The Zarenian Mountains
It's not much, but it's home.
Geography
The eastern coastline boasts sheer cliffs and towering peaks, standing rank-and-file against frequent winter storms. Save for the mining town of Reasal, most land here is not inhabited and is interrupted only by the occasional farm.
An ancient Zarenian legend tells of the dragon Zalen, the Creator. The people were moulded from his scales. He raised the oceans and taught his descendants the way of agriculture. Once his children were settled, his spirit ascended to the Great Beyond. Now only his body remains as mountains shielding the western-half of the country from harsh weather. From the remnants of magic in his bones came spirits that present-day Zarenians now work with and use as conduits for harnessing Spirit Power.
Ecosystem
The flora and fauna that grow here are equally robust, but consist mostly of small vegetation or massive trees. Because of the treacherous terrain, most people are happy to assist anyone in need of help.
Climate
Fauna & Flora
Important Flora
Wounded Boxpine
The most common tree in the Zarenian mountains. Their trunks are as wide as they are tall, the hefty build keeping them upright in severe weather. Their branches twist upward to catch any meager sunlight. The tallest trees are thousands of years old. Those too young or too weak to withstand the harsh climate quickly die off. To outsiders, these trees look squished, almost alien-like. They are prized for their delicate fruits and useful needles. It is impossible to cultivate a boxpine outside of its home climate. These trees grow best at elevations several thousand meters above sea level.
To Zarenians, the boxpine is the epitome of life. They believe trees are the triad of all the basic elements: earth, air, water, and fire. Therefore, they plant boxpine seeds to celebrate one's first birthday. The child learns to care for and cultivate the sapling as they grow. When a person dies, their ashes are buried under the tree to help their soul ascend to the heavens.
Careful you don't get pricked by the Boxpine's leaf-needles. The intense itching sensation leaves one bedridden for at least a week. Zarenians are mostly immune or resistant to the toxins. Whether this is due to accidental pricks received throughout childhood or is a hereditary trait is still unknown. It is a common dare among Zarenian children to prick oneself with a boxpine needle despite the warnings.
The leaf-needles retain their rigidity in extreme conditions. They are used as hunting darts. After blanching, they can provide local anesthesia. Needles are also used for sewing and other purposes. If boiled long enough to remove the toxins, the leaf-needles can be eaten or brewed for tea.
What's called a boxpine fruit is really just a tightly bundled bunch of dry seeds. These fruits can be hammered apart with a rock and eaten raw. It is usually grinded into paste and used as flour. Its most important feature its relative lack of moisture. The fruit stores well and rarely rots. Zarenians rely on their storage when harsh weather make it difficult to gather or hunt.
Zarenian Potato
It's a potato. People needta eat. 'Nough said.Natural Resources
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