Second Edition

Player’s
Guide
By James Jacobs
and Michelle Y. Kim
AUTHORS
James Jacobs and Michelle Y. Kim

DEVELOPER
James Jacobs

EDITING LEAD
Priscilla N. Lagares

EDITORS
Patrick Hurley and Solomon St. John

COVER ARTIST
Rodrigo Gonzalez Toledo

INTERIOR ARTISTS
Gunship Revolution (Rafael Cal-Ortiz,
Mico Dimagiba, Patsy Lascano, Adelijah Ocampo,
Hinchel Or, Marcus Reyno, Jen Santos, and
Brian Valeza), Robert Lazzaretti, and Firat Solhan

ART DIRECTION AND GRAPHIC DESIGN

Sonja Morris

PUBLISHER
Erik Mona

Player’s Guide
How to Use This Guide 3
by James Jacobs

Character Suggestions 3
by James Jacobs
Edicts and Anathemas 3
Ancestries 3
Classes 5
Faiths 9
Languages 9
Skills and Feats 10
Pets 10
Spells 10
Archetypes 10
Gear 11
Table: Suggested Character Options 11
Subsystems 12
Backgrounds 12

Elven Society 15
by Michelle Y. Kim
Paizo Inc.
15902 Woodinville-Redmond Rd Greengold 17
NE, Unit B by Michelle Y. Kim
Woodinville, WA 98072-4572
paizo.com What Came Before? 19
by James Jacobs
 PLAYER’S GUIDE
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
Welcome to the Spore War Adventure Path!
This Player’s Guide will help you prepare for a WHERE ON GOLARION?
campaign where the elven nation of Kyonin must fight The Spore War Adventure Path mostly takes place
for its existence and the lives of its people against the in the elven nation of Kyonin and the demon-ruled
demon armies of Tanglebriar, a region ruled by the swamp to the south, Tanglebriar. As the campaign
nascent demon lord Treerazer. You begin as 11th-level proceeds, you’ll be called upon by the queen of
characters—adventurers who have made names for Kyonin herself to undertake increasingly dangerous
themselves as heroes, if not of Kyonin, then elsewhere in missions. The locations of those missions are for
the Inner Sea region. Your characters are asked to serve as your group to discover as play progresses.
diplomats for Kyonin in an important upcoming summit. The adventure begins early in the year of 4725 ar.
The Spore War Adventure Path is a three-part
campaign that will bring your characters all the way
to 20th level by its conclusion. The campaign uses
Pathfinder’s remastered rules, so all you’ll need to
play is Pathfinder Player Core (or Pathfinder Player
Core 2) and a character sheet. With your Game KYONIN
Master’s permission, you can also use other Pathfinder
rulebooks, campaign setting books, and accessories to
further customize your character. Tanglebriar
On the following pages, you’ll find specific suggestions
to help you create a new character for Spore War. This
Player’s Guide is organized into the following sections:
• Character Suggestions (page 3): Guidance, practical
advice, and specific tips for creating an 11th-level
character that fits seamlessly into this campaign.
• Elven Society (page 15): The campaign puts your group CHARACTER SUGGESTIONS
in the role of defenders of the elven nation of Kyonin The following provides context for creating characters
and works particularly well for elf PCs. Even if you’re that fit well into the overall Spore War storyline.
playing another ancestry, it will help for your PC to Work with your GM if you’re interested in creating a
be knowledgeable about elven society, and if you’re character who might not fit well into these guidelines,
playing an elf, it makes even more sense that you’d but as long as your PC seeks to aid in defending the
know what it is to be an elf. This section presents elven nation of Kyonin from a demonic invasion, they’ll
information about elven society, with a particular focus have something to work with in this campaign.
on the societies found in Kyonin, and it includes a short
gazetteer for the city of Greengold, the settlement Edicts and Anathemas
where the Adventure Path begins. The primary theme of Spore War is a fight against a
• What Came Before? (page 19): This section provides demonic force, and so any edicts or anathemas that
some advice for how to bring in groups of heroes support the defense of the elven nation from an invasion
who have played through one of Paizo’s lower-level will work well. As long as your choices don’t prevent
Adventure Paths. Care has been taken to avoid too you from defending Kyonin from its enemies (and work
many spoilers for these various Adventure Paths, but well with those of the other player characters), you’ll
if you’re a player who hopes to one day play one of find that Spore War has a wide range of acceptance for
the lower-level campaigns mentioned here, or if you’re edicts and anathemas. The section on Faiths (page 9)
currently playing one of them, consider not reading the offers more advice along these lines.
contents here and instead bringing this section to your
GM’s attention if Spore War is going to be your next Ancestries
campaign. If you’re the GM, you can use the advice Spore War puts the party in the role of heroes of the
given here as inspiration for how to fit Spore War in elven nation of Kyonin, and as such, elf is the single
after a lower level campaign of your own design. most appropriate ancestry for this campaign. Yet the

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time of Kyonin’s isolationist attitudes is now very
much a thing of the past, and the nation is looking
forward to a future where they play a more important LIGHT (BUT NECESSARY) SPOILERS
role on the political stage of the Inner Sea region. As This Adventure Path doesn’t immediately start
such, you don’t have to play an elf in this game—your with a war between Kyonin and Tanglebriar, so
PC merely needs to be someone who wants to see your player characters won’t be hitting the ground
Kyonin succeed and should be recognized as an ally fighting demons, fungal monsters, and corrupted
of the nation. fey horrors. Those dangers will come soon enough,
but in the short term, the focus of Spore War is
Common Ancestries on other issues. The development of the conflict
Kyonin is primarily inhabited by elves and aiuvarins, between Tanglebriar and Kyonin has been a threat
but the nation is open and accepting of many other for thousands of years, but the fact that it’s about
ancestries. Gnomes maintain a settlement called to explode into action won’t be known by your
Omesta in Kyonin, and humans and aiuvarins form PCs at first. It won’t be long, though, before that
the bulk of the population of the coastal settlement becomes apparent—although the exact method of
of Erages. Dwarves don’t maintain settlements in the how your group makes this discovery is part of the
region, but the Five Kings Mountains shares a border campaign’s surprise!
with Tanglebriar, like Kyonin. The demons of that land In addition, in order to manage expectations,
have traditionally turned their menacing attention the first chapter of Spore War’s first adventure is
north, but the dwarves consider them foes as well, relatively light on classic Pathfinder play in the
and as such, dwarven heroes would be welcome and form of combat. While the rest of the campaign has
appropriate among those who pledge to defend the plenty of fighting, it can’t hurt to make sure your
nation. Dromaars are relatively rare, as are orcs and character has some non-combat options to explore,
goblins—a PC with one of these ancestries is unlikely to if only being a bit more trained in Deception,
meet others with a shared ancestry during Spore War, Diplomacy, or Intimidation.
but they’re certainly welcome as heroes, as the PCs are Finally, Spore War begins with an extended
in this campaign from its outset. flashback, and as such, the events of your first
Leshies are an interesting option in Spore War. Elves session will play out faster than normal. In between
have a long tradition of living in harmony with nature, this flashback and the actual start of the Adventure
and leshies are common and welcome in all elven Path, your PCs will have approximately six months
settlements—with one exception. The presence of the of downtime to do things if you wish... or you can
fungal corruption within Tanglebriar has made many get right to the plot of the campaign!
in Kyonin wary of fungus leshies, and the majority of
those in the region owe their allegiance to Treerazer.
Choosing a fungus leshy as your PC might give you
certain unusual advantages and disadvantages as the
campaign progresses—some locals might not initially
trust you, and you might be more susceptible to certain disadvantages should largely be non-issues. Themes
effects in Tanglebriar, but you also might find yourself of anti-nephilim prejudice, in any event, have no role
more protected and able to endure what dangers await in Spore War, so choosing to play a pitborn (or other
in a realm where fungi rules much of the land. Work fiendish) nephilim won’t result in any significant issues.
with your GM if you want to play a fungus leshy in Still, work with your GM to potentially come up with
Spore War. some interesting tailored-to-your-PC choices for this
campaign!
Uncommon Ancestries Other types of nephilim aren’t common in Kyonin,
With demons and all things demonic playing an nor are any of the other uncommon ancestries or
important villainous role in Spore War, ancestries heritages, but they can each make fine choices for PCs.
with ties to fiends (demonic or otherwise) may find Just keep in mind that as with dromaars, orcs, and
themselves met with prejudice or fear in Kyonin. As goblins, you won’t encounter many others of such an
long as your PC is a known hero of the nation, these ancestry during the course of the campaign. Hobgoblins

