The sun is rising on a new day, and I, Glitterbeard, am sailing out to greet it! (My pirate name is also new, and I'm still getting used to it.) As I put my thoughts to parchment in fits and starts, stopping often to steady the wheel of my little Sloop, I can't help but think it remarkable how much has happened in the past few days. I'm not sure whether this journal I am keeping will be a fond memento in years to come, a record of the worst decision of my life, or something else entirely! The first lesson I'm learning is that trying to write and steer my ship at the same time is probably going to end my journey before it's properly begun! I think I'll have to wait until I've found my first safe harbour and settled in for the night before I say any more...

This is much nicer! Tucked up warm and able to explain what it is that has inspired me to change my name, my life and my prospects. Not too many moons ago, I was a musician and occasional artist. My bed was no ship's bunk, but a nook in an attic that overlooked the square of a bustling port town. I was not a wealthy man, nor did I see any reason to be so, but I would take my easel here and there, painting what life had to show me, and people would pay me for it. In the winter months, when it was cold enough to freeze my paintbrushes, I would retire indoors with my precious guitar to sing and entertain. That, too, earned me a little coin from time to time. In truth, so long as I could listen to people's stories and have them join me in song, I would have done it for free.

It was a way of living that I was very pleased to call my own, and yet I knew very well that it was only one possible route along the journey of my days. As I played and painted I would talk with sailors, clerks, butchers, pickpockets, dressmakers, and countless others whose lives were just as full and rich as mine, but altogether different. Would music and art fill the rest of my days? if the opportunity presented itself, did I not owe myself the chance to walk all the paths I could? To sample the lives that others lived? Yes, I decided at last, feeling a giddy flutter as the answer came to me. To see new things, to be new things. To try, even if I didn't always succeed. That was the right choice for me. Where on earth was I going to start?

Perhaps it was pure luck, or perhaps something more fateful, but the words 'Sea of Thieves' drifted past my ears that very day, as I sat on the dock with my brush in hand. The sailors spoke of stunning natural landscapes unspoiled by cities of plantations, and an endless azure horizon where danger and delight sailed hand-in-hand. I was no pirate. I had no ship on which to sail. Still, the thought of that life, free and wild, and to meet the people who had made that life theirs... I couldn't resist! I have a rickety ship of my own, now, my paints are safely boxed away and my guitar rests against the map table. Will I prosper in my pirate life? I have no idea. But I will try.

Receive all Commendations for 'The Cursed Rogue' Tall Tale.

You discovered the final message left behind by Glitterbeard.

Play the same shanty in a band of five Pirates.

Complete all commendations for The Seabound Soul

Receive the Commendation for completing 250 Gold Hoarder Voyages.

Receive the Commendation for completing 250 Order of Souls Voyages.

Receive the Commendation for sailing 1,000 nautical miles on Gold Hoarder voyages.

Receive the Commendation for delivering 50 Fruit Crates on time.

Be promoted to level 20 with Athena's Fortune.

Locate the missing ship on a Lost Shipment Voyage without finding all the clues.

Kill a skeleton while it's 'cronching' on a banana.

Sail through a storm with no lights during the night.

Purchase the 'Master Merchant' Promotion in the Merchant Alliance Trading Company.

Complete 'The Fate of the Morningstar' Tall Tale.

Receive the Commendation for sailing 1,000 nautical miles on Merchant Alliance Voyages.

Be promoted to level 75 with the Gold Hoarders.

Launch yourself from a ship's cannon onto a ship.

Be promoted to level 75 with the Order of Souls.

Purchase the Glorious Sea Dog Jacket, Hat, Hook and Gloves.

Receive the Commendation for sailing 1,000 nautical miles on Order of Souls Voyages.

Receive all Commendations for 'The Revenge of the Morningstar' Tall Tale.

Receive the Commendation for defeating 1,000 Skeleton Captains.

Receive the Commendation for earning 150,000 gold from Gold Hoarder voyages.

Throw vomit on an opposing pirate while they're wielding a sword.

Pick up all the mounds of gold inside a Treasure Vault.

Purchase the Promotion at Reputation Level 25 in any Trading Company.

Receive the Commendation for earning 150,000 gold from Order of Souls Voyages.

Receive the Commendation for delivering 100 Gunpowder Kegs on time.

Eat at least one piece of every kind of fruit.

Receive the Commendation for placing in the top three 100 times in The Arena.

Represent the Gold Hoarders in the Captain Tier at the closure of a Ledger, 5 times.

Represent the Merchant Alliance in the Admiral Tier at the closure of a Ledger, 5 times.

Heavy attack to knock a member of another crew off of their ship.

Receive the Commendation for completing 200 contests in The Arena.

Complete the 'Revenge of the Morningstar' Tall Tale.

Receive the Commendation for purchasing 250 Cursed Captain Bounty contracts.

Purchase a new Eye of Reach from the Weaponsmith.

Open three Treasure Vaults with gold vault keys.

Receive the Commendation for placing first 100 times in The Arena.

Give your ship a Captain's send-off by playing a song aboard it while it sinks.

Either give a chest away to another crew or have it stolen from you, and then cashed in.

Represent Athena's Fortune in the Legend Tier at the closure of a Ledger, 5 times.

Purchase the Master Hunter Promotion from The Hunter's Call Trading Company.

Receive the Commendation for placing first 100 times in The Arena as a Pirate Legend.

Change course by dropping anchor while the ship's wheel is at full lock.

Enjoy a tankard of Grog with another crew at an Outpost.

Purchase each type of Resource Crate and Commodity Crate from the Merchant Alliance.

Be part of a crew that votes to raise an Emissary Flag for the Merchant Alliance.

Receive all Commendations for the 'Stars of a Thief' Tall Tale.

Take part in the sinking of another crew's ship.

Receive all Commendations for 'The Legendary Storyteller' Tall Tale.

Be part of a crew that votes to raise an Emissary Flag for the Gold Hoarders.

Receive the Commendation for completing 250 Merchant Alliance Voyages.

Purchase your first Trading Company Promotion.

Receive all Commendations for the 'Wild Rose' Tall Tale.

You defeated the ghost of the Burning Blade 10 times!

Find a Vault Key using only 1 piece of Torn Map Parchment.

Receive all Commendations for all the Shores of Gold Tall Tales.

Block an attack, and then hit your opponent within five seconds.

Clear the Fort of the Damned of all enemies.

Receive the Commendation for earning 150,000 gold from Merchant Alliance Voyages.

Perform the Pirate Salute gesture to befriend someone in-game.

Receive all Commendations for 'The Fate of the Morningstar' Tall Tale.

Receive all Commendations for 'The Shroudbreaker' Tall Tale.

Upgrade a Trading Company item to its maximum.

Purchase the 'Master of the Order' Promotion in the Order of Souls Trading Company.

Represent the Order of Souls in the Grandee Tier at the closure of a Ledger, 5 times.

On Lost Shipment Voyages, locate a missing ship along each of the Merchants' trade routes.

Receive the Commendation for selling 360 Captain’s Chests.

Complete 'The Art of the Trickster' Tall Tale.

In The Arena, deliver a chest during a contest - while drunk!

Activate the Fort of the Damned by lighting all six Flames of Fate and sacrificing a Ritua

Cook a piece of food on a campfire at night.

Deliver at least one of every kind of fish to The Hunter's Call.

Receive the Commendation for selling 360 Villainous Skulls.

Be part of a crew that votes to raise an Emissary Flag for the Reaper's Bones.

Receive the Commendation for delivering 25 Trophy Fish to The Hunter's Call.

Purchase a new hook, peg-leg, eyepatch, and hat from the Clothing Shop.

In The Arena's tavern, get at least one member of each crew into the hot tub at the same t

Be promoted to level 75 with the Reaper's Bones.

Vote for and begin a voyage put forward by one of your crew.

Complete The Legendary Storyteller' Tall Tale.

Receive all Commendations for 'The Art of the Trickster' Tall Tale.

Completed the 'Stars of a Thief' Tall Tale.

Sail in the same direction as a nearby ship without firing shots at each other.

Be promoted to level 75 with the Merchant Alliance.

Find and sell at least one of each Legendary Treasure.

Receive the Commendation for completing 57 Grade 5 Hunter's Call Commendations.

Purchase a new ship customisation from the Shipwright.

Complete all commendations for Heart of Fire

Kill an opponent from behind with a blunderbuss.

Have an attack blocked by an opponent, and then be hit by them within five seconds.

Purchase the 'Master Gold Hoarder' Promotion in the Gold Hoarder Trading Company.

Have 20 chests in your crew's possession... at the same time!

Clear the Fort of the Damned of all enemies, 10 times.

Purchase a new Blunderbuss from the Weaponsmith.

Receive the Commendation for purchasing 250 X Marks the Spot Voyages.

Be victorious in a Kraken encounter and live to tell the tale!

Be part of a crew that votes to raise an Emissary Flag for Athena's Fortune.

In The Arena, deliver a stolen chest during a contest.

In The Arena, take part in a contest using every single colour of ship.

In The Arena, have 15 chests in your crew's possession at the same time during a contest.

Deliver a rare coloured fish to The Hunter's Call.

Increase your reputation level with a Trading Company for the first time.

Deliver a piece of treacherous loot to The Hunter's Call.

In The Arena, deliver a chest within the first five minutes of a contest.

Receive the Commendation for purchasing 250 Merchant Alliance contracts.

Purchase the Arena Master Promotion from the Sea Dogs Trading Company.

Be part of a crew that votes to raise an Emissary Flag for the Order of Souls.

Receive the Commendation for selling 300 Shipwrecked Chests.

Deliver a luminescent fish to The Hunter's Call.

Represent the Reaper's Bones in the Master Tier at the closure of a Ledger, 5 times.

Use Pirate Chat to communicate with another dead pirate on the Ferry of the Damned.

In The Arena, form a crew of four and play your instruments during a contest.

Deliver every kind of cooked meat to The Hunter's Call.

Recover 5 Revered Manifests while on Lost Shipment Voyages.

A cursed chest that is bound by rope and bears the Reaper's Mark. The lid of this chest is golden in comparison to the duller colour of the Reaper's Chest, and when not claimed it shoots a beam of golden light into the sky.
The runes adorning the box glow red from the magic it is containing inside.

An altar with an unknown use. The bowl-shape of it could have been used to store water, or bundles of wood and sticks that could have been set alight to be used as a torch.

An altar with an unknown use. Appears frequently across the Ancient Isles. It's bowl-like shape could have been used to contain water or sticks to be used for a fire.

A shrine to a particularly fierce tusked boar. The skull of the creature lays as the focal point of this shrine, on it's forehead a symbol is painted in red. Black and red lines are drawn on the walls coming out from where the skull rests. Nine figures of Ancients can be seen, either praising the creature or celebrating its defeat.
Gathered here are bones of other boars and pottery made by the Ancients.

The largest of the Shark Sculptures on Sharkbait Cove that also sits at the heart of the tangled nest of islets. 
Out on it's own rock, this sculpture has blue wavy lines painted on it and numerous pottery tributes lay around it.

Research Team

Ancient Isles University

There is a mass of clouds and turbulent waves that roams the Sea of Thieves, an entity many sailors have had an encounter with; the Storm.

Meteorology Report #1: The Storm

The Ancient Isles University seeks to provide all pirates living in the Sea of Thieves with the knowledge discovered through the expeditions and investigations conducted within our research departments in this collection of detailed articles and reports.

A collection of detailed articles and reports about the knowledge discovered by the Ancient Isles University research departments.

Davy Jones discovered this pirate world of Sea of Thieves and found that the pirate's life is somewhat different here. He has no dominion over those waves and he doesn't control the pirate's life and their ability to return back from the Land of the Dead.

Umbra is a well-written and keen chronicler of legends who have been dragged back to the Sea of Thieves. She set up camp at Lagoon of Whispers with the intention of documenting the weird and wonderful people who live here.

Umbra is a well-written and keen chronicler of legends who have been dragged back to the Sea of Thieves.

Jack Sparrow has stolen the greatest pirate treasure of all time, a Golden Key to other lands. Jack has used this treasure to cross his precious horizon, and he has found the pirate world of Sea of Thieves.

Jack Sparrow used a Golden Key to cross his precious horizon and to discover the pirate world of Sea of Thieves.

This pirate scratched their name - ArchAngel Aeon - into the rock. Judging by the fish bones, they swam a very long way to reach this shore!

This pirate scratched their name - ArchAngel Aeon - into the rock. Judging by the fish bones, they swam a very long way to reach this shore.

Upon arriving in the yet to be charted Devil's Roar Stitcher Jim discovers a tied up box bearing runes, which he nicknames the Box of Wondrous Secrets. He peeks under the lid of the Box and begins to show signs of losing his mind. He betrays the Alliance and kills most of the members, except for Grace Morrow who survives the attempted poisoning.

Merrick appears on Sharkbait Cove telling the tale of how he summoned The Hungering One. He subsequently recruits other pirates to go to the specific co-ordinates of T-27 whilst playing his enchanted shanty to defeat The Hungering One in his steed. 
He placed journals around the Sea of Thieves that told his tale and gave pirates who sought these out replicas of his drum. 

Sea of Thieves, Hungering Deep, Hungering One, Megalodon, Merrick

skeletons do ritual to awake graymarrow to bind FH

The first known appearance of Duke and the beginning of the Bilge Rat Adventures. 
Duke and his Bilge Rats build a series of Skeleton Thrones across the Sea of Thieves and challenged pirates to find and sit in them. 

Skeleton Thrones, Bilge Rats, Bilge Rats Adventures, Doubloons

After an extended period of being gone, Duke takes back his place from Stitcher Jim. He appeared to be worse for wear though; he was much more timid than usual and was wrapped up head to toe in bandages.

Construction works start on the rocks in the map coordination K-11. 

Using the favour curried from the Trading Companies, Duke opens up his own shop-- the Black Market. Here he sources rare items and offers them to pirates in exchange for Gold or Doubloons.

Stitcher Jim tells Briggsy to destroy the Shroudbreaker at the behest of their master, the Gold Hoarder. She however does not do this and instead removes and hides the gems that give it it's power.

With her 'lightning-struck brain', a young Madame Olivia seeks the Sea of Thieves with two friends and sets up the Trading Company as a means to attain the self she saw in her vision. 
The Gold Hoarder Heathcliffe is instrumental in her setting up the Trading Company.

