THE DRAGONFATHER

Toruk, the Dragonfather, founded the Cryxian Empire from the inhabitants of the archipelago known as the Schardes thousands of years ago. Of the fourteen Pirate Kings that ruled the Schardes, twelve made a pact with him, swearing their loyalty in exchange for immortality and power, and were transformed into the first Lich Lords, while the remaining two were slain by the dragon for refusing to bow to his supremacy. They would later serve as the generals of his army and as one fell, another would replace him to pick up the pieces. Although the Dragonfather rarely takes an interest in the affairs of his followers, the entire Cryxian Empire exists for only one purpose: to consolidate his power and serve as a bulwark and weapon against the forces of his children, who tried to claim his powers once before and will certainly try again.
Through the machinations of the Lich Lords, Cryx became an empire of death and it is not uncommon to see a thrall delivering corpses to its master for use in his numerous experiments. The people of Cryx accept this and understand the relationship between predator and prey very well, for they are largely outcasts and rogues exiled from societies on the mainland. Many become pirates and return to plague the other nations, forming a fleet of living troops to hide the true nature of the undead Cryxian armies. Surprise and secrecy have become the main assets of Cryx as the Lich Lords do not wish to begin killing the Dragonfather's offspring until they are truly ready.