This section explains all the people, places and things mentioned throughout the series, and gives pronunciations for the non-English names. Each entry states which books it occurs in, though passing references (ones that don't affect the story) aren't always noted.
CR - (with reference to dates) Centadorian Reckoning. See Calendar.
DM - Death & Magic, book 1 of The Barefoot Healer.
DW - Dust & Water, book 3 of The Barefoot Healer.
PP - Plague & Poison, book 2 of The Barefoot Healer.
SS - Stone & Silence, book 4 of The Barefoot Healer.
I tried to spell the names as I would if they were English words, but because English spelling is so inconsistent, it wasn't always possible to devise spellings that gave the pronunciation I wanted and were pleasing to the eye. This glossary gives pronunciations using both familiar English words and the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). (See here for a guide to what the IPA symbols mean.)
You can usually get something close to my intended pronunciation by observing the following:
In two-syllable names, the stress almost always falls on the first syllable. In three-syllable names, the stress usually falls on the first and last syllables. The "English" pronunciations use capital letters to indicate stress.
There are no silent letters. Consonants and combinations of consonants generally have their English values. G is always as in give, never as in gin. S never sounds like Z. DH represents the TH of these. TH is always the TH of thin. KH represents the sound of CH in Scottish loch. A is usually the sound in cat and lad. AR is more like car. E is usually as in bet and bed. I is as in pin. O is usually as in got. OR is as in ore. A notable exception is Zorian, where the O is short, making it rhyme with sorry Anne, not sore Ian. U is pronounced oo, never you. Y is a consonant at the start of a word, and a vowel (as in why) elsewhere.
Adramal (AD-ram-al /'æd-ræ-mæl/ DM PP DW SS) Born 489 CR. An apprentice wizard, the protagonist of the story, daughter of Alesin and Tarinsath, nicknamed the Barefoot Healer by the people of Darund-Kerak.
Adviser (PP) In the village of Voltroth, one of five men and women who give advice and guidance to the leader.
Advocate (DW) In the Anorene Empire, a person licensed to represent the interests of another in legal matters.
Advocates' Code (DW) In a province of the Anorene Empire, the laws and customs by which advocates in that province are required to conduct their professional affairs.
Advocates' Council (DW) In a province of the Anorene Empire, a professional body that advocates must belong to. It oversees training of new advocates and hears cases of lawbreaking and professional misconduct against its members.
Aglos (AG-loss /'æg-lɒs/ DM SS) A major river. For most of its length it forms the border between Centador to the south and Zerimun to the north. The city of Kyer Altamar stands on its southern bank, opposite the Marchwood.
Akhmar-an-Terash (AKH-mar-an-TE-rash /'æx-mɑr æn 'tɛ-ræʃ/ DW) A large house in the city of Molkolin. The well known as Shomnakh Enkhyar lies in one of its basements.
Akhtar (AKH-tar /'æx-tɑr/ DW) A city in the Anorene Empire, the capital of Takhlar Province.
Aladon (A-la-don /'æ-læ-dɒn/ DW) 1. Born circa 100 CR, died 185 CR. Daughter of King Mekrinom I, Queen of Centador 148-185. She was the only one of her siblings to survive to adulthood, and is, so far, the only woman to be Queen by birthright, rather than through marriage. 2. Born 491 CR. A Centadorian Princess, second child and eldest daughter of King Mekrinom III.
Alarien (A-lah-REE-en /'æ-lɑr-'iː-ən/) The continent and nearby islands where the story occurs.
All Gods' Day (DM PP DW SS) The fourteenth day of the fortnight, sacred to all Gods and Goddesses. A day of rest in most places.
Alesin (a-LESS-in /æ-'lɛs-ɪn/ DM PP DW SS) Born 465 CR. A wizard, father of Adramal, husband of Tarinsath.
Amagar (A-ma-gar /'æ-mæ-gɑr/ DM SS) A region of Centador in the south-east of the country.
an-Akhthera (AN-AKH-ther-A /'æn 'æx-θɛər-'æ/ DW) A poor and crime-prone area of the south-east of Molkolin. Its name means "the warren."
Angaris (AN-gar-iss /'æn-gɑːrɪs/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The nearer of the two moons. 2. The God associated with the moon. 3. The eleventh day of the fortnight, sacred to Him.
Anoren, Anorene Empire (AN-or-en, AN-or-een /'æn-ɔr-ɛn/ /'æn-ɔr-iːn/ DM PP DW SS) A large empire in the south of Alarien, founded circa -4000 CR. It is divided into forty-one provinces. Each province has a Governor-General, who rules it in the Emperor's name.
Apprentice (DM PP DW SS) In the context of wizardry, someone who is training to become a wizard. Apprenticeships customarily last seven years, beginning at the age of twelve.
Arveth (AR-veth /'ɑːr-vɛθ/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The God of war. 2. The second day of the fortnight, sacred to Him.
Ash-Herak, Ash-Tanabe (ASH-HEH-rack, ASH-TAN-ah-bay /'æʃ-'hɛ-ræk/ /'æʃ-'tæn-ɑː-beɪ/ DW) Warehouses in Molkolin, owned by Elector Galdrakh.
Ashuri (a-SURE-ee /æ-'ʃʊər-iː/ DM PP DW SS) -15-42 CR. First Queen of Centador, sister of Talfaro. One of the main characters in The Death of Zorian.
Atharr (ATH-ar /'æθ-ɑr/ PP) Reigned circa -1000 CR. A King of Salmar. A market in Vannharial is named after him.
Avolna Ukartroth (A-VOL-na OO-cart-roth /'æ-'vɒl-næ 'uː-kɑr-trɒθ/ PP) The former name of the village of Voltroth.
Audacity A warship of the Salmarian Navy, which participated in the blockade of Voltroth when that village was stricken by plague.
Balvor (BAL-vore /'bæl-vɔr/ DM) Born 480 CR. An inhabitant of the village of Darund-Kerak, elder son of Kelbur and Deverana, brother of Chavaen.
Barefoot Healer, The A nickname acquired by Adramal in DM. She stopped by the side of the road between Kyer Altamar and Darund-Kerak and pulled her boots off to ease her blisters. A short distance ahead, Chavaen fell off his horse, and she ran to help without putting her boots back on.
bashtreth (BASH-treth /'bæʃ-trɛθ/ DW) A spicy Anorene condiment.
Battle of Laresar, The (LA-ress-ar /'læ-rɛs-ɑr/ SS) 1. A decisive battle in the Siege of the East, which occurred on the named island in 295 CR. 2. A tavern in Kyer Altamar, named after the battle.
Belgrin (BELL-grin /'bɛl-grɪn/ SS) 1. A region of Centador, west of Sonharth. 2. The largest town in this region, population about 8,000. 3. A noble family, whose lands are mostly in this region. 4. The head of this family - without further context, almost always the fourteenth Lord Belgrin (312-371 CR), who served as regent for King Zemil III from 352 to 359.
Belgrin Poisoner 458-499 CR. A notorious murderer, whose real name was Santharn. He poisoned his victims, then burned the bodies to destroy the evidence of poisoning. He claimed to have killed sixteen people in and around the town of Belgrin over a decade or so, but only eleven bodies were found, two of which could not be identified. He was caught after one of his victims did not burn completely. This allowed the Watch to identify the poison and find the apothecary who sold it to him. Sergeant Elishar of the Kyer Altamar City Watch lived in Belgrin at the time and was involved with the investigation.
Aunt Belmorna (BELL-morn-ah /'bɛl-mɔr-næ/ DM) A password used in the investigation of the cattle brand killings.