Ever the schmoozer, Duke strikes up a bargain with the Trading Companies in order to earn their favour. He had recently learnt of places where the Skellies had been stashing their Gunpowder Kegs and made a deal to get pirates to deliver those Kegs to the Trading Companies. In return Duke got the right to open up his own shop, the Black Market.

The original Trading Companies of the Sea of Thieves had long maintained a working balance, but danger lurks on the horizon and each Company  decided that a show of strength is needed! They started to seek out Emissaries to act as their representatives on the waves

After reconciling with his wife, Merrick and Serick form the Hunter's Call Trading Company, taking up residence on the Seaposts and employing members of their family.

A new shop opens its doors on all the outposts, the Pirate Emporium, located in the empty room atop the Order of Souls tent. Formed by a bunch of ex-Gold Hoarders who became enamoured with a new type of coin, the Ancient Coin. They can import various goods from outside the Sea of Thieves, including pets, ship designs, clothing and more, all for the exchange of Ancient Coins.
Rumour has it they work for someone powerful from outside of the Sea of Thieves...

Not much is known about the Ferryman's life before he took up the mantle of Captain of the Ferry of the Damned. He is said to have made a 'sacrifice' and his final living act was to drink a poison to be able to pass on to the Sea of the Damned.
Similarly, it is unknown when or why the Ferry of the Damned was created.
During his time as the Ferryman, he met Sir Arthur Pendragon, a man who intrigued him due to his possession of the Sword of Souls. He taught him about the Flames of Fate and how to see the spirits of trapped souls.


Seeking glory and a pirate's life in the Sea of Thieves, Flameheart Junior does many things to try and build his reputation and fortune. Unfortunately this leads to his downfall as he takes on a contract for cursed chest that finds his ship being attacked by the Twisted Blade and sailing into the Shroud for escape.
Shipwrecked, he and his crew wake up on an unknown island. After solving a riddle they are lead into a cave. The deeper they ventured into the cave the less they wanted for food and drink, until coming to a Chalice that held everlasting water. He and his crew drank from this Chalice. 
In the depths of the cave, after a length of time spent, Flameheart Jr comes into contact with a skeleton who identifies himself as The Captain. The Captain claims to have been a crewmate of Flameheart Senior.

Old Mother is the oldest and largest Kraken known to have existed, and was the creature from which all other Krakens were birthed.

Old Mother had a relationship with the Sea Queen but became angered when the Sea Queen 'broke her promise'. This event possibly led to the demise of Old Mother, as the Mer sought help from the Ancients to find a way to be rid of Old Mother. 
A figure known as Warmonger fashioned poisoned arrows from feathers he stole from Eagle and drenched with venom from Snake, he used these to put Old Mother into a deep sleep and she sank to the ocean floor. Using this opportunity, the Ancients tied Old Mother up with magically imbued chains and locks that could never rust or be broken. Old Mother lay there, trapped, until she died. 

Her remains are believed to be somewhere in The Wilds and are large enough for a galleon to sail through with plenty of space.

The Ancients, The Merfolk, Krakens, Old Mother, Chaining of Old Mother

The twin children of the Pirate Lord, Ramsey, find their way to the Sea of Thieves.
After some dealings with the other Trading Companies, they set up their own Trading Company, the Sea Dogs, and build a large Tavern and set of Arenas for their competitions.

With his dark powers growing, Flameheart now summoned the damned souls of lost ships to pursue his goals and regain supremacy of the seas. Fleets of spectral vessels are attacking vulnerable islands.

Pendragon was tricked into releasing Captain Flameheart from his own skull, unleashing this infamous pirate upon the Sea of Thieves. Flameheart declared the pirates who now dwelled in the Sea of Thieves as unworthy to sail its waters and declared himself to be rightful ruler.

Having gained Duke's trust Stitcher Jim becomes a fully fledged member of the Bilge Rats. He takes over Duke's duties while Duke attempts to find the informal leader of the Bilge Rats, Larinna.

Wanda, fuelled by rage at the Outposts denial of selling her cursed cannonballs and her slow transformation into a Skelly, discarded her name and became Captain Warsmith. 
As Captain Warsmith she led a Skelly assault on all the Outposts, raising skeleton ships from the seabed to form her fleet.
After a three-week-long battle, Captain Warsmith was last seen going down with her ship.

Graymarrow seeks the Shores of Gold, clashing with the crew of the Morningstar which is captained by Eli Slate. After a long drawn-out chase, Graymarrow manages to catch the crew of the Morningstar and strand their souls using the curses he learned from Pendragon to maroon the crew on Old Faithful Isle, unable to pass on to the Ferry of the Damned.
One member of the Morningstar crew did, however, manage to escape.

After being unfortunately eaten by a shark, the previous shopkeep of the North Star Seapost-- Yura-- hangs up her sailing boots and opts to stay on dry land. In her place an old astrologer by the name of Sudds makes the Seapost his home, laying out star charts and all sorts of star-gazing equipment.

An Alliance between several ships to seek out new lands beyond the Shroud is formed. The flagship is The Shroudbreaker, captained by Grace Morrow, and outfitted with a magically imbued figurehead that can part the Shroud. Stitcher Jim's ship, the Wailing Barnacle, is part of this Alliance.

The members of the Forsaken Shores Alliance are Captain Grace Morrow, 'Fetcher' Farley, Ruby Carter, Old Coop, 'Flintlock' Bert, Hepzibah Jones, and Stitcher Jim.

While some Reaper chests contained rare items that Duke had already started selling, others were full of old rags and bones. Duke put all in crates and hid them all on Shipwreck bay, until a mysterious person asks for the crates sent to the seaposts, at this time Stitcher Jim had made an return and were on the island 

A pirate known as Captain Flameheart becomes notorious on the Sea of Thieves for his ruthless will and distaste for the Trading Companies, believing fully in the freedom of a pirate's life and the might to stand above others.

The ship he captains is named The Burning Blade, and is described by Ramsey as being 'infernal' and 'hellish'. Eventually the Burning Blade loses one of its cannons to the depths of the sea.

His ship has a run in with the Pirate Lord's Ship, the Magpie's Wing, whilst Ramsey is on a quest for the Shroudbreaker and the Shores of Gold. Flameheart manages to sink the Magpie's Wing.

In an attempt to tighten his grip on the Sea of Thieves, Flameheart creates Ashen Lords to serve as the most elite commanders of his fleet. The methods through which these Ashen Lords were created is unknown, save for that it involves rituals and magic.

During this time, Flameheart Sr adopts a son, for unknown reasons, and sends him to live outside of the Sea of Thieves. He spends time on and off with this son, and ensures that he has a good upbringing, paying to have him receive a high standard of education and to be taught in the ways of the sword. 

How Flameheart Sr is defeated is unclear, but he voluntarily has Old Horatio bind him to his remains, retreats to Flintlock Peninsula aboard the Ashen Dragon. His sarcophagus lays in a hidden chamber on the island to this day.

Shards from the enchanted figurehead of 'The Shroudbreaker' ship have spread far enough to part the Shroud and allow pirates entry to a volcanic region coined as The Devil's Roar.
Stitcher Jim resided on Liar's Backbone and watched the region from afar, requesting pirates to bring him the fabled Box of Wondrous Secrets.
Grace Morrow however has managed to set up an Outpost in the Devil's Roar and warns of Jim's treachery.

After the death of the Gold hoarder, the Gold Hoarders started hoarding all their gold in vaults made by the Ancients, now that Flameheart is becoming more powerful the Hoarders sent out pirates to track down the Vault Keys and bring them back

umbra back, and she got easter eggs 4 u 2 find

Captain Flameheart adopts a son, either from the Sea of Thieves or outside of it. He however makes sure to raise him outside of the Sea of Thieves, giving him a good education and a comfortable life.

Sometime after the events of the betrayal at Golden Sands Outpost, Ramsey visits Rathbone at Tribute Peak. Now the Gold Hoarder and with most of his mind lost to his lust of treasure and gold. Ramsey speaks to him at length about his adventures, eventually ending with his declaration of retirement.

In the world outside the Sea of Thieves, a sea-based trading company called the Grand Maritime Union builds its influence to become the most powerful organisation in the world a la East India Trading Company, destroying businesses and livelihoods in their conquest for complete control of trade routes. Many pirates and civilians alike do not like the grip over the seas that they have.

The Well of Fates comes to rest in the hold of the Ferry of the Damned. This Well of Fates allows pirates to dip their lanterns in and change the flame colour to represent how they died.
The Bilge Rats decided to take this as an opportunity to honour the Ferryman and constructed Beacons around the Sea of Thieves which pirates could light with the flames from the Well of Fates.

Salty manages to find a cannon once belonging to the Burning Blade on the seafloor. He makes a deal with Wanda the Weaponsmith of Golden Sands Outpost, and the two dredge it up.
Wanda soon becomes obsessed with reverse-engineering enchanted cannonballs from the magical properties of the cannon.

Briggsy manages to acquire the Shroudbreaker and crashes her ship into Tribute Peak. There she finds her way into the Ancients ruins, losing her way and becoming a Skeleton Lord in the process.

Larinna takes up Duke's occupation of Tavern linger-er as she takes over Bilge Rat business to get them back on track, dismissing a disgraced Duke of his role.
She keeps the Black Market and Bilge Rat Adventures running but claims she has plans on building back up the Bilge Rat name after it has been sullied by Duke's recent actions.

During an unknown encounter the Burning Blade loses one of it's cannons to the sea.

Ramsey hears of a mythical island made of gold in the Shroud and sets about trying to find a magical artefact known as the Shroudbreaker.
As they seek the Shroudbreaker, the Magpie's Wing is pursued by the Burning Blade and is among the shallows of uncharted island N-13.

Stitcher Jim informed pirates about a set of mysterious Tomes named the Ashen Tomes which contained secrets on the Ashen Lords. Knowing that Skellies had recently began moving these artefacts around in Ashen Chests, he sold maps and gave information on the whereabouts of the Ashen Chests and the Ashen Keys needed to open them.

A new Trading Company takes up residence on the fully constructed Reaper's Hideout. They claim to be true to the spirit of piracy and revel in causing chaos and disruption to the other Trading Companies.
Their only known member is The Servant of the Flame, a mysterious figure who is completely cloaked and wears a golden mask.

Returning the favour of the rescue of the Merfolk, Ramsey and crew are brought to the shackled remains of Old Mother. The Ancients and the Merfolk worked together to chain up Old Mother with chains and lock that could not be broken.

Now reduced to a mass of bones, the chains had no reason to be there, and so Ramsey commanded his crew to remove the locks and chains and bring them to their ship. 

Ramsey set his crew to re-working the enchanted chains into locks and keys for treasure chests, so that no one without the proper keys can open the chests. During this time they also learn more about the magic of the Sea of Thieves, particularly how to enchant objects.

Shan draws up plans and designs for a cannon that can fire people from them

At some point in their history, the Merfolk and the Ancients make contact. It is unknown which of these races existed first, or how they first met. 

The Mer communicate with sounds that are unintelligible to humans, but there does exist a pair of Earrings that allow humans to understand their language, presumably created by the Ancients to aid in their relationship. The language of the Mer is referred to as the 'Song'.

From stories told by the Ancients based on the star constellations, the Merfolk were ruled over by the Sea Queen. This implies that the Mer lived in a monarchy. The Sea Queen was a central figure, both being claimed to have made a promise with the Ancients, and to having broken a promise with Old Mother, the progenitor of all Krakens. Possibly due to this breaking of a promise, Krakens used to feast on the Mer. As a response to this, the Mer sought out the help of the Ancients to stop Old Mother and the Krakens.

Also mentioned by the Mer as being an active at this time was something called 'The Whispering Plague'. There is currently no information as to what this was.

Merfolk The Ancients Magic Sea of Thieves

A gallant adventurer, Sir Arthur Pendragon, arrives on the Sea of Thieves aboard the Blackwyche.
Madame Olivia seeks him out to become Champion to the Order of Souls, and eventually gifts him with the Sword of Souls.
During his time in the Sea of Thieves he becomes acquaintances with the Ferryman. The Ferryman teaches him about the special properties of the Well of Fates.
He becomes well-versed in the magic of the Sea of Thieves-- especially curses.

Eventually Wanda's experiments bore fruit as she developed a way to create Cursed Cannonballs. This experimenting however caused several side effects, Salty got cursed and turned into a Skeletal Parrot, and Wanda herself began to lose her flesh.

Rumours spread of a ritual intended to rebuild Captain Flameheart’s forces at his old stronghold The Heart of Fire. 
Pirates could be recruited by Tallulah, the Tavernkeep at the Charred Parrot on Morrow's Peak Outpost, to join the fight to stop Flameheart. For many, what occurred was a desperate plea from Pendragon to save the souls of his crew and put a stop to a ritual that would summon the Ashen Lords.
Those who managed to find their way through the Heart of Fire bore witness to Stitcher Jim attempting the ritual but burning his arm in the process. This was the last reported of sighting of Stitcher Jim.

Mollie is tasked with bringing a fleet of Grand Maritime Union ships to the Sea of Thieves in order to establish dominance. The fleet is unsuccessful in passing through the Shroud, however, with Mollie's ship barely making it through. As they arrive they are attacked by pirates and Mollie is taken aboard their ship. These pirates teach her their ways.

Some time later, Mollie uses her knowledge and experience as a trader to set up the Merchant Alliance Trading Company, with the intent of moving goods between islands.

Having amassed the tools he needed in the form of the Ashen Tomes, Ashen Jewels and other ritual ingredients, Flameheart brought back his elite warriors the Ashen Lords to the Sea of Thieves.
Red, fiery tornados could be seen descending on islands where these rituals took place.
Four Ashen Lords returned; Captain Haphaestus Grimm, Old Horatio, Red Ruth, and Warden Chi.

Now convinced of the magic that the Sea of Thieves hides, Mercia devotes her life to studying and documenting it. She writes many tomes on the history and artefacts of the Sea of Thieves, but kept them locked away.
During this time she also loses one of her earrings that allow her to speak to the Merfolk.

One unfortunate evening, a pirate by the name of Merrick accidentally stumbles upon an enchanted shanty that brings forth the Hungering One from a deepsea fissure. The Hungering One attack his ship, the Killer Whale, of which he was the only survivor despite losing both his legs.

