The Abyss Itself

Common equipment used by cave raiders are mundane items. Most raiders wear tan delvers jackets and snorts or pants; and backpacks. Delvers hardhats that have glowstone head lamps on them are common and depth gages that use air pressure to measure in meters the current depth are common. Personal notepads or sketch books are often kept as means to record finds or keep personal logs. Pickaxes, shovels, knives and other hand held tools are common as well as climbing gear including things like rope and pitons. Those going into the second layer or lower typically take cold weather gear as well. Additionally any explorer expecting to spend more then a day in the Abyss will take gear for food preparation even if they have rations with them, including spices as well as means to hunt trap and forage in the field. More experienced delvers will often have relics that go beyond the scope of these more mundane items.

The 1st layer, also referred to as "The Edge of the Abyss", is situated right below the town of Orth and is the only part of The Abyss that could be considered, in some form, "safe". The first layer is mostly open spaces with rocks, grasses and shrubs 1,350m below sea level and 1,000m wide. The first layer is fairly tame, compared to the deeper, more strange levels. The environment doesn't really change and wildlife consists of mostly harmless animals. Though, occasionally, predators from the 2nd Layer and the 3rd Layer ascend in search of food. There are not many treasures nor Artifacts to be found, most of what can be found are 4th grade relics, essentially junk but still worth collecting for young delvers; but there is a considerable number of Praying Skeletons in this layer. The environment is consistent and sunny, full of holes in the grassy rock faces which cover the landscape and scattered clumps of forests comprised of petrified trees. Since its danger level is mild, inexperienced Delvers, such as Red Whistles, often go down into the 1st Layer to search for Artifacts. Any delver with a whistle can enter the Abyss and explore here.

The second layer is fairly dark, windy and cooler then above but still comprised of open spaces near its center with fairly safe but dense forests at its edges. Beginning at a depth of 1,350m the second layer continues for 1,250m for a total depth of 2,600m and is 2,000m wide at its center but tapers to more narrow points at its top and bottom. Strong constant winds coming up from the 3rd layer blow converts streams of water terminating that the edge of the Great Fault into waterfalls flowing upwards, seeming to defy gravity. until they dissipate into the air as mist. Well known or recognized places of interest here are, The innerved forest, "Seeker camp" which is know to all cave raiders. Only cave raiders ranked with blue whistles or grater can explore here.

Also called the The Great Fault, the third layer has a huge open central shaft made of lightly colored sandstone like rock and seems to be filled with bright sunlight light seemingly at all times of day. A precarious and exposed location making it very dangerous as well as very windy, but is surrounded by a complex labyrinth cave system that occasionally pop back out into the center shaft that can be navigated to move up or down this layer with relative safety. Beginning at a depth of 2,600m the third layer continues for 4,400m for a total depth of 7,000m, and is 500m wide. And ecosystem of flying and floating creatures, many of which predatory, populate the central shaft while more mammal like creatures and strange plant life populate the vast cave networks. Only cave raiders ranked with moon whistles or better can come here.

The fourth layer is humid and filled with enormous plant structures, collectively know as the "Goblets of Giants", that form widely spaced pillars with shallow pools of vinegary water on top of each, at the bottom is an enormous field of flowers of fortitude. Beginning at a depth of 7,000m the fourth layer continues for 5,000m for a total depth of 12,000m, and is 1,000m wide. Know land makers here are At least a moon whistle or higher rank is required to explore here.

The fifth layer is mostly dark and cold, filled with snow and ice, near the center is a unique location known as "Ido Front", a building that slowly rotates on the surface of what's called the "Sea of Corpses", a ice cold ocean at the bottom of the abyss. A very large and distinct beam of light descends from above Ido Front right into its center. Beginning at a depth of 12,000m the fifth layer continuing for 1,000m for a total depth of 13,000m, and is 1000m wide. making 13,000m the known depth to the Abyss, but unknown depths continue below. Only a handful for elite Black Whistles are premitted to descend to this layer, let alone enter Ido Front unannounced. Little is know about it by most and seems like something of a myth until you see it for yourself, tho it is said a white whistle has made this a sort of base of operations at the forefront of the Abyss. A rank of at least a black whistle is required to visit this layer.

Glyphs also called Nether Glyphs, are set of written characters found in ruins throughout The Abyss. Glyphs used by the people from the city of Orth are only a fraction of the Nether Glyphs, from which only the simpler ones have been taken and given a sound from the common language. These deciphered glyphs, known as simplified characters came into use in Orth approximately 300 years ago and are now the native written language in Orth. Every citizen of Orth can read and write in these glyphs.

