Islands of Laumei
If you are looking for a truly unique travel experience, the Islands of Laumei are the place to be. Those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life can enjoy radiant white sand beaches, tranquil tree-shaded pools, bold and fragrant flowers, and the laid-back pace of the Tortle people. Need a bit more excitement? Island cliffs and waterfalls offer challenging hikes, and fast flowing inter-island streams seem built for exhilarating canoe races. The Pillars of Gatagalu offer a demanding climb with an inspirational view! Throughout the year, these islands stay a comfortable temperature, never too warm or too cold, with rare snowfall occurring only on the highest peaks. The Northernmost island, while similar in climate and location, is claimed to be part of the Empire of Lemyatel. Local Elvan settlers and traditional Tortle inhabitants dispute this claim.
To know before your travels:
- The Tortles of Laumei welcome visitors to their islands, so long as they respect their land and sacred sites. I would advise you to hire a local guide to tour such areas and avoid any cultural faux pas.
- The wildlife of Laumei is quite tame compared to much of Yeshilan, lacking any large or dangerous predators. The greatest risks on the islands come from one's own carelessness- becoming lost in the forests, slipping upon steep cliffs, being swept up in rapid waters, or eating a poisonous plant.
- The bark of the Paia Trees is used by the Tortles of Laumei to create a fine paper that is extremely capable of taking up and retaining magic. It is highly sought after by those who create scrolls meant to contain powerful spells, as they reduce the time and difficulty both for the creator to make them, and for the learner to absorb their knowledge. The paper is durable as well, and may hold the magic upon it for more than a single casting. The Paia Trees are considered sacred to the Tortle people, and taking or damaging any part of the tree, including harvesting the bark yourself, would be a great offense leading to banishment from the islands.
The Pillars of Gatagalu
Paia Tree - Dressed for Ceremony