The adopted son of Flameheart, name not known, has grown up to become a man and dreams of being a pirate. He manages to haggle with a pirate at a Tavern after flashing a unique coin (believed to be an Ancient Coin), convincing him to help show him the way to the Sea of Thieves. This pirate was Isidro.
Purchasing a ship in the harbour, the Silver Blade although wanting to rename it the Liberdade, he sets sail for the Sea of Thieves.
The crew nickname him Captain Faintheart.
Flameheart Junior keeps a journal documenting his time becoming a pirate and life as a pirate.

On her own quest to seek the Shores of Gold, Briggsy overhears Marisabel talking about a 'Shroudbreaker'.

Ramsey and crew return to the Sea of Thieves and decide on creating a hideout on what is now known as Thieves Haven, stashing their loot and belongings there whilst out on other Voyages.

In this time more pirates are making the journey through the Shroud.

One night, after returning from a Voyage, Ramsey and crew find their hideout ransacked, the place ruined and their treasure stolen. It is later revealed that this was planned by Rathbone who was growing discontent with the way that Ramsey was doing things.

Relieving of his duty as a Bilge Rat, Duke leaves the Outposts for a more humbler abode-- the Lagoon of Whispers.
Whilst he is in exile and figuring out his thoughts, he got help from Catherine of Three Paces East Seapost to learn how to write better, and helped spruce up Umbra's home a little bit.

Captain Ramsey and his crew of the Magpie's Wing make safe entrance through The Devil's Shroud and into the then unnamed and uncharted Sea of Thieves. His crew consisted of Rathbone, Mercia, and Shan. The island they spend their first night on is now known as Thieves Haven.

Upon their return to the outside world a month later, Stitcher Jim receives a tip-off from Rathbone about a stash of maps that show the safe passage to the Sea of Thieves.

Sea of Thieves, Athena's Fortune, Devil's Shroud, Ramsey, Captain Ramsey, Maiden Voyage

Sudds, a man obsessed with the stars, joins Briggsy's crew somehow for a period of time. The two bond over a shared interest in the stars.

Stowing away on a boat, Larinna manages to get to the Sea of Thieves. There she forces her way into the crew of the Unforgiven, captained by Adelheid. The other two members are Faizel and Little Ned.
Together they discover Tribute Peak and have an encounter with the Gold Hoarder himself.
She is approached by the Pirate Lord and invited to become a Pirate Legend, to which she declines stating she still has adventures to go on. 
Larinna will eventually go on to found the Bilge Rats, a ragtag group of pirates who find the fun in exploring new horizons, creating daring challenges, and not having themselves be beholden to the Trading Companies.

Athena'sFortune Larinna GoldHoarder TributePeak BilgeRats Duke

For reasons unknown, the notorious pirate Captain Flameheart Sr goes into hiding, sealing his soul into his skull and resting in a secret chamber on Flintlock Peninsula.
As to not attract too much attention, a single ship is used to transport Flameheart Sr's remains, the Ashen Dragon. The captain is Captain Adara, but an Ashen Lord known as Old Horatio is also onboard at this time.
Along the way, the Ashen Dragon assailed by two ships, one captained by Martha Janes, the other Randall Stone. They fail to capture the ship and both their souls are trapped inside their remains.
After completing their Voyage, the Old Horatio parts the Shroud and the Ashen Dragon goes into hiding.

CaptainFlameheart TheSeaboundSoul AshenDragon Pendragon

Ramsey sets his sights on finding evidence of the magical qualities in the Sea of Thieves.
Following a lead, Mercia finds Earrings that allow the wearer to communicate with the Merfolk and hears their song. This event leads them to re-connecting with the Merfolk.

At the behest of the Merfolk, Ramsey and Mercia set out to rescue two Merfolk who had been captured by Captain Douglas.
After a confrontation with the cursed Captain Douglas, whose body is beginning to turn to stone and is crystallising, they free the Merfolk.

The Merfolk shows gratitude to Ramsey and crew by agreeing to save sailors lost at sea by returning them to their ships, in addition to showing them the location of the remains of Old Mother.

Stitcher Jim believed that the appearance of the Fort of the Damned was the result of a ritual using the stolen Dark Relics, creating a rift that allowed a portion of the Sea of the Damned to leak over and corrupt Old Boot Fort. 
Activating the ritual by placing a Ritual Skull on the skeleton in the cage at the heart of the Fort of the Damned summons forth Shadows of Fate and eventually the Ghost of Lord Graymarrow.

The Order of Souls had a bunch of ancient and magical 'Dark Relics' stolen from them. Seeking help from Duke, he and the Order had pirates hunt down Skelly Captains and search for the whereabouts of the lost Dark Relics.
During this time Reaper's Chests also started appearing. These cursed chests send out a beam of red light until picked up, but will stay marked on all pirate's map tables until handed over.

Umbra, a member of a group of cartographers and historians named the Scribes, is taken captive by Captain Bronzebeard due to her extensive knowledge of the Sea of Thieves. She is thrown into the brig with another prisoner Blind Bob to interpret his ramblings and find where he buried a stash of Golden Bananas.
She managed to escape the ship and found herself shipwrecked on an island-- the very island where Blind Bob hid the Golden Bananas as luck would have it. After a few days a band of pirates arrived on the island who helped her to find the Golden Bananas in exchange for rescuing her.
After this, she left the Sea of Thieves.

The Ancients were the original inhabitants of what we now know as the Sea of Thieves. 
They seemed to have mainly lived in The Ancient Isles and The Wilds based on the cave paintings, pottery, and other artefacts that can be found in these regions.
Their currency was possibly the Ancient Coin, a rare coin emblazoned with a what appears to be a skull.

An intelligent and creative community, they charted star constellations, told stories, and became aware of the magic that the Sea of Thieves offered. As they mastered the use of magic, they created specially imbued relics such as the Shroudbreaker. They have also been claimed to have used Kraken Ink to see the future, much like how the Order of Souls use Kraken Ink in recent times.

It is unknown if they were all one united peoples, or if they lived in different tribes. The monolithic statues found on Tribute Peak at least suggests that there were ten key figures in their society. Stories passed down also speak of a Warmonger.

Not much is known for certain about the Ancients because of their sudden disappearance, leaving no direct descendants of theirs behind. Even the Merfolk with whom they shared a relationship with have little understanding of what happened to the Ancients.

The Ancients, Sea of Thieves, Ancient Coins, Ancient Paintings

somethinf about 3 new lords and jim delivering gifts to wanda
reaper's bounty chests also started appearing around this time

In Taverns across the Sea of Thieves, word begins to spread of a fabled island, the Shores of Gold, which is claimed to contain the greatest hoard of gold.
Many pirate crews set out to find the Shroudbreaker Rellic and four Shroudbreaker Gems so that they may part the Devil's Shroud and discover the legendary Shores of Gold

More species of Megalodon are spotted across the Sea of Thieves. Some even claiming a white variant of the creature exists.

Mystical and cursed chests began appearing in the devils roar, Duke sent pirates out to reclaim these Cursed Chest of Rage and deafeat new Ashen Skeletons
Chests of Rage contain souls and Ashen Jewels

Flameheart Sr created four Ashen Lords that we know of, each one of them given a different role within his armada and his plans.

Old Horatio was known as the shipwright of Flameheart's fleets and the recruiter, pressganging skellies into servitude aboard his ships. He was present during Flameheart Sr's secret burial, being the one who commanded the Ashen Dragon during this time. He also knew about the binding magic that could be used to keep a soul from passing on to the Sea of the Damned. According to Captain Adara of the Ashen Dragon, his final act was parting the Devil's Shroud with his power before turning to dust.

Red Ruth was the alchemist and weapon smith, most known for originally creating the Cursed Cannonballs. Either it was the cannons of the Burning Blade themselves or the cannonballs, that Red Ruth imbued with curse magic.

Captain Grimm built the fortresses around the Sea of Thieves as places to store and protect treasure that was stolen and meant as tribute for Flameheart Sr.

Warden Chi was in charge of the prison where Flameheart Sr sent enemies who were captured. She was to make sure those kept in incarceration were kept alive, albeit tortured.

A core part of what powers an Ashen Lord is a relic known as an Ashen Jewel, used in conjunction with the Ashen Curse.

As a reaction to too many pirates stealing from each other and killing one another, Ramsey calls a parlay at Golden Sands Outpost to create some order. He proposes an alliance with him as the leader.
Notable pirates who attended this parlay were Ramsey, Mercia, Rathbone, Shan, Gideon Graymarrow, Eli Slate, Briggsy, and Stitcher Jim.
This is the first time a Chest of Grogs is seen, having been created by Ramsey and crew.
Ramsey used the enchanted chains to create locks for chests that only he could open with his Skeleton Keys. 
The Parlay is interrupted by the sudden emergence of a Kraken, a creature not seen by any pirates since Ramsey discovered the Sea of Thieves.
In the chaos Shan creates a Chest of Sorrows to flood the Kraken's belly with endless water. 
The eyes of the Kraken get damaged.
Ramsey is knocked off of his ship, using this as an opportunity to obtain the Skeleton Keys, Rathbone betrays Ramsey, taking the Keys for himself and letting Ramsey plunge into the ocean. These Keys remain in the possession of the Gold Hoarder and select members of the Trading Company to this day.

Two pirates who find Flameheart Junior's Journal, not much is known about their origins or where they are now, but they are a married couple and Marisabel has an Earring that allows her to speak to Merfolk.

In his adventures Ramsey found a pair of enchanted duelling pistols that create an aura where weapons will not work properly. He sends these home to Rowenna.

The eastern island of this small duo of uncharted islands starts to show activity, as someone has started to dig.

The Cursed Mermaid Statues reappear across the Sea of Thieves, and pirates discover that precious Gems can be obtained by destroying them.

Stitcher Jim obtains maps of the safe route to the Sea of Thieves after a tip-off from Rathbone, spreading them about and bringing more pirates to the Sea of Thieves.

Mercia gifts two things to Ramsey over her lifetime. One is a Chalice of Everlasting Life that is believed to be the reason for Ramsey's ghost still remaining and with his mind intact.
Her second gift to him is given on her deathbed, a necklace that bears the Reaper's Mark.

After saving Wild rose, George and the crew of the Morningstar pirates find out that Graymarrow stole a Shroudbreaker stone from Morningstar Captain Eli Slate, Pirates search for clues of his whereabouts and reawakens Graymarrow and deafeats him for the Shroudbreaker stone.

DeMarco and Lesedi Singh lead a lengthy campaign to garner the favour of the other Trading Companies resulting in the formation of their own Trading Company, the Sea Dogs. With the Sea Dogs they open The Arena, a contest that welcomes all pirates to show their mettle and skills. 
The construction works at the rocks of K-11 finish and reveals itself to be the location of the Glorious Sea Dogs Tavern, the meeting place for those who wish to participate in the games of The Arena.
The initial rules of The Arena are 24 minute rounds with a maximum of six ships. Specifically designated areas of the Sea of Thieves are used as the battlegrounds for their games. All ships are given the same maps to buried treasure, and are tasked with earning the most Silver in the time allotted. Pirates earn Silver for digging up chests, turning in chests to Sea Dog representatives, for slaying a rival pirate, and for landing cannon shots. Silver is lost when a crew's ship is sunk

Presumably under duress, Salty sells out the Trapmaker to the cursed Skeleton Lord Briggsy, who in turn has them create the traps to protect a gem of the Shroudbreaker.

Ramsey sets his crew to re-working the enchanted iron into locks and keys for treasure chests. During this time they also learn more about the magic of the Sea of Thieves, particularly how to enchant objects.

After finding all the shroudbreaker stones the Pirate Lord sent a Pirate crew to find the Shores of Gold and Deafeat the Gold Hoarder.

Rathbone, head of the Gold Hoarder Trading Company and living in wealth outside of the Sea of Thieves, becomes disillusioned with life as his hoard of gold continues to amass. He doesn't want anyone else to have a single coin. One day he hears about a golden island in the Sea of Thieves and sets about alone to this place.
He eventually finds Tribute Peak and makes his way through the ruins of the Ancients, finding the gold chamber.
Overcome by greed he begins to pile on as much treasure as his ship can carry. He is then confronted by the combined forces of Eli Slate and Mercia with a fleet of ships. They attack Rathbone and his ship sinks. 
As he sinks he attempts to collect as much of the lost loot as he can, this lust for gold fuelling him, beginning his transformation into the Gold Hoarder.

Rathbone sets up the Gold Hoarder Trading Company, using a suggestion from Stitcher Jim to get pirates to search out locked treasure chests and give them a cut of the gold found inside when returned.

Pirates who sought the Shores of Gold have a run-in with the legendary Captain Briggsy, now turned Skeleton Lord.
Her defeat yields more clues as to the whereabouts of the Shroudbreaker Gems

Sightings of a strange skeleton appearing on islands start circulating. These skeletons crawl their way out of the ground and run from any nearby pirates. Many of those who managed to defeat these skeletons report a stash of Ancient Coins being left behind.

Cursed Mermaid Statues begin to appear in deep water and on shorelines across the islands of the Sea of Thieves. When approached these caused harm to pirates but they could be destroyed.

Register for the Closed Beta

Sea of Thieves Companion

These tankards bear the names 'Abstractacas' and 'Paladin Topaz', friends who loved to share a drink and a chat. They became famed for announcing news and rumours about the Sea of Thieves for all pirates to hear.

Two talkative pirates left their tankards on an Outpost made of golden sand, a perfect spot to chat.

The flag of triheadedmonkey, who would always call out pirates for breaking the Pirate Code. Nobody got away with shenanigans on his watch!

The flag of a very watchful pirate stands to this day on Sanctuary Outpost.

According to Umbra's notes, Daimyo DoriMa loved nothing more than to list all the things that could be improved around the Sea of Thieves. Maybe a salty pirate took exception to their critique?!

Over at Golden Sands, Umbra heard of a pirate who loved to write down their thoughts.

A pirate named Cacci left their mark below this perfect bullseye. Some say they could hit a skeleton right in the eye socket, from the next island over!

The weaponsmith's shop on Galleon's Grave boasts a famous patron.

