwyn's forces and the unrelenting malevolence of the Kargahl corruption. Wave after wave of monstrous adversaries fell before the relentless advance of the Scythes of Lazarus, their armor and weaponry tested to their limits and beyond. Yet, for every victory won, the toll was measured in blood and sacrifice, a stark reminder of the stakes at hand.
Amid the chaos, Selwyn remained a steadfast figure of leadership and inspiration. His sword cleaved through the ranks of the enemy, his strategic brilliance guiding the Tyberian Armada through the labyrinthine defenses of the Unbarmherzig. Each victory brought them closer to their ultimate objective, even as the Overmind's defenses grew more desperate and deadly.
As they battled through the nightmarish creatures guarding the heart of the Unbarmherzig, the extent of the corruption became horrifyingly clear. The satellite-station's core pulsed with dark energy, an amalgamation of ancient Kargahl technologies as well as malevolent sorcery that defied comprehension. Selwyn and his elite warriors pressed on relentlessly, their blades cutting through wave after wave of grotesque abominations that seemed to spawn endlessly from the darkened depths.
Upon finally breaching the inner sanctum of the Unbarmherzig, Selwyn confronted the source of the corruption—a monstrous entity that defied description. It was part-machine, part-daemon, a horrific fusion of ancient Kargahl engineering and unholy magic. The air within the Hellish Core was thick with poisonous fumes that corroded even the reinforced armor of Selwyn's warriors, forcing them to retreat momentarily to regroup and reassess their strategy.
Surrounded by pulsating tendrils of daemonic flesh and swirling vortexes of corrupted energy, Selwyn stood firm, his mind racing with tactical calculations. The Unbarmherzig's defenses were formidable, surpassing anything he had faced before. Each step closer to the entity revealed new horrors: mutated monstrosities that clawed at reality itself, and arcane traps that threatened to ensnare him in eternal torment.
Yet with grim determination, Selwyn signaled his warriors to retreat even as he furthered his advance. And therein he unleashed a lone assault, his weapons and abilities honed by years of relentless training and battle-hardened experience. The clash was titanic, as Selwyn's blade struck true against the twisted forms of the entities, severing appendages that regenerated with unnatural speed.
Yet, for every victory gained, the Unbarmherzig retaliated with devastating force. Waves of dark energy lashed out, testing the resilience of Selwyn to his upper limits. And Selwyn alone bore the brunt of the onslaught, his armor scorched and battered, his endurance tested beyond measure.
Selwyn began to stagger within the antechamber of the Unbarmherzig, his body battered and weary, yet his spirit ablaze with defiance. With a bellowing challenge, he beckoned the Overmind to face him in a final duel. Limping and nearly collapsing from exhaustion, Selwyn prepared to meet his fate. The monstrous entity, mocking him for his perceived weakness and impending failure, raised its weapon to strike a fatal blow.
But in that critical moment, a piercing clash of war-claws erupted, halting the Overmind's lethal advance. Selwyn, on the verge of unconsciousness, glimpsed the stranger from the Star-Port—now fully armored and ready for battle. With a commanding order that cut through the chaos, the stranger spurred Selwyn back into action.
Together, with an almost instinctive synchronization of their movements, Selwyn and the stranger engaged the Ghastly Overmind in a deadly dance of blades. The stranger wielded a curved sword and hooked claws with lethal precision, rending deep into the creature's multi-limbed, spider-serpent form. Meanwhile, Selwyn followed the larger man's lead, his own weapon—a morphing blade of mystical origin—shifting through a myriad of deadly forms. He aimed for vital areas, piercing deep into the beast's midsection and severing limbs with calculated strikes.
The battle raged on, the combined bladewind of Selwyn and the stranger tearing through the Overmind's defenses. With a final arching slash of his war scythe, Selwyn delivered the decisive blow, cleaving through the entity's neck. The Overmind convulsed violently, its corrupted form destabilizing as the dark energies that sustained it were disrupted.
Amidst a deafening roar, the entity collapsed in on itself, dissolving into a charred nothingness. The Unbarmherzig, deprived of its controlling intelligence, began to crumble around them, its monstrous architecture unraveling without its guiding mind.
Exhausted and spent, Selwyn looked to the stranger who had fought alongside him, their enemy vanquished. As the poison-laden air of the Unbarmherzig took its toll on Selwyn's weakened body, he collapsed, his last reserves of strength spent in the battle that had saved Tyberous from its greatest threat.
When Selwyn finally regained consciousness, he found himself in a hospice on Ritter, far from the crumbling ruins of the Unbarmherzig. His body, ravaged by the toxic air of the Daemon-Vessel, slowly began to heal under the care of Rittean healers. Yet, it was not the familiar faces of his Scythes who greeted him upon his awakening, but a figure shrouded in the same mysterious aura that had guided him through the final battle against the Overmind.
