Chult

Chult was located in the southernmost region of Naneth, surrounded by ocean, off the coast of Meridian . Chult was a massive island, the third largest in the entire world, beat only in size by Naneth's Tip and the Isle of Suffering. Chult has always been remote and isolated, even when they were apart of Meridian, forming a mountainous jungle of savage beasts, hulking dinosaurs, and disease-ridden swamps. Human tribes, goblins, and even stranger monstrous folk haunted the thick jungles. The primordial Eres; Ubtao was the primary deity of worship on the island, as the inhabitants viewed him as their savouir and god. However, as time passed, Chult fell out of favor with Ubtao, leading to the downfall and misfortune of many civilizations within the island.

Society

The vast majority of life upon Chult resides in the massive port city of Nyanzaru. Humans, Elves, Dwarves, Tielfing, Dragonborn, and more call this island home, and locally, tend to reside in Port Nyanzaru. Even the rare and reclusive race of Tabaxi can be found here, in fact, Chult is their native home. While most of Chult's citizens lives within a urban setting, this wasn't always the case. Much of Chult's population used to live in the jungle, in other ancient cities hidden among the forest. This took place as recently as several hundred years ago, and to this day, some have never given up that lifestyle, making Chult the home of wild tribes of human, dwarves, and tabaxi. Most notably among those ancient civilizations was Omu, Nagalore, and Mezro. These lost cities now exist in legend only, or as undead ridden ruins. Many other smaller settlements and locations have simply been lost to the jungle and time, awaiting the day that an explorer may uncover their secrets once more.

Culture

Chultean culture was quite diverse, due to the large amount of differing creatures within such a small area. Most of the island's population and everyday business thrived within Nyanzaru, making the port city a vibrant example of Naneth's many different races. The city's streets have bloomed in colour and diversity, making it one of the most beautiful locations to visit, this drove up tourism opportunities for wealthy visitors, feeding further into the pockets of Nyanzaru's rich occupants. Those that lived within the city often lead wealthy lives, especially those involved in mercantile trades, as Nyanzaru was known across Naneth as one of the most productive trade cities.
Of course, not all in Nyanzaru and Chult were quite so well off, as the jungle and lower class areas of the city featured many less fortunate inhabitants. In Nyanzaru's Old City and Malar's Throat districts, most inhabitants lived meal to meal, feeding off the jungle when possible. In the jungle, many chultean human tribes still remained, isolated from the busy port of Nyanzaru. These humans often still worshiped Ubtao, and depended on the jungle for survival. Of course, life in the jungle was incredibly dangerous, and many tribes have been wiped out by errant creatures.

Relations

On Chult, most races get along quite well with one another, and with such a large concentration diverse groups in Nyanzaru, they have little other choice. In general, inhabitants here are free from the prejudice and stereotypes that plague some of the mainland nations. Humans and non-humans get along fine, and even accept the rarer races, like Tabaxi and Aarakocra, as official citizens of the jungle country.
Chult's relations with other countries varies from nation to nation. Though most of Chult's relations are trade based, as the country isn't large enough to contribute in other aspects, such as military alliances. With countries like Astora and Atmora, relations are quite strong, with all nations contributing in strong trade agreements. Relations with the The Quaan Empire are completely non-existent, with no trade taking place between the two regions, at least in a legal capacity. With Meridian, the relationship is more unique. Beginning in AoR 436, Chult joined Meridian as an official region, ending it's status as a sovereign island. However, in AoR 601, Chult succeeded from Meridian, citing the latter's inability to protect trade routes as the primary reason. This has lead to strained relationships between the two nations, though these feelings are mostly contained within the wealthy families or businesses that have lost profits as a result.