Freakydusty's personal banana barrel, always packed with yellow ambrosia. They became famous for holding their bananas like gold.

World tells of an unusual barrel on Sanctuary Outpost, near the water tower.

This painting captured four of the fanciest pirates ever to sail the Sea of Thieves. They loved dressing up at gatherings of likeminded sailors.

In the tavern at Ancient Spire Outpost, there is a painting of four very fancy pirates.

Carson Iz Pro was engraved on this bucked by their grateful crew, after bailing enough water to fill two ships!

Sanctuary Outpost honours a tireless worker, according to Umbra's rumours.

o COMM4NDO o is carved into this bullet-ridden wall. Not so many bullets hit the target underneath, though. Practise makes a perfect pirate!

A pirate with dubious aim left an unmarked target atop Smuggler's Bay.

Capta1n Cr0ss and his fellow pirate pioneers never received these important letters. Clearly, the Sea of Thieves is in dire need of a postal service.

Rumour says that there's a lot of undelivered mail left in some rubble on Sanctuary Outpost.

Met me son Derrick for the first time! Well, he says he's me son. Hw can I deny it wiv a handsome mug like that?

They say that where Merrick once camped on Shark Bait Cove, his son now displays a portrait.

~Taydoge Swift~
This pirate was famous for much jokes and witty asides. Wow.

There is a hidden camp on Mermaid's Hideaway, make by a popular pirate.

Captain Jaq was a very popular pirate, a lady with the gift of charisma and a penchant for friendly discourse. According to notes of concern collected by Umbra, Jaq took a small hiatus from the seas and her friends missed her terribly.

Near the central rock of Lone Cove, a poster remains for a missing pirate.

This model ship, 'The Allegiant', was lovingly crafted in fine detail by Chocmocjoo, to celebrate a year of smooth sailing. Delivered with the help of a community of pirates, this gift is for everyone on the Sea of Thieves.

At The Finest Trading Post is a fine work of craftswomanship.

The mark of The Crow's Nest, run by Captain Jay - a pirate who shouted their stories for all to hear. They practically turned this fort into an amphitheatre.

High as a crow's nest, at Crow's Nest Fortress…

This rare thief leapt from the crow's nest perhaps one time too many. According to Umbra's notes, these are the remains of IOnEI-Falcon, who would famously leap from the crow's nest to take a shortcut to the Ferry. In those days, before people knew how healthy bananas were, he realised it was a roundabout way to feel ship-shape again.

On Shipwreck Bay, they say a pirate's bones can be found beside a legendary shipwreck.

~Wanted - Musicmee - for saying 'pew! pew!' every time they shot their pistol.~
This poster doesn't appear to be official - it looks like the pirate drew it up themselves. Maybe they made several, to confuse any bounty hunters?

Dagger Tooth is known for deadly criminals, as a poster on the water tower suggests.

A plaque reading 'LindsayElyse Mind Your Head' was fixed here. She didn't like taking the stairs and found a cannon more her style! The Tavern keeper decided to put this reminder up, in case LindsayElyse had already started drinking before climbing into the cannon.

This pirate with panache was always first through the tavern door, thanks to her stunning aim.

This basket belongs to Tartansnake, a pirate who continues to help many others - when he isn't too busy talking about snakes. Often, he just does both at the same time.

That snake basket belongs to a true lover of serpentkind.

Fizzy Foxy was one of the deadliest pirates in the earliest days of the Sea of Thieves. They sent many souls to the Ferryman without mercy until this poster was hastily drawn up to warn everyone.

Have a drink in the tavern at Dagger Tooth and you're sure to learn of this deadly pirate.

~Wanted - DuMy2008 - For… Positive Contributions~
As Umbra suspected, this pirate was clearly beloved in his community. Maybe this really is a Sea of Friends…

A popular pirate took refuge on an island in the Shores of Plenty, up on a cliff side.

The pirate Griffin was famed for his love of whole bananas, skin and all, which really caught on among pirates… Unfortunately, he cronched his last on this very spot.

This pirate lost their way on the beach of Marauder's Arch, and tried to survive on just bananas…

Once Deadsniper discovered that they could fire themselves out of a cannon, they couldn't stop! After firing themselves from a cannon more times than anyone else, they finally landed here… a little crispy.

The remains of a ballistic buccaneer were left where they landed, high up on Plunder Outpost.

~KattTruewalker, KnightXIII, IOnEI-Falcon, Funic, TheAaronLeigh~
Umbra believes the five names scrathced here were among the first pirates to come to the Sea of Thieves - after the Pirate Lord's crew, of course.

Five names are scratched into a rock on Cannon Cove, found by walking inland from the dock.

~Pirate Legend Jackie's Boombox~
One of the first pirates to make a name for herself on the Seas, Umbra heard that Jackie took this barrel everywhere. That was perhaps a mistake, but nobody could convince her to leave behind her 'boombox'.

A pirate once made quite the bang over at Golden Sands, somewhere behind the shops…

Lesleyann was a true pirate legend, who delivered vital gifts to a friend in dire need. Knowing that her friend was suffering with poor health, she did all in her power to keep her in touch with the rest of the Sea of Thieves.

A parcel and hat on the dock at Galleon's Grave suggest that the Wilds may be civilised after all.

~ZZ DE TOX ZZ DRINKING SPOT~
This pirate drank so much that the Sea of Thieves almost became a desert!

The cosy drinking spot of a pirate with an insatiable thirst became a permanent tavern fixture.

Legend has it that The Aaron Leigh minted his own coins as a tribute to the architects of the seas. He sailed across the world to hand-deliver them, though one somehow ended up here.

On Cannon Cove, a pirate once thought outside the barrel when it came to making money.

They say a pirate met his fate on the shores of Mermaid's Hideaway.

A Violin belonging to Freya Catherine, a pirate with a musical gift who taught her children to play Becalmed. Umbra's notes say that so many pirates cried, that they had start bailing all the tears!

A perfectly crafted and tuned violin was tucked away in Tim's Equipment Shoppe.

Pirate KaidaWrath and their crew became famous for defeating a Skeleton Fort… using not guns, but 100 baskets of angry snakes! That battle must have been a sight to behold. It just goes to show that being a pirate is about more than your weapons.

They say that Shark Fin Camp was once defeated by very unusual means.

The greedy pirate De4th Fire left their mark here. The hook and chest is fitting, as Umbra notes that this pirate stole a staggering number of chests when the Sea of Thieves was still young. In fact, you should go and sell any you're carrying right now. Just to be safe.

On Smuggler's Bay lived a pirate famed for his stolen hoard. He left a mark on the Southwest Beach.

Merrick has left behind a journal… Before I retire, I wanted to write one last shanty, inspired by some words I heard being bellowed from me speaking trumpets. This one definitely won't summon any man-eating sea monsters. In fact, I promise to never cause so much trouble again: We're no strangers, to this cove… You know the pirate code and so do I! A pile of treasure's what I'm thinking of… You wouldn't get this from any other pi…rate! Never gonna brig you up, Never gonna let you down, Never gonna sail around, And maroon you! Never gonna steal your eye, Never gonna not say 'aye'! Never gonna sell your booty, For a doubloon! …it's a work in progress. I think I'll let me fellow pirates fill in the gaps. My son Derrick seems to think it's hilarious. He suggested the title 'Merrick Rolled'. I don't get it.

Rumours speak of an odd book left at The Reaper's Hideout… could be a dangerous campsite to visit.

~Join Zoream's Infamous Pirate Club~
Sounds like quite the club. Maybe they're still accepting new members?

On Mermaid's Hideaway, a popular pirate created a social spot overlooking the sea.

Signed simply 'Capain B.', this stunning artwork was created by a pirate with a true eye for beauty. Don't be surprised if they ask you to pose for a portrait!

Sanctuary Outpost is a beautiful place. Rumour has it the tavern hosts some legendary art.

This art depict the incredible moment when the bold Captain Ash Bacon and her crew harpooned their ship to a Megalodon. The chase was fast, epic and impressive - until the shark ditched Ash Bacon by running her Galleon aground and fleeing the scene!

On Salty Sands, a moment when shark triumphed over pirate was captured in art.

This list of noteworthy Gold Hoarders was made in the early days to 'honour' the greediest pirates around. Umbra has been seeking it for some time.

In Lost Gold Fort in The Ancient Isles, a list honours the greediest of pirates…

Upon the Sea of Thieves, many stories have been told, Of ancient creatures, hoards of gold and of pirates great and bold. But the tales that matter most, at least that is to me, are the ones of love and laughter, and friendship on the sea. Cap'n "Scruffy" Beardstroker.

A poetic pirate left a scruffy book inside a cave at Shark Bait Cove, beside a shrine.

LatchedGlue is famous for her stunning portraits, ideal for decorating a captain's cabin. She knows how to capture someone's swashbuckling side! The portraits here are labelled to be delivered to HealpleaseHeal, T.Skunk and Evulmonkey.

On Sailor's Bounty, a set of portraits by a talented pirate await delivery.

Xbox Addict may be an unusual pirate name, but this truly legendary swashbuckler reached a level of admiration and honour that few dream of. With help from Geordie Tommy, the two crafted this beautiful book to show off their talents. They say it once contained an incredible surprise.

On Smuggler's Bay, in a dark cave, a talented pair left one of their legendary creations.

You don't need Umbra to know the legend of Kato, the most beloved dog on the seas. Patting him on the head was sure to bring fortune to your voyages!

On Galleon's Grave, high up on the wreck, there lived a dog of legendary adorableness.

This crumpled doodle was drawn by a pirate's five-year-old son, mapping his favourite island. No doubt he will grow up to be a fine cartographer.

A young cartographer was known to hone their skills at a camp on Smuggler's Bay.

This package is part of a correspondence between caring pirates from different regions. Becoming friends despite living far apart, they sent this care package of confectionary - but the contents were scoffed long ago.

They say that an unusual merchant delivery ended up on the docks at Morrow's Peak.

Umbra heard rumours of a pirate called Clumsy George, who fought off a kraken with only a broom! At least, that's the story he told everyone. He told it so often, they named the tavern after him!

There must be a story behind this unusual tavern sign on Sanctuary Outpost.

There's a very old pirate out there with cat-like reflexes, known as SayHeyRocco. When you hear 'Meow Meow, Kiss Kiss', you know they were coming! When that pirate got hold of several chickens and the coloured lights of the Ferry, things got even stranger!

Rumour has it that a strange scene was painted on a large rock on Chicken Isle.

~Dread Pirate Doug~
This pirate had the bright idea of writing out all their skills and pirating history, to ensure they found gainful employment with future crews. It's a good job that the law doesn't come to the Sea of Thieves…

On Golden Sands, filling your crew is easy when the pirates advertise in the tavern.

Once, long ago, I was standing atop these cliffs and staring out to sea, quite lost in my own thoughts. Suddenly, there was an almighty crashing sound. It was a kraken, and one of the largest I’d seen for quite some years! I was so startled, I couldn’t help but take leap backwards in surprise. Once I’d picked up myself up, battered and bloody, I decided to install this ladder in case any future visitors took a tumble in the same way. Nowadays, thanks to that fool Merrick, krakens aren’t the only sea monsters to watch for. Megalodons are once more roaming freely beneath the waves. They can prove quite the challenge even for experienced pirates. Why, I once battled a monstrous pale skinned beast at — well, I’ll save that tale for another time. 

I don’t like Trading Companies. There were none when I first came to the Sea of Thieves, young and cocky as I was. I don’t blame people for working with the Gold Hoarders though. If you’ve found a chest you can’t open, why NOT take it to them? Well… Maybe because we should have been asking ourselves what they do with the treasure afterwards, when we’ve walked away. I think it comes here. I think it ALL comes here. That’s why this place is called Shores of Gold. 

Only the Captain’s Cabin affords any measure of privacy on a galleon such as ours. I knew that if I were to act, it would have to be while we returned aboard our rowboat. I leaned closer. Rose tilted her head, quizzically. With my heart in my mouth, I moved nearer still… My oar struck a sandbar just then. We touched! Or rather, collided. Rose’s forehead; my (now rather bloody) nose. I am dismayed, but not defeated. Once Quickshot is returned to the soil and we reach Sailor’s Bounty, I shall try my luck again… 

Finally, a balmy day, and a chance to document my research before it all spills out of my head and overboard. Ramsey has been thinking again, and that usually means I’m the one due for a headache. He called for me late last night… “Mercia. How might we stay safe in the Devil’s Shroud?” I just stared at him. We all know how dangerous that fog is. It surrounds the Sea of Thieves, but it ebbs and flows. Sometimes it swallows whole islands for months or even years at a time. Sail into that mist, and you’ll start to choke. The deck beneath your feet will splinter. The Shroud feasts on ships and sailors alike. Being me, of course I told Ramsey I’d find a way. I’ve left my notes tucked away at Ancient Spire. I’ll see what I can learn. 

Of all the unsolved mysteries that haunt my dreams, none are more tantalising than the long-lost people known to pirates as ‘The Ancients’. Their legacy can be felt all across the Sea of Thieves, from ruins that lurk under deep waters to clifftop paintings that shame my humbler efforts. They clearly had a great wealth of knowledge and had mastered many curses and other arcane powers… and yet, something drove them to leave. Maybe some great war or calamity struck their civilisation? Perhaps it was simply time for them to move on. The truth, as it always has, eludes us all. 

A book that waits upon the edge of a heavy, bladed weapon... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

The more time I spend with Briggsy, the more I wonder if all pirates are ultimately fated to be consumed by their own greed. Is the endless pursuit of gold and glitter, in and of itself, the greatest trap of all? As an experiment, I have decided to leave a trail that will lead to the very treasure I have been commanded to protect. They’ll be devious clues, of course. Ones that goad, deliberately mislead and test the mettle of those who read them. One last game, then, winner takes all. Is there someone out there on the Sea of Thieves worthy of the stone? We shall see… 

This book is about the origins of the Warsmith… signed by 'Umbra'.
I met Salty - a genuine skeletal parrot! He was once a man, but was changed when creating cursed cannonballs from one of Flameheart's cannons. His partner in alchemy was the weaponsmith, Wanda, who forced him to take the brunt of the curse. But she did not escape unscathed. Flameheart's hatred fed her own, until she became the twisted skeleton captain, 'The Warsmith'. She waged a failed war on the Outposts.

