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Gazetteer of EndorCopyright Gabriele Quaglia and Eric Dubourg
2003
Editor's note: This remains very much a work-in-progress, and is
subject to change before it iscompleted. This gazetteer includes
new lands as well as revisions of the previous gazetteer writtenby
Pete Fenlon. This includes notes from the Illuin Bay, Ormal Bay,
Womaw and Lochan projectsbeing worked on by Cory Rushton, Gabriele
Quaglia, Stphane Hoerle, and many others.This file provides basic
information about the various regions of the continent of Endor.
Thegeography is based on the alternative map of Endor drawn by T.
Morwinsky, as seen in OtherHands issue 29/30 (July 2000). There is
now more information about some of these lands, such asthe Chyan
Empire and Mmakan. This is the first fruit of a massive task being
undertaken tocontinue work on expanding the East and South of
Middle-earth for role-playing purposes. Youcan learn more about
this project by visiting the Fan-Modules Yahoo Group or by joining
themailing list directly by sending a blank email to
[email protected].
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Acaana
Acaana is a high, grassy plateau situated along the southeastern
flank of the Ered Harmal (aka theEred Ormal). The Acaana Rush, a
broad and swift river, forms its southern boundary. The GaathHills
form the region's northern and eastern border. The Aca Gap is the
only easy route betweenAcaana and Anarik to the south. The Aca Gap
is home to many bands of thieves and robbers. Tothe west is the
Rocky Pass, which is much more dangerous due to the Orcs that
infest it. The RockyPass leads directly to Chy, and because of its
dangers, most Chyans and Anarikan use the coastalroad that leads
through Anarik. Another danger in the Rocky Pass is the city of
Akala-Zaj (TheFallen City of the Sakal an-Khr people), which is
populated by fierce warriors - probably thedescendants of the Aca
tribes and the Sakal an-Khanm who were forced from Anarik.
Thesewarriors keep in check the Orcs of the Rocky Pass, and on some
occasions launch raids on the Acalands, and more rarely in Anarik.
The Aca folk, fierce and independent Ibavin-speakingclansmen, herd
their goats and horses throughout Acaana. Most Aca live a
semi-nomadic life,although about a third live in the villages along
the Acaana Rush on a year-round basis. They oftenmake raids into
Anarik and into the Chyan lands through the Aca Gap. Acaana is
usually a subjectstate of Anarik.
Aeareryn
Aeareryn (S. "Sea of Trees"), is a huge taiga woodland that
stretches along the coast of the Sea ofSilluin. Mostly uninhabited,
it is sometimes roamed by Avarin herders and wanderers.
Aegan
Situated between the Orocarni (Q. "Red Mountains") and the
Romenar, Aegan is a large andheavily forested coastal region
renowned for its myriad tree species. Its two grand
temperateforests provide a home to hundreds of different kinds of
maple, oak, chestnut, cherry, hickory,elm, pine, and spruce.
Besides yielding countless medicinal resources, lumber and pitch
for boats,and various oils and syrups, the rich woodlands shelter
numerous beasts. Large cats and apes
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dominate the local chain of life. The Aegaw reside throughout
Aegan. A Womarin-speaking people,they constitute the southern
branch of the same Hildo family that produced the Womaw. The
fourAegaw tribes - the Uonurk (central), Ornurk (west), Dawurk
(east), and Arxurk (south) - share alargely common culture with
their brethren across the Bay of Swirling Waters. Only
geographysunders their union. A watery gulf and rugged mountains
help restrict free movement and,because Aegan's two rivers (the
Orosr and Dawahr) run southward, the Aegaw focus much oftheir
commercial attention toward the south. Like the Womaw, the Aegaw
enjoy a strong,somewhat rigid political tradition. The four tribes
each elect their leader, a "Hion", in an annualmidwinter's moot.
Blood plays a major part in these elections, and it is not unusual
for one familyto oversee a tribe for a number of centuries. Every
four years, the election is especially important,for afterwards the
four Hioni join to select another individual as Hionvol. The
Hionvol serves asthe Over-chief of all the Aegaw. He resides at
Uon, where he maintains the Four Shrines, conductsforeign policy,
and wages war. Aegaw symbolism is rich and varied. Nature and
family providemany of the themes. All four Aegaw tribes carry
similar banners, each a two-color design with astylized tree
emblazoned on a contrasting field. The Ornurk's flag involves a
dark red pine on apale lavender background, symbolizing their
affiliation with the Orosr Valley. A green maple on awhite field
serves as the symbol of the less numerous but powerful Uonurk. The
plentiful Dawurkcarry a banner that nearly mirrors this design, for
it displays a silver oak on a green field. A yellowcherry on a
black field denotes the Arxurk. When joined, the Aegaw carry a
large flag incorporatingall four of the tribal fields (lavender,
white, green, and black) and adorned with a black chestnuttree-the
symbol of tribal unity.
Agnikuyak
This rocky coastal plain is struck frequently by blizzards. In
the summer, when the icecap retreats,it transforms into a boggy
plain roamed by scattered herds of reindeer, and a few bands of
Agnica.Very isolated, this land communicates with Urd only through
the frozen Firth of Rocks fromSeptember to April.
Aigvalg
Aigvald is situated along the northeastern flank of the Orocarni
(Q. "Red Mountains") and alongthe southern shore of the Sea of
Illuin. It is a very cold, rocky and windswept land. It is
inhabitedby scattered bands of Aigar - a Mornerin-speaking
people.
Aldhad
Aldhad is a low steppe land located around mountains called by
the Lynerian scholars the Arc ofFehda. It is located to the east of
Dhaht and to the south of Gaathgykarkan and Ibav. Like Dhaht,green
grasslands are the main landscape of Fehaj. According to old tales,
Folud was a Dilikhranleader who fled the tyranny of some Dilikhran
tribes (especially the quarrelsome Mudhriag andRumyari) in Dhaht
with his people to the safety of this land. Fehda chose to be
entombed in thehighest peak of the Arc, Mount Othul, so that he
could keep a watchful eye on his people foreternity. Folud's people
consider themselves Lynr allies and often act as mercenaries in
theLynerian League against the Zurghr tribes. They are accustomed
to jungle survival, as they veryoften make expeditions into the
forests of Maaken in order to collect the various rare herbs
andwoods of the region.
Alduryaknar
The southernmost portion of Endor's High East-plain, Alduryaknar
lies around three thousandfeet above sea level. Its temperate
climate and ample rainfall make it a fine pastureland. Here,horses
and cattle prosper under the skilled hand of Adek-speaking
Alduryakna herders.
Amirakh
Irakh is a chain of relatively well-explored and moderately
settled islands. Well known by marinersof the Southern Archipelago,
the chain is sometimes known as the "Silver Road" since it is
animportant way station of the sea-lanes. The chain is composed of
twenty-two major and aroundtwo hundred minor islands, which extend
two thousand miles into the Haragaer. Some of theseislands remain
uncharted and unexplored. Beautiful and mountainous Amirakh is the
largest islein the Irakh chain. Some of these islands are occupied
by a diverse group of Rkhe-speaking
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traders and fisher-folk, and by the Pi elves. Amirakh is heavily
influenced by neighboring Sreand Vulmaw peoples. Struggles over its
outlying island domain make it a frequent target forinvasion.
Ammu Baj
Along the frontier of Harshandatt, the Ammu Baj hills rise,
covered by the forest of the samename. The forest is tropical, as
opposed to those located at the Ered Harmal foothills, which
areconiferous. Located in the hills is the border city of the Chyan
Empire, Tenolkachyn, "the Fortressof Vigilance." It holds an
impressive fortress that protects the Chyan Empire against
invaderscoming from Harshandatt. The city is magnificent, with
splendid gates, bustling market streets,and impressive temples.
Near the city center are the massive Megaliths, erected in honor of
theHighest High King of History. There is an old saying here that
"when the city falls, so will fall theChyan Empire." This axiom has
been proven true several times in history. The city is not
entirelymilitary in nature, however, as plenty of pleasure and
entertainment can be found here.Tenolkachyn is one of the main
cities of the Empire.
Anarik
The land of Anarik can be divided into three major areas - the
coastal lands south of Bulchyades,the Ered Harmal, and the eastern
lands stretching to Codya, which are heavily forested. The
riverKriis, also named Glrithilduin (S. "Gold Shining River") is
the clear frontier between the threedifferent regions (for both
geographic and historical reasons having to do with the
successivemigrations and invasions throughout the Second Age).Olyas
Kriis is a semi-arid peninsula located west of the southern reaches
of the Ered Harmal. Itstretches south from the Endor mainland,
about two hundred miles out into the Bay of Ormal. Dryhills
dominate its central and southern quarters, while forests lie along
its eastern border.Kythor (El. "River Coast Land") is located
between the rivers Kriis and Alturaj (which alsorepresents the
frontier with the Vulmaw realm). In contrast to Olyas Kriis, Kythor
is a less dryland, with a little more precipitation and more
diverse plant life. There are many more fortifiedcities and
villages than in Olyas Kriis, probably for fear of pirates and the
Vulmaw.The capital city of Kadar Abar-nark (Ad. "Citadel of Iron
Eagles" - also called Ost Angthoronion,which is unusual for a Dark
Nmenrean realm), is situated at the mouth of the River Kriis in
aformidable natural harbour with enough space for an entire fleet.
But the sea currents near theriver end ("the Sea-storm Gulf") are
very difficult to navigate, so only expert captains are able tosail
here. Wrecks are frequent, so the main commercial routes to this
central Anarik city are byland.Near the source of the Kriis the
mines are very rich, basically gold ores (the most important in
thebay), and in a nearby region iron ores as well. The mineral is
taken from the mines down the riverby rafts driven by bargemen
clans who are very reclusive but who are also very friendly with
thefew Kuorind elves that remain in the coastal temperate
rainforests.Anarik is one of the various rwani realms in the South.
They consider themselves a majorpower of the Bay, but they are not
as haughty and arrogant as most of the other regional powers.Their
traditional enemy are the Nmenreans of Sakal an-Khr, while their
favored allies are therealms of Bellakar and the Lynerian League.
Anarik is ruled by a king, a hereditary office held bythe ruling
elite of (now) partially rwani stock. This realm was founded by the
son of Herundilthe Storm King, Lkhuzr, and his supporters (both
Nmenrean and native), and its purpose wasto fight against effects
of Herundil's brutal reign in the area.