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
and elves, it should be noted, do have an antagonistic
history—but these themes don’t have a role in Spore
War, so as with the choice of playing a fungus leshy or SKIRMISHERS AND MYTHIC PCS
a pitborn nephilim, a hobgoblin PC may be an unusual Although a war-themed Adventure Path in which
presence, but in the context of this adventure your PC the PCs face one of the most powerful villains of
has already been accepted as a hero of the land. the Inner Sea region might feel like a natural fit
Undead ancestries could also make for an interesting for mythic rules (presented in War of Immortals)
choice in Spore War—but as long as your character allies or skirmishes with PC-controlled troops (presented
with the elves and fights against Treerazer’s demonic in Battlecry!), Spore War is not written for those
army, such a choice should work out okay... although rules. Instead, this Adventure Path assumes your
the standard complications of being an undead PC in a PCs are non-mythic heroes who are sent on specific
group of living PCs will still apply. Work with your GM missions behind enemy lines or elsewhere while
if you wish to play such a character. the mass battles between Kyonin and Tanglebriar
take place largely off-screen. You’ll hear about
Non-Recommended Ancestries these conflicts many times during the campaign,
Aquatic ancestries will be hard to play in this campaign, as and you’ll even have a chance to influence their
very few encounters in Spore War take place underwater. outcomes based on your group’s successes during
play, but the rules for mythic PCs and skirmishing
Kyonin Ancestry Feats aren’t used in this Adventure Path. Your GM may
The first volume of the Spore War Adventure Path wish to adjust things to take advantage of these
includes several new, uncommon ancestry feats for rules, but doing so will require a fair amount of
elves who grew up in Kyonin. If you’re playing an work on their part to modify the encounters and
elf, or if your character otherwise might have access story as appropriate.
to some of these feats (such as by taking the Adopted Nevertheless, advice for playing commanders
Ancestry general feat or selecting some of the special and guardians, classes introduced in Battlecry!,
backgrounds detailed later in this Player’s Guide), these along with advice for playing animists and
additional ancestry feats can be chosen during character exemplars (from War of Immortals) are included in
creation or as you level up during the campaign. the following notes.
Adventure Paths in which mythic PCs and
Classes skirmishing PCs play key roles are in development
Spore War begins with a combat-light section where and coming soon!
your PCs are playing the roles of diplomats during a
complex summit among several nations, but it won’t
be long before things turn fraught and your PCs find
themselves in the classic roles of exploring dangerous
locations, fighting sinister foes, and so on. Specific
notes on class options are presented below. Animists aren’t particularly common in Kyonin, but
Alchemists don’t have a significant cultural role their skill with divine magic and ability to channel
in Kyonin, but they’re nonetheless well-known and the power of apparitions is certainly well-known
admired for their craft. All research fields will find roles among the elves. Those who seek to fight against the
to play in Spore War, but the large number of afflictions spiritual corruption of Tanglebriar will find much to
your group will face during this campaign will give play against during Spore War! Any animistic practice
those who focus on helping people recover from will work well in this campaign. Apparitions associated
disease, poison, and other contagions a particularly with the natural world (particularly the Custodian of
useful role. Creatures with immunity or resistance to Groves and Gardens, but also Stalker in Darkened
disease and poison are relatively common during this Boughs) are thematically appropriate for those who
Adventure Path. As such, chirurgeons are perhaps the face a southern border of corrupted wilderness, while
most useful, while toxicologists might struggle a bit those associated with historic heroic legacies (such as
more (although their defensive traits against poisons Echo of Lost Moments or Witness to Ancient Battles)
will certainly be a boon!) will mesh well with Kyonin’s long history of combat

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against Tanglebriar. See Spells (page 10) for suggestions Clerics should consider the additional information
on thematic spell selection. presented under Faiths (page 9) for guidelines for
Barbarians don’t have a very significant presence in which deity to worship. Also see Spells (page 10) for
Kyonin, but their skill in battle makes them a boon on suggestions on thematic spell selection.
either side of the Spore War. The instincts of animal, Druids are an exceptionally strong choice for
fury (particularly against the centuries-long corruption Spore War, if only due to the fact that large portions
of Tanglebriar), and spirit are strong thematic choices. of this Adventure Path revolve around exploring and
The superstition instinct works well also, particularly combatting a long-standing corruption of nature
if it’s focused on magic you suspect to be demonic in within Kyonin. Kyonin is a temperate forest region,
nature! but there’s also a fair amount of swampland down in
Bards are well loved in Kyonin, and this won’t Tanglebriar to look forward to. Animal companions
change during the events of Spore War, as their are often welcome in elven settlements, so more than
ability to bolster fights or to boost morale become so most campaigns, druids will find themselves at home!
important. The warrior muse is the most thematic for See Pets (page 10) for additional advice on your animal
a war-themed campaign like this one. Consider as well companion and Spells (page 10) for suggestions on
choosing an ancient elven hero as your muse, regardless thematic spell selection.
of which category you select; work with your GM Exemplars are relatively rare in Kyonin, although
in choosing an appropriate hero. See Skills and Feats certain scholars argue that Treerazer himself, as a
(page 10) for additional advice on where to focus your nascent demon lord, is a sort of exemplar—a demon
skill proficiencies and Spells (page 10) for suggestions who claimed a spark of divine power and was exiled to
on thematic spell selection. Golarion as a result. No one epithet is more thematic
Champions are valued among the elven nation, than the other, but as your story grows, consider
particularly those who focus on fighting demonic building it in a way that links you to the ongoing conflict
corruption. In Kyonin, the traditional causes among between Tanglebriar and Kyonin. When you choose your
elven champions are liberation and redemption, while dominion epithet, Peerless under Heaven is perhaps the
those of desecration and iniquity are inappropriate. See most thematic choice for a war-themed Adventure Path
Faiths (page 9) for additional guidance on religion or like this one, while Healer of the World is a strong choice
belief. for an adventurer involved in a clash against the growing
corruption of Tanglebriar. When choosing your ikon,
consider working with your GM for advice, as they might
be able to guide your choices in a way that avoids spoilers
for certain developments in the storyline, but as a general
rule, any ikon that would aid you against supernatural
threats or protect you from afflictions will be a strong
choice. See Skills and Feats (page 10) for additional notes
on where to focus your skill proficiencies and to help you
choose your root epithet.
Fighters in Kyonin tend to focus on weapons
associated with elves—bows and other elegant
weapons like elven curve blades or rapiers. Work with
your GM when choosing the type of weapon your PC
focuses on, as they might be able to guide your choices
in a way that avoids spoilers for certain developments
in the storyline. There will still be plenty of fights along
the way, but you’ll want to consult Skills and Feats
(page 10) for additional advice on where to focus your
skill proficiencies so you’ll have something to do when
there’s no fighting going on (particularly during the
first chapter of the first adventure, which focuses more
on political intrigue than battle).

