Druj lore - Revision history

Twiggy at 22:57, 5 March 2026

2026-03-05T22:57:31Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:57, 5 March 2026
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	==Subject Nations==		==Subject Nations==
	The Druj hold many smaller nations by the neck, sending them into battle ahead of their own forces. The Druj are apparently viewed with dread by these nations, ever fearful of displeasing their masters and the ruthless cruelty that will descend should they betray their masters. Despite this, they can express unpredictable levels of magnanimity, rewarding members of smaller nations who serve them well, or succeed in particular ~~grueling~~ missions; their very unpredictability helps to maintain their position of power. Many Imperial soldiers who think they have fought the Druj have actually fought members of a subject nation, perhaps supported by a few small units of Druj warriors who seek to exploit the chaos of the battlefield to strike at their opponents before withdrawing.		The Druj hold many smaller nations by the neck, sending them into battle ahead of their own forces. The Druj are apparently viewed with dread by these nations, ever fearful of displeasing their masters and the ruthless cruelty that will descend should they betray their masters. Despite this, they can express unpredictable levels of magnanimity, rewarding members of smaller nations who serve them well, or succeed in particular gruelling missions; their very unpredictability helps to maintain their position of power. Many Imperial soldiers who think they have fought the Druj have actually fought members of a subject nation, perhaps supported by a few small units of Druj warriors who seek to exploit the chaos of the battlefield to strike at their opponents before withdrawing.

	In 379YE the subject nations in the Barrens rebelled against their Druj overlords. Three entire armies rebelled and all Druj forces in the Barrens were crushed. Freed from the Druj oppression the orcs declared the Barrens to be their homeland and attempted to negotiate an alliance with the Empire but were unsuccessful. They were successful in destroying the Druj fortification in the east but failed to take the Towers of the Dawn. They were ultimately defeated by a combination of Imperial forces attacking from the west and Druj forces from the east. Some fled the Barrens to take up residence in [[Therunin]] - the others were returned to subjugation by the conquering Druj.		In 379YE the subject nations in the Barrens rebelled against their Druj overlords. Three entire armies rebelled and all Druj forces in the Barrens were crushed. Freed from the Druj oppression the orcs declared the Barrens to be their homeland and attempted to negotiate an alliance with the Empire but were unsuccessful. They were successful in destroying the Druj fortification in the east but failed to take the Towers of the Dawn. They were ultimately defeated by a combination of Imperial forces attacking from the west and Druj forces from the east. Some fled the Barrens to take up residence in [[Therunin]] - the others were returned to subjugation by the conquering Druj.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

2026-01-16T09:44:54Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:44, 16 January 2026
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	A clan is led by a chieftain, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the chieftain may be required to pass a series of gruelling tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).		A clan is led by a chieftain, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the chieftain may be required to pass a series of gruelling tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).

	The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[~~Imperial army~~\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.		The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[Army\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Druj5.jpg\|align=right\|width=200}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Druj5.jpg\|align=right\|width=200}}

Twiggy at 14:47, 13 July 2025

2025-07-13T14:47:20Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:47, 13 July 2025
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	The buruk tepel are the true rulers of Druj society. Each is a master of herb lore, heir to centuries of accumulated study and experimentation with herbs and potions. Their exact numbers are unknown, but it is believed that every major clan of the Druj is ultimately dominated by one of the buruk tepel. Scholars estimate their number at between a dozen and a score at any given time.		The buruk tepel are the true rulers of Druj society. Each is a master of herb lore, heir to centuries of accumulated study and experimentation with herbs and potions. Their exact numbers are unknown, but it is believed that every major clan of the Druj is ultimately dominated by one of the buruk tepel. Scholars estimate their number at between a dozen and a score at any given time.

	Little is known for sure of the buruk tepel; they are almost never encountered directly by Imperials and they do not appear on battlefields, preferring to exert their influence from behind the scenes. They appear to use the [[Druj champion#Tepel\|tepel]] as their agents and servants. These lesser apothecaries and ~~physics~~ are common place in Druj society and often fight alongside the armies, either to support the Druj forces or to watch over them, so they can report any failures back to the buruk tepel. The most powerful tepel appear to be apprenticed directly to the buruk tepel - receiving scraps of lore from them in return for carrying out the buruk tepel's orders.		Little is known for sure of the buruk tepel; they are almost never encountered directly by Imperials and they do not appear on battlefields, preferring to exert their influence from behind the scenes. They appear to use the [[Druj champion#Tepel\|tepel]] as their agents and servants. These lesser apothecaries and physicks are common place in Druj society and often fight alongside the armies, either to support the Druj forces or to watch over them, so they can report any failures back to the buruk tepel. The most powerful tepel appear to be apprenticed directly to the buruk tepel - receiving scraps of lore from them in return for carrying out the buruk tepel's orders.

