Land of the Hydromancers and Merfolk

The South: The Land | Barons | Climate | The People | S'oshan Language | Settlements
Trade | Traditional History | Timeline
The North: The Land | The People | Settlements | Trade
Notable Characters

Oceanuus is the only region of the Silver Moon Empire that is divided into two areas: Northern Oceanuus, in the upper hemisphere of Lyran Tal, above the region of Thermador -- and Southern Oceanuus, located in the lower hemisphere of Lyran Tal, south of all the other regions and west of the Badlands. Both parts lay claim to vast, uncharted areas below the sea as well as a host of islands scattered with small towns and ports. To the south, the weather is temperate and there is a collection of sizable islands along with the advantages of a closer proximity to the mainland. To the north it is not unexpectedly cold, and the total land mass is much smaller, cutting down drastically on the number of human habitations. While significant parts of their society necessarily overlap, the Oceanuusians are generally viewed as two distinct entities, and when ones hears the words "Oceanuus" or "Oceanuusians," it is usually in reference to the southern area.

 

Southern Oceanuus

For decades, Southern Oceanuus has been plagued by political and social unrest. The islands suffered three major, long-reaching events that took place in the mid-1260s: a tidal wave, the eruption of Mount Mana'o on Xieng Khouang, and the disappearance of Archmagess Elorac Seamere. Following the devastation of the Wave of 1263, government fell under control of the Pirate Nations and lasted for ten years. Under the much-criticized leadership of the native-born Aikiliano Bashar (variously referred to as Crazy Kili, the Crimson King, and Butcher Bashar), the islands established complete independence from the mainland and succeeded in destroying class and race boundaries. It was also during this time that use of the native slang term S'osha or S'oshan (S' = Southern, Osha = Oceanuus) became widespread.

It was after the Pirates had become drawn into the mainlanders' battle with the Klockwork forces that Elorac Seamere returned and attempted to re-establish herself by currying favor with the Pirate King. Although she was instrumental in defeating the Klock Armies along the coasts of both Luminii and Shadokhan, she was ultimately betrayed by Bashar. Returning home to the islands after the last devastating engagement in Port Ethralest, the Pirate Navy was surprised and subsequently defeated by the combined efforts of remnants of the Crystal Fleet and an army of Mer. In yet another astonishing act of betrayal, after the Pirates had been mostly subdued the Mer turned on the Crystal Fleet and completely annhilated them. The Devvol twins, Tahvanainen and Ulanen (sons of King Cyyroidius of Northern Oceanuus), laid claim to the islands as their own, both above and below the water. Following a ritual trial held by the Mer, the former king was banished from the Islands and set adrift, presumably to die.

The rule of the twins was not as harmonious as it was made out to be. While observing and enforcing the strict laws against interracial liaisons, the Mer started a collection of slaves (generally confined to the exotic-looking blonds and redheads), strictly monitored Portal use and trade with the mainland, and took advantage of the native and Half-lo population, using them as cheap labor while patronizing them with 'important' administrative positions. It was during their administration that the drug Glitter Glee resurfaced and found its way again to the mainland.

In the summer of 1276, during the much acclaimed Festival of the Spirit, Kili Bashar and his supporters staged a coup in which they took the Devvol twins hostage and reclaimed the islands from the Mer. Very little support came from the School of Hydromancy, and none at all from the Archmagess, who refused to have anything to do with the 'new' political power (nor did she, in fact, have much to do with that of the Mer). An uneasy truce was established between S'osha and the Mer monarchy, but never completely stopped the violence. The Devvol twins remained in Southern Oceanuus as hostages for peace until Blossombud of 1279. Early in 1279 Bashar's health began to fail. Poison was suspected but unproven, and in Blossombud of that year his queen, Ashoken, took him aboard the Glorakela'ilani, which was built and named in honor of the ship sunk by the Mer in 1274, and together with their children and a select few companions sailed away...

