The Kingdom of Prys Wood

The sprawling Elven kingdom of Prys Wood is as old as Avernay itself. It is the spiritual and political center of the elven people and many believe far more powerful than the queen in Aleynath. The people and magic here is old and woven into the very trees themselves. The kingdom carries up into the treetops and into the rock of the mountains. At first glance one may not notice the intricate carvings of the forest, and then suddenly the world of Prys Wood comes into focus.

Demography and Population

While it is impossible to know its true population, given the density of the forests, in general the population of the kingdom is just over 5,000. The majority of that resides in the main city of Prys Wood. Elves form the majority of Prys Wood's population, with various subraces such as wood elves, high elves, and even some rare eladrin or drow communities. Their longevity and affinity for the natural world make them well-suited to the enchanted forests and mystical landscapes of the realm.
While elves predominate, Prys Wood is known to be welcoming to other races as well. Human settlers, halfling traders, and even dwarven artisans may be found within its borders, each contributing their unique talents and perspectives to the kingdom's cultural tapestry. There are also plenty of half-elves, tieflings, and other combinations amongst the verdant neighborhoods of Prys Wood. It is a large kingdom, and the forest takes care to welcome all into its embrace.
Prys Wood is home to many Avernay-bound Fey, as well as visitors. It is the only place within the country Fey tend to be found wandering freely. Parts of Prys Wood are known as The Rightside-Up, a moniker coined by the Fey. They are places where the veil between planes is its weakest, allowing easy travel and for magic to slip through every so often. These places are easily identifiable by the sudden flourishing of mushrooms, typically of fantastical colors.

Military

Order of Sylvan Wardens: The Guardians of Prys Wood

The Order of Sylvan Wardens is a faction dedicated to maintaining law and order within the elven kingdom. Comprised of skilled warriors, arcane spellcasters, and rangers, they act as the primary law enforcement and defense force. Their duty is to ensure the safety of the citizens and protect the kingdom from external threats. The Wardens are deeply connected to the natural world, utilizing both traditional elven combat techniques and nature-based magic in their endeavors. They are sworn to uphold the ancient laws of Prys Wood and safeguard the mystical balance that permeates the kingdom.

Arboreal Enchanters' Guild: Keepers of the Mystical Weave

The Arboreal Enchanters' Guild is a faction of skilled magic users dedicated to studying and harnessing the ancient magical energies that flow through Prys Wood. These enchanters specialize in tree and nature magic, delving into the secrets of the kingdom's mystical essence. They are responsible for maintaining the magical wards that protect the kingdom, as well as enhancing the natural beauty and vitality of the land. The guild works closely with the Ladies, drawing inspiration from the crystal statues and the divination magic of the sacred fountain. Their members often serve as advisors to the ruling Lady Consort and play a crucial role in preserving the magical harmony of Prys Wood.

The Whispering Shadows: Spies and Informants of Élodie Allemande

The Whispering Shadows is a clandestine faction that operates in the shadows, serving the Lady Consort Élodie Allemande. Composed of skilled spies, rogues, and information brokers, this faction plays a crucial role in gathering intelligence, maintaining diplomatic relations, and uncovering potential threats to the kingdom. The members of the Whispering Shadows are experts in stealth and subtlety, utilizing both mundane and magical means to navigate the intricate political landscape of Prys Wood. While their methods may be mysterious and their actions discreet, their loyalty to Élodie Allemande is unwavering, and they are considered a vital asset in the Lady Consort's efforts to ensure the security and prosperity of the elven realm.

Religion

The Ladies

The Ladies are the most powerful and revered of all. Three crystal statues of effervescent light, rumored to hold great power for those deserving. The fountain between them is a holy pilgrimage site and a pool of pure divination magic. The religion of The Ladies is deeply ingrained in the spiritual fabric of Prys Wood. It revolves around the worship of three revered crystal statues, known as The Ladies, which are believed to embody the essence of light, wisdom, and life. The magical power they hold manifests in various ways, each carrying its significance in the elven society.

