Bothea environments
Bothea is very similar to Earth in many points, but it's also different on many other points. The main difference to keep in mind is that there's no water on Bothea's surface: lakes, rivers, seas and oceans are all underground. Indeed, Bothea is everything but flat, it's pierced by many holes, sinkholes, cliffs, rifts, and caves. It would be hard to define a clear "surface," so much it's broken, layered, it could be compared to cracked paint on an old piece of wood devoured by moths.
The weather is hot most of time, but if you stay a bit you'll be able to witness a thin, almost lukewarm rain; although you have better chances to hear first a rainless thunderstorm and its purple swirling clouds. The sky can be almost any color depending on the hour, place and temperature; but most of time it will appear azur to turquoise. The nights can be very dark (save for the bioluminescent flora) since no natural satellite orbits around Bothea. The equator is composed of deserts and dead lands, and the poles are forest to jungle-like. There's more life on the poles, although the equator is still inhabited since many animals evolved to adapt the general warmth and since the bravest Yevatem lives here as well. < Left picture On the highest levels, the "surface," the sky is visible. Many Yevatem live at the surface, as long as they're careful not to fall into caves. The weather is hot and luminous. Trees and plants of Bothea all can have really long roots to reach sources of water; roots can sometimes be several miles long! Althought it's not shown here, there can be higher lakes as well. In the lower levels, a fungi and flora's natural bioluminescence highlights the caves. There is also the sea level. Frequently, Bothea will "breathe" with mini earthquakes, water sources and submarine volcanoes, and/or releasing humidity on the surface, so the athmosphere isn't always dry and it can rain. And on the deepest levels, where it's so cold that water can turn into ice, you can find Oyevat ruins. These are almost all too damaged to do anything of it, and are invaded by a strange blue crystal. Some "artworks" here have been made using AI and modified afterwards with CSP. These ones are free to use for any YVVO project. You can ask Yoka for a single, full-sized card if you want. They are "ethical," (didn't steal artworks), read more in the rules. Should the page be too long to charge, try this: manually stop the charging, and let the images cancel their download. Then, on every broken image, right click > show picture in new tab. It'll then charge the pictures one by one, sparing your internet connection if it's too weak. |
Meadows
Meadows (and savannahs) can almost appear as if they were flat lands. To think so would be a mistake however, for nothing is flat on Bothea!
Meadows are quite rare, and often enjoyed by Yevatem - especially those who breed pets and mounts, and the merchants' caravans, for the place is full of herbivores and easy to travel through. They're however located in regions of rain, where the local flora enjoys the water falling from the sky to grow, without needing an access to underground water. So the regions are humid and cooler than anywhere else, and remain rare sight. Not every Yevat can claim to have seen a meadow in their life if they aren't born next to it and never travelled much. |
Jungles and forests
- Jungles' Pinterest board -
Jungles are probably the biome with the most varied landscapes. From a thick foliage to a light forest, passing by world-trees and a miriad of plants, flowers and mushroom species of every colors and shapes, you can't get bored. Jungle Yevatem carve into trees to make their homes, but they also know how to grow roots, branches and lianas to shape them into new homes or bridges. Trees and mushrooms seem limitless and it's possible to live inside the bark of a huge tree, or to witness large sun-craving mushrooms on top of forests. Jungles are also the most treacherous zones, since predators can easily blend in the landscape and holes and cave accesses are often hidden by thick plants. It's easy to fall inside a creature's den if you don't pay enough attention to your surroundings! Fig. 2, from left to right, up to down: 1. The vibrant environments of Bothea, located at the poles of the planet, are really varied in terms of fauna, flora, and scenery. Most Yevatem live in these areas. Here can be observed a meadow, a rather rare element: most of time Bothea will be layered, mountainous, with undergrounds, and covered with jungles. |
2. Bothea's "greenery" is not always green. Many plants and trees are rather green, purple and blue, but it's not uncommon to see leaves and flowers in all possible colors. This area is composed of special trees, recognizable by their dark purple leaves. Their soft bark is widely used as insulation for Yevat houses. Once the bark is removed, the sap from the tree is a bright red, as if it was bleeding. A trained eye will also notice the small wooden capsule erected several meters above the ground: it's a Yevat construction, certainly used as bedplace.
3. This area is at ground level. Thick trees rise much higher, making the place dark. A red lychen takes advantage of the reduced light to grow, and Nyokuems probably hide in the tall grass. Strange shapes can be distinguished, such as a pyramidal shape, a statue, and squary stones: these are ancient Oyevat ruins. An unfailing trace of their passage, made illegible and unusable with time.
4. This setting is typical of Bothea's jungles: vegetation and rocks. In these kind of steep areas, it's easy to make deadly falls, because the chasms are numerous and hidden by plants. These high areas are also the Lyfem's favorite haunts, and of many species of birds.
5. This forest is a rare place of Yevat cultivation - for the little farming they have developed. If Yevatem are hunter-gatherers and rarely practice agriculture, this place is actually used for a pseudo-agriculture. Specific plants resembling cattails are one their main source of tissue: they collect the filaments from the head of the plant for sewing. If the reinforced clothes will be made of leather or Boka's wool, the most elegant and refined clothes will be made with this plant.
