The Umbral Divide

The Umbral Divide is not a chasm in the earth, but a tear in reality itself, a jagged wound in the fabric of existence located near the Aetherium Fount, and perhaps tied to The Lost City of Umbral. It is a place where the light of the Sunstone of Aethelgard seems to dim, where shadows writhe with a life of their own, and where the whispers of forgotten gods echo through the void. The geography is ever-shifting, a chaotic blend of twisted rock formations and ephemeral shadow-stuff. Pockets of absolute darkness exist alongside areas of blinding light, creating a disorienting and often deadly environment. The air crackles with unstable energy, and prolonged exposure can lead to madness, and the effects are cataloged in the Chapter of Madness.

There are no known inhabitants, but the Umbral Behemoth is said to guard it, and the Shadow-Goblins are drawn to its edges, feeding on the residual energy of corruption. Perhaps even Valia, the Empty visits this location. Legends say that the Forgotten Smith attempted to seal the Umbral Divide, but failed, and the Veil of Obscurity hides the area from prying eyes. The Crimson Cartographers refuse to map its ever-shifting boundaries, for doing so can cause one to get lost in The Gaze of the Deep. The Silent Monks of Durin's Peak believe it to be a gateway to the Great Unmaking, and warn against approaching it.

It may even lead to the Abyss of Umbra, and the Warped Gates. Some texts hint at the ability to control the divide with the Runes of Null. What could happen if the Cobalt Corsairs tried to fly through the rift? Is it possible that the Chitinous Swarm originated from this location? The divide is mentioned in Elder Borin's Chronicles, where it is said to have been caused by the reckless use of Aetherium Conduits. It is said that the Skyclaw Griffons can sense the presence of beings from beyond the Divide. It may even be possible to step into the Mirror World by using the divide.