The Book of Eight Lands

The Book of Eight Lands magically records the lineage of all the rulers of the lands of Dassen, and its text automatically records any births, marriages, deaths, or other changes in succession.

The book is so named because the nation once consisted of eight kingdoms, though fifteen years ago Steppengard united the region and added a ninth region for himself. In the past the Book served almost as a checklist of whom to kill in order to move closer to the throne, so it inspired much civil conflict. It is no longer used to determine succession, however, by mutual agreement of the nobles.

The book grants special magical defenses to those who rule each of the lands of Dassen, and to their immediate families, intended to let them rule without being swayed by charms or compulsions.

It is currently located in the vaults of Steppenguard's castle. Any human, dwarf or half-human may ask to view the book by addressing the guards in Dwarven, stating, “I pray that my blood is worthy of Dassen.”