Mount Iltan is a high craggy peak in northeast Calradia forming a natural barrier between the snowy wilds to the west and the dry steppe to the east. Given how strong gusts of icy wind sweep down the mountain onto the steppes,[1] the mountain was named for a god of the steppe people.[2]
Mount Iltan sits at the easternmost end of the Chertyg Mountains where the highlands, which were once prowled by Vakken and Sturgian natives, descend into the Valley of Karakaz. To the south of the mountain are the distinctive Portages of Iltan, a network of rivers and glacial lakes linking Lake Laconis with Lake Tanaesis.[3] Foxes, martens, rabbits, and other animals dwell in the mountain's shadow and are hunted by locals for their valuable furs.
Lore[]
Centuries ago, the ruling beys of the mountain-dwelling cousins of the Khuzait, the Iltanlar, descended from their homes in the Sulan Dag Mountains to establish the fortress known as Baltakhand. From here, the Iltanlar sought to hold ownership over the Portages of Iltanlar.[4] It is unknown if the Iltanlar took their name from the mountain or from the same god the mountain was named for.
The position of Mount Iltan means that the Sturgians who dwell upon its eastern slopes, such as around the town of Tyal, are often isolated from the affairs of the Sturgian Principality. Though aloof from their own, these Sturgians' proximity to the Portages of Iltan have brought them into frequent contact with the Calradic Empire and Khuzait tribes. Sturgians who dwell around Mount Iltan are known as wanderers, traders, horse breeders and fur-trappers.[5]