View source for Elysian Mountains

{{infobox
| title = Elysian Mountains
| image = elysianmountains.png
| param1 = 
Type: Landmark — Mountain Range
Location: Eastern border of [[Avaria]], between [[Lumenara]] and [[Lunaridge]]
Region: [[Avaria]]
}}

== Overview ==
The Elysian Mountains are a vast and imposing mountain range forming the natural boundary between the kingdoms of Avaria and Kokoro. Their jagged peaks rise like sentinels above the shimmering waters of the Lumina Sea, casting long shadows over the fertile valleys of Avaria. Snow-capped summits glisten year-round, and legends claim that the peaks themselves hum faintly with arcane resonance—a remnant of the Fae’s divine shaping of the world.

The range serves not only as a geographical divider but also as a spiritual and cultural symbol. It represents Avaria’s resilience and divine favor, its name “Elysian” referring to the mythic afterlife where heroes of light are said to rest.

== Geography ==
Stretching north to south, the Elysian Mountains connect the [[Starfall Citadel]] in the north to the fertile foothills surrounding Lunaridge in the south. The Crystal Caverns run deep beneath their heart—an intricate network of mineral-laden tunnels glowing with bioluminescent veins of crystal.

Rivers born from melted snow cascade westward, feeding into the Silverfall Cascade and nourishing the lands around Lumenara. To the east, the mountains descend sharply into cliffs that meet the sea, creating dangerous but breathtaking coastlines known for their roaring winds and misty horizons.

== Significance ==
'''Natural Barrier''': The Elysian Mountains protect Avaria from potential incursions from the east, serving as both shield and sanctuary.

'''Economic Resource''': Rich in ore, gemstones, and enchanted crystal deposits, the range fuels the economy of Lunaridge, Avaria’s foremost mining town.

'''Spiritual Landmark''': Many Avarians consider the mountains sacred, believing the highest peak, Mount Elyra, to be a place where the goddess Ariana once walked among mortals.

'''Strategic Importance''': The passes connecting Avaria to Kokoro have long been contested and carefully monitored by Avarian watchposts.

== Myths and Legends ==
'''The Slumbering Titan''': Local legend claims one of the peaks is the resting form of a colossal guardian created by Alcor, God of Protection and Sacrifice. It is said the giant will awaken only if Avaria faces its darkest hour.

'''The Tears of Ariana''': When the goddess Ariana mourned the first mortal death, her tears turned to crystal as they struck the mountain’s slopes. These radiant stones became the foundation of the Crystal Caverns, said to hold echoes of divine song.

'''The Lost City of Lyssara''': Explorers and miners whisper of an ancient city buried deep within the range—its inhabitants long vanished, leaving only glowing runes and mechanisms of unknown origin. Some scholars suggest it predates even Avaria’s founding.

'''The Wind of Shiokaze''': Travelers descending the eastern slopes toward Shiokaze report hearing voices carried on the salt wind—sometimes warnings, sometimes songs. Mariners claim these winds are guided by Fae spirits guarding the mountain’s secrets.

== Notable Locations ==
'''Crystal Caverns''': A sprawling network beneath the central range, home to Glow Wyrms and luminous mineral deposits.

'''Lunaridge Mines''': Dwarven-forged tunnels producing Avaria’s finest metals and gemstones.

'''Mount Elyra''': The tallest peak, considered sacred ground where rituals honoring Ariana and Eriana are performed during solstices.

'''The Starpass Trail''': A perilous mountain pass connecting Starfall Citadel to Lunaridge, used by traders and adventurers seeking swift but dangerous passage.

== In Popular Lore ==
The Elysian Mountains are often depicted in Avarian art and literature as the kingdom’s “spine of strength.” Poets describe dawn over the range as “Ariana’s light kissing the crown of Faeloria,” while songs sung by miners speak of “the heart of the mountain beating with silver flame.”
[[Category:Places]]
[[Category:Avaria]]