The Netherwell

The Netherwell is a tunnel (or some would say "portal") connecting the Demoor region to Northwestern Ostelliach. It is spoken of with some level of superstition or trepedation, as one might a haunted house or gateway to the underworld; "Speaking of the Netherwell" is a polite way to change a subject abruptly, said as a way to indicate the person is uncomfortable or unwilling to proceed. (Of course, it's usually said neither after or before anything to do with the Netherwell.)

Purpose / Function

The Netherwell is a naturally occuring tunnel, but is maintained by a coalition of above-and-belowground travelers, as it is one of the most relatively safe ways to travel between Demoor and upper Ostelliach.

Sensory & Appearance

The Netherwell is located in a region of large fungal growths that are otherwise unusual in aboveground Ostelliach. To many, this is off-putting or ominous, especially in relation to the Evo Erosion Plague that was fungal in nature. The entire area is unnaturally quiet and still, perhaps dampened by the building-sized mushrooms found in the area. The air hangs heavy and humid, with the tunnel wedged between the Sea of Traitors and a large lake; breathing feels heavier, musty, somehow more difficult. Even in the aboveground sections, the lighting is diffuse and tinted by greens and blues; if anything, the lighting strung along the tunnel as you proceed downward warms up the place, providing soft yellow glow to cut through the gloom above where the sun should be.

Type

Portal