Nathans NewTerra Wiki

New Terra is the unexplored, untamed world where Nathan's second campaign is set.

## The Relocation

Almost 80 years ago, an event known as The Relocation occurred. Living creatures of all shapes and sizes were teleported from Faerûn to a new, untamed world. Seemingly, the event was random, with no discernible pattern as to what creatures were teleported and where on the new world they ended up. Fish and sea creatures were found inland, having suffocated to death without water. Likewise, animal and humanoid bodies washed up on shore for weeks after The Relocation, obviously they had been teleported out to sea.

## New Terra

One continent, eventually named New Terra, was a dangerous world full of monsters, dense forests and untamed landscapes. Many of the creatures that already lived in New Terra were similar to those that lived in Faerûn, with the addition of some that had never been seen before. In fact, New Terra shared many similarities with the old world, except there were no man-made structures, no ruins, no signs of intelligent life anywhere.

People quickly realised that there was safety in numbers, with many taking refuge in Sanctuary, a developing settlement on an island in a large lake. Others took their chances settling in smaller groups, with varying levels of success. Port Mast was probably the most successful of these other settlements, with most other smaller settlements either being eradicated by monsters, starvation or disease. There were rumours of people who had braved the unknown seas, setting off to find safer lands. There were still more rumours of cannibal clans who had inhabited a jungle island to the east, although these rumours were never confirmed.

Now, 80 odd years after The Relocation, civilisation is still trying to determine what happened. Religious institutions have claimed that it must be the will of the Gods; however, although Clerics are seemingly still able to draw power from their deities, none have had any direct contact with the Gods of Faerûn. Alchemists and astrologers have put forward their own scientific explanations, as have wizards and sorcerers. But all answers, regardless of whether they come from religion, science or speculation, inevitably lead to more questions. The only thing known for sure is that New Terra is seemingly cut-off from Faerûn.
### Points of interest

#### The Wound

New Terra is split lengthwise by a large river, named The Wound, that flows North to South. In central New Terra, The Wound splits to surround Sanctuary (the name of both the city and the island). The rivers surrounding Sanctuary are called The Water Wall, as it protected the early citizens of Sanctuary against all manner of dangerous monsters. The Wound is used mostly as a means for transporting goods from northern settlements to Sanctuary, and from Sanctuary to southern settlements.

#### Sanctuary

Sanctuary is the largest and oldest city in New Terra. The geographical safety provided by The Wall meant that people were able to defend Sanctuary in the early days after The Relocation. Sanctuary is now the seat of power for all of New Terra, with the four members of the founding council controlling mostly everything that happens in New Terra.

#### Port Mast

Port Mast is the self-proclaimed 'free' city of New Terra, as they do not recognize the authority of the founding council of Sanctuary. The population of Port Mast is half human and half other races. Outcasts and people fleeing Sanctuary can find refuge in this port town.

#### North Cove

A natural cove that is near to but sheltered from the eastern sea is port to Sanctuary's sailing fleet. The settlement of North Cove is a trading hub where goods from all over New Terra are brought to be distributed to all parts of the continent. North Cove is also home to the less savory Pink Island and was the location of the Black Invasion.

#### Zion Farm

Zion Farm is a mostly gnome run farming plantation in northern New Terra. Built next to three inland lakes, the fertile soil and plentiful water supply made an ideal place to grow crops. Two huge magical weather domes house farms that produce crops year round for Sanctuary's population.

#### Hullabeck

This rural lumber mill is both town and business. Owned and operated by Garrut Maplesaw, this lumber mill produces most of the lumber used all across New Terra for building houses, ships and whatever else wood is used for. The orientally styled town is a beautiful and unique place; constructed by master dwarven carpenters, houses and businesses sport intricate carvings around door frames and lintels. Some of the more extravagant houses are beautiful works of wooden art.

#### Mort Mine

This large mining facility is the oldest and largest mine in New Terra. Not only are precious metals mined here (as well as coal and iron ore) but New Terra's currency 'the golden seed' is minted on site.

