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From the Ashes⁚ A Greyhawk Campaign Setting

From the Ashes is a Dungeons & Dragons gaming accessory for the game’s World of Greyhawk campaign setting. It was published in October 1992 by TSR, Inc. as a boxed set for the 2nd edition of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. It is a setting book which advances the timeline to the year 585 CY, following the Greyhawk Wars.

Introduction

From the Ashes, a comprehensive campaign setting for Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition, marked a significant turning point in the history of the World of Greyhawk. Released in 1992, it served as a sequel and expansion to the original World of Greyhawk boxed set published in 1983. This new sourcebook presented a post-war Flanaess, a land scarred by the devastating Greyhawk Wars, which had concluded just a few years prior.

The Greyhawk Wars, a conflict that spanned decades, reshaped the political landscape of the Flanaess. Powerful nations clashed, leaving a trail of destruction and upheaval in their wake. From the Ashes provided a fresh perspective on this tumultuous period, exploring the aftermath of the wars and the lasting impact they had on the land and its inhabitants.

The sourcebook aimed to capture the sense of change and uncertainty that permeated the Flanaess after the wars. It introduced new threats, political realignments, and a sense of instability that would challenge adventurers and game masters alike. From the Ashes presented a dynamic and evolving world, ripe with opportunities for exploration, conflict, and intrigue.

For those familiar with the original World of Greyhawk setting, From the Ashes offered a refreshing and expanded vision of the Flanaess. It introduced new elements to the world, deepening its lore and expanding its potential for adventure. This sourcebook provided a foundation for a new generation of Greyhawk campaigns, allowing game masters to craft exciting and engaging stories set in a world still grappling with the consequences of war.

The Aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars

From the Ashes paints a vivid picture of the Flanaess in the immediate aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars, a period of profound change and upheaval. The once-mighty empires of the Flanaess had been crippled, their armies depleted, and their resources exhausted. The wars had left a trail of devastation, with cities reduced to rubble, fields ravaged, and entire populations displaced. A sense of uncertainty and instability permeated the land, as nations struggled to rebuild and reassert their power.

The wars had also reshaped the political landscape of the Flanaess. The once-dominant nations, such as the Kingdom of Aerdy and the Principalities of Glantri, had suffered significant losses. New powers emerged, such as the Kingdom of Furyondy, which had exploited the chaos of the wars to expand its influence. The rise of these new powers shifted the balance of power in the Flanaess, creating new alliances and rivalries.

The wars also had a profound impact on the people of the Flanaess. Many had lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. A sense of disillusionment and distrust had taken root, as people questioned the values that had led to such devastating conflict. The aftermath of the wars presented a unique challenge to the people of the Flanaess, forcing them to confront the consequences of their actions and to forge a new path forward.

Political Landscape

The political landscape of the Flanaess in 585 CY, as depicted in From the Ashes, is a complex tapestry of shifting alliances, emerging powers, and lingering tensions. The wars had reshaped the power dynamics, leaving no nation untouched. The once-dominant empires of Aerdy and the Principalities of Glantri had been significantly weakened, their influence diminished. The rise of new powers, such as the Kingdom of Furyondy, had altered the balance of power, creating new opportunities for expansion and influence.

The Flanaess was a patchwork of independent nations, each with its own agenda and ambitions. Some nations sought to consolidate their power and expand their territories, while others focused on rebuilding and recovering from the devastation of the wars. The political landscape was characterized by a delicate balance of power, with alliances forming and dissolving as nations sought to secure their interests.

The political landscape of the Flanaess was also shaped by the lingering effects of the Greyhawk Wars. The wars had created a climate of mistrust and suspicion, as nations struggled to rebuild their economies and their armies. The threat of renewed conflict loomed large, as nations jostled for power and influence. The political landscape of the Flanaess was a powder keg, ready to explode at any moment.

Key Nations and their Leaders

From the Ashes provides detailed information on the key nations of the Flanaess, highlighting their leaders and their current state after the Greyhawk Wars. The once mighty Aerdy, ruled by the ambitious Queen Olhydra, is now in a state of decline, its power waning after the devastating conflict. The Principalities of Glantri, led by the cunning Grand Duke Marius, have also suffered losses, but still hold a significant influence in the region.

Emerging from the ashes is the Kingdom of Furyondy, now a rising power under the strong leadership of King Ivid V. He has proven to be a formidable leader, consolidating his power and expanding his influence. The Nyrond, led by Queen Lyra, has also emerged as a significant force, rebuilding its military and economy. The nation of the Duchy of Tenh, ruled by Duke Zalkon, remains a formidable military power, with a strong army and a reputation for its fierce warriors.