To Selwyn's surprise and disbelief, the stranger revealed himself to be none other than a supposed long-lost brother, Asadullah bin Sayf—the Luminarch of the Scarlet Lions Imperial Legion. Asadullah, clad in the resplendent armor of his Scarlet Lions, spoke solemnly of their shared heritage and destiny, of the Stellar Imperium, of the Other Luminarchs and the Emperor himself. And in a gesture that resonated deeply with Selwyn, Asadullah offered him command of the VIIIth Borne Imperial Marine Legion—a prestigious unit known as the Twilight Harbingers. Recognizing the valor and leadership Selwyn had displayed both throughout his life and especially in the battle against the Unbarmherzig, Asadullah saw in his brother the embodiment of their father's legacy—a warrior of unmatched courage and resilience.
Selwyn, humbled by the trust placed in him by his brother and the Imperium, accepted the command with a renewed sense of purpose. The Lazarean Scythes, his loyal warriors who had followed him through the darkest of trials, now merged seamlessly with the Twilight Harbingers. They adopted the iconography, dogma, and unwavering resolve of Selwyn's Scythes of Lazarus, forging a new identity under the banner of the Stellar Imperium.
== Human Presence ==
=== Ritteans - Overview ===
The Ritteans, also referred to in broader circles as Tyberians, constitute a diverse and resilient human subgroup within the vast expanse of Imperial space. Originating from the Tyberian Moon of Ritter, nestled within the Tellus-System deep within the Astral territories of Proxima Obscurus, these people have adapted and thrived amidst the unique challenges posed by their environment. 
Physiologically, Ritteans display notable variations from standard human stock, often attributed to their long-term exposure to Ritte's atmospheric conditions and the remnants of ancient Kargahl influences. Among these adaptations are heightened resilience to toxic atmospheres, a characteristic honed through generations of living amidst the poisonous mists and treacherous terrain of their moons. This resilience is complemented by a tendency towards robust physical stature and enhanced sensory capabilities, traits that have proven advantageous in their ongoing struggles against external threats.
Culturally, Ritteans maintain a rich tapestry woven from centuries of history and interaction with neighboring moons and planetary entities. Their society is characterized by a deep reverence for ancestral wisdom, reflected in rituals and customs that celebrate their survival against formidable odds. Ritualized combat, for example, serves not only as a means of settling disputes but also as a testament to their enduring spirit and martial prowess.
Technologically adept, Ritteans have leveraged their natural resilience and cultural heritage to develop innovations suited to their harsh environment. Advanced filtration systems and adaptive armor technologies enable them to navigate and thrive in environments that would prove lethal to other human populations. Furthermore, their prowess in metallurgy and craftsmanship has yielded weaponry and defensive measures that are both formidable and highly sought after across Imperial space.
==== Rittean Physiology ====
Ritteans, native to the death-world moon of Ritter within the Tyberian system, exhibit a physiology finely tuned to survive the harsh and toxic environment of their home. Their adaptations, akin to those of many abhuman human races found across death-worlds, set them apart from standard human baseline in notable ways. 
One of the most striking features of Rittean physiology is their muscular structure. Despite their outward appearance of gauntness and slightness, Ritteans possess highly condensed lean muscle that belies their deceptive frail frames. This adaptation allows them to maintain strength and endurance essential for navigating the rugged mountainous terrains and engaging in physically demanding tasks characteristic of their world. Additionally, their skeletal structure has evolved to be stronger and more robust to cope with the higher gravity of Ritter, contributing to their taller stature compared to humans from lower-gravity environments.
The thick, miasmic atmosphere of Ritter has shaped the development of Rittean respiratory systems. They boast highly efficient lungs capable of extracting oxygen even from the lower elevations where the air is more breathable, enabling them to traverse the toxic clouds that envelop their world without succumbing to its lethal effects. Furthermore, Ritteans have adapted to the saline-rich water bodies common across the Tyberian moons, developing a much higher tolerance to salt and a lessened need for water. This adaptation allows them to efficiently process and regulate salt intake, crucial for their survival in regions where freshwater sources are scarce.
Rittean eyes are another testament to their adaptation to their environment. They possess green bioluminescent structures that aid in vision through the foggy atmospheres of the Tyberian moons, giving them a distinctive appearance reminiscent of fox-like eyes when illuminated in darkness. Their retinal structures are optimized for low-light conditions, featuring an increased number of photoreceptive cells that enhance their ability to detect and process light in the perpetual twilight of their home.