The Abyss, occasionally called the Netherworld, is a colossal pit discovered 1,900 years. A vertical pit with an opening diameter of around 1,000m and with an undetermined depth. It possesses a unique ecosystem unlike any other, wherein lie the remnants of an ancient, yet advanced, civilization. The Abyss still contains many sections that have never been seen, and carries many dangers. Hazardous habitats that defy common sense and otherworldly creatures adapted to the unique environment are major obstacles to explorers. The Abyss is devised of large, distinctly unique biomes referred to as Layers, each more dangerous then the last. However, no mater the dangers of creatures or environment, the danger of the curse is always the most demanding and deadly as it is ever present on the required accent to the surface.

Not everyone in this setting will have a whistle, but every cave rider who can enter the Abyss must have a whistle that signifies their rank and skill level. There are 5 types of whistle, red, blue, moon (which are purple in color), black, and white. Additionally there are bells. These whistles are typically issued to delvers by the Guild, who keep track of their rank. All of the above whistles are mundane objects with no special properties. They act and work as whistles and the colors are nothing more then a visual representation of a persons rank and skills in the Abyss. Caver raiders may use them to call for help or communicate with other members of their party if they are beyond sight. People from beyond Orth are not likely to be whistle holders and many residents of Orth are not delvers either so do not have whiles despite living so close to the Abyss.

Red whistle, is the lowest ranking whistle representing an apprentice delver, most red whistles are14 years old or younger. Exploration of them is usually restricted to the very upper levels of the first layer, most stay within the first few hundred meters and delve in large groups for safety and oversight. Usually at least one Moon whistle is present act as a guide for the groups and may be assisted in this by Blue whistles for larger groups.

Blue whistle, is a rank above red and must be no younger then 15 years old. Typically still delve in groups with supervision, but sometimes act as guides or assistances when helping Moon whistles in the first layer.

Moon whistles, is the third ranking whistle given to highly proficient delvers and they often are trainers or teachers for lower ranking whistles, these whistles are purple in color.

Black whistle, are the highest ranking normal whistles and are given to expert delvers. Although they don't hive the same kind of pull as White Whistles, most are still well known in Orth and held in high regard as becoming a Black Whistle is a high achievement only those that push their luck and skills to the limit can achieve. Often work in groups along with moon whistles and occasionally white whistles to preform difficult and valuable expeditions or recovery missions in search of high grade relics on behalf of the Guild.

White whistles are extraordinarily rare and refer to the whistle like relics as well as the people who wield them, who are also referred to as Sovereigns. The objects themselves are actually grade 2 relics rather then mundane objects with functionality beyond being simple whistles and can only be used by their original owners. Everybody in Orth knows about white whistles, but no one knows for sure where these relics come from except by the Sovereigns themselves. Most rumors imply secret rituals from within the Abyss. Only a handful of people have ever become Sovereigns, and they are considered legendary and highly revered by the citizens of Orth, as well as the world beyond. In the event a Sovereign dies, their whistle is either kept by the Guild or passed on to a relative. However without the original owner, these relics become nothing more then keep-sakes.

Bells are not whistles but still represent a rank of sorts like whistles do. They are a given to young children to wear who are novices studying to become a delvers. Children with bells are not permitted to enter the Abyss and the bells help people know where these young children are. Not all children have bells but those who do are often orphans and likely to one day become cave raiders themselves once they become older or more skilled.

Eternal Fortunes, also called Flower of Fortitude, a hardy white flower able to grow in every biome of the Abyss. Thought to bringing good luck, they are the designated flower of the city Orth. Due to their hardiness and apparent omnipresence, Eternal Fortunes are a major symbol of vitality to the citizens of Orth. Representative of the cycle of life in the Abyss, they are used in celebrations of all kinds, from birthdays to funerals and everything in between, scattering petals during these occasions is common practice in Orth. They are used in cooking as a common spice and as decoration, and are commonly depicted in stories and illustrations. They are cultivated on all streets and can be found in all the scenery of the city. Eternal Fortune seeds are referred to as the "king of seasonings." They also turn up as fossils from tens of thousands of years ago.

