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Table of Contents
Major Planetary Zones | (Twin) Sections of the Habitual Belt | Regions
THE EASTERN SOUTH MIDBELT SECTION (REVARI)
Overview
Revari, the Eastern Section of the South Midbelt Sections of the Habitual Belt on VOI 700 D, spans approximately 320,000 square kilometers—about the size of Germany on Earth. It is bordered to the north by Asari, to the south by the South Pole Section (Virari), to the west by the Desert Side, and to the east by Vazhak on the Dark Side.
Unlike its western twin, Zedari, which remains completely unexplored, Revari was the subject of three major Exohuman expeditions between 2627 and 2629 during the Beta Age. However, these missions only documented the outer regions and major geographic landmarks, leaving much of Revari’s dense interior forests and highland plateaus unmapped and poorly understood.
Following the signing of the Peace Treaty at the beginning of the Gamma Age in 2631, Exohuman movement in Revari was strictly prohibited, preventing further study. Today, knowledge of the region comes primarily from Native accounts and the fragmented reports of the Beta Age expeditions.
Climatic Conditions, Geography and Landscapes
Revari’s landscape is shaped by its temperate climate, its proximity to the South Pole Section, and its position within the Habitual Belt’s twilight zone. This results in mild seasonal variations, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C, dropping to 5°C or lower in the highlands and near the Dark Side. However, its borderlands — where it meets the South Pole Section (Virari) and Vazhak on the Dark Side — exhibit distinct microclimates, shaped by their respective environmental influences.
Western Borderland Microclimate (Transition to the Desert Side)
As Revari extends toward the Desert Side, the grasslands begin to thin out, and the climate becomes drier due to the encroaching influence of arid winds. The transition zone is marked by:
- Increasing aridity, particularly in the Varo Steppes, where drought-resistant vegetation dominates.
- Greater temperature extremes, with warmer conditions during the day and sudden drops at night due to lack of atmospheric moisture.
- Dust storms occasionally sweeping in from the desert, reducing visibility and making travel difficult.
Eastern Borderland Microclimate (Transition to Vazhak / Dark Side)
Where Revari meets Vazhak on the Dark Side, the absence of direct sunlight causes lower average temperatures and increased moisture retention. This transition zone is characterized by:
- Dense fog and mist, forming in valleys where the cold air meets warmer currents from central Revari.
- Slow-growing vegetation, with mosses, fungi, and shade-adapted plant life flourishing in perpetually dim conditions.
- Colder nights, with near-freezing temperatures in the Tyvora Highlands due to prolonged exposure to shadow.
Geographic Features
Lakes
- Lake Jirvana: One of the largest lakes in the South Midbelt, spanning 8,200 km², Lake Jirvana serves as a key water source for surrounding Native settlements and wildlife. It is also believed to contain deep, submerged caverns, which remain unexplored.
- Lake Tarani: A smaller but significant freshwater lake, Tarani is surrounded by forested wetlands and is home to unique aquatic species adapted to temperate waters.
Rivers
- Revari River: The longest river in the region, stretching 1,600 km, flowing southward before merging with wetlands near the South Pole Section.
- Jiran River: Originating in the highlands, this river is rich in minerals, making it a crucial resource for local tribes.
Grasslands and Steppes
- The Varo Steppes: Expansive rolling plains, home to large grazing herds and nomadic tribes.
- The Jervani Fields: A mix of fertile grasslands and marshy lowlands, supporting seasonal agriculture by Native Tribes.
Forests
- Veltani Forest: A vast coniferous woodland in northern Revari, partially explored by Exohumans before the Peace Treaty.
- Jiran Grove: A more temperate mixed-woodland zone where the Jiran Tribe has developed a deep spiritual and ecological connection.
Highlands and Cliffs
- Tyvora Highlands: A series of wind-swept plateaus marking the transition to the South Pole Section.
- The Melkori Cliffs: Towering ice-carved cliffs along the southern border, providing natural protection for Native Tribes.
Flora
Despite Exohuman limitations on exploration, Beta Age expeditions documented key plant species that define Revari’s ecosystems:
- Varo Grass – Tall, drought-resistant grasses dominant in the steppes.
- Javiran Oak – A slow-growing hardwood tree, essential for Native craftsmanship.
- Myrik Fern – Found in wetlands, used in traditional medicine.
- Kelura Vine – A flowering vine with ceremonial uses in Native rituals.
