Marzannean Wastes

Geography

The Marzannean Wastes are a low-lying area found in the western portion of the Adlivun region, bordered by mountains to the east and west and the ocean north and south. There are two large lakes near the center of the Wastes, connected to the southern shore by the Vesna River.

Ecosystem

Pre-Age of Gods

The climate of the Wastes was long known for its subarctic characteristics. Temperatures could range from -40^oF in the winter to summer highs of 73^oF. However summers were short: between 1-3 months of average daily temperatures of at least 50^oF.
The long periods of freezing temperatures resulted in the freezing of both soil and subsoil to depths of several feet. The summer warmth was often insufficient for thawing more than a few surface feet, so much of the land was in a state of permafrost. A thin band near the southern shore was more suitable for farming, but most of the Wastes were not arable.

Age of Gods

Following the death of the god MRZN in 17 AG, the climate of the Wastes turned far colder. Average temperatures plunged to nearly -100^oF, with winter temperatures 50% lower. The cold weather caused the extinction of all flora and fauna species in less than 10 months, and the region was rapidly evacuated of human inhabitants.

Fauna & Flora

Pre-Age of Gods

The Wastes had a low diversity of vegetation due to the harsh and long winters and short summers. The forests were dominated by conifers, with few species of deciduous trees such as oak, maple, and elm scattered among the conifers near the southern shore. The northern portions were characterized by wide-spread trees and lichen ground cover.
The forests of the Wastes supported a small variety of animals. The cold weather restricted fauna to insects, birds, fish, and mammals, which are able to regulate their own body temperature. Fish in the rivers of the Wastes were capable of withstanding cold water conditions and live in ice-covered water. Large herbivorous mammals lived in the forests, and there were a number of small rodent species that lived in the Wastes. Predators were adapted to traveling long distances for scattered prey or able to eat vegetation or other smaller creatures to supplement their diet. Although a large number of bird species summer in the Wastes, few stay for the winter.

Age of Gods

The Wastes during the vast majority of the Age of Gods is largely devoid of either plant or animal species. The intense cold and dry air makes it difficult for any organism to survive long, and the lack of food or flowing water reduces the likelihood of establishing permanent settlements. There are only temporary populations, often fishermen working offshore.

History

Age of Witches

Age of Prophets

Age of Gods

Type

Wasteland

Location under

Adlivun Region