#### Mosquito Swamps

The Wound empties in to the Mosquito Swamps in southern New Terra, a humid and muddy swampland where very few people live. Although large gold nuggets have previously been found in the swamps, few dare to travel in to the dark, muddy forest, as dangerous Lizardfolk have made their homes deep in the swamp. The Mosquito Swamps were the location of the First Swamp War and the much shorter Second Swamp War.

Tunstead is the most southern town in New Terra and is built on stilts right on the edge of the Mosquito Swamp. Tunstead's main trade is in bricks made from the clay earth of the swamp.

#### Deep Wood

The dense forests and unusually high number of monsters in Deep Wood meant that it was never colonised by New Terra, despite several attempts. As such, the wooded island remains wild and unexplored. At night, the howls and screeches of monsters can be heard coming from Deep Wood and parents tell their children stories of the evil that lurks in the dark forest, an evil that is held back only by the courageous men of Wild Outpost.

Wild Outpost is New Terra’s first defense against the eastern island of Deep Wood. Establish in the year 9, a garrison of Sanctuary’s military sits on the eastern bank of the river, guarding the only bridge to Deep Wood. On the western bank, two towers doorstop the bridge's large, iron gatehouse. Each half of the bridge acts like a draw bridge that can be raised and lowered, the two halves meeting in the middle of the river. This bridge, the only of its kind in New Terra, was designed by the gnome artificer Saxi Zion, who went on to design much of Zion Farm. The bridge is kept raised throughout the day, only lowering once a week to allow the guardsmen in the gate towers to change shifts with the garrison. Each watch tower by the gate has a huge ballista mounted on the roof, a deterrent to more intelligent beasts and a powerful weapon against monsters foolish enough to wander within range. That isn't to say that monsters haven't tried to breach the gates of Wild Outpost. Ogres, Owlbears, Gnolls and even Wyverns have been known to attempt to cross the bridge. So far though, the soldiers at Wild Outpost have stopped them all in their tracks.

#### Northern Mountains

The northern coastline of New Terra is a mountainous region where civilization has yet to settle. There is speculation that some Hunters who fought under Yulis Black's banner and managed to escape Sanctuary's forces after the Black Invasion escaped in to the northern mountain ranges and are still there to this day.

## The Red Basin

The Red Basin, situated within the realm of Eldath, is an expansive desert renowned for its vast stretches of red sand.

Populated predominantly by nomadic tribes, varying in their disposition from friendly to less amicable, these tribes traverse the desert by following "water trails" - unmarked paths that have been passed down through generations, leading to seasonal water sources. Unlike conventional deserts, the Red Basin lacks permanent water sources in fixed locations. Instead, oases materialize and dissipate in accordance with the changing seasons.

### Settlements of note

#### Miwahfra

Miwahfra, the solitary major city within the Red Basin, assumes the role of its capital. Governing over Miwahfra is Muvurrayt, an Ancient Blue Dragon.

#### Coral Bay

Coral Bay is a coastal settlement located on the south-western tip of the Red Basin that known for its unique fishing practices that involve the use of telepathy.

Over generations, the fisherman, or “thought-catchers”, of Coral Bay have honed their telepathic abilities to communicate with marine creatures, particularly fish. They are able to establish a deep understanding and connection with the underwater world, allowing them to communicate and even influence sea creatures through an understanding of their behavior, movements, and even their intentions. This enables them to locate schools of fish, predict migration patterns, and determine the best time and location for extraction. The telepathic method of fishing both ensures a successful catch and also minimises harm to the ecosystem. Additionally, the thought-catchers argue that the meat of sea creatures caught in this way is both more tender and flavorful, as the creatures do not undergo the trauma involved in conventional fishing.

Recognizing the high quality and abundance of seafood in Coral Bay, the capital of the Red Basin, Miwahfra, heavily relies on the settlement for its seafood supply. Seafood, including various fish species, crustaceans, and mollusks, forms a significant part of the diet in Miwahfra. The residents of Miwahfra appreciate the exceptional taste and freshness of Coral Bay's seafood, making it a highly sought-after commodity. While fresh seafood is a luxury only the most wealthy Miwahfrians can afford, Coral Bay also exports salted and dried seafood that the rest of the populous enjoys.