- Drashti Moss – A high-altitude plant that stores water in semi-arid areas.
Fauna
Revari’s wildlife thrives across grasslands, forests, and freshwater ecosystems. While some species were documented during the 2627–2629 expeditions, many remain undiscovered.
- Grazing Mammals – Large herbivores roam the steppes, sustaining both predators and Native hunters.
- Aerial Predators – Raptors dominate the skies, using keen eyesight to track prey.
- Non-Predatory Birds – Songbirds, migratory species, and waterfowl inhabit forests, wetlands, and grasslands.
- Stealthy Hunters – Camouflaged predators lurk in woodlands, using ambush tactics.
- Reptiles and Cold-Blooded Species – Snakes, lizards, and amphibians populate wetlands and rock formations.
- Aquatic Species – Rivers and lakes sustain fish, amphibians, and semi-aquatic predators.
- Insects and Invertebrates – Pollinators and scavengers support ecosystems.
For a detailed list, see Known Wildlife of Revari.
Population
Revari is home to approximately 260,000 Natives, forming five major tribal groups. Exohuman explorers encountered all five tribes during the 2627–2629 expeditions, though only superficial cultural insights were gained.
Observations from expeditions in Revari have revealed a recurring pattern among Native Tribes:
- The tribes of Revari share the same creation stories and core beliefs as other documented Native societies across VOI 700 D.
- They speak Shang Telu, the common indigenous language, though with distinct regional dialects.
- Despite this linguistic and cultural connection, most tribes have no awareness of other tribes beyond their immediate surroundings.
The Largest known Native Tribes in Revari:
- VELTANI (Sedentary):
- Population: Approximately 80,000
- Short Description: The Veltani have settled along the fertile banks of the Revari River. They practice advanced agriculture, cultivating grains and tubers in terraced fields that minimize soil erosion. The Veltani are known for their communal granaries, which store food to ensure no member of their tribe goes hungry, even during lean periods.
- More Information: The Veltani
- MELTARA (Nomads):
- Population: Approximately 70,000
- Short Description: The Meltara roam the expansive grasslands of Revari, herding a unique breed of semi-domesticated Hoos used for both transportation and sustenance. The Meltara have a deep connection to their animals, viewing them as spiritual companions.
- More Information: The Meltara
- JIRAN (Sedentary):
- Population: Approximately 50,000
- Short Description: The Jiran live in the forested foothills of the southern mountains, relying on sustainable logging (they are planting new trees for every one they cut down) and fruit cultivation. They are also skilled woodworkers, crafting intricate tools and ornaments.
- More Information: The Jiran
- LANORA (Semi-Nomadic):
- Population: Approximately 30,000
- Short Description: The Lanora are renowned for their fermented beverages, made from grains and fruits, which are highly sought after by neighboring tribes. They alternate between farming in the fertile lowlands and grazing livestock in the upland meadows. Their semi-nomadic lifestyle ensures access to diverse resources year-round.
- More Information: The Lanora
- TYVONA (Sedentary):
- Population: Approximately 30,000
- Short Description: The Tyvona have settled in the swampy wetlands near the edge of the southern midbelt. They cultivate water plants have an intricate system of canals and floating gardens, showcasing their ingenuity in adapting to challenging environments.
- More Information: The Tyvona
Settlements and Sacred Sites
Unlike the Asari Region, Revari has no known Exohuman settlements. Although Exohuman expeditions explored parts of the region between 2627 and 2629, no permanent settlements were established before the Peace Treaty of 2631 prohibited further territorial expansion. However, Revari is home to numerous Native settlements, ranging from large villages to scattered hamlets, many of which have existed for centuries. These settlements have adapted to Revari’s diverse landscapes, from forests and grasslands to riverbanks and highland plateaus.
- Veltran (Veltani Tribe)
- Population: ~18,000
- Location: Along the fertile banks of the Revari River, central Revari.
- Description: Veltran is the largest known settlement in Revari, serving as the cultural and agricultural hub of the Veltani Tribe. Built along the Revari River, Veltran consists of terraced farmlands, communal granaries, and multi-family longhouses constructed from woven reeds and timber. The settlement's architecture is designed to withstand seasonal floods, with raised walkways connecting various districts.
- Significance: Veltran is renowned for its efficient irrigation systems and food storage techniques, which allow the Veltani to sustain large populations. It also serves as a trade center, where various tribes exchange goods, knowledge, and ceremonial gifts.