Divination Fountain

The central focus of The Ladies' worship is a sacred fountain located at The Ladies' feet. This fountain is a pool of pure divination magic, and pilgrims come from all corners of Prys Wood to seek guidance and enlightenment. The waters of the fountain are believed to hold glimpses into one's heart and insights into the balance of life. It is not uncommon for priests and priestesses to perform rituals here, interpreting the ripples and reflections as messages from The Ladies.

Healing Radiance

The power of The Ladies is channeled through the healers and clerics of the faith. In times of need, these devoted individuals invoke the light and life magic to heal wounds, cure ailments, and bring vitality to the land. The touch of a healer blessed by The Ladies is said to carry a warm radiance that not only mends the physical but also uplifts the spirit. Healing ceremonies often take place in sacred groves and are accompanied by prayers to The Ladies for their benevolent grace.

Illumination of the Crystal Lights

The crystal statues of The Ladies are believed to be conduits of powerful light magic. During significant religious ceremonies, these statues emit a radiant glow, filling the sacred spaces with a gentle, ethereal light. This illumination is considered a blessing from The Ladies, symbolizing their watchful presence and the guidance they provide to the elven people. It is also believed that the intensity of this light is influenced by the overall well-being and harmony of Prys Wood.

Foreign Relations

A Friend to the Fey

Prys Wood is the only place in Avernay where Fey tend to congregate. There are multiple points within the kingdom that are access points to The Feywild. This has encouraged bustling trade and cultural exchange between the planes, and has kept Prys Wood in a different category of magical reality. Fey magic is prevalent throughout the kingdom, as are many of the creatures of the whimsical plane that could not survive outside of its realm.
When the Eladrin were in charge, relations were prosperous, if a bit tense. Since the revolution, however, things have been more casual and Prys Wood has allowed more passage back and forth. There has not been a formal re-declaration of a treaty of any kind quite yet, however. That said, the elves of Prys Wood are very protective and loving of their fey heritage and welcome relations between the planes.

Tension with the Crown

Prys Wood was instrumental in the rise of the current queen. Their loyalty was hard as a diamond, and they gained the ichor of many in Avernay for their stance. Prys Wood closed itself off for awhile after her ascension, fearing retribution, but none came. However, in recent years their relationship has become increasingly strained. Élodie Allemande called for aid against The Blight raging across the forests multiple times, but the crown refused to send any assistance. As such, she has found herself stuck in the middle of two very distinct opinions about whomst Prys Wood should align themselves with going forward.
Truly, Prys Wood wishes to become automonous and not answer to anyone in Aleynath. However, that's not quite in the cards yet.

Sisters in Prayer

The relationship between the elves of Dana Athi and Prys Wood has always been a bit odd. They were once very united, but turned to civil war. This caused the elves of Dana Athi to seperate and were eventually lead by Yaela, the Wind Paragon, to create their own enclave and city-state. Since then they had not had much to do with one another. Élodie Allemande and Aeliell Undelywn would often call each other Sister, despite not truly being related. However, they were both leaders of their people and had strong connections to their respective religions.
Before her death, Aeliell was attempting to re-build a friendship with Prys Wood. She may not have been wholly successful in that, but she did get Élodie to remember her treatise to aid Petyr should he come asking for help.

Laws

In Prys Wood, the laws are deeply rooted in the reverence for nature and the principles of the Tenets of Faith upheld by the followers of The Ladies. These laws are designed to promote harmony with the natural world, ensure the well-being of all living beings, and uphold the sacred traditions of the realm. Some key laws of Prys Wood include:

1. Protection of Natural Resources: It is strictly forbidden to harm or exploit the natural resources of Prys Wood without proper stewardship and reverence. Logging, hunting, and mining activities are regulated to prevent overexploitation and preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
2. Sanctity of Sacred Sites: Sacred groves, ancient trees, and other holy sites dedicated to The Ladies are considered sacrosanct and must be treated with utmost respect and reverence. Desecration or defilement of these sites is punishable by severe penalties, reflecting the deep spiritual significance attached to them.
3. Prohibition of Harm to Wildlife: Harming or causing unnecessary suffering to wildlife is considered a grave offense in Prys Wood. Hunting is permitted only for sustenance and in accordance with strict regulations that ensure the ethical treatment of animals. Poaching and wanton destruction of wildlife habitats are strictly prohibited and met with swift justice.
4. Environmental Conservation: Every inhabitant of Prys Wood is entrusted with the responsibility of environmental conservation and stewardship. Laws mandate the protection and restoration of natural habitats, the reduction of pollution, and the promotion of sustainable practices that minimize the impact on the environment.
5. Respect for All Life: The sanctity of all life forms is upheld as a fundamental principle of Prys Wood's laws. Cruelty to animals, wanton destruction of plants, and any form of unnecessary violence against living beings are considered abhorrent and punishable offenses.
6. Promotion of Healing and Well-Being: Laws in Prys Wood prioritize the promotion of healing and well-being for all inhabitants. Access to healthcare, herbal remedies, and spiritual counseling is considered a basic right, and efforts are made to ensure that all members of the community have access to these essential services.
7. Adherence to the Tenets of Faith: Above all, the laws of Prys Wood are guided by the principles of the Tenets of Faith upheld by the followers of The Ladies. Compassion, mercy, justice, and reverence for nature are not just moral ideals but legal imperatives that shape the conduct and character of all who dwell within the realm.

Agriculture & Industry

Prys Wood's agriculture and industry are intertwined. It is characterized by its harmonious integration with the natural landscape and its emphasis on sustainability and biodiversity. Rather than large-scale monoculture practices commonly found in other realms, the agricultural practices in Prys Wood prioritize the cultivation of diverse crops and the preservation of the delicate ecosystem.

Canopy Cultivation

In Prys Wood's enchanted forests, where the canopy is thick and sunlight filters through in speckled patterns, farmers use canopy cultivation. Instead of clearing land for traditional fields, crops are grown directly beneath and in the lush canopy of trees. Vines, such as beans and squash, climb the trunks of sturdy trees, while shade-tolerant crops like mushrooms and leafy greens thrive in the cool, moist environment below. This approach maximizes land use efficiency, preserves the integrity of the forest ecosystem, and minimizes the need for irrigation and soil disturbance. The canopy orchards, in particular, are home to a variety of fruit-bearing trees and vines that thrive in the dappled shade. Some of the unique fruits grown in canopy orchards include:

• Moonberry: A small, luminescent fruit that glows softly in the dark, prized for its sweet, tart flavor and moonlight hues.
• Sunpear: A golden-yellow pear with a crisp texture and a honeyed sweetness, harvested at the peak of summer when sunlight floods through gaps in the canopy.
• Starfruit Vine: A trailing vine adorned with star-shaped fruits that ripen to a vibrant purple color, each fruit bursting with flavors reminiscent of blueberries and mint.

Riverbank Agroforestry

Along the fertile banks of the majestic river that winds through Prys Wood, farmers practice riverbank agroforestry, a sustainable approach to agriculture that harnesses the synergy between land and water. Here, the nutrient-rich soils and regular flooding cycles of the river create ideal conditions for a diverse range of crops and trees. Some of the unique agricultural practices and crops associated with riverbank agroforestry include:

• Floating Gardens: Farmers construct floating platforms or rafts made from woven reeds or buoyant materials, anchoring them to the riverbed or shoreline. These floating gardens support a variety of crops, including water-loving vegetables such as water spinach, watercress, and taro.
• Riverbank Orchards: Along the river's edge, orchards of fruit-bearing trees are cultivated, including Sunfire Persimmons, Moonshadow Plums, and Crescent Grapes. These trees benefit from the fertile soils and ample water supply provided by the river, yielding abundant harvests of flavorful fruits throughout the growing season.
• Lotus Cultivation: In shallow areas of the river and adjacent wetlands, farmers cultivate lotus plants for their edible rhizomes and seeds. Lotus roots are prized for their crisp texture and sweet flavor, while lotus seeds are used in soups, desserts, and traditional herbal remedies.
• Water Management Systems: To regulate water levels and minimize the risk of flooding, farmers construct intricate networks of channels, dikes, and sluice gates along the riverbanks. These water management systems allow for controlled irrigation and drainage, ensuring optimal growing conditions for rice and other crops throughout the growing season.
  