	It is apparent that the buruk tepel have extensive mastery of the arts of the apothecary and it is claimed that they know recipes unknown to Imperial lore - it is even possible that they have access to potent herbs that are not found in the Empire. The marshes of the Mallum are home to many strange plants and creatures; it is not impossible that there are things living there unknown to the Empire. The buruk tepel and their herb lore appears to be linked to deeper mysteries related to the Druj religious beliefs. There are some unsubstantiated claims that the masters of herb lore use secret techniques to travel a place called the "''Farthest Shore''" - apparently a reference to the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#The_Howling_Abyss\|Howling Abyss]] itself - where they agree the future of the Druj people. It is unclear if references to the Howling Abyss are literal or metaphorical in nature.		It is apparent that the buruk tepel have extensive mastery of the arts of the apothecary and it is claimed that they know recipes unknown to Imperial lore - it is even possible that they have access to potent herbs that are not found in the Empire. The marshes of the Mallum are home to many strange plants and creatures; it is not impossible that there are things living there unknown to the Empire. The buruk tepel and their herb lore appears to be linked to deeper mysteries related to the Druj religious beliefs. There are some unsubstantiated claims that the masters of herb lore use secret techniques to travel a place called the "''Farthest Shore''" - apparently a reference to the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#The_Howling_Abyss\|Howling Abyss]] itself - where they agree the future of the Druj people. It is unclear if references to the Howling Abyss are literal or metaphorical in nature.
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	==Herb Lore==		==Herb Lore==
	The Druj make extensive use of herbs both magical and mundane. In addition to the traditional [[herbs]] and [[potion\|potions]] found in the Empire, their warriors and [[Druj champion#Tepel\|tepel]] often wield weapons that have been treated with mundane but effective venoms culled from the poisonous beats of the Mallum swamp. Warriors who take the field against the Druj often suffer deadly infections from wounds they receive, and these need treating by a skilled ~~physic~~ ('''OOC Note:''' often represented by [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds\|traumatic wounds]]).		The Druj make extensive use of herbs both magical and mundane. In addition to the traditional [[herbs]] and [[potion\|potions]] found in the Empire, their warriors and [[Druj champion#Tepel\|tepel]] often wield weapons that have been treated with mundane but effective venoms culled from the poisonous beats of the Mallum swamp. Warriors who take the field against the Druj often suffer deadly infections from wounds they receive, and these need treating by a skilled physick ('''OOC Note:''' often represented by [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds\|traumatic wounds]]).

	Their tepel are also skilled with ingested poisons - most tepel can create poisons that will induce symptoms from mild nausea through long-lasting weakness to slow agonising death. Poisoning their guest is a common way for the Druj to initiate treacherous hostilities - it is very unwise to break bread with them.		Their tepel are also skilled with ingested poisons - most tepel can create poisons that will induce symptoms from mild nausea through long-lasting weakness to slow agonising death. Poisoning their guest is a common way for the Druj to initiate treacherous hostilities - it is very unwise to break bread with them.

Dre at 17:53, 29 December 2023

2023-12-29T17:53:09Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:53, 29 December 2023
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	==Overview==		==Overview==
	The [[arkad]] and [[Druj champion]] pages cover what little is known by Imperial citizens about the elite [[Druj]] troops. This page deals with other information the Empire has accumulated over years of ~~fightng~~ on the eastern borders. Most of this information is not widely known across the Empire - but soldiers and commanders who have fought the Druj before, or those unfortunate enough to have been enslaved, might be familiar with it. Due to the nature of the Druj, it is possible that some of this information may be misleading or incorrect - so should be treated with a pinch of salt.		The [[arkad]] and [[Druj champion]] pages cover what little is known by Imperial citizens about the elite [[Druj]] troops. This page deals with other information the Empire has accumulated over years of fighting on the eastern borders. Most of this information is not widely known across the Empire - but soldiers and commanders who have fought the Druj before, or those unfortunate enough to have been enslaved, might be familiar with it. Due to the nature of the Druj, it is possible that some of this information may be misleading or incorrect - so should be treated with a pinch of salt.

