Description
First Steps is the initial approach to the ziggurat at Orolunga, consisting of a 50-foot-long staircase that rises 30 feet from ground level to the first tier of the structure.
Physical Features
The steps are covered with a dense tangle of roots, vines, and creepers that create a hazardous obstacle. The thorny vegetation regrows instantly when damaged and cannot be bypassed through magic or special abilities.
Climbing Hazard
The ascent becomes progressively more dangerous:
- First 10 feet: Difficult terrain (no damage)
- 10-20 feet: 1 slashing damage per foot climbed
- Beyond 20 feet: 2 slashing damage per foot climbed
- Descending: No damage when moving down
The Solution
A chwinga wearing a triceratops-shaped mask appears after the characters’ initial climbing attempts. It demonstrates the solution by carrying a large orange and purple orchid up the stairs—the thorns part before it and close immediately behind.
Finding Orchids
Characters must locate orange and purple orchids in the surrounding jungle to safely ascend:
- With Nature proficiency: 30 minutes to find orchids
- Without Nature proficiency: 60 minutes to find orchids
- Requirement: Each character needs their own orchid to climb