Valtara
Valtara, the vast continent that encompasses the Epochian Span and beyond, is a land of immense diversity and complexity. At its heart lies the Epochian Span, a region known for its unique blend of cultures, cities, and moral alignments. To the north, the expansive and icy wilderness of Frostfall reflects the struggles and aspirations of its people, who seek reconnection with the capital after years of oppression. To the south, the majestic and ancient Elfholme stands as a bastion of elven civilization, steeped in tradition and lore.
Venturing further east, one encounters the mystical Moonstone, a city that draws scholars and enchanters from across Valtara due to its renowned arcane institutions. Westward lies the formidable cliffs of Thunderstone, where the cliffside city stands as a beacon of strength and resilience. The Golden City of Mystwall, with its mysterious districts and secrets, can be found nestled in the heart of the continent, serving as a center of intrigue and wonder.
Yet, Valtara is not without its darker corners. Beyond the sprawling continent, the enigmatic and perilous Corruption looms, a malevolent force that taints everything it touches, giving rise to cities steeped in darkness and lawlessness, where nefarious agendas thrive. These centers of evil, like the Lawful Evil cities in the heart of the Corruption, stand in stark contrast to the noble and righteous cities of the Epochian Span, creating a dynamic and multifaceted landscape that is ripe for exploration and adventure in this rich and imaginative world.
Localized Phenomena
The Pestilence, often referred to as "The Corruption," is a nightmarish and malevolent force that effectively separates the Span from the rest of the continent of Valtara. It is a sprawling and ominous expanse of desolation, twisting and blighting the land it touches.
Origin and Nature: The exact origin of the Pestilence is shrouded in mystery and horror. Some believe it to be a curse, a manifestation of dark magic gone awry, or the lingering effects of a cataclysmic event from centuries past. Regardless of its origins, the Corruption is characterized by its relentless spread and its insidious ability to twist and pervert the natural world.
The Pestilence manifests as a seemingly endless, festering wasteland of ashen soil and decayed vegetation. It is dotted with eerie and corrupted landmarks, such as grotesque, petrified trees that resemble writhing serpents and stagnant, foul-smelling bogs that seem to pulse with malevolence. The very air within the Pestilence is thick with a noxious miasma that can be lethal to those who breathe it.
The Pestilence acts as an effective barrier, cutting off the Span from the rest of Valtara. The Corruption's influence is pervasive, affecting not only the land but also the creatures and people who dwell within it. Those unfortunate enough to become trapped within its grasp often undergo a harrowing transformation, becoming twisted and malevolent beings that serve the Pestilence's inscrutable agenda.
The Pestilence has defied all attempts to eradicate it. The The Sons of the 7th Seal with the Runeforgers banded together to errect The Barrier. A melding of arcana and technology that keeps the Pestilence from spreading.
The magic of The Barrier infuses the lands. Making the grounds more fertile and a strange magical material known as Arcanum is produced in the ground. Even though the creatures that dwell within the Pestilence are a threat, it doesn't stop cities from taking advantage of the land near the borders.
Climate
Valtara boasts a range of climates, largely dictated by its geographical expanse. In the central and temperate forested regions of the Epochian Span, where most of the continent's population resides, the four distinct seasons cycle through the year. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer heralds warm, sun-soaked days. As autumn arrives, the leaves change into a breathtaking symphony of colors before they fall, and winter often blankets the landscape in a pristine coat of snow.
Moving further north towards the imposing mountain ranges, the temperatures plummet dramatically. Frostfall, situated in the far north, endures a harsh and unrelenting cold, with snow being a constant presence throughout the year. The southern reaches of Valtara, on the other hand, enjoy a more temperate and warm climate. Sunhaven, with its near-tropical allure, boasts sandy beaches, lush vegetation, and an abundance of sunlight, creating a paradise-like environment for its residents and visitors.
Type
Continent
Included Locations
