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Brockham Test
For those first stepping foot outside of Insomnia, the Brockham Haven will very likely be their first introduction to the safe havens which keep weary travelers save from that which lurks in the night. All that they need to do as they make their way past the checkpoint is turn their head towards the left, and they will see the outcropping of rock which juts out from the hillside and glows a welcoming blue.
However, while the first Haven available to most travelers, it is not often the first choice of most. Instead, it is often only chosen by Hunters venturing down into the depths of the Crestholm Channel to clear out the daemons which plague its dim waterways, or the occasional fisherman who seeks reeling in the Dawn Lucian Carp in the early hours of morn. If there are any outside of those two groups who seek shelter there at Brockham, it is a traveler who only made it out of the city far later than they could have ever hoped, and do not believe themselves capable of making it to the Hammerhead in time.
There are multiple reasons for this, although they all seem to amount to the same thing: Brockham does not have very much to offer. Squashed between the Channel and a nearby Impereial fort, it is rather lacking in any appealing views which might soothe a tired soul after a long day's journey or when they awaken from a rought night of camping. The only wild food which might help bolster their stores would be a nearby outcropping of Aegir Root, should they tire of the Reservoir's fishing.
Still, Brockham does offer a fascinating view of abandoned construction that is but across the road. When viewed from the peak of Brockham, while one is sipping at their morning coffee, seeing those would-be towers of brick and concrete leaves one with a sort of melancholy, and reminds them of how fortunate they are to have lived in a city fully formed and reliable.
This does, of course, require one to be able to be able to ignore the dead-eyed robotic stares of the Magitek Troopers stationed in the nearby fort.
Yet despite the proximity of both Fort and Channel, or perhaps because of such proximity, very few monsters actually lurk around the immediate area of Brockham. This perhaps is something that will no doubt appeal to those travelers who are not so equipped to handle the local wildlife in the way that skilled Hunters or independent fishermen are, for all they need do is make a short break from the road up to Brockham.
Still, for those whose sense of aesthetic is particular and thus will find no satisfaction in such a place where the reminders of civilization are so overbearing, the fortunate news is that Brockham has a sister Haven just on the other side of the Fort. A small drive away (or walk, if one's vehicle happens to be incapacitated) will find them at Palmaugh Haven. The view is one of the few differences between the pair.
For a meal to eat at the campside, I recommend a simple Multi-Meat Sandwich. Any well prepared traveler will no doubt have Daggerquill breast and Gighee ham in their supplies, along with some bread that should still be decent. Augment the meal with Aegir root, and one will find themselves having a nice simple meal befitting of the scenery.
★★✩✩✩
However, while the first Haven available to most travelers, it is not often the first choice of most. Instead, it is often only chosen by Hunters venturing down into the depths of the Crestholm Channel to clear out the daemons which plague its dim waterways, or the occasional fisherman who seeks reeling in the Dawn Lucian Carp in the early hours of morn. If there are any outside of those two groups who seek shelter there at Brockham, it is a traveler who only made it out of the city far later than they could have ever hoped, and do not believe themselves capable of making it to the Hammerhead in time.
There are multiple reasons for this, although they all seem to amount to the same thing: Brockham does not have very much to offer. Squashed between the Channel and a nearby Impereial fort, it is rather lacking in any appealing views which might soothe a tired soul after a long day's journey or when they awaken from a rought night of camping. The only wild food which might help bolster their stores would be a nearby outcropping of Aegir Root, should they tire of the Reservoir's fishing.
Still, Brockham does offer a fascinating view of abandoned construction that is but across the road. When viewed from the peak of Brockham, while one is sipping at their morning coffee, seeing those would-be towers of brick and concrete leaves one with a sort of melancholy, and reminds them of how fortunate they are to have lived in a city fully formed and reliable.
This does, of course, require one to be able to be able to ignore the dead-eyed robotic stares of the Magitek Troopers stationed in the nearby fort.