To shield themselves from Ritte's harsh atmospheric conditions, many Rittean ethnic groups have developed thicker and more protective skin along their limbs and backs. This adaptation serves as a natural barrier against the toxic elements present in their environment, further enhancing their resilience. Additionally, Ritteans have evolved natural mechanisms for thermal regulation. Their pale skin pigmentation helps efficiently absorb the limited sunlight available through the thick cloud cover, while enhanced thermoregulatory capabilities enable them to maintain stable body temperatures in Ritte's cooler climate.
==== Rittean Aging ====
Ritteans, despite their unique calendar and environment, share fundamental human characteristics in terms of anatomy and life stages. Like standard humans, Ritteans age and reproduce similarly, albeit with some distinct temporal and developmental differences shaped by their lunar habitat. Gestation among Ritteans spans approximately 7 Rittean months, which translates to roughly 9 standard months by Terran reckoning. This period accounts for the duration of pregnancy among Ritteans, ensuring that offspring develop adequately within their mothers.
Rittean aging is measured in relation to Tyberian orbital cycles around Tellus. One Tyberian orbital cycle equates to about 7 Rittean years, or approximately 13 standard years on Earth. This method of calculating age underscores the significant influence of their lunar environment on Rittean culture and timekeeping. In terms of lifespan, Ritteans traditionally lived for approximately 4.5 Tyberian orbital cycles, which corresponds to roughly 58 standard years. However, advancements both from Selwyn's efforts along with the addition of Imperial technologies and healthcare have contributed to increased lifespans and reduced infant mortality rates among Ritteans in recent times. These innovations have significantly improved the quality of life and longevity for Rittean individuals, with individuals often living to be 14 Tyberian Cycles old or even 17 in some cases.
=== Rittean Culture ===
==== Familial Structuring ====
The heart of Rittean society beats in rhythm with the close and intimate familial ties that form the very bulwark of their community. The intensity of life on Ritter, with its hostile atmosphere and untamed wildlife, has forged unbreakable bonds among the people, propelling them to rely on one another for support and protection. From an early age, parents take on the duties of instilling essential survival skills in their children. And as infants learn to take their first steps, they are already taught how to navigate the treacherous terrain and fend off the lurking threats of the wild. These familial teachings lay the foundation for resilience and self-sufficiency that will carry them through life on their demanding planet.
Elders hold a revered place, the keepers of wisdom and knowledge. Their experiences a wellspring of guidance, valued for decision-making and settling disputes. When difficult choices arise, the counsel of the elders is sought, their words echoing the echoes of generations past. Amidst the grim realities of survival, Ritteans find solace and joy in the warmth of their familial connections. The sacred rituals of life are intertwined with festivals and ceremonies, where the ancestors are honored, and unity is celebrated. Communities across Ritter stand as fortresses of resilience, bound by the unyielding ties of kinship and mutual support. They gather in communal settlements nestled within the valleys and basins of the jagged, stony mountain ranges, seeking solace and protection from the hostile wilderness. The very act of living together knits them as one, working in harmony to ensure sustenance and safety for all. Within the fabric of Rittean families, large gatherings are the norm, as such high mortality beckons them to embrace the gift of kinship with open hearts. 
==== Hygiene ====
The Rittean traditions of hygiene, known reverently as Sauvheren, form the bedrock of their community's well-being, providing a bastion against the perilous effects of the poisonous fogs that blanket their world. These rituals are not merely routine but embody a profound sense of reverence, akin to religious practice, as the people recognize their role in maintaining health and warding off disease as each day, Ritteans partake in the solemn act of purification, cleansing themselves through invigorating salt baths, washing away the grime of daily toils. The Sauvheren rituals extend beyond personal hygiene, with elaborate purification ceremonies held to cleanse the communal spaces they inhabit. 
To counteract the pernicious toxins in the air, Ritteans utilize the toxins within the Mistvine Orchid, whose sweet scent serves as a natural antidote for many diseases. Revered for its healing properties, the orchid's essence permeates their living spaces, purifying the very air they breathe, and bringing solace amidst the pallid darkness. And within the realm of medicine, Ritteans have woven a tapestry of remedies, drawing from the bountiful resources gifted by their ecosystem. Their medicine is a fusion of herbal concoctions, time-honored natural healing techniques, and deep-rooted spiritual practices, a profound acknowledgment of the interconnectedness of body, mind, and soul.
The esteemed Saubänner healers stand as sentinels of health, skilled in the intricate art of treating common ailments and injuries borne from their world's hostile environments. Their knowledge of the local flora and fauna is encyclopedic, enabling them to craft potent remedies and antidotes for the myriad ailments faced by the community. Among their secrets, the Fogbane Lichen reigns supreme, its remarkable properties unveiled by the Ritteans. Acting as a natural filter, this lichen purifies the air in select pockets, providing them with breathable sanctuaries amidst the tainted atmosphere. 
