A New Flame Awakens
Here in the Arcane Commonwealth, power is earned, tested, and recorded by seal and soul. One does not simply stumble into greatness here; they must be carved by trial, witnessed by the weave, and remembered in the ledgers of power.
This guide will prepare you to shape your character and claim your place in the weave of fate. Every decision you make—from your origins to your allegiances—will echo across the continent. Will you rise, or will you be bound by the choices of others?
Prepare well, for the flame of your story has only just begun.
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The Shape of Your Self
Each soul enters Isperia uniquely marked—by heritage, by magic, by ambition. This section will guide you through the tools and expectations for creating your adventuring persona.
- Platform: All characters must be created using D&D Beyond. A campaign link will be provided upon joining.
- Sources: Standard sources are allowed, including all officially published materials. Homebrew content or expansions beyond the core books must be approved by the DM.
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Provisions of Rank
No one begins their journey empty-handed. The Arcane Commonwealth recognizes those who have already seen the world’s edge and returned stronger. Here you will find the material allowances granted to all new registrants:
- Starting Level: Characters begin at Level 3, already tested but not yet ascended. This represents a character who has overcome their first great challenge.
- Starting Gold: Each character begins with 225 gold pieces to purchase equipment, armor, spell components, or gear appropriate to their background. Players are encouraged to outfit themselves in ways that reflect their heritage, upbringing, or ties to an academy.
- Magical Items: Each adventurer may begin with one magical item of common or uncommon rarity. Items must be selected from the Player’s Handbook, Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything, or the Dungeon Master’s Guide. All other sources require DM approval. Items with narrative or symbolic significance are especially encouraged.
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Representing Your Character
Your presence in the world is more than words—it has form, shadow, and stature. Whether you’re navigating a digital battlefield or joining an in-person session, your miniature represents you on the field of fate.
- Miniature Design: To bring your character to life in miniature, consider the portrait galleries of HeroForge, CGTrader, or MyMiniFactory.
- Printing Support: For in-person sessions, STL files may be submitted for printing.
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Racial Dynamics in Isperia
Isperia is a land governed by power and tradition—not equality. While great advancements in magic and society have shaped the Arcane Commonwealth, its ethics remain rooted in hierarchy and prejudice.
Slavery
Slavery is a legal institution within Isperia. While regulated by magical contracts, it is accepted as a norm, particularly in the enforcement of debt, punishment, or failed contracts. Some regions use it more liberally than others. Contracts of bondage are magically enforced and sanctioned by certain academies and noble houses.
The Racial Divide
The people of Isperia are broadly viewed through two societal lenses: the Elegant Races and the Beastial Races.
Some cities may treat these beastial’s as indentured workers, while others tolerate them as laborers or mercenaries. Rarely, one rises above this role—but it is not easily forgotten.
This divide is a reality your character will navigate. While it reflects the traditions and failings of our time, take heart—for through courage and cunning, even a single voice has the power to challenge the old ways and shape the future. Whether you challenge it, reinforce it, or exploit it, your race will shape how the world sees you—and how you survive within it.
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Be True to the Seal
This world of Arden is one of honor, secrecy, and arcane binding. When you shape your character, consider more than class and spells. Reflect on your roots, ambitions, and your first encounter with the power that shapes this land.
- Who gave you your first contract?
- What mystery or trial did you survive to reach Level 3?
- Are you bound to a noble house, an academy, or something darker?
- What do you owe… and to whom?
Characters in Isperia are forged not only by the paths they walk, but by the seals they make, the pacts they bind, and the truths they keep hidden.
Consider preparing a short background paragraph or secret known only to your character and the DM. These elements may come into play during the campaign.
Prepare well, and let your name be written in the ledger of legend.
— Archivist Therin Vell, Chronicler of the Commonwealth Registry