This book is about the origins of the Warsmith… signed by 'Umbra'.

“Know your enemy.” — Sun-Tzu, “The Art of War”.
Who is Graymarrow, the wretch that pursues us endlessly in our quest for the Shroudbreaker? Long ago, I crossed paths with a gaunt and pitiles fellow whose crew may as well have been his slaves. Can this be the same man, fallen victim to a curse that has hardened what little heart he once possessed? A man, at the George and Kraken tavern claims that he can tell me more… 

This book is about the appearance of the Fort of the Damned… signed by 'Umbra'.
Stitcher Jim believes that the appearance of the Fort of the Damned is the result of a ritual using the stolen Dark Relics. Pirates have found that the coloured Flames of Fate can be used to 'wake' the twisted Fort and repel the skeletons seeking to use it. But what's really going on? Such determination to get into our world… but are we stopping them or helping them by waking the Fort?!

This book is about the appearance of the Fort of the Damned… signed by 'Umbra'.

The more I learn about Graymarrow, the more certain I am that we must recover and reunite the Shroudbreaker’s pieces. At this point, escaping into the Shroud may be our only means of escaping him. We need rest. He requires none. Fontaine believes we should surrender the one Shroudbreaker fragment we do possess, and plead for clemency. I, however, fear it is far too late. This chase has become a matter of pride for Graymarrow, and he wishes us gone for good. A confrontation seems inevitable, yet still we flee, speeding to Marauder’s Arch as our last supplies run dry… 

Now I understand why they call it a ‘Chest of Rage’. I can hear the souls inside and they ain’t stopped yelling and screaming, not once. I says to ’em, it’s nothing personal, just that I already had their belongings lying around from that Pendragon business. Dunn was the easiest to find, snoring his head off at a sea post with a splashtail in one hand and in the other. He didn’t even wake up! Cavendish was next. Her Dad was the one whose soul got trapped on the Blackwyche back in the day, so bad luck must run in the family. Rodriguez put up a fight and nearly stuck me. Too bad I’d already slipped something into her grog. Well, she doesn’t need a stomach no more… 

You know how some people are good climbers? Well, I am a GREAT climber. That’s why I left this book up here, as proof. Well… I say “climb”. I actually used a cannon from the wreck of my sloop. But if you’re reading this, you must’ve had the same idea. This place has some amazing views, and I want to see them all! I do wish I had someone to talk to though… I hope you’re okay out there, Sudds. 

There are whispers, low and fearful, that Graymarrow has begun to wield some fell powers of his own. To whit, he has found a way to ‘maroon’ — for want of another term — the spirits of those he bests in battle. Souls imprisoned by such a curse can never find their way to the Ferry of the Damned, and remain lost. We sail at top speed to Sunken Grove, out in the Wilds. I am taking night watch. I doubt that I could sleep tonight… 

I reached another of Briggsy’s nests to find it empty, or so I thought at first. That was when I heard the cries for help. His shouting led me to a scrawny little man, whose head fell some way short of my shoulder, mewling from inside a barrel. Having climbed inside when Briggsy and her crew arrived, he had spent the night cowering in his keg, only to find the lid stuck fast. I released him in exchanged for what little coin he had, and he was only too happy to reveal Briggsy’s heading: Wanderer’s Refuge. 

Snake has many voices and likes to play tricks. He coiled along a branch and waited until the Great Warrior was near. “Help me!” came the Sea Queen’s cry, “Won’t someone help me, for wicked One-Eye has me by the tail!” Warrior heard it all. Warrior ran through the trees, not looking up above his head, and whump! There came Singing Snake to coil around his throat. Snake is cunning, but Warrior is strong! He grabbed at Snake and hurled him up into the stars, where he has lived ever since! Sudds can’t get a good view from here. Needs to sail out to Old Harry’s place before daybreak… 

This is a weird place. It looks like someone used powder kegs to blow their way down into whatever lies below this island. Maybe they managed it somehow, maybe not. Either way, the tunnel they left behind collapsed a long time ago. There has to be another way down. Ancient civilisations love putting secret passages in stuff. It’s a well-known fact! Ask anyone. Whatever it takes, I’m going to get down there. I want to see every last inch of this place before I leave! 

You’ve really done it this time, Ramsey. It’s one thing to return to your favourite island and quite another to wreck your ship at the heart of it. I was bound to get careless sooner or later. This place has been my little secret for so long now. I couldn’t wait to get back here. To dream… I’m so close to the Shroud, I feel like I could reach out and touch it. I’m not ready to sport a hook for a hand, though. Not yet, anyway! What lies on the other side? Piles of glittering gems? Huge leviathans the size of galleons? Even better… Might there be a future for pirates like me? Next time, things will be different. I’ll visite Magpie, the Shipwright, and buy a new vessel. Take my time, find a crew. We shall sail together.

A new landmark! This stricken ship certainly wasn’t here during my last visit. There’s no sign of her crew, so perhaps they fell overboard and met their end. Things are very different on the Sea of Thieves — thanks in no small part to my own adventures, I must confess. We have an… arrangement… with the merfolk who live deep under the waves. Should any pirate become lost at sea, stranded, they’ll help them back to their ship. If you should find yourself flung overboard, traveller, look for the merfolk’s beacon before the sharks get your scent. You’ll be glad you did! 

I tried every trick I could think of to stay awake, but I nodded off up on this bridge, amongst another group of skeletons. I dreamed there was a man standing over me, stern and smart. He reminded me a bit of that old captain Jill used to idolise… It was like he was trying to say something… and then KABOOM! Lightning strike. I woke up in SUCH a panic! My foot got tangled in some ropes and I started screaming. I tugged as hard as I could… and all of the cages toppled off the bridge. Oops. I’m done. Dawn is here and I didn’t see one single ghost. I’ll leave my books behind in case someone else has better luck. I’m coming home now, Dad. Once again, I’m coming home and Jill isn’t. Sorry. 

Did you ever walk into a room thinking about something so hard, you couldn’t see it right in front of you? The truth is like that, sometimes. While filling my tankard below deck, I happened to glance down at the map table. Ancient Spire. In the Ancient Isles. The truth… I’ve asked to set course for Devil’s Ridge, nearby. If I’m right, the key to breaching the Shroud has been in front of me all along. We like to think of ourselves as being the first to find a way of reaching the Sea of Thieves, but that isn’t the truth. Not one bit… 

I made it, Dad! I know you told me my ratty old sloop couldn’t make it safely through the Wilds, but I’m here in one piece. And that’s good, I mean, this island is one of the most haunted places there is. They definitely don’t need my ghost here, too. I may not be much of a pirate, Dad, and you’ve never been afraid to say so. But tonight I’m going to finally do something right! My hands are shaking so much I can hardly write, but I’ve got to do this. I’m GOING to do this. Definitely not scared and definitely going to do this. Definitely. Right now. 

A book left behind at a Hunter's old camp... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

A book gazing upon the open sea, near to a faithful friend... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

A book waits where a mighty ship crests twin peaks... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

The First Ones. The Lost Tribes. The Ancients. Whatever you call them, they lived here, in what we now know as the Sea of Thieves. Signs of their civilisation can be found all over the place, even on islands that were once claimed by the Devil’s Shroud. They built temples, altars — places that were important to them. They couldn’t simply pack up and leave when the fog drew in… I’ll need to cross-reference some of my oldest notes, stashed away back at Thieves’ Haven. Our first hideout! How nostalgic. 

A book on a rock, gazing out over Death's domain... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

I’ve made a huge mistake. I only wanted a little thing. Just a keepsake, something to prove I’ve been here. Just one little trinket from a treasure pile. I don’t feel sick, or cursed. I feel great! And that’s bad, because I haven’t slept or eaten in days. There’s a different kind of feeling inside me now, though. I don’t like it. I don’t understand it. But I know it’s getting stronger. 

He was waiting for me, just as I expected. I thought he’d attack, but he seemed to understand. He says I can’t go back. I’ll be an outcast. A target. I know he’s right. If I agree to serve, he’ll share a cure one day. He’s probably lying. But what choice do I have? Briggsy died on this island, and I’m all that’s left. 

A book at the mouth of a cave, lost upon a waning moon... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

As I hoped, the pirate I overheard stashed a map to the Shroudbreaker here. I’m sure she won’t mind me borrowing it! All those new places beyond the Shroud! I can’t wait to make my mark on them, so everyone knows I got there first. It’s so stormy though… I stashed some vittles in the wreck at Old Salts Atoll, so I’ll hole up there for tonight. Then tomorrow, I’m off to claim my prize. I just need to work out how to open the vault… 

Sudds met a young whippersnapper today. Green as leaves, he was. He hadn’t even heard of the North Star! You don’t need no spyglass to find her, Sudds told the lad, she’s the biggest and brightest friend and she likes to stay put. Spot the North Star and you’ll never need a compass again! And the boy smiled, and asked Sudds: “What if it’s raining?” Sudds gave the lad a thick ear. Busy, too busy for foolish questions! Gots to reach ol’ Plunder by nightfall… 

So we’re at Cannon Cove and there’s just gold sat there like a big dumb trap for idiots. Guess who runs rights up to it and gets jumped by an enemy crew lying in wait? YUP! I had to fight all four of them myself. Lucky I had Georges sword and mine also. I was angry though so it was an easy fight. He never realised it was him I was mad at. Let’s see if we can make it to Lone Cove without me strangling him. I say it’s 50–50. 

Well this is embarrassing. I’m normally a dab hand behind the wheel, and I don’t make a habit of wrecking my ship halfway up the beach. Still, what matters is that I made it here. Another first for Captain Briggsy! I should plant a flag, but all I have is these journals. I’m kind of disappointed that the shores aren’t really made of gold, but at least I won’t go blind once the sun comes up. The Shroud doesn’t seem to cover the island, just… wrap around it, I guess. That means it’s safe to explore, and exploring I shall go! 

It’s still night, but I just woke up sweating. My first really bad dream in years. Maybe if I write it out, I can sleep. I was back in the tavern at Golden Sands, on the night Ramsey called parley. Trying to open on of those sealed chests. I couldn’t pick the lock. Couldn’t force it. Then suddenly, there’s the key in my hand. I smirk and throw open the lid… Nothing there. Seriously. Nothing, like looking into a chasm. A bottomless pit in a box. And suddenly, I feel hands on my back, shoving me! I think it’s one of Ramsey’s men, and now I’m inside the chest, falling — screaming out as the lid snaps shut overhead… Then I woke up. Ugh. 

We’ve all seen what happens when huge armadas try to make it through the Devil’s Shroud, and it’s not pretty. Screaming sailors and splintered ships. I learned long ago that smaller crews have a better chance of making it along the twisting routes that provide safe passage to the Sea of Thieves. A lone traveller is best served by a sloop. They’re small and nimble, though their size comes at the expense of firepower. Larger crews must learn to sail a brigantine, or even the mighty galleon — a commanding sight with her eight cannons and three great sails. Then, of course, we have the humble rowboat. These tiny craft can be carried by the other larger ships and are perfect for retaining the element of surprise… 

It was a risk, but I was right to take it. Our repairs had left us low on supplies, and I could not rule out the possibility of another attack. I do not know how the pirates divined our heading. Perhaps it was mere chance, and yet, when I set foot on land, her Captain was lying in wait. Had I sent my crew, they would likely be lying in pieces, but my bones were forged in fire. In moments, it was he who lay broken at my feet. As before, our Commander bound the fool’s spirit so that he could not return from the Sea of the Damned. He will plague us no longer! The final leg of our journey sees us pass Flintlock Peninsula. Until then, I have much to consider. Once our mission is complete, what will become of us? 

A book near where an old lantern still burns faithfully... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

They say you should be careful what you wish for. The greatest voyage of my life, and this is how it ends… Boneheads don’t attack me now. They just stand and stare, like they’re expecting… What? Orders? From me? I can feel a darkness in my heart. I want to lash out, like I did to that Naughty Man at Galleon’s Grave. I’m so, SO glad that girl can’t see me like this. I don’t want her to hear this story. My last story… I… I don’t want her to know I’m a monster… 

‘The Sea of Thieves’. That’s what they’re calling it nowadays. The genie is out of the bottle, and more pirates are finding their way there every day. Some are looking to hide — from their enemies, from their pasts, from the Grand Maritime Union — while others have heard the call to adventure. It’s only a matter of time before they reach this island, too. Maybe they’ll be dreaming about the Sea of Thieves has to offer, just as I was. If that’s the shape of things to come, I’d be a fool to complain. Instead, I’ll stow a few supplies around the place for those who need them. Things work differently beyond the Shroud. Better, for the most part, but newcomers will have to think on their feet if they’re to survive.

Not all my journeys to this island are happy ones. Today I stumbled onto this poor soul, map still in their hands. To think, they were so close… No matter how swiftly we sail or how sharp our aim, it is only a matter of time before the Reaper’s hand clamps down upon our shoulder. I am fortunate to have had a friend with wisdom enough to know this. Thanks to her, I live on beyond my years… at least in spirit. For younger pirates, another hope presents itself. When they perish, their souls are saved from drifting alone through the Sea of the Damned. If you should die on the Sea of Thieves and find yourself in the Ferryman’s company, know this: he deserves your respect, for he has made the greatest sacrifice of all… 

A book cast away by a pirate who'd had too much to drink... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

Wretched pirates! They dared to interrupt our journey and try to scavenge from us! Now we must moor at Scorched Pass and make repairs. Two galleons approached at once, as allies. Clearly they meant to surround us, though the heat of our flames kept them at bay. To my surprise, our Commander stepped forward, moving with a swiftness I did not expect and burning white-hot with righteous fury. So magnificent was he, one ship turned and fled! The other was ripped apart by our cannon fire even as our crew assailed theirs. To punish their insolence, our Commander himself boarded their vessel, using his great power to curse their Captain before hurling her into the hateful sea. 

Kareen, my love, I hope you never read this. Today I made the worst mistake of my life. I was such an idiot. I recognised her livery on the horizon and thought I’d pick a fight with the famous Briggsy. It wasn’t her! Well it was, but cursed! Her flesh mostly rotted away, and so fierce. Like a wild animal. She didn’t kill me, only threw me in a cage. She said starving my way onto the ferry would teach me a lesson. I’m so hungry, and this is so cruel! I don’t know what Briggsy is now, Kareen. I just know she isn’t human any more.

