The Fissure (SC'20)

Written by Steve Tremblay

Long before civilization flourished on Ellara, before many of the natural landmarks existed, an event occurred that literally reshaped the landscape. History has no context for the event. Likely, only ancient Elves and wildlife roamed the endless forests and would have scattered at the earth shattering, ear splitting, rock-throwing explosion that rocked the eastern half of the continent. Whatever the cause, possibly a space object impact, intervention from the Gods or something breaking out from within the center of the planet, a massive rift opened in what would come to be called the Hazaan mountains. This was no normal volcanic eruption but it may have seemed similar. Rocks were thrown miles away, the plumes of smoke lasted for weeks and the surrounding environment saw a level of destruction from the explosion and escaping gasses that had not been seen for hundreds of years. While some in recent times have attempted to explore what has become known as The Fissure, few have made it past the entrance. The sides are steep, the gasses still escaping are toxic and the heat is almost unbearable. The current day scene is somewhat more of a mystery to those who are unaware. For decades the Red Dragonborn who live in Or'Rash to the north have been leaving gifts for the ancient red dragon Straad who now inhabits the Fissure. Claw marks mar the ground around the entrance, bones are scattered across the area and broken bits of offerings are strewn about. It is unknown whether Straad was born of the Fissure or happened upon it and decided that the heat and space suited him just fine. He has made it his lair and anyone exploring the area is at danger from both the dragon and the hazards of the area.