Storms of Anaias

The Western Maw


In the far west of Urngor lies the Western Maw, a captivating region that encompasses dense forests, deep ravines, and towering tors, creating a unique and treacherous landscape. The name “Western Maw” was given to the region by the first expeditions that ventured into its depths, due to the sudden and deceptive nature of the ravines that can easily ensnare unsuspecting travelers. These expeditions, upon returning to the Cities Three, shared their findings with the Apocritan refugees who had survived the Time of the Shattering. The refugee leaders recognized the land as a potential sanctuary and embraced it as their new homeland.

The Western Maw is characterized by its diverse and verdant forests, predominantly inhabited by grand oak, fig, and chestnut trees that form a lush canopy extending over several hundred square miles. These ancient trees provide shade and shelter, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere within the woods. Deep ravines, resembling jagged grins, cut through the land, revealing pockets of subterranean darkness that house an intricate network of caves. These caves, nestled within the towering tors, are home to underground streams, phosphorous lichen, and lava stalactites, which serve as natural fixtures anchoring the subterranean world.

Upon their arrival in the Western Maw, the leaders of the Apocrita allocated different habitats to their respective groups. The Vespari chose the majestic summits of the great tors. Here, they constructed hemispherical homes made from a combination of adobe and wood, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The Stagmari, renowned for their scholarly pursuits, established elaborate conservatories within the intricate cavernous networks of the tors. These conservatories serve as sanctuaries of knowledge, housing vast libraries and extensive laboratories for their intellectual endeavors.

The Audaxian, with their ingenuity and architectural prowess, carved out their dwellings within the ravines. Their octa- and deca-hedral clusters of stone and clay form intricate structures, with labyrinthine passages connecting various chambers and living spaces. The Audaxians have transformed the ravines into a marvel of engineering and craftsmanship, reflecting their innovative spirit.

Lastly, the Edentulan found solace among the ancient trees of the forest. They constructed teardrop-shaped structures using a combination of wood, stone, and adobe, suspended from the tree canopy. These unique dwellings blend seamlessly with the natural environment, allowing the Edentulan to live in harmony with the forest and its inhabitants.

The symbiotic relationship between the inhabitants and the land has given rise to a vibrant and harmonious community, where each faction thrives in their preferred habitat, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation within the Western Maw.