Naktulla

Naktulla Naktulla (Baknyzgröl lit. trans. 'Homeland') is the tallest peak of the Baknyzgröl mountain range in southern Khaëloi. The peak stands at 19,546 feet high¹ and is located in the west-central part of the region. The peak is used by the Baknyzgröl as the site of the Court of the Patriarchs.

Geography and Geology

The peak of Naktulla is located 26 miles south of Mortar Sound Lake in the east-central part of the mountain range. The massive altitude drop is due to a series of sheer cliffs caused by a series of prehistoric volcanic eruptions, despite this, the peak has not shown any evidence of continued volcanic activity, unlike the Tagnurek volcanic complex in the eastern part of the range. With the aid of Baknyzgröl sages, it has been determined that the mountain is composed of three main geological formations that have been upthrust as part of seafloor subduction to the south. The peak of the mountain down to the Pilgrim's Gate (approx. 4000 ft. thick) is composed of the Jolnakaf formation. It consists of white to brown parallel laminated limestone with argillaceous laminae and periodic beds of fossiliferous siltstone and dolomite. Discontinually underlying the Jolnakaf is the Delfushnik formation that goes down to the meadow basin (approx. 4700 feet thick.) , which consists of alternating bands of red and white marble, that also contains relict volcanic intrusions on the north side, towards the cliff faces. Below the Delfushnik is the Baknyzgröl basement complex, which is composed of alternating schists and quartzites.

Cultural Significance

Naktulla holds great political and spiritual significance for the Baknyzgröl. The Court of the Patriarchs atop the peak is where the three highest patriarchs of the species hand down decrees that all clans must obey. The peak was chosen for this because the Baknyzgröl believe that the peak is where the Skyfather departed from the Peakmother, and in addition to matters of political importance, the peak is a site of pilgrimage for the Baknyzgröl to visit the site where they can be closest to their departed god. The peak is forbidden to outsiders - no non-Baknyzgröl has ever been permitted to approach the path to the summit.
¹As measured from a distance by researchers from the Arineum in Arthani.

Type

Mountain / Hill