Tian Xia, vividly detailed in Paizo’s World Guide, presents a realm brimming with charm, distinct cultures, and meticulously crafted lore for Pathfinder adventures.
This 304-page guide offers everything needed to immerse oneself as a resident or visitor within this fascinating and expansive world, full of character.
What is Tian Xia?
Tian Xia, as explored within the Lost Omens World Guide, isn’t merely a setting; it’s a vibrant, ancient land inspired by East Asian cultures and mythologies. It’s a world steeped in history, where the echoes of celestial mandates and fallen empires resonate through the present day.
Distinct from the more familiar landscapes of Golarion, Tian Xia offers a unique aesthetic and gameplay experience. The region boasts a rich tapestry of nations, from the powerful Empire of Tian Xia to the independent River Kingdoms equivalents, each with its own traditions and conflicts. The World Guide meticulously details these regions, bringing them to life with stunning artwork and compelling narratives. It’s a place where adventure awaits around every corner, promising a truly immersive and unforgettable campaign.
The Significance of the World Guide
The Lost Omens Tian Xia World Guide is paramount for Game Masters and players seeking to venture into this exotic corner of Golarion. It serves as a comprehensive resource, providing the foundational knowledge needed to build compelling campaigns and create believable characters.
Beyond simply outlining geography and history, the Guide delves into the cultural nuances of Tian Xia, detailing social hierarchies, religious practices, and unique traditions. It’s brimming with player-facing content – ancestries, backgrounds, feats – designed to seamlessly integrate characters into the setting. The book’s outstanding art style further enhances immersion, offering a regionally distinctive visual experience, making it an essential tool for anyone wishing to explore this captivating world.
Geography of Tian Xia
Tian Xia’s geography, brought to life by the World Guide, features diverse landscapes – from the swirling Azure Serpent to the majestic flying city of Yjae.
Continental Overview: Avistan & Garund
While Tian Xia stands as a distinct and largely isolated continent, the World Guide acknowledges its historical and potential connections to the better-known lands of Avistan and Garund. Though geographically distant, trade routes and ancient migrations hint at past interactions.
The guide details how knowledge of Avistan and Garund primarily exists within Tian Xia through fragmented records and the tales of returning explorers. These lands are often viewed with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism, perceived as “barbarian” or “less civilized” compared to Tian Xia’s refined empires. The World Guide emphasizes that Tian Xia developed largely independently, fostering unique cultures and ecosystems, making it a compelling contrast to Western settings.
Key Regions and Nations
The Tian Xia World Guide meticulously details diverse regions, showcasing the continent’s political landscape. The powerful Empire of Tian Xia dominates much of the central plains, embodying a long-standing celestial mandate and intricate social hierarchy. Alongside it exist areas mirroring the River Kingdoms – fractured lands of independent warlords and opportunistic settlements.
Further exploration reveals the Lands of the Lin Dynasty, a region steeped in ancient traditions and martial prowess. These nations, alongside countless smaller city-states and tribal territories, contribute to Tian Xia’s vibrant tapestry. The guide emphasizes the complex relationships between these entities, highlighting potential conflicts and alliances for adventurers to navigate.
The Empire of Tian Xia
The Empire of Tian Xia, as presented in the World Guide, stands as a beacon of civilization and centralized power. It’s a realm steeped in tradition, governed by an emperor claiming the Celestial Mandate, and characterized by a rigid social structure. Its influence extends across vast territories, impacting trade, diplomacy, and the lives of countless citizens.
The Empire’s strength lies in its disciplined armies, bureaucratic efficiency, and devotion to ancient customs. However, beneath the surface of order lie simmering tensions – courtly intrigue, regional unrest, and the ever-present threat of losing the Mandate. Adventurers will find ample opportunity to become entangled in the Empire’s complex political web.
The River Kingdoms Equivalent
While Tian Xia doesn’t possess a direct analogue to the River Kingdoms, several regions embody a similar spirit of independent settlements and rugged frontier life. These areas, often bordering the Empire or nestled within challenging terrain, are characterized by a patchwork of baronies, free cities, and bandit strongholds.
These lands offer adventurers a taste of untamed wilderness and opportunities for fortune, but also present dangers from local warlords, monstrous creatures, and the constant struggle for survival. Expect a vibrant, chaotic atmosphere where alliances shift and power is constantly contested, mirroring the lawless energy of their Avistan counterparts.
The Lands of the Lin Dynasty
The Lin Dynasty represents a significant power within Tian Xia, though its influence isn’t absolute. This region, steeped in tradition and governed by a complex bureaucracy, emphasizes scholarly pursuits and martial prowess. Expect a society deeply rooted in ancestor worship and a rigid social hierarchy, where honor and duty are paramount.
