Ridgeback Mountains

The Ridgeback Mountains are a picturesque mountain range of moderate elevation, characterized by their gently rolling peaks that rise modestly compared to other ranges. Nestled in the southwestern tip of Drakemyst, these mountains extend from the rugged coastline to the edge of the arid expanses of the Duskfire Desert. The windward side boasts a vibrant and lush forest ecosystem, teeming with a diverse array of flora and fauna. Within a protective alcove of the mountains lies the quaint village of Ridgford, the first Dragonguard settlement.   On the leeward side is the Guardian's Haven Bay, an expansive estuary that stretches along the base of the mountains all the way to the open ocean. This striking body of water was formed by the ancient flows of ice melt runoff, which carved deep channels into the rock, creating a rich and varied shoreline.   At the heart of the estuary lies an island, its steep cliffsides providing protection for the city of Eldrya. Despite its location on the leeward side, the region enjoys a surprisingly lush environment, sustained by warm winds originating from the south that bring moisture to its landscape.   In the southwestern reaches of the Ridgeback Mountains lies a remarkable natural passage known as the Ridgeback Pass. This path cuts its way straight through the mountains, offering the most direct route for travelers seeking to cross over to the opposite side. Alternatively, there exists a less accessible pathway to the north, located near the upper stretch of the estuary, known as the Northern Ridgeback Pass. However, this northern route presents a more challenging hike, requiring a greater degree of effort to navigate than its southern counterpart.

The climate of the mountain range is classified as a temperate rainforest, characterized by a significant amount of annual precipitation, though still less than that of a tropical rainforest. The unique geography ensures that even the leeward side of the range receives ample rainfall, albeit not to the same extent as the windward side, which is directly exposed to the prevailing oceanic winds.   The mountain range's strategic location and its moderate elevation allow it to efficiently capture moisture-laden winds blowing in from the ocean. As these winds rise over the mountain, they cool and condense, resulting in the formation of clouds that then rain down. Although this mountain range is shorter when compared to other mountains across the globe, its height is more than sufficient to obstruct the majority of the sea breezes from penetrating further inland.   This climatic dynamic, combined with the persistent southern winds interacting with the terrain on the leeward side, has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Arkynshire. Specifically, it has contributed to the emergence of the Duskfire Desert located in the northern region, where rainfall diminishes significantly due to the rain shadow effect created by this mountain range.

The Ridgeback Mountains are home to a diverse array of fauna and flora, creating a rich and vibrant ecosystem. On the windward side, a lush, dense forest thrives, dominated by lofty coniferous and broadleaf trees. Towering conifers such as Hemlock, Red Cedar, and Spruce stand at the peaks. In the lower altitudes, the landscape changes; broadleaf trees, including the striking bigleaf maple, populate the underbrush.   Among the most notable inhabitants of the Ridgeback Mountains is the Ridgeback Drake. These magnificent beasts can often be spotted throughout the midrange areas of the mountains, skillfully navigating the forests and rocky outcrops. Though they may occasionally explore the flatter forested lands below, Ridgeback Drakes prefer to remain within their mountainous home.