Wailing Dragon of the Morstett Sea
Eons of oral storytelling have recorded the torrential screeches of the monster inhabiting the cerulean depths of the Morstett Sea. Centuries of fear have inspired seafaring Rivanians and proto-Rivanians to hunt down the beast, described over time as a dragon, serpent, and a snake. These stories elicited protective spells to ward off the beast, prayers to the gods, and songs with inherent magical properties that might keep the Wailing Dragon at bay. Why then do teams of Rivanians sail the Morstett year after year searching for the monster? Legend promises that the creature (if slain) will use its dying moment to imbue its opponent with world-changing power, the likes of which no Rivanian has ever known.
Cultural Reception
Each year, Rivanians gather at the Tree of Renewal in honor of the Wailing Dragon. Here, creatures of all races gather to offer sacrifice to the Dragon in hopes that their gifts will appease the creature for another year. For centuries, Rivanians held boatbuilding competitions wherein the winner – the one with the hardiest boat – would be drowed in the sea to forever remain with the Dragon. However, centuries of this practice stunted trade in the region. For obvious reasons, Rivanians would forego the practice of sacrificing talented boat builders and instead offered tribute in the way of strong soldiers. This has unintentionally helped to bolster peace in the region among all but the Orcs.
In Literature
The library of the Elven High Council, known widely in Rivania as just "the Library", hosts a special reserve section on mythical creatures. Among the works are the following, all of which mention the Wailing Dragon in some context:
- Creatures of the Rivanian High Seas
- Lady Relege's Diary of the Unspeakable
- The Rivanian Lost
- Rivanian Pirates
- Creatures of the Rivanian High Seas
In Art
The Wailing Dragon appears in art spanning centuries. A notable painting hangs in the halls of the Elven High Council grounds. The painting shows a sea serpent rearing its head to the sky. A low red sun hangs over the horizon.
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