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2019 The Homebrewery - NaturalCr t
Druidic (Language)
There are rumors that, deep within the woods, you might just
stumble upon hidden messages left on the bark of trees or
the face of boulders. These rumors are true.
Known only to Druids and their ancestors, the Druidic
language serves as a way of communicating short but
important messages about surrounding areas. Often marked
onto various natural materials via druidcraft, Druidic
functions as a language by using symbols to convey things
like directions, warnings and advice to all who are able to
decipher it.
Uses
Within the language, there are 45 symbols representing
different ideas or places that are relevant to all who wander
through the wilds — and with them, short simple phrases are
able to be crafted.
For example, marking the symbol for [Camp] would mean
that there is a camp nearby. In addition, you can use one of
the symbols to represent one of the 8 cardinal directions
coupled with the symbol for [Far] or [Close] in order to give a
more accurate location. Lastly, using modifiers, you can add
to this message by including the symbols for [Orc] and
[Danger] — which, when put together, will create a message
that reads “Danger, close by in [x] direction there is an orc
cave”
Grammar
Druidic has a very simple but crucial grammatical structure.
The Primary Message (which in the previous example
would be [Camp]) acts as the “subject” of the message, and is
to be in the center position of the marking.
The Directional goes to the left of the Primary Message, and
notates the direction you’d take in order to reach the subject.
Modifiers act as ways to alter or inform the Primary
Message, and are placed to the right. Important to note:
Modifiers should be made smaller than the Primary Message
to avoid confusion. Usually, three modifiers will suffice for a
message but, on occasion, less-traditional druids have been
known to use more.
Directionals
It’s important to note that, throughout tradition, messages in
Druidic have always been written on the southern-most side
of the chosen object (or, if written in the land, they will be
marked Top-Down from North to South).
The function of this is so that whenever viewed, the reader
will be facing North — this way, Directional symbols in
Druidic markings will always remain true to the surrounding
geography (I.E. [North] will always mean forward, etc.)
If no directional is given, the subject is assumed to be
nearby.
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Primary Message
Choosing which symbol to use as a primary message will
often come intuitively to most druids based on the message
they are attempting to convey, but in reality there are multiple
ways which one might convey the same thing.
Something to keep in mind, though, is relationship that
exists between the Primary Message and the surrounding
symbols. Whatever you choose as the primary message will
be the subject of whatever message you are attempting to
convey.
What this means is if you, for example, create a symbol like
this:
Directional: [North/Ahead]
Primary Message: [Grove]
Modifiers: [Squirrel], [Sacred], [Ancient]
What you are saying is that there is a grove up ahead that is
ancient and sacred, which happens to be enhabited by Symbols
squirrels. Alternatively, if you were to write a message like This section will be used to give more detail to each of the 45
this: Druidic symbols.
Directional: [North/Ahead] Directionals
Primary Message: [Squirrel]
Modifiers: [Grove], [Sacred], [Ancient] Directional symbols are ones that give physical direction, or
insight about the path ahead.
What you are saying is that there is an ancient and sacred Direction (Cardinal)
squirrel that lives in a grove up ahead -- which, who knows, In druidic, any and all physical directions are given via this
maybe that is what you meant, but it's important to keep that symbol -- an 8-sided star with a dot to notate which of the 8
distinction in mind. cardinal directions the writer intends to convey.
Danger Ahead
Location Modifier Relationship This symbol, along with the symbols for [Safe Ahead],
In situations where the Primary Message of a
[Patrols Ahead] and [Go Around] function as Warnings and
marking is a Humanoid, Creature or Object, using a
are often found in the Primary Message or Modifier position,
Location modifier will indicate where said subject preceded by one of the 8 cardinal directions in the
might be found. Directional position to notate which direction is being talked
about.
This symbol is often followed by a modifier identifying the
cause of the danger ahead.
Safe Ahead
Modifiers This symbol, along with the symbols for [Danger Ahead],
With a limited number of characters and symbols within the [Patrols Ahead] and [Go Around] function as Warnings and
Druidic language, modifiers act as a way to get creative -- are often found in the Primary Message or Modifier position,
because, while some symbols might not make as much sense preceded by one of the 8 cardinal directions in the
when used as Primary Messages, any symbol can act as a Directional position to notate which direction is being talked
modifier with a bit of craftiness. about.
Over the years, certain symbols have taken on multiple Patrols Ahead
meanings. For example, the modifier [Wrong] in druidic has This symbol, along with the symbols for [Safe Ahead],
long stood for the concept of something "Unnatural" or [Danger Ahead] and [Go Around] function as Warnings and
"Unholy." See a desecrated section of land? That is [Wrong] are often found in the Primary Message or Modifier position,
land. Notice a tree that appears to be under the influence of preceded by one of the 8 cardinal directions in the
evil magic? That is a [Wrong] tree -- or, even more accurately, Directional position to notate which direction is being talked
a [Wrong] [Magic] tree. about.
Similarly, certain Forest/Fey Creature symbols have unique This symbol is often followed by a modifier identifying the
interactions with Places of Interest when used as modifiers. race/species of the patrols ahead.
