Carassus
The Kingdom of Carassus is one of the oldest civilizations in the known world.
Nick-named “The Sleeping Kingdom” by outsiders, the notion is that nothing remarkable ever happens within its borders. Due to Gisek’s proximity and the alliance of The Old Kingdoms, very few if any nations would dare cause trouble within the region as the repercussions could prove devastating on a global level.
This does not however mean the land is not without peril, as petty squabbles between lords have been known to rouse the occasional clash of violence. Even so, travelers should not fear, as any conflicts usually remain localized to their immediate surroundings and rarely spread beyond their respective cantons.
Osai is their capital, seat to the King of the Carassai and home to the great beacon of Osai, a twin lighthouse of enormous magnitude which towers above the rest of the city.
ulture
The people of Carassus are practical in nature, being more negotiable than most when something is to gain. Even an armed and angry Carassai may sheathe his sword should you offer a gift of peace and opportunity of value.
On the other hand many can hold long-standing grudges, and one should avoid embarrassing others if they wish to stay in good graces. This is essential for any who plan to acclimate to Carassai life as connections are important amongst the city-dwellers.
In the rural communities inhabitants are hardy by necessity and tend to be left to their own, only rarely visited by the more regal governing agencies. This sadly results in strong occurrences of nepotism and corruption as you venture further from the more pragmatic cities and king’s reach.
eography
The Coast of Gifts
The Coast of Gifts is a long stretch of coast along the southwestern border of the kingdom which is riddled with many toxic and dangerous areas of hostile forces.
The South
The southern half of Carassus consists of rolling hills, green forests, farmlands and verdant fields. Much of this area is parceled off to farmsteads, separated by hedgerows and cobblestone walls.
The Northern Moors
The north half of the kingdom receives much of its weather coming off the Ulvar Mountains, and so is dramatically cooler in temperature. Forest is patchy and contained, while peat bogs and moors dominate the landscape.
The Ulvar Mountains
The Ulvar Mountains are a group of rocky peaks on the Ulvar peninsula. They can be reached by travelling north from the city of Tir, and climbing the rising series of ridges known as “The Ascent“. They are known for many clans of wild mountain men and ferocious beasts.
Windy Rock
Venture far enough south, and you’ll reach the windswept coast of Windy Rock. Although not as forgiving as the inner coast of Lover’s Bay, Windy Rock has many hidden coves and sea caves, a perfect environment for enterprising pirates.
nemies & Allies
On the 15th day of Pyra, in the 16th year of the 4th Age, the treatise of emergence was signed by all nations in the old kingdoms. With Gisek as mediator and recognized protector of the region, the armies of the kingdoms disbanded save but a few small garrisons at the borders and areas of strategic significance. From that day on, the nation of Gisek has remained the dominant military power and to this day a sworn ally of Carassus.
orld relations
King of Carassus
Albin Dantilos IV, the great King of Carassus, Lord of the Moors, Conqueror of Ulvar, Advocate of the Hawk. A bold and strong man of great standing, as any Carassai may claim.
As a scholar and unbiased advocate of the truth however, I am obliged to state that others may have differing opinions regarding the man, if the moniker “King of Gifts” is to be acknowledged.
umors
Be wary of men with golden masks.
Some say the high lord of Bogton has been recruiting more guardsman than needed…and that he has a personal grudge with the lord of Breadwich…