recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Lord of the Silver Spears

*Lord of the Silver Spears* is a song originating in the Fifteenth Legion. It sarcastically commemorates the death of the Exiled Prince at the Battle of Three Hills. While the song itself is humorous, it is set to the cadence of a Legion quick march, making it practical to sing while on the march.

### Origin and History

The first major battle of the Fifteenth Legion was the Battle of Three Hills, where they fought against the larger but more poorly organized forces of the Silver Spears. Before the battle, the Exiled Prince came ahead of his troops and, using magic to augment his voice, challenged Catherine Foundling to single combat. Catherine instead ordered Nauk to shoot him with a crossbow. The shot went low, and would have been a chest wound that a combat hero could easily fight though, but the bolt was deflected by an enchantment in his armor to ward it against arrows. Because he was not wearing his helmet, the enchantment deflected the bolt directly into his throat, killing him instantly.

After his death, the Silver Spears lost their discipline and leadership, allowing Catherine and Juniper to wipe out many of them with relatively few losses. They lost many of their number and most of their cavalry, and fled the field in disarray allowing the Fifteenth to track down and kill many more.

The Legions generally tend to be quite fond of commemorating major and especially entertaining events in song. The exact writer of *Lord of the Silver Spears* is unknown. It was first sung by a large group while the Fifteenth were marching towards Summerholm. Catherine noted that most of them were terrible singers but that with the number singing it was hard to even tell. She further noted that singing song seemed to help keep up morale, and that she saw no reason to make them stop.

### Lyrics

He was a prince and a handsome lad,
On a pretty white horse, all iron-clad.
His lance was silver but his heart gold,
A peerless champion, or so we’re told.
Oh! The Lord of the Silver Spears!

So he cornered us on a muddy hill,
His knights were up and eager to kill.
But he said halt! We need not fight!
Only the she-witch will die tonight!
Oh! The Lord of the Silver Spears!

He rode up to us and rang his horn,
Called out the Boss with all his scorn.
Then sat there idle, proud as all Hells,
Waiting while she bid her farewells.
Oh! The Lord of the Silver Spears!

So we shot him, right through the throat.
So much for that armour and all the gloat,
So learn the lesson from that sad day –
Fuck with the Fifteenth and you’ll pay!
Oh! Poor Lord of the Silver Spears!
Ogres

## Description

According to Dread Empress Malicia:

*‘Nim grimaced, thick lips pulling at thicker skin. All expressions looked exaggerated on ogres, by virtue of their size. It often made them seem foolish or stupid, so most who left the Hall of Skulls learned to school their faces into neutrality to avoid the impression – and so now their kind was known as being inexpressive instead.’*

Ogres are not small creatures, standing around 15 feet tall, with a build to match. They are large bipedal creatures not popular for their looks. They are mainly used in Praes’ Legions of Terror as heavy infantry. Their size and strength makes them crucial for breaking shield walls as well as sustaining damage while defending mages who launch strikes against opposition.

Despite their immense muscle they do tire and can be overrun by infantry. Their immense size also makes them a target, and can be used against them to outmanoeuvre them. Also, Catherine mentions that two reliable methods of defeating Ogres are sorcery and Goblin munitions.

Low birth rates mean that they have begun to suffer serious population decline, as well as health issues due to unavoidable inbreeding.

Ogres have four lungs.

## Culture

*‘“My people say that on the day we are born, our death is born as well. We run towards it, it runs towards us, and the most we can take from life is to steal a march on it before we meet.”’*

*-Marshal Nim*

They are not native to Calernia, having been brought by the Miezans centuries ago. Despite popular belief the ogres do posses a religion they mostly pray to death as it is the only thing certain for their kind. Hune has also exhibited some form of miracle in praising of their god, by dissolving a piece of bread. Ogres are forcibly conscripted by the empire into service. Each year a set of tributes are chosen by the ogre tribes and sent to the War College. Whereas for goblins this is an honor and a chance to move up in the world, ogres see this as a duty and a death sentence. Despite this forced enlistments ogres understand that it is their lot in life to die and that their current status is only thanks to the empire having a use for them. Thus, they are proud to serve and die for their empire to protect their people from enslavement.

## Names

No Names have been seen, but early on in book one it was mentioned that Ogres have taken on Roles in the past, indicating that while rare, Ogres in Praes do receive names.

Confirmed in Book 6’s epilogue, where Dread Empress Malicia names Marshal Nim her Black Knight.

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2022/01/28/interlude-legends-iv/
Mage

Mage is a Transitional Name that signifies a growing talent in magic, a step on the way to becoming an Archmage.

## History

The Name of Mage is uncommon to Ashur, as Ashurans typically become one of three more traditional Names: Red Mage, Blue Mage, and Silver Mage. Each of these names has a role as a destroy, a navigator, or a healer. A Mage, however, drops the qualifier and the limits associated with those Roles.
Spirits

Spirit is a term for a wide variety of beings.

## Types of Spirits

**Sprites**: Diminutive spirits common to western Callow. They can be used as a light source, and are less hard on the eyes than magelights.

**Souls of Fire**: large spirits made from smoke and flame, they live in the Deepest Sea, the magma beneath the Kingdom Under. They can sing and control magma.

**Spirit Guides**: Catherine meets two spirits in her name dream that resemble her.

**Spirits of the Dead**: The spirit or soul of a dead person can be called back to their body for a time, though their memory is imperfect.

**Wraiths**: Wraiths are spirits of the dead returned and appear as silver and shade. They are incorporeal but can interact with the world.

**Akua**: Akua became a spirit following her death at Second Liesse. She has the ability to change her appearance, and was capable of drawing upon the powers of Catherine Foundling while bound to her.

**Redress and Retribution**: The patron spirits of Stygia. They take the form of white cranes with golden beaks. There were originally three such spirits, but the Sword of the Free killed one prior to founding Bellerophon and used the corpse to create Bellerophon's founding stele.

## References

1. ↑ Book 4 - Chapter 19: Recovery
2. ↑ Book 7 - Interlude: Legends I
3. ↑ Book 1 - Chapter 4: Name
4. ↑ Book 6 - Chapter 19: Spectral
5. ↑ Book 5 - Interlude: Repudiation
6. ↑ Book 5 - Chapter 71: Verge
7. ↑ Book 3 - Heroic Interlude: Injunction The White Knight watched the tall banner floating above the camp, gold and grey set with two pure white cranes. Redress and Retribution, they were called, the patron spirits of Stygia. Lesser gods that had settled in the heart of the city when it was first built – he knew this for a fact for he’d watched one of them millennia ago centuries ago. *Golden beak dipped in blood, eyes older than her entire bloodline red with hatred that was utterly inhuman. It would not matter. She was the Sword of the Free: she would wrest her people from chains and lead them to found a city in the east. A land where no would ever rule over them again. She rose, wounded but unbowed, and fought again.*
Salia

Capital city of Procer and a Principality in it's own right.

The First Prince or Princess will also become Prince or Princess or Salia, thereby gaining two votes in the Highest Assembly of Procer.

Tiered city with a population of at least a million, more during winters. Currently ruled by First Prince Cordelia Hasenbach.
Stars From the Sky

Stars From the Sky is an ancient Praesi song.

### Lyrics

*"Long have I
walked the shore

Known ruin, drunk bitter wine

Brewed in dying light of yore

Before triumph did resign*

*In shaded Wolof I
knew

Rest beneath the sycamore

Yet as the western wind blew

My heart cried out for more*

*Born grieving, I will
die

Holding naught in my hand

So why not reach out and

Pluck stars from the sky?*

*I have known
kings, petty men

Of pettier kingdoms still

Clutching tight their
stolen wen

Using them up to their fill*

*And the poets weep, when did

We become a people
ruled?

The empire folly
undid

Was raised by people
subdued*

*Born grieving, I will die

Holding naught in my
hand

So why not reach out
and

Pluck the stars from
the sky?*

*So let me dance with
ghosts,

Beautiful, hungry
devils

Let me face great
hosts

In dark and bloody revels*

*I will tread the isle
blesse*d
I will burn the fields of red

And should arrant come the west

The river will be fed

*Born grieving, I will
die

Holding naught in my
hand

So why not reach out
and

Pluck the stars from
the sky?*

*I have shared a bed with doom

Danced with death as
a lover

Long have I dreamt of
my tomb,

And no dream lasts
forever*

*But now that the night has come

I raise my hand to
the sky

And one last time I
succumb

To that old, beloved
cry*

*Born grieving, I will die

Holding naught in my
hand

So why not reach out
and

Pluck the stars from
the sky?*

*So why not reach out and

Pluck the stars from
the sky?"*
Nauk of the Waxing Moons

Nauk is a commander in the Fifteenth Legion of Terror, and later general in the Army of Callow.

### Background

Nauk was forced to join the Legions when he lost control of himself and attacked a merchant. He was given the choice of military service or criminal punishment.

Nauk was in the War College the year Catherine Foundling temporarily entered it. He was part of Rat Company, and in Catherine's first training battle he was one of only a handful of people to escape Juniper's opening attack.

### Personality

Nauk is described as being intelligent, but preferring to be aggressive and take the initiative rather than wait and let his enemies take initiative.

He also has an unusual difficulty in controlling the red rage, which is something of a liability in one of his rank. However, he is otherwise competent and always had Nilin to cover his personal weaknesses. Nauk's personality has become increasingly violent after the death of his friend. He jumps head first into battle ignoring the danger's of combat. After his revival his personality has become erratic; although he is still functional enough to process thoughts, he is only a moment away from violence. He has become a shell of himself of what was salvaged; he now only receives joy from serving the legions (no doubt by design).

