Tornok

**Tornok (Pronounced Tore-Nock).**

Tornok, a vast and tropical continent, straddles the equator with almost equal stretches of land to the north and south. Its geography varies from equatorial rainforests and sprawling savannas to towering mountain ranges and coastal cliffs. The landscape boasts ancient plateaus, winding rivers, and stretches of uncharted wilderness. The Savage Badlands and the Red Waste punctuate its southern expanse, while the more temperate north hosts bustling cities and lush farmlands. Tornok's skies are graced by drakes and its forests teem with diverse wildlife, including dinosaurs and mythical creatures. Its native races, including orcs, goblins, and catfolk, shape its intricate cultures, while its technological advancements contribute to an evolving world. Throughout its varied terrain and climates, Tornok stands as a realm of both beauty and challenges, waiting to be explored and shaped by those who call it home.

## **Geography:**

Tornok's geography is characterized by its equatorial location, diverse climate zones, unique coastlines, and distinct landforms. The continent's physical features contribute to its rich biodiversity and provide a wide range of environments for its inhabitants. Here are some key aspects of Tornok's geography:

### Equatorial Location:

Tornok is one of the few continents that straddles the equator, resulting in a climate that is primarily tropical. The continent's equatorial position has significant effects on its temperature and weather patterns.

### Climate and Vegetation:

Tornok experiences a variety of climate zones, including equatorial rainforests, tropical deserts, savanna grasslands, and more temperate areas. The distribution of these zones is influenced by Tornok's division along the equator, with similar climates repeating in both the north and south. Rainfall is a significant climatic factor, driving the growth of lush rainforests and supporting diverse ecosystems.

### Landforms:

Tornok's landscape is diverse and includes various landforms:

* **Equatorial Rainforests:** These dense, biodiverse forests thrive in the equatorial regions of Tornok, receiving abundant rainfall and supporting a wide range of plant and animal species.
* **Tropical Deserts:** The Savage Badlands in the north and the Red Waste in the south are characterized by arid conditions, limited vegetation, and unique desert landscapes.
* **Savanna Grasslands:** These transitional zones between forests and deserts feature open grasslands dotted with scattered trees. They provide habitat for a variety of wildlife and are often used for grazing.
* **Plateaus and Mountains:** Tornok features elevated plateaus and mountain ranges that contribute to its diverse topography. These areas may have cooler climates and support different ecosystems compared to lowland regions.
* **Coastlines and Coral Reefs:** Tornok's coastlines are relatively straight and lack the indentations that typically form natural harbors. Coral reefs, sand bars, mangrove swamps, and lagoons along the coast add complexity to the maritime environment.

### Bouanka Bank:

The continent's narrow continental shelf is most extended at Bouanka Bank, which extends off the shore for hundreds of kilometers. This area may have unique marine and ecological features.

### Historical Climate Changes:

Archaeological studies and satellite images indicate that Tornok's climate has undergone changes over time. Areas that are now arid or desert-like may have once been more humid, highlighting the dynamic nature of the continent's climate history.

### Impact on Settlement and Exploration:

Tornok's geography has significant implications for settlement patterns, resource distribution, and exploration. The diverse climate zones provide opportunities for various economic activities, from agriculture in fertile regions to mining and trade along the coast.

### Climatic Effects:

Tornok's equatorial location results in consistently high temperatures throughout the continent. The lack of significant temperature fluctuations and less pronounced winds compared to temperate climates contribute to the overall climatic conditions.

Tornok's geography shapes its ecosystems, cultures, and societies, contributing to the intricate tapestry of life on the continent. The varied landscapes and climates provide both challenges and opportunities for its inhabitants, influencing their ways of life and interactions with the environment.

## **Settlements:**

Tornok's settlements, though relatively few in number, play a significant role in the life of the continent. These cities and towns serve as hubs of commerce, culture, and interaction, reflecting the diverse and unique characteristics of Tornok's people and landscapes. Here are some details about Tornok's major settlements:

1. **Tobyan**: Located in the northwestern region of Tornok, Tobyan is a bustling city situated off the coast of the Bellcour Sea. It holds the distinction of being the largest and most prominent trading center in Tornok. Thanks to its strategic coastal location, Tobyan serves as a vital maritime gateway for trade with neighboring realms, particularly Sarino. The city's markets and docks bustle with activity, welcoming merchants, traders, and sailors from near and far.
2. **Agades:** Situated in the central-northern part of Tornok, Agades stands as a significant urban center. Its central location allows it to function as a key point of convergence for travelers and merchants moving between different regions of Tornok. Agades boasts a mix of cultures and traditions, and its markets are renowned for their vibrant and diverse offerings.
3. **Nemca:** Nestled along the banks of the Nektus River in the northwestern corner of Tornok, Nemca is a city that owes much of its prosperity to its riverine location. The Nektus River serves as a lifeline, facilitating trade, transportation, and communication with other settlements both within Tornok and beyond. The city's residents rely on the river's resources for sustenance and economic activities.
4. **Cupe:** The northernmost city in Tornok, Cupe is perched on the edge of the continent, overlooking the frigid expanse of the North Sea. Despite its remote location, Cupe serves as an essential outpost for explorers, adventurers, and traders venturing into the untamed northern reaches of Tornok. Its position has also made it a gathering point for those seeking to access the uncharted territories beyond its borders.
5. **Drurgodh Dhu:** This unique settlement is unlike the conventional cities and towns of Tornok. Drurgodh Dhu is an Orcish Temple dedicated to the Great Wyrm Red Dragon Buthenth, known as the Lady of the Red. The temple's location within the Cholgrud Basin, home to vast tropical rainforests, reflects the mystical and ancient connection between the orcs and the dragon. The temple holds a secret of great significance, shrouded in the lore and mysteries of the ages.

These settlements, each with its distinct characteristics and significance, contribute to Tornok's cultural diversity, economic activity, and interactions with other realms. While Tornok may have fewer large settlements compared to other continents, each city and town holds a unique place in the tapestry of Tornok's history and development.

## **Native Races:**

### Orcs:

* **Physical Traits:** Orcs are known for their robust physique, with strong muscles and resilient bodies. They often have green or gray skin, prominent tusks, and sharp features. Their appearance exudes strength and ferocity.
* **Culture and Society:** Orcs are a warrior culture valuing bravery, honor, and tribal unity. They live in various regions of Tornok, forming clans and alliances. Rituals, feats of strength, and combat prowess are important aspects of their society.
* **Lifestyle:** Orcs are skilled hunters, gatherers, and craftsmen. They have adapted to Tornok's environments, whether in the harsh highlands or lush rainforests.
* **Interaction:** Orcs have complex relationships with other races, sometimes forming alliances and rivalries. Their tribal nature may lead to clashes, but alliances based on shared goals can also emerge.

### Goblins:

* **Physical Traits:** Goblins are small and cunning creatures, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness. They often have green or brown skin and possess sharp minds.
* **Culture and Society:** Goblins are known for their craftiness and magical aptitude. They excel in arcane arts, craftsmanship, and trade.
* **Lifestyle:** Goblins engage in various activities, from trade to magic. They are skilled at creating and using magical items, contributing to Tornok's technological advancements.
* **Interaction:** Goblins are versatile and interact with other races through trade and magical collaboration. Their pragmatic nature often drives them to seek beneficial relationships.

### Lizardfolk:

* **Physical Traits:** Lizardfolk are reptilian predators with scales of gray, green, or brown. They have powerful muscles and tails, allowing them to swim well. Some breeds have dorsal spikes or frills.
* **Culture and Society:** Lizardfolk have a communal lifestyle, valuing tradition and oral history. They are skilled hunters and craftsmen, often living in swampy environments.
* **Lifestyle:** Lizardfolk thrive in swamps and marshes, relying on their environment for sustenance. They have a unique connection to the land and are known for their toughness and resourcefulness.
* **Interaction:** Lizardfolk are often standoffish toward other races due to their need to defend their territories. They interact cautiously and may form alliances when necessary.

### Bush Elves:

* **Physical Traits:** Bush Elves are tall, slender humanoids with supernatural grace. They often have darker skin tones and elegant features, resembling their Avaland origins.
* **Culture and Society:** Bush Elves migrated from Lysium, adapting to Tornok's environment over the centuries. They have developed unique cultures, traditions, and dialects.
* **Lifestyle:** Bush Elves live in harmony with the land, contributing to Tornok's diversity through their way of life. They may engage in trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange with other races.
* **Interaction:** Bush Elves' interactions vary, but their connections with other races may be based on shared values and goals, making them valuable allies.

