Tarsis

Lore & Background

In the history of the Riftwar universe, Tarsis was a neutral trade city in the far north of the continent of Triagia, near the Bitter Sea. Its isolation allowed it to maintain a passive and minor neutrality, often serving as a quiet meeting point for merchants and travelers. Unlike the magical centers of Krondor or the political machinations of the Kingdom, Tarsis did not wield secret influence through trade networks. Its resilience against external conquest stemmed from its remote location and harsh northern climate, making it a prize that few dared to take without heavy cost.

Reader's Guide

Tarsis lies far south of the main Midkemian kingdoms, separated by vast oceans and treacherous waters. Its climate ranges from humid coastal jungles to arid interior highlands, fostering unique flora unknown in Krondor or Sethanon. Culturally, Tarsis is renowned for its ancient magical traditions, predating the Order's formation on the northern continents. This history makes it a beacon for scholars and mages seeking forbidden knowledge or lost artifacts from the First Age.

Strategically, during the Riftwar conflicts, Tarsis remained largely neutral but served as a crucial trade hub connecting Midkemia to distant southern lands. Its ports facilitated the flow of exotic goods and magical reagents essential for sustaining armies in the north. However, its distance also offered sanctuary for those fleeing the political turmoil of Malloreon or Krondor. As the war progressed, Tarsis's stability became a coveted prize, with various factions vying to secure alliances there to bolster their resources against the Kelewan threat.