The Outskirts

The Outskirts is a collective name for a series of dangerous domains. They form the outer ring of Prismundi, and though the domains are very distinct from each other, they are not limited to precise physical locations. They shift and coil into and around each other. Although only very few ever make it back from expeditions into the darkness, nobody has ever reported having found an other side to the Outskirts. It is therefore believed to be endless. That would explain why so many vile creatures can make a living out there.

There is one famous explorer that survived not just one, but many expeditions into the Outskirts: Alma Thorbourne. Her life's work was the Compendium of the Outskirts, where she analyzed and categorized the different domains of the Outskirts. They can be divided into roughly five types:

• Moriens, or the domains of pain. There are riches of food and water in these domains, and if not for the grey tones and darkness, they could be called vibrant with lifeforms. But once you partake in any fruit or meat or even water, you will find yourself addicted and always craving more. Those lost to these domains become one of its corrupted denizens, gorging themselves in the fields and forests.
• Timoris, or the domains of fear. These stand out for having terrains that seem urban, or at least constructed by something. Although the buildings might give a semblance of where one came from, they offer no protection to the slithering and stalking monstrosities. You could say these domains are the noisiest, as there is always some growl or shriek on the wind, and you can't shake the feeling of being watched.
• Desertia, or the domains of isolation. Though they can take many forms, they usually have a labyrinthine environment where one can not see far beyond oneself. You can be surrounded by rocky outcrops, thickets of shrubs taller than you, or networks of narrow tunnels. Though there are no notable predators in these domains, there is stilla great danger of getting lost and never finding a way out.
• Aporia, or the domains of doubt. Distinguished by glassy crystalline rocks and creatures that can change shape and mimick voices, this domain has all it needs to make one question themselves. This domain is frought with illusory terrain and whispering voices, to the point that you cannot trust your own senses, even your own mind.
• Vanitas, or the domains of emptiness. These are expanses of sandy dunes or marshlands, defined by making travel feel sluggish and pointless. inhabited by stealthy predators that attack from the skies or underground, which are extra hard to avoid due to the difficult terrain.