Far Mundalodem

Far Mundalodem, also known as Edarlas or Zephonion in various dialects, forms the western part of the greater Mundalodem region, nestled in the heart of the Namorian Continent. Far from the bustling lands of Namoria, it stretches towards the western horizon, melding into the rugged, untamed wilderness of the Acathi Peninsula. Far Mundalodem's diverse landscapes range from fertile plains and rolling hills in the south to the awe-inspiring, rugged terrain of the northern Altair Mountains. This rich tapestry of terrains, coupled with its historical and cultural depth, make Far Mundalodem a region of captivating beauty and intrigue.

Contents

Geography

Far Mundalodem's geography is a mesmerizing mix of high mountains, vast plains, fertile valleys, and sparkling rivers. The region is largely framed by the imposing Altair Mountains in the north and gently undulating hills to the south. The mountains, known for their jagged peaks and treacherous passes, act as a natural barrier against the harsh northern winds and help regulate the region's climate.
Descending southward from the mountains, the landscape gradually transitions from rocky terrain to fertile, green plains crisscrossed by numerous rivers and streams. The rivers, sourced from the mountain glaciers, breathe life into Far Mundalodem's valleys, supporting a vast array of flora and fauna and making them ideal for agriculture. Further south, as the land begins to undulate into gently rolling hills, the landscape becomes dotted with large, tranquil lakes, providing a picturesque contrast to the mountains' starkness.

Ecosystem

Far Mundalodem is renowned for its diverse and vibrant ecosystem, which varies from the alpine tundra of the Altair Mountains to the lush deciduous forests and fertile grasslands in the south. The mountains, known for their stark yet captivating beauty, are home to hardy species of flora like the Snowpine and fauna like the rugged Altair Goat and the elusive Snow Leopard.
As one descends from the mountains, the terrain transitions to a mixed woodland region where pine, oak, and maple trees dominate, providing shelter to diverse wildlife such as the Mundal Bear, red foxes, and myriad bird species. The numerous rivers and streams support aquatic life, including several species of freshwater fish.
The southern grasslands and valleys, fed by the rivers and blessed with fertile soil, are blanketed in a myriad of wildflowers during the spring and support several species of grazing animals such as the Namorian antelope, grassland hare, and numerous species of birds, including the rare and beautiful Goldfinch.

Ecosystem Cycles

The ecosystem cycles of Far Mundalodem largely follow the seasons. The spring season sees a burst of life as the snow melts in the mountains, feeding the rivers and streams that irrigate the valleys and plains. This period is marked by a bloom of wildflowers in the grasslands and new growth in the forests, supporting an abundance of wildlife.
Summer sees a thriving ecosystem, with plenty of food for the diverse animal species. This is also the mating season for many animals, leading to a surge in population by late summer. Autumn sees a slowing of activity as plants begin to shed their leaves and animals prepare for the coming winter.
Winter in Far Mundalodem is harsh, especially in the mountains. Many animals hibernate or migrate south to escape the cold. The region then enters a state of dormancy, waiting for the arrival of spring to bring life once again.

Localized Phenomena

The Fireweed Bloom - An annual spectacle that fascinates locals and visitors alike is the "Fireweed Bloom." During the short, intense summer season, the grasslands of Far Mundalodem transform into a sea of brilliant red as millions of Fireweed flowers (Ignis Flora) bloom in unison. This burst of vibrant red against the backdrop of the lush green plains and snow-capped mountains paints an extraordinary landscape, making it a celebrated event, often associated with local festivals and rituals. The Fireweed Bloom, besides being a visual spectacle, is also an important marker of the ecological cycle, signaling the arrival of various migratory bird species and the beginning of the harvesting season.

Climate

The climate in Far Mundalodem is largely temperate, marked by warm, rainy summers and cold, snowy winters. Due to the geographical variations, the climate changes significantly from the northern mountains to the southern grasslands. The Altair Mountains experience heavy snowfall during winters and short, cool summers. These mountains also impact the overall climate of the region by acting as a barrier to the cold northern winds.
The valleys and plains experience moderate rainfall throughout the year, with mild, warm summers and chilly but not extremely cold winters. The southern hills, closer to the Middle Sea, enjoy a slightly warmer and more Mediterranean-like climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Overall, the climate of Far Mundalodem supports its diverse ecosystem, contributing to the region's stunning natural beauty and abundance of life.