6. You can have this sight when you reach the top of a world-tree. These gigantic trees are so big that the Yevatem build cities in their bark, and their bark is so thick that homes rarely reach its core. These old trees live with huge parasitic fungi, which grow on their tops: the fungi takes advantage of a unique source of light, which they transform into vitamins and transmit to the tree. These mushrooms can take on any shape - sometimes tricking the eye - and are light enough to take on unique forms. They sometimes seem to float.
Fig. 3 (underneath): A natural playground for Deyevatem: huge arches covered with a thick vegetation. This place is probably far from a town, but the curious shape of these arches is certainly drawn on some local maps.
3. This area is at ground level. Thick trees rise much higher, making the place dark. A red lychen takes advantage of the reduced light to grow, and Nyokuems probably hide in the tall grass. Strange shapes can be distinguished, such as a pyramidal shape, a statue, and squary stones: these are ancient Oyevat ruins. An unfailing trace of their passage, made illegible and unusable with time.
4. This setting is typical of Bothea's jungles: vegetation and rocks. In these kind of steep areas, it's easy to make deadly falls, because the chasms are numerous and hidden by plants. These high areas are also the Lyfem's favorite haunts, and of many species of birds.
5. This forest is a rare place of Yevat cultivation - for the little farming they have developed. If Yevatem are hunter-gatherers and rarely practice agriculture, this place is actually used for a pseudo-agriculture. Specific plants resembling cattails are one their main source of tissue: they collect the filaments from the head of the plant for sewing. If the reinforced clothes will be made of leather or Boka's wool, the most elegant and refined clothes will be made with this plant.
6. You can have this sight when you reach the top of a world-tree. These gigantic trees are so big that the Yevatem build cities in their bark, and their bark is so thick that homes rarely reach its core. These old trees live with huge parasitic fungi, which grow on their tops: the fungi takes advantage of a unique source of light, which they transform into vitamins and transmit to the tree. These mushrooms can take on any shape - sometimes tricking the eye - and are light enough to take on unique forms. They sometimes seem to float.
Fig. 3 (underneath): A natural playground for Deyevatem: huge arches covered with a thick vegetation. This place is probably far from a town, but the curious shape of these arches is certainly drawn on some local maps.
Fig.4, left to right: 1. Just a random, colorful part of the jungle's ground. Who knows how many dangerous creatures and plants are hiding there? 2. The jungles aren't always jungle-like, and sometimes appear more as a light forest. This picture especially belongs in the Haunted Groves, where everything seems more creepy! 3. A large tree in a meadow. The dime blue light coming from between its roots is the sign of a deeper cave underneath. |
Fig. 5, left to right: 1 & 2. Common Bothean sights; a thick foliage and a layered background. Welcome on Bothea! 3. A marked passage, probably leading to a town or city. A landmark is present in the distance: if you're here, you can't be lost! Be careful, however, because those kind of pretty and thin passages are loved by valisem, eager to trap you and to steal everything you have. |
Fig. 6: Traces of the Oyevat's passage.
Are those crashed ship so old? Maybe they're here since Oyevatem are back. Maybe they've been unsuccessful tests at making new ships. They're too polished to be here since billions of years, and they weren't here the day before. One of them, on the third picture, even crashed close to a Yevat inhabited tree: openings in the bark can be seen.
Are those crashed ship so old? Maybe they're here since Oyevatem are back. Maybe they've been unsuccessful tests at making new ships. They're too polished to be here since billions of years, and they weren't here the day before. One of them, on the third picture, even crashed close to a Yevat inhabited tree: openings in the bark can be seen.
Fig. 7: Traces of Yevat passages.
1. Natural bridges like this are a common sight in the jungles. Yevatem manipulate tree root in such a way that, when they grow, they do it in the shape of their choice. They'll most of time make bridges like this, but can craft many different things.
2. It's easy to forget that Yevatem aren't all at a tribal advancement. A lot of them live in cities, and teams of builders can give shapes to wood and stone. This arch is on the path to the Peaceful Wild's biggest city, and most of this path is covered with stone to ease the passage of merchants and travelers.
3. An old, Yevat-made statue. It was made to honor a local town guard, who saved a Velilyevat from a Valis attack to the cost of her life. A tree has grown through it, and nobody would dare to hit it down: this tree, symbol of life, is probably meaning that she reincarnated (probably into a Velilyevat herself.)
4. A statue carved into a dead tree. Wherever you are, there's life nearby; expect a town or even a city! Of perhaps a simple hermit in the area?
5. At the south of Melystuhei, this gigantic statue of a Velilyevat has been built. It's a landmark to locate the biggest city on whole Bothea, but also an honor granted to Melysvelilkalimat (or Kalimat), the founder of Melystuhei. Long deceased, but far from forgotten.
1. Natural bridges like this are a common sight in the jungles. Yevatem manipulate tree root in such a way that, when they grow, they do it in the shape of their choice. They'll most of time make bridges like this, but can craft many different things.
2. It's easy to forget that Yevatem aren't all at a tribal advancement. A lot of them live in cities, and teams of builders can give shapes to wood and stone. This arch is on the path to the Peaceful Wild's biggest city, and most of this path is covered with stone to ease the passage of merchants and travelers.
3. An old, Yevat-made statue. It was made to honor a local town guard, who saved a Velilyevat from a Valis attack to the cost of her life. A tree has grown through it, and nobody would dare to hit it down: this tree, symbol of life, is probably meaning that she reincarnated (probably into a Velilyevat herself.)
