ALL THAT REMAINED IS WAR WITHOUT REASON.
"The Unfilled River of Phlegethon"
LEVEL 49 | THE UNFILLED RIVER OF PHLEGETHON
Rewritten by me: exotichive, original by
thelastpizzaroll.
Hello, this is my first level, expect some beginners' mistakes and overall stupidity!! also pls play the ambience as it really adds to the atmosphere and whatnot…… anyways enjoy reading the thing
Inspired by the Seventh Circle of Violence as depicted in Dante Alighieri's Inferno and ULTRAKILL, particularly 7-2.
Languages:Languages:
LEVEL
49
SURVIVAL DIFFICULTY
CLASS 4
Exit: 2/5
Somewhat Difficult to Exit
Environment: 4/5
Extreme Environmental Risk
Entities: 5/5
Hostile Infestation
Level 49 is an endless battlefield that bears resemblance to trench warfares seen in World War I of the Frontrooms. Although the level itself spans infinitely, only the trench system is accessible to wanderers1, rendering the majority of the level inaccessible.
DESCRIPTION
An image capturing one of the sections of the trench.
An image of a wanderer perched on a stone to peer over the trench, captured in the exact moment of their demise. Image has been heavily altered to obscure any graphic content.
The accessible section of Level 49 is an infinitely stretching abandoned trench system reminiscent to those used in World War I from the Frontrooms with a complex yet euclidian layout featuring numerous randomly placed twists and turns. The environment is eerily silent, broken only by the distant sound of gunfire, seemingly originating from unseen entities located on the far side of the no man's land.
Attempts to exit the trench invariably result in immediate death. Wanderers attempting to leave are shot with precision, typically through the head or other vital areas. The use of protective gear has proven ineffective, as the unseen entities escalate their firepower in response, utilizing sniper rifles, missiles, or even artillery. On rare occasions, bomber planes may be observed flying overhead, dropping bombs on the trench system.
Survival Protocol (L.E.A.D.S.):
In the event of a bombing:
- Locate shelter immediately.
- Enter the shelter without delay.
- Avoid open areas and ensure protection.
- Duck and cover your head.
- Shield your head with your hands and/or gear.
Scattered throughout the trench are half-empty bottles of Almond Water and various supplies, such as canned food and medical kits, used but still functional. These resources are often accompanied by military equipment, including worn uniforms, discarded empty rifles, and written materials such as notes and books. The texts provide unfiltered insights into the events that occurred within the level, offering potential clues about its history.
STRUCTURE AND LAYOUT
The walls of the trench are fortified with decaying wood planks, corroded iron sheets, and sandbags that have long since worn down. Barbed wire, rusted and tangled, lines certain areas along the trench, adding to an already hazardous environment. The width and layout of the trench vary greatly with section, from narrow winding paths to wide areas that must have been constructed as gun emplacements, artillery stations, or bunkers.
GUN EMPLACEMENTS
An image capturing the interior of an empty gun emplacement.
Gun emplacements are among the many structures scattered throughout Level 49. These emplacements, which were once built for strategic defense, now serve as potential shelters and havens for the wanderers to take refuge in, who have little or no choice over other human settlements. While providing shelter from the dangers outside the trench, they possess many disadvantages too. Many of the floors inside are wet and muddy from past flooding, and it is quite uncomfortable to sit or rest in them. However, if you are not troubled by the sogginess and need temporary refuge, these emplacements do offer a relatively safe space from the entities lurking in the trench.
ARTILLERY STATIONS
An image capturing a mortar mounted on an artillery station.
Artillery stations, though offering limited protection compared to other structures, are notable for housing several artillery pieces, typically mortars. Upon examination, M.E.G. military analysts have concluded that many of these weapons bear unusual characteristics, with materials, mechanisms, and craftsmanship that do not correspond to known human manufacturing methods. These properties suggests that the artilleries may have been engineered from scratch by the nation of Nuvaria.
BUNKERS
An image capturing the interior of a bunker, this one in particular is small but furnished and largely intact.