Yet despite the proximity of both Fort and Channel, or perhaps because of such proximity, very few monsters actually lurk around the immediate area of Brockham. This perhaps is something that will no doubt appeal to those travelers who are not so equipped to handle the local wildlife in the way that skilled Hunters or independent fishermen are, for all they need do is make a short break from the road up to Brockham.
Still, for those whose sense of aesthetic is particular and thus will find no satisfaction in such a place where the reminders of civilization are so overbearing, the fortunate news is that Brockham has a sister Haven just on the other side of the Fort. A small drive away (or walk, if one's vehicle happens to be incapacitated) will find them at Palmaugh Haven. The view is one of the few differences between the pair.
For a meal to eat at the campside, I recommend a simple Multi-Meat Sandwich. Any well prepared traveler will no doubt have Daggerquill breast and Gighee ham in their supplies, along with some bread that should still be decent. Augment the meal with Aegir root, and one will find themselves having a nice simple meal befitting of the scenery.
★★✩✩✩
the peanut gallery
chocobro: on 1 hand, all the concreet is kinda comforting. 2nd hand uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuh how does anyone sleep with thoses creepy mechs just staring 24/7??????
womenwantme: If you're going to be camping in the wilderness, just go all the way or troop up to Hammerhead if you're going to half-ass it! ★✩✩✩✩
Palmaugh
In that respect, Palmaugh is lacking inded compared to sister Brockham. Yet it is not without its own particular niche. Indeed, some actually prefer Palmaugh when they have the choice of it. Whereas Brockham is sequestered by the reminders of concrete and industry on three sides - the nearby Imperial fort, the blockade, and the Channel-Reservoir, Palmaugh need only worry about that on one side of it.
Otherwise, it enjoys a view that opens out to the rest of Leide which lies beyond it as the valley holding the road flows out into the large dry plains and towering rock which make up the majority of it... Along with the welcoming sight of Hammerhead, not too far off in the distance.
If one is only just beginning to dip their toes into the camping lifestyle, then Palmaugh may be appealing in that manner, for it feels slightly more as though one has made the first step towards becoming an independent camper who is breaking off ties to their cozy lifestyle within more populated places. However, this sort of lifestyle is not without its risks, and Palmaugh demonstrates this as well in that Sabertusks and Reapertails populate the area. In contrast to the peaceful jog it takes to make camp at Brockham, one must be either quick on their feet or with some means of defending themselves in order to make it to Palmaugh. Additionally, while they are not so directly in the way, Reapertails make home near enough to Palmaugh that their scuttling may keep one awake at night.
For those interested in car detailing or simply wish to make a quick gil, there is one more thing of note. Just across the road, with a bit of searching, it is possible to find mineral deposits there within some of the rocky outcroppings. Having made it past the surface of dirt, they are easy enough to collect.
My recommendations on a recipe for staying at Palmaugh is a simple serving of toasted bread. Hammerhead is but a short distance away; one shouldn't waste their money or supplies on anything extravagant while camping. It is better to eat enough that will get you through the journey over to Hammerhead, and then have a stop at Takka's Pit Stop for a proper breakfast. Even for those doing their best to avoid spending, there are ample cheap meals available. Both the chili con carne and the Hammerhead hot sandwich are available for most who can scrounge up a gil from their pockets, and will keep them satisfied until they are able to make it to their next stop for gas, rest, food, or all three.
1/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: hey quick question can we go lower than 1 star also omg all the dust got in my hair
womenwantme: There's nothing quite like seeing a whole new region stretch out in front of you just begging to be explored. Light pollution from the Hammerhead is still pretty bad. 2/5 stars
Cotisse
Cotisse is one of the first Havens which showcases the wide plains and towering peaks which make up the Leigne area; some may even say that it is one of those which does the best at this particular aspect in comparison to many other Havens in the same area. On a good clear day where the winds are calm, it is possible to see even the Rock of Ravatogh off in the distance. For those who can appreciate the desert's beauty, Cotisse is perfect in this respect.