The curse of the Abyss is a scarcely understood but very real attribute of The Abyss. It refers to a series of afflictions experienced by Delvers when ascending or moving up as they begin to return from the depths of The Abyss. Conditions range from mild dizziness up to severe body deformation and death. Barring extreme circumstances, the Curse is unavoidable. Among all of its famed perils, the Curse represents the Abyss's greatest hazard. They only way to mitigate the effects is to ascend very slowly. But once you dive below the 5th layer the effects will always be fatal if one tries to ascend to the layers above again.

The gondola, accessible at the end of the Grand Pier hanging out over the abyss in the central district, is designed to take whole raiding parties quickly from Orth into the depths as well as help their return trips. Taking as little as 4 minutes to descend and about 5 to 10 minutes minutes to ascend depending on load, it reaches depth of about 600m, only about half way into the First layer. Still, this device is a valuable time saver for higher ranks wishing to take this shortcut to and from Orth. The carriage itself is like that of a well crafted and sturdy bird cage and is considered safe and reliable. It is only accessible by blue whistles or better. Red whistles or those without a whistle at all are denied access to its use unless for emergences or uniquely supervised reasons.

Orth is a large town situated on the Abyss's edge. It consists of five districts: Central, North, West, South, and East. Residents use simplified Nether Glyphs as their now native writing system, adapted from studying the ancient glyphs of the ruins below. Flowers of fortitude are the city's most recognized symbol is they are as resilient as the people who dare call this place home. These flowers are grown almost everywhere in Orth. The currency used here are also called "Orths", or just "an Orth" for single a coin, featuring a flower of fortitude on the them. These coins have a hole in them so they can easily threaded onto a string to carry conveniently. The city is circular, with a massive, central, 1000 meter wide hole at its center, the Abyss. Orth and the Abyss are on a crater-shaped island within the Sea of Beoluska, surrounded by rocky cliffs that slope into the ocean. The island is near the equator, but the cool air from the Abyss maintains a pleasant, consistent temperature in the city. Buildings range from one to five stories tall, optimizing vertical space for compact city construction. Boats dock on the outskirts for periodic trading.

The primary location for entering the Abyss with a few Guild related buildings for monitoring the area and providing information and assistance. The two most important points of interest here are The Grand Pier and the Gate to the Netherworld. Both of which are watched by the Guild at all times. There are also a few shops and business located here and is one of the places foreign visitors come to see the Abyss even if they can not enter it.

One of the more quite locations in Orth where loosely spaced houses and the few farmlands that can be worked on the island are located, where the best sunlight on the island is best thorough the year. And while windmills dot the upper ridge that surrounds all of Orth the North District is where the majority of these windmills are located which both help process the crops grown here as well as provide much of electricity Orth uses.

Is the most bustling district in Orth. This is where most of the shops and markets are, as well as Inns and taverns like the popular Tumble Tavern, as well as the Delver Guild Headquarters where cave raiders register, sign up for expeditions store, analyze and log relics that are recovered from the Abyss. The HQ is also where most auctions are held where raiders as well as foreign merchants and collectors gather to bid on artifacts of the Abyss generating the prime source of wealth for Orth.

This is where most residential buildings are located, as well as several orphanages including Belchero Orphanage. This location is quiet but busy with people going about their daily lives and almost anyone here is a local resident of Orth.

The south district is also just collectively called The Wharf. The area is a sort of slum, some of which hangs precariously over the Abyss itself. Most people here are people who came seeing adventure from over seas but were never granted access to the Abyss and now have nowhere left to go. Rumors of precarious lesser know access points hanging over the edge to enter the Abyss and illegal raiding parties using them from time to time are know to exist. Very few shops operate and the means to survive here usually met with a nature of apathy or desperation. Most of those here have become sick and weak. Sadly one would be considered lucky to have become an orphaned child of the Wharf in hopes to be taken in by one of the orphanages in the West District. For many, this is the only path of fulfilling desires to delve into the Abyss and live something of a stable life on this harsh island.

In the region of Orth, orphans are frequent due to the high mortality rate of parents involved in Abyss raiding. Though Orth is generally a secure environment for children, the perils of the Abyss remain nearby and can still impact those who never enter it. Orphans are typically raised as prospective cave raiders, and the relics found in the first layer fund their orphanages. They are taught survival skills and Abyss knowledge during their upbringing, and most children in Orth possess fundamental Abyss survival knowledge, even if they don't plan on delving. Orphans typically have bells or red whistles indicating that they are in training or there delver statues.

An orphanage in Orth specializes in raising and educating children as cave raiders. It trains them to become proficient in Abyss exploration, cooking, survival skills, medical practices, and first aid, as well as conventional subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic; insuring they are well rounded and can benefit the city whatever path in life they take after they grow up. But orphans are required to delve into the first layer of the Abyss to contribute while under the orphanage's care from time to time.

