Touching the Stone

The road that winds from Emberwood Village to the City of Drakkenheim crests a low hill just outside the city. Travelers taking the road are rewarded with a magnificent view of the sprawling city laid out before them. At night the scene of the city lit up with glowing purple light given off of the delerium is almost beautiful, if you don't know the horrors waiting in the ruins. By day most of the city is hidden by the omnipresent Haze, though some landmarks like the City Wall, Inscrutable Tower, and Castle Drakken rise above the obscuring fog.

To the right side of the road (if you are facing the city), there is a weathered stone. In times past this stone gave the distance to the city gate, but its markings have been worn by time and the seasons. This is the last vestige of civilization before the Haze swallows up everything. Those daring to venture into its depths will touch the stone for good luck before heading down the hill into the unknown.

Who first started the ritual and when is unknown. It is certainly within the last fifteen years, and probably no older than ten. The use of the stone is most likely because of its prominence and location at the edge of the Haze.

History

This is a new tradition that has grown since adventurers started venturing into the Haze looking for fame and fortune. No one knows for certain who started it, but the practice has spread and now only the most green adventurers don't know to touch the stone.

Execution

Some people have an elaborate ritual to ensure their safe return, but most just touch the stone and say a prayer to whatever god they believe in that they will survive.

Primary Related Location

City of Drakkenheim and the Local Area

Related Ethnicities

• Westemaran