### Relationships

Nauk had a very close friendship and working relationship with Senior Tribune Nilin. Nilin was always the calmer, more thoughtful one who kept Nauk from letting his emotions get the better of him. He took Nilin's death in the Battle of Three Hills very poorly, entering a rage and attacking the soldier who brought him the casualty listing before being subdued by Catherine.

He also has romantic feelings for Senior Sapper Pickler, putting him in competition with Tribune Robber. Pickler has admitted that though she has little interest in either of them (or anyone else) romantically, she enjoys the reminder they provide that she isn't under the thumbs of the Matrons and could start a relationship without their approval if she wished.

Since his resurrection via Warlock's sorcery he has only a vague sense of the memories and relationships he once possessed. Now, though, he has none: he only has the legion to comfort him.

### Powers

An orc who was taught at the Academy and is well versed in legion tactics. He also has what is called the "red rage"; this is a trait where orcs fly into a reckless fury. In Nauk's case he is untrained in controlling his rage, thus when under enough emotional stress he can potentially harm both friend and foe. After his resurrection, though, it seems that he has lost the red rage, maintaining a cold and balanced emotion.

### Gallery

Rat Company Book 1 - by GwennafranRat Company Book 1 - Alternate version - by GwennafranFifteenth Army - Book 2 - by GwennafranFifteenth Legion - Book 3 - by Gwennafran
Hunter

The Hunter is a Name that thrives on hunting animals.

## Role

The Role also leans towards hunting and avoiding being tracked themselves.

## Abilities

The Name seems to give the user enhanced senses as well as increased durability allowing the user to function even with a lost hand. The user also has enhanced abilities when facing animals as well as tracking them. Finally the Named can avoid being tracked by other through any means.

The Hunter is able to coat his spears in Light, allowing him to protect against Demons. The Light can also be used to burn away Corruption.

## Known Holders

**John**: One of the five main students of the Ranger in Refuge. Was killed by a Demon.

## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2016/07/20/chapter-31-sleight/
Lest Dawn Fail

Lest Dawn Fail is a Proceran war song. It honors the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who hold back Procer's many enemies, especially the Dead King and the Ratlings.

## Lyrics

*“The moon rose, midnight eye*
*Serenaded by the owl’s cry*
*In Hannoven the arrows fly*

*Hold the wall, lest dawn fail*

*No southern song for your ear*
*No pretty lass or merry cheer*
*For you only night and spear*

*Hold the wall, lest dawn fail*

*Come rats and king of dead*
*Legions dark, and darkly led*
*What is a grave if not a bed?*

*Hold the wall, lest dawn fail*

*Quell the tremor in your hand*
*Keep to no fear of the damned*
*They came ere, and yet we stand*

*So we’ll hold the wall,*
*Lest dawn fail."*

## Significance

The first stanza references the symbolic connection between Evil, especially the Kingdom of the Dead, and darkness. The refrain reinforces this, implying that soldiers of the Principate must always hold against invasion in case even the sun fails to support them.

The second and third stanzas focus on the sacrifices soldiers need to make in the line of duty. They talk about the comforts that soldiers miss out on in favor of a life of war. The third stanza also mentions rats, in reference to the ratling hordes, and "legions dark and darkly led", referring to the forces of the Kingdom of the Dead and possibly also to the Praesi Legions of Terror.

The fourth and final stanza encourages soldiers not to give in to fear. The words "And yet we stand" are a traditional Proceran boast, spoken in response to threats or criticism from outside forces.
Warlock

Warlock is a name given to the mage with the greatest magical potential.

### Power Level

High. The Warlock is not a direct combat class and thus is not afforded any physical augmentation but it does bolster the users already large magical capacity. The Named is able to cast many magical spells without need of rest as a normal mage would need. This allows them to tamper with creation as well as call upon dark denizens of evil.

### Role

The role is filled by the individual who has the greatest magical capacity. Unlike how Squire precedes Black Knight, Apprentice does not entitle the Named to the Warlock position. This is shown by Heiress' father being offered the position and turning it down in favour of staying out of the limelight.

### Special Abilities

While most of the abilities of Warlock remain unknown since his full combat capabilities have only been hinted at, Heiress states that Warlocks are meant to make "miracles". It can be assumed that Warlocks can challenge the laws of creation. Warlocks are able to make deals with demonic entities, bind devils, able to place curses on individuals.