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Gunslingers are uncommon in Kyonin, but not most popular. See Spells (page 10) for suggestions on
unheard of. There’s not a lot of places in Kyonin to thematic spell selection.
purchase gunslinger supplies, so if you want to play Monks in Kyonin are often seekers of tranquility
a gunslinger, work with your GM so that this can be in nature but also fierce defenders of the land against
adjusted for your table’s game. Tanglebriar’s intrusions. Options that allow you to
Inventors in Kyonin typically put style over move through difficult terrain with ease will help you
substance. This isn’t to say their creations are less potent maintain your battleground mobility. See Faiths (page
or functional than others, just that they tend to avoid 9) for additional guidance on religion or belief, and
rough edges, smoky outflows, discordant noises, and Skills and Feats (page 10) for additional advice on
the like. As such, many options available to inventors where to focus your skill proficiencies.
might not thematically match the elven style. Yet this Oracles aren’t common in Kyonin, but their powers
by no means indicates that inventors are of no use in a and insights are nevertheless well-appreciated. The
war against Tanglebriar! No one inventor innovation most thematically appropriate mysteries for an oracle
is more appropriate than another for Spore War, but in this Adventure Path are ancestors, battle, and life—
innovations that work well against demons and fungi if you choose ancestors, consider working with your
will be more useful overall. Work with your GM if GM to see if your character has a supernatural tie to
you choose armor- or weapon-themed innovations, an elven hero from Kyonin’s long history. See Faiths
as they might be able to guide your choices in a way (page 9) for additional guidance on religion or belief
that avoids spoilers for certain developments in the and Spells (page 10) for suggestions on thematic spell
storyline. See Skills and Feats (page 10) for additional selection.
advice on where to focus your skill proficiencies, and Psychics aren’t particularly common in Kyonin, but
keep in mind the advice for fighters above regarding elves are quick to understand the subtle difference
combat. between them and sorcerers or similar spellcasters.
Investigators in Kyonin have a wide range of Psychics who focus their studies and powers on themes
traditional roles, but the ones most appropriate to this associated with the defense of the mind against mental
Adventure Path are those who focus on discovering attacks, demonic possession, and the like will fit in
and identifying the subtle influences of the demonic— well. No one subconscious mind is more thematically
be it on the soul, the flesh, or the environment. The appropriate than the other in Spore War, though
most appropriate methodologies for an investigator in the conscious mind of the Infinite Eye will help you
Spore War are those that focus on alchemical sciences notice and fight against subtle demonic influences and
(particularly those that help combat afflictions and trickery, while the Silent Whisper lets you use similar
pollution), studying the influence of the Outer Rifts tools against demons. That said, no one conscious mind
on the natural world through empiricism, or focusing choice is bad for this campaign. See Spells (page 10) for
on interrogation as a method to learn secrets held by suggestions on thematic spell selection.
the enemy. See Skills and Feats (page 10) for additional Rangers are well known throughout Kyonin, and
advice on where to focus your skill proficiencies. many of this land’s ranger traditions have gone on to
Kineticists aren’t particularly widespread in Kyonin influence those of other regions. They have key roles in
or well-known but should still find plenty of chances to Kyonin’s defense as archers, hunters, scouts or spies. If
shine during combat and exploration in Spore War. The you gain an animal companion, consult the suggestions
element of wood is the most thematically appropriate for “Pets.” The Favored Terrain feat is an excellent
choice in this campaign and will fit in well with the choice for a ranger in this Adventure Path, but keep
story’s focus on fighting against demonic corruption of in mind that there’s not a lot of terrain diversity in this
a woodland. story—Forest, Underground, and Swamp are the best
Magi will find their abilities useful throughout this options. Aquatic will have some play, largely as a side
campaign but should consider the advice given to effect of swamps featuring watery regions, while arctic,
fighters and wizards when making class choices. Magi desert, mountain, plains, and sky won’t have presence
have a strong historical role among the elves, who have at all.
long traditions of mixing magic with combat. Hybrid Rogues are quite common throughout Kyonin,
studies that support combat with traditionally elven although only a relatively small fraction of them are
weapons, like laughing shadow or starlit span, are the what one would consider criminals. Acrobats, duelists,

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entertainers, explorers, politicians, spies, and tacticians
are more common roles played by this class in the
region. The rogue rackets of mastermind and scoundrel LEGACY OPTIONS
fit most thematically in Spore War, but all rackets will Spore War uses the Remastered rules for Pathfinder
be useful, regardless. See Skills and Feats (page 10) 2nd Edition, but character options from books
for additional advice on where to focus your skill published before Pathfinder Player Core remain
proficiencies. compatible and viable—as some of those highlighted
Sorcerers are relatively common in Kyonin, even in this Player’s Guide point out. If you choose an
though the traditional elven pursuit of magic is made option from a non-Remastered source, you may
through clerical worship, druidism, or wizardry. The wish to work with your GM to determine how to
elves have no social stigmas against sorcerers, and interpret some elements and options that have
largely let their actions define the way society reacts to parallel or redesigned features in the Remastered
them rather than jump to conclusions about the source rules, but for the most part, these legacy options
of their magic—with one exception: sorcerers with will work well in Spore War.
demonic bloodlines are often not trusted. Of course, as
in the case of pitborn PCs, a demonic bloodline sorcerer
created for this campaign already has their status as
a hero of Kyonin established, and such a sorcerer
might find their ties to demonic legacies could grant
them unexpected benefits (or disadvantages) during a practice of thaumaturgy isn’t particularly widespread
campaign like this one so strongly focused on demonic among the elven people of the region. All implements
foes. Most demonic sorcerers in Kyonin gained their are equally appropriate for a thaumaturge, but those
power as a side effect of pollutions seeping in from in Kyonin typically ensure their implements are
Tanglebriar rather than via an actual demonic ancestor. particularly artistic or elegant in shape and form.
Other common sorcerer bloodlines in Kyonin include Witches in Kyonin aren’t as common as druids or
fey and imperial. See Spells (page 10) for suggestions wizards, but they’re more widespread than sorcerers
on thematic spell selection. and aren’t saddled with the fearful stereotypes the
Summoners aren’t widespread in Kyonin, but class often faces in other regions like Ustalav. Witches
their magic is far from unknown there—or in who look to infernal or fiendish patrons may not be
Tanglebriar, for that matter, where summoners who well-trusted due to the land’s history with Tanglebriar,
conjure up demonic eidolons exist. See “Spells” for and as such these thematic choices aren’t particularly
suggestions on thematic spell selection. The most appropriate for Spore War witches. Speak with
thematically appropriate choices for eidolons in this your GM when choosing your patron for additional
Adventure Path are angel, beast, devotion, fey, plant, guidance, but the patron choices of Faith’s Flamekeeper
or psychopomp, but other choices can be equally (when coupled with an on-theme religion; see Faiths on
fun. Demon eidolons are perhaps the most socially page 9), the Inscribed One, and the Wilding Steward
problematic, but as long as you’re known to be a are great thematic choices for this Adventure Path.
hero who keeps their “pet demon” on a short leash, See Spells (page 10) for suggestions on thematic spell
even this option could work. selection and see Pets (page 10) for some advice on
Swashbucklers aren’t as common as rangers in thematic familiar selection.
Kyonin, but their grace and playful nature make Wizards are the most widespread of all spellcasting
them just as equally beloved. Their presence tends to classes in Kyonin, and a not-inconsiderate number of
be focused more in the nation’s cities and waterways wizardly traditions and spells can trace their roots all
rather than the woods. All swashbuckler styles work the way back to introductions from elven spellcasters,
well in Spore War, but battledancer, fencer, and rascal yet most wizards of Kyonin do not regard this with
are the most common styles seen in the region. See Skills arrogance or a sense of entitlement. The spread of
and Feats (page 10) for additional advice on where to wizardry through the world is something the elves are
focus your skill proficiencies. proud to have been a part of, yet they don’t assume
Thaumaturges in Kyonin are often mistaken for they’re the only source of these traditions. Given the
artists, collectors, historians, or merchants, as the historical role wizardry plays among elves, all arcane