The nations of the Flanaess are not united in their goals, and their leaders are constantly vying for power and influence. The political landscape is a complex web of alliances and rivalries, and the fate of the Flanaess hangs in the balance. With the threat of new dangers looming, the leaders of these nations must find a way to work together to ensure the survival of their people and their lands.

The Rise of New Threats

While the dust settles and the smoke clears from the recent Greyhawk Wars, a new wave of threats emerges, casting a shadow over the Flanaess. The once dormant forces of chaos are awakened, stirring from their slumber and seeking to exploit the power vacuum left in the wake of the war. From the depths of the Underdark, monstrous creatures, driven by ancient grudges and insatiable hunger, begin to surface, seeking to claim the lands above.

The influence of Iuz, the evil demi-lich, still lingers, though his physical presence is absent. His former legions, now led by ambitious warlords, continue to spread terror, their ranks bolstered by new recruits who seek power and plunder. The threat of Vecna, the god of death and knowledge, grows, his insidious whispers reaching into the minds of the most vulnerable, turning them against their own.

With the nations of the Flanaess still recovering from the war, these new threats pose a formidable challenge. The heroes of the Flanaess must rise to meet these challenges, to defend the innocent and protect the lands from the encroaching darkness. The fate of the Flanaess hangs in the balance, and the heroes must choose their side.

Notable Locations

From the desolate wastelands of the Great Desert to the perilous peaks of the World’s Edge Mountains, the Flanaess is a land of diverse and intriguing locations, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for adventurers. The ruined city of Iuz, once the stronghold of the evil demi-lich, now stands as a testament to the horrors of the past, a place where lingering evil still lurks. The city of Greyhawk itself, the gem of the Flanaess, is in a state of rebuilding, its streets bustling with activity as the people work to restore their shattered city.

The Great Kingdom of Aerdy, once a bastion of power, now struggles to maintain its grip on its vast territories, its borders threatened by encroaching chaos. The vast forests of the Nentir Vale, once a peaceful haven, are now home to monstrous creatures and dangerous cults, their influence spreading like a disease. The ancient ruins of the lost civilization of the Suel, scattered across the Flanaess, hold secrets that could reshape the world, but their dangers are not to be underestimated.

The Flanaess is a land where history and legend are intertwined, where the past is never truly forgotten. The locations within the Flanaess offer a rich tapestry of adventure, from the bustling cities to the desolate wastelands, each holding its own unique secrets and dangers;

The Role of Magic

Magic permeates the Flanaess, a force that shapes both the landscape and the lives of its inhabitants. From the arcane arts practiced by wizards to the divine powers wielded by priests, magic is a constant presence, influencing every aspect of society. In the aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars, the role of magic has become even more pronounced, as powerful mages and clerics strive to rebuild the world and restore order to a chaotic landscape.

Arcane magic, with its emphasis on knowledge and power, has become a powerful tool for rebuilding and defense. Wizards and sorcerers are sought after by kingdoms and cities, their skills crucial for both diplomacy and warfare. Divine magic, with its connection to the gods, plays a vital role in healing the wounds of war and providing guidance and protection to those in need. Clerics and paladins are often found at the forefront of rebuilding efforts, their faith a source of strength and hope.

The Flanaess is a land where magic is both a blessing and a curse, a force that can be used for good or evil. The role of magic will continue to evolve as the Flanaess recovers from the Greyhawk Wars, shaping the future of the world and the destinies of its people.

Notable Characters

From the Ashes introduces a new generation of heroes and villains who will shape the fate of the Flanaess. These characters, both legendary and newly emerged, embody the spirit of a world in flux. Among them are⁚

Mordenkainen⁚ The legendary wizard, who played a critical role in the Greyhawk Wars, continues to be a powerful force in the Flanaess. He uses his knowledge and power to guide and support those striving for a better world.

Bigby⁚ Another prominent wizard, Bigby is renowned for his powerful magic and his unwavering commitment to justice. He seeks to protect the innocent and ensure that the lessons of the Greyhawk Wars are not forgotten.

The Scarlet Brotherhood⁚ This powerful organization, led by the enigmatic figure known as “The Scarlet Master,” seeks to exploit the chaos of the post-war era for its own gain. They manipulate the Flanaess’s political landscape, sowing discord and fueling conflict.