Brenyar (BREN-yar /'brɛn-yɑr/ DW) Born 490 CR. A Seeker for Imil, resident at the Temple of Imil in Molkolin.
Brymakh (BRY-makh /'braɪ-mæx/ PP) Born 453 CR. The brewer in the village of Voltroth, occasional funeral undertaker.
cat in a cornfield (PP) A Salmarian expression for a person or thing that is useless or gets in the way of the task at hand.
cattle brand killer (DM) A name given to a murderer active in Kyer Altamar in 506 CR, because of a mysterious symbol that was burnt into the victims' bodies.
Celebration (DM SS) A religious ceremony held on Mathran's Day every fortnight to honour the God and give thanks for His protection.
Centador (SENT-uh-door /'sɛnt-ə-dɔr/ DM PP DW SS) A country in Alarien, between the Rivers Aglos and Tigron, south of Zerimun and north of Melinand, where DM and most of SS take place.
Chavaen (CHA-vane /'t͡ʃæ-veɪn/ DM SS) Born 482 CR. An inhabitant of the village of Darund-Kerak, younger son of Kelbur and Deverana, brother of Balvor.
City Assembly See Kyer Altamar City Assembly.
City on the Cliffs See Laskeron.
City Watch See Kyer Altamar City Watch.
Clerk of Records (SS) An official in the Kyer Altamar City Watch who keeps the service records of people serving in the Watch.
Cob and Pen (DM) An inn in Kyer Altamar.
Creed of Imil The set of principles by which Seekers for Imil are expected to live. The main principle is to maximise the breadth and depth of experiences that people take back to Imil when they die, with the proviso that a Seeker should not force a person to receive an experience against his or her will.
crown (DM) A Centadorian gold coin, worth twelve silvers. See Currency / Centadorian.
Dakhrall (DAKH-ral /'dæx-ræl/ PP) Born 481 CR. A priest of Groll, resident in Vannharial.
Dalbren (DAL-bren /'dæl-brɛn/ DM) Born 492 CR. A stableboy at Kyturil.
Danberel (DAN-burr-el /'dæn-bɜr-ɛl/ DW) Born 449 CR. The Centadorian Ambassador in Molkolin.
Dancing Bears, The A tavern in Kyer Altamar.
Darikel (DA-rick-ELL /'dæ-rɪk-'ɛl/ DM DW SS) A wizard in The Death of Zorian, who acted as a guide and protector to Ashuri.
Darund-Kerak (DA-rund KEH-rack /'dæ-rʌnd-'kɛ-ræk/ DM SS) A village in the Sonharth region of Centador, some ten miles south-south-east of Kyer Altamar, population about 500.
dathi-Kh'amin (DATH-ee KHAM-in /'dæθ-iː 'xæm-ɪn/ PP) (plural same) A race of child-sized humanoids who live in an extensive network of caves and tunnels in Salmar.
Death of Zorian, The (DM SS) A popular play in Centador. It tells the story of how Talfaro and Ashuri overthrew the evil ruler Zorian and founded the present-day Centadorian state, becoming its first King and Queen.
Decrees of Emperor Valekhna, The See Valekhna.
Degoran (DEG-or-an /'dɛg-ɔr-æn/ DM) 467-506 CR. A wizard who teaches magic at Kyturil. He is the second of the school's council.
Dekhrin (DEKH-rin /'dɛx-rɪn/ SS) A town in Centador on the eastern edge of the Forest of Yenerar, population about 5,000.
Delkalyn (DELL-ka-lin /'dɛl-kæ-lɪn/ SS) Born 473 CR. A noblewoman of Kael House and member of the Kyer Altamar City Assembly.
Denterall (DEN-ter-al /'dɛn-tɜr-æl/ PP SS) Born 488 CR. A resident of the village of Voltroth, younger brother of Pathtunn.
Deverana (DEV-err-AH-na /'dɛv-ɜr-'ɑː-næ/ DM SS) Born 461 CR. A resident of Darund-Kerak, widow of Kelbur, mother of Balvor and Chavaen. She runs the Jolly Hare inn.
Doshanbe (DOH-shan-bay /'dɒ-ʃæn-beɪ/ DW) Born 442 CR. A noble lady in Molkolin, sister to Movathre, brother to Yarl, aunt to Elector Galdrakh.
Drakhshaf and Speph (DRAKH-shaff and SPEF /'dræx-ʃæf ænd 'spɛf/ DM SS) A bank in Kyer Altamar, founded 173 CR.
Drodhakh (DRODH-akh /'drɒð-æx/ DW) Born 471 CR. An advocate in Molkolin, who represents Lord Pyram.
durnekh-na-salosesh (DUR-nekh-na-SAL-oh-sesh /'dɜr-nɛx-næ-'sæl-oʊ-sɛʃ/ DW) Commonly referred to as durnekh. A dark grey powdery mineral, similar in appearance and chemistry to Tanshalm's Dust, but producing a yellow-green colour in glass instead of deep blue.
Eastern Market (DM SS) One of two open-air markets in Kyer Altamar, traditionally restricted to selling food and drink. Contrast Western Market.
Ekhdarr (EKH-dar /'ɛx-dɑr/ PP) Born 446 CR. A resident of the village of Voltroth, one of the Advisers.
Elector (DW) In Molkolin and several other provinces of the Anorene Empire, a member of a body of wealthy landowners who choose the province's Governor-General.
Electors' Hall A building in Molkolin, on Vadukh Square, originally reserved for use by the city's electors, but now open to all for meetings, exhibitions and entertainment.
Elekor (EL-e-core /'ɛl-ɛ-kɔr/ ) 1. Elekor I, 261-315 CR, King of Centador 294-315, widely credited with having won, or at least ended, the Siege of the East. 2. Elekor II, 366-436, King of Centador 398-436. 3. Elekor III, 395-468, son of Elekor II, King of Centador 436-468.
Elekor's Isles A string of islands to the south of the main Salmarian islands, named after King Elekor I and ruled by Centador since the end of the Siege of the East.
Elements of Commerce, The See Ranak of Salthes.
Elishar (EL-ish-ar /'ɛl-ɪʃ-ɑr/ DM PP) Born 474 CR. A Sergeant in the Kyer Altamar City Watch.
Enlorgar's Rest (EN-lore-gar /'ɛn-lɔr-gɑr/ PP SS) An inn in Kyer Altamar, named after Enlorgar I, King of Centador from 104-122, or possibly Enlorgar II, King from 185-200.
Erbitakh (ER-bit-akh /'ɛr-bɪt-æx/ DW) Born 425 CR. A retired advocate in Molkolin.
Eriakh (E-ree-akh /'ɛ-ri-æx/ PP) Born 471 CR. A Captain in the Kyer Altamar City Watch.
Eskalyn (ESS-kal-in /'ɛs-kæl-ɪn/ DM SS) Born 466 CR. A wizard who teaches reckoning (arithmetic and logic) at Kyturil. He is the first of the school's council.
Estoral (ESS-tore-al /'ɛs-tɔr-æl/ SS) A wizard who taught at Thuren, now deceased.
Ethkarn (ETH-karn /'ɛθ-kɑrn/ SS) Born 480 CR. A Watchman in the Kyer Altamar Watch, partnered with Watchman Kerekh on patrol.
Ethmaryl (ETH-ma-rill /'ɛθ-mɑr-ɪl/ PP) 499-506 CR. A boy resident in the village of Voltroth, son of Pathtunn.
