The Erid Straits

The Erid Straits

The Erid Straits, also known as the Tempest's Teeth, the Sailors Trial, the Iron Churn, and the Widowmaker Isles is a treacherous yet vital stretch of water separating the Olirian mainland from the Barthen Islands and the southern coast of Ala. Known for their perilous currents, unpredictable weather, and the haunting remnants of past maritime disasters, the Erid Straits are both feared and relied upon by sailors and traders.

It consists of narrow passages where the straits are almost too narrow for ships to pass through, creating bottleneck effects that amplify tides and currents. The waters are littered with sharp coral reefs and rocky outcrops, many of which are hidden just beneath the surface. These formations are a constant hazard to even the most experienced captains. The seabed of the Straits is also riddled with undersea trenches and volcanic vents and rifts into the water plane, causing frequent disturbances that disrupt navigation and unpredictable phenomena, and the odd monster encounter that should not be happening in the material plane of Avaleen.

The dangers are many. Unpredictable storms ravage the Straits because of the convergence of warm and cold currents in the Straits creating sudden and violent storms. Many sailors report sightings of ghostly vessels, believed to be spirits of those lost in the Straits, still seeking safe passage amongst the moving rocks. And legends abound of monstrous entities that dwell in the depths of the Straits, including the Abyssal Leviathan, a creature said to sink entire fleets.

Modern Use

Despite its dangers, the Erid Straits remain the fastest sea route to the Olirian mainland, cutting weeks off a journey around the Barthen Islands. Merchant vessels, adventurers, and treasure hunters regularly brave the waters, often hiring specialized navigators known as Erid Pilots, who are trained to read the straits' fickle tides and signs.

Notable Features

The Wailing Isles: A small cluster of jagged islands in the heart of the straits, known for eerie, wind-driven howls that sailors claim are the cries of drowned souls. Many shipwrecks have occurred here.

The Maelstrom's Grasp: A semi-permanent whirlpool located near the southern passage. It is said to shift unpredictably, swallowing ships whole.

The Lantern Spire: A massive, ancient lighthouse built atop a lone rock formation. Though it no longer functions, the spire is a navigational landmark for those brave enough to attempt the crossing.

Cultural and Historical Significance

• The Erid Passage Compact: An agreement among maritime nations and coastal city-states in Oliria and Varu, requiring ships to travel in convoys through the straits, guided by experienced navigators, or face the peril at their own risk. This compact has reduced losses but remains a risky endeavor.
• Myths of the Deep: Stories claim the straits are cursed by a forgotten deity, angered by trespassers who disturbed its undersea temple. Some say appeasing this deity with offerings of gold or rare treasures can grant safe passage.
• Pirate Haven: The chaos of the straits makes them an ideal hiding place for pirates and smugglers who know how to navigate the treacherous waters.

Mysteries and Adventures

• The Sunken Armada: An infamous fleet lost centuries ago in the straits is rumored to hold treasures from the kingdom of Synnara, lying scattered across the seabed.
• The Silent Compass: An artifact said to always point the safest route through the straits, sought after by adventurers and traders alike.
• The Forgotten Sanctum: Deep beneath the waters, near the Maelstrom’s Grasp, lies a supposed undersea temple brimming with ancient arcane energy, guarded by powerful magical wards and creatures.

The Erid Straits embody both the danger and allure of Oliria’s waters, challenging even the boldest of seafarers to earn their place in maritime lore.