The Forest of Lies

A mist-shrouded forest of pines and firs stretches for miles along the northern edge of the known world. The people of Ghervalen call it the Forest of Lies, though few refer to it openly. Those that speak of it do so in hushed tones, often preceded by a quick glance over the shoulder.

Environment

Beneath the forest's dense canopy lies a labyrinthine snarl of tree trunks, thorn bushes, and vines all cloaked in a swirling pale-green mist. The wet smell of earth and rot permeates the air here, but those with keener senses can detect a faint sweetness on the breeze; a delicious promise that beckons the curious deeper into the murk.
Despite the poor visibility, it is uncommon for a traveler to stumble over an errant tree root while traversing the forest. Tripping over the skeletal remains of a prior visitor and their weathered gear is a far more regular occurrence. Navigating the forest is nearly impossible without a guide as the haphazardly hacked pathways seem to change with every winding turn
Pulchra Mortis, a rare flower containing a powerful narcotic used in Ghervalen healing rites, grows along the outskirts of the forest. Its stark white petals flecked with crimson stand out amongst the drab greens and browns of the forest floor. In recent years the supply of these flowers has diminished due to the increase in conflicts among the tribes, forcing shamans to traverse deeper in search of more.

Inhabitants

The strange magical energy that pervades the forest and instills dread in all who traverse it has twisted the beasts and spirits that call the forest home. Large cats with six gleaming eyes and fur the color of midnight called nightclaws prowl the branches and underbrush, waiting with silent paws to snatch travelers from the pathways. Giant antlered bears amble between the tree trunks, their deep resonant growls oddly musical in tone; the Ghers refer to them as songbears. Sentient mushrooms grow around the bases of trees and tell riddles to those who pass by, awarding discarded trinkets to those who can solve them and expelling toxic spores at those who can't. The spiteful spirits of those who have perished here whisper misleading directions, hoping to lure travelers into a fatal trap so that they may find company in death.
Above all are the Breathless, mute elf-like creatures who silently patrol the pathways and guard the secrets of their kingdom hidden somewhere within the forest. Though they carry weapons made of bone they are not inherently violent. There have been stories of travelers bargaining with the Breathless for supplies or directions, and many have described a feeling of tranquility when in their presence. However, the Breathless seem to have a strict set of laws that they adhere to, and should a traveler break one of these laws, purposefully or otherwise, it is unlikely that traveler will ever been seen again.

Myths and Legends

The Ghers have many tales regarding the Forest of Lies. The elders refer to it as the Birthplace of Deceit, describing it as the location from which the first demons and devils entered the world. Others believe that the forest itself is alive, constantly shifting and changing so as to corral trespassers deeper and deeper into its belly. There are even a mad few who speak in jittery whispers of the Flame-Wreathed Queen who holds court deep within the forest and is said to grant boons in exchange for secrets.

Type

Forest, Boreal (Coniferous)