The Low Roads

Deep below the Weald lies a network of caves, tunnels, and caverns, which, taken together, are known as the Low Roads. The roads are as diverse as their inhabitants, from the craggy runs of underground rivers to the smooth tunnels left by gargantuan tunnelling creatures. Glowing mushroom forests and subterranean lakes are separated by miles of almost unnavigable twisting passageways filled with deadly drops and terrifying creatures. The Low Roads are famously dangerous, and even the dwarves and gnomes that travel them regularly show them the utmost respect.

Any lowroad traveller with sense, from dwarven caravans to gnomish lizard trains, will only stop to rest at recognized camps. These camps are clearly marked, easily defensible, and have easily available fresh water. While some of these camps have been in use for decades, like the trading-fort of Kier Tharuhm (known in common as Goulbane Canyon), most are distinctly temporary as the monsters of the deep discern their weaknesses and overcome their defences.

Any low road expedition packs supplies with generous extra emergency rations in case of getting lost and is heavily armed and armoured in case of attack. Helmets in particular are vital to protect travellers from the frequent rock falls. Surface travellers may see the idea of wearing full armour while travelling as unnecessary extra weight, low road merchants know that a good weapon and the skill to use it is vital underground, where an attack could come from any direction. Expeditions always have a variety of light, trumpet, and hand signals for communicating quickly, efficiently, and clearly in a variety of conditions.

Expeditions that are going to unexplored or recently altered areas will also carry supplies for lighting pockets of firedamp, mining equipment for clearing blockages, and breach-shields: a metal plates with threaded bolts to wedge into openings in order to seal gaps that could provide access to roving monsters.

The low roads don't often reach the surface, and those breaches can be classified into two general types: secret entrances, that are either well hidden or deeply inconvenient to use; and open entrances, that are commonly used by travellers and traders alike. Most open entrances are surrounded by villages, temples, or henges, and form a key part of either trade or religion. In the mythology of the Hin these entrances are used as metaphors for the gates of death, so they are often the sites of temples to Ann Tyranis. Similarly, many druidic circles see the interplay of light and dark as a microcosm for other aspects of nature, making low road entrances as ideal sites for henges.