The Silvis​

The Silvis are a spiritual, nature-revering people living in Tyrvik, a treetop city within the Earea forest of Praeth. They are known for their deep connection to nature, rumored ability to communicate with trees, and mastery of stealth, archery, and healing. Silvis have a diverse range of skin and hair colors, with pointed, elvish ears being a defining trait, and their eyes, often green, reflect their bond with the forest. They wear wood elf-like attire in earthy greens and browns, adorned with natural accessories, and carry bows as a symbol of their culture. The Silvis value balance, community, and respect for all life, fostering a society where different species can live among them in harmony.

• Homeland: Wistman Woods
• Capital: Tyrvik

“The forest cradles my shadow as hers”

The city of Tyrvik is a breathtaking and intricate masterpiece suspended high within the vast, ancient trees of the Earea forest. It is a marvel of natural and architectural harmony, woven seamlessly into the living canopy. Here’s a detailed description of what you might experience in Tyrvik:

• Tree-Crafted Architecture: Tyrvik consists of a vast web of interconnected tree houses, platforms, and structures, all crafted from living wood and other natural materials. The Silvis do not chop down trees to build their homes; instead, they coax and guide branches and roots into desired shapes over time using magick and skill. As a result, every structure feels alive and ever-growing, with walls that subtly breathe, floors covered in moss, and doorways that naturally arch and shift like branches in the wind.

• Suspended Bridges and Pathways: The entire city is linked by a network of woven vine bridges, suspended rope walkways, and twisting wooden paths that stretch from one tree to the next. These bridges are both practical and beautiful, decorated with leaves, carved sigils, and glowing bioluminescent fungi that light the way at night. Some paths are so narrow that they require deft balance, reflecting the Silvis' natural agility.

• Central Council Grove: At the heart of Tyrvik lies the Council Grove, a massive clearing high in the treetops where the branches of multiple trees converge. Here stands the Great Heart Tree, the oldest and tallest tree, believed to embody the spirit of Silvae. The Council Grove serves as a gathering place for festivals, rituals, and important decisions. The Great Heart Tree itself houses the chambers of the High Elder and the Council of Branches, with carved alcoves and natural platforms serving as meeting spaces.

• Healing Bowers: Hanging gardens, lush with medicinal herbs and flowering vines, serve as the city’s healing centers. Healers work from wooden platforms surrounded by life-giving plants, and their healing magic is often supported by nature's raw energy, which flows strongly here.

• Living Quarters: Homes of the Silvis vary from cozy, leaf-covered pods nestled against trunks to expansive, multi-roomed abodes woven around the branches. Each dwelling is uniquely shaped and reflects its occupant’s role and personality, often decorated with symbols and natural elements like wind chimes, glowing crystals, and carvings that tell personal stories.

• The Archery Perch: A towering structure spiraling around one of the city’s tallest trees, used for training and honing the Silvis’ famed archery skills. It also serves as a watchtower, with scouts keeping vigil over the forest for miles around.

• The Whispering Glade: A sacred area where the Silvis come to commune with the trees. The branches form an intricate dome overhead, creating a hushed atmosphere. In the glade, it is said the trees speak more clearly, and Whisperers interpret their words.

• Marketplace of Leaves: A bustling hub where Silvis artisans and other residents trade goods—handcrafted bows, woven clothing, enchanted tattoos, and herbal remedies. The market is suspended across multiple platforms, with goods displayed on hanging baskets, and trade occurs with an unspoken respect for sustainability and balance.

• Training Grounds: Hidden among thick canopies are clearings where Guardians train in stealth, combat, and survival skills. Wooden dummies, moving targets, and climbing courses are used to sharpen reflexes.

• Natural Harmony: Everything about Tyrvik reflects a reverence for nature. Even the smallest detail, like a wooden railing or a vine-strung lamp, has a natural elegance and purpose. Flowers bloom along walkways, and wind rustles through the leaves, creating a melodic hum that fills the air.

• Glowing Light Sources: The Silvis use bioluminescent fungi and magickal crystals to illuminate their city after dark. These lights emit a soft, ethereal glow, creating an otherworldly ambiance at night.

