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{{#description2:Calinago is a large atoll plane and the homeplane of the Karayib Elves. It is a member of the Planar Council.}} | |||
< | <htmltag tagname="img" class="mapImage" src="https://www.zd10.net/images/maps/trigate/Calinago.jpg"/> | ||
{{Trigate Plane Summary/Calinago}} | |||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council journal"> | |||
<p>Ahh, Calinago... she's a pearl of a world, I tell you. I've been to many a plane, some ugly as sin, some more beautiful than my children, but this one... the beaches, the ocean, the people... it's so beautiful that you can almost overlook the fact that the natives are cannibals. Almost.</p> | |||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | |||
<p>Ahh, Calinago... she's a pearl of a world, I tell you. I've been to many a plane, some ugly as sin, some more beautiful than my | |||
<cite>Journal of Volf Vandressen, Second Age</cite> | <cite>Journal of Volf Vandressen, Second Age</cite> | ||
</blockquote> | </blockquote> | ||
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=== Surface === | === Surface === | ||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | <blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council lesson"> | ||
<p>Do not fall in love with the ocean, because it will never love you back.</p> | <p>Do not fall in love with the ocean, because it will never love you back.</p> | ||
<cite>Karayib Elven Saying</cite> | <cite>Karayib Elven Saying</cite> | ||
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Calinago's oceans are dotted by hundreds of islands and six larger continents. As the ocean makes up 87% of the world's surface, rains tend to be common, though the more violent storms happen less frequently. Due to the lack of major bodies of land to impede their development, these storms can sometimes grow rather large. | Calinago's oceans are dotted by hundreds of islands and six larger continents. As the ocean makes up 87% of the world's surface, rains tend to be common, though the more violent storms happen less frequently. Due to the lack of major bodies of land to impede their development, these storms can sometimes grow rather large. | ||
Due to the increased temperature and high levels of rain, the general climate tends to be tropical | Due to the increased temperature and high levels of rain, the general climate tends to be tropical. Several deserts can be found, as increased winds in these areas blow the moisture to other areas. Jungles, tropical forests, and swamps are common, with shrubland bordering the wetter climates and the existing deserts. | ||
Several of the islands are increasingly rocky due to previously being mountainous peaks and these are generally the only locations that metal is readily available. The dense forests that cover the islands provide ample resources as they are thick and overflowing with types of plants, animals and other mysterious things. | Several of the islands are increasingly rocky due to previously being mountainous peaks and these are generally the only locations that metal is readily available. The dense forests that cover the islands provide ample resources as they are thick and overflowing with types of plants, animals and other mysterious things. | ||
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=== Atmosphere and Weather === | === Atmosphere and Weather === | ||
The feeling of a calm, ocean breeze permeates everywhere on Calinago, carrying the scent of | The feeling of a calm, ocean breeze permeates everywhere on Calinago, carrying the scent of saltwater. During the spring the smell of all the varieties of fruit plants blooming makes the air sweet, with heavier concentrations of the plants almost being intoxicating. | ||
As the world is covered mostly by the ocean, the weather tends to be boisterous and powerful. Storms are common, as is thunder and lightning. Hurricane-like storms happen at least once a year, though they are somewhat predictable. It is not uncommon for it to rain for an hour or two a few times a day on the islands, and random rainstorms strike at all hours of the day out at sea. | As the world is covered mostly by the ocean, the weather tends to be boisterous and powerful. Storms are common, as is thunder and lightning. Hurricane-like storms happen at least once a year, though they are somewhat predictable. It is not uncommon for it to rain for an hour or two a few times a day on the islands, and random rainstorms strike at all hours of the day out at sea. | ||
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=== Magic === | === Magic === | ||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | <blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council journal"> | ||
<p>The research between my comrades and I all seem to point to the same, implausible conclusion: there should be more ambient magic here but for whatever reason, there is not. Is it being drained by something? Absorbed? Inhibited somehow? One of my associates heard a rumor from some of the elven natives here who are incredibly primitive that it may be being eaten or devoured by something, but that just seems impossible.</p> | <p>The research between my comrades and I all seem to point to the same, implausible conclusion: there should be more ambient magic here but for whatever reason, there is not. Is it being drained by something? Absorbed? Inhibited somehow? One of my associates heard a rumor from some of the elven natives here who are incredibly primitive that it may be being eaten or devoured by something, but that just seems impossible.</p> | ||
<p>But, then again, we have heard similar rumors elsewhere.</p> | <p>But, then again, we have heard similar rumors elsewhere.</p> | ||
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The beaches are one of the most active of the ecosystems with the majority of all settlements being built on them. Home to a great number of seabirds, crustaceans, amphibians and sea-going mammals such as seals, the beaches can be very crowded depending on the time of day and season. The mammals tend to be the only animals who make permanent homes on the beach; the seabirds tend to migrate, the crustaceans spend more time in the ocean depending on the season and the amphibians hibernate until warmer temperatures. | The beaches are one of the most active of the ecosystems with the majority of all settlements being built on them. Home to a great number of seabirds, crustaceans, amphibians and sea-going mammals such as seals, the beaches can be very crowded depending on the time of day and season. The mammals tend to be the only animals who make permanent homes on the beach; the seabirds tend to migrate, the crustaceans spend more time in the ocean depending on the season and the amphibians hibernate until warmer temperatures. | ||
An array of palm trees lines the beaches, with other types only growing on the northern and southernmost beaches. Aside from the trees, | An array of palm trees lines the beaches, with other types only growing on the northern and southernmost beaches. Aside from the trees, many flowering plants and shrubs can be found. There are a collection of tubers and ground vegetables which can be farmed in the beach environment, some of which are used both as a foodstuff and to make alcoholic beverages. | ||
=== Jungles === | === Jungles === | ||
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Jungles on Calinago are rampant with insects, birds, and crustaceans with mammals barely being present. Large terrestrial crabs form colonies and display signs of intelligence, making homes in the trees and displaying simple tool use, such as creating and using nets to catch birds. The birds in the jungle have plumage of every color, their feathers being highly sought after for ceremonial decorations used by the natives. | Jungles on Calinago are rampant with insects, birds, and crustaceans with mammals barely being present. Large terrestrial crabs form colonies and display signs of intelligence, making homes in the trees and displaying simple tool use, such as creating and using nets to catch birds. The birds in the jungle have plumage of every color, their feathers being highly sought after for ceremonial decorations used by the natives. | ||
Insects are found everywhere here, from bottom-feeding beetles to large carnivorous moths. There are | Insects are found everywhere here, from bottom-feeding beetles to large carnivorous moths. There are some blood-sucking insects in the jungles and more than a few of them are capable of carrying horrible diseases. Mammals are found almost exclusively in the canopies, with the monkey-like creatures appearing to have been the ancestor of the seal-like creatures found on the beaches. | ||
Aside from the above, another creature that is slightly less common is a very acidic land snail that feasts on the sap and tender wood found inside the tree. It uses its acidic saliva to dissolve the protective bark of the trees and several snails on one tree can easily cause it to collapse. | Aside from the above, another creature that is slightly less common is a very acidic land snail that feasts on the sap and tender wood found inside the tree. It uses its acidic saliva to dissolve the protective bark of the trees and several snails on one tree can easily cause it to collapse. | ||
