Onyx Veil
The Onyx Veil, a range of stark, obsidian-hearted peaks, is a vast mountain range lying east of the Zenith Valley. This mountain range does not impress through the height of its mountains, as they pale compared to the Celestia Peaks. Instead, its unique dark coloration and rugged, jagged silhouettes create an imposing presence that captivates all who venture near.
The slopes of the Veil display a tapestry of deep grays and near-blacks, stirated with the subtle banding of layered onyx. Veins of glassy obsidian gleam in the sunlight, while rough basalt outcrops contribute a rugged texture, revealing the mountain range's volcanic origins.
The peaks are dotted by hardy trees, stout grasses, and tough lichens. Natural inhabitants include wooly aphids, many different kinds of birds, such as raptors and songbirds, large mountainous frogs, snakes, and small rodents. Most of the terrain is steep and rocky, with some cirques throughout the range. Even though these mountains lie to the South, the peaks still receive snowfall in the winter, which can last for a few months after the season ends.
During the winter solstice, the peaks project a vast aurora of purple and opalescent light into the sky. This is the only time of the year that Cavanans travel above ground en masse, where they celebrate Glimmer's Eve. During this event, the veil between planes thins as luminous strands between Varzzen and the Glimmergorge touch, making the passage between Varzzen and the Glimmergorge easiest. Many explorers and academics use this mystical highway between the planes for long expeditions, as this natural phenomenon can be more convenient than the high level of magic usually required. At this time, creatures from the Glimmergorge may also accidentally pass into Varzzen, and inhabit the peaks. The most common are Gorge Goats, Mercury Mustelids, and Cliff Cougars.
Creatures
Gorge Goats
Resembling mountain goats, these enchanting creatures stand twice as tall as regular goats. They are exceptional climbers and possess horns made of earthen materials, reflecting their elemental origins. The material of these horns varies among individual Gorge Goats, but are commonly made from obsidian, granite, and flint. In rare cases, Gorge Goats also grow horns of precious crystals, like amethyst, jasper, and opal.
Mercury Mustelids
Mercury Mustelids, lithe and shimmering, dart through the crags and crevices of the Onyx Veil like liquid shadows. Their short coat hairs are made of flawless, reflective silver, hinting at the elemental essence that permeates their being. These agile predators prey on the small wildlife of the Veil. They can turn their bodies into a liquid form to effortlessly flow even through the smallest crags to hunt their prey.
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