The Heartwood

The Heartwood is a mystical and ancient wooden artifact found deep within the heart of the First Forest, a sacred and old growth woodland that stretches across Leshiven. Carved from the core of the oldest tree in the forest, it possesses an otherworldly luminescence, emanating a soft, pulsating glow that shimmers with vibrant hues of green and gold. The Heartwood itself is a perfectly smooth sphere the undulates softly when held. On its surface, the tree rings shift and shape into delicate and ephemeral forest scenes.

Cultural Significance

The Heartwood holds immense cultural significance for the people of Leshiven, as it symbolizes the harmonious relationship between the inhabitants and their Leshy neighbors. Long ago, the Heartwood was entrusted to the people. So long as it was in their care, The Leshy, mystical guardians of the forests, would continue to help the Leshiven people. As such, are deeply connected to the First Forest and all the woodlands of Leshiven. As keepers of nature's balance, they are protectors of wildlife and plant life, ensuring the flourishing of the ecosystems they oversee.

Collective Power of the Leshy

The Heartwood serves as a conduit for the collective power and wisdom of all the Leshy residing within Leshiven, particularly the most well-known and powerful of them, The Woodsmen. Each Leshy imparts a small fragment of their essence into the Heartwood, willingly contributing their knowledge, compassion, and guardianship. This infusion of power is said to have been initiated during a long-forgotten ceremony, where the Leshy united to honor their bond with the people of Leshiven.

Blessings and Abilities

The presence of the Heartwood bestows numerous blessings upon the First Forest and the surrounding woodlands. Its radiant energy nurtures and rejuvenates the flora and fauna, ensuring the perpetuation of life within the region. The artifact also helps maintain the delicate balance of the forest's magical energies, which aids in the prevention of dark and malevolent forces from encroaching upon Leshiven.

Ceremonies and Celebrations

The Heartwood is the centerpiece of various traditional ceremonies and celebrations among the people of Leshiven. They hold regular gatherings near the First Forest to pay homage to the Leshy and offer gratitude for their protection and guidance. During these events, individuals, notably the Council of Elders, may place their hands on the Heartwood, connecting with the essence of the Leshy and gaining insights into their roles as stewards of nature.

Protection and Stewardship

In times of great peril or when facing environmental challenges, the Heartwood can be called upon by a chosen guardian, known as the "Ashwarden" within the organization of The Woodsmen. This individual, selected by The Woodsmen through their collective wisdom, becomes the temporary vessel of the Heartwood's power. They receive enhanced abilities to communicate with animals, control elements of nature.

"Our Hearts, Our Hands. As One."

The Heartwood, is the lifeblood of both the Leshiven as a people and as a land. The profound connection between the people and nature emphasizes the importance of stewardship and reverence of both ones community and the natural world. As the heart of Leshiven's cultural identity, the Heartwood weaves together themes of unity, protection, and the enduring magic of the woodlands in this enchanting region.