Hightrees at Watermeet

A town built into and from the forested valleys of north Kjeforland, Hightrees is famous for its forest gardens, protected by the god Säntonil-sugan.

It is the site of the sanctuary of Takra, the most sacred site in the Elengar faith, and is a place of pilgrimage for adherents.

The danylyte trees that support the city are massive and ancient; according to legend, the oldest are precursors - survivors of a past Age. They forest itself enjoys a cooling microclimate, with the valley channelling clouds in a river-ike flow which results in a fine mist coating everything for most of the day. The god’s blessing means that the plants growing in the hollow enjoy robust health, grow to massive sizes, and produce large fruits, flowers, and tubers.

The architecture of Hightrees is based on wood, both cut and cultivated. The buildings spiral up living trees, reached by wide walkways and bridges made of living vines. The buildings and covered walkways are both thatched with fern fronds, and the interiors are decorated with carvings, painted walls, and strings of large seeds and coloured glass beads.

Hightrees benefits from Säntonil-sugan’s fertility in unexpected ways. It is a hub for artists and musicians, with the arts comprising its main industry, and it is famous for its food festivals, which take advantage of the huge vegetable production. With little space for animal agriculture, the cuisine of the Hollow is almost entirely plant-based. The few exceptions feature honey and/or insects.

Its other claim to fame - one the devout prefer not to acknowledge - is the rumour that the divine influence over the hollow extends to sapient species. It is believed that, should a couple wishing to conceive visit the hollow for the three nights of a full moon, their efforts will be rewarded.

Running ahead of the city, forming the outskirts, is the Last Forest, where members of the faith make a final pilgrimage to undergo their last ritual, planting themselves and allowing their implanted seed to sprout and overtake them, joining the forest and their god.