Strait of Haifa

The Strait of Haifa The Eastern Vine / The Great Vine
Location	Eastern Keltia
Coordinates
Type	Rift Valley
Native Name	Misc.
Basin Countries	Alperkin, Bassarids, Natopia, Jezeraah, Imperial Federation
Minimum Width	43.2 km
Maximum Width	384 km (Lake Morovia)
Islands
Settlements
Abbreviation	SoH

The Strait of Haifa, otherwise known as the Vine of Keltia or the Eastern Vine, is the narrow, elongated, shallow sea which separates central and eastern Keltia. The Strait is situated between longitudes 100E and 130E, and latitudes 20N and 70N.

Today the Strait of Haifa is dominated by commerce between the states which constitute the Maritime Markets of the Strait of Haifa. With that said, piracy is extremely common in the region, especially in regions which lie to the south of Lake Morovia.

Countries which have claimed territory bordering the Sea of Storms include: the Haifo-Pallisican Imperial Trade Union, Alperkin and Natopia, and most recently, the Imperial Federation.

Geology

Satelite imaging highlights the important role which the Strait of Haifa plays in central Keltian society.

The Strait of Haifa is a dormant continental rift zone in eastern Keltia which was formed when the East Keltian Continental Plate diverged from the Laceran and Caledonian plates.

Southern Strait of Haifa

The Southern Strait of Haifa lies to the south of Lake Morovia, and connects Lake Morovia to the Corprian Ocean. In terms of climate, the Southern Strait of Haifa is hot and semi-arid or arid. To that extent, the region's southernmost reaches lie within the bitterly hot Eastern Mykonos, and the rocky Thalassapolis deserts. In addition to its harsh, unforgiving climate, the Southern Strait of Haifa is home to a large number of very powerful pirate communities which operate out of the Port of Blore Heath. Most notable of these communities is the Bacchian Vine Fleet, a band of pirates who sail upon ships made from living vines, who - like most of the religious communities along the Strait of Haifa - worship the god of wine and ritual madness.

Major active cities along the Southern Strait of Haifa leading to the 1700's include Blore Heath, Mylecia, and Jogi. Inactive, or independent city-states include Fort Itainen, Bursesti, Newstone, Lewisburg, and Nouvelle Geneve. These latter cities are especially vulnerable to attack by pirates, such as those mentioned above, as well as by the giant fishermen who inhabit the coastal shore-lines of the Thallasopois Desert, who sometimes take exception to the high commercial traffic in the region, which is known to disrupt their efforts to catch the whales, sharks, and dolphins on which they subsist. These myriad challenges resulted in a relative, protracted decline in the number of independent city-states along the Southern Strait. Eventually, the Imperial Federation took limited control of the inland portions of the Strait near Lake Moravia and the southern Keltian coastline from 1718 AN.

The Southern Strait is regarded as the birthplace of Bassaridianism.

Lake Morovia

Dozens of ancient Amasebéiri del hed Amash stand tall over the Abeisan Archipelago, the group of islands which marks the eastern boundary of Lake Morovia.

Despite its name, and its depiction on most official maps as a lake, Lake Morovia is not a lake but a vast swampland which sits in the heart of an ancient, dormant super-volcano. With that said, Lake Morovia is a large body of fresh water which drains directly into the briny Strait of Haifa. Accessible in only certain locations to large sea-going vessels, Lake Morovia is a foreboding land of twisting waterways and wetlands which has historically served as the home of notable nations such as Ocia and Haifa. Located in the center of the temperate climate region known as the Valley of Haifa, Lake Morovia is a region rife with Haifan pirates who derive inspiration from the adventures of Captain Ismael Hatch. With this said, the most savage inhabitants of the waterways of Lake Morovia are not pirates, but the vampiric alps who inhabit the region, and their worshipers - known as the Alperkin - whose brutal and bizarre rituals center around the extensive consumption of the toxic, raw leaves of the wild Noctic-Rabrev.

Lake Morovia is home to the Bassarid state of Haifa, to the Haifan city of Vaeringheim, to the indigenous Alperkin nation, and to the Greater Morovian Independence Intiative and its separatist allies in Jezeraah. Tension between these various stakeholders resulted, in the period following the collapse of Caputia, in the outbreak of the Haifan Civil War. These conflicts were, for the most part, inherited by the Imperial Federation when it colonized so-called Imperial Haifa in the closing years of the 1710's AN, in an effort to stem piracy along the Straits and open overland trade between its northwestern holdings and Normark.

