The Northern Isles

"Any Risen stepping into the Northern Isles is either suicidal or overconfident to the point that they might as well be such. One would need nothing short of an army, and I welcome any nation foolish enough to try such a thing near my borders." - Dahmra Menes, High Priestess of Bakison

Coastline Torn Asunder

The spots of land known today as the Northern Isles were once joined together and comprised the northern coast of Nioyaathep. Much like the rest of the country, the environment here was largely encompassed by desert outside of the few rivers leading to the sea that gave way to more vibrant wildlife. This was still in the early years of the Risen population and as such the lands were largely undeveloped and unpopulated. Due to a lack of an educated or thriving populace in the area at the time, little is known about the area prior to the Sundering.
The Sundering is the name given to the battle between Larael Silverweave and Zuberi Thokh. Larael had uncovered Zuberi's plot to become a god through mass sacrifice and challenged him to a duel to the death in the northern portion of Nioyaathep. Both had been granted mastery over the Arcane by their respective creator gods and used this power to their absolute limits in their conflict against one another. Outside of the damage to each other, the lands around them were torn asunder and separated from the mainland, creating the uneven series of islands known as the Northern Isles.
Nioyaathep still officially claims ownership of the Northern Isles, despite not having any of their own settlements remaining on the island. Both Nechestivy and the Dwehrlen territories have made attempts to stake their own claim of land within and both were challenged by the Dahlen. However, Nioyaathep did not need to make any moves against either of these attempts, as both were repelled by the natural forces surrounding these deadly islands.

Islands of Peril

In previously unseen phenomena, the Arcane Magick expelled by both of them seemed to be absorbed deep into the land itself. The islands went through a series of rapid transformations throughout the following couple of centuries that created unique ecosystems on each one. These ecosystems became home to a burgeoning population of dangerous wildlife. Tyrant Lizards, Corpse Stalkers, Nagas, and more all vie for the position of apex predator amongst the twisted landscape. Various species of sea serpents call the waters home alongside the Reef Drakes within great coral formations.
Geography on the islands is now as varied as the species within. Two of the major islands boast great forests while others carry large grazing plains or even sandy deserts reminiscent of their original home of Nioyaathep. The island of Glamdring holds a harsh, rocky surface pitted with entrances to several cave systems beneath. The flora itself is also worth great caution, with Snatcher Vines and Morth Bulbs dotting the landscape.
The weather throughout the islands can be just as volatile as the rest of the nature found within. Sudden storms, flash floods, and twisters are regular occurrences throughout the spring and summer seasons. Winter can come through with harsh blizzards, especially on the island that Frostclutter Citadel calls home. Most of the natural fauna have evolved and become well adapted to the harsh weather patterns, only making them all the more formidable.

The Northern Isles

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The smallest known territory doesn't diminish it's power by any means. While Edgeglade and Glamdring hold powerful creatures and rare materials, legends speak of the lich that rules over Frostclutter Citadel that even great heroes fear to tread it's terrain.

Of Ice and Spiders

Perhaps the most ifamous landmark of the Northern Isles would be Frostclutter Citadel. Found on the largest of the islands, Frostclutter is home to a powerful Arachnomancer turned Lich who planted his citadel there centuries ago. Although the original date is unknown, the first reported sighting was during an expedition in the year 1238 AS. The majority of the island has now been trasformed into an icy hellscape with permanent snowfall and towering spiders patrolling the frozen woods.

Life at the Edge of the World

Despite all the warnings presented by the few explorers brave enough to make their way to the Northern Isles, there is one Risen settlement found on one of the islands. Edgeglade is a small conglomerate of gifted Ehlen and Dwehrlen artisans who took refuge there in secret to hone their crafts. The settlement is largely unknown, remaining a closely guarded secret amongst smiths from their home countries.