- Jirankal (Jiran Tribe)
- Population: ~12,000
- Location: In the forested foothills of the southern Varei Highlands.
- Description: Nestled among ancient trees, Jirankal is a densely built wooden village, where homes are integrated into the forest canopy. The Jiran have mastered sustainable forestry, ensuring that their timber harvesting does not disrupt the delicate ecosystem. Elevated pathways made from thick woven vines and reinforced wooden planks connect different parts of the settlement.
- Significance: Jirankal is famous for its woodworking craftsmanship, producing intricately carved tools, bows, and ceremonial masks. Its artisans are highly respected among the Native Tribes of Revari, and Jirankal woodwork is often used in rituals and trade agreements.
- Tyvalun (Tyvona Tribe)
- Population: ~8,500
- Location: In the swampy wetlands near the Revari River delta, southeastern Revari.
- Description: Tyvalun is an unconventional settlement, as much of it is built on floating wooden platforms, tethered to the surrounding trees. Its residents have adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle, using canoes and rafts to navigate the marshlands. The settlement shifts slightly over time due to changing water levels.
- Significance: Tyvalun is a center of herbal medicine and aquatic cultivation, where the Tyvona Tribe grows rare water plants used for food and traditional remedies. It is also considered a sacred site, as the marshes are believed to hold ancestral spirits, guiding the living through omens and dreams.
- Lanoral (Lanora Tribe)
- Population: ~7,000
- Location: At the border between the Revari grasslands and highland meadows, western Revari.
- Description: Lanoral is a semi-permanent settlement that shifts every 10-15 years depending on soil fertility and livestock grazing patterns. Built from compressed earth, wooden beams, and thatched roofs, the village structures blend into the surrounding landscape. Storage cellars are dug beneath homes to keep grain and fermented goods safe from both wildlife and harsh weather.
- Significance: Lanoral is known for producing fermented beverages made from grains and fruits, which are highly sought after by neighboring tribes. The Lanora Tribe’s expert brewers and traders have made Lanoral a key stop for cultural exchanges, celebrations, and seasonal gatherings.
Tactical Advice for Dungeon Masters
Beta Age (2625–2631) – The Era of Exploration
During the Beta Age, Exohumans ventured into Revari in search of resources, knowledge, and potential settlement sites.
- “The Vanishing Survey Team” – A group of cartographers and geologists sent to survey the highlands of Revari in 2628 vanished without a trace. Players must retrace their steps, uncovering what truly happened. Were they attacked by a Native tribe? Did they fall victim to a previously unknown predator? Or did they simply abandon their mission for reasons that no one could have predicted?
- “Secrets Beneath the Grasslands” – In the final months of the Beta Age, an Exohuman research team uncovered ancient underground structures hidden beneath the Revari steppes. Before their findings could be fully documented, they were forced to leave due to rising tensions with the Native Tribes …
Gamma Age (2631–Present)
Following the signing of the Peace Treaty, Exohuman activity in Revari has been heavily restricted, yet not all explorers obey the new laws. Some Exohuman factions still attempt to operate in secrecy, while the Native Tribes grow increasingly wary of outsiders.
- “The Smuggler’s Crossroads” – Exohuman Outlaws, eager to bypass the Peace Treaty, have set up hidden supply chains across the Revari border, using abandoned research stations and forgotten trails. The players are hired to track down a missing cargo shipment, but along the way, they stumble upon something much bigger — an underground smuggling network involving Native artifacts, illegal technology, and possibly even a faction of rogue settlers unwilling to abandon their foothold in Revari.
- “The River of Whispers” – The Revari River has long been a vital trade route for Native Tribes, but strange disappearances along its banks have fueled growing tensions. The players are sent to investigate rumors of ghostly figures appearing at night, strange mechanical noises coming from the riverbed, and wildlife avoiding the water altogether. Are these just legends spread by Natives, or is something unnatural lurking in the depths of Revari’s rivers—something left behind from the Exohuman expeditions of the past?
Related Pages and Further Information
Neighboring Regions (From the perspective of Revari to north):
- Asari (Northern / Habitual Belt)
- South Pole Section (Southern / Habitual Belt)
- Vazhak (Eastern / Dark Side)
- Desert Side (Western / Desert Side)
The Regions of the South Midbelt Sections (East and West):
The Twin Sections of the Habitual Belt: