Íssa (ís.sa)
Íssa is the southernmost of the Kaphtor Islands. It is ruled by the Polis of Mytilene, a theocratic city state where the Archon is selected by the gods of the island. Íssa is a beautiful land known for its lush forests, rolling hills, and fertile fields.
The largest settlement on the island is the town of Mytilene, located on the northern coast. Mytilene is the seat of the government, as well as being a busy and prosperous port. Other settlements on the include the fishing village of Skala Eressos on the western coast, the farming village of Plomari on the southern coast, and the mountain village of Agiassos, nestled in the foothills of the central mountains.
Notable Spirits
The Polis of Mytilene recognizes twelve major gods of the island who they entrust with the authority to select their ruler, the Archon. Of these, the most prominent is Belus, the god of the highest mountain. The others represent the other prominent aspects of the island, including the Skala, goddess of the river that bears her name, and Desposia, the goddess who is embodied by the islet which houses the core of the city of Mytilene.
Like most gods, the pantheon of Íssa has the ability to grant miraculous powers to those that they favor. On Íssa, there are specific gifts associated with each of the gods, and those who would seek to rule must acquire as many of them as they can. Whichever candidate can demonstrate the most miracles granted by the pantheon is granted the title of Archon, and given unlimited power over the people of Íssa.
The gods of Íssa may share their gifts with as many candidates as they choose, and there are always a few blessed individuals waiting for their chance to rule the island. The gods can also withdraw their favor as they wish, and at any time the Archon can be called upon to demonstrate their gifts and prove that they still hold the favor of more gods than any other. In the rare instances where more than one person is blessed by an equal number of gods, they are both granted the power of Archon. However, these partnerships have been historically unreliable, and the gods will usually attempt to avoid ties.
Geography
The island of Íssa is oblong in shape, with a maximum width of about 20 miles. The island is dominated by a central mountain range, with several peaks rising above 3000 feet. The mountain range is treacherous, with steep cliffs and treacherous passes that are only passable by the most skilled climbers. The forests on the slopes of these mountains are rich with wildlife, and the hills are covered in fertile soil where the Kaphtori grow crops.
Ecosystem
The forests on the slopes of the mountains are are dominated by pine and oak trees and are rich with wildlife, including deer, boars, and wolves. The hills are more agricultral, with olive groves, vineyards, and fruit orchards. The island is home to several species of birds, including the famous Aegean owl, which is sacred to the Kaphtori people. Those who have the gift of bird-speech claim that that the Aegean owl knows all the secrets of the island, and will guide those who earn their friendship to hidden ruins and lost treasure deep in the mountains.
Climate
Íssa has mild winters and hot summers. The island receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year, and the sea breezes help to moderate the temperature. The island receives most of its rainfall during the winter months, which helps to keep the soil fertile and the forests lush.
Maps
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Issa
Geographic Details
Location: Southeastern RegionLatitude: 33.12 degrees North
Longitude: 44.61 degrees East
Average Elevation: 265 ft
Highest Point: 7,720 ft (Belus)
Lowest Point: 0 ft
Area: 630.4 sq mi
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