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theses are thematically appropriate choices in this set primarily in Kyonin and Tanglebriar, Elven and
Adventure Path, as are all arcane schools. See Spells Chthonian are the second most commonly spoken
(page 10) for suggestions on thematic spell selection. languages. Aklo is also spoken by a large number of
creatures. Any one of these four languages is a great
Faiths choice for your PC in this Adventure Path, and if you
The majority of those who dwell in Kyonin worship speak at least two of those you’re unlikely to face
deities from the elven pantheon. Calistria’s worship many difficulties communicating in Spore War.
is the most widespread, but worship of Alseta, Languages that will be handy to know at various
Findeladlara, Ketephys, and Yuelral is common as well. points during Spore War but won’t be universally
Although she’s not officially a part of this pantheon, useful include Boggard, Diabolic, Draconic,
Desna has many worshippers in Kyonin as well, both Empyrean, Fey, Necril, and Shadowtongue.
in her role as a goddess of luck and travel, and as a Languages that are highly situational and might
goddess with a history of opposing demonic elements. never come up depending on the choices you make
Nethys also has a strong presence, as one might expect during play include Arboreal, Gnomish, Goblin, and
of a society that so highly values the art of magic. Jotun.
Any of these are excellent choices for worship in Other languages associated with the core
Spore War, but so are any deities whose faith encourages ancestries and regions will be helpful now and then
the fight against demons (particularly Iomedae when speaking with certain minor NPCs, but those
and Sarenrae) or the protection of the wilderness
(particularly Erastil and Gozreh). Shelyn’s faith is well-
regarded in Kyonin, for art and beauty are beloved, and
the irreverent mix of comedy and friendship fostered
by the faithful of Cayden Cailean make his faith
welcome in the region as well.
Among lesser known faiths, those with
histories of opposition against demonic
influences (such as Ragathiel and
Nocticula) or who are seen as protectors
of the natural world (such as Jalaijatali,
Keltheald, and Ng) have their roles to play in the
region. In the end, though, most deity choices
are fine for Spore War—as long as your faith
doesn’t discourage you from playing the
role of defender and hero against the
demonic armies of Tanglebriar!
Specific Inappropriate Faiths:
Worship of Treerazer is an
incredibly inappropriate
choice for this campaign, as
Treerazer is this Adventure
Path’s primary villain. Along
those lines, worship of any
demon lord would be somewhat
problematic and should be avoided by PCs.

Languages
In Spore War, the primary language spoken is
Taldane—this language is referred to as Common
in this Player’s Guide and throughout the Spore
War Adventure Path. As this Adventure Path is

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NPCs generally also speak Common or at least Pets
one of the languages mentioned above. Languages Certain animal companion and familiar choices are
beyond those listed above and beyond those spoken more common than others in Kyonin. Since your
by the core ancestries are unlikely to be of much use character can come from any part of the world, feel
in Spore War. free to choose what you wish, but if you want to select
a pet that feels “local,” consider some of the following
Skills and Feats choices for animal companions, familiars, and pets.
While Spore War features a lot of combat, as one might While there’s a fair amount of wilderness encounters in
expect in a war-themed Adventure Path, there are also this campaign, there’s also a fair amount of site-based
plenty of opportunities to use skills to defeat hazards exploration—mount companions could be quite helpful
or navigate complex challenges like chases, influencing or very inappropriate, depending on the current location,
NPCs, infiltrating locations, and researching mysteries. so having a way to keep mounts safe while you explore
As a result, most skills have multiple chances to shine dungeons is something to keep in mind.
in Spore War, particularly those that have applications Companion choices that are thematically appropriate
in combat (such as Acrobatics, Athletics, and Stealth). for the region include arboreal saplings, badgers, bats,
Three exceptions are Crafting, Medicine, and bears, birds (particularly hawks, ravens, and owls), boars,
Performance. Spore War doesn’t feature a lot of chances cats, dogs, leshies, lizards, snakes, wasps, and wolves.
to pursue downtime—work with your GM if you Aquatic pets will be difficult to manage in this campaign.
want to build a PC who takes advantage of downtime
activities. Crafting does show up now and then as Spells
an option for handling certain chases, infiltrations, If you’re creating a spellcasting character, keep in
influence encounters, and the like. Medicine and mind that you’ll be facing a lot of demons, corrupted
Performance do as well, but to a slightly lesser extent. plants and fungi, and evil fey, and exploring dangerous
For the various Lore skills, the most important wildernesses or areas with strong, evil supernatural
is Warfare Lore, with Architecture Lore a distant features. Spells that hamper teleportation tactics or
second. In addition, the following Lore skills have banish creatures to their home planes will often be
one to two specific moments to shine during Spore useful, as will those that specifically target plant or
War: Academia, Alcohol, Forest, Games, Heraldry, fungi creatures. On the defensive side, having magic
Herbalism, Iadara, Library, Mercantile, Outer that helps with navigation through difficult terrain,
Rifts, Sailing, Scouting, Scribing, Swamp, Treerazer, defends against acid and poison, or helps to address
Underground, and Underworld. If you’re intending to afflictions like curses, diseases, and poison will often
use Lore often to learn about monsters, Demon Lore be called upon. Long-distance fast-travel options will
is a solid option; speak with your GM about other aid in coming and going from the various locations
potential options as well. you’ll be visiting, and while you’re there, spells that
When selecting feats for your character, remember help to disguise or hide your presence behind enemy
that the majority of Spore War takes place in forests, lines will be invaluable. There’s a fair number of
swamps, urban sites, and various interior locations, so powerful foes awaiting in Tanglebriar, so spells with
feats that are mostly useful in arctic, desert, underwater, the incapacitation trait might not be as useful as
and other locations will be minimally useful, at best. those that work to diminish a powerful single foe’s
Feats that support specific skill uses will be helpful in options in combat. Note that as play progresses,
several situations when it comes to subsystems like access to certain useful uncommon or rare spells, as
chases, infiltration, influence, and research. Those that well as some brand-new spells, will become available
bolster your combat skills will often be quite helpful, to you.
as might those that bolster your ability to navigate If you’re playing a spellcaster who has limited
tangled forests and swamps. capacity to swap out their spell choices, consider
Of particular note, if you’re not playing an elf or an consulting with your GM for further advice.
aiuvarin, consider picking up the Adopted Ancestry
general feat if you wish to gain access to the new Archetypes
Kyonin elf ancestry feats detailed in this Adventure Since your PC begins at 11th-level in Spore War,
Path’s first volume. including an archetype as part of your character’s build

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
SUGGESTED CHARACTER OPTIONS
Ancestries Classes Languages Skills Archetypes
Strongly Elf, aiuvarin Champion, cleric, Aklo, Common Acrobatics, Arcana, Multiclass (of strongly
Recommended commander, druid, (Taldane), Elven, Athletics, Deception, recommended classes),
exemplar, fighter, Chthonian Diplomacy, archer, bastion,
guardian, magus, Intimidation, Nature, beastmaster, blessed one,
ranger, rogue, witch, Occultism, Religion, duel-weapon warrior,
wizard Society, Stealth, duelist, eldritch archer,
Survival, Thievery, herbalist, marshal,
Warfare Lore martial artist, mauler,
medic, ritualist, scout,
scrounger, sentinel, or
snarecrafter
Recommended All others Alchemist, animist, Boggard, Diabolic, Architecture Lore, Multiclass (of
(save those not barbarian, bard, Draconic, Empyrean, Crafting, Medicine, recommended and
recommended)— inventor, investigator, Fey, Necril, Performance acceptable classes)
kineticist, monk, Shadowtongue
oracle, psychic,
sorcerer, summoner,
thaumaturge
Appropriate — Gunslinger Arboreal, Gnomish, Lore (Academia, All others
Goblin, Jotun Alcohol, Forest,
Games, Heraldry,
Herbalism, Iadara,
Library, Mercantile,
Outer Rifts, Sailing,
Scouting, Scribing,
Swamp, Treerazer,
Underground,
Underworld)
Not Aquatic — Other languages Lore (categories —
Recommended ancestries not specifically
mentioned)

is absolutely an option. If you choose a multiclass To ensure fairness for each PC, the entire group should
archetype option, consult the equivalent class notes work together to choose one of the following methods
listed above for additional advice. Otherwise, the to generate their gear.
following archetypes from Player Core 2 are excellent Lump Sum: This method grants a lump sum of 3,200
choices for Spore War: archer, bastion, beastmaster, gp to each PC to spend as they wish on any common
blessed one, dual-weapon warrior, duelist, eldritch items of 10th level or less. With the lump sum method,
archer, herbalist, marshal, martial artist, mauler, medic, the total value of your gear may well end up being less
ritualist, scout, scrounger, sentinel, or snarecrafter. than what you’d get with the Pick your Items or if you
organically gained treasure by playing through levels
Gear 1 through 10 options, but you’ll have greater control
If you’re starting Spore War with established characters, over the specific levels of items you can gain and can
you’ll already have gear appropriate for 11th level load up on larger numbers of lower level items.
characters—although this also represents a great time Pick Your Items: This method helps to avoid potential
to work with the GM to adjust existing PC wealth option paralysis for players who struggle with deciding
as needed so that no one PC has a disproportionate on how to efficiently spend every single coin. When you
amount of gear than another. pick your items, you select the following permanent
If you’re creating a brand-new 11th-level character, items from any of the common treasures from the GM
though, you’ll need to purchase your character’s gear. Core or Player Core 2.

