[Location] The Overflow

[Schism]

The Overflow Far north runs a lonely series of tunnels that delve deep into the earth. Intertwined and twisted, there is a hinted history of a great fluid having once passed through. Reaching beyond the reaches of the shrine and north tunnel, these pathways run towards the borders of Kalea, appropriately so. After the time trip, it’s clear to see why this is, and why the tubes differ so drastically from most of Zinrah’s infrastructure. Welcome to the Overflow. The Overflow is a unique site specifically located in the northern reaches of Falyndar’s borders, yet conveniently linked to Zinrah’s tunnel network. A smaller cave network is linked to the primary tunnels, the opening nook displaying a variety of work places for potters. The chamber is lit by small, boiling springs loaded with glow stones – the ketomoss reacts eccentrically in these super-heated waters in comparison to those back in the whole of Zinrah. This hyper activity really makes the opening chambers of the overflow beam. Some decades of work with the earth reimancers made further additions to the Overflow possible. The network basically splits off in two directions from the main chamber, one path leading south west, and the other north. The south western passage comes to a smaller cave where clay is gathered and kept. There’s a rough idea that a stream or river flows far above the cave, and the water brings the clay down through the caves. Earthen reimancers do what they can year round to maintain the stability of the cave, less it collapse upon itself or overflow. Fissures are left open here such that the clay can flood in excess, especially during the rainy season. Dhani are generally self-sufficient in gathering their own clay here. Others are put to work in getting the raw earth into slabs in preparation for projects. For the sake of keeping the clay pure and clean, Dhani are also hired to help shift through the clay with their hands and sieves to make sure no rocks, pebbles, bones, or otherwise get into the clay. Such things are discarded in the fissures. Occasionally, a true rarity, some artifact from the ancient world of Suvan might slip through. In all, it’s dirty work. The opposing passage leads to the crown jewel of the Overflow: the overflow itself. A relatively massive waterfall cascades from the opening in the cave. The hole extends some hundreds of feet up, possibly the remnants of a very old volcano now transformed for mortal use. Water feeds into the cavern from holes in its sides, though the water fall is the primary source of steam. All of this water goes somewhere, that somewhere being the flowing lava hundreds of feet downward. The lava tube’s direction seems indeterminable by mere mortals who lack the mark of Azneth. There are still suspicions that it was once connected to Zinrah though, leading to further theories as to how the grand cave network which the Dhani call home came to be. The molten earth is always on the move, never turning cold. Likewise, the waterfall seems to flow endlessly, always providing the necessary steam. While it’s an overall beautiful sight, there is much danger to be cautious of. The walls crack with spouts of steam sending shards of rock flying. The hot stone below sizzles from the cool water’s touch, and also splinters. It is clear that the overflow has yet to reach equilibrium, but the Dhani do what they can to make use of it as is. The typical process for making a piece of pottery is as follows: gather your clay, clean it if you must, mix it with whatever coloring agents you desire, shape it in the workshops, and then take it to the Overflow to be steamed. Experts in their fields, few Dhani actually handle the pots that go to and from the hottest parts of the Overflow. They have a passion for people’s creativity, and the safety of others, the best of them being a charge of Ivak’s (a fact Siku regrettably acknowledges). Personal projects are paid for from the start when the clay is collected and weighed. Ssskrrea’s family, who diligently manage the Overflow, are working on their own projects all day long otherwise. Final, fragile products of their labor are ultimately transported to and sold at the Stonework and Pottery “shop” run by Ssskrrea herself. Because the Overflow is known to be so unstable, and even risky with the open vent, the series of tunnels leading to the city and the location have subtly been altered. In the event of the lava tube suddenly reactivating by any means, the earth reimancers are on duty at all times to break the pillars that support the tube and collapse it. This would ensure the lava never reaches Zinrah. Unfortunately, that also means anyone left on the other side would most likely be condemned to death. The sacrifices of few are necessary for the safety of many. Navigate back to Zinrah Link Map