	==The Clans==		==The Clans==
	The Druj are a large nation spread over the territories of the Mallum. Like the other great barbarian threats - the [[Jotun]] and the [[Grendel]] - they are split into many distinct clans. The Druj clans are large extended informal groups with loose family links who live together in a [[territory#region\|region]] or [[territory]]. They appear to compete with each other for prestige and wealth, but the [[#Buruk Tepel\|buruk tepel]] ensure that they form a united front against external threats. In the same way the Jotun favour powerful beasts and the Grendel make use of the imagery of the sea and the seashore, the Druj use poisonous or cunning animals as their totems.		The Druj are a large nation spread over the territories of the Mallum. Like the other great barbarian threats - the [[Jotun]] and the [[Grendel]] - they are split into many distinct clans. The Druj clans are large extended informal groups with loose family links who live together in a [[territory#region\|region]] or [[territory]]. They appear to compete with each other for prestige and wealth, but the [[#Buruk Tepel\|buruk tepel]] ensure that they form a united front against external threats. In the same way the Jotun favour powerful beasts and the Grendel make use of the imagery of the sea and the seashore, the Druj use poisonous or cunning animals as their totems.

	A clan is ~~lead~~ by a chieftain, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the chieftain may be required to pass a series of gruelling tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).		A clan is led by a chieftain, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the chieftain may be required to pass a series of gruelling tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).

	The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[Imperial army\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.		The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[Imperial army\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.

Hastur at 07:29, 2 May 2021

2021-05-02T07:29:44Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:29, 2 May 2021
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	Acquiescence is not sufficient to ensure survival. In the years when Reikos was under the control of the Druj, individuals were often taken at random to the strongholds where the buruk tepel would perform sinister experiments on them with toxic herbs. There was no pattern to their choices - young and old, the healthy and the sick - all were subject to these culls. Some claim that the Druj had a twisted plan to weaken the Highborn bloodlines - the more prosaic interpretation is that they are simply incapable of ruling except through fear and terror.		Acquiescence is not sufficient to ensure survival. In the years when Reikos was under the control of the Druj, individuals were often taken at random to the strongholds where the buruk tepel would perform sinister experiments on them with toxic herbs. There was no pattern to their choices - young and old, the healthy and the sick - all were subject to these culls. Some claim that the Druj had a twisted plan to weaken the Highborn bloodlines - the more prosaic interpretation is that they are simply incapable of ruling except through fear and terror.

	==Subject ~~Tribes~~==		==Subject Nations==
	The Druj hold many smaller ~~tribes~~ by the neck, sending them into battle ahead of their own forces. The Druj are apparently viewed with dread by these ~~tribes~~, ever fearful of displeasing their masters and the ruthless cruelty that will descend should they betray their masters. Despite this, they can express unpredictable levels of magnanimity, rewarding members of smaller ~~tribes~~ who serve them well, or succeed in particular grueling missions; their very unpredictability helps to maintain their position of power. Many Imperial soldiers who think they have fought the Druj have actually fought members of a subject ~~tribe~~, perhaps supported by a few small units of Druj warriors who seek to exploit the chaos of the battlefield to strike at their opponents before withdrawing.		The Druj hold many smaller nations by the neck, sending them into battle ahead of their own forces. The Druj are apparently viewed with dread by these nations, ever fearful of displeasing their masters and the ruthless cruelty that will descend should they betray their masters. Despite this, they can express unpredictable levels of magnanimity, rewarding members of smaller nations who serve them well, or succeed in particular grueling missions; their very unpredictability helps to maintain their position of power. Many Imperial soldiers who think they have fought the Druj have actually fought members of a subject nation, perhaps supported by a few small units of Druj warriors who seek to exploit the chaos of the battlefield to strike at their opponents before withdrawing.

