Ashenmoore Region Overview

Ashenmoore is a desolate and perilous region dominated by the relentless fury of two towering, perpetually erupting volcanoes—Mlipuko and Kulipuka. These fiery behemoths have transformed the land into a vast expanse of ash-covered plains and scorched, petrified ruins. The air in Ashenmoore is thick with ash and soot, obscuring the sun and casting the region in a perpetual twilight. The ground is a cracked and barren wasteland, dotted with jagged outcroppings of obsidian and the remnants of ancient structures, now frozen in time as petrified ruins. These ruins stand as eerie monuments to a forgotten civilization that once thrived here before the wrath of the volcanoes claimed the land.
Rivers of molten lava snake through the landscape, glowing with an otherworldly light and carving paths of destruction through the ash. The rivers flow unpredictably, often splitting or converging, creating an ever-changing network of fiery veins that pulse with the lifeblood of the earth.
The atmosphere in Ashenmoore is one of constant danger, where the ground trembles underfoot, and the sky covered in an eversmog with untold dangers flying within. Despite its inhospitable nature, the region holds a haunting beauty, with the contrast of the fiery rivers against the ash-grey plains and the towering silhouette of the volcanoes creating a landscape both terrifying and mesmerizing.
Most species are not suited for living within Ashenmoore except for those who have adapted to life there. Most species that live there are:

-Dragon-kin -Infernal-kin -Fey-kin -Beings from the Elemental Plane of Fire -Beings that have adapted over time from living there
Living within Ashenmoore requires a physicality that can withstand the dangering region and all its beautiful terrors. It is not a place for the feint of heart and anyone entering is warned to only enter if necessary; unless you are a citizen of Ashenmoore. 

Geography

Ashenmoore was once a vibrant and beautiful are filled with meadows and wildflowers sitting between two inactive volcanoes. Within the Age of Serenity, the twin volcanoes Mlipuko (East) and Kulipuka (West) became active and never stopped being active. Since that moment, the volcanoes make it extremely hard for anyone not of certain heritages to dwell in the fiery domain. Rivers of lava and swamps of ash now inhabit the region, mkaing it only for those who have a strong bloodline to survive. There are now cities in ruin from the Great Confluences that caused the eruptions to become more violent, being petrified in time and soot forever from an era lost to time. No more wild flowers exist here anymore, just the tough life under the burning suns of the volcanoes.

Ecosystem

As harsh and unforgiving as the landscape itself, yet it has adapted to the volatile environment in ways that are both fascinating and terrifying. The constant volcanic activity has shaped a unique and resilient web of life that thrives in the extremes of heat, ash, and molten rock.

Ecosystem Cycles

Seasons: Ashenmoore has no traditional seasons. Instead, the climate is dictated by the rhythms of the volcanoes. Periods of relative calm are interrupted by violent eruptions, which bring with them increased ashfalls, lava flows, and intense heat. These cycles are unpredictable, making it difficult to determine any pattern or "season" in the conventional sense.

Localized Phenomena

Elemental Presence: Ashenmoore is also home to various elemental beings that seem to have formed from the raw forces of nature. Lava Golems, towering figures of molten rock and fire, patrol the most active volcanic zones. These sentient constructs are believed to be ancient guardians, formed when the region was first consumed by fire.
Lavalins are small, goblin-shaped lava elementals that inhabit the treacherous landscape of Ashenmoore. These mischievous and fiery creatures are born from the molten veins that course through the region, their bodies composed of semi-solid magma, flickering with internal flames.
Ash Elementals are another unique presence, wisps of living ash and smoke that drift through the plains, capable of coalescing into more solid forms when threatened. These beings are as elusive as they are dangerous, often luring travelers into traps of quick-ash or leading them astray in the dense ash storms that occasionally sweep through the region.

Climate

Temperature: Ashenmoore is a land of intense, stifling heat. The ground radiates warmth, and the air is thick and heavy, making it difficult to breathe. Temperatures often reach scorching levels during the day, especially near the rivers of lava, where the heat can become unbearable. Even in the cooler areas, the ambient temperature remains high, with little respite from the oppressive warmth. At night, the temperature drops slightly, but the heat from the molten lava and the ongoing volcanic activity ensures that it never becomes truly cold.
Atmosphere: The sky over Ashenmoore is perpetually shrouded in a thick layer of ash and smoke, blocking out the sun and casting the region in a perpetual twilight. Ash storms frequently sweep across the plains, driven by the hot, swirling winds generated by the volcanoes. These storms can be violent, reducing visibility to almost nothing and coating everything in a thick layer of fine, abrasive ash.
The air is filled with the acrid smell of sulfur and brimstone, and breathing is a challenge without some form of protection. The atmosphere is laden with volcanic gases, making it toxic in some areas, particularly close to the volcanoes and active lava flows. Travelers in Ashenmoore often cover their faces with cloth or wear specialized breathing masks to avoid inhaling the noxious fumes.
Precipitation: Rain is a rare occurrence in Ashenmoore, and when it does fall, it is often tainted by the ash and volcanic particles in the atmosphere, creating a corrosive rain that can cause burns and damage to structures and equipment. More common are ashfalls, where the sky releases a steady downpour of fine ash, covering the land in a thick, grey blanket. These ashfalls can last for hours or even days, further darkening the already dim landscape.
Occasionally, the combination of heat, ash, and volatile gases leads to firestorms—intense, localized storms where lightning ignites the ash-laden air, creating walls of flame that sweep across the plains. These storms are short-lived but incredibly destructive, leaving scorched earth and petrified remains in their wake.

