S - Vervana

== The Vervanna Expanse ==
The Vervanna Expanse, set on the central continent of Sethrophos, is a realm of lush rainforests and abundant natural resources. Known for its fertile lands, Vervanna is responsible for much of the world's food supply and lumber. The unique flora, including the ancient Alpha tree, makes this land both a haven and a target for those seeking its bounty. Vervanna's economy is driven by its natural resources, particularly its diverse plant life, which provides valuable medicines and materials. The Vervanna Expanse is teeming with dangerous wildlife, including assassin vines and various predatory insects. The tribes have learned to coexist with these threats, using their deep knowledge of the land to navigate and survive in this wild environment. Coastal cities engage in active trade, exchanging these resources for goods and knowledge from other lands. Vervanna's history is deeply intertwined with the mystical Alpha Tree, believed to be the source of all life on the planet. This ancient tree is guarded by six immortal protectors, each embodying different aspects of strength and wisdom, represented by various animal totems.
The Six Protectors:
Jaguar - Aspect of Strength The Aztec-inspired guardians of Vervanna, known for their martial prowess and fierce warrior spirit. They inhabit ziggurats adorned with intricate carvings of jaguars and hold rituals to honor their gods of war and sun.
Monkey - Aspect of Intelligence The Olmec-inspired guardians, known for their intellectual pursuits and mastery of ancient technologies. They dwell in ziggurats filled with mysterious artifacts and ancient scripts, constantly seeking knowledge and wisdom.
Hornet - Aspect of Wisdom The Toltec-inspired guardians, representing wisdom and strategic thinking. Their ziggurats are strategically placed, surrounded by defensive structures and intricate mosaics depicting hornets in various states of battle.
Macaw - Aspect of Charisma The Mayan-inspired guardians, embodying charisma and communication. Their ziggurats are brightly colored and serve as centers for learning and diplomacy, with elaborate ceremonies that celebrate their vibrant culture.
Caiman - Aspect of Constitution The Teotihuacan-inspired guardians, symbolizing resilience and endurance. Their ziggurats are fortified and robust, reflecting the strength and durability of the caiman, with vast underground reservoirs to sustain their people.
Piranha - Aspect of Dexterity The Zapotec-inspired guardians, known for their agility and quick thinking. They inhabit ziggurats near rivers and lakes, excelling in water-based combat and stealth tactics, with their structures decorated with aquatic motifs.
Colonial Exploitation Much like Central America, Vervanna has been subjected to exploitation by colonialist powers from Meridian, Jormungand, and Abbadon seeking to plunder its resources. Foreign invaders, drawn by the promise of the Alpha tree's legendary fruit, have repeatedly attempted to conquer and control the land, leading to numerous conflicts and wars. The aggressive extraction of resources has disrupted the natural balance and caused strife among the indigenous tribes. Vervanna's society is primarily tribal, with few large cities. The coastal cities are more open to outsiders, fostering trade and diplomacy, while the inland tribal communities remain cautious and protective of their heritage. The coastal cities, largely inhabited by Yuan-ti who worship the Alpha tree, maintain a tenuous peace with the inland tribes, which are predominantly made up of rainforest elves. The Yuan-ti, dedicated worshippers of the Alpha tree, occasionally receive the power to ascend into quetzalcoatl, a divine serpent form. The rainforest elves and other tribes hold various animistic beliefs, venerating the spirits of nature and their ancestral protectors.
Notable Inhabitants
* High Priestess Ixchel: A revered Yuan-ti leader who guides her people in their worship of the Alpha tree.
* Elder Hildo: A wise rainforest elf who serves as a liaison between the tribes and the coastal cities, advocating for unity and preservation of their traditions.