Exalted Guardian of the Temple of Imil (Abbreviated to Exalted Guardian in context.) One of a number of Seekers for Imil who oversee the administration of a Temple, preside at large ceremonies, and act as judges when a Seeker is alleged to have acted against the Creed of Imil.
External Inquisition (DM SS) A branch of the Church of Mathran, responsible for investigating and punishing crimes and heresies against the Church and the God. Compare Internal Inquisition.
Faldran (FAL-dran /'fæl-dræn/ PP SS) Born 477 CR. A smuggler, originally from Centador, but now plying his "trade" along the north coast of Toros.
Farasto (FA-RA-stow /'fæ-'ræ-stoʊ/ DM PP DW SS) (plural Farasten FA-RAS-ten /'fæ-'ræs-tɛn/) The most powerful and trusted servants of Zorian. There are four of them, Fonras, Kerevash, Nastrion and Yeldar. The first- and last-named do not appear in The Barefoot Healer.
Felintor (FELL-in-tore /'fɛl-ɪn-tɔr/) The Centadorian name for the world in which The Barefoot Healer occurs.
Fermas (FIR-mass /'fər-mæs/ DW) A province of the Anorene Empire.
ferret (PP DW SS) A Centadorian term for a dishonest or untrustworthy person.
Fields of Plenty (DM PP SS) According to the doctrine of the Church of Mathran, a place in the afterlife that awaits all who are faithful to Him and obedient to the Church. As the name suggests, food is always available there, and hunger does not exist.
First Regency The period of Centadorian history from 202-208 CR, when Lord Marik acted as regent for Prince Sathim, later King Sathim II.
First Treaty of Pethranarr See Pethranarr.
flounder (PP) A Salmarian term for a cunning or devious person.
Fonras (FON-rass /'fɒn-ræs/ DW SS) See Farasto.
Forest of Yenerar See Yenerar.
Forondel (FO-rond-ell /'fɒ-rɒnd-ɛl/ DM) 191-207 CR. A noble lady of Gilmareth House. She is noted for having been engaged to Prince Sathim before he became King Sathim II. Sathim's family thought Gilmareth lacked the wealth and influence for her to be a fitting queen, so he broke off the engagement and married Lady Ingeld of Lorestan. Forondel died a fortnight after the wedding of a wasting sickness - or, as the ballads had it, a broken heart.
Forothel (FO-roth-ell /'fɒ-rɒθ-ɛl/ SS) Born 463 CR. The widow of Nekhar and mother of Watchman Morakh.
Galbreth (GAL-breath /'gæl-brɛθ/ DM SS) Born 487 CR. A wizard from Thuren who joins the Kyer Altamar City Watch.
Galdrakh (GAL-drakh /'gæl-dræx/ DW) Born 465 CR. An Elector in Molkolin, a wealthy landowner and trader in (among many other things) Tanshalm's Dust.
Garil (GA-rill /'gæ-rɪl/ SS) 107-186 CR. A Centadorian wizard who, together with the wizard Torilor, conducted numerous experiments to determine the nature and limitations of wizards' magic.
Gelbryn (GEL-brin /'gɛl-brɪn/ PP) Born 448 CR. A resident of Voltroth, one of the Advisers and sometime healer.
Gethmar (GETH-mar /'gɛθ-mɑr/ DW) Born 440 CR. An Exalted Guardian of the Temple of Imil in Molkolin.
Gilmareth (GILL-mar-eth /'gil-mɑr-ɛθ/ DM) A former noble family of Centador.
goat A Centadorian term for a greedy or selfish person.
Government Buildings (DM SS) A row of buildings in Kyer Altamar, on the south side of Zemil Square, where the City Assembly and the civil service are housed.
Governor-General (DW) In the Anorene Empire, the overall ruler of a province. Provinces differ as to how the Governor-General is selected, and whether he serves for a fixed term or for life. In theory, the Governor-General is answerable only to the Emperor, but nowadays many provinces have laws limiting his power, as well as procedures for removing him if he is corrupt or incompetent.
Great Court In Molkolin and other Anorene provinces, a court that hears cases involving crimes against the province, as well as its citizens' disputes with parties outside the province. Compare Petty Court.
Great House (DM) In Centador, a noble house that can trace its pedigree back to the reigns of King Talfaro and Queen Ashuri or before. Compare Lesser House. A Great House has precedence over a Lesser House in certain matters of protocol, but not in any matters of substance, and it is not necessarily any wealthier or more influential.
Greater Mysteries (DM) In the context of a church, knowledge and rituals that are kept secret from outsiders and revealed only to those who are priests and priestesses in that church.
Grenur (GRE-noor /'grɛn-ʊər/ DM) Born 488 CR. An apprentice at Kyturil, son of Lord Valbruk.
Groll (rhymes with "doll" /'grɒl/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The God of sailors and the sea. 2. The third day of the fortnight, which is sacred to Him.
Guardian of the Temple of Imil (DW) (Abbreviated to Guardian in context.) One of a group of Seekers for Imil who are responsible for day-to-day administration of the Temple and the physical and spiritual welfare of Seekers.
Hall of the Electors See Electors' Hall.
Handrakk (HAN-drak /'hæn-dræk/ PP) Born 503 CR. A resident of Voltroth, son of Jekhrath and Lathtryn.
Harzakh (HAR-zakh /'hɑr-zæx/ DW) Born 482 CR. A Sergeant in the Molkolin City Watch.
Hathim (HATH-im /'hæθ-ɪm/ SS) Born 485 CR. A wizard from Thuren.
Hispar (HISS-par /'hɪs-pɑr/ DM SS) Born 464 CR. Leader of the village of Darund-Kerak.
hokhat (HOE-khat /'hoʊ-xæt/ DW) A gold coin used in the Anorene Empire, equal in value to ten rathats. See Currency / Anorene Empire.
Imil (IM-ill /'ɪm-ɪl/ DW) An immortal being that Seekers for Imil believe exists outside Felintor. Imil creates souls for newborns and receives them when their bodies die, but otherwise has no authority or control over people or the world. Seekers for Imil believe that Imil put them into the world to gain knowledge and experience, and that their highest purpose is to maximise the amount and variety of experience that all people bring back to Imil. Seekers insist Imil is not a God and should not be worshipped, even though the building where they gather is called a Temple.
Immortal (PP) One of a group of human wizards who cheated death by becoming disembodied spirits. They can exist in the mind of a human. They have some similarities to the Farasten, but prefer to cooperate with their hosts rather than assume control of them. Lelsarin is the only one mentioned in the story. It is unknown how many others exist or might have existed in earlier times.
Ingeld (IN-geld /'ɪn-gɛld/ DM) 190-239 CR. A noble lady of Lorestan House, Queen to Sathim II.
Internal Inquisition (SS) A branch of the Church of Mathran, responsible for investigating and punishing crimes by priests. Compare External Inquisition.
Jaldryn (JAL-drin /'d͡ʒæl-drɪn/ PP) Born 482 CR. A lieutenant in the Salmarian Navy, First Officer of the warship Audacity.
Jekhrath (JEKH-rath /'d͡ʒɛx-ræθ/ PP) 472-506 CR. A jeweller, resident in Voltroth, originally from Vannharial. Husband of Lathtryn, father of Handrakk.
Jinerlsh (GIN-earl-sh /'d͡ʒɪn-ərlʃ/ DW) Born 435 CR. A priest of Shadrakh in Molkolin.
Jolly Hare (DM SS) An inn in the village of Darund-Kerak, run by Deverana. (Its name is not mentioned in DM.)