The Land

Made up of many islands, from the Shallowreef Isles in the west to the Seven Sisters in the east, the main island of Xieng Khouang is the largest. The island itself is comprised of coastal lowlands and valleys and the interior highland. The moderately cultivated lowlands take up most of the eastern and southern portion of the Big Island north of Xieng Khouang City, while the southern area consists of a plateau of sorts that stretches south and southwest past what was once the island of Loesan. The largely inaccessible areas around Mount Mana'o are rife with sinkholes, underground caverns and streams, while the interior of the island is dominated by rugged, thickly forested mountains. Political unrest put a damper on what was once known as a favorite vacationing spot of the well-to-do but, little by little, order has been restored and each of the smaller islands are watched over and administered by a Baron.

The outlying islands are low-lying for the most part, although Alanya, the largest of the Windward Isles (also known as 'The Island of Silver Mists'), has a central rocky plateau, and Ruka, to Xieng Khouang's east, is the second highest mountain island in the chain. The white sand of the wide beaches is composed chiefly of coral and so remains cool even on the hottest days.

Xieng Khouang ('The Big Island')

• Aloryn Thar, the beautiful coral palace built into the walls of a cliff by the Seameres, was meant to house the reigning Archmage. Severely damaged by the affects of the Wave of 1263, the remains were cannibalized and the palace completely destroyed. A new structure going by the same name was begun by the Mer and finished by Kili Bashar. However, the new palace was built into the face of the cliff itself. A great deal of the structure was also built below the waves, and had been intended to house the Mer in great luxury, but the Leyline Cataclysm left it completely landlocked. There is some speculation that access to the sea will again be developed. Under the original guidance of the Mer, all manner of goods were imported from the mainland and from Northern Oceanuus to compose a castle that was meant to be more beautiful than anything in all the known world. With its huge entrances and aeromantic windows, lofty stairs, and towering, graceful pillars all carved right into the mountainside, the castle is spectacularly impressive.

• The Maze. S'osha's military headquarters. Lies approximately three miles outside of Xieng Khouang City. The uniforms of the S'oshan military are simple sleeveless shirts and fitted trousers of crimson trimmed in gold. Soldiers wear black stripes on their faces (red for the Palace Guard) mimicking the scars borne by Kili Bashar. Armor is black segmented leather (in some instances leather over steel plates). On formal occasions a crimson tabard of gold stars over sword is worn. The sashes they wear beneath their belts are gold.

• Keiki a Kala'una, the training center for aspiring hydromancers, is located in an underground cavern whose landward entrance is said to be guarded by a maze.

• Traitor's Wall: On the opposite side of the harbor from Aloryn Thar is a bluff that overhangs a rocky stretch of ocean. Criminals are hung from that bluff, dangling into the rough surf. 'The waves come and the waves go; fish -- and crabs, as well -- come and go.'

• Loesan is the area at the southernmost tip of the Big Island. It was once an island itself until the Leyline Cataclysm of 1277. The tiny ghost town town of Purnnula remains mostly intact, a survivor of the Wave of 1263. Mystery and rumor haunt the area. No one can explain how the tidal wave left most of the buildings standing but washed every living creature out to sea. No one knows, either, how the rush of magic from the portal eleven years later hardly touched Purnnula, but drastically changed both Loesan and Xieng Khouang...

• Shipyards all around the Big Island - and ships - are a new, busy industry, whether the products are used locally or sold on the mainland.

• (For more information about the city itself, see Xieng Khouang City below.)

Manu
A tiny island directly east of Xieng Khouang.

The Shallowreef Isles
A collection of islands northwest of the Pearl Isles. Although some would consider them a part of the Pearl Isles, one thing defines their boundaries -- a shallow reef that extends around and between them. The only way to access the islands is using a small craft, such as a catamaran. Between the islands, the reef is so shallow that, in the smoother sections, it is possible to walk or wade between them at all tides. In fact, these very reefs served to shelter this small collection of islands from the tidal wave of 1263.

The Shallowreef contains four inhabited islands: Pal Mons, Benay Loa, Gangdoh, and Ki Kumodi, in order from largest to smallest. There are also several small bits of land scattered about that are relatively tiny in comparison to the main islands of the Shallowreef.

