Ankaturri

The cliffs of northeastern Ondar are home to the town of Ankaturri. Waterfalls are frequently found along the cliffs, flowing from the icy peaks of the Black Mountains. The people of Ankaturri carve their homes into the cliffs, originally expanded from natural caves. It is the hard to reach location that helps protect the people, though the abundant water does draw in some threats. The cliffs are also home to the dire eagle Der’Anka, and her progeny. Attacks from the eagles are kept down due to the efforts of the Acolytes of Der’Anka, who offer hunted prey from the jungle in tribute. Travel between the caves mouths is facilitates by wooden walkways, braced against the cliff face for support. No railing is used, as a fall is seen as a symbolic rejection from the nest. While the safety of railing is lacking, the structure of the walkways is extremely well-kept to avoid loss of life form the failing of the path itself. Homes are lit by redirection of light using highly polished bronze. Rooms further into the cliff face require the use of lamps. Unique among homes regarding light and location is that of the Chief.   The Chief’s home is located on the highest inhabited peak, constructed as a stone building, beside the edge of a waterfall. The central room is the private room of the Chief and is enclosed in stone. Surrounding rooms are walled, but not roofed in stone. Canvas is utilized for these and is drawn back to allow the rooms to be open air. The construction is a close mirror to that of a stone nest, though with central protection at night for the Chief. The open-air rooms are utilized by the community and acolytes for ceremonies. Light is provided in this home alone by the glowing property of the feathers of Der’Anka. The feathers of the golden eagle are actual gold, and shine with the light of the sun even after falling from her. Curiously, the progeny of Der’Anka retain a dark gold color to their feathers, but no glow. Feathers are utilized for decoration in both clothing and art. Golden feathers are restricted to use by only the Chief and high acolytes. Ankaturri is ruled by Chief Apuyuma. His lithe build, keen eyes, and finesse with the talon glove has kept him at home on the heights against five years of challenges. The right to wear the Sunfeather Cloak is envied by many in the mountains.