==== Agriculture ====
Despite the ever-present challenges posed by the unforgiving conditions of the Dark Brothers, agriculture stands as a cornerstone of Rittean life, a testament to their tenacity and ingenuity. As over generations, they have honed their skills in cultivating hardy halophyte crops that can endure the dim light and toxic atmosphere that shrouds their world. The symbiosis of humans and nature intertwines in a delicate dance, where the cultivation of gloomsilk ferns, mistvine orchids, and thornshade brambles sustains the community with essential resources. Beyond merely providing sustenance, these cultivated flora are a wellspring of survival for the Ritteans. The gloomsilk ferns furnish them with strong fibers, intricately woven into sturdy fabrics and ropes, shielding them from the harsh elements and crafting clothing that preserves warmth amidst the ever-encroaching shadows of Lanvhinter. The mistvine orchids, with their sweet-scented nectar, are a critical source of medicinal ingredients.
Thriving in the face of danger, Ritteans ingeniously fortify their agricultural spaces, building robust structures that serve as bastions to shield their precious crops from the relentless onslaught of hostile wildlife. With cunning and resourcefulness, guardians are stationed, fierce shadowhounds and stalwart stonewolves, to stand watch, protecting both the harvests, livestock and those who toil to tend them in equal measure.
== Rittean Glossary ==
=== Community ===
* Drotti, Drottinn'- A Rittean term for 'King of Harvest,' or 'Master of Fields.' Originally used to refer to a Rittean Agriculturally God of Fertility, Death, and Rebirth. But now it is used to refer to the Luminarch Drotti Selwyn Jaeger, though the phrases 'Kleiner Drottinn,' and 'Drott Klinge' are often used to describe a high ranking individual who is still below the Drottinn, often used in stead of 'Commander' or 'Sergeant' in Rittean armed forces such as The Scythes of Lazarus.
* Vethri - The honored elders of the community who possess vast wisdom and are consulted for their guidance in matters of significance. Often replacing the terms of 'Veteran' or 'Elite'.
* Kaplan - Literal "Chaplain" or "Priest"; The term used to refer to a spiritual guide or mentor within the Rittean community, offering wisdom and guidance on matters of faith and personal growth. The Chaplaincy of the VIIIth Legion are referred to as Kaplans.
* Decahl, Decahli - Literally "Foreign"; due to the close communal ties of Indigenous Ritteans, any and all peoples not of Ritter proper are referred to as Decahl (singular) and Decahli (plural).
* Dro'Galerah - A title bestowed upon a skilled farmer or agricultural expert who has demonstrated exceptional knowledge and dedication to the betterment of their community's farming practices.
* Stahlmänner - Skilled artisans and engineers, responsible for maintaining the ancient industrial technologies utilized in farming and agriculture and other forms of highly necessary technology. Their craftsmanship is highly respected in Rittean society. The Technocist Cult of the VIIIth Legion are referred to as the Stahlmän Cults.
* Saubänner - Doctors and Hygienic specialists. Seen as Priests and Sages, the Saubänner are often responsible for ensuring the health and wellbeing of their community's, be that either from corruption or disease.
=== Traditions ===
* Sauvheren - The Rittean traditions of Personal and Communal Cleanliness, due to high mortality rates from both disease and life itself upon the Dark Triad, Ritteans are known for their rather intense sense of cleanliness and healthcare, with medical care and hygienic practices oft' becoming akin to Religious rituals for Ritteans.
* Murinall - Literally "Extended Family"; Encompassing both the traditions of community and that of found family.
* Daravek - The Rittean tradition of Charity and Hospitality.
* Ta'kurah - An annual festival celebrated by many Rittean communities, dedicated to paying homage to their ancestors and seeking blessings for the coming year's harvest. It involves large communal feasts, storytelling, and the lighting of lanterns in memory of the departed.
* Kal'Shura - The traditional practice of seed-saving among Rittean farmers, where seeds from the previous harvest are carefully preserved and passed down through generations. This ritual is considered essential to maintain biodiversity and sustainability in agriculture.
* Zinjara - A unique form of traditional music and dance performed during important agricultural ceremonies, such as planting or harvesting. The rhythmic beats and movements are believed to invoke the blessings of pure spirits of nature and to banish malignant entities.
* Vel'Kazari - The sacred text of the Rittean people, containing ancient agricultural knowledge, ethical guidelines, and stories of their deities' triumphs and struggles. It serves as a source of inspiration and wisdom for the community.
* Ral'kath - A traditional form of dance and storytelling passed down through generations, depicting the legends of Rittean heritage.
* Keshtari - The traditional hunting festival, held to honor the spirits of animals and seek their blessings for a successful hunt and plentiful food supply.
* Anuvar - A traditional Rittean song or chant performed during religious ceremonies, expressing gratitude to the gods and seeking their favor.
=== Religion - Folklore ===
* Veyothran - A term in Rittean folklore referring to a mythical creature believed to bring bountiful harvests and good fortune to those who honor the land with offerings and rituals. Often seen as a trickster spirit, sometimes seen as a Demonic entity.
* Tovasha - The sacred ceremony performed by Rittean farmers to bless their fields and ensure a successful growing season. A mixture of pragmatic practices and religious ritual, it oft' involves intricate dances, songs, and the offering of special herbs and fruits along with the application of rich fertilizing materials intended as sacrifice to Rittean agricultural deities.
* Voathar - The ritualistic practice of purification and renewal performed by Saubänner at the start of each agricultural season. It involves the sprinkling of purified water and the burning of sacred herbs to cleanse the fields of impure energy.
* Aurnir - Sacred groves dedicated as communal graves, where unique and rare plants are cultivated through the flesh of Rittean dead and protected to maintain biodiversity and spiritual connection with nature.
* Tavahr - Ritualistic purification baths performed before important events or ceremonies, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and preparation for communion with the divine.
* Bahrin Stones - Stones placed at the entrances of homes and temples to ward off malevolent spirits and protect the inhabitants from harm. Often with runic script or animal faces carved onto them.
* Dael'dara - The communal practice of sharing resources during times of scarcity or natural disasters, reinforcing the spirit of unity and support among the Rittean people.
* Eldra'Kel - The sacred art of cultivating rare and medicinal herbs, passed down through generations and closely guarded by appointed herbalists.
== Enviroment ==
Like the Indigenous Rittean peoples, much of Ritter's Flora and Fauna has evolved and adapted into halophiles along with the ability to persist and endure within the poisoned Fogs and Ritter, with much of the Rittean Fauna having adapted to subsist with very little sun along with the consumption of High Salinity Foods and Water.
=== Fertile Valley Forest Basins ===
==== Flora ====
* Moongrove Trees - Towering and sturdy halophyte trees with silvery leaves form dense canopies of the equatorial valleys, offering shelter to various fauna in the forest valleys. The most prolific of the Worlds trees.
* Whispering Willow - Shorter halophyte Willow trees with dark silvery leaves, believed to hold the ancient secrets of Ritter.
* Paleleaf Maple - Maple tree with pale, translucent leaves and sap used for a sour medicinal syrup.
* Vrindelspore - Sprouts within equatorial forested regions, Vrindelspore is a relatively rare herb with seemingly mystical properties, often used in healing rituals.
* Shadowthorn Bramble - A thorny vine providing dark purple berries, an food source essential for certain nocturnal creatures in Ritter. Grows year round.
* Thornshade Bramble - Thorny vine covering valley basins, its bitter berries are favored for medicinal teas. Grows only during the illuminated months.
* Fogfall Fern - Thriving in poisonous fogs, Fogfall Fern's leaves are believed to possess medicinal properties counteracting harmful effects.
* Gloomsilk Fern - Resilient fern secreting "gloomsilk" used to craft sturdy ropes and textiles.
* Echoleaf Fern - Large fern species in valley basins producing a gentle rustling sound in the nocturnal winds.
* Starshade Moss - Luminescent moss clinging to the jagged mountains, guiding travelers through rocky terrain during dark hours.
* Twilight Thistle - Bioluminescent thistle releasing a soothing fragrance during twilight, attracting curious and beneficial insects.
* Mistveil Orchid - Rare Orchidaceous flowers with phosphorescent nectar capable of attracting nocturnal pollinators. Grows along the trunks of trees, and blooms for most of the year except for Winter, wherein the Mistveil goes dormant alongside the rest of the forest. Often harvested en masse during the Spring months and during the Lautreinzeit, contributing to Mistveil Honey production and Bioluminescent dyes.
* Mistvine Orchid - An Orchidaceous species that grows best within poisonous fogs with flowers releasing a sweet scent serving as a natural antidote. Will go dormant during the Spring and Lautreinzeit, and grow thickest during the Wintery months of Lanvhinter, becoming one of the only active plant species across the Valleys of Ritter.
* Stonewisp Lichen - Growing on rocky surfaces, Stonewisp Lichen absorbs nutrients from thin soil, aiding in soil stabilization.
* Palevine Ivy - Climbing ivy wrapping around the trunks of trees, providing camouflage for various nocturnal creatures.
* Mistfall Lily - Bell-shaped flower blooming when fog clears, creating an enchanting spectacle with pale light reflection. Blooms mostly during the Lautreinzeit. 
* Shadowbloom Lotus - Rare black lotus with potent healing properties blooming during the darkest hours. Blooms mostly during the winter.
* Duskblossom Rose - Striking black rose associated with mysterious legends and love stories. Poisonous thorns usable in both poisons and antidotes. The Flowers of the plants go dormant during the winter whilst its thorns harden and elongate.