Kael (KALE /'keɪl/ SS) A noble family of Centador.
kakhtalor (KAKH-ta-lore /'kæx-tæl-ɔr/ PP) 1. A rare plant found in the Anorene Empire. 2. An expensive deadly poison made from it.
Kaldina (kal-DEAN-ah /kæl-'diː-nɑː/ DM PP SS) Born 480 CR. A maid employed by Captain Tagahra. (Her name is not given in DM or PP.)
Kalkarak, Ox of See Ox of Kalkarak.
Kaltaryn (kal-TA-rin /kæl-'tæ-rɪn/ PP) 485-506 CR. A resident of Voltroth, sister to Nevgalyn. She briefly served as an Adviser before her death.
Karil (KA-rill /'kæ-rɪl/ DM) 1. A character in The Death of Zorian. 2. Born 494 CR. The niece of Captain Tagahra. Adramal used her name as an alias during the investigation into the cattle brand killings.
Karis (KA-riss /'kæ-rɪs/ DM) 478-506 CR. Son of Volmord, one of the victims of the cattle brand killer.
Karthroth (CAR-throth /'kɑr-θrɒθ/ SS) A village on the north coast of Toros, the westernmost settlement on that coast.
katushakh (CAT-oo-shakh /'kæt-uː-ʃæx/ PP) (plural katushakhar /'kæt-uː-ʃæx-ɑr/) A Salmarian insult, best left untranslated.
Kelbur (KEL-burr /'kɛl-bər/ DM) 456-501 CR. A resident of Darund-Kerak, husband of Deverana, father of Balvor and Chavaen.
Kelstakh (KEL-stakh /'kɛl-stæx/ DW/ Born 466 CR. An official of the Molkolin Revenue Service, who hired Alesin to help investigate Elector Galdrakh's alleged smuggling activities.
Kerekh (KEH-rekh /'kɛ-rɛx/ SS) Born 481 CR. A Watchman in the Kyer Altamar Watch, partnered with Watchman Ethkarn on patrol.
Kerevash (KEH-reh-VASH /'kɛ-rɛ-'væʃ/ DW) One of the four Farasten, noted for always wearing black armour that covers his whole body.
Kharadar (KHA-rad-ar /'xæ-ræd-ɑr/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The Goddess of the arts (as opposed to crafts). 2. The ninth day of the fortnight, sacred to Her.
Kimynon (KIM-ee-non /'kɪm-iː-nɒn/ DM) 474-506 CR A banker in Kyer Altamar, one of the victims of the cattle brand killer.
Kinandekh (KIN-an-dekh /'kɪn-æn-dɛx/ DW) An advocate, formerly resident in Molkolin, now living in Merinhakh.
The King of the North and the Queen of the South (PP) A Salmarian song about a war between the titular King and Queen. Superficially it is about a civil war in Salmar and subsequent reunification of the kingdom. It is actually about the War of the Gods - the King is Zorian and the Queen is Mondrel.
Klyst (rhymes with "kissed" /'klɪst/ PP) Born 487 CR. A resident of the village of Voltroth, noted for being the only person to recover from the plague on his own.
Komarth (COMB-arth /'koʊ-mɑrθ/ DM) Born 452 CR. A wizard who teaches history and geography at Kyturil.
krekhtayim (KREKH-ta-yim /'krɛx-tæ-yiːm/ PP) (plural same) A monster in Salmarian legends, commonly believed to be fictional, but bearing a strong resemblance to a Kreztalin.
Kreztalin (KREZ-tal-in /'krɛz-tæ-lɪn/ DM PP DW SS) (plural same) A race of magical beings who serve Zorian. They are made of obsidian and shaped like a human, but taller and thinner. They are blind, but have excellent hearing and are much better able to sense magic than any human. They can alter the shape of their bodies to move through narrow spaces.
Kyer Altamar (KIRE (rhymes with "fire") AL-tam-ar /'kaɪr-'æl-tæ-mɑr/ DM PP DW SS) The capital city of Centador, founded in 95 CR by King Zemil I. It has a population of about 20,000 and stands on the south bank of the River Aglos.
Kyer Altamar City Assembly (SS) The body responsible for the administration of the city. It sets tax rates and decides the budgets for various official bodies.
Kyer Altamar City Watch (DM PP SS) The body responsible for keeping the peace and investigating crimes in the city. It employs about a hundred men and about twenty servants. There is a Commander at the top, with five Captains beneath him. Each Captain commands four Sergeants, making up a company. Each Sergeant commands a patrol of four Watchmen. One company is mostly dedicated to administrative duties. After the events of DM, Adramal joined the Watch as a Sergeant, although she did not have any Watchmen permanently assigned to her command. Her rank gave her the authority to order any Watchman to help her with an ongoing investigation.
Kynar (KYE-nar /'kaɪ-nɑr/ PP) Born 471 CR. The secretary to the Centadorian Ambassador in Vannharial.
Kyturil (KYE-tour-ill /'kaɪ-tʊər-ɪl/ DM PP DW SS) A new school for wizards about ten miles downstream from Kyer Altamar. The building is a partly-ruined castle.
Lakhshram (LAKH-shram /'læx-ʃræm/ DW) Born 482 CR. An advocate in Molkolin. The Ladies Doshanbe and Movathre hired him, along with Adramal and Alesin, to prove that Akhmar-an-Terash was rightfully theirs.
Lalikh (LALL-ikh /'læl-ɪx/ DW) A province of the Anorene Empire.
Laresar (LA-ress-ar /'læ-rɛs-ɑr/ SS) The second of Elekor's Isles, counting outward from the Centadorian coast, the site of an important battle in 295 CR, during the Siege of the East.
Laskeron (LASS-kuh-ron /'læs-kər-ɒn/ DM SS) A city in Melinand at the mouth of the River Hosk. It is nicknamed "the City on the Cliffs," as it is built on a series of sandstone terraces on either bank of the river.
Lathtryn (LATH-trin /'læθ-trɪn/ PP SS) Born 478 CR. A Salmarian woman, formerly resident in Vannharial, now living in Voltroth. Wife of Jekhrath, mother of Handrakk.
Lelsarin (LELL-sa-rin /'lɛl-sɑr-ɪn/ DM PP DW SS) An Immortal who lives in Adramal's head. She spends most of her time asleep, and most of the rest passively observing Adramal's experiences, making sarcastic and occasionally helpful comments. She is capable of taking control of Adramal's body and using Adramal's magical strength to cast spells. She fought in the War of the Gods, and so is at least two thousand years old at the time of the story.
leshat (LESH-at /'lɛ-ʃæt/ DW) An Anorene copper coin, worth the tenth part of a rathat. See Currency / Anorene Empire.
Lesser House (DM) In Centador, a noble family whose documented pedigree dates from after the reigns of King Talfaro and Queen Ashuri. Compare Great House.
Lorestan (LO-rest-an /'lɔr-ɛʃ-tæn/ DM) A Centadorian noble family.
Lorgrim (LORE-grim /'lɔr-grɪm/ DM) Born 446 CR. An old wizard who teaches herblore at Kyturil.
Lorress (LORE-ess /'lɔr-ɛʃ/ DM) A Salmarian island.
Losfirn Gap (LOSS-fear-n /'lɒs-fɪərn/) The part of the sea between Laresar and Merin, the site of two prominent battles.
Lurnan (LUR-nan /'lər-næn/) 1. In DM, an apprentice wizard at Kyturil (born 488 CR). 2. In SS, a member of the same mummers' troupe as Morakh's aunt and uncle (born 472 CR).