• Benay Loa is the farthest East of the Shallowreef Isles. A fishing village. The center of this round island holds a dense jungle, surrounded on all sides by white sand beaches. A lagoon is located in the center of the jungle.

• Gangdoh is the location of Stilt City.

• Ki Kumodi is the smallest island. Its several cliffs jut high out of the reef. The beaches on either end are yellow sand and the island itself is covered in dense jungle. The population is small, with a few scattered compounds. The island is accessible only by small craft. Ki Kumodi is also home to the Ki Kumodi Drake.

• Pal Mons' beaches are rainbows - white and black, silver and even blue with expanses of sediment shining like polished cobalt at sunset. There is even said to be one that is as bright pink as shark meat, speckled and sparkling with bits of volcanic glass. It is only the sediment of constant traffic from hovel to fishing spot and back that dulls the effect. But if one wades and stands long enough off the western edge fire ignites and flames seem to smolder before the observer. The natives quaintly point out that Pal Mons is two separate islands stacked one on top of the other. The upper one is for the rich, while the lower one is the poor home of Half-los and a few destitute humans. A man named Yui controls the island's economy, taking a portion out of everything that's done on Pal Mons. Most of the underclass people work for him in some capacity, and most illegal ventures must go through him.

The Pearl Isles
Nestled between Xieng Khouang and the Shallowreef Isles, they consist of Tora'shi, Eikasho, Yu'zi and Ruka. Of them, the last is the least habitable, due to its steepness and lack of any real beach area.

Windward Isles
From west to east: Krita, Narai, Akheri, Alanya ('The Island of Silver Mists'), and Tatima.

Seven Sisters Archipelago

Hi'ilani and Pa'ahana, the two easternmost islands, were the quickest to regain their cloaks of tangled greenery. Pa'ahana claims to be the wettest island in the the chain, and her sister is not far behind. After the Cataclysm Belakamai developed a growth of thick, lush vegetation that confounds attempts to cut it back or burn it to make way for buildings. Some of the growth consists of fruits, wood, hemp and other marketable products, but habitation on the island is impossible. A few enterprising individuals have anchored ships in the cove, and a floating village of sorts is beginning to take shape. Whether they are truths or inventions of those trying to harvest Belakamai's wealth, tales of spirits and monsters abound.

Settlements

The Drift, Gangdoh
Population:
Primary Trade:

A small but sprawling city of shallow-drafted seacraft. Afloat and bound together only by streets of planks and driftwood, The Drift constantly moves to the roll of the sea. Boats and rafts of every size provide space for both shops and homes. Nothing blocks the view but waving masts and everything one can want is on display at a safe distance from the big ships forced to anchor well at sea or risk wrecking their vessels on the shallow rocks and coral shoals.

Stilt City, Ki Kumodi
Population:
Primary Trade:

On one side of the island, Stilt City hangs out over the water. Several cliffs are connected by hanging bridges and balconies supported by enormous strutwork. The only access from the water is a pulley system and a series of retractable rope ladders.

Flat Rock, Hi'ilani
Population:
Primary Trade:

Stronghold on the eastern-facing side of the island's north shore.

Wailewa, Pa'ahana
Population: 6300
Primary Trade: fish, Tears of Ninidia

Pa'ahana's claim to being the wettest island has forced inhabitants of the city to elevate their homes on posts. The spindly-legged structures don't look entirely secure, but they are certainly picturesque. A few enterprising locals have taken to capturing a few drops of water in miniscule bottles. Tied up with "magic rune beads," the trinkets are then sold as "Tears of Ninidia" (the local goddess of truth, balance and fertility).

Xieng Khouang, Xieng Khouang
Population: 49,000
Primary Trade: fish, fruits, vegetables, lumber, spirits

Located on the southern tip of the Big Island and usually referred to simply as 'The City' by the locals, the resurrected metropolis bears little resemblance to the careful cultivation of the years before The Wave. Most of the old city was washed out to sea, the land upon which it stood consumed by the waves. While its trademark diversity remains, the balance of control has swung away from the vaunted nobility and is now in the hands of half-los and natives.