	In 379YE the subject ~~tribes~~ in the Barrens rebelled against their Druj overlords. Three entire armies rebelled and all Druj forces in the Barrens were crushed. Freed from the Druj oppression the ~~orc tribes~~ declared the Barrens to be their homeland and attempted to negotiate an alliance with the Empire but were unsuccessful. They were successful in destroying the Druj fortification in the east but failed to take the Towers of the Dawn. They were ultimately defeated by a combination of Imperial forces attacking from the west and Druj forces from the east. Some fled the Barrens to take up residence in [[Therunin]] - the others were returned to subjugation by the conquering Druj.		In 379YE the subject nations in the Barrens rebelled against their Druj overlords. Three entire armies rebelled and all Druj forces in the Barrens were crushed. Freed from the Druj oppression the orcs declared the Barrens to be their homeland and attempted to negotiate an alliance with the Empire but were unsuccessful. They were successful in destroying the Druj fortification in the east but failed to take the Towers of the Dawn. They were ultimately defeated by a combination of Imperial forces attacking from the west and Druj forces from the east. Some fled the Barrens to take up residence in [[Therunin]] - the others were returned to subjugation by the conquering Druj.

	==Tortured souls==		==Tortured souls==
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	On occasion the Druj may herd rabid beasts ahead of them in battle. These dangerous creatures are native to the Mallum, the Druj's marsh homeland. Fortunately, the Druj lack the skills of the [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Kraken.27s_Jaws\|Kraken's Jaws]], the elite [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun\|Moridun]] who lead littoral animals in battle they have trained from birth. Instead they are forced to use magical rituals and somnolent elixirs to calm these beasts to the point that they can be herded to battle.		On occasion the Druj may herd rabid beasts ahead of them in battle. These dangerous creatures are native to the Mallum, the Druj's marsh homeland. Fortunately, the Druj lack the skills of the [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Kraken.27s_Jaws\|Kraken's Jaws]], the elite [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun\|Moridun]] who lead littoral animals in battle they have trained from birth. Instead they are forced to use magical rituals and somnolent elixirs to calm these beasts to the point that they can be herded to battle.

	Over centuries of engagements ~~with the eastern tribes~~ the Empire has encountered a veritable menagerie of Druj war beasts drawn from the depths of the Mallum. These have included dire insects, swamp dwelling [[Mundane_beasts#Drakes\|drakes]], catoblepas, the poisonous oduli, as well as the marshlings and large [[Marshwalkers\|marshwalkers]]. Once a fight begins the Druj release the animals and drive them towards the enemy, forgoing any great control or direction over them and seemingly unconcerned should a beast be killed in battle. Although drugged, such creatures can still be deadly as they lash out at those they are herded towards.		Over centuries of engagements the Empire has encountered a veritable menagerie of Druj war beasts drawn from the depths of the Mallum. These have included dire insects, swamp dwelling [[Mundane_beasts#Drakes\|drakes]], catoblepas, the poisonous oduli, as well as the marshlings and large [[Marshwalkers\|marshwalkers]]. Once a fight begins the Druj release the animals and drive them towards the enemy, forgoing any great control or direction over them and seemingly unconcerned should a beast be killed in battle. Although drugged, such creatures can still be deadly as they lash out at those they are herded towards.

	<quote by="except from ''The Eastern Menace'' by Lady Elayne Rallison">		<quote by="except from ''The Eastern Menace'' by Lady Elayne Rallison">

Hastur: /* The Clans */

2021-05-02T07:28:04Z

The Clans

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:28, 2 May 2021
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	==The Clans==		==The Clans==
	The Druj are a large ~~tribe~~ spread over the territories of the Mallum. Like the other great barbarian threats - the [[Jotun]] and the [[Grendel]] - they are split into many distinct clans. The Druj clans are large extended informal groups with loose family links who live together in a [[territory#region\|region]] or [[territory]]. They appear to compete with each other for prestige and wealth, but the [[#Buruk Tepel\|buruk tepel]] ensure that they form a united front against external threats. In the same way the Jotun favour powerful beasts and the Grendel make use of the imagery of the sea and the seashore, the Druj use poisonous or cunning animals as their totems.		The Druj are a large nation spread over the territories of the Mallum. Like the other great barbarian threats - the [[Jotun]] and the [[Grendel]] - they are split into many distinct clans. The Druj clans are large extended informal groups with loose family links who live together in a [[territory#region\|region]] or [[territory]]. They appear to compete with each other for prestige and wealth, but the [[#Buruk Tepel\|buruk tepel]] ensure that they form a united front against external threats. In the same way the Jotun favour powerful beasts and the Grendel make use of the imagery of the sea and the seashore, the Druj use poisonous or cunning animals as their totems.

