Description
Northern part
The northern region of the Crystal Ocean was once known as the Crystal Sea.
As the sun rises, the ocean's surface becomes a glimmering mirror of the world above, almost like a portal to the Feywild. Its ethereal light inspires bards from distant lands to sing of love and beauty.
This breathtaking spectacle is caused by unique crystal formations that grow at the bottom of the ocean. These crystals refract sunlight, creating dazzling displays of color that dance across the waves.
Because of these magical minerals, the region has become a source of growing tension. Both the Hobgoblin Empire and Tana's Empire seek to mine the crystals, which are highly prized for crafting magical items. Local legends claim the crystals were born from the lingering essence of a crystal dragon that once made its home on the island at the ocean's center.
Southern part
The southern stretch of what is now the Crystal Ocean was once separated by a vast mountain range and known as the Gulf of Mermaids. However, in 1136 AD, a massive geographical upheaval reshaped the land, transforming the gulf into the southern part of the Crystal Ocean.
Today, this area is teeming with strange and dangerous aquatic life. Merrow and sirens—the flying evil cousins of mermaids—prowl the waters around the newly formed Mermaid Archipelago, named after the mermaids who fled following the rise of Tromokratis.
Because of the threat these creatures pose, the southern Crystal Ocean is considered highly perilous. Most ships avoid it entirely. While the sahuagin offer safe passage in exchange for exorbitant fees, the cost is too steep for most. Merchants and sailors are forced to chart longer, safer courses—hugging the northern coasts and circling down the far continent's shores.
History
1136 AD
The Crystal Ocean was once a vast inland sea. However, when Tromokratis was unleashed in 1136 AD, his rage shattered the world. The titan's fury destroyed the mountain range that once connected Green Earth and Siniador, transforming the Crystal Sea into the Crystal Ocean.
In the aftermath, the merfolk and mermaids who had long inhabited the region fled to the Elemental Plane of Water, abandoning the underwater city of Kelpheart. The city is now under the control of the sahuagin.
Adventure Hook
Countless tales swirl around the Crystal Ocean—stories of magic, wealth, and danger. Most speak of the dazzling crystals that grow at the ocean floor and the mysterious central island. These treasures lure adventurers, scholars, smugglers, and fortune-seekers alike.
Blood Crystal
ensions over the Crystal Ocean's resources are simmering. While Tana's Empire and the Hobgoblin Empire have agreed to a temporary ceasefire and prohibited mining operations in the region, their motives are far from peaceful.
In the shadows, a greedy merchant sees an opportunity. He’s built a network of smugglers hoping to monopolize access to the ocean's resources. However, his most recent vessel never returned from the journey. Now, desperate for answers—and results—he seeks a group of adventurers to investigate what happened and to uncover the secrets hidden in the depths of the Crystal Ocean.
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