[Location] The Shaiki Moss Gardens

[Creeper]

The Shaiki Moss Gardens grow along the walls of the Undercavern, near the Shaiki River. Small openings in the ceiling of the Undercavern provide the minimal light necessary to support the moss growth. Most residents of The Spires are aware of the Moss Garden’s existence but seldom visit the site as it’s a little out of the way. However this makes it perfect for young couples or individuals to steal away to a quiet, dark place for some privacy. The Hahk’Shatara regularly patrol the area, however, as it is surrounded by the precious roots of the Bloodwood trees. Many visitors to The Spires who happen to make their way down to the Undercavern pass right by the Moss Gardens without realizing that it’s a deliberate garden. Often it must be pointed out or studied at length to notice the designs that the moss has been encouraged to grow into. The Moss Garden grows up a wall that is made of soil and stones. The smooth, round stones have been selected and brought in from around The Spires for the moss to grow over. Gardeners will dig a small hole into the soil of the wall and firmly place the stone in the opening. Eventually the moss will grow over the stone. The stones are usually arranged in particular designs: circles, starbursts, and other geometric patterns. The Gardens are constantly expanding however as the moss is allowed to grow without intervention. Some residents will harvest the moss for various purposes, however, which helps keep the expansion reasonable. Since the moss is very hardy and recovers quickly the harvesting is allowed and is not punished by the Hahk’Shatara as long as the Gardens are left in an aesthetically pleasing state. The Moss Gardens are one of the few locations in the Spires not directly overseen by an individual. Being that the moss take time to grow and requires little outside effort there is no reason by any individual to be constantly tending to it. Instead, every decade or so a group of gardeners will band together and petition the Memorium for the right to redesign the Moss Gardens. The request is usually granted and then the gardeners will pull out the current stone designs and rearrange them for the moss to grow over once again. After the moss has had time to grow over the new designs there is usually a small ceremony where residents of The Spires are invited down to view the changes. Often young, up-and-coming gardeners will use this as a way to spread their name and show off their talent. Moderator's Note: No Moderation required for this Location. *Credit to Asha