Anbalukkhr
Ciryatanr (Anbalukkhr) owes its name to Tar-Ciryatan, for it was
originally established in theSecond Age (1904) as a Nmenrean
colony. Ciryamir, the original founder of the domain, was thecousin
of Mrazr (the future Witch-king) and the father of his successor,
Akhrahil (anotherfuture lair). Bewitched by his vile son, he
committed suicide in S.A. 1918. Akhrahil ascended thethrone on the
first day of the next year. He subsequently conquered a vast
portion of southernEndor. After accepting a Ring of Power in S.A.
2000, he broadened his hold, only to run afoul ofhis Nmenrean liege
(Tar-Ancalimon). Ciryatanr lies north of the Ered Laranor and east
ofTulwang, some 200 miles inland from the southern Belegaer.
Ciryatanr is comprised of threedissimilar lands: Curinshiban with
its tropical humid forest, Seznebab as a temperate mountainplace,
and Zajantak a rather semi arid land. These lands are usually not
united.
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Curinshiban lies north of the Ered Laranor and south of Tulwang.
Zadan an-Adn ("Tower of RedSunset" Qu "Marath Carnadn", S. "Barad
Annn"); serves as its traditional capital. The otherimportant
cities are Kadar an-Khradun at the mouth of river Balakurush,
Arhazn-Tark("Shining Sea Pillar of the Adnai"), Alkathnda ("Castle
of the Coastal Sea Forest") near thefrontier with Khradun, and
Azrulni (Ad "Haven of the Sea") near Kadar an-Khradun. Azrulniis
the third most important city of Curinshiban after Kadar an-Khradun
(one of the greatest portcities of all the Southern lands, eclipsed
only by rzyan in Bellakar and Bozisha-Dr) and Zadanan-Adn, home of
Anbalukkhr's navy.Seznebab is the region on the northern drainage
of the Yellow Mountains between Chennacatt,Curinshiban and
Zajantak, between the Yellow Mountains and the Kurryan Bay of the
SunderingSea. Seznebab and Curinshiban together formed the Second
Age Nmenrean colony ofCiryatanore (or Anbalukkhr). Seznebab is also
the core land for the conquests of the NazgulAkhorahil and the Army
of the Southern Dragon. The climate in the temperate highland
valleys iscomparable to that of Nmenor, which easily explains why
Nmenreans settled there. All thetrade routes are controlled by two
fortresses built during Second Age, Adn-Tark ("The RedTower") and
Btan-Urd ("The Mountain Path City").Zajantak is located on the
northern foothills of the Yellow Mountains, and is subtropical with
oasisvalleys, tropical forests as well as deadly swamps. Zajantak
became in the Middle Third Age thegarrison land for the Army of the
Southern Dragon, and was only part of the realm of Anbalukkhrduring
Akhrahil's rule.
Angclax
Located south of the eastern branch of the Ered Engrin (S. "Iron
Mountains"), Angclax (Ang."Beyond the Angranit river") is a
desolate coastal region. Forlorn rock outcroppings and scree-fields
cover most of the area, although spongy, heath-covered plains lend
life and color to thesouthern and western reaches. A handful of
Mornerin hunters roam the coasts and river valleys ofthis land,
trying to make a living out of the hardships of the environment and
the Urdarindomination. Few of these Angclax clansmen venture into
the highlands to the north, whereMountain-Orcs and other monsters
reputedly reside.To the northwest of Angclax (near the springs of
the Angranit River) lies Drhar-shatr, thecapital of the Dwarves of
Drhar's Folk.
Arg-Smorg
A large isle located in southeastern Endor, Arg-Smorg is a
blessed domain renowned for its swiftstreams, clear lakes and
well-protected harbors. It is among the prettiest sites in all of
Endor.Situated in the shadow of the Oroslo, it rises out of a
triangular gulf called the Yawning Bay. Twohilly peninsulas,
Faelaan (to the north) and Ka'ish (to the south), surround the
seaward sides ofthe bay, as if a pair of arms reached eastward from
the mountains in order to capture the islandand its surrounding
waters.The Argaw rule Arg-Smorg. They are descendants of the Womaw
settlers who seized the islandfrom its indigenous Fale inhabitants.
These Argawin speaking people remain close to theirancestral
kinsmen, and maintain strong trade ties with the Aegaw and Lochaw,
who alsodescended from the Womaw. A very civilized and urbanized
society, most Argaw reside in the fourcities of northern Arg-Smorg:
Zyras (at the northern tip), Smor (on the east coast), and Tor
andNhaag (north of the large, central lake called the Stoybr). The
only remaining Fale settlementsare sprinkled in hills west of the
Akaak Wetlands, in the southwestern quarter of the isle.Steep
mountains rise along the western coast of Arg-Smorg. Here, the
landscape precludes roadbuilding and most travel is seaborne.
Although the area accommodates numerous fishing villages,it is
devoid of larger settlements.Southern Arg-Smorg is dominated by a
vast marsh, the Akaak Wetlands. Fed by the river Akaakand
subterranean runoff from the Stoybr, it is a sea of swampy
grasslands. Few people live in thisrich but inhospitable area.Aside
from the Akaak, the Arak is the only navigable river on the island.
It serves as the Stoybr'sonly negotiable outlet to the Yawning Bay.
Fifty miles long, it connects Smor, the area's largestcity, to
Nhaag, the capital. Boats from Smor, which is situated at the mouth
of the Arak, caneasily make their way upstream to the Stoybr. Nhaag
is only a fifteen-mile journey across thedeep lake.The symbol of
Arg-Smorg is a diving, black marsh hawk. This stylized bird adorns
the flag of theArgaw, a triangular white banner with a blue
frame.
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Arth
Arth is a generally sandy, four hundred and seventy-five mile
long island situated in thenortheastern part of Endor's Southern
Archipelago. A one hundred mile long jungle forest(primarily pines,
coconut, palm and cedar) dominates the central portion of the isle,
which has anextremely wet but mild climate. The fauna is prolific,
represented by lovely and graceful birds,different species of
serpents, and insects. Hunting birds and tropical serpents (some of
them areconsidered very rare and only native from Arth) is
considered as a sport by the Vulmaw nobility,and these animals are
sold at very expensive price in the northern market places of Ormal
Bay, likeChajapn, Abar-Nark, Caerdhyan or Drej Uriac.Two port
towns-Arsuon in the northwest and Vucuon in the
southeast-accommodate nearly all ofthe island's thirty thousand
Vulman-speaking residents. This island was settled by Vulman
peoplein the beginning of the second millenia of Second Age, in an
attempt to control the SouthernArchipelago. The coast is also
strung with a line of scattered villages. The villagers earn a
poorliving by trading in plantains, dried shrimps, banana, citrus,
sugar-cane trees, and the product ofthe coconut palm (coconut husk
ropes, lumber, reddish palm oil and copra cake - dried
coconutmeat). The oil is sent in jars to the cities of Codya, where
it is most appreciated.
Avikangsdar
Located along the northwestern flank of the Ered Engrin (S.
"Iron Mountains"), Avikangsdar is anextremely cold, tundra-covered
region. This bleak, almost uninhabited domain is best known forits
ferocious winds and bitter winter temperatures.
Balkulni
The Niss River empties into a very large gulf. The coastal lands
are extremely fertile, with a hotclimate (tempered by sea breezes)
and frequent precipitations. Streams are numerous, and watersoaks
the earth in summer as in winter. The warm climate is convenient to
the development ofluxurious forests. It is one of the best fishing
grounds in all of Endor. Thousands of fish speciesreside in these
clear and warm waters. The Bay shelters four important anchorages
from west toeast: Nirshat, Blzadan, Abr-Zadan (at the mouth of the
Niss River) and Gimil. One otherimportant city of Balkulni is built
to the south of the Treddas Mountains, and is named Kadar
an-Urud.The Niss valley and the Lynerian League coasts and forests
are the most fertile regions of OrmalBay. The warm climate is
convenient to the development of a luxurious flora, mainly composed
ofpalm trees, date palms and numerous types of fruit trees. The
hills are green, covered with thickgrasses and strewn with a
multitude of small multi-colored flowers. Inland the flora becomes
morebushy and sparse.
Barl Syrnac
The Barl Syrnac is the western branch of the Iron Mountains,
comprising great glaciers and snowcapped peaks (the highest peaks
reach 5000 meters), raised by Morgoth to protect his fortress
ofUtumno. These glistening spires protect the more temperate
coastal taiga to the east from theharsh winds of Forodwaith. Great
evergreen forests cover much of the taiga, especially in the
covesand bays of the Sea of Illuin. Traditionally, the Barl Syrnac
can be divided into three differentregions: Azjan (called by Dyrian
and Mornerin "the Land of Evil Spirit"), Ukal Sj ("the Riversdouble
Bay") and the forest of Dyr.Azjan is rather rugged and
inhospitable. There are few forest, several secondary chain
peaks,coastal sharp cliffs, and taiga plains. This land is usually
avoided, except by the fools, as this wasthere that Morgoth and his
evil servants established themselves. According to Dyrian's tales,
theevil servants are still there, the most feared being Gostir, a
pure white Cold-drake, the ancient"Dread-glance" of Dyrian legend,
and perhaps some deadly spirits of cold or fire.In Ukal Sj, there
are more than ten great rivers that take source from the Barl
Syrnac. the mostimportant river is the Lusraig (Lo "Colored Reddish
Foam River"), the longest in all Ukal-Sj,named for the reddish
colour of the waters, that takes its source near the secret cave of
Gostir. Alocal tale tells that one must not cross the Lusraig
river, for it represents the drake domain's entry.All rivers had
not been named, as some of them are very short in distance. Some
rivers are namedin honor of Dyrian or Mornerin gods. The mountains
are there rich in minerals, such as clay,granite, sandstone and
copper. There are several little bays, taiga plains and forests
with a
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blooming fauna and flora.This wide valley is the most rich and
populated area of the all Barl Syrnac, and furthermore suitedfor
agriculture (cereals). The sea is extremely rich in fish and
crustacean, the fauna with animals,and the valley in medicinal and
nutritive plants. That is why both the Dyrian and the
Mornerinexiles built near the coasts several permanent settlements.
Another reason is that enables them tobetter resist against
Lothragh and Orcs assaults. The most important sites are Olyavud
(Dy"Mountain Graceful Village), carefully protected in the
mountains by frequent patrols andarranged traps, near river Uskd
(Dy "The River of Destiny"), Elyam, near Dyr forest, and Yjuvt,at
the mouth of river Lusraig.The woodland of Dyr is stretched between
the western bank of the Ujelsha River, and a spur of theIron
Mountains, the little Nojd River, which is rich in clay and in
copper. Formerly inhabited bythe Dyrians, there is still in Dyr
some abandoned villages, occasionally occupied by
marauders,Lothragh raiders and Orcs. This vast and wild dark taiga
is now occupied by two tribes of the Half-Dwarves the Fustir-Gost
Umli, who are avoided by the Lothragh raiders.