4. A statue carved into a dead tree. Wherever you are, there's life nearby; expect a town or even a city! Of perhaps a simple hermit in the area?
5. At the south of Melystuhei, this gigantic statue of a Velilyevat has been built. It's a landmark to locate the biggest city on whole Bothea, but also an honor granted to Melysvelilkalimat (or Kalimat), the founder of Melystuhei. Long deceased, but far from forgotten.
Fig. 8 & 9: Light forests
After leaving a savannah, and before you start entering thick jungles, you can get across ligther forests like those. The vegetation here can have any color, from a paradise to a white-ish or blackish color. The nature and color of the soil will often define the colors of the vegetation there. For example, a rich ground will probably have a really varied landscape, or a ground infested with Bothean mycelium might tint everything above in white. Many plants here will sligthly generate their own bioluminescence, meaning that it's rarely fully dark.
After leaving a savannah, and before you start entering thick jungles, you can get across ligther forests like those. The vegetation here can have any color, from a paradise to a white-ish or blackish color. The nature and color of the soil will often define the colors of the vegetation there. For example, a rich ground will probably have a really varied landscape, or a ground infested with Bothean mycelium might tint everything above in white. Many plants here will sligthly generate their own bioluminescence, meaning that it's rarely fully dark.
Fig. 10: Dangerous cliffs.
It's well known: Bothea is rarely flat. A simple landscape can easily reach unbelievable heights or depths. It takes brave Yevatem to live here, and they're most often very agile and good climbers. Their big feet claws prove themselves useful especially in such landscapes. Kids often love to play "who will climb higher" in such environments, which can hide Varveleilem nests as much as lucky surprises like a tasty fruit or a valuable item for trade. Here, world-trees can compete with cliffs, and Yevatem will often say that it's their favorite parts of the world, for the exploration is endless, and the sights, always wonderful.
On the first picture can be seen a Yevat probably scouting for preys on a small platform. Who knows what depths lay before his eyes?
It's well known: Bothea is rarely flat. A simple landscape can easily reach unbelievable heights or depths. It takes brave Yevatem to live here, and they're most often very agile and good climbers. Their big feet claws prove themselves useful especially in such landscapes. Kids often love to play "who will climb higher" in such environments, which can hide Varveleilem nests as much as lucky surprises like a tasty fruit or a valuable item for trade. Here, world-trees can compete with cliffs, and Yevatem will often say that it's their favorite parts of the world, for the exploration is endless, and the sights, always wonderful.
On the first picture can be seen a Yevat probably scouting for preys on a small platform. Who knows what depths lay before his eyes?
Fig. 11: Ituheiem, small homes.
Those aren't world-trees, but small towns got to have their own charm as well. Inside jungles and forests, Yevatem must reach one main goal: rising from the ground level, where all predators hunt. They wouldn't like to sleep where their flesh can be tasted by a curious animal, right? So they build, and with the help of stairs, ladders or ropes, they'll then climb to their beloved bedplaces.
Those aren't world-trees, but small towns got to have their own charm as well. Inside jungles and forests, Yevatem must reach one main goal: rising from the ground level, where all predators hunt. They wouldn't like to sleep where their flesh can be tasted by a curious animal, right? So they build, and with the help of stairs, ladders or ropes, they'll then climb to their beloved bedplaces.
World trees
You can't roam through Bothea and never see a world-tree for yourself: they're common enough to be witnessed by everyone. Two of the biggest cities in the world (Home and Knowledge, and the Peaceful Wilds) are installed in regions filled with those. However, not everyone is aware of how world-trees are made... They need a lot of time to grow, and a bit of competition. Does this word surprise you? It shouldn't: in truth, world-trees are often composed of a multitude of large trees growing on top of each other in a course for sunlight. With time, the roots of the highest trees merge with the branches of the trees underneath, and where the trees used to be in competition, they will now share the resources. The highest trees will provide those below with the vitamins of the sun they cover, while the lowest ones will provide with the water stored underground. It's then not rare to see the bark of a world-tree changing of color and texture at some point, where it merged with another tree with time. In that way, world-trees are always more a culster of many trees enjoying a good spot rather than a single tree, even if they end up merging in a symbiotic way.
It however comes with a disadvantage: should the tree on the base not strong enough to bear the weight of all the trees growing on its top, it will break. It's not frequent to see world-trees in formation breaking and falling in loud noises. For this reason, Yevatem study every world-tree they will inhabit before carving their homes inside. Better safe than sorry! Only the world-trees with the strongest bases will be selected.
It however comes with a disadvantage: should the tree on the base not strong enough to bear the weight of all the trees growing on its top, it will break. It's not frequent to see world-trees in formation breaking and falling in loud noises. For this reason, Yevatem study every world-tree they will inhabit before carving their homes inside. Better safe than sorry! Only the world-trees with the strongest bases will be selected.
Fig. 12: World-trees who found no Yevat dweller yet. They're however most probably populated by many species of birds and other flying animals!