• Living Vines and Roots: Vines often coil and move gently, sometimes reacting to those who pass by, giving Tyrvik a sense of being alive and aware. Roots from trees sometimes extend down into lower levels, wrapping around platforms or forming natural stairways.

• Sounds of the Forest: The city's atmosphere is filled with the sounds of birdsong, rustling leaves, and the soft hum of insects. Wind chimes crafted from bone, wood, or stone hang from branches, creating a symphony as breezes pass through.

The Silvis present a striking and diverse physical appearance, befitting their deep bond with nature and their unique cultural heritage. They exhibit:

1. Skin and Hair Variety

• Skin Tones: Silvis come in a wide range of skin tones, from earthy browns and tans that blend seamlessly with the forest, to deep mahogany and even fair tones reminiscent of sunlight through leaves. A few rare individuals may exhibit skin that seems to shimmer with a faint green or golden hue, reflecting their connection to nature.

• Hair Colors: Their hair reflects nature's palette, ranging from earthy browns, golden blonds, and deep blacks to more unique shades like leaf-green, coppery red, and even streaks of silver resembling moonlight on water. It’s common for Silvis to adorn their hair with vines, leaves, and carved wooden beads, woven in elaborate braids or left flowing.

2. Pointed, Elvish Ears The Silvis' pointed, elvish ears are often adorned with piercings of natural materials such as carved wood, woven plant fibers, and polished stones. The ears are not only a mark of their heritage but are also seen as a symbol of their attunement to the whispers of the trees and the spirits of nature.

3. Eye Colors

• Most Common: Vibrant shades of green, reminiscent of fresh leaves or emeralds, are the most notable and common among the Silvis, often sparkling with an inner light.

• Other Colors: Their eyes can come in any color, ranging from earthy browns, sky blues, and amber yellows to rarer shades like silver or deep violet. The intensity and uniqueness of a Silvis’ eye color are sometimes believed to reflect their spiritual connection with nature.

4. Clothing and Accessories

• Attire: Silvis attire is primarily wood elf-like, reflecting their woodland environment and cultural values. They wear clothing in earthy tones—rich greens, browns, and muted golds—that blend seamlessly into the forest. Their clothing is made from plant fibers, leather, and other natural materials, often decorated with intricate leaf and vine patterns.

• Common Clothing Elements: Tunics, leggings, and lightweight armor made from woven bark or reinforced leather are popular. Cloaks are a common accessory, providing camouflage and protection against the elements. These cloaks are often enchanted with magick to enhance stealth or provide warmth.

• Natural Accessories: The Silvis use natural accessories such as carved wooden pendants, woven bracelets, and crowns of leaves or flowers. They never use bones or fur from dead animals (with the exception of leather, which is respectfully sourced and treated). Accessories often carry personal or spiritual significance, symbolizing important life events, roles, or bonds.

5. Weapons and Tools

• Bows: The bow is the most notable and common accessory among the Silvis. Each bow is crafted with care, often from a specific tree chosen in a ritualistic process. Silvis bows are works of art, carved with intricate symbols and adorned with natural materials. Bows are both a tool of survival and a symbol of their culture.

• Additional Weapons: While the bow is predominant, many Silvis carry small knives, daggers, or staves. Weapons are often inscribed with protective runes or personalized with carvings.

The Silvis' are Lycans who's wolf forms are perfectly adapted to their forest environment and their unique ability to climb trees. They possess strong, muscular limbs equipped with retractable claws, which allow them to grip and climb tree trunks with ease. Their bodies are lithe and agile, built for quick, precise movements among branches and through dense foliage.

Their fur blends seamlessly with the forest surroundings, often appearing in earthy browns, and even dappled patterns that mimic the light filtering through the trees. This natural camouflage enhances their stealth and protection within their wooded home. Their ears are highly sensitive, capable of picking up even the faintest sounds throughout the canopy, while their sharp, adaptive vision allows them to see clearly in low-light conditions, making them masters of their forested terrain.