• The Front is a series of wharves protruding from the shore like teeth, backed by warehouses and shops.

• The Wall begun by Kili Bashar to stand as protection between the wharves and the city is repaired and continues to grow. The bulwark stands between The Front and The Splash, and glitters with the reflection of sunlight. White-washed and imbedded with shell mosaics, it has been elevated from ugly necessity to awe-inspiring wonder. Reconstructed after Leyline Cataclysm.

• The Splash (once known as The Splash Mercantile Exchange) is the marketplace and merchant district. Shops and businesses give way to houses of every color and shape as one travels inland, eventually petering out in the arms of the jungle.

• The Nest was once a well-reputed inn near the summit of a steep hill in the northern portion of the City. Taken over years ago by the pragmatic Pirate King to serve as his base of operations, it was used by both governments until it was burned down in Moonshare 1276. The name has since been bestowed upon the Bashar summer house in the hills above the city.

• Crimson House replaced the Nest. A sturdy, fairly plain stone structure that boasts a single tower, it is the dwelling place of the royals, contains some of the government offices, and houses the Crimson Guard. Crimson is, after all, Kili Bashar's favorite color...

• The Drip: a place that the city's wealth and good fortune seem to have passed over. Here the line of demarcation is clear; within a few hundred feet the homes and shops of prosperous Xieng Khouang City give way to weather-worn shacks. Here is squallor and overcrowded living conditions. Most of the inhabitants are dark-skinned natives, though one can sometimes find the occasional gull. The City Guard is noticeably absent. For good reason...

• The Grotto doesn't exist, officially. Hidden beneath the city, it is the place to be when one doesn't want to be found.

• The Illumination Hall, built by the Mer, is located within the caverns beneath the city. The rock walls are polished until they gleam, the better to reflect the phosphorescent glow of carefully cultured colonies of lichen that bathe the Hall in thin blue light. Gentle waterfalls interrupt the smooth walls, lending their melody to that of the mysterious, keening Harp of the Sea which, though not visible, is clearly audible and clearly uncanny.

• Traitor's Wall lies on the opposite side of the harbor from Aloryn Thar. The name is not very imaginative, but it's short and to the point. Iron rings bolted into the stone hold chains from which traitors are hung into the pounding surf. They dangle down into the water, which is somewhat rocky there. "The waves come and the waves go; fish -- and crabs, as well -- come and go." To keep the condemned from attempting to climb back to the top, their hands are broken.

Across the islands

Not long after Kili Bashar returned to power the building of fortifications and watchtowers was begun under the direction of Ashoken, who was then serving as General of the Army. Although she subsequently relinquished her physical military duties upon the birth of Kili's heir, she continued as commander in chief and expanded the number of fortifications. In addition to two towers overseeing the Xieng Khouang harbor, there are small fortresses under construction on the islands of Alanya, Narai, Krita, Eikasho, Tora'shi, Akheri, and Tatima.

The House of Barons

Those who hold seats in the House of Barons are as follows:

Climate

A pleasant tropical climate is one of the area's main assets, with moderate temperatures averaging about 70° in winter and about 80° in the summer. Variations in rainfall are dramatic. Pa'ahana is often called the wettest spot in the world, with an annual rainfall of 200 inches. Loesan on the other hand, has an annual rainfall of less than nine inches. The rainy season begins on or about Chillset 1/Nov 27 [known in the islands as as 'Tidechill') and extends through Blossombud 1/Mar 2 (called 'Tidewarm'). The dry season lasts the balance of the year. Oceanuusians often refer to Earthfreeze as 'Grayspan,' as the winter affects them far less than it does the mainland.