Fauna and Flora of Lake Morovia

Lake Morovia and surrounding regions are home to a range of highly unique and diverse range of plants and animals found nowhere else on Micras. Examples of the region's unique species can be seen in the tables below.

Aquatic Fauna

Picture	Species Name	Class	Order	Range	Description
	Atterian Sea Nettle	-	-		The Atterian Sea Nettle is a captivating and graceful jellyfish known for its stunning, bioluminescent appearance. Residing in the depths of Lake Morovia, it possesses unique characteristics that set it apart from the region's other jellyfish. Atterian Sea Nettles are predominantly found in the deep, dark waters of Lake Morovia, where their gentle pulsating movements and glowing tentacles create a mesmerizing spectacle. They are rarely seen in shallower waters, preferring the mysterious depths. Generally peaceful, Atterian Sea Nettles can be found drifting through the depths of the Lake, and using their bioluminescence to communicate with one another. They often form small colonies, creating stunning displays of underwater light shows. They are primarily carnivorous, hunting smaller aquatic organisms with their poisonous tentacles. In the rare instances when Atterian Sea Nettles encounter threats, they can release a cloud of toxic mucus as a defense mechanism. This mucus not only deters potential predators but also creates a temporary smokescreen to escape from danger.
	Ocian Swamp Squid	-	-		The Ocian Swamp Squid is a mysterious and elusive squid that inhabits the dark, murky waters of swamps and wetlands of Lake Morovia. This unusual creature is known for its unassuming appearance, and its fascinating abilities. Ocian Swamp Squid are primarily found in the shadowy depths of swampy environments of Lake Morovia. They are known to thrive in stagnant and brackish waters, using the concealment of the murky, sediment-filled surroundings to their advantage. Mostly solitary and reclusive, the Ocian Swamp Squid prefers to remain hidden within the murky waters of their swampy homes. They are expert ambush predators, using their camouflage to remain undetected until an unsuspecting prey item comes within reach. Their docile appearance can be misleading, as they become highly defensive when threatened. Ocian Swamp Squid are Known for their complex and strange courtship rituals, which often involve intricate color displays and synchronized movements. Breeding occurs in the deeper parts of their swamp habitats, and the newly hatched larvae go through several stages of development before reaching maturity.
	Odiferan Marsh Shrimp	-	-		The Odiferan Marsh Shrimp is a unique and mysterious shrimp found in the Odiferan Marsh. This small, elusive creature boasts a captivating array of features and abilities that distinguish it from the region's other shrimp. Odiferan Marsh Shrimp thrive in the murky and nutrient-rich waters of the Odiferan Marsh, a region filled with dense vegetation and unique flora. They are often found in shallow, slow-moving streams and pools within the marsh. Odiferan Marsh Shrimp are primarily nocturnal creatures, emerging from their hiding spots at night to forage for food. They use their bioluminescent lure to attract insects and small aquatic invertebrates, which they capture using their agile swimming and precision strikes. Although they are generally peaceful, these creatures can become more aggressive when competing for resources or territory in the marsh. During the breeding season, male Odiferan Marsh Shrimp engage in intricate dance-like courtship displays, showcasing their bioluminescent lures to attract potential mates. Once courtship is successful, females lay their eggs among the aquatic plants in the marsh.
	Hatch's Ray	-	-		Hatch's Ray is an extraordinary and unusual creature known for its unique adaptation to swampy environments, which has evolved to thrive in the murky waters of swamps and marshes of Lake Morovia. Hatch's Rays are predominantly found in the heart of swampy regions, where dense vegetation and shallow, brackish waters provide the ideal habitat for these extraordinary creatures. They are most commonly sighted in slow-moving streams, sloughs, and muddy ponds. Hatch's Rays are known for their solitary and reclusive nature, preferring the serenity of the swamp's quieter corners. They are expert ambush predators, often remaining partially buried in the swamp's mud and vegetation, awaiting unsuspecting prey to come within striking distance. These creatures are territorial by nature, and disputes over prime hunting grounds are not uncommon. Hatch's Rays communicate through a series of infrasound vocalizations that are imperceptible to humans, but can be heard by other Rays Mating rituals among Hatch's Rays involve elegant and synchronized swimming displays, where potential mates perform a mesmerizing dance that often culminates in courtship and, eventually, egg-laying among the reeds and aquatic plants of the swamp.
	Atteran River Shark	-	-		The Atteran River Shark is a formidable, large shark, aptly named for its imposing presence and its preference for the turbulent waters of the Strait of Haifa. This apex predator is a master of its domain. Atteran River Sharks are primarily found in the fast-flowing and murky waters of the Strait of Haifa, especially in the waters surrounding the Abeisan Archipelago. They are often sighted in the deeper, churning sections of the region's waterways. Atteran River Sharks are solitary predators, with each individual claiming its own territory along a stretch of the Atteran River. This shark is highly territorial and fiercely defend their hunting grounds from other predators. While formidable in battle, they tend to be patient hunters, lying in wait for fish and aquatic creatures to venture into their domain. During the breeding season, male Atteran River Sharks engage in fierce territorial battles to establish dominance. Once a territory is secured, the winning male performs an intricate courtship display to attract a female. The female lays her eggs in a secluded area of the river, and the male guards them diligently.