Fauna & Flora

Flora: Consists primarily of hardy, ash-grey plants that have evolved to withstand the suffocating layers of ash and the intense heat of the region. Cinderbrush, a low-lying, bush-like plant with thick, leathery leaves, is one of the most common. Its roots burrow deep into the ground, tapping into hidden water sources, while its ash-coated leaves protect it from the harsh elements. Firebloom is another remarkable plant found here, with bright, flame-colored flowers that only bloom in the proximity of lava flows. These flowers are adapted to extreme heat, and their seeds are dispersed by the wind, carried on the hot updrafts created by the volcanoes. Lavasprout is a twisted, tree-like plant with bark as hard as stone, resistant to both fire and the corrosive effects of volcanic gases. Its roots can penetrate solid rock, drawing nutrients from the molten earth below.
Fauna: The animals of Ashenmoore are as fierce and resilient as the land they inhabit. Ashwraiths, ghostly, ash-colored creatures resembling large, emaciated wolves, roam the plains in packs. They have evolved to blend seamlessly with the ashen environment, making them nearly invisible to prey and predators alike. Their howls are eerie, echoing through the wasteland like the lament of lost souls. In the rivers of lava, Magma Serpents—massive, fire-breathing reptiles—swim through the molten currents with ease. These serpents are covered in a thick, heat-resistant hide that allows them to bask in the lava's glow. Their eyes glow like embers, and they hunt by sensing the vibrations of creatures on the solid ground above. High above, Emberwings—bird-like creatures with wings of flame—soar through the ashen skies. These majestic predators are both feared and revered, as their fiery feathers are said to bring good fortune to those who manage to collect them, though such a task is perilous. They hunt small creatures, like Fire Rats, that scavenge among the ruins and lava flows. Legends still say that Phoenixes can still be seen rising from the ashes, literally, and flying high above the smog-filled sky some nights and residing inside the twin volcanoes themselves

Natural Resources

Obsidian: Ashenmoore is rich in obsidian, a volcanic glass formed when lava cools rapidly. The obsidian found here is of exceptional quality, with a deep, almost black sheen and razor-sharp edges when fractured. It is highly prized for crafting weapons, tools, and decorative items. Obsidian from Ashenmoore is known for its unusual strength and durability, making it a valuable trade commodity. There is even a city made entirely of obsidian: Damu Ya Ardhi. 
Volcanic Gems: The intense heat and pressure in Ashenmoore have given rise to unique gemstones known as Emberstones and Flamecrystals. Emberstones are deep red or orange gems that seem to glow with an inner fire, while Flamecrystals are clear with fiery veins running through them. These gems are often used in jewelry and magical artifacts, valued not only for their beauty but also for their potential to enhance fire-based magic.
Magma Ore: Beneath the surface of Ashenmoore lies rich deposits of Magma Ore, a rare and extremely durable metal infused with the essence of the volcanoes. This ore, when properly smelted, produces Magma Steel, a metal that retains a molten core even when forged into weapons or armor. Items crafted from Magma Steel are highly sought after for their ability to deal additional fire damage and their resistance to heat.
Ashwood: Among the petrified ruins and ash-covered plains, there are pockets of Ashwood, a rare, fire-resistant wood found in the remnants of ancient trees that once thrived before the volcanic devastation. Ashwood is lightweight yet incredibly strong, making it ideal for crafting weapons, shields, and structures that must withstand intense heat. Its unique properties also make it valuable in alchemical and magical applications.
Volcanic Sulfur: Sulfur deposits are abundant in Ashenmoore, formed by the volcanic gases that permeate the region. This sulfur is often harvested for use in alchemy, particularly in the creation of explosives, fire-based potions, and other volatile concoctions. The sulfur from Ashenmoore is known for its purity and potency, making it a key ingredient in many powerful mixtures.
Lava Pearls: Deep within the lava flows, skilled divers and elementalists can sometimes extract Lava Pearls, rare, glowing spheres formed from the hardened lava around tiny pockets of trapped gas. These pearls are highly prized for their magical properties, often used in enchantments and rituals related to fire and earth. They are also considered a status symbol among the wealthy and powerful.
Cinderstone: Cinderstone is a porous, lightweight rock that forms from the cooling of volcanic ash and pumice. It is commonly used in construction within the region due to its resistance to heat and its insulating properties. Additionally, Cinderstone is a key component in the creation of Firewalls, magical barriers that can withstand intense heat and flame, making it a vital resource for those looking to fortify their homes or fortresses against the region's many dangers.
Volcanic Ash: The ash that blankets Ashenmoore, though a hazard to most, is a valuable resource in its own right. Volcanic Ash is rich in minerals, making it an excellent fertilizer when mixed with soil, though this requires careful handling to avoid its more toxic properties. Additionally, the ash can be processed into various alchemical components, used in everything from pottery glazes to protective coatings for weapons and armor.

Type

Region

Owner/Ruler

Zarvyn Stormfang

Owning Organization

Eldoria