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Worlde Arcane: Thapelel: Wilds of Thapelel
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South of the tropical forests known as Oakwood Stand East, lie the little explored jungles known as the Wilds of Thapelel. The trees here are densely packed, allowing very little green tinged light to reach the forest floors. Despite this the ground below is not clear of life. Indeed the undergrowth is thick and vines hang from most of the trees, tangling around one another and making it impossible to force a way through. Very few outsiders who venture into this part of the jungle ever find their way out again, although the area is inhabited by tribes of both wild and grey elves and roamed by bands of forest gypsies, all of whom seem to know their way around by some inherited instinct. These jungle natives are rarely seen by others and their existence is thought by some to be little more than myth and overactive imagination, brought on by panic and lack of food. Although the elves and gypsies from this part of the jungle are rarely seen, more common is a glimpse of their activities. Occasionally a traveller may stumble across a relatively clear path through the undergrowth, which may suggest the passage of many people, although more often than not such paths peter out, or appear to lead to nowhere very important. Hunting traps, and very occasionally places where the plants of the jungle appear to have been harvested or trained to grow in certain ways are other hints towards the native’s existence. Ruins of long forgotten civilisations are common in the jungle, and although many of these are now little more than heaps of carved stone, overgrown by creepers and almost covered now by the trees, some have survived the passage of time and remain in recognisable shape. The native tribes usually know of the locations of these ruins, but have explored only some of them, avoiding others and sharing stories among themselves of a superstitious nature. The jungle itself is filled with strange creatures, some beautiful, some good to eat, and some dangerous and deadly. Even the plants can sometimes seem to be more alive than a plant should be, and travellers need to beware of poisonous spikes and barbs, as well as the dangers of consuming unfamiliar fruits and berries. Hidden streams and ponds are another danger, as often the undergrowth can extend several feet over the banks, or even hide the water completely, meaning the unwary traveller could easily find themselves stepping unexpectedly into surprisingly deep water. Although it would be difficult for a traveller to die of dehydration in these parts – the warm rains fall regularly and streams of fresh water are common – the heat is a danger all travellers should be wary of. Under the closely packed trees it is stiflingly hot and humid, and sometimes difficult to see in the murky green light; whilst those rare places free from trees are mercilessly scorched by the hot Thapelelian sun. Even at night there is little respite from the heat and breezes are almost unheard of under the canopy of trees. The Wilds are split into several different areas for posting convenience. Please consult the maps on each subpage and ensure yew are posting in the correct area. |
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