During summer, the north-westerly trade winds are more persistent and constant blue skies are not uncommon for weeks on end. In the winter cycles, the trade winds are often interrupted by other winds, bringing intervals of widespread cloud and rain. During heavy winter storms 3-4 inches of rain can fall in an hour. The windward east coasts are more exposed to these winter storms and often receive their mean rainfall in just a hand-full of these winter storms.

Xieng Khouang's weather is heavily influenced by the volcanic mountain, Mount Mana'o, that resides on its northern end. Climate changes 2°C for every 1000 feet making temperatures on Xieng Khouang's peak fall below zero in winter, resulting in snow. The slopes of upcountry Ruka and the Big Island are therefore much cooler than the coast.

The islands do receive the occasional cyclone (mostly from Meridian to Moonshare, although the official cyclone season ends in Bitewind) although these are less frequent than in the southern Elbonian Sea. Earthquakes and Tsunamis are unpredictable events that rarely strike Southern Oceanuus, but have done so in the past with devastating effect.

A variety of commercially useful trees grow on the islands, among them pineapple, coconut, breadfruit, banana, mango and citrus fruits. There are also thatch-palms and some mahogany, the latter of which is used primarily for producing small furniture such as chairs, chests or screens. Rare as it is, it is highly sought-after by the wealthy, and extremely expensive.

Islanders are mainly self-sufficient, depending on the sea for fish; the forests for wild pig; the littoral for coconuts; the valley for taro, the lower slopes for sweet potatoes, yams and bananas; and the mountains for wood. Besides open-sea fishing, there are also stone-walled fish ponds built semi-circularly from the shore. The most important mineral resource is merisite, which is mined off the coasts in the deepest trenches of the waters around Southern Oceanuus.

The People

The islands once claimed a population of over 300,000 people. Even following the destruction of the tidal wave, those of native island descent comprise the largest ethnic group, while those of Half-lo descent make up approximately one fourth of the remaining population. A typical islander is brown-skinned with either straight or curly black hair. They are generally of medium build and fine physique.

Half-los, so named because half their heritage is derived from below the water, are part human and part Mer. They are found in all their wildly varying shapes, color and and sizes on the islands of both Northern and Southern Oceanuus. (For more information, see Half-los)

Merfolk themselves are humanoid in form, with gills and webbed feet and hands. Like fish, their skin comes in many hues. And, as with fish, there are several different subspecies of mermen ranging from Moraeans (half eel) to Molluskians (half octopus). Mermen are known to inhabit Northern and Southern Oceanuus. Their range farther out to sea is not known. (For more information, see The Merfolk)

The Irjelaani live near and around the islands of Southern Oceanuus in an area they call 'Irjelaa.' It is to these separatists that most of the Half-los owe their parentage. They have broken off from the Northern Mer and resist what they label Northern oppression, though their opposition was passive until the brief takeover by the Devvol twins, during which many of these peaceful, quiet people were persecuted and killed. In an attempt to preserve their numbers and their lifestyle, they have allied themselves with Kili Bashar. Previously farmers and craftsmen, they find themselves forced to learn the ways of war.

Most houses, particularly those outside of the bigger towns, are of wood frames and thatched, with stone floors covered with mats. Food is cooked in holes in the ground by means of hot stones, but many foods are eaten raw. One of their more popular local drinks is made from fermented ti roots.

In spite of the unsettled economy, island dance and musical arts remain strong. They are chiefly based on the colorful rhythmic intensity inherent in their culture. Islanders are fond of both vocal and instrumental music and use percussion, string and wind instruments.

Islanders excel in athletics. Frequent contests are held in swimming, boating, wrestling, boxing, spear throwing, swordfighting, coasting the waves while standing on narrow sleds, bowling and running.

There remain rumors of a band of ocean-traveling Sea Folk. A mélange of human, Mer, and Half-lo, they travel the oceans, only setting foot on land for trade. Their lives are dependent on a strict code of laws which guide every aspect of their lives. Known only as Sea Gypsies, very few have ever heard of them.

