Isle of the Bond

The Isle of the Bond is a large island nested off the southern coast of the continent. It is difficult to reach, flanked on by Spire Sound at its northwestern coast and turbulent waters of the ocean on its southern coast. Only sailors with expert knowledge of the tides and quick, easily maneuverable vessels can navigate through the jagged obstacles and the rushing waters.

The northern part of the island is composed mostly of tall and jagged cliffs, natural formations that nearly match the spires of the nearby inlet. With two access points largely impassable by any significant fleet, the island has a strong tactical advantage against invasion. Any would-be invaders or raiders would likely come from the east, where a significant portion of watchtowers and defenses is stationed and on alert. These measures are diligently maintained, though outside the occasional and feeble attempt by pirates lurking in Spire Sound, they haven't been truly tested in decades.

The island is scarce with resources and resistant to crops. The pockets of viable farmland are treasured, protected and strictly controlled. The isle's sparse woods are seldom used for logging, making lumber one the most desired imports. Consequently, construction on the isle relies mostly on stonework, which places high value and demand on skilled masons.

Animal Experts
While the Isle is known for its exquisite stone and mineral crafts, its true power lies in their mastery of the wild.

Over the course of its history, the people of the Isle have become experts of animal training. Creatures small and large, mundane and magical, are tamed, bred and trained to serve as fiercely loyal companions, formidable foes in battle and tireless beasts of burden.

On the mainland, a Bond animal is highly prized, each a rare and lucrative export for the Isle. The practice of trading these animals is just as rare. Potential buyers are thoroughly vetted for a consistent source of income that would meet the dietary and other needs specific to the animal, along with favorable living conditions. Would be owners are also screened for their personality. The Isle rejects those who cannot handle the animal's energy without being abusive. In order to get a clear picture of the buyer, such a person must make a journey to the Isle, regardless of their standing on the mainland. Many a Baron, Regent and Arae have brought back stories and impressions after stepping foot on its shores. If these visits do not provide a sufficient understanding of a prospective owner, the Isle sometimes goes as far as sending one of its Bonded to the mainland to scout and spy on the prospect.

The balance created during training is what makes a Bond animal special and the wrong personality fit would unravel that balance. These conditions are in place to protect the animal as much as the Isle's reputation.

Animals that die on the Isle are treated with reverence and a ritual funeral. Those that die on the mainland are requested to be brought back to the isle, which covers the expenses for such a journey.

Bonded
Among the Isle's artisans and expert animal trainers, there are the Bonded, masters who have formed a spiritual connection with a single beast that transcends what others can achieve through the best of training. The bond shared between such Bonded and their companion allows both to share one another's thoughts and natural abilities.

Bonded - A Homebrew Class

Overview
Population: Approximately 100,000.

Human - 75%

Halfling - 5%

Tiefling - 5%

Half-Elf - 5%

Dwarf - 5%

Elf - 3%

Dragonborn - 1%

Others - 1% Arae: Bonded

Notables: Kai Windwalker (ape master), Ash Brightglade (wolf master) Food: Limited livestock and agriculture, seafood, game

Exports: Stonework, seafood, trained animals

Imports: Lumber, oil, textiles Religion: Renere (Major), Vereo (Minor), Obryn (Minor)

People
Baron: Mistral "The Mistress" (female, 40s, raptor master)

Regent: Tielara "The Night" (female, 30s, panther master)

Places
Holds:

Watchtowers: