The upper level of the Bionis’ leg is a curious area. While the Observation Platform over Lake Raguel is technically a part of it, there is really no connection between that and the rest of the upper level. There are basically three parts of the upper level- the perforated area over the Windy Cave, the small section of plateau and campsite to the West of that, and, to the East, the area containing the waterfall, Maguel Road, and the small pool and gate to Colony 6's region. The main area of interest, of course, is the perforated portion- not only does this contain the upper part of the river that crosses the entire Leg, it also holds the marshes, several holes down into the Windy Cave, and most of the Tirkin that can be found here, as well as the most major Landmark here, the Zax Guidepost.
This area is covered with a number of Tirkin that are thankfully spread out, as well as small marshy spots. The river that runs through it somehow miraculously misses all the holes on its way to the lower level. These holes, for the most part, lead into the main area of Windy Cave- this would make them only a minor falling hazard if not for the irregular and wandering groups of Arachno below, all of which are high enough level that falling anywhere near them is a guaranteed death. Interestingly, there is one hole that leads into a raised section of cave- this round chamber contains a couple of level 13 Arachno of no real consequence, and really nothing else. If for some reason you want to make a quick exit from the upper level to the Windy Cave, though, this is the way to go. It’s not good for quick transit to anywhere outside the Windy Cave, unfortunately, because a Pod and a group of Arachno like to lurk right by the entrance of it.
The falls are interesting as they are the basis of the game’s second Secret Area, and provide not only water but a useful visual landmark.
The Western area contains an obvious campsite- and a quest. There is a Nopon here named Gerugu, and he needs your help.
Quest!- Gerugu’s friend went to find dinner and didn’t come back.... Find Batubatu near Raguel Lake!
Reward: 750g, 300xp, Point Rifle
Trade: Gerugu (Colony 6)- Fleecy Fur, Happy Rabbit
Finally, there is the center- a circular platform stands in the middle of a large gap- this is the top of the spiraling ramp from the Windy Cave, and it contains three things of interest. First of all, the spiraling ramp continues up still further to a secondary platform atop the first one that is a bit smaller. Second of all, it is the safest place to fall to the lower Windy Cave- while the damage from the fall is still huge, that particular cavern has no sound-triggered Arachno near the platform’s base. Finally, but most importantly, you can see the tentacled Mechon that lurks here- and it has Juju. Make sure you’ve prepared and done everything you’re going to for a bit before you approach- and make sure you have plenty of time, because this next stretch is a bit long.
