The First Mage

A book, granted to Andraste Aedelwood by the Archivist of the Wandering City.

Instead of words, each page shows a collection of stylised pictures.

- A map, the shape and landmarks of which you do not recognise.

- A fiery comet flying above a forested land.

- A mighty conflagration, out of which rises a long sinuous shape, like a serpent with a snarling demonic face. Others can be seen in the background.

- A race of humanoids prostrate themselves before one of the serpent creatures, which as a corona of light around its horned head. They look like emaciated elves, with parchment-coloured skin and elongated heads.

- The humanoids work as labourers, raising temples and monuments while the serpent looks on. The designs are like nothing you've ever seen.

- More Serpent creatures appear, all with different unique markings. The humanoid creatures present them with gifts of ornate artwork and weapons.

- A trio of serpent creatures stand around some kind of ritual altar, on which a humanoid lies dead with its heart removed. The blood drains down to form an intricate pattern on the floor beneath them.

- The bones of dozens of humanoids litters the base of the page. The serpent leader has grown more cruel-looking, and the remaining live humanoids cower in fear.

- The workers build a new structure, a black pyramid that appears to radiate some kind of energy. The serpent is the overseer, and commands the workers with the head glow.

- A humanoid with a bandage around its eyes sneaks up behind the serpent leader and stabs it with a glowing dagger.

- The serpent leader collapses into dust and bones as behind him the pyramid cracks and purple lightning bursts forth, striking the other serpents.