The fog had already rolled in by the time I started hunting. You know how it muffles sound and makes everything strange? Well of course you know, Dad… You know everything. Anyway, my mind started playing tricks on me pretty much straight away. I got turned around, and started climbing, trying to get out the fog… Groping, blindly, hoping I didn’t walk straight off a ledge. That’s when my hand touch it. Polished bone, cold as ice and moist from the fog. I thought I’d be seized by skellies for sure! Lucky for me, the sun broke through just then. It was just a boring old kraken skull, not anything supernatural! Whew. 

I am very much creeped out right now, not that I’d ever admit it to anyone. I finally made it on top of the throne and inside. I hadn’t gone far before I spotted a chest. One of the sealed ones people sometimes sell to the Gold Hoarders, but… open. It looked just like the one from my dream. Like, exactly the same. It sounds stupid but I didn’t dare go near it in case I fell in. As if I needed more clues, I spotted the Gold Hoarder emblem on a door, too. So. They’ve been here before. But why? 

Well. This escalated quickly. Ramsey remembered the drunken ramblings of some old salt who’d sailed too close to the Devil’s Shroud. The old man claimed he’d glimpsed a glittering island… One where the very ground was made of gems and precious metals. It sounds impossible, but as Ramsey likes to say, that’s just another way of describing something we haven’t seen yet. At first light, we’ll be setting out to find that Shroudbreaker. If these Shores of Gold are real, it’s the only way we’ll reach them. I should get to my bunk and try for sleep. From now on, Ramsey’s voyage journal can tell our story… 

We have stopped to rest on our way to the Lagoon of Whispers, but the only whisper I can hear is echoes of the question. Asked so plainly, the shock of it has completely dulled my senses, and I’m still no closer to the answer. It’s like that game where children pull petals off flowers one at a time. She loves me, she loves me not. Although it’s more like… I love her, I love her not, I love her… I love her… I… Oh dear. 

Bah! Looks like I’m not the first to make it here after all. This stuff doesn’t look ancient, just old, and I’m sure it was made by pirates. I guess the island slips out of the Devil’s Shroud from time to time, and that’s when others came? Maybe even Ramsey got here in the end. Well, no point in sulking. I’m here now, and I bet I can find something they missed. A memento, to help remember this place. And when I tell this story, maybe I’ll conveniently forget to mention this little discovery. We’ll make it our secret, okay? 

It exists! Proof lies in some of the most obscure places (Ramsey won’t let me write down where) but the relic’s real enough. As near as I can tell, they used artefact like a beacon to protect their homes and places of worship from the Shroud’s effects. At other times, it was taken to a vault to recover its powers. When I told Ramsey, he replied “Ah, so it’s a shroud breaker, then!” All of this seems to have inspired him. We’re making for Plunder Outpost on Ramsey’s orders, to see a man about a map… 

Three flagons of brandy and a fine meal claimed the last of my coin. Fortunately, I already have a new bounty in my sights. The simpering woman in her tent at first refused to hand the wretched paper over. “Too dangerous”, she said. What rot! I might well have turned my blade upon her but for my cardinal rule: I never kill for free. The paper is mine now, regardless. And who is this Briggsy? A capering child, it seems; a pirate more concerned with showing off than amassing any great fortune. She is known to make camp at Discovery Ridge. Doubtless I shall catch her there at play. We’ll see how long her humour lasts. 

Great Warrior took his arrows and went to make war with Kraken, but he had lost a feather along the way. He thought of Singing Snake and the venom it used to bite, and he tipped each of his arrows with the very same. The arrows stung the Old Mother and made her sleepy, so that she sank down to the sea bed. Warrior gave out a great cry. The ancients came, then, with their great chains. Together they bound Kraken rightly to the star above, far out of reach. The Sea Queen was grateful, for her people were saved, and she promised they would always help those lost at sea. 

A book on a pier, near where masked secrets lurk and linger... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

A book waiting to be discovered, near a mighty ridge... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

Blast it all! The key to my ship’s hold is missing. It must have slipped from my pocket at some point in my time here. Between this and that business with Rathbone, I’m developing a bad habit of losing the keys to my belongings. Perhaps it made its bid for freedom from my jacket when I climbed up for a drink of fresh spring water. Ah well. It’s another lost treasure now. 

For the first time since our mission began, our Commander issued new orders. I did not dare to question them. Tri-Rock Isle, Cinder Islet, Cursewater Shores. At his instruction,we sailed to each of them in turn, and I went ashore. There, I buried three great treasures from our hold — relics that even our Commander regarded with something approaching fear. I can only hope I have hidden his belongings well enough that they shall remain undisturbed. Even as he is now, I fear his wrath. Now, we resume our charted course, passing Liar’s Backbone as we sail. I hope that this shall be our final diversion. 

This book is about the hunting of Krakens… signed by 'Umbra'.
The fogs on the Sea of Thieves are heavy, but were especially bad during a certain year. They seemed to stir up the Krakens and sharks. Perhaps those creatures just saw a chance to prey on lost ships, but the tables soon turned as pirates realised something… Many Krakens and Megalodons eat up valuable loot from the ships they sink. Suddenly, hunting them for goodies became a tempting prospect!

This book is about the hunting of Krakens… signed by 'Umbra'.

Recently, I’ve been testing different kinds of blades to see which are the most useful for ‘deterring’ intruders. I’ve had some success with sword traps, as they look fearsome and have an excellent range. They’re expensive to make, of course. Saw traps use shorter, duller metal blades, and are definitely useful in confined spaces. Still, they lack a certain style… Or should I go back to the tried-and-tested “wall o’ stakes”? Though primitive, you can’t argue with the classics. Decisions, decisions… 

A book sleeping near the cart of an exhausted Smuggler... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

A book at the heart of a tiny island to the far south... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

This book is about the fate of the Forsaken Shores Alliance… signed by 'Umbra'.
When Grace Morrow and Stitcher Jim joined their crews to form The Forsaken Shores Alliance, they travelled to places few pirates had seen. They even reached The Devil's Roar thanks to the Shroudbreaker, but Stitcher Jim was secretly seeking power for his then-master, the Gold Hoarder. He betrayed and killed all of them but Captain Morrow, who survived her poisoning but was trapped in the Roar. A dark tale indeed.

This book is about the fate of the Forsaken Shores Alliance… signed by 'Umbra'.

A soggy book lurks at a great, round island to the west... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

This book is about the Festival of the Damned… signed by 'Umbra'.
This ways no easy spot to reach! During the Festival of the Damned, pirates would light these beacons with various coloured flames. How incredible that the Ferryman allowed access to the Flames of Fate, which change to reflect how a pirate dies. I'd like to learn more about them… but I'm not rushing to the Ferry of the Damned. What if I don't come back? A chilling prospect.

This book is about the Festival of the Damned… signed by 'Umbra'.

A book discovered by a pirate seeking shelter and Sanctuary... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

If you’re reading this, you’ve broken into my strongbox, who makes you a worthy pirate indeed! Worthy enough to hear my plan. Transforming this old stomping ground of mine into a safe haven for travellers has sparked something deep within my soul. It is the flame of an idea — a great tavern, far more magnificent than the usual pubs and alehouses, known only to truly legendary pirates. A den that sold only the finest plunder, where hardened adventurers and cunning sea dogs could meet to swap stories of gold and glory. If you make it to the Sea of Thieves, and should your heart desire a real challenge, heed my words: seek Athena’s Fortune. I shall be waiting. 

A book in the beach shelter of one who sought safe harbour... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

A book in the greenery, where elysian waters bubble forth... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

This book is about the theft of the Dark Relics… signed by 'Umbra'.
I have found some strange artefacts, which I believe to be what the Order of Souls calls 'Dark Relics'. Many of these arcane objects were stolen from them in an organised effort by the skeletons, though Duke was able to retrieve many. The Dark Relics were later used for terrible deeds, opening windows to other worlds and dispelling powerful curses!

This book is about the theft of the Dark Relics… signed by 'Umbra'.

This book is about Duke's business and the arrival of the Emporium… signed by 'Umbra'.
I've come across strange activity by Duke. It seems he got much of his Black Market stock from these accursed Reaper's Chests. The things he couldn't use - piles of bones, mostly - he sold on as Rag and Bone Crates. Strange what people will do to make their way. These Pirate Emporium folks, for example. Once Gold Hoarders, now working for some outsider. But suck delightful pets they sell!

This book is about Duke's business and the arrival of the Emporium… signed by 'Umbra'.

A book waiting where pirates who speak sharply come to rest... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

Some experimentation with weight and counterweights have allowed me to devise a new trigger, as well as protection for my workshop. Even working with wood, for metal is precious and in short supply, I can use the weight of any intruder to spring a nearby trap. As sensitive as these devices are, it is nearly impossible to disguise them entirely. Thus, they are best deployed in darker areas. Unfortunately, I have been unable to completely muffle the noise made by the mechanism when someone blunders onto it. A cunning criminal with sharp ears might, I suppose, get enough warning to save their own skin. Regardless, I am making progress… 

A book at a camp, where plundering pirates made their home... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

A book safe and snug inside, near mirth and music... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

This book is about the arrival of The Hungering One… signed by 'Umbra'.
After asking Merrick himself, deciphering his drunken journals and speaking to pirates who were there, I believe this is it. This is where they used Merrick's accidental enchanted shanty to summon forth the first Megalodon - The Hungering One! Those pirates avenged poor Merrick's crew, not to mention his legs. But now all of the ancient, deep sharks have awoken…

This book is about the arrival of The Hungering One… signed by 'Umbra'.

Even with all the wonders I’ve experienced, it’s the simple things in life remain the most enjoyable. Tonight, that’s a hot meal roasted over a roaring fire. Fresh fruit’s all well and good, but if you take the time to properly prepare a meal, you’ll feel all the better for it. The trick is to keep an eye on the dish and serve it up when it’s perfectly cooked. No amount of grog can wash away the taste of burned food. With care and a bit of practice, even a humble splashtail can keep a pirate in good health with a full belly. At least they’re good for something! 

A book upon the shore at the four bridged islands... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

This book is about Duke selling gunpowder to the Trading Companies… signed by 'Umbra'.
The skeletons once began hoarding huge amount of gunpowder, known since as 'Black Powder Stashes'. The Trading Companies didn't like that, so Duke of the Bilge Rats saw a chance to make the seas safer while also making a lot of gold. It seems this was Duke's first step towards acquiring the connections and capital needed to launch the Black Market.

This book is about Duke selling gunpowder to the Trading Companies… signed by 'Umbra'.

A book perched crookedly atop a steep slope, high overhead... signed by 'Glitterbeard'.

She was following us again all day. I could see her sails on the horizon. Just out of reach of the cannons. COWARD. I knew I wanted this life. Ever since I fell from my parents’ sloop as a nipper and got saved by Captain Briggsy herself! She looked me up and down and said I was going to be the sort of pirate who never let danger scare her away. And thanks to her I never have. But they all say it’s still too dangerous to take on Rooke. I guess to keep George happy I will just keep writing my feelings down instead of wasting all our ammo. Ugh. I wish things were simple again like they were back at Cannon Cove… 

Started keeping a diary again. It doesn’t beat telling my tales in a busy tavern, but it’ll do for now. Besides, it’s time for another adventure. The yearning’s back, deep in my belly. Time to sail again. Lucky me, overhearing the girl with the merfolk earrings. A Shroudbreaker? Sounds like fun! If what she said is true, I should take a scout around Mermaid’s Hideaway. Just in case… 

Today has been one of the best day of my life and one of the funniest too. My sides still hurt! George had been thinking (too much) about how to propose to me. Where to take me and how to stand and what to say. Too bad he forgot to look where he was walking! He turned and said “Rose will you marry aaargh!” He fell into a tree and got stuck upside-down swinging all day! Until we chopped it down anyway. Ha ha ha! Laughing again. But of course I said yes anyway. As if I could refuse my George after all of that! 

This is crazy. I’ve met a dozen pirates who claim this island is haunted. Were all of them just teasing me? Laughing at me? I can’t accept that. I HAVE to meet a ghost! Talk to it, maybe. Find out why they never came back aboard the Ferry of the Damned. I have to know that there’s more, Dad. I have to prove it. I want to know, to make you believe, that someday we’ll get to see Jill again. 

If my hands were large enough, I’d wring Duke’s neck! What does he think he’s doing, paying pirates to steal back the things I stole?! For now, though, I’ve got to cosy up to him and help him flog his junk crates. Make him think I’ve turned over a new leaf. As if! I mean, maybe he lost the Dark Relics we needed to resurrect you-know-who, but there’s more than one way to pluck a parrot. Once I’ve finished here I’ll head to the wreck of the Blackwyche and scrounge around for a few ‘leftovers’. Even a lock of hair’ll do… Word is, its Captain can’t resist playing the hero with that magic sword of his. That means I’ve just got to point him to the right place. 

It seems that my suspicions were correct. The Skeleton Lord who now pursues us is a bitter rival from my past. I have met Gold Hoarders with skin like midas’ own, and they claim it to be a consequence of handling cursed coin. Can a healthy, flesh and blood man really be transformed, in such a fashion as to command legions of the undead? On this strange, unknowable Sea of Thieves, it sometimes seems as though anything is possible. I shall consider the matter further as we make for Cannon Cove. 

To think when I began my hunt at Sharkbait Cove that it would end this way! Beaten and humiliated, my weapons tossed aside. I struggled and spat as her bony fingers knotted my repos together, binding me. Each threat I uttered only made her laugh harder. And yet… She was glorious! I cannot deny it. With every shot she dodged, each blow parried, I realised I had finally met my match. I refuse to board the ferry. I cannot bear to return in shame — to see the faces of those who know me twisted into mocking sneers. Death it is, then. A new kind of journey, and perhaps new bounties? Maybe the Reaper himself needs an apprentice… 

I’ve been around a long time, but I’ve never seen a box like this one. I dunno where my beloved dug it up from, but it stinks like a crypt. I’m actually pretty nervous. Messing around with curses is all well and good if you’re the Order of Souls, but it makes my teeth itch. What can I do, though? Master needs souls to summon his Ashen Lord, and if I want to stay in his good books, I’m the man to find ‘em. Sounds simple, but it ain’t, ‘cos to trap a soul in the chest I first need something that belongs to ‘em, not to mention more of them Dark Relics. Lucky for me, that trip I took to the Blackwyche has already given me everything I need… 

That kraken skull gave me an idea… I decided that if I were a ghost, I’d take notice pretty quickly if someone messed with my remains. I went around the island, gathering up all of the skulls I could find and piling them up. I found some candles, too, which is good. If I do meet an angry ghost, I certainly don’t want to do it in the dark. Also, now I can see to write down more of my adventure. Looks like a storm will be here by dawn. I miss the bed in my room, with all it’s familiar creaks. But I made a promise to myself. So… 

He has a weakness! At last, here at Marauder’s Arch, I was able to seize orders scrawled by Graymarrow himself. By his own hand, I have learned that even Graymarrow must sometimes rest his wicked bones below the soil. If he could be taken by surprise, it might be possible to defeat him… but our food is gone. Our cannons empty. Instead, we must limp back to Boulder Cay, beach our vessel in the shallows there and make our final stand together. My crew are terrified, we but sail on. I could not be more proud, and can only hope that one day we shall be avenged. 

There was once a great battle that shook the whole heavens, and caused great sadness to Sudds’s friends above. Great Warrior knew that he would have to battle Old Kraken, for she planned to feast on the merfolk and their kin. To fletch the arrows he would need, Warrior told Proud Eagle to give up eight of his feathers, or they would go to war. Eagle refused, of course, and tore at Warrior with his sharp talons, but it was no use. Warrior fled with his golden prizes! He dropped one feather as he fell back to earth, and it’s still in the stars! Sudds wants to see it from the moon-shaped isle… 

This place reeks worse than the drinking den where I tell my stories, but at least it’s warm and dry. It’ll do! I can’t wait to see that little girl’s face when I tell her Briggsy made it to the Shores of Gold. Not sure I can risk bringing Sudds along. He means well, but it’s a long voyage and he’s not exactly nimble. I hope he’ll understand… Well, the storm’s easing off. Time to snatch myself a Shroudbreaker! 

If there’s one thing pirates love more than their rum bottles, it’s making up ridiculous names for their pitiful fights of fancy. They insisted that Briggsy, my quarry, has been transformed into a ‘Skeleton Lord’ with others at her beck and call. Did they really expect to scare me with this revelation? Whether or not they can walk and talk, bones can be broken just the same. It makes me all the more eager to hunt the rat down and put her in her place. Perhaps we’ll finally meet at Kraken’s Fall… 

Too late once again, but by a matter of minutes. The ashes of her campfire were still smouldering, her prints fresh. If the wind remains fair, I’ll make it to Crook’s Hollow in time to introduce myself, and we’ll see how brave Briggsy really is. Her crew deserve no such consideration. I’ll smash them before they even know I’m there. A ‘’fair fight’ for hunter and prey. Her smart-mouthed skull will fetch a handsome price — that is, if I don’t decide to keep it as a trophy for myself instead… 

Pendragn only went and ruddy did it! We all saw Flameheart, larger than life, letting the whole Sea of Thieves know that he’s back! Next thing I know, I’m sailing out so that I can swear my allegiance to him. Sorry, Rathbone, but Stitcher Jim’s got a new master now… Being here in the Devil’s Roar puts me dangerously close to Cap’n Sorrow, but so what? She’ll get here soon enough. The master’s plan will birth the first of his new Ashen Lords, and there’ll be more where that came from! All loyal to him — to US! Everyone who ever did wrong by Stitcher Jim — Sorrow, the Bilge Rats, the Order of Souls — is about to be sorry. Very sorry indeed… 

Brave little Glimmer Fish…. He used to swim down here in the water with all of his brothers and sisters, shining in the sun. Sometimes it’s not wise to shine too brightly… Bigger fish came with empty bellies, and their teeth went snicker-snack! Soon Glimmer Fish was the only one left to guide the ancient ones on their journey here. One brave little light, all alone… The ancients felt sorry for Glimmer Fish and placed him in the heavens where he could swim in safety. Lucky little fishy! Now Sudds must swim along too, all the way to the shores named after the sneaky snake… 

I am run proper ragged! It’s so hot down here I can’t hardly breathe, but guess who’s got to make sure all the traps are working? I don’t dare complain though. Rathbone could be scary but most of the time it was like you weren’t in the room. Only his gold mattered. When the master speaks, it’s like he knows what you’re thinking. He’s smart. Scary smart, and he believes Pendragon will try to stop the ritual. Well, let him try, I say! No matter how many pirate pals he brings along, they’ll never make it through to me in time. Speaking of time… I should head t the Ritual Chamber. All my hard work’s finally about to pay off! Finally, Stitcher Jim gets what he deserves. 

Even while being forced to work against my will — and don’t think I don’t know which bird-brain is responsible — I still have my pride. As the greatest Trapmaker the Sea of Thieves has ever seen, I must devise something brilliant to protect an equally brilliant treasure. How, then, shall I prove the effectiveness of my creation? Why, by using a few greedy, grog-addled gold-diggers as guinea-pigs! I shall begin my experiments upon Discovery Ridge. A few barrels packed with gewgaws should entice pirates into my game… 

The deed is done. A great door protects the remains, and will keep pirates and other intruders at bay. I have ensured it can only be opened from within. When the last of the Rites had been completed, our Commander bade us set course, deep into the Devil’s Shroud itself. I thought perhaps he meant for its tendrils to destroy the Ashen Dragon as it has so many other ships, but he gave me one last order. Once he had spoken, the Commander burned so fiercely that even the fog seemed afraid, and so a path was cleared. Such is the might of an Ashen Lord! He is naught but dust now, his power expended. As ordered, we will pass through the Shroud and into hiding until we are needed once more. One day, we shall summon us, and the world shall once again know the fury of the Ashen Dragon… 

Today is the Fated Day. The darkest of hours, on which we of the Ashen Dragon must set sait to fulfil our final duty. I am her Captain. I alone remember the words of flesh-kind, though I am as old as our ship. And yet, on this Fated Day, another commands me. He speaks little, save to explain the Rites. The flames that perpetually wreath our vessel seem to coil around him, as if longing for his touch. It seems our route is preordained, and takes in many past glories. First, we shall sail to Shiver Retreat, blazing a path across the waves. Our precious cargo and its guard are below deck, in their rightful place. All that we are, all we have accomplished… ends today. 

My first test relied on the curiosity of the participant. First, I primed the location with some supplies that might attract a passer-by. Next, a simple wooden lever was placed by the barrels. When utilised, it would strike a flint and so ignite a hidden powder-keg. I had rather assumed natural whimsy would see the lever pulled once spotted, and tucked myself away to observe what came next. The first pirate to arrive promptly wrenched my lever from its housing and absconded with it. “Nice hat stand”, I heard him remark. Subterfuge bests psychology when dealing with such avaricious crooks. I shall return to my workshop, and to the drawing board… 

Glitterbeard's journals are scattered all over the Sea of Thieves, chronicling his adventures and his passion for this magical world. The Legend of Glitterbeard is a mysterious and magical adventure that awaits you in memory of a beloved Legend of the Sea.

The Legend of Glitterbeard is a mysterious and magical adventure that awaits you in memory of a beloved Legend of the Sea.

Umbra's ever growing list of legends  – pirates like you who left their mark in the Sea of Thieves.

Umbra's ever growing list of legends - pirates like you who left their mark in the Sea of Thieves.

Are you ready to defeat as many Shrouded Ghost as you can? Let the hunt begin!

This mini-game and the roaming Shrouded Ghost on the map were originally created for 2021 April Fool's joke.

2021 April Fool's mini-game. Are you ready to defeat as many Shrouded Ghost as you can? Let the hunt begin!

Make the most of emissaries' Trade Routes by tracking where Merchant Alliance commodities are currently in surplus and where they are most needed.

Make the most of the Trade Routes by tracking where commodities are currently in surplus and where they are most needed.

Trade Routes Tracker

Map Settings

Weather Forecasts (beta)

Sea of Thieves Interactive Map

Sea of Thieves Timeline

There was a time when the ancient people lived in this place now called the Sea of Thieves and mastered all kinds of knowledge.

The ancients worshipped things which have ruled there far longer than them. They learned to sail the sea undisturbed by making sacrifices and thanks to this knowledge they helped the merfolk several times. The ancients were greatly appreciated by the mer people. The latter used to uncover precious stones and gems in the very deepest parts of the ocean to bring them back to the meeting places as a gift. Some say that the ancients used these gems to master magic and protect the Sea of Thieves.

Now that the ancients are gone, the only things left of their precious knowledge are paintings and ruins, mere remains of their existence. There are whispers and legends from across the waves of sightings of something more dangerous to come. Will our cannonballs be enough to protect the Sea of Thieves?

A group of pirates decided to join forces to found a university, conduct research and uncover the knowledge of the ancients.

Uncover the knowledge left by the ancients.

Estimate the Sea of Thieves population and activities.

Merfolk's Lullaby

Sea of Thieves Statistics

The familiar sun painting that appears on several islands in the Ancient Isles region

Three crabs are shown here towering over a single human figure. The centre crab however is the most intimidating, painted in red and raising it's pinchers up with an intense expression. The other two crabs are painted in blue and seem far more calm.
The hook/tentacle motif that is seen elsewhere on Thieves Haven is featured at the bottom of this painting.

This painting depicts a sorrowful tale of pirates drowning.

Two spears pointing in opposite directions. Above them are three triangles in sequence of pointing down, pointing up, pointing down, and this is mirrored below the two arrows.

A cave painting that appears on the slope entrance near the large carving of a person on the (cardinal direction) side of the island.
It seems to invoke the image of an eye. This image also appears elsewhere on the Sea of Thieves

An elaborate portrayal of a shark either being revered or worshipped by four Ancients.
On the left side of the painting are four triangles arranged vertically, pointing right, left, right, left from top to bottom, a curved black line separating them from the shark. On the right side are three vertical triangles, pointing left, right, left from top to bottom, and again separated from the shark by a curved line.

An Eagle depicted in red with five black feathers seemingly coming from it. The eagle has two distinctive arrow-shaped markings under its eye.

This painting depicts of three boars trekking through the south grove. It also suggests that there were multiple boar that lived on Devil's Ridge once upon a time.

An extremely detailed cave painting that shows an encounter with a Monstrous Sea Legend. The kraken is depicted in red and with multiple writhing tentacles, a small boat with three passengers floats below the kraken in what can be taken to be inky waters from the use of black smudges. The central figure on the boat may be pleading with the kraken, as their arms are outstretched. Below them a crowd of figures stand on what could possibly be ground, or they may be drifting in the sea.
Could this kraken be a depiction of Old Mother?

A large red boar seems to have appeared before the Ancients, who are fleeing in response. It seems as though the boar has lost it's left eye or has a scar over it.

A common reoccurring cave painting in the Ancient Isles that seems to invoke the image of the sun

A large painting of a turtle. The turtle itself is painted in black and features a red diamond in it's shell, with four red curved lines between its legs.
Below the turtle are three horizontal black lines, and below them is an inverted triangle in red.
It is quite an elaborate painting

A small boar painting in the cave on Devil's Ridge, not too far from the boar shrine. It has large tusks but is painted in black, with two red lines underneath it.

Three vertical triangles painted in red, pointing right, left, right from top to bottom. Either side of these are two vertical black lines

A small cave painting in blue that seems to depict the nearby river mouth.

A large coiled snake in red that looks as though it is dripping venom from it's mouth. The drip is in black, and it seems to be stuck between two walls as indicated from the two vertical lines to both sides of the snake

Ancients are shown surrounding a red flame. They could be praising it, or be in awe of it. The flame is the centrepiece of this painting and seems to be giving off some kind of vibes, most likely warmth.
Is this the Ancients discovering fire?

Two horizontal arrows or spears that point in opposite directions. Above them are three triangles in red in the sequence of pointing down, pointing up, and pointing down. This is mirrored below the two spears.

Three fishermen stand aboard a boat-like vessel, with three sharp lines going down from the vessel roughly from where they are standing. Underneath this are three fish painted in blue.
It can be presumed that the three Ancients are using spears to fish.

An image of two figures in red playing a trumpet-like instrument. They are standing opposite each other and between them is a diamond-shaped drawing.

A butterfly with red wings and red eyes. The wings feature a diamond pattern on them painted in ink.

This painting depicts the Legendary Lone Hunter holding a spear. They have been painted in red and seem to have some importance as they have lines emanating from them.

Depicted here are two fish, looking away from each other. Between them is a diamond painted in blue. Above the fish are two wavy lines also painted in blue that seem to represent the sea.

A group of Ancients fight a large red boar with impressive tusks.

A painting of an image meant to evoke the sun, seen on several islands across the Ancient Isles.

Two people are depicted here fleeing or running from something unseen

An Ancient is riding upon a small boat and wields a spear, looking as if they are spearfishing as beneath them are four fish. Circled around the Ancient is a blue circle that is almost uninterrupted save for a gap on the lower left where there is the impression of two fish in blue.

We can assume this painting depicts one of the merfolk bearing a beacon to guide those lost at sea. The odd details here of the bright blue eyes, shape of the head of the merfolk, and the crescent moon symbol on it's chest suggest this is a not a painting done by pirates. This seems to be one of the more 'fully formed' merfolk that nobody has seen aside from the Cursed Mermaid Statues. 
Have the Merfolk always acted as shepherds for those lost at sea, even in Ancient times?

This painting depicts the Legendary Lone Hunter with a Spear confronting the Fierce Boar.

Two fish in a dark blue paint face away from each other. Between them is a light blue diamond.

Nestled away in an alcove on the inner side of Thieves Haven are two paintings of similar designs, in red, and either depicting hooks or tentacles.

A stringray painted in black. It is facing upwards and has two smaller fish beside it, painted in blue.

A lone fisherman hunts a fish with a spear from the safety of a small boat. Waves and water are painted here in blue, as well as a circle above the fisherman. Could this suggest a time of day? 
Let's hope he doesn't catch a Ruby Splashtail.

Three fish and a shark are depicted here by what is believed to be the Ancient's way of telling of a river opening.

A painting of the head of parrot. It's painted in black save for it's eye which is in red, and has four feathers coming down from it's neck.

