The Island of Tharnok lies off the western coast of Istara, a secluded and rugged land that has been molded by the forces of nature and the determination of its inhabitants. Tharnok is a small island, spanning approximately 50 miles from north to south and 35 miles from east to west, yet it boasts a diverse landscape that has come to define the lives of its inhabitants.

The western coast of Tharnok, where Loth Keep stands watch, is dominated by a series of tall, jagged cliffs that rise sharply from the sea. These natural defenses have provided the Half-Orcs of Loth Keep with a secure stronghold and have deterred invaders for centuries. Several secluded coves are scattered along this coast, offering sheltered harbors for the Half-Orcs' sturdy vessels.

In contrast, the eastern coast of Tharnok slopes gently down to the sea, revealing pristine beaches and a fertile coastal plain. The Half-Orcs have established a handful of settlements here, where they practice agriculture and fishing, providing for their communities and the warriors of Loth Keep. The settlements are well-fortified, reflecting the martial spirit of the island's inhabitants, and a strong sense of unity binds the communities together.

The interior of Tharnok is dominated by dense forests, untamed wildlands, and a single imposing mountain. The forests, filled with ancient trees and teeming with wildlife, are considered sacred by the Half-Orcs, who believe the spirits of their ancestors reside there. They harvest the forest's resources carefully and sustainably, ensuring that the balance of nature is preserved.

The mountain, known as Agyun's Peak, is the highest point on the island and is said to be a place of power. Legend has it that Agyun himself once visited the island and imbued the mountain with his strength. The Half-Orcs revere the mountain, and an annual pilgrimage to its summit is undertaken by the strongest warriors of Loth Keep, seeking to honor Agyun and gain his blessings.

Beneath the surface of Tharnok, a vast network of underground caverns and dungeons known as Kaarms Hoard stretches out, hiding ancient treasures and secrets. The dungeons are home to the undead legions and the legendary Lich Dragon, Kaarm. One of the known entrances to these dungeons is located a couple of hours' walk from Loth Keep, hidden among the island's rocky terrain. The dungeons and their mysteries draw brave adventurers from afar, seeking to uncover the secrets and treasures within.

The Island of Tharnok, though small, is rich in natural beauty, resources, and culture. It is a land that has shaped its inhabitants and has been shaped by them in turn, giving rise to the formidable and proud Half-Orcs who call it home.

Situated on a rocky cliffside off the Western Coast, Loth Keep stands as a formidable fortress, home to a military race of Half-Orcs. The imposing stone structure, built to withstand the harshest of elements, houses a small population of fewer than 100 Half-Orcs. The architecture of Loth Keep reflects the strength and resilience of its inhabitants, with robust walls, imposing watchtowers, and intricate defensive mechanisms.

The Half-Orcs of Loth Keep are a proud and disciplined people, deeply loyal to Agyun. They were his primary fighting force during the War of Convergence, earning a reputation for their unmatched ferocity and unwavering dedication. Following the war, the population of Loth Keep grew more insular, focusing on their military traditions and further refining their combat skills.

In the shadow of the war's aftermath, many of the elders in Loth Keep harbored a growing resentment towards the High Priestess Istara. They believed that her inability to prevent the conflict contributed to the devastation their people had faced. As a result, the elders began to shun Istara's existence, passing down this sentiment to future generations. Consequently, the younger Half-Orcs of Loth Keep grew up with little knowledge or connection to the High Priestess.

Despite their isolation, the Half-Orcs of Loth Keep remain ever vigilant, patrolling their lands and protecting their people from any potential threats. The fortress serves as a symbol of their unwavering strength, echoing the spirit of Agyun and his commitment to guarding the weaker life forms in the Lands of Istara.

Located deep within the heart of a treacherous mountain range, Kaarms Hoard is a vast network of caverns filled with gold, artifacts, and ancient scrolls. It was built by Kaarm, a Black dragon who has existed since the beginning of Istara. Possessing an insatiable thirst for knowledge and wealth, Kaarm was unique among his kin, as he could gain knowledge by physically consuming it.

Over the centuries, Kaarm amassed a staggering collection of treasures, attracting the attention of explorers and fortune-seekers from all corners of Istara. However, the treacherous terrain and deadly traps that protected Kaarms Hoard deterred all but the most daring of adventurers.

Around 600 years into the age of Istara, Kaarm, nearing the end of his life, devised a dark ritual to preserve his existence. He split his soul and physical form, transforming himself into a lich dragon, ensuring that his hunger for knowledge would continue for the remaining life of the world. Kaarm currently resides within the deepest parts of Kaarms Hoard, unbeknownst to the people of Istara.

In one of the undead legion dungeons within Kaarms Hoard, ancient parchment reveals more lore about this mysterious place:

(Written in Common)

The Hoard was discovered in the early ages of Istara. Little is known about this place, save for the fact that the Legion of the Undead constructed their dungeons here, possibly due to Kaarm's presence deterring the living.

(Written in Draconic)

Dovrith ek Jivuz un skaz kelaar un skaz kelaar aglaar,

Tharik korvuk Kaarm ven thurkein kriin jun.

"Dovrith ek Jivuz vur skaz,

Zu'u thataar Jivuz vahzen.

Paal, nid vur skaz,

Ahrk Kaarm ven zeymahmaar jun sil."

Feed the Hoard the blood of those that want their blood spilled,

Then the Dragon Kaarm will acknowledge your greed.

"Feed to Hoard your blood

So that the hoard may grow.

Force, not your blood

or Kaarm will devour your soul."

These inscriptions suggest a dark pact between the Legion of the Undead and Kaarm, hinting at the depths of power and knowledge that lie within Kaarms Hoard. The Draconic writings serve as both a warning and an invitation, illustrating the dangerous nature of Kaarm and his domain. For those brave enough to seek out the ancient dragon, the journey to Kaarms Hoard promises immense riches and perilous challenges in equal measure.