Wekesa showed three aspects using his time as Warlock:

* Link: Is a self admitted abstract aspect it allows Wekesa to tether two entities together that by creation's laws should have none. This aspect was used in order to Link an array that the Hedge Wizard was using to a tower. By destroying the tower, he also destroyed an arm and a large portion of the Wizard's body
* Imbricate: Warlocks most destructive aspect. Allows Warlock to overlap another plane of existence with creation. He commonly uses this aspect to overlap one of the hells he is able to delve into deeper levels depending on the amount of power he puts into the aspect. It is unknown if he is limited to delving into hell itself due to his evil nature, or if he can also submerge creation into other realms such as Arcadia.
* Reflect: Warlocks self admitted most beautiful aspect allows him to lie to creation by literally creating his own hell instead of having to dig for one. This allows him to both affect the weather.
Squire

"*Some of my predecessors would have thrown a threat in there to motivate you,” he admitted easily. “Something along the lines of ‘should you refuse me, I will burn alive everyone in the orphanage and make you watch’.” He smiled ruefully. “Most of them were killed by their Squire, as it happens. I will not repeat their mistake: I will not deceive you, Catherine, or force your hand. What would be the point? I already have followers and equals – as well as a superior, if only the one. What I want is an apprentice, and an unwilling one would be nothing more than a burden.*"
―Amadeus of the Green Stretch
The **Squire** is a Name associated with the Black Knight, White Knight and assorted other Knight names.

### Special Abilities

A villainous Squire naturally has the ability to raise undead creatures. However, this power can only allow control of one undead creature at a time. If the Squire is inexperienced they may only reanimate an animal that they killed personally and thus formed an attachment to.

The Squire is also extremely likely, perhaps even guaranteed to gain the Aspect Learn.

### Role

The Squire's Role is to learn and grow. It is generally considered as a transitional Name that it is expected that a holder will eventually outgrow and abandon for a better name when a vacancy appears, a formerly inactive Name is taken, or the holder decides to kill a superior for their Name.

1. ↑ Book 1 - Chapter 4: Name
The Fall of Empress Triumphant, First and Only of Her Name

A play on the fall of Dread Empress Triumphant. Part of it can be found in the Epilogue of Book 1:

“What say you, Empress of Praes?

Here you lie upon the blood-soaked ruins of your dominion, surrounded by the corpses of the legions that once swarmed over the world. Hundreds of thousands dead for the sake of your wretched ambition, your mad design to bring to heel the kingdoms of man. In all the history of Creation no one woman has been so wicked as you, and I will have my answer.

Why, o Empress of Ruins?”

She shrugged.

“Why not?”
Stained Sister

The Stained Sister is a Good Name that hails from the Principate of Procer.

## Role

The Stained Sister came into her Name after not breaking her faith in Above, even after three days of being buried up to her neck in the corpses of everyone she’d ever known.

The Choir of Endurance has been noted to have taken an interest in the Stained Sister.

## Abilities

Posseses an affinity with Light, making the Stained Sister a useful combatant against the Dead King's massive necromantic constructs.  The Stained Sister also posseses enhanced strength through the use of an Aspect. Her strength is strong enough to barehandedly crumple a Revenant's helmet and the head behind it.

## Known Holders

**Unnamed woman:** A member of the Grand Alliance and a signatory of the Truce and the Terms, the Stained Sister is an elderly woman in her seventies  and wears red-stained garments.  She was found in the Hainut region, shattering Hakram’s shoulder and nearly blinding him during their first encounter.

As a part of the Barrow Sword's band, the Stained Sister was a part of the team that took down the Wolfhound, one of the Scourges.

The Stained Sister has a bad relationship with the Harrowed Witch, their mutual antagonism stemming from their disdain from each other's respective method of survival during the Dead King’s advance.

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/01/14/chapter-2-enlistment/
2. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2021/12/10/interlude-honour/
3. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/07/14/chapter-43-conclusions/
4. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/01/14/chapter-2-enlistment/
5. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2021/12/10/interlude-honour/
Wicked Enchanter

"*He was in Orense, where he slew and robbed and raped his fill in the villages around the outskirts of the Brocelian.*"
―Indrani
The Wicked Enchanter is an Evil Name.

## Abilities

Described as more of a hedge mage than a true practictioner by Masego, the Wicked Enchanter is a master in his own field, though offers little value outside the field. The Wicked Enchanter excels in mind control, though rather imperfect. He also possesses elemental conjuring though his arsenal is essentially varied methods of domination.

Was considered a promising lead in usurping control of lesser dead from Keter.

## Known Holders

**Unnamed man**: Originally from Valencis, the man spent some years in Helike and then in Orense. In Orense, the Wicked Enchanter slew and robbed and raped his fill in the villages around the outskirts of the Brocelian. As a result of his actions, the Red Axe came into her Name.

The Wicked Enchanter had been broadly disliked and held in disgust. Even other villains were lukewarm about the Wicked Enchanter and heroes would hold him up as the kind of monster deserving the headman’s block instead of the protection of the Truce.

Killed by the Red Axe.

## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/02/28/chapter-13-ingress/
2. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/02/25/interlude-terms/
The Old Raider

*The Old Raider* is a Kharsum war song. Hakram sings it while fighting The Duke of Unrelenting Landslides

### Lyrics

*I sing of Spring, come Winter deep.*
*I sing of a dream beyond sleep.*

*The world was fair, when I was young,*
*My grip was strong, my fang was long,*
*And never did my axe falter.*

*The days were long in Summer sun,*
*Even sorrow sweet in battles won,*
*And never did my hand linger.*

*I bore a crown once, of iron hewn,*
*Earned riding under Autumn moon.*
*And never did my heart waver.*

*Spring passed into Summer song,*
*Then Summer into Fall, headlong,*
*And I know what waits after.*

*I sing of Spring, come Winter deep.*
*I sing of a dream beyond sleep.*
Repentant Magister

"*Stygians. What else can be expected, even from one claiming repentance?*"
―the Myrmidon
The Repentant Magister is a heroic Name that comes from Stygia. The most recent holder was Nephele.

## Role

The Name appears to be a rebellious Name that contrasts with the dominant Evil culture of Stygia. According to the White Knight, the holder "renounced the sorceries you were taught" and "spurned everything she was raised to embrace" , implying that the Name occurred due to a moral conflict with the slavery and evil.

## Abilities

It is a mage Name that has demonstrated the use of enchantments, clairvoyance, and healing magic.

While not an impressive combat mage she was an extremely talented healer and capable of making artefacts that more than made up for her lacking offensive spellcraft.

## Known Holders

**Nephele Eliade** A member of the Tenth Crusade as well as the Grand Alliance, Nephele was a signatory of the Truce and the Terms.

Descibed as the "very painting of what people thought of when talking of a Free Cities beauty". Nephele was a supple and curvy woman, face was sharp in cast and her nose strong, with pale grey eyes and luxurious long dark hair. She also had a highborn look to her, in the way she stood and spoke and usually wore tight velour dresses with dipping necklines. While speaking, Nephele's stygian accent sounded like silk in the ear with a smooth, throaty voice.

Hailing from Stygia, Nephele was born into the highest reaches of the Magisterium of Stygia. Her family, the Eliades, remained one of the most influential families in the city-state to this day.

As the Repentant Magister, Nephele was the foremost authority on the Dead King’s necromantic constructs. Even Akua had expressed admiration when she’d read her work on ghouls.

She was killed at the Arsenal by Catherine Foundling, as an act of mercy after being corrupted by a Demon of Terror.

## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2019/09/02/winter-i/

###
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Sabah

## Aspects

Obey

Unleash

Sabah is a Taghrebi woman that is part of the Calamities with the name of Captain. Her role is a supporting name to the Black Knight.

## Backstory

Sabah is a Taghrebi who used to be the Cursed before becoming Captain. She has since joined the Praesi army choosing to follow Black no matter the situation she is a special combative force that is used to subjugate any opposition within her path. Many stories have been told of her ferocity either as the Beast or for her efforts as the Captain. Along with defeating troops she has also participated in many hero hunts viewing the White Knight's band of heroes as child's play. It is to the point where she can even rate their effectiveness and determine their development. Although she understood that the current band of heroes were easy to deal with, as noted in her battle with the Champion it only would take a couple of battles for them to be a threatening force to the Calamities.

## Personality

Sabah is usually calm and devoted to Amadeus. She is noted to be a private person that can be maternal and bicker with the best.

## Relationships

She is one of the Calamities and specially devoted to Amadeus. Amadeus was the only figure that could quell the anger of Sabah when she assumed her wolf form.

Sabah has a husband, Amna, who is a bureaucrat in Ater. They have two children.

## Appearance

She is over eight feet tall, olive skinned and more muscular than an orc. Sabah is described by Catherine to have a brutish face, with strong nose and deep-set blue eyes, and delicate eyelashes.

While on mission to the Free Cities in Book 3, Sabah is described to wear a studded earring in her left ear that is glinting with sorcery. This was used to keep in communication with the other Calamities.

 Captain is usually seen in a full plate, although often without a helmet.

## Powers

Sabah has a powerful name that although supporting the Black Knight is still a stand alone power she was able to face two heroes by herself as well as rip the chest out of an orc god.

Sabah is a physical enforcer her power is drawn not just from her name but also from a curse placed on her by a Warlock. Despite not having the Cursed name she is still able to access the beast form through the allowance of black. She keeps in constant contact with the Black Knight through an enchanted ear ring. It is unknown if her size or her curse.

Thus far the only aspect has been revealed: Obey and Unleash

Obey: Able to draw upon increased power through the direct orders from the Black Knight.

Unleash: Allows Sabah to transform into a lycanthropic form however she is able to control the beast as if it were an extension of power rather than completely in control over her sense. By delving deeper into this aspect she can further enhance the beast powers however this also comes with a loss in sane decisions. The beast provides enhanced strength and agility as well as regeneration that can replace limbs.

## Gallery

Captain by GwennafranBook 1 Praesi Names by Gwennafran
## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2017/04/26/heroic-interlude-appellant/
The Tyranny of the Sun

The Tyranny of the Sun was a Praesi song written near the end of the Sixty Years War. It was banned by the decree of Dread Emperor Nihilis.

