The Wastes

The scourge of the One Land and the source of its qi. 

from High Plains Samurai: Legends

Life in the One Land revolves around the Wastes; not only as the heart of the continent but as a blight on the whole world. Sand storms created by its slicing winds hurdle past its borders without warning, earthquakes from shifting mountains rumble in all directions, and an unseen ooze of corruption leaks out into the dried up riverbeds winding across the land. There is not a day that goes by without the Wastes, without reason, extending its reach and bringing misery to thousands.

Tainted by the anger of Chaos, this place is in a state of constant change. Even the land does not remain the same for long, creating a maze for those who do not wish to be found. Perhaps this is why it appeals to those who seek refuge from the anger of warlords or freedom from their oppression, even if the chances of death increase exponentially. While the whispers of city dwellers believe only the crazed and maniacal would call this place home, there can be more honour found here than most other places today.

Those who call it home have adapted to the harshness of it all. And what hardships they must endure: An eternal blasting sun that scorches the skin within minutes, stirring up the air to create a curtain of heat that blinds a weary traveller, or perhaps a sudden storm with waves of rain and hail pelting down on anyone without shelter. Another day could bring on massive earthquakes as the rock itself rises and falls to build new monuments of stone, sometimes wiping out entire settlements in minutes. Despite it all, those they call Outcasts call this home. Nomads, devout believers in their way of life, and incredible hunters, these few lead meagre lives because they are either unwelcome or wanted for dead by one of the five warlords. Part of the Outcasts’ code is to aid all survivors and give them an opportunity to live a free life away from the oppression of the Cities.