The Chain

A scattered chain of islands off Azmith's Coast. Mainly mapped and overseen by the Lapis Corsairs. Each town and village is independant, though holds fealty to the Corsairs.

The Chain is a sprawling archipelago of jagged islands and hidden coves, stretching between Saal’Desol (known as “The Gem”) and New Linnel, a vital trade route within the region. Its complex geography, with countless islets, reefs, and treacherous waters, has made it a haven for pirates and smugglers. Fully mapped only by the Corsairs and the local inhabitants, The Chain is a notorious hotspot for maritime activity, both legal and illicit.

The Chain’s islands vary widely in size, from small rocky outcrops to larger islands capable of sustaining entire settlements. Dense forests, sheer cliffs, and labyrinthine waterways characterize much of the landscape, providing natural cover for pirates and traders alike. The shallow, reef-laden waters make navigation dangerous for those unfamiliar with the area, further securing the archipelago’s reputation as an elusive stronghold. Small towns and villages are scattered across the islands, often built along sheltered bays or atop cliffs overlooking the sea. These settlements are rugged and self-sufficient, their economies driven by fishing, trade, and collaboration with the Corsairs.

The Chain is a patchwork of allegiances, with most settlements pledging loyalty to the Lapis Corsairs, a dominant pirate faction that operates as both rulers and protectors. The Lapis Corsairs ensure the safety of these towns in exchange for tribute, goods, and safe harbors.Other factions, however, vie for control. The Crimson Corsairs, a subsidiary breakoff group of the Lapis Corsairs, maintain a handful of outposts, using them as staging grounds for raids and recruitment. The East Azmith Trading Company (EAC) also has a presence in the Chain, establishing fortified outposts to monitor trade routes and protect merchant fleets. However, their authority is limited, and they often find themselves at odds with the Corsairs. This political fragmentation creates a volatile environment where shifting loyalties and power struggles are the norm. Despite the chaos, the Chain thrives as a trade, piracy, and contraband hub.