Fig. 13: Young world-trees These trees aren't small. And yet, they lack layers and and a more imposant size to truly be called "world trees." But they're a good base to become one some day, given that they will live long enough. If they're not killed by fire, thunder, drought, or a fungi invasion, they're very promising to become a Yevat home some day! |
Fig. 14: Inhabited and young world-trees. Sometimes, a world-tree is impressive. It's the home of a family of jungle Varveleilem, or it simply is too big for maintenance. Then, Yevatem will install on smaller trees, building more around than inside of the bark, and will enjoy the peace of having less neighbors. Small towns installed in such trees can be spotted with pathes on the ground, contructions on the branches, or doors in the tree bark. |
Fig. 15: Inhabited world-trees (above)
You're looking at cities here. Probbaly the places where the most souls can live and gather. It can be considered as a world-tree and a city when a hundred of souls and more can inhabit in the same tree! The biggest trees don't even need to be carved further than inside of the bark to create homes. Yevatem living here count in the greatest climbers!
Fig. 16: Ancient world-trees (below)
They're rare, and always a mezmerizing sight: ancient world trees have lived for thousands of cycles and still stand. Bothea's biggest cities are built in those, and they can possess countless of layers of trees. The winged leaders often live either at the heart, or at the top of those trees. The sight on top of them is breathtaking - metaphorically just like physically: they're so high that the oxygen tends to be rarer up there. A Yevat visiting one could take days to climb to the top.
You're looking at cities here. Probbaly the places where the most souls can live and gather. It can be considered as a world-tree and a city when a hundred of souls and more can inhabit in the same tree! The biggest trees don't even need to be carved further than inside of the bark to create homes. Yevatem living here count in the greatest climbers!
Fig. 16: Ancient world-trees (below)
They're rare, and always a mezmerizing sight: ancient world trees have lived for thousands of cycles and still stand. Bothea's biggest cities are built in those, and they can possess countless of layers of trees. The winged leaders often live either at the heart, or at the top of those trees. The sight on top of them is breathtaking - metaphorically just like physically: they're so high that the oxygen tends to be rarer up there. A Yevat visiting one could take days to climb to the top.
Fungus forests
One of the only thing able to kill world-trees: mushrooms, fungus, and mycelium. Sometimes, the fungus grow bigger than usual, and can be as big as trees themselves. They love to grow in their bark, to invade it, then to merge with the tree and finally consume it wholly. They grow much faster than trees, and can transform a forest into a fungus forest in a few months only. Yevatem tend to avoid these places, for the ambiant spores in the air can become toxic, but some places aren't too invaded and can still be livable! Besides, mushrooms are known to be much softer than trees, and often can be seen used as cushions to prevent bad falls. A fungus big enough will work as a true pillow for a Yevat, when they didn't merge with a tree that has still its rigid branches. Besides, a lot of those mushrooms can be consumed by Yevatem - but the bigger they are, the less tasty.
Deserts
- Deserts' Pinterest board -
Deserts are places of many treasures - if you can survive its rough and terrible environment. Mostly composed with sand, rocks, and cave entrances, it may be hard to travel through it if you don't have clear landmarks. It's also hard to find food here, and a sandstorm could surprise you at any time. Yet some caravans, merchants, and desert tribes are specialized in travelling into the worst places Bothea has to offer, because most of precious stones and crystals develop here, and they're highy valuable in trades. Fig. 18 1. The deserts of Bothea constitute the entire equator, and more. While some areas are only large expanses of sand, others are much more rocky and mountainous. The area is too hot to live in, but the rocks provide more sustainable shadows. It's said that the heat is so intense that one ends up seeing mirages... It's not uncommon to mistake rocks with animals. It's advised to quickly go underground to avoid dehydration. 2. Bothea's sunsets are the only time Yevatem can observe Ma'ni and Kubo without damaging their retina. The colors of the sky then become orange, red, purple... Here, it's possible to observe some constructions. Are they Oyevat, or were they built by the Yevatem using Oyevat leftovers? Impossible to say without getting closer. A trained eye will notice that the sand shines: it's probably sand crystals, as sharp and hurtful as glass fragments, but rich Yevatem love to collect them. 3. Bothea's sky is famous for its various colors. Sometimes of a light blue, sometimes of an azure green, it can occasionally have this "vintage photo" aspect when the "suns" are discreet. This landscape is typical of the Bothean deserts: rocks and sand. |
Fig. 19 (above) - Since it's hard to travel in the desert, Yevatem sometimes create landmarks such as these stacked round stones. They probably indicate a path to an underground oasis or to a town. In other words: if you're lost, seek these landmarks. They can take any shape and form, from those stones to painted walls, passing by statues carved in the stone. However, if your landmarks are claw marks and bones, flee: you're probably on a Varveleil territory.
Fig. 20 - We can never say it enough: even desertic places are rarely flat on Bothea. A mix of sand and rocks scatter the landscape, making the trip of merchant caravans harder. Early in the morning, when the temperature gets warmer, the undergrounds lakes "breathe" and a thin visible vapor is released in the air. Many desertic animals, including Karajasem, will enjoy this moment to rehydrate simply by breathing in this rare and humid area.
Fig. 20 - We can never say it enough: even desertic places are rarely flat on Bothea. A mix of sand and rocks scatter the landscape, making the trip of merchant caravans harder. Early in the morning, when the temperature gets warmer, the undergrounds lakes "breathe" and a thin visible vapor is released in the air. Many desertic animals, including Karajasem, will enjoy this moment to rehydrate simply by breathing in this rare and humid area.