Sunfire Persimmon The Sunfire Persimmon is a radiant fruit native to the sun-drenched riverbanks of Prys Wood closer to the city. With its golden-orange skin and succulent flesh, reminiscent of the warm hues of sunset, this fruit is prized for its sweet, honeyed flavor and juicy texture. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, the Sunfire Persimmon is a favorite among The Pryn for its revitalizing properties and delightful taste. It thrives in the fertile soils and abundant sunlight provided by the river, ripening to perfection during the long, balmy days of summer.
Moonshadow Plum The Moonshadow Plum is a mystical fruit that growns under the silvery light of the moon along the shaded riverbanks of Prys Wood. Its velvety purple skin and delicate fragrance evoke the enchanting allure of moonlit nights, while its tender flesh offers a subtle blend of sweet and tart flavors. Prized for its calming properties and restorative qualities, the Moonshadow Plum is often used in rituals and ceremonies to promote inner peace and spiritual harmony. It thrives in the cool, shadowy groves that line the river's edge, reaching peak ripeness under the gentle glow of the moon.
Crescent Grape The Crescent Grape is a celestial fruit that flourishes in the moonlit glades and riverbanks of Prys Wood. Each grape is like a miniature crescent moon, with a translucent, silvery skin that shimmers in the soft light of the night sky. Bursting with sweet, refreshing juice and a hint of floral aroma, Crescent Grapes are a favorite delicacy among elves. It is said that consuming these grapes under the light of the full moon bestows a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural world, making them a cherished symbol of harmony and communion with the cosmos. They also can get you drunk.

Restorative Plants and Herbs

The healing plant agriculture and trade industry is a vital component of the realm's economy and cultural heritage. Blessed with a rich diversity of medicinal herbs, plants, and botanical treasures, Prys Wood has long been renowned for its expertise in herbalism and natural healing. Restorative plants are cultivated with care and reverence by skilled herbalists and farmers. Sustainable agricultural practices, such as agroforestry and polyculture, are employed to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem while ensuring a steady supply of medicinal plants. Traditional knowledge passed down through generations guides the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of healing plants, with a deep respect for the natural world and its healing gifts.
Prys Wood boasts a wealth of botanical treasures, including rare and potent healing plants that are highly sought after for their medicinal properties. From the soothing leaves of the Healing Fern to the potent nectar of the Moonbloom Flower, each plant holds the promise of healing and renewal. Herbalists and healers meticulously gather these botanical treasures at their peak potency, harnessing their innate power to treat ailments and restore vitality.
Trade and Commerce
The healing plant industry is a bustling hub of activity in Prys Wood, with traders, merchants, and apothecaries converging to exchange goods and services. Markets brim with aromatic herbs, dried roots, and fragrant flowers, while bustling trade routes connect Prys Wood to distant lands where healing plants are in high demand. The realm's reputation for quality and authenticity ensures that its healing plants command premium prices in both local and international markets, contributing to the prosperity of the realm and the well-being of its inhabitants.
Cultural Significance
Healing plants hold deep cultural significance in Prys Wood, woven into the fabric of daily life and spiritual practices. Herbal remedies and tinctures are passed down through generations, cherished for their efficacy and connection to the land. Festivals and ceremonies celebrate the healing power of plants, honoring the wisdom of the natural world and the symbiotic relationship between humans and the green realm.

Education

The education system in Prys Wood is a testament to the elven reverence for knowledge and harmony with nature. Rooted in tradition and infused with magical teachings, it provides a holistic approach to learning that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit of its inhabitants. At the heart of the education system lies a deep respect for the natural world and its intrinsic connection to elven culture. Education begins at a young age, with children learning the ways of the forest, the cycles of nature, and the ancient traditions of their ancestors. In addition to their mystical studies, elven students receive a comprehensive education in subjects ranging from history and literature to mathematics and philosophy.