	A clan is lead by a chieftain, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the chieftain may be required to pass a series of gruelling tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).		A clan is lead by a chieftain, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the chieftain may be required to pass a series of gruelling tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).
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	The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[Imperial army\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.		The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[Imperial army\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Druj5.jpg\|align=right\|width=200}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Druj5.jpg\|align=right\|width=200}}

	==Buruk Tepel==		==Buruk Tepel==
	The buruk tepel are the true rulers of Druj society. Each is a master of herb lore, heir to centuries of accumulated study and experimentation with herbs and potions. Their exact numbers are unknown, but it is believed that every major clan of the Druj is ultimately dominated by one of the buruk tepel. Scholars estimate their number at between a dozen and a score at any given time.		The buruk tepel are the true rulers of Druj society. Each is a master of herb lore, heir to centuries of accumulated study and experimentation with herbs and potions. Their exact numbers are unknown, but it is believed that every major clan of the Druj is ultimately dominated by one of the buruk tepel. Scholars estimate their number at between a dozen and a score at any given time.

Dre at 13:36, 13 November 2018

2018-11-13T13:36:06Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:36, 13 November 2018
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	The ghulai are an oddity in Druj society - a caste of secretive ritual magicians who allegedly pay only lip service to the domination of the buruk tepel. Imperial scholars believe that the ghulai are a comparatively recent development, a response to the growing power of the sinister apothecaries who run Druj society. Each ghulai is believed to be a powerful ritualist, generally specializing in the lores of [[Spring magic\|Spring]] and [[Night magic\|Night]], although many wield [[Winter magic]] as a deadly weapon against their rivals. They are understood to collect [[magic items]] that can further enhance their ritual skills and casting abilities. Whilst their power is considerable, the Ghulai are rarely seen on battlefields or in areas close to Imperial forces.		The ghulai are an oddity in Druj society - a caste of secretive ritual magicians who allegedly pay only lip service to the domination of the buruk tepel. Imperial scholars believe that the ghulai are a comparatively recent development, a response to the growing power of the sinister apothecaries who run Druj society. Each ghulai is believed to be a powerful ritualist, generally specializing in the lores of [[Spring magic\|Spring]] and [[Night magic\|Night]], although many wield [[Winter magic]] as a deadly weapon against their rivals. They are understood to collect [[magic items]] that can further enhance their ritual skills and casting abilities. Whilst their power is considerable, the Ghulai are rarely seen on battlefields or in areas close to Imperial forces.

	Each ghulai is supported by a [[bands#Coven\|coven]] of apprentices, over whom they wield unquestioned authority. They keep a close eye on these apprentices, aware that the most likely people to challenge them and take their position are the magicians they have trained themselves. The ghulai do not view the realms in the same fashion as Imperial magicians. Instead, they speak in terms of six powerful "totem spirits" who embody the nature of the supernatural realms, and are served by lesser spirits ([[eternals]]) which are bound to them in some fashion. It is not clear how literally the ghulai take this belief, but there is some evidence that most eternals go along with this perception when dealing with the Druj.		Each ghulai is supported by a [[bands#Coven\|coven]] of apprentices, over whom they wield unquestioned authority. They keep a close eye on these apprentices, aware that the most likely people to challenge them and take their position are the magicians they have trained themselves. The ghulai do not view the realms in the same fashion as Imperial magicians. Instead, they speak in terms of six powerful "totem spirits" who embody the nature of the supernatural realms, and are served by lesser spirits ([[eternal\|eternals]]) which are bound to them in some fashion. It is not clear how literally the ghulai take this belief, but there is some evidence that most eternals go along with this perception when dealing with the Druj.

	The main [[magical tradition]] of ghulai magic involves the practice of bone-casting - using etched skulls of dead magicians and champions. The older the skull, and the more accomplished the individual it came from, the more potent it is deemed as a magical tool. While skulls appear to be favoured for use in ritual magic, other bones are also used by the Ghulai - it is believed that different bones have different specific meanings in their system of magic. Some arcane scholars have tentatively suggested that this bone-casting may have parallels with [[blood magic]], though rarely in the presence of actual practitioners of this tradition.		The main [[magical tradition]] of ghulai magic involves the practice of bone-casting - using etched skulls of dead magicians and champions. The older the skull, and the more accomplished the individual it came from, the more potent it is deemed as a magical tool. While skulls appear to be favoured for use in ritual magic, other bones are also used by the Ghulai - it is believed that different bones have different specific meanings in their system of magic. Some arcane scholars have tentatively suggested that this bone-casting may have parallels with [[blood magic]], though rarely in the presence of actual practitioners of this tradition.