Festivals

Festivals and celebrations are quite common in Chult, and Nyanzaru in particular. With the close density of which the varying races live, Nyanzaru has become a hub for many racial traditions and celebrations. One could easily find practices from all over the world, taking part in the city, from human traditions to elves, and even dwarves. In fact, some of the greatest looking buildings in the city were constructed by a dwarf under the effects of Armok's Fever.
Dinosaur Races: A favorite of the inhabitants of Nyanzaru, the dinosaur race through the city. Every week, on the 6th day, Nyanzaru holds some amount of dinosaur racing entertainment. While it usually takes places within the area, in a closed circuit, occasionally for special events, it becomes a city-wide sprint. The winner of these specail races is bestowed with the highest honors of Nyanzaru, and a personal gift from a Merchant Prince.
History through Combat: Several times a year, Nyanzaru will host a great event within the walls of the arena. It consists of the re-telling of old chultean legends, such as the fall of Omu, or the defense of Mezro. For the event, Nyanzaru's greatest warriors are gathered in the area, to face off against creatures, representing the battles of old. Typically, this means facing hordes of undead, or other beasts of that nature.

Religion

In Chult, specifically Nyanzaru, inhabitants of the city are free to worship any deity of their choosing, provided it is not one of The Dead Three. Nyazaru's streets are lined with various temples and shrines to different gods, giving one no shortage of opportunity for worship. Almost all gods are represented here in some form, though the most popular in Nyanzaru is certainly Sune, or perhaps Torm, to a slightly lesser extent.
Before the incredible rise of Nyanzaru, and the fall of old ancient cities, Ubtao was easily the primary god for the population of Chult. He was seen as the creator, and caretaker of the isle and the father of dinosaurs. Eventually, by the hand of many different circumstances, Chult and the ancient cities began to lose faith in their protector, eventually turning their back towards the god. Now, Ubtao is though to have left Chult, scorned by the actions of his followers. Many believe that the fall of Omu was directly related to Ubtao's departure, as the city fell quite soon after the worship of other gods was permitted. However, many in Chult, including wild tribes of human, still believe Ubtao watches over them, and continue to push against actions they feel are affronts to Ubtao, such as the worship of other gods, or the consumption of dinosaur eggs and meat.

Government

Chult's government is run like an oligarchy, with a set group of wealthy and powerful individuals, controlling the laws, trade, and military forces for the nation. This group, is known as the Merchant Princes of Port Nyanzaru, of which there are seven members. Each of these princes control a separate aspect of trade, and have manged to monopolize almost all trade coming in and out of the country. Rarely do valuables and wealth enter Chult, without the knowledge and permissions of at least one of the Merchant Princes. Because of their unfettered power, they attained the necessary rights to set laws and other rules upon the city, mostly shaping it to their liking and benefit. The warriors and mercenaries they've hired personally, also serve as the military force for Chult, if need be. Many have found the Merchant Princes to be quite self-absorbed, only concerned with furthering their own interests, and not the countries. But to their credit, under their leadership, Port Nyanzaru at least, has become one of the largest and most profitable cities on all of Naneth.
In ancient days, Chult was ruled by a monarchy, a chultean line of royalty. Those of royal descendant lived in the city of Nagalore, a settlement consisting of a vast garden and palace. However, after the perceived abandonment of Chult by Ubtao, Nagalore, along with the rest of the jungle, fell into ruin and chaos. The royal line was presumed destroyed.

Economy

Chult's economy, specifically Nyanzaru's economy, was driven entirely on the basis of trade. Whether that was trade within country or with other nations, it was the lifeblood of Chult's existence. With other nations, Chult exported great amounts of spices, perfumes, and other exotic material. Many resources could only be found on the island, and mainland Naneth paid premium prices for the importation of these goods. Chult was also exempt from the rigid guidelines of the Merchant's Guild of Naneth, an organization that sanctioned most of the trade in the other nations of the world. That ment that the trade of goods in Chult was not subject to the various fees and taxes imposed by the MGoN. This made Nyanzaru a popular destination for shipping companies, even at the extended risk of piracy or raiding while in-route to the island.
In city, Nyanzaru featured one of the most robust markets in the world. The Grand Souk was the premier marketplace, a shopping area featuring a wide array of selection. Almost anything could be found within the streets of the Souk, as the Merchant Princes personally ran most of the shops within. It remains in the prince's best interest to keep trade in-city, where they can continue collecting percentages of all transactions made within.

