There was a time when man-made fences kept the woods at bay, separating the realm of magic from the human world. The mystical creatures within the woods stayed in their territory, never daring to venture beyond the boundaries set by humans. But one day, a mighty bell rang out, echoing through the forest and calling all the creatures and their magic to converge in one place. The fences could no longer hold them back, and the world was about to witness what would emerge from the woods. This is that time. This is the Age of…
Our story unfolds in the sleepy township of
Population 11,345
Whispering Pines is similar to many small cities we have today. Quiet and cozy, it is nestled in the beautiful landscape of the Wild Wood, and its residents live without much concern for the outside world. The forest remains uncharted, with few venturing in to explore, except the occasional day hikers, hunters, and others who want to escape the busy city life. The people of Whispering Pines are friendly, and most don’t even lock the doors when they leave their houses. Everyone knows their mail carrier by name, and the police busy themselves with the safety of crosswalkers and lost puppies.
But all of that, is about to change.
Currently, there are three main proteins in the Age of The Wild Woods. A fourth protein named the Sorgindua is rumored to exist, but very little information is known about them. Humans often mention them in fairytales and ascribe elemental abilities to them. However, Kinubo, the artichoke sage, has only recorded two credible encounters.
In the Age of The Wild Woods, humans are the dominant species and consider themselves the most intelligent beings on the planet—if not the only intelligent beings. They cherish their pets, prioritize their careers, and strive to maintain the tranquility of their surroundings. Humans can also be compassionate, brave, and adventurous.
Foodies are humanoid vegetables that roam the woods and civilized areas inhabited by humans. They have homes in both territories but are often on the move, taking part in walkabouts that can last for weeks. Foodies are adventurous and enjoy exploring new places but are also highly distrustful of nearly all other living creatures.
Within the Woods, Manimals are seemingly the most abundant Protein and comprise nearly any animal, bird, insect, reptile, or aquatic creature imaginable. They tend to avoid humans and are cautious of anyone who enters the Woods.
Homes are the safest places where individuals can find comfort, nourishment, and love. When needing rest and rejuvenation, characters can return home to recover and restock their food and gear inventory. Human and foodie homes often use fences and lights to keep harmful creatures at bay, while Animal Homes rely on hidden and hard-to-reach locations to ensure the safety of their dwellings. Unless invited into another Protein’s Home, only a character’s own Home provides these essentials.
Homes and Diners are safe havens for rest, recovery, and nourishment. In the Wild Woods, diners are scattered across the area and welcome all creatures except the darkest of the Dark. At Diners, characters can barter with the owner for food and trade with other patrons for gear and information. However, it is crucial to remember that a diner strictly prohibits fighting. If anyone is caught even thinking about it, they will be immediately ejected and banned from all Diners. As news travels fast, it is best to keep the peace and abide by this rule.
Even though the Wild Wood is already a perilous place, even more dangerous and sinister areas no sane individual would willingly venture into exist. The Undergrowth is one such place, ruled by the Bramble King and inhabited by the most malevolent creatures of the forest. It is said to be a land completely overrun with knotted and twisted roots, razor-sharp thorned vines, and strangling weeds, where even the trees are not to be trusted—a place with no daylight and one that is slowly consuming the surrounding woods.
