Characters start at level one, using the standard stat array. In addition to the starting three Words, everyone has the shared Word of Night. You can take as many or few gifts from this Word as you please, using your regular gift points.

The deluxe version of the game and the Lexicon of the Throne supplement are both allowed, with the exception of the concept Words from Lexicon. You do not need the Lexicon supplement to play if you don't intend to use it.

All characters start as citizens of the paradise realm of Irohn, previously held by the Made God Anaya. You now hold shards of her divine power, and are forced to flee across Uncreated Night using the Night Roads in order to escape the world's descent into the Night.