Druidic Influence

Central to the curriculum is the integration of druidic teachings, reflecting the Prys Wood elves' close affinity with nature. Students are taught to commune with the spirits of the forest, harness the elemental forces, and cultivate a deep understanding of the natural world. Druidic mentors guide them in attuning their senses to the rhythms of the forest and honing their innate magical abilities. The education system emphasizes experiential learning, with students spending ample time outdoors, exploring the flora and fauna of Prys Wood firsthand. Field trips to sacred groves, ancient ruins, and natural landmarks provide opportunities for hands-on discovery and imbue students with a deep appreciation for their surroundings.

Druidic College of Prys Wood: Circle of Grovewardens

Founded deep within the verdant heart of Prys Wood, the Druidic College of Prys Wood is a sanctuary of druidic wisdom and natural magic. Nestled amidst ancient trees and sacred groves, it offers a comprehensive curriculum that immerses students in the mysteries of the natural world. Here, aspiring druids learn to commune with the spirits of the forest, channel elemental energies, and safeguard the balance of nature. The college is renowned for its arboreal libraries, where ancient tomes and scrolls containing centuries of druidic lore are carefully preserved. There are multiple paths students can take upon their studies, but all graduates of this college emerge as stewards of the wilderness, wielding their magic to protect and preserve the sanctity of Prys Wood in some fashion. Many go on to hold important roles in druidic circles.
The college has its own druidic circle known as the Circle of Grovewardens. They are keepers of the ancient traditions and guardians of the natural world, drawing their power from the mystical energies of Prys Wood. These druids are deeply attuned to the rhythms of nature and the whispers of the forest, wielding their magic to protect the balance of the natural world and preserve the sanctity of Prys Wood. They are staunch protectors of the sacred groves and ancient forests, wielding their magic to safeguard the natural world against threats both mundane and supernatural.

Bardic College of Echoes

Cultural education plays a vital role in fostering a sense of identity and belonging among elven youth. The arts are revered as expressions of the soul's deepest truths. Through storytelling, music, dance, and art, students are immersed in the rich tapestry of elven heritage, instilling in them a pride in their ancestry and a commitment to preserving their traditions. The Bardic College of Echoes was established with the belief that music and storytelling are integral components of elven heritage, weaving together the threads of past, present, and future. Its founders sought to create a sanctuary where bards could hone their craft, exchange ideas, and inspire one another to reach new heights of artistic expression.
The curriculum at the Bardic College encompasses a wide range of artistic disciplines, including music theory, composition, vocal performance, instrumental mastery, and the art of storytelling. Students are encouraged to explore their creative potential through hands-on workshops, collaborative projects, and performances in the college's renowned amphitheater. The Bardic College draws inspiration from the natural beauty of Prys Wood, integrating elements of the forest into its artistic practices. Students often venture into the wilderness to seek inspiration from the whispering trees, babbling brooks, and ethereal light that suffuses the woodland glades. The college's curriculum emphasizes a deep connection to nature, teaching students to channel the raw energy of the forest into their artistic creations.

The Pryn Enclave

At the core of the Pryn Enclave's education system lies a deep reverence for the Ladies of Prys Wood. From an early age, pupils are instilled with a profound sense of devotion and duty to uphold the tenets of their faith and honor the divine mandate of The Ladies. The Pryn Enclave offers specialized training for aspiring clerics and paladins dedicated to the service of The Ladies. Through rigorous study, prayer, and martial discipline, students are prepared to wield divine magic and martial prowess in defense of the faith. Under the guidance of seasoned mentors and revered clerics, novices learn to channel the divine energies bestowed upon them by the Ladies, invoking miracles and blessings to aid the faithful and smite the forces of darkness.
In addition to training in martial and magical arts, the education system of the Pryn Enclave fosters a deep appreciation for religious scholarship and theological inquiry. Students delve into the sacred texts and scriptures of not only their own religion, but others across Avernay, studying the mysteries of faith, morality, and divine providence. Through philosophical discourse and theological debate, scholars seek to deepen their understanding of the divine mysteries and discern the will of The Ladies and other deities in the unfolding tapestry of creation.
Beyond academic and martial pursuits, the education system of the Pryn Enclave emphasizes holistic development, nurturing the spiritual, intellectual, and moral faculties of its students. Through acts of charity, meditation, and community service, pupils cultivate virtues of compassion, humility, and empathy, embodying the ideals of the Ladies in their daily lives.

