Far Payit

The Far Payit Lands were a heavily forested jungle region of Maztica, occupying the peninsula on the eastern side of Maztica, directly south of Payit. The sea between the peninsula and the rest of the continent was called the Sea of Azul.

The region was covered with steamy, leaf-shrouded rainforests, some covering swamps or low mountains, sometimes interrupted by patches of farmed land or the ruins of ancient cities and temples.

Far Payit was primarily occupied by humans, called Itzas, who spoke the Payit language and lived mostly in small villages scattered around the jungles. They did have two great cities, Tulom-Itza, from which they take their name, and Maxal. In addition, villages of halflings were said to live in the deepest parts of the jungle.

History
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Society
The Itzas once had one of the greatest nations on Maztica, and retained much of their culture even during the decline of their population. They had an inherently peaceful culture, and abhorred violence. They did not practice human sacrifice or slavery, unlike the warlike Nexala. Rulership was very informal among the Itzas: in a village, an honored warrior, wise man, or priest would be designated the headman, and would then have the responsibilities of dealing with outsiders and settling internal disputes. Rulership in the cities worked much the same way, with a warrior, sage, or priest winning respect from others for his wisdom and becoming leader by default.

The Itza people enjoyed a good deal of freedom in their lives, and were one of the few peoples in Maztica to allow women in positions of authority. They also had a strong tradition of knowledge, especially in regards to astronomy. However, they have a poor tradition of fighting, and have few warriors among them. Despite this, they have never been conquered.

The Itzas worship the Maztican pantheon, honoring Qotal the most. Some worship the elder god Kakul, as well. Itzas are accomplished artisans and made many beautiful works of art over the years. They especially like bright colors.

Economy
Villages are largely self-sufficient, growing crops such as coconuts, citrus, mango, and other fruits. Cities grow most of their own food in garden plots, but will trade with villagers. Each city has a market square for trading with both villagers and outsiders. The villagers may bring items such as rubber, gold, and jade, while foreign traders primarily bring obsidian, to exchange for the brightly colored feathers that can only be found in the jungles of Far Payit.