Xarkonis Isle

Xarkonis Isle was once the seat of power of a small kingdom that controlled the archipelago of Moloch's Teeth. This kingdom, a plutocracy run by trader's guilds, was known for its wealth and dominance in sea trading routes. Just before the Flood, for fear of attacks by stronger nations, they invested in a unique form of defense for their capital city.   This defense was an obsidian sphere the size of a house, which emitted a quiet, deep thrumming sound. The sphere was known as the Gorgon's Eye, because inside the obsidian shell was encased a searing magical light, which could be revealed or hidden with a shutter. This white light petrified anything it touched, making it a promise of mutually assured destruction for invaders. The Gorgon's Eye was held in stasis above the tallest tower at the center of the capital city. During the Flood, the Gorgon's Eye was activated, petrifying the urban population of Xarkonis Isle. With no one to deactivate it when the danger stopped, it has remained, slowly casting its beam of petrifying light over the city's shattered districts for over a century.   Today, Xarkonis Isle is an eerily preserved ruin. While it is devoid of natural life, that doesn't mean it is abandoned. Amidst the menagerie of inert statues and stone plants, stone cursed lie in wait for unwary adventurers. Ancient traps, magical wards, and animated objects remain on standby as well, while the confused, restless spirits of Xarkonis roam its decaying halls. Xarkonis (and the treasures it contains) is of great interest to the gnomes of Kyarnal Valley.