The Ashplains

It is not recommended for the inexperienced traveler to cross the Ashplains, even with a skilled guide. Nor are they likely to find a guide willing to take the short route through.

While it is a unique location, the unpredictable nature of it's equally unique weather and geological events poses a risk to even the most experienced wanderer. No amount of foreknowledge in the world will save you from a sudden ashfall, or the occasional lava tides that rise from the ground. Be safe, travelers, and simply go around.

— Atlas of the Continent, by Xian Zhihao

A small but notable section of Avallus, the Ashplains are a unique ecology upon the Continent.

Found in the northern reaches, the Ashplains is a low-lying section of land that has a higher than average frequency of volcanic events. With some regularity, hot ash will be blown from constantly shifting volcanic vents, blanketing the area. These events are, of course, deadly to most and more importantly, unpredictable, meaning that the population of the area (few and far between as it is) sticks close to shelter at all times.

Despite it's deadly nature, the ash does serve an important ecological task as it falls into several rivers that pass through the Ashplains as well, enriching the water for plant life and carrying it to the farthest corners of the Continent. The jungles of the south wouldn't be as lush without the Ashplains.