• Description: The Silvis must treat nature with reverence. Breaking branches unnecessarily, littering, or disturbing wildlife is considered rude and offensive.
• Expected Behavior: When taking from the forest, even as small as picking fruit or cutting vines, the Silvis say a prayer or offer a token of thanks to the spirits of the forest. Every act must honor the balance between taking and giving.

• Description: When meeting or departing from others, Silvis commonly place a hand over their heart and bow slightly as a sign of respect. This gesture is said to represent their connection to both one another and the life around them.
• Expected Behavior: Ignoring this gesture, especially with elders or during formal events, is a sign of disrespect.

• Description: The well-being of the Silvis community and the forest takes precedence over personal desires. Selfishness and hoarding are frowned upon.
• Expected Behavior: Members are expected to share resources and assist those in need. Acts of charity and service to the community earn high praise, while hoarding or exploiting resources may lead to social shaming or even punishment.

• Description: Sacred groves, ancient trees, and designated areas for meditation are considered holy. When entering such spaces, silence is to be maintained unless ritual chanting or prayer is required.
• Expected Behavior: Speaking out of turn or disturbing the peace in these areas is seen as an affront to Silvae and can lead to rebuke or mandatory periods of silence for reflection.

• Description: Elders hold a revered position within the community due to their wisdom and experience. Younger Silvis are expected to defer to them in matters of tradition, learning, and leadership.
• Expected Behavior: Disputing an elder’s wisdom openly or acting disrespectfully during council meetings or ceremonies is highly taboo and may result in social correction.

• Description: Communal meals are vital bonding times for the Silvis, and food is seen as a gift from nature. At the start of a communal meal, a portion is often offered to the trees or spirits before anyone eats.
• Expected Behavior: Taking food without acknowledgment or gratitude is considered rude. Sharing meals with outsiders is a sign of trust and friendship.

• Description: The Silvis believe in respecting others' physical and emotional boundaries. Entering a home uninvited or prying into personal matters without invitation is seen as intrusive.
• Expected Behavior: Visitors announce themselves with a quiet melodic call, such as tapping wood or softly chanting. Personal matters are discussed only when invited, and private concerns are respected.

• Description: Gifts are deeply meaningful, often carrying symbolic or spiritual value. The Silvis give gifts to mark important events, express gratitude, or create bonds. Items crafted by hand, such as carvings or woven items, are especially treasured.
• Expected Behavior: Refusing a gift without a valid reason or giving a thoughtless one may be seen as an insult.

• Description: Trees are central to Silvis culture and must be honored in daily life. This can include bowing before ancient trees, speaking kind words to saplings, and making sure tree-based resources are sustainably gathered.
• Expected Behavior: Cutting a tree without performing rituals of thanks and seeking permission (interpreted by Whisperers) is considered a crime.

• Description: Clothing often incorporates elements of nature—leaves, vines, bark-like patterns—and represents one's role or rank within the community. Healers wear green-gilded sashes, Whisperers often have carved wooden adornments, and Guardians bear symbols of their martial roles.
• Expected Behavior: Wearing clothing or adornments outside one's rank or attempting to imitate sacred symbols is forbidden and viewed as deceptive or disrespectful.

• Description: Conflicts among Silvis are usually mediated by Elders, the Whisperer of the Grove, or other respected leaders. Public displays of anger or violence are deeply frowned upon.
• Expected Behavior: Disputes are resolved with calm discussions, rituals of atonement, or symbolic acts that reaffirm communal bonds.

• Description: Pilgrimages to sacred sites throughout Earea are a regular part of Silvis life. This practice is seen as a form of spiritual renewal and is open to all members of the community.
• Expected Behavior: Participation is expected at least once per year, and failing to attend without a reason is seen as distancing oneself from the community and nature.

• Description: Many Silvis bear tattoos that represent significant life events, roles, or achievements. These markings are often imbued with magick.
• Expected Behavior: Tampering with or dishonoring another’s tattoo, such as mocking its meaning, is deeply offensive.

High Elder (The Heart of Tyrvik)

• Role: The supreme leader and spiritual guide of the Silvis.
• Description: The High Elder is seen as the living embodiment of the Silvis' bond with nature and the trees. They possess strong divination and a deep understanding of the trees' “whispers.” This leader is chosen by the ancient trees themselves, typically through signs, visions, or a sacred rite witnessed by other leaders.
• Duties: Guiding spiritual matters, maintaining alliances, overseeing major decisions regarding Tyrvik's protection, and leading important rituals.