Relics, or artifacts, are ancient objects discovered in the abyss. They are classified into six grades based on their rarity and utility: Fourth Grade: Common, essentially mundane. Third Grade: Valuable and useful and can help in cave raiding. Second Grade: Very rare, usually with specialized abilities. First Grade: Second-most valuable that can be found, extremely rare or versatile. Special Grade: Most valuable, capable of altering the world's power balance. Supreme Treasures (Aubades): Not an official grade; these are mere rumored artifacts that could threaten the abyss's value, believed to be kept secret or destroyed by the Guild, if they even exist at all. The Guild denies their existence. Most relics are of the fourth or third grade.

Special Grade, The most valuable class of Relics that can be found. These can change the world and disrupt the balance of power between nations. Returning one to the surface can guarantee a prosperous future for a whole city or vastly increase the military potential of a country, depending on its use. Special Grade Artifact's value is so great that it can't be measured. Because these Artifacts are so valuable, they are the only kind that White Whistle Delvers are not meant to keep for their own personal use. However there are rumors that some have been known to keep them in secret.

The human remains of dead people from the distant past, long before Orths creation. No one knows why all these ancient skeletons died in in the same pose, kneeling positions with their hands together prayer. They all seem to be over 2,000, years old.

A Sovereign is a person who is a white whistle holder. Often referred to by a cryptic or poetic tiles or nickname they have earned based on their skills, feats or unique relics they possess, often formatted as a "Sovereign of" something. Some work alone, or in small groups of trusted long time allies. Usually a squad of black whistles; who are among the few who may know secrets usually considered exclusive to Sovereigns, but they are typically loyal to to Sovereign they serve and keep their secrets close. Some of these white whistles take on young apprentices, ones who display skill or true admiration of the Abyss, in hopes of raising them to be the next generation of great explorers. Perhaps even Sovereigns themselves if they survive the trials and training in the process. While Sovereigns are held in high regard by the people of Orth, who rarely spend much time around them, delvers who work with them directly sometimes consider them a bit 'off' as Sovereigns are often eccentric, strange and sometimes mentally twisted from there time spent in the depths of the Abyss.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in Orth's East District, at early morning, as the sun rises. 2. Describe the atmosphere: people going about their daily lives. 3. Show children playing and merchants opening their shops. 4. Mention the Abyss in the background, a mysterious, dangerous presence. 5. Emphasize the dual nature of the Abyss: fascination and fear. 6. Allow the user to interact with the environment, making decisions on how to proceed.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene at the Gate of the Netherworld's steps, and not the grand pier which is not for boats, with a group of inexperienced Red Whistle delvers. Emphasize the allure of adventure, drawing them closer to the Abyss. 2. Describe their state of mind: nervous but eager. Mention their upbringing in Orth's orphanages, seeking personal achievement. 3. Indicate their destination: only a few dozen meters down, a small-scale expedition. 4. Introduce their Moon Whistle instructor, preparing them. Show the instructor checking their gear and answering questions.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene at the Delver Guild Headquarters, with a group of seasoned teenage delvers. 2. Describe their ceremony to upgrade from Red Whistles to Blue. 3. Introduce the Guild Master, a respected figure, imparting traditions. 4. Emphasize the honor and responsibility of access to deeper layers. 5. Indicate there age being 15 and numerous First Layer expeditions. 6. Showcase the ceremony's feast, sharing stories and dreaming. 7. Transition to a night of rest and future expedition planning. 8. Allow the user to interact with the characters, shaping the following day's preparations.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene at Tumble Tavern, with the protagonist, a Moon Whistle, participating in a debate. 2. Describe the atmosphere: lively debate on Abyss routes through the third layer. 3. Introduce the Black Whistle: a member of the Sovereign of Perseverance's crew. 4. Mention their recent well known return with a mysterious First Grade Artifact, fueling intrigue. 5. Detail the Moon Whistles, including the protagonist, presenting their experiences. 6. Highlight the Black Whistle's assessment of potential new members, including the protagonist.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in the Second Layer, with a team of experienced delvers. 2. Describe their Whistles: expert Black and skilled Moon. 3. Show the team's casual movement through the Second Layer. 4. Indicate their decision to set a camp in the Inverted Forest. 5. Emphasize their preparation for deeper layers. 6. Mention the rumors of a powerful relic lost in the Fourth Layer. 7. Describe the team's discussions about strategy and potential treasures. 8. Allow the user to interact with the team, influencing their decisions and strategy.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in the treacherous Third Layer, with the lone survivor. 2. Describe their battle with the curse's hallucinations. 3. Emphasize the struggle of navigating through the labyrinthine cave system. 4. Show them clutching their Black Whistle. 5. Explain their motivation: honoring the fallen and carrying the Abyss's lessons. 6. Highlight the crumbling world around them. 7. Emphasize their unwavering determination to return to Orth. 8. Allow the user to guide the survivor, overcoming obstacles and hallucinations.

