Connects to: 36.04 and the World’s Edge and Beyond.
Most of the creatures that lurk beyond the World’s Edge are terrestrial, but the courier bats are an exception to this. As the name implies, they bear a resemblance to regular bats, but they are much larger, with a wingspan of around 10 feet. Those who have studied them up close can also attest that their heads have a more canine appearance, and from their chests protrude a pair of limp, almost vestigial paws. The courier bats emerge from the savage forest more or less at random, though they are seen more often during the time of the new moon. They fly west from the cliff-face, past the Broken Spear (40.06), and circle around the Kingswood before proceeding on toward the west. None have ever been sighted on a return journey.
Their curious name comes from the bats’ habit of carrying objects, not in their weak forepaws but in their strong lower legs. These objects are usually parcels wrapped in paper or cloth, and may contain any number of items - useful, valuable or simply bizarre. Where these items originate from is a mystery. However, it is known to certain well-travelled men that the roses from the Garden of Amelar (36.04), when burned, attract the attention of the courier bats. The kobolds of the Broken Spear take advantage of this, setting ambushes atop the tower to kill the bats and steal the objects they are carrying.
Hooks:
- Where do the courier bats come from? Is someone sending them?
- Where do the courier bats go, and why do they never return?