Fig. 21: Deserts.
Most deserts look alike. A lot of them are rocky on Bothea, however, and it's not rare to get such sights.
On the second picture, we can see Seles in the sky, the "big sister."
On the fourth picture, the sand takes here a very unique shape: humidity is required to achieve it. It means that there's probably a source of water underneath. Look for a cave entrance in the area!
Most deserts look alike. A lot of them are rocky on Bothea, however, and it's not rare to get such sights.
On the second picture, we can see Seles in the sky, the "big sister."
On the fourth picture, the sand takes here a very unique shape: humidity is required to achieve it. It means that there's probably a source of water underneath. Look for a cave entrance in the area!
Fig. 22: more desert landscapes. If you're lucky enough when you travel in the deserts of Bothea, you'll have flat areas of sand located between high cliffs. That way, it's easy to walk and you'll be covered with the shadows of the rocks. It's also especially in such areas that you might find precious stones, growing in abundance for anybody with a trained eye and some patience to claim. |
Fig. 23: Shelters.
If you have to travel in the harshest region of Bothea, learn how to recognize shelters. They can take the shape of caverns in the cliffs, or of a statue indicating the path to follow to find an underground town. On the third picture, a trained eye will spot the pots at the entrance of the cavern; probably a sign of merchant passage, meaning that it's a safe area.
If you have to travel in the harshest region of Bothea, learn how to recognize shelters. They can take the shape of caverns in the cliffs, or of a statue indicating the path to follow to find an underground town. On the third picture, a trained eye will spot the pots at the entrance of the cavern; probably a sign of merchant passage, meaning that it's a safe area.
Fig. 24: Inhabited lands.
1 & 4: Merchants and travelers know the safe places, and often leave traces of their passages. Some even permanently live in the most frequented paths!
2 & 3: Learn how to recognize the signs of Varveleil inhabited areas: burnt lands, claws marks on the walls, high cavern entrance from which two eyes observe you... It might save your life, one day.
1 & 4: Merchants and travelers know the safe places, and often leave traces of their passages. Some even permanently live in the most frequented paths!
2 & 3: Learn how to recognize the signs of Varveleil inhabited areas: burnt lands, claws marks on the walls, high cavern entrance from which two eyes observe you... It might save your life, one day.
Undergrounds (high levels)
- Undergounds' Pinterest board -
The high levels of the undergounds are probably the best places to live on Bothea. Rivers, lakes, roots, an easy access to the surface and plants, and a naturally bioluminescent flora, the high layers are fresh and full of food and water. It has its flaws, of course, such as getting lost easily inside tortuous tunnels or getting hurt on sharp rocks, but besides it's a quite comfy place. Many Bothean towns or cities are installed inside undergounds or just nearby an undergroud entrance for the abundance of resources it offers. Fig. 27 1. This place is under the surface of Bothea. Here the sun rays of Ma'ni and Buko never shine through. The light comes from the predominantly bioluminescent flora - plants, mushrooms, lichen, mycelium. The caves can be so wide that they can host entire clans of Yevatem, and the bowels can be so thin that sometimes only a child could pass through. The temperature is cool and pleasant, and the air is humid: indeed, it's possible to find water in the undergrounds. Rivers, lakes, and seas take advantage of the shade not to evaporate. Yevatem living here enjoy fishing and mushrooms as their main source of food. They must however avoid certain dangers: collapses are rare, but possible. The multiple spores in the air also become toxic in high doses. 2. This hut, carved in a crumbling rock, remains rather discreet. It's just at the entrance of a cave. Yevatem living here have a quick access to water and benefit from a corner of shaded area, while being able to admire the stormy sky in the distance. They are probably warming in the comfort of a hearth. 3. This place is a complex of caves and archs, but it's probably very close to the surface. The flourishing greenery here is typical of the place: it doesn't need much exposure to light, and its long roots plunge until they find water. A Yevat proverb says: "If there is no direct light, there is water," and this is especially true here. |
Fig. 28, from left to right: Near surface environments.
1 & 2. It's not rare to see inhabited areas gaining stairs like this. Sometimes it'll be ladders or ropes intead, but the idea stays the same: folks here need a way to the surface, and it's better if it's eased. The first picture shows distant homes carved directly inside of the stone, for something strong, that will last for ages, and which is fresh. The ideal home.
3. Random pockets of water can form anywhere as long as it's not on the surface, and sometimes, they're hot. The bubbles at the surface and the thick moss around indicates a warm source here - which will be used as natural baths.
4. Layers in the undergrounds are as important as at the surface. Here, something broke long ago, probably because of an earthquake, and the remains of what used to be a flatened Yevat home can still be vitised.
5. The warm light indicates that the surface is near. This place is most probably a frequently vitised lake. Perhaps even a place for fishing!
1 & 2. It's not rare to see inhabited areas gaining stairs like this. Sometimes it'll be ladders or ropes intead, but the idea stays the same: folks here need a way to the surface, and it's better if it's eased. The first picture shows distant homes carved directly inside of the stone, for something strong, that will last for ages, and which is fresh. The ideal home.
3. Random pockets of water can form anywhere as long as it's not on the surface, and sometimes, they're hot. The bubbles at the surface and the thick moss around indicates a warm source here - which will be used as natural baths.