### Lyrics

*“Sing we of rage,*
*In Tower and field*
*Of this dying age*
*That will not yield*

*Sing we of steel,*
*Forged in the east*
*As turns the wheel*
*And carrion feast*

*Sing we of empire,*
*For which we bled*
*Of flickering fire*
*Now all but dead*

*Sing we of foe,*
*Of victories won*
*And that first woe*
*Tyranny of the sun*

*Sing we of ruin,*
*As again we tread*
*West, ever pursuing*
*Fate writ in dread.”*
Undead Suicide Goats

Through the use of necromancy Catherine is able to reanimate animals. She then commands her troops to stuff munitions inside of the animals. While unable to control multiple beast she is able to manipulate them one at a time. The undead animals while not particularly durable are still able to withstand a great deal of damage while continually moving with the power of necromancy. Although one the bones have been sufficiently broken they will be unable to move.
Sinister Physician

"*Despite my best efforts and those of the priests, it is, of course, possible she will die*"
―Sinister PhysicianThe Sinister Physician is an Evil Name.

## Role

The Sinister Physician has a obsession with immortality. In return for his services as a healer, the Sinister Physician has the occasional indulgence of taking vitality or souls as payment.

## Abilities

The Sinister Physician has a high level of skill as a healer.

## Known Holders

**Unnamed man**: Described as sallow-skinned and thin-haired.

A member of the Grand Alliance and signatory of the Truce and Terms.

## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/03/24/chapter-20-hook/
Tower raising

Tower Raising is a game invented by Hakram of the Howling Wolves in his youth, then refined in his years at the War College.

It is played with three players, 34 tokens called stones and three opaque bags.

**Setup**:

* Put 10 stones on the table.
* Put 6, 8 and 10 stones in three bags.
* Distribute the bags such that no player knows how many stones are in the bag they do not have.

Select a player to go first.

Each player takes a turn where they have three possible actions:

* Take a turn from another player if the third player agrees.

* Take a stone from the pile on the table, called Callow.

* Destroy a stone.

After all three players have had an action, a turn is complete and counted.

**Goal:** One of the players must acquire 20 stones.

After twenty turns, all three players lose if no player has earned 20 stones.
Princess of High Noon

The Princess of High Noon, Sulia, is a Fae princess of the Summer Court. She is a god.

She is tall, with hair like fire and swirls of heat around her.

## Background

#### The Arcadian Campaign (Book 3)

Sulia attacked southern Callow along with the Summer Court.

Catherine pretended to be her during her scheme against the Duke of Violent Squalls

Sulia and the Prince of Deep Drought fought Larat. The Woe then fought and Imprisoned Sulia.

## Powers

As a fae royal, Sulia is extremely powerful, Catherine considered her to be stronger than Larat, another fae royal. Sulia could use Category:Magic. She can create and manipulate flames, and can create wings on her back.

Sulia is a swordswoman. She was able to match Catherine, Indrani, and Hakram of the Howling Wolves all fighting her at once.

### Domain

The Princess of High Noon's domain took the form of a field full of ashes, with the Sun of Arcadia burning down on it. It was mentioned that Sulia only called upon her domain to being an end to Winter. Within it, Sulia's strength was restored and she could burn all that set foot within it with the Sun of Arcadia.

## References

1. ↑ Book 3 - Interlude: Commanders
2. ↑ Book 3 - Chapter 11: Swerve
3. ↑ Book 3 - Chapter 31: High Noon
William of Greenbury

"*Contrition is not forgiveness, Bard. Can never be forgiveness. It’s not in their nature. They already told me where I’m going after I die, and it’s not the nice place. So I’ll get my hands dirty for the rest of you, because that’s what I’m meant for now.*"
―William of Greenbury

## General information

### Faction

Heroes,
Callow

## Aspects

Swing

Rise

Triumph

William of Greenbury is the first Heroic antagonist of the series, holding the name of Lone Swordsman.

## Background

William of Greenbury was born and raised in Greenbury, a village in the Liesse governorship. His parents were cobblers, with his father having previously been a knight under King Robert. William picked up swordsmanship from his father and began practicing from a young age.

William's sister, along with her husband, was part of a resistance group that planned to overthrow the Legions of Terror. After confronting his sister and failing to change her mind, William murdered her to prevent her inevitable arrest from causing the loss of his family's property and lives. This event had a severe effect upon William, causing him to flee to the wilds and see an Angel of Contrition, resulting in the bestowal of his Name.

## Appearance

William is described by Catherine as young and darkly handsome with messy hair and green eyes. His appearance is said to be typical for a Hero.

In his first appearance he wears a long brown leather coat.

Before the battle of Marchford, he wears a white-gilded armor while addressing the masses. He returns to wearing the leather coat over mail during the battle.

## Personality

William is a deeply conflicted individual. He seeks atonement for past crimes but as Catherine predicted, he finds himself committing even more devious crimes in pursuit of justice. Even when serving with other heroes he is more irritated then delighted by his companions.

He hates greenskins and sees them as inherently evil and lesser.

## Name History

The Name of Lone Swordsman was bestowed on William by an Angel of Contrition while he was living in the wilds after murdering his sister.

## Powers

Prior to receiving a Name, William was a skilled swordsman, and the unnatural swiftness and strength afforded by a Name amplified the pre-existing skill.

William also wielded the Penitent's Blade, an angelic sword, that further increased his melee combat prowess.

William is shown to have realized all three of his aspects(Swing, Rise and Triumph) before the Battle of Marchford, but only Swing and Rise are explained.

* **Rise**: Allowed William to take fatal damage and survive, with the aspect healing the damage near instantly.

* **Triumph**

* **Swing**: This aspect increased the strength and swiftness of William's sword strikes, to the point where even Catherine is not able to match his blows.

## Gallery

Hunter can be shipped with his entire band - Part 1 - by GwennafranHunter can be shipped with his entire band - Part 2 - by Gwennafran
1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2016/02/10/heroic-interlude-riposte/
Ruling Council

In the aftermath of The Liesse Rebellion, the Ruling Council of Callow was created.
Controlled in essence by The Black Knight, in practice the council was run by Catherine Foundling, as Amadeus left her his vote, and she appointed 2 other callowans to outnumber the 2 praesi highborn and Malicia's representative. The council was given rule over the Imperial Governors, as well as the ability to recall or punish those governors if they broke the regulations of the council. Control over the general laws and policies of the vassal-state of Callow was included too.

### Members of the Ruling Council

Sister Abigail

Baroness Anna Kendall

The Black Knight

Catherine Foundling

Murad Kalbid

Satang Motherless

Empress Malicia's personal representative
Wolof

Wolof is a city of the Dread Empire of Praes. It is home to one of the High Seats of Praes, making the current ruler of the city a High Lord or High Lady. Since the Declaration, it has been held by the Sahelian family. From books 1-3, Tasia Sahelian was the High Lady. After she defaulted on her debts, her nephew Sargon Sahelian initiated a successful coup to replace her. The civil war saw Tasia release a Demon in the city.

## A millennial city

While the city is not the oldest in Praes, it has some of the oldest records in the Empire, rivaling Ater and the Tower's library. These works are both historical and of a magical nature.

It is the birthplace of ritual magic in Praes and has the best repository of knowledge of magic and history save for the Tower's.

Pyramids of baked mud can be found around the city; described "broad and gently sloped"; they were used as ritual sites.

The city is a center of magical research and learning, obtaining that position by offering refuge to any mage that could reach its gates.

Wolof was never taken over by the crusader kingdoms, having "badly broken the army that tried to take it"

## Trivia

* The brand of Wolof is red and black, with a golden lion.
* The population was estimated to be around 150,000 people

### References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2017/04/19/villainous-interlude-chiaroscuro/
2. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2018/08/06/chapter-40-viviennes-plan/
3. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2018/10/08/interlude-giuoco-pianissimio-ii/
4. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2017/12/04/chapter-49-hearsay/
5. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2017/08/02/interlude-apprentice/
6. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2018/10/31/interlude-apostates/
Sculptor

"*Murdering the woman who’d killed his wife had been somewhat excusable, sacrificing half a dozen people to animate the impossibly lifelike statue of her he’d sculpted significantly less so.*"
―Catherine Foundling
The Sculptor is an Evil Name.

Due to the nature of his art, the Sculptor is knowledgeable about the mason trade.

## Abilities

The Sculptor is capable of animating an impossibily lifelike statue of his wife after sacrificing half a dozen people.

## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2021/08/24/chapter-33-claimant-repeat/
Liesse

"*The walls circling the city were forty feet high, a concession to the invasions that had plagued Callow since its inception, but they were also white or pale tan stone, with ornate crenellation sculpted to look like mated pairs of swans. That was the city’s unofficial name, among Callowans: Liesse, City of Swans. The jewel of the south, never marred by war.*"
―Catherine Foundling**Liesse** was one of the most significant cities in the Kingdom of Callow, second only to Laure. Currently it's a ruin located at the intersection of three cities: Vale, Ankou and Southpool.

## General Information

Districts in the city, population, etc...

## History

Historical significance as the capital of the Kingdom of Liesse. Its influence on southern Callow.

## First Battle of Liesse

*See: First Battle of Liesse*

Also known as the First Liesse, this battle was the conclusion to the Liesse Rebellion. Nominally, the forces of the Dread Empire, led by Catherine Foundling, were assaulting the city held by the Callowan rebels and the Lone Swordsman. In reality it was a three way conflict between Akua Sahelian who wanted to take the city by any means to elevate her position in Praesi court; Catherine Foundling who aimed to take back the city with limited number of casualties and William of Greenbury who wanted to summon an Angel of Contrition and begin a crusade against the Dread Empire.

