Human

Humans have always been resourceful, known for their adaptability and cleverness when a situation is not favorable to their desires. Many of the other races of Norrath consider this a flaw, saying that the flexibility of Humans also causes in them an inability to remain stable and to build upon their past. Humans see this as their greatest gift. They point to their established cities, long-held traditions and powerful role in history as evidence of their gift. In these volumes it is proposed that one of the strongest bonds between generations of Humans, one of the things that keeps them stable and strong while still allowing them freedom to express themselves, are their symbols. Shown in Human art, architecture, clothing, these volumes concentrate more on their use on armor and insignia.

This volume explores this flexibility and honestly exposes the benefits and drawbacks of this trait specifically in respect to recognizable symbols. It supposes, and goes on to convincingly prove, that some symbols remain in the culture despite the amount of change that occurs over time. These symbols are very basic in nature and are usually somewhat modified over time, but their core is definable and consistent. The patterns included in the volume use these symbols to create symbols that can be recognized by any human and have meaning to them all.

Among the pages of discussion about these symbols is a pattern. This pattern combines the basic symbols of Human culture into a powerful image that has meaning to every Human that sees it. You know that you will be able to reproduce this pattern many times before the book becomes worn and you must replace it.

To create pattern for tailoring armor templates based on these patterns you will need this book, a large bottle of ink, a roll of vellum, a quill and a compacted backpack to hold the patterns you will make. You'll also need a book binding to do the work.

Through my own experiences, I have gained knowledge and insight into humans. Each part of this history tome can only be completed in its own time.

Story 1

This is the story of two cities, the cities of men: Qeynos and Freeport. They stand on islands that used to be part of a larger continent of Antonica. One is in the east and the other in the west. They are both different, yet share something in common: they are created by humans.

Humans were found mainly in and around the plains of Karana in the center of Tunaria. To the west, Qeynos was founded by Antonius Bayle the First. It was founded by strong, noble people who believed in the ways of law and order. In the east, the city of Freeport developed into a dangerous port for those venturing into the Ocean of Tears. Its leader, Sir Lucan D'Lere, consolidated his leadership over the city through various strategic alliances.

It is ironic that the studious Erudites, who were descended from humans, began the Age of Turmoil through the uncovering of lost arts. Their battles caused chaos and changed the lands. Change can be frightening, and the reaction of many to fear is heightened violence and suspicion to anything that is different.

Freeport was filled by riots as frightened and greedy citizens struggled for control in North Freeport. This civil unrest occurred near-simultaneously with the arrival of the Dreadnaughts, although this could be pure coincidence.

In Qeynos, violence within the city began in earnest with the War of Plagues. The undead, corrupt citizens and soldiers attacked the city from all sides. Finally, the citizens were able to repel the invaders and cleanse itself of the evil which had crept into it.

The line of Qeynos rulers by the name of Antonious Bayle has continued for centuries. The current one, is the fourth in the line. He was born in 5275, and crowned in 5299. He controls the city as well as the surrounding area. He has many allies, but has found a formidible nemisis in his brother, Kane. It is said that he, has been linked romantically with Lady Shea even though the two have not been seen together in some time.

The first Antonious Bayle, born in 5105, formalized the existence of the Lawful City of Qeynos and was crowned in the same year of 5130 For his part in uniting the humans of the plains and founding the city, he was known as the “Great Unifier”.

Antonious Bayle II was crowned in 5191 at the age of 36. He led the movement to have the continent of Tunaria renamed Antonica, ostensibly in honor of his father, but of course his own name was the same, as some sages wryly noted at the time. During his reign The Hole was formed when the Heretics of Erudin revolted against their high council and left their citadel. This marked the beginning of the Age of Turmoil, during which Antonious Bayle II was dubbed the “Great Defender.”

The third member of the dynasty was born in 5214 and spent his childhood watching the events of the world unfold. During his time, Sir Lucan took over the trade city of Freeport and the Heretics of Erudin completed the construction of their city, Paineel. When he came to power, he did his best to be neutral. His efforts at remaining so earned him the nickname the “Great Diplomat.”

Source: Page 367 of the maps of myrist