In the world of Black Watch, the continent of Altheria stretches vast distances, measured in days—days marked by the rhythmic hoofbeats of a horse or the steady footfalls of a marcher.
The north is the domain of the expansive Vishodan Empire, stretching a vast 20 days ride from the eastern sun to the western horizon or a journey of about 33 days by foot. This grand empire touches both the scorching dunes of the Narakar Desert and the elevated ridges of the Akash Plateau, spanning the breadth from the eastern to the western seas.
To the southwest, the Kingdom of Vainer takes up 5 days ride or close to 9 days’ march. Bordering it to the east is the Kingdom of Hanan, a realm that a traveler could traverse in 4 days on horseback or in 7 days on foot.
Further east lies the coastal Kingdom of Kiran, covering 2.8 days’ ride, and its neighbor, the Nishan Federation, which spans 3.2 days by horse or 5 days by foot. To the southeast, the Kingdom of Chandan and the Kingdom of Durshan each spread across roughly 2 days ride.
Beyond the mainland’s grasp, the enigmatic Kingdom of Zara stands as an island enigma, its boundaries and secrets murmured in Altherian tales.
Yet, farther northwest, kissed by warmer currents, lies the radiant archipelago of the Varakali Islands. A tropical paradise, these islands beckon with azure seas and a culture rich in tradition. The Varakalians, united by blood and legacy, celebrate a life where nature and tradition weave a harmonious tapestry. Central to this balance are the Vokara, revered masters of the Way of the Blade, who are as much the islands’ soul as its guardians. In Varakali, tales of valor meet the tranquil dance of land and sea, and the Vokara’s eternal spiral is more than just a symbol—it’s the very essence of life.
Altheria and its surrounding waters beckon to those with a heart full of wanderlust, promising tales of beauty, danger, and the profound spirit of its lands and seas.
Distance Measures
[in “The World of Black Watch” for D&D Game Mechanics]
In “The World of Black Watch,” distances are traditionally measured in terms of a “day’s ride” for swift travel on horseback and a “day’s march” for slower, on-foot travel. Translating this for use in Dungeons & Dragons mechanics ensures a consistent and immersive gameplay experience.
Day’s Ride: One “day’s ride” in Altheria is approximately 25 miles. In D&D, a horse (riding) traveling at a normal pace covers about 24 miles in a day (8 hours of travel). If the terrain is challenging or the group faces obstacles, consider reducing this distance.
Day’s March: One “day’s march” in Altheria is approximately 15 miles. In D&D, a group of adventurers traveling on foot at a normal pace covers about 24 miles in a day. However, the term “day’s march” in this world refers to a more leisurely pace or possibly rugged terrain, hence the reduced distance.
Gameplay Implications:
Encounters: Given these distance measures, DMs can plan random encounters, rest points, or notable landmarks accordingly. For example, if adventurers are on a three-day journey by horse, that’s a potential 75 miles of terrain and events to prepare for.
Resource Management: Tracking provisions, especially if players are traveling through the vast Vishodan Empire or the Narakar Desert, becomes crucial. Water, food, and shelter might be necessary considerations.
Mount Stamina: If players are consistently pushing their horses beyond a “day’s ride” without adequate rest, consider the rules for a forced march and exhaustion for the mounts.
Roleplaying Opportunities: The unique distance measure can lead to interesting NPC interactions. Local inhabitants might find it curious if adventurers speak in terms of miles or hours, providing a cultural touchpoint.
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Last Modified: 10/25/2023