ValaMinas
ValaMinas, the Tree of Creation, is one of the most sacred and revered landmarks in all of Crestala. In elvish "Vala" means "power, god, or angelic power" and "Minas" means "tower". Living up to it's name, ValaMinas towers thousands of feet into the sky as this massive and awe-inspiring tree is said to be the living incarnation of Rillifane Rallathil, the elven god of creation. Its colossal trunk is wider than the grandest castles, and its roots dig deep into the earth, intertwining with the ancient magic of the world.
ValaMinas is not just a tree but a symbol of life, creation, and the eternal battle between order and chaos. Its significance stretches back to the dawn of time when the gods themselves walked the world. The elves of Mercia, especially the Arendel family, are sworn protectors of this sacred site, tending to it as they would a living deity, honoring their divine duty to guard the sacred land of the Seldarine Woods.
ValaMinas is a sight unlike any other. Its bark is a shimmering blend of silver and emerald hues, with patterns that seem to shift and pulse with an inner light, as though the tree itself is alive with magic. The massive branches spread outward like protective arms, adorned with leaves that glimmer with every shade of green imaginable, even glowing faintly under the moonlight. During the day, the tree bathes in sunlight, casting an otherworldly, serene glow across the forest floor.
From its great height, waterfalls cascade down its trunk, flowing like liquid crystal. These waters are believed to hold purifying and healing properties, and they feed the rivers and streams that crisscross the Seldarine Woods, keeping the forest eternally lush and vibrant.
History
According to ancient elven lore, ValaMinas was born when Rillifane planted a seed of pure creation at the center of the world, intending to create a beacon of life that would connect all living things. The tree grew rapidly, becoming a monument to the god’s enduring love for creation. However, during the first war when the gods clashed, Rillifane’s sister, Lolth, sought to twist creation for her own dark designs. In a desperate act to protect the balance of the world, Rillifane encased Lolth within ValaMinas, sealing her away to prevent her chaos from spreading.
Though she remains trapped, Lolth’s presence still echoes within the tree. It is said that on quiet nights, one can hear faint whispers from the depths of ValaMinas, the dark murmurs of the imprisoned goddess seeking to escape. This struggle between Rilifane’s protective power and Lolth’s relentless desire for freedom is a constant undercurrent, giving ValaMinas a hauntingly beautiful yet ominous presence.
Tourism
ValaMinas is a site of pilgrimage for the faithful from across Crestala including King Osiris Belmont, who periodically travels to the tree to give thanks for the gift of creation. Pilgrims gather at the base of ValaMinas, offering prayers, singing hymns, and leaving offerings to honor Rilifane and seek his blessings. The tree is a symbol of hope, rebirth, and the unending cycle of life.
Elven priests and guardians maintain the sanctity of the site, ensuring that rituals are conducted with the utmost reverence. It is common for visitors to drink from the tree’s waters or take a vial as a blessed keepsake, believing it brings protection and vitality.
The elves of Mercia, particularly those of the Arendel family, are charged with the sacred duty of protecting ValaMinas. They see it as their life's purpose to guard the tree against any who would seek to harm it or release the dark power sealed within. The elves live in harmony with the Seldarine Woods, their magic and skills dedicated to preserving the balance that ValaMinas represents.
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