Military

Chult's military is almost non-existent, at least in the sense of a government owned combat force. For the Merchant Prince's have taken care of the need for defense through the hiring of individual warriors or mercenary forces. Furthermore, these forces are concentrated in Nyanzaru alone, making the rest of the island a lawless and dangerous place. In fact, other groups, such as the Daytower Alliance, or The Flaming Sun, are allowed free reign in Chult, providing the majority of the forces are kept outside of Nyanzaru. Fort Belurian is a prime example of this, as it's an entire settlement within the jungle of Chult, totally independent from Nyanzaru, supported by The Flaming Sun.
Of the forces Chult does posses, most take the form of heavy, gladiatorial, like warriors. Indeed, many that are hired by the princes originated within the arena of Nyanzaru. The Merchants have hired only the finest fighters for the protection of their interests and the city. Other than these heavy warriors, Chult's combat forces features little else, with cavalry and naval forces almost non-existent. This is quite ironic, as Meridian's lack of naval forces, and it's inability to protect key trading route from Cragmaw raiders, is what prompted Chult's succession. Now, the Merchant Princes have done little to address this, though they primarily provide their own ships with heavy protection.

History

Creation of the Isle; Ubtao's Arrival

Chult was created during the Age of Creation, as a large island, split off from the main landmass of Naneth. It was created by Eldath and Silvanus, as the rest of Naneth was. As the age continued, the island began to fill with life created by The Eres, though it's defining aspect was yet to come. The Eres Ubtao, was granted permission by Eldath to begin creating life, as she had done for other Eres before him. Free to create, Ubtao began giving life to great reptilian-like beasts, larger and more ferocious than any other creatures made before them. They were named Dinosaurs, and became Ubtao's proudest creation.
However, Eldath and Silvanus viewed these beasts as violent creatures, and a potential threat to other species on Naneth's mainland. Because of this, Ubtao's creations were banished to the far south, to the island of Chult, where they would thrive, far from the favored races of the other Eres. This development angered Ubtao, who felt betrayed by his brethren, as his creations had been secluded to the far reaches of the world, doomed to become a footnote to history. In response to this, Ubtao fled to the isle himself, watching over his creations, and becoming the caretaker of the island. During The Betrayal, Ubtao elected to remain neutral in the conflict and the subsequent war, as the interests of the Eres no longer appealed to him.
During the conflict of the Eres, many inhabitants fled the mainland region of Naneth, some even finding their way as far south as Chult. These people became the first intelligent beings to inhabitant the island. Eventually, after the defeat of The Dead Three, many of the Eres decided to leave Naneth, returning to other planes of existence. Ubtao was not among their ranks, choosing to stay in the mortal plane, devoting his existence to the protection of the isle, effectively giving up his power as an otherworldly creator. Later, as Tiamat began her campaign against the races of Naneth, many humans fled from Aramoor and the northeastern regions. Those that ended in Chult, became the ancestors for the humans that continue to inhabit the island today.

Ancient Chult; Ubtao's Decision

During the Age of Fire, Chult began to flourish, away from the view of the wider world, and away from Tiamat's gaze. The population of the island grew under the watchful eye of Ubtao, with cities such as Mezro and Omu beginning to grow in power. Humans became the dominant race on the isle, and the line of Chultean Royalty was established, with the seat of power situated in Nagalore.
Ubtao became very involved with the daily life of the islands inhabitants, leading to the city of Mezro becoming christened as the "Holy City of Ubtao", a honor that greatly pleased the god. As a reward to his most devoted followers, Ubtao bestowed upon them great magical abilities, and seemingly immortal life. These followers became known as the Ubtao's Chosen, seven of the god's most loyal advocates. The greatest among the Chosen, a human named Ras Nsi, who would become the leader of the group. Under Ubtao and his Chosen, Chult thrived, giving way to more than two hundred years of prosperity.
However, with the release of the toxic mists from Orphans Peak, the Age of Mists had begun. This deadly fog spread across Naneth, eventually finding it's way towards the island. Ubtao, without the assistance of other Eres, lacked the necessary power to protect the entirety of the region. Ubtao made his decision, and chose to protect Mezro, the city dedicated to his glory, instead of the larger population center of Omu. The mists finally descended on Chult, and a large majority of the island inhabitants died off, while those within Mezro stayed safe behind Ubtao's power.

