Locations in the RPG Game Rifts
Since my being branded a criminal by the Coalition States for the publication of my book, Traversing Our Modern World, I have visited England, Africa, the New German Republic, Russia and parts of Europe. Like our own lands, much of the rest of the world remains a wilderness pockmarked by little towns, villages, and outposts. Large cities and thriving kingdoms are uncommon. The environment, regardless of the level of technology or magic, is typically feudal-like, with kings and kingdoms rather than the democratic rule of cities, states, provinces, or nations. If you can believe it, the level of violence, ruthlessness and terror surpasses anything we have endured in North America, and we should count our blessings for it.
England
England is an enchanted place with forests and Faeries, flowing grassy hills, and ocean winds. Herbology is a mystic art and Druids have returned to nurture the land and guide the people. One of the most memorable experiences of my life will be the majesty of the Millennium Tree. Imagine a giant oak tree as tall as a mountain, its leaves the size of blankets. People actually live within its boughs and Faeries flitter among its highest branches. We spent three days under its comforting shadow where I had wonderful dreams and was at peace and worry free. I even awoke one morning covered in one of its green leaves, veins of gold running through it, and rather than being cool to the touch it was warm. I was told it was a gift and a great honor bestowed upon me by the tree itself. As the Druids fashioned my gift into a cloak of protection, they explained how the tree was a sentient being and a force for good. It was amazing. I fear there is a secret, dark underside to this beautiful green land, and wonder if the Millennium Tree has chosen to take root there to thwart it. Our stay was short and pleasant, but I left with a sense of dread and apprehension that I could not quite put my finger on. Perhaps it was the ley lines. They are everywhere. So pervasive that it made me fearful and uncomfortable, especially in New Avalon. I couldn’t stop wondering about what dark forces might draw upon their power or what abomination might climb out of a Rift, and wondered why it hadn’t happened yet. Sir Thorpe felt it too, and although we were treated with kindness during our stay, I think we were all glad to leave the sweeping green of the British Isles.