Berus

Berus consists a large main island and two smaller islands. Explorers are convinced that there must be more to the world, but none have ever returned alive from the expeditions sent beyond the horizons. Only the wreckage of ships and the bodies of brave sailors has ever been found, washed up on the shores.   The main island is dominated by the human kingdoms who's xenophobia and mad striving for power has driven the other races into hiding in the more remote parts of the land. The elves in particular have taken control of one of the smaller, northern islands and fiercely defend it from incursions by the humans. Many years ago, they destroyed the last human outpost on the island and since then there has been an uneasy truce between the races. Both groups are just watching the other across the water, not wanting to provoke open hostilities but ready to defend their lands should the need arise.   Throughout Berus, many legends tell of magic powers or items with fantastical properties, but most humans have never actually seen anything like them in real life. The rulers of the cities and countries, however, know that such things, while increasingly rare, are occasionally found and collected. Whenever such an item or person is found in their lands, the local magistrates scoop them up unbeknownst to the commoners and send them away to their superiors in the cities. Where they go after that, no one knows, but delivering a great magical find to the mysterious powers of the world is a quick way for an individual to gain power and influence.   In recent years, technology has arisen due to the lack of magic. Clockwork gadgets used to perform simple tasks are not uncommon in homes and businesses. Apothecaries have become skilled at producing various elixirs as effective as any magic healing potion. Rumor has it that skilled tinkers have even developed a weapon that launches shards of stone and metal with the distance and accuracy of a longbow.