TOOLS & WEAPONS

With several centuries passed since the cataclysm, the ancient cities of the world have fallen to ruin, overtaken with plant growth, sand dunes, ice and snow. Much of what was left from the wars was looted, metal has rusted away to dust, and organic materials have been eaten away by fungi, bacteria and insects. Yet, there is still much to find. In dry, mild weathered cities such as Ashore, Demonia, and Catatonia, there are still some locations that contain hidden treasures, kept safe deep beneath the rubble. If one is lucky enough to find one of these niches, it can bring them significant wealth. There are claims that some have even found clothing from ancient times, packaged and sealed in layers of plastic. Raiding these ancient landmarks is no task for the faint hearted however. Between predators, fellow raiders and the unstable, dilapidated structures, getting to these hidden treasures is a life threatening venture.

The use of ancient materials isn’t uncommon in today’s world. Delicate materials, such as cloth, zippers and metal bottle caps are passed down from generation to generation as family heirlooms. Plastic wire coating, bottles, crates and caps are reused for weapon handles, jewelry and decoration. Metal that has not rusted away is melted down and reforged, and crumbled stone is salvaged to build walls and buildings for larger settlements.

Metal is a rare and precious resource in Moren Ezen, most of it coming from salvaged ruins and reforged for new uses. As such, it is typically reserved for hinges, buckles, and weapons, though it will be utilized for tools that have to withstand heavy work, such as plows. Tools are typically hand made from stone, bone, and antler and as such are often very well cared for.

While the advanced technologies of Moren Ezen's hay day are long gone, the skills of traditional weapon making have not been lost. Given the appropriate skill, tools and materials, some craftsman still possess the ability to forge flint striking rifles and pistols. These weapons are loud, clumsy, difficult to load, and are faulty at best in poor weather conditions. Those who wield them often do so for personal protection or intimidation.