Eberron Campaign Setting

Campaign Introduction: Echoes of the Last War

Welcome to the World of Eberron

Eberron is a world where magic is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Here, arcane and divine energies fuel both wonders and terrors, blending seamlessly with technology in ways unseen in most other realms. Towering cities gleam with magical lights, elemental-powered airships soar through the skies, and the boundaries between the natural and supernatural are often blurred. Yet, amidst the grandeur and mystery, the scars of a long and devastating conflict remain fresh, casting a shadow over even the brightest places.


The world itself is ancient, shaped by the primordial forces of creation. Legends speak of three Progenitor Dragons—Siberys, Eberron, and Khyber—whose cosmic battle birthed the world as it is known today. Siberys, the Dragon Above, was torn asunder by Khyber – The Dragon Below. Eberron, the Dragon Between, encased Khyber to form the world’s crust, containing the darkness within. Siberys’ blood fell to the world, forming the Ring of Siberys—an astral belt of golden dragonshards that orbit the planet, seeding it with the power of creation.

On the surface of Eberron, nations rise and fall, and great empires have carved out their dominions through both magic and steel. The most recent chapter in this tumultuous history was the Last War, a century-long conflict that shattered the Kingdom of Galifar, splintering it into five distinct nations: Aundair, Breland, Cyre, Karrnath, and Thrane. This war, which engulfed the entire continent of Khorvaire, left deep wounds—both physical and emotional—across the land.

The Last War: A Brief History

The Last War began over a hundred years ago with the death of King Jarot, the last ruler of the united Kingdom of Galifar. His children, each ruling a different region of the kingdom, refused to recognize any one of their siblings as the rightful heir to the throne, leading to a bitter civil war. The conflict drew in every major power across Khorvaire, and what started as a struggle for succession quickly evolved into a war of ideologies, territorial ambitions, and ancient grudges.

For over a century, the continent was a battlefield, with shifting alliances, betrayals, and bloody battles that decimated entire regions. Arcane weaponry, such as the devastatingly powerful warforged soldiers—living constructs created for battle—became a common sight on the frontlines. The Dragonmarked Houses, powerful family dynasties marked by mysterious arcane sigils that grant them unique powers, profited immensely from the war, supplying both sides with weapons, transportation, and magical services.

The war ended suddenly four years ago on the Day of Mourning, a cataclysmic event that destroyed the nation of Cyre in a single day. A magical cataclysm, still unexplained and deeply feared, turned the once-vibrant nation into the Mournland—a twisted wasteland where nothing grows, and the dead walk. This horrific event shocked the warring nations into an uneasy peace, formalized in the Treaty of Thronehold. The treaty officially ended the war, recognized the sovereignty of the Five Nations, and outlawed the creation of new warforged, granting freedom to those that already existed.

The Present Day:

Four Years After the War

The peace brought by the Treaty of Thronehold is fragile, and the wounds of the Last War are still fresh. The Five Nations—Aundair, Breland, Karrnath, Thrane, and the newly independent Darguun and Valenar—remain distrustful of one another, their armies kept on high alert. The threat of another war looms large as old grudges fester and new rivalries emerge.

In the shadows of this uneasy peace, new forces rise. The Dragonmarked Houses, richer and more powerful than ever, continue to exert their influence, often placing their own interests above those of the nations. The ancient draconic Prophecy, an enigmatic force that has guided the destinies of dragons and mortals alike for millennia, stirs once more, its meaning as cryptic and perilous as ever. And across the continent, whispers of a dark power rising within the Mournland send shivers down the spines of those who remember the Day of Mourning.

As the world recovers from the ashes of war, opportunities abound for those daring enough to seize them. Mercenaries, adventurers, and fortune seekers roam the land, seeking fame, fortune, or simply a fresh start. Whether in the bustling streets of Sharn, the City of Towers, or the untamed wilds of Xen’drik, everyone is on the lookout for the next great discovery—or the next great danger.

Your journey begins in the year 998 YK, four years after the end of the Last War. As the echoes of that devastating conflict still reverberate through the land, you and your companions are thrust into a world teetering on the edge of chaos. In Eberron, the lines between hero and villain, light and dark, are blurred. It is a world where your choices will shape not only your own destiny but potentially the fate of nations.

    Understanding Dragonshards: The Magic of Eberron

    In the world of Eberron, dragonshards are powerful and mysterious crystals that play a crucial role in the functioning of magic and technology. They are the lifeblood of the magical economy and are sought after by adventurers, artificers, and the Dragonmarked Houses alike. As you embark on your journey, it’s important to understand the significance of these enigmatic crystals and how they might impact your character’s adventures.