* Fogbane Lichen - Lichen species acting as a natural filter, purifying air in small pockets.
* Moonglow Mushrooms - Luminescent mushrooms providing a reliable source of light for inhabitants. Only grows during the winter months.
==== Fauna ====
* Umbracrawler - Small insect-like creatures emitting a soft glow, crucial for decomposing organic matter.
* Stoneback Turtles - Large, armored unguligrade turtles blending with rocky moors for protection.
* Shadowwing Bats - Nocturnal bats flying silently through the mist-filled air, preying on large insects and unwatched children.
* Tyberian Howler - Pack-hunting lupine species adapted to perpetual darkness, using howls for communication. Hibernates during the Lanvhinter within the mountain regions.
* Twilight Glider - A collection of small gliding mammal species that gracefully navigate through the forest canopies.
* Moorskulk - Elusive, wolf-sized lynx species prowling the moors with a fur pattern blending with the landscape.
* Fogwalker Stag - Large herbivorous crowned mammal immune to poisonous fogs, foraging in avoided areas. Utilizes the boney crests atop its head to filter toxins.
* Duskglimpse Firefly - Fireflies creating mesmerizing displays in dark valleys.
* Stonehopper Rodent - Small rodent hopping between rocks and boulders on mountain ranges.
* Moorsong Sparrow - Small bird with a hauntingly beautiful song echoing through moors at night.
* Foglurker Toad - Toad adapted to thrive in poisonous fogs, secreting protective substances.
* Stoneshadow Panther - Large feline predator blending with stony mountain shadows.
* Fogstalker - Nocturnal predator adapted to poisonous fogs, hunting by scent trails.
* Moondrifter - Large bird-like creature soaring high above flat moors.
* Stonewyrm - Serpent-like creature with scales mimicking mountain terrain, preying on smaller animals.
* Whisperwing Bats - Nocturnal bats navigating dark skies with glowing patterns on wings.
* Palemoon Elk - Large herbivores with antlers having a ghostly glow for finding food at night.
* Valleyclaw Scorpion - Venomous scorpion species dwelling in forest-choked valleys.
* Lumestone Beetle - Beetles with bioluminescent patterns, illuminating crevices among rocky mountain ranges.
* Stonemaw Grizzly - Formidable predator in mountains with powerful jaws and sharp claws. 
=== Mountain Regions ===
==== Flora ====
* Starshade Moss - This luminescent moss clings to the jagged mountain ranges, casting a gentle glow that guides travelers through the rocky terrain during the dark hours.
* Stonewisp Lichen - This lichen grows on the rocky surfaces of the moors and mountain ranges, absorbing nutrients from the thin soil and aiding in soil stabilization.
* Palevine Ivy - Climbing ivy wraps around the bases of the Moongrove Trees in the mountain regions. Its pale leaves blend with the darkness, providing camouflage for various nocturnal creatures.
* Echoleaf Fern - A large fern species that grows in the valley basins, its fronds produce a gentle rustling sound when caressed by the nocturnal winds.
* Gloomsilk Fern - A resilient fern with dark, shimmering fronds that thrive in the pale darkness. It secretes a sticky substance known as "gloomsilk" that is used by the locals to craft sturdy ropes and textiles.
* Fogbane Lichen - This lichen species grows in the poisonous fogs and acts as a natural filter, purifying the air and making it breathable in small pockets.
* Moonglow Mushrooms - Luminescent mushrooms that glow softly in the dark provide a reliable source of light for the inhabitants of Ritter.
* Paleleaf Maple - A maple tree with pale, almost translucent leaves that seem to absorb the faint light. Its sap is used to make a syrup with unique medicinal properties.
* Whispering Willow - A willow tree with long, silvery leaves that rustle eerily in the gentle breeze. It is believed that the Willow's whispers hold ancient secrets of Ritter.
==== Fauna ====
* Stoneback Turtles - Large, armored unguligrade turtles that inhabit the rocky moors, their shells blending perfectly with the stony terrain, offering them protection from predators.
* Stonehopper Rodent - A small, agile rodent species with strong hind legs that allows it to hop between rocks and boulders on the mountain ranges, foraging for food.
* Stonewyrm - A serpent-like creature with scales that mimic the rocky mountain terrain, making it nearly invisible among the stones. It preys on smaller animals and is a natural predator of the Emberthorn Bush.
* Lumestone Beetle - Beetles with bioluminescent patterns on their exoskeletons, illuminating the crevices among the rocky mountain ranges.
* Stonemaw Grizzly - A formidable predator that resides in the mountains. Its powerful jaws and sharp claws are well-suited for hunting the moor-dwelling prey.
* Moondrifter - A large, bird-like creature that soars high above the flat moors, its wingspan allowing it to glide gracefully through the pale darkness.
