Arcaibh Islands (aɾxkɪv aɪ̯lənds)
The Arcaibh Islands are a group of about 70 islands north of Ynys and south of the Norður Islands. The primary inhabitants are the Dòbhran Selkies. Only about twenty of the islands are large enough for permanent settlements, while the rest are used as temporary mooring points for the Dòbhran.
Stone circles can be found on many of the islands, and have been there since long before the Dòbhran came to the area. They are generally considered to be sacred to the spirits of the islands, and offerings may be left there when seeking the favor of a particular island's god. Unlike some archipelagos, the Arcaibh do not have a god that embodies all the islands, but most of the individual islands do have their own genius loci. The waters around and between the islands also have their own spirits, and the Dòbhran are careful to pay them respect and tribute.
The largest settlement in the Arcaibh is the town of Selkyre. It is on the island of Motha, and it is the most important rookery to the Dòbhran. It is where the matriarchs meet when there is need to, and it is also where most of the trade of the Arcaibh passes through. The Hoycandle Lighthouse is found there, part of the Ring of Light, and it is a common stop for ships travelling to the Norður Islands.
Geography
The Arcaibh Islands are characterized by their rugged coastlines and rocky beaches. They are mainly low-lying, with some rocky hills and cliffs on the larger islands. Most of the islands have small lakes on them, and are notable for their absence of trees. An exception to this is the Coille Òran, a sacred forest found on the largest island, Motha.
Some of the islands are home to a network of underground caves and tunnels that are said to trap the spirits of the dead. These caves are filled with strange and otherworldly creatures, and it is believed that the imprisoned spirits can be found wandering their dark passageways.
The highest point in the islands is Beinn Aerthar, also on the island of Motha. It is named for the mists which constantly wreathe the summit, hanging above the Coille Òran forest.
Another notable location is Lochan Cànan, on the island of Seula. It is known for the whispers that one can hear in the water, and for how unnaturally still the surface is.
The Inhabited Islands of the Arcaibh Islands (sorted by size)
| Island Name | Area (sq mi) |
|---|---|
| Motha | 202 |
| Seula | 55.27 |
| Eilífeyja | 19.5 |
| Liath | 19.2 |
| Hrafnsey | 18.75 |
| Fàire | 18.2 |
| Róney | 12.7 |
| Dubh | 11.4 |
| Háland | 10.6 |
| Shag | 5.75 |
| Gobhar | 4.25 |
| Glas | 3.5 |
| Burray | 3.5 |
| Flotta | 3.4 |
| Mhill | 2.7 |
| Egilsay | 2.5 |
| Rubha | 1.6 |
| Wyre | 1.2 |
| Falay | 1.15 |
| Vetrarsnorri | 0.9 |
Ecosystem
The Arcaibh islands have a wide array of different environments ranging from coastal cliffs and beaches, maritime heath, wetlands, moorlands, salt marshes, and woodlands. This supports an equally diverse population of plants and animals, including many species of sea birds, seals, and otters. Deer, rabbits, and voles are commonly found throughout the islands, and the coastline is known for its many colorful flowers, such as sea aster and common heather. The Arky Rose is the most famous of the flowers of the Arcaibh. Its blossoms are bright purple, and it is prized by collectors and herbalists. A tea made from the petals of the Arky Rose will guarantee a deep and dreamless sleep, and many healers believe there is nothing better for a healing body.
Climate
The climate of the Arcaibh Islands is cold and harsh, with low temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Cold ocean currents make the islands less hospitable than some other regions at a similar latitude. In winter, storms are common, and can arrive suddenly out of the north and west. Those that blow in from the Middlesea sometimes carry strange effects, such as rains of frogs, or mysterious wreckage along the shores.
Natural Resources
The rich waters and fertile soil of the islands are the most significant natural resources of the Arcaibh islands. The Dòbhran do not farm much, but they do keep large flocks of sheep and goats, allowed to roam free on the smaller islands, where few predators can reach them. The waters are filled with all kinds of seafood, and wild fruit bushes are common on land.
Maps
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Arcaibh Islands
Type
Archipelago
Location under
Related Ethnicities
Inhabiting Species
Geographic Details
Location: Northeastern RegionLatitude: 59.93 degrees North
Longitude: 72.71 degrees East
Average Elevation: 30 ft
Highest Point: 1,558 ft (Beinn Aerthar)
Lowest Point: -3 ft (Lochan Cànan)
Area: 402.2 sq mi
This article is a stub, and will eventually be updated with more complete information. Let me know in the comments if you would like me to prioritize it!
This article was originally written for Spooktober 2024. You can find all of my Spooktober Articles at Spooktober Central.
This article was originally written for Spooktober 2023. You can find all of my Spooktober Articles at Spooktober Central.
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