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
• One 10th-level item of these support this Adventure Path’s themes, and to
• Two 9th-level items prepare your character for the coming conflict with
• One 8th-level item Tanglebriar! Note that these Rare backgrounds are
• Two 7th-level items slightly more powerful than the standard background,
• 500 gp to spend on consumable items of 10th level in that they each grant one additional ability or effect
or lower, or permanent items of 6th level or lower, beyond the norm that is tightly themed to the dangers
as you see fit. and perils awaiting ahead—this is intentional, as the
PCs about face the upcoming Spore War are destined to
Subsystems become true legends. If you prefer to choose a standard
The Spore War Adventure Path isn’t all about combat. background, chat with your GM about potentially
Many key encounters make use of some of the gaining one of these additional abilities as well.
subsystem rules detailed in Chapter 4 of Pathfinder GM
Core. If you take some time to familiarize yourself with Links to Greengold
these rules before the game begins, play will go more Regardless of which background you choose for your
smoothly when you come across these encounters. character, you should come up with a reason why your
Of all the subsystems, you should at the very least PC might have a link to the elven city of Greengold.
be familiar with how Victory Points (GM Core 184) Perhaps it’s your hometown, or maybe a close friend
function, since these are the underlying rules for most dwells there. You and the rest of the PCs in the party
other subsystems and are used frequently in Spore War. might even have a history serving as heroes in the town
Other subsystems that play key roles in this Adventure (see “What Came Before?” on page 19). By deciding
Path and that players should be familiar with include on a reason why your PC cares about the settlement of
the following: Greengold, you further generate a reason for your PC
Infiltration (GM Core 196) to be invested in the coming events in the Spore War
Influence (GM Core 187) Adventure Path.
Research (GM Core 190)
BLIGHT SURVIVOR BACKGROUND
Backgrounds Centuries ago, the elven witch Silisifex played an important
Spore War assumes that your 11th-level characters role in the fight against Treerazer. With her deep knowledge,
have already established themselves as heroes with power over primal magic, and abiding faith in Calistria,
reputations as such in Kyonin, but if you’re making she was one of the first elves to directly fight against
new characters for this Adventure Path, consider the the encroaching fiendish blight that was Tanglebriar. Her
following when selecting your PC’s background. discoveries, teachings, and lore have continued to protect
and inspire elves to this very day, centuries after she
Standard Backgrounds vanished mysteriously on a mission into Tanglebriar back
If you wish to pick a background from Player Core or in 3050 ar.
Player Core 2, any of those options can make for a fun Whether you’re a primal spellcaster or merely someone
start, but certain backgrounds make more sense for a whose life was impacted by Tanglebriar’s blight, Silisifex’s
PC destined to become one of Kyonin’s greatest heroes. discoveries and methods for combating the demonic
Thematically appropriate backgrounds from Player corruption of nature has benefited you significantly over
Core include acolyte, animal whisperer, artisan, artist, the course of your life and may even have saved you from
bounty hunter, emissary, field medic, gladiator, guard, being corrupted yourself. Alternately, you could have had
herbalist, hunter, martial disciple, noble, raised by close friends or family members who became corrupted
belief, scout, street urchin, or warrior. only to have been restored before that corruption could
Thematically appropriate backgrounds from Player become permanent. Many have succumbed to the influence
Core 2 include courier, pilgrim, refugee, root worker, of Tanglebriar over the ages, but you count yourself as one
saboteur, scavenger, or squire. of the survivors of this corruption. Using your hard-earned
experience to help others survive their encounter with the
Spore War Backgrounds blight has, in part, defined your role in Kyonin or abroad.
The rare backgrounds presented here are available to Choose two ability boosts. One must be to Constitution or
all characters in the Spore War Adventure Path. Each Wisdom, and one is a free ability boost.

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
You’re trained in the Nature skill and the Fungus Lore Created by Jininsiel, founder of Jinin, to serve as a gift to
skill. You gain the Natural Medicine skill feat. In addition, aid the nation’s neighbors in Tianjing against their own
once you’re 4th level, you gain the ability to cast cleanse fiendish invasion, Fiendbreaker’s role in helping to defeat
affliction as an innate primal spell once per day. This spell Tanglebriar’s forces in that ancient war is well known.
automatically heightens to a rank equal to half your level, Today, with Tanglebriar relatively contained, the need
rounded up. If you’re cleansing an affliction with the fungus for powerful weapons like Fiendbreaker may be lessened,
trait, you gain a +4 status bonus to your counteract check. but this treasured gift’s legendary journey across the world
is honored still by pilgrimages, during which a group of
DEMON HUNTED BACKGROUND priests and worshippers from a wide range of faiths gather
During the first war against Tanglebriar, when the elves and carry Fiendbreaker out from Kyonin and back again to
returned to Kyonin to fight against Treerazer, many honor that legacy. The goal of these journeys isn’t to deliver
heroes rose to prominence while reclaiming their ancestral the staff where it’s needed. Instead, it’s a journey of self-
homeland from demonic occupation. Some of those heroes’ discovery, where the petitioners meditates on Fiendbreaker,
tales are still told today. The legend Kyloss Syndar in the legacy of its creator Jininsiel, and a promise among all
particular, whose bravery against Treerazer’s minions came pilgrims to stand against the demonic evil.
to a glorious end as he single-handedly slew the demonic You have been on at least one of these pilgrimages, and
hydra Slithermaw and died of his wounds, has always the journey has touched you deeply. You focused your
loomed large in your mind, as you can trace your lineage studies on Treerazer, his cult, and his methods, and your
back through the generations to this storied hero. Whether long hours studying Fiendbreaker have resulted in a knack
you carry that link with pride and strive to live up to his for understanding the inner workings of other magic items.
legacy or instead have felt hounded by a family history Choose two ability boosts. One must be to Strength or
you’d rather leave behind in hopes of building something Wisdom, and one is a free ability boost.
of your own, the demonic armies of Tanglebriar don’t care. You’re trained in the Religion skill and the Treerazer
Demons live longer than elves, and many who clashed Lore skill. You gain the Quick Identification skill feat, can
against Kyloss still live today. They have at times made use Treerazer Lore checks in place of Perception when
your life difficult, to say the least. Whether you’ve lived you attempt to Seek or Sense the Motive of a creature you
life on the run, lost a family member to demonic attack, or suspect of being an agent of Treerazer. You also gain the
simply endured the frightening sensation of being stalked, following action.
Treerazer and his agents believe your bloodline should be
wiped out. Your focus in honing your skills in combat, the HUNT THE RAZER’S PAWN [one-action]
force of your personality, or simply remaining ready to fight CONCENTRATE
for your life at a moment’s notice, have shaped you into an Designate a single creature that you can see or hear, or
increasingly dangerous foe against demonkind. whom you’ve spent a significant amount of time studying
Choose two ability boosts. One must be to Charisma or and reading about from afar (subject to the GM’s approval),
Strength, and one is a free ability boost. and who you know to be an agent of Treerazer. You gain
You’re trained in the Intimidation skill and the Warfare a +2 circumstance bonus to Perception checks to Seek or
Lore skill. You gain the Intimidating Glare skill feat. In Sense the Motive of this creature. This creature takes a
addition, you gain a +1 circumstance bonus to all saving –1 circumstance penalty to saving throws against spells
throws against mental effects. For 1 minute after you or effects you create; this penalty increases to –2 against
witness a demon suffer from having its sin vulnerability effects that have the holy trait.
triggered, this increases to a +2 circumstance bonus. You can have only one creature designated by Hunt the
Razer’s Pawn at a time. If you use this ability against a
FIENDBREAKING PILGRIM BACKGROUND creature when you already have one designated, the prior
Soon after the elves returned to stop Treerazer’s corruption creature loses the designation and the new creature gains
of Kyonin, word spread across the globe, reaching the distant the designation. This lasts until your next daily preparations.
elven nation of Jinin in the heart of Tian Xia. No strangers
to the fight against evil, a group of Jinin priests and oracles PORTAL SCHOLAR BACKGROUND
made a desperate pilgrimage across the world to join the Candlaron’s legacy is one of the strongest elven legacies on
fight against Tanglebriar. With them they brought one of Golarion and beyond, for it was he who first created the
their greatest treasures, the legendary staff Fiendbreaker. aiudara—the network of magical portals that link Kyonin

