Macris (maˈkriːs)

"I don't envy a lot of other libraries. The Library of Mávros is one of the ones I do."

— The Librarian of Foxbridge

Macris is the third largest of the Kaphtor Islands. It is best known as the home of the great Callisthenes of Macris. Callisthenes was the chronicler of Hundaru of Telmun's rise to power, and the most influential thinker of his time. To this day, his works on natural philosophy, history, poetry, and music are considered necessary components of any Kaphtori education, and are well-known to scholars throughout the Great Ring. The Library of Mávros is the repository to more of Callisthenes' original works than any other location, and is considered one of the great libraries in the world.

Macris is also known for the ancient ruins that found there. These ruins are scattered throughout the island, hidden in dense forests and perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the sea. They are from long before the Kaphtori came to the island, and Naga records claim that they were ancient even when the Nakaal ruled. Nobody knows who built them, but there are rumors of tunnels beneath the crumbling buildings that can only be opened under certain configurations of the stars. These tunnels are said to contain monsters and treasures, and more than one adventerous soul has perished trying to excavate an entrance to them. A few of those who survive report finding stones that whisper in odd languages, and few of these whispering stones have been retrieved and are held by private collectors.

The largest settlement on the island is Mávros, located on the western coast. It is ruled by the Aon Phylí, although it has sizeable populations from the Ellopí and Abantí phylai as well.

Notable Spirits

The ruins of the island are said to be haunted by ancient ghosts who appear at night. These spirits are rarely seen, and even then only as vast dark shapes that blot out the stars. While these shades do not attack those who glimpse them, observers are filled with such terror that they flee, recklessly hurling themselves away from the ghost.

Beyond the ruins, the patron deity of Macris is the god Krios. He manifests as a great ram-headed giant, with thick wool growing down and his back. Krios is a studious god, and his priesthood built and maintains the Library of Mávros. It because of his association with the sheep of the island that the most sacred books are written on sheepskin.

Geography

Macris is a rugged island with mountains running down its center. The highest of these is the mountain of Dirfyos, where a great oracle can be found. The coastline is marked by small bays and inlets, which provide many natural harbors.

Ecosystem

Macris is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. The island's forests are filled with pine, oak, and chestnut trees, while its coastline is lined with olive and fig trees. The waters around Macris are teeming with fish and other sea creatures, including octopus, squid, and sea urchins. The island is also home to a variety of bird species, including eagles, hawks, and owls.

Climate

Macris has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The island is subject to occasional storms and heavy rainfall, particularly in the winter months. Despite its relatively small size, Macris has a diverse range of microclimates, with different areas of the island experiencing different weather patterns.

Maps

• 

  Macris

Type

Island

Location under

Kaphtor Islands

Included Locations

• Dirfyos
• Mávros

Geographic Details

Location: Southeastern Region
Latitude: 37.41 degrees North
Longitude: 45.07 degrees East
Average Elevation: 371 ft
Highest Point: 5,486 ft (Dirfyos)
Lowest Point: -3 ft
Area: 1,422 sq mi