The Maltreks
The Maltreks are a range of mountains in the northwest of Senera. They are the longest mountain range in Senera, stretching for over 100 miles. The Maltreks refer to two arms of the range, the Northern Maltreks and the Western Maltreks, which are divided by Interloper Pass. The entirety of the range is administered under the banner of the Duchy of Malthrek.
Geography 🔗
Boundaries 🔗
The Maltreks are bounded to the north and west by the Havel Ocean. To the east, by the Feetbowls. To the south, by the Western Lowlands.
Elevation 🔗
The highest point in the Maltreks is Mt. Sinitar, at 3,100 feet above sea level, its lowest point is the Rocky Crevasse, at 1,000 feet above sea level. On average, the range is about 2,300 feet above sea level.
Morphology 🔗
Western Maltreks 🔗
Geological Features 🔗
Western Maltreks 🔗
The Western Maltreks are characterized by their steep, jagged peaks and sudden drops. The rugged terrain is formed by erosion of the limestone caps, layered upon a massive understructure of basalt formations. This creates a distinct contrast between the hard, dark basalt formations and the lighter limestone caps.
The upper slopes feature the lighter-colored limestone, and are known to house a number of caves networks and karsts. The lower slopes feature the darker, harder basalt layer which is only mostly visible in areas where erosion has stripped away the limestone. Melpel's Canyon close to the southern tip of the range is one of the most notable features that show this contrast in a spectacular fashion.
Due to the geography of the Western mountains, many caves have been formed as water systems interact with the predominantly limestone upper layer. Lower layers, the dark basalt have heat fractures that form narrow and jagged entrances. Near Mt Thibris, smooth ancient lava tubes were found where the volcano emits sulfurous fumes. Between these layers of white and black rock, caves where ancient lava flows have pierced though the limestone, form natural hallways of captivating marble.
Northern Maltreks 🔗
Unlike its Western arm, the Northern Maltreks are primarily composed of basalt upper layer, with intrusions of silica-rich rhyolite. The range features a more rounded mountain profile, with the lower Scree slopes depositing talus at their feet. However, the northern range also features a number of jagged volcanic peaks with crooked spires and craggy, pockmarked faces.
Compared to the Western Maltreks, the northern arm exhibits more active volcanic activity. This is evidenced not only by the 7 active volcanoes, but by scalding outgassing from fissures from the hard rocky surface, that often have various minerals forming in and around them, such as yellow sulfur crystals. The active volcanology of these rocky mountains allows for conditions that are more conducive to the formation of these mineral deposits. Various minerals and elemental substances from underneath are brought to the surface as the intense pressures are released as a result of volcanic activity. These are deposited on the surface as ejecta, such as rock ane ashfall, or pyroclastic flows, or are crystallized as outgassing cools along the fissures and cracks of the rock face.
Rich silicates form a variety of minerals and aggregates, such as obsidian, chalcedony, beryl, sapphire, ruby, quartz, and geodes, all of which are found in varying quantities. Metals such as gold, silver, and copper are also found in the Northern Maltreks, often in the form of native elements, or in the form of sulfides. Metal veins are found in various fissures, with lodes in cooled and emptied magma chambers.
Hydrology 🔗
Western Maltreks 🔗
Glacial meltwater from the peaks, and rainwater flow into the limestone caps that form lakes and ponds on the surface, and then flow down into the extensive karst aquifer system of the Western Maltreks, eroded through millenia.
This aquifer system provides a stable outflow for the Malter River system that begins in Melpel Drop that carved the famous, eponymous canyon.
Rainfall and meltwater fill above-ground aquifers, like Lake Sintormal and Lake Tirtormal, both of which drain gradually into the Maltrek karst network. Some of the inflow may also enter the system from sinkholes, sinking streams and fractures on the mountain surface.
During the spring and summer months, when rainfall and glacial melt is at its peak, pressure in the karst network is high, which contributes to seasonal streams and outflows that form seasonal hot springs, and also flow eastward that inundate the boggy areas of the Footbowl Basin east of the range.
During these high-pressure periods, water from the karst network is forced into typically dry vents that reach down into hot plutonic formations. This seasonal influx of water into these heated zones creates the famous geysers and hot springs of the Belaitar Geyser Field, making their activity strongest during the wet spring and early summer months. Locals venerate these geysers as an integral part of fertility and marital traditions, and have drawn pilgrims into the area to both witness the phenomenon, and to ask the spirits to bless them with children.
Year-round, the Western Maltreks karst system is the source a number of streams, many of which feed into the Malter River system. Mountain springs, either from well-springs or waterfalls are also fed by the consistency of karst aquifers in collecting, holding and releasing ground water.
Northern Maltreks 🔗
The Northern Maltreks' hydrology differs significantly from its western counterpart. Water movement through the basaltic bedrock occurs primarily through cooling fractures, tectonic fissures, and spaces between ancient lava flows. This creates an irregular network of aquifers and groundwater paths, rather than the organized karst system of the western arm.
