Post by Trippy Hare on Oct 16, 2008 18:08:14 GMT -5
A small island, Anfarlaine, lies just 36 miles west of Matavia, effectively serving as a halfway point to and from the island. At little more than 17 square miles, Anfarlaine is too small for permanent settlement, and its high level of volcanic activity would make attempting so dangerous. However, its mid-point location makes it the only real means of contact between the mainland and Matavia. Even Avians cannot fly the 70 miles out to Matavia, making Anfarlaine the sole channel through which goods come to or from the island.
Though small and highly volcanic, Anfarlaine does boast a sizable port, and a series of Avian roosts. This serves as a resting place for Avian scouts coming to or from Matavia, as well as a port of entry for the exchange of various goods, including Mithril. Since Anfarlaine is too small and unpredictable to place any stable military presence, it remains a "free trade" hub. There are no permanent residents on the island, thus there is no need for any sort of governing body. Any merchants wishing to acquire Mithril can only do so on the good graces of Avian traders, often at exorbitant prices. This gives the Wings of Ros exclusive, semi-royal treatment, until such time as the geographic isolation of Matavia's terrain can be overcome.
Though small and highly volcanic, Anfarlaine does boast a sizable port, and a series of Avian roosts. This serves as a resting place for Avian scouts coming to or from Matavia, as well as a port of entry for the exchange of various goods, including Mithril. Since Anfarlaine is too small and unpredictable to place any stable military presence, it remains a "free trade" hub. There are no permanent residents on the island, thus there is no need for any sort of governing body. Any merchants wishing to acquire Mithril can only do so on the good graces of Avian traders, often at exorbitant prices. This gives the Wings of Ros exclusive, semi-royal treatment, until such time as the geographic isolation of Matavia's terrain can be overcome.