Woodcrown
The Woodcrown forest is a non-magically altered temperate forest that lies in the deep mainland of the now absent Xosutan Empire(Xosutan Kingdom). The ancestral people that lived in this region were the Aarakocra, and although during the intervening centuries since the colonization by the Xosutan the people have returned to being primarily the Aarakocran's that seek to return to the ancient culture of their people. Unlike the Aarakocran's of the Shardlands who have taken up the Xosutan culture, the Aarakocran's of Woodcrown worship the old gods of the Sky, Nature, Winds, and air. The Aarakocran's of the Woodcrown forest also believe that this was the birthplace of their people by the God Glimk, who was said to create them in his image.
The people here live in a mostly tribal structure, living amongst the trees, including some of the young vallenwood trees that have been planted here long ago from the nearby Pillar forest. The overgrown ruins of ancient Xosutan colony cities do litter the forests of Woodcrown, though they typically are not settled by the Aarakocran's who live here, some of the other species that share the land with them have cleaned up some of the less ancient ruins and have settled them, while others have been used to entice archaeology and treasure hunting expeditions in to them.
The main culture of the Woodcrown tribes is that of the ancient Aarakocran Culture , Though other cultures do exist due to the settling of others in the region. The Warden's of these clans instead of being a handful of individuals are a full organized military with a peacekeeping force that patrol the regions, they somewhat act like their own separate clan in a way, the draws members from all of the other clans in the region, though each village still is given a number of Warden's from among the families of the village that are responsible for upholding peace and order in their hometown.
Fauna & Flora
Whispering Vallenwood
Deep within the Woodcrown forest, the majestic Whispering Vallenwood trees stand tall and proud. These ancient, towering trees have smooth silver-gray bark that shimmers in the sunlight, giving them an otherworldly appearance. The branches of the Whispering Vallenwood trees are adorned with delicate leaves that resemble feathers, rustling softly with even the gentlest breeze.
What sets these trees apart is their ability to communicate with one another and the creatures that dwell within the forest. When the wind blows through their branches, it carries whispers, songs, and even warnings from tree to tree, creating a symphony of natural sounds. It is said that those with a deep connection to nature can understand the messages conveyed by the Whispering Vallenwood, allowing them to navigate the forest with ease and receive guidance from the ancient spirits that inhabit the woodland.
The Whispering Vallenwood is highly revered by the Aarakocran tribes of Woodcrown, who believe that the trees possess the wisdom and knowledge of their ancestors. The Aarakocran often gather beneath the canopy of these ancient giants to hold ceremonies, seek guidance, and listen to the murmurs of the forest. The fallen leaves and bark shed by the Whispering Vallenwood are collected and used in various rituals, believed to carry the blessings and essence of the forest spirits.
Skyglide Panthers
Roaming through the Woodcrown forest are the graceful and elusive Skyglide Panthers. These sleek, black-furred panthers are known for their extraordinary ability to navigate the treetops with unparalleled agility. Their long limbs and sharp claws allow them to effortlessly leap from branch to branch, appearing to glide through the air as they move. They possess a stretchable membrace between the forelegs and hindlegs which extends the length they can glide
The Skyglide Panthers have adapted to the forest's dense canopy, their dark fur camouflaging them amidst the shadows. Their keen senses and acute night vision make them formidable hunters, preying on smaller animals and occasionally venturing to the forest floor for larger prey.
Legends among the Aarakocran tell of ancient pacts between their ancestors and the Skyglide Panthers. It is said that the panthers are the guardians and guides of the Woodcrown forest, watching over the tribes and ensuring the balance of nature. The Aarakocran hold the panthers in high regard, believing that encountering a Skyglide Panther is a sign of divine favor and protection.
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