Mythology & Lore

According to elven mythos, The Ladies were once mortal beings who lived during a time of great turmoil in Prys Wood. Faced with a threat that sought to extinguish the light of life within the kingdom, these three extraordinary individuals sacrificed themselves to protect their people. In recognition of their selfless deeds, the gods bestowed upon them a divine transformation, turning them into crystal statues infused with the pure essence of light and life.
Now revered as The Ladies, these divine entities watch over Prys Wood, guiding its inhabitants and nurturing the mystical energies that flow through the land. The crystal statues are said to hold not only the wisdom of the past but also the potential for a harmonious and prosperous future. The elven people believe that by honoring and seeking the blessings of The Ladies, they can maintain the delicate balance between the natural world and the magical forces that sustain their ancient kingdom.

Tenets of Faith

The Tenets of Faith of The Ladies embody a profound reverence for life and a deep appreciation for the sanctity of all living beings. These guiding principles, cherished by the followers of the revered deities in Prys Wood, emphasize the importance of healing, compassion, and the preservation of life as sacred duties entrusted to their faithful devotees.
Harmony with Nature The faithful are called to cherish and protect the natural world, recognizing it as a sacred manifestation of the divine. They strive to live in harmony with nature, tending to its needs and safeguarding its delicate balance, while also honoring the sanctity of all life forms that inhabit it.
Compassion and Mercy Followers of The Ladies are guided by compassion and empathy towards all living beings, seeking to alleviate suffering and bring comfort to those in need. They embody the benevolent grace and boundless compassion of their deities by offering healing and solace to the afflicted and vulnerable.
Wisdom and Guidance The faithful seek wisdom and guidance from The Ladies, acknowledging their divine insight and omniscient presence. They turn to the teachings of their deities for moral guidance, spiritual enlightenment, and clarity in times of uncertainty, recognizing the importance of healing as a path towards greater understanding and enlightenment.
Celebration of Life Followers of The Ladies hold a deep reverence for the gift of life bestowed upon all beings. They believe that life, in all its forms, is sacred and deserving of respect and protection. As stewards of the natural world, they strive to nurture and preserve life in all its diversity, recognizing the inherent beauty and value of every living creature. They celebrate the cycles of birth, growth, and renewal, embracing the vibrancy and vitality of the world around them as a testament to the divine creativity and abundance of The Ladies.
Healing and Restoration Central to the teachings of The Ladies is the practice of healing and restoration, both of the body and the soul. Followers are called to emulate the compassionate and nurturing qualities of their deities by offering healing and comfort to those in need. They harness the divine energies of nature to mend wounds, alleviate suffering, and restore balance and harmony to the afflicted. Whether through herbal remedies, magical incantations, or acts of kindness and compassion, they seek to bring healing and wholeness to the world, recognizing that the power to heal is a sacred gift entrusted to them by The Ladies.

Worship

In the religion of The Ladies in Prys Wood, worship is a deeply personal and communal practice that encompasses a wide range of rituals, traditions, and everyday observances. At its core, worship is a way for the faithful to express gratitude, reverence, and devotion to the divine forces of light, life, and creation. 
Some worshipers of The Ladies are very casual in how they practice, perhaps offering a prayer before breaking their fast or going to the fountain in the city. Others engage in regular prayer and meditation as a means of connecting with the divine and cultivating inner peace and spiritual insight. Worshippers may offer prayers of gratitude, supplication, and devotion, seeking guidance, healing, and blessings from The ladies. The faithful often make offerings of food, flowers, incense, and other symbolic gifts as a way of honoring the divine and expressing gratitude for the blessings of the earth. These offerings may be made at sacred sites, shrines, or during ritual ceremonies, symbolizing the reciprocity between them and the natural world.
There are a variety of prayers that are used daily, but the only official prayer is A Song for The Ladies, which is sung by a priestess known as The Dawn Healer, every morning at the fountain.
Divine Ladies of light and life,
We gather before thee, free from strife.
In your grace, we find our way,
Guiding us through night and day.

