Continent of Iskarra
Iskarra: The Savage Heart of Aurelia
Far to the south of Aurelia lies the continent of Iskarra, a sprawling land of wild jungles, treacherous swamps, and rugged coastlines, inhabited by kobolds, gnolls, lizardfolk, and other similarly fierce and primal races. Iskarra is a place where the forces of nature reign supreme, where survival is a constant struggle, and where the land itself seems to shape the destiny of its inhabitants. Its people have long abandoned the more structured civilizations of the north, instead forging their existence in a world ruled by raw power, instinct, and ancient traditions.
Iskarra is a land of constant conflict, where each tribe or clan vies for dominance, and where alliances are as fragile as the jungle vines. Those who call Iskarra home must be cunning, ruthless, and willing to fight to protect their territory. This continent is untamed, with its dangerous wildlife, magical energies, and unforgiving terrain providing both danger and opportunity for those who seek power.
The People of Iskarra
- Kobolds: In Iskarra, the kobolds have adapted to the harsh jungles and caverns of the land. They are cunning and resourceful, often dwelling in underground burrows or ancient ruins, where they craft intricate traps and complex machinery. Though they may be small, kobolds are not to be underestimated—they have a deep connection to the earth, and many serve as guardians of the continent's most hidden treasures. Some kobold clans revere the great dragons of old, while others follow local spirits, believing in their power to protect them from the jungle's many dangers. Their communities are built on loyalty to the tribal leaders who keep their people safe and help them navigate the dangerous landscape.
- Gnolls: The gnolls are the fiercest and most ferocious of Iskarra's inhabitants. These savage, hyena-like creatures form large warbands that roam the plains and jungles, seeking to expand their influence and claim new territories. They thrive on chaos and bloodshed, worshiping brutal gods of destruction and carnage. Gnoll tribes are led by the strongest among them, often a ruthless leader who has proven their strength in combat. These warbands raid villages, disrupt trade routes, and occasionally clash with other races for dominance. Though their lifestyle is brutal and often terrifying, there is also a deep sense of honor among gnolls—the strongest lead, and only the fiercest survive.
- Lizardfolk: The lizardfolk of Iskarra are among the most organized and ancient of the continent’s inhabitants. They primarily dwell in the swampy regions and along the coast, where they build large tribal villages made of wood and stone. Lizardfolk culture revolves around their shamanistic beliefs, with many tribes being led by powerful spiritual leaders who command the elements of water, fire, and earth. These lizardfolk have a deep understanding of the natural world and possess a unique bond with the land. They are strategic and methodical in their approach to survival, often employing rituals to appease the spirits of the jungle and forest. While not as chaotic as gnolls, the lizardfolk are no less dangerous, with a deep-seated loyalty to their tribes and a fierce protection of their territories.
- Other Creatures: Iskarra is a land of monstrous creatures and ancient beasts, many of which roam the jungles and swamps. From giant serpents and terrifying crocodiles to beastly predators and tribal giants, the wilderness of Iskarra is a deadly place. These creatures often form part of the ecosystem’s intricate balance, with some serving as allies to certain tribes, while others become mortal enemies to those who dare challenge them.
Geography and Climate
The geography of Iskarra is as varied as its inhabitants. The continent is home to dense jungles, towering mountains, and expansive swamps, all of which are fraught with dangers. Some areas are rich with ancient ruins, while others remain completely unexplored. The jungles teem with exotic wildlife, while the swamps are full of dangerous plants and venomous creatures. Coastal regions are marked by barren cliffs, dense mangrove forests, and sunken temples, all waiting to be uncovered by the continent’s many explorers and raiders.
The climate of Iskarra is hot and humid, with frequent rains that turn the jungle floor into a treacherous, sticky mess. However, this oppressive atmosphere provides the perfect habitat for the continent's many predators, making travel through the jungles a highly dangerous undertaking. Storms can come without warning, and violent monsoon seasons are common, making it even harder to thrive in this rugged land.