Trade

The Islands are well known for their fine jewelry and masks fashioned from wood, shells, coral, and other natural objects. This same style is widely seen in their bright paintings, mosaics and clothing. Other common trade items abound: tropical fruits, taro, sweet potatoes and yams, cocoa beans, shellfish, honey, and medicinal herbs, as well as teas and alcoholic beverages. The ship-building trade is also flourishing, and shipbuilders as well as hydromantic pilots are in demand.

Production and exportation of merisite has also resumed. Shifts in political power have made the availability of this item sometimes unpredictable, but an alliance with the Irjelaani Mer promises to be beneficial on several fronts. Trade agreements with the mainland are uncertain since the coup.

One item of peculiar interest in the history of Oceanuus' trade was the production and sale of the drug, Glitter Glee. The bluish, powdery substance was known to deliver euphoric effects, easy profits, an uhealthy pallor... and an ominous warning rattle in one's breath as death drew near. Before the wholesale marketing of Glitter Glee, 'mancers allegedly used it in illusions. Outside of the circle of magic, humans employed the substance to keep the Half-los in Mertown, and the Half-los used it to forget they were there. The drug operation allegedly fell under the auspices of either Benzenotto Murkinvaald, a member of Oceanuusian high society, or an Oceanuusian lord of vice, one Enver Vivid. The drug's era was claimed to be short-lived. However, the clandestine production and sale of Glitter Glee that was presumed ended with the Great Wave of 1263 was revived during the Mer regime. The initial targets of this perilous comeback are obvious: the capital cities of the other six regions...

Oceanuus Academy

The most promising ventures in the tropical region of Southern Oceanuus are those of becoming a merchant, sailor, or warrior. Because of the country's size and reputation, accessibility is a major factor in its prosperity and travelers are always on the lookout for mercenaries to hire.

Cadet Academy

For a thorough education in a wide range of combat tactics, the cadet academy is one of the most sought-after routes to become a warrior. Although anyone is allowed to apply, those who are not from noble families must complete a brief introductory course. Gradually, through years of training, soldiers are weeded out and separated into several distinct levels of skill. Later in life, graduates from the academy can return to a secondary school to further their rank.

The Academy, as it is widely known, is the least expensive venue for training in Oceanuus and frequently supplies the ranks of Southern Oceanuus's military.

Ischa Fervor's School of Combat Tactics

Ischa Fervor is an aged former Captain in the King's Guard. When he resigned, the ex-soldier opened up a school teaching his own style of combat tactics lacking many parallels with the Cadet Academy required of the Guard and military recruits.

Ischa's school, arguably the best of several others in the country, is said to be an extensive compliment of combat techniques and strategic combat tactics. Yet rumors abound that he teaches anything but leadership in battle. Unfortunately, information is difficult to acquire from former or current students. Although this raises suspicions, it attests to the dedication that students have toward the curriculum and the loyalty former students have toward the school itself - even those who never graduated.

An old saying floats around the school grounds, though it fails to relieve the pressure that intense competition attributed to intensive training brings, that, "Some of the best warriors attend Fervor's school; all of the rest have already dropped out." Confronted by this quote, Ischa Fervor has developed a few of his own: "Learning swordsmanship is much like a healthy diet, one can not eat steak for one's whole life," said casually, and "a warrior does not need a certificate," said with an indignant huff. Inarguably, some of Oceanuus's best warriors neither graduated from Cadet Academy or Ischa's school, instead opting to leave for various reasons.

The Waleapauni

The Traditional History of Southern Oceanuus

Long ago, a society of peaceful fisherman who called themselves 'Waleapauni' inhabited the islands of Southern Oceanuus. The mermen, stretching their own boundaries, discovered these peaceful fisherman tribes. They engaged in trade and they intermixed and things were pretty fine. From these peaceful relations, the first half-los were created. In the present day, all descendants of the native islanders hold varying degrees of Mer heritage.

These fishermen were the first to develop effective sea travel, so they went out and explored the boundaries of the ocean, meeting other groups (such as humans) with varying degrees of peace and friendship. It wasn't long before the mainlanders began venturing south and exploring the wonders of the islands.