AI Tasks: 1. Set scene: The Sovereign of the Dead, the protagonist, renowned for visiting sites of lost expeditions, returns to Orth once again with tales of the dead. Their body a twisted testament to decades of abyssal hardships, returning in worse condition each time. Indicate the toll this life has taken on them mentally. Mention the Sovereign's reluctance to share their experiences, haunted by the dead and the memories. Hint at the Sovereign's quiet, eccentric demeanor, only engaging those with compelling reasons. 2. Describe the Guild's cautious approach, hoping to whisk the figure away to the Guild HQ to glean insight from the Sovereign's latest journey. 3. Describe the townspeople's belief that the Sovereign should have perished numerous times over, as their body looks broken and reformed from injuries. Highlight the town's fascination with the Sovereign, wondering how they've endured both physically and mentally. Emphasize the town's anticipation and excitement, despite their fear.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in the Central District's Marketplace, where the protagonist, a shopkeeper, operates their general store. Describe the bustling environment, with a variety of vendors and customers. Introduce traders from foreign lands seeking information and exchanging stories. 2. Emphasize the diverse needs catered to by the protagonist's store. Show the protagonist reflecting on their role in the community and the wealth of experiences. 3. Mention the Abyss as a backdrop, with tales from adventurers. 4. Allow the user to interact with customers and traders, shaping the shop's atmosphere and exchanges.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in the North District's Flower Garden, the protagonist, an child of a moon whistle delver, does their part aiding the Guild, like many others in Orth do. Tending to the white eternal fortunes intended to be used in an upcoming celebration. 2. Emphasize how this location contains the few fields this island has and how these flowers are important to the traditions that have formed on this island. 3. Describe the sounds of their laughter, intermingling with windmills in the distance while they play during this chore. 4. Convey the protagonist's connection to the hard work and dedication that sustains Orth.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene at the South District's Wharf, which is not a place for boats ships or water, depicting a rundown environment. Introduce the protagonist, a young child born and raised in the slums, seeking escape and a better life. 2. Describe the Wharf's atmosphere: narrow alleyways, dilapidated buildings, and whispers of less known and dangerous access points. 3. Highlight the Abyss's allure as a path to prosperity and recognition for the child. Emphasize the risks involved in pursuing this dream, as the child gathers information. Convey the child's determination to change their circumstances, even at great personal cost.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in a distant foreign land, far from Orth or the island it resides, introducing the protagonist, a curious person. Introduce the traveling merchant with tales of far-off lands. 2. Show the relic, igniting the protagonist's interest. Mention the merchant's mundane trinkets, with the relic as their prized possession. Highlight the relic's sentimental value to the merchant, fueling curiosity. 3. Emphasize this village's unfamiliarity with the legends. Describe the merchant offering what limited knowledge they can to the farmer.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene on a seafaring sailboat, approaching to dock near the rocky shores of the unmistakable island housing the mysterious chasm. 2. Introduce a group of foreign traders including the protagonist, marveling at the settlement and preparing to trade. Detail the trader's excitement for opportunities and secrets on the island. 3. Include the arrival of a Delver Guild moon whistle, a representative to guide the traders with a reverence for the Abyss; and instruct them on the laws and customs before entering Orth. 4. Describe the island's unique atmosphere, with the Abyss as its central feature.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene at the Harbor, with the protagonist, a seasoned foreign relations diplomat of the guild but not a whistle holder, preparing for a meeting. 2. Introduce the foreign delegation and the recent disagreements over trades Orth has been making with their rivals. 3. Highlight the diplomat's strengths in negotiation and diplomacy. 4. Describe the diplomat's assistant, a black whistle, aided by latest intelligence. 5. Outline the potential risks and consequences if the meeting fails. 6. Emphasize the protagonist's commitment to Orth's safety and prosperity.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in the Delver Guild library, filled with the scent of aged parchment and turning pages. 2. Introduce protagonist, a lone scholar, focused on deciphering ancient glyphs. 3. Highlight their curiosity and sense of duty, driven by the desire to learn. 4. Introduce the Guild Master, who offers guidance and support for the scholar's work. 5. Reveal the discovery of a new map or cryptic artifact description, hinting at further exploration.