TomH: /* Tortured souls */

2018-08-17T14:01:17Z

Tortured souls

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:01, 17 August 2018
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	Imperial scholars have pieced together some of the details of how these tragic entities were created. They were originally Highborn citizens who had been captured and enslaved by the barbarians and then subjected to horrific torture and malice. Through the use of twisted ceremonies and powerful infusions of unknown herbs, the Druj twisted the very spirit of their victims and set them to stalk the battlefields spreading shadows of the despair and hatred that constantly wracked them. The Druj seem to have selected their victims for this grim transformation exclusively from among those strong willed, physically powerful cataphracts, guardians, and battle-priests who had fallen into their hands.		Imperial scholars have pieced together some of the details of how these tragic entities were created. They were originally Highborn citizens who had been captured and enslaved by the barbarians and then subjected to horrific torture and malice. Through the use of twisted ceremonies and powerful infusions of unknown herbs, the Druj twisted the very spirit of their victims and set them to stalk the battlefields spreading shadows of the despair and hatred that constantly wracked them. The Druj seem to have selected their victims for this grim transformation exclusively from among those strong willed, physically powerful cataphracts, guardians, and battle-priests who had fallen into their hands.

	The resulting creatures were skilled warriors, but also possessed the ability to deliver withering spiritual ~~curses~~ to their former Imperial fellows. They also proved extremely difficult to destroy, requiring a priest to [[exorcism\|exorcise]] them to prevent them rising again restored to full health. Even this exorcism did not permanently banish the creatures - the same entities were encountered several times through the course of the Reikos campaign.		The resulting creatures were skilled warriors, but also possessed the ability to deliver withering spiritual injuries to their former Imperial fellows. They also proved extremely difficult to destroy, requiring a priest to [[exorcism\|exorcise]] them to prevent them rising again restored to full health. Even this exorcism did not permanently banish the creatures - the same entities were encountered several times through the course of the Reikos campaign.

	==Warbeasts==		==Warbeasts==

Dre at 10:05, 2 July 2018

2018-07-02T10:05:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:05, 2 July 2018
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	The Druj are a large tribe spread over the territories of the Mallum. Like the other great barbarian threats - the [[Jotun]] and the [[Grendel]] - they are split into many distinct clans. The Druj clans are large extended informal groups with loose family links who live together in a [[territory#region\|region]] or [[territory]]. They appear to compete with each other for prestige and wealth, but the [[#Buruk Tepel\|buruk tepel]] ensure that they form a united front against external threats. In the same way the Jotun favour powerful beasts and the Grendel make use of the imagery of the sea and the seashore, the Druj use poisonous or cunning animals as their totems.		The Druj are a large tribe spread over the territories of the Mallum. Like the other great barbarian threats - the [[Jotun]] and the [[Grendel]] - they are split into many distinct clans. The Druj clans are large extended informal groups with loose family links who live together in a [[territory#region\|region]] or [[territory]]. They appear to compete with each other for prestige and wealth, but the [[#Buruk Tepel\|buruk tepel]] ensure that they form a united front against external threats. In the same way the Jotun favour powerful beasts and the Grendel make use of the imagery of the sea and the seashore, the Druj use poisonous or cunning animals as their totems.

	A clan is lead by a ~~chieftan~~, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the ~~chieftan~~ may be required to pass a series of ~~grueling~~ tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).		A clan is lead by a chieftain, generally chosen by the buruk tepel. Depending on the nature of the clan, the chieftain may be required to pass a series of gruelling tests, or might be required to assassinate the current chieftain to seize the role (although an assassin who does not have the support of the buruk tepel rarely keeps the position for long).

	The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[Imperial army\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.		The most powerful clans each command one of the Druj [[Imperial army\|armies]], who march and fight under the clan's banner. Less powerful clans support the Druj armies with bands of warriors similar to the [[military unit\|independent captains]] of the Empire.
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	The buruk tepel are the true rulers of Druj society. Each is a master of herb lore, heir to centuries of accumulated study and experimentation with herbs and potions. Their exact numbers are unknown, but it is believed that every major clan of the Druj is ultimately dominated by one of the buruk tepel. Scholars estimate their number at between a dozen and a score at any given time.		The buruk tepel are the true rulers of Druj society. Each is a master of herb lore, heir to centuries of accumulated study and experimentation with herbs and potions. Their exact numbers are unknown, but it is believed that every major clan of the Druj is ultimately dominated by one of the buruk tepel. Scholars estimate their number at between a dozen and a score at any given time.