Varying in size and more enclosed, bunkers can be found in select sections of the trench. Inside the bunkers, there may be furnishings such as beds, tables, and chairs, alongside the remnants of old military supplies like tattered uniforms, crates of ammunition, and old ration packs littering the floors. These areas, while safer than being out in the open, are inevitably damp and claustrophobic, the air thick and musty. Some of the bunkers are entirely collapsed or barricaded shut, leaving them inaccessible in most means, while others remain fairly intact but in states of decay.
ENVIRONMENT
The soil of Level 49 is thick and damp, large areas are often covered with dried blood patches and decaying organic material, giving off an unpleasant odor that seems to permeate the entire trench system. Prolonged exposure to the soil has led to reports of respiratory discomfort; thus, respiratory protection is recommended.
Level 49 follows an extended day-night cycle, with both daytime and nighttime periods lasting about twice as long as in the Frontrooms. The distant sounds of constant gunfire are significantly reduced at night. However, it is still strongly advised not to leave the trench at any point, as the unseen entities are still extremely quick and accurate to eliminate anyone attempting to do so. These entities may also periodically launch artillery shells towards the trench at random intervals, further increasing the danger. For this reason, seeking refuge inside the level's abandoned structures is highly recommended during both day and night.
PHENOMENA
Level 49 is periodically affected by a dense and thick fog that appears with little warning and rapidly spreads throughout the trenches. Within minutes, the entire level can be engulfed, severely reducing visibility, auditory perception, and even consciousness as the fog induces a sense of confusion and vulnerability. In some instances, the fog lingers for several hours or even days, adding an element of unpredictability to this phenomenon.
An image depicting M.E.G. personnel partially submerged in floodwaters following a rainstorm in Level 49.
Additionally, Level 49 is also subject to infrequent but severe rainstorms. These storms can last from a few hours up to a full day and bring flooding in the system of trenches. As the rain builds up, the water in the trench could rise up to waist level and rendering moving difficult. Flooding can make certain sections of the trenches impassable for extended periods and increases the risk of drowning, especially in narrower sections. Once the rain ceases, floodwater goes down gradually, leaving a thick layer of mud and debris that makes it even worse to cross.
However, it is important to note that exiting the safety of the trench during any of the aforementioned phenomena remains fatal.
ENTITIES
Level 49 is home to only one known entity, aside from the unseen entities:
ENTITY 49/1 | "TRENCHCLEANERS"
A photograph of a Trenchcleaner as it moves through the structure, taken from behind cover near the doorway it was passing. Note the distinct blue lights emitted by the entity. This remains the clearest image in the M.E.G.'s possession.
CONCORD ENTITY CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
HABITAT(S): Level 49
5BXX
Entity 49/1 are highly advanced, autonomous bipedal war machines, primarily colorized in shiny grayish-white or neon bluish hue, that patrol Level 49’s trench system. Its body emanates scattered blue lights, most notably from its head, which features a camera-like apparatus emitting a bright beam that serves both as a sensory tool and a warning signal.
Standing roughly 10 feet tall, their right arm is replaced with a large, cylindrical, eight-barreled chaingun with an apparently infinite supply of ammunition. There is no visible external power source, suggesting it either possesses a self-sustaining energy core or utilizes some other unknown technology, enabling it to operate indefinitely.
Entity 49/1 behaves like a relentless hunter, quietly stalking the trenches and waiting for movement. Once they detect a wanderer, they methodically advance until they gain a clear line of sight, then unleashes a relentless barrage from their chaingun. They will continue their pursuit until the target is neutralized or completely evades detection. Interestingly, they often remain in specific sections of the trench for extended periods2, though the reason for this behavior is unknown. Though when they are not in the previous mode, they roam the entire trench network, scanning for intruders to eliminate.
Further investigation into Entity 49/1 is ongoing, with additional information pending.DOS AND DON'TS
DO:
- Travel in groups, only travel alone if it's absolutely necessary.
- Stay low and move cautiously.
- Use debris or natural cover to hide.
- Remain silent at all costs.
- Observe for blue light glows or mechanical sounds before moving.
DON'T:
- Run or make sudden movements.
- Use loud objects or weapons.
- Stay in one place for too long.
- Use light sources in open areas.
- Rely solely on protective gear, as it won't save you.
- Fight back.
BASES, OUTPOSTS, AND COMMUNITIES
Three established man-made settlements have been documented to date in Level 49:
M.E.G. OUTPOST "GUTTER BUNKERS"
An image capturing a section of the interior of one of M.E.G Outpost "Gutter Bunkers"' bunker.
