The Frozen South

Beyond the Veiled Sea, to the south, lies the continent referred to as the Frozen South. It is aptly named. All explored surfaces of the land are covered in snow and ice, with some interspersed curiosities. The untamed land is home to giant beings, and terrifying monsters. Few people from the northern realms have dared to make the journey to explore, and even fewer have tried to make it their home. Those that have done so, have found their kin changed for the experience.   Sheer cliffs of ice cover much of the coastlines. Inland mountain ranges further add to the imposing view. The frost giant population dwells within those peaks, hunting the monstrous creatures of the land for food. Their only true competition for their hunting are the dreaded frost wyrms, which are revered by the giants. The homes of the giants are carved out of the blue ice itself, often incorporating draconic motifs in homage to their fearsome scaled gods.   On the northern tundra exists one of the great mysteries of the land, a crystalline forest. The trunks and limbs of the trees are clear quartz, and where leaves would exist instead hang long shards of colored quartz. Strong winds sweep the tundra, turning the beautiful canopy into a hail of crystalline knives to any traveling under them. Interspersed among the crystal canopy is what makes the trip worthwhile for some: a crystal fruit. The fruit appears similar in size to a large strawberry, but made of ruby. On touch, it is extremely soft. The flesh of a crystal fruit turns back age for any who partake, provided it is eaten quickly. Curiously, any touch of magic to the fruit turns them to ash. The same is true of the passage of time. Once separated from the tree, crystal fruit turn to ash in a matter of minutes.   Interest in braving the journey to the tundra has led some to settle the northern shore. The hamlet of Last Hope exists largely to guide those seeking a last chance at regaining lost time in life. Riches can be found in helping carry out such desires, though, and so the few inhabitants do well for themselves. Fear of the giants and arctic monsters keep the population low. Much of the land is yet unsearched, due to the risks. Exploration may yield more curiosities, as well as dangers.