Rookspine Mountains
The Rookspine Mountains, the longest and tallest range in Gradia, stretch from Uzan in the northwest to near Alfheim in the southeast, effectively dividing the continent in half. These imposing peaks and expansive ridges create a formidable natural barrier that has shaped the history and cultures of the regions they bisect.
The mountains are traversed by five major passes: two between Narin and Greade, one between Narin and Illyria, and two between Corin and Illyria. These passes are critical trade routes and have been strategically fortified by Narin military forces throughout history. During periods of strict Narin control, many a smuggler has made their fortune finding alternate routes through the Rookspine.
The Rookspine Mountains’ significance extends beyond their physical presence. They influence weather patterns and ecosystems, giving rise to the different biomes on either side. Their role as a natural barrier has impacted migration, military strategies, and trade, making them a major element of the continent’s geopolitical as well as physical landscape.