Episode 4: Ordeal of The Fear (Ragnarok Online)
Episode 4: Ordeal of the Fear is the Ragnarok Online episode which introduces Umbala and Niflheim.
Backstory[edit | edit source]
Introduces the legend of a secluded place north of Comodo, and that if the adventurer follows the path they will encounter a treasure tree. Dancers and Bards spread the tale of a kingdom replete with treasures and opportunities for wealth abounded, and this tale quickly spread about the world. An expedition party was formed comprising of a Knight, a Hunter, an Alchemist and a Sage which went to the region of Comodo in search of treasure, and along with them were many others, including Rogues and Thieves, eager to line their pockets.[1]
Eventually, a wood carving was discovered in a northern cave in Comodo and other parts of the world, which when researched by scholars revealed a path in Comodo's northern cave which lead to the location of the treasure tree. Also found was a carving pointing to a quagmire thought to be uninhabitable. In the quagmire lay a valley with a huge trees joined by large bridges of unclear origin. Once they were crossed, the party encountered amid the giant trees, a small village populated by a tribe -- the Umbala, famous for their woodworking skills.[1]
Upon their reception, they were greeted as important guests but some, and looked upon with distrust and scorn by a small minority -- but in spite of this, they forged links with the humans.[1]
The adventure did not end with Umbala, with many of those who discovered it what also lay beyond its trunk, which was had come to be known as the "World Tree". Many scholars became interested in other areas beyond Umbala, eager to gain new understanding. Similarly driven by dreams of avarice, set out to make their fortunes in hitherto-unknown climes. These foolish adventurers, one by one set off for adventure, and were not heard from.[1]
People in the Rune-Midgarts Kingdom of King Tristan III began to call for an investigation into what had happened. Fearing that some ungodly force had sent them to their early graves, King Tristan sent a military detachment of faithful Crusaders and Priests, determined to find and, indeed stop, whatever beyond the World Tree had taken the unfortunate adventurers.[1]
The first search party suffered many casualties, with only half of the original members returning from their expedition. Those who did return were ashen with terror, speaking incoherently to those who questioned them. Fearing further military losses, Tristan sought out adventurers to continue on the charge of investigating what happened.[1]