* Stoneshadow Panther - A large feline predator that lurks in the shadows of the stony mountain ranges, its dark coat blending with the rocky terrain.
* Valleyclaw Scorpion - A venomous scorpion species that dwells in the forest-choked valleys. It uses its sharp claws to burrow into the soft earth and create shelter.
=== Petty-Seas/Petty Sea Wasteland Basins ===
==== Flora ====
* Fogbane Lichen - This lichen species grows in the poisonous fogs, acting as a natural filter and purifying the air in small pockets, making it breathable for certain organisms.
* Mistvine Orchid - Thriving in the poisonous fogs, this orchid releases a sweet scent that serves as a natural antidote to the toxins in the air, providing a safe haven for creatures in its proximity.
==== Fauna ====
* Fogwalker Stag - This large herbivorous mammal has developed immunity to the effects of the poisonous fogs, allowing it to forage safely in areas other creatures avoid.
* Foglurker Toad - This toad has adapted to thrive in the poisonous fogs, secreting a protective substance against the toxins. It plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
* Fogstalker - A nocturnal predator adapted to the poisonous fogs, hunting by stealthily following scent trails. Its keen sense of smell makes it a formidable hunter in low visibility conditions.
* Valleyclaw Scorpion - This venomous scorpion species dwells in the forest-choked valleys, using its sharp claws to burrow into the soft earth and create shelter.
=== The Polar Regions ===
==== Flora ====
* Vrindelspore - Sprouting in remote forested regions, Vrindelspore is a rare herb with mystical properties, used in healing rituals.
* Shadowthorn Bramble - A thorny vine providing dark purple berries, essential for certain nocturnal creatures in Ritter.
* Moongrove Trees - Towering trees with silvery leaves form dense canopies, offering shelter to various fauna in the forest valleys.
* Fogfall Fern - Thriving in poisonous fogs, Fogfall Fern's leaves are believed to possess medicinal properties counteracting harmful effects.
* Starshade Moss - Luminescent moss clinging to the jagged mountains, guiding travelers through rocky terrain during dark hours.
* Twilight Thistle - Bioluminescent thistle releasing a soothing fragrance during twilight, attracting curious and beneficial insects.
* Stonewisp Lichen - Growing on rocky surfaces, Stonewisp Lichen absorbs nutrients from thin soil, aiding in soil stabilization.
* Palevine Ivy - Climbing ivy wrapping around Moongrove Trees, providing camouflage for various nocturnal creatures.
* Echoleaf Fern - Large fern species in valley basins producing a gentle rustling sound in the nocturnal winds.
* Mistfall Lily - Bell-shaped flower blooming when fog clears, creating an enchanting spectacle with pale light reflection.
* Gloomsilk Fern - Resilient fern secreting "gloomsilk" used to craft sturdy ropes and textiles.
* Mistvine Orchid - Orchid species in poisonous fogs with flowers releasing a sweet scent serving as a natural antidote.
* Shadowbloom Lotus - Rare black lotus with potent healing properties blooming during the darkest hours.
* Thornshade Bramble - Thorny vine covering valley basins, its bitter berries favored for medicinal teas.
* Duskblossom Rose - Striking black rose associated with mysterious legends and love stories.
* Fogbane Lichen - Lichen species acting as a natural filter, purifying air in small pockets.
* Paleleaf Maple - Maple tree with pale, translucent leaves and sap used for unique medicinal syrup.
* Whispering Willow - Willow tree with silvery leaves, believed to hold ancient secrets of Ritter.
* Moonglow Mushrooms - Luminescent mushrooms providing a reliable source of light for inhabitants.
==== Fauna ====
* Umbracrawler - Small insect-like creatures emitting a soft glow, crucial for decomposing organic matter.
* Stoneback Turtles - Large, armored unguligrade turtles blending with rocky moors for protection.
* Shadowwing Bats - Nocturnal bats flying silently through mist-filled air, preying on insects.
* Tyberian Howler - Pack-hunting lupine species adapted to perpetual darkness, using howls for communication.
* Twilight Glider - Small gliding mammals gracefully navigating forest canopies.
* Moorskulk - Elusive lynx species prowling the moors with a fur pattern blending with the landscape.
* Fogwalker Stag - Large herbivorous mammal immune to poisonous fogs, foraging in avoided areas.
* Duskglimpse Firefly - Fireflies creating mesmerizing displays in dark valleys.
* Stonehopper Rodent - Small rodent hopping between rocks and boulders on mountain ranges.
* Moorsong Sparrow - Small bird with a hauntingly beautiful song echoing through moors at night.
* Foglurker Toad - Toad adapted to thrive in poisonous fogs, secreting protective substances.
* Stoneshadow Panther - Large feline predator blending with stony mountain shadows.
