The Oakheart

There are few sights as all-encompassing as the Oakheart; at once daunting and inspiring, beautiful yet unfathomable, it is one of the world's greatest wonders. Spanning almost two miles in diameter, and stretching many more into the sky, it is the namesake of the Arborvale Concord and the focal point of its religion. Standing directly in the center of the city of Oakenfast, deep in the Stewardends, and visible for many, many miles, it serves as a constant reminder of the Concord's reach and might.

Historically, the Oakheart is recognized as the spot on which the first representatives of the Concord formally joined forces. Religiously, it is also purportedly the location at which Steria Duskfeather I was granted the blessings with which she led the Concord to victory. The highest ranking members of the Concordian church almost entirely dwell on or adjacent to the tree, the highest of honors for those of their station.

As the church dictates, the Oakheart reaches into the heavens, providing a gateway to the heavens sealed off so long ago. This is why, they teach, it was here the gods bestowed upon Steria I their favor. Those of the Stewardends, however, retain much older stories. Reduced to whispered rumor and folk tales through years of Concordian rule, they say that the tree belongs to powers older than the gods. Forces more raw and primal, that will someday return to uproot the false priests and worshippers surrounding it.

Due to its size, the top of the Oakheart has never truly been reached. Those few who have returned from seeking it speak of fearsome and unknown beasts within its branches, whole societies, and even doors to other worlds. Officially, the church refutes all of these, stating that it is simply the will of the heavens that guards the peak. Secretly, they send forth parties to explore it every so often, though these unfortunates almost never return, and none successfully.

Alternative Names

The Great Warden, the Green Prince

Type

Tree

Parent Location

Oakenfast

Owning Organization

The Arborvale Concord