Unfettered Highlands

One of the wild regions of the Middle Kingdoms, this area is home to numerous tribes of goblinoids, orcs, ogres, hill giants, and many other creatures widely considered dangerous. The tribes tend to cluster around the springs and waterfalls along the northern edge of the region, though some live on the lower plains. Wells dot the plains to help the transient tribes that move through the region, providing reliable water in particularly dry years. These tribes are known to follow the huge herds of wildebeests and aurochs, hunting and gathering to sustain themselves.

Geography

The land is predominantly subtropical steppe, with greater rainfall on the northern edge of the region making for fertile grassland. The elevation climbs steadily to the north as it butts up against the high mountains surrounding Truce. Further south, the grasslands transition to savannas and shrublands. The rainfall for the area is typically between 35 and 60 inches per year. It is warm to hot year round, and while the monsoons don't typically reach them, they do contribute to a wet season.  Small lakes, springs and rivers thread through the region, shrinking throughout the dry season, but replenished by runoff from the mountains to the north.

Ecosystem Cycles

During the wet season, food is usually plentiful and is often the season to birth and rear young. The dry season sees many of the populations migrating for better forage and water. Fires are an important part of the yearly cycle here, and the dry season is marked by passing thunderstorms starting up grass fires.

Fauna & Flora

Flora

Grasses and scattered trees are common. The center of the Unfettered Highlands tends toward scrub brush and short trees. Tubers are common and many of the plants have extensive root systems.

Fauna

Large herbivores make up a large number of animals such as aurochs, elephants, giraffe, wildebeest and zebra. Predators include cheetahs, hyenas, and lions. Insects of all kinds are common in the region, and mound termites thrive here.

Exotica

Travelers in the region are likely to encounter ankhegs, chimeras, lamia, manticore, stirges, and worg. Some gigantism is seen here, mostly in the form of giant termite and ant colonies, though a few hill giant tribes are also known.

Location under

Middle Kingdoms