Altai Mountains

Written by Pookas Kreations

This ancient mountain range is in western Atlantia Continent.

Geography

It is a majestic and diverse geological wonder that has shaped the landscape of the continent for millennia. It stretches hundreds of miles from the north to the south of the continent and exhibits a unique blend of features that makes it stand taller than any other range on the continent or nearby ones.

The age of this range has caused some of its peaks to wear down the tops so they are flattened making them into a high mesas. Nestled between towering peaks, it boasts high valleys that cradle pristine lakes and rivers. They are filled with vibrant flora and fauna and serve as a haven for biodiversity. The lakes are fed by underground streams coming from the heart of the mountains.

Volcanoes are scattered throughout the range some are dormant while others are active. Their silhouettes add an aura of danger when they are near. The dormant ones add to the vitality of the region. Locals have learned to harness the geothermal and hydroelectric power of the region.

The Kirgiz Steppes and the High Marches are two of the eastern side branches of the Altai Mountains.

Localized Phenomena

Some of the highest peaks are always covered in snow and/or surrounded by mist or storm clouds. The high plateau on Mt. Karakoram is always warm and sunny (like the summertime) when Bel Mithra is there.

Climate

Overall, the Altai Mountains would exhibit a diverse range of microclimates offering inhabitants a rich tapestry of weather conditions. 

The high plateaus and flat mountain tops would have the coolest of temperatures in the range because they have nothing to protect them from the high winds. Some of the hidden valleys would have an idealistic climate because it is sheltered from the cold weather and high winds. They might experience distinct seasons, with only having snowfall in the winter months.

The volcanic regions would be warmer and dryer due to the geothermal activity, but the presence of volcanic activity could cause poor visibility and air quality from the ash and gases.

The offshoot mountain branches may be more variable and rugged. They could experience harsher conditions, with intense storms, strong winds, and rapid temperature shifts.

The high steppes have lower elevations with constant wind that causes a drier climate, summers would be warmer but with colder winters but less snow. 

Fauna & Flora

The Auroch and their descendants live in these mountains on Mt. Karakoram and the surrounding area. Some of the other fauna that live here are mountain goats, sheep and antelope, snow leopards, marmots and pikas, deer, elk, and black bears. Birds of prey live throughout the mountains as well as their prey of all types such as rodents.
Near the volcanoes, there will be amphibians and insects adapted to the warmth and moisture from the hot springs and geysers. Many birds nest in the cliffs and craters. The high steppes will have hers of all types as well as the steppe wolves that hunt them.
There are flora of all types that live here. Including moss, lichen, alpine flowers, coniferous forests, deciduous trees, cacti, fern, hardy shrubs and grass, tough grass, drought-resistant plants, wheat, barley, triticale, and various others.

Natural Resources

Wood, water, many herbaceous plants, wild crops such as triticale, ore, hunting animals, etc.

History

The highest mountain in the range is Mt. Karakoram, it has a flat top and is where [Bel Mithra was born.

Alternative Name(s)

Dragonfang Mountains

Type

Mountain Range

Location under

Atlantia Continent

Included Locations

• Brigid's Sanctuary of Radiance

Owner/Ruler

Bel Mithra (God)

Additional Rulers/Owners

• Inanna, Goddess of Nature

Ruling/Owning Rank

God/Goddess

Contested By

• Atlantean Academy of Science