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Lands of Deepearth	-	-	-	DSG

Geography: This is the lower portion of the Grand Canyon of
Deepearth (Area 7). The canyon walls descend another 1,200
feet from this point, but the canyon is bridged between Areas 22
and 24. Both the domains of the deep gnomes and the duergar
(Area 24) reach to the canyon itself, and on each side the demihumans
have carved vast galleries capable of holding a thousand
or more spectators. These galleries face each other across
the 1,000-foot width of the canyon.

A sturdy stone bridge about 20 feet wide stretches between the
two galleries. Below this bridge, in full view of both galleries, is a
three-dimensional web of stone arches, metal girders, rope ladders,
and nets. This is an arena of subterranean competition (see
Unique Features).

Denizens and Resources are as explained under Area 7. Note
that svirfneblin and duergar war parties constantly watch each
other across the canyon.

Unique Features: The arena is a treacherous structure upon
which most conflicts among the duergar and deep gnomes (as
well as interracial fights) are resolved. The tragic and costly wars
of the past have convinced these demi-humans that it is far better
to appoint a champion from each faction and to have the champions
fight to the death, rather than risk the devastation of war.
The champions carry an assortment of nonmissile weapons
onto the girders, and fight to the death. In some cases, the conflict
may be resolved before this happens, but when a duergar
and svirfneblin duel, the conflict always results in a fatality. The
three-dimensional nature of the arena allows for a unique form of
combat in which opponents maneuver for height, positions of
security, and openings for attacks. The girders and beams are
spaced far enough apart that the small warriors often have difficulty
reaching each other. Humans and larger creatures have an
easier time moving through the arena.