### Humans:

* **Physical Traits:** Humans in Tornok come in a variety of ethnic groups, each with unique physical characteristics. They are adaptable and diverse, often dominating the continent due to their ambitious nature.
* **Culture and Society:** Humans have a wide range of cultures, from savage tribes to cosmopolitan cities. They drive expansion, exploration, and conquest, shaping Tornok's history.
* **Lifestyle:** Humans engage in various activities, from agriculture and trade to warfare and magic. They contribute to Tornok's economic, political, and cultural landscapes.
* I**nteraction:** Humans' interactions with other races are influenced by their diverse cultures and ambitions. They may form alliances, trade relationships, or conflicts based on their goals.

### Catfolk (The Panthera):

* **Physical Traits:** The Panthera are large and well-muscled, resembling lions. They have blond, bushy hair, feline features, and human-shaped feet. Their appearance exudes strength and grace.
* **Culture and Society:** The Panthera are known for their honor, valor, and noble ideals. They blend their Avaland origins with Tornok's culture, creating a unique identity.
* **Lifestyle**: The Panthera may engage in various activities, including trade, diplomacy, and military alliances. Their strong sense of chivalry and honor sets them apart.
* **Interaction:** The Panthera's emphasis on honor aligns with certain Tornokian societies, leading to recognition and respect. They contribute to Tornok's diversity and may form valuable alliances.

These native races, each with its distinct characteristics and contributions, shape Tornok's history, culture, and interactions with other realms. Through cooperation, conflict, and coexistence, they continue to influence the continent's development and future.

## Wildlife:

Tornok's diverse landscapes are home to a wide array of unique and exotic wildlife, including creatures reminiscent of Earth's Africa as well as fantastical beasts. Here's a glimpse of the wildlife you might encounter in Tornok:

### Dinosaurs:

Tornok's ancient and untouched rainforests are home to a variety of dinosaur species. From towering sauropods that graze on the lush vegetation to swift and predatory raptors that hunt smaller creatures, the presence of dinosaurs adds a sense of primal wonder to the continent. Some species may have adapted to Tornok's specific ecosystems, evolving distinct traits and behaviors.

### Drakes:

The skies of Tornok are ruled by drakes, majestic and powerful winged creatures. These drakes come in various sizes and forms, from sleek and agile ones that hunt in the open skies to more massive, heavily armored drakes that dwell in the mountainous regions. Some drakes may even have elemental abilities, such as breathing fire or controlling the winds.

### Fumas:

Fumas are large, cat-like predators with striking red or orange fur that blend harmoniously with Tornok's vibrant landscapes. These apex predators are known for their agility, strength, and keen senses, making them both respected and feared by other wildlife and even some of Tornok's sentient races.

### Savanna Animals:

In regions resembling African savannas, you may encounter a diverse range of creatures. Elephantic beasts with imposing tusks roam the grasslands, while graceful antelopes and gazelles prance among the foliage. Mighty lions and cunning hyenas compete for dominance, weaving tales of survival and predation.

### Aquatic Life:

Tornok's extensive coastline and lush wetlands are teeming with aquatic life. Colorful and exotic fish navigate vibrant coral reefs beneath crystal-clear waters. Ancient sea turtles nest on sandy shores, and crocodile-like creatures bask in the sun along the banks of rivers and swamps.

### Giant Insects:

In Tornok's humid rainforests, insects thrive in abundance. Oversized butterflies with wings as wide as a person's arm flutter among colorful flowers. Enormous beetles with iridescent carapaces scuttle through the underbrush, and massive spiders weave intricate webs among the trees.

### Exotic Birds:

The skies of Tornok are filled with a dazzling array of exotic birds, each with its unique plumage and melodious songs. Vibrant parrots and toucans add splashes of color to the green canopy, while predatory birds of prey soar high above, hunting for smaller creatures.

### Mythical Beasts:

Among the more mundane creatures, Tornok is also home to mythical and legendary creatures that have become an integral part of its lore. Enigmatic creatures like phoenixes, basilisks, and chimera may dwell in the unexplored depths of Tornok's wilderness.

The wildlife of Tornok is as diverse and captivating as the continent's landscapes, providing both a source of wonder and potential danger for its inhabitants. From the smallest insects to the largest dinosaurs, these creatures contribute to Tornok's rich tapestry of life and add to the sense of exploration and adventure that permeates the land.