Location: Deep Root, Mithril Isles — the heart of the Dark Elf settlements
Type: Ancient tree estate / carved spiral treehouse
Inhabitants: Selthira Vael, Kaelthas, Lyrisse, Thalira, Faylien, and Ganaloth Fang
The Tree:
Root Hearths is built around a colossal tree known as the Deep Root. Its trunk is wide enough to host multiple spiral staircases and floors inside. Its roots snake deep into the earth, creating natural tunnels, secret alcoves, and storage spaces underground. Some roots pierce the surface, forming natural bridges, balconies, and platforms that extend over the surrounding jungle floor. The canopy is so dense it forms a natural roof, letting in filtered sunlight and creating an eternal twilight inside.
Interior Carving:
The inside is a seamless spiral, blending organic growth with elven craftsmanship.
Floors wind around the trunk, supported by root arches that also serve as furniture, shelves, and defensive positions.
Rooms are carved with elaborate geometric patterns, glowing faintly with bioluminescent fungi cultivated along the walls for light.
Each level has its own purpose: living quarters, training halls, communal dining, armory, study, and meditation spaces.
Aesthetic:
Wood is polished but natural, walls curve with the trunk rather than straight angles.
Balconies overlook the roots, allowing observation of approaching visitors or threats.
Hanging gardens and cultivated moss soften the interior, giving the estate a lived-in, organic elegance.
Bioluminescent lanterns, wind chimes, and small fountains bring life and subtle magic to the estate.
Grand Spiral Hall:
The central column of the tree, a massive open space connecting all levels.
Used for gatherings, family meetings, and sparring practice.
Decorated with carved murals depicting Dark Elf legends and Vael family history.
Selthira’s Quarters:
Highest floor, private and fortified.
Walls reinforced with root lattices and hidden escape routes.
Training weapons, scouting maps, and relics of old battles are displayed here.
Kaelthas’ Training Hall:
Open-air platforms woven among the branches for archery, spear practice, and agility drills.
Rope bridges and swings mimic jungle terrain, perfect for movement training.
Lyrisse’s Alcoves:
Nooks built into roots and hidden corners for stealth practice and exploration.
Small traps and climbing obstacles scattered for her to test skills.
Thalira’s Study & Trap Room:
Quiet chambers with maps, small crafting tables, and experimental traps.
Can simulate enemy approach with moving targets for practice.
Faylien’s Playground:
Lower roots open to jungle floor, rigged with swings, rope lines, and soft landings.
Space for climbing, jumping, and practicing daring maneuvers.
Kitchen & Communal Hearth:
Natural root ovens and cooking nooks, supplying food for the family.
Central fire pit connected to smoke vents outside.
Hidden Vaults & Storage:
Secret root chambers for weapons, artifacts, and supplies.
Only Selthira and Kaelthas know the full network of tunnels.
The tree’s roots form natural barricades and choke points.
Platforms high above ground give a vantage point for scouts and archers.
Bioluminescent fungi can be used to signal or mislead intruders.
Hidden tunnels allow the family to evacuate or ambush invaders.
Root Hearths is a symbol of Vael family unity and a testament to the Dark Elves’ harmony with nature.
Every corner embodies balance between function, defense, and beauty.
The estate reflects Dark Elf philosophy: adapt to your environment, move with it, and hide in plain sight.
For Ganaloth, Root Hearths is both home and training ground, a living classroom where his speed, parkour, and instincts are honed daily.
Jungle around Deep Root is thick and dangerous; only those trained in elven agility or Fang instincts can navigate it fully.
Animals are abundant; Vael family communicates and coexists with them, making the estate almost alive with wildlife.
Mist settles in at dawn and dusk, cloaking the tree and roots in natural camouflage.