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The most common creatures that can be found in the Calinagon deserts are mammals and crustaceans. The mammals found here resemble the monkey-like creatures found in the jungles, but there are rabbit and prairie dog creatures as well. The only birds found here are completely flightless and often captured or raised as mounts and beasts of burden by the native cultures. | The most common creatures that can be found in the Calinagon deserts are mammals and crustaceans. The mammals found here resemble the monkey-like creatures found in the jungles, but there are rabbit and prairie dog creatures as well. The only birds found here are completely flightless and often captured or raised as mounts and beasts of burden by the native cultures. | ||
There are a variety of shrubs and grasses that grow here, as well as the rare collection of palm trees. These collections of trees are usually a sign of a source of | There are a variety of shrubs and grasses that grow here, as well as the rare collection of palm trees. These collections of trees are usually a sign of a source of freshwater. | ||
=== Ocean === | === Ocean === | ||
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The ocean, covering the majority of the plane's surface, also contains the majority of its flora and fauna. | The ocean, covering the majority of the plane's surface, also contains the majority of its flora and fauna. | ||
====Shallows==== | |||
Rampant seaweed forests and plains of seagrass fill the shallows, along with quick-growing coral. Fish of every shape and size can be found here, as well as sharks, rays, eels, squid, octopi as well as the mammals that reside on the beaches. | |||
Rampant seaweed forests and plains of seagrass fill the shallows, along with quick growing coral. Fish of every shape and size can be found here, as well as sharks, rays, eels, squid, octopi as well as the mammals that reside on the beaches. | |||
There are hundreds of types of shellfish readily available in the shallows, some growing rather large. A common practice for some of the giant clams is to catch them and place them in molds, so their shells grow in a certain shape. This can take up to ten years, but the shaped shells are used for many things, including ceremonial armor. | There are hundreds of types of shellfish readily available in the shallows, some growing rather large. A common practice for some of the giant clams is to catch them and place them in molds, so their shells grow in a certain shape. This can take up to ten years, but the shaped shells are used for many things, including ceremonial armor. | ||
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Starfish are also very common, and many of them are magical in nature. They come in a variety of shapes and colors, and each has a different effect if eaten. | Starfish are also very common, and many of them are magical in nature. They come in a variety of shapes and colors, and each has a different effect if eaten. | ||
'''[[Flora and Fauna of Calinago#Vooda|Vooda]]''' are a type of urchin found in the shallows that has | '''[[Flora and Fauna of Calinago#Vooda|Vooda]]''' are a type of urchin found in the shallows that has many purposes to the natives. Several medicinal remedies call for parts of the Vooda, and its blood can be used to create a vibrant purple dye that is beloved. Before the Planar Council's presence was felt, the skeletons of the Vooda were used as a form of currency on Calinago. | ||
The plants that grow in this environment act to both feed and protect the creatures that reside in it. Shrimp that flourish here are caught in great quantities and are favorite food to both the natives and other creatures in this environ. | The plants that grow in this environment act to both feed and protect the creatures that reside in it. Shrimp that flourish here are caught in great quantities and are favorite food to both the natives and other creatures in this environ. | ||
In the shallows, there are several species of intelligent lobster-like creatures that form communities. They refer to themselves as "[[Flora and Fauna of Calinago#Mochewoma|Mochewoma]]", but the natives simply call them "the Shells". The Mochewoma, as homarids, live their lives completely on the floor of the ocean shallows, building their civilization there. Their relationship with the natives is relatively peaceful, though | In the shallows, there are several species of intelligent lobster-like creatures that form communities. They refer to themselves as "[[Flora and Fauna of Calinago#Mochewoma|Mochewoma]]", but the natives simply call them "the Shells". The Mochewoma, as homarids, live their lives completely on the floor of the ocean shallows, building their civilization there. Their relationship with the natives is relatively peaceful, though some wish to cut all interaction or worse, wipe out the surface dwellers. | ||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | ====Depths==== | ||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council rambling"> | |||
<p>I've never been terrified of the ocean as my father was a fisherman. Heck! My entire family makes their living off of fishing. But then I came here. I may be able to still walk, but my sea legs are certainly gone.</p> | <p>I've never been terrified of the ocean as my father was a fisherman. Heck! My entire family makes their living off of fishing. But then I came here. I may be able to still walk, but my sea legs are certainly gone.</p> | ||
<cite>Musings of a random Shaggy Trollkin that visited Calinago</cite> | <cite>Musings of a random Shaggy Trollkin that visited Calinago</cite> | ||
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Large plankton-eating sharks are found out in the depths and often the target of teams of fishermen, who drag the corpse back to their village for food. They also employ Swordspar Fish who work in packs to assist them in hunting these creatures, directing them towards the waiting men who have spears at the ready. | Large plankton-eating sharks are found out in the depths and often the target of teams of fishermen, who drag the corpse back to their village for food. They also employ Swordspar Fish who work in packs to assist them in hunting these creatures, directing them towards the waiting men who have spears at the ready. | ||
It can only be imagined what plant life lies in the depths, as they are too deep for any but the most dedicated of adventurers to see. | It can only be imagined what plant life lies in the depths, as they are too deep for any but the most dedicated of adventurers to see. | ||
<h1 class="plane_people_header">The People</h1> | <h1 class="plane_people_header">The People</h1> | ||
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Lamme Wa was the first of the nations to form, supposedly with the assistance of some intelligent sharks from the depths. With the increased capabilities of the soldiers from Lamme Wa, the nations of Noga Nal and Kundèr were founded in separate areas. Noga Nal had the advantage of a larger population, bringing them to being the most successful of the three nations. Lamme Wa continued to develop its relationship with the creatures of the depths, eventually gaining a small population of [[Therianthropy#Wereshark|weresharks]]. They eventually secluded themselves, causing Noga Nal to focus its efforts on Kundèr. | Lamme Wa was the first of the nations to form, supposedly with the assistance of some intelligent sharks from the depths. With the increased capabilities of the soldiers from Lamme Wa, the nations of Noga Nal and Kundèr were founded in separate areas. Noga Nal had the advantage of a larger population, bringing them to being the most successful of the three nations. Lamme Wa continued to develop its relationship with the creatures of the depths, eventually gaining a small population of [[Therianthropy#Wereshark|weresharks]]. They eventually secluded themselves, causing Noga Nal to focus its efforts on Kundèr. | ||
Over an extended period | Over an extended period, Kundèr and Noga Nal continued to have times of peace and war. Though Kundèr had a greater abundance of resources, Noga Nal's higher population gave them a large advantage both in and out of battle. Eventually, a Lamme Wa emissary to Kundèr provided them with a means to even the odds: a blight that would destroy much of the natural resources in Noga Nal territory. The blight was a large success for Kundèr, though it instilled the people of Noga Nal with a never before seen sense of purpose and rage. | ||
=== Second Age === | === Second Age === | ||
In the middle of the [[Second Age]], the [[Bone Skinks]] of [[Sgèileàite]] discovered another continent on their world, and shortly after discovered the [[Trigate]] that would lead to Calinago. They didn't actively explore it until a few hundred years later when the first adventurers would begin to step foot into it. | In the middle of the [[Second Age]], the [[Bone Skinks]] of [[Sgèileàite]] discovered another continent on their world, and shortly after discovered the [[Trigate_(object)|Trigate]] that would lead to Calinago. They didn't actively explore it until a few hundred years later when the first adventurers would begin to step foot into it. | ||
