Northern Ocean

Navigating the Northern Ocean

The two distinct continents, Equinoxia and Aurorastra, find themselves separated in the north by the formidable Northern Ocean. While both the Catfolk of Equinoxia and the Humans of Aurorastra claim to have named this expansive body of cold waters, historical records show that it was originally referred to as the Northern Waters. For ages, these waters were considered nearly impassable, largely cut off from the Occidental Ocean by ice floats and harsh Arctic winds. The small landbridge connecting Equinoxia and Aurorastra serves as a natural divide between the Northern Ocean and the Golden Seas, limiting extensive trade routes. The Northern Ocean also provides access to the frozen northern pole of the world, a landmass encased in a layer of ice known as Articora, a mysterious and frigid realm that has intrigued explorers for centuries.

Trade

Trade along the Northern Ocean is relatively sparse due to its cold waters and challenging weather conditions. However, with advancements in sailing techniques, a modest network has emerged. Cities such as the Orcish City of Uruk, the Catfolk port of Araran, and the human city of Vruva amongst the Gelvou Peaks have benefited from this trade network. Commodities like lumber, salt, ores, and various trade goods are exchanged, albeit with less frequency than along the more accessible Golden Seas.

Exploration

In 1253 CE, a significant development occurred with the discovery of a summer passage through the Grim Crossing, allowing access to a previously unexplored body of water known as the Forgotten Tides. Captain Dexter Caerbraith, a halfling and his unconventional crew, successfully navigated this strait and discovered a small continent, which he named after himself. Surprisingly, the land was not uninhabited; the Ysoki Ratfolk had established settlements across the uncharted territory. Cartographers acknowledged this discovery as the continent of Caerbraith. Scholars speculate that the ratfolk might have originated on this landmass, with those settling along the Golden Seas being descendants of brave or desperate ratfolk who crossed the winter ices on foot to establish new homes.