How it affected the city, change in govern-ship.

## Second Battle of Liesse

*See: Second Battle of Liesse*

"*Liesse looked like the gates of some godforsaken hell. The walls of sun-kissed stone had covered in great runes and the pale blocks had withered like fruit on the vine. Atop them stood unmoving thousands facing us, and though this was a fortified city and not a fortress they were tall ramparts and well-built. Behind them the labyrinth of alleys and shops would be crawling with wards and undead: we’d bleed for every street.*"
―Catherine Foundling
Commonly referred to as the Second Liesse, this battle stretches roughly from the moment the city flew up to the moment Akua Sahelian was killed

## Aftermath

Impact on the kingdom of callow, international politics and the Woe.

## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2016/10/05/chapter-39-countdown/
2. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2017/11/29/chapter-48-interrogation/
3. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2018/01/15/chapter-59-anacrusis/
Poisoner

"*She was a Poisoner, and when she finally admitted it to herself the world shivered to the sound of her damnation.*"
―Five Stories
The **Poisoner** is an Evil Name. The Name is first introduced in Book 6.

## Abilities

While making poisons, the Poisoner finds a knack for making her own poisons, even undocumented ones.

The feeling is described "as if there was something guiding her hand, and it was the same when she was attempting to find servants and kinsmen who would turn on a target."

Even before settling into the Name, the Poisoner has killed by baking and serving two pastries full of nightshade.

The Poisoner is able to make harmful substances that are not technically poisons, such as by mixing Manticore venom with blood and rhododendron, creating an acid powerful enough to destroy a Named undead.

## Known Holders

**Angelique**: A plump and smiling middle-aged woman, she has red plump cheeks with watery eyes and an impressively creepy titter.

Angelique began her road to being the Poisoner after paying for her brother-in-law, Henri, to be poisoned with arsenic in his ale. She didn't intend him to actually die, but profited handsomely when he did, and then personally poisoned the assassin with nightshade-filled pastries when he tried to extort her. She fully came into her Name while fleeing from the Saint of Swords.

She joined the Painted Knife's band of five discovering the secret danger of the Ealamal, noteworthy for being one of the first bands to openly mix heroes and villains under the Truce and Terms. The band later traveled to Mercantis to eradicate Praesi influence there, ultimately exposing a devilish impostor.

Killed during the siege against Keter by the Hawk.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Extra Chapters - Five Stories
2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Book 6 - Chapter 35: Portents
3. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2022/01/21/interlude-legends-ii/
Pilfering Dicer

"*The Pilfering Dicer was tasked with stealing the luck of one woman in particular until misfortune plagued her like fleas might a dog.*"
―Interlude: Grand
The Pilfering Dicer is an Evil Name seemingly about stealing other's luck.

Despite the word 'Dicer' being part of the Name, luck can be stolen despite the victim not participating in a dice game.

## Abilities

The Name is capable of stealing the luck of others.  Victims of the Pilfering Dicer will find themselves plagued by misfortune. Accidents that can happen include being thrown off a horse.

The amount of luck the Pilfering Dicer steals is capable of compensating for a hero's providence in a villainous plan.

## Known Holders

**Unnamed man**: A signatory of the Truce and Terms. Had his fingers chopped off for stealing the luck of Catherine Foundling's men. Killed during the seige against Keter.

## References

1. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2021/09/10/chapter-38-salvo/
2. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/01/14/chapter-2-enlistment/
3. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2020/12/24/grand/
4. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2021/09/10/chapter-38-salvo/
5. ↑ https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2022/01/11/chapter-62-finish/
Thalassina

**Thalassina** is a port city in the Dread Empire of Praes, and one of the seven cities in the empire that are ruled by a High Lord – most recently by Idriss Kebana, whose family has held it for almost 500 years – although the Crown has also involved itself in the city's affairs to an unusually high degree. It has recently been utterly destroyed in an attack from Ashur during the Tenth Crusade.

### Background

Thalassina is one of the oldest cities in Praes, older than both Ater and Wolof, and before current events it was also one of the largest with approximately 300 000 inhabitants. It is situated on the eastern coast, and is the empire's main sea port and its center of foreign trade. There have been no less than three attempts at creating a navy in the city, two of which were thwarted by attacks from Ashur and the third by mutiny. For the last 600 years, it has been protected by a large sorcerous array called Shatha's Maze.

### Destruction

After the announcement of the Tenth Crusade, Ashur attempted to raid the city. Through the actions of the Warlock and the Hierophant, the fleet was destroyed. However, in the battle, the Ashurans summoned a aspect of what they believed to be the Gods Above. In the process of defeating it, the Warlock destroyed the city and killed everyone in it, including himself and his husband Tikoloshe.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2018/10/31/interlude-apostates/
2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://practicalguidetoevil.wordpress.com/2018/11/05/interlude-inheritance/