Tugevat

Tugevat is a mountainous massif located in the Nyrath Highlands of the fictional continent of Valara. It extends roughly 60 kilometers north to south and features a complex of peaks exceeding 3,500 meters in elevation. The range acts as a climatic dividing line, with forested foothills to the south and glacier-fed slopes to the north.

The name Tugevat is believed to derive from the ancient Valaran language, translating roughly as "watcher of storms." Local legend ties the term to a guardian spirit said to ride the summit winds.

The massif is composed mainly of granitic cores sheathed by metamorphic layers. Glacial cirques and perennial snowfields mark the higher terrain, while braided streams descend from the ridges to form several alpine lakes in the foothills.

Tugevat has long been a feature of highland livelihoods, used as a seasonal grazing ground and ceremonial site. Systematic surveying began during regional maps campaigns in the early modern era, with mountaineering routes established by local guides in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Flora and fauna: The environment supports alpine tundra, dwarf shrubs, and lichens. Common animals include mountain goats, snow hares, and golden eagles. Some plant species are endemic to its higher escarpments and are monitored for conservation.

In Valaran folklore, storms gathering at the summit symbolize renewal. The range hosts seasonal festivals, and it has become a destination for hikers, climbers, and researchers. Protected areas and visitor facilities aim to balance access with preservation. Access is seasonal and typically begins from the towns of Dolmere and Arinath, with trails maintained by the Valaran Conservancy.