Belinard

If one were to venture South, past the scattered lands beneath Aversia, they would discover a beautiful archipelago. It is often referred to as a tropical paradise in appearance, decorated in exotic flowers and fruits. Despite this, the land itself is one of both sinister origin and rule. For the entirety of the continent's recorded history, which is pathetically slim, there have been countless stories of conflict, tyranny, and bloodshed.

Alternative Names:

• The Pirate's Bay
• Man's Folly
• Paradise of Gold

Geography

If the lands of Belinard were depicted as a smaller size compared to Aversia, one would assume it was only a tiny cluster, too insignificant to be noted. The Belinard islands are indeed small, but they are many in number. Each island is hotter and more humid than the last. Thousands of islands are scattered throughout the ocean of every shape and size, some miles apart and some so close that one could shout across the beaches to communicate.

Among these minuscule islands are ones that rival those in Aversia with their size, possessing impressive mountains and volcanic formations. Though they are scattered between the smaller islands, they stand out completely on a map. The four largest islands are those which have undisputed names, despite their leadership being far less stable. These names, in order of size, are Iosis, Naigis, Orox, and, the largest island, home to the most powerful of the clans, Danis.

Government

As many claim, the southern isles are indeed ruled by clans of pirates. These clans constantly clash against each other, forsaking Arvora, spitting to Morto, and remain ignorant to Vassas. The only godly worship is that of Luck, whom they bless and thank continuously in the clans' great gambling halls, aboard ships, and after great battles between their ranks.

This religious strength, as well as geographical advantages, is one of the largest factors which keeps the largest clan of pirates remaining as the most influential. There are many names for the clan itself, but out of pride, they will usually refer to themselves by their homeland and headquarters, Danis. The leader in this clan is cunning in strategy and charisma, though to a stranger, he would seem more like a foolish recruit, eagerly participating in any and all celebrations that he hosts with his clan and crew. For this reason, as well as similar appearances, the clan leader of Danis, and arguably, that of the entire Southern Isles, is referred to as "Oklamat." Though he has never shown signs of actual divine influence, there has never been a recorded instance of "Oklamat" being beaten in any sort of competition or social interaction. For several decades, he has ruled over Danis in such a way that many refuse to question him out of pure intimidation of his rumored talents.

Culture

Belinard is rather simple, and being a conglomerate of foreigners and those seeking vast wealth and adventure, it often holds no centralized figure of worship, though there are a few parties who exist on the islands. The most common people are the pirates, which move from islands to island in their varying crews, each holding to their own unique traditions and customs. Races are not looked at with nearly as much hate or scrutiny, since each can be found with a purpose on a crew. There are those who live in the dense and tropical jungles atop the islands, these people holding much closer ties to the land in which they live and refrain from such acts of theft. They are often the victims of these assaults, though in recent times are rumored to have begun to defend themselves with aid of the islands themselves. The last party is the Syrien, who are sometimes found crewing ships, but otherwise remain in small and shallow coves and reefs to prey on sailors for wealth and food alike.

Common Legends and Rumors

• Many believe that the second largest clan, that which occupies the island of Naigis, is planning to overthrow "Oklamat" influence over Danis. There are many instances of Danis burning the smaller settlements of its rival to keep this as a mere rumor.
• If asked, many would say that "Oklamat" appeared out of thin air, claiming leadership of his clan and keeping the title without any trouble at all, despite not a single soul of the Southern Isles recognizing his face enough to have claimed to have trained him.
• It is said that more islands are constantly rising and falling beneath the waves, though it is difficult to say if the occurrence is volcanic or otherwise.

Trading and Travel

• Currency: There is no central currency on the isles of Belinard, mainly due to the decentralization of government. They often trade goods on immediate utility, and appearance rather than long term gain.
• Trading Status: Open and Dangerous.
• Travel Status: Open and Dangerous.

Ethnicity

• Valois Human - 25%
• Tocoatl Human - 15%
• Syrien - 15%
• Desert Elves - 10%
• Forest Elves - 10%
• Unknown - 10%
• Sinnehliv - 5%
• Orcs - 5%
• Goblins - 5%

The World of Aethius • The Multiverse of Aethier