Madhmosh (MADH-mosh /'mæð-mɒʃ/ DW) A bank in Molkolin.
Malan (MA-lan /'mæ-læn/ PP) Tarinsath's pet name for Adramal.
Malgor (MAL-gore /'mæl-gɔr/ DM) 175-223 CR. Seventh Lord of Yenerar (203-223), nicknamed "the unwilling" for his refusal to commit troops to help lift the Salmarian siege of Salthes in 203. This is widely, though perhaps unfairly, blamed for allowing discord and enmity between Centador and Salmar to continue for most of the rest of the third century. (See Siege of the East.)
Mandel (MAN-dell /'mæn-dɛl/ SS) Born 473 CR. A priest of Mathran, Head of the Internal Inquisition.
Marchwood (DM SS) A forest on the north bank of the River Aglos, opposite Kyer Altamar. Legends speak of monsters and evil spirits within it. A ruined Temple of Zorian stands near the middle.
Marik (MA-rick /'mæ-rɪk/ DM SS) 1. 151-229 CR. Head of the Church of Mathran from 199-202. From then until 208, he ruled the country as regent for Prince Sathim. 2. Born 447 CR. A priest of Mathran in Kyer Altamar, the Head of the External Inquisition.
Mathran (MATH-ran /'mæθ-ræn/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The God of agriculture. 2. The eighth day of the fortnight, sacred to Him. His day is a day of rest in Centador.
Mekrinom (MEK-rin-om /'mɛk-rɪn-ɒm/) 1. Mekrinom I, King of Centador from 122 to 148 CR. 2. (DM) Mekrinom II, 210-241 CR, King of Centador from 233 to 241. 3. (PP DW) Mekrinom III, born 460 CR, the present King of Centador (since 482).
Meldoran (MEL-door-an /'mɛl-dər-æn/ DM) Born 489 CR. An apprentice at Kyturil. Adramal used her name as an alias when working at the Centadorian Embassy in PP.
Melinand (MEL-in-and /'mɛl-ɪn-ænd/ DM PP DW SS) A country in Alarien, south of Centador and north of the Anorene Empire.
Merinhakh (MER-in-HAKH /'mɛr-ɪn-'hæx/ DW) A city in the Anorene Empire, in Nothros Province. It stands on the River Toln.
mindspeech (DM PP DW SS) A spell that allows a wizard to speak directly into the mind of another wizard. The speech is one-way; if the listener wants to reply, he must cast the same spell. Other wizards cannot overhear the conversation, but weak or inexperienced wizards often find their lips moving in time to the words they are "speaking."
Modern Centadorian The form of Centadorian spoken in Centador at the time of the story. Compare Old Centadorian. Officially, the switch from Old Centadorian to Modern Centadorian took place at the same time that Talfaro and Ashuri became the first King and Queen. In fact, depending on how one distinguishes the languages, the transition began around -50 CR and was not complete until about 100 CR.
Molkolin (MOLL-koll-in /'mɒl-kɒl-ɪn/ PP DW SS) A city on the River Fargelur, founded 38 CR, population about 100,000. Although it is often claimed to be the northernmost settlement of the Anorene Empire, it is technically not part of the Empire. The Empire is responsible for its defence, but it is exempt from Imperial taxes, and has much more freedom to run its own affairs than most provinces. The motivation was to encourage trade with the countries north of the Empire, in the hope that the rest of the Empire would benefit too. Trade has boomed, but at the expense of near-endemic corruption.
Molkolin blue (PP, DW) Glass of a lustrous blue, valuable because of its colour and craftsmanship. The key ingredient, a mineral called Tanshalm's Dust, comes from mines near Molkolin, but the glassware is manufactured in many places in the Anorene Empire.
Mondrel (MON-drell /'mɒn-drɛl/ DW SS) A character in some versions of The Death of Zorian, a wizard who made a prophecy concerning the manner of Zorian's demise, revealed in SS to be the same person as Lelsarin.
Morakh (MORE-akh /'mɔr-æx/ DM PP SS) Born 486 CR. Son of Nekhar and Forothel. A Watchman of the Kyer Altamar City Watch, sometimes seconded to Adramal.
moshta (MOSH-ta /'mɒʃ-tæ/ PP) The dathi-Kh'amin's name for the collection of tunnels and caves where they live, loosely translated as "home" or "dwelling."
Most Holy A respectful form of address for a priest or priestess, regardless of rank.
Movathre (MO-vath-RAY /'mɒ-væθ-'reɪ/ DW) Born 443 CR. A noble lady in Molkolin, sister to Doshanbe, brother to Yarl, aunt to Elector Galdrakh.
nakhira (na-KHEER-a /næ-'xɪər-æ/ DW) A dish, popular among the wealthy in Molkolin - a whole partridge braised in spices, usually served with crisp vegetables and sweet flat bread.
Nalik (NAL-ik /'næl-ɪk/ DW) Born 454 CR. An advocate in Molkolin, head of a large partnership.
Narahund (NA-ra-hund /'næ-ræ-hənd/ DM) Born 489 CR. A friend of Adramal's when she was a child. She used his name as her benefactor at Kyturil to conceal the fact that the City Watch were paying her fees.
Nastrion (NAS-tree-on /'næs-triː-ən/ PP DW SS) One of the four Farasten.
Nathvorbanhin (NATH-vore-BAN-hin /'næθ-vɔr-'bæn-hɪn/ PP) Born 468 CR. A Melinandish apothecary living in Kyer Altamar who sometimes consults for the City Watch.
Natural History of the River Aglos, A A book published anonymously in 414 CR that gives an account of a journey along the titular river, describing the geography, flora and fauna to be found within a few miles of its banks. In spite of the title, the book also has much to say about the people and settlements along the river. Teshan owned a copy, which she gave to Adramal when the latter left Thuren to go to Kyturil.
Navarrath (NAV-ar-ath /'næ-vɑr-æθ/ PP SS) A town on the north-east coast of Toros, population about 7,500.
Nekhar (NEKH-ar /'nɛx-ɑr/ SS) 465-503 CR. The husband of Forothel and father of Watchman Morakh.
Nerupar (NE-roo-par /'nɛ-ruː-pɑr/ DM DW SS) 1. The Goddess of the air and the weather. 2. The fourth day of the fortnight, sacred to Her.
Netharn-Kerak (NETH-arn KEH-rack /'nɛθ-ɑrn-'kɛ-ræk/ SS) A village on the River Aglos, thirty miles upstream from Kyer Altamar.
Nevgalyn (NEV-ga-lin /'nɛv-gæ-lɪn/ PP SS) Born 486 CR. A resident of Voltroth, brother of Kaltaryn. When plague struck the village, he sneaked past the naval blockade to fetch help. He ended up in gaol in Vannharial, where he met Adramal. When he returned to Voltroth with her, Smollyn made him an Adviser. He later became the village's Leader.
Nomirol (NOM-i-rol /'nɒm-ɪ-rɒl/ DW) A city in the Anorene Empire, capital of Nothros Province. It stands at the mouth of the River Merin.
Nurfadel (NER-fa-dell /'nɜr-fæ-dɛl/ DM SS) 449-504 CR. A resident of Darund-Kerak who worked as the village's healer. His son Ramarkhel, one of the village elders, gave his house to Adramal when she became their new healer.
Nysbanskel (NISS-ban-skel /'nɪs-bæn-skɛl/ DW) Born 482 CR. A Melinandish carpenter living in Molkolin.
Okarith (OH-car-ith /'oʊ-kɑr-ɪθ/ PP) 438-506 CR. A resident of Voltroth, Adviser from 452-471, then Leader until his death. He died of the plague that afflicted the village in that year.
