Treemen (pl. Treemen) are colossal, humanoid beings that resemble walking, living trees. Among most Old Worlders, they are considered legend, thought long extinct. In truth, they dwell exclusively within Athel Loren, and some even claim the forest itself is the Treemen made manifest. They rarely leave their woodland home, and when they do, they are often accompanied by Dryads.
Treemen are ancient, sentient, and immensely powerful. They are patient and cautious, engaging in battle only when necessary. All creatures of Athel Loren obey them without question, including Wood Elves, granting them formidable allies. To face a Treeman is to confront the fury of nature incarnate; survivors rarely forget the experience, carrying its terror for years.
The mightiest forest spirits can entwine themselves with a living tree, merging with it permanently. This bond is irreversible; only death can sever it. The spirit’s will shapes the tree, twisting branches, bark, and roots into a living embodiment of their power. This is how a Treeman is born.
Treemen are revered by all denizens of the forest. Their branches, hollows, and roots often house lesser spirits, who live in harmony with their host. Unlike Dryads, whose temperaments are often capricious, Treemen are warm and protective, cherishing the smaller creatures of the forest. Their immense age grants them a perspective on time beyond mortal comprehension. Entire races rise and fall in the span of a Treeman’s memory, and even Elves seem ephemeral in comparison. The oldest Treemen remember the world before Elves first set foot in the mortal lands and may well endure after the Elves are gone.
Treemen are among the mightiest defenders of Athel Loren. Their gnarled forms are nearly impervious to damage, and their strength rivals even the Forest Dragons of the deep glades. They fight with overwhelming force rather than finesse, delivering sweeping blows that can crush stone, or stomping to knock enemies off their feet. Their roots and tendrils can strike from below, dragging foes into the earth to be devoured.
Though their appearance is of immovable trees, Treemen are capable of remarkable speed and agility when defending their forest. Their presence alone can turn the tide of battle, for to oppose a Treeman is not merely to fight a creature—it is to face the wrath of the forest itself.
Treemen embody the enduring will of Athel Loren, serving as guardians of the forest and protectors of all its inhabitants. Their existence ensures that the forest remains safe from intruders, and their patience and wisdom maintain the delicate balance of life within the woodland realm.