Occidental Ocean

Origins of the Name

The Occidental Ocean, situated to the west of The Seam of the World, derives its name from old Elvish, where "Occidental" translates to "western" or "of the west." In ancient times, the Occidental Ocean held an air of mystique and unknown adventure, as it lay beyond the enigmatic Seam of the World. The term "Occidental" itself reflects the allure of the ocean as a mystical realm to the west.

Transformation with Modern Sailing

During the Era of Legends, attempts to explore the Occidental Ocean by sailing west through the Seam were made but proved unsuccessful. The ocean remained a distant and legendary expanse. However, with the advent of modern sailing and faster ships in the Current Era, a transformative shift occurred. Now, sailors could reach the Occidental Ocean by sailing east from ports like Amberhaven and other Eastern locations. This revolutionary approach unlocked the mysteries of the once-mythical ocean, allowing exploration, trade, and expansion.

Sail East to Reach West

The phrase "Sail East to Reach West" encapsulates the novel approach to exploring the Occidental Ocean. Instead of attempting the treacherous journey westward through the Seam of the World, sailors now venture eastward from established Eastern ports to reach the expansive Occidental Ocean. This shift in strategy has opened up previously unknown lands to various entities, including powerful organizations, traders, prospectors, adventurers, slavers, and missionaries.

Geographical Significance

The Occidental Ocean is the largest ocean in Zentrum, bordered by the Seam of the World to the east, the continent of Caerbraith in its northern waters, and Chelacordis in its southern expanse. While the coastlines of the Occidental Ocean are well-documented by the Cartographer's Guild, inland exploration remains a burgeoning frontier, attracting intrepid adventurers seeking to unveil the mysteries hidden within the heart of this vast ocean.