Subterra

Subterra is a massive network of caves and tunnels deep below Erudite's surface. It consists of the gaps of the mostly hollow planet. It is a vibrant ecosystem of its own, often featuring life that evolved completely independently from the surface. Because of these large spaces and abdundance of ekati, Subterra is also home to various Kaiju, gargantuan beings that passively feed off of radiant ekati energy to survive.

The deeper one travels, the more likely someone will find Deep Ekati. The knightly order known as the Arbiters patrol the deepest parts of Subterra to deter anyone from prodding around - whether they are curious adventurers or malevolent warlocks seeking to harness its power.

During the Cyber Era, MagiNet cables are wired through the tunnels which enable for the possibility of a global teleportation network. These cables are heavily protected, because a stray monster chewing on them could greatly disrupt trade and communication between continents.

Points of interest

Wind Caves

Main article: Wind Caves

A series of tunnels that wind currents flow through. They greatly affect the weather on the surface.

Kohatu-Nui

Main article: Kohatu-Nui

A massive crystalline cave just below Emsius. It is home to the Karaihe.

City of Judgment

The City of Judgment is the location for the headquarters of the Arbiters. The buildings are carved directly into the stone with a surprising intricacy. Living mortals are expressly forbidden from visiting it as to maintain the secrecy of the Arbiters. It is also the location where anyone found attempting to mine Deep Ekati is detained.

Stenkolpad Pass

Stenkolpad Pass is a vast undeground chasm in the southern hemisphere directly underneath the oceans separating Khyorgan and Swen. Today, it is not particularly remarkable, but in the distant past, it was the route that ancient Archei dwarves took to reach Swen. The chasm is considered impassable without some sort of flying device or spell. However, geological markings along the walls indicate that Titan Tortoises once nested in the area. These giant species of tortoise have backs made out of rock and can live for tens of thousands of years, many specimens being older than all of mortal civilization. The dwarves that crossed through used their backs to cross the chasm. However, since then, the Titan Tortoises migrated to other nesting areas, leaving the chasm abandoned and isolating the dwarves of Khyorgan and Swen.

In the Cyber Era, it is used as a pathway for MagiNet cables connecting the network between Khyorgan and Swen.

Planetary Core

The Planetary Core, sometimes known as the Heart of Erudite, is an enormous ekati structure. It is the single largest concentration of ekati on the planet. However, the magic it emits is responsible for holding the planet itself together. Were the core ever to run out of magic, the planet would break apart and the continents may drift away into space. However, such an event is not expected to occur for eons, perhaps billions of years more than the universe has ever existed.

Of course, a powerful civilization capable of harvesting its energy could theoretically drain its magic which would cause its lifespan to shorten. In the entire history of Erudite, only one civilization has ever attempted this feat. During the late Antiquity Era, a massive, magically capable empire sought to dominate the world by seizing control of the core to effectively hold it hostage. They were stopped by not just the Arbiters but also the wrathful Kaiju. It is thought this incident led to the worldwide collapse in technology at the time, leading to the Medieval Era.

Biodiversity

• Titan Tortoise - Titan Tortoises are ancient Kaiju that can be mistaken for mountains. They used to populate the surface of Erudite until they were forced underground after the Shattering. They can live for thousands of years, and they spend most of their time sleeping, often for centuries at a time. Titan Tortoises feed on rock, often carving tunnels as they move. Wherever they are nested, other life forms will use their backs as makeshift paths to cross chasms.
• Crystalwing fly - A common species of insect known for its crystalline wings. They are often found near desposits of ekati crystals.