At this point in history, the [[Karayib Elf|Karayib Elves]] were considered rather primitive due to the increased levels of violence against their | At this point in history, the [[Karayib Elf|Karayib Elves]] were considered rather primitive due to the increased levels of violence against their kind, some of their beliefs and the practice of cannibalism. The first interactions against explorers were violent, and it didn't take long for stories of the natives to reach other worlds. | ||
=== Third Age === | === Third Age === | ||
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During the [[Third Age]], the Planar Council experienced a golden age, promoting exploration and discovery of new lands. By this point, stories of the beauty of Calinago had become a popular subject, even with the extremely limited knowledge of the world people possessed. | During the [[Third Age]], the Planar Council experienced a golden age, promoting exploration and discovery of new lands. By this point, stories of the beauty of Calinago had become a popular subject, even with the extremely limited knowledge of the world people possessed. | ||
Many parties of adventurers, explorers, and diplomats would set foot on Calinago, but it wasn't until the [[ | Many parties of adventurers, explorers, and diplomats would set foot on Calinago, but it wasn't until the [[Tor Dwarf|Tor Dwarven]] trading magnate Volf Vandressen came that any real exploration would be done. He funded an expedition, which required an incredible effort. Supplies were brought from Sgèileàite to construct a larger, Galleon sized vessel with food and water for a journey lasting several months. The other islands were discovered, as well as the Trigate that would lead to [[Koiteloidas]], home of the [[Moth Folklings]]. | ||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | <blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council journal"> | ||
<p>Honestly never thought I'd see elves honor a dwarf.</p> | <p>Honestly never thought I'd see elves honor a dwarf.</p> | ||
<cite>Travel Journal of Haggard of the Cliffs, | <cite>Travel Journal of Haggard of the Cliffs, Tor Dwarven Traveller</cite></blockquote> | ||
At this point in on Calinago, the largest empire of Noga Nal was at war with the other two major countries over resources, caused by a major blight that had infected the jungles on their land. The leader, Rastakhan Emit the Hungerer, was violent and excessive with his conquests, often slaughtering women and children when they were caught or allowing his troops to eat their captors. Volf Vandressen approached the leader of Lamme Wa with an offer of assistance. Between the combined forces of Lamme Wa, Kundèr and the off-world soldiers, Rastakhan Emit was able to be defeated which would eventually pave the way for the future joining of the Planar Council. | At this point in on Calinago, the largest empire of Noga Nal was at war with the other two major countries over resources, caused by a major blight that had infected the jungles on their land. The leader, Rastakhan Emit the Hungerer, was violent and excessive with his conquests, often slaughtering women and children when they were caught or allowing his troops to eat their captors. Volf Vandressen approached the leader of Lamme Wa with an offer of assistance. Between the combined forces of Lamme Wa, Kundèr and the off-world soldiers, Rastakhan Emit was able to be defeated which would eventually pave the way for the future joining of the Planar Council. | ||
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There are three major empires on Calinago, which have gone to war with each other at various points in their past. As of the Third Age, the countries have been in a state of peace, however. | There are three major empires on Calinago, which have gone to war with each other at various points in their past. As of the Third Age, the countries have been in a state of peace, however. | ||
==== Noga Nal ==== | |||
The country of Noga Nal has the largest area of controlled land, though due to blight, disease and the encroaching desert, their population is not as high as it once was. | The country of Noga Nal has the largest area of controlled land, though due to blight, disease and the encroaching desert, their population is not as high as it once was. | ||
The current leader of Noga Nal, Rastakhan Two-Sharks-Laughing, is dedicated to aiding his people and restoring the Empire of Noga Nal to its previous glory. He has sought off-world help from [[Naturamancy|Naturamancers]] and [[Hemomancy|Hemomancers]] to try and find the cause of and reverse the damage done to his lands. | The current leader of Noga Nal, Rastakhan Two-Sharks-Laughing, is dedicated to aiding his people and restoring the Empire of Noga Nal to its previous glory. He has sought off-world help from [[Naturamancy|Naturamancers]] and [[Hemomancy|Hemomancers]] to try and find the cause of and reverse the damage done to his lands. | ||
Below the Rastakhan is his Triarchy, who assist him with his decisions. The Triarchy has always consisted of three women: a youthful virgin, a mother, and a wizened crone. | Below the Rastakhan is his Triarchy, who assist him with his decisions. The Triarchy has always consisted of three women: a youthful virgin, a mother, and a wizened crone. | ||
==== Kundèr ==== | |||
Kundèr has the highest population of all the nations on Calinago, and Kundèrites are considered the masters of trade on Calinago. Their lands provide an incredible bounty, and what their islands and shores cannot, they get through trade. | Kundèr has the highest population of all the nations on Calinago, and Kundèrites are considered the masters of trade on Calinago. Their lands provide an incredible bounty, and what their islands and shores cannot, they get through trade. | ||
Kundèr is currently ruled by Funfuni, a peaceful woman who is nearing the end of her life. She is assisted by her son, Kulfuni, who will most likely ascend to lead Kundèr when his mother is no longer fit to do so. | Kundèr is currently ruled by Funfuni, a peaceful woman who is nearing the end of her life. She is assisted by her son, Kulfuni, who will most likely ascend to lead Kundèr when his mother is no longer fit to do so. | ||
Relations with Noga Nal have improved in the last hundred years, as they were still relatively sour due | Relations with Noga Nal have improved in the last hundred years, as they were still relatively sour due to the actions during the Second and Third Ages. Kulfuni was permitted to take the Rastakhan's daughter's hand in marriage, improving the bond between the two nations. | ||
==== Lamme Wa ==== | |||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council lesson"> | |||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | |||
<p>Why trust a creature that would eat you without care?</p> | <p>Why trust a creature that would eat you without care?</p> | ||
<p>I can expect consistent behavior from the shark. It's the elf that acts unexpectedly.</p> | <p>I can expect consistent behavior from the shark. It's the elf that acts unexpectedly.</p> | ||
<cite>Lamme Wan Shark Shaman</cite></blockquote> | <cite>Lamme Wan Shark Shaman</cite></blockquote> | ||
Lamme Wa is a land ruled by mystics and sages, its people feeling a closer connection to the sea than to the land. Ruled by | Lamme Wa is a land ruled by mystics and sages, its people feeling a closer connection to the sea than to the land. Ruled by Konutunu Dives-Under-Moons, the Konutunu makes no efforts to hide his condition of [[Therianthropy#Wereshark|Karchathropy]], as almost every leader of the Lamme Wa nation has been a wereshark. | ||
The rulership of Lamme Wa is actually an oligarchy with | The rulership of Lamme Wa is actually an oligarchy with Konutunu Dives-Under-Moons acting as a leading force and tie-breaker. The ruling council is called "The Circle of Fin and Foot" and consists of the Konutunu, ten Karayib of various genders and ages and ten sharks of various breeds and genders. The belief is that only a wereshark can understand both the wisdom of man and shark and can act in a way that is best for both through compromise. | ||
Due to their increased presence under the waves, the Lamme Wa have more active relations with the Mochewoma. | Due to their increased presence under the waves, the Lamme Wa have more active relations with the Mochewoma. | ||
=== In the Planar Council === | === In the Planar Council === | ||
The Karayib Elf representatives in the [[Planar Council]] have been active since the height of the Third Age. They tend to vote against measures that involve the art of magic, voting against measures involving wide-spread or reckless use of it. Measures that appease to their sense of curiosity and passion for life, battle, and craft, such as infrastructure, invasion, exploration and colonization tend to get their votes. The Karayib have to be swayed to vote for things such as civilian aid under their belief that people should care for themselves, but they are surprisingly open to measures about research expeditions. | The Karayib Elf representatives in the [[Planar Council]] have been active since the height of the Third Age. They tend to vote against measures that involve the art of magic, voting against measures involving wide-spread or reckless use of it. Measures that appease to their sense of curiosity and passion for life, battle, and craft, such as infrastructure, invasion, exploration, and colonization tend to get their votes. The Karayib have to be swayed to vote for things such as civilian aid under their belief that people should care for themselves, but they are surprisingly open to measures about research expeditions. | ||
=== Military === | === Military === | ||
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The Calinagon standing army and navy is relatively large, especially for not being near any [[The Recreancy|Recreant]] claimed worlds. The ships are as numerous as they are since many of the vessels act serve a multitude of purposes. | The Calinagon standing army and navy is relatively large, especially for not being near any [[The Recreancy|Recreant]] claimed worlds. The ships are as numerous as they are since many of the vessels act serve a multitude of purposes. | ||
On land, the Calinagon forces employ stealth tactics, preferring to prepare ambushes using traps and cover. The only time that they use engage head on is in naval combat where they are boarding other vessels, or marine strikes, where their comfortability with land and sea give them a distinct advantage. | On land, the Calinagon forces employ stealth tactics, preferring to prepare ambushes using traps and cover. The only time that they use engage head-on is in naval combat where they are boarding other vessels, or marine strikes, where their comfortability with land and sea give them a distinct advantage. | ||
== Culture == | == Culture == | ||
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=== Society and Traditions === | === Society and Traditions === | ||
Calinagon society is very individualistic, freedom and personal responsibility being very important. Children are taught from a young age how to care for themselves and are typically required to be self-reliant at a younger age than | Calinagon society is very individualistic, freedom and personal responsibility being very important. Children are taught from a young age how to care for themselves and are typically required to be self-reliant at a younger age than most other worlds. Families are not important in Calinago, as the children are collectively raised by the adults around them. | ||
Piercings are very common and can mark things such as rank, success, number of wives or anything else. Typical piercings are in the ears, nose, and lips with the actual pieces being made from bone or shell. Upon reaching adulthood, most children receive their first piercings based on what they choose to do as adults. Someone educated in Calinagon culture can tell someone's occupation by their piercings, as well as some other information. | Piercings are very common and can mark things such as rank, success, number of wives or anything else. Typical piercings are in the ears, nose, and lips with the actual pieces being made from bone or shell. Upon reaching adulthood, most children receive their first piercings based on what they choose to do as adults. Someone educated in Calinagon culture can tell someone's occupation by their piercings, as well as some other information. | ||
As families are not important, individuals tend to have their own living spaces, typically one or two rooms with | As families are not important, individuals tend to have their own living spaces, typically one or two rooms with several other rooms shared amongst others. Children sleep together in a larger house, which is watched over by several individuals. This is a tradition ranging back from the fear of raiders sneaking into homes and stealing children one at a time, whereas when they are together it makes it more difficult to capture them. | ||
Teaching the children is done as a community effort, with no official "teachers" per se. Generally, if a child finds a particular craft interesting, they are left to watch and learn with the understanding that the child may work with the teacher one day. It is a form of apprenticeship where it is more of an assumed notion than a designated fact. | Teaching the children is done as a community effort, with no official "teachers" per se. Generally, if a child finds a particular craft interesting, they are left to watch and learn with the understanding that the child may work with the teacher one day. It is a form of apprenticeship where it is more of an assumed notion than a designated fact. | ||
The Lamme Wa hold a ritual requiring a child to | The Lamme Wa hold a ritual requiring a child to complete a shark-tooth necklace of at least 10 different types of shark before being considered an adult. They need only one tooth per type of shark, and many work in teams to reach their goal. The purpose of creating this necklace is that the necklace is given to the woman they wish to marry, as a sign of their union. Men without necklaces are married, whereas women without them are single. | ||
'''Storm's End''' is the only major holiday celebrated on Calinago, being held after each major storm. It is a celebration of survival, with a huge festival being held that involves lots of food, | '''Storm's End''' is the only major holiday celebrated on Calinago, being held after each major storm. It is a celebration of survival, with a huge festival being held that involves lots of food, | ||
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Calinagon arms and armor show the importance of freedom of movement and lightweight that the natives favor, highlights of the typical fluid native fighting styles and amphibious combat. | Calinagon arms and armor show the importance of freedom of movement and lightweight that the natives favor, highlights of the typical fluid native fighting styles and amphibious combat. | ||
Natives do not feel comfortable using bows or other ranged projectile weapons, instead preferring throwing spears or harpoons in terms of both fishing and warfare. As most of the larger fish that are actively sought out have armored scales, most of these weapons are naturally designed to be armor piercing. | Natives do not feel comfortable using bows or other ranged projectile weapons, instead preferring throwing spears or harpoons in terms of both fishing and warfare. As most of the larger fish that are actively sought out have armored scales, most of these weapons are naturally designed to be armor-piercing. | ||
For their choice of melee weapon, the natives prefer stabbing weapons, ranging from daggers, spears to swords designed for lunging attacks. As metal is rare, these weapons are generally produced from wood and bones caught from larger fish or mammals. Calinagon fighters typically fight with a single one-handed weapon and no shield, preferring to be agile and evasive. Forces on Calinago also employ | For their choice of melee weapon, the natives prefer stabbing weapons, ranging from daggers, spears to swords designed for lunging attacks. As metal is rare, these weapons are generally produced from wood and bones caught from larger fish or mammals. Calinagon fighters typically fight with a single one-handed weapon and no shield, preferring to be agile and evasive. Forces on Calinago also employ many non-lethal weapons to catch their prey, including nets, bolas, and traps. | ||
The armor the Calinagon wear is lightweight and consists of multiple layers of fish leather, with vital organs protected by a scale-like overlay of shells. Helmets for these outfits are generally made from the skulls of Mileels, which provide ample lightweight protection as well as being slightly intimidating. These armored suits can be reinforced with | The armor the Calinagon wear is lightweight and consists of multiple layers of fish leather, with vital organs protected by a scale-like overlay of shells. Helmets for these outfits are generally made from the skulls of Mileels, which provide ample lightweight protection as well as being slightly intimidating. These armored suits can be reinforced with fishbone or the plated scales found on some of the larger fish. | ||
Aside from this light armor, there is a form of ceremonial armor that is barely used, as it is very time-consuming to make and reserved for people of rank. It is made from padded fish leather, overlaid plated scales and finally covered by the formed shells of clams. Each shaped and hardened shell takes between seven to ten years to form. | Aside from this light armor, there is a form of ceremonial armor that is barely used, as it is very time-consuming to make and reserved for people of rank. It is made from padded fish leather, overlaid plated scales and finally covered by the formed shells of clams. Each shaped and hardened shell takes between seven to ten years to form. | ||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | <blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council overheard"> | ||
<p>Don't question armor made out of those shells, I've seen it hold up under pistol and rifle fire!</p> | <p>Don't question armor made out of those shells, I've seen it hold up under pistol and rifle fire!</p> | ||
<cite>Kundèri Tactician Agwé Isandro</cite> | <cite>Kundèri Tactician Agwé Isandro</cite> | ||
Line 291: | Line 278: | ||
Pa'u is a syllabic language, its alphabet consisting of symbols for individual syllables. It is the most common language, and many signs are written both in it and [[Allspeak#Allscript|Allscript]]. | Pa'u is a syllabic language, its alphabet consisting of symbols for individual syllables. It is the most common language, and many signs are written both in it and [[Allspeak#Allscript|Allscript]]. | ||