Additionally, proving itself to be more preferable than the two sister Havens off to the east, Cotisse is in possession of some native vegetation which a hungry traveler would find useful. Finding Eos green beans is easy enough; so too is cooking them. If one ventures a little further east, they will find tomatoes to augment their stores of food as well.
However, while Eos green beans may be easy enough to harvest, reaching the destination may be somewhat more difficult. This is because they lay in a small basin which houses a spring. No doubt it is access to this water which allows them to flourish. Another which flourishes thanks to the presence of this small spring would be the Bandersnatch. According to local gossip, it is common for the beast to be found near and often within the basin, using the only source of fresh water for miles around in order to cool off its constantly red-hot body.
For the more conservative camper who is already well prepared in supplies, likely the most they will ever see of such a creature may be the sight of its steam, a thick haze noticeable even at a distance. Yet for those who are inclined to a refreshing morning hike or some hunting of the local Reapertail population, they may want to make sure never to venture down into the basin or slip off of the ledge which circles it.
Cotisse is still an excellent test even with such a dangerous creature off in the east. For those who are not truly certain if the camping life is for them, then Cotissse will serve as a challenge that they either overcome or do not.
In celebration of those who are daring enough to procure fresh produce (or pragmatic enough to simply buy it at Hammerhead, where both green peas and tomatoes are cheap alongside the Leiden pepper which makes this dish), then I would recommend a recipe I call robust bean soup. Whether one is looking to fill their stomaches to go straight to sleep, or awaken feeling healthier than ever, I find this dish compliments the view beautifully.
3/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: so like i totes thought oh man this place actually does som great snaps p. photogenic nice profile of the mountains yadadadadada. and then. i got. ALL THE SAND IN MY HAIR. FROM A SUDDEN WINDSTORM. omfg. 1/5 stars
womenwantme: Baby's first real camping trip. Yeah that sums it up pretty well. 3/5 stars
Fayemoor
For some, such a view is all too hauntingly familiar. For others, it may be the closest they may have ever gotten to such sights before.
Not only is this area a testament to the fall of humans, but many beasts seem to have met their end here as well. Enormous bones can be found with particular commonality here around Fayemoor. It makes for an almost strange sight, as the bones of both civilization and nature alike lay together there. Time marches on for both.
Whether it is due to its particular location in relation to the war or simple luck, but not much edible vegetation can be found in the immediate area. For those hoping to do some foraging, they will have to venture a little closer to the nearby Formouth Garrison or across the main road. In both of these locations, the ever prosperous Leiden pepper can be found.
I personally feel that somber sights deserve a little more effort when it comes to making one's meal for the night. To that end, I feel a creamy fowl saute fits the mood well. A simple daggerquill breast, sheep milk to put into the sauce, and funguar to add flavor, and you will feel mood, setting, and stomach align.
2/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: n
womenwantme: No
I.Scientia: No.
fishfearme: me either
Entethina
Entethina is one of the latter, situated not only right besides the road lading out of Leide from the north-west side, but cozied u right next to the Norduscaen parking area. This means, for those who are coming into Leide after a long drive or those who would rather save some hours so that they aren't caught unaware in the afternoon lading into evening, it is but child's play to pull over and find sweet respite. It is an incredibly traveler friendly Haven.
Of course, aspiring hunters may also use this location due to its proximity to a closed off tunnel which leads further down south. While hardly deep and complex enough to be called any sort of dungeon, this small and unassuming tunnel nonetheless is host to a fairly frequent goblin problem. Individually, they are not worth much trouble at all. If that were the case, any individual could waltz inside and pull in some practice against what could very well be their first daemon encounter. However, group-driven as the little thieves are, I would advise that any such hunter go in a group, and enter in from the north entrance which Entethina lays besides. That way, it is a simple matter to turn tail and find both safety and daylight once more.
The average traveler has no need to worry about such things. For them, they may find simple comfort in Entethina being glad to embrace their tired and stiff bodies. The view holds nothing which may stun and amaze, it's true, and yet Entethina is a Haven of more practical pleasures.
