Redgorge Notes and Rumors

Alek & companion

Your queries around town regarding Alek & his red-haired companion have revealed differing accounts about what they were looking for in the Jungles. Most seem to agree that Alek thought he had found the source of some special rock. This convinced some of Redgorge's finest young miners to go with him on his last journey. They haven't been seen in more than 3 years.

As for the companion, it's less clear what she was seeking. Speculation runs that she wanted to find some kind of staff of power...or a book of dark arts...or a soul-stealing bottle. Who knows?

Creatures
The Redgorgians describe all manner of creatures you can encounter in the jungles—jaguars, crocodiles, apes, snakes, colorful birds, armies of insects, giant lizards and living trees. After awhile you begin to wonder what isn’t found out there. You also begin to suspect that not all of them have actually seen any of these things.

There is one well-known creature that is both feared and respected. A water snake with a beautiful human face patrols the river about 3 days downstream. She is a jealous guardian of the river and its surroundings. It is said that she allows most to enter ‘her’ lands, but she asks a heavy price to be allowed to exit. According to Alek’s old tales she collects ancient magics and artifacts.

Dangers
The dangers of the jungle are many and you have been warned to take precautions. The heat and humidity are constant. You must have access to water regularly or you will begin to suffer from heat sickness.

Disease is everywhere. Friendly tribes may help you identify plants that can cure/slow the effects. The apothecary’s assistant may also be a resource.

It rains in the jungle and metal armor and weapons will rust with exposure if you’re not careful. Keep them well-oiled and dry. Take shelter from heavy storms. Floods are probable.

There’s not much light in the jungle. Take light sources if you must, but light attracts many things.

Evil spirits and demons roam the jungle. Pray you don’t meet them.

It is said the best time to enter the jungle is the day after a new moon and to leave it before the start of a new moon. One should never be in the jungle during the day of a new moon.

People
The townsfolk won’t be your porters and may not serve very well as guides for the deeper jungles. You may be able to find a boatman or two who will take you downstream to one of the local tribes. You’d have to arrange transport from there.

About a day downstream, there are tribes along the banks of the river. Most are friendly and may help you. Alek used to get his guides and porters from them. He was always gathering gifts to take on his trips. You should probably do the same.

None of the townsfolk who left with Alek some years ago have returned. It is unlikely they will accompany you on your journey unless you sign a large blood contract with part of it paid in advance.

The Apothecary
The town’s apothecary has the most experience of visiting the jungle, though it’s been years since he’s done so. He has some assistants who trade with tribesmen for the things he needs. One of his assistants would be willing to go with you. He’s not highly experienced, but he could identify useful plants and concoct natural remedies for illnesses and diseases. You would have to pay him, protect him, be willing to sign a blood contract and allow him to collect specimens for his return.

If you’re unwilling to hire the assistant, the apothecary may be able to teach you a couple of things and offer salves and antitoxins to deal with the jungle’s dangers.

Gear
The locals know that food, clothing and equipment deteriorates pretty quickly in the jungle when exposed to the elements. Sealed containers would probably be good items to take. Ivory works well for air and leather boxes with a special vine sap sealant are good for water. Just don't ingest the sap by mistake-- it's mildly poisonous.