Birds' Nursery
The barren lands of the Birds' Nursery lie on the border between the former angelic and elven territories. While possible to travel through, the Nursery is extremely low on resources and thus was never settled by either side. During past wars, armies with sufficient supplies could cross at great risk to themselves. This was seen as a desperate move and 'going to the nursery' has become a colloquial saying meaning 'to pass the point of no return' or 'to make an irreversible decision'.
Geography
Stretching out along the east-west axis of the map, the Birds' Nursery is approximately fifty kilometers long by 100 kilometers wide. On the far western end is an active volcano that is continuously, slowly leaking lava. The last violent eruption was millennia ago and most consider the land form to be 'actively inactive'.
There is very little water across the expanse, with only small pocket oases. These change location often between the heat and scattered rainfall, never filling in the exact same way twice. Only one oasis, on the far northern side, is consistent, although the water levels vary dramatically depending on the time of year. Relying on finding water is considered foolish.
Localized Phenomena
The name 'Birds' Nursery' comes from the mating habits of the Ledéptebra. This species of long flying bird-like creatures mates in inhospitable places and while one of the pair guards the nest, the other seeks out food and water from far flung areas. Biologists theorize that this is done in order to significantly decrease the threat of the young become another animal's prey.
Among all possible land forms on the continent, the Birds' Nursery is the most widely used by the ledéptebra. During mating season, several hundred birds can be seen vying for the attention of potential mates. These then separate into pairs once partners have been decided.
Despite the harsh conditions, several biologists travel to the Nursery every year to study the mating rituals.
Type
Salt flat
Included Locations
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