Transporting the seafood from Coral Bay to Miwahfra presents some unqiue challenges. The distance between the two locations and the harsh desert environment of the Red Basin make transportation a complex task. Preserved seafood is transported via the traditional method of camel trains; however, the residents of Coral Bay have come up with an ingenious way of transporting fresh produce.

The Bigmouthed Bulette, or Bulettus Magnorostris, is a unique variant of the traditional bulette species. Through careful breeding and genetic selection, its temperament has been modified to be more gentle and cooperative, making it an ideal candidate for fish transportation. These remarkable creatures possess a larger oral cavity, allowing them to hold a substantial amount of water while ensuring the safety and well-being of the fish they carry. The process of utilizing Bigmouthed Bulettes for fish transportation is both efficient and stress-free for the fish. By mimicking the natural conditions fish are accustomed to, this innovative method ensures a smoother transition during transportation, resulting in healthier and more resilient fish populations.

#### Saltmarsh Village

Situated at the mouth of a brackish cove that carves into the Red Basin, Saltmarsh Village is a unique settlement that thrives on the delicate balance between land and sea. The buildings in Saltmarsh Village are constructed on stilts, rising above the salt flats and providing a safe haven from the occasional flooding caused by the salt production process. The village is primarily known for its salt production, with vast salt pans stretching from the eastern cove and through the mountainous “Saltvein Ravine” to the west. The air is filled with the scent of brine and the sound of seagulls, creating a distinct coastal ambiance. The villagers are skilled salt harvesters and traders, exporting their prized salt to other settlements in the Red Basin.

#### Obsidian Bay

Nestled on the fringes of the Shard Wastes in the northwestern corner of the Red Basin, you'll find the enchanting settlement of Obsidian Bay. This ash-covered haven is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with black sand beaches and close proximity to the jagged slate peaks of the Shard Wastes. The surrounding seas are adorned with magnificent seashells and exquisite pearls, known for their mesmerizing swirling black and white patterns. The allure of these pearls is in part the mystery shrouding their creation, with many attributing their unique characteristics to the area's distinct interplay of water temperature and volcanic ash.

Obsidian Bay is as dangerous as it is beautiful. To the west lies the treacherous Shard Wastes, a region inhabited by menacing creatures that remain largely enigmatic. The constant threat of these creatures hangs over the pearl divers and inhabitants of Obsidian Bay, who must navigate the waters with utmost caution and unwavering bravery. The resourceful inhabitants of Obsidian Bay have ingeniously constructed their houses using slate sourced from the Shard Wastes, blending the rugged beauty of the region into the very fabric of their community

The economy of Obsidian Bay revolves around the trade and export of its large and exquisite pearls, attracting merchants and traders from far and wide. But travellers also visit Obsidian Bay for its folklore, with stories passed down through generations, recounting the triumphs of the pearl divers and the bravery of explorers who venture into the perilous Shard Wastes.

#### The Nomadic Citadel

This extraordinary settlement stands as a remarkable feat of magic and innovation, where the entire city rests upon the backs of two colossal sand worms, physically bound by chains and mentally bound by magic. These magnificent creatures possess immense strength and power, serving as the driving force behind the city's mobility. Constantly traversing the vast desert of the Red Basin, the city remains in perpetual motion, enveloped within the sandstorm created by the movement of the giant worms.

The swirling sandstorm surrounding the city serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it acts as a formidable protective barrier, shielding the city from external threats and prying eyes. The turbulent sand makes navigation and discovery exceedingly difficult, ensuring the city's secrecy and security. Secondly, the sandstorm provides a natural camouflage, cloaking the city in an enigmatic veil, rendering its precise location and even its existence elusive to outsiders.

Founded by enigmatic wielders of powerful magic, this city stands as a testament to their pursuit of solitude and magical exploration. Initially seeking seclusion, the founders could not bear to abandon those lost in the desert whom they encountered. Over time, the small group of wizards transformed into a thriving settlement.