These unique differences will be outlined individually in the
Symbols section ahead.
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Go Around Sanctuary
This symbol, along with the symbols for [Safe Ahead], This symbol is used to represent a Sanctuary. Sanctuaries, in
[Danger Ahead] and [Patrols Ahead] function as Warnings druidic tradition, are places where druids often congregate --
and are often found in the Primary Message or Modifier they are generally very hidden deep within the forests or
position, preceded by one of the 8 cardinal directions in the feywild, and similarly to Secret Paths, they often are not
Directional position to notate which direction is being talked preceded by a Directional symbol. Instead, in a similar
about. fashion, Fey/Forest Creature modifiers are used to represent
This symbol is unique in that, when applicable, the nearby guides.
arrowhead will change from left to right depending on which
path the scribing druid sees considers the safest -- meaning, if Grove
the arrow is on the right side, go around to the right, if it is on This symbol is used to represent a grove or a unique clearing
the left side, go around to the left. within a forest.
Camp
Places of Interest This symbol is used to represent a camp. It is often followed
Place of Interest symbols are those that identify natural or by the [Small] or [Big] modifier to determine size, as well as
man-made structures/locations a Humanoid/Monster modifier to convey its inhabitants.
River Town
This symbol is used to represent a river. It is sometimes This symbol is used to represent a Town. It is often followed
followed by the [Bear] symbol as a modifier. Be wary of rivers by the [Small] or [Big] modifier to determine size, as well as
that are often visited by bears, unless you are confident in a Humanoid/Monster modifier to convey its inhabitants.
your ability to soothe and communicate with them.
Fey Crossing
Lake This symbol is used to represent a nearby crossing into the
This symbol is used to represent a lake. Feywild, often in the form of a portal, door or a rift. Similar to
Cave
the symbols for [Secret Path] and [Sanctuary], the symbol for
[Fey Crossing] is sometimes followed by a Guide modifier in
This symbol is used to represent a cave. place of a Directional -- although, out of the three symbols,
Secret Path [Fey Crossing] would be the most likely to be preceded by a
This symbol is used to represent a secret path. Often, this directional marking.
symbol is not preceded by a directional, but is instead given a Modifiers
modifier of a Forest/Fey Creature that acts as a guide if
located. This is done in an effort to hide such a path from Modifier symbols are used as a way to further inform the
non-druid readers. Primary Message. Symbols in this category are ones that are
If you see a Forest/Fey Creature modifier next to a [Secret often not able to stand as Primary Messages on their own.
Path] symbol, try taking a look around to see if you can find
them. Big
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
Ruin the subject of the Primary Message is Big in size.
This symbol is used to represent a Ruin. It is sometimes
followed by a [Dwarf], [Elf] or [Human] modifier, which is Small
meant to represent the creators of the ruin -- but as with all This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
Druidic messages, things like this can be unclear. It is just as the subject of the Primary Message is Small in size.
possible that it is simply a ruin that is currently filled with Far
Dwarves, Elves, or Humans.
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
the subject of the Primary Message is Far away.
Close
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
the subject of the Primary Message is Close by.
Wrong
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
the subject of the Primary Message is Wrong, Unnatural or
Unholy.
Dangerous
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
the subject of the Primary Message is Dangerous.
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Safe
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
the subject of the Primary Message is Safe. Calls to Nature
With each woodland creature, a song is taught and
Good passed down to Druids from generation to
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that generation by their ancestors. These songs are
the subject of the Primary Message is Good in nature. often whistled into the wind in order to request a
conversation with nearby critters and animals.
Bad
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that
the subject of the Primary Message is Bad in nature.
Sacred Owl
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that This symbol is used to represent the Owl.
the subject of the Primary Message is Sacred, and potentially In Druidid culture, owls are particularly good scouts and
connected to a Deity or Archfey. specialize in night-time missions due to their nocturnal
Likes Food nature. While they are not as common to find, they tend to
This symbol is used as a Modifier specifically related to have a good memory and can often remember night-time
Primary Messages containing Forest/Fey Ceatures or events for up to a week's time.
Humanoid/Monster symbols, and is used to inform the Bear
reader that the subject of the Primary Message will trade This symbol is used to represent the Bear.
information/service for food It is said that some Druids are able to coax a bear into
Territorial aiding for small time in battle in exchange for food -- but that
This symbol is used as a Modifier specifically related to is not a goal worth chasing as it is very dangerous. Bears are
Primary Messages containing Forest/Fey Ceatures or known to be extremely territorial, especially when
Humanoid/Monster symbols, and is used to inform the accompanied by offspring. Always approach bears with
reader that the subject of the Primary Message is territorial caution.
or aggressive in nature. Horse
This does not always mean they are to be avoided entirely, This symbol is used to inform the reader that Horses are
but met with caution and respect. nearby.
Scout Squirrel
This symbol is used as a Modifier specifically related to This symbol is used to represent Squirrels, Chipmunks and
Primary Messages containing Forest/Fey Ceatures or other woodland critters.