Bless us with your healing hand,
Protect us in this sacred land.
Grant us wisdom, peace, and love,
As we walk this path from above.

May your light forever shine,
In our hearts, your presence divine.
We honor thee with every breath,
In life, in death, until our last step.


Praise to The Ladies, forevermore,
In your grace, we do adore.
Guide us, protect us, in your sight,
Blessed Ladies, source of light.

The Fountain

Everyday worship at the Fountain of The Ladies involves a variety of rituals and practices designed to honor the divine and commune with the sacred energies of the water. Some of these practices include:

• Offerings and Prayers: Worshipers make offerings of flowers, coins, and other symbolic gifts to the Fountain as a gesture of reverence and gratitude. They offer prayers of supplication, devotion, and thanksgiving, seeking blessings and guidance from the divine beings that reside within the sacred waters.
• Cleansing and Purification: The Fountain is believed to possess purifying and healing properties, capable of washing away impurities and restoring spiritual balance. Worshipers may ritually cleanse themselves by splashing or immersing in the waters, symbolizing a renewal of body, mind, and spirit.
• Divination and Insight: Some worshipers seek divinatory guidance and insight from the waters of the Fountain, believing that it holds the power to reveal hidden truths and illuminate the path forward. They may perform rituals of scrying or meditation by the waters, seeking visions, signs, or messages from the divine.
• Community Gatherings: The Fountain serves as a gathering place for the community, where worshipers come together to celebrate festivals, rituals, and sacred ceremonies. These gatherings foster a sense of unity, solidarity, and spiritual connection among the faithful, strengthening their bonds with each other and the divine.

Priesthood

The Priestesshood of The Ladies is a revered order of clergy dedicated to the service and worship of the revered deities of Prys Wood. Anchored within the sacred precincts of the Pryn Enclave, this esteemed sisterhood comprises devout women who have devoted their lives to upholding the tenets of faith, ministering to the spiritual needs of their communities, and preserving the sacred traditions of their divine patrons.

Duties and Responsibilities

The priestesses of The Ladies play a pivotal role in the religious life of Prys Wood, serving as intermediaries between the mortal realm and the divine realm. They lead rituals and ceremonies, offer prayers and blessings, and administer the sacraments of their faith. With unwavering devotion and dedication, they guide the faithful on their spiritual journey, providing counsel, comfort, and guidance in times of need.

Healing and Sanctuary

At the heart of the priestesshood's mission lies a deep commitment to healing and compassion. Priestesses are trained in the arts of divine magic and herbalism, using their skills to alleviate suffering, restore health, and bring comfort to the afflicted. Within the sacred confines of the Pryn Enclave, they operate infirmaries and sanctuaries where the sick and wounded can seek refuge and receive care.

Guardians of Tradition

As custodians of the sacred traditions of The Ladies, the priestesses of the Pryn Enclave are entrusted with the preservation of ancient rituals, rites, and ceremonies passed down through generations. They safeguard sacred relics and artifacts, maintain holy sites and shrines, and ensure the continuity of religious practices that have endured for centuries.

Educators and Mentors

Priestesses also serve as educators and mentors, imparting wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual guidance to the next generation of devotees. Through formal instruction, spiritual counseling, and personal example, they inspire others to embrace the teachings of The Ladies and walk the path of faith with devotion and integrity.

Community Leaders

In addition to their spiritual duties, priestesses often take on leadership roles within their communities, advocating for social justice, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of all living beings. They foster a sense of unity and fellowship among the faithful, encouraging cooperation and mutual support in the pursuit of common goals and ideals.

