Arches
Geography
Out of a 21 mile diameter circle of surface jungle rise dozens of gigantic stone arches. They appear natural rather than an Ancient Race ruin, and reach heights of 2000 feet. Many have vegetation growing up their outer slopes and right over the top. The Gate is also an arch of black stone, somewhat larger than typical gates, situated roughly in the middle of the area. The Gate has no Gate Guardian. However, nothing grows within a half mile or so of the Gate, and no surface creature seems to get too far into this barren area before being repelled away by an unseen force. The walled town of Averine occupies the barren space. Other fortified areas are scattered throughout the Arches.
Faint glowing _presences_ can sometimes be seen at the top of each arch. They are difficult to make out in daylight but, when present, light up the night sky like bonfire beacons.
Surface Danger – medium
The surface jungle is lighter within the Arches, and attacks from surface creatures seem limited to those presenting physical dangers, as opposed to the magical and physic horrors of many surface denizens.
People and Culture
Averine hosts the usual community of hunters and surface explorers, but is also a hub for pilgrims and others who hold to what little religious beliefs remain on the Islands. The town itself is as safe as the Tovan Monastery and not as claustrophobic, so those who feel the need to be closer to Ancient Race ruins of the surface use Averine as their launching point. Whether or not the Arches are ruins of the Ancient Race is often debated, and many Angel-Touched folk claim to feel something from the occasional lights at their tops.
Local Authority
The Court of the Empyrean Mage King maintains Averine and the forts around the Arches.
Language
Travit and mixed.