The Shattered Isles are a collection of islands in the [South Seas] that were once their own continent--[name]--but were sundered millennia hence in what could only have been an act of the prime gods. Though broken apart, the Isles still share many similarities, especially in terrain, climate, and original, somewhat primitive flora and fauna. Unlike most of mainland Ysireth, the Shattered Isles experience an unusually high occurrence of magical phenomena, theorized to be the lingering consequences of the Isles’ original fracturing. In addition, due to the isolated ecosystems of islands, the Shattered Isles are bestowed with a somewhat extreme diversity of wildlife, including many niche species that are extinct on larger landmasses.
Though disparate in location, the Aeldvari of the Shattered Isles are reliably civil, gracious, and as sophisticated in arcana as their distant mainlander cousins. Aeldvaren tribes are the shining jewels of the Shattered Isles, preserving and maintaining high culture against the unpredictable wilds of their environment. The Isles boast some of the longest-lived establishments of magical research and education, which are one of the most compelling reasons to travel this splintered land.
While the dominant societies are Aeldvaren, there are a number of other races--both prime and lesser--who hold significant portions of land and can cite a nominal amount of political clout. Our Duovaren brethren are scarce in the Isles, largely due to the relative dearth of stable and deep-rooted mountains. Sadly, that leaves most of the other kinvari to be comprised of Hymvari, Urkvari, and minor races such as [harpies], [giants], and [bugbears]. There is a small but notable presence of Nagvari on many of the shorelines where the land has crumbled into the sea; any and all travelers are advised to be very cautious and respectful of any Nagvari they encounter, regardless of political affiliation.