The Southern Jungle

Little is known about the dense jungles of the southern continent. Just entering the continent is a challenge. Explorers arriving from the west sea are greeted with swarms of poisoned darts from the cannibalistic tribes of lizardmen. Approaches from eastern are treacherous, with longs stretches of rocky and cliffs preventing landing. The distant south is said to be sunny and fair, but reaching those distant shores in a challenge, and the Empire that holds sway there is known to not welcome outsiders.   Thus, the only sustainable entrance to the southern continent is from north, crossing the Divisione Continentale river that separates the two landmasses. The only civilazed cross is at the city of Koda, across the Traghetto ferry. And every year explorers and caravans cross in an attempt at wealth and glory.   Some are following faint trade routes Skadi or the surrounding villages, hoping to trade grains and worked goods for the rare spices and magical animal pelts. Many are seeking new trade routes, hoping to find safe passages to the legendary La Xaekaweia, or even the Empire of Storms. And some foolish few dive deeper into the jungles, seeking out wild tribes, and forgotten ruins, hoping to find treasure and artifacts to bring home.   But few of these merchants and explorers ever return. Mighty dinosaurs, magical creatures, and dense, poisonous foliage are just a few of dangers of this place. Even the known routes are considered safe, and more than one expidition has disappeared without a trace on an otherwise "safe" road.   But more continue to trickle in, drawn by stories of secret civilizations and lost temples of gold. And the Jungle welcomes them all.