Humanoid/Monster symbols, and is used to inform the In Druidic culture, woodland critters are often particularly
reader that the subject of the Primary Message is known to good at keeping an ear to the ground during the day due to
be a trained scout. their own innate curiosity. They can be relied upon for
Messenger information regarding day-time events that occured within
This symbol is used as a Modifier specifically related to the past few days, although often they will require food as
Primary Messages containing Forest/Fey Ceatures or compensation.
Humanoid/Monster symbols, and is used to inform the Beware, they might be a little scatterbrained.
reader that the subject of the Primary Message is known to Hawk
be a trained messenger. This symbol is used to represent Hawks, Eagles and other
Messengers will sometimes provide messages from past scouting birds.
druids if located. In Druidic culture, Hawks and other scouting birds are
Magic particularly good at daytime scouting. Although their memory
This symbol is used as a Modifier to inform the reader that isn't quite as good as an Owls, their keen eyesight and ability
the subject of the Primary Message is Magical in nature, or to travel far distances at fast speeds lends to their advantage.
posesses the ability to perform spells. Satyr
This symbol is used to represent Satyr.
Forest / Fey Creatures Satyrs are well known in Druidic culture as expert
Forest/Fey Creature symbols are used to represent different messengers, and are quick to charm. They are an endless
woodland beings on the material plane, as well as beings of fountain of stories and tales from past experiences, and they
the Feywild. are very curious creatures by nature, but they are also adept
at hiding and are very rarely ever seen.
If you see this symbol, be on the lookout; you might just
find one if you're lucky.
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Centaur Kobold
This symbol is used to represent Centaur. This symbol is used to represent Kobolds.
Depending on the modifiers attached, it is generally a good As with all Monsters symbols, pay attention to the
idea to act with caution when you see this symbol. Centaur modifiers following the [Kobold] symbol, as they may indicate
are a very proud and violent race, and up until the point a benevolent Kobold, or a dangerous one.
where you earn their respect they can be a dangerous foe.
Past that point, though, they can be an incredible ally. Goblin
This symbol is used to represent Goblins.
Pixie As with all Monsters symbols, pay attention to the
This symbol is used to represent Pixies. modifiers following the [Goblin] symbol, as they may indicate
Pixies are notorious within Druidic culture for being as a benevolent Goblin, or a dangerous one.
frustrating as they are mesmerizing. They are natural born
tricksters that love to play pranks whenever able. They are Orc
generally good in nature, however and are good allies to have This symbol is used to represent Orcs.
in a pinch, if they let you find them. As with all Monsters symbols, pay attention to the
modifiers following the [Orc] symbol, as they may indicate a
Dryad benevolent Orc, or a dangerous one.
This symbol is used to represent Dryad.
In Druidic Culture, Dryad are known as protectors of the Troll
woods. More specifically, their area of the woods -- as each This symbol is used to represent Trolls.
Dryad is magically bound to a specific tree. This tree acts as Trolls are almost never benevolent. Avoid at all costs.
the Dryad's life force, and they will fight to the death to
protect it from harm. Miscellaneous Things / Objects
Dryad are almost always very good in nature, and are great The symbols in this section are used to represent different
company to have. They will often come with news or Things and Objects often found within the forest.
warnings from the trees.
Food
Treant
This symbol is used to represent the Treant. This symbol is used to notify the reader that there is food
Treants are guardians. They are giant defenders of the nearby, often as a way to inform others that the berries
feywild and material forests alike. So long as you are in their nearest are edible.
good graces, you are in good hands -- because, when Land
provoked, they are vicious foes. This symbol is used to represent the land, ground or dirt.
Some Treants are not as benevolent as others, and as such
it is always wise to approach with the utmost of caution and Message
respect. This symbol has a specific use. When an object has the
[Message] marking placed upon it, it means that there is a
Humanoids / Monsters message left somewhere on or within that object. Druids are
Humanoid/Monster symbols are used to represent different taught how to locate and decipher these messages.
Humanoid races as well as well known Monsters throughout While the symbol is usually easy to see -- the messages are
the material plane. often tougher to find. When written on a tree, the message is
usually written on the inside of the bark via druidcraft, and
Dwarf will require some effort to read. When written on a rock, the
This symbol is used to represent Dwarves. message often lies underneath.
Elf Tree
This symbol is used to represent Elves. This symbol is used to represent a Tree.
Human Rock
This symbol is used to represent Humans. This symbol is used to represent a Rock.
Halfling Final thoughts
This symbol is used to represent Halflings. Druidic is a very sparse language by its design. Things such
Druid as specifcs, numbers, etc. have always been said by the
This symbol is used to represent Druids. ancients to be something best left up to nature. As such, there
will be moments where you will be left wondering whether or
Dragon not you are about to face 3 orcs or 30. Heed the warnings of
This symbol is used to represent Dragons. danger, and always tread carefully.
As with all Monsters symbols, pay attention to the I hope you enjoyed reading through this; I had a lot of fun
modifiers following the [Dragon] symbol, as they may indicate making it. If you liked or used it, please take a second to let
a benevolent dragon, or a dangerous one. me know on reddit (/u/_Liarus)! Alternatively, if you're able, a
donation on DMsguild would mean the world right now.
Thank you again for getting this far. Be well. -- Liarus
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