The Elfenbone Spine

The Elfenbone Spine is a prominent mountain range stretching across the northern edges of eastern Elucidien, forming a natural barrier between southern Aridell and northern Aridell. The range gets its name from its jagged, crooked silhouette and perpetually snow-capped peaks, which resemble the vertebrae of a bleached skeleton when viewed from afar.   Geologically, the Elfenbone Spine is composed primarily of pale granite and limestone formations, with pockets of quartz and glacial shale. Erosion, tectonic uplift, and glacial activity over several millennia have given the range its distinct serrated profile. The tallest peak, Mount Grissenhold, rises just over 11,000 feet and is known for its difficult slopes and sudden icefalls.   The climate along the Spine is harsh and frigid, particularly at higher elevations. Snowfall is common year-round, and sudden blizzards can occur even in midsummer. Coniferous forests dominate the lower slopes, giving way to alpine tundra and ice fields above the treeline.   Despite the rugged conditions, several trade and shepherding paths cut through the lower passes of the range, connecting the interior with the outer coastlines and scattered frontier settlements. Wildlife includes snow goats, lynxes, alpine bears, and, rarely, great white owls, and Owlbears, lots of Owlbears. Orcs from the Orcish Empire use these lowlands and valleys as fertile hunting grounds   The Elfenbone Spine serves little strategic military purpose in the current age but remains a navigational landmark and weather indicator for nearby towns and travelers.