* Fogstalker - Nocturnal predator adapted to poisonous fogs, hunting by scent trails.
* Moondrifter - Large bird-like creature soaring high above flat moors.
* Stonewyrm - Serpent-like creature with scales mimicking mountain terrain, preying on smaller animals.
* Whisperwing Bats - Nocturnal bats navigating dark skies with glowing patterns on wings.
* Palemoon Elk - Large herbivores with antlers having a ghostly glow for finding food at night.
* Valleyclaw Scorpion - Venomous scorpion species dwelling in forest-choked valleys.
* Lumestone Beetle - Beetles with bioluminescent patterns, illuminating crevices among rocky mountain ranges.
* Stonemaw Grizzly - Formidable predator in mountains with powerful jaws and sharp claws.
=== Known Diseases ===
Like many Death-Worlds, Ritter has a myriad of diseases that plague it's people.
* Gloomborne Fever - A mysterious and recurring fever that afflicts the inhabitants of Ritter, often associated with exposure to the poisonous fogs.
* Shadowlung Respiritis - A respiratory illness caused by prolonged inhalation of the toxic air, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, and lung damage.
* Twilight Pox - A contagious skin disease characterized by dark, itchy rashes that develop in the pale darkness of Ritter.
* Moormist Chills - A condition caused by exposure to the cold and damp moors, leading to shivering, weakness, and joint pain.
* Valley Basin Blight - A plant-based disease that affects crops and flora in the deep forest-choked valley basins, causing wilting and decay.
* Fogfall Encephalitis - A severe neurological disease associated with exposure to toxic fog, leading to headaches, confusion, and memory loss.
* Paleshade Anemia - A type of anemia caused by a deficiency of essential nutrients in the diet due to the limited availability of sunlight for crops.
* Duskbloom Allergy - An allergic reaction to the pollen of the duskblossom rose, causing skin rashes, itching, and respiratory distress.
* Mistveil Conjunctivitis - An eye infection caused by the fog's toxins, leading to redness, irritation, and sensitivity to light.
* Whispering Willow Syndrome - A psychological condition marked by vivid and haunting dreams attributed to the effects of the whispering willows' rustling.
* Tyberian Rabies - A variant of rabies carried by the nocturnal predators known as Tyberian Howlers, causing aggression, foaming at the mouth, and eventual death if left untreated.
* Paleblindness - A condition characterized by a gradual loss of vision due to the perpetual pale darkness on Ritter, causing affected individuals to become partially or completely blind.
* Thornshade Rash - A skin irritation caused by contact with the thorny vines of the Thornshade Bramble, resulting in redness, itching, and swelling.
* Moonglow Poisoning - Occurs when the Moonglow Mushrooms are ingested in large quantities, causing hallucinations, disorientation, and muscle spasms.
* Moonshade Insomnia - A sleep disorder caused by the constant dim light, leading to difficulties falling asleep or experiencing restful sleep.
* Fogwhisper Allergy - An allergic reaction to the Fogwhisper Moths, resulting in sneezing, itching, and respiratory distress.
* Stoneshadow Venom - A poisonous substance produced by the Stoneshadow Panther's bite, causing severe pain, paralysis, and sometimes death.
* Starshimmer Infection - An infection caused by the Starshimmer Beetles' bioluminescent patterns, leading to skin discoloration and inflammation.
* Mistvine Intoxication - A condition that occurs when the Mistvine Orchid's nectar is ingested in excessive amounts, causing dizziness, disorientation, and nausea.
* Lumengrove Pollen Allergy - An allergic reaction to the Gloomsilk Fern's pollen, resulting in respiratory difficulties and skin irritation.
=== Miscellaneous ===
* Tala'Shivah - The ancient martial art form practiced by skilled warriors, emphasizing discipline, agility, and respect for one's opponent.
* Yara'Mandor - A board game played during festivals by children and youth, symbolizing the balance between light and darkness, and reflecting the importance of strategic thinking.
* Kaldor's Light - A rare astronomical event where the Tyberian moons align, and when Ritter reaches its orbital apex and it is pulled from Tyberous Atmospheric range, creating a mesmerizing celestial display as the High-Fogs of Ritter are expelled and the stars become visible for a time, believed to bring blessings and prosperity to the land.
* Gleraz - A woven garment worn by Rittean men during significant agricultural events and ceremonies. Each pattern and color of the Gleraz represents different aspects of the land and its produce.
* Kalthuri - A type of communal storage facility where surplus crops are kept and distributed during times of scarcity or crisis. The Kalthuri is managed collectively by the Murinall to ensure fair distribution.
* Fogbane Lichen Remedies - Ritteans have discovered that the Fogbane Lichen acts as a natural filter, purifying the air in certain pockets. They often use this lichen in their homes and communal spaces to create breathable areas.
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