Stone Grove of the Ancestors

“They are not gone. They are listening.” — Raithea, Moon-Seer of the Veil
The Stone Grove of the Ancestors is an ancient ring of moss-covered monoliths hidden deep within the Whispering Woods. The grove is silent save for wind and whispers—believed by many to be voices of the departed, carried on mist and memory. Each standing stone bears spirals, runes, and weathered carvings that reflect the turning of the seasons, the passage of souls, and the cycle of life and death.
Druids of the Veil hold their most sacred rites here, believing the Grove is one of the thinnest places in Tarnith’s veil between realms. It is a site for oaths, ancestral communion, and spiritual awakening, especially during equinoxes and eclipses.

General Information

Type- Sacred Site (Ancestral Ritual Grove)
Location- Hidden glade in the depths of The Whispering Woods, Western Tarnith
Environment- Temperate, mist-veiled woodland basin with overgrown roots, moss, and seasonal bloom

Spiritual Significance

The Grove is used in rites of passage, ancestor-seeking visions, and spirit-bound oaths. It is particularly vital during the Cycle of Reflection, when spirits are said to walk most freely. The Braided Flame, a pale-blue fire at the grove’s center, is used to burn offerings, illuminate visions, and light pilgrimage torches. It never goes out and is said to have been kindled from moonlight and breath of the departed.
Some druids believe the thirteen stones each represent one of the First Grove-Keepers—druids who perished sealing a spiritual breach during the Eclipse Epoch. Their wisdom is said to linger within the stone, waiting for worthy voices to call them forth.

Notable Features

The Stone of Memory

The largest monolith in the grove, often used during oaths and funerary rites. It’s said to echo faintly with ancestral voices if touched during moonrise.

The Braided Flame

A sacred fire that burns in a shallow stone brazier at the grove’s center. It glows with blue light and is used to carry spiritual offerings into the beyond.

Rootwatch Canopy

Massive tree roots form a twisted dome above the grove, blooming with ghost-white blossoms during the autumn rites. They hum when the veil thins.

Hazards

Veil Surge – During equinoxes or lunar eclipses, spiritual energy spikes. Those unprepared may be overwhelmed by visions, spirits, or possession.
Mistbinding – The grove is shielded by disorienting mist that confuses unblessed outsiders. Some vanish for days and return changed.

Type

Temple / Religious complex