Getting drunk just isn't worth this.

Queer silence has befallen the forest of vibrant giants and dormant monsters around you, but perhaps you are so caught up in your indignant quarrel that this important information has slipped your notice. Maybe it is the first time you have been here, to Solanis, and you presume naively that the unsettling quiet (even the soft patter of rain has lightened), is standard. It is possible that you simply don’t care -

But you should.

Within the cracks of the Deviltree’s black bark, small gemstones glisten and wink, even in this dreary Drench light - they could easily be mistaken for the shiny blood, sap, which pulses as the life-force of the tree. Tempting, no? The Rift is cunning, turning you into a brazen thief… But even as you speak, whisper and taunt each other for rise, the soft purr and click of machines (a sound that belongs not in these parts), has captured the notice of hiding creatures…

Quick-tempered creatures.

Insignificantly sized creatures with significantly sized wrath.

While your focus stands distracted, the gemstones begin to move and bitter eyes glare out from the shadows. They can see you - and they know what you seek, for you are not the first fools eager to sample the luscious flavour of their treasure. They are wary though… uncharacteristically so.

The deafening silence beyond your squabble has not slipped past their awareness.

the Rift
life from death

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