Sacred Vows

Members of the priestesshood take sacred vows of obedience, chastity, and service, dedicating their lives to the divine will of The Ladies and the welfare of their communities. Bound by their vows, they lead lives of humility, devotion, and selflessness, embodying the virtues and values of their beloved goddesses in all that they do.

Granted Divine Powers

The powers that are bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate unwavering devotion, deep spiritual insight, and a profound reverence for the natural world are typically reserved for priestesses, clerics, and paladins. However, it has been known for particularly devout common people to be blessed as well. Some of the powers granted to the priests or the faithful include:

• Healing Magic: Priestesses and healers of The Ladies possess the ability to channel divine energy to heal wounds, cure ailments, and restore vitality to the sick and injured. Through prayers, rituals, and the laying on of hands, they harness the power of light and life to bring comfort and relief to those in need.
• Nature Manipulation: Followers of The Ladies are believed to have a deep affinity for the natural world and the elemental forces that govern it. Priests may possess the ability to commune with plants, animals, and the elements, influencing their behavior and fostering harmony between the living beings of the realm.
• Divine Guidance: Priests and devotees of The Ladies are said to receive divine guidance and insight through visions, dreams, and moments of spiritual clarity. They may act as conduits for the will of the divine, offering guidance, wisdom, and counsel to those who seek their aid.
• Protection and Warding: Priests of The Ladies are often called upon to protect sacred sites, communities, and individuals from harm. They may invoke divine blessings and protective wards to shield against malevolent forces, spiritual intrusions, and natural disasters.
• Communion with the Divine: Through prayer, meditation, and ritual, followers of The Ladies seek to commune directly with the divine beings that govern the cosmos. Priests may enter into deep states of trance or ecstatic communion, experiencing a profound sense of union with the divine and receiving revelations and insights into the mysteries of creation.

Political Influence & Intrigue

The Honorable Ladies of Prys

A Lady of Prys is the title bestowed upon those deemed deserving after performing great deeds in service to others, be it a singular person, an entire city, or the world at large. It is the highest title that can be given from Prys Wood and is reserved exclusively to Paladins, as they are noted as the most devout. There have only ever been seven Ladies of Prys, one being the Dragonborn Paragon of Life, Ravena. She was honored for her work in orphanages around Avernay and her tireless efforts on the behalf of children.

Ravena Chirin | Amaunator, The Keeper of the Eternal Sun, and the Light of Law | Dragonborn, Oath of Devotion
Delphine Fitton | Gaea, Goddess of Nature | Wood Elf, Oath of The Ancients
Ta’leen Zysk | Eldath, Goddess of Peace | Faerie, Oath of Devotion
Evlyn O’Rilen | Endez, God of Justice | Eladrin, Oath of Glory
Wilhemina Ducaucus | Lathander, God of Birth, Renewal, Life & Light | Half-Elf, Oath of Redemption
Yvonne Parsnippey | Helm, God of Protection | Human, Oath of the Crown
Gabriela Torres | Mira, Goddess of Fate | Tiefling, Oath of Vengeance


These seven remarkable individuals, through their selfless and extraordinary deeds, became the esteemed Ladies of Prys. Each Lady brought a unique set of skills and virtues to the title, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of Prys Wood in their own exceptional ways. While not all of the Ladies of Prys lived at the same time, some did. One instance of this is that Ravena entrusted the life runestone to Ta’leen, who was the caretaker of the Fountain of Prys.

Wisdom Rooted in Nature

Type

Geopolitical, Kingdom

Alternative Names

Le Royaume du Bois de Prys

Demonym

The Pryn

Leader

Élodie Allemande

Head of State

Élodie Allemande

Head of Government

Élodie Allemande

Government System

Meritocracy

Power Structure

Semi-autonomous area

Economic System

Traditional

Currency

Gold

Legislative Body

High Court

Judicial Body

The Order of Sylvan Wardens

Executive Body

The Ladies Council

Deities

• The Ladies

Related Species

• High Elf