Before the Arcanum

Centuries after a catastrophe changed Arraness, magic remained rare, feared, and closely watched. The people travelling to Maleficum’s Arcanum of Magic & Might came from different parts of the Isles. Each had people to leave behind and a reason to go.

Amaedrianna Blüdfist

In Vurduar, Amaedrianna prepared to leave a city shaped by its underworld. Her farewell took place at the Spiv, a tavern connected with the Crimson Embers. Its owner, Syl, and Amaedrianna’s mother offered advice that acknowledged more about her departure than either said openly.

Her mother gave her a family ring to carry as a token of protection and remembrance. Her father’s arrival brought a different farewell: a reminder of her duties and a warning about past failures. Amaedrianna left with both messages in mind.

Dash Heidmann

In Palperroth, Dash made his final preparations, adjusting his clothes with the care he had learned from his mother, Elara, a skilled tailor. Lysa the Shadow interrupted him with a playful accusation of theft.

At the dock, Elara gave him a bundle of leather armour she had made for him. His mentor, Elandor Thistlenook, offered a final lesson in charm and discretion. With thoughts of his father’s uncertain legacy still following him, Dash leapt aboard his transport wearing his mother’s work.

Eos Tintreach

Eos packed among the books in her mother’s shop in Asazaki. Raine was initially shaken by the need for her daughter to leave, but offered encouragement, advice, and a cherished family book. A local healer and a family friend added gifts for protection and luck.

A gentleman introduced as Rem waited to escort her. After saying goodbye to Raine and her friends, Eos stepped into the carriage that would take her towards the Arcanum.

Hatsu Toshitsugu

Hatsu spoke with Ayame on a rooftop before leaving Saigo no Toshi. Below, his father watched a demonstration of his fighting ability before presenting him with the family sword.

The gift came with the history and expectations of the Toshitsugu clan: unity, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence. An accidental display of magic by Hatsu’s brother hastened the departure. Aboard the ship, Hatsu considered what it meant to carry the blade and the responsibilities attached to it.

Slate

Slate’s introduction offered no such clear departure. His surroundings and identity shifted around him: he was addressed as a mayor, then found himself strapped to a bed for testing. Transformations left him unsure of who he was or what he could trust.

After breaking free, he met Chaunce, who appeared to share something of his condition. Amid the confusion, Slate held onto a magnifying glass given to him by a recruiting teacher, one recognisable object in a succession of unfamiliar situations.

Weslyn Theiwyse

When Weslyn wandered into the city, Elara Stormweaver offered him shelter at Azure Elixirs. She gave him a wand to help channel his emerging magic and guided him through the town’s history and the practicalities of surviving there.

Night-time outings gave Weslyn opportunities to learn and practise. Elara eventually arranged his admission to the Arcanum, seeking a safer place for him to develop his abilities. His path now led towards the same school as the others.

Their journeys led towards Maleficum’s Arcanum of Magic & Might on The Crescent Pearl.