Role: Advisors and leaders representing different aspects of Silvis life, forming a council around the High Elder.

Description:

• Guardian of Roots: Responsible for defense and military matters, including training archers and scouts.
• Keeper of Leaves: Focuses on healing, wellness, and the health of the Silvis people.
• Whisperer of the Grove: Acts as a mediator and chief interpreter of the trees' messages, serving as the voice between the Silvis and nature.
• Master of the Hunt: Oversees food gathering, hunting practices, and ensures the balance between taking from nature and giving back.
• Artisan of Growth: Manages crafting, building, and preserving Tyrvik’s structures, ensuring sustainable resource use.

• Role: Leaders of smaller community groups or specialized guilds.
• Description: Each treetop community or guild within Tyrvik is overseen by an Elder, who reports to the Council of Branches. Community Elders handle local disputes, organize gatherings, and ensure the well-being of their members.

• Role: Individuals gifted in communicating with trees and interpreting their messages.
• Description: Whisperers hold significant respect and are trained from a young age if they show aptitude. They assist in rituals, provide spiritual guidance, and often serve as advisors or mediators in internal matters.

• Role: Warriors, archers, and scouts who protect Tyrvik and the Earea region.
• Description: Highly skilled in stealth, bow-wielding, and natural combat tactics. They undergo rigorous training and often work in small, highly mobile units.

• Role: Individuals skilled in healing arts, using both magick and natural remedies.
• Description: Healers often work closely with the Keeper of Leaves and are revered for their ability to mend not only the Silvis but also wounded plants and animals.

• Role: Crafters who create the tools, homes, and goods necessary for Silvis life.
• Description: They specialize in woodwork, weaving, and creating magick-infused tattoos or items. Their work reflects their respect for nature, always ensuring sustainability.

• Role: Provide food and resources for the community.
• Description: Skilled in tracking, gathering, and maintaining balance with nature. They work closely with the Master of the Hunt to prevent overuse of resources.

• Role: Young Silvis undergoing training in various crafts, skills, or leadership roles.
• Description: Apprentices are chosen based on their interests or aptitudes and are mentored by experienced individuals in their field.

• Role: General community members who contribute in various ways, such as caretaking, trade, and daily tasks.
• Description: Though they hold no official title, they are considered the lifeblood of the Silvis society, essential for maintaining their culture.

• Role: Individuals who have broken sacred laws or violated nature's balance.
• Description: Rare but present, these Silvis live on the fringes and seek redemption or exile. They are sometimes seen as potential allies of other factions due to their unique knowledge.

• The World Tree (Silvae): At the heart of Silvis religion is the belief in the World Tree, known as Silvae, which is seen as the source of all life, wisdom, and magick. Every tree in Tyrvik and beyond is considered a “child” or “branch” of Silvae.
• Spirits of the Forest (Sylvani): The Silvis believe in nature spirits, known as Sylvani, which inhabit trees, rivers, and stones. These spirits are seen as guides, protectors, and sometimes tricksters. Honoring the Sylvani is essential to maintaining balance and harmony.
• Cycles of Growth and Decay: The Silvis believe life is a cycle of growth, death, and renewal. Death is not feared but seen as a return to the earth, feeding the roots of the next generation. This belief influences their rituals, practices, and respect for natural balance.

• Silvae the Great Tree: The primordial deity, representing all life and interconnectedness.
• Virdan, the Protector: A warrior-spirit who defends nature's balance and is invoked during battles and times of strife.
• Elara, the Healer: A nurturing spirit who aids in mending wounds and illnesses, both physical and spiritual.
• Kareth, the Whisperer: The guide to interpreting the trees' messages and understanding nature’s signs.
• Aris, the Trickster: A playful yet cautionary figure symbolizing the unpredictability of nature.