That is to say, for those who like peppers, there is a plethora of them in the area immediately surrounding and before Entethina. Both Leiden peppers and sweet peppers are hardly strangers in Leide as a whole, and yet they are particularly plentiful in this area. Perhaps that is why birdbeast eggs can be found amidst the rocks near to the plants. Undoubtedly it explains the herds of Anak that are so bold as to graze right besides Entethina. Many find their meat to be corsse and stringy, but it is rich and fat, which lends itself to some fine recipes.
If I myself were to make a particular suggestion based on my own personal preferences, then I would recommend using their meat to make a breaded cutlet with tomato sauce. When cooked well, that notoriously stringy meat holds well together, and a fine tomato sauce washes away any concerns about coarseness.
4/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: broooooooooooooo the anak here are so chill???? like the ones esp rite by the haven are the cihllest. theyll let you come up and get all the pics you want!!! you can pet them sometimes!!!!! are anak domesticated yet??? i think we should domesticate anak 4/5 stars
womenwantme: We've already had plenty of debates on the best way to prepare Anak meat, and you know that. Don't you think that maybe you're showing just a little bit of bias in putting your favorite way of preparing Anak meat front and center in this piece without at least mentioning skewers? Some might say that's a bit petty.... 2/5 stars
Lepellieth
Lepellieth is the Haven which suits such individuals perfectly. Located quite literally on top of the Hunters' Prairie Outpost, this Haven is able to enjoy all the amneties of any camper with its proximity towards a weapon shop and a more general store that can provide food and drink with ease. If they wish to play pretend a little more indepth, then the common Leiden pepper and sweet pepper are prolific, right alongside the Anak herds which are rather content here. If one shows proper manners and a flash of gil, perhaps a Hunter back at the outpost may even be able to help them prepare the meat. The only thing to remember is not to venture out towards the grounds by the main road. Along with the troublesome Reapertails, it is common for a Reaperking to establish a small colony there. The Hunters regularly exterminate it, but the area is too suited for such a creature.
Still, most of the Hunters who are passing through this area already have their own accomodations quite set, and a preference has been demonstrated with how most travelers tend to simply stay within the camper that the Hunters rent out to the casual tourist who would like to venture up to see Keycatrich, or what has been left and available to us on this side of the barrier.
Most see Lepellieth as simply a way to cook without leaving any strong scents within the rental camper, and that is also one way to utilize it.
Although speaking of cooking... After some rather insistent suggestions I have received, it would be remiss of me to suggest anything other than prairie-style skewers, utilizing the local Anak meat and ever present Leiden peppers. Any piece of meat may be stuck onto a stick and roasted. The trick to a good prairie-style skewer is to crush the peppers finely, and then tuck them into the meat before you skewer it. It is through this way that it is inundated with flavor as it roasts over an open flame.
I mention this dish for it is also a perfectly fine way to cook Anak meat. When skewered properly, consideration made in how the meat holdss together, and grilled at the right heat and time, it is a delightful dish with its own merits. Truly, if one is chasing that feeling of truly being outdoors and what it means to camp, than a good skewer heightens the experience in a distinctly unique way.
However.
It would perhaps benefit certain commenters that I am using my own personal time for this project, and making suggestions based on my own expertise. I also am not particularly inclined to backseat writing.
Please recall that I also have access to where the Cup Noodle is stored.
3/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: man this place is the BOMB. handy lights instead of complete darkness? the sound of civlization in my ear? SUUUUUUUUUUUUUPER delish food righ tin my mouth and then i can just go down and still sleep in a bed? THA BEST. but wait wait wait that's a good point wheres the cannedwich my dude???????????????????
womenwantme: Sorry. Won't happen again. If I give this a 1 star, it's only because I don't think it's camping when you can turn around and go right into a camper with a fully made bed. Sorry again.
