Terasil: Difference between revisions

{{Realm Infobox

|Image=[[File:Terasil - General 03.jpg|center|frameless]]

|Size=1,278,911 Square Miles

|Spirit=Oras

|Inhabitants=Orasians, Minthari

|Significance=The oldest physical realm, home to ancient societies and powerful spirits.

{{Realm Sections

|Introduction='''Terasil''' is the realm of [[Oras]], the primordial [[spirit]] of earth, and the oldest physical realm in [[Adaris]]. Created directly from the chaotic energies of [[Astram]] within the [[Primordial Void]], Terasil embodies stability, endurance, and the unyielding nature of the earth. Its landscapes are rugged and diverse, characterized by towering mountains, deep caverns, fertile valleys, and arid plains. As the birthplace of tangible elements, Terasil holds a significant place in the [[cosmology of Adaris]], shaping not only the land itself but also influencing the surrounding regions, including the [[Zanarak]] Desert through its powerful rain shadow effect.

=== Formation of Terasil ===

Terasil was the first physical realm to form in Adaris, shaped by Oras from the chaotic energies of Astram. In its earliest state, Terasil was an infinite expanse of stark, primordial land where only shadow and light existed alongside the solid earth. This vast landscape was untouched by the other elements, creating a unique environment that would serve as the foundation for all subsequent realms.

=== The Era of Isolation ===

During this time, Terasil existed in solitude, isolated from the influences of water, fire, and air. It was a land of contrasts, where light and shadow played across barren rock and soil. The [[Orasians]] emerged during this era, developing a society that reflected the eternal and unchanging nature of their environment. Their culture and civilization were built on the principles of endurance, stability, and harmony with the earth.

=== The Great Erosion ===

[[The Great Erosion]] marked a pivotal event in Terasil’s history. With the advent of water, fire, and air in Adaris, Terasil began to undergo significant changes. Rivers carved through stone, winds wore down mountains, and fire reshaped the land, gradually reducing the once-infinite expanse of Terasil to what is now known as the continent of [[Elemara]]. The core of the original realm now lies within the heart of the continent, in the modern realm of Terasil, protected by the [[Citadel Mountains]].

=== Arrival of the Other Elements ===

As water, fire, and air continued to shape the world, the societies of Terasil faced the slow but inevitable integration of these new elements. The Orasians, true to their nature, adapted gradually, integrating these forces into their way of life while maintaining their fundamental nature. This period of adaptation brought about the emergence of new landscapes and climates, diversifying Terasil and enriching its cultural heritage.

=== Mountain Ranges ===

* Citadel Mountains: The Citadel Mountains form the heart of Terasil and are considered the last bastion of the original primordial realm. These ancient, towering mountains are sacred to the Orasians, who believe them to be the birthplace of their kind. The Citadels create a natural barrier, shielding the inner realms from external influences and contributing to the rain shadow effect that defines the Zanarak Desert.

* Anvil Range: Located to the east of the Citadel Mountains, the Anvil Range is rich in minerals and metals. These mountains are heavily mined by the Minthari, who have carved extensive tunnel networks over millennia, creating a labyrinthine underworld of trade routes and hidden communities. The Anvil Range is known for its connection to craftsmanship and ancient metalworking traditions, embodying the forging spirit of Terasil.

* [[Terraces of Mist]]: Situated to the west of the Citadel Mountains, this range is known for its perpetual mist and lush, verdant landscapes. The mists are said to be a result of ancient elemental forces still at play, creating a unique ecosystem that thrives on the border between earth and water.

=== Valleys and Plains ===

* Santuary Vale: The center of Orasian Civilization. A semi-arid valley dotted with cities, towns and rock-farms.

* Emerald Valley: Once a barren stretch of rock, Emerald Valley has become fertile over time, shaped by slow geological processes and the careful cultivation of the Orasians. It represents the gradual but inevitable change that even Terasil experiences, a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the land.