• Ritual Offerings: The Silvis offer small tokens (carved trinkets, rare flowers, etc.) to the roots of trees during worship, believing this strengthens their connection with Silvae and the Sylvani.
• Meditation and Listening: Whisperers and devout Silvis spend time in silence, meditating near ancient trees to listen for the wisdom of Silvae.
• Seasonal Festivals: Ceremonies mark key points in the cycle of growth, decay, and renewal, celebrating changes in nature and reaffirming their spiritual bonds.
• Nature Sacrifices: Rather than harming animals, the Silvis may ritually “sacrifice” energy (e.g., fasting or forgoing luxuries) to show gratitude to Silvae for bounties received.

Principles of the Verdant Path

• Description: Life, both sentient and non-sentient, must be respected. The Silvis believe in minimizing harm and taking only what is needed from nature. They are taught to show gratitude for every resource used, from food to shelter materials.
• Application: Hunting is carried out with rituals of thanks, and wastefulness is considered a grave sin.

• Description: The Silvis strive to maintain harmony within their community and with the environment. Disrupting natural balance, either through overexploitation or careless actions, is seen as unethical.
• Application: Disputes are resolved with mediation, and punishments focus on restoring balance, such as through reparations or community service.

• Description: Every Silvis is considered a guardian of the forest, with the duty to protect, nurture, and defend their natural environment.
• Application: Acts of deforestation, polluting waterways, or harming wildlife are seen as direct affronts to their faith and society.

• Description: Deception is frowned upon unless done to protect life or the balance of nature. The Silvis value honesty within their community.
• Application: Lies or betrayal that harm others' trust can lead to social penalties, though stealth and subtlety in dealing with outsiders or enemies are tolerated.

• Description: The Silvis believe that every member has unique gifts and roles to play, much like the different parts of a tree. Strength lies in their collective diversity.
• Application: Discrimination against individuals for their skills, beliefs, or limitations is unacceptable, and each person's contributions are honored.

• Description: Death and decay are part of life's cycle, to be embraced rather than feared. Mourning focuses on celebrating life lived and contributions made.
• Application: When a Silvis dies, they are ceremonially placed within the roots of sacred trees, becoming “one” with the forest.

• Pollution or Overharvesting: Those who harm nature may be banished or made to atone by replanting and tending to the forest.
• Deception within the Community: Social penalties and rituals to restore trust are common, such as public confessions or services for the community.
• Breaking Sacred Pacts: Outcasts may form if someone breaks a pact or fails to uphold their duties, but redemption is often possible through acts that restore balance.

• Purpose: A coming-of-age ritual for young Silvis entering adulthood.
• Description: Participants spend a night alone deep in the forest, meditating and listening to the trees. During this night, they are expected to connect with a specific tree, often receiving a vision, wisdom, or a token from the forest (e.g., a special leaf or piece of bark). This symbolizes their bond with nature and entry into adulthood.

• Purpose: Regularly held ritual to seek guidance from the trees.
• Description: The Silvis gather in a sacred grove, forming a circle around an ancient tree believed to be the heart of the forest. Using their rumored connection, they “whisper” their hopes, problems, and questions to the trees. Elders and those especially gifted in communicating with the trees interpret any responses, typically through changes in wind, falling leaves, or visions.

• Purpose: Blessing and empowering the bows of Silvis archers.
• Description: Before a hunt or significant battle, archers gather to have their bows infused with protective magick. They dip the bows in a sacred sap extracted from their holy trees while chanting prayers for strength, precision, and protection. The sap is believed to grant blessings to their aim.

• Purpose: Rejuvenating and strengthening Silvis healers.
• Description: Healers fast for a day and then bathe in a spring fed by tree roots, believed to carry the life essence of the forest. During this time, they chant and meditate on the interconnectedness of all life, often emerging with heightened abilities or visions to guide their healing work.

• Purpose: An annual festival celebrating the life and protection granted by trees.
• Description: The Silvis decorate the trees in Tyrvik with lights, ribbons, and carvings that symbolize their achievements over the past year. They feast, dance, and give offerings (like crafted ornaments or harvested fruit) to the trees. It is believed that this act strengthens their bond with nature and ensures the protection of their home.

