Ruler: Council of Warlords
Government: Independent oligarchy controlled by a council of powerful military leaders; all warlords must be from the half-elf majority and each controls a portion of the island nation through might of arms or treachery
Rule of Law: Neutral Evil. Known as a self-centered society with some written laws which are executed freely and without remorse. In such a land, the end always justifies the means and if one has to break a few laws to achieve a goal, that is acceptible. Much of the population follows the 'every man for himself' principle, bribes are very common and alligiances are based on power and money.
Capital: None
Major Towns: Draken City (pop. 9,300), Kradzul (pop. 4,100)
Population: 140,000- Half-elf 40%, human 30% (ZJs), elf 20% (savage 80%, coast 20%), orc 7%, goblin 2%, other 1%
Major Religions: Jocasta, Shiran, Kharon, Mordagh, Jaro, Johvi, Zhinda, Sheolba, Orc pantheon
Major Resources: Rare woods, spices, gems
Military: 8,000 (includes mainly light infantry as well as a small naval force of 5 warships)
Allies: None
Enemies: Anubia, Shafaria, Shingon
Coinage: Standard common
The Draken Isles are a hostile volcanic island chain located in the Cerulean Sea. It is well-known as a dark spot on the face of Hyerune for it is a place of savagery, poverty, debauchery and hopelessness. The region is dominated by several clans of half-elves, a result of ages of intermingling between piratical humans of the coastlands and the savage elves of the deep jungles. Most of the population is chaotic and prone to fits of rage and violence. War is popular pastime to say the least. The island is has a tropical climate and is hot year round with plenty of rainfall. The central island regions are covered by highlands and thick jungle.
Control of the islands rest in the hands of the Council of Warlords, powerful half-elves who control major communities and towns throughout the island chain. Each territory is autonomous but with a very low level of lawfulness. Control is maintained through force and fear. Several times throughout the year, the Warlords gather at council to decide on policies that would be mutually beneficial to all or to plan raids or organize slaving parties. During these council sessions, intrigue is at an all-time high and numerous spies can be found behind almost every corner. Many of the warlords rely on "doubles" who act as decoys to flush out any potential threats. The current roster of warlords includes Erevan Deathcryer (NE male half-elf, Ftr 11), Remmelas Backbiter (CE male half-elf, Ftr 3/Rog 6/Asn 2), Celendil Hatemonger (NE female half-elf, Sor 10), Mandecil Helbringer (CE male half-elf, Brb 9) and Dinathiel Wormblade (CN female half-elf, Sor 7/Rog 3).
The Draken Isles are also home to the Obsidian Order, a martial order of Blackguards headquartered in Draken City. The order is believed to be on the payroll of the Warlords. What these sinister beings are used for is unknown but you can bet it is not for the betterment of manking.
Rumors: Recently, a new power player has emerged in the form of Galtharion Leafshadow, a savage elf druid of Jaro, the Lord of Beasts. Galtharion had made it known that he claims the entire main island for the savage elves and wishes to drive all others into the sea. The druid and his followers have been engaging in guerrilla tactics and various acts of sabotage. Thus far, the forces of the Warlords have been unsuccessful in their attempts to hunt down this elusive foe.