Golgonda Dunes

Geography

The Golgonda Dunes are located directly south of the Midlands. The landscape transitions from dry, barren lands into golden, towering dunes of sand interspersed with a few oases. Hidden amongst the sand are deep valleys and pits that stretch down; some contain the remnants and ruins of Arcadia, an old kingdom. The region is separated from the Midlands by mountain ranges that act as natural barriers. The cities of Mediana, Avardir, and Osmadh are key settlements within the Golgonda Dunes, each occupying strategically important locations.

Fauna & Flora

Despite the harsh environment, the Golgonda Dunes host a variety of flora and fauna adapted to the arid conditions. Hardy desert plants like cacti and desert shrubs thrive near oases, while the dunes are home to creatures such as sand serpents, giant scorpions, and dune striders. The region's unique ecosystems also include magical creatures, such as elemental spirits and mirage birds, which add an air of mystery and danger.
The scars of past battles linger on as restless spirits and undead, haunting the old ruins of kingdoms and cities past. There is also a strong presence of the Midnight Horde here, courtesy of the Crystal Valley - the crash site of a splinter of the Midnight Star - in the Red Desert south.

Natural Resources

The Golgonda Dunes are rich in various natural resources, including valuable minerals and Midnight Shards, which have become crucial for trade and technological advancements. The region's oases provide vital water sources, supporting agriculture and sustaining life in an otherwise harsh environment. The bones of the Titan in Mediana are used as sturdy construction materials, while the dunes themselves hold secrets of ancient Arcadian artifacts.

History

The Golgonda Dunes were once part of the powerful Kingdom of Arcadia, whose ruins still dot the landscape. The city of Mediana, once a significant Arcadian settlement, now stands as a testament to the kingdom's architectural prowess, with the Titan's Bounty being a prominent feature. After the Midnight Crisis, the region fell into disarray as Warlords seized control, leading to a fragmented political landscape. There are three key cities within this region:

• Mediana: Governed by the Shah, Mediana struggles with gang and warlord influence but remains a significant center for trade and diplomacy. Its history as part of Arcadia is reflected in its architecture and cultural practices.
• Avardir: Under the rule of Mayor Makyura, Avardir is a hub for illicit trade and mercenary activity. The city thrives on its lawlessness, attracting a variety of unsavory characters.
• Osmadh: Led by Dust and the Infernoes, Osmadh is undergoing a transformation from chaos to stability. Historically a port city, it now seeks to re-establish its trade connections and political influence.

The Golgonda Dunes are inhabited by a diverse mix of ethnic groups. The primary residents are descendants of the Arcadians, who hold onto their rich cultural heritage. Other significant groups include nomadic tribes who traverse the dunes, trading and sharing their knowledge of the desert, or bandits who have claimed dominion. Additionally, the cities have seen an influx of various races, including humans, orcs, and Kalashtar, each contributing to the region's cultural tapestry.
The Golgonda Dunes, with their rich history, diverse populations, and unique ecosystems, present a complex and dynamic environment shaped by the interplay of ancient legacies and contemporary power struggles.

Type

Region

Location under

Frontiers

Contested By

• Avardir
• Crystallis
• Mediana
• Osmadh