At a Glance

Population: 250,000
Primary race: Halfling
Secondary race: Human
Tertiary race: Sea Elf
Main export: Gemstones, Fish
Allies: Algova Satrapy, Jadeacre Fiefs
Enemies: Cantons of Sonn Hamar
Wealth ranking: 1st

Families

Ruling family
• Stafford (halfling)

Major families
• Ransom (human)
• Clan Margayne (sea elf)
• Pascentis (human)
• Falaron (human)
• Borford (halfling)
• Howzari (halfling)
• Blancer (human)
• Clan Rastin (sea elf)
• Galford (halfling)

Minor families
• Cleoro (human)
• Ridger (halfling)
• Tammock (human)

Summary

The Shattered Scythe is the closest thing to a paradise you will find in the Southlands. A tropical archipelago of low mountains peppered with deep mineshafts and rainy jungles, its people have seemingly thrived, especially in the years following the Downfall.

After the seas turned following the Ascension, most residents of the Shattered Scythe retreated into the mines and forests, waiting out the turn of history for centuries before visits from grand travelers from the north eventually reached their shores. The sea elves came bearing secret magic they could use to shield the islands from the worst the sea had to offer, and gifted sailors taught their people how to navigate safely on choppy waters.

As such, the Shattered Scythe prospered, soon enough discovering their mines held vast stores of rare gemstones of all kinds -- an invaluable resource to any casters worth their mettle. But it wasn't immediately peaceful. Raids from the north were commonplace, especially once word got out about their plentiful resources. It became imperative that the Staffords ally with House Algova to protect them from the worst the raiders had to offer.

This arrangement worked well -- House Algova had high number of casters and clerics in need of material resources, and House Stafford needed ships and protection. The Cantons became significant trade rivals as the years went on, especially after the Downfall when the raids from the north became less frequent.

The rainforests of the Scythe are renowned for their ancient, forgotten relics left behind by the Staffords' forebears, but equally so for the immense danger they pose to anyone brave (or foolhardy) enough to wander in...