Bellakar
South of Gondor and Mordor lies the vast desert of Haradwaith.
Much of its western expanse liesunder the dominion of Bellakar, a
warlike kingdom of coasts and hills, lying between the deepestof
seas and the most barren of wastelands. Together with the
neighboring land of Raj (Bozisha-Miraz) to its southeast, Gondorian
maps label Bellakar "Far Harad" (as distinct from Haruzan or"Near
Harad"). Bellakar boasts a mix of different cultures: Nmenrean,
native Bellakaze, Aukuagtribesmen of the desert, Bozishnarod from
Raj, and a tribal people from the East called the Tedjin.In such a
varied realm, conflict seethes eternally.Bellakar is divided into
three different regions: Mardruak, Felayja and Bellazen. Hazaj
Tollin is themost important city of Mardruak, a land where Umbar
and Near Harad influence are very great,through the several
invasion attempts led by Tedjin or Umbarean mercenaries. This is
reflected inthe cosmopolitan cities of Mardruak, mainly Narik-Zadan
- an important trading center forArnorian, Tulwan and Seven Lands
merchants. The Monastery of the True Faith, located in themountain
desert east of Hazaj Tollin, is the important religious center for
Bellakar, and it is fromthere that priests come to teach the true
Faith to the Bellakar inhabitants.Felayja, the land of the Sun, is
dominated by two great cities, rzyan and Nllond, the capitalof the
mighty realm, the only ally of Gondor in the South. Felayja also
hosts the two mostimportant forest of Bellakar. In Auz Azunan
("Hills of the Spiritual People") and in Hau Nysrin("Mountains of
Virtue") live secretly the Honnin and the Cuind Elves).Bellazen is
a land of contrast, between Felayja and Bozisha-Dar. Bozisha-Dar,
Tulwan and SevenLands merchants are very often there, especially in
the cities of Korlea and Esmer. Bellazen is theBellakarian
stronghold, as it was from there that the Tumakveh rebuilt the
realms and foughtbattles against the invaders, Tedjin or
Bozishnarod alike. Korlea is the second most important cityof the
realm, and is unmatched as far as military protections.
Brd
Like neighboring Tana, Brd is an inland realm situated near the
southeastern shores of Endor.The Oroslo (Q. "Mountains of the
Wind") rise to the west, while the rivers Kirmas, Runk, andBreacna
serve as the area's northern, southern, and eastern, boundaries,
respectively. Since theRunk and Kirmas serve the two principal
tributaries to the mighty Ams Breacna (which emptiesinto the sea
less than a hundred miles downstream from the Kirmas Junction),
virtually all ofBrd is connected by a riverine highway.Brdim
culture combines the indigenous Braric traditions with influences
from nearby Wl andLochas. Wlim and Brdim peoples share a common
language and social organization, and Braricpolitical structure
mirrors that found among the Lochaw.Sgl, Runk, and Brd are Brd's
three urban centers. Situated on the southern bank of theKirmas in
the northwest, Sgl commands the great pass through the Oroslo known
as the WindGates. It is the largest and wealthiest of the three
towns. Brd, which stands in the central hills, ishome to only eight
thousand people; however, it serves as both the political and
spiritual center forall the Brdim. The westernmost of the trio,
Runk, is a little larger than Brd; and, like Sgl, is amajor river
port. Located by the Runk Plunge, a waterfall where the Runk
becomes unnavigable, itcommands the only bridge across the river.A
plain white orb serves as the Braric symbol. The orb punctuates
Brd's Lochan-derived flag,which employs a four-color field. Divided
diagonally, the rectangular field represents the four
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cardinal directions. Red denotes the East, green the South,
purple the West, and blue the North.Originally a small kingdom
founded by Womaw colonists in the early Second Age, Brd becameone
of the most important provinces of the Lochan Empire throughout the
late Second and ThirdAges. Following the final dissolution of the
Empire in the 17th-century, Brd actively engaged inempire building,
thwarted by its equally aggressive neighbors and the overwhelming
might ofWaw.
Bulchyades
Located on the northeastern coast of the Bay of Ormal,
Bulchyades is a low, arid region known forits colorful, Chyan
fishing culture. Its sparse population resides in three distinctly
different areas.Most people live in the lower Denly river valley.
Some make their homes in the coastal fishingvillages, while others
live in fortified hamlets in the western foothills of the Ered
Harmal. Thelatter make their living as herders or miners.Although
it produces fine fish, olives, and wine, Bulchyades is best known
for its plentiful reservesof metal. Mining, metallurgy, and metal
crafting account for most of the region's trade. Tin, brass,bronze,
silver, and gold flow from the neighboring mountains.A
Chyan-speaking people, the Bulchya are related to all of their
neighbors. They enjoy a stable,peaceful lifestyle, despite the fact
that their relative wealth occasionally invites unwelcome
Acaraiders from the warlike domain of Acaana.A trio of silver
spoons constitutes the symbol of Bulchyades. The Bulchya banner is
red rectangleemblazoned with the three spoons, which are arranged
in a vertical row.
Burskadekdar
An upland area noted for its hills and named for its hundred
mile long lake, Burskadekdar is hometo nearly a quarter million
Adek-speaking people. Its ancient and diverse traditions lend
itremarkable strength and stability. Burskadekdar traders, anglers,
planters, and herders form themost resilient of eastern Endor's
myriad plains culture. Its well-armed warriors enjoy anunparalleled
record of martial success.The city of Skad is the largest city in
the region. Situated on an island in the midst of LakeBurskadekdar,
it is renowned for its twenty-five stone causeways. These wide
bridges connect thewalled town to an outer ring, which is in turn
joined to the mainland by five, fifteen-mile long,elevated roads.
The five highways cross an array of both floating- and fixed-span
bridges.While the majority of the city's population lives in the
walled core, over a third of the localresidents reside in small
hamlets along the ring or major causeways.Although much smaller
than Skad, the old town of the Burskadekdar remains an
importantceremonial site. It is located in the hills of
southwestern Burskadekdar. Like its name, the town'sgold,
ring-shaped emblem serves the entire region. It is the symbol of
Burskadek unity, and adornsthe pure black field of their
twin-tailed flag.
Cevra
Cevra is a very long island (83 miles long north-south, 81 miles
long east-west on its largest part)situated in the northern part of
Endor's Southern Archipelago and surrounded by coral reefs thatare
only seen at low tide. It is occupied by about two thousand
Vulman-speaking residents. Abouta third live in Alcevrok and
Ergali, ports located respectively on the Wur Cevrok (Vm.
"Night-home Bay"), on the west-central coast and on the east
extremity of the island, near Arth. Many ofthem are breeders,
farmers or fishermen.Cevra's generally thin soil still supports two
rain forests, both of which stand toward the windward(eastern) side
of the isle. Protected by the chain of central hills, the
northwestern side of the islandyields ample crops of grapes,
citrus, and other fruits. Here, the soil is thicker. The local
wine,which is sweet and fortified, is prized throughout the
southern Middle-earth.
Chennacatt
Chennacatt lies along the northern flank of the Ered Laranor, on
an arid plateau bounded by themountains and the rivers Chenna and
Sresha. It comprises the western portion of Greater Harad,the
region the local Apysaic-speaking tribesmen refer to as "Srayn."
Its modest population isconcentrated in riverside towns, especially
the walled city of Tartaust.Although some residents of Chennacatt
farm, most of the scattered rural folk herd goats or sheep.
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They produce wool that, like cotton and flax, is used in the
region's thriving cloth and rugindustries.
Chey Sart
Chey Sart is situated in the center of Endor-between the Ered
Harmal to the west, the serpentineTalathrant to the north, and the
Chey Rill to the east. Although it is renowned as homeland of
thelair Ren Jey (the eighth of the Nine Nazgl), it is best known as
the traditional center of Cheyculture. Its most notable physical
feature, the solitary volcano known as Ulk Chey Sart, is reveredby
all Chejan-speaking peoples as the birthplace of their culture.
Aside from the Chey Hills twohundred miles to the northeast, the
black peak is the only height interrupting the vast Sartgrasslands
(which measure six hundred miles from north to south and four
hundred miles fromeast to west).
Chy
Situated west of the Chy Gap, a broad pass in the Ered Harmal,
Chy is an arid, hilly area that sitsastride one of Endor's most
important overland trade routes. It is named for a confederation
ofChyan-speaking tribes. This is the core land for the Chyan
Empire, which incorporates also AmmuBaj, Bulchyades, Clyan and
Lodenly. The Empire is usually ruled by a High King (Ch
"Rashaja"),either from Pelepelpl, or from Chajapn (the capital of
Lodenly).The Chyans are fierce enemies of the Easterlings of Khand
and of Orcs, whom they kill on sight.They have a long-standing
rivalry with the Aca warlords and the Mranians of Harshandatt,
arealm they have managed to conquer several times during history.
Their beliefs are not far fromthe Nmenrean faith, as they revere
the True One God Asruta and his fourteen children (to whomthey
place opposite the Great Demon and his fourteen children). They
entertain a permanentembassy in Tl Harar and in Abar-Nark, capital
of the realm of Anarik, a Black Nmenreanrealm.Pelepelpl, or
"Strongflow," is the traditional capital of the region. Built on a
collection of nineterraced hills, it is linked to the neighboring
mountains by a collection of six, multi-tieredaqueducts. The
elevated waterways are paired and linked in order to increase their
stability.Besides conveying water from no less than three highland
streams, they act as dual-level highways.Encircling the city, they
also serve as fortifications. Each is a marvel of engineering and
atestimony to the High-kings who commissioned their construction.
The six monarchs -Ganashshyn, Shbragan, Ganachyn, Gansh, Tasagana,
and Ganagan (in chronological order) -are all buried in towering
tombs astride their respective aqueducts. Their monuments comprise
sixof the eighteen "Spires of Strongflow" (Ch.
"Pit-apo-Pelepelpl").
Cmonemor
Island-realm of Elves in south-eastern Middle-earth. Ruled by
the parents of Elorior. The islandwas a virtual paradise, and not
many Elves bothered to sail West despite the enmity of Dwar'sWaw in
the Second and Third Ages; the only notable time of departure was
just after settlers fromWaw seized the isle in 1507 TA.