The city's architecture showcases the magical prowess of its founders and their quest for stability amidst the relentless sandstorm. Through magical reinforcement, the thin walls of the structures become lightweight yet resilient, protecting the inhabitants from the harsh desert elements. Delicate glass windows offer glimpses of the ever-shifting landscape while keeping out the sand. Meticulously designed structures minimize wind resistance and maximize stability, ensuring the city remains intact even in the face of the relentless sandstorm.

To address the scarcity of water, an ingenious method is employed. Flying nets are deployed, skillfully maneuvered through the clouds to capture precious droplets, which are then channeled into catchments. This innovative approach ensures a steady supply of water for the community. Moreover, the city's survival is further bolstered by its encounters with oases, seizing the opportunity to obtain additional water whenever they stumble upon these rare and life-sustaining havens.

Despite their limited knowledge of the shifting oases and traditional desert survival techniques, the resourcefulness and mastery of magic displayed by the inhabitants of the Nomadic Citadel have been instrumental in their ability to thrive in this harsh environment. Through their magical prowess, they have harnessed the forces of nature to their advantage, adapting and overcoming the challenges posed by the unforgiving desert. Their ability to tap into the mystical energies of their surroundings has not only ensured their survival but also allowed them to flourish amidst the arid expanse. It is a testament to their resilience and adaptability, as they have forged a unique path in the face of adversity, carving out a thriving community within the ever-changing sands.

### Tribes

#### The Sandstriders

The Sandstriders, a nomadic tribe in the Red Basin, are known for their exceptional survival skills in the harsh desert environment. They have mastered the art of traversing the shifting sands and possess a deep understanding of the seasonal water sources, perhaps the best of all the Red Basin’s tribes.

The Sandstriders rely on their knowledge of the desert's flora and fauna to sustain themselves as skilled hunters and gatherers. They use landmarks, celestial observations, and subtle changes in the sand dunes to find their way. Their distinctive sand-colored clothing helps them blend in with their surroundings, and their intricate tattoos symbolize their connection to the desert spirits, as well as their accomplishments and expertise.

The Sandstriders exhibit a strong sense of community and cooperation, frequently forging alliances with other amicable tribes in the Red Basin to exchange resources and ensure mutual protection. However, they maintain a cautious attitude towards outsiders and fiercely guard their water sources, displaying territorial behavior. In pursuit of mutual benefits, the Sandstriders have established an alliance with Miwahfra. This partnership allows the Sandstriders to access trade opportunities and valuable resources, while they, in turn, offer their extensive knowledge of the desert and serve as guides for caravans traveling to and from the city.

Given their nomadic lifestyle, the Sandstriders have been compelled to share the majority of their sacred sites with both the Al-Harisun tribe and the Sunfire Tribe. This delicate peace is occasionally disrupted by minor skirmishes and disagreements concerning territory and, naturally, water.

The tribe has a flat social structure, which operates on a system of collective decision-making and shared responsibilities. Instead of a hierarchical leadership, the Sandstriders value equality and collaboration among all members of the tribe. The Sandstriders make decisions through consensus, where every member of the tribe has an equal voice. Important matters are discussed openly, and decisions are reached through dialogue and mutual agreement. Each member's opinion is valued, and efforts are made to find common ground and accommodate different perspectives. While the Sandstriders have a flat social structure, they recognize and appreciate individual skills and expertise. Members may specialize in certain areas such as navigation, hunting, herbalism, or storytelling. These specialized roles are not hierarchical positions but rather areas where individuals contribute their knowledge and skills for the benefit of the tribe.

In addition to their survival skills, the Sandstriders have a rich cultural heritage. They have oral traditions passed down through generations, including stories of legendary desert creatures and ancient heroes. They celebrate their connection to the desert through music, dance, and storytelling.

##### **The Legend of Zephyr, the Desert Guardian**

In the heart of the Red Basin, where the shifting sands whispered secrets and the scorching sun tested the limits of endurance, there lived a legendary hero named Zephyr. Zephyr was a Sandstrider, known for his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to protecting his tribe.