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
to Castrovel and so many other locations across Golarion. long known about the ancient elven hero’s admiration of
Most of these portals are located in the Inner Sea region, spoken tales, you’ve devoted much of your adult life to the
where Candlaron spent the majority of his time. Now gathering and crafting of stories of your own. The way in
that he’s long gone, the particulars of how to create new which occult magic can manipulate the power of story is a
aiudara has eluded discovery, causing some elven scholars particular obsession of yours, especially with a handy little
to believe that there was something unique to Candlaron’s trick you’ve learned that allows you to access power locked
mind or soul that allowed for his ability to craft and enchant away in magic items you’d otherwise struggle to use. Simply
so many portals throughout different regions and worlds. by adjusting your story, the item’s story, or both... and then
Even Treerazer himself hasn’t cracked that magical code, giving the tiniest little push of occult magic, you can unlock
although not for lack of trying. At least one aiudara, the a wide range of magical tools. These same tricks, you’ve
remote archway known now as Tanglegate, lies deep in come to discover, also work well on demons—particularly
his territory. As one of countless scholars of these portals, when used to remind them of their sins and the shame their
you’ve spent much of your time studying Candlaron’s once-mortal souls may have held eons ago.
techniques, as well as the complex fundamentals of a wide Choose two ability boosts. One must be to Charisma or
range of teleportation magics and effects. Whether you Intelligence, and one is a free ability boost.
seek to find a way to build portals of your own, hope to You’re trained in the Occultism skill and the Demon Lore
bolster the aiudara network from further tampering from skill. You gain the Trick Magic Item skill feat, as well as the
Treerazer, or are simply enthralled by the supernatural following reaction.
rush of vanishing from reality only to reappear in the same
instant somewhere else, portals have long fascinated you. OPPORTUNISTIC ACCUSATION [reaction]
Choose two ability boosts. One must be to Dexterity or AUDITORY MENTAL LINGUISTIC
Intelligence, and one is a free ability boost. Trigger A demon you’re aware of within 30 feet of you
You’re trained in the Arcana skill and the Architecture suffers from its sin vulnerability or critical fails at a
Lore skill. You gain the Arcane Sense skill feat, and also gain saving throw against a mental effect
the following reaction. You make a quick cutting remark against the demon that
takes advantage of the fiend’s momentary disadvantage.
RESTORATIVE TELEPORTATION [reaction] The demon must attempt a Will save against your class DC.
HEALING Critical Success The demon is unaffected and likely to focus
Frequency once per minute its attention on you in combat from this point forward.
Trigger You arrive at a location via a teleportation effect Success The demon takes 2d6 mental damage.
Effect When you reappear after the teleportation, your Failure The demon takes 4d6 mental damage and is off-
body takes advantage of the teleportation to put itself guard until the start of its next turn.
back together in a healthier state, and you restore a Critical Failure As failure, but the off-guard condition lasts
number of Hit Points equal to 1d6 plus your level plus until the end of the next round. The demon also takes 2d6
your Intelligence modifier. persistent mental damage.

STORY COLLECTOR BACKGROUND STUDENT OF ARCHERY BACKGROUND

The power stories exude over the world has long fascinated Elves are known to be talented and gifted archers. Whether
you. No matter if they’re accurate historical accounts, you grew up in elven society or sought one out for training,
distorted parables, or completely fictional constructions, you’ve studied the secrets of ranged combat with some of
the way tales can shape society is a kind of magic. In some the best teachers elves have to offer. While traditionally
cases, literal, occult magic! One tale that’s come back to these secrets are focused on the practice of archery, you
modern lips of late is an ancient one indeed, the story of the may have instead focused your studies in a different way
elven hero Iyalirrin, an Ekujae bard who helped to create a to maximize and enhance your skills with any number of
ritual known as the anima invocation in his people’s pursuit diverse ranged weapons, from simple ones like slings or
against the devastations caused by Dahak in the aftermath javelins to less common weapons like pistols or rifles—or any
of Earthfall. Other heroes rediscovered Iyalirrin’s story ranged weapon in between. You didn’t stop at learning these
and the ritual a few short years ago, but it was Iyalirrin’s secrets for yourself, though—you’ve spent time traveling the
admiration of the art of storytelling that spoke more to you. world to bring this lore to other worthy students across the
Whether you came to this realization recently or if you’ve Inner Sea region and beyond. A big part of your lectures

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
and lessons involves stories of famous archers from the it as a simple weapon; if it’s an advanced weapon, you treat
past, and one of your favorites is the legendary elven archer it as a martial weapon. With this weapon, you ignore the
Jelarial, who (with her magical bow Wintershot) helped lead penalty for making ranged attacks within your second range
a group of elves north into the Crown of the World to escape increment, and at 5th level, whenever you get a critical hit
the coming devastation of Earthfall eons ago. During your with this weapon, you get its critical specialization effect.
travels, you’ve often had to resort to stealth when traveling
through dangerous areas, a skill that also greatly aids your ELVEN SOCIETY
ability to find a hiding spot to lie in wait when hunting prey Elven culture is strongly informed by a reverence for
for food or sniping foes from afar—these tactics too have freedom and autonomy. Nearly all businesses in Kyonin
influenced how you teach your students. Now, though, are passed down to those with interest in a specific craft
you’ve come to Kyonin, be it a return home after your or trade rather than strictly along family lineages, and
travels or to offer your skills to new students. the nation’s defensive forces are made up of volunteers.
Choose two ability boosts. One must be to Constitution or Children are raised learning their voice matters, and
Dexterity, and one is a free ability boost. while it’s generally wise to heed their parents’ and
You’re trained in the Stealth skill and the Warfare Lore elders’ guidance, ultimately, they must each choose
skill. You gain the Terrain Stalker skill feat and have focused their own paths with passion and discernment. Those
your abilities on a specific type of ranged weapon. Choose a who mistake elven culture as one of debauchery and
ranged weapon (subject to GM approval). For the purposes hedonism are often surprised to learn that selfishly
of proficiency, if your choice is a martial weapon, you treat impeding the freedom and happiness of others is
considered the worst of sins and won’t be tolerated in
proper society. “What pleases me is mine, but yours
are also fine!” is an old saying that loses some of its
lyricism when translated from the original Elven but
sums up well elves’ attitude around embracing pleasure
and encouraging others to seek their own happiness.
For centuries, elves were considered distant and
arrogant due to a perceived lack of willingness to
interact with non-elves. This perception, largely held
by Kyonin’s political neighbors, is partially the result
of the elves’ long memories. In particular, Kyonin elves
have learned painful lessons about having to be careful
who they let into their homes, since it’s been all too easy
for demonic tricksters to take advantage of open doors.
Another reason for the perception of elven distance
is their tradition to let others enjoy their own ways
without enforcing or pushing elven norms, a mindset
that echoes Kyonin’s long tradition of not asking for
help from their neighbors in fighting Tanglebriar.
Working to maintain the delicate balance
of respecting autonomy and standing
firm in their own ways, elves have
made a concentrated effort to build alliances and
welcome new friends in recent years, as Queen
Telandia is eager to get rid of the perception of
elves being standoffish once and for all.