Fauna & Flora

Flora

• Lucentia Altairia - A rare bioluminescent moss native to the Altair foothills, responsible for the enchanting "Sapphire Glow" phenomenon.
• Ignis Flora (Fireweed) - This vibrant red plant that blooms enmasse during the summer months, transforming the landscape into a fiery red spectacle.
• Mundal Pine - Found primarily in the northern regions near the Altair Mountains, these sturdy trees are adapted to the cold, high-altitude conditions, and their wood is highly valued for construction.
• Mundal Grain - A hardy grain crop adapted to the region's variable climate, it forms a staple part of the local diet and is occasionally traded with neighbouring regions.

Fauna

• Altairan Mountain Goat - Adapted to the steep, rugged terrain of the Altair Mountains, these agile creatures are a source of meat, milk, and wool for the local populace.
• Transaltair Lynx - A large predatory cat found in the northern highlands, the Lynx plays a crucial role in controlling the population of smaller prey species.
• Plains Skimmer - A migratory bird species that visit the region during the Fireweed Bloom, the Plains Skimmer is a crucial pollinator and signals the start of the harvesting season.

Natural Resources

• Forests - The vast forests of the Altair foothills are a major source of timber. The wood of the Transaltair Pine is particularly valued for its strength and durability.
• Minerals - The Altair Mountains are known to harbour significant mineral deposits, including iron, copper, and precious stones. However, these resources are yet to be fully exploited due to the area's remote location and challenging terrain.
• Agriculture - The fertile plains of Far Mundalodem produce a variety of crops, including the staple Mundal Grain. Though much of the harvest is consumed locally, surplus grains occasionally find their way to the markets of the Acathi Peninsula and Western Namoria.
• Livestock - The Altairan Mountain Goat, among other livestock species, contribute to the local economy through the provision of meat, milk, wool, and as beasts of burden.
• Medicinal Plants - The region is rich in a variety of medicinal plants, known to the local healers, but largely unknown to the outside world. These plants have potential commercial value and could be a significant future resource.