• Purpose: Binding two individuals, whether friends, allies, or life partners.
• Description: The two participants each select a leaf from a tree that “speaks” to them. The leaves are bound together using a vine and then planted near their home or within a sacred grove. This act symbolizes their bond's rootedness in the strength of nature.

• Mythological Origin: According to Silvis legend, all trees are descendants of the Great Heart Tree, a sacred, ancient tree that stands at the center of their spiritual beliefs. It is said that the Great Heart Tree sang the first song of life, and from its roots, the first Silvis emerged, gifted with the ability to communicate with nature and protect the forests.
• Significance: The story underscores the Silvis' bond with trees and their duty to serve as protectors of the natural world. The Great Heart Tree is believed to still exist, hidden deep within the forest, granting wisdom and visions to those worthy of its guidance.

• The Legend: Elara, a revered Silvis ancestor, was gifted with an extraordinary ability to speak to trees. During a great drought, she communed with the heartwood of ancient trees and learned the secret of calling rain. Her efforts saved the Silvis from starvation, and in return, the trees blessed her lineage with enhanced abilities.
• Moral: The tale emphasizes humility, the importance of listening to nature, and the need for balance and mutual respect between all living beings.

• The Story: Legend has it that a cunning fox-shifter once tried to deceive the Silvis and steal their sacred knowledge of tree communication. Instead of punishing him, the Silvis High Elder offered him a pact: he would be taught their ways if he vowed to protect the forests. The fox agreed and became a legendary guardian, symbolizing that even cunning can be turned to good if guided by respect for nature.
• Cultural Impact: This story serves as a reminder that outsiders can be embraced if they show genuine respect for Silvis values and that enemies can become allies.

• The Conflict: Centuries ago, the Silvis faced an invading force that sought to exploit the Earea forest for its resources. The Silvis, led by High Elder Therain, united their people and used their mastery of stealth, archery, and tree magick to fight back. They eventually triumphed by luring the invaders into the forest, where the trees themselves rose in defense.
• Legacy: This event solidified the Silvis' role as protectors of the forest. To honor the fallen and the trees that gave their lives, an annual remembrance ceremony called the Day of Whispered Leaves is held, where Silvis walk the forest paths in silence, listening to the whispers of the trees.

• Historical Event: The treetop city of Tyrvik was established as a refuge and center for Silvis culture after their victory in the War of Shattered Branches. It was built with the blessing of the Great Heart Tree and designed to exist in harmony with nature.
• Significance: Tyrvik became a symbol of unity, resilience, and the Silvis' enduring bond with nature. Its creation marked a period of growth and cultural flourishing, with Silvis artisans, healers, and guardians contributing to its development.

• Story: A mysterious traveler with bright green eyes, said to be a spirit of the forest, would appear during times of great need. The wanderer tested the Silvis' resolve, wisdom, and compassion before offering aid. Those who passed the tests received blessings or visions; those who failed faced challenges meant to teach humility and growth.
• Moral: This fable teaches that true strength comes from compassion, balance, and respect for nature’s ways.

• Epic: Thareen, a young Silvis guardian, sought to prove his worth by undergoing a series of trials set by the ancient trees. He faced challenges of courage, loyalty, and self-sacrifice. In the end, his unwavering dedication led him to receive a bow carved from the Great Heart Tree’s branch, which became a symbol of Silvis protection and unity.
• Cultural Impact: This story is often recounted to inspire young Silvis guardians and remind them of the importance of humility and service to their community.

• Event: Faced with a fire that threatened to corrupt the entire forest, the Silvis performed a grand ritual to cleanse and protect the land. Keepers of the Grove, Silvis who specialized in deep communion with nature, sacrificed much of their magickal energy to bind the forest’s life force together and stave off the flames.
• Outcome: The fire was halted, but at great cost. The ritual is remembered during the Binding Grove Ceremony, where Silvis honor the fallen Keepers and renew their pledge to protect Earea.

• Event: When an alliance was formed between the Silvis and other forest-dwelling races, including certain fox-shifters and druids, the Pact of the Green Flame was forged. It established mutual defense agreements, shared knowledge, and respect for sacred sites.
• Legacy: The Pact remains a foundational aspect of Silvis diplomacy, symbolized by a flame kept eternally alight in the Council Grove of Tyrvik.

