The vast mountain range, the longest mountain range in Crystalia, known as the Wandering Monks has had the effect of isolating its people for thousands of years. In that time, a wholly unique culture has risen; one based on the enlightenment of the inner spirit in the quest to ascend to a state true to the Goddess' own being.
At the base of the mountain is Yuyang, a city larger than any other in Crystalia. Its citizens follow the Path of the Goddess and study perfection in all of its forms; whether it be the martial arts, agriculture, or cooking. Yuyang is a distinctly calm and cerebral city, largely owing to its position at the base of the stairway which ascends to the Temple of Clouds.
Those who seek true enlightenment follow the Path of 1000 Shrines. Built by monks throughout the mountains, the Path of 1000 Shrines is no path for all, for the whereabouts of all the shrines is not known. Regardless, each spring many embark upon the path, seeking the Goddess' wisdom in the wilderness.
It is a perilous trek, for the Wandering Monk Mountains are full of danger. Tengu sweep from the skies to prey on the weak, while chimeric Wukong monkeys steal food and lay deadly traps for the unwary. As cackling oni and bakemono watch on. In the night, shapeshifters lure pilgrims away from their campfires to fates unknown, and restless spirits drain the life from those who sleep.