Surface water patterns are more seasonal, with streams appearing and disappearing based on rainfall and snowmelt. However, the volcanic nature of the range adds complexity through geothermal activity. Hot springs, fumaroles, and steam vents create unique hydrological features, while heated groundwater drives mineral-rich solutions through rock fissures.
The combination of fractured basalt and volcanic heating creates numerous springs along the mountain flanks, though these vary in temperature, mineral content, and reliability. Some springs maintain consistent flow through groundwater storage in the fractured rock, while others show strong seasonal variation.
During wet seasons, surface runoff can be significant, as the basalt's fracture networks become saturated. This seasonal flow, combined with snowmelt, feeds the numerous streams that flow from the northern arm and contributes to the wetland systems of the Footbowl Basin to the east.
Mineralogy 🔗
Western Maltreks 🔗
The western arm's mineralogy is primarily defined by its limestone composition, with exposed basalt beneath. The limestone layers host various calcite formations, particularly in cave systems where complex crystalline structures form. Iron oxide staining is common where water has interacted with the underlying basalt, creating distinctive red and brown patterns on exposed surfaces.
Contact zones between limestone and basalt layers show interesting mineral variations. Where intense heat and pressure from ancient basalt intrusions met limestone, valuable deposits of marble formed. These marble beds vary in color from pure white to versions streaked with minerals from the basalt, creating prized decorative stone. The same contact zones contain workable deposits of lead and zinc ores, particularly galena and sphalerite, which can be found in veins through both limestone and marble.
Small deposits of iron ore, mainly limonite and hematite, occur where the basalt layer is exposed or near the surface. The limestone itself is quarried for building stone and lime production. High-quality calcite crystals from cave formations have both decorative and practical uses.
Northern Maltreks 🔗
The northern arm's volcanic nature creates a rich and diverse mineral environment. The basaltic bedrock is intruded by silica-rich formations, creating complex zones of mineral deposits. Surface deposits of sulfur around fumaroles are easily gathered, while copper ores like malachite and azurite form distinctive green and blue outcrops that are readily identifiable.
Iron ore is abundant, primarily as magnetite and hematite in large deposits that can be surface-mined. Where hydrothermal activity has created ore bodies, miners find rich veins of copper, lead, and silver-bearing galena. These often occur together, making mining operations more profitable.
Gemstones form in cooling magmatic bodies and hydrothermal veins. Quartz varieties like amethyst, chalcedony, and rock crystal are common, while rarer finds include garnets and occasional sapphires. Obsidian, though not strictly a mineral, is abundant in certain areas and highly prized for tools and decoration.
Climate 🔗
Western Maltreks 🔗
The western arm experiences strong oceanic influences, with prevailing winds bringing significant moisture from the Havel Ocean. Windward slopes face frequent storms and salt spray, while leeward valleys enjoy more sheltered conditions.
Winters are cool and wet, with occasional snow at higher elevations. Summers are mild and relatively dry, though morning mist and fog are common. The karst system moderates local temperatures through numerous caves and fissures.
Spring and autumn see the most rainfall, creating seasonal surges in the karst aquifer system and increased spring activity.
Northern Maltreks 🔗
The northern arm shows more continental characteristics despite its coastal proximity. Volcanic activity creates local temperature variations and distinctive microclimates around geothermal features.
Winters are colder than the western arm, with more frequent snow. Summers are warmer, especially near active volcanic areas. Precipitation is more evenly distributed throughout the year, though slightly lower than the western arm.
Thermal activity creates year-round steam vents and warm zones, supporting unique ecological niches regardless of season.
Vegetation 🔗
Western Maltreks 🔗
Vegetation patterns in the western arm show stark contrasts between windward and leeward slopes. The windward faces, exposed to strong ocean winds and salt spray, support hardy, wind-sculpted vegetation. Trees like yew and hawthorn grow stunted and angled, while tough shrubs such as juniper and gorse form low, dense covers.
Protected leeward valleys support taller growth, with ash, lime, and oak trees forming more substantial stands. However, the limestone substrate limits root depth throughout the range, resulting in wide, shallow root systems even in sheltered areas. The understory in these protected zones includes hazel, elder, and dogwood, with diverse limestone-loving herbs and grasses in clearings.
Rock faces and limestone outcrops host specialized plant communities. Hardy ferns like hart's tongue and maidenhair spleenwort colonize cracks and fissures, while rock roses and wild thyme form patches on thin soils. Around karst springs and seeps, distinctive communities of moisture-loving plants thrive, creating green oases in the otherwise dry limestone landscape.
The limestone environment supports several edible species. Sheltered valleys harbor wild apple and cherry trees, while hazelnuts are abundant in the understory. The alkaline soils favor certain edible mushrooms, particularly varieties of porcini and chanterelles in autumn months. Various edible herbs like wild thyme, sage, and marjoram thrive on the thin limestone soils.
Limestone caves and shaded outcrops support distinctive fungi communities. Cave mushrooms are particularly prized, while certain edible lichens grow on exposed rock faces. Spring seeps support watercress beds, and seasonal moisture allows for brief but productive periods of mushroom fruiting.
Northern Maltreks 🔗
The northern arm's vegetation reflects its volcanic nature and more continental climate. Plant communities here adapt to both the basaltic substrate and the influence of geothermal activity. Around active volcanic features, specialized heat-tolerant and sulfur-resistant plants form unique communities, often in concentric rings based on temperature and chemical gradients.
The general slopes support more typical mountain vegetation, with plants adapted to the basaltic soils and seasonal conditions. Tree growth is more uniform than in the western arm, lacking the dramatic wind-sculpting effects. However, the volcanic substrate and frequent rock falls create a dynamic landscape where pioneer species regularly colonize new scree slopes and lava fields.
Seasonal streams and more consistent soil moisture support denser vegetation than might be expected in such rocky terrain. Deep fissures in the basalt allow for more substantial root systems than the western limestone areas, resulting in more stable and mature forest communities where conditions permit.
Around thermal features, unique microclimates support specialized plant communities year-round. These warm zones create patches of unusual growth patterns, with some plants flowering out of season and others showing adaptations to the constant heat and mineral-rich steam.
The basaltic soils and volcanic environment produce different edible species. Mineral-rich soils support robust berry patches, including wild strawberries and bilberries in season. Extensive mycorrhizal networks in the more stable forests produce abundant mushroom crops, including prized varieties that favor the acidic volcanic soils.
Around thermal areas, unique edible species thrive in the warm microclimates. Some fungi fruit year-round in these zones, while certain heat-loving herbs grow in naturally warmed soils. The areas where volcanic steam meets forest create particularly rich mushroom hunting grounds, though careful knowledge of safe zones is essential.
River Systems 🔗
Footbowl River System 🔗
The Footbowl Basin's primary waterways demonstrate the distinct hydrological characteristics of both mountain arms. The main river system, fed by the Western Maltreks' karst aquifers, provides stable, year-round flow. These waters, rich in dissolved minerals from their limestone journey, maintain consistent volume and temperature throughout the year, creating reliable channels through the basin's wetlands.
Tributaries from the Northern Maltreks show more seasonal variation. During spring snowmelt and wet seasons, these streams surge with water, expanding the basin's wetland areas and creating temporary waterways. In drier periods, many of these northern tributaries reduce to smaller streams or seeps, though some maintain flow through the fractured basalt aquifer system.
This combination of stable karst-fed rivers and seasonal volcanic-terrain streams creates a dynamic wetland environment. The reliable western waters maintain permanent waterways and deep pools, while the fluctuating northern inputs create seasonal flooding and shifting wetland zones, contributing to the basin's diverse ecological patterns.
Malter River System 🔗
The Malter River emerges dramatically at the contact zone of the Western Maltreks, where a series of travertine terraces cascade down to meet exposed basalt below. These terraces, built up over millennia from mineral-rich karst waters, display striking bands of color - from pure whites to iron-reds and copper-greens - recording the complex mineral history of the mountain's interior.
The travertine formations create natural pools and falls before the water reaches the darker basalt layers, where the river proper begins its course. These terraces continue to grow and evolve, with new mineral deposits constantly adding to their structure, while seasonal variations create distinctive banding patterns in the fresh deposits.
The river proper emerges from these tiered formations carrying a unique mix of sediments from both the travertine and basalt zones. The initial stretch shows higher sediment loads from mineral precipitation and basalt weathering, creating distinctive colored deposits and mixed mineral banks. As the river continues, it gradually transitions to clearer karst waters typical of limestone regions.
The river's visible course runs from these dramatic emergence points to Malterdale, flowing through a relatively narrow corridor rather than a broad valley. The limestone bedrock remains close to the surface along its course, with the river occasionally cutting through exposed rock formations. The consistent depth and volume from its karst source makes this stretch navigable for river boats, though the narrow course requires skilled navigation around limestone outcrops.
Beyond Malterdale, the river disappears into the Western Lowlands' karst system. This subterranean portion creates an extensive underground network, connecting with the larger Rannek Karst. While the river itself is hidden, its presence is marked by strings of sinkholes, springs, and seasonal lakes across the lowlands. Many of these sinkholes act as "karst windows," where the underground river becomes briefly visible in deep, water-filled depressions before disappearing again into the limestone. During dry seasons, these windows provide crucial glimpses of the river's path and water level, while in wet seasons they may become overflow points for the subterranean system.
The river's stable flow and mineral content have created fertile valleys along its visible course, while its underground portion has shaped the unique karst landscape of the Western Lowlands. These karst windows, along with related surface features, have historically helped locals track the river's hidden course and predict seasonal water patterns. The consistent volume of its surface portion makes it a reliable route for navigation and transport between the mountains and Malterdale.
| Parent Location | |
| Western Senera | |
| Senera | |
| Location Type | |
| Mountain Range | |