	Haifan Armored Lake Dolphin	-	-		The Haifan Armored Lake Dolphin is a remarkable and unique creature, which resides in the murky waters of the Haifan region, it is known for its elegant beauty and formidable defensive capabilities. Haifan Armored Lake Dolphins are most commonly found in the calm shallow waters of Lake Morovia. These tranquil environments provide the perfect sanctuary for these graceful creatures, where they can flourish and thrive. Haifan Armored Lake Dolphins are sociable creatures, often found swimming in small family groups or pods. They communicate using their sonic pulses, creating a harmonious symphony of sound that resonates throughout the waters of the Haifan region. While generally peaceful, they become fiercely protective when their habitat is threatened. These dolphins are expert hunters, using their echolocation abilities to locate prey with remarkable precision. They feed on fish, aquatic invertebrates, and occasionally aquatic plants, making them vital components of their ecosystem. During the breeding season, Haifan Armored Lake Dolphins engage in mesmerizing underwater displays, showcasing their agility and grace. Mating pairs often engage in synchronized swimming.
	Vaering's Armored Whale	-	-		Vaering's Armored Whale is an awe-inspiring, massive whale, celebrated for its majestic presence and known for its formidable strength and unwavering endurance, this colossal creature roams the vast waters of Lake Morovia and the central Strait of Haifa. Vaering's Armored Whales are most commonly found in the open oceans of Lake Morovia, where they navigate the depths and expanse of the lake with ease. They often undertake long migrations across the lake, following elusive currents. Leading a a relatively solitary life, these whales occasionally forming small, temporary pods when encountering other individuals. They communicate through a series of deep, resonant calls, often echoing through the vast lake. Their songs are considered one of the wonders of the natural world, captivating all who hear them. These whales are expert foragers, utilizing their hydrokinetic powers to corral schools of fish and other prey. They are key figures in maintaining the ecological balance of the oceans, as they often feed on overpopulated species to prevent depletion of marine resources. During the breeding season, Vaering's Armored Whales engage in elaborate courtship displays, which involve synchronized swimming, breathtaking breaches, and intricate sonic rituals. After mating, the female typically gives birth to a single calf, which she cares for and protects diligently.
	Orange Forest Land Octopus	-	-		The Orange Forest Land Octopus is an extraordinary and enigmatic terrestrial octopus, which inhabits the Gloom Forest of Perpetual Autumn, this creature has evolved to thrive in the eerie and mystical environment of the forest, where it feeds on the parasitic will-o-wisps that illuminate the dark woods. The Orange Forest Land Octopus calls the mysterious Gloom Forest its home, a place shrouded in legends and mystery. This haunted forest is known for its luminous will-o-wisps, which serve as both the primary food source and an integral part of the Octopus's ecosystem. A solitary creature, the Land Octopus is often seen prowling the dark depths of the Orange Forest in search of will-o-wisps. It moves stealthily through the underbrush, its ghostly camouflage concealing it from potential predators and prey. The Orange Forest Land Octopus is seldom observed by humans, as it is a master of remaining hidden within the mystical forest. Its presence in the Orange Forest has contributed to the numerous legends and tales that surround this eerie woodland.
	Abeisan Walrus	-	-		The Abeisan Walrus is a remarkable and resilient creature, celebrated for its commanding presence and unique adaptation to the swampy coastal regions of the Abeisan Archipelago. Abeisan Walruses are primarily found in the Abeisan Archipelago, where they inhabit the brackish waters, coastal marshes, and frigid beaches. They are known to rest on ice floes during colder months and venture into the coastal swamps when the weather is warmer. Abeisan Walruses are sociable creatures, often congregating in small herds along the frigid coastlines of the Abeisan Archipelago. They are expert foragers, diving deep into the cold waters to hunt for fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic prey. These Walruses are known for their distinctive, eerie calls, which can be heard echoing across the coast. Their vocalizations serve as a means of communication within their herds and, during the breeding season, as courtship songs. During breeding season, male Abeisan Walruses engage in powerful, tusk-clashing displays to establish dominance and attract potential mates. Females typically give birth to a single calf, which they protect and nurture in the safety of their swampy coastal habitats.
	Greater Morovian Giant Turtle	-	-		The Greater Morovian Giant Turtle is a majestic and venerable beast, renowned for its colossal size and serene presence. Inhabiting the waters of the Morovian region, this ancient creature is a symbol of wisdom and endurance. Greater Morovian Giant Turtles are most commonly found in the brackish coastal waters of Lake Morovia. They prefer secluded coves and peaceful bays, where they find refuge and sustenance. The Greater Morovian Giant Turtle is a gentle and solitary creature, often observed drifting gracefully through the the Lake's coastal waters. These ancient creatures are known to live for centuries, displaying a deep connection with the ebb and flow of the lake. Their colossal shells serve as a haven for smaller aquatic species, including algae, and fish. This symbiotic relationship benefits both the Greater Morovian Giant Turtle and the species that take refuge on its back, creating a thriving ecosystem. During the breeding season, male Greater Morovian Giant Turtles engage in elaborate courtship rituals, involving synchronized swimming and the generation of seismic vibrations to attract potential mates. Once a pair is established, the female lays her eggs on the sandy shores of the Morovian coastline.
