Pelagia Archipelago (Oceanic World)

Leviathans are colossal creatures that inhabit the abyssal layers of the ocean. Their forms vary from sea serpents with armored carapaces to giant squid capable of swallowing entire ships with suction currents. They are attracted by the noise of steam engines and the vibrations of sonar on ocean routes. The blood and fat of these creatures serve as the main source of energy and lighting for Pelagia, sustaining a dangerous industry of Abyssal Hunters. When a Leviathan emerges near a floating city, the event is treated as a natural disaster, requiring the deployment of heavy harpoon batteries and electrified nets.

The Iron Armada is the largest coalition of militarized corsairs and pirates in the seas of Pelagia. Unlike common raiders, they operate with almost state-like discipline, using battleships powered by steam boilers and reinforced steel armor. They control the mandatory passage straits and charge exorbitant tolls to any merchant expedition. Their leader, Admiral Vane, is a ruthless man who lost half his body in a Leviathan attack and replaced his limbs with pressure-fit mechanical prostheses. The Armada seeks not only riches, but absolute control of the few remaining coal and ore deposits on the tiny disputed continents.

Porto-Formoso is the largest floating platform city in Pelagia, built upon a network of barges, dreadnought wrecks, and giant buoys anchored around the top of a submerged mountain. It is the only point in the ocean where diplomacy is maintained by force: corsairs, merchants, and monster hunters share the same decks and taverns without drawing blades or weapons. The city is governed by the Council of Anchors, a junta of old captains who collect taxes in fresh water and fuel. The lower docks are taken over by black markets selling maps of forbidden routes, refined leviathan oil, and relics salvaged from shipwrecks in the depths. The air constantly smells of salted fish, soot, and sea mold.