Agarn Forests

Deep within the Riftlands where few humans venture, the Agarn Forests stretch for miles. However, do not be mistaken as these 'forests' are not likened to those found across much of Qerth. Some wonder if they are even forests at all for no trees reside here. In their place, a network of colossal fungi sprouts high into the twilight sky, harbouring a great many creatures beneath their canopy of purple, pink and red. A labyrinth of colour. In spite of the beauty, there is a darkness that lurks within the shadows of this realm and beasts warped beyond what humans even thought possible before discovering these lands.  

Climate

Like the rest of the Riftlands that sprawl across Qerth, the Agarn Forests share a similar cold climate with an average temperature of 4°C. An unchanging temperature no matter the time of year or location. Whether the forest may border a frozen tundra or a hot desert, the climate of this alien world remains constant.   Though despite this, precipitation does occur here and more frequently than in other Rift ecosystems. When the wind carries rain clouds over these forests, terrible thunderstorms erupt. It would seem these storms are amplified by the energy secreted by the Rifts birthing a hybrid monster known as Rift Storms. Events of great magnitude that beat down upon the land below with clouds of red and acidic rain. Though it would seem the life here has adapted to these storms with a thick, corrosion-resistant hide that can more easily defend against such rainfall...though the same cannot be said for humans and creatures adapted to other ecosystems beyond the Riftlands.  

'It is monsters like those that I fear most. No animal could even compare to the colossal cyclones that come hurtling out of those forests...I do wonder what devilry truly hides within its depths to birth such a beast...'

— Chalain Alma, Scholar of Tyraq

Ecosystem

Perhaps one of the most complex ecosystems in the known lands of Qerth, the Agarn Forests are home to an endless list of unique lifeforms ranging from animals to plants to fungi and even diseases. This hellscape is one of a peculiar nature and is no friend of mankind.  

Fungi

While many fungi species can be found within these forests, the most distinguishable and most well-known would be the Great Agarn. A colossal specimen that often reaches heights of one-hundred metres within just one century, which compared with many tree species, proves to be a rapid growth time. Within these trees, an assortment of native wildlife makes their homes due to the thick hyphae the tree sports. Furthermore, both plants and fungi also make their homes on and around these great behemoths as they make for a wonderful support structure. This can form a webbing of sorts between different Agarns which may further block out the already sparse sunlight.  

'It is said, his lordship once scaled the great Agarn Trees of the Riftlands in his youth...'   '...Yes well, they also say Princess Laena of Aethria mated with Mermen on the shores of the Sapphire Straight...don't believe such folly sister'

— Itoshi Twins of Janish