Criclawe
This is thanks to Criclawe's position being nearest to the main road, rather than the roads used primarily by the Leide locals. With many paths from that road leading up to the welcoming blue sigils, it acts as a fine waypoint for your average driver neeeding to make a stop somewhat quickly. Additionally, in a similar manner as Cotisse, some find it a reassuring first attempt in camping on their own. Cotisse may be far closer, yet that doesn't change the fact that, at night, a person with a good set of eyes may be able to see the shadows of diners as they slip into Takka's for a late night meal. This, too, is a form of security for a new camper.
There is no need to be jealous of such meals, for Cricawe holds the benefit of rather fine natural harvests of its own right. Leiden potatoes are often not too far a jaunt fro the Haven itself, and are incredibly versatile whether boiled, mashed, or stewed. If one is longing for the food of Hammerhead, it is easy enough to slice them up and fry them. Those equipped to handle the local pest population of Sabretooths may come upon further delicious finds, with birdbeasts hiding their eggs within the particular valley Criclawe rests upon.
It is not only food stores that find themselves enrichened by delving into the valley. Keen eyed adventurers are likely to find mineral deposits rich with bounty to gather, and it is quite likely that they will also stumble upon a treasure or two left behind by the daemons long since banished by the sun's rays, or even adventurerers of the past.
If one takes my advice to fry up some Leiden potatoes, then I have heard nothing but compliments in regards to serving them alongside what is colliquoely known as the cannedwich. Luncheon meat, when sliced very thickly and fried, soaks in neatly on slices of Cleigne wheat. The secret is that right after you have fried the meat, you should use that very same pan to make your fries, and, once garnished with salt, they will stand out from the average cut legume. Enjoy them both with a view so close to Longwythe Peak which Hammerhead lacks.
The fries are a fine thing indeed, for if you have perhaps recently bothered the chef beyond reason, then those delicious fries may be all you receive, and that is truly a pity.
3/5 stars
the peanut gallery
fishfearme: sorry. also thanks for giving me half of your cannedwich.
womenwantme: LOL and LMAO. Anyway, while this literally on the beaten path, it's far enough from the main road that you can feel a peaceful sense of detachment sitting there in the early morning, taking in the smell of good food alongside good company. Almost more than the view of Longwythe Peak (which isn't the best in the area, in my opinion), watching the Mesmenir get a head start on grazing is the nicest way to wake up. I'll allow a 3/5.
Merrioth
Nestled right in the heart of the Three Valleys, Merrioth often finds itseslf host to many an individual hitting those dusty old roads as they deliver food to up to the Prairie Outpost, or making loops to harvest the plethora of foods which flourish naturally there in the Valleys. Sometimes, it is nice to simply take a break in a place where one is confident that they will not be bothered by the ever roaming packs of Sabretooths or the temperaments of Dualhorns. The nearby parking spot especially makes it easy to pull in, and talk that short walk up to Merrioth.
It isn't only locals who should take advantage of the Valleys' natural harvests, although admittedly it may take more than the average traveler merely passing through, considering the constant nuisance the Sabretooths possess. Still, if one is prepared for dealing with the pests, they will find all sorts of treasures within the area's namesakes. Sometimes 'treasures' may be rather literal, with plenty of old rusted ruins leaving all sorts of things to be pilfered to those who know to spot them.
More valuably, however, are the desert foods which can be found. Within the valley, nearly all of its palate pleasers are available if one only put in the hiking effort. Up to the north and east, birdbeast lay their eggs which are often fresh and delicious. The northern valley is also host to the ever present Leiden pepper, and its southwestern sister holds deliciously plump Leiden sweet potatoes. Of course, Merrioth is but a morning's walk away from Criclawe, and so the bounty of more eggs and the Leiden potato is also available there. Truly, for those who enjoy immensely filling meals, the Three Valley will not disappoint the determined forager.
It is rare to find a truly perfect camping ground, unfortunately. While Merrioth is host to so much, it is also host what used to be a small settlement. No doubt many historians could have much to say on those shattered and empty buildings there. Certainly they have worked hard on it all, for it is no doubt they contributed to the streetlights which burn bright in the heart of the Three Valleys, along with the presence of that ever important road and visits from geologists curious about the nearby Longwythe Peak.