Clyan
Clyan is located on the arid southern flanks of the Ered Harmal,
between Lurmsakun in easternHarad and Chy. Most of the land of
Clyan is rolling or rugged, standing well above the lowlanddeserts
of Harad (averaging 2,000 feet), which helps to mellow Clyan's
harsh climate. A Chyan-speaking people, the Cly tribesmen can boast
of few mineral resources and little political unity.Most live in
fortified hilltop villages, troubled occasionally by goblins from
the Ered Harmal orHaradon raiders from the scrub deserts to the
west. They subsist on cattle, sheep, and goats, mostmaking their
living by herding or rug making. The wealthiest of the Clyan
villages serve as marketcenters for trade with wealthier lands.
Codya
Originally founded as a Vulmaw colony, Codya is the youngest and
westernmost of the Womaw-related domains. It is positioned north of
the mouth of the Bay of Ormal, near the southeastern tipof the Ered
Harmal. Like Chy, Codya is also a region of contrast. The land is
similar to Bellakar.Five different environments exist in Codya: the
volcanic islands, a broad strip of coastland (about
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20 to 60 km), the desert and the Treddas and Tem-Dazran
mountains.The most important city built in the archipelagos by the
Vulmaw is Myrn Shryac, the inland city onthe volcano's slopes,
located in the Vultures Bay, near the frontier with Anarik,
designed to be themost important fortress of all the Codyan
land.The coastal grounds are extremely fertile, permanently
irrigated by rivers, and favored by theweather. This is a coastal
hilly wooded land, a very hospitable country, and consequently
these arethe lands with the highest population density in all of
Codya.In the stone hills, water from the few Codyan rivers sourced
in Anarik or in the TreddasMountains empty into some dead alkali
lakes. The ground is calcareous and the climate extremelyarid.The
desert is as barren and arid as can be expected, but it is not the
Mirror of Fire, as life, even ifdifficult, is still possible and
exists. The desert is made of sands and rocks, with several oases.
TheTreddas Mountains and their offshoot the Tem-Dazran represent
the natural frontier betweenCodya and Balkulni. The mountains'
peaks rise some 3000 meters above the sea. Few passesexists to
provide travel to eastern Middle Earth. There are some important
fortresses in themountains, following the Vulmaw tradition of
isolation.
Cuivac Wmaw
One of the oldest Hildo realms, Cuivac Wmaw is the ancestral
home of the Wmaw people - oneof the four original Womaw tribes. It
comprises the southeast portion of the great peninsulaknown the
Quendi as "Cuivistar." This cool, grassy land is graced with rich
soil, fine harbors, and asurprisingly moderate climate.
Cuivinen
Cuivinen was once situated between the steep western flank of
the Orocarni (Q. "RedMountains") and the eastern shore of the
Inland Sea of Helcar. It served as the birthplace andoriginal
homeland of the immortal Firstborn. Essentially torn apart during
the apocalyptic changeafter the Great Battle at the end of the
First Age, both the Inland Sea and the land of Cuivinenremain
near-mythical locales.
Daldunair
Daldunair is a marshy land located around a two hundred
mile-long lake of the same name. It liesdeep in the plains of
eastern Endor: east of the Rycolis, south of Lu Tyr Su, and west of
Uster Kryl.The vast grasslands of Kargagis Ahar stretch far to the
south. Its sweet water and strategic locationastride one of Endor's
busiest trade routes make Daldunair a choice prize for hungry
conquerors.An isolated group of indigenous, Linerin-speaking
fishermen and fowlers protect themselves fromthe frequent raiding
and wars by living in Daldunair's numerous floating, lake-borne
hamlets.
Dalpygis
Comprising the eastern part of the central Talathrant basin,
Dalpygis is a cool, rich, grassy steppe-land located in heart of
Endor. It is a volatile area beset by frequent migrations, wars,
and plagues.The indigenous Aharin-speaking groups often find
themselves subjugated or confined to thesurrounding hills.
Desdursyton
Desdursyton lies along the Iron Mountains, on the eastern shores
of the Bay of Illuin. It is bestknown, though, as the home of the
Tratalamar, a great mere situated atop the Traparsa,Endor's largest
butte. The Dysdirani consider the Tratalamar (which they call
"Gerlkneshe" -the "Spirit-mere") a holy place. These fierce,
Tyran-speaking Men are widely considered thievesand rogues, who
serve no one.The realm is for the first time unified in SA 2510 by
Razeral, warlord of Rakiborzal with thesupport of an Orcish army
form U-Lyshak. Like Rasedkh of Kiebk in rcheldor, Razeral acceptsa
ring of Binding; he is later known as the Plundering King, and is
responsible for a campaign ofplunder in the lands east of
Desdursyton, and for the fall of Hisilond by the end of Second
Age.
Dhath
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Dhath is known to its Dilikhran inhabitants as "the land between
the mountains." To the west,near the Niss Valley, is the l-Buldaz
chain. To the south are the Pontym coastal mountains, andto the
east are the Iriagi Mountains. To the north, Dhath is bordered by a
desert known as theUljian. Dhath is a semi-arid land with average
precipitation. It is a very windy land as well, andmassive storms
often strike the large basin.Green grasslands are the feature of
the Dhath region. Forests are only located to the north, nearthe
l-Buldaz mountains (which are also named by the Dilikhran tribes
the Elkas mountains),with coniferous trees, and to the south in
Lynahar with deciduous trees. There are also some largelakes near
the Iriagi Mountains. Several intermittent rivers feed these lakes,
which are full inwinter and at a low level in summer.The Dilikhran
are nomads that are far from being united. They live in small hut
villages, and aremostly farmers and nomadic pastoralists. Their
only city is placed at the middle of Dhaht, and isnamed Widh Br (Di
"the camp city"). It is in the hands of the Ulkis tribe. There are
seven greatDilikhran tribes, and fourteen minor tribes.
Dshera
Located south of the central Yellow Mountains (S. "Ered
Laranor"), Dshera is a warm, wet, hillyland crisscrossed by streams
and punctuated with lakes and swamps. It lies between the Bay
ofsakan to the west and the river Koros to the east. It is
populated by a variety of peoples, mostnotably Chailuk-speaking
Woses (in the remote hills) and Mmakanin-speaking fisher folk
(alongthe coasts).
Elorna
Elorna is a low, flat coastal region located between the
Belegaer and Yellow Mountains, insouthwestern Middle-earth. The
Onpu Mispr forms the area's southern boundary. A haven formigratory
birds and other denizens of its vast tidal wetlands, it is ill
suited to herding, farming, orother industries. Accordingly, Elorna
remains the same dense and often impenetrable wild theElves first
spoke of during the early Second Age.
Ergahem
Ergahem is an island located in the southeastern part of Endor.
Hilly, forested and sandy, theisland is surrounded by coral reefs,
which easily explains why mariners avoid approachingErgahem, and
are forced (if they want to go to Folyani), to go into the Sea of
Winds (which is filledwith pirates). There are several Rkhe
settlements along the coasts. They are peaceful, and live offof the
sea, and the phosphate found here which they trade to the Vulmaw
and the Ohjan. Theclimate is equatorial and very warm. The island
is moderately covered with various tropical fruittrees.
E-Sorul Sare
One of the largest islands located off the coast of Endor,
E-Sorul Sare is the principal isle in thevast Southern Archipelago.
It is populated by the Sare people, Mmakanin-speaking
tribesmenknown for their hunting, fishing, and rice-growing skills.
Steep mountains dominate the centralportion of the U-shaped island.
Jungle covers portions of the long coastline.The islands that form
the Ulban chain (Islands of the Claws) are a treacherous maze of
hiddenreefs, mangrove swamps, and contrary currents. Without a
knowledgeable pilot (who only can behired from the locals), any
ship venturing into the channels does it at maximum risk.
Thetreacherous waters aside, these islands are also populated by
Sre people. It is believed that this isthere that the ancestors of
Sre people first settled and built their first city, Miyin-Tar
(nowreduced in ruins through the conflicts with their Mmakani and
Tantraki neighbours). Theseislands are barely hospitable, as it is
poor in animal life and in flora (only a few palm and
coconuttrees). Nonetheless, some few villages exist, and greatly
benefit for their survival of their proximityof Mulvyann (Island of
the Shell).The other major islands of the chain are Olyad (Great
Island) and Mulvyann. Olyad is bounded onnearly every side by
cliffs and flows of volcanic rock, except in the south. Like
E-Sorul Sre, themain landscape is mountain, with four peaks above
5000 feet (all extinct volcanos). The land isrich in limestone and
basalt rocks. This is near a tropical forest and along the course
of the TongaRiver that are established the Sre people, who
cultivate oil palm, date, coconut and banana trees.
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Mulvyann is like an extension of E-Sorul Sre. Similar landscapes
can be seen there.The climate of both islands is tropical, the
temperatures are very high (but tempered by marinebreezes and
mainly trade winds), but rain is not generous during the summer
season. In winter oncontrary, the rain can be intermittent.
Faelaan
Faelaan is a two hundred mile long peninsula running
southeastward from the eastern flank of theOroslo. The Romenar
washes against its northern and eastern shores, while the Yawning
Bayforms its southern boundary. Hilly and well forested, Faelaan is
a reasonably pleasant land. Themountains block much of the
prevailing winds and a warm current insures safe sailing.
Itsprincipal river, the Oronsr is rich in fish and, while swift,
wide and deep enough to navigate fortwo-score miles.Still, the
area's relative isolation and shallow, rocky soils make it
unattractive for many settlers. Itremains a thinly populated region
dominated by other peoples, notably the Aegaw, Argaw,Lochaw, and
Ts'dan. In fact, the region's name is Womarin and means "Land of
the Fale," forFaelaan is the ancestral home of the Fale tribes.
Folyani
Folyani is the largest island located in the Sea of Winds.
Unlike Nejhen, Folyani suffers little fromtidal waves and
earthquakes, as most of the borders of the island are made up of
high cliffs andmountains, and there is little volcanic activity.
The southern coasts provide several natural harborsand hilly
coastal plains. There are four different groups of mountains,
reaching up to 3000 meters,as high enough to be snow-tipped during
winter. Four different rivers run from these mountains.There are
also verdant and bounteous valleys, rocky soil, large lakes and
deep forests.This island is inhabited by the Ohjan, distant
relatives of the Lynr and the three tribes of Edain.The Ohjan may
once have been part of the Lynr migration, but lost their brothers
in the darkforests of central Middle Earth. They managed to go
south, traveling the hostile lands of Maakenand Aldhad, and reached
the Sea of Winds. Not wanting to stay too long in Nejhen with the
Nejhpastoralists, they built small boats and eventually came, with
some luck, to Folyani. They builtsmall villages in the mountains,
and in the following centuries, contacted the other humanpopulation
of the Bay of the Coral Reefs, and the Elves of the nearby island,
Cmonemor. Thesepeaceful contacts enable them to learn much from the
Elves. The Ohjan are great lovers of thearts, and their cities are
magnificent, with golden palaces and exquisite temples to their
gods.Unlike the Lynr, they were early on ruled by a King, who
established in the sixth century thecapital city of Thurbiand in
the mountains. The Ohjan became expert in the arts of war
anddiplomacy, and soon dominated the nearby island of Ergahem, only
occupied by a group of Rkhe-speaking traders and fisher-folk. They
represent one of the four major powers of the Bay; theothers being
Jamna, Sakal an-Khr and the Vulmaw.
Gaathgykarkan
Gaathgykarkan is a low steppe-land situated between Ibav and the
Bleak Mountains.Characterized by short, lush grasses and gently
rolling countryside, it is the southernmost plainamong the vast
array of flatlands stretching across central Endor. Its moderate
climate andsheltered position provide inviting pasturage for its
Aharin- (in the north) and Ibavin-speaking (inthe south) residents,
most of whom are herders.
Gan
Gan lies south of the eastern Ered Laranor (Q. "Yellow
Mountains.") and north of the Bay of Gan.It is a warm, wet, hilly
region noted for its deep lakes and lush, hardwood forests.
Populated byboth Mmakanin- and Tuktanin-speaking peoples, it serves
as a major shipbuilding center.
Geshaan
Once the center of a wealthy kingdom, Geshaan suffered by far
the worst of the lands of theMmakan when the earth shook with the
fall of Beleriand and the drowning of Angband. The levelof the land
sank and water collected there, but not into a lake, as it might.
Instead, a swampformed: an unclean place of rotting trees and
creatures of darkness. The Koros River and the areasaround it are
suitable for traveling, for it has a swift current and permits no
collection of foul
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refuse; but farther in, where the land is uneven and pools and
mires collect, all manner of thingsgrow. Within lies the city of
Given and somewhere, the temple complex of Ty-Ar-Rana.
Gak (Gkien)
Situated north and east of the Womaw Reach, the easternmost arm
of the Orocarni (Q. "RedMountains"), Gkien is a large, rugged
peninsula. Thick hardwood forests occupy most of its rockycoasts,
while swift, chilly rivers and extremely deep lakes dominate the
inland areas along themountain flanks. Ceer Gak, a great swamp
surrounding the mouth of the Gak River (Wm."Aceer Gak"), lies in
the southeasternmost corner of this ancient Womaw homeland.Like the
rest of the old "core-lands" of Womas Drus which includes Wm
Shryac, Kiangnan, andMaekche Gak is named for the tribe that first
settled its cool but temperate hills. Their tribalcenter at Alk-Gak
on Leer Gak still serves as one of the Womaw's four capitals. Great
huntersand fisherman, the Gakaw are the most revered Womaw
line.Like the rest of the old "core-lands" of Womawas Drus - which
includes Wm Shryac, CuivacWmaw, and Mak - Gak is named for the
tribe that first settled its cool but temperate hills.Their tribal
center at Aalk Gak on Leer Gak still serves as one of the Womaw's
four capitals.Great hunters and fisherman, the Gakaw are the most
revered Womaw line.
Haen
Situated along the northeastern flank of the Orocarni (Q. "Red
Mountains"), Haen is a cold buttemperate peninsula surrounded by
the Weer Womaw (Wm. "Womaw Gulf"). Haenac Tataweerserves as the
capital, but the Hion of Haen lives sixty-four miles to the north,
at the Eight TieredHall above the watery Haen Steps. Established by
the Aokos family - the most revered of Haen'soriginal families-the
hall is a major center of Womarin-based scholarship.
Harshandatt
Harshandatt is an arid coastal region located east of the
Haradwaith Desert. It lies along thewestern shores of the Bay of
Ormal. Harshandatt is comprised of two dissimilar areas: firstly,
theNar valley and the coastlands, and secondly, the Jelhat Kurj
(Mu. "Barren Desert"). While thevalley of the Nar river and the
coastlands are the only reasonably fertile zones in all of
thiscountry, the Jelhat Kurj extends over many square miles, parted
in two by the river: to the south itmeets with the Kirmlesran hills
(and the N-Tava to the southwest), and to the north it goes out
ofHarshandatt and fades gradually into the steppes next to the Ered
Harmal. On the other side, thefirst reaches of the Mirror of Fire
mark the western boundaries of Harshandatt.Inhabited by the
Mranians, Apysaic-speaking traders and fishermen, it comprises
theeasternmost region of Greater Harad. They are either independent
(and when they are the BlackLeopard's realm created in SA 625 is
fully affirmed in Tl Harar, in Chyan lands and in Anarik),either
under domination of the Chyan Empire.
Hathor
A united kingdom, traditionally ruled by a strong monarch out of
the capitol city of Tanith, Hathoris somewhat of an enigma for a
realm on a peninsula. As is obvious to anyone studied in the waysof
races, the Hathorians are not native to their land. Blond and blue
eyed, with naturally fair skin(though tanned by the sun), they
apparently migrated to their present land long ago,
althoughcertainly not by sea. As a race, they fear the open sea
like no other - even more so than theDwarves do. Short trips about
the Koros Bay or even along the southern coast bother them not
atall, but just the mention of a long sea voyage will drain the
color from the face of even the bravestHathorian warrior. This of
course is a source of endless amusement for their Elven neighbors,
asthe Hathorians are not afraid of much else; in fact, they are
considered reckless by otherstandards.The king maintains an army of
respectable size to guard the borders facing potential enemies.
TheHathorians traditionally do not wear armor, but carry light,
very effective shields, and are excellentwith the composite bow and
broadsword.
Heb Aaraan
The hill country of the Heb Aaraan lies fast against the steep
eastern face of the Suncrown, thehighest and most rugged peaks of
the Ered Harmal, high above the adjoining lands and
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consequently wooded and relatively well watered. Its people are
Chyan-speaking woodsmen whoare often dominated by the more powerful
lords of nearby Chey Sart.The name Aaraan is itself Avarin Elvish.
Much of the country near to the mountains or away fromthe major
caravan trails is inhabited by the Taarun, an Elvish people. They
are rumored to live inseveral exotic cities situated in beautiful
mountain valleys. Lords of the warlike Chey from east ofthe
mountains, and the more civilized Haruze from the western slopes,
have occasionally sentarmies into the mountains to find the
Gleaming Cities of Heb Aaraan. Few survivors returned fromthese
expeditions and these claim to have seen only small villages of
well-cut stone and hedge,guarded by Spirits of Fire and
Storm.Neither the Taarun or the Mannish hill-clans of the Heb
Aaraan contest the control of themountain passes with nations who
send trading caravans over the Ered Harmal, so an uneasypeace
usually reigns throughout the region even in times torn by war. The
Heb Aaraan's few townsdeal in timber, animal hides and exotic
medicinals. Although there are no active volcanoes in theEred
Harmel, the titanic forces that raised the mountains still
regularly release heat from deepwithin the earth. The region boasts
a multitude of hot springs, some renowned for their healingpowers.
Heb Aaraan's largest lake, the Chyasraan, is fifty miles in length,
all of it warmed by hotmineral waters, so that it perpetually
steams through the chills of deep winter.
Helcar Sael
Helcar Sael lies along a narrow coastal shelf on the eastern
flank of the Orocarni (Q. "RedMountains"). It comprises the rich
and well-protected Sael Valley, which once served as theprincipal
eastern route into Cuivinen. The uppermost part of this wide river
vale is called Parthrulis, the "Field of Fire-honey," in name of
its nectar-rich flowers. The Cirith rulis is the mainpass through
the central Orocarni. It leads east and then north to Moinarlin -
"Monarlan" in theWomaw tongue - a great collection of waterfalls
that spill into a pool that feeds the river Cuivisrand the great
lake of Helkanen in Helcarth.rulis is actually a cross-shaped vale.
The centermost portion is home to the hallowed Ayiigawm,the
"Dragon-fields," where the Womaw bury their High-kings - the
so-called "Hionvori." Here, acomplex of huge, circular grass
barrows linked by stone-lined subterranean halls covers an area
ofabout sixty-four square miles. Haututumkodur stands at the center
and serves as the resting placefor the golden drake that helped
educate and unite the founders of Womawas Drus. The Avari
ofHelcarth refer to the place as "Angulkaparsi." Though the Elves
regularly pass by the area, theyare careful to respect its sacred
boundaries. Ironically, few Hildor ever see the place. Most
turnaway when they see one of the sixteen laen Dragon statues that
mark the border of the burialground.Tatamrilis, a Womaw port city
near the mouth of the Sael, and the province capital, houses
nearlythree quarters of the area's hundred thousand
Womarin-speaking residents. Aligned along fourhuge, interconnected
bridges, it is a marvel of stonemasonry. The town serves as the
principalpoint of exchange between the Womaw, Aegaw, and the Avari.
It is the chief city in the Red Gulf(which the Aegaw call the "Bay
of Swirling Waters").The Avari have a small settlement in
Calentaur, the forest north and west of Tatamrils. TheseElves trade
with the men of Tatamrilis and with their brethren on the western
side of theOrocarni.The Khazd reside to the south of the Cirith
rulis. Originally from the northern reaches of theOrocarni, the
Khazd relocated to the south of the Cirith rulis after stripping
the northernmountains of their wealth. Sections of the northern
mountains are riddled with mineshafts andglory holes testimony to
the Khazd desire to work the materials of the earth.
Helcarth
Situated around a long, exceedingly deep lake tucked into the
steep western flank of the Orocarni(Q. "Red Mountains"), a remnant
of the now-lost Inland Sea of Helcar, Helcarth is a mysteriousAvar
realm. Legends suggest that it constitutes part of ancient
Cuivinen, the old coastal home ofthe Quendi. Helcarth's Elven
overlords live in a beautiful, pastoral land characterized
waterfallsand streamside parks. A great circular earth-wall
surrounds their kingdom. Thus, the Avari remainapart from the
Hildor. The three entries into Helcarth all follow long, heavily
guarded channelsand passageways.Only the East-gate, the "Doors of
Morning," is kept unlocked. They open toward Moinarlin (Q."Dear
Exalted Mere"), a pool fed by three waterfalls and the birthplace
of the river Cuivisr. TheDoors of Morning actually open onto a
grass-covered road that winds under the great cataract
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spilling out from Moinarlin. The fall forms a watery arch that
gives birth to a virtually perpetualrainbow.The Cuivisr is one of
three major streams emptying into the great lake of Helkanen.
Helkanen isall that remains of the Gaer Helcar. Its cold shores
form the core of the Avari's guarded homeland.