The Flanaess is a world teeming with characters, each with their own motivations and agendas. The choices they make will determine the course of the future, shaping the destinies of nations and individuals alike.

Adventures in the Flanaess

The Flanaess, scarred by the recent Greyhawk Wars, is a land ripe with opportunities for adventure. The aftermath of the conflict has left a complex and volatile landscape, where remnants of war linger and new threats emerge.

The Ruins of War⁚ The Flanaess is dotted with the ruins of battlefields, ancient fortresses, and abandoned settlements, each a potential source of danger and intrigue. Players can explore these locations, uncovering hidden secrets, facing deadly traps, and encountering remnants of past conflicts.

New Threats⁚ The Greyhawk Wars have unleashed a wave of new dangers. Mutants, monstrous creatures, and powerful villains now roam the land, seeking to exploit the chaos. Players must confront these threats, protecting innocent communities and restoring order.

Political Intrigue⁚ The Flanaess’s political landscape is unstable, with nations vying for power and influence. Players can become involved in these power struggles, choosing sides, uncovering conspiracies, and influencing the course of history.

The Flanaess, in the wake of war, offers a rich tapestry of adventures for players to explore, filled with danger, intrigue, and opportunities for heroism.

From the Ashes⁚ A Sourcebook for Advanced Dungeons & Dragons

From the Ashes is a sourcebook for the 2nd edition of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, specifically designed for the World of Greyhawk campaign setting. It serves as a comprehensive update to the original World of Greyhawk Fantasy Game Setting boxed set, released in 1983. This sourcebook provides a detailed look at the Flanaess in the aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars, offering a new perspective on the political landscape, societal shifts, and the emergence of new threats.

The sourcebook delves into the impact of the Greyhawk Wars on the Flanaess, examining the devastation caused by the conflict, the rise of new power dynamics, and the emergence of new threats. It provides detailed information on the changes to the political landscape, including the rise of new leaders, alliances, and conflicts;

From the Ashes is a valuable resource for Dungeon Masters and players, offering a rich and detailed setting for their adventures. It provides a comprehensive overview of the Flanaess in the aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars, offering a wealth of information to inspire and facilitate exciting and engaging campaigns.

The Boxed Set Contents

The From the Ashes boxed set is a comprehensive package designed to enhance the World of Greyhawk campaign setting for Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. It includes a wealth of materials to enrich the gaming experience, including⁚

• Three poster maps⁚ These maps showcase the Greyhawk lands, providing a visual representation of the Flanaess and its key locations. They serve as a valuable reference for players and Dungeon Masters alike.
• Five new monsters⁚ From the Ashes introduces five new monstrous creatures to the World of Greyhawk, adding variety and challenge to encounters. These new monsters offer unique abilities and tactical options for players and Dungeon Masters.
• Twenty cardsheets⁚ These cardsheets contain information on various aspects of the Greyhawk setting, including character backgrounds, magic items, and plot hooks. They provide a convenient and easily accessible resource for players and Dungeon Masters.
• Two 96-page booklets⁚ These booklets provide detailed information on the nations of the Flanaess, their political landscapes, and the aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars. They offer a comprehensive overview of the setting’s history, culture, and society.
• Companion rules⁚ The boxed set includes companion rules designed to enhance the gameplay experience in the World of Greyhawk. These rules introduce new mechanics and options, adding depth and complexity to the game.

The From the Ashes boxed set provides a wealth of resources for Dungeon Masters and players, offering a comprehensive and engaging experience for those exploring the World of Greyhawk.

The Impact of From the Ashes

From the Ashes had a significant impact on the World of Greyhawk campaign setting. It revitalized the setting, providing a fresh perspective and a new era for adventurers to explore. The boxed set introduced new elements, such as the aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars, the rise of new threats, and the emergence of new political landscapes. This expansion and development created a more dynamic and engaging world for players and Dungeon Masters.

The introduction of new monsters and companion rules added depth and complexity to the gameplay experience. The inclusion of detailed information on the nations of the Flanaess provided a comprehensive framework for understanding the setting’s history, culture, and society. This depth and detail encouraged players to immerse themselves in the world and engage with its rich tapestry of lore.

From the Ashes also served as a bridge between the first and second editions of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. It adapted the setting to the new rules and mechanics of the second edition, ensuring its continued relevance and appeal to a wider audience. The boxed set’s success solidified the World of Greyhawk as a popular and enduring campaign setting, inspiring generations of players and Dungeon Masters.