Mount Zaliyanu serves as both fortress and shrine, its rugged face carved to shelter the city of Nerik and its revered temple. Hewn directly into the mountain, the temple blends seamlessly with the stone, its entrances framed by ancient, weatherworn pillars that evoke a sense of deep reverence. Here, the mountain is sacred, believed to be the earthly dwelling of the storm god Teshub. Citizens of Nerik, led by the Zuziya family, tend to the mountain with unwavering care, their rites and offerings preserving Hattusa’s favour in Teshub’s watchful eye. Narrow paths wind up its slopes, flanked by hardy junipers, leading pilgrims to altars nestled into the mountain's bones.