• Conflict: A small faction of Silvis, believing themselves more attuned to the trees than the council, attempted to seize power. The rebellion threatened to divide the Silvis, but the intervention of the High Elder and the trees themselves led to reconciliation through ritual trials and oaths of unity.
• Impact: The rebellion serves as a cautionary tale about pride and the need for humility, often recounted during leadership training sessions.

• Extended Families: Silvis families are typically extended, often including not just parents and children but also grandparents, aunts, uncles, and close friends who are considered kin. The community-oriented nature of the Silvis means they often live in clusters of connected homes or platforms.
• Bonded Partnerships: Silvis form deep, lifelong partnerships, often marked by a Leaf-Binding Pact ritual. Bonded partners are expected to support each other physically, emotionally, and spiritually. While monogamous relationships are the norm, polyamorous bonds may exist as long as they respect mutual consent and balance.
• Communal Child-Rearing: Children are raised not just by their parents but by the broader community. Elders, Whisperers, and other adults play active roles in teaching children skills, traditions, and the ways of nature. This communal approach fosters strong connections and a shared sense of responsibility.

• Connection through Nature: Courtship often involves rituals tied to nature, such as planting a sapling together, journeying into the forest for spiritual guidance, or crafting items that symbolize their bond. Gifts exchanged during courtship are usually handmade, reflecting the giver's care and devotion.
• Leaf-Binding Ceremonies: When Silvis choose to bond formally, they participate in the Leaf-Binding Pact, where they select a leaf from a tree that resonates with their bond. These leaves are ceremonially joined and planted together, symbolizing their unity and growth. It’s a sacred and celebrated event, often attended by the entire community.

• Parental Guidance: Silvis parents are deeply involved in their children’s upbringing, teaching respect for nature, community values, and spiritual practices. Children are encouraged to spend time in the forest, learning to listen to its rhythms and connect with its spirits.
• Teaching by Elders: Elders play a significant role in a child's life. They pass down stories, traditions, and wisdom. Children often apprentice under elders or skilled adults to learn their crafts or skills.
• Respect and Independence: While respect for elders and traditions is paramount, Silvis parents encourage independence, self-discovery, and growth. Children are taught to listen to the trees, reflect on their actions, and find their unique place in the world.

• Supportive Bonds: Silvis society is based on mutual respect and cooperation. Neighbors help one another with daily tasks, raise children together, and share resources. Festivals, ceremonies, and communal meals strengthen bonds among community members.
• Dispute Resolution: Disagreements are addressed through community mediation led by Elders or Whisperers. Conflict resolution focuses on restoring balance and harmony rather than assigning blame or punishment.
• Open Hospitality: The Silvis are known for their welcoming attitude toward respectful outsiders, extending hospitality and sometimes inviting other species to join their community if they show respect for Silvis values.

• Mutual Respect: Relationships with other species living in Tyrvik are founded on mutual respect for Silvis customs and the balance of nature. Non-Silvis must adhere to Silvis norms, such as offering thanks for nature’s bounty and respecting sacred spaces.
• Integration through Rituals: Non-Silvis who wish to become part of the community are often required to participate in rituals or undergo a period of learning and integration, guided by Silvis elders.

• Soul-Bonds: In addition to partnerships, Silvis may form soul-bonds—deep, lifelong friendships that are spiritually significant. Soul-bonds can occur between two or more individuals and may involve special rituals to mark the bond, such as carving matching symbols or sharing in significant spiritual experiences.
• Ceremonial Support Circles: During major life events, Silvis form support circles, including friends, family, and mentors. These circles provide guidance, emotional strength, and celebration for milestones such as coming-of-age, marriage, or significant achievements.

• Reverence for Ancestors: Silvis believe the spirits of their ancestors guide and protect them. Families honor their ancestors through offerings, storytelling, and maintaining ancestral spaces within their homes.
• Role of Elders: Elders hold significant respect and are often looked to for wisdom in matters of family and community. Disrespecting an elder, even within a family, is seen as a serious breach of conduct.

