Cathrys

Cathrys appears as a suspended strand of smaller orbs, resembling planet-sized beads, though no thread binds them. These orbs float in the oppressive void of Carceri, spaced roughly 500 miles (800 kilometers) apart, farther than those of Othrys, yet unmistakably connected by the same grim metaphysics. Though smaller in scale, each orb is teeming with violent, primal life that pulses with the fury of unchecked instinct.   The terrain of Cathrys is defined by rampant overgrowth and predatory ecology with the subterranean expense The orbs are choked with dense, blood-red jungles that reek of sweet rot and chemical decay. This stench, while overwhelming, poses no direct harm, unlike the flora. The jungle's vegetation secretes a potent corrosive acid, capable of eating through metal in under ten minutes, leather in less than five, and flesh even faster. Survival in this layer demands adaptation. The native denizens of Cathrys have long abandoned cleanliness, instead coating themselves in layers of accumulated filth that form a natural, scabrous barrier against the acid.   Beyond the jungles lie arid plains and rust-colored grasslands, seemingly more hospitable—but no less deadly. The grass here is not benign. Tall and blade-thin, it slices flesh as efficiently as a dagger, bearing traits similar to razorvine, though more common. These fields are littered with bones of those who strayed from their paths. Maintaining roads, and protection from the grass, is essential for survival. Only through the careful laying of stone or enchanted paths can safe passage be guaranteed.  

Settlements

Settlement is rare and often temporary. The few villages of Cathrys are built from the very razored grass that surrounds them, lashed together in cruel mimicry of civilization. These dwellings are mobile, allowing nomadic tribes to pack up and flee when danger, or opportunity, approaches. The ever-scarce supply of food ensures that raiding is constant, and cannibalism is not only practiced, it is normalized.  

Noteable Locations

The Steading

Atop a high, wind-lashed plateau of Cathrys stands The Steading, the stronghold of Grolantor, the lesser giant diety of hunger, filth, and brute might. This crude bastion is surrounded by spike-lined ditches and mud-choked pits, where giants gather to bellow, feast, and worship their grotesque ideals.  

Scarlet Labyrinth

An infinite maze of tunnels lined with sharp crystals that bleed if touched. Prisoners wander endlessly, trapped by their reflections and haunted by visions of their betrayals and navigation within is extremely difficult.  

Echoing Chasms

Deep chasms filled with murmured accusations and whispers of guilt. These voices manifest tangible illusions.  

The Obsidian Citadel

A massive, razor-edged fortress inhabited by fallen celestial wardens, known as The Harbingers of Remorse. It imprisons the worst traitors, including disgraced knights and fallen priests, within endless chambers of reflective obsidian.  

Crystalline Wells of Anguish

Pools filled with blood-red liquid that force anyone who drinks or even touches them to experience the emotional torment of their worst victims.    

Inhabitants

Cathrys is ruled not by kings or ideologies, but by instinct and appetite. The dominant native race are the Farastu Demodand, rubbery-skinned fiends steeped in decay and acidic filth. They stalk the jungles and prey upon anything too slow, too clean, or too clever.   The petitioners of Cathrys are not innocents. These are the souls of those who surrendered reason to their base instincts—those who betrayed civilization, morality, or intellect in pursuit of primal gratification. Among them are hill giants, particularly the followers of Grolantor, whose bloated souls now serve eternally in their god’s service.   The human petitioners often inhabit the grasslands, cursed to maintain the dangerous roads with bare hands and bloody determination. Their labor is unending, but offers fleeting safety from the wilds, at least until the next tribal raid.

Environmental Hazards

There are many dangers, including, aciding jungle Flora, Razorgrass Fields and .Toxic adaptations.       Hunger Madness: The very air of Cathrys breeds a gnawing appetite—not just for food, but for dominance, destruction, or indulgence. Prolonged exposure may force Will saves against feral compulsion or cannibalistic impulses.

Magical Phenomena and Hazards

Crimson Reflections

The crystalline walls reflect twisted, accusatory visions that cause visitors to suffer overwhelming guilt.  

Tormented Gravity

Random pockets of gravity reversal or intensification occur unpredictably.  

Spectral Accusations

Sudden apparitions force victims to relive their deepest betrayal.  

Summoning and Binding

Planar Ally and Gate: Summoning entities from Cathrys requires tokens of cruel betrayal. Summoned entities specialize in torment and mental manipulation, often seeking to torment summoners.