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Overview

Woodland Spirits are magical beings catalogued in the Knowledge System. Unlike the heteromorph creatures that share their section of the bestiary, Woodland Spirits are classified as magical beings, a designation reflecting their supernatural nature and deep connection to the natural world. These tall guardians of nature embody woodland wisdom and strength, and they serve as protectors of the flora and fauna across Pywel's forests.

Appearance

Woodland Spirits are imposing figures that tower above the forest floor. Their massive bodies are covered in bark, giving them the appearance of ancient trees that have learned to walk. Their limbs are branch-like, thick and gnarled, with smaller shoots and occasional patches of moss or lichen growing along their surface. Some observers report seeing leaves or even small flowers sprouting from the joints and crevices of a Woodland Spirit's form, particularly during warmer seasons.

Their faces, where visible beneath layers of bark, have deep-set features that suggest a patient, contemplative expression. When a Woodland Spirit speaks, its voice is deep and resonant, echoing through the forest canopy. The overall effect is of a living tree brought to slow, deliberate motion, blending seamlessly into its surroundings when standing still.

Lore and Background

Woodland Spirits are among the oldest known lifeforms in Pywel, though calling them "lifeforms" in the conventional sense is somewhat misleading. They appear to be manifestations of the forest itself, born from ancient groves and sustained by the health of the ecosystems they protect. When a forest thrives, its Woodland Spirits are strong and active. When a forest is damaged or threatened, the spirits grow sluggish and weak.

The Shai people of the Pororin Forest have a particularly close relationship with Woodland Spirits. The Pororin Forest Guardians, a faction dedicated to protecting the hidden village within the forest, revere these beings as elders and allies. One notable Woodland Spirit in the Pororin region carries cultural significance: during the faction quest "The Unreachable Village," players encounter a massive tree creature that patrols the area. This gentle giant does not attack unless provoked and plays a central role in the quest's narrative.

Behavior

Woodland Spirits protect the flora and fauna of their territory with patient, timeless vigilance. They move slowly and deliberately, rarely in a hurry, and their patrols through the forest can take hours or even days. Despite their imposing size, they are not inherently aggressive toward travelers. A Woodland Spirit will only become hostile if it perceives a direct threat to the forest or its inhabitants.

Their deep voices echo through the trees and can sometimes be heard before the spirit itself comes into view. Some travelers report feeling a sense of calm or unease in the presence of a Woodland Spirit, depending on whether the spirit views them as a friend or a potential threat. These beings seem capable of sensing intent, reacting more strongly to those who carry weapons drawn or show signs of destructive purpose.

Location

Woodland Spirits are found in the dense, ancient forests of Pywel, particularly in and around the Pororin Forest. This region is home to the Shai and their hidden village, and the presence of Woodland Spirits in the area reinforces the forest's reputation as a place of deep natural power. Players exploring these wooded regions should keep an eye out for unusually large tree-like figures moving among the canopy.

Related Content

• Lifeforms - Full bestiary of creatures in Pywel

• Knowledge System - The codex tracking all discovered lifeforms

• Pororin Forest - The ancient woodland where these spirits are commonly found

• The Abyss - The mysterious floating realm above Pywel

• Abyss Heuklang - A dark-furred heteromorph tied to The Abyss

• Choppy - A rabbit-like heteromorph and symbol of fortune

• Kuku Bird - A flightless heteromorph bird