Written by Tim O'Bryan, Loremaster
A vast, primeval forest. Countless peoples. One fragile peace.
Long before the rise of kingdoms, the Great Northern Forest of Talvhem sprawled across the continent of Ceria on the world of Lucaedia. Planted at the dawn of life by Eldranok the Greenfather, its ancient trees shelter an astonishing diversity of creatures, from ordinary beasts and mysterious faeries to goblins, beastfolk, trolls, and stranger things.
But this is no untamed wilderness. The forest is home to countless intelligent peoples, each with its own customs, territories, and ambitions. Some live in harmony; others are bitter rivals. The mighty Yndros, sentient tree-like guardians, roam the woodlands, preserving a fragile neutrality between the forest's many inhabitants. Yet even their influence cannot prevent every conflict.
Ancient Rune Vale takes you back to an age when the forest is still young, only ten thousand years old, and its peoples are still shaping their cultures; the fate of the woodland remains unwritten. Explore six distinct regions, from enchanted glades and mist-shrouded marshes to shadowed thickets and the depths of the Ancient Wood. Forge alliances, uncover esoteric mysteries, confront dangerous rivals, and discover your place in a living world where every trail may lead to wonder or peril.
In the Rune Vale, the forest belongs to no single group. Its future will be decided by those who dare to venture beneath its boughs.