South of Wolkenstein lies the remote and treacherous Etschtal Valley, a harsh landscape where jagged mountains rise from deep, fog-filled ravines. This rugged wilderness is inhabited by goblinoid tribes, orcs, hobgoblins, and ogres who survive by scavenging the unforgiving terrain. They pose a constant threat to any unwary travelers or adventurers who dare to cross their paths.
The air in Etschtal is cold and damp, even during the summer months when the sun barely penetrates the dim light. At night, strange noises echo through the mountain passes as beasts roam freely. The valley is shrouded in eerie legends of ancient ruins, remnants of long-forgotten civilizations. Though none have ever been found, tales of terrifying creatures, giant spiders, and shadowy figures stalking in the darkness persist. On still nights, faint chanting can be heard from deep within the caves, suggesting mysterious rituals hidden from prying eyes.
Despite the dangers, the valley holds a rugged beauty. Towering pines blanket the lower slopes, and wildflowers burst into color during the brief spring. Streams of crystal-clear water cascade down the rocky cliffs, their melodic sounds a stark contrast to the valley's foreboding reputation. The sky above Etschtal is often a tapestry of swirling clouds, adding to the sense of isolation and mystery that permeates the region.
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