History

• The Age of Rediscovery (1378-1312 BRE) - Around 1378 BRE, Far Mundalodem had begun to recover from the devastating climate disaster. Communities slowly started to rebuild, initially focusing on survival but gradually re-establishing trade networks and rekindling old alliances. Amidst this renaissance, a group of explorers from various tribes discovered a chain of caves in the Altair Mountains in 1312 BRE. Inside these caves, they found ancient inscriptions and artwork, dating back to times before the cataclysm. The discovery stirred a sense of unity and collective identity among the tribes and led to the formation of the "Cave Council" - a unified body of representatives from different tribes meant to resolve conflicts and promote cooperation.
• The Era of Unification (1311-1265 BRE) - The formation of the Cave Council ushered in a period of relative peace and cooperation among tribes. Decisions were made collectively, disputes were resolved peacefully, and a system of trade and barter flourished. However, despite the relative unity, a significant event took place in 1265 BRE. A great fire ravaged the Altair caves, destroying much of the ancient inscriptions and artworks. This unfortunate event led to the dissolution of the Cave Council and the re-emergence of tribal divisions.
• The Inter-Tribal Wars (1264-1233 BRE) - The dissolution of the Cave Council led to a power vacuum in Far Mundalodem. Many tribes sought to fill this void, which sparked a series of inter-tribal wars. The period from 1264 to 1233 BRE became known as the "Era of the Hundred Wars". However, this time of strife was not without its silver lining. Many tribes during this period began to solidify their territories, build fortifications, and adopt a more centralized form of leadership. This process ultimately set the stage for the later unification efforts and the resistance against the Hanaan invasions.
• The Restoration Years (1232-922 BRE) - The first two centuries following the "Great Ceasefire" saw a period of rebuilding and restoration. Tribes focused on restoring their cities, rekindling old traditions, and recovering from the damages of the past. This was a period of slow but steady progress, as the population began to recover, and agricultural practices improved, thanks to new farming techniques. In 922 BRE, a unique development occurred - the invention of the plough. This greatly increased the efficiency of farming, enabling tribes to cultivate larger areas and sustain more significant populations. The surplus of food led to a population boom and set the stage for a golden age.
• The Age of Enlightenment (921-701 BRE) - The introduction of the ploough sparked a period of prosperity and cultural flourishing. This era, known as the Age of Enlightenment, witnessed rapid advances in science, art, and philosophy. In 809 BRE, the first formal school was established in the city of Zarnai, focusing on teaching the sciences, mathematics, philosophy, and the arts. However, this era was not without its challenges. Around 701 BRE, a disease outbreak, known as the "Red Plague", hit Far Mundalodem, causing significant population decline.
• The Plague Years and the Dark Ages (700-501 BRE) - The outbreak of the "Red Plague" brought the Age of Enlightenment to a halt. The plague lasted for several decades and led to a significant population decline. Despite the hardship, the tribes managed to maintain their unity and avoided any major conflict during this time. Following the plague years, Far Mundalodem descended into what is now known as the Dark Ages. This period, from 600 to 501 BRE, was marked by a regression in cultural and scientific advancements. Despite the challenging circumstances, the unity of the tribes held strong, and the truce remained intact.
• The Second Age of Enlightenment (500-123 BRE) - As Far Mundalodem recovered from the Dark Ages, it once again entered a period of enlightenment. The second Age of Enlightenment saw a resurgence of cultural and scientific advancements. Notably, in 347 BRE, a written script was developed. This allowed for the recording of history and knowledge, leading to an era of intellectualism and literary growth. It was during this time that the first histories of Far Mundalodem were penned. However, by 123 BRE, ominous signs of a changing climate began to appear. The tribes of Far Mundalodem, still recovering from past hardships and not yet fully ready to handle a new crisis, were about to face the onset of the Hanaan invasions.
• The First Hanaan Incursions (122-72 BRE) - With the increasing signs of climatic change, the feared Hanaan started making incursions into Mundalodem. However, these initial invasions were largely opportunistic, more akin to large-scale raids rather than an organized military conquest. They swept through Mundalodem on their way to the richer lands of Acathi and Namoria, leaving a trail of destruction but not permanent occupation. Despite their destructive impact, these invasions also introduced new cultural and technological elements into Mundalodem, with Hanaan crafts, weapons, and artifacts found throughout the region.
• The Second and Third Hanaan Invasions (72-9 BRE) - Following a brief period of respite, a second wave of Hanaan invasions commenced in 72 BRE, more organized and devastating than the first. This time, the Hanaan bypassed much of Mundalodem, focusing their efforts on the affluent city of Namor. Despite the severity of the invasion, the resolute Mundalodem tribes held their ground, aligning with the Hanaan in a bid for survival. The climax of this invasion occurred in 9 BRE, when the Hanaan's assault on Namor faltered at the newly constructed outer walls of the city. This devastating defeat marked the end of the Hanaan invasions, leading to the formation of the Namorian Republic in 1 RE.
• The Early Namorian Era (1 RE - 80 RE) - The early years of the Namorian Republic saw a focus on exacting vengeance on the Hanaan and their allies, resulting in brutal campaigns across Mundalodem. Although the region was initially overlooked as a vital area of conquest due to its significantly decreased population, by 50 RE, the Namorians had made significant inroads into Near Mundalodem. 
• The Subjugation of Mundalodem (80 - 202 RE) - Starting in 80 RE, the Namorians initiated a more structured approach to conquest, launching an invasion to fully subjugate Near Mundalodem. Despite localized conflicts and the resistance of local tribes, by 122 RE, Near Mundalodem was declared a governorate of the Namorian Republic. The conquest of Far Mundalodem began in earnest around 113 RE and was prematurely declared complete by 127 RE. Despite various revolts and considerations of abandoning the area, the strategic brilliance of a Namorian general led to a series of crushing victories, quelling the major resistance.
• The Namorian Era (202 RE - Present) - By 202 RE, the establishment of a governorate over Far Mundalodem was confirmed, although occasional skirmishes and minor revolts continued. The locals largely accepted Namorian rule, recognizing the cultural, technological, and economic benefits it brought. Although Far Mundalodem was remote and not a major hub, it became an integral part of the Namorian Republic, a testament to its endurance and the tenacity of its people.

Type

Region

Location under

Mundalodem

Included Organizations

• Governorate of Far Mundalodem
• Wardens of the Far Reaches

Ruling/Owning Rank

Governor of Far Mundalodem

Owning Organization

Governorate of Far Mundalodem

Related Ethnicities

• Acamarin
• Hanaan-Mundal
• Mundalodin
• Namor-Mundal

Related Historical Events

• 202 RE
  Integration of Governorate of Far Mundalodem