So.

You wanna get into the Deathlands.

Everyone in Doskvol’s been told stories of it – what lies beyond the lightning barrier. You may even know someone who’s familiar with it: someone who works the barrier, or goes in and out like smugglers or the Silver Nails, or maybe even someone who never returned. There’s no argument here that the Deathlands are dangerous. It’s a cold, desolate, windswept, barren place full of monsters and ghouls, and most of all, silence. But there’s no reason it should be feared as much as it is. Take it from a seasoned pro like myself – with these tips, maybe one day you’ll be brave enough to go out and see it for yourself.

Number 1: Go In Pairs

Beginners should especially take note of rule number one: never, and I mean NEVER, go out alone. Unless you’ve been doing this for a long time like I have, you should always always always leave the city with at least one friend in tow. Two’s even better. Safety in numbers, folks. Even if you think you know what you’re getting into, there’s no way to expect what will actually happen. So have an extra set of eyes and a second pair of hands go with you when you do.

Number 2: Know Your Ins and Outs

There’s no way around it: the lightning barrier is heavily guarded, at all times. So be sure that you’ve arranged how you’ll be getting in and out in advance. Whether that be you know a smuggler or scavenger, or you hitch a ride with the Silver Nails, have your strategies and keep them reliable. Only the especially daring should try entering and exiting by their own means.

Number 3: NO FOOD

DO NOT IGNORE THIS RULE. Under absolutely no circumstances should you get your snack game on in the middle of the wilderness. The Deathlands didn’t earn its name just for being edgy – it’s literally a Death Land. Food is scarce, vegetation is decayed, and the living will pick up any scent of fresh food from miles away. Deathlands creatures are hungry, and they will not hesitate to go after you or your dried eel crisps. Have a full and hearty meal before you go, and only eat within the safety of scavenger outposts.

Number 4: Bundle Up!

You thought Doskvol was cold. But the Deathlands will make you wish you’d never left Dunslough. There’s no lights, no heat, and no walls to protect you from the winds coming off the sea to the west. So, layers, layers, layers. Cover your ears, your hands, anything and everything you can!

Number 5: Light ‘em Up!

Did I mention that there’s no light? Because there is no light. Aside from a little bit of glow from the lighting barrier, there is just nothing out there. So be sure to bring a reliable, fully loaded lantern and have it with you at all times.

Number 6: Gear

You should of course bring any and all sensible survival gear with you. But what about tools? Weapons? It’s natural to want to protect yourself as you venture out. Guns are an obvious and popular choice; but keep in mind, they will be loud. And I mean louder than you think. There’s very little sound out in the wilderness, and any gunshot you fire will carry and alert everything to your presence. If you’re skilled in any melee weapons, like a truncheon, a sword, a knife, or axe, definitely have that be your first choice. So long as you don’t mind getting up close and personal, of course.

Number 7: Flora

Like I said, there’s not much alive out there in terms of plant life. The mushrooms are mostly harmless, and the trees are pretty much dead, but there is one important thing you should keep in mind: demon rings. If you see a tree surrounded by a circle of white mushrooms, avoid it at all costs. The mushrooms are extremely sensitive – even the slightest disturbance to them will release spores, and then it will be over for you. Unless you fancy the idea of your eyes burning, your skin peeling off, and choking on your own mouth foam, steer very clear of demon rings.

Number 8: Fauna

The Deathlands are home to a number of creatures you wouldn’t find inside the city. You may have even heard of some of them: Lifeseeker Crows, Ash Bears, Umbra Lions… and there’s so many more that we haven’t even discovered yet! But as a general rule of thumb, keep your distance from all wildlife. You won’t find many plant-eaters out there, and I must remind you: everything is hungry. If a predator does happen upon you, you have a number of choices in how to approach: you can fight, distract with food, or intimidate with noise. But no matter what, do not run, and do not play dead. Whatever you do, stand your ground.

Number 9: Ghosties

Perhaps the scariest and most frightening thing people find about the Deathlands. At least most people, anyway. Simply speaking the name Deathlands, and the first thing people will think of is horror stories of howling ghouls and hulls, giant harvesters and ruthless possessions. But facing the spirits cast out from the city doesn’t at all have to be as horrifying as you’d think. Most folk would reach for electroplasmic bullets or lightning rods, and that’s fine. But there are alternatives to destruction. Heavy duty spiritbane charms will work just as well, but be positive that they’re strong and of quality make. As a last resort, you can always try coaxing with pure electroplasm, or even jarring ‘em up. But only the most confident of ghost-whisperers should attempt!

Number 10: But Most of All… 

Have fun!

I know, it sounds crazy after reading all that. But I’m serious – not too many people in Doskvol regularly come and go into the Deathlands. It very well may be that if you survive, you’d be the only one amongst your friends who can say that they’ve done it. And just think of the stories you could tell…! You will have seen things that so many people inside the barrier won’t even dare to imagine. So, think about it. When all is said and done, will you want to look back and say that your life was normal? Or will you die knowing that you did something?

The choice is yours, my friend. All yours.