Kiros Islands

Aerial photography of Kiros Island's southern tip.

**The Kiros Islands** are a captivating archipelago located in the Arabian Sea, known for their strategic position between Africa, Asia, and the Arabian Peninsula. The main island is divided into two distinct regions: the northern Lawless State, which is plagued by crime and anarchy, and the southern governed region, where local administration aims to maintain order and prosperity.

The Kiros Islands consist of several smaller islets, with the main island serving as the heart of the archipelago. Its diverse landscape includes pristine beaches, dense forests, and rugged mountains, offering a wide range of habitats for its unique flora and fauna. Due to its location in the Arabian Sea, the Kiros Islands are susceptible to monsoons and occasional tropical storms.

## History

Little is known about the early history of the Kiros Islands, although archeological evidence suggests that various indigenous tribes inhabited the islands for millennia before the arrival of foreign powers.

### Colonial era

Throughout the colonial era, the Kiros Islands were subject to a series of foreign occupations, with each power attempting to exploit the islands' strategic position and abundant resources. These occupations left deep scars on the islands, resulting in social and political divisions that persist to this day.

### Recent conflicts

The Kiros Islands have experienced several significant conflicts in recent years:

* The Battle of Kiro's Strait (2008): A naval conflict between the navies of two foreign powers, resulting in severe damage to the island's infrastructure and environment.
* The Red Mountain Uprising (2012): A violent rebellion by local insurgents in the Lawless State, seeking to oust foreign occupiers and establish an independent government.
* The Southern Offensive (2016): A large-scale military operation launched by the southern governed region, aiming to bring order and stability to the Lawless State.

## Politics

The politics of the Kiros Islands are marked by the stark contrast between the Lawless State in the north and the southern governed region. While the southern region enjoys a stable local government, the Lawless State remains plagued by various factions vying for power, leading to ongoing unrest and instability.

### Crime

The Lawless state is home to many insurgency groups, gangs, and rebel organizations. International entities that wish to conduct otherwise illegal activities find the chaotic state of Kiros to be a very easy place to set up in. Astra Inc. is an R&D company that migrated from the US in the 1990s to Kiros after being purchased in order to perform unethical research with little to no litigation.

## Economy

The economy of the Kiros Islands is primarily based on fishing, agriculture, and tourism. The southern governed region has managed to establish a stable economic infrastructure, while the Lawless State remains hindered by crime and political instability. Much of Kiros' exports are traded with Asian and African countries including Inyoni which has been a regular purchaser of agricultural goods.

## Culture

The Kiros Islands are home to a unique blend of cultures, influenced by the various foreign powers that have occupied the islands throughout history. Local traditions and customs have survived and evolved, creating a rich and diverse cultural tapestry.

### Tourism

Tourism is a growing industry on the Kiros Islands, with visitors drawn to the archipelago's stunning landscapes, unique history, and vibrant culture. The southern governed region offers a safer and more stable experience, while the Lawless State remains largely off-limits to tourists due to ongoing conflicts and crime.