* Yalta Expanse: An arid expanse on the edge of Terasil, the Yalta Expanse is a direct result of the rain shadow effect caused by the Citadel Mountains. Despite its harsh conditions, some Orasian communities thrive here, drawing strength from the earth itself.

=== Underground Networks ===

* The Deep Roads: An ancient system of tunnels carved by the Minthari, the Deep Roads serve as transportation routes and places of trade and cultural exchange. These tunnels are also home to many Earthbound [[Special:FormEdit/Realms/Spirits|Spirits]], who guard them jealously and are believed to be manifestations of the earth’s deepest energies.

* The Caverns of Echoes: Known for their unique acoustics, these caverns are used for meditation and rituals by the Orasians. The echoes are believed to be the voices of the earth, communicating with those who listen and serving as a source of spiritual guidance and wisdom.

|Climate=Terasil experiences a diverse range of climates, shaped by its mountainous terrain and deep valleys. The high-altitude regions are cold and dry, with frequent snowfall in the upper reaches. Fertile valleys provide temperate conditions with moderate rainfall, supporting dense vegetation. The arid plains, exposed to intense sunlight, see minimal precipitation and extreme temperature variations between day and night. Subterranean caverns maintain a cool, stable climate year-round, providing refuge for many of Terasil’s underground dwellers.

The realm of Terasil, governed by Oras, the [[Primordial spirit|primordial spirit]] of Earth, is characterized by its rugged terrain, including towering mountains, fertile valleys, vast underground caverns, and arid plains. The flora and fauna of this ancient land have adapted to its unique geological and elemental influences, making it home to a wide variety of resilient species deeply connected to the land itself.

|Inhabitants=Orasians: The Orasians are ancient beings formed from the energy of consciousness within the earth of Terasil. Over time, the grains of conscious earth began to coalesce, merging together to form beings with greater awareness and intelligence, the Orasians. Initially as tall as mountains, many Orasians have diminished in size over millennia due to natural erosion. However, legends speak of Orasians who have remained sheltered from the elements, preserving their immense size and power.

* Culture: The Orasians’ culture is deeply rooted in the land, valuing tradition, honor, and patience. They see themselves as the stewards and protectors of Terasil, embodying its enduring strength and stability. Their society is structured around ancient practices of stonecraft and earth [[osia]], allowing them to manipulate rock and soil. Rituals and ceremonies are slow, deliberate, and often involve communion with the earth, reflecting their deep reverence for the unchanging nature of their homeland.

Minthari: The Minthari are relatively new inhabitants of Terasil, living on the outskirts of the realm. Birthed from spirits of greed, the Minthari are driven by a strong desire to mine the earth for its precious minerals and metals. Despite their origins, they are not inherently malicious, and their culture has evolved to value community and cooperation.

* Culture: Minthari society revolves around exploration, mining, and craftsmanship. They are cautious of the deeper parts of Terasil, wary of the powerful Earthbound Spirits and the immense Orasians. Their settlements are often temporary, designed to move as needed for new mining opportunities. The Minthari have a complex relationship with the Orasians, often seeking permission to mine and trading resources in exchange.

|Notable Settlements=<noautolinks>{{See also|Cities and towns of Terasil}}</noautolinks>

* Kar-Thal: The ancient capital of Terasil, Kar-Thal is a city of stone, built into the heart of a mountain. It is a place of great power and tradition, where the [[Orasian]] elders uphold the timeless laws of their people. The city’s design reflects its inhabitants’ deep connection to the earth, with buildings carved directly from the mountain rock.

 

* [[Minthal]]: A hidden [[Minthari]] city within the [[Anvil Range]]. Minthal is renowned for its glowing crystal structures that light up the caverns. It is a center of craftsmanship and trade, especially known for its metalwork and magical artifacts.

** Notable Features: The Crystal Market, where rare minerals and crafted items are sold; The Hall of Ages, a place where Minthari elders teach the young about their long history and the unchanging ways of their people.

 

** Notable Features: The Wall of Vigilance, a massive stone barrier that protects the city from potential threats; The Earthforge, where the finest weapons and tools are crafted by the Minthari.