From publisher blurb:
Central Bound
In a time before history was recorded, Central Island was an isolated haven where animals thrived without the constant threat of predators. This allowed the usually small prey species to grow to massive sizes compared to their mainland counterparts. These animals tend to be docile and less territorial, often seen sharing spaces with other species. For countless generations, the island remained untouched. That was, until Kuni, a hero chosen by the Star of Decay, led their people across the sea and the continents to follow a red shooting star that slashed open the starry night. They arrived at Central Island and started their new home. They called their rebuilt village Kunios—“Kuni’s home”. These new arrivals were welcomed by the local animals. The people of Kunios coexisted with the island’s unique species. Instead of hunting the animals for meat or pelts, the people forged a special bond with the friendly animals and became companions. With the help of their animal companions for farmwork, construction and travel, the small village slowly expanded across the island.
As the people of Kunios ventured deeper into the island, they discovered something magical. A dense forest of towering trees with iridescent, heart-shaped leaves that crystallized with maturity. They named the trees Astyra Trees, believing that these were planted by the Watching Stars themselves. Their unique leaves and rapid growth reinforced the people of Kunios that they were guided by the Stars to Central Island. As a mark of respect, they forbade the cutting of Astyra Trees and the harvesting of their leaves. Walking through the forest of Astyra Trees, the people of Kunios discovered a seawater lake at the center of the island. Within this lake was a small island with a dome-like structure covered in moss, grass and wild plants. The people of Kunios considered this the heart of the island and transformed the structure into a temple dedicated to the Watching Stars.
From Village to City
As generations passed, the once humble fishing village transformed into an island-wide city. Kunios was governed by the Circle Council with Elders each representing one of the city's districts. These Elders were not elected but instead underwent a mysterious trial, a series of challenges known only to those who participated. Throughout the years, Kunios had thrived as a self-sufficient neutral island, isolated from the outside world with few outsiders. The Circle Council had welcomed groups seeking refuge due to Kunios’ neutrality, and directed them to settle in an undeveloped district. Here, the newcomers not only preserved their cultural identities but also played a crucial role in developing and shaping the district from scratch. Kunios remained a predominantly homogenous city, with the newcomers forging their own distinct culture in this remote district.
Following the collapse of Astra’s council, Kunios received an invitation from the Oversight Council to discuss a trade agreement. By signing the agreement, Kunios opened its port, welcoming not just Astra but all of Haldskyr. However, the Circle Council didn't reach a unanimous decision on this. Some Elders foresaw how opening the port could disrupt their traditional way of life and customs as it introduced new cultures and people into the city. Yet, their concerns were overruled by those who viewed the agreement as a path to growth and prosperity. Rotunni District took a strong stance against the agreement, believing that isolation was the key to preserving Kunios’ culture and heritage. As a result, this district made a drastic move to declare its independence and relocate to the remote snowy mountain peaks, far removed from Kunios's bustling trade and diplomacy. This schism left the Circle Council with only eleven districts and eleven Elders, a gap that is still visible into the present day.
Welcome to Kuinos
Welcome to Kuinos, the central island of the world of Haldskyr, in this expansion for our Haldskyr setting. Kuinos offers a fantastic opportunity for Alders and Wanderers alike, built as a slice of everything that makes Haldskyr whole: prophecy, faith, heroics, adventure, intrigue andmore! With the numerous districts of the island that Wanderers can explore, stories are abound wherever they go! Whether they choose to harken to the whispers of the shelwi in Corian, or make their tries as being pirates in Arum, Kuinos is waiting for the taking!