Hârn

From Hârn
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Hârn is a rough, hazy, forested isle 140 miles (56 Harnic Leagues) off the northwest coast of the continent of Lythia, on the edge of the Haonic Ocean. Lythia is one of three continents of the planet Kethira. Harn's centre is dominated by Lake Benath, a fresh water lake drained by the Thard River into the western seas. The longest river of Harn is the Kald (375 miles), which drains the eastern interior. Much of Harn is hilly. There are four mountain ranges of note: the Felshas, running north/south in central Harn, boasting the island's highest peak, Mount Wynan at 9766'; the Rayeshas, running east/west along the top of Lake Benath; the Sorkins, running north/south along the east coast; and, the Jahl Mountains, in the extreme north.

WEATHER & CLIMATE

Harn's climate is basically maritime-temperate (cool summers, mild winters, and damp). Some say that Harn has no climate, just weather. The prevailing westerly winds, off the Haonic Ocean, are moist. Fog, drizzle and overcast skies are common. The island receives ample precipitation all year round, falling mostly as rain, although winter snow and sleet occur, especially in the north and at high elevations. The seas around Harn are notoriously rough; calm weather, which is rare, can build swiftly into terrible storms.

VEGETATION

The moist climate promotes a luxurious vegetation, mostly summergreen decidious forest and woodland. There are some needle leaf forests, alpine tundras, and permanent snowcaps at higher elevations. Heathlands are common along western margins.

COMMUNICATIONS

A lack of good roads, the barbarism of the inhabitants, and problems associated with the rough terrain and unpredictable weather, combine to make travel difficult, especially in winter. The island is regarded with distain by continental Lythians and is generally avoided by them. Tales, perhaps exaggerated, of wild men and fearsome beasts, have been carried to the continent and these have no doubt served to daunt visitors from abroad. The unpredictable seas and weather and the fact that vessels headed for eastern Harn must pay heavy duties at the port of Cherafir (on Melderyn) combine to reduce the profitability of commerce. A few adventurous seamen do, however, ply their trade between Ham and Lythia. The Harnic guilds, through the good offices of the Pilots' Guild, seem to maintain good communications with their foreign colleagues.



 
Sources