Irere Mountains
| Irere Mountains | |
|---|---|
| Image |  |
| Location |  Irere Mountains in red |
| Region(s) | Orinilure |
| Climate | Cold and arid; extreme weather variations |
| Inhabitants | Oinien • Himoja |
Introduction
The Irere Mountains are the western of the two mountain ranges of Orinilure, lying west of the Orinilure Valley and facing the Orinilure Mountains across it. The range covers about 50,000 square miles and is known for its black stone. It is the territory of the Erden Monopoly, whose Oinien live in cavern cities and tunnels beneath it. The two ranges are said to have once formed a single horseshoe-shaped massif.
Geography
The Irere Mountains consist of sheer black peaks, deep caverns, and subterranean Oinien settlements. Aráinia lies to the west and Khamria to the southwest. Three rivers, the Tohol, the Petut, and the Shebal, rise on the eastern slopes and flow into the Orinilure Valley.
Orinilure Valley and isolation
The Orinilure Valley divides the Oinien of the Irere Mountains from those of the Orinilure Mountains. Because they live underground, the Oinien rarely cross the valley, and the two populations have developed distinct customs, traditions, and speech.
Geology
The Irere Mountains contain some of the largest sources of natural obsidian in Méniail. The obsidian is used for weapons and sacred carvings.
Climate
The Irere Mountains are colder and more shadowed than the Orinilure Mountains, because their black stone absorbs most sunlight. The lower slopes are cool and dim, with occasional fog in the valleys. The higher elevations are cold and still, and the peaks are often in cloud.
Underground, the climate is stable all year, mild, and slightly humid.
Settlements
The range holds the settlements of the Erden Monopoly. Its capital is Dziamint.
Economy
The Erden Monopoly holds exclusive rights to mining and trade in the Irere Mountains. Its Oinien specialize in mining, engineering, and the crafting of obsidian weaponry.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The vegetation of the Irere Mountains consists mostly of plants adapted to shade and low light.
Fauna
The wildlife of the Irere Mountains is adapted to low light and relies on camouflage and night vision.
Cultural Significance
The Irere Mountains have spiritual meaning for the western Oinien, who regard the mountains as both a protector and a test of endurance.