Woto-Aulanano is a secretive language known only within the Lamme Wa borders. It is a language devised to be spoken by both man and shark | Woto-Aulanano is a secretive language known only within the Lamme Wa borders. It is a language devised to be spoken by both man and shark and is only ever taught to a select few. | ||
Uwapo is a rare language that has a pictogram writing style, each character representing various ideas and concepts. Supposedly this language was spoken a long time ago in Calinago's past, possibly even an antediluvian artifact. | Uwapo is a rare language that has a pictogram writing style, each character representing various ideas and concepts. Supposedly this language was spoken a long time ago in Calinago's past, possibly even an antediluvian artifact. | ||
Line 305: | Line 292: | ||
As Calinago is relatively weak in ambient magic, there are not many natives who actively sought out power over magic. After joining the Planar Council, more off-world wizards have come, aiding local governments or setting up locations to do research. | As Calinago is relatively weak in ambient magic, there are not many natives who actively sought out power over magic. After joining the Planar Council, more off-world wizards have come, aiding local governments or setting up locations to do research. | ||
The people of Lamme Wa, however, view magic differently. They have residents trained to be what they call "Tidehunters", who are wizards trained in a combination of [[Hydromancy]], [[Naturamancy]] and [[Hemomancy]]. They learn to control the water, the beasts within it and tap into their | The people of Lamme Wa, however, view magic differently. They have residents trained to be what they call "Tidehunters", who are wizards trained in a combination of [[Hydromancy]], [[Naturamancy]] and [[Hemomancy]]. They learn to control the water, the beasts within it and tap into their bodies for greater efficiency. | ||
<blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council" > | <blockquote class="zak_blockquote zak_blockquote_council question"> | ||
<p>Someting to wunda, who would get da lickings? A Karayib Tidehunta or a Kahuna? Is it kapu to vote on the Tidehunta? Our Kahuna have mo mana though... someting to talk story ova, for sures.</p> | <p>Someting to wunda, who would get da lickings? A Karayib Tidehunta or a Kahuna? Is it kapu to vote on the Tidehunta? Our Kahuna have mo mana though... someting to talk story ova, for sures.</p> | ||
<cite>'Aka'aka, Reef Skink Swashbuckler</cite> | <cite>'Aka'aka, Reef Skink Swashbuckler</cite> | ||
Line 317: | Line 304: | ||
<h1 class="plane_lore_header">Lore Points</h1> | <h1 class="plane_lore_header">Lore Points</h1> | ||
<div class="lore_points"> | <div class="lore_points fa-ul"> | ||
<li><span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-duotone fa-scroll"></i></span>The Princess of Kundèr, Shamifun, has been kidnapped! The nation of Kundèr is in chaos as people search for her. Rumor is she was kidnapped by several extremists from Lamme Wa, though all offworlders are currently being viewed at suspiciously.</li> | |||
<li><span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-duotone fa-scroll"></i></span>[[Dogcloaks]] are very numerous these days on Calinago, though operating independently. As the Dogcloaks are bounty hunters, this is a very good indication that they are actively tracking someone or something, and given the tools, weapons, and armor they are carrying, it is something with the potential of being very dangerous.</li> | |||
<li><span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-duotone fa-scroll"></i></span>There have been reported sightings of [[The Broadcast|Broadcast]] on various islands in Noga Nal territory, indicating a Broadcast Bloom may have developed. As per usual, the area is now considered extremely dangerous.</li> | |||
</div> | </div> | ||
[[Category:Trigate]] [[Category: Council Aligned Plane]] | |||
[[Category:Trigate]] [[Category:Plane]] | |||
{{#set:Has planar name={{PAGENAME}} }} | {{#set:Has planar name={{PAGENAME}} }} |
Latest revision as of 15:15, 16 October 2023
Status | |
Native Languages | Pa'u Woto-Aulanano Uwapo |
Demonym | Calinagon |
Size (Circumference) | 50,296.828 km |
Type | Atoll |
Satellites | Planetary Ring Lorajaport Maremèt Kasèse Teson |
Hours per Day | 36 |
Planar Capital | Anpil Pò |
Largest City | Kalm-Tè |
Notable Countries | Noga Nal Kundèr Lamme Wa |
Native Sophonts | Karayib Elves |
Ethnic Groups | 54.2% Walao 21.2% Barbayo 9.6% Caque 6.5% Trib 5.5% Hondurat 3% Other |
Human Ratio | 9% |
Population | ≈ 31.1 Million |
Leaders | Two-Sharks-Laughing Funfuni Dives-Under-Moons |
Council Proxies | N'Zosie Punta Jajè Wolɨi Uragorn Tortola |
Ambient Magic | — Poor |
Planar Neighbors | Koiteloidas Sgèileàite |
Planar Exports | Seafood, Seaweed, Fruit, Glass, Fish Leather, Tobacco, Pearls, Shells |
Planar Imports | Stone, Metals, Precious Metals, Precious Stones, Finished Goods |
Properties | Calinago Properties |
Ahh, Calinago... she's a pearl of a world, I tell you. I've been to many a plane, some ugly as sin, some more beautiful than my children, but this one... the beaches, the ocean, the people... it's so beautiful that you can almost overlook the fact that the natives are cannibals. Almost.
Journal of Volf Vandressen, Second Age
Considered to be one of the more "beautiful" worlds participating in the Planar Council, Calinago is an ancient world that was once cold and desolate but has recently been renewed into the flourishing, tropical paradise it is today.
A larger plane, Calinago is now covered mostly in water though several smaller continents and hundreds of islands do rise from the depths. Thousands of years ago, the land was barren, the temperatures were colder and the surface was dry, nearly all the water frozen and locked in glaciers.
At some point, a stellar event shattered two of Calinago's moons, changing the surface of the plane. The bombardment of lunar material combined with an increased amount of sunlight due to the reflective nature of the now present ring increased the ambient temperature. This rise in temperature gradually caused the ice to melt, increasing the water level until a once mountainous world was a few mere small continents.
Originally violent towards the Planar Council and its inhabitants, the Karayib Elves have grown accepting with time and eventually willingly joined the many other worlds represented on the Council. Known for their tenacity and passion in all they do, the Karayib Elves have made great adventurers, artists, politicians, and warriors since then. Curious as to their past, the Calinagon natives now tackle that challenge with the same zeal they have others, beginning to explore the depths to see what truths and secrets lie beneath.
The World
Habitability
Surface
Do not fall in love with the ocean, because it will never love you back.
Karayib Elven Saying
Calinago's oceans are dotted by hundreds of islands and six larger continents. As the ocean makes up 87% of the world's surface, rains tend to be common, though the more violent storms happen less frequently. Due to the lack of major bodies of land to impede their development, these storms can sometimes grow rather large.
Due to the increased temperature and high levels of rain, the general climate tends to be tropical. Several deserts can be found, as increased winds in these areas blow the moisture to other areas. Jungles, tropical forests, and swamps are common, with shrubland bordering the wetter climates and the existing deserts.
Several of the islands are increasingly rocky due to previously being mountainous peaks and these are generally the only locations that metal is readily available. The dense forests that cover the islands provide ample resources as they are thick and overflowing with types of plants, animals and other mysterious things.
In the shallower reaches around the islands, remnants of previous Karayib settlements can be found, many of which contain artifacts which may be worth something to the right person.
Atmosphere and Weather
The feeling of a calm, ocean breeze permeates everywhere on Calinago, carrying the scent of saltwater. During the spring the smell of all the varieties of fruit plants blooming makes the air sweet, with heavier concentrations of the plants almost being intoxicating.
As the world is covered mostly by the ocean, the weather tends to be boisterous and powerful. Storms are common, as is thunder and lightning. Hurricane-like storms happen at least once a year, though they are somewhat predictable. It is not uncommon for it to rain for an hour or two a few times a day on the islands, and random rainstorms strike at all hours of the day out at sea.
On the continental islands, temperatures range from 70°F to 115°F in the spring and summer, and 65°F to 95°F in the autumn and winter. Due to the heavy canopies, the temperature can range anywhere from 90°F to 130°F in the jungles and forests.
During the winter, the storms tend to be more frequent and oceans far more rough and dangerous. Most trading and communication between the islands stop at this time, as very few vessels are capable of surviving the winter waves.
Natural Resources
Calinago is abundant in some resources but very poor in others. With the quality of the land above water being generally poor in mineral value, metals and other materials of the earth are scarce and highly valued. Thankfully, the volcanic soils on the islands are very rich in nutrients, promoting the growth of thick jungles found on the islands. The sea is the primary source of materials, with much, if not all the food consumed coming from it. Pearls are readily found in the shallower areas, and the scales of many of the fish are used to make fish leather. Shells are also readily exported, being used for decoration on other planes. There is also a burgeoning glass industry that is becoming well known across the planes.
Magic
The research between my comrades and I all seem to point to the same, implausible conclusion: there should be more ambient magic here but for whatever reason, there is not. Is it being drained by something? Absorbed? Inhibited somehow? One of my associates heard a rumor from some of the elven natives here who are incredibly primitive that it may be being eaten or devoured by something, but that just seems impossible.
But, then again, we have heard similar rumors elsewhere.
More research and evidence needed.
Head Magisopher Ulrich Jennisvladt's Journals
Being very poor in ambient magic, Calinago doesn't have many native mages on its shores and finding elemental materials is rare. Though the plane is verdant with life, the flows of magic are seemingly stifled somehow. Magisophers believe this may have something to do with the rampant flooding and destruction in the world's past but have not gotten any proof of this as of yet.
Ecosystems
- Main article: Calinagon Flora and Fauna
Though the ecosystems differ slightly on the major islands, they are generally similar save for a few odd things. Similar life followed different paths of evolution on each island, so while there are familiar faces they are not the same.
Beaches
The beaches are one of the most active of the ecosystems with the majority of all settlements being built on them. Home to a great number of seabirds, crustaceans, amphibians and sea-going mammals such as seals, the beaches can be very crowded depending on the time of day and season. The mammals tend to be the only animals who make permanent homes on the beach; the seabirds tend to migrate, the crustaceans spend more time in the ocean depending on the season and the amphibians hibernate until warmer temperatures.
An array of palm trees lines the beaches, with other types only growing on the northern and southernmost beaches. Aside from the trees, many flowering plants and shrubs can be found. There are a collection of tubers and ground vegetables which can be farmed in the beach environment, some of which are used both as a foodstuff and to make alcoholic beverages.
Jungles
Jungles on Calinago are rampant with insects, birds, and crustaceans with mammals barely being present. Large terrestrial crabs form colonies and display signs of intelligence, making homes in the trees and displaying simple tool use, such as creating and using nets to catch birds. The birds in the jungle have plumage of every color, their feathers being highly sought after for ceremonial decorations used by the natives.
Insects are found everywhere here, from bottom-feeding beetles to large carnivorous moths. There are some blood-sucking insects in the jungles and more than a few of them are capable of carrying horrible diseases. Mammals are found almost exclusively in the canopies, with the monkey-like creatures appearing to have been the ancestor of the seal-like creatures found on the beaches.
Aside from the above, another creature that is slightly less common is a very acidic land snail that feasts on the sap and tender wood found inside the tree. It uses its acidic saliva to dissolve the protective bark of the trees and several snails on one tree can easily cause it to collapse.
The number of plants found inside of the jungle is enormous, with trees, vines, shrubs, ferns, flowering plants, and mushrooms all competing for space. A lot of the plants have developed methods to both attack and defend from other forms of plant life. For instance, the Nalcrub Tree is capable of creating a sap-like substance that interrupts the growth of the Bobit Flower, a small plant that can grow as much a foot a day and can kill other plants in a matter of days by robbing it of nutrients.
Swamps
Where insects rule the jungles, it is the crustaceans and cephalopods that rule the mangrove brine swamps. These murky areas are filled with massive trees, their roots and canopies providing cover while their fruit fuels battles between the denizens that make their home here.
Octopi-like creatures reside in the water, most likely originating from the ocean some point in their past. They are capable of surviving out of the water for hours at a time and have a pair of extremely long tentacles to manipulate things with. They are bioluminescent, and at night their lights can be seen as they communicate.
Several species of crustaceans, similar to those found in the jungles also exist here, their direct competition being the octopi found in the water. These arboreal crab-like creatures reside in the trees all their lives, with the males claiming dominance over a group of females. Males fight each other for control and mating rights, the loser usually dropping into the water below, quickly being eaten by the creatures living there.
Aside from the mangrove-like trees, there are several types of carnivorous plants that reside here, eating whatever they can find, including stray insects from the jungle. The older, more successful of these plants can grow rather large, and there are stories of said plants not only eating men but their souls as well.
Deserts
While the deserts are not as capable of supporting life as the other environments, there is still plenty of things that make their home here.
The most common creatures that can be found in the Calinagon deserts are mammals and crustaceans. The mammals found here resemble the monkey-like creatures found in the jungles, but there are rabbit and prairie dog creatures as well. The only birds found here are completely flightless and often captured or raised as mounts and beasts of burden by the native cultures.
There are a variety of shrubs and grasses that grow here, as well as the rare collection of palm trees. These collections of trees are usually a sign of a source of freshwater.
Ocean
The ocean, covering the majority of the plane's surface, also contains the majority of its flora and fauna.
Shallows
Rampant seaweed forests and plains of seagrass fill the shallows, along with quick-growing coral. Fish of every shape and size can be found here, as well as sharks, rays, eels, squid, octopi as well as the mammals that reside on the beaches.
There are hundreds of types of shellfish readily available in the shallows, some growing rather large. A common practice for some of the giant clams is to catch them and place them in molds, so their shells grow in a certain shape. This can take up to ten years, but the shaped shells are used for many things, including ceremonial armor.
Starfish are also very common, and many of them are magical in nature. They come in a variety of shapes and colors, and each has a different effect if eaten.
Vooda are a type of urchin found in the shallows that has many purposes to the natives. Several medicinal remedies call for parts of the Vooda, and its blood can be used to create a vibrant purple dye that is beloved. Before the Planar Council's presence was felt, the skeletons of the Vooda were used as a form of currency on Calinago.
The plants that grow in this environment act to both feed and protect the creatures that reside in it. Shrimp that flourish here are caught in great quantities and are favorite food to both the natives and other creatures in this environ.
In the shallows, there are several species of intelligent lobster-like creatures that form communities. They refer to themselves as "Mochewoma", but the natives simply call them "the Shells". The Mochewoma, as homarids, live their lives completely on the floor of the ocean shallows, building their civilization there. Their relationship with the natives is relatively peaceful, though some wish to cut all interaction or worse, wipe out the surface dwellers.
Depths
I've never been terrified of the ocean as my father was a fisherman. Heck! My entire family makes their living off of fishing. But then I came here. I may be able to still walk, but my sea legs are certainly gone.
Musings of a random Shaggy Trollkin that visited Calinago
Massive creatures of the deep make their home in the Calinago depths, some of them being over hundreds of years old.
Swordspar Fish are a marlin-like fish that can grow to be nearly seven feet in length. While they are also used as a foodstuff their main purpose is that of a beast of burden, being ridden and pulling vessels. "Seba Cha-lage", translated as "fish chariot", are vessels using as many as ten of these fish to pull it. Swordspar are easily trained and farmed, the Karayib Elven natives having done so for thousands of years.
Mileels are eel-like fish that grow to great length, who come to the surface at night. Due to this ritualistic behavior, it is common for natives to have groups of fishermen waiting for it to occur so that they may benefit from it. This is dangerous, however, as there are larger creatures who are aware of this as well, some easily capable of nearly swallowing a small canoe whole, rider included.
Large plankton-eating sharks are found out in the depths and often the target of teams of fishermen, who drag the corpse back to their village for food. They also employ Swordspar Fish who work in packs to assist them in hunting these creatures, directing them towards the waiting men who have spears at the ready.
It can only be imagined what plant life lies in the depths, as they are too deep for any but the most dedicated of adventurers to see.
The People
History
Though there is a long-standing historical record kept by the natives for their time on the islands, the records existing for the antediluvian era are sparse and steeped with superstition, becoming myths. In this mythic time, the natives were powerful warriors battling an immense evil on their world. There are generally two schools of thought on why the flooding happened: the first being that it is a form of punishment for sins their ancestors committed, the second being that it was a necessary action to stop a far worse fate from occurring.
Before the Second Age
Before the Second Age, life on Calinago would bounce between periods of peace and brief periods of war. Before the formation of what would eventually become the current countries, tribal conflicts, sadly, were very common. Mainly these were for the raiding of resources and slaves as territorial conflicts, given the number of islands that make up the surface of Calinago, were relatively uncommon. Unfortunately, while the history of Calinago undoubtedly stretches quite far back, this is where the recording of it begins.
Lamme Wa was the first of the nations to form, supposedly with the assistance of some intelligent sharks from the depths. With the increased capabilities of the soldiers from Lamme Wa, the nations of Noga Nal and Kundèr were founded in separate areas. Noga Nal had the advantage of a larger population, bringing them to being the most successful of the three nations. Lamme Wa continued to develop its relationship with the creatures of the depths, eventually gaining a small population of weresharks. They eventually secluded themselves, causing Noga Nal to focus its efforts on Kundèr.
Over an extended period, Kundèr and Noga Nal continued to have times of peace and war. Though Kundèr had a greater abundance of resources, Noga Nal's higher population gave them a large advantage both in and out of battle. Eventually, a Lamme Wa emissary to Kundèr provided them with a means to even the odds: a blight that would destroy much of the natural resources in Noga Nal territory. The blight was a large success for Kundèr, though it instilled the people of Noga Nal with a never before seen sense of purpose and rage.
Second Age
In the middle of the Second Age, the Bone Skinks of Sgèileàite discovered another continent on their world, and shortly after discovered the Trigate that would lead to Calinago. They didn't actively explore it until a few hundred years later when the first adventurers would begin to step foot into it.
At this point in history, the Karayib Elves were considered rather primitive due to the increased levels of violence against their kind, some of their beliefs and the practice of cannibalism. The first interactions against explorers were violent, and it didn't take long for stories of the natives to reach other worlds.
Third Age
During the Third Age, the Planar Council experienced a golden age, promoting exploration and discovery of new lands. By this point, stories of the beauty of Calinago had become a popular subject, even with the extremely limited knowledge of the world people possessed.
Many parties of adventurers, explorers, and diplomats would set foot on Calinago, but it wasn't until the Tor Dwarven trading magnate Volf Vandressen came that any real exploration would be done. He funded an expedition, which required an incredible effort. Supplies were brought from Sgèileàite to construct a larger, Galleon sized vessel with food and water for a journey lasting several months. The other islands were discovered, as well as the Trigate that would lead to Koiteloidas, home of the Moth Folklings.
Honestly never thought I'd see elves honor a dwarf.
Travel Journal of Haggard of the Cliffs, Tor Dwarven Traveller
At this point in on Calinago, the largest empire of Noga Nal was at war with the other two major countries over resources, caused by a major blight that had infected the jungles on their land. The leader, Rastakhan Emit the Hungerer, was violent and excessive with his conquests, often slaughtering women and children when they were caught or allowing his troops to eat their captors. Volf Vandressen approached the leader of Lamme Wa with an offer of assistance. Between the combined forces of Lamme Wa, Kundèr and the off-world soldiers, Rastakhan Emit was able to be defeated which would eventually pave the way for the future joining of the Planar Council.
Fourth Age
With Joukenhainen's return, the Council faces its mightiest challenges yet, as world after world fall to the Recreancy. Karayib Elves have always been curious of other worlds, and many youths decide to enlist in the Planar Militia. Skilled in marine and oceanic warfare, the Karayib Elves proudly serve in these roles to keep the worlds of the Planar Council Safe.
With the chaos of the war raging, several waves of members belonging to the Circle of Teeming Depths have arrived on Calinago, believing they can scour beneath the waves for the secret of Calinago's past and twist it to their own ends of planar dominance.
While Recreant forces haven't fully invaded Calinago, several of their scouts have been caught, and there have been a few skirmishes between their forces and the Noga Nal empire. Since Sgèileàite and Koiteloidas are both actively Planar Council worlds, the Noga Nal fear there may still be an undiscovered Trigate somewhere on their world.
Politics
On Calinago
There are three major empires on Calinago, which have gone to war with each other at various points in their past. As of the Third Age, the countries have been in a state of peace, however.
Noga Nal
The country of Noga Nal has the largest area of controlled land, though due to blight, disease and the encroaching desert, their population is not as high as it once was.
The current leader of Noga Nal, Rastakhan Two-Sharks-Laughing, is dedicated to aiding his people and restoring the Empire of Noga Nal to its previous glory. He has sought off-world help from Naturamancers and Hemomancers to try and find the cause of and reverse the damage done to his lands.
Below the Rastakhan is his Triarchy, who assist him with his decisions. The Triarchy has always consisted of three women: a youthful virgin, a mother, and a wizened crone.
Kundèr
Kundèr has the highest population of all the nations on Calinago, and Kundèrites are considered the masters of trade on Calinago. Their lands provide an incredible bounty, and what their islands and shores cannot, they get through trade.
Kundèr is currently ruled by Funfuni, a peaceful woman who is nearing the end of her life. She is assisted by her son, Kulfuni, who will most likely ascend to lead Kundèr when his mother is no longer fit to do so.
Relations with Noga Nal have improved in the last hundred years, as they were still relatively sour due to the actions during the Second and Third Ages. Kulfuni was permitted to take the Rastakhan's daughter's hand in marriage, improving the bond between the two nations.
Lamme Wa
Why trust a creature that would eat you without care?
I can expect consistent behavior from the shark. It's the elf that acts unexpectedly.
Lamme Wan Shark Shaman
Lamme Wa is a land ruled by mystics and sages, its people feeling a closer connection to the sea than to the land. Ruled by Konutunu Dives-Under-Moons, the Konutunu makes no efforts to hide his condition of Karchathropy, as almost every leader of the Lamme Wa nation has been a wereshark.
The rulership of Lamme Wa is actually an oligarchy with Konutunu Dives-Under-Moons acting as a leading force and tie-breaker. The ruling council is called "The Circle of Fin and Foot" and consists of the Konutunu, ten Karayib of various genders and ages and ten sharks of various breeds and genders. The belief is that only a wereshark can understand both the wisdom of man and shark and can act in a way that is best for both through compromise.
Due to their increased presence under the waves, the Lamme Wa have more active relations with the Mochewoma.
In the Planar Council
The Karayib Elf representatives in the Planar Council have been active since the height of the Third Age. They tend to vote against measures that involve the art of magic, voting against measures involving wide-spread or reckless use of it. Measures that appease to their sense of curiosity and passion for life, battle, and craft, such as infrastructure, invasion, exploration, and colonization tend to get their votes. The Karayib have to be swayed to vote for things such as civilian aid under their belief that people should care for themselves, but they are surprisingly open to measures about research expeditions.
Military
The Calinagon standing army and navy is relatively large, especially for not being near any Recreant claimed worlds. The ships are as numerous as they are since many of the vessels act serve a multitude of purposes.
On land, the Calinagon forces employ stealth tactics, preferring to prepare ambushes using traps and cover. The only time that they use engage head-on is in naval combat where they are boarding other vessels, or marine strikes, where their comfortability with land and sea give them a distinct advantage.
Culture
Many of the cultural practices of the Calinago natives are rooted in a similar past, with only the culture found on the Lamme Wa lands being completely different. Some of these beliefs and activities have gone on "beyond the time of my father's father" as some would say, indicating they be based on things from before the great floods.
Religion and Spirituality
Outside of the Lamme Wa, Noga Nal and Kundèr have always had religious beliefs easily adapted to that of the Infinite Children, worshipping the Children representing the Sea, Sailing, Weather, Fish, Sharks and things closely related to such.
The Lamme Wa openly worship a deity of their own, The One Below. They believe of a great presence in the greatest depths of the sea that exists from ages past and that it is a link to their forgotten history. Through this, the Lamme Wa develop a deeper connection with the sea and the beasts residing in it.
They spend a lot of time meditating on the beach and on their boats, some even believing that through meditating through the most violent of storms they can attend new levels of thought.
While the Noga Nal and Kundèr typically burn or eat their dead, the Lamme Wa send the bodies to the depths. They attach a rock with some rope to the feet of the corpse and throw it into the ocean so that they may join The One Below in death.
Society and Traditions
Calinagon society is very individualistic, freedom and personal responsibility being very important. Children are taught from a young age how to care for themselves and are typically required to be self-reliant at a younger age than most other worlds. Families are not important in Calinago, as the children are collectively raised by the adults around them.
Piercings are very common and can mark things such as rank, success, number of wives or anything else. Typical piercings are in the ears, nose, and lips with the actual pieces being made from bone or shell. Upon reaching adulthood, most children receive their first piercings based on what they choose to do as adults. Someone educated in Calinagon culture can tell someone's occupation by their piercings, as well as some other information.
As families are not important, individuals tend to have their own living spaces, typically one or two rooms with several other rooms shared amongst others. Children sleep together in a larger house, which is watched over by several individuals. This is a tradition ranging back from the fear of raiders sneaking into homes and stealing children one at a time, whereas when they are together it makes it more difficult to capture them.
Teaching the children is done as a community effort, with no official "teachers" per se. Generally, if a child finds a particular craft interesting, they are left to watch and learn with the understanding that the child may work with the teacher one day. It is a form of apprenticeship where it is more of an assumed notion than a designated fact.
The Lamme Wa hold a ritual requiring a child to complete a shark-tooth necklace of at least 10 different types of shark before being considered an adult. They need only one tooth per type of shark, and many work in teams to reach their goal. The purpose of creating this necklace is that the necklace is given to the woman they wish to marry, as a sign of their union. Men without necklaces are married, whereas women without them are single.
Storm's End is the only major holiday celebrated on Calinago, being held after each major storm. It is a celebration of survival, with a huge festival being held that involves lots of food, alcoholic beverage and dance.
One of the most common misconceptions of the Karayib Elves is that they openly practice cannibalism and will eat anyone they can. In all actuality, the Karayib Elves typically only eat those slain in battle, which is seen as a celebration of that elf's life, as he sustains someone else. They may also eat those who are killed in other ways but will never kill someone for the sole purpose of eating them.
Cuisine
Saying Calinagon dishes use a lot of seafood would be a ridiculous understatement. There are several things they eat that can be found on land such as bird eggs, meat from mammals or birds and some fruits and vegetables. Everything else is received from the ocean: fish, clams, oysters, seaweed, shark, octopi, squid, crabs, lobster, shrimp, seals, urchins and starfish are only some of the more common things eaten. Food is usually prepared simply, either being cooked over an open fire, in a soup or fried in fat.
Clothing
The native garments worn on Calinago are loose and mainly designed to protect from the sun. Clothes are usually made from silk found from mollusks and fish leather, as well as bone and shells. As metal is rare on Calinago, it is typically not used in simple, everyday clothing.
Hats are an important part of clothing, especially to fishermen. The most common is a wide-brimmed woven hat that protects the eye from the sun whilst providing a respectable amount of shade.
Arms and Armor
Calinagon arms and armor show the importance of freedom of movement and lightweight that the natives favor, highlights of the typical fluid native fighting styles and amphibious combat.
Natives do not feel comfortable using bows or other ranged projectile weapons, instead preferring throwing spears or harpoons in terms of both fishing and warfare. As most of the larger fish that are actively sought out have armored scales, most of these weapons are naturally designed to be armor-piercing.
For their choice of melee weapon, the natives prefer stabbing weapons, ranging from daggers, spears to swords designed for lunging attacks. As metal is rare, these weapons are generally produced from wood and bones caught from larger fish or mammals. Calinagon fighters typically fight with a single one-handed weapon and no shield, preferring to be agile and evasive. Forces on Calinago also employ many non-lethal weapons to catch their prey, including nets, bolas, and traps.
The armor the Calinagon wear is lightweight and consists of multiple layers of fish leather, with vital organs protected by a scale-like overlay of shells. Helmets for these outfits are generally made from the skulls of Mileels, which provide ample lightweight protection as well as being slightly intimidating. These armored suits can be reinforced with fishbone or the plated scales found on some of the larger fish.
Aside from this light armor, there is a form of ceremonial armor that is barely used, as it is very time-consuming to make and reserved for people of rank. It is made from padded fish leather, overlaid plated scales and finally covered by the formed shells of clams. Each shaped and hardened shell takes between seven to ten years to form.
Don't question armor made out of those shells, I've seen it hold up under pistol and rifle fire!
Kundèri Tactician Agwé Isandro
Language
Allspeak is prevalent on the surface of Calinago, though there are still entire communities unable to speak with it. As more and more Karayib Elves return from off-world, the more isolated communities start to gain access to it. In the major cities where there is frequent or constant contact with people of other planes, Allspeak is spoken almost exclusively.
Pa'u is a syllabic language, its alphabet consisting of symbols for individual syllables. It is the most common language, and many signs are written both in it and Allscript.
Woto-Aulanano is a secretive language known only within the Lamme Wa borders. It is a language devised to be spoken by both man and shark and is only ever taught to a select few.
Uwapo is a rare language that has a pictogram writing style, each character representing various ideas and concepts. Supposedly this language was spoken a long time ago in Calinago's past, possibly even an antediluvian artifact.
Music and Entertainment
Music tends to come naturally to the natives of Calinago, with every person seemingly having some skill with one instrument or another. Common instruments are stringed ukulele-like instruments, drums, and shells filled with beads. In the evenings, it is common to see and hear groups performing together, often expressing the actions of the day musically. Songs are written to tell stories, and storytelling with or without music is another form of major entertainment.
A major past time for a lot of natives is creating collections of some sort, generally in butterflies, fish, shark teeth or other things of that nature. These are usually on display in their homes, which natives also take great pride in decorating.
Magic
As Calinago is relatively weak in ambient magic, there are not many natives who actively sought out power over magic. After joining the Planar Council, more off-world wizards have come, aiding local governments or setting up locations to do research.
The people of Lamme Wa, however, view magic differently. They have residents trained to be what they call "Tidehunters", who are wizards trained in a combination of Hydromancy, Naturamancy and Hemomancy. They learn to control the water, the beasts within it and tap into their bodies for greater efficiency.
Someting to wunda, who would get da lickings? A Karayib Tidehunta or a Kahuna? Is it kapu to vote on the Tidehunta? Our Kahuna have mo mana though... someting to talk story ova, for sures.
'Aka'aka, Reef Skink Swashbuckler
The Places
- Main article: Notable Calinagon Locations