The Silvis see separation, such as death or departure from the community, as a natural part of life’s cycle. Mourning is balanced with celebration of life and legacy. Rituals of remembrance are conducted regularly, where loved ones gather around special trees planted or marked for the departed.

For family members or friends who have grown apart or experienced conflict, reconciliation is often sought through rituals that involve symbolic acts of planting new life or creating art that represents renewal.

* Description: A symbol depicting a large, intricate tree with roots and branches extending in all directions, often encircling a central heart or glowing orb.

• Meaning: Represents the Great Heart Tree, the Silvis’ bond with nature, and the cycle of life, death, and renewal. This symbol appears on ceremonial robes, carved into sacred trees, and used in ritual practices.

• Description: A stylized flame surrounded by leaves and vines, with a glowing green core.
• Meaning: Symbolizes the Pact of the Green Flame and the Silvis’ role as protectors of nature and keepers of the forest. It is used during diplomatic gatherings and in rituals to signify unity and defense.

• Description: A bow entwined with a living vine or leafy branch.
• Meaning: Represents the Silvis' skill in archery, their bond with nature, and their role as guardians of the forest. It is often worn by warriors and scouts as a badge of honor.

• Description: A single leaf with intricate veins that form swirling patterns, sometimes depicted with subtle runes or glyphs.
• Meaning: Symbolizes the Silvis’ ability to communicate with trees and nature. This symbol is used by Whisperers and during rituals of communion with the forest.

• Description: A crescent moon cradling a cluster of trees or a small grove.
• Meaning: Represents spiritual reflection, guidance, and the cycles of the forest. It is often used during nighttime rituals and by those who seek visions or wisdom from the trees.

• Description: A winding vine encircling a heart or a tree branch.
• Meaning: Symbolizes healing, renewal, and the nurturing power of nature. It is worn by healers and displayed in areas dedicated to healing practices.

• Description: An intricate knotwork design shaped like intertwined leaves and branches.
• Meaning: Used to represent bonds, connections, and oaths taken within the Silvis community, such as Leaf-Binding Pacts for partnerships. It is often carved into wooden tokens or woven into clothing.

• Description: A large, carved depiction of a majestic tree with spreading branches and visible roots, often inlaid with green gemstones or enchanted leaves that shimmer.
• Purpose: Placed at the heart of Tyrvik and in sacred groves, it serves as a focal point for major ceremonies, rituals, and spiritual gatherings.

• Description: A life-sized statue of Elara, depicted with her hands outstretched towards a swirling formation of leaves and branches. Her eyes are carved to appear as if they are gazing into the distance, listening.
• Purpose: Honored as a symbol of connection with nature and wisdom, the statue is a site for meditative gatherings and rituals seeking guidance.

• Description: A statue of a Silvis guardian holding a bow, with vines wrapping around their arms and a protective expression on their face.
• Purpose: Placed at strategic points throughout Tyrvik and its outskirts to symbolize vigilance and the guardianship of the Silvis over their sacred lands.

• Description: A tall, carved pillar covered in leaf motifs, flowers, and symbols of the Healing Vine.
• Purpose: Found in areas dedicated to healing and within communal spaces where ceremonies of renewal and recovery are held. It symbolizes the nurturing aspect of the Silvis.

• Description: Smaller statues carved from living wood, depicting wise elder Silvis with elongated ears and serene expressions. Often seated with palms upturned, as if listening.
• Purpose: Used as focal points for meditation and communion rituals with the forest spirits. These statues are often placed in sacred glades and hidden groves.

• Description: Carved stones or wooden totems shaped like leaves, branches, or animals, with intricate designs depicting stories or events.
• Purpose: Placed at the site of significant events, memories, or resting places of revered ancestors. These markers tell the stories of the past and serve as reminders of Silvis history and legacy.

• Description: A monumental bow carved from an ancient tree, with vines and flowers growing around it. The string is said to be imbued with magickal energy.
• Purpose: Represents the unity of the Silvis community. It is placed in the Council Grove and is touched during ceremonies to symbolize the commitment to protect and serve the forest and each other.

• Player aistiva created this on 2021/10/12 20:25.

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