During the age of discovery, Eilian was established by the first of the woodland elves, led by a visionary named Caelum. Drawn to the mystical energies of the Bloodwoods, Caelum and his followers settled amongst its scarlet leaves, believing the forest was the embodiment of life's ebb and flow.
Over the centuries, the elves learned to harness the forest's magic. They believed that when an elf passed on, their soul became one with the Bloodwoods. This belief transformed death into a beautiful rebirth, where the deceased continued to protect and guide the living. The practice of burying the elves beneath the trees solidified this bond, with each fallen elf adding to the forest's collective wisdom.
Notable Locations:
Heart Tree: In the center of Eilian, the largest and oldest tree, known as the Heart Tree, stands. This tree is the residence of the ruling high elf and is seen as the spiritual heart of the Bloodwoods.
Moonlit Pavilion: An open-aired structure built on a large platform. Here, elves gather for cultural events, performances, and communal celebrations.
Grove of Memories: A sacred grove where elves go to remember their ancestors. Small crystal shrines, each representing an elf who has passed on, scatter the grove.
Statue of Maravin: Located at the Grove of Memories, the statue depicts Maravin holding a spear above her head, pointing at the sky. The base of the statue has an inscription that reads: "Maravin, Daughter of Eilian, Guardian of All."
Hall of the Seer: Close to the Heart Tree, this hall is where the seer resides. It's a place of meditation, knowledge, and guidance for those who seek it.
The Moonlit Markets: Only active during the night, these markets are illuminated by luminescent flowers and fungi. One can find rare herbs, mysterious trinkets, and handcrafted items unique to Eilian here. The markets are a bustling space of trade, chatter, and haggling.
The Aerial Platforms: These are a series of platforms built high up in the canopies of the Bloodwoods. They offer breathtaking views of the forest and are used for various purposes - from lookout points to spots for quiet contemplation. On clear nights, they also double up as stargazing spots.