Shadowfell (SHA-doe-fel)

The Shadowfell is a place of bleakness and terror. In many ways, it is the mirror of the Unseen-Realm, with which it shares many open borders. The conflicting forces of order and destruction mix differently here. Life is a drudgery in this land of eternal twilight punctuated by brutal violence.
The Shadowfell is a cold and drab place. The land is cloaked in perpetual twilight, as though the sun has just dipped below the horizon. Colors are muted here and strong light sources travel great distances and attract attention. Fear hangs in the air like a fog, pressing down on the will of outsiders.
Shadow portals lead from the Middle-Realm in desolate and dangerous places. In some places, such as Bukana, these gateways are plentiful. Some remote domains of Sagay and Dalaketnon extend into the realm. The Shadowfell and Feywild are often contiguous; a traveler may wander haplessly from one into the other.
Depending on your location within the realm, one or more moons may be seen in the gloaming sky.
Shadowtongue is the common language of the Shadowfell.

Ecosystem

Many Monstrosities and undead are native to the Shadowfell. Additionally, evil fey and Elves establish settlements here.
Without light from a sun, many plant species have adapted here to supplement their meager photosynthesis with saprophagia and even carnivory.
Wildlife here is dangerous and often warped by the sinister nature of the place.

Localized Phenomena

Light sources illuminate half their normal range, but can be seen from twice the distance.
Non-native travels here must pass daily Wisdom Saves to stave off the effects of despair.

Climate

Climate varies, particularly in those regions that are dark reflections of the Prime Material plane. It is often humid, whether cold or hot. Fog is very common, as is smoke when near volcanic activity. Jagged mountains and fetid swamps are the norm.

Alternative Name(s)

Shadow-Realm

Type

Dimensional plane