Ashland Range

Eleanor of Ivywood is a fine and respected cartographer in her field. She lives a journeying life, sending descriptions of the world as she sees it to those of interest. This is one such entry.

On its surface, the most distinctive feature of the Ashland Range is that only one type of vegetation will grow across all its peaks, the Phoenix Moss. Indeed, that is where these mountains got their name for Phoenix Moss only grows after a fire has consumed all else. Normally the moss will retreat once the land has healed, but not here, it grows exclusively and endlessly. Going back through recorded history, all attempts to cultivate the land have failed, the moss will not abide the roots of other crop or tree.

That trait alone would make this range a wonder, but even stranger still is what lies beneath. Under the moss, soil and a small layer of sedimentary rock, the mountains consist entirely of bone. Yes, acres and acres of bone forming a mountain range that stretches for leagues. There is almost no discernible shape to the bone, most having amalgamated into a solid shape. However, a few caves to the east, near the township of Fodden, have been identified as orbital sockets.

Such a wonder has produced many theories and even a cult of worship. Some say it’s the resting place of great dragons having died in a battle when magic still flowed through the land. Others believe them to be dead Titans, ancient gods that gave their lives in the formation of the land. The Cult of Ashland believe that in the study and worship of those peaks, the answers to creation may be found.

A marvelous place indeed, but if I’m to be painfully honest, incredibly boring to visit.