An Introduction to Dereth's Inhabitants by Briomega

The island of Dereth is a large and varied place filled with a vast assortment of beasts and monsters. Upon entering this world, the traveler from Ispar is overwhelmed by the wild and savage land that spreads before him. Creatures never before seen by Isparians roam the land and await the misstep of a lost and bewildered traveller. Therefor, it is recommended that all new inhabitants of Dereth read through this Bestiary and familiarize him or herself with the beasts of Dereth, lest you find yourself faced with certain death.

Those travelling through the cold forests and mountains of Northern Osteth should always be aware of what beasts they are likely to find. Whether on a quiet excursion through the dark forests of Tiofor Woods or hiking through the mountainous passes of the Lost Wish Range or Mt. Esper, it is best to know what lies in wait. The monsters likely to be found in these areas are strong and adapted to the harsher elements of the Northlands. Beasts such as Tuskers can cause many adventuring parties to go missing, whether they be of the Male and Female varieties or the immensely strong Goldenbacks. The Mites of Dereth tend to make their homes in the Northlands as well, from the smaller Squibs to the fierce Matrons. Travellers can also expect to find varieties of Mattekars, Banderlings and Golems in Northern Osteth, as well as the very plentiful Drudges that tend to roam everywhere.

Many people enjoy making excursions through the vast area of Middle Osteth. These lands include the hot and arid A'mun Desert, the dank and humid Blackmire Swamp and the lush lands surrounding the River Prosper. When travelling through the A'mun desert be prepared to come across monsters with bad tempers. It seems the heat does something to their minds that causes them to be quite foul tempered. Monsters to expect while moving through the desert include packs of Crude Monougas and Armoredilloes, as well as large groups of detestable and horrifying Skeletons of all types. When trekking through the dirty Blackmire Swamp, besides wearing a good pair of boots, be careful of the clans of the Mosswarts. Mosswarts thrive in the Swamplands and you can expect to see many of these beasts, including Creeper Mosswarts all the way up to the Shamans. You must also be prepared to face the Gromnies and Rats that make the Swamps their home, as well. On the eastern side of Middle Osteth, be especially careful of the area surrounding the besieged city of Dryreach. Many an adventurer has been waylaid by the large bands of Tumeroks surrounding the countryside. From the weaker Fighter to the vicious Officer, the Tumeroks are not to be toyed with. Prepare yourself before venturing in these lands.

The lands of Southern Osteth are dominated by the formidable mountains of the Linvak Range. This area is home to some of the vilest and strongest monsters in Osteth and travellers are wise to be especially careful when making excursions through this land. The Linvak Range is home to the massive Lugians. This clan of giants are not friendly and will greet visitors to their lands with large rocks. Ranging from the lower caste of Laigus Lugian to the upper class of Gigas, these large monsters should be treated with respect. Rumors abound of even larger varieties of Lugian to the West. The mountains are also home to Mattekars, from the smaller Snowy Mattekar to the very large Great Mattekars whose hides are prized for the strong and lightweight armor that can be made from them. Travellers are also advised to be wary of the Zephyrs who tend to roam the mountains of Southern Osteth. These evil creatures are nearly invisible to the naked eye until it is too late and their magic is thrown into your face. Also, as might be expected, the Stone forms of Golem are found in great numbers in this area. Limestone, Sandstone and Granite Golems can rise right below your feet before you are aware of their presence, so beware. Closer toward the Southern Landbridge to the Direlands, Shadows of every sort make their home, from the lowly Children to the powerful Lieutenants. Southern Osteth is a beautiful land, but should be travelled by more experienced adventurers.

Finally, we have the Direlands. What can this scout say about the Direlands that imparts the sheer terror and danger of the place? Unfortunately, it will probably not be enough, for even though many an adventurer is told of the perils of travelling here, he will always go forward and end up seeking his own death. The strongest, most evil creatures in all of Dereth make their home in the Direlands. Ranging from horribly twisted variations of beasts found in Osteth, such as the Drudge Ravener or Vorous Shreth, to the wicked creatures that created them, the Virindi. The only words of advice this scout can give is to always stay alert for danger while travelling into the Direlands. There are few safe resting spots to catch your breath and even the human settlements of Fort Tethana and Ayan Baqur are not truly havens of safety, as danger constantly lurks just over the next hill. If you must test yourself in these parts, than do so wisely. Armor yourself well and bring many friends, as you will need all the help you can get.