The Dynasty’s lands are known for their meticulously maintained infrastructure, impressive cities, and disciplined armies. However, beneath the veneer of order lie simmering political intrigues and the constant threat of rebellion from marginalized groups or ambitious nobles. Adventurers may find themselves entangled in courtly schemes or tasked with suppressing unrest.
Notable Geographical Features
Tian Xia boasts a landscape as diverse as its cultures, punctuated by truly remarkable geographical wonders. The Azure Serpent, a colossal and perpetual maelstrom, dominates the eastern seas, presenting a constant navigational hazard and source of local legends. Then there’s Yjae, the breathtaking flying city, a testament to ancient engineering and magical prowess, drifting amongst the clouds.
Further inland, the Spine of the World – Tian Xia’s equivalent to imposing mountain ranges elsewhere – forms a natural barrier and a haven for secluded monasteries and dangerous creatures. These features aren’t merely scenic; they actively shape the lives and stories of those who inhabit this world.
The Azure Serpent
The Azure Serpent is a defining geographical feature of Tian Xia, a massive and unending maelstrom located in the eastern seas. This colossal whirlpool isn’t simply a weather phenomenon; it’s a constant, churning vortex steeped in myth and danger. Navigation near the Serpent is incredibly perilous, requiring skilled sailors and favorable winds – or powerful magic.
Local legends attribute the Serpent’s creation to ancient dragons or vengeful spirits, and many believe it guards hidden treasures or gateways to other planes. The sheer scale and power of the Azure Serpent make it a focal point for adventure, offering both challenges and opportunities for intrepid explorers.
Yjae, the Flying City
Yjae, the Flying City, stands as one of Tian Xia’s most iconic and wondrous locations, beautifully illustrated within the World Guide. This metropolis isn’t grounded by earthly foundations; instead, it drifts amongst the clouds, sustained by powerful magic and ancient technology. Its inhabitants, the Tian-Chong, are renowned for their mastery of airships and arcane arts.
Access to Yjae is limited, often requiring special permission or navigating treacherous aerial currents. The city offers unique opportunities for trade, knowledge, and intrigue, attracting adventurers and scholars alike. Exploring Yjae promises breathtaking views and encounters with a truly unique culture.
The Spine of the World (Tian Xia Equivalent)
While not directly named as such, Tian Xia possesses a formidable mountain range mirroring the “Spine of the World” concept – a colossal barrier shaping climate and cultures. The World Guide details these peaks as a region of harsh beauty and perilous challenges, home to isolated communities and ancient secrets. These mountains serve as a natural border, influencing trade routes and fostering unique regional identities.
Adventurers braving these heights face extreme weather, dangerous creatures, and the potential for uncovering lost civilizations. The range’s sheer scale and rugged terrain present significant logistical hurdles, demanding careful preparation and skilled navigation.
History of Tian Xia
The Tian Xia World Guide unveils a rich tapestry of ancient empires, fallen dynasties, and the cyclical rise and fall of the Celestial Mandate’s power.
Ancient Empires and Dynasties
Tian Xia’s history is deeply rooted in the legacies of powerful, bygone empires and influential dynasties, meticulously detailed within the World Guide. These ancient civilizations shaped the land, leaving behind ruins, artifacts, and lingering cultural impacts that resonate through the present day.
The guide explores the foundational myths and historical accounts of these empires, revealing their unique philosophies, governance structures, and military prowess. Players will discover tales of legendary emperors, ambitious generals, and influential scholars who steered the course of Tian Xia’s early development. Understanding these past powers is crucial for comprehending the current political landscape and the motivations of various factions within the setting.
The World Guide doesn’t simply present a chronological list; it breathes life into these empires, showcasing their artistic achievements, technological innovations, and ultimately, the factors that led to their decline and eventual fall.
The Rise and Fall of the Celestial Mandate
Central to Tian Xia’s historical narrative, as explored in the World Guide, is the concept of the Celestial Mandate – the divine right to rule. This belief system dictated that emperors governed with the blessing of the gods, and their legitimacy hinged on just and prosperous leadership.
The guide details the cyclical nature of the Mandate, explaining how dynasties rose to power through virtue and strength, only to fall into corruption and weakness, ultimately losing the favor of the heavens. This loss often manifested in natural disasters, rebellions, and external threats.
Understanding the ebb and flow of the Celestial Mandate is vital for players, as it influences political intrigue, religious fervor, and the ambitions of those seeking to claim the throne in Tian Xia.
Recent Historical Events
The Tian Xia World Guide highlights a period of significant upheaval and shifting power dynamics. Following centuries of dynastic rule under the Celestial Mandate, the region experiences increased instability and fragmentation. The decline of central authority has led to the rise of powerful warlords and independent states.
Recent events include escalating conflicts along the borders of the Empire of Tian Xia, increased activity from monstrous creatures in previously settled lands, and a surge in exploration and trade with distant continents like Garund.