AI Tasks: 1. Set the scene in a lab within the Guild Headquarters, where the protagonist, a passionate researcher, is conducting an necropsy on an Abyssal creature. 2. Describe the discovery: otherworldly, revealing never-before-seen biological marvels. 3. Emphasize the significance of this finding, expanding the protagonist's understanding of the Abyss's ecosystem. 4. Introduce the taxidermist, working alongside the protagonist to preserve the creature's story. 5. Convey their joint contribution to scientific knowledge and the Abyss's mysteries.

Intro Titles A01 : "Orth's Dawn: Abyss Awaits" B02 : "First Descent: A New Generation" C03 : "Young Heroes: From Red to Blue" D04 : "Tumble's Debate: A Prospect's Test" E05 : "Delvers' Dreams: A Rumored Relic" F06 : "Return to Orth: A Delver's Vow" G07 : "Sovereign of the Dead: Scars and Ghosts" H08 : "Tales and Trades: Heart of the Market" I09 : "Eternal Fortunes: Root of Tradition" J10 : "Alleys of Change: Price of a Dream" K11 : "Faraway Legends: Whispers of the Abyss" L12 : "Abyssal Isle: Seafarers Approach" M13 : "Harbor Diplomacy: Foreign Ties" N14 : "The Forgotten Pages: A Scholar's Pursuit" O15 : "The Creature's Tale: A Taxidermist's Art"

The Guild is the prime cultural, religious and legal authority in Orth and matters of the Abyss and its relics. They maintain responsibilities regulating who can enter, how relics should be distributed, stored or auctioned. They manage festivities and funerals and deal with crime and punishment. Additionally they handle maters of foreign relations and regulate access to Orth and trades, particularly of relics, to foreign entities. Not every guild member is a cave raider, but every whistle holding delver is a guild member. Many high ranking Guild members are not even delvers and have never descend themselves, but still hold power due to their knowledge, dedication and or there religious devotion to the Guild and the Abyss itself. White Whistles are a complicated matter in terms of the guild. They have transcended their authority because they are often viewed almost as being beyond human, and more akin to near-holy creatures of the Abyss in human form. The guild can make requests for their aide on matters, but the Sovereign's decide themselves what they want to do.

Traditions of Orth were inspired by the city's early founders who interacted and learned from the islands indigenous tribe over nearly 2,000 years ago. These people were inspired by the ancient remines of the long forgotten civilization in the Abyss. These people did not venture into the Abyss themselves and had fears of its depths, but marveled and respected the ruins and relics of this ling dead civilization. These people covered their bodies in markings, either in tattooed inks or paints if only on special occasions, that mimicked those depicted on the ancient people, a tradition not commonly followed now, although some dedicated Guild still members do.

Celebrations are fairly common in Orth, often crowds gather near the Grand Pier to welcome the return of notable expedition groups to welcome their safe return and the hopes of catching glimpses of what they may have discovered. Celebrations are also held for the fallen, honoring their lives and the return of their souls and bodies to the Abyss from which all comes and returns to someday.

Death is not an uncommon event in the abyss or Orth. But the Abyssal Faith is a source of comfort that the souls lost will reform in the Abyss and be born anew reflecting their desires and passions in life. Celebrations are also held for the fallen, honoring their lives and the return of their souls and bodies to the Abyss from which all comes and returns to someday. During these events, stories are often told of their accomplishments and deeds in life. For particularly notable or famous people in Orth's community, these can become "Resurrection Festivals", big city wide celebrations so the whole town can send off the soul of one they are appreciating. Stories my be preformed as plays for children about who this great person shaped their world. In these events it is not uncommon biographies about their lives or for replicas of the persons famous relics or their unique white whistles to to be sold.

Laws are strict in Orth, though most follow the rules so it is by no means oppressive in the view of most of its citizens. Because there is limited space on the island, not much space is dedicated for things like prisons. Most punishment comes in the forms of fines, public service corporal, or public humiliation. Execution's are very rare in Orth as life is harsh enough here, especially for its citizens, the guild prefers trying to rehabilitate offenders where they can. Foreigners are usually restricted to fines and banishment, however the Guild is not afraid to wield its authority and use more harsh punishments if they feel it is warranted. Illegal raiders can be killed in the Abyss if they pose a threat to a expedition. And Illegal riders captured and brought to the guild in any circumstance are treated harshly in hopes of deterring this unregulated act.