    1. What Are Dragonshards?

    Dragonshards are magical crystals that come in three distinct varieties, each tied to one of Eberron’s three Progenitor Dragons: Siberys, Eberron, and Khyber. These crystals can be found in different regions of the world, and each type has unique properties that make them valuable for various magical and technological purposes.

    • Siberys Dragonshards: Also known as the Dragonshards of the Heavens, Siberys dragonshards fall from the Ring of Siberys, a golden band of crystals that orbits Eberron. These shards are primarily used to enhance dragonmarks, amplifying the powers of those who bear them. They are also key components in the creation of powerful magic items and artifacts.
    • Eberron Dragonshards: Found within the soil of the world itself, particularly in areas rich in natural magic like the jungles of Q’barra, Eberron dragonshards are versatile and commonly used in magical crafting. They are essential for binding elementals to items, powering elemental airships, and creating a variety of magical tools and weapons. Eberron dragonshards are the most commonly encountered and have widespread applications in everyday magical items.
    • Khyber Dragonshards: These dark, ominous crystals are found deep within the earth, often in the underworld regions known as the Khyber Depths. Khyber dragonshards are typically used in the binding and control of fiends, aberrations, and other dark forces. They are also associated with the creation of eldritch machines and necromantic magic. Khyber dragonshards are often viewed with suspicion or fear due to their association with dark magic and the Dragon Below.

    2. Dragonshards and the Economy

    Dragonshards are not just rare treasures; they are a cornerstone of Eberron’s economy. The Dragonmarked Houses, particularly House Cannith, the house of crafting and invention, have built their fortunes on the mining, trading, and utilization of dragonshards. These crystals are a key resource for creating magical items, binding elementals, and powering the incredible arcane technologies that set Eberron apart from other worlds.

    Adventurers might encounter dragonshards in many forms—whether as raw crystals found during their travels, as refined components of powerful artifacts, or as the source of contention in political and economic conflicts. If your character is an artificer, magewright, or someone involved in crafting, dragonshards will be of particular interest, providing the materials needed to create extraordinary magical items.

    3. Dragonshards and Dragonmarks

    For characters who bear a dragonmark, Siberys dragonshards hold special significance. These shards can enhance the power of a dragonmark, unlocking new abilities or amplifying existing ones. House Cannith and other Dragonmarked Houses often seek out Siberys dragonshards to empower their members and maintain their economic and political influence.

    If your character is a member of a Dragonmarked House, they may have a vested interest in acquiring dragonshards, whether for personal use or to further their house’s goals. This could lead to intrigue, competition, or even conflict, as the demand for these shards often outstrips supply.

    4. Practical Considerations for Players

    • Finding Dragonshards: Dragonshards can be found in various locations across Eberron, depending on their type. Siberys dragonshards are often discovered in remote locations where they have fallen from the sky. Eberron dragonshards are typically found in regions with strong natural magic, such as jungles, forests, or underground caverns. Khyber dragonshards are usually located in deep, dangerous places, often guarded by dark creatures or ancient wards.
    • Using Dragonshards: Depending on your character’s class and skills, you may use dragonshards in crafting magical items, powering arcane devices, or enhancing spells and abilities. Artificers, in particular, will find dragonshards indispensable in their work. However, using these powerful crystals can attract attention—both from those who wish to trade for them and from those who might seek to steal them.
    • Dealing with the Dragonmarked Houses: If your character becomes involved in the trade or use of dragonshards, they may attract the attention of the Dragonmarked Houses. These powerful organizations have a near-monopoly on the trade of dragonshards and will protect their interests fiercely. Your interactions with them could lead to alliances, rivalries, or even confrontations, depending on your actions.

    Preparing for Your First Session: What to Consider

    As you prepare for your adventure in Eberron, there are a few important things to think about that will help shape your character and their place in this unique world. Consider these aspects to ensure your character is both engaging and well-integrated into the story.

    1. Race:

    Eberron is home to a diverse range of races, each with its own unique history and place in the world. From the industrious dwarves of the Mror Holds to the mysterious shifters of the Eldeen Reaches, your choice of race will influence how your character interacts with the world around them. Consider how your race’s background ties into the setting—are you a member of one of the Dragonmarked Houses, bearing a magical mark that grants you unique abilities? Or perhaps you’re a Warforged, a living construct who struggles to find purpose in a world that no longer needs soldiers?

