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Creature CollectionNestled between the Tormek mountains and the Severed Wilds jungle lies the mysterious Valley of the Four Seasons. This mystical realm came into being centuries ago when the denizens of Ayenwood, seeking seclusion from the material plane, harnessed the power of the Twilite Drift. Their druids, drawing upon its energies, endeavored to transport their town to that otherworldly plane, but instead, they brought the essence of the Twilite Drift into the material world, shaping the entire valley.
Much like the Twilite Drift itself, this valley evolved into a surreal and chaotic land, where arcane barriers materialized, binding various sections into perpetual states of different seasons. Here, one can traverse from a winter wonderland to a scorching summer, but not without crossing through the gel-like magical borders that cushion the transition, preventing abrupt shocks to the body. However, lingering within these barriers for too long can yield strange and potentially harmful effects, as evidenced by the Drowned Druids. These wanderers, drawn to the potent magic, either dwell within the barriers or float upon the river itself, their bodies and minds twisted by the arcane influence.
These Drowned Druids have taken to following the migration patterns of Darwin Deer herds, elementals capable of seamlessly navigating the shifting seasons, their forms morphing in tandem. Viewed from above, the valley unfurls like a delicate leaf or feather, its rivers intricately winding along the boundaries of the seasonal domains. The river itself defies convention, its currents occasionally lifting great bubbles of water into the air due to the peculiar gravitational anomalies induced by the magical barriers. This intermingling of seasonal influences infuses the river with a dynamic character, where stretches near the winter realm may become encased in ice.
Isolated from the greater expanse of Veargreum, the valley's inhabitants rely on one another for sustenance and resources, trading unique treasures that each season bestows. Winter yields precious ice, while summer offers bountiful crops. Each seasonal domain boasts an elemental guardian, revered as deities by the valley's denizens, tirelessly safeguarding their respective seasons. Legend holds that should a guardian meet its end, the associated season will plunge into disarray.
In this secluded realm, festivities unfold in a manner distinct from the rest of Veargreum. The cherished holiday of Om reigns supreme, an all-encompassing celebration uniting all seasonal inhabitants in joyous revelry. This grand gala spans weeks and culminates in a spirited race, challenging participants to traverse all of the seasons as quickly as possible.
Leadership within each seasonal enclave is determined by the elemental guardians as well as support from the church of the four seasons, endowing each region with unique governance and principles. Some domains are marked by stern rigidity, while others embrace a more carefree spirit. Each season imparts its own distinctive accents, a delightful quirk for travelers journeying between realms.
Wildlife in this valley manifests in a tapestry of peculiarity, with creatures bearing adaptations tailored to their respective seasons. Some beings exhibit traits suited for all four seasons, dwelling near the shifting borders, likely regular travelers through the seasonal divide. The Valley of Spring exudes tranquility and exuberance, with resplendent blossoms adorning the landscape. Summer brings forth a leisurely and playful air, while Autumn dazzles with a vibrant array of hues, an ode to self-expression. Winter, on the other hand, is a realm of unyielding cold, where survival reigns supreme.
Mindful of the valley's delicate ecosystem, development and infrastructure are crafted with utmost care to minimize disruption to nature. The creatures here, highly attuned to their environment, and the very land itself, seem to respond to such alterations. It is not uncommon for the earth to react, occasionally birthing ephemeral sinkholes that seem to transport unlucky wanderers into the Twilite Drift, as if the land itself seeks to expel perceived threats.
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