Hildrien
Hildrien, the "Land of the Followers," was the birthplace of Men
(Hildor) in the First Age. Nowmostly submerged beneath the Gulf of
Hildrien, it lay south of Cuivinen, in the Farthest East
ofMiddle-earth. Its southern boundaries skirt the northern flanks
of the Mountains of the Wind.Ralian lies to the west.
Horl
Horl is located south of Ralian, along the western flank of the
Orosli (Q. "Mountains of theWind"). Inhabited by a Horlek-speaking
people, it is a rich, temperate plateau.
Ibav
Ibav is a low, flat land located between Lochas Drus and the
Bleak Mountains, surrounded byhardwood forests. Ibavin-speaking
people, the Ibaavi, live in the central plain and on the eaves
ofthe forests, dominated by a tribal warrior class and a powerful
priesthood ruled by a single King.
Idurk
The Niss River rises in the Tem-Eskam, a mountain chain
splitting from the Ered Harmal thatrises some 3000 meters above sea
level. The river is fed by two glaciers, as well as the
torrentialrains falling on the mountain peaks. Few passes exist to
provide safe travel to Northern Endor, asthe mountains are infested
by Orcs. Only one known road is in use. The climate is cooler than
inthe neighboring regions of Uljian and rakhan. In winter, the
mountains are entirely covered bysnow, which renders the pass much
more difficult.The mountains, like many others, are particularly
rich in minerals: there can be found in these oldvulcan peaks a
predominance of quartz, feldspar, and mica. These minerals (as well
as manyothers) glow in the dawn light. These minerals are highly
desired by Vulmaw or rakhanmerchants, who engage mercenaries
companies to fight against Orcs if necessary to obtain them.There
are also copper mines and marble quarries in the mountains
here.Idurk is the breadbasket of the northern Niss valley, as to
the north the land is surrounded bydesert and steppes. The valley
is quite hilly, there are many coniferous forests (pines, oaks,
andwillow) along with some more tropical and exotic trees. The
river valleys of Niss and Nusar arefertile and lush. Of the two,
the Niss valley is more fertile, thanks to the cool air coming from
themountains and to more frequent rainfall.The Idurk, distantly
related to the Chyans, have lost the nomadic ways of their
ancestors,probably when in contact with the Verikis and Senr
peoples (tribal peoples related to the Elinse).The most important
city, the capital of Idurk, is Idm ("the City of the God"), which
is veryfamous for its concentric walls and its temple with seven
platforms (called Ziggourat). There aremany villages, very often
fortified, and always dedicated to one particular god of the
Idurkpantheon, with one important rule: local gods are not revered
everywhere and some areconsidered as blasphemous by others. The
Idurk civilization is centered on rivers Niss, Nusar andthe Ishlt
(as it is considered the frontier with the rakhan realm).
Imaldawath
The forest east of Ibav, also called the Great Forest, separates
this land from Lochas Drus, formingan unsurpassable barrier. This
huge hardwood forest is inhabited by Avar Elves, the Awartasi
(Aw."Forsaken Ones"), who call their land Imaldawath (Aw. "Under
the Trees' Shade"). Seduced anddeceived in the Elder Days by
Morgoth, they have created a peculiar Elven civilization in a
bizarrebalance between Elven nature and the awaiting of the Dark
Master's return.
Iskah
Iskah lies tucked between the Great Forest of Urd and Aeareryn
in Northeastern Middle-earth.Situated about two hundred miles west
of the Sea of Thilluin, it is populated by a rugged, reclusive
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Mornerin-speaking people, often subject to the rule of the
Urdar.
Isra
An arid, somewhat hilly land located along the northeastern
flank of the Ered Laranor (Q. "YellowMountains"), Isra is part of
Srayn - "Greater Harad." It comprises all the land including
andbetween the Maudar and Srsis river valleys. Its sedentary,
Apysaic-speaking population isconcentrated in the two vales, both
of which support substantial agricultural communities.
Theirprincipal crops include wheat, rice, and cotton.
Jamna
Jamna ("Coast of the Black Sand"), located to the east of Sakal
an-Khr on the bay of Coral Reefs,is very often covered by clouds of
black ash from the volcanic Unay ("Jagged Ridge") in the east.The
Chasr, a people distantly related to the Zurghr and the Jop,
populated these lands. Theclimate is of monsoon type, relatively
dry, cool winter from Girithron to Ninui, dry hot summerfrom
Gwaeron to Lothron, the northwest monsoon brings dry weather from
Norui to Urui, and thesoutheast monsoon brings the wet season
(maritime winds and precipitations) from Ivaneth toHithui.In the
east are the Unay and their foothills. Parallel with the Jagged
Ridge are the northernplains, which extend from west to east. These
plains were originally an inland sea that had beenfilled through
time by deposits brought down by rivers, especially the Erala and
the Usufa. Nowthese plains are quite hilly and forested.Ulakj, a
coastal plateau that is relatively dry and deforested, forms most
of southern Jamna. It isalso the most fertile area of all Jamna,
thanks to the west winds coming from the Jagged Ridgethat bring
rich black ash to the soil. There are very few sandy beaches -
instead tall black cliffsrising hundreds of feet above the sea
dominate the shoreline. At its eastern edge lies the Ejht, alow
range of hills and a broad coastal plain. The Erela is not only
Jamna's most important river(taking its source from the Jagged
Ridge); it is also considered sacred by the Chasr.These lands were
not considered of interest to the Nmenreans of Sakal an-Khr until
the reign ofKing Ar-Sakalthor. Gold was discovered in the Erela
River, and rubies were found along its banks.This land suddenly
became more interesting to the potentates of Sakal an-Khr. There,
on themouth of River Erela, the Nmenreans established a fortified
outpost called Nimir Kadar, theShining City, and its port became
one of the largest and busiest of all the ports of
Middle-earth.Near the largest gold deposits the nobles of Nmenrean
and Chasr descent built fortresses, and anew name for the land came
into the common use - Pharazain, the Golden Lands.
Jendiar
Jendiar is situated along the southwestern flank of the Orocarni
(Q. "Red Mountains"). It isoccupied by Linerin-speaking farmers and
herders. Best known for its vast system of subterraneanwells and
channels, it yields large, steady crops of grain and hearty
fruits.
Jojojopo
Jojojopo lies at the southern end of the Akenshn mountains, on a
peninsula sundering the ShayBight to the east and Sunum to the
south. Blessed with countless harbors, a mild climate, and awide
variety of mineral-rich landscapes, its Narnerin-speaking Jop
residents have enjoyed relativestability and prosperity since the
early part of the middle of the Second Age.
Kael
Kael is located just east of the central Orocarni (Q. "Red
Mountains"). It lies along thesouthwestern shores of the Weer
Womaw, the gulf west of the Womaw Sea (Wm. "OweerWomaw"). Famous
for its "Stone-walks," four covered highways, it is a civilized and
well-settledland. Only the swamps of northern and eastern Kael
remain untamed.
Ka'ish
Hilly and forested land north of the Ams Breacna and east of the
Orosuli. Ts'dan from V'Shrangconquered Ka'ish in S.A. 323-48.
There, in Shelf-lands east of the southern Orosli, theyestablished
the K'Prur culture. Their Narnerin-speaking descendants reside
throughout the
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heavily-wooded Proric peninsula, while intermingling with
various local groups. Ts'eml, K'il, K'iv,K'fig, and H'ent comprise
the area's major towns. A province of the Lochan Empire on
thenorthwestern peninsula of Lochas Drus, in the 16th-century TA
Ka'ish seceded from the LochanEmpire and managed to hold its own
against the failing Dral line and its allies. Ka'ish under
KingZemkar ul nearly succeeded in gaining the Empire when he
married the last Dral Hionvar'swidow. By the end of the Third Age,
however, the region was known as "Old Ka'ish," a
backwaterregion.
Kargagis Ahar
Kargagis Ahar is vast grassland in east-central Middle-earth.
Located on a 3,000-foot high plateau,it lies about halfway between
the Talathrant and Endor's eastern highlands. It is populated
bynumerous Aharin-speaking tribal confederations. Most are
semi-nomadic herders.
Karn Ord
Situated along the southeastern flank of the Orocarni (Q. "Red
Mountains"), west of the riverOrosr, Karn Ord is populated by a mix
of Aegaw and Ubain peoples. Most speak Womarin,although many in the
western highlands speak an old Linerin dialect.
Kaylund
Kaylund is an island nearly all covered by forest, except in a
few areas. Like Sunum, Kaylund is aVulmaw colony, famous for its
wine exported all over the Bay, from Codya to Lochas Drus.
WhenLochas Drus fell, Kaylund was submitted by force to the Folyani
hegemony, and later the Cha-t'omercenaries established here a realm
of their own under their great leader Yoenk.
Khnd
Khnd stretches between the southeastern flank of the Ephel Duath
and the northwestern edge ofthe Ered Harmal. It occupies the
semi-arid plateau bordering northeastern Harad and thuscommands the
great Khnd Gap, the hundred mile wide pass facing southern Rhn and
easternMordor. Nrad lies in the hills to the northeast.Hot, dry,
and windy, Khnd is an unforgiving locale. Its flat, lowland areas
afford few means forstable settlement. Scrub and desert abound
throughout Lower Khnd. Here, horse herders movetheir lightly
encumbered bands around a circuit of periodic shelters and
encampments, theirroutes dictated by the location of springs,
seasonal pools, and intermittent streams. The onlypermanent
settlements lie along the broad, shallow Knife River, a tributary
of the Harnen.Sturlurtsa Khnd - the traditional capital of Lower
Khnd and the largest city between Umbar andthe Talathrant - stands
by the confluence of the rivers Knife (V. "Noz Peka") and
Gold-horse (V."Medlshad Peka"). It is the home of the powerful rpof
and Olna clans.Upper Khnd, which comprises the eastern and northern
quarters of the region, enjoys a bit morerainfall and cooler
temperatures. The more numerous tribes of the area are generally
richer andmore settled than their brethren to the west and south.
Upper Khand's principal city, bssh-ta-Pavter (V. "Refuge from the
Flailing Wind"), stands only about 170 miles east and upstream
fromSturlurtsa Khnd; however, it receives twice the precipitation
and a lot less heat than its larger andmore important counterpart.
The town is home to the Irbo clan.Lork is the sister city of
bssh-ta-Pavter and the second town of Upper Khnd. The home ofthe
Achef clan, it has produced most of the Variag kings. vathar Achef,
the greatest conqueror ofthe line, became the ninth of Sauron's
accursed Ringwraiths. vathar (aka "vatha") was born atthe Caves of
lbamarl. The vast caverns wind up and down through a mountain spur
located in thesoutheastern part of the Ephel Duath (S.