Age of Renewal; Rise of Ras Nsi

Two thousand years passed, and the mists finally receded from Naneth, giving the races and creatures of the world new life. Life emerged upon Chult once more as well, as many creatures had endured within the mountains or protected valleys of the jungle. Mezro, had been left largely untouched, though it hardly thrived during the generations behind the protection of Ubtao. Furthermore, it was discovered that members of the population outside Mezro had also survived, with portions of Omu surviving the Age of Mists, hidden deep under the vast city. Among these survivors, was Ras Nsi. Ras Nsi, having survived for over two thousand years within the dark of Omu, was furious with Ubtao, the so-called savoir who had abandoned great portions of the population to death. Ras Nsi fled from the sight of Ubtao, swearing the god would face retribution for his actions.
As the Age of Renewal reached it's first century mark, cities like Omu and Mezro had largely recovered from the previous age, becoming great bastions of life in the jungle once more. However, beneath this flourishing of life, evil and unrest brewed. Finally, in AoR 156, Ras Nsi revealed himself once more, now supported with an army of undead. This army was made from the very individuals that had been abandoned by their god, the ancient dead of Chult. Ras Nsi lead this force in a campaign against Ubtao, and everything the god held dear, including the creatures of his design, and the city of Mezro. The campoagn lasted for years, with most smaller settlements across the jungle wiped out by Ras Nsi, adding to his horde of undead. The royal line of chultean kings taking refuge within Omu, as the city was well defended, and not the main target of Ras Nsi's fury.
Eventually, the undead campaign culminated in the Siege of Mezro, as Ras Nsi poured all his strength and numbers into the attack on the city. Mezro fought bravely, but in the end, was overrun and destroyed by the undead host. However, Ras Nsi was destroyed during the attack, by another surviving member of Ubtao's Chosen, one who had remained in Mezro during the Age of Mists. Without the leadership and black magic of Ras Nsi, the undead horde scattered into the jungle, doomed to wander aimlessly through the trees. Omu and Nagalore managed to withstand the campaign, and continued to exist within the now undead infested jungle of Chult. Though much of the population's faith in Ubtao had been greatly shaken.

Ubtao's Abandonment; Fall of Omu

In the years following, the people of Chult began to grow disillusioned with Ubtao, no longer dedicating themselves to his glory, nor recognizing his sacrifices for the island nation. In Omu, the people began to worship false gods and demons, turning towards unknown patrons of magical ability. Ubtao grew furious over their actions, and finally, after thousands of years protecting the island and it's inhabitants, abandoned his purpose, seemingly leaving Chult to it's fate. Whether Ubtao truly left the island is unknown, but in the years following, misfortune began to strike the remaining cities of Chult.
The jungle soon turned hostile and dangerous, with the added addition of wandering legions of undead. Nagalore was first to fall, the gardens and palace overrun, and the royal line of chultean kings seemingly ended. During this time, the population of Omu had become smitten with the worship of these new gods; the Nine Gods, as Omu's people called them. These gods, or perhaps demons, began to turn the population against one another, as their nature was born of trickery and betrayal. The once grand city of Omu had turned into a shadow of it's former glory, though it continued to stave off destruction from the jungle. Though, sometime around the forth century, Omu finally descended into complete ruin. The general details of Omu's final fall are unknown, as it is thought to have happened quickly, evidently with no survivors recovered from the jungle. As time passed, Omu has fallen into myth and legend, as the city has become lost to the jungle, with few now aware of it's true location.

