Baldnic Rock

Baldnic Rock is a large formation near the center of Gora Nos. Local legend says that the ancient ones placed it there as a sign of their existence to the people. Many in the are still offer prayers to the ancient ones for guidance and protection. On the equinox, the inhabitants go up to the rock to offer sacrifices and perform ritual ceremonies all night long. Scientists are still stumped as to how to rock was formed, though it has a similar makeup to other rocks in the region. Though the rock has a flat top, the locals refuse to climb it, and the children are told that if they climb the rock, then the ancient ones will strike them down for their disobedience. Among the Baldnic Clan, they believe that the ancient ones will give them strength in battle and victory over their enemies.
The rock itself is four meters tall with black and red striping. It rises out of the ground like a tree with the top being significantly wider than the base. Visitors to the rock often enjoy having picnics in the shade. Though it's surrounded by several other rocks of a similar type and formation, Baldnic Rock is the largest and most well known.
"It's a long hike up to Baldnic Rock, but the view is more than worth it. From a distance, it's clear that the top of the rock is completely flat, but standing at the base, it looks like a petrified tree. The other rocks around it aren't nearly as big or impressive. The base of the rock which is like a tree trunk is completely smooth. It's sometimes called the Ancient Stool. How it remains upright even through the harsh winters is impossible to say. This rock predates the Baldnic Clan which it's named after, and it was around before Neren. It's a sacred space for the clan, and they encourage tourists to show respect to the area."
The Spring Equinox celebrates the planting season and thanks the ancient ones for delivering the people through yet another winter. They ask for a good harvest, and many of the dances are reminiscent of growing crops and gentle weather. Any food that's left over from winter is ritually burned as an offering. The people return their excess food to those who provided it to them. In the autumn, they celebrate the harvest and ask for a mild winter. The people offer the first parts of their harvests to the ancient ones. The dances and songs praise the ancient ones for providing the people for another year. These rituals are held in secret from the church.

Type

Natural Wonder