Cliffrend Trenches

Cliffrend Trenches The Cliffrend Trenches is a rugged and breathtaking coastline defined by towering, jagged bluffs that rise dramatically from the ocean, their cliffs sheer as if the land itself had been torn apart by some ancient, cataclysmic event. The cliffs stretch for miles, their rough surfaces weathered by the relentless pounding of the sea. Just beyond the coast, beneath the churning waters, lies the coastline's namesake—an intricate network of submerged trenches. These deep, shadowy fissures in the ocean floor hide secrets both wondrous and dangerous, making the Cliffrend Trenches a place of both beauty and peril.
Built into the cliffs is the settlement of Jaggedtide Grotto, home to the Locathah and Ghostwise Halflings, who have learned to live in harmony with both the land and the sea. The settlement is ingeniously integrated into the rockface, with dwellings carved into the cliffs, connected by a series of rope bridges, winding stairways, and natural caves. The Locathah, with their aquatic nature, are the stewards of the sea below, while the Ghostwise Halflings, with their ability to communicate telepathically, manage life on the cliffs. The people of Jaggedtide Grotto work together to ensure their settlement thrives in such a precarious environment.
Points of Interest: The Abyssal Descent Just off the coast of the Cliffrend Trenches lies the Abyssal Descent, a massive underwater chasm that serves as the deepest point of the trench network. The descent is so deep that even seasoned divers and the Locathah who patrol the waters fear to explore its full extent. Strange, bioluminescent creatures are said to dwell in its depths, and there are rumors of ancient ruins resting on the ocean floor, hidden by layers of silt and shadow. Legends say that the Abyssal Descent leads to a forgotten city or an ancient, sleeping leviathan, but no one has returned from its depths to confirm such tales.
The Shatterstep Peaks At the highest points of the cliffs that surround Jaggedtide Grotto lie the Shatterstep Peaks, a series of precarious, sharp-edged rock formations that loom over the coastline. The peaks are notorious for their dangerous, crumbling paths and jagged edges, but those brave enough to scale them are rewarded with an unparalleled view of the ocean, as well as the occasional glimpse of rare seabirds and winged creatures that nest in the heights. It is said that the winds here carry whispers of ancient spirits tied to the cliffs, and the Ghostwise Halflings sometimes venture up to commune with these unseen forces, seeking guidance or protection.
The Deepgale Pools Scattered along the coastline and into the trenches themselves are the Deepgale Pools, tide pools of extraordinary size and depth that form when the tide recedes. These pools hold more than just ordinary sea life—they are home to unique, magically infused flora and fauna that glow with faint, multicolored light. Some believe the Deepgale Pools were once touched by an ancient magical surge, infusing the waters with latent power. Locathah healers gather rare herbs and creatures from the pools for their potent medicinal properties, but others warn of the lurking dangers within, as some of the deeper pools are said to be inhabited by elemental spirits or creatures that can pull unsuspecting explorers into their depths.
Jaggedtide Caverns Beneath the cliffs of Jaggedtide Grotto lies a sprawling network of tunnels and caverns known as the Jaggedtide Caverns. These caverns are partially submerged, making them accessible only to skilled swimmers or those with water-breathing capabilities. The Locathah use these caverns as both refuge and storage, while also guarding a few secret locations where ancient treasures or forgotten relics lie hidden, untouched for centuries. The caverns are also known for their natural beauty, with crystalline formations shimmering in the dim light and hidden, bioluminescent plant life giving off a soft glow. Adventurers who explore the caverns, however, must tread carefully—unexplored passages lead deeper into the trenches, where unknown dangers lurk.
The Cliffrend Trenches stand as a testament to both the beauty and danger of nature, where the elements have carved a stunning yet treacherous landscape. Those who live here, or visit its shores, must respect the sea and the cliffs, for their power is ever-present.

Type

Coast / Shore

Inhabiting Species

• Locathah