The Threshold

The dwarves dug deeper into the rock, deeper than they had ever gone before. Their search for gems led them far into the bowels of the planet, etching into it a narrow tunnel lit only by the dim glow of their lanterns. Finally, their pickaxes bit into an altogether unfamiliar material. It was pitch black stone, frozen into waves and pits that blanketed the rock beneath their feet. The pickaxes could not break nor even chip the mirror-like surface, instead ricocheting away and even bending the iron heads when swung with too much force.

The Threshold is a barrier which marks the divide between the Deep and surface worlds. It is made of a mysterious substance known as threshite, which seems to be similar to obsidian but is too strong for even enchanted tools to do anything more than chip at its surface. It has a slight sheen, and is formed in a series of waves, pits, and twists. In some places, there are natural gaps in the Threshold which allow creatures or folk to pass through unheeded.
Passing through the Threshold is reportedly a very strange process. Threshite is very reflective, making it easy to navigate through the narrow gaps in the barrier. However, the warped surface can sometimes create strange reflections on the surface, in some cases appearing as figures trapped inside the threshite, mouths open in silent agony. Others claim to see phantoms standing next to them, but when they turn to look, nothing is there. Sound is also warped in these strange borderlands. The echoes and faraway noises can drive some to madness; those unprepared or uneducated might hear voices calling them from far away, leading them into nooks and crannies that are inescapable or disorienting. Others may simply make too much noise on their own, which is amplified and reflected back at the source until the cacophony results in madness or permanent damage to one's auditory system. Some believe that there are pockets of lava buried in the threshite in some places, which would explain the conditions found in many gaps in the Threshold. Many of these passages are extremely hot and smell strongly of sulfur or flames, making the journey even more uncomfortable. For any folk who desire to pass through the Threshold, whether on their way to the Deep or to the surface, there are a few key points to keep in mind when preparing for such a journey.

1. Do your research.

It is advisable when planning a trip across the Threshold to learn as much as possible about one's destination. What are the folk like there? Are there customs, languages, or common courtesies you should know about to smooth your arrival? One should also know about the surrounding environment and its inhabitants. Are there monsters about? What plants and creatures are safe or unsafe? It may be useful to make a note of where a tourist bureau is in one's destination. If there isn't one, find a local inn or other place which can rent rooms to travelers. The locals who work in these places are typically fonts of information about the area. Go to an archive or library if one is accessible, and read all available information regarding where you plan to go.

2. Pack wisely.

Journeys across the Threshold take a long time. One should always have enough rations, water, and other such necessary provisions in order to survive a journey which could last several weeks. Pack a bedroll if necessary, and other supplies with which to camp. However, it is also important to not overload oneself with extraneous materials. It will be difficult to carry hundreds of pounds' worth of clothing, cooking utensils, and ropes that may not come in handy. Pack the bare essentials first and only then consider adding extra items. It is possible to gather food or water along the way with enough knowledge, and there may be designated rest ares for travellers making such a journey that can offer safe provisions for free or with a small tip. It is also important to consider bringing a weapon or finding a travelling companion who can battle. There will be monsters along the way, and it is very difficult for one to avoid all of them. Be prepared to face aggression and violence, and defend where necessary. Bandits tend to frequent less well-tended pathways, and will not hesitate to maim or kill to acquire one's belongings.

3. Travel in numbers.

It is very inadvisable to make the journey across the Threshold alone. There are environmental hazards, as well as monsters or bandits which will pose a greater threat to a lone traveller. Additionally, travelling with companions allows some sharing of weight, and can ease the load on all members of such a party. It is easier to share resources, and one is less likely to be completely ruined by the accidental loss of rations or fresh water. With many folk travelling together, more hazardous or confusing areas of the Threshold are much easier to overcome. The addition of travelling companions can also provide a morale boost to all involved, especially once one actually begins to cross the Threshold itself. It is advisable when selecting a party to find individuals with varying skills, making the journey more pleasant from start to finish. Some may be more useful in navigating the destination, especially with cultures so starkly different as those in the Deep and on the surface, while others may be helpful along the way in battling monsters or navigating the winding passages in the Threshold.

Type

Underground / Subterranean