	Little is known for sure of ~~the~~ the buruk tepel; they are almost never encountered directly by Imperials and they do not appear on battlefields, preferring to exert their influence from behind the scenes. They appear to use the [[Druj champion#Tepel\|tepel]] as their agents and servants. These lesser apothecaries and physics are common place in Druj society and often fight alongside the armies, either to support the Druj forces or to watch over them, so they can report any failures back to the buruk tepel. The most powerful tepel appear to be apprenticed directly to the buruk tepel - receiving scraps of lore from them in return for carrying out the buruk tepel's orders.		Little is known for sure of the buruk tepel; they are almost never encountered directly by Imperials and they do not appear on battlefields, preferring to exert their influence from behind the scenes. They appear to use the [[Druj champion#Tepel\|tepel]] as their agents and servants. These lesser apothecaries and physics are common place in Druj society and often fight alongside the armies, either to support the Druj forces or to watch over them, so they can report any failures back to the buruk tepel. The most powerful tepel appear to be apprenticed directly to the buruk tepel - receiving scraps of lore from them in return for carrying out the buruk tepel's orders.

	It is apparent that the buruk tepel have extensive mastery of the arts of the apothecary and it is claimed that they know recipes unknown to Imperial lore - it is even possible that they have access to potent herbs that are not found in the Empire. The marshes of the Mallum are home to many strange plants and creatures; it is not impossible that there are things living there unknown to the Empire. The buruk tepel and their herb lore appears to be linked to deeper mysteries related to the Druj religious beliefs. There are some unsubstantiated claims that the masters of herb lore use secret techniques to travel a place called the "''Farthest Shore''" - apparently a reference to the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#The_Howling_Abyss\|Howling Abyss]] itself - where they agree the future of the Druj people. It is unclear if references to the Howling Abyss are literal or metaphorical in nature.		It is apparent that the buruk tepel have extensive mastery of the arts of the apothecary and it is claimed that they know recipes unknown to Imperial lore - it is even possible that they have access to potent herbs that are not found in the Empire. The marshes of the Mallum are home to many strange plants and creatures; it is not impossible that there are things living there unknown to the Empire. The buruk tepel and their herb lore appears to be linked to deeper mysteries related to the Druj religious beliefs. There are some unsubstantiated claims that the masters of herb lore use secret techniques to travel a place called the "''Farthest Shore''" - apparently a reference to the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#The_Howling_Abyss\|Howling Abyss]] itself - where they agree the future of the Druj people. It is unclear if references to the Howling Abyss are literal or metaphorical in nature.
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	==Herb Lore==		==Herb Lore==
	The Druj make extensive use of herbs both magical and mundane. In addition to the traditional [[herbs]] and [[potion\|potions]] found in the Empire, their warriors and [[Druj champion#Tepel\|~~Tepel~~]] often wield weapons that have been treated with mundane but effective venoms culled from the poisonous beats of the Mallum swamp. Warriors who take the field against the Druj often suffer deadly infections from wounds they receive, and these need treating by a skilled physic ('''OOC Note:''' often represented by [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds\|traumatic wounds]]).		The Druj make extensive use of herbs both magical and mundane. In addition to the traditional [[herbs]] and [[potion\|potions]] found in the Empire, their warriors and [[Druj champion#Tepel\|tepel]] often wield weapons that have been treated with mundane but effective venoms culled from the poisonous beats of the Mallum swamp. Warriors who take the field against the Druj often suffer deadly infections from wounds they receive, and these need treating by a skilled physic ('''OOC Note:''' often represented by [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds\|traumatic wounds]]).