These developments create a fertile ground for adventure, offering players opportunities to navigate complex political landscapes and confront emerging threats within Tian Xia.
Cultures and Peoples of Tian Xia
The Tian Xia World Guide showcases diverse ancestries and traditions, emphasizing intricate social hierarchies, unique etiquette, and deeply rooted religious beliefs and practices.
Major Ancestries
Tian Xia boasts a rich tapestry of ancestries, far exceeding those commonly found in Avistan and Garund. The World Guide details numerous peoples, each with unique cultural significance and physiological traits. Among these are the catfolk of the Mengsen Isle, known for their agility and mercantile prowess, and the diverse human ethnicities shaped by centuries of imperial influence;
The guide also explores the tengu, avian humanoids steeped in tradition and often serving as magistrates or scholars, and the river-dwelling sharkfolk, adapted to the waterways and possessing a complex societal structure. Furthermore, the varied dragonkin, embodying different elemental affinities, add another layer of complexity to Tian Xia’s population. These ancestries, and many others, contribute to the setting’s vibrant and diverse character.
Cultural Traditions and Customs
Tian Xia’s cultural landscape, extensively detailed in the World Guide, is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and evolving practices. Social hierarchy is often rigidly defined, emphasizing respect for elders and ancestors, with intricate etiquette governing interactions. Religious beliefs are diverse, ranging from ancestor worship and reverence for celestial beings to localized spirit veneration and philosophical schools.
Customs vary greatly by region and ethnicity, encompassing elaborate tea ceremonies, martial arts traditions, vibrant festivals celebrating the seasons, and complex systems of divination. The concept of “face” – maintaining social standing and avoiding shame – permeates many aspects of daily life, influencing behavior and decision-making throughout the land.
Social Hierarchy and Etiquette
As illuminated in the Tian Xia World Guide, society is often structured around a rigid hierarchy, deeply rooted in lineage, merit, and social standing. Respect for elders and those in positions of authority is paramount, dictating formal modes of address and deferential behavior. Etiquette governs nearly every interaction, from gift-giving and dining to business negotiations and diplomatic exchanges.
Maintaining “face” – both one’s own and that of others – is crucial, demanding careful consideration of words and actions to avoid causing embarrassment or offense. Displays of humility and indirect communication are favored over direct confrontation, and understanding nuanced social cues is essential for navigating Tian Xia’s complex social landscape.
Religious Beliefs and Practices
The Tian Xia World Guide reveals a diverse tapestry of religious beliefs, blending ancestor veneration, philosophical schools, and the worship of powerful spirits and deities. Many faiths emphasize harmony with nature and the pursuit of enlightenment through self-cultivation and ritual practice. Ancestor worship is widespread, with families maintaining shrines and offering regular tributes to honor their forebears.
Divination and astrology play significant roles in daily life, guiding decisions and interpreting omens. While organized religions exist, personal spiritual practices and folk beliefs are equally prevalent, creating a rich and multifaceted religious landscape throughout Tian Xia.
Bestiary and Monsters of Tian Xia
The Tian Xia World Guide showcases amazing monsters, ranging from challenging foes to unique creatures, offering exciting encounters and ecological depth for adventurers.
Unique Creatures and Their Lore
Tian Xia’s bestiary, as presented in the World Guide, isn’t simply a collection of statistics; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with compelling lore and ecological considerations. The monsters feel intrinsically tied to the land, reflecting the region’s history and spiritual beliefs.
Players will encounter creatures distinctly different from those found in other Pathfinder settings, each possessing unique origins and behaviors. The guide delves into the habitats and life cycles of these beasts, enriching encounters beyond mere combat. Expect to face challenges that demand more than just strength, requiring clever tactics and understanding of the creature’s place within Tian Xia’s delicate balance. These aren’t just monsters; they are integral parts of the world’s narrative.
Challenges for Adventurers
Tian Xia, as detailed in the World Guide, presents adventurers with challenges extending far beyond traditional dungeon crawls and monster slaying. The setting emphasizes cultural intricacies and political maneuvering, demanding players engage with the world on multiple levels.
Expect encounters that require diplomacy, investigation, and a deep understanding of local customs; The unique creatures aren’t simply obstacles, but often integral to the region’s lore and require thoughtful approaches. Navigating the complex social hierarchies and unraveling ancient mysteries will prove just as demanding as battling formidable foes. Success in Tian Xia demands adaptability, respect, and a willingness to embrace the unfamiliar.
Monster Ecology and Habitats
The Tian Xia World Guide excels in presenting a vibrant and believable bestiary, where monsters aren’t simply threats but integral parts of the ecosystem. Habitats are richly described, influencing creature behavior and offering unique tactical considerations for adventurers.