	Tar Worm	-	-		The Tar Worm is a formidable and highly unusual creature, known for its tenacious existence in the treacherous tar-pits of its native region. This creature, has evolved to thrive in the hazardous and unforgiving environment of the tar-pits of the Gloom Forest of Perpetual Autumn. Tar Worms are primarily found in the vast, gloomy tar-pits of their native region, where they navigate the viscous, oil-like substance with surprising ease. They can also be encountered in the surrounding areas, which often feature geothermal activity. Tar Worms are solitary and relentless hunters, making the tar-pits their home and feeding on smaller creatures that become trapped in the tar. Their venomous bites and powerful strikes are essential for subduing prey, and they are known for their patience in waiting for an opportunity to strike. Tar Worms are also infamous for feeding on human remains deposited in the tar-pits as part of Alperkin funerary customs. Despite their formidable appearance and territorial nature, Tar Worms play a vital role in the ecosystem of their native region. Their presence helps control the population of smaller creatures and maintains the balance within the tar-pits' delicate environment. The Tar Worms' adaptation to the harsh tar-pits has made them an central part of local folklore and legend, often symbolizing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
	Rift Valley Crocodile	-	-		The Rift Valley Crocodile is a formidable creature, known for its powerful presence in the vast waters of the Haifan Rift Valley. This ancient creature, is known for its resilience and survival instincts in its unique habitat. Rift Valley Crocodiles primarily inhabit the expansive Haifan Rift Valley, where they make their homes in the numerous lakes and rivers found within this geographic wonder. They are frequently encountered along the muddy banks and calm, freshwater bodies of the central Strait of Haifa and its tributaries. Rift Valley Crocodiles are solitary and territorial creatures, often seen basking in the sun along riverbanks or floating stealthily in the calm waters of the Strait of Haifa and Lake Morovia. They are patient hunters, relying on their camouflage to ambush unsuspecting prey that ventures too close. Their nests are hidden within the riverbanks, where females lay their eggs and protect them diligently. Once hatched, the young crocodiles are highly vulnerable and require their mother's care and protection until they are old enough to fend for themselves. The large presence of Rift Valley Crocodiles in the Strait has led to their inclusion in local mythology and tales, symbolizing both the danger and the enduring beauty of the region.
	Atterian Armored Pufferfish	-	-		The Atterian Armored Pufferfish is a unique and extraordinary fish which inhabits the coastal waters of Lake Morovia. This resilient creature is known for its intricate armored plating and its formidable defenses. Atterian Armored Pufferfish are most commonly found among Lake Morovia's coral reefs and shallow, sandy seabeds where they can find both protection and sustenance. Atterian Armored Pufferfish are known for their gentle disposition and their preference for a peaceful coexistence with other organisms in the reef ecosystem. They are skilled hunters, using their water manipulation abilities to corral small fish and invertebrates into the confines of the coral reefs. When confronted by threats, they employ their unique defensive strategy of inflating their steel-plated bodies, rendering them nearly impervious to attack. This behavior is often sufficient to deter predators, and they generally prefer to avoid confrontations whenever possible. Mating rituals among Atterian Armored Pufferfish involve intricate displays of coordinated swimming and water manipulation. Once a mating pair is established, the female will lay her eggs in a secluded crevice within the reef, and both parents will diligently guard the nest.
	Amina Crab	-	-		The Amina Crab is a massive and formidable crab which inhabits the coastal waters of the Lake Morovia. Amina Crabs are most commonly found along the rocky coastlines and in the clear, temperate waters of Lake Morovia. They favor areas with abundant underwater caves and crevices, where they seek shelter and protection. Amina Crabs are solitary and territorial creatures, often found lurking in underwater caves or patrolling the rocky Lake bed. They are expert hunters, capturing fish, crustaceans, and other marine life with their mighty claws. Their territorial nature often leads to disputes with other Amina Crabs over prime hunting grounds. These battles are fierce and can result in significant changes in territory ownership. During the breeding season, male Amina Crabs engage in elaborate displays of strength and agility to impress potential mates. After mating, the female lays her eggs in a secluded underwater crevice, where she guards them diligently.
	Low Valley Swamp Roach	-	-		The Low Valley Swamp Roach is a formidable trilobite, known for its distinctive appearance and predatory nature, which inhabits the murky waters of the Morovian swamps. Low Valley Swamp Roaches are primarily found in the dark, swampy waters of the Lake Morovia region. They make their homes in the muck and sediment, where they prowl for prey among the aquatic plants and detritus. Low Valley Swamp Roaches are solitary and territorial, often claiming specific hunting grounds within the swamp. They are patient and stealthy hunters, relying on their camouflage and ambush tactics to capture small aquatic creatures and insects. These creatures are known for their mysterious behavior, often lurking in the darkness of the swamp for hours before striking at their prey. They are also known to scavenge on decaying matter and plant material, serving as integral components of the swamp's ecosystem. They are also known to pose a danger to humans, and have been observed hunting people. Mating rituals among Low Valley Swamp Roaches involve intricate displays of underwater acrobatics, with males competing to impress potential mates. After mating, the female lays her eggs among the submerged vegetation, and both parents diligently guard the nest.

