The Galapa

The Galapa: Guardians of the Savage Isles

The Galapa are a proud and resilient race of humanoid turtles, their domed shells and stoic demeanor reflecting their enduring nature. They hail from the Savage Isles—a name outsiders have given to their homeland—but in their own tongue, these islands are known as Kaul’Makalu, meaning "The Sacred Reefs." The Galapa see their home not as savage but as a cradle of life, rich with natural beauty and abundant resources. Known for their deep wisdom, maritime prowess, and unyielding spirit, the Galapa have thrived amidst the treacherous waters and pirate factions that define their world.

The Sacred Reefs: Origins of the Galapa

The Galapa trace their origins to the earliest days of Levelia, when their ancestors emerged from the Endless Ocean to settle on the vibrant archipelago they call Kaul’Makalu. The islands, teeming with exotic flora, fauna, and volcanic activity, shaped the Galapa into a people attuned to the rhythms of both land and sea. Their society grew around the principles of stewardship and adaptability, valuing the interconnectedness of all life.

In ancient times, the Galapa were the undisputed rulers of the islands, their long lifespans granting them unparalleled wisdom. They constructed vast coral citadels and volcanic forges, blending the resources of their islands into masterpieces of architecture and craftsmanship. Their most sacred relics, the Makalu Stones, are said to contain the memories of their ancestors and serve as guides for the present.

The Age of Strife: Facing the Tides

The Cataclysm brought upheaval to the Galapa, as rising seas and unpredictable weather battered their islands. Yet, it was not the natural disasters that posed the greatest threat but the arrival of outsiders—pirates, raiders, and refugees. The Galapa, though peaceful by nature, were forced to defend their homeland, forging alliances where possible and battling fiercely when necessary.

Their inclusion in the Urg’nak Pact was a pragmatic decision. The Pact provided allies against the pirate factions encroaching on their territory, while the Galapa offered unparalleled maritime expertise and safe harbors. Despite their cautious nature, the Galapa became vital members of the Pact, their wisdom and naval skills instrumental in securing the southern waters.

Culture and Beliefs

The Galapa are deeply spiritual, their faith centered around the Eternal Current—a belief in the cyclical flow of life, death, and rebirth, mirrored in the tides. They hold their elders in high esteem, viewing them as living repositories of history and wisdom. Galapa art and music reflect their oceanic heritage, with flowing patterns and melodic chants that evoke the waves.

Their society is clan-based, with each clan linked to a specific island within Kaul’Makalu. These clans govern themselves but convene periodically at the Reefheart Council, a gathering where decisions affecting all Galapa are made.