Riftspawn
Riftspawn are terrifying creatures from somewhere beyond Samond. They are exceptionally rare, and only enter the world when beckoned by profane magic. They are indifferent, cruel, and more often than not outright violent. Riftspawn are shrouded in mystery but seem to be entirely aberrant and unnatural. Riftspawn don’t appear to possess any comprehensive ideology or culture, and will often vary dramatically in physical appearance.
Riftspawn first emerged during the waning days of the Zycharian Empire. Folklore suggests they were first summoned by the loyalists themselves in an effort to stomp out the rebellion - or as a final act of spite against the rebels. Unlike the restless dead, they are generally treated with immediate hostility by most residents of Samond - hunted and condemned by both the Church of Valra, and those who practice worship of the Primordials.
Riftspawn are separated into two categories: greater and lesser - the distinguishing characteristic being whether they wield the strength to take on a physical form of their own, or if they require a host body to house their spirit. Lesser Riftspawn most often acquire a host through the bartering and machinations of their greater kin, or devious spellcasters hoping to manipulate them.
The most infamous of all Riftspawn was a creature known as the Shackler which emerged during the late second century. The Shackler exemplified the cruelty for which the Riftspawn are often associated - he was domineering, sadistic, and utterly merciless. The Shackler laid waste across the land until he was eventually defeated by Valra at the conclusion of the Second Crusade.