Food in Orth is dominated my meats and vegetation forged in the Abyss. Some crops are grown in the limited land reserved for it on the island and some foods are imported by traders. But the abyss provides most the majority. Food is an import part of Orth and life around the Abyss; because life is hard here every meal is precious, especially to Delvers who must forage and survive often months at a time in the depths of the Abyss. So a good meal is always a most to moral. Delvers in particular are prone to experiment with flavors and textures of food down in the Abyss and trading recipes of related to the exotic ingredients found below between cave raiders is not uncommon.

Hunting and foraging are done mostly in the First Layer by Black and Moon Whistles, making it a relatively safe task. however some amount of more exotic herbs are always making there way up from deeper down in some capacity, these usually arrive dried, smoked or processed in some way to preserve them during the long journeys home.

the creatures of the abyss are unlike the animals of the outside world. Creatures of the Abyss seem to only be able to live and thrive inside the Abyss itself. Creatures range from friendly and mundane to undescribed gigantic horrors. For ever one that has been discovered and described, there is believed to be hundred more; leaving much of what can be known to mystery. Many creatures seem to become more intelligent and intuitive; almost as if predicting the future, the deeper one goes. Only adding to the dangers and curiosities of the deepest places these creatures live.

everyone has desires in one form or another. And desire gives things in live value. When one fines their most desired and valued thing, it becomes very difficult to imagine a world without it.

People of this world truly driven by value makes the valued things important. It makes people cling to their goals and desires at their own physical and mental risk.

Smells are believed to be associated to memories. Sometimes smells can trigger ones own memories reminding them of things they had forgotten or making them experience emotions in relation to their past experiences. Not every smell does this for every one, but it does happen from time to time.

A book of publicly recognized relics, listing their Grade, describing general known functions, and depicting their images. Not all relics may be listed here as it is believed the Guild hides some of the lesser understood or more powerful one away.

A location well know by the people of Orth tucked away in the second layer, 2,540m below, in the Inverted Forest. A safe haven of the dangers in the Abyss. A resting place for those preparing to go deeper or to return to the surface. This hideaway is far from the central shaft of the Abyss, making it a dusky, dark location. It is also an observational post equipped with a large telescope for monotiling things in the area. It was built into a particularly large tree in the Inverted Forest, named the Great Tree of Porta. Its insides are like that of carved living wood, and its dwellings are simple but safe. The Seeker Camp is equipped with Glowstone lanterns for luminance inside. There is always one or more high ranking delvers stationed here to make sure someone is available to those passing through. this location also serves as a way station for messages intended to make their way back up to the surface.

Ido Front, located in the 5th layer, is a massive structure built like a walled city on a platform, slowly rotating over the Sea below it. At its center is a open circular space where a constantly flowing whirlpool churns water, and an orb centered over it remains motionless and waiting. Its both is interiors are exteriors are smooth and utilitarian in design. This building was once likely a place to generate power for the civilization that once existed. A massive, concentrated, beam of violet tinted light emanates from the center into the abyss above and below. It is rumors among delvers is a mysterious white whistle Sovereign is using this location as a base for scientific pursuits. Not much is know about the inner workings of the building as the only ones who access this place are Black Whistles with reason to be there, many of whom stay there for years at a time rather then risk frequent travel to and from the surface. Needless to say, not much is know about this place, at least not publicly. Delvers believe the only way to descend from here, into the 6th layer, is a strange elevator like structure. But rumor is only white whistles can use it. Its said this is what is used to take ones "Last Dive".

Primarily refers to the upper area of the First Layer. Much of the hunting and foraging for Orth occurs here. There are streams of water that spill and form ponds of water that host fish and other wildlife only to pill for waterfalls ever deeper into the depths. Low ranking whistles use this as a training ground learning the essentials of raiding, like climbing, repelling, foraging and camping. This is the safest area in the Abyss, though danger is not impossible. From here the view of the above is already warped and seems further away then it really is.

