The Deadlands

The Deadlands are an expansive wasteland that was created in 0 ADW by The Dark Circle in order to end The Deadlands War.

Ecosystem

The Deadlands could best be described as a desert biome. However, it is more lifeless then the driest of deserts. Due to the Dark Circle’s actions, the land is incredibly magically saturated. Any flora or fauna that attempt to live there must either die or mutate. The amount of magic seems to no longer be harmful to thinking beings, but caution is recommended when travelling, nevertheless.
The ground is mostly made of loose grey sand that cannot be found anywhere else in Edarlein. The sand is dangerous to inhale and is a serious eye irritant. Dust storms are common, making protective gear and veils necessary.

Natural Resources

The Deadlands region is so heavily saturated in magic that almost nothing can live there. This is also the region why it is the only well known place to find Theurgy Crystals. These crystals are concentrated magic, and are very dangerous to handle. The towns and villages on the fringes of the Deadlands tend to trade in these crystals, which has led them to prosper despite their harsh environment.

History

The Deadlands were once an expansive region of forests of hills. Even before the Deadlands War, the region (then known as the Dark Woodlands) had a reputation for being untamed and dangerous. Stories spread of evil hag covens, terrifying mutant animals, and dragon lairs with riches beyond imagination. Children in the provinces bordering the Woodlands would be warned to never step foot in the woods, or else they would be eaten by wolves, or kidnapped by hags. One day, these stories became reality. A group of powerful magic-users known as the Dark Circle made their base in the heart of the Woodlands. The group’s aim, while still somewhat mysterious, seemed nothing less than to take over the world entirely.
With dragons leading the charge, all thinking species banded together against this new threat. Thus began the Deadlands War, a series of battles and sieges lasting for fifty years. The war came to a head at The Crystal Citadel, the home base of the Dark Circle.
As the final battle reached its climax, the Circle detonated a magical weapon larger than anyone had ever seen. A giant explosion rocked the entire area. All life within the Woodlands was extinguished, including most dragons and, apparently, the Dark Circle itself.
Even after nearly two-hundred years, life has been unable to return to the area, and the only thinking lifeforms are roaming nomads who trade in Theurgy Crystals and other oddities.

Alternative Name(s)

The Wastes

Type

Wasteland