For those who have the misfortune of scrambling through the night, these streetlights are no doubt a beacon of relief. It is only when you settle down for the night that one may find it difficult to get any proper rest as the bright lights sheer past even sturdy tents, as though civilization is knocking on your door once more.
Needless to say, getting a good view of the Peak at night is not the most ideal from Merrioth, unfortunately.
That is no reason to give up on a good meal, however. Take advantage of those bright lights and the shelter the Valleys provide by breaking out the grill for a fine steak. Dualhorn lack fat in the meat around their ribs. There's no protein quite like it, and you get a particularly nice kick when you grind up Leiden pepper seeds. With spicy long-bone rib steak filling your nose and stomach both, you won't be quite as bothered by the lights.
3/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: do ppl srsly struggle with the light thing that much? i foudn it p cozy myself. almost like being back in the city again but with less traffic and more howling from deep in the night. 5/5
womenwantme: This place is so close to being perfect that it kills me that is has the big glaring issue of all that technology right there. Plenty of animals to hunt, food to forage, items you can scrounge up in the dirt, and then, finally, Longwythe Peak, towering right there up in the sky. It's a sight to see when the sun is up in the sky, but at night? The effect is just completely ruined. It's not just the Peak that you lose the view of, either. You're practically right on top of the lights overe there, to the point that I don't think you can see anything past the Haven. Ruins the whole experience. 1/5 stars
Pallebram
Needless to say, all others benefit from Pallebram's presence as well. This Haven rounds out the trio which populate the Three Valleys, and so if you are to visit one of the others, certainly you will wind your way to Pallebram one way or the other. Some take advantage of it for they too are on business to the Prairie Outpost. Others simply find it to be the most convenient and nearby Haven in their ventures throughout the Three Valleys.
Then there are the few nature lovers who adore Pallebram not only for nearby resources, or its proximity to a parking lot, or that it offers a respite from the road, but rather that, out of all of the Havens within the area, it provides what some may argue is the best and most breathtaking view of the Peak. For it is Pallebram that does not have to contend with the glare of fort searchlights, nor the patient neon of Hammerhead, or a motel's bright parking lot. It is merely Pallebram out in the expanse of desert. I would not particularly call myself a nature's man, yet even I cannot deny that the view of the Peak before an evening sky is a breathtaking one.
In order to best enjoy such a beautiful view, however, it is wise to take advantage of what the Valley has to offer. While not so deep in as Merrioth Haven is, Pallebram nonetheless still enjoys the Valleys' material splendors should one not be afraid of chasing away Sabretooths. Leiden and sweet peppers both are bright spots in the dry hills, while sweet potatoes and birdbeast nests are but minor treks away.
If one is willing to cross the road, as well, and takes care not to venture into a certain tunnel... Funguar also congregate right there at the entrance, and should be enjoyed as a rare treat that is otherwise not so plentiful out there in Leide.
Enjoying the natural splendor of a sight like the Peak means enjoying a meal that is as refreshing as the air around you while also settling into your stomach like a rock. For that, I would recommend a veggie medley stew that incorporates the fresh potato and funguar of the area, along with some sheep's milk that will help bind it all together.
Before I give my final score, I will give one last word of warning. There exist many rumors of a particularly speedy and prickly creature which dashes through Leide's plains. I can confirm that at least one variant may be spotted in the vicinity of Pallebram.
It is always wise to carry antidotes or poison-negating jewelry on hand no matter where you are camping, but perhaps especially take care to do so around Pallebram.