Meridian and Recent History

By AoR 430, Chult had become a nation of a single city, Port Nyanzaru. The jungle had reclaimed great portions of the island, laying waste to the old city centers. Initially built on the coast, as an outpost, by wealthy explorers from Meridian, Nyanzaru was mostly exempt from the dangers that lay further inland. This lead to the city becoming a bastion of life on the island, as it was the only truly safe location. In AoR 436, Port Nyanzaru, and the rest of Chult, officially became a state of the also recently founded country of Meridian. For years, Nyanzaru grew in number and physical size, quickly becoming one of the most heavily populated cities in the world, and one of the trading capitals of Naneth.
As the Age of Renewal drew close to it's sixth century, many powerful and wealthy families began rising in power in the south of Naneth, particularly in Port Nyanzaru. By AoR 600, these figures, known as the Merchant Princes of Nyanzaru, began to push a succession movement on the population, citing Meridian's inability to combat naval piracy and raiding as the primary reason. In AoR 601 they were successful, and Chult officially withdrew from Meridian, once again becoming a sovereign nation. This thrust the Merchant Princes into a place of unmatched power, and they quickly seized control of Nyanzaru, becoming co-rulers by a Council of seven Princes.
Since then, Chult has become somewhat of a lawless nation. The Merchant Princes are not concerned with the happenings outside Nyanzaru's walls, leaving the jungle as mostly free territory for other countries to establish outposts and forts. Within the last five years alone, organizations like the The Flaming Sun, The Emery Sanctum, and Daytower Alliance have made their mark upon Chult, with little to no push-back from the Merchant Princes. Places like Fort Belurian, the Flaming Sun stronghold on Chult, do not even recognize Merchant Prince rule.
But for now, in AoR 606, Nyanzaru still stands as the singular power in Chult, and has transformed into a diverse melting pot of races, cultures, and religions. The city is also incredibly rich, mostly due to the work of the Princes. Though Chult has been confirmed to be affected by this newfound sickness, it would be difficult to tell, as most of the population seems indifferent or perhaps unaware of the prospect of a worldwide plague. Truly, the city's attention remains evermore on entertainment, trade, and coin, above all else.

Notable Locations

Settlements

Port Nyanzaru: On the northern coast of Chult, stands Port Nyanzaru, the only functioning large city on the island. However, Nyanzaru is also known as one of the biggest and busiest cities in all of Naneth, becoming one of the main trade hubs for the southern regions of the world. Calling Nyanzaru home, is the seven Merchant Princes, who rule over the city with their immense power and wealth.
Fort Belurian: Several miles to the east of Nyanzaru, lies Fort Belurian, a large outpost of the Flaming Sun. Even though the fort is quite small, the minimal civilian population and mercenary presence has actual made Belurian the second most populated settlement in Chult. From this fort, many expeditions are lead into the jungle, usually to ruins like Mezro.
Camp Vengeance : This small outpost lies upon the shores of the Soshenstar River, and is populated by members of the Daytower Alliance and The Emery Sanctum. Vengeance is relatively new, as the previous camp, Camp Righteous, was overrun and destroyed by undead. Camp Vengeance is the second iteration of the Alliance's effort in the jungle.
Omu: In ancient days, Omu was the largest city in Chult, bustling with thousands and thousands of inhabitants. However, the jungle reclaimed the city, doomed it to become a ruin. Now, the true location of Omu has mostly passed into legend, with only a select few possibly being aware of it's location.
Mezro: Another ancient ruin of the jungle, Mezro, once upon a time, was known as the "Holy City of Ubtao". However, in the early days of the Age of Renewal, the city was attacked and destroyed by a former member of Ubtao's Chosen; a warlock named Ras Nsi. Now, Mezro is merely a city of ruins and ghosts, and has been thoroughly picked through by treasure seekers and mercenaries.
Other Settlements in Chult (Active or Ruins)
Kir-Sabal, Mbala, Nagalore, Orolunga, Port Castigliar, Shilku, Hrakhammer, Wyrmheart Mine

Major Organizations

The Merchant Princes of Nyanzaru: This group of weathly, powerful, individuals, rule over Port Nyanzaru. Together they make seven members, and within the confines of Goldenthrone, decide on laws and trade issues regarding Nynazaru and Chult as a whole. The current Merchant Princes, active in Nyanzaru are as follows; Ekene-Afa, Ifan Talro'a, Jessamine, Jobal, Kwayothé, Wakanga O'tamu, and Zhanthi.
Ytepka Society: This small, but loud, group of people are known as Chult and Ubtao loyalists. They operate within Nyanzaru, and generally oppose the integration of mainline culture, in Chult. They consider the worship of any deity other than Ubtao as an affront to the jungle god, and also oppose the usage of dinosaurs as resources in food or entertainment.