"Shadow-fence"). They include two permanent towns andseven shrines.
Here, the bones of many Kings are entombed (the Variag successors
strip the meatfrom, and then eat, their fallen monarchs).All seven
of the Variag confederations speak Varadja and share a common
culture rooted in anages-old reverence for the horse. Superb riders
and warriors, they are without peer as cavalry.
Kharadn
Hyarn lies along the southwestern coast of Endor, between the
Belegaer and the western flank ofthe Ered Laranor. The river
Aronduin (S. "Woods-river") forms its northern border.
Althoughcolonized by Nmenreans, it is actually an Aden realm
founded by Apysaic-speaking Haradrim.
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Relatively pureblooded Adena reside throughout the inland, most
of which is semi-arid scrub orgrassland. More wealthy mixed-blooded
descendants of the Adan settlers live by the coast or inrich river
vales along the area's northern boundary. Many of the latter group
deals in the region'snumerous timber products.
Kirakh
Kirakh is a modest-sized group of hilly islands in the
southeastern part of Endor's SouthernArchipelago. Hilly and sandy,
they are known for having poor soil and little water. Like many
ofthe neighboring islands, Kirakh chain is populated by
Rkhe-speaking traders and fisherfolk. Thefirst notable exception is
Nmirakh, the westernmost isle. Its central lake is home to dozens
ofvarieties of strange and often unique acquatic species. The
second exception, the easternmostisland, Kirakh is covered by sandy
beaches and whitish stalagmite spreading out over 10kilometers
square, which seen from the sea is quite an impressive spectacle.
Of an oval form,Kirakh is entirely surrounded by coral reefs that
emerges from sea at sea tide. There are severalRkhe settlements
along the coasts. They are peaceful, and live from the product of
the sea, andfrom the phosphate, which is exploited by the Vulmaw of
Vulm Shryac. The climate is equatorial,the temperatures are rather
high (about 25 to 35 C). The island is moderately covered
banana,coconut, pandanus, papaws trees. Many of the other islands
are not inhabited or explored, andnearly all have a vulcanic
origin, like the Llikh chain.
Kirmlesra
Kirmlesra is located to the north of the lower reaches of the
Sresha River, near the southwesternshore of the Bay of Ormal. It
comprises one of the lands of Srayn, or "Greater Harad." Arid
andhilly, it is known for its light, porous, and often alkaline
soil. Few, save the hardiest of plants, enjoyany hope of surviving
in this unforgiving domain. It is not surprising that virtually all
ofKirmlesra's Apysaic-speaking residents live on its southern
fringes, in the northern Sresha Valley.Those that reside elsewhere
live near the deep wells of the area's few oases.
Koronand
More than any other realm in the Mumakan area save Tantrak,
Koronande is a united country.Also worthy of mention is the fact
that the government of Koronande is a republic, extremely rarein
Middle-earth. The majority of the elected officials in this mixed
Kirani/Elven country are Kirani,not that the Elven population is
subjugated in any way; rather, even the Elves elect
Kiranirepresentatives, knowing that they themselves lack the
initiative to participate actively in whatthey consider a 'complex'
government. On the other hand, many of the Koronande legislators
andgovernors have Elven advisors, who often survive several
turnovers of office, being excellentnoncommittal sources of
information and wisdom. As may be expected, the Elves inhabit the
morerural, forested areas of Koronande, constructing beautiful and
elaborate homes in the branches ofthe huge trees, which often grow
to heights exceeding 200' the greatest example of which isTauronde,
the city which presides over the district of the same name, north
and west of Korlan. Itis almost entirely Elven in population, and
its governor and senate representatives are Elves (it hasbeen
speculated that there is Noldorin blood in some of the Elves of
Tauronde, for, of all theimmortals only the Noldor showed great
drive and perseverance). Tauronde the city is in fact acluster of
the Luraks, lord trees of the jungle, into the branches of which
have been built elaboratehomes and shops, inns and halls, all well
over one hundred feet above the jungle floor. The capitolof
Koronande is Korlan, on the mouth of the Koros River. The realm is
divided into six districts,each having its own main town and
governor. The Senate consists of twelve members, two fromeach of
the districts, who meet monthly for three days to decide matters of
concern to the realm asa whole. The Republic has a strong navy, the
only one in the region that can contest that ofTantrak - no doubt
part of the reason that country attacked them, and the reason that
attackfailed. They are the traders of the Mumakan and, not
surprisingly, Korlan is the main trading city,and a center of
commerce. The Elves of Taaliraan have a more extended trading
network, but theirvolume is a fraction of the Koronandan's.
Kosth Leer
The largest island chain in the Romenar, Kosth Leer is comprised
of nine major, and hundreds ofminor, isles. Kael is located just
east of the central Orocarni (Q. "Red Mountains"). The
-
archipelago delineates the northern boundary of the Womaw Sea
(Wm. "Oweer Womaw"). To thewest is the Weer Womaw, the or "Womaw
Gulf," while the frigid Helkar lies to the north.Unlike Uiven to
the south, Kosth Leer is surrounding by cold, shifting currents and
strong northwinds. It is a rugged and nearly treeless domain
populated by tough Womaw seafarers. TatamaacPvaan, the capital,
houses no more than ten thousand residents.
Kbor Sd
Kbor Sd lies along the northeastern edge of Endor's broad
East-plain. A hardwood forestseparates it from Iskah to the
northwest. Its northern and eastern boundaries are defined by
thevast taiga forest known as the Illuin Wood. The Sea of Illuin is
situated about two hundred miles tothe north, on the other side of
the primeval woodland.The Kbor, a collection of Mornerin-speaking
herders and trappers, reside throughout the cool,grassy Sd fields.
They are relatives of the Rbor peoples, who make their home in the
higherlands to the southwest.
Kykurian Kyn
Kykurian Kyn lies east of Rhn, above the western banks of the
Talathrant. A vast grasslandcharacterized by intermittent
collections of rolling hills, it is populated by a host of
ever-shiftingUlgathic- and Ioradja-speaking peoples. The former
group, which dominates westernmost Kynand eastern Rhn, are known
throughout Gondor as the "Wain-easterlings." The latter are
oftenreferred to as the "Balchoth."
Llikh
Long and hilly, Llikh is the largest island in the group of the
same name. It is lies about twohundred miles off the south coast of
Endor, in the vast Southern Archipelago. Over four hundredmiles
long, it is one of the larger islands in the Haragaer. Like Amirakh
to the south, Llikh ispopulated by Rkhe-speaking traders and fisher
folk.The human implantation concentrates mainly near the coasts,
and mainly in the east or in thesouth. Fayn, the city chief port is
located in the Lu-Shi bay (Vulm "Shell"), where are can be
foundtrout, lobsters, huitres, crabs, as well as different fishes
and many shells (which easily explains thebay name). Fishing is the
first resource of the island, resold in the markets of Cevra and
Llikh.Immediate to that bay, Ulshan and Sskh islands (Vulm "Islands
of the Slaves"), which shows asimilar landscape (mountain, forest
and sandy beaches) than Llikh, is mainly known for Hanawa,the chaos
city and for Asat Mount, an old vulcan still in activity, which
dominates Hanawa bay. Inthe northern part of the island, a native
population, relative to the Sre live there, and it is usualfor them
to propell victims to the vulcans in order to receive benediction
and peace from theirgods. This faith is a good source for slaves
for Hanawa pirats. Unknown to the natives, who arerather reclusive,
only a slight pourcentage of victims are really precipitated into
the vulcan. Theothers are then resold everywhere on the Southern
Archipelago or in every trading center in theNorth at exorbitant
tariffs.
Lochas
In S.A. 347 Woma Dral, Hion of the Surk (a tribe of the Womaw)
brought his great fleet to Cleaac,on the southeastern coast of
Endor. He was in search of new and fertile territory for his tired
hordeof Vulmaw warriors. The residents of the area at that time
called themselves the "Lakhab" (lit."Coast folk"), and lived in
modest communities situated by the rocky promontories where
theirwarlords erected citadels of earth and rude stonework. An
armed landing by a Surk battle groupset the tone for subsequent
relations between the two peoples. So the Cunaaci-aac-Aalkbroda'
(L."Battle of Hillholds") decided who would be master of the
fertile lands west of the Ams Breacna'(L. "River of Great
Memories"). Woma Dral was given the Laath of Hionvor on the first
day of S.A.348 (the first year of the Lochan Second Age). His reign
initiated a new period in the history ofsoutheastern Endor; for the
first time, an organized, centralized society embarked on a
campaignof conquest. Woma Dral began to carefully shape the nature
of his new "Lochas" (L. "Never-endingGlen") from the very outset.
Using a modest set of laws that had been brought from his
homelandof Uon on Vulm Shryac, he fashioned a state based on the
eight traditional kindreds of Vulmaw.Four pairings of tribal
moieties were settled in distinct geographical districts: (1) in
Halocha, theShom and Vaeliic, both Surk, settled; (2) the Tawurk,
Wom and Runaas, lived in the western Haen
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of Rualocha; (3) the Moak, including the Niviis and Chorn, held
Diolocha; and (4) the Narig,composed of the Krawn and Uoniis
tribes, held sway along the Breachna in Maralocha.
Lchas Drs
Lochas Drus, the "Dominion of the Lochaw" encompassed all of the
areas once ruled by the lordsof Lochas proper; the Lochans were
descendents of Womaw colonists from Thuriac Codya.Administrative
units were organized along Womaw cultural lines and basically
correspond totraditional ethnic areas. This system had been
instituted by the first Dral Hionvar, Woma Dral,and lasted until
his descendent Oervik Dral was driven from the throne and forced to
commitsuicide in 27 TA.The Dral clan under Demik Dral had again
taken control of the empire in 1148 TA; his descendentsruled until
the coming of the Shadow in 1617. Lochas Drus was not the great
power it had been,however, and the Empire was reeling in the face
of renewed Wlim aggression. Dwar had returnedto Waw in the 11th
century TA and convinced his people to throw off Lochan rule, both
on Wawand in the ancestral homeland of Wl. In 1507 they conquered
the last of the southeastern islands,the Elven sanctuary of
Cmnemor, and Waw declared itself the center of the Second
WlimEmpire in 1617. The Dog-lord's ships began assailing the Lochan
coasts, raiding deep into Wl andBrd.The last Lochan Hionvar,
Oervik-dem Dral, died leading his forces into battle against Ka'ish
in1659. His army consisted chiefly of his own personal forces, the
men of Brd, allied with troopsfrom Horl and Unvirnay; auxiliary
troops from Wl marched beside them. Ka'ish had secededfrom the
empire, allying itself with an occupation force from Waw.
