Oran-Rief
| Oran-Rief | |
|---|---|
| The Vastwood | |
 | |
| Information | |
| Plane | Zendikar |
| Colors |
 |
| Type | Forest |
| Part of | Tazeem |
| Scryfall Statistics | |
Oran-Rief, also known as the Vastwood, is an immense forest located on the continent of Tazeem on the plane of Zendikar.[1]
Description
Oran-Rief stretches across much of Tazeem's interior, forming a vast forest that grows atop and around immense reef-like rock formations. These reef-rock structures resemble underwater coral reefs, featuring jagged plateaus, towering spires, layered terraces, and intricate networks of crevices and sunken wells. The rocks exhibit hues of pale yellow, green, and blue and possess a porous, pockmarked texture through which water continually seeps. Although the reef-rock itself is not alive, it is infused with magical energy that causes it to slowly expand and grow over time, much like a living coral reef. Some of these rock formations reach heights of up to 100 feet and connect to form enormous plateaus that span hundreds of miles both horizontally and vertically.[1]
Vegetation thrives where it can on these formations—whether atop the plateaus, around the spiny outcrops, or nestled within the sun wells—drawing whatever light and moisture it can find. The plants send sprawling roots that weave through and envelop the reef-rock, often concealing the stone beneath dense undergrowth. The forest itself takes on the strange shapes and contours of the underlying rock, creating surreal and unusual silhouettes. Because direct sunlight is scarce in many areas, plant life reacts to any available rays with rapid and explosive growth, a phenomenon known as Em's Blessing. While this growth produces stunning natural beauty, it can also be perilous, as both animals and explorers risk becoming trapped or suffocated in the thick, fast-growing foliage.[1]
Rising high above Oran-Rief are the Umara Skyfalls, a series of majestic waterfalls that descend from the skies, pouring their waters endlessly into the jungle below. The Skyfalls serve as the source of the Umara River, nourishing the forest and surrounding lands.[2]
History
Oran-Rief has long been a vital wellspring of life energy on Zendikar. The forest and its reef-rock foundations suffered severe devastation during the Eldrazi invasion, which ravaged much of the plane. Following the defeat of the Eldrazi titans, Oran-Rief has been in a state of rapid recovery, with its flora and reef-rock structures regrowing and reclaiming the land.[1]
Gallery
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Oran-Rief in the wake of the Eldrazi -
Oran-Rief before the release of the Eldrazi
In-game references
- Represented in:
- Associated cards:
- Referred to:
References
- ↑ a b c d Magic Creative Team (December 02, 2009). "A Planeswalker's Guide to Zendikar: Tazeem and Merfolk". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast. Archived from the original on 2020-11-11.
- ↑ As seen on Umara Skyfalls