From the depths of ancient forests to the heights of the flying city of Yjae, each creature’s environment shapes its abilities and motivations. The guide details how monsters interact with the land and its people, creating a dynamic and immersive world. Understanding these ecological relationships is crucial for survival, offering opportunities for both conflict and cooperation.
Player Options and Character Creation
The Tian Xia World Guide provides substantial player-facing content, including ancestries, backgrounds, feats, and abilities tailored for campaigns within this setting.
Ancestry Options for Tian Xia Campaigns
The Tian Xia World Guide significantly expands character creation possibilities, offering a diverse array of ancestries perfectly suited for adventures within its borders. Players can move beyond traditional choices and embrace the unique peoples inhabiting this vibrant land. The guide details ancestries deeply rooted in Tian Xia’s history and mythology, providing rich backgrounds and flavorful traits.
Expect options that reflect the varied cultures and environments, allowing for characters truly connected to the setting. These aren’t simply reskins of existing ancestries; they are thoughtfully designed to integrate seamlessly into the world’s lore and offer distinct gameplay experiences. The guide empowers players to craft characters with compelling narratives and a strong sense of belonging within Tian Xia’s intricate tapestry of civilizations.
Backgrounds Inspired by Tian Xia
The Tian Xia World Guide doesn’t just offer a setting; it provides a wealth of inspiration for character backgrounds, deeply interwoven with the region’s unique societal structures and histories. Players can select backgrounds that reflect a life lived within the Empire of Tian Xia, the River Kingdoms equivalent, or the lands governed by the Lin Dynasty, instantly grounding their characters in the setting.
These backgrounds aren’t merely cosmetic; they offer mechanical benefits and narrative hooks tailored to Tian Xia. Expect options representing scholars of ancient lore, disgraced nobles seeking redemption, wandering merchants traversing perilous trade routes, and dedicated members of influential guilds. The guide ensures characters feel like authentic inhabitants of this world, ready to embark on compelling adventures.
Feats and Abilities Reflecting the Setting
The Tian Xia World Guide elevates character customization with feats and abilities specifically designed to resonate with the setting’s unique flavor. These aren’t simply reskinned existing options; they represent skills and techniques honed within Tian Xia’s distinct cultural and magical traditions.
Players can discover feats enhancing martial arts prowess, reflecting the region’s emphasis on disciplined combat, or abilities tied to elemental manipulation, drawing upon the spiritual energies of the land. The guide provides options for characters to master calligraphy, navigate complex social hierarchies, or even commune with the spirits of ancestors, enriching roleplaying opportunities and fostering a deeper connection to the world.
Adventure Hooks and Campaign Ideas
The Tian Xia World Guide sparks countless storylines, from investigating the flying city of Yjae to navigating political intrigue within the Empire.
Potential Storylines
Tian Xia offers a wealth of campaign possibilities. Players could become embroiled in the power struggles of the Empire, perhaps uncovering a conspiracy threatening the Celestial Mandate. Alternatively, a journey to Yjae, the flying city, could involve recovering lost artifacts or mediating disputes between its inhabitants.
The Azure Serpent’s maelstrom presents a daring quest – navigating its treacherous currents to reach a hidden island or investigate strange disappearances. Campaigns could also focus on exploring the River Kingdoms equivalent, charting unknown territories and forging alliances with diverse factions. Investigating ancient ruins tied to fallen dynasties, or protecting vulnerable villages from unique monsters detailed in the World Guide, are further compelling options.
Important NPCs
Tian Xia’s rich tapestry of cultures necessitates memorable non-player characters. Imagine a shrewd merchant prince from the Empire, offering lucrative but morally ambiguous contracts. Or a reclusive scholar in the Lands of the Lin Dynasty, guarding forgotten lore about ancient empires and the Celestial Mandate.
A grizzled riverboat captain navigating the treacherous waterways could provide transport and local knowledge. Perhaps a disgraced noble seeking redemption, or a powerful spirit bound to protect a sacred site near the Azure Serpent. The World Guide inspires NPCs like a Yjae sky-merchant, dealing in rare goods, and a monster hunter specializing in the unique creatures detailed within its pages, offering quests and expertise.
Locations for Adventure
Tian Xia offers diverse adventure locales, detailed within the World Guide. Explore the majestic flying city of Yjae, navigating its political intrigues and aerial dangers. Brave the swirling currents of the Azure Serpent, seeking lost treasures or battling monstrous denizens. Venture into the untamed wilderness mirroring the River Kingdoms, facing bandits and forgotten ruins.
Delve into the ancient courts of the Lin Dynasty, uncovering conspiracies and restoring honor. Investigate a remote monastery guarding a celestial secret, or chart a course through the Spine of the World, facing harsh climates and territorial beasts. Each location promises unique challenges and rewards, fueled by the setting’s vibrant lore.