According to the ancient tales passed down through generations, Zephyr's story began when a ferocious sandstorm threatened to engulf the Sandstriders' camp. The swirling winds threatened to tear apart their tents and scatter their precious water supplies. With his keen senses and unmatched agility, Zephyr sprang into action.

As the storm raged, Zephyr fearlessly ventured into the heart of the tempest, his sand-colored cloak billowing behind him. With each step, he seemed to dance with the wind, effortlessly navigating the treacherous currents. His deep connection to the desert spirits guided him, as he called upon their strength to protect his people.

Using his knowledge of the shifting sands, Zephyr led his tribe to a hidden cave, a sanctuary amidst the chaos. There, they found refuge from the storm's fury, their spirits buoyed by Zephyr's unwavering resolve. With his guidance, they weathered the tempest, emerging unscathed when the storm finally subsided.

Zephyr's heroic deeds did not end with that fateful sandstorm. The tales speak of his encounters with fearsome desert creatures, from venomous serpents to towering sand behemoths. With his unmatched skill in combat and his deep understanding of the desert's secrets, Zephyr protected his tribe from these formidable adversaries.

But it was not just his physical prowess that made Zephyr a true hero. He possessed a compassionate heart and a wise soul. He would often venture into the depths of the desert, seeking out lost travelers and guiding them to safety. His knowledge of the water trails and his ability to find hidden oases saved countless lives.

Zephyr's legend has grown with each passing generation, his name whispered with reverence around campfires. The Sandstriders celebrated his heroic deeds through music, dance, and storytelling, ensuring that his legacy would endure.

To this day, the Sandstriders honor Zephyr as the embodiment of their tribe's resilience and unwavering spirit. His story serves as a reminder of the indomitable human spirit and the power of selflessness in the face of adversity. The legend of Zephyr, the Desert Guardian, continues to inspire the Sandstriders as they navigate the challenges of the Red Basin, carrying his legacy forward with pride.

#### The Sunfire Tribe

The Sunfire tribe is a proud and fierce nomadic tribe that worships the sun as their deity. They believe that the sun's energy grants them strength and protection in the desert. The members of the Sunfire tribe have a unique ability to harness solar energy, allowing them to create bursts of intense heat or manipulate flames. They are skilled warriors and often serve as guardians of sacred sites within the desert. The Sunfire tribe values honor and loyalty above all else.

The Sunfire tribe adheres to the belief that strength determines territorial rights, which frequently results in conflicts with other tribes. They often disregard the rights of other tribes to worship at their sacred sites, leading to clashes. Additionally, skirmishes over water are not uncommon.

The Sunfire tribe and Silent Mirage exhibit a particularly hostile relationship, as both factions strive to exert influence and gain control over the desert in the Red Basin, each driven by their own motivations.

##### The Sunfire Sanctuaries

These sanctuaries are ancient structures or natural formations that hold great spiritual significance to the Sunfire tribe. They are believed to be places where the sun's energy is concentrated, and they serve as conduits for the tribe's connection to their deity. The sanctuaries can range from hidden caves adorned with sun symbols to towering rock formations that cast unique shadows during specific times of the day.

##### Rituals and Ceremonies

The Sunfire tribe conducts regular rituals and ceremonies at these sacred sites to honor their sun deity and strengthen their connection to the sun's energy. These rituals often involve dances, chants, and offerings of precious gems or herbs that are believed to hold solar properties. The guardianship of the sacred sites is intertwined with these ceremonies, as the presence of the Sunfire tribe ensures the sanctity and purity of the rituals.

##### Guardianship Rotation

The Sunfire tribe operates on a rotational system, where different members of the tribe take turns guarding the sacred sites. The water trail of the Sunfire tribe visits all of the Sunfire Sanctuaries exactly once each per year. When the clan arrives at a site, the guards will change. Generally, this changing of the guard will be accompanied by the site’s specific ritual or ceremony. During the year, the guards are responsible for protecting and maintaining a that particular sanctuary. This rotation ensures that the guardianship duties are evenly distributed among the tribe and allows for the continuous movement of the clan across the desert.

##### Solar Empowerment

The guardianship of the sacred sites grants the Sunfire tribe members a unique connection to the sun's energy. Spending time at these sites enhances their abilities to manipulate flames and harness solar energy. The longer they spend guarding a specific sanctuary, the stronger their connection becomes, allowing them to tap into more potent abilities. This empowerment serves as both a reward for their dedication and a means to protect the sacred sites from those who would seek to exploit their power. Some members opt to stay a sacred sites for more than a single year, in order to gain more strength and a great connection to the sun god.

#### The Silent Mirage

The Silent Mirage tribe, shrouded in mystery and secrecy, is known for their exceptional stealth and ability to move silently across the desert. Legends say that they possess the power to control the sand itself, conjuring dust storms in order to conceal their movements. The Silent Mirage are skilled spies and information brokers, gathering knowledge from travelers and using it to their advantage. They are highly skilled in the art of deception and manipulation. So much so that a common saying in the Red Basin is “the sand is listening”.

The Silent Mirage tribe operates in small, tightly-knit groups called "whispers." Each whisper consists of a few individuals who work together seamlessly, relying on their exceptional communication skills and non-verbal cues to coordinate their actions. They have developed a unique sign language that allows them to communicate silently, even over long distances.

The tribe's main focus is gathering information. They have an extensive network of informants and spies spread throughout the Red Basin and beyond. They gather intelligence on various matters, including the movements of other tribes, the locations of valuable resources, and the plans of rival factions. They sell this information to the highest bidder, making them a valuable asset to those who seek to gain an advantage in the desert.

The Silent Mirage tribe is highly selective about who they share their secrets with. They are known to be cautious and suspicious of outsiders, as they understand the power of knowledge and the dangers it can bring. However, for the right price or under certain circumstances, they may be willing to form temporary alliances or provide assistance to those who can prove their trustworthiness.

The tribe's secretive nature extends to their rituals and ceremonies. They perform rituals in hidden locations deep within the desert, away from prying eyes. These rituals are believed to strengthen their connection to the sand and enhance their abilities. The exact details of these rituals are known only to the members of the tribe, and they guard this knowledge closely.

The Silent Mirage tribe's reputation as skilled spies and manipulators has made them both feared and respected in the Red Basin. Other tribes are wary of crossing paths with them, as they know that the the Silent Mirage can uncover their secrets and use them to their advantage. However, some tribes may seek to employ the services of the Silent Mirage, recognizing the value of their information-gathering skills.

The tribe's members are trained from a young age in the arts of stealth and subterfuge. They learn to move silently across the shifting sands, leaving no trace of their presence. Their ability to manipulate the sand allows them to create illusions and misdirect their enemies. They can conjure sandstorms to obscure their movements or create mirages to confuse and disorient those who pursue them.

#### Al-Harisun

The Al-Harisun tribe is a wholly nomadic clan known for their somber demeanor and their deep connection to the concept of suffering. They believe that suffering is an inherent part of life and that it is through enduring hardships that one can find enlightenment and spiritual growth.

Despite their somber outlook, the Al-Harisun tribe possesses a capacity for joy and compassion. They recognize that suffering can cultivate empathy and understanding for others facing hardships. Renowned for their charitable deeds and support for the needy, they firmly believe that aiding others in their suffering can alleviate their own. As an illustration, they consider minor self-harm, such as a gentle slap on the face or a small cut on the palm, as a respectful gesture towards individuals of merit. Additionally, these acts of self-harm serve as customary displays of deference towards elders and esteemed leaders within the tribe.

The Al-Harisun tribe maintains predominantly positive relations with the Sandstriders tribe, characterized by mutual respect and cooperation. They often engage in friendly exchanges, sharing resources and knowledge to support one another's well-being. The Al-Harisun tribe recognizes the Sandstriders' expertise in navigating the desert and values their guidance when traversing unfamiliar territories.

The relationship between the Al-Harisun tribe and the Sunfire tribe is marked by significant strain and tension. Deep-rooted conflicts and disagreements have created a palpable animosity between the two groups. The Sunfire tribe's belief in strength dictating territorial rights clashes with the Al-Harisun tribe's more inclusive and cooperative approach. This fundamental difference in ideology has fueled ongoing disputes and skirmishes over territory and resources.

##### Belief System

The tribe's belief system revolves around the idea that water, as a life-giving resource, is a symbol of both physical and spiritual sustenance. They view water as a metaphor for life:

Flow and Connection: Water's inherent ability to flow and connect serves as an inspiration for the tribe. They encourage their members to embrace life's challenges and adapt to them with resilience. By accepting and flowing with the difficulties they encounter, individuals can navigate through them more effectively and discover inner strength. Furthermore, by recognizing and empathizing with the suffering of others, individuals can cultivate compassion and foster a sense of unity within the tribe and extend it beyond.

Suffering and Growth: The Al-Harisun tribe perceives suffering as an essential element for personal growth and the nourishment of the soul, much like water is essential for sustaining life. They believe that the trials and tribulations of life provide nourishment to the spirit, fostering resilience, empathy, and wisdom. Just as water nourishes the body, the challenges faced in life contribute to the development and enrichment of one's character.

Self-Reflection and Introspection: Water's reflective nature serves as a metaphor for self-reflection and introspection within the tribe. They encourage individuals to deeply reflect on their experiences of suffering, seeking clarity and understanding. Through this process, they believe that individuals can gain insights into their own strengths, weaknesses, and the valuable lessons that suffering can teach.

##### Ritualistic behaviour

The Al-Harisun tribe is renowned for their distinctive spiritual practices centered around embracing suffering as a pathway to spiritual purification. These rituals and ceremonies are deeply ingrained in their cultural and religious beliefs, as they perceive enduring physical challenges as a means to cleanse their souls and attain an elevated state of consciousness.

One of the prominent practices within the Al-Harisun tribe is fasting. This involves voluntarily abstaining from food and, at times, even water for a specific period. By willingly depriving themselves of sustenance, tribe members aim to demonstrate their devotion, discipline, and purify their bodies and minds. Fasting is commonly observed during religious occasions or as a personal act of spiritual devotion.

Flagellation is another ritual embraced by the Al-Harisun tribe. This practice entails striking oneself or being struck by another using whips made from desert grasses, as a form of penance or self-purification. The physical pain endured during self-flagellation is believed to cleanse the soul of sins and impurities, enabling individuals to achieve a higher level of spiritual enlightenment. Shared-flagellation is also practiced among close tribe members, fostering a sense of closeness and empathy through the shared experience of pain.

Enduring extreme heat is also a part of the Al-Harisun tribe's rituals, although it is less common than other practices. By subjecting themselves to these harsh conditions, tribe members seek to test their physical and mental endurance, as well as fortify their spiritual resolve. They believe that enduring such extremes allows them to transcend the limitations of the physical world and establish a connection with the divine.

##### Elders of Suffering

The tribe's leaders, known as the Elders of Suffering, guide the community in their spiritual journey. Almost all of the elders were born with chronic and painful conditions, which the tribe believes were blessing from their gods. The Elders of Suffering are revered for their wisdom and ability to navigate the delicate balance between embracing suffering and maintaining mental and emotional well-being. The Elders of Suffering play a crucial role in the tribe's community and spiritual life. They are responsible for guiding and advising the tribe members in their spiritual journey, particularly in relation to suffering. Their role is to help individuals navigate the complexities of suffering and find meaning and growth within it. The Elders include Elder Aria, Elder Kael, Elder Nia and Elder Malik.

### Places in the desert

#### The Mirage Oasis

This elusive oasis appears and disappears like a mirage, making it difficult to find and access. Legends say that those who the desert deem worthy, can see the oasis and receive that which they need most.

#### The Dragon's Roost

Located on a towering cliff, legend states that this ancient cave served as the lair of Muvurrayt, the Ancient Blue Dragon who now governs over Miwahfra. The cave is adorned with intricate carvings depicting the history and legends of the Red Basin, and it is said to hold hidden treasures and ancient artifacts.

#### The Sunfire Forge

Deep within the heart of the desert, this natural formation resembles a massive, sun-powered furnace. The Sunfire Clan believes that this forge is blessed by their sun deity, and it is here that they perform sacred rituals to channel the sun's energy into their weapons and armor, imbuing them with fiery power.

#### The Shrine of Endurance

This sacred site is revered by the Al-Harisun tribe as a place of spiritual purification. It consists of a series of interconnected caves and underground chambers, where children coming of age will undergo various physical and mental challenges to test their endurance and strengthen their resolve.

#### The Sandswept Ruins

Nestled within the shifting sands of the desert, these ancient ruins stand as a testament to a long-forgotten civilization. Partially buried and weathered by time, they exude an aura of mystery and intrigue. The tribes of the Red Basin, steeped in superstition, tend to avoid these ruins, attributing their eerie ambiance to the whispers of desert spirits carried by the wind. However, intrepid adventurers who dare to explore may unearth hidden treasures and unravel the enigmatic secrets of the past.

#### The Labyrinth of Shadows

This intricate network of narrow canyons and winding passages is a natural maze that disorients and confuses even the most skilled navigators. The Silent Mirage tribe uses this labyrinth as a training ground to hone their stealth and evasion skills, disappearing into the shadows and leaving their pursuers lost and bewildered.

#### The Ascension Peak

This towering mountain peak is believed to be the place where Zephyr, the legendary Desert Guardian, ascended to the heavens. It is said that those who climb to the summit can gain insight and wisdom, as if touched by the spirit of Zephyr himself. The Sandstriders undertake pilgrimages to this sacred site to seek guidance and inspiration.

#### Zephyr's Rest

Located under Ascension Peak, the legendary resting place of Zephyr, the Desert Guardian, this settlement is a place of pilgrimage for the Sandstriders. Zephyr's Rest is a collection of simple stone structures adorned with crude carvings depicting desert creatures and ancient heroes. The buildings are arranged in a circular pattern around a central courtyard, where the Sandstriders gather to pay homage to their revered guardian. The settlement exudes a sense of reverence and spirituality, with the sound of wind chimes and the scent of desert herbs filling the air.

#### The Shard Wastes

The Shard Wastes, a treacherous and desolate expanse, form the forbidding land bridge that connects the desert continent of Red Basin to the volcanic realm of The Ashey North. This unforgiving terrain is a testament to the raw power of nature, characterized by jagged shards of blackened shale jutting out from the scorched earth like the teeth of a slumbering beast.

As far as the eye can see, the landscape is a chaotic mosaic of sharp, angular formations, resembling a shattered mirror reflecting the harsh sun's rays. The ground is littered with razor-edged fragments, making each step a perilous endeavor. The air is heavy with an acrid scent, a constant reminder of the volcanic activity that rages beyond the horizon.

Navigating The Shard Wastes is a daunting task, as the terrain offers no respite. The relentless heat radiates from the ground, creating an oppressive atmosphere that tests the endurance of even the most seasoned travelers. The absence of vegetation and scarce water sources further compounds the challenges, leaving adventurers to rely on their own resourcefulness and preparedness.

Legends speak of hidden dangers lurking within the Shard Wastes. Whispers of ancient creatures, awakened by the seismic activity of the nearby volcanoes, echo through the winds. Some claim to have witnessed colossal creatures made of living obsidian, while others speak of elusive spirits that haunt the fractured landscape.

Only the boldest and most audacious souls dare to venture into the treacherous realm known as The Shard Wastes, fueled by a curiosity that borders on madness. Among the scarce few who have braved this perilous expanse and lived to recount their experiences, tales of awe-inspiring landscapes emerge. They speak of molten rivers of lava snaking through the cracked earth, accompanied by tempestuous storms of scorching winds and swirling ash. Whispers persist of savage civilizations inhabited by towering, wrathful giants, their hearts aflame with unbridled fury. Yet, skeptics argue that these accounts may be nothing more than fanciful legends spun from the depths of imagination.