The Veil’s Hymn: Worship in the Heart of the Whispering Woods

In the heart of Lothlonde, where the ancient Whispering Woods stand shrouded in perpetual twilight, lies a secret known to only a few: the worship of the Hidden God, Elowen Veil.
The Whispering Woods is a realm of shadows and secrets, where ancient trees tower like sentinels and their dense canopies create an eternal dusk. Here, nature thrives undisturbed, and the air is thick with the scent of moss and the sounds of unseen creatures. It is said that the very essence of the woods is infused with the power of Elowen Veil, the Hidden God of nature, mystery, and transformation.
The followers of Elowen Veil are a secretive sect known as the Veilkeepers. They are druids, rangers, and mystics who have devoted their lives to protecting the sanctity of the Whispering Woods and honoring their god. The Veilkeepers believe that Elowen Veil communicates through subtle signs in nature, guiding them with whispers carried by the wind and visions in the flickering shadows.
Initiation into the Veilkeepers is a profound ceremony known as the Veiling. Aspiring members must undergo a journey deep into the heart of the Whispering Woods, guided only by their instincts and the faint murmurs of Elowen Veil. During this journey, they must fast, meditate, and open their minds to the whispers of the forest. Those who successfully complete the journey are granted a vision of Elowen Veil, often appearing as a phantom-like figure draped in foliage and shadows. This vision marks their acceptance into the Veilkeepers.
The Rite of Shadows is a monthly ceremony held during the night of the new moon, when the woods are at their darkest. The Veilkeepers gather in a hidden glade, illuminated only by the soft glow of bioluminescent plants. They form a circle around an ancient stone altar, said to be a gift from Elowen Veil himself. The ceremony begins with the chanting of the Veil’s Hymn, a haunting melody that echoes through the trees. The leader of the Veilkeepers, known as the Shadowseer, invokes the presence of Elowen Veil, calling upon the god to bless the woods and its protectors.
During the Rite of Shadows, offerings are made to Elowen Veil. These offerings are simple yet meaningful: a handful of sacred herbs, a vial of dew collected from the forest floor, or a feather from a woodland bird. The Veilkeepers believe that these offerings strengthen their bond with the Hidden God and ensure the continued protection of the Whispering Woods.
The Festival of Whispers is an annual event that marks the beginning of spring. During this festival, the Veilkeepers celebrate the renewal of life and the mysteries of nature. The festival lasts for three days and nights, during which the Veilkeepers perform dances and songs that mimic the movements of the forest creatures. They also share stories and legends of Elowen Veil, passing down their knowledge to the younger generations.
A central part of the Festival of Whispers is the Tree of Echoes, a massive ancient oak believed to be the physical embodiment of Elowen Veil’s power. The Veilkeepers gather around this tree to meditate and seek guidance. They believe that by listening closely, they can hear the whispers of the Hidden God, offering insights and prophecies for the coming year.