Lurkwood

Lurkwood, a picturesque region in Tormentia, is known for its sprawling grasslands, dense forests, and rolling hills. At first glance, it presents itself as the epitome of idyllic beauty, luring travelers and settlers with its lush landscapes and serene environment. However, beneath the scenic exterior lies a unique and perilous secret: the flora of Lurkwood, though appearing regular and innocuous, is sentient and possesses a latent danger. This deceptive tranquility has led many to underestimate the true nature of Lurkwood, often with dire consequences.

## Geography and climate

Lurkwood is characterized by its sprawling grasslands, dense forests, and rolling hills. Each of these geographic features contributes to the region's picturesque and idyllic appearance, making it a visually captivating destination for many.

The grasslands stretch vast and wide, presenting a sea of green, often dotted with wildflowers of various hues during the blooming seasons. These plains, while seemingly open, house many of the sentient flora which can lay hidden among the tall grasses, waiting for an unsuspecting passerby.

The forests of Lurkwood are a thick tapestry of trees, ranging from towering oaks to slender birches. The canopy is so dense in some areas that it can filter out sunlight, creating a dim, twilight-like atmosphere even during the day. These woods are a maze of green, with trees often having expansive root systems that can move or trip those who tread carelessly.

The hills provide an undulating landscape, breaking the monotony of the flat grasslands. They often serve as natural vantage points, providing panoramic views of Lurkwood's expanse. However, they too are not devoid of the region's sentient flora, with many plants using the elevation to their advantage in their predatory tactics.

Lurkwood's climate is temperate, with clear distinctions between the four seasons. Spring is vibrant and colorful, as the flora come to life in a display of blooms. Summer is warm, but not excessively hot, with the occasional rainfall nourishing the lands. Autumn brings a palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, especially in the forests, as leaves change color. Winter, though cold, is rarely harsh, with a moderate amount of snowfall blanketing the region.

While the climate remains relatively mild throughout the year, the changing seasons do influence the behavior of the sentient flora, with some becoming more active or dormant depending on the time of year. Travelers are advised to be especially cautious during the transition periods between seasons, as the flora tend to be most unpredictable then.

## Region specific dangers

### Sentient grasses

At first glance, the vast grasslands of Lurkwood appear benign. However, many of the grass species here are sentient and are able to ensnare or trap prey that treads upon them. Some grasses release spores that can induce hallucinations, while others have sharp edges that can cut through skin with ease.

### Flesh-eating trees

One of the most feared entities in Lurkwood, these towering trees are not to be approached lightly. Their bark often resembles that of regular trees, making them hard to identify until it's too late. They possess tentacle-like vines that can shoot out and ensnare prey, pulling them into their maws which are hidden in the tree trunks. Once captured, the prey is slowly digested.

### Moving root systems

Many of the trees in Lurkwood have root systems that can move or shift. Travelers have reported feeling the ground "ripple" beneath them. These moving roots can trip or ensnare the unwary, making them easy prey for the region's more predatory plants.