Terrestrial Fauna

Picture	Species Name	Class	Order	Range
	Naked Lowland Giraffe	-	-
	Sasquatch	-	-
	Morovian Water Buffalo	-	-
	Alp Chamois	-	-
	Morovian Horned Hippo	-	-
	South Haifan Camel	-	-
	Morovian Highland Horned Bear	-	-
	Upper Haifan Woolly Lion	-	-
	Wetland Ground Sloth	-	-
	Oceanic Shelled Rhino	-	-
	Bassaria's Porcupine	-	-
	Harpy's Giant Land Otter	-	-
	Alpert's Lemur	-	-
	Garganram	-	-
	Haifan Wooly Pouch Rabbit	-	-
	Deepwood Gloom Wolf	-	-

Avian Fauna

Picture	Species Name	Class	Order	Range
	Morovian Rainbow Bird	-	-
	Thalassian Eagle	-	-
	Haifa's Flamingo	-	-
	Hatch's Gloom Vulture	-	-
	Uppper Morovian Swamp Ostrich	-	-
	Tar's Hummingbird	-	-
	Rift Harpy	-	-
	Atterian Whiskered Owl	-	-
	Aminian Lowland Peacock	-	-
	Lesser Morovian Swamp Dove	-	-
	Odiferian Moa	-	-
	Morovian Kingbird	-	-
	Sin's Penguin	-	-
	Salin Mimic	-	-
	Red-Crested Imperial Woodpecker	-	-

Northern Strait of Haifa

In addition to vicious harpies, the Northern Strait of Haifa is also home to a race of sasquatch known outside the region as Haifasquatch. Haifasquatch feature prominently in Alperkin folklore.