Geography

The island of Chult was one enormous island, with the majority of the landmass stifled in thick jungle. However, Chult still contained several different biomes within it's borders, making the life on Chult unique and diverse. Although beautiful, this island was known to be one of the most dangerous places in all of Naneth. Large, violent beasts roamed the trees, while sentient and intelligent plant-life lived among the jungle floor.

Regions

Valley of Embers: A region of land that has been totally burnt out of plant-life due to the often erupting Peaks of Flame to the south. This area is often covered in thick coats of dust, and the areas closer to Lake Luo have become thick with water and ash, making it an impenetrable region of deep muck.
Land of Ash and Smoke: A region to the south of the Peaks of Flame, The Land of Ash and Smoke is a large valley of rolling volcanic rock and steam geysers. This wasteland, situated firmly on-top of an active volcanic field, is 20 to 30 degrees warmer than anywhere else on the island.
Valley of Dread: This portion of the jungle lies to the far eastern shores of the island, a valley totally surrounded by high cliffs and mountains. This deep threshold of trees holds the largest density of dinosaurs on the island, making it incredibly dangerous for travel. Rumors and legends also speak of a mysterious race of lizardfolk inhabiting the region.

Mountains

Mistcliff Mountains: Chult's longest mountains range, the Mistcliffs run from the northern tip and down the western coast. These peaks reach high into the air, making Chult's western coast all but impossible to pass.
Kobold Mountains: Another of Chult's larger ranges, the Kobold's are situated on the southern western coast of the island. These mountains are unique in the fact that several dwarven mines were dug into it's depths. However, these mines have mostly been lost to the wilds and dangers of the area. The Kobold Mountains also feature one active volcano.
Peaks of Flame: A small range of mountains, situated in the heart of the island. The Peaks of Flame is a collection of several active volcanoes, a detail that has turned the surrounding region into a barren, volcanic, wasteland.
Sanrach Mountains and Sky Lizard Mountains: These two ranges sit within the southeastern regions of Chult, surrounding the Valley of Dread.

Bodies of Water

Aldani Basin: A large in-land lake, the Aldani Basin is little more than a toxic bog of mud and insects. In the middle of the lake, where the depth should be tens of feet deep, instead sits a false bottom of mud. It's a horrid place to explore, and is the native home to many unsavory creatures. Chief among theses are the mysterious Aldani Folk, large crustacean-like creatures that inhabit the muck of the Basin.
Soshenstar River: One of the three large rivers that cut through Chult's jungles, the Soshenstar begins in the Aldani Basin, before flowing northwards towards Nyanzaru and the ocean. The Soshenstar acts as one of the chief ways to infiltrate the jungle, and is often safer then trekking under the jungle canopy. In places, the Sohsenstar can open up into a wide river of 4-5 miles, though it usually stays at a width of around 200ft - 500ft.
River Tath: Unique among Chult's rivers, the Tath originates from springs within the Mistcliff Mountains. Flowing southward, the River Tath splits halfway, with one branch emptying into the Aldani Basin, and the other into in the ocean.
River Olung: This river originates from Lake Luo, and flows northward towards the ocean. In places, this river drys to a merely a stream, and even drys completely in particularly hot years. This exposes a river bed of razor sharp rocks and coral, especially closer to the ocean.
Lake Luo: Because of this lake's close proximity to the Peaks of Flame, the water within was quite alkaline. It received steady flows of dust, ash, and lava from the nearby peaks, raising it's core temperature greatly.

Geography

Type: Nation
Region: South Naneth
Capital: Port Nyanzaru
Largest City: Port Nyanzaru

Society

Demonym: Chultean, Chultan
Races: Human, Elves, Dwarves, Tabaxi, Aarakocra
Languages: Common, Ancient Chultean, Auran, Saurian, Elvish, Dwarvish
Religion: Ubtao, Sune, Eldath, Torm

Commerce

Imports: Building Supplies, Jewlery, Weapons, Food
Exports: Exotic Materials, Perfume, Spices

Politics

Government Type: Oligarchy
Ruling Type: Council of Merchant Princes