the Sunder
Karth's broken-cavern realm in the up-Deep, home to the Riven before joining the Bound.
The Sunder is a fractured cavern territory situated within the up-Deep strata, looming directly above the mid-Deeps gallery of the Bound. This harsh landscape serves as the seat of power for Karth, whose dark mirror leadership style defines the region's volatile atmosphere. It is the primary setting for the intense conflict between Karth and Cael, marking a critical turning point in the series' political evolution.
Home to approximately 40 monsters known as the Riven, the Sunder represents a distinct faction that eventually succumbs to the growing influence of the Bound. Following Karth's death, this broken territory and its inhabitants are formally absorbed into the nation during Book 3, ending their separate existence and integrating them into Cael's expanding domain.
- Location
- Up-Deep strata, above mid-Deeps gallery
- Ruler
- Karth (until death)
- Population
- Approximately 40 monsters (the Riven)
- Status
- Absorbed into the Bound in Book 3
- Key Feature
- Broken-cavern territory
Lore & Background
The history of the Sunder is defined by its isolation and Karth's unique, dark mirror leadership style, which fostered a distinct identity for the Riven faction. As Cael's forces expanded from the mid-Deeps upward, the Sunder became the focal point of a struggle that tested the limits of both leaders' philosophies.
The end of Karth's reign marked the dissolution of the Sunder as an independent entity. With his death, the approximately 40 monsters comprising the Riven were no longer a separate force but were folded into the Bound, unifying the up-Deep strata with the mid-Deeps gallery under Cael's rule.
Did You Know?
- The Sunder is located specifically in the up-Deep strata above the Bound's mid-Deeps gallery.
- Approximately 40 monsters, known as the Riven, call the broken caverns of the Sunder home.
- The territory was ruled by Karth until his death during the conflict with Cael.
- After Book 3, the Sunder and its people became part of the Bound nation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the Sunder located?
It is a broken-cavern territory in the up-Deep strata, situated above the mid-Deeps gallery of the Bound.
Who rules the Sunder before it joins the Bound?
The territory is ruled by Karth until his death.
How many monsters live in the Sunder?
There are approximately 40 monsters, a faction known as the Riven.
What happens to the Sunder after Karth dies?
The territory and its people are folded into the Bound nation in Book 3.