4. Layers in the undergrounds are as important as at the surface. Here, something broke long ago, probably because of an earthquake, and the remains of what used to be a flatened Yevat home can still be vitised.
5. The warm light indicates that the surface is near. This place is most probably a frequently vitised lake. Perhaps even a place for fishing!
Undergrounds (deep levels)
- Undergounds' Pinterest board -
The deep levels of the undergrounds are different from the high ones. The lack of light and warmth are changing the flora and the whole environment. This is where we'll find seas and oceans. This is also where we'll find ice, crystals, and Oyevat's most curious ruins. Most of the fauna and flora will develop a natural bioluminescence and the crystal and ice will tend to enhance it, giving this environment a fairytale vibe. Since it's colder and resources are rarer, Yevatem living here are rarer as well. Fig. 30 1. Bothea is a luminous planet. In the darkest places such as the undergrounds, a natural bioluminescence tends to highlight the walls. Fungi and bacterias start to produce their own light, and when it comes through crystal or ice, this is the kind of sigh that you can get. But beware: to reach such a place, you must go really deep in the undergrounds, belows the sea level. At any time, crystal or ice can break and an ocean can suddenly swallow the whole place in seconds. You also can fall into an old Oyevat ruin and get lost forever! 2. The sight of ice and crystal is so rare for a Yevat that he could hardly differenciate them, unless one starts to melt into his hands. Here, it seems like the ground is slippery ice, be careful not to fall! And if you hear a crack, stop moving! The roof almost looks like a night starry sky, but if one would walk on it, they could admire their reflection. 3. This large cave looks like an ocean caught by surprise by low temperatures. The place is deadly silent and cold. However, your single footstep would echo loudly, and alert all the predators hiding in the dark. Oopsie! Fig. 20 (underneath) A large underground city. At first glance, this place doesn't seem inhabited. But with a closer look, you'll notice the lights coming from huts on the left side, and a Deyevat on a boat on the foreground. The river is used for travelling. A large wall covered with glowing fungi seems to be reflected by the river, and maybe lead to the surface. |
Seas
It's no secret: better not to be thallasophobic on Bothea. The seas are respected by Yevatem as one of the strongest natural forces of the world. In their dreams, the seas represent Bothea's last layer to trespass before reaching her very heart. It also represents everything we don't know, for nobody can dive deep enough to know what lays beneath these huge expanses of salted water. Widely used to travel under the surface of the planet, they can prove very dangerous and capricious, and only the best captains will manage to survive the wildest watery parts of Bothea.
Fig. 32: The color blue
The presence of many rock formations can turn simple waves into dangerous splashes at any time. But such bottlenecks can be really useful to fish in the area. Yevatem living there know complex methods to desalt the water, and mostly live on algae and fish food. But those waters have taken the lives of many unfortunate souls, so you better learn how to swim and avoid strong streams before jumping in them.
The presence of many rock formations can turn simple waves into dangerous splashes at any time. But such bottlenecks can be really useful to fish in the area. Yevatem living there know complex methods to desalt the water, and mostly live on algae and fish food. But those waters have taken the lives of many unfortunate souls, so you better learn how to swim and avoid strong streams before jumping in them.
Fig. 33: Ports
Boat owner or not, Yevatem need places to take breaks. It's always great to see some lands and inhabited areas after spending a long time in the water. Lights and flat stone formations are great to recognize inhabited zones.
Boat owner or not, Yevatem need places to take breaks. It's always great to see some lands and inhabited areas after spending a long time in the water. Lights and flat stone formations are great to recognize inhabited zones.
Fig. 34, from left to right: Unfortunate events
1. Once a Yevat town, now the last rempart before flooding a deeper area, this water probably surprised the folks living here when it arrived. Maybe another barrage broke higher in the past, it's now just a dead land.
2. An abandoned little boat. Who knows what happened to the owner?
3. Two big merchants boats seem taken by strong streams, and are threatened to crash on the rocky sides.
4. A dangerous bottleneck inside of which many boats crashed. A Yevat seems to have made a shelter here, above the threat of the waves, probably to gather and pick up the pieces of whoever doesn't survive the passage.
1. Once a Yevat town, now the last rempart before flooding a deeper area, this water probably surprised the folks living here when it arrived. Maybe another barrage broke higher in the past, it's now just a dead land.
2. An abandoned little boat. Who knows what happened to the owner?
3. Two big merchants boats seem taken by strong streams, and are threatened to crash on the rocky sides.
4. A dangerous bottleneck inside of which many boats crashed. A Yevat seems to have made a shelter here, above the threat of the waves, probably to gather and pick up the pieces of whoever doesn't survive the passage.
Oyevat ruins and wrecks
(Click for fullsized pictures.)
