The vast continent of North Angoria, although a part of the human union alongside South Angoria and North Polaria, is far from united. Unlike the unified Kingdoms of South Angoria, it is divided by opposing ideals and desires for power. On the Western side, the Askarian Empire seeks to conquer and enslave all those who stand in their way, while on the Eastern side, the Free Kingdoms fiercely oppose slavery. Led by [[Queen Cyrill]] at its helm, Brensistria is the epitome of this opposition with its shining city known as the "Gem of the South." Alongside its ally Silverdeep, they are staunch advocates against the practice of enslaving others. In the harsh and unforgiving lands of the continent, savage tribes thrive. Some to the south seek peaceful trade with the civilized Free Kingdoms and Brensistria, while those in the north despise the cities that see themselves as superior. The ruthless Askarian Empire sets its sights on these barbarians, seeking to enslave them for their own gain. And even more horrific than being taken by the Empire's soldiers is falling victim to bandit raids, where innocent children are snatched and sold into a life of labor or sexual slavery. The tribes live in constant fear, knowing that at any moment they could lose their loved ones to the cruel hands of their enemies. The [[Tribe of the Mother]] is a formidable group, their numbers rivaling even the most powerful tribes in the land. Their territory spans along the border of the mighty Angoria River and the imposing Mountains of [[Perserphina]]. For generations, they have maintained a strong alliance with Brensistria, often sending members of their tribe to the city for trade and cultural exchange. However, being a barbarian culture, it is customary for many members of the tribe, including their leader, to dress in minimal clothing or go completely nude. This can come as quite a shock to visitors from more conservative cultures when they encounter bare-chested females strolling through the bustling streets of Brensistria. In order to show respect for the city's customs, however, the tribe makes an effort to cover their bottoms while visiting. Despite these differences, the two cultures coexist peacefully and continue to learn from each other's ways of life. Their powerful leader stands tall, his chiseled body compared to those of the gods, he is a sight to behold. With jet black hair that cascades down his broad shoulders, his deep set eyes show wisdom beyond his years. He is the embodiment of strength and resilience, a man who has fought and survived countless battles. His tribe looks up to him with reverence, knowing that he is the only one capable of leading them to victory against their enemies. As a young boy, [[Mavros]] was taught the ways of the [[Tribe of the Mother]] by his father, a respected elder in the tribe. He spent hours listening to stories of their ancestors, learning how they had overcome adversity and united in pursuit of a common goal. [[Mavros]]'s father instilled in him a sense of duty and responsibility that would guide him for the rest of his life. His wife is also a beautiful sight to behold as she follows the costumes of her people. Usually walking nude among her people displaying the perfection of her body blessed by the gods. Her skin is flawless, a warm bronzed hue that speaks of her connection to the land they both cherish. Her eyes, like pools of liquid chocolate, hold a depth that reveals the depth of her character, strength, and love. The subtle curve of her hips, the gentle sway of her breasts when she walks - all these serve as a testament to the sacred connection she shares with [[Mavros]] and their tribe. [[Mavros]]'s wife, [[Ariana]], was raised in the [[Tribe of the Mother]] as well, learning the ways of her people from a young age. Her father, a respected warrior within the tribe, had taught her to hold her head high and stand tall against any adversary. As they grew older, it became apparent that [[Mavros]] and [[Ariana]] shared a deep affection for one another, their bond inextricable like two halves of a single whole. The [[Tribe of the Mother]] tirelessly maintain the delicate balance between all the tribes, even those brutal Northern clans like the fearsome Cuthwulfs who are known to be equal in strength to the [[Tribe of the Mother]]. Roiling beneath the surface of North Angoria is a constant threat of total war and ruthless power struggles between the [[Askaria]] Empire, the Kingdom of Brensistria, and the Barbarian Tribes. It's a perilous atmosphere where one wrong move could ignite an all-out battle for dominance. In the vast continent of North Angoria, four powerful deities hold sway over the land and its people. First and foremost is the Great Goddess [[Perserphina]], known for her benevolence and love for all beings. Her divine presence can be felt among the tribes, as she walks among them in the form of a priestess, working tirelessly to free the enslaved and bring peace to the land. But [[Perserphina]] is not alone in her influence. [[Dijinus, God of Fire|Dijinus]], the Fire God, is a formidable force to be reckoned with. His fiery temper and desire for worshipers often clash with [[Perserphina]]'s ideals, leading to tension between the two deities. Meanwhile, [[Angoria]], the Goddess of War, commands respect and fear from all who cross her path. Her sharp sword and unyielding determination make her a powerful ally or a dangerous enemy. And let us not forget [[Sorgoganis, Evil God of War|Sorgoganis]], the evil God of War. His shadow looms over the land like a dark cloud, his thirst for destruction constantly at odds with [[Perserphina]]'s efforts to bring harmony to North Angoria. These four gods may rule over North Angoria, but their influence also extends beyond its borders into other continents of the [[world of Solare]]. Their interwoven story continues to shape the fate of those who worship them or dare to challenge their power. The powerful [[Tribe of the Mother]], along with Brensistria, devoutly follow and revere [[Perserphina]], their beloved goddess. The barbarian tribes are also influenced by the alluring [[Angoria]], whose presence is felt strongly among them. In the Northern tribes, [[Dijinus, God of Fire|Dijinus]] is highly worshipped, with a fierce following of devoted believers. However, the [[Askaria]] instead embrace the teachings of [[Sorgoganis, Evil God of War|Sorgoganis]], the malevolent god of war and destruction. ## **What fate awaits North Angoria?** As tensions continue to rise, the balance of power hangs by a thread in North Angoria. The unyielding [[Askaria]] Empire remains determined in their quest for conquest, their allegiance to [[Sorgoganis, Evil God of War|Sorgoganis]] only fueling their ruthless ambition. Meanwhile, the Free Kingdoms and the [[Tribe of the Mother]] hold steadfast against the empire's expansionist efforts, their loyalty to [[Perserphina]] unwavering. In the halls of Brensistria and Silverdeep, [[Queen Cyrill]] and her advisors grapple with the difficult decision of how best to confront the [[Askaria]] Empire. They know a direct confrontation could result in a devastating war that would claim countless lives and devastate the continent. Instead, they set their sights on finding a way to undermine the empire's strength from within, hoping fervently that they may yet reach a peaceful resolution. Among the tribes, [[Mavros]] and [[Ariana]], as well as the elder warriors of their tribe, are tasked with the responsibility of maintaining the delicate balance between the tribes. Their unwavering loyalty to [[Perserphina]] and their deep understanding of the landscape, its people, and its countless dangers make them invaluable assets in this precarious situation. As they journey through the harsh lands of North Angoria, [[Mavros]] and [[Ariana]] are met with numerous challenges. They work tirelessly to mediate disputes between different tribes, ensuring that peace is maintained at all times. They guide lost travelers through treacherous terrain, relaying information they gather to [[Queen Cyrill]] and her advisors in hopes of preventing any unnecessary conflicts from arising. ***** One day, a group of adventurers were led by the tribes warriors to [[Mavros]] and [[Ariana]]. Savereign, a Tiefling was among the group. He sought to fight against the [[Askaria]] Empire and free slaves. For he was once a slave too and his body was scarred. He was kept as an exotic pet. [[Ariana]] looked at him. “You travel looking for battle against the [[Askaria]] Empire?" she inquired, her dark eyes studying Savereign carefully. "Your scars tell a story of a hard life. Tell us, what motivates you to engage in such a dangerous endeavor? You are in the Valley of the Mother, we to wish to battle the Empire and bring them down. Let me tell you the story of our people and the pain of our continent,” [[Ariana]] continued. “Our people have lived on this continent for thousands of years. The Mountains of [[Perserphina]] and the deserts of [[Angoria]] have been our home since time immemorial. The [[Askaria]] Empire may seek to conquer and rule over us, but we will not back down without a fight. Our connection to this land runs deep, as does our devotion to [[Perserphina]], who watches over us and guides us in our quest for peace." "The [[Askaria]] Empire is a force to be reckoned with, but we believe in the power of unity and cooperation among the tribes and kingdoms to defeat them. We are not looking for mindless battles, but rather a strategic approach to dismantle their strength from within. We need valiant warriors like yourself who share our vision of a peaceful North Angoria, free from tyranny and oppression," [[Mavros]] spoke with conviction, his powerful gaze mirroring [[Ariana]]'s determination. “We have endured countless battles and hardships, and we continue to learn from each other's ways of life, in hopes of finding better ways to not only survive, but to thrive. The [[Askaria]] Empire's relentless pursuit of power and domination is not a path we desire for our continent. We seek peace and balance, not destruction." ***** To arrive within the Valley of the Mother there are three Paths. One from the north, the safest, following the great Angorain river. The other two are of a path leading from the south with villages scattered here and there and one that leads people through a dangerous forest filled of mysterious creatures and some say living plants. The forest name is [[Yggrathian Forest]], a place where whispers of ancient spirits and tangled roots seem to come alive, weaving a tapestry of danger and enchantment for those brave enough to traverse its depths. The air within the forest is thick with magic, a palpable presence that sends shivers down the spines of even the most seasoned travelers. Legend say of the forest that a great tree of healing stands at its heart, its roots spreading far and wide, offering solace and renewal to those who seek its wisdom. But the tree is fiercely guarded by the forest's ancient protectors, spirits of nature who test the courage and resolve of any who dare approach. The tree’s name is [[Sylrathis|Eldertree]], and its shimmering leaves are said to possess unparalleled healing properties, capable of mending even the deepest wounds and curing the most virulent ailments. But accessing its powers is no easy feat, for the spirits of the forest demand a price for such potent magic.