Named for its alluring presence and mystery that makes one compelled to wonder what lies deeper inside. The first real test for any Delver on their way down. This place is a transitional zone makes up the lower quarter of the first layer and fades into what becomes the Inverted Forest below it. Preparatory creatures here already become noticeable more intelligent. Some of which use pack strategies and deceptive tactics to bait and lure pray. Creatures can be tricky here so delvers should always beware even if these creatures are still on the safer side when compared below. From here the view of the above distorts more where the sky looks huge despite being deep in this pit, as if light from above is warped into this place like funnel. The Edge of the Abyss seems several kilometers away now despite only being about one kilometer down.

As the Forest of Temptation fades and descends becoming more vertical in nature, it eventually becomes a gargantuan cavernous space where specially adapted plants trees and plants hang from its celling like stalactites. the entrance to wide opening of the The Great fault can usually be seen from below here. With the drop from here being over a kilometer down the only safe way to descend is to go through the inverted forest to the outer edges where the ceiling of this space and ground become closer. At the edge one can enter one of the many forests that pocket the spaces between the caves top and bottom. Here the forest become level again, no longer inverting and the forest quickly become nearly pitch dark. Creatures here are fairly passive when compared to those nearer the central area of the layer. Below the Inverted forest is a slightly sloping decline on a mostly rocky surface, nearly devoid of plant life, that approaches the entrance to the 3rd layer, The Great Fault.

Descending the Great Fault eventually fades into a region where the vertical walls of the Great fault are covered in spiky formations that protrude for the wall. From here, the huge plant structures can be seen below. Giant structures formed from plants that produce outreaching plant like structures on top that hold pools of shallow water with a vinegar smell. This region is humid and encompasses the majority of the 4th layers space. There are pockets of space around the edges that host many other forms of vegetation and landscape. Where pools of fresh water and the ecosystems they offer are. Blow the goblets is the Field of Eternal Fortunes, where a massive flower field of flowers of fortitude are.

This field of flowers is considered by many delvers to be one of the best views in the Abyss. The field of flowers seems to stretch for kilometers under the towering Goblets above. This is one of the last peaceful and pleasant views before entering the cold snowy wasteland of the 5th layer below it.

Named for its position at the bottom of the Abyss and the fact no one can enter the depths below and return again. The sea of corpses is an ice cold inky black sea of water in the center of the 5th layer. It is dangerously deep and it rapidly descends, its bottom unfathomable below. The land that navigates the edges around this sea are made of rock, snow and ice. Little grows here, but eternal fortunes can still be found. Much of this area is dusky, however a beaming pillar of light is seen from the center of this sea. In the center of of the sea of corpses is a structure called Ido Front. This large structure, though a ruin of the past, is fully in tact and rotates slowly on the surface of the water. This building has a stationary platform that can be reached by a narrow rocky shore line that juts into the sea. This stationary platform is used to access the larger rotating structure. Not much lives here but what does is often monstrous, deadly, or aggressive. Delvers believe the only way to descend from here, into the 6th layer is through Ido Front.

"Last Dive" refers to the act of venturing into the Abyss's depths beyond the fifth layer's lowest point, descending into the sixth layer and beyond. This results in a permanent, irreversible departure from their previous life, Sovereigns who undertake a Last Dive are never seen again. People who embark on a Last Dive often seek to discover the bottom of this unexplored realm and to uncover a world known only to those willing to try their hand at pushing beyond human limitations, understanding that they must relinquish everything familiar to them in the world above in the process.

A less know factor of the Abyss. A secret held by those who know. An effect of the curse, the loss of ones humanity being reduced to a deformed husk of your former self. Few ever see it happen and those who do instead spare others that it does, death is simply a more simple leash harsh truth to offer.

Mail Balloons are small-scale airships commonly use or crafted by Delvers to transport letters and light packages to the surface from inside the abyss. Come in two types: - Gas Balloons: fueled with special floating seeds that are full of a gas lighter than air. The seeds are parasitic and infect bugs that eat them. They don't lose air over time, so they will not stop floating until they reach the edge of The Abyss. The seeds are sensitive to the atmosphere and will not float higher. As a result, they stop near Orth for easy retrieval. The greatest disadvantage of these balloons is that the seeds are often consumed by large birds and insects that are attracted by its scent. Delvers often use a bird repellent to deter them. Currently, these are most commonly used. -Hot Air Balloons: Hot-air Balloons are an older type that isn't seen very often nowadays. The balloon ascends using a fire that heats the air within the balloon. These work fairly well for short distances but the fire sometimes goes out midway, and other times it ends up floating in the sky beyond Orth. Additionally, Delvers must bring the heavy fuel with them as they descend into The Abyss. It has the advantage that it often goes unnoticed by the local fauna of The Abyss.