4/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: yk u rl dont get shots like this anywhere else ngl. like it all SUPER nice already in the daylight dgmw but i was super so sure that once the sun called it quits then thatd be it??????? but no nonono no i don't regret ANY of the shots i got over there. i think these were some of my best ones of the peak!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 4/5 stars
womenwantme: If you want to call yourself any kind of camper, than you HAVE to go to Pallebram. This is the sort of sight that really makes you feel alive and connected to the world at large. I've been to a lot of places in my time, but there's just something about looking up towards the Peak, seeing it tower over all the little valleys and rocks in Leide, and feeling something really settle in you. If I were on my own, I think I would have given a go at climbing up that thing. I bet the view is even more incredible up there. 5/5 stars
Emmelle
However, blog articles rating the various Havens which can be found throughout the land is not the place in which one will find such detailed discussions. Rather, I mention them merely to showcase those who are most likely to grace Emmelle with some company: the Hunters. Balouve has a never-ending goblin problem which requires regular cleaning out, like ridding one's clothes of cat hair. So for those outside Emmelle's regular visitors, be prepared to potentially share your campfire alongside a dustry and tired Hunter stumbling out from Balouve's depths.
Some might dismay at unexpected company such as this. I implore such individuals to reconsider their notions, and instead approach any such Hunters with compassionate generosity. This is both because it is simply the correct thing one should do as a human being sharing this world with others, and also because the knowledge of a Hunter is truly indisposable for those seeking success out in even mild wilderness such as the cliffs overlooking the rest area.
Of course, some of that success I reference is the culinary kind. As one begins to move away from the Weaverwilds and the Three Valleys, they begin to move through Saulhend Pass - a greener area that benefits from the sea not too far off. Emmelle and the other surrounding areas about the Balouve Mines are right there at the mouth of the pass, so the benefits of this can often be plainly seen with an intermingling of the Leiden mainstays sweet peppers and Leiden potatoes alongside fresh Eos green peas.
That is the practical success. For those desiring a little extra spending money on their journey, and with the right Hunter spoken to, they may find themselves directed to all sorts of little nooks and crannies there along those cliffs. A product of the mine's resources slowly filtering out through time or weather? Stolen goods left behind by scurrying goblins? It's impossible to say the origins of any such treasures, but they will be sure to benefit those who find them.
So whether you are enjoying the view of Longwythe's peak and the gathering below its base all on your own, or should you stumble upon shared company, it is best to do so with a good bite to eat. No matter the occasion, you cannot go wrong with with what is dubbed a Fried Rookie on Rice. Saxham rice and eggs should be easy enough to procure from down below at the rest shop, thanks to the ever present stalls of local grocers who make sure to drop by every morning, and from there, you need merely add in native ingredients. I recommend sweet peppers myself for that pleasant little kick which elevates the dish.
4/5 stars, although I admit my bias for having to fall into Emmelle's embrace after dragging myself from Balouve's.
the peanut gallery
chocobro: view would be so killer if there weren't the clanging and banging and screaming of goblinified souls weren't constantly echoing lk all the time 1/5 stars
womenwantme: Normally I would give a Haven like this a pretty low score, because it barely classifies as camping in my opinion, but, yeah. I think anyone would appreciate Emmelle Haven after having to dodge fifty mine carts for 12 hours. 3/5 stars
Vennaugh
That is where Vennaugh lies, right alongside the Mesmenir. Truly, this Haven occupies a peculiar spot compared to all of its fellows. Most Havens benefit from being right besides the road in some manner, and in fact roads were constructed with the Havens in mind in many cases. Others, such as Cotisse in Leide, or Owlyss far up in Ravatogh, are slightly more niche, and yet invaluable to those who have cause to stumble upon them. Yet Vennaugh has little to its name that would make the average driver stop in relief at the sight of it when Galdin is so close, and there lay scenic views or valuable trasures which would make one consider taking a pause.
However, I propose that Vennaugh is actually a hidden gem for those who travel not for business or urgency but instead for sight seeing. It may not seem obvious at first glance. After all, while Vennaugh is a welcome pocket of protection for those who need it in case their car breaks down whilst traveling through Saulhend Pass, it still seems to be only a pocket.
Indeed, a pocket with fresh greenery such as Eos green peas and Aegir root, which make fine additions to the traveler's pantry, but still only a pocket.