	Their tepel are also skilled with ingested poisons - most tepel can create poisons that will induce symptoms from mild nausea through long-lasting weakness to slow agonising death. Poisoning their guest is a common way for the Druj to initiate treacherous hostilities - it is very unwise to break bread with them.		Their tepel are also skilled with ingested poisons - most tepel can create poisons that will induce symptoms from mild nausea through long-lasting weakness to slow agonising death. Poisoning their guest is a common way for the Druj to initiate treacherous hostilities - it is very unwise to break bread with them.
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	==Warbeasts==		==Warbeasts==
	On occasion the Druj may herd rabid beasts ahead of them in battle. These dangerous creatures are native to the Mallum, the Druj's marsh homeland. Fortunately, the Druj lack the skills of the [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Kraken.27s_Jaws\|Kraken's Jaws]], the elite [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun\|Moridun]] who lead ~~litoral~~ animals in battle they have trained from birth. Instead they are forced to use magical rituals and somnolent elixirs to calm these beasts to the point that they can be herded to battle.		On occasion the Druj may herd rabid beasts ahead of them in battle. These dangerous creatures are native to the Mallum, the Druj's marsh homeland. Fortunately, the Druj lack the skills of the [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Kraken.27s_Jaws\|Kraken's Jaws]], the elite [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun\|Moridun]] who lead littoral animals in battle they have trained from birth. Instead they are forced to use magical rituals and somnolent elixirs to calm these beasts to the point that they can be herded to battle.

	Over centuries of engagements with the eastern tribes the Empire has encountered a veritable menagerie of Druj war beasts drawn from the depths of the Mallum. These have included dire insects, swamp dwelling [[Mundane_beasts#Drakes\|drakes]], catoblepas, the poisonous oduli, as well as the marshlings and large [[Marshwalkers\|marshwalkers]]. Once a fight begins the Druj release the animals and drive them towards the enemy, forgoing any great control or direction over them and seemingly unconcerned should a beast be killed in battle. Although drugged, such creatures can still be deadly as they lash out at those they are herded towards.		Over centuries of engagements with the eastern tribes the Empire has encountered a veritable menagerie of Druj war beasts drawn from the depths of the Mallum. These have included dire insects, swamp dwelling [[Mundane_beasts#Drakes\|drakes]], catoblepas, the poisonous oduli, as well as the marshlings and large [[Marshwalkers\|marshwalkers]]. Once a fight begins the Druj release the animals and drive them towards the enemy, forgoing any great control or direction over them and seemingly unconcerned should a beast be killed in battle. Although drugged, such creatures can still be deadly as they lash out at those they are herded towards.

Hailmur: /* Warbeasts */

2018-03-31T23:26:06Z

Warbeasts

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:26, 31 March 2018
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	On occasion the Druj may herd rabid beasts ahead of them in battle. These dangerous creatures are native to the Mallum, the Druj's marsh homeland. Fortunately, the Druj lack the skills of the [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Kraken.27s_Jaws\|Kraken's Jaws]], the elite [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun\|Moridun]] who lead litoral animals in battle they have trained from birth. Instead they are forced to use magical rituals and somnolent elixirs to calm these beasts to the point that they can be herded to battle.		On occasion the Druj may herd rabid beasts ahead of them in battle. These dangerous creatures are native to the Mallum, the Druj's marsh homeland. Fortunately, the Druj lack the skills of the [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Kraken.27s_Jaws\|Kraken's Jaws]], the elite [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun\|Moridun]] who lead litoral animals in battle they have trained from birth. Instead they are forced to use magical rituals and somnolent elixirs to calm these beasts to the point that they can be herded to battle.

	Over centuries of engagements with the eastern tribes the Empire has encountered a veritable menagerie of Druj war beasts drawn from the depths of the Mallum. These have included dire insects, swamp dwelling [[Mundane_beasts#Drakes\|drakes]], catoblepas, the poisonous oduli, as well as the marshlings and large [[~~Marshwalker~~\|marshwalkers]]. Once a fight begins the Druj release the animals and drive them towards the enemy, forgoing any great control or direction over them and seemingly unconcerned should a beast be killed in battle. Although drugged, such creatures can still be deadly as they lash out at those they are herded towards.		Over centuries of engagements with the eastern tribes the Empire has encountered a veritable menagerie of Druj war beasts drawn from the depths of the Mallum. These have included dire insects, swamp dwelling [[Mundane_beasts#Drakes\|drakes]], catoblepas, the poisonous oduli, as well as the marshlings and large [[Marshwalkers\|marshwalkers]]. Once a fight begins the Druj release the animals and drive them towards the enemy, forgoing any great control or direction over them and seemingly unconcerned should a beast be killed in battle. Although drugged, such creatures can still be deadly as they lash out at those they are herded towards.

	<quote by="except from ''The Eastern Menace'' by Lady Elayne Rallison">		<quote by="except from ''The Eastern Menace'' by Lady Elayne Rallison">