The Northern Strait of Haifa lies to the north of Lake Morovia, and connects it to northern Keltia's Guardian Bay. A vast and mystical region rich in game and resources, the Northern Strait of Haifa is almost entirely devoid of human settlement - there are no major cities anywhere along the 1600+ kilometers of waterways which separate the Port of Vaeringheim from the city-state of Jangsong. Indeed, even the boldest of pirates who make their living in the Southern Strait or in Lake Morovia is generally unwilling to traverse the Northern Strait of Haifa, lest they encounter any number of the region's relentless ghosts, or fierce harpies or sasquatch. It was only in the late 1710's that naval forces felt strong enough to traverse these treacherous trade routes and escort the boldest merchants in their respective countries.

Ghosts of the Northern Strait

A ghost, or wisp, hunts its prey along the edge of a forest near the city of Vaeringheim.

The Ghosts of the Northern Strait are an aggressive species of parasitic Will o' Wisp, which live by feeding on the life-force of mammals. The prevalence of these extremely dangerous creatures has long prevented humans from journeying through, or from settling in, the Northern Strait of Haifa. With that said, those who do make the journey through the Northern Strait have long relied on the powers of the Couriers of the Lizard Queen, whose magical abilities can be used to treat the maddening effects of the region's parasitic spirits. Among those who have famously relied on the services of the Couriers of the Lizard Queen to combat the effects of the Ghosts of the Northern Strait is Captain Ismael Hatch, whose crew suffered an onslaught of ghosts during its voyages to and from the city of Jangsong. Following the example of Captain Hatch, many of the arctic pirates who sail under the flag of the Hatch Ministry are known to take special care in fostering close relationships between themselves and the Couriers of the Lizard Queen

Harpies

Regarded by the pirates who sail under the banner of the Hatch Ministry as being the servants of the goddess Aganippe, the Harpies of the far north are revered for their semi-mythical ability to ward off the Ghosts of the Far North. Travelers passing through the strait, for this reason, often rely on the presence of harpies for protection against the region's deadly, parasitic spirits. With that said, such practices are not actually encouraged, insofar as harpies are known to viciously prey upon any unfortunate human who carelessly manages to obtain their notice.

Gulf of Jangsong

A painting of the Seasama, the first vessel captained by the famous Morovian pirate Ismael Hatch.

The primary domain of the Hatch Ministry, a well-financed and savage community of Normarkian and Haifan pirates which formed following the series of raids in the region carried out by Captain Ismael Hatch in the 35.60's PSSC, The Gulf of Jangsong is the body of water which defines the northern mouth of the Strait of Haifa. It is bordered by the Bassarid states of Jangsong and the Bassarid Kingdom of New Normark, and by the formerly Natopian demesne of Elijah's Rest, which is now a part of the Elwynnese autonomous republic of Normark.

Strait of Haifa Campaign

The Gulf of the Jangsong was the site of the Strait of Haifa Campaign, an informal, undeclared military conflict between the Haifo-Pallisican Imperial Trade Union and Natopia, which occurred in the final stage of the War of Lost Brothers. Despite its relatively limited scope in contrast to the war's other conflicts, the Strait of Haifa Campaign is perhaps the most infamous of the campaigns to have occurred during the war. This fact is due to the asymmetrical nature of the campaign, which featured the extensive employment of guerrilla-style tactics by forces supported by the Bassarid Empire, including espionage, piracy, and outright terrorism. This campaign resulted in a stalemate defined by the continued existence of the Bassarid Kingdom of New Normark.

The Crookening

The distorting effects of the Crookening are depicted in this picture of a wanderer at a Bassarid temple near the city of Jangsong. While the scene appears mostly normal at first glance, one notices that the towers which appear faintly in the background appear to be constructed at an unusual angle.

The Crookening is an unusual type of fog that occurs in the region surrounding the Gulf of Jangsong, which causes objects when viewed at a distance to appear crooked or lop-sided. It has been observed, although not scientifically confirmed, that the Crookening tends to take in the periods before and after the occurrence of the aurora borealis.

Controversy

The presence of the Strait of Haifa on the official map of the MCS has long been a contentious issue amongst the organization's members, as many have historically argued that the waterway is unrealistic or poorly defined. This argument was largely resolved by a 2015 poll in which the majority of respondents voted in favor of recognizing the waterway as a "narrow sea."

On 21 December 2017, the name of the Strait of Haifa was voted onto the MCS's physical map by 75% of Micras' nations.