Kynath Archipelago

The Kynath Archipelago is a group of islands off the north+east coast of Vanelle and the only region of Vanelle that does not pay tax to the Protectorate, simply because it doesn't have a Lord who can enforce the collection of such taxes. It is also the only region where The Holy Order of Tighru does not have a foothold. This is due to the locals' devotion to Kynath, the sea serpent responsible for The Drowning Wave among other things. However, like other mythical creatures and all of the old gods of Vanelle, Kynath has not been seen or heard from since Exodus of the Gods. Consisting of numerous volcanic islands, the archipelago is considered a hostile environment by most with few opportunities for growing crops or keeping animals. That does not mean it's not possible. The largest island in the archipelago is home to the people of Kynath, a hardy folk with strong sea-faring roots who have successfully been farming the volcanic soil around their settlements for many hundreds of years, growing a range of crops that can withstand the harsh winds and salty gusts. They also keep a sturdy breed of mountain sheep which seems to have adapted well to the island climate. Fish, however, is their main source of protein and a large part of their exports to the mainland. While fishermen from other parts of Vanelle have tried to move in on the rich waters around the archipelago, they have consistently been kept at bay by the Warriors of Kynath, whose skill in both navigation and combat far surpass those of common fishermen. Many stories are told about the unnatural speed at which they traverse the water, both in their ships and while swimming, although it is unclear whether their speed and agility is simply due to their excellent physique and well-honed technique or something else. According to myth, they get their super-human qualities from an age-old pact with Kynath, but this has been subject to scrutiny in the years since the Exodus. Due to the strong devotion to the cult of Kynath among the people of the archipelago, they have not adopted any of the larger religions of Vanelle, going so far as to prevent any such envoys from leaving their vessels. This has led to a degree of superstition about the people of the Kynath Archipelago and the archipelago itself among mainlanders. Some stories even insist that Kynath himself is still lurking beneath the islands, kept alive and appeased by human sacrifice. This, of course, is nonsense - stories told to children to instill a healthy fear of ocean currents.

Type

Archipelago

Location under

The Verdant Ocean

Related Ethnicities