Verden the world of Guild Chronicles

The world of Verden is diverse and expansive, intersecting with three different Planes of existence, each fueling the magic of the land. These other worlds are commonly referred to as the Satellite Planes. The Wyld, a tapestry of planes of elemental energy, spirits of nature, and primordial chaos, brings life, weather, and biological diversity. The Umbra, a realm where emotions are made manifest, colors the world with hope and despair, love and strife, constantly shaping and reshaping cultures and altering history. The Dream, an infinite world of abstraction, hypothetical, creativity, and nightmares provides the spark of wonder, curiosity, and innovation that pushes history forward. The interplay between these other Planes and the realm of Verden is the foundation for its ecology, geography, cultures, peoples, and history. Verden is, fundamentally, shaped as much by the other planes as it is by its inhabitants.  

Magic

The world of Verden is infused with magic, primarily from the three intersecting Planes. In some areas of the world, these planes bleed into the world, creating unique areas infused with magic from outside the world. “Rivers” of magic, known as leylines, also crisscross Verden; over time, spellcasters have learned how to tap into these natural sources of magic to augment magic and create lasting, powerful wards and dweomers. In history and legend, Verden also has its own native magic, though its wellsprings are rare, often misunderstood, and many have been exhausted.  

Technology

Technology has advanced more rapidly in the past couple of decades in Verden. Because magic is so prevalent in the world, much technology blends traditional mechanical solutions with magical ones. In recent years, new technologies have been emerging such as steam engines, Spellhelm ships (powered by magic), “Orbs” that can display media using projected illusions, and firearms. The current age of the setting is undergoing rapid technological advancement in affluent areas.  

Politics

By and large, the current age of Verden is peaceful. In recent history, seven powerful nations formed the Accord and agreed to collaborate closely, protect one another’s sovereign interests, and work to promote peace and prosperity. Other smaller nations have begun to join this alliance as limited members. Much of the world is undergoing at least some degree of democratic reform in the past century as well. Political unrest from within ones borders is not unheard of, and a handful of nations are actively resisting attempts at revolution.  

Lyndhurst Academy

Lyndhurst Academy is likely the best-known institution of Verden. Over about two centuries it has produced some of the most influential and famous minds, educated the children of the rich and nobility, and played a role in global politics. Very recently, Lyndhurst too began to modernize and experience its own revolution of sorts. The previously powerful board, rich and influential men who invested heavily in Lyndhurst (and benefited from its success), was ousted. Their ejection as well as the requirement that all students, even those whose families donated to the school, must pass the entrance exam, lead to many students, teachers, and staff leaving the school. The school is rebuilding – both its reputation and its physical and magical infrastructure.