Oervik-dem was a fine militarytactician, but he did not allow for
the treachery of the Wlim, who joined their distant kinsmenfrom Waw
on the second day of battle. Caught between two armies, the Lochans
were crushed, andOervik-dem 's head was taken back to Waw as a
trophy. Oervik-dem had three daughters and aninfant son. One of the
daughters was married to the lord of Wl, the other two were
hostages at thecourt of Dwar. Oervik-dem's widow, Chandica, tried
to rally the Lochan court around her infantson and install herself
as regent until he could come of age. It was not to be. The Lord of
Ka'ish,Zemkar Sul, pursued his advantage, raiding the Brd court and
carrying Chandica back to Ka'ish.He forcibly married her and laid
claim to the Lochan throne, only to be crushed as a rebel by
thecombined forces of Waw and Wl. After the division of the Lochaw
empire in T.A. 1794, varioussuccessor kingdoms and confederations
arose, many of which were based on ancient culturaldivisions or
claims. While striving to eliminate any obvious vestiges of their
long-standingsubserviency, they often retained the names and
borders bequeathed by their Lochan- speakingoverlords.
Ldenly
Ldenly lies west of the southern Ered Harmal, just south of Chy
and the nearby Chy Gap.Flanked by the rivers Denly and Acaadky, it
is a gently rolling, semi-arid plain occupied byChyan-speaking
herders and farmers. Vegetation inland is similar to that of Chy,
but near thebanks of the two rivers there are forests and crops,
because the terrain is extremely fertile.Chajapn is the most
impressive city (save Pelepelplu) of all the Chyan empire. The city
is built atthe junction of river Acaadky and Denly, near an
important swamp land, on the location of anold Chailla holy site.
Because of its central position, Chajapn is the ideal choice for a
capital,though it is more complex that it seems, as Chajapn and
Pelepelpl became during historycapital, and of course
alternatively. Chajapn is the greatest city of all the Chyan
empire, with150.000 inhabitants. This is a magnifiscent city, with
processionnal avenues, colourful walls,numerous palaces, important
temples dedicated to the one True God Asruta and several
otherstranger deities.
Lotan
Lotan is situated to the west of the mouth of the river
Talathrant, to the east of Ulshy, along thesouthern shore of the
Bay of Utm. A deciduous forest covers most of its northern reaches,
whiledense marshlands occupy the river valley to the east. The rest
of the area consists of a cool, richgrassland. Ulgathic-speaking
herders dominate the region.
Luindor
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Luindor (S. "Blue Land") is an Avar realm bordering on Urd and
the Sea of Thilluin. It is a cool andpleasant land - like all
realms blessed with the presence of the Firstborn. Widely
considered one ofthe most civilized Avarin realms - thanks to the
visit of Noldorin and Sindarin wanderers across itshistory -
Luindor is the sworn enemy of Urd. Though subject for more than
1000 years in theSecond Age to the rule of the Ice King, the
Luindrim retain their strong independent spirit,fighting their
enemies without quarter.
Lurmsakun
The easternmost land of the true Haradrim, Lurmsakun is blessed
by great wealth and cursed byits place in the world, on the borders
of the violent realms of the Variags and Chey. The people
ofLurmsakun speak Haruze, a language shared by their brethren
living in cities and farming villagesas far west as the Sundering
Sea in distant Harondor. The Haruze, as they are fond of
remindingtheir neighbors, were a sophisticated trading race even
before the "Poganin," primarily theNmenreans and Variags, came to
trouble them in the mid-Second Age. Often conquered andravaged,
Lurmsakun still boasts cities of immense beauty, surrounded by lush
irrigated fields ofgrain, melons, wine-grapes, and dates. Three
river basins are the center of Lurmsakun's life andtrade: The
Rill-basin of the Ode Pezar, the Arysis of the River Rysis, and
Siakan, the vale of theOde Siak. The Ode Pezar runs westward to the
Sundering Sea, eventually becoming the RiverHarnen, the contested
frontier between Gondor and Umbar. The Rysis and the Siak flow from
thesnow-touched peaks of the Ered Harmal southwestward to vanish
into the lifeless salt marshes ofthe Kref Masar, one of the more
hellish of the wastelands of the Haradwaith. The river valleys
ofLurmsakun form a great contrast with the deserts, consisting of
lush belts of greenery supportingteeming hordes of peasants and
shrewd traders and merchants. Arysis lies south of Sturlurtsa,royal
seat of Khand, and sits squarely astride the caravan routs
connecting western and centralEndor. Its largest city, Maresh, is
the greatest city of the Endorian interior in any era in which
theVariags are not draining its wealth into their own lands.
Siakan, naming itself the Jewel ofMountain and Sun, controls trade
between southern and western Endor. Its lords and kings,however,
are oft conquered by the more warlike Variags, Chy, Chey, and Ahar
peoples living justbeyond its frontiers.
Lurs Vorganis
Also called Sinkiang; plains between the Talathrant River and
the Orocarni Mountains. Coveringmuch of the northeastern part of
Endor's East-plain, Lurs Vorganis is the homeland of theVorgani, a
Tyran-speaking tribal confederation renowned for their ability to
exploit and slaughtervast numbers of large game. Huge herds of
grazing beasts live throughout the region.
Lu Tyr Su
Lu Tyr Su stretches across most of the northern part of Endor's
East-plain. Covered with shortgrasses, it makes for relatively poor
pastureland. Still, scattered tribes of shepherds and big
gamehunters call the area home. Nearly all speak Tyran.
Lygar Kraw
Kingdom of Pallando in eastern Middle-earth. Situated about
three hundred miles west of theOrocarni, Lygar Kraw is a marshy
land. Swamps and ponds dot its lowland reaches, which aresundered
by dense hills. Two fen forests (one in the east and the other in
the west) frame theterritory. Most of Lygar Kraw's Linerin-speaking
people lived in fortified hill towns, where theyengage in a broad
array of crafts and subsist on a varied diet; hunting, fishering,
gardening, andanimal husbandry are all practiced.The historical
kingdom was founded in 2114 TA by the Khitan prince Yeh-l Ta-shih,
following thedefeat of his people by the Jurchaen; Pallando settled
here in about 2300 and founded thekingdom of Famardi. The heraldic
device of Lygar Kraw under Pallando was a spinning wheel oncharcoal
grey; his personal guard were the fearsome Black Crows under the
ghost Li K'o-Yung. Theborders of Lygar Kraw were marked by ebony
obelisks with white letters, with Pallando's powerdemarcated in
Sindarin, Quenya, Logathig and Womawas.
Lynerian League
Located to the north of the Zurghr jungle and to the east of the
river Niss valley, the land
-
remained for a long time unpopulated, except by some Pdi Elf
tribes, until the arrival of a smallband of refugees, the Lynr,
distant relatives of the three tribes of Edain in the West. The
Lynrestablished themselves as one of the major powers in the Bay,
as they conquered Balkulni, theAikyen islands, and even negotiated
a special alliance with the Dwarves of Khelek-zram inLynahar. The
Lynerian League is bordered on the north by the Pontym mountains,
and to thesouth and the east by river Alujed. The Lynr are gifted
mariners, sending embassies to the west asfar as Srayn, and to the
east as far as Sunum.The largest part of the land is composed of a
central plateau, with plains, coniferous and tropicalrainforests.
Near the coasts the plains consist of gently undulating lowlands,
with an elevation ofabout 200 meters above sea level. The coasts
alternate between rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, andestuaries. From
north to south, several important rivers flow from east to west,
the most importantof which is the River Alujed, along which is
built a line of seven fortresses dedicated to theprotection of the
Lynerian territory against the hostile Zurghr sects.The most
important cities are built along the coasts, such as Caryalon,
Emelcyn and Aerlond. Inthe north, Lynahar has a special status
inside the Lynerian League as the province is jointly ruledby Lynr
and Dwarves. The Pontym mountains have valuable mineral resources
(such as copperand gems) that are usually sold in Ephydis, the most
important trading center in the EasternOrmal Bay, where traders
from the Chyan Empire, Codya and the Lynerian League can be
seen.Caerdhyan is the key to the protection of all Lynahar, as it
is located near the only safe passbetween Lynahar and Dhath - the
White Goat Pass. Caerdyan protects the realm against theassaults of
the Dilikhran tribes, and Harbz plays the same role in the south
against the Zurghrsects.It is believed that the Ormal lamp fell
near the Aykien islands, which are a melange of hills, highcliffs,
coniferous forests and sandy beaches. These islands were settled in
mid Second Age by theLynr. There are two different maritime routes
to get to the islands; one to the north (through theports of
Nirshat and Gimil), and one to the south (to Sakal an-Khr). The
archipelagos locatedsouth of Nyzd are highly dangerous, because of
the very strong currents.The Lynerian League has a temperate
climate, despite a location on an equatorial latitude. This
isexplained by the northern eastern barrier composed by the Iriagi
and the Durvd Mountains andby the cooler water on the Lynr coast
caused by an abyssal current. The main roads are wellmaintained and
paved.
Maaken
Maaken is a forested hilly land located to the south of the
Akenshn mountain chain. Because ofthe perpetual mist that is the
forest's main source of moisture, and because of its rather
dangerousbeasts and insects, the land is only inhabited by the
Yarulma, a Drg-related folk of wild huntersand gatherers. They know
several safe passes through the Akenshn to Waarwugan. The
AkenshnMountains are home to a race of fierce orcs. Another reason
to avoid this land is that Maaken ishome to a fire drake, Nyxor,
who uses orcs and human beings as his pets when he has the desire
todo so, and simply eats them when he is hungry.
Mag
Mag is a warm, humid, and hilly coastal region situated in
southwesternmost Endor. It lies southof the western part of the
Yellow Mountains, northeast of Pel and southwest of Tumag. Most of
itsApysaic-speaking inhabitants live near the Haragaer.
Mitheryn
Mitheryn (S. "Grey Trees") is a vast taiga woodland, stretched
between the Iron Mountains and theForbesir river. It is inhabited
by scattered Avari herders and hunters, who fled Urd when theShadow
of the Ice King rose in the Second Age. Suspicious and wary of any
intrusion in theirprotected realm, the Mithrydhil are ruled by King
Hisethar and Queen Elwathil, who considerthemselves vassals to the
King of Luindor.
Mak
Mak is the easternmost region on the Endorean mainland, and
constitutes the eastern "Core-land" of Womawas Drus. It is often
independent from the rest of the Empire, with it