Submission (#5753) Approved

Nestled amid the emerald foliage of an ancient towering tree, lies a city that is unlike any other in the lands of Eyrie.  It defies conventional architecture and instead chooses to embrace a harmonious coexistence between nature and elnin ingenuity.  While not unique amongst the settlements in Ealei, the breathtaking metropolis built upon the colossal trunk of a still-living tree is a marvel of engineering and a testament to the strength of a symbiotic relationship with the natural world.

The mighty tree’s towering trunk, wide as a castle wall, forms the foundation upon which the city is built.  Utilizing a series of intricate walkways and platforms sourced from the surrounding forest, an elnin can wind their way around the gnarled branches and ancient knots of the great tree, offering a stunning vista of the surrounding landscape.

The city thrives in perfect harmony with its arboreal host.  Lush gardens adorn the rooftops of the homes and buildings, with cascading foliage spilling over the edges with vibrant flowers adding the occasional burst of color, and the occasional branch of brilliant blue manaberries.  Bridges connect various districts in the city, allowing residents to traverse between buildings and commune with the nature about them as they move through the urban oasis.

The buildings themselves blend seamlessly with the natural contours of the tree.  The housing incorporates the organic design elements of the massive tree, echoing the curves and textures found upon its bark and leaves.  The sunlight that filters through the branches of the great tree play on the intricate glass structures of some of the larger buildings, casting dappled patterns on the walkways below.

In many ways, the cities of Ealei are not just a settlement, but a sanctuary—a place where the rhythm of nature intertwines, feeds, and grows from the vibrancy of urban life.  The great tree does not only produce a home, but protection from the elements, and a source of ever vibrant life, building a sense of deep tranquility and interconnectedness with nature.