Great Desert

This region of the Land is greatly undiscovered yet. After the first expeditions, sent by the Brotherhood of Librarians, ended in desaster - leaving most of the researchers either dead, lost or crazy - no further expeditions were started for many years. In these years little was known about that region.

After some years however as financial means were easier to aquire, new expeditions were finally sent out again - this time under proper guidance - to begin research. Altough seemingly unhospitable, the region proved to be of great interest in many accounts.
Despite the efforts to dissolve the many believes surrounding the desert, the common folk however still believe in the existence of demons in that land. Further research and proof will be necessary to convince all that such tales have no truth to them.

Geography

As common for a desert, both plant and animal life are scarce in this region. The ground is mostly covered in sand, forming an even ground or high sand dunes depending on the location. Rare oases allow for small patches of grass and bushes, altough storms prevent tall trees from growing. Some places are also covered in rock formations of varying shape, size and colour.

Localized Phenomena

A common phenomena in this desert is a so called mirage. Believed by the common folk to be magic, it is in truth caused by the hot air vibrating above the ground, allowing for the eye to see shapes of differing kinds. With the heat of the sun lowering the ability to think clearly, these visions can be mistaken for reality. This poses a great danger as following such a mirage blindly can easily get one lost. Cut from a group, without acces to water death will be quick.

History

Determining the true history of this wide spread region has been and still is a great challenge for the Brotherhood of Librarians. Historic facts seem to have become mingled to a great amount with fairytales and make-believe. Cause for this is commonly seen in the hot climate there wich has proven to have a strong influence on the mind. Halluzinations and mirages will seem almost like reality, making it easy to believe in a number of impossible things and creatures.

As far as the true history however can be concerened, some remains of settlements have been found centering around the rare oases. These however bear only signs of temporary inhabitation and may be the ruins of a net of trading routes. The only major permanent settlements were found after crossing the desert.

Type

Desert