Castinis (Ka-stih-nis)
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Geography
Castinis is a region characterized by both beauty and terror. From arid, uninhabitable deserts to savannahs lush with grasslands and wildlife, the country has more diversity in its biomes than foreigners tend to realize. The northern regions of Castinis are the deadliest. Dry desert stretches for miles, forming a natural barrier to the neighboring nations. Only traders knowledgeable in safe transport dare attempt the journey. The tall dunes are interrupted by a series of jagged mountainous clusters that serve as helpful landmarks during travel. Central Castinis is home to a grassland savannah that is dotted with short, dense trees that are unique to the region. It is the flattest area in the country and of the lowest elevation. The few rivers that cut through the land attract a majority of the country’s population, and all the major cities have been founded around them. Southern Castinis is classified as a dry forest. A large series of mountains guard the borders, covered in squat trees that are able to withstand infrequent rainfall. At the feet of the mountains are a series of shallow lakes that attract a large variety of wildlife, both predators and prey.
Ecosystem
Northern Castinis, the vast desert, is home to few animals and vegetation that can survive it. Deep burrowing insects and scorpions can be found throughout, along with wild camels who feed off of sparse plantlife. On the outer regions of the desert wild cats and wolves can be found. Dahlra, a rare desert flower native to Castinis, can be found among the shrubs and its discovery is believed to deliver divine luck. At night these flowers glow pale blue and seem to move and react to the presence of others. These plants are observed by the locals and it is considered a criminal act to disturb them. Central Castinis has a more diverse cast to offer, featuring birds of prey, trees, and wild grasses. Goats, gazelles, and foxes can be found roaming the plains, often congregating at watering holes and riversides. The predator of these grasslands, the Castinian Leopard, is a ferocious animal that is larger and quicker than its regional counterparts. In Southern Castinis, the trees are far more dense and contain a wide selection of exotically colored flowers, many of which are used in deadly poisons. Fish, frogs, an assortment of birds, and monkeys can be found here.
Localized Phenomena
In the desert, sand storms are the most feared event to come across for a traveler. With the proper preparation and protection, it can be safely resisted. Castinian traders who go along the desert route often have carts that are specifically lined with canvas that will not allow sand to break through easily, along with multilayered cloth masks that can help reduce the frequency of sand sickness. The savanna is victim to thunderstorms that are frequent in the rainy season. Long draughts followed by widespread grass fires are also a threat to the environment. The southern forested regions can be hit by massive floods after a long period of no precipitation, causing major flooding and destruction.
Climate
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Natural Resources
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History
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Tourism
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Type
Territory
Location under
Owner/Ruler
Owning Organization
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