The key word in such a description is "seems". Vennaugh is in fact more connected than one might first perceive. I mean this in a rather literal sense. The Pass is often noteworthy for the rocky arches which cast a shadow across the road as one drives into it, similar to the much grander archres which are regular tourist spots over in Duscae. One such arch actually connects all the way down right across the pocket where Vennaugh rests. Many will find the path useful for the collection of minerals which can be found nestled within the rock walls as you traverse up high. Others may appreciate the outcrop of chocobeans which flourish on the grassy cliffs just a little beyond.
Yet I said this was a Haven and area for the sightseers. For those who relish in the journey more than any destination or physical reward. I think those truly curious will understand what I mean when they make it up past that path and stand out along the cliff.
Galdin Quay is a truly beautiful sight to see there, with the way that the light reflects off of the water.
Enjoy this sight all the more by preparing Miss Mercenary's Cassoulet the night before using the fresh chocobeans you'll have access to. Cook them alongside killer tomatoes while you grill some anak meat, and then let them cook together overnight. By dawn, you will have an excellent meal. I promise that if you take a bowl for yourself and spare a little time for walking... The only thing which will make this meal better is to eat it alongside someone as you watch the dawn break.
4/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: hey quick question are ppl taking chicks up the Vennaugh arch path or,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
fishfearme: on the road means immediate naptime but also you're almost RIGHT at galdin so like 2/5 stars
Lachyrte
They cost absolutely nothing.
Of course everyone would love to stay at the famous resort which has made Galdin such a household name in recent years. To dine at its excellent restaurant, be treated to its luxurious massages, stay in high class rooms. It is a vacation spot which is hard to be unaware of, considering the many radio ads and billboards which boast its qualities.
When one finally arrives at that lauded destination, however, they may come to realize that perhaps their funds are not quite up to snuff as they may have thought. In which case, it soon becomes a crossroads as they are left to ponder which of their expenses should be left out to dry. In my experience, the answer is simple: a night underneath the stars with the sea breeze winding through your hair is a luxury all its own not to be ignored.
After all, it is not as though the natural beauty around Galdin Quay is lacking in any way to those manmade delights upon the water. Strolling through its fine green hills offers a sense of relaxation which reaches deep into the soul as much as the smell of the ocean, and serenity will lay comfortably in your pocket right alongside the Aegir root and funguar which you will find on such a hike. Those especially inclined to longer walks may even find the most beautiful shells laying there amidst sand and grass.
Yet best of all, at least for those who truly thrive in the sport and were left to suffer in the arid landlocked areas of Leide (which is most of it), Galdin hosts two wonderful fishing locations where they may cast their line. Vannath Coast is the most obvious one, with a fishing shack right there in plain sight from even the parking lot. Its cousin, the Galdin Shoals, takes a little more hunting to find... but so long as you follow the beach east, you will find its little dock soon enough. For a skilled enough fisherman, they may find even more ways to save money than merely staying at Lachyrte.
A skilled enough fisherman, or a skilled enough cook. Needless to say, if one's funds can handle the hit, then indulging at Galdin Quay is certainly encouraged, even if they try nothing else. Yet for those who would rather the luxurious massage than a table with all the stops, they needn't worry, for a creamy crustacena omelette is just as decadent a meal as anything else. A single Shieldshear has enough meat in its claws to layer upon creamy birdbeast eggs to no end, and adding in Eos green peas adds a delightful textural element.
For those who can relax on their preconceived notions of what a luxurious vacation must look like...
5/5 stars
the peanut gallery
chocobro: i think the salt is permanently in my hair now. :( just scrounge up the moolah for a hotel room. pls. 1/5 stars
womenwantme: There really aren't a lot of Havens on many other beaches anywhere else... and some place like Galdin Quay would probably always open up along them anyway. So I guess you take what you can get here, even if you're literally looking at a parking lot full of tourists jusst a five minutes walk away, if that. 2/5 stars.