The Waleapauni were used to the mermen, but these new groups were suspicious of them. The fishermen brokered an uneasy peace, but what the new groups couldn't abide were these strange freaks - half human, half fish. Worse, the newcomers saw potential for riches in the islands and subtly began taking over. They built and organized complex societies based on mainland sensibility, pressing their ideas upon the Waleapauni. What began as discomfort with the Merfolk descended to intolerance, and from there to segregation and murder.

Over the decades, as tyranny against them increased, the oppressed half-los and their native compatriots fell back on tales of their parentage, elevating their long-ago parents into god-like figures. Some of these include:

Piganki, the fish god:  A trickster deity with an enormous fishy head and small scaly two-legged body. Patron god of sea adventure and cyclones.

Ninidia the Blue Maid:  A blue-skinned goddess with a humanoid body, flowing clear water for hair, and a dress of silk and clouds. Goddess of truth and balance and fertility.

Inele: Short and squat with the legs of an octopus and the torso and head of a man. Known as the God of Protection and connected with mersite/brineyglow and good fortune.

Ta'ariki: Shark head and body with legs of a man. Wears a necklace of feathers and shells. God of Death and Destruction.

Note: These 'characters' are a part of the mythology of the native islanders. Much of their stories and traditions have been lost, but from time to time, one will hear the islanders make reference to them.

 

Northern Oceanuus

Things are somewhat different in the Frigin Sea. After Emperor Tumian's death the Northern Mer withdrew almost entirely from the affairs of the foolish humans. While there is occasional, minimal trade between them and the mainland, the alliance between the Mer and Elves has remained unaffected. The two share an equitable and profitable relationship that has been in place for many years. Recent agreements have resulted not only in the sharing of their expertise with hydrodynamics, but in Mer patrolling Arborian waters and discouraging ships traveling there unless they can provide proper identification. Their monitoring extends east along the Balthazorian coast and and some of Thermador as well.

The Land

There is surprisingly little known about the islands in the north beyond the fact that they exist. Rumors of strange peoples abound. It is rumored that Northern Oceanuus plays host to a unique prison built especially to house very dangerous criminals of the magical sort. This prison is said to be located a full mile under water and operated by Merfolk with special associations with the defunct Dreven Empire.

Settlements

Hvannadalshnukur - In the northern region beneath the icy waters of the Frigin Sea is the city of Hvannadalshnukur, the heart of the Merfolk. Most of the Mer population resides there and the city boasts nearly one hundred thousand Merfolk inhabitants as well as many other races who can live without the need of air.

Hvannadalshnukur is reputed to be the most beautiful city on land or sea, consisting primarily of natural coral formations and Mer-made buildings. Natural underwater fungi line the city's buildings and coral provides a mystical sight to those approaching the famed city. Cyyroidius Devvol, the Mer King, and his Queen, Gervoia, rule Hvannadalshnukur. They govern in true equality, neither holding a stronger voice than the other in political affairs. Both are also Hydromancers of the highest skills. Hvannadalshnukur is thought to be the northernmost city of Lyran Tal and beyond it the arctic waters are almost as inhospitable as the desert of Thermador. It is rumored that many secrets lie waiting to be discovered there.

The People

Specific information about the people can be found here: The Merfolk

The Army

Fyul Devvol, the king's oldest son, serves as commander of the Northern Oceanuusian armies. A glide is the Mer equivalent of platoon and is comprised of 20-30 Merfolk.

The Sea Wasps are the King's personal, elite fighting force. They are known for their swift, deadly tactics as well as for the lethal venom they use on their weapons.

Trade

The Northern Mer primarily export underwater foodstuffs and coral, which is in high demand by those who use it for jewelry and decoration.

 

Notable Characters in Oceanuus

(Click on a name to go to the character's Who's Who entry.)

 

For more information on Oceanuus, contact:

The Oceanuus Region Leader

The South: The Land | Climate | The People | S'oshan Language | Settlements | Trade | Timeline
The North: The Land | The People | Settlements | Trade