[pro-toe-ray-muhs]
Overview:
The Protoramus Range forms the initial section of the greater Ramus Mountain Range, creating a natural boundary along the eastern edge of the Pilliga Plains. This rugged expanse acts as a formidable barrier, casting a rain shadow over the arid plains of Pilliga and contributing to its dry climate. To the east, the range transitions into the Dusk Forest, whose shadowy slopes harbor many secrets.
Description:
The Protoramus Range is the longest stretch of the Greater Ramus Range, characterised by its towering peaks and rugged terrain. A defining feature of the range is the stark contrast in elevation between its eastern and western slopes. On the western side, the mountains rise steeply above the arid Pilliga Plains, casting them in a perpetual rain shadow. Meanwhile, the eastern slopes descend more gently into the higher-elevation lands of the Shattered Kingdoms, creating a dramatic natural divide. This unique topography shapes the ecosystems on either side, fostering dry scrublands to the west and the lush Dusk Forest to the east.
History:
The Protoramus Range serves primarily as a natural border, enclosing the Shattered Kingdoms and marking their western limits. Its towering peaks and rugged terrain have long deterred widespread settlement, limiting significant historical events in this remote region. In the early days, the dwarves, naturally drawn to mountainous terrains, ventured into the range seeking valuable minerals. However, their exploration efforts were largely unproductive; the mountains only providing limited resources, making the endeavor not worth the considerable time and effort required. Approach from the west required trekking the vast and arid Pilliga plains, while the elven inhabitants of the Dusk forest made access from the East an even greater challenge.
Significance:
The Protoramus Range serves as a natural barrier, marking the western boundary of the Shattered Kingdoms and contributing to the rain shadow effect over the Pilliga Plains, shaping the region’s arid landscape. While its lack of valuable resources limits its economic importance, the range’s rugged terrain provides a natural defense against incursions and offers sanctuary to hidden enclaves like the elusive village of Liberalia. Its slopes also form the backdrop to the Dusk Forest, further enhancing its mystique and reinforcing its role as a boundary both physical and cultural.
Notable Features:
- Rarus City: The elusive capital of Rarus, perched high on the eastern slopes, its current state, whether thriving or abandoned, remains shrouded in mystery.
- Jorgmun’s Mine: A forgotten venture into the mountain’s depths, abandoned centuries ago due to the lack of valuable resources. Now, the mine is rumored to be home to shadowy creatures and forgotten secrets.
- Liberalia: A hidden village of the Bacchin, nestled deep within the slopes. Renowned for producing some of the finest wine in Siar’Morrin, its location is fiercely guarded and known only to trusted allies..
- Wyrmwatch Summit: The highest peak in the Protoramus Range, often shrouded in clouds. Local legends speak of ancient wyverns that once roosted here, and some claim their descendants can still be seen circling the skies on rare occasions.
Local Legends or Stories:
As is typical of abandoned mines, legends speak of the lost treasures that lay forgotten in the depths of Jorgmun’s Mine. Yet these treasures and artifacts have not been left unguarded, as legend speaks of a colossal stone guardian left behind by the dwarves. Animated by ancient magic, the colossus is said to smite any foolish enough to try steal from the mines.
Another tale tells of the guardians of Liberalia. According to Doulas folklore, the forest near the villages entrance is guarded by by ethereal forest spirits, ancient beings who confuse and disorient any would-be trespassers. It is whispered that those who venture too close to Liberalia are led astray by ghostly figures, lured into the forest’s heart, never to return.
Visitors’ Experience:
The Protoramus Range is vast and varied, but any visitor should be prepared for the inherent challenges of navigating its rugged terrain. Towering peaks, steep cliffs, and unpredictable weather create a harsh and unforgiving environment. The higher elevations are cold and windswept, while dense mist frequently blankets the slopes. Trails, where they exist, are treacherous and not for the faint of heart. Travelers should be well-equipped and wary of both natural dangers and the region’s reputation for hiding secrets best left undisturbed.