- Ruins' Pinterest board -
Oyevatem all disappeared thousands and thousands of cycles ago, in a short period of time, leaving behind them only what they've built. Large metallic and glassy structures scattered all over Bothea, filled with unusable and damaged technology, and covered with incomprehensible glyphs. Yevatem discovering these mysterious places can't guess what their ancestors used to look like, nor what were all these buttons, commands and objects for. If these ruins remains a large mystery for them, it didn't prevent them to sometimes install their homes inside. Some known cities and towns are installed inside these wrecks, allowing the Yevatem living in there to discover a urban environment instead of the wild nature. Fig. 35 1. As every spaceship on Bothea, this Oyevat ruin is heavily damaged. Weather, time, Yevatem and Varveleilem's passages have reduced this wreck to its most basic structure. The huge rocks these ships are landed on are carved inside, and lead to some underground passages... if they're not too damaged too. This one was also specifically connected to an outpost at its back. The outpost and the ship's small size (about 100 meters / 330' long) suggest that this spaceship was used for small and fast missions, and possibly never left Bothea. 2. A Yevat is observing possibly the most preserved spaceship you'll ever see. We still can guess the glass-like surface of the ship. When the suns' light hit its surface, it reflects a lot and it's visible from very far away. Its structure started to calcify and to melt with its rock base, so it'll sadly never fly again. That one probably remained protected because the rock's surface is so smooth that a Yevat could not climb here, and its undergrounds must be collapsed, making the spaceship wreck unreachable for most of Yevatem. Its huge size - about 3,5 kilometers / 2 miles from head to tail - suggest that this ship was used to space travel. Just under its tail, the reactors's holes are visible, and a Varveleil maybe established its nest here. 3. This one is smaller than the previous one - an estimation would be 1km / 0,6 mile from head to tail. The same calcification happened and the ship merged with its base with time. The light inside suggest that a city probably established its home here, and a Varveleil flying in the sky is maybe one of their friend. By the emplacement of the light, we can guess that the city's main place is based where the reactor of the ship used to be: a big empty place, that were heavily dangerous when the ship used to fly, but is probably now seen as a huge cathedral for Yevatem. |
Fig. 36, from left to right: Ruins, shelters for Yevatem
You wanted a post-apocalyptic landscape? There you are. Many Oyevat ruins are still standing, strong enough to shelter entire communities of Yevatem, and also serve as excellent source of metal.
1. An old ship carcass. It has been widely used as a metal mine.
2. The ruin and the Yevat constructions above it merge into an almost insectoid nest town.
3. This large hull has been used just like a cave roof for Yevatem. They started to install underneath to be protected by the elements.
4. This barely damaged ruin top is probably the room of a lucky Velilyevat. Constructions underneath suggest a hidden town nearby.
5. Probably a gigantic ship before, or maybe just a military Oyevat base, this place has known better days. It's only a matter of time before Yevatem or Varveleilem find this place and use it as home.
You wanted a post-apocalyptic landscape? There you are. Many Oyevat ruins are still standing, strong enough to shelter entire communities of Yevatem, and also serve as excellent source of metal.
1. An old ship carcass. It has been widely used as a metal mine.
2. The ruin and the Yevat constructions above it merge into an almost insectoid nest town.
3. This large hull has been used just like a cave roof for Yevatem. They started to install underneath to be protected by the elements.
4. This barely damaged ruin top is probably the room of a lucky Velilyevat. Constructions underneath suggest a hidden town nearby.
5. Probably a gigantic ship before, or maybe just a military Oyevat base, this place has known better days. It's only a matter of time before Yevatem or Varveleilem find this place and use it as home.
Fig 37, from left to right: Repurposing the ancestor's buildings.
1. No Yevat know what this circle was used for, before. Nowadays, it's used as training ground for Varveleil riders, and for races. Whoever passes the ring on a dragon's back will be locally recognized as an accomplished rider!
2. Sometimes, large metal plates fallen from Oyevat ruins can be repurposed to make bridges. It doesn't look very steady, however... But Yevatem are brave.
3. Some ruins are deep enough to have been spared by time and weather. In such conditions, Yevatem noticed that pushing some buttons activated lights. A perfect spot to create the prettiest town on miles around!
4. Oyevatem didn't only made spaceships. Sometimes, they just needed bridges and roads, and those can still be found deep underground.
1. No Yevat know what this circle was used for, before. Nowadays, it's used as training ground for Varveleil riders, and for races. Whoever passes the ring on a dragon's back will be locally recognized as an accomplished rider!
2. Sometimes, large metal plates fallen from Oyevat ruins can be repurposed to make bridges. It doesn't look very steady, however... But Yevatem are brave.
3. Some ruins are deep enough to have been spared by time and weather. In such conditions, Yevatem noticed that pushing some buttons activated lights. A perfect spot to create the prettiest town on miles around!
4. Oyevatem didn't only made spaceships. Sometimes, they just needed bridges and roads, and those can still be found deep underground.
Fig. 38, from left to right: Inside the ruins
1. At the surface, a ruin had been greatly damaged. In spite of the nice view on the meadows further away, this place is probably an unstable and dangerous ruin now.
2. Probably once a reactor, then a paved Yevat home, it's certainly now a Varveleil nest.
3. Deep underground, Oyevat ruins are more spared and still in good shape. Their lights still work, and they remain somewhat clean. It's inside of such places that a Yevat will find rare Oyevat artifacts, such as googles or strange wired tech!
4. Damaged by time, this ruin has lost many parts. It's probably a passage between the surface and an interesting underground, perhaps a whole inclined ship?
1. At the surface, a ruin had been greatly damaged. In spite of the nice view on the meadows further away, this place is probably an unstable and dangerous ruin now.
