The Badlands

**The Badlands**, a harsh and arid desert located in the southern third of the tropical continent of Venthalia, is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of life. This relentless environment, characterized by extreme temperatures, relentless winds, and scarce water and vegetation, is home to a variety of resilient species and dangerous creatures. Despite its inhospitable conditions, the Badlands was settled in 1048 AV by Nash Tousom, who founded the town of Tousom, the only settlement in the Badlands to this day.

## Geography and Climate

The Badlands, occupying the southern third of the continent of Venthalia, is a vast expanse of arid desert. This region is characterized by its rugged terrain, with rolling sand dunes, jagged rock formations, and sparse vegetation. The landscape is a testament to the region's volcanic history, with the landmass being a result of ancient volcanic activity. The desert is punctuated by occasional oases and springs, such as the spring that supports the town of Tousom. These aquafers and oases are vital lifelines in the desert, providing much-needed water and a modicum of greenery amidst the sea of sand and rock.

The climate of the Badlands is extreme and unforgiving. Temperatures can soar during the day, making the desert floor scorching hot, while at night, the lack of cloud cover can cause temperatures to plummet. This diurnal temperature variation is one of the many challenges faced by the inhabitants of the Badlands. The region is also known for its relentless winds, which can whip up sandstorms that last for days, further adding to the harshness of the environment. Rainfall is scarce in the Badlands, and when it does occur, it is often in the form of sudden, violent thunderstorms that can cause flash floods.

Despite the harsh conditions, life has found a way to adapt in the Badlands. The creatures and plants that inhabit this region have developed unique strategies to survive. For instance, many plants have deep root systems to reach underground water sources, and some animals are nocturnal, venturing out only during the cooler night hours. The town of Tousom, the only settlement in the Badlands, is a testament to human resilience and adaptability. Supported by a natural spring known as "Tousom Falls", the town has managed to thrive despite the harsh conditions, providing a beacon of life in the heart of the desert.

## Ecosystem

The Badlands, despite its harsh and inhospitable conditions, is home to a variety of resilient and adaptable species. The scarcity of water and vegetation has shaped an ecosystem defined by fierce competition for resources and survival. The most common inhabitants of this desert ecosystem are venomous snakes, hardy reptiles, and various insects. These creatures have developed unique adaptations to survive in the harsh desert environment. For instance, many reptiles and insects are able to burrow into the sand to escape the extreme heat of the day, emerging only during the cooler night hours to hunt and forage.

In addition to these smaller creatures, the Badlands is also home to a variety of larger, more dangerous monsters. These include Badlands Geckos, Giant Tarantulas, Giant Scorpions, Giant Horned Owls, Bulettes, Sand Elementals, Giant Rattlesnakes, and the noble Desert Triceratops. These creatures are often apex predators in their respective niches within the ecosystem, and their presence contributes to the Badlands' reputation as a dangerous and unforgiving place. Despite the danger they pose, these creatures play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem, each serving as a key link in the food chain.

Rumors and reports have also suggested the presence of Gorgons in the Badlands, creatures said to be from an unknown realm or other plane. While these reports are unconfirmed, they add an element of mystery and intrigue to the already formidable ecosystem of the Badlands. The potential presence of such creatures suggests that the Badlands may be home to even more unknown and undiscovered species, waiting to be discovered by the brave or the foolhardy. Despite its harshness, the Badlands is a place of surprising biodiversity, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of life in even the most inhospitable environments.

## History

The history of the Badlands is a tale of resilience and survival against the odds. For centuries, this harsh desert was considered uninhabitable, its extreme conditions deterring all but the hardiest creatures. However, this changed in 1048 AV when Lord Nash of House Tousom, a daring explorer and adventurer, decided to challenge this notion. Tousom, known for his indomitable spirit and survival skills, ventured into the heart of the Badlands with a team of 40, determined to establish a human presence in this inhospitable land.

Lord Tousom's journey was fraught with challenges. He had to contend with the extreme temperatures, scarce water sources, and the dangerous creatures that call the Badlands home. Despite these obstacles, Tousom and 6 of his men persevered, his determination fueled by a vision of a thriving settlement in the heart of the desert. His perseverance paid off when he discovered a natural spring, a rare oasis in the arid desert. Recognizing the potential of this location, Tousom decided to establish a settlement where the stream met the Surenis Sea, which he named after himself. Today, the inhabitants of the Badlands are almost exclusively located in Tousom, the only settlement in the region.