    2. Class:

    Your character’s class will determine their abilities, role in the party, and how they approach challenges. Whether you’re a powerful sorcerer drawing on innate magic, a cunning rogue with a talent for deception, or a stalwart fighter trained in the art of war, think about how your class choice fits into the world of Eberron. The Last War has left many with scars, both physical and emotional—how has your character’s training been influenced by the conflict?

    Important Considerations: Monstrous Races and Magic Wielders

    As you finalize your character for the campaign, it’s crucial to think carefully about the potential impact of playing certain races or classes, particularly monstrous races and magic wielders. Eberron is a world full of diversity, but it’s also a world where prejudices, fears, and societal tensions are very real. Here’s what to keep in mind:


    1. Monstrous Races:

    In Eberron, races that are typically considered “monstrous” in other settings, such as goblins, orcs, bugbears, and kobolds, have their own rich histories and cultures. However, despite their established civilizations—like the goblinoid empire of Darguun—these races often face mistrust, fear, or outright hostility in more “civilized” parts of Khorvaire. If you choose to play a character of a monstrous race, consider how they navigate a world that may view them with suspicion or disdain.

    • Social Stigma: Be prepared for your character to encounter prejudice or even aggression from NPCs. How does your character handle such treatment? Are they defiant, attempting to prove themselves in a world that doubts them, or do they try to hide their true nature?
    • Role in Society: Think about where your character fits into the broader societal landscape of Eberron. Are they a member of their race’s homeland, such as Darguun or Droaam, or are they an outcast or adventurer seeking a new life among other races? This choice will significantly affect your character’s interactions and the story’s development.

    2. Magic Wielders:

    Magic is pervasive in Eberron, with even the simplest of spells being commonplace in cities like Sharn. However, there is a difference between those who dabble in minor magic and those who wield significant arcane or divine power.

    • Arcane Magic: Powerful magic users, such as wizards and sorcerers, are respected but also closely watched. The Last War saw the use of devastating magical weapons and spells, leading to a certain wariness of those with considerable magical abilities. Consider how your character’s use of magic might be viewed by others—are they seen as a potential threat or a valuable asset? If your character draws upon dark or forbidden magics, be prepared for even greater scrutiny or fear.
    • Divine Magic: Clerics and paladins in Eberron often draw their power from the Sovereign Host, the Silver Flame, or other religious institutions. These organizations have their own agendas, and your character’s connection to them might involve navigating complex religious politics or facing challenges to their faith, especially in a world still reeling from the horrors of war.
    • Sorcery and Innate Magic: If your character is a sorcerer or a member of a Dragonmarked House with inherent magical abilities, think about the source of their power. Dragonmarks, in particular, are seen as both blessings and potential dangers, tied to powerful and often secretive families. Your character’s mark—or lack thereof—could significantly influence their interactions with both allies and enemies.

    Choosing to play a monstrous race or a powerful magic wielder can add depth and complexity to your character’s story, but it also comes with challenges. Reflect on how these elements will shape your character’s journey, how they are perceived by others, and how they will navigate a world that may not fully accept them. Embrace these challenges to create a character that is not only unique but also deeply intertwined with the rich and intricate setting of Eberron.

    3. Alignment:

    Eberron’s moral landscape is more nuanced than in many other settings. The traditional lines between good and evil, law and chaos, are often blurred. Think about where your character stands on this spectrum. Are they a pragmatic individual, willing to bend the rules to achieve their goals, or do they hold fast to a code of honor? Your alignment should reflect not only your character’s moral compass but also how they interact with the complex politics and intrigue of a world recovering from war.

    4. Background:

    Your character’s background provides insight into their past experiences and how they view the world. Were they a soldier in the Last War, haunted by memories of battle? Or perhaps a guild artisan, whose talents are now sought after in a world rebuilding from destruction? Consider how your background ties into Eberron’s history and what motivations drive your character forward.

    5. Personal Motivations:

    What does your character want to achieve? Are they seeking revenge, redemption, or perhaps a lost treasure rumored to be hidden in the ruins of Cyre? Understanding your character’s goals and desires will help you stay engaged with the story and create compelling personal arcs that can be woven into the larger narrative.

    6. Connections to the World:

    Think about how your character is connected to the world of Eberron. Do they have allies or enemies? Are they a member of a powerful organization, like a Dragonmarked House, or perhaps someone with ties to the enigmatic Prophecy?