The Crossworlds

Given the spherical nature of the Continuum and The Pearl Snake's role as a guardian encircling the inner material planes, the idea of the Crossworlds being the gaps in The Pearl Snake's coil offers a compelling avenue for exploration.
Crossworlds: "The Gaps in the Coil"
Nature of the Gaps: The gaps in The Pearl Snake's coil are not mere empty spaces; they are interstitial realms, pockets of reality that exist between the ordered structure of the Continuum and the chaotic expanse of the Ord Maada. These gaps are the Crossworlds, a series of interconnected dimensions that serve as both buffer and bridge between the inner realms and the outer reaches.
Role of the Atheloi: The Atheloi, as stewards of the Crossworlds, would have a unique and challenging role. They would be the sentinels guarding these interstitial realms, ensuring that the chaotic forces of the Ord Maada do not seep into the inner material planes. Their duties would echo The Pearl Snake's own eternal vigilance, but on a more localized and immediate scale.
Cosmic Laws and Arcane Formulas: Each gap, like the scales of The Pearl Snake, could be imbued with cosmic laws and arcane formulas. These laws act as both a shield and a filter, allowing the Atheloi to manipulate the energies of the Crossworlds for defense and, perhaps, even for limited forms of travel or communication between the inner and outer realms.
Fluctuations and Anomalies: The Crossworlds would be subject to fluctuations and anomalies, influenced by The Pearl Snake's movements and the cosmic winds it breathes. These fluctuations could manifest as storms of raw magical energy, rifts in space-time, or even temporary bridges to other dimensions, requiring constant monitoring and intervention by the Atheloi.
Cultural and Political Significance: Within the Continuum, the Crossworlds could be viewed with a mixture of awe, fear, and reverence. They would be the subject of myths and legends, perhaps even religious or philosophical debates among the inner realms. The Atheloi, as stewards, would gain a unique cultural and political status, seen as both heroes and gatekeepers.
Resource and Knowledge: The Crossworlds could also be a source of rare resources and forbidden knowledge, attracting adventurers, scholars, and treasure hunters. However, the Atheloi would have the challenging task of regulating such expeditions, ensuring they do not disturb the delicate balance or bring back something perilous.
Evolving Role of The Pearl Snake: The existence of the Crossworlds could add another layer of complexity to The Pearl Snake's role. It may have a form of awareness or connection to these gaps, perhaps even a form of communication with the Atheloi, offering cryptic guidance or warnings through celestial omens.
The Mad God and the Crossworlds: The looming threat of The Mad God could make the Crossworlds a critical battleground. The Atheloi might discover prophecies or artifacts within these gaps that could either aid in the defense against this cosmic entity or, if misused, hasten the Continuum's doom.
Endless Possibilities for Storytelling: Finally, the Crossworlds offer endless possibilities for storytelling. From epic quests to close the gaps, to intricate political dramas involving the Atheloi and the Ayn Auline, to cosmic horror tales of entities from the Ord Maada breaking through, the Crossworlds can serve as a rich and versatile setting for a variety of narratives.