Cuisine
Traditional elven cuisine developed eons ago from
a hunter-gatherer culture in the wilds of Sovyrian.
Cooking and preservation techniques focus on drawing

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
out the strongest flavors from ingredients, leading to the world and enjoy the good things in life, as does
a preference for wild game over farmed livestock. Shelyn. Deities with extremely strict edicts are
Farms in elven communities are generally found in usually avoided except by those with strong devotion
settlements with strong non-elven cultural influence, to that god’s domain. Most elves consider it selfish to
such as in Omesta. Hunting is popular both as sport worship deities who encourage gain through cruelty
and occupation, as is foraging, with avid foragers or oppression, as freedom and happiness shouldn’t
fiercely protecting their knowledge of where the best come at the expense of another.
mushrooms and vegetables grow in the thick of the
woods. Yet both callings are performed with respect for Art
the natural world. Competitive hunting events, such as Artwork is highly prized in elven culture.
safaris, in which animal are killed purely for spectacle Traditionalists prefer art inspired by nature, while
or gratification. are regarded as shameful and criminal. modernists take inspiration from both history and
Many traditional elven recipes include raw meat new stories to create bold work. Most elves would
and vegetables for the purest flavor, though aged meat never call a sincere attempt at art ugly unless it was
and the use of spices is popular. This has led many offensive, cruel, or gratuitous in some way—and even
to incorrectly believe that elves eat only salads when then, what might offend one elf could be another’s
they’re proud and avid hunters. Overcooked vegetables inspiration. Even the most amateur artisan tends to
are treated with such horror that non-elven guests receive praise if only for their desire to create, though
have mistaken it to be a crime. Nevertheless, even an they may also receive blunt critique if asked. While
overcooked meal won’t be wasted, as some elves have one might expect worshippers of Findeladlara, who
adapted to the tastes of other cultures and happily devote themselves to perfection in artistry, to decry
indulge in a medium rare steak or vegetables steamed such a mindset, even they avoid giving unsolicited
to the point of becoming spreads. criticism.
Elves don’t find pickiness rude if one shows proper Art is rarely bought among elves, who prefer to
deference to a host’s generous offer. A meal that doesn’t gift it. Exceptions are made when a piece is meant
suit one’s tastes should at least be sampled before being for practicality before aesthetics, such as tableware.
politely declined. Ambitious hosts often investigate The harmony of practicality and aesthetic is a key
their guests’ preferences beforehand to offer a dish they component of elven artistry, though some may scoff
won’t turn down, while potlucks are popular for casual at such a sentiment. Those foolish enough to deride
meals among friends who are familiar with each other’s paintings or poetry as a waste of time in front of an
preferences. It’s considered a great sign of respect and elf may find themselves receiving a stern lecture on the
friendship to finish food one doesn’t enjoy or for the necessity of art. Just as often, they could be met with
host to prepare one’s favorite dish. a cold shoulder, which lends itself to the perception of
the aloof elf stereotype.
Religion
While most elves in Kyonin follow the elven Architecture
pantheon, those who leave its borders often add in Cities built by elves are admired for how they integrate
other gods to worship. No one god holds domain the nature around them, using hills and trees as
over the elves, though Calistria is the most famous of foundations. While some design motifs are inspired
their pantheon. The clever and fickle goddess is often by the flora and fauna of Golarion, such as beehive
thought to represent the capricious nature of elves. lattices, others come off as bizarrely alien due to an
Out of reverence for Calistria, wasp nests are left ancient Sovyrian influence.
alone in Kyonin, and most would rather get stung Because of their long lifespans, most elves are
than cause harm to a wasp unless they must defend patient, and this patience is symbolized in the way
another. their streets, lanes, and trails tend to elaborately loop
Gods that venerate art and beauty, encourage the and diverge toward different destinations, prioritizing
study of magic, and delight in freedom are the most a beautiful journey over an efficient route, which can
appealing to aiudeen elves, not only in Kyonin but lead to newcomers easily getting lost. The development
throughout the Inner Sea. Desna has a large following of “quick paths” built for direct passage has been
among them, as her edicts encourage them to explore met with consternation by elven traditionalists, who

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
complain about the loss of purposefulness in society. which an individual works toward their chosen path,
Some have even derisively nicknamed these paths “false whether through rigorous study or attending to their
aiudara” as a jab against those who put timeliness over occupation. One who has yet to choose a path might
enjoying one’s journey. apprentice under different masters or could just as
well spend the days exploring what their society has
Fashion to offer, taking their time to discover themselves and
Traditional elven fashion favors nature motifs and uses their purpose. It’s expected for an elf to settle on their
various cuts to enhance the wearer’s natural form. There first passion before they reach 100 years, though it’s
are few traditional beauty standards in aiudeen society; common for elves to change direction more than once
most focus on how an elf chooses to portray themselves during their long lives.
rather than picking at their natural features—with the
exception being hair length. Long hair is custom, but GREENGOLD
short hairstyles are often favored by youthful elven Greengold was the first town in Kyonin to welcome
troublemakers (who often require such haircuts after non-elves as merchants and friends, and it remains
ruining their hair through mischief). a popular trade hub to this day. This town’s yellow
rooftops gleam gold in the sun. Founded in honor
Relationships of the elven hero Kyloss Syndar after he gave his life
Friendship is highly valued and honored by aiudeen defeating a powerful demonic hydra named Slithermaw
society; to betray a friend is among the worst offenses who dwelt in the area, Greengold has grown into
one can commit. Some of the best of friends start out Kyonin’s second-largest settlement and serves as
as nemeses, known as ilduliel. The word describes both popular gateway to the nation for outsiders visiting for
a rival and the feud they inspire, usually a petty battle business, politics, or leisure. As a result, the city has a
of small-scale sabotage and one-upmanship. Ilduliels much more diverse population, with elves making up
rarely lead to duels or serious harm, and they often only half of its occupants. Farming and other traditions
end as easily as they begin. These feuds, while not not normally associated with elven culture are also
encouraged, are generally left to end in their own time strong in Greengold, as the settlement continues to
so long as innocents aren’t hurt. Ilduliels tend to be a serve as a place for different ancestral traditions to mix.
relationship phase among younger elves and are seen as
a way to release one’s negative emotions as they grow GREENGOLD SETTLEMENT 7
and learn which battles are worth fighting. CITY ELF
Government Mayor (elected leader)
Everyday Life Population 10,400 (50% elves, 35% humans, 10% aiuvarins,
Elves delight in the unexpected surprises of day-to-day 5% other)
life. What might seem like frivolous fun to others is a Languages Common, Elven
welcome opportunity for elves to make today different Religions Calistria, Desna, elven pantheon
than yesterday or tomorrow. Still, life for most elves Threats hidden agents of Treerazer, plague barges, political
does tend to follow a similar path. Artisans rise to meet unrest
the dawn while others have the luxury of a longer sleep. Welcoming of Diversity While most who live in Greengold
In smaller towns, devoted chefs create fantastic spreads are of elven or human ancestry, the town welcomes
for the community to eat throughout the day, working all ancestries. People of ancestries other than elf or
tirelessly to show their mastery of their craft. Larger human find locals easier to speak with and gain a +2
towns have teams of chefs to nourish citizens and cities circumstance bonus to checks to Gather Information in
have cooking teams in each district; some families even town or to Performance checks to Earn Income.
move from town to town to follow their preferred chef. Nalora (flirtatious genderfluid elf cleric of Calistria 9)
Hunters, fishers, and foragers provide ingredients for Luminary Companion of the church of Calistria and
these dishes and are traditionally rewarded for their Greengold’s religious leader
service with the first pick of meals. Nuandiall Ciranviash (stoic male elf fighter 10) commander
Most hours of the day are devoted to the of Greengold’s defense force
development of a skill, perfection of a craft, or some Selwyn Vanaidori (gregarious male human mayor 9) current
other pursuit. A light morning meal starts the day, after mayor of Greengold

