Wildemount
A land of jagged peaks and ancient magic where the fate of Exandria hangs in the balance.
Wildemount is a rugged, mountainous continent on the planet Exandria that serves as the primary setting for the second campaign of Critical Role. Known for its dramatic geography ranging from the icy peaks of the Shimmerglen to the vast plains separating it from Tal'Dorei across the Azure Sea, it is a land defined by ancient magical conflicts and political maneuvering between the Dwendalian Empire and the Kryn Dynasty. The region became the focal point for a new generation of adventurers who rose to face threats that had been dormant since the Age of Arcanum.
- Key Factions
- Dwendalian Empire, Kryn Dynasty
- Major Threats
- The Ruby Vanguard
- Notable Locations
- Zephrah, Jrusar, Eiselcross
Lore & Background
Centuries of conflict have shaped Wildemount into a patchwork of independent city-states and fortified strongholds. While the continent faces dangers from the Ruby Vanguard's machinations, it is also protected by an ancient alliance between the Matron of Ravens and the Kryn Dynasty in Xhorhas. Other regions struggle with the aftermath of magical experiments gone wrong during the Age of Arcanum that precipitated the Calamity. The land itself seems to hold memories of past wars, with ley lines converging in ways that can twist reality or grant immense power to those who know how to tap into them.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled through the narrow pass of the Crown Keep, carrying with it the scent of pine and distant snow. A lone traveler pulled their cloak tighter against the chill, eyes scanning the treeline for movement. Below, the valley stretched out in a tapestry of emerald forests and silver rivers, but the traveler knew that beauty often masked danger here. Somewhere in those shadows, an ancient evil stirred, waiting for the right moment to rise once more.
Reader's Guide
Wildemount is more than just a backdrop; it is a character in its own right within the narrative of Critical Role. Its diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploration and conflict, from the bustling markets of Vasselheim to the haunted ruins of the Feywild Fringe. The continent plays a crucial role in the story by serving as the stage for the Mighty Nein's adventures. Each region offers unique challenges and allies, forcing the party to adapt their strategies and grow stronger with every encounter. The political tensions between various factions add layers of complexity to the plot, making every decision feel weighty and consequential. Ultimately, Wildemount matters because it represents the intersection of magic and mortality. It is a place where heroes are forged in fire and where the line between light and darkness blurs. For fans, it remains one of the most beloved settings due to its rich history, dynamic geography, and the unforgettable characters who call it home.
Did You Know?
- The name 'Wildemount' reflects the continent's untamed nature and its many mountain ranges that dominate the landscape.
- Many locations in Wildemount were inspired by real-world European geography but twisted with fantasy elements unique to Exandria.
- In Exandrian cosmology, deities are classified strictly as Prime Deities or Betrayer Gods; there is no category known as 'Outer God'.
- The Ziggurat is actually an ancient city located in Eiselcross, not a sea separating the continents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wildemount?
A rugged continent on Exandria that serves as the primary setting for Critical Role's second campaign. Its geography spans from icy peaks to vast plains separated from Tal'Dorei by the Azure Sea.
Which factions rule Wildemount?
The land is politically divided between the Dwendalian Empire and the Kryn Dynasty, who frequently maneuver against one another. These powers maintain control over major cities while suppressing ancient magical conflicts.
Who are the main villains in Wildemount?
Adventurers primarily faced the Ruby Vanguard, a group seeking to exploit magic dormant since the Age of Arcanum. Their actions threatened to destabilize the continent and endanger all of Exandria.
What are notable locations in Wildemount?
Key settlements include the capital city Zephrah, the independent state of Jrusar, and the fortified town of Eiselcross. These sites hosted major events throughout the campaign's story arc.
Why does Wildemount matter to Exandria?
It is a region where ancient magic remains potent enough that the fate of the entire planet hangs in the balance. A new generation of heroes rose here to prevent catastrophic conflicts from spreading globally.
More in World & Setting
Elsewhere in the Critical Role universe
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