The M.E.G. Outpost "Gutter Bunkers" is a network of three renovated, medium-sized abandoned bunkers, repurposed into a M.E.G. outpost, all interconnected by a small yet secure underground tunnel system. Each bunker is designed to accommodate a standard personnel team of three; however, the infrastructure is capable of housing up to seven individuals, should the need arise for additional shelter. The bunkers are equipped with essential provisions, including sleeping arrangements, supplies, and equipment necessary for extended stays. Plans for improving the infrastructure are currently under review by the Overwatch Council, but due to the high risk of hostile activity and potential structural failure, any upgrades are currently on hold.
THE VAULT OF ARES
An image showcasing a cache of weapons stored within the Vault of Ares. This is the sole image of the Vault in the M.E.G.'s possession, obtained covertly from the U.E.C.'s official website.
The Vault of Ares is a facility owned by the U.E.C. located somewhere inside Level 49, this facility seems to operate as a secretive storage site for salvaged items, objects, and weapons found on this level. While the full extent of its operations remains unclear, it is believed to serve as a repository for materials gathered by the Servants of Ponos during their expeditions. Further research into the activities of the U.E.C. at this location is ongoing and is considered a high-priority target for exploration.
BROTHERHOOD OF FIREARM GUARDIANS (B.F.G.)
An image capturing one of the shooting ranges built by the B.F.G.
The Brotherhood of Firearm Guardians is the only independent community that exists in Level 49, without any affiliation with one of the more established factions. Comprised of dedicated firearm and military enthusiasts, they have lived here long before the M.E.G. arrived. They have restored or repaired many of the pieces of military equipment that litters the level, making them one of the few communities with functional weaponry. They are known by their friendly nature, hence helping any wanderer in need; however, it is advised to approach them with civility and respect, as they hold a strong code of conduct within their ranks.
NATIONS
Listed below are the two nations that have existed since before the discovery of Level 49 and are non-human origin:
REPUBLIC OF NUVARIA
A recreated rendition of the Republic of Nuvaria flag.
Not much is known about the Republic of Nuvaria apart from hypotheses that their military was responsible for digging the trenches of Level 49 and may have once inhabited them. They are said to be engaged in a prolonged conflict with the Kingdom of Hagsten, though the reasons behind the war are unclear. It remains uncertain why the Nuvarian forces disappeared — or if they truly existed at all. However, it is speculated that the Trenchcleaner is responsible for wiping out any soldiers who once inhabited the trench system.
KINGDOM OF HAGSTEN
A recreated rendition of the Kingdom of Hagsten flag.
Little is known about the Kingdom of Hagsten other than they are suspected to have started a long and bloody war against the Republic of Nuvaria. It is highly possible that Hagsten’s military forces are responsible for executing wanderers who attempt to escape the trenches, as they are also the supposed creators of the Trenchcleaner. Strangely, despite having seemingly defeated Nuvaria, the Kingdom of Hagsten appears locked in an endless ghost conflict with their former enemies.
Unauthorized access is strictly forbidden.
ENTRANCES AND EXITS
The following are the currently documented and verified entrances and exits for Level 49 as of 2016/07/18. Please note that additional entrances and exits are the subject of ongoing investigation and will be documented as soon as new information becomes available.
ENTRANCES
- Entering an abandoned High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (Humvee) in Level 35 causes you to lose consciousness. Upon regaining consciousness, you will find yourself lying on the trenches of this level.
- Touching a military recruitment poster in Level 11 triggers an immediate no-clip to this level.
- Being buried alive in any level, whether by accident or intentional, will result in you being transported to this level upon regaining consciousness.
EXITS
- Specific rusted doors in the bunkers serve as access points to Level 14, Level 65, or Level 50. These doors can be found within all three bunkers that comprise the M.E.G. Outpost "Gutter Bunkers".
- Being struck by lightning during a rainstorm phenomenon results in an immediate no-clip to Level 3.
- During severe flooding caused by the rainstorm phenomenon, a water-filled tunnel may become accessible. Following this tunnel will lead you to Level 7.
- Killing another wanderer in this level will trigger an immediate no-clip to Level 666.
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