Southern Territories

1) Glas - 2) Seagha - 3) Dubhdris - 4) Tàileach - 5) Lobhdain - 6) Crannach - 7) Surdach

There are seven Southern areas, which are called Thanedoms. Each is governed by an old southern clan, lead by one of the seven Thanes. In each Thanedom reside the Barons, who each govern a smaller section of land in their respective Thanedom. Under the Barons are the minor nobility (lords, ladies and lairds) and common folk, who govern nothing but their own homesteads.

The Thanedom of Glas

Thane of this Thanedom: Thane Iseabal Grey of House Grey

Glas is above the Thanedom of Dubhdris, and is one of the northernmost southern thanedoms. House Grey governs it, with their seat in Glas Haven. Their land, like that of Dubhdris, is bordered on the east by the Cladag Mountains and the west by the Azulian Sea. The family is renowned for their patronage of the arts, and hold Mordon in high esteem.

Glas Haven (Capital City)

The capital, Glas Haven sits by the coast, overlooking the Witch Waters. The city itself is alive with the arts and many craft projects that takes place near weekly. Most buildings are painted in murals, or graffitied with vibrant pieces of work, with new statues being erected all over. Bunting is commonly found sprawled between the buildings, while abstract projects could lead you down some of the many alleyways. House Grey encourages and promotes art work throughout the city, and it is rare that any piece is taken down by Lawkeepers - though that doesn’t mean the people of Glas Haven have free reign to make anything, just most things.

Omar’s Folly

Within the South lies the ruins of a once great Lighthouse. 1213BA marks the first instance of Clans from the South destroying the Western Lighthouse in hopes that Omar would favour their own; thus began 14 years of attrition between the Western Lighthouse and the Southern Lighthouse. Eventually an Agreement was made so neither would have a lighthouse, but one would be made on the border to watch them both.

Cládag Mountains

The Cládag Mountains cross four Thanedoms, but starts in Glas. The mountains stand tall, creating a barricade to the more central south Thanedoms, with many small clans living amongst the various plataus. It is heavily recommended that you have a Southern Guide take you across the mountains, less you be lost and claimed by them. When travelling throughout the South, it is known that travelling alongside the Mountains is often a quick route about, while travelling over is ill advised, unless deathly necessary.

The Thanedom of Seagha

Thane of this Thanedom: Thane Dùghlas Shawe of House Shawe

Seagha is the northernmost thanedom, and it is ruled by House Shawe. Seagha Keep is their home, and their lands encompass much of Taghan Wood, as well as good quantity of farmland. They are bordered by the Cladag Mountains to the south, and the east to the north. Due to being the most northern Thanedom, the area enjoys some of the more warm temperatures of the South as a whole, which is what makes it such a good farming land.

Seagha Keep (Capital City)

The Seagha Keep is an old keep surrounded by a bustling trading city. Acting as the central hub to all the working farms in the area, the Keep provides a place for their goods to get exported across the South and all of Ásaterra. Seagha Keep is known for their weekly markets and their large “Day of Sale” event that happens once every three weeks, providing some of the best deals in all of Ásaterra, often allowing farmers to upgrade their tools, or expand their land.

Taghan Woods

While the Taghan Woods is roughly 50/50 between Seagha and Lobhdain, the Beastkin tribes that live in the forest are more situated to the colder climates of the South. This means a disproportionate amount of Beastkins head south, out of the woods to Lobhdain, rather than north into Seagha. That being said, any that do venture to the warmer pastures are met very kindly by the Seagha residents, who know of the various tribes of the Woods, and are instructed to direct any seeking aid or information towards Seagha Keep.

The Thanedom of Dubhdris

Thane of this Thanedom: For the longest time the Thane of this area was Alecto Blackthorne of House Blackthorne, however she stepped down after changing the way that the Thanedom was governed. A council of individuals now run the area.

House Blackthorne rules Dubhdris (Duh-drish), as they have for almost a thousand years. Their seat is Dubhdris Tower, and their lands stretch down the western coast of Ásaterra, bordered to the east by the Cladag Mountains. The current Thane of Dubhdris is Alecto Blackthorne.

Dubhdris Castle

Dubhdris Castleis the ancient seat of Clan Dubhdris, headed by House Blackthorne. The Blackthorne lands stretch along the stormy west coast, and encompass several small towns and hamlets. The lands have been ruled by House Blackthorne for almost a thousand years, and are currently under the command of Lady Alecto Blackthorne, the last remaining blood member of the Blackthorne line. Clan Dubhdris makes up her retainers, household and council.

The town of Dubhdris is set in the foothills of the Cladag Mountain and is built of sturdy grey granite, with stunning views of the Azulian Sea. It is set within heavy stone walls and fortifications to keep out both enemies and the winter wolves. It is set near several major roads, making it a popular stop for travellers on their way around the coast. The Tower itself is an ancient castle. It’s western side is plain and worn down over the years by the storms coming in off of the sea, but it’s eastern side is more decorative, carved with intricate detail. Like many southern buildings, its windows feature heavy oak shutters, treated with tar in the same way as boats,. When a storm rolls in, the shutters are locked up tight against the howling of the winter wind, keeping the occupants snug and safe inside. During particularly nasty winters, it is not uncommon for the entire town to take refuge in the main keep for warmth. The great fires are lit, and the whole town, including the nobility, will huddle in the main hall to share both their body warmth and cheer. Mulled wine will be passed around, songs will be sung and stories will be told whilst the winter rations are eaten. Even the livestock are invited inside, and they spend the winter quite comfortably in one of the lesser halls, kept away from the winter predators.

Dubhdris is also famous for its temple to Lady Death. During the warmer days, when the shutters are rolled back, the setting sun shines through the western windows, which are set with intricately crafted stained glass, ordered from the west by the Blackthorne family hundreds of years ago.

Cailcton or ‘The Chalk’

Located on the South-eastern coast, Cailcton is more often than not simply referred to as ‘the Chalk’, taking its name from the white cliffs which it is situated on. The area is not a very wealthy one, and is sometimes referred to as ‘Cheap Shore’. The people on the Chalk are renowned for their strong faith, especially in regards to Omar. It is custom for many sailors to throw a handful of fish from a catch back into the sea in defence and respect for the ocean deity. There are two main taverns in the town. The Corner Tavern is the oldest, and is more popular with the locals, whilst The Forty Crabs is less of a drinking establishment by this point and more of a boxing ring, frequented by visiting sailors and

travellers.

The Thanedom of Tàileach

Thane of this Thanedom: Thane Eilidh Tallach of House Tallach - it had been Ealasaid Tallach for many years, but she died protecting Soutar during the attack at Bealach Keep by the Forgers. Her daughter has stepped in to fill the position.

The ancient House Tallach holds the land from the Southern Ocean up to the Bealach Keep, the Southern capital in the Cladag Mountains. Bordered Dubhdris on the west and Gealach Bay on the east, it’s seat is Tàileach Hold. Historically, Clan Tàileach spawned a line of kings, and they held most of what are now the southern lands for four hundred years.

Bealach Keep

Bealach Keep is one of the oldest citadels in the south. It is located in the Cladag Mountains and is the seat of the Warriors of the Dark Sun. Although it is not the biggest city in the south, it is considered the safest; the keep has never been taken and is often considered impenetrable. The city is only accessible by a single mountain road, although there are rumours of secret tunnels running through the mountain which only the highest ranking leaders know of. The city itself is comprised of high granite walls and backs into the mountain range itself. It is said that there are great caverns underground in the darkness of the mountain where food is stored in case of a siege.

The Keep, unusually for a military stronghold, is often renowned to be quite beautiful. The grey granite walls are covered with ivy, trees grow in the market places and town square, and climbing flowers bedecking the houses. It is also coupled by stunning views out over the mountains and surrounding country side, which look especially beautiful during the snowy winter months. The city of Bealch Keep is full of people from many different walks of life, but is also where many Dark Sun members are trained. Although basic training takes place at other Dark Sun strongholds, the Keep is the main base of operations.

Breaker’s Point

Stacks of Duncansby, John O'Groats, Scotland

Breaker’s Point is names for the rocky outcrops which extend from around its location and into the Southern Ocean. The rock formation rises out of the water like a natural sea wall, and many ships have found themselves surprised by the swift currents around The Breakers, to their peril. The Point itself is located on the western side of Gealach Bay, and used to be known as Rubha an Bodha in the days before the annexation of the south. The local people hold dear the values of most southerner, although they have a reputation for being hardier and more stoic than most, although are also very charitable. The local tavern, The Leviathan, doubles as a town hall and a shelter from the dangerous storms which batter the point on winter nights, and from the howling winds which echo through the darkness.

The Thanedom of Lobhdain

Thane of this Thanedom: Fearghas Lobhdain of House Lothian

The House of Lothian rules Lobhdain, with their seat in Lobhdain Castle. Their lands stretch from Salmarsh in the south, and encompasses most of Taghan Woods. Glas and Crannach boarder the land on either side in the north, giving Lobhdain its distinctive diamond shape. The House of Lobhdain pride themselves on their hunting and navigational skills, and are famously dedicated to the goddess Fifaldia, hunting all creatures by the deer.

Lobhdain Castle (Capital City)

The Lobhdain Castle sits on the border of the Sàlmarsh and the Taghan Woods, symbolising the unity of the land. The castle itself stands above the trees of the woodland, giving a mighty view cross the tree tops to the north, and a spectacular view south towards the Gaelach Bay, across the Sàlmarsh. The people of Lobhdain Castle work hard, but work together.

Sàlmarsh Bay

Sàlmarsh Bay is a place surrounded by superstition. In 200BU, a battle was fought between two forces from the places now known as the Taghan Woods and the Chalk. The Woodland forces forced the opposition into retreat and left them stuck in marshes between the woods and the Southern Ocean. Once the Chalk troops were trapped, they were massacred, although it is notable the Woodland Folk did maintain their own substantial losses. Thus, the area became known as Deadman’s Marsh.

