The Pact of Cinders

The Pact of Cinders is the whispered, terrifying rumor that has begun to spread among the enemies of the Cinder-Skulls. It is a secret alliance that threatens to upset the balance of power across the Northern Continent.

The Forging of the Pact

The alliance was forged deep within the Ashen Caldera. Jarl Throm-Ka, seeking the power to unite the giant tribes and conquer the lesser races, sought out Ignis-Kaan, an ancient and incredibly powerful red dragon who had slumbered beneath the earth for centuries. In exchange for the dragon's immense arcane knowledge and a share of his primordial fire, Throm-Ka pledged the Cinder-Skulls as Ignis-Kaan's vanguard.

Terms of the Bargain

The terms of the Pact are heavily weighted in the dragon's favor. The Cinder-Skulls must offer a portion of all plunder to Ignis-Kaan's hoard and capture slaves to mine deeper into the earth, expanding the dragon's subterranean domain. In return, Ignis-Kaan has taught the fire giant smiths how to infuse their weapons with draconic flame and occasionally lends his devastating presence to the giants' most crucial battles.

A Dangerous Game

Throm-Ka believes he can control the dragon, using Ignis-Kaan as a tool for his own ascent to the title of First King. Ignis-Kaan, however, views the giants as mere pawns in his long game to reclaim dominance over the skies of Aethervale. It is an alliance built on mutual hubris, destined to end in apocalyptic betrayal.