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PLAYER’S GUIDE

A2
A1

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7
A8
A10 A9

200 400 600 800 1000

Scale in Feet
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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
Greengold Locations place in and near the nation of Kyonin, that can build
While Greengold has a large population, the city verisimilitude as to why your group is chosen to help
architecture isn’t dense, except for an urban sprawl the nation. Work with your GM to build in potential
near the waterfront. Much of the city’s land consists bits of foreshadowing or other thematic ties to what
of lightly forested regions mostly left untouched. While they know lie in wait for your group as needed.
these areas aren’t landscaped like parks in human cities, Alternately, you could decide to play Spore War after
they aren’t particularly dangerous wildlands, affording completing a previous Paizo Adventure Path that ended
the people of Greengold a safe avenue of wilderness with your group having reached 11th level. By running
exploration in their own backyards. Spore War as a continuation of that Adventure Path,
A few key locations in Greengold are briefly you can continue playing your previous characters all
summarized below. the way up to 20th level! Listed below are a few ways
A1. Gray Observatory: A place to watch the stars, you and your GM can tie a group fresh out of a lower-
overseen by a group of friendly astronomers. level published Adventure Path. Care has been taken to
A2. Overlook: Greengold’s palace, jail, and town avoid spoiling elements of these prior Adventure Paths
hall—a series of towers and walkways built as much to as much as possible, but if you expect to play one of
impress those sailing by on the lake as to serve as the these Adventure Paths at some point in the future, you
town’s seat of government. might want to avoid reading these suggestions (after
A3. Steelhead Pier: All of Greengold’s piers are all, if you haven’t yet played an Adventure Path, you
named after freshwater fish; Steelhead Pier is one of the won’t need to know how PCs might carry on from it
busiest ones along the waterfront. into the Spore War anyway!)
A4. Shoreline Road: This road follows Kyonin’s You and your GM can use these suggestions as
shoreline all the way east and south to Druma. inspirations and guides for building connections
A5. Hedgerow Holloway: One of Greengold’s largest between other Adventure Paths as well, be they longer
inns, well known and admired for its surrounding ones in which you decide to truncate the story at 10th
gardens and hedges. level and then continue with Spore War or lower-level
A6. Temple of Calistria: Greengold’s largest temple, ones that have yet to be published at the time of this
open to all who wish to worship, seek an agent for Player’s Guide’s release.
vengeance, or are simply looking for a place to relax
and enjoy the company of the temple’s priests. Abomination Vaults
A7. Vynoren Estate: One of many estates of In Abomination Vaults, your PCs are allied from
Greengold’s aristocratic families. The Vynorens often the start with a local merchant by the name of Wrin
offer up this estate to Kyonin’s government as a place Sivinxi, a nephilim elf whose role in the town of Otari,
for visiting dignitaries to stay. where this Adventure Path is based, is that of a beloved
A8. Founder’s Square: Greengold’s largest public eccentric. She’s the most likely local to serve as a patron
square, where festivals are often held. for the PCs, and in time, potentially even as a friend.
A9. Laughing Gale: Greengold has many taverns, but By the end of Abomination Vaults, the PCs will
the Laughing Gale is the city’s oldest continually run be much higher level than Wrin, at which point the
public house, and it’s long been the favored start (or oddities merchant could approach them with a favor.
end) of Greengold pub crawls. Appearing somewhat nervous as she does, Wrin asks
A10. Southwestern Road: This dirt road leads inland the PCs if they’ll accompany her on a trip back to her
to several human-run farms whose produce helps to homeland of Kyonin. She left the elven nation after her
support the city’s people. hometown Glitterbough was destroyed by Treerazer’s
demons. None of Glitterbough’s citizens perished in
WHAT CAME BEFORE? the attack, though, for Wrin had received a harrowing
If you’re creating a brand new party of 11th-level vision of the invasion days before, and her warnings
adventurers to play Spore War, work with the other were so timely and trusted by the town that everyone
players to come up with a history of your previous was able to safely evacuate. When the demons came,
adventures. The nature of these adventures isn’t they found Glitterbough empty, and when they burned
relevant to the story of Spore War, although if you it in frustration, they suffered greatly from the magical
decide that the bulk of your adventuring has taken traps the elves had left behind.

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
Wrin reveals that she’s had another vision; one to import firearms and those trained in their use as a
indicating it might be some time before the sudden potential new tool to use in defending their nation,
invasion of demons and fungus she has foreseen will or (as is more likely), Treerazer’s desire to bolster his
take place, but she’s still worried. She asks the PCs to army with new weapons, perhaps a new series of trade
accompany her to the city of Greengold, where several shipments are making their way north from Alkenstar,
of her friends and family relocated after Glitterbough’s and your PCs might just find themselves hired on as
destruction. Your GM will want to build some new guards or even advisors to the elven court about the
NPCs in Greengold to serve as Wrin’s friends and dangers and opportunities firearms provide.
family, but when an opportunity to become heroes In this case, your GM will want to make numerous
occurs early in the first adventure, your PCs will be adjustments throughout Spore War to lean into the idea
there to take up the charge! of firearms playing a stronger role in the conflict, but
As Spore War plays out, the GM should seek ways regardless, your PCs having spent the first ten levels
to keep Wrin and her visions as an element, perhaps of their adventuring careers steeped in a land where
using them to give the PCs warnings and advice about firearms are the rule can potentially give you a built-in
upcoming events. reason to catch Queen Telandia’s eye.

Gatewalkers Quest for the Frozen Flame

In Gatewalkers, the PCs travel across the Inner Sea This Adventure Path takes place far to the north,
region and beyond, and during those travels come into and has little built-in reasons for heroes to travel far
contact with numerous elven societies. Any one of these from home. Yet there’s one potential link of note—the
could become impressed by the PCs that word of their presence of a demonic possession and the role it plays.
deeds catches Queen Telandia’s attention. Yet this won’t In the interests of avoiding spoilers, let’s just say that
be enough in and of itself to put the PCs in Greengold. your GM might seek a way to tie the demonic elements
Your GM instead might wish to increase the presence of in Quest for the Frozen Flame to the demonic elements
some of these elven contacts so that once Gatewalkers controlled by Tanglebriar, such that the heroes from
concludes, they might ask you for one last favor—the this campaign might feel compelled to travel to a new
delivery of an ancient magical bow, perhaps; one used land to finish a task they thought already complete.
by the elves you befriended in Gatewalkers that they
wish to deliver to Queen Telandia to help in the fight Sky King’s Tomb
against Treerazer. Which bow this is, and how much of Sky King’s Tomb has an interesting advantage over
its history and powers are revealed to the PCs, is left the others in this list, for this campaign takes place in
to the GM to decide, yet one bow in particular would the neighboring nation of the Five Kings Mountains.
make for a perfect link here. The dwarven nation doesn’t have a strong built-in role
Thematically, the eldritch mysteries of Gatewalkers to play in Spore War, but an easy and obvious way
aren’t a perfect match for the demonic influences to change that would be to add a new nation to the
awaiting you in Spore War, but the GM can make burgeoning diplomatic situation at the start of Spore
adjustments to allow you to continue developing the War. In this case, your PCs won’t begin as heroes of
eerie powers or lore you gained during Gatewalkers Kyonin, but instead as representatives of the Five
during this Adventure Path Kings Mountains called north to see about taking
part in a new alliance against a regional threat. Your
Outlaws of Alkenstar GM will need to make some significant adjustments
Thematically, the Outlaws of Alkenstar Adventure Path to the first chapter of Spore War to account for this
is perhaps the most difficult to bridge into Spore War. change, but once chapter 2 begins, playing the role of
The fact that this Adventure Path takes place entirely dwarven heroes coming to the aid of their elven allies
on Garund, far from Kyonin and without a significant to the north could make for an exceptionally satisfying
amount of world travel, makes the transition even continuation of Sky King’s Tomb. After all, Tanglebriar
more awkward. Yet there’s a possibility for a carried shares a border with this nation as well, and no dwarf
theme here that could make for an interesting, if highly would expect Treerazer to stop his plans at conquest
unconventional transformation to Spore War—the simply because he conquers Kyonin! If the elven nation
introduction of firearms. Whether it’s Kyonin seeking falls, the dwarven nation could well be next!

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 PLAYER’S GUIDE
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