Although the battle is long over, it is said that if you head out into the marsh on dark nights, you may see the spirits of men, drowning and trapped in the marshland once more. These days, the area is normally known as Sàlmarsh, and the town neighbouring it is Sàlmarsh Bay, although the old name still lingers. The people of Sàlmarsh Bay are known to be relatively easy-going, and the actual town is considered rather wealthy in relation those surrounding it.

Taghan Woods (Shared with Seagha)

While the Taghan Woods is roughly 50/50 between Seagha and Lobhdain, the Beastkin tribes that live in the forest are more situated to the colder climates of the South. This means a disproportionate amount of Beastkins head south, out of the woods to Lobhdain, rather than north into Seagha. The Beastkin of the Taghan Woods have a good understanding with the people of Lobhdain, and while it is not often a Beastkin ventures out of the forest, it is common knowledge between the tribes of the woodland that they will be welcomed into southern societies if they choose to explore. There is an understanding that allows hunting for Southerners in the Woods, but only a few miles deep, so not to disturb the tribes and their hunting grounds.

The Thanedom of Crannach

Thane of this Thanedom: Thane Martainn Cranna of House Cranna. The previous head of House Cranna died during the attack of the Forgers in 1298.

House Cranna governs Crannach which stretches from the outskirts of the Taghan Woods to the east and the boarders of Skovva to the west, the boarders of the east to the north and southernmost edge of Morloch Lake to the south. It’s seat is Crannach Fast. These lands are some of the most fertile farming lands in the South, and like their neighbours in Lobhdain, they maintain close worship of the goddess Fifalda.

Crannach Fast (Capital City)

Crannach Fast enjoys a lovely view across Mhorlock Lake, but has been encroached on by the swampland that bleeds over from Skovva. In recent years, the residents of the capital city has slowly been moving the city left, deeper into the area, so as to avoid any dangers down from the swamp land. This has been the biggest ongoing project for the city for around two decades, with groups and organisations being formed specifically for the purpose of moving and combating the encroaching swamp land.

Mhorlock Lake

The longest lake in all of Ásaterra, spanning 180 miles from top to bottom, Mhorlock Lake provides the water to much of Crannach, helping it rival Seagha in farming potential. However, the lake as a devious alternative side, which helps feed the swampland that is creeping across the land from Skovva. It has become Crannach Tradition in recent decades when moving house (as in moving from the old areas to the new areas, not just moving to a new home) to throw in at least one stone brick or wooden plank from the old building before it is knocked down.

Border with Skovva

The border with Skovva hasn’t had much problems over the two hundred or so years of the Ásaterra/Skovva war, mainly because the Thanedom only sees the Myrr Swamp, and not many Skovvan skirmishes tended to fight in the deeper parts of the bordering swampland. Having said that, it seems that Skovva herself has been invading Ásaterra via the encroaching swampland that has crossed the River Dileann. While efforts have been put in place to combat this, little seems to be able to stop Skovva’s clawing hand.

The Thanedom of Sudrach

Thane of this Thanedom: Deanna Soutar of House Soutar, Connal is a prominent figure in house Soutar, and is also the Councillor of the Warriors of the Dark Sun

House Soutar rules Sudrach, which sits on the border with Skovva. The Soutar family makes much of its money through trading, situated as it is on the southern coastline. It contains many port towns, including the infamous Blackwater, and much of its power is at sea. The family reside in Sudrach Seat.

Surdach Seat (Capital City)

The capital city of Surdach Seat sits central to the Thanedom, providing it with the greatest trading opportunities across the entire area. With rivers down to Gaelach Bay and up to Mhorlock Lake, Surdach Seat is the easiest way to get around the area, with priorities given to public travel for all.

Blackwater

Blackwater, formerly known as Dubhburn, is a bustling port town on the south-easternmost point of Ásaterra, on the delta of the Díleann River. It is one of the larger coastal towns in the south-eastern Ásaterra , and it notorious across the south, often being referred to as ‘Bilgewater’. It is known for its many taverns, which stay open all hours, and is known by many as a place of disrepute. It is known as a home of sorts for pirates and smugglers, many of whom use the access to the river to ship stolen goods to Skovva. Blackwater is generally poorly regarded by outsiders, and they have a reputation for being sly and

untrustworthy. The town’s name is often used in common southern insults, for example: ‘You’re a trustworthy a Blackwater man/woman’ or ‘I’d rather go to Blackwater than see you again!’.

Border with Skovva

Over the last two hundred years, Surdach has seen many skirmishes with Skovva, though they have also brought in the majority of all Skovvan that have fled the harsh lands. Now the war between Ásaterra and Skovva is over, Surdach wasted no time in setting up some lucrative and beneficial trading routes and towns between the two countries. It is believed that Surdach has the highest number of Skovvans living there than anywhere else in Ásaterra.