2. Probably once a reactor, then a paved Yevat home, it's certainly now a Varveleil nest.
3. Deep underground, Oyevat ruins are more spared and still in good shape. Their lights still work, and they remain somewhat clean. It's inside of such places that a Yevat will find rare Oyevat artifacts, such as googles or strange wired tech!
4. Damaged by time, this ruin has lost many parts. It's probably a passage between the surface and an interesting underground, perhaps a whole inclined ship?
Deadlands
Fig. 39
The dead lands. They're quite rare, but they exist, and any Yevat can see one in their life if they're curious enough. But they'd better watch it from far away, because if these places bear no life, it's always for an excellent reason. Dead lands can be found anywhere on Bothea, and can be of any size. They're mostly made of rocks and a bit of sterile dirt, but some are also made of dried magma. No plant will grow and no animal will live in these places, and any YVVO with common sense will simply avoid them. There are several reasons why a dead land can appear somewhere: - On the highest mountains of Bothea, above the clouds, the oxygen is rarer. But no snow covers the moutain peaks; instead, there's just dead lands. - Some places are just located above an active volcano, and are constantly covered with magma. - Some places are infected by a very dry and small black lichen-like mushroom, which spores are spread via a thick and extremely toxic vapor. It kills everything in the air, and develop on simple rocks. These fungus can be killed simply with water and are quickly treated if they reach a place where Yevatem live. The Matialejem tribes (those venerating Ai Matia, the spirit of Death) are known to be crazy enough to travel through the dead lands. Their help can be requested if for some reason the dead lands need to be crossed. Dead lands are also known to be used by the most cruel Valisem (traitors, excluded ones) to trap merchants caravans in there. They let the merchants die and then come back quickly to steal their goods. But the most interesting fact about the dead lands is that they're used as cemeteries by Varveleilem. If Yevatem dive their deads in the deepest waters, Varveleilem fly up to the highest moutains when they feel like they're ready to die. There, the lack of oxygen help them dying, and their remains are added to the many other Varveleil bones and skeletons. It's a way for them to stay "in the sky" as much as they can. |
Oyevat memories
Warning: This will spoil the current and main storyline: Shadow of the Maze Jumper. Be sure to be up to date before reading further!
There are several ways to access Oyevat memories: it can be through Varveleilem's memories, if they passed on such memories from parents to kids since the era when their ancestors actually met Oyevatem, or through an Oyevat him/herself, when a Yevat share thoughts with. Oyevatem closed their eyes cycles ago but to them, it was as if only a single night passed. Their memories are still fresh, and they can remember the shape of their environments and details as if it was the day before. Many will feel nostalgic about it.
There are several ways to access Oyevat memories: it can be through Varveleilem's memories, if they passed on such memories from parents to kids since the era when their ancestors actually met Oyevatem, or through an Oyevat him/herself, when a Yevat share thoughts with. Oyevatem closed their eyes cycles ago but to them, it was as if only a single night passed. Their memories are still fresh, and they can remember the shape of their environments and details as if it was the day before. Many will feel nostalgic about it.
Fig 40: Planetary ships Those ships never left Bothea. They were made to travel across the planet at incredible speeds, and spare Oyevatem the trip in the bowels on the planet. If some planetary ships were designed for combat and planet protection, these ones especially were for travel, and thus were mostly harmless. They were strong enough to resist Varveleil attacks, and anyway quickly disappeared in the horizon. They were comfy and useful, and mostly silent. Nowadays, they're all in a too bad shape to fly. |
Fig. 41, from left to right: Objects
1. Sleeping pods. A blanket lays beside one. Oxygen and temperature control, those pods use to put an Oyevat in sleep in a few seconds. They weren't the most popular pods (popular ones cancelled gravity and had dream controls), but surely the most spread and common. 2. A surveillance turret, placed on a foreign planet. This one is maybe still in place, for all that Oyevatem know. 3. Could be held in an Oyevat hand, these devices allowed the surveillance in 3d and (almost) in real time of a given location, if other devices like n°2 had previously been placed there. It was like a portative world. It was mostly used for surveillance and protection. |
Fig. 42: Windows.
Space: that's what Oyevatem must miss the most at the moment. Unable to reach it, they miss the no-gravity fields, the absolute silence and calm, the inter-dimensional trips, and the sight of the void through large windows. Their space environment may have looked cold and impersonal - and they were - and most Oyevat spent long space trips in dream-like stasis, but still: they'd say that they miss it. It was said that some parts of the galaxy, inside of the darkest places, almost looked like a deep underwater ocean, for some creatures managed to live where nothing could, and black matter took some interesting shapes. Oyevatem were far to have pierced all secrets the galaxy had to offer, and they hadn't explored everything yet, when they fell. And yet, they were the most advanced species, all worlds included. When they think of what they missed during these long cycles spent sleeping, they can only feel rage and frustration. |
Fig. 43: Spaceships
Do not ask them why, but Oyevatem have been obsessed with the oval shape. If it had the shape of an egg, they felt happy. Most of their creations used to glow in a light blue as a signature, but it wasn't rare either to see some spots of the orange color here and there. They spaceships were known to have huge reactors at their back - sometimes even bigger than the ship itself - to be able to bend space. That way, they could travel faster than light, and even change dimension where the layers of the world were the thinnest. Sometimes, ships had no huge reactor - but they could be propulsed by bigger engines which would bend space between two places. |