Old Centadorian The form of language spoken in Centador until approximately the reign of King Talfaro and Queen Ashuri. Compare Modern Centadorian. It is still used in some formal contexts at the time of the story, and most educated people can read it. Many Temples of Mathran use it to perform Celebration, although in Kyer Altamar and Sonharth, this practice died out around 450 CR.
Olkhar (OL-khar /'ɒl-xɑr/ SS) Born 475 CR. A priest of Mathran in Kyer Altamar, a member of the Internal Inquisition.
Omalin (OH-mal-in /'oʊ-mæl-ɪn/ PP) Born 484 CR. A clerk at the Centadorian Embassy in Vannharial.
On Spells and the Means of Conveying Them A book, written circa 255-260 CR by Ulvarn of Amagar and published in 262, that explains the then-current means of representing wizards' magic in writing.
Ox of Kalkarak, The (KAL-car-RACK /'kæl-kɑr-'æk/ DM PP DW SS) 1. A humorous musical play, popular in Centador and parts of Salmar and Melinand, about an ensemble of stupid and dishonest people who want to buy, sell, steal, harness or eat the titular ox, said to have been created by the God Mathran. Opinions are divided as to whether Kalkarak is a place or a person. 2. A barge named after the play that trades on the River Aglos. Adramal rode on it to reach Kyer Altamar in DM.
Paldrin (PAL-drin /'pæl-drɪn/ SS) Born 472 CR. A priest of Mathran in Kyer Altamar, a member of the Internal Inquisition.
Pathtunn (PATH-tun /'pæθ-tən/ PP) 476-506 CR. A resident of Voltroth, father of Ethmaryl, elder brother of Denterall.
Perinar (PE-rin-ar /'pɛ-rɪn-ɑr/ DM SS) Born 491 CR. An apprentice at Kyturil, later a Watchman in the Kyer Altamar City Watch. At Kyturil, he worked on a catalogue of the library. He and Adramal fell in love, but broke it off shortly before the end of DM.
Pethandril (PETH-anne-drill /'pɛθ-æn-drɪl/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The further of the two moons. 2. The Goddess associated with the moon. 3. The twelfth day of the fortnight, sacred to Her.
Pethranarr (PETH-RAN-are /'pɛθ-'ræn-ɑr/ PP) A town on the Salmarian island of Lorress, population about 90,000, notable as the place where the treaty that ended the Siege of the East was signed in 296 CR. The Second Treaty of Pethranarr, signed in 301, established a system of formal diplomatic relations between Centador and Salmar.
Petty Court (DW) A type of court in Molkolin and other Anorene provinces that deals with disputes between citizens that lie entirely within the province where the court sits. Compare Great Court.
Plough and the Scythe, The A Centadorian ballad. Two brothers who own neighbouring farms have only one plough and one scythe between them, and get into a dispute over which is more important to a good harvest.
Polkarn (POL-karn /'pɒl-kɑrn/ PP SS) Born 473 CR. A Captain in the Kyer Altamar City Watch.
Princess Park A large park in the middle of Kyer Altamar, named for Princess Aladon (later Queen Aladon, 148-185 CR).
Lord Pyram (PIE-ram /'paɪ-ræm/ DW) Born 468 CR. A noble lord in Molkolin.
Queen of the South See The King of the North and the Queen of the South.
Quirilyan (KWI-rill-yan /'kwi-rɪl-jæn/ DW) Born 466 CR. A Guardian of the Temple of Imil in Molkolin.
Rakbanorath (RACK-ban-or-ATH /'ræk-bæn-ɔr-'æθ/ DM DW) Born 478 CR. A Melinandish apothecary residing at Kyturil.
Rakeloth (RACK-e-loth /'ræk-ɛl-oʊθ/ DM PP DW) 1. The Goddess of hunting. 2. The fifth day of the fortnight, sacred to Her.
Rakkeln (RACK-eln /'ræk-ɛln/ PP) 437-499 CR. A priest of Groll who lived in Voltroth.
Ranak of Salthes (RAN-ack /'ræn-æk/ DM) 295-364 CR. A Centadorian scholar and author, most famous for The Elements of Commerce, first published in 332 CR, a study of the Salmarian and Anorene systems of trade and taxation that deeply influenced Centadorian attitudes to trade with their neighbours and within the country.
raskarim (RASS-car-im /'ræs-kɑr-ɪm/ DM PP DW SS) An object carried or worn by a priest that symbolises his or her authority and acts as a focus for spells. (Without it, most priests are quite weak.) A raskarim is normally worn like a pendant and takes the shape of the God's or Goddess' symbol.
rathat (RATH-at /'ræθ-æt/ DW) An Anorene silver coin, worth ten leshats or the tenth part of a hokhat. See Currency / Anorene Empire.
Regency In Centador, without further context, this usually means the First Regency. See also Second Regency.
royal (PP) A Salmarian gold coin, worth twelve silvers. See Currency / Salmarian.
Ryndrovokh Palace (RIN-dro-VOKH /'rɪn-drɒ-'vɒx/ DW) The official residence of the Governor-General of Molkolin.
Saikinn (SIGH-kin /'saɪ-kɪn/ PP) Born 468 CR. A Salmarian sailor serving aboard the Star of the East, who gave Adramal her first lessons in the Salmarian language.
Salmar (SAL-mar /'sæl-mɑr/ DM PP DW) A kingdom of twelve islands off the east coast of Alarien - Toros, Arneh, Lorress, Mornennhal, Drosnannar, Therilarrn, and the six islands of the Shofirrn Archipelago.
Salthes (SAL-thess /'sæl-θɛs/ DM PP SS) 1. A city in the Amagar region of Centador, on the north bank of the River Tigron, founded 126 CR. Population 25,000. 2. See Volmarn, Ulmakh and Salthes.
Santharn (SAN-tharn /'sæn-θɑrn/) See Belgrin Poisoner.
Sathim (SATH-im /'sæθ-ɪm/ DM) 1. Sathim I (170-202 CR), King of Centador from 200-202. 2. Sathim II, eldest son of Sathim I (192-233 CR), King of Centador from 208-233. (See First Regency.) 3. Sathim III, grandson of Sathim II, 228-267, King of Centador from 245-267.
Second Regency The period of Centadorian history from 352-359 CR, when Lord Belgrin (fourteenth of that line) served as regent for Prince Enlorgar, later King Zemil III.
Second Treaty of Pethranarr See Pethranarr.
Seeker for Imil (DW) (Often shortened to "Seeker.") A person who follows the Creed of Imil. "Seeker" refers to the practice of seeking a broad variety of experiences.
Seeker for Others (DW) A term used by some Seekers for Imil to refer to a person who is not a Seeker for Imil, in the belief that everybody is looking for something, even if they say or think they are not. In recent years, some Seekers for Imil have begun to consider the term derogatory.
Seral (SE-ral /'sɛ-ræl/ DW) A river in Melinand.
Serkrith (SIR-krith /'sər-krɪθ/ SS) Born 471 CR. A priest of Mathran, the captain of the guard at Kyer Altamar's Second Temple of Mathran.
Sethraim (SETH-rhyme /'sɛθ-raɪm/ SS) Born 448 CR. A Centadorian wizard, Head of the Council at Thuren.
Shadrakh (SHAD-rakh /'ʃæd-ræx/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The God of commerce. 2. The seventh day of the fortnight, sacred to Him.
Shankarn (SHANK-arn /'ʃæn-kɑrn/ PP) Born 485 CR. A clerk employed at the Centadorian Embassy in Vannharial.
Shendar (SHEN-dar /'ʃɛn-dɑr/ DM PP DW SS) 475-506 CR. A wizard at Kyturil, third of the school's council. She taught etiquette (mostly the history of Centador's royalty and noble families, and how to behave in their presence).
shark (PP) A Salmarian term for an aggressive or unpleasant person.
Shofirrn Archipelago (SHOW-fear-n /'ʃoʊ-fɪərn/ DM) A series of islands at the south-east of Salmar. From west to east, their names are Nevvrann, Tombern, Gonar, Drathlarn, Ferish and Orlanan.
Shomnakh Enkhyar (SHOM-nakh ENKH-yar /'ʃɒm-næx 'ɛnx-jɑr/ DW SS) A well in one of the basements of Akhmar-an-Terash in Molkolin. The name is Melinandish for Well of Understanding. Seekers for Imil believe that drinking from it will reveal a person's true purpose in life, but that drinking more than once will cause madness. In fact, the water contains a complex and self-sustaining spell that possesses self-awareness and can copy memories from drinkers and copy them to other drinkers. It is not known how the spell came into existence, but at least one other well with a similar spell exists, under the Temple of Zorian in the Marchwood.
Siege of the East A long period of poor relations between Centador and Salmar in the third century CR, marked by frequent coastal raids and naval skirmishes, and occasional widespread warfare. The Centadorians generally reckon it as having started with a Salmarian attack on Salthes in 203 CR and ended in 296 CR with the signing of the First Treaty of Pethranarr.
Smirak (SMI-rack /'smɪ-ræk/ DM) A resident of Kyer Altamar, an informer for the Church of Mathran's External Inquisition.
Smollyn (SMOLL-in /'smɒl-ɪn/ PP SS) Born 472 CR. A resident of Voltroth, formerly of Navarrath, veteran of the Salmarian Army, blacksmith, husband of Tordellyn, Adviser from 501 to 506, then Leader after the death of Okarith.
Sokethrimar (SOW-keth-RIM-are /'soʊ-kɛθ-'rɪm-ɑr/ DW) 480-506 CR. A Melinander from the island of Tror. In 506, he went on a pilgrimage to Molkolin, where he was murdered.
Sonharth (rhymes with "one hearth" /'sɒn-hɑrθ/ SS) A region of Centador - traditionally, all the land south of the River Aglos reachable from Kyer Altamar within a day's riding.
Sorentar (SOW-ren-TAR /'soʊ-rɛn-'tɑr/ SS) Born 469 CR. A noble of Lorestan House and member of the Kyer Altamar City Assembly.
Sorentil (SOW-ren-TILL /'soʊ-rɛn-'tɪl/ DM) 477-506 CR. A wool merchant from Kyer Altamar, one of the victims of the cattle brand killer.
Spells and the Means of Conveying Them See On Spells and the Means of Conveying Them.
Speph See Drakhshaf and Speph.
Star of the East (PP) A Salmarian cargo ship, on which Adramal travelled from Centador to Salmar in PP.
Succession Ball A lavish party, at which the Governor-General of Molkolin announces his preferred successor. The Electors can, in theory, choose someone else, but they are expected to rubber stamp his choice.
Sujas (SUE-jass /'suː-d͡ʒæs/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The Goddess of the sun. 2. The thirteenth day of the fortnight, sacred to Her.
Suloras (SUE-lore-ASS /'suː-lɔr-'ræs/ SS) 477-506 CR. A priest of Mathran, one of Shendar's younger brothers.
Syran (SIGH-ran /'saɪ-ræn/ SS) 409-484 CR. A noblewoman of Kael House, one of the grandmothers of Delkalyn.
Tagahra (TAG-are-a /'tæg-ɑr-æ/ DM PP DW SS) Born 475 CR. A Captain in the Kyer Altamar City Watch, in charge of the investigation into the cattle brand killer in DM.
Talfaro (TAL-fah-ROW /'tæl-fæ-'roʊ/ DM PP DW SS) -17-40 CR. First King of Centador, brother of Ashuri. One of the main characters in The Death of Zorian.
Tanshalm (TAN-shalm ("shall" with an M on the end) /'tænʃ-ɑːlm/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The Goddess of crafts (as opposed to arts). 2. The sixth day of the fortnight, sacred to Her.
Tanshalm's Dust (DW) A powdery dark grey mineral that is a key ingredient for the colour in Molkolin blue. The principle sources of it are near Molkolin. Before it can be used in the manufacturing process, it must be blessed by a priest of Tanshalm.
Tarinsath (TAH-rin-SATH /'tæ-rɪn-'sæθ/ DM PP DW SS) 466-495 CR. Wife of Alesin, mother of Adramal. (Her name is not given in DM or PP.)
Taymarr (TAY-mar /'teɪ-mɑr/ PP) Born 438 CR. A resident of Voltroth, one of the victims of the plague.
Tergrith (TER-grith /'tɜr-grɪθ/ DM DW SS) 1. The God of beginnings, change and chaos. 2. The first day of the fortnight, sacred to Him.
Teshan (TE-shan /'tɛ-ʃæn/ DM PP DW SS) Born 443 CR. A wizard and member of the council at Thuren, who teaches healing.
Thuren (THUH-ren /'θə-rɛn/ DM PP DW SS) 1. A school for wizards in the west of Centador, founded circa 110 CR, the first to be established in that country, and for many years the only one. 2. The nearby village from which the school takes its name.
Therilarrn (THEH-rill-ARN /'θɛ-rɪl-'ɑrn/ PP) The easternmost of the main islands of Salmar, often used figuratively to mean "somewhere remote."
Tigron (TIE-gron /'taɪ-grɒn/ DM) A river that forms part of the border between Centador to the north and Melinand to the south.
Titled Families, The A book of pedigrees of Centador's noble families, first published in 199 CR and updated every twenty years or so.
Tolmeth (TOL-meth /'tɒl-mɛθ/ PP) 1. Tolmeth I, King of Centador 267-294 CR. 2. Tolmeth II, 282-345 CR, King of Centador 315-345. 3. A clerk at the Centadorian Embassy in Vannharial, born 445 CR, probably named after one of the kings.
Tordellyn (TORE-dell-IN /'tɔr-dɛl-'ɪn/ PP) Born 471 CR. A resident of Voltroth, wife of Smollyn.
Torilor (TO-rill-OR /'tɒ-rɪl-'ɔr/ SS) 109-198 CR. A Centadorian wizard who, together with the wizard Garil, conducted numerous experiments to determine the nature and limitations of wizards' magic.
Toros (TORE-os /'tɔr-ɒs/ PP) The largest and most westerly of the Salmarian islands.
trout Especially in the expression "don't play the trout," a Centadorian term for a person who is shifty or a know-all.
Tror (rhymes with "tore" /'trɔr/ DW) An island off the coast of Melinand.
Tulthan (TULL-than /'tʊl-θæn/ DW) Born 435 CR. A Seeker for Imil in Molkolin, a healer at the Temple.
Ulmakh (ULL-makh /'ʊl-mæx/) 1. (DM) Ulmakh of Amagar, 462-506 CR. One of the victims of the cattle brand killer. 2. See Volmarn, Ulmakh and Salthes.
Ulvarn of Amagar (ULL-varn /'ʊl-vɑrn/ SS) 212-274 CR. A Centadorian wizard, noted as the principle author of On Spells and the Means of Conveying Them, published in 262.