A near symmetrical painting of a design that invokes the imagery of hooks or tentacles. 
Painted all in red.

Three horizontal triangles are painted here in red, in the sequence of pointed up, pointed down, pointed up from left to right. Above and below them are two black horizontal lines

A cave painting of a seahorse in profile underscored by a blue line

The Ancient Beast is depicted coming out from some cover, perhaps a cave or some foliage, and scaring a number of Ancients. The Beast is painted in red.

A painting done in black of a crab and underscored by a blue horizontal line. The crab has four short legs and has it's two pincers raised in the air. It has two diamond-shaped eyes and a large open near circular mouth.

This painting seems to depict the passage of time through the changing phases of the moon, moving from a crescent moon on the left to a half moon top centre and finally a full moon on the right. These lunar phases are in blue, and the scene takes place above wavy blue lines.
In the middle is possibly a depiction of the North Star.

Three animals circle a sun. They are a Horstachio in blue, a Fudgehog in black, and a Pretztail in red. They are related to the fabled Candy Island...
This is an interactable painting that serves as an Easter Egg for Rare's IP Viva Pinata.

History Team

Here at the Ancient Isles University we are dedicated to understanding the history of the Sea of Thieves and its original inhabitants. Before we pirates came, a great people flourished and thrived here but now all the remains is remnants. What happened to them? How did they live? And what can we learn from them? Not only this but our own pirate history has gone undocumented, and we wish to create a record of all our happenings.

Sea of Thieves archaeology, anthropology and history research by the Ancient Isles University.

Volcanology Team

Sea of Thieves volcanology research by the Ancient Isles University.

Biology Team

Sea of Thieves biology research by the Ancient Isles University.

Astronomy Team

All sailors rely on the stars to guide them safely, and there is plenty to be gleamed by the waxing and waning of the moon. Through our studies we have been able to identify the existence of eclipses, and our current project with astronomy is to build a more robust tracking system to accurately pinpoint the moments these eclipses happen.

Sea of Thieves astronomical research by the Ancient Isles University

Meteorology Team

Sea of Thieves is filled with mysterious weather phenomena: a dark mass of clouds with turbulent waves, an intense fog or lava rocks falling from the sky. Our research focuses on studying the behaviours of these entities and providing reliable weather forecasts.

Sea of Thieves meteorological research by the Ancient Isles University.

Geography Team

Sea of Thieves geography research by the Ancient Isles University.

Hoplology Team

Sea of Thieves hoplology research by the Ancient Isles University.

Everyone has a way to communicate, and that includes skeletons who roam the Sea of Thieves. Collected here are the known runes that skeletons use, many of which are decoded, but there are still a few that have yet to be confirmed. Our historians are dedicated to deciphering and discovering all aspects of this mysterious way of communicating.

Sea of Thieves Skeleton Runes research by the Ancient Isles University.

Seeker

Voyager

Guardian

Legend

Castaway

Seafarer

Marauder

Captain

Sailor

Cadet

Commander

Admiral

Apprentice

Mercenary

Chief

Grandee

Follower

Servant

Keeper

Master

Live estimates based on Xbox Achievements and the latest public player numbers revealed by Rare.

Results of a 2019 fanmade survey; stay tuned for the next one.

Sea of Thieves live estimates, analytics and statistics based on Xbox Achievements and the results of a 2019 fanmade survey.

A stone tablet on a rock at a place Duke was investigating...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a curving path which forks in two. Someone has etched words into the stone... Merfolk? Eye? Hiding?

A stone tablet on a rock at a place Duke was investigating...

A stone tablet that tumbled down, down...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a great claw surrounding a tiny object. Someone has etched words into the stone... Stone? Key? Steal?

A stone tablet that tumbled down, down...

A stone tablet in a place where Duke had a HEADache...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a gnarled walking stick. Someone has etched words into the stone... Journey? Protection? Curse?

A stone tablet in a place where Duke had a HEADache...

A stone tablet at a grave site...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a broken hook. Someone has etched words into the stone... Link? Memory? Death?

A stone tablet in the depths of the earth...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a scarred, three sided eye. Someone has etched words into the stone... Wrath? Treasure? Secret?

A stone tablet in the depths of the earth...

A stone tablet, deep it lies near a bird of stone and where stories of lifeless bone are told...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a chair, though the back is broken... The rest of the stone is blank. How strange...

A stone tablet, deep it lies near a bird of stone and where stories of lifeless bone are told...

A stone tablet in a place that doesn't have a name and where you have to hold your breath.

There is a rune carved here that resembles a droplet tumbling from a diamond. Someone has etched words into the stone... Sorrow? Below? Coral?

A stone tablet in a place that doesn't have a name and where you have to hold your breath...

A stone tablet in a place where music can be heard...

There is a rune carved here that resembles the numeral '5'. The rest of the stone is blank. How strange...

A stone tablet in a place where music can be heard...

A stone tablet underneath a skull...

There is a rune carved here that resembles three clawed marks. Someone has etched words into the stone... Spires? Fortress? Hand?

A stone tablet near some sort of... altar... thing... that seems to have been set up for a ritual...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a shining triangle. Someone has etched words into the stone... Grey? Waking? Moonlight?

A stone tablet near some sort of... altar... thing... that seems to have been set up for a ritual...

A stone tablet near a waterfall...

There is a rune carved here that resembles a curling wisp of smoke. The rest of the stone is blank. How strange...

A stone tablet in a place where the trail went cold... are you cold? Duke felt cold.

There is a rune carved here that resembles an angled prong with a glinting tip. Someone has etched words into the stone... Burning? Blade? Cannon?

A stone tablet in a place where the trail went cold... are you cold? Duke felt cold.

Duke is looking for a precious treasure and has found scattered around the Sea of Thieves mysterious Stone Tablets with Skeleton Runes carved on them. Legends say that something big is happening.

Duke is looking for a precious treasure and has found scattered around the Sea of Thieves mysterious Stone Tablets with Skeleton Runes carved on them.

With Graymarrow’s reign of terror ended and the Shroudbreaker complete once more, the Shores of Gold are finally within your reach!

Grace, at Morrow’s Peak Outpost, knows how to control the Shroudbreaker’s powers. She also has an important message to deliver.

The fabled Shores of Gold are now in reach — but what dangers might be lying in wait?

Briggsy made many friends and enemies across the Sea of Thieves. Her old shipmate, a reclusive navigator named Sudds, may know more about the Shroudbreaker fragments.

Sudds can usually be found at the North Star Seapost, but can this eccentric old stargazer really help uncover Briggsy’s hidden treasures?

An old stargazers notes point to the heavens and a way to reach a piece of the Shroudbreaker…

The Morningstar’s crew were cursed by a vicious Skeleton Lord named Graymarrow. It seems that Sandra the Shipwright holds the truth about that fateful encounter.

Sandra works at Dagger Tooth Outpost and knows the location of the Morningstar. The ship’s log she has salvaged may point to the final part of the Shroudbreaker.  

A ship whose crew were cursed by a Skeleton Lord. Does its wreck hold clues to the Shores of Gold?

Briggsy’s memories spoke of a young woman named Wild Rose, and true love shining across the waves… Is her fate somehow entwined with that of the Shroudbreaker?

Madame Olive works for the Order of Souls at Sanctuary Outpost. As one of Rose’s oldest friends, she may have some clue how to find her.  

Briggsy knew of Wild Rose… Can two lost lovers lead the way to the Shores of Gold?

In Briggsy’s memories you heard whispers of a little girl, sitting wide-eyed by the fire as wild stories were spun. Might any of them lead to a piece of the Shroudbreaker?

Tasha now runs the tavern at Ancient Spire Outpost. Her childhood storybook may prove useful.  

Shroudbreaker pieces are scattered far and wide — could this childhood keepsake mean more?

One fragment of the Shroudbreaker remains unclaimed. Now, you have received a summons from none other than the enigmatic Ferryman, whose origins lie shrouded in mystery.

The Ferryman guides deceased pirates back to the living world. Steel your heart, for there is only one way to reach him on the Ferry of the Damned.  

The Ferryman’s tome describes lost souls. Their sad fates are somehow tied to the Shroudbreaker…

A Mysterious Stranger has received word of a vast treasure, once sought by the Pirate Lord himself, which lies hidden beyond the far reaches of the Sea of Thieves.

Locate the Mysterious Stranger in one of the taverns and examine the Pirate Lord’s journal to learn more about the legendary Shores of Gold. 

A Mysterious Stranger speaks of an ancient relic with the power to reach a lost island...

Madame Olivia revealed that Briggsy recently paid a visit to Salty the parrot. The self-serving bird may know more about her plans to conceal the Shroudbreaker.

Salty rarely stays in one place for long, but was recently spotted soaring above Plunder Valley. Whether he can be trusted is another matter.  

An infamous trap-maker knows of the Shroudbreaker — but will she turn out to be friend or foe?

The crumbling remains of a once-proud galleon, the Blackwyche, give Shipwreck Bay its name. Now a ghostly voice calls out from the wreckage.

Journey to Shipwreck Bay and seek the Captain’s journal in the heart of the Blackwyche to uncover a secret history of binding and betrayal… 



At Shipwreck Bay, a ghostly voice calls out from the remain of the Blackwyche…

You awake just outside the shroud, on a strange island littered with secrets. One short sail and you’ll have made it to the Sea of Thieves, but first you have some repairing to do…

Old Sailor Isle is a deserted island that lies just beyond the Devil’s Shroud and has long served as a resting place for those who seek the Sea of Thieves. Maiden Voyage helps you to familiarise yourself with the essentials of pirate life, and discover many secrets left behind by those who came before…  

Learn the ropes on your first adventure, the passage to the Sea of Thieves.

You’ve claimed the Shourdbreaker as your own, but vital pieces are missing. It seems a fearsome Skeleton Lord known as Briggsy may know their locations — but first, she must be hunted down.

The Order of Souls may know how to locate Briggsy. Their leader, Madame Olivia, resides at Plunder Outpost. 

Only the Order can help locate the Skeleton Lord who split apart the Shroudbreaker…

Stories of a returning enemy and a dark ritual have begun to spread across the Sea of Thieves, and a pirate crew have recently gone missing.

Travel to Morrow’s Peak Outpost and speak with Tallulah in the Charred Parrot. The journal in her possession may be the key to learning more…  

A dark ritual threatens to consume the souls of a proud and noble crew…

An ill-tempered volcano that roars with fury spewing forth volcanic ash and magma.

This volcano makes up the South-eastern portion of this island, with much of the landmass curving around it north-westerly-wards.

An ill-tempered volcano that roars with fury spewing forth volcanic ash and magma.

Some have misheard the blast of this volcano spewing forth volcanic debris as the firing of a flintlock pistol.

This volcano sits proudly in roughly the centre of this nest of islands.

Some have misheard the blast of this volcano spewing forth volcanic debris as the firing of a flintlock pistol.

This volcano has been claimed to erupt most whenever the name Stitcher Jim is brought up.

This volcano takes up the south lower portion of the island, looming over the craggy ravine that makes up the Fall part of Ruby’s Fall.

This volcano has been claimed to erupt most whenever the name Stitcher Jim is brought up

Some pirates claimed to have seen the face of the infamous Captain Flameheart in rock of the volcano.

An imposing volcano that takes up the majority of the southern side of this island.

Some pirates claimed to have seen the face of the infamous Captain Flameheart in rock of the volcano.

Brian, owner of the nearby shop and seapost Brian’s Bazaar, claims he choose this spot to set up shop because “burning rocks from the sky and the boiling waters make pirates quicker to buy any deal”.

A sea volcano situated in the northern waters of the Devil’s Roar and between four islands. Molten Sands Fortress to the east, Fetcher’s Rest to the west, and Scorched Pass to the north and Cursewater Shores to the South.

According to Brian, “burning rocks from the sky and the boiling waters make pirates quicker to buy any deal”.

Thought by many to be an extinct volcano but is actually dormant, erupting on rare occasions.

The name, Grace’s Folly, refers to Captain Grace Morrow who took up residence on this island after her Forsaken Shores Alliance was disbanded. She may have found a safe haven but it could be engulfed in molten fury at any moment.

The name for the volcano that rests on the north side of the Outpost. 

Thought by many to be an extinct volcano but is actually dormant, erupting on rare occasions.

One of the most dangerous volcanoes as it rests squarely between several islands, with close proximity to the Ashen Terror and the Devil’s Furnace, making travel between any of them a risky business.

The sea volcano that can be found to the south-west between five islands.

One of the most dangerous volcanoes as it rests squarely between several islands, with close proximity to two other volcanoes.

Often found erupting. If approached and it’s not erupting you can guarantee it will be within a few moments.

This volcano lays to the south side of the island, but hardly lays dormant.

Often found erupting. If approached and it’s not erupting you can guarantee it will be within a few moments.

Travelling eastward from Ancient Spire Outpost, this sea volcano is typically the welcome greeting most pirates get when they first enter the Devil’s Roar.

The north-west sea volcano that sits between Cinder Islet, The Forsaken Brink, and Morrow’s Peak Outpost.

Travelling eastward from Ancient Spire Outpost, this sea volcano is typically the welcome greeting most pirates get when they first enter the Devil’s Roar.

This fearsome force of the earth towers high against the Skeleton fortifications, creating an atmosphere of unease.

Two landmasses make up Molten Sands Fortress, with the southern landmass being its volcano. 

This fearsome force of the earth towers high against the Skeleton fortifications, creating an atmosphere of unease.

It is said that the safest places to be in a storm is in the eye, the same can’t be said for the Eye of the East.

The eastern most sea volcano, surrounded by Brimstone Rock to the north-west, Glowstone Cay to the north-east, and Magma’s Tide to the south.

It is said that the safest places to be in a storm is in the eye, the same can’t be said for the Eye of the East.

A pirate once tried his luck catching a Sandy Battlegill here, using his cunning to sneak aboard a Skeleton Galleon. However the Lonely Beacon thought otherwise to his plans.

A sea volcano located in the far south-east of the map, before hitting the Shroud.

A pirate once tried his luck catching a Sandy Battlegill here, however the Lonely Beacon thought otherwise to his plans.

The following names for the volcanoes of the Devil’s Roar were decided upon via a community poll that ran from February 15th 2021 to March 7th 2021 to reflect the experiences pirates had in the Roar.