Welcome to Gloomwater isle, traveler. Will you like to hear the tales of this little island?
Twenty five years ago this part was still a no man's land. Strange darkness and violent storms shrouded this isle; no sailors dare to thread their steps here. Until we, once claim to be among the bravest explorer, attempt to sail across the storm. We, were defeated. Still, we manage to reach shore, but many of our friends and fellow sailors, perish into the darkness and cold sea. Captain Qratus, fell ill shortly. We were in no condition to set sail out of the storm and darkness, stay was the best option we have.
Heavy rains and deep darkness continue shrouding us, it was treacherous to even march a step on this unexplored wild jungle. Exploring the isle uncovered mysteries of this strange weather. Ruins and altar were found. None of us were able to decipher those ancient inscriptions carved on the altar. Yet, many of us had common dreams. Dreams of a beautiful Goddess, demanding sacrifice, if we are to calm the storm. I shall not tell you, what we have done... It is best kept within our self, and let it die along with time.
The altar, holds mysterious power. None of us were able to tap a notch of it. The Goddess, calls for the gifted one, able to use its power to travel to places beyond this isle. To where, we do not know. Cruel as she was, yet we continue to worship her for the sake of this calm. Do we fear her? Maybe this is our destiny...
Several years passed, more explorers stumble on us after the storm finally settled. Yet the darkness continues... Since then this isle became outpost for travelers and explorers alike, to further their exploration in this part of the ocean. Tales of a prison land filled with evil creatures, Wraeclast the name, not too far from this isle. Often we rescue prisoners, exiled to Wraeclast, left to die in the cold sea. Some let go their breath soon after, some continue their journey. For vengeance or to seek answer.
Our captain never healed from his strange illness. Was he cursed, by the Goddess? See the statue over the alley there? That's where he died, fell into the crypt. Maybe it was his choice to end his suffering. He still sleeps there, no one dares to thread a step into the crypt to retrieve his body. Stories of strange creatures lurking underneath, eager to rip our soul apart. Piles of bones occasionally appear at the dark back alley, where the junkyard located. Amulet of the captain, has been uncovered within the pile... God knows what horror crawls out from within the crypt. Yet we were safe all these years settle here, never see any evil creature with our own eyes. Maybe the Goddess protecting us? But, for what?
More explorers rushed this isle in curiosity of the ruins. One red haired, set her place at the platform. As if she never feared what's underneath... Wealthy she is, offering funds and resources to build a better life on this island. She is eager to explore further into the crypt, hiring explorers with hansom rewards. Yet after a few tries she still gets nowhere. She better off watch her steps, not gotten her lovely face eaten.
There isn't much happening on this island, simple life. Occasionally we throw feasts, or travelers passing by offering some entertainment. Trades, nature harvest for tools and resources. Curious bunch, from folks to the riches, passing by this part seeking knowledge or fortune. At the very least, now this isle becomes a lot more lively than decades ago. There are a few brave explorers, people says they frequently travels to Wraeclast in seeking for treasures, miracles... I say, they will only found death awaits.
Shh, it's time for you to continue your own journey, traveler. He's coming...