Upper Harseth (HAR-seth /'hɑr-sɛθ/ SS) A town in Centador on the River Aglos, about fifteen miles upstream of Kyer Altamar, population about 7,000.
Uskroth (USK-roth /'ʊsk-rɒθ/ PP) 468-506 CR. A stonemason resident in Voltroth, one of the victims of the plague.
Ustrath (US-trath /'ʊs-træθ/ DW) Born 452 CR. A retired advocate resident in Molkolin, one of Lakhshram's teachers.
Utanshla' Groleya (OO-TAN-shla GRO-lay-A /'ʊ-'tæn-ʃlæ 'grɒ-leɪ-'æ/ PP) A Salmarian greeting, usually translated Good morning, but literally meaning, May Groll smile upon us.
Vadukh (VA-dookh /'væ-duːx/ ) -40-28 CR. An Emperor of Anoren (ruled -6-28), nowadays chiefly remembered for leading the Empire's most recent expansion to the north-east. The city of Molkolin stands at the edge of the territory thus claimed.
Vadukh Square (DW) The main square in Molkolin, named after Emperor Vadukh.
Valagontazni (VAL-a-GONE-taz-nee /'væl-æ-'gɒn-tæz-niː/ PP) A city in the Anorene Empire, founded 130 CR, and the capital city since 149 CR, population approximately 500,000. The name is often abbreviated to 'Tazni in conversation.
Valbruk (VAL-bruck /'væl-brək/ DM) A Centadorian noble family. The present Lord Valbruk is Grenur's father.
Valekhna (VAL-ekh-NA /'væl-ɛx-'næ/ PP DW) Lived circa -1600 CR. An Emperor of Anoren. He is remembered nowadays for two things - building one of the Empire's first mazes (around an Imperial bullion house), and simplifying and unifying numerous overlapping and conflicting provincial laws into a single set of Imperial laws. These laws, together with extensive commentaries, were compiled in a book, usually called The Decrees of Emperor Valekhna. Although every one of the laws has since been amended or repealed, the book is still required reading in many provinces for anyone who wishes to become an advocate.
Vannharial (VAN-harry-AL /'væn-hæriː-'æl/ DM PP DW SS) The Salmarian capital, which stands at the mouth of the River Hath, in the south-east of Toros. Its population is about 80,000.
Veriln (VE-riln /'vɛ-rɪln/ PP DW) A city in the Anorene Empire, capital of Veridhe Province, standing at the mouth of the River Zolni.
Voldrin Plains (VOL-drin /'vɒl-drɪn/ DW SS) A large fertile region in the west of Centador.
Volmarn, Ulmakh and Salthes (VOL-marn /'vɒl-mɑrn/ SS) A bank in Kyer Altamar.
Voltroth (VOL-troth /'vɒl-trɒθ/ PP DW SS) A village on the north coast of Toros, population approximately 200, notable for being the site of a mysterious plague that Adramal cured in PP.
Vornal (VORE-nal /'vɔr-næl/ SS) 478-506 CR. A priest of Mathran, a member of the Internal Inquisition in Kyer Altamar.
War of the Gods circa -1500 CR. A conflict between the God Zorian on one side and the rest of the Gods on the other. Few records survive from this period, but the cause of the war is generally thought to be that Zorian was not content with the arrangement that the others had reached, whereby each of Them was responsible for influencing and guiding humans in a particular area of activity. He wanted absolute control over everything. The war lasted about ten years, and rendered large areas of Felintor uninhabitable. The others prevailed, and imprisoned Zorian in one of His Temples in what is now the west of Centador, stripping Him of much of His power. Because of the destruction and loss of life, the other Gods swore never to fight another war, even if it meant allowing Zorian or one of Their number to have complete dominion over humans.
Warren, The See an-Akhthera.
Western Market (DM SS) One of two open-air markets in Kyer Altamar, customarily restricted to selling items that are not food or drink, though this rule is no longer observed as strictly as it once was. Contrast Eastern Market.
Wind in the Grass, The (DW) A restaurant in Molkolin, popular as a place to be seen among those who aspire to be members of the wealthier classes.
Yangrenarn (YAN-gren-ARN /'jæn-grɛn-'ɑrn/ DW) Born 453 CR. A Seeker for Imil, resident at the Temple in Molkolin, formerly a Temple Guardian.
Yanmar (YAN-mar /'jæn-mɑr/ SS) 473-506 CR. A Sergeant in the Kyer Altamar City Watch.
Yarl (rhymes with "Carl" /'jɑrl/ DW) 439-501 CR. A wealthy landowner in Molkolin, older brother of Doshanbe and Movathre, uncle of Galdrakh.
Yathrell (YATH-rell /'jæθ-rɛl/ DM) 378-459 CR. A Salmarian, the forty-seventh bishop of Lorress, noted for his subtle logic and his forceful arguments for modernising the Church of Groll. His name is a byword for knowledge and wisdom, in expressions like, A puzzle to defeat Yathrell himself, and You don't have to be Yathrell to work that one out. A street in Vannharial is named after him, and the Centadorian Embassy stands there.
Yebran (YEB-ran /'jɛb-ræn/ DM PP SS) Born 458 CR. The Commander of the Kyer Altamar City Watch.
Yeldar (YELL-dar /'jɛl-dɑr/ DW SS) See Farasto.
Yenerar (YEN-er-ARE /'jɛn-ər-'ɑr/ DM SS) A large region of Centador to the south of Sonharth, mostly forested.
Yintal (YIN-tal /'jɪn-tæl/ PP) A humorous character in many Salmarian stories, noted for being strong, clumsy and stupid.
Yisea (YI-say-uh /'jɪ-seɪ-ə/ DM PP DW SS) 1. The Goddess of pleasure. 2. The tenth day of the fortnight, sacred to Her.
Zemil (ZEM-ill /'zɛm-ɪl/ ) 1. Zemil I, King of Centador from 88-104 CR. Noted for founding the city of Kyer Altamar. 2. Zemil II, 319-352 CR, King of Centador from 345-352. He was killed at the Second Battle of Losfirn Gap. 3. Zemil III, 343-398 CR, son of Zemil II, King of Centador from 359. He was only nine when his father died, and so Lord Belgrin served as Regent until Zemil reached the age of sixteen.
Zemil Square (DM PP SS) The main square in Kyer Altamar, named after King Zemil I.
Zerimun (ZE-ri-mun /'zɛ-rɪ-mʊn/ DM) A country in Alarien, north of Centador.
Zerimuni (ZE-ri-MOON-eye /'zɛ-rɪ-'muːn-aɪ/ DM PP DW SS) (plural same) 1. An inhabitant of Zerimun. 2. Any of several languages spoken there.
Zorian (ZO-ree-un /'zɒ-riː-ən/ DM PP DW SS) An evil God, opposed to the other Gods and Goddesses. He was originally one of Their number, and the last day of the fortnight was sacred to Him, but He sought to rule the world alone. The others fought a war against Him (see War of the Gods) and imprisoned Him in one of His Temples in Centador, which country he ruled despotically for many centuries. Eventually, Talfaro and Ashuri overthrew him, ushering in the present era of human rule. Unlike the other Gods and Goddesses, who claim influence over an area of human activity, Zorian claims absolute authority over everything. Some traditions attempt to fit Him into the pattern of the other deities, by ascribing Him influence over order, stasis and endings, as a kind of polar opposite to Tergrith. His association with endings naturally means He is also seen as a God of death. Those who consider themselves true followers of Zorian of course reject any efforts to limit Him.
Last update: 29/12/2025 10:43