“The heartlands were named as such, as they pumped life into the rest of the continent. They were the center for organization, for trade, for safety. The lands here diverse, with territory broken up into the three major remaining Kingdoms that survived the chaos of a the third era. Lysandris, the central kingdom, boasted fields, lovely woodlands, and great sprawling flower gardens and farms. They also boasts a flourishing trade with all the other regions, controlling the main roads between the Greatsands and Tiger’s Maw. They also linked the two other Kingdoms of the region together, allowing their territory to flourish. To their north, the Kingdom of Mystendar controlled the rolling hills and northern lakes. Mystendar is the primary provider of ores, gems and metals to the region, with their access to the Myst Peaks, Volantaris and Crimson Mount providing them with a wealth of resources to mine. Their connections with the Elves, Dwarves and Avalrys also allowed for cultural knowledge sharing, drawing in scholars from all areas. Finally, the Kingdom of Sesskarr which occupied the southern stretches of Lyr’andor, and possibly the largest sum of land, has a mix of fields and hills that make up its territory. The roads in Sesskarr are less well developed than those in the other two Kingdoms, as most trade travels northward, avoiding some of the smaller villages and towns, as it seeks Lysandris. Sesskarr thrives on farming and mercenary work, making them a home for thrillseekers and adventurers from all across the land.
Between these three Kingdoms, a balance had been struck at the end of the third era. War died down, the need for soldiers decreased. When the soldiers left, the beasts and monsters moved in to the many forts, keeps, and outposts that the war had forgotten. While the city and towns were well defended, the villages were often left to fend for themselves. This is where the guild culture of Lyr’andor developed, as mercenaries, defenders, and bounty hunters organized themselves into small groups to help protect the land the soldiers no longer defended. Now, in the early years of the fourth era, each town has its own guild, and sometimes, a pair of guilds, that protect regions and compete for contracts.
The Heartlands are a fine place to live, to set up a business, to explore, or to become an adventurer. No matter